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Fame #1
The Rise to Fame
Colin Riley's past wasn't a pretty one. He'd worked hard to bury his demons. So when he crossed paths with Alexandra Vaughn, the daughter of the man that almost destroyed his life, he should have run. But he didn't. Instead, like an idiot, he fell in love. Alex was smart, talented, beautiful, and one of the most infuriating women Colin had ever met. From the second he laid eyes on her, he knew he'd do anything to make her his. Why else would he let her trick him into starring in some play?
It was just supposed to be a way to get close to her. How could he have known saying yes to the role would change their lives forever? But that's what happens when Richard Steed - the most sought-after agent in Hollywood swoops in promising to make all their dreams come true. It doesn't take long before the slick agent's true intentions become known turning him into their worst nightmare.
With a ghost from the past haunting them and an agent hell-bent on tearing them apart, is there any way Colin and Alex can survive The Rise to Fame?
The Rise to Fame is Book One in a two-book series. The second book, The Cost of Fame is due out September 2018.
It was just supposed to be a way to get close to her. How could he have known saying yes to the role would change their lives forever? But that's what happens when Richard Steed - the most sought-after agent in Hollywood swoops in promising to make all their dreams come true. It doesn't take long before the slick agent's true intentions become known turning him into their worst nightmare.
With a ghost from the past haunting them and an agent hell-bent on tearing them apart, is there any way Colin and Alex can survive The Rise to Fame?
The Rise to Fame is Book One in a two-book series. The second book, The Cost of Fame is due out September 2018.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2018
14 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
Shay Stone
8 books139 followersShay Stone started her writing career after a car accident left her unable to read or look at a computer. Ironic, right? Many years, and hours of vision therapy later, and voila! she wrote her first book. She lives in Georgia with her three dogs and one cat that thinks he is a dog.
If you happen to be driving around Atlanta, there is a good chance you will see her dancing in her car and singing (poorly) to some ‘80s tune. She has no shame. Her passions include writing and traveling.
She writes strong women with a bit of attitude, and flawed men that you can’t help but fall in love with to create that once in a lifetime love one page at a time. She has two published self-help books. The Rise to Fame is her first contemporary romance.
Shay’s hilarious self-help book, "Why Am I Still Single? A Tough Love Guide for Single Women" is a departure from her gentle treatment in "Pain Pain Go Away." "Why Am I Still Single?" comes from the same place – a desire to share her own experiences through humor with others to help shed light on their own circumstances. Unfortunately, these books are currently out of print, but they may be released again in the future.
Her contemporary romances are sexy, steamy, and filled with drama. Her ultimate goal is to make you sleep deprived by writing books you can't put down.
To learn more about Shay, check out her blog “Seriously-WTH”on www.blogspot.com!
Stay up to date on Shay’s latest releases by signing up for her newsletter and following her on social media.
www.shaystone-official.com
www.twitter.com/shaystoneauthor
www.instagram.com/shaystoneofficial
www.facebook.com/shaystoneofficialsite
https://mailchi.mp/3ff7e1840b13/shays...
If you’d like to contact the author, she may be reached by email at shaystone-author@outlook.com
If you happen to be driving around Atlanta, there is a good chance you will see her dancing in her car and singing (poorly) to some ‘80s tune. She has no shame. Her passions include writing and traveling.
She writes strong women with a bit of attitude, and flawed men that you can’t help but fall in love with to create that once in a lifetime love one page at a time. She has two published self-help books. The Rise to Fame is her first contemporary romance.
Shay’s hilarious self-help book, "Why Am I Still Single? A Tough Love Guide for Single Women" is a departure from her gentle treatment in "Pain Pain Go Away." "Why Am I Still Single?" comes from the same place – a desire to share her own experiences through humor with others to help shed light on their own circumstances. Unfortunately, these books are currently out of print, but they may be released again in the future.
Her contemporary romances are sexy, steamy, and filled with drama. Her ultimate goal is to make you sleep deprived by writing books you can't put down.
To learn more about Shay, check out her blog “Seriously-WTH”on www.blogspot.com!
Stay up to date on Shay’s latest releases by signing up for her newsletter and following her on social media.
www.shaystone-official.com
www.twitter.com/shaystoneauthor
www.instagram.com/shaystoneofficial
www.facebook.com/shaystoneofficialsite
https://mailchi.mp/3ff7e1840b13/shays...
If you’d like to contact the author, she may be reached by email at shaystone-author@outlook.com
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 13, 2020
Shay Stone is new to me..I was given a ebook copy of “The Rise to Fame” in exchange for a review...
Let me start with why I only gave this a 4.5 Stars and not a 5 Star
This was definitely a insta-love romance book and I’m not a huge fan of them just because I have a hard time believing people fall in love that fast, but that’s just my opinion. 🤷🏼♀️
Right from the start both MC acted more like they were together for years, then merely two days. The “I love you “ after a week felt to quick and not believable. Actually that whole process of getting to know each other was rushed. There was no build up in their relationship.
That being said.....I Absolutely loved the book. It had me turning the pages needing to know what was going to happen next. My emotions were on high alert most of the time. Alex and Colins love story was full of angst, love, and betrayal. Their love for each other was Beautiful. Not to mention the chemistry between them was hot and steamy!
What I really enjoy was how strong Alex was. You don’t see that in a lot of books where the FMC is strong. Alex was definitely a “don’t take any crap from anyone kinda of girl”. She was feisty and that kept it interesting. Colin had his alpha moments, which were sexy, but most of the time he had a sweetness to him that I adored. I also enjoyed the other characters in the book. Especially Richard. I am looking forward to reading The Cost of Fame to see how Alex and Colins love story will end. Shay Stone did a great job keeping her readers entertained.
July 20, 2018
There's a terrific, entertaining story here, but what I loved most is this: Strong-willed characters who not only develop a wonderful, sexy connection, but who look out for each other. Sure, Colin isn't about to let anyone mess with Alexandra and pity the person who tries. But the way Alex loves Colin, tries to protect him, and lifts him up is equally appealing! The author excels at giving us a gripping story while making sure the reader recognizes the characters remain true to who they are ... important as we approach the end of this book and key in waiting for book 2 to come out. As in ... I can't wait for the second part! I'll be diving back into this story as soon as possible.
August 12, 2018
I LLLLLLOOOOOVVVEEEEDDD this book! There were so many hot and steamy sex scenes, awesome scenes delving into backstory, wonderful romantic scenes, and some scenes I wanted to step into the book and stab the bad guy. Well, stab isn’t quite the right word. Castrate is more appropriate.
Okay, I’m gonna say. The opening was HILARIOUS! While it started was one of the many, wonderful tropes we love and know when it comes to romance books, it did not stay that way. Bravo! And yes, THAT is what made me laugh. I mean, come on, how many women do you know who accidentally spill coffee on a hot guy feel up said guy’s abs within a matter of seconds from aforementioned spill? And we got this all from the woman’s POV. Even better! Let me just share this wonderful moment with you.
“Her eyes wandered back to the material clinging to his body like a second skin, highlighting every muscle. Wait, those can’t be muscles, can they? she thought. Damn, they’re so hard. Maybe he has on some kind of weight belt. Nope, they’re muscles. Wait, why is he looking at me like that? Probably because I’m not even blotting anymore. I have lifted his shirt and I’m feeling up his stomach like some pervert.”
Funny, right? And this is just in the first few pages. Certainly gives you an idea of what to expect for the rest of the novel. And it only got better from there.
Some of the things that the characters said were just so natural it makes you feel like you’re right there. Their relationship … well, it develops pretty naturally for a romance. Obviously from the above scene there is a strong sexual connection. The first issue they face occurs a couple of days in. This is when Colin discovers that Alex is the daughter of the man who sent him to prison. Now, I don’t want to give everything away, so I won’t go into details. You’ll just have to read the book to understand Colin’s history. But Lord, I wanted to give him a hug. He went through some shit.
But Alex’s father isn’t the real villain of the story. In fact, he doesn’t come into the picture until after opening night. That is Richard Steed. An arrogant, self-righteous asshole! I don’t know why, but I say that and I imagine my friends saying, “Don’t hold back. Tell us how you really feel.” My response? I completely understand Lorena Bobbitt. Because Richard Steed deserves to be castrated.
I’m not going to explain WHY I feel that way. Instead, I’m going to encourage you to read the book.
Now, I don’t want to give the ending away, but I will say it does end on a cliffhanger. However, the second book to complete the series The Cost of Fame does release in aaabbbooouuutttt 4 weeks? September 19th. And you can pre-order it NOW. Trust me, by time you get to the end, you’ll be DYING to know what happens.
Okay, I’m gonna say. The opening was HILARIOUS! While it started was one of the many, wonderful tropes we love and know when it comes to romance books, it did not stay that way. Bravo! And yes, THAT is what made me laugh. I mean, come on, how many women do you know who accidentally spill coffee on a hot guy feel up said guy’s abs within a matter of seconds from aforementioned spill? And we got this all from the woman’s POV. Even better! Let me just share this wonderful moment with you.
“Her eyes wandered back to the material clinging to his body like a second skin, highlighting every muscle. Wait, those can’t be muscles, can they? she thought. Damn, they’re so hard. Maybe he has on some kind of weight belt. Nope, they’re muscles. Wait, why is he looking at me like that? Probably because I’m not even blotting anymore. I have lifted his shirt and I’m feeling up his stomach like some pervert.”
Funny, right? And this is just in the first few pages. Certainly gives you an idea of what to expect for the rest of the novel. And it only got better from there.
Some of the things that the characters said were just so natural it makes you feel like you’re right there. Their relationship … well, it develops pretty naturally for a romance. Obviously from the above scene there is a strong sexual connection. The first issue they face occurs a couple of days in. This is when Colin discovers that Alex is the daughter of the man who sent him to prison. Now, I don’t want to give everything away, so I won’t go into details. You’ll just have to read the book to understand Colin’s history. But Lord, I wanted to give him a hug. He went through some shit.
But Alex’s father isn’t the real villain of the story. In fact, he doesn’t come into the picture until after opening night. That is Richard Steed. An arrogant, self-righteous asshole! I don’t know why, but I say that and I imagine my friends saying, “Don’t hold back. Tell us how you really feel.” My response? I completely understand Lorena Bobbitt. Because Richard Steed deserves to be castrated.
I’m not going to explain WHY I feel that way. Instead, I’m going to encourage you to read the book.
Now, I don’t want to give the ending away, but I will say it does end on a cliffhanger. However, the second book to complete the series The Cost of Fame does release in aaabbbooouuutttt 4 weeks? September 19th. And you can pre-order it NOW. Trust me, by time you get to the end, you’ll be DYING to know what happens.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2018
Rise to Fame is a melodramatic romance that is filled with lies, secrets, revenge, and angst. From start to finish, Ms. Stone’s book is action packed.
A traumatic tale of childhood abuse, poor upbringing, and questionable acquaintances leads to our good-at-heart hero, Colin Riley, having a bad reputation. He is far from perfect, but he does try to do the right thing.
The boy from the wrong side of the tracks gets the rich, successful girl, immediately proclaims his love and alpha protectiveness of her. I find instant love, claiming, and protecting, etc. to be a bit distasteful, but it does seem to be a common trait in contemporary romance heroes. The girl, Alexandra Vaughn, is a lawyer who dreams of acting on stage. She is headstrong, independent, and yet she quickly falls for earnest charms.
The most delightful aspect of the romance is that Alexandra and Colin lift each other up and bring out the best in one another while much of their universe conspires against them. There are many twists throughout the story, and Alexandra and Colin work through the hurdles as they come. However, can they survive the targeted revenge from someone who is setting up their destruction?
The dramatic highs and lows of this emotionally gripping story made for an engaging read, and I’m sure book 2, The Cost of Fame (published September 2018) is just as tantalizing.
3.5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
A traumatic tale of childhood abuse, poor upbringing, and questionable acquaintances leads to our good-at-heart hero, Colin Riley, having a bad reputation. He is far from perfect, but he does try to do the right thing.
The boy from the wrong side of the tracks gets the rich, successful girl, immediately proclaims his love and alpha protectiveness of her. I find instant love, claiming, and protecting, etc. to be a bit distasteful, but it does seem to be a common trait in contemporary romance heroes. The girl, Alexandra Vaughn, is a lawyer who dreams of acting on stage. She is headstrong, independent, and yet she quickly falls for earnest charms.
The most delightful aspect of the romance is that Alexandra and Colin lift each other up and bring out the best in one another while much of their universe conspires against them. There are many twists throughout the story, and Alexandra and Colin work through the hurdles as they come. However, can they survive the targeted revenge from someone who is setting up their destruction?
The dramatic highs and lows of this emotionally gripping story made for an engaging read, and I’m sure book 2, The Cost of Fame (published September 2018) is just as tantalizing.
3.5 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. For more reading recommendations, visit Book Junkie Reviews at www.abookjunkiereviews.wordpress.com
November 11, 2018
4.5 STARS!
What a gut-wrenching, page-turning, absolutely amazing book this is!
From the very first page these characters wrapped themselves around my heart. They were down to earth and absolutely loveable.
Alex and Colin were made to be together but will the rise to fame tear them apart?
The twists and turns in this book had me on the edge of my seat. The roller coaster of emotion had me strung out.
What Colin and Alex go through is heartbreaking. When they are together it’s beautiful. I couldn’t help but be pulled in and invested in this couple.
I must admit that in the beginning, I thought the couple got together a little too quickly but, what they go through and how they are together completely eclipsed those thoughts. This is one story that without a doubt compels you to feel what these characters are feeling. I absolutely loved it!
Full of angst, love, betrayal and anguish not to mention a cliff-hanger ending, you’ll without a doubt be feening for the next book, The Cost of Fame.
I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What a gut-wrenching, page-turning, absolutely amazing book this is!
From the very first page these characters wrapped themselves around my heart. They were down to earth and absolutely loveable.
Alex and Colin were made to be together but will the rise to fame tear them apart?
The twists and turns in this book had me on the edge of my seat. The roller coaster of emotion had me strung out.
What Colin and Alex go through is heartbreaking. When they are together it’s beautiful. I couldn’t help but be pulled in and invested in this couple.
I must admit that in the beginning, I thought the couple got together a little too quickly but, what they go through and how they are together completely eclipsed those thoughts. This is one story that without a doubt compels you to feel what these characters are feeling. I absolutely loved it!
Full of angst, love, betrayal and anguish not to mention a cliff-hanger ending, you’ll without a doubt be feening for the next book, The Cost of Fame.
I received an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 6, 2018
I loved this story, it was full of my favourite things angst, romance, steam and a swoon worthy guy.
Alex and Colin haven't got it easy, it seems as if the universe is against them and they have to fight for their destiny. Their talents should be enough to make them a success, but enter the lecherous Richard and they've unfortunately made an enemy for life. Add to that the expectations of Alex's parents and the unfortunate and lingering circumstances of Colin's upbringing and you know the only element that will see them through it all is true love, and they've got that in spades.
There is a mini cliff hanger at the end of this book, but as I've already got the next in the series downloaded onto my Kindle, then I'll crack on and hope it ends with an HEA, because Alex and Colin deserve it.
Alex and Colin haven't got it easy, it seems as if the universe is against them and they have to fight for their destiny. Their talents should be enough to make them a success, but enter the lecherous Richard and they've unfortunately made an enemy for life. Add to that the expectations of Alex's parents and the unfortunate and lingering circumstances of Colin's upbringing and you know the only element that will see them through it all is true love, and they've got that in spades.
There is a mini cliff hanger at the end of this book, but as I've already got the next in the series downloaded onto my Kindle, then I'll crack on and hope it ends with an HEA, because Alex and Colin deserve it.
September 25, 2018
This author was brand new to me not 24 hours ago and I wish I'd found her sooner. This book has quickly made its way to my top 10 of 2018!
I was captivated when we first meet Alex and Colin. Their chemistry was off the charts from the get go. And it doesn't slow down. I loved the wealthy girl/hard working boy aspect. And even more so that Alex didn't care about money etc, she just loved Colin for himself.
It's a fast paced book witg plenty of drama and a twist that left me hooked and reading faster!
Just as I finish writing this review, I have book 2 waiting on my kindle so straight onto that one!
I will definitely be reading more from Shay Stone!
I was captivated when we first meet Alex and Colin. Their chemistry was off the charts from the get go. And it doesn't slow down. I loved the wealthy girl/hard working boy aspect. And even more so that Alex didn't care about money etc, she just loved Colin for himself.
It's a fast paced book witg plenty of drama and a twist that left me hooked and reading faster!
Just as I finish writing this review, I have book 2 waiting on my kindle so straight onto that one!
I will definitely be reading more from Shay Stone!
September 17, 2018
This book was recommended to me by the author, who is new to me. I really enjoyed it. It had emotion, comedy, romance, suspense, and of course some hot and sexy scenes. I had a hard time putting it down. Colin and Alex are strong characters with lots of chemistry and seem perfect for each other, even with their very different pasts, but someone is out to destroy their happiness. I can't wait for the next book to see what happens next!
September 30, 2018
so i dont know this author but they did a very good job with this story. i enjoyed the characters and their lives and emotions.. plus i fell head over heels for the villain haha. yes i know that sounds weird but shay wrote the villain in a way that you will love to hate them. alex made me smile and laugh and she wasnt weak and meek so i liked her. colin was the perfect match for her.. lol. sexy and sweet. i enjoyed this story
August 14, 2018
Good Read
You never know what you are going to get with a new author, but this book grabs you in the beginning and as careers take off in the story, you are addicted and cant stop reading...now I have to wait another 5 weeks for book 2. Its in pre-order though, so I will be able to read it soon!
You never know what you are going to get with a new author, but this book grabs you in the beginning and as careers take off in the story, you are addicted and cant stop reading...now I have to wait another 5 weeks for book 2. Its in pre-order though, so I will be able to read it soon!
September 10, 2018
Steamy romance, great storyline, amazing characters!
LOVE this book! Shay Stone has created characters you can’t help but root for, and a villain that makes you cringe just reading his name. Colin and Alex have great chemistry, and their story will have you hooked right from the beginning. Can’t wait for the sequel, I need to know how their story ends!
LOVE this book! Shay Stone has created characters you can’t help but root for, and a villain that makes you cringe just reading his name. Colin and Alex have great chemistry, and their story will have you hooked right from the beginning. Can’t wait for the sequel, I need to know how their story ends!
September 13, 2018
Emotionally gripping! I absolutely loved the characters how raw and real they were. Their chemistry was undeniable and sexy! I loved how they were together it was so sweet and sexy.
I enjoyed the story and had a hard time putting it down. It was so suspenseful and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
I enjoyed the story and had a hard time putting it down. It was so suspenseful and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
February 3, 2019
This was a Hot little page turner for me. I loved it from beginning to end. The beginning starts off so freaking funny and I was sucked in from there. Alex and Colin's story has all the feelings that I love in a book. I loved these two together and rooted for them the whole time. I can't wait to get the rest of their story, I just have to know how it ends.
Happy Reading Everyone!!!
Happy Reading Everyone!!!
May 10, 2020
This book is fast-paced with tons of twists and turns in the storyline, I couldn’t put it down! This story is full of fiery passion, but the turbulence these lovers endure, readers can’t help but root for them. I already downloaded the second book and can’t wait to see how everything turns out for these beloved characters.
October 3, 2018
This author was new to me before this book, but I'm excited to start book 2!!
The chemistry and connection the characters possess is astounding.
They bring that extra life to the book making it seem real.
The chemistry and connection the characters possess is astounding.
They bring that extra life to the book making it seem real.
September 16, 2020
This is one of those books you have a love/hate relationship with the characters. They are beautiful, sexy, cute all rolled in one. Then they get impulsive and all hell breaks loose. Had to go grab the next book as i could not wait to read more of Alex and Colins story
July 25, 2018
Fast paced with good storyline.
November 30, 2022
Colin was a toxic nightmare and Alex should have run as fast as she could away from him.
Want to read
July 14, 2018
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews