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Hollywood Ending
With wit, humor, and a delightfully fresh voice, from the inimitable duo Tash Skilton, author of A Love Story, comes this friends-to-lovers rom-com that explores the hilarious highs and lows of adulting, Hollywood, and what happens when BFFs are forced to take a hard second look at their favorite fandoms—and at each other. ONE PERECT FRIENDSHIP—ABRUPTLY CANCELED All through college, Nina and Sebastian were sentence-finishing, secret-sharing BFFs, and absolute super fans of Castles of Rust and Bone. It was the kind of show—and the kind of friendship—that demands you’re all in, for the plot twists, the unresolved sexual tension, the weekly coup d’etat—and ultimately, the heartbreak. At least until the big cliffhanger . . . But when Castles’ season finale turned into the unceremoniously axed show’s awkward farewell, Nina and Sebastian’s friendship ended just as suddenly—and just as awkwardly. And Sebastian’s longed-for chance to woo Nina into something more than friendship was written out of their story. In Hollywood, there’s always a comeback. Five years later, Nina and Sebastian are living their best lives in L.A.—and Castles is being rebooted. Nina’s a social media coordinator for the streaming service that will air the show, and Sebastian is a PA for the production company. What could be more perfect? How about running into each other on set . . . ? Fingers crossed for a happy ending . . . Turns out even the most dedicated fans are due for a wake-up call when they get to peek behind-the-scenes. And suddenly Nina and Sebastian are remembering when they were super fans of each other instead. Will flipping the script from buddy comedy to real romance ruin everything—or deliver the happily-ever-after they both crave? Praise for A Love Story “I absolutely loved this modern-day You've Got Mail.” —Kerry Winfrey, author of Waiting for Tom Hanks “An energetic romance that would make Nora Ephron proud.” —Kirkus Reviews “A multicultural millennial spin on You’ve Got Mail in this laugh out loud romance.” —Publishers Weekly
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 7, 2021
22 people are currently reading
447 people want to read
About the author
Tash Skilton
2 books157 followersTash Skilton is the pen name of Sarvenaz Tash (author of The Geek's Guide to Unrequited Love and Virtually Yours) and Sarah Skilton (author of Fame Adjacent and Club Deception), who met on Twitter and parlayed their online friendship into an IRL one. They've written ten books (and counting) between them, varying in genres from middle grade fantasy to young adult rom-com to adult murder mystery. Their first joint novel, Ghosting: A Love Story, was published in seven countries and available in six different languages. Sarvenaz lives in New York while Sarah lives in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
September 1, 2021
Was I hooked by that book? Yes and no. The first half was super frustrating, but it had a different twist towards the end that made the story more real.
Sebastian and Nina bonded in college through a mutual love and devotion to the show Castles of Rust and Bones. But when the series ended, so did their friendship. Five years later they are reunited again by the resurrection of the show, to which they both have contact because of their professional lives.
It was absolute torture watching Nina and Sebastian be just friends while both wanted more. All because of a very unlucky incident at a party.
Okay, I admit, I wasn't too enthusiastic about another only-friends story. But this one has some interesting twists and turns and about two-thirds through I was suddenly a lot more invested in Nina and Sebastian getting together. These two are just regular, insecure people, like most of us. And they had to figure out where they fit in their own skin before they could figure out how they'd fit together. It all turned out pretty good in the end.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 5, 2021
"That's how most people live, right? Get up, go to work, drudgery, drudgery, get paid (not nearly enough), go home, repeat, repeat, repeat, die."
This quote doesn't exactly encapsulate the book in question, but it does explain why I was found cackling through my existential dread during a decidedly dark moment in the story. Because my sense of humor is objectively terrible.
But I digress. The Tash Skilton duo knows how to cook up a cute, clever premise. Here, college friends that built a relationship on mutual TV fandom, reconnect five years later on the set of that very show's reboot. The Hollywood behind-the-scenes was fun and sometimes absurd, which made for an enjoyable read. The interweavings of fandom culture spoke directly to my geeky soul. It showcases the joys and creativity right alongside the foibles and cruel realities.
The characters are well-formed, including their dreams and struggles, their personal and shared histories. Nina's afraid to be head-over-heels for someone and give up emotional control, and Sebastian lives in fear of his friends abandoning him, so he always attempts to give an impossible 110% to feel safe in his relationships. We meet their younger sisters, visit their memories of college, and view their horrific working conditions (relatable).
My stress levels were high as these two friends-to-estranged friends-to-roommates-to-lovers-to
-estranged lovers-to-lovers dated other people, pined, obsessed, and tried to act happy and fine. While I can be all about angst, in this case, it wasn't necessarily a good tension for this reader. There was no romantic content (aside from the aforementioned pining) until the 70% mark, and then things kicked off at 100 mph, only to hit the big crash-and-burn moment at 85% with a brief reunion/heart-eyes moment right at the end to wrap things up. I realize this is complex math, people, but that means we are only graced with about 15% of the book where romance is happening, and to be honest, that's generous, seeing as the red flags started popping up long before the big blowup. As usual, pacing is something I'm very particular about, so it had a strong influence on my perception of the book.
I think if you're looking for a high angst romance between nuanced characters with aspects of fan culture and/or movie magic (?), this book will hit the mark for you, so check it out. Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. It's out 9/7.
This quote doesn't exactly encapsulate the book in question, but it does explain why I was found cackling through my existential dread during a decidedly dark moment in the story. Because my sense of humor is objectively terrible.
But I digress. The Tash Skilton duo knows how to cook up a cute, clever premise. Here, college friends that built a relationship on mutual TV fandom, reconnect five years later on the set of that very show's reboot. The Hollywood behind-the-scenes was fun and sometimes absurd, which made for an enjoyable read. The interweavings of fandom culture spoke directly to my geeky soul. It showcases the joys and creativity right alongside the foibles and cruel realities.
The characters are well-formed, including their dreams and struggles, their personal and shared histories. Nina's afraid to be head-over-heels for someone and give up emotional control, and Sebastian lives in fear of his friends abandoning him, so he always attempts to give an impossible 110% to feel safe in his relationships. We meet their younger sisters, visit their memories of college, and view their horrific working conditions (relatable).
My stress levels were high as these two friends-to-estranged friends-to-roommates-to-lovers-to
-estranged lovers-to-lovers dated other people, pined, obsessed, and tried to act happy and fine. While I can be all about angst, in this case, it wasn't necessarily a good tension for this reader. There was no romantic content (aside from the aforementioned pining) until the 70% mark, and then things kicked off at 100 mph, only to hit the big crash-and-burn moment at 85% with a brief reunion/heart-eyes moment right at the end to wrap things up. I realize this is complex math, people, but that means we are only graced with about 15% of the book where romance is happening, and to be honest, that's generous, seeing as the red flags started popping up long before the big blowup. As usual, pacing is something I'm very particular about, so it had a strong influence on my perception of the book.
I think if you're looking for a high angst romance between nuanced characters with aspects of fan culture and/or movie magic (?), this book will hit the mark for you, so check it out. Thanks to Kensington and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. It's out 9/7.
August 6, 2021
Nina and Sebastian met in college over their shared love of their favorite fantasy television show (CoRaB). By graduation, they're both hiding romantic feelings towards one another on the grounds that they're preserving their friendship--until something else entirely separates them for five years. Now they both find themselves living in LA and working on the reboot of CoRaB.
Nina and Sebastian are characters that instantly click on page. The author's did an incredible job describing the minutia of their reactions. Small gestures that built this world entirely made up of them.
I don't even need to say it--but I will--there was so much tension. I liked that this book took an unconventional path with their friendship and relationship. I believed the drama and the character development. I might have liked to see Nina work through her issues a little bit more but I still felt there was a satisfying conclusion.
What sets this book apart for me is that the side characters are just as memorable--the meddling sisters, horrible bosses and roommates, and lets not forget the fandom. I think its safe to say I won't be forgetting this book anytime soon.
Thank you to @Netgalley and @Kensingtonbooks for this eARC. Hollywood Ending is out on August 31 and you can pre-order your copy now!
Nina and Sebastian are characters that instantly click on page. The author's did an incredible job describing the minutia of their reactions. Small gestures that built this world entirely made up of them.
I don't even need to say it--but I will--there was so much tension. I liked that this book took an unconventional path with their friendship and relationship. I believed the drama and the character development. I might have liked to see Nina work through her issues a little bit more but I still felt there was a satisfying conclusion.
What sets this book apart for me is that the side characters are just as memorable--the meddling sisters, horrible bosses and roommates, and lets not forget the fandom. I think its safe to say I won't be forgetting this book anytime soon.
Thank you to @Netgalley and @Kensingtonbooks for this eARC. Hollywood Ending is out on August 31 and you can pre-order your copy now!
September 18, 2021
I was provided with a digital ARC of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishing house, Kensington Books, in exchange for an honest review.
A full review of this book can be found here.
CW: strained father/daughter relationship, divorce, difficulty in opening up to love, strained sisterly relationship (at the beginning).
Hollywood Ending is the cute story of Nina and Sebastian, best friends since college until something happened and they lost contacts. Until suddenly they find themselves working in the same city, for the same TV show that in the beginning make them become friends.
This is a cute story of friends always having felt something for each other but unable to act on their feelings. I liked the premise of this book a lot, also because I knew that it dealt with fandom culture, and that's something I always like to see depicted in romance books.
In the end, I think this book was just an okay read for me. It was fine, but nothing actually stood out to me. Even the relationship between Nina and Sebastian sometimes I found unbelievable: it's like when they get together it seems that everything is going to be fine, but in every romance we know that something must go wrong in order to have the big happy ending at the end of the novel. In this case I found the conflict to be quite pointless and honestly so easily resolved.
I liked the familiar aspect in this novel: the relationship between Sebastian and his sister was the purest, and even if sometimes her ways of trying to get Nina and Sebastian together were a little bit extreme, I think she was one of the only characters that made the novel move a little bit forward.
I'm always a fan of friends to lovers in books, but this felt a bit flat for me. It lacked the angst I usually enjoy in this kind of novels. But if you like sweet stories about friends becoming more and fandom culture I think you could really enjoy this one.
A full review of this book can be found here.
CW: strained father/daughter relationship, divorce, difficulty in opening up to love, strained sisterly relationship (at the beginning).
Hollywood Ending is the cute story of Nina and Sebastian, best friends since college until something happened and they lost contacts. Until suddenly they find themselves working in the same city, for the same TV show that in the beginning make them become friends.
This is a cute story of friends always having felt something for each other but unable to act on their feelings. I liked the premise of this book a lot, also because I knew that it dealt with fandom culture, and that's something I always like to see depicted in romance books.
In the end, I think this book was just an okay read for me. It was fine, but nothing actually stood out to me. Even the relationship between Nina and Sebastian sometimes I found unbelievable: it's like when they get together it seems that everything is going to be fine, but in every romance we know that something must go wrong in order to have the big happy ending at the end of the novel. In this case I found the conflict to be quite pointless and honestly so easily resolved.
I liked the familiar aspect in this novel: the relationship between Sebastian and his sister was the purest, and even if sometimes her ways of trying to get Nina and Sebastian together were a little bit extreme, I think she was one of the only characters that made the novel move a little bit forward.
I'm always a fan of friends to lovers in books, but this felt a bit flat for me. It lacked the angst I usually enjoy in this kind of novels. But if you like sweet stories about friends becoming more and fandom culture I think you could really enjoy this one.
August 23, 2021
BOOK BLURB
With wit, humor, and a delightfully fresh voice, from the inimitable duo Tash Skilton, author of Ghosting: A Love Story, comes this friends-to-lovers rom-com that explores the hilarious highs and lows of adulting, Hollywood, and what happens when BFFs are forced to take a hard second look at their favorite fandoms--and at each other.
ONE PERFECT FRIENDSHIP--ABRUPTLY CANCELED
All through college, Nina and Sebastian were sentence-finishing, secret-sharing BFFs, and absolute super fans of Castles of Rust and Bone. It was the kind of show--and the kind of friendship--that demands you're all in, for the plot twists, the unresolved sexual tension, the weekly coup d'etat--and ultimately, the heartbreak.
At least until the big cliffhanger…
But when Castles' season finale turned into the unceremoniously axed show's awkward farewell, Nina and Sebastian's friendship ended just as suddenly--and just as awkwardly. And Sebastian's longed-for chance to woo Nina into something more than friendship was written out of their story.
In Hollywood, there's always a comeback.
Five years later, Nina and Sebastian are living their best lives in L.A.--and Castles is being rebooted. Nina's a social media coordinator for the streaming service that will air the show, and Sebastian is a PA for the production company. What could be more perfect? How about running into each other on set…?
Turns out even the most dedicated fans are due for a wake-up call when they get to peek behind the scenes. And suddenly Nina and Sebastian are remembering when they were super fans of each other instead. Will flipping the script from buddy comedy to real romance ruin everything--or deliver the happily-ever-after they both crave?
My Thoughts
Longtime college friends Nina and Sebastian , whose relationship fractured five years ago, reunited and finally getting a second chance to be together as more than just platonic best friends.
As just friends Nina and Sebastians relationship could not have been more perfect when they were in college together.
One night is all it took to set the inseparable pair on separate paths right before graduation. An unfortunate, on Sebastians part, move on the wrong pair of female lips and what was thought to be an unbreakable bond breaks for Nina when she witnesses it.
Five years pass and both are hired to work in different capacities on the soon to be rebooted show which brought them together, Castles of Rust and Bone.
Funny thing how when Nina and Sebastian find themselves together again as work colleagues then shortly thereafter falling back into their friendship with each other like no time has passed at all.
Thanks to certain circumstances repeating themselves the friendship is almost derailed before it gets off the ground again, as is any long term blossoming romance between Nina and Sebastian.
Finding out whether these perfect for each other people stay together after all is part and parcel of what makes this rom-com a second chance romance that is rather unique in it’s execution.
[EArc from Netgalley]
March 20, 2023
4,5 Sterne
Ich hab mir das Buch vor wenigen Tagen spontan mitgenommen, weil ich Lust auf eine locker leichte Liebesgeschichte hatte.
Das ist sie im Großen und Ganzen auch, allerdings gibt es ein Element in der Geschichte, mit dem ich so nicht gerechnet hatte, und das die Story für mich unerwartet persönlich gemacht hat. Die Geschichte war toll zu lesen und hat mich sehr berührt. Wegen ein paar kleine Logik Fehler gibt es aber nicht die vollen fünf Sterne.
Ich hab mir das Buch vor wenigen Tagen spontan mitgenommen, weil ich Lust auf eine locker leichte Liebesgeschichte hatte.
Das ist sie im Großen und Ganzen auch, allerdings gibt es ein Element in der Geschichte, mit dem ich so nicht gerechnet hatte, und das die Story für mich unerwartet persönlich gemacht hat. Die Geschichte war toll zu lesen und hat mich sehr berührt. Wegen ein paar kleine Logik Fehler gibt es aber nicht die vollen fünf Sterne.
August 4, 2021
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for letting me read an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really wanted to like this book but unfortunately I didn’t enjoy it for a number of reasons. Firstly, I found the writing to be quite clunky at times and the pacing just didn’t really work for me. I also noticed quite a few grammatical errors (e.g using ‘were’ where ‘was’ ought to be used) which just made me feel like the book would’ve benefitted from a bit more editing.
The main reason for me not enjoying the book was that I really felt a lack of chemistry between the characters. Obviously I am outnumbered here by people who loved the book and the characters, so it may be a me problem rather than an issue with the book, but I just really didn’t feel a genuine connection between Nina and Sebastian existed beyond their mutual interest in the show they both love. The book is full of romance cliches (e.g. forced to share a bed; one character bandages another’s wound) which normally I actually quite enjoy in romance novels, however in this case because I felt there was a lack of chemistry these cliches fell flat for me. By the third act conflict I think I had pretty much mentally checked out of this book, so it felt like it really dragged.
One final more personal gripe, there were few mistakes about the UK which just irritated me as a native Brit. For instance, Sebastian reminisces about happy memories playing netball as a child in England, but netball is treated as a girls sport here and it is actually incredibly uncommon for boys to play netball (so much so that I have never heard of boys playing netball before reading this book). Another simple mistake is that Nina thinks Sebastian will think about driven distances in Kilometres, but we actually use Miles here to measure distance (it’s pretty much the only thing we still measure with the imperial system)! Obviously these are not big issues but there were just a number of instances like this which made me want to mention it.
I really wanted to like this book but unfortunately I didn’t enjoy it for a number of reasons. Firstly, I found the writing to be quite clunky at times and the pacing just didn’t really work for me. I also noticed quite a few grammatical errors (e.g using ‘were’ where ‘was’ ought to be used) which just made me feel like the book would’ve benefitted from a bit more editing.
The main reason for me not enjoying the book was that I really felt a lack of chemistry between the characters. Obviously I am outnumbered here by people who loved the book and the characters, so it may be a me problem rather than an issue with the book, but I just really didn’t feel a genuine connection between Nina and Sebastian existed beyond their mutual interest in the show they both love. The book is full of romance cliches (e.g. forced to share a bed; one character bandages another’s wound) which normally I actually quite enjoy in romance novels, however in this case because I felt there was a lack of chemistry these cliches fell flat for me. By the third act conflict I think I had pretty much mentally checked out of this book, so it felt like it really dragged.
One final more personal gripe, there were few mistakes about the UK which just irritated me as a native Brit. For instance, Sebastian reminisces about happy memories playing netball as a child in England, but netball is treated as a girls sport here and it is actually incredibly uncommon for boys to play netball (so much so that I have never heard of boys playing netball before reading this book). Another simple mistake is that Nina thinks Sebastian will think about driven distances in Kilometres, but we actually use Miles here to measure distance (it’s pretty much the only thing we still measure with the imperial system)! Obviously these are not big issues but there were just a number of instances like this which made me want to mention it.
Want to read
June 30, 2021Hollywood Ending was written in 2020, during personal and global turmoil. The books I read that year provided a true escape, and I hope any readers going through a tough time will find love, humor, and solace in these pages. I can't wait for you to meet my POV character, Sebastian Worthington, and the woman he loves, Nina Shams!
Sebastian hails from Sherborne, Dorset, a place I hold dear from my mom's side of the family. Back in college, Sebastian was a super fan of the TV show "Castles of Rust and Bone" but he's in for some major surprises five years later when he gets a job as a producer's assistant for the show's reboot out in Los Angeles. A show-related reunion with his estranged-but-forever crush Nina (whose POV is written by Sarvenaz) provides the two former best friends with a second chance at their favorite 'ship--each other.
Add it to your To-Read list so you'll be notified for giveaways. Thanks and happy reading!
Sebastian hails from Sherborne, Dorset, a place I hold dear from my mom's side of the family. Back in college, Sebastian was a super fan of the TV show "Castles of Rust and Bone" but he's in for some major surprises five years later when he gets a job as a producer's assistant for the show's reboot out in Los Angeles. A show-related reunion with his estranged-but-forever crush Nina (whose POV is written by Sarvenaz) provides the two former best friends with a second chance at their favorite 'ship--each other.
Add it to your To-Read list so you'll be notified for giveaways. Thanks and happy reading!
May 3, 2023
Vielen lieben Dank an den Knaur-Verlag für die Bereitstellung dieses Rezensionsexemplars!
Meine Rezension spiegelt selbstverständlich trotzdem meine ehrliche Meinung wider.
Aufmachung:
Das comichafte Cover spiegelt genau die sommerlichen RomCom-Vibes wider, die auch der Inhalt hergibt.
Man sieht im Vordergrund ein Paar mit Popcorn, das sich eine stilisierte Skyline mit Palmen – offenbar Los Angeles – ansieht wie einen Film. Das passt natürlich wunderbar zum Inhalt, da Nina und Sebastian beide nicht nur große Fans einer Serie sind, die sie zusammen sehen, sondern auch beide am Filmset des Reboots arbeiten. Sebastian ist allerdings, anders als der Mann auf dem Cover, blond.
Meine Meinung:
Allzu viel habe ich gar nicht zu sagen! „Hollywood Ending“ war das perfekte Buch für mich zum Entspannen nach meinem Examen, da es schön leicht geschrieben, sehr humorvoll und teilweise wirklich niedlich ist. Kurz: eine richtige Feelgood-Romance, wie man sie sich vorstellt!
Dabei ist das Buch nicht besonders tiefgründig und auch die Konflikte, denen die Protagonisten sich stellen müssen, sind nicht weltbewegend, aber den Anspruch stellt das Buch auch gar nicht.
Stattdessen beschreibt das Autorinnenduo hier auf nahbare, humorige und nachvollziehbare Weise, wie sich Freunde auseinanderleben können, wie sie sich durch Zufall wiederfinden und wie dann aus einer Freundschaft langsam mehr wird.
„Vielleicht können wir alle, auch ohne die Macht über Mount Signon an uns zu reißen, in das Zeitgefüge eingreifen, wenn uns nur der Luxus vergönnt ist, einen wahren Freund an unserer Seite zu haben.“ (S. 106/384)
Sebastian und Nina stellen sich dabei alltäglichen Problemen, die sie beide zu Figuren machen, in die man sich gut hineinversetzen und deren Gefühle man gut nachempfinden kann. Beide machen Fehler, haben Ecken und Kanten und müssen sich im Laufe der Handlung Herausforderungen stellen, an denen sie wachsen können.
Die Alltäglichkeit der Situationen, in denen sich die beiden befinden, sorgt dafür, dass beide Protagonisten nahbar werden und echt wirken.
Schön fand ich, dass die Kapitel abwechselnd aus Ninas und Sebastians Sicht geschrieben sind, sodass man gut nachvollziehen kann, was sie jeweils über den anderen oder über das aktuelle Geschehen denken, wie sie sich fühlen und wie sie das, was passiert, wahrnehmen. Das gibt beiden für sich, den Gefühlen beider sowie auch der gesamten Geschichte mehr Substanz, als es möglich gewesen wäre, wenn die Geschichte nur aus einer Perspektive erzählt worden wäre.
„Am meisten ist mir aber in Erinnerung geblieben, wie sicher ich mich mit ihm fühlte. Wir kannten uns kaum, aber ich wusste, ich konnte mich in seiner Gegenwart ruhig fallen lassen, konnte albern sein und meinen Rausch ausleben. Ich wusste instinktiv, dass mir mit ihm nichts passieren würde.“ (S. 112/384)
Dazu, dass man sich gut in sie hineinversetzen kann, trägt auch das Fandom-Leben, dem beide sich gewidmet haben, bei. Jemand, der sich selbst einer Fandom verschrieben hat, kann gut nachvollziehen, wie sehr die beiden für „Castles of Rust and Bones“ brennen, und sieht sich in manchen Situationen vielleicht sogar selbst.
Das und auch der trockene Humor Ninas sorgen dafür, dass man hier oft gut lachen kann und dass „Hollywood Ending“ einfach gute Laune verbreitet.
Insgesamt liest man hier aber nichts Bahnbrechendes. Das Buch spielt mit Klischees und Tropes; dementsprechend vorhersehbar ist es natürlich auch, aber unterhalten kann „Hollywood Ending“ trotzdem durchweg. Es ist eben ein Buch zum Abschalten, an das man keine allzu hohen Ansprüche stellen darf.
Mein einziger Kritikpunkt: Vor allem zum Ende hin hätte ich es mir sehr gewünscht, wenn Nina und Sebastian einfach mal wirklich Klartext miteinander geredet hätten, anstatt vor dem Konflikt zu flüchten.
Fazit:
„Hollywood Ending“ ist das perfekte Buch zum Entspannen, da es schön leicht geschrieben, sehr humorvoll und teilweise wirklich niedlich ist. Kurz: eine richtige Feelgood-Romance, wie man sie sich vorstellt!
Viel Tiefgründigkeit kann man nicht erwarten, und vor allem zum Ende hin können die Protagonisten auch mal miteinander Klartext reden, anstatt vor dem Konflikt zu flüchten, aber insgesamt ist das Buch eine sehr niedliche friends to lovers Feelgood-Romance mit hohem Unterhaltungsfaktor über die Bedeutung einer ganz besonderen Freundschaft.
4/5 Lesehasen.
Meine Rezension spiegelt selbstverständlich trotzdem meine ehrliche Meinung wider.
Aufmachung:
Das comichafte Cover spiegelt genau die sommerlichen RomCom-Vibes wider, die auch der Inhalt hergibt.
Man sieht im Vordergrund ein Paar mit Popcorn, das sich eine stilisierte Skyline mit Palmen – offenbar Los Angeles – ansieht wie einen Film. Das passt natürlich wunderbar zum Inhalt, da Nina und Sebastian beide nicht nur große Fans einer Serie sind, die sie zusammen sehen, sondern auch beide am Filmset des Reboots arbeiten. Sebastian ist allerdings, anders als der Mann auf dem Cover, blond.
Meine Meinung:
Allzu viel habe ich gar nicht zu sagen! „Hollywood Ending“ war das perfekte Buch für mich zum Entspannen nach meinem Examen, da es schön leicht geschrieben, sehr humorvoll und teilweise wirklich niedlich ist. Kurz: eine richtige Feelgood-Romance, wie man sie sich vorstellt!
Dabei ist das Buch nicht besonders tiefgründig und auch die Konflikte, denen die Protagonisten sich stellen müssen, sind nicht weltbewegend, aber den Anspruch stellt das Buch auch gar nicht.
Stattdessen beschreibt das Autorinnenduo hier auf nahbare, humorige und nachvollziehbare Weise, wie sich Freunde auseinanderleben können, wie sie sich durch Zufall wiederfinden und wie dann aus einer Freundschaft langsam mehr wird.
„Vielleicht können wir alle, auch ohne die Macht über Mount Signon an uns zu reißen, in das Zeitgefüge eingreifen, wenn uns nur der Luxus vergönnt ist, einen wahren Freund an unserer Seite zu haben.“ (S. 106/384)
Sebastian und Nina stellen sich dabei alltäglichen Problemen, die sie beide zu Figuren machen, in die man sich gut hineinversetzen und deren Gefühle man gut nachempfinden kann. Beide machen Fehler, haben Ecken und Kanten und müssen sich im Laufe der Handlung Herausforderungen stellen, an denen sie wachsen können.
Die Alltäglichkeit der Situationen, in denen sich die beiden befinden, sorgt dafür, dass beide Protagonisten nahbar werden und echt wirken.
Schön fand ich, dass die Kapitel abwechselnd aus Ninas und Sebastians Sicht geschrieben sind, sodass man gut nachvollziehen kann, was sie jeweils über den anderen oder über das aktuelle Geschehen denken, wie sie sich fühlen und wie sie das, was passiert, wahrnehmen. Das gibt beiden für sich, den Gefühlen beider sowie auch der gesamten Geschichte mehr Substanz, als es möglich gewesen wäre, wenn die Geschichte nur aus einer Perspektive erzählt worden wäre.
„Am meisten ist mir aber in Erinnerung geblieben, wie sicher ich mich mit ihm fühlte. Wir kannten uns kaum, aber ich wusste, ich konnte mich in seiner Gegenwart ruhig fallen lassen, konnte albern sein und meinen Rausch ausleben. Ich wusste instinktiv, dass mir mit ihm nichts passieren würde.“ (S. 112/384)
Dazu, dass man sich gut in sie hineinversetzen kann, trägt auch das Fandom-Leben, dem beide sich gewidmet haben, bei. Jemand, der sich selbst einer Fandom verschrieben hat, kann gut nachvollziehen, wie sehr die beiden für „Castles of Rust and Bones“ brennen, und sieht sich in manchen Situationen vielleicht sogar selbst.
Das und auch der trockene Humor Ninas sorgen dafür, dass man hier oft gut lachen kann und dass „Hollywood Ending“ einfach gute Laune verbreitet.
Insgesamt liest man hier aber nichts Bahnbrechendes. Das Buch spielt mit Klischees und Tropes; dementsprechend vorhersehbar ist es natürlich auch, aber unterhalten kann „Hollywood Ending“ trotzdem durchweg. Es ist eben ein Buch zum Abschalten, an das man keine allzu hohen Ansprüche stellen darf.
Mein einziger Kritikpunkt: Vor allem zum Ende hin hätte ich es mir sehr gewünscht, wenn Nina und Sebastian einfach mal wirklich Klartext miteinander geredet hätten, anstatt vor dem Konflikt zu flüchten.
Fazit:
„Hollywood Ending“ ist das perfekte Buch zum Entspannen, da es schön leicht geschrieben, sehr humorvoll und teilweise wirklich niedlich ist. Kurz: eine richtige Feelgood-Romance, wie man sie sich vorstellt!
Viel Tiefgründigkeit kann man nicht erwarten, und vor allem zum Ende hin können die Protagonisten auch mal miteinander Klartext reden, anstatt vor dem Konflikt zu flüchten, aber insgesamt ist das Buch eine sehr niedliche friends to lovers Feelgood-Romance mit hohem Unterhaltungsfaktor über die Bedeutung einer ganz besonderen Freundschaft.
4/5 Lesehasen.
September 27, 2021
I received a digital ARC from NetGalley and Kensington Books in exchange for an honest review. Nina and Sebastian met in college, bonding over their love of the show "Castles of Rust and Bone." Senior year they throw an epic series finale watch party which ends up doubling as an end of friendship event. Five years later, Nina and Sebastian find themselves miles away from their alma mater, unbeknownst to each other, both in LA. And both working on different aspects of the top secret CoRaB reboot. Their paths cross, and they've both missed each other so much they decide to put the past in the past and start right where they left off. The problem is, they both have, and had, feelings for each other but it never seems to be the right time to share that information. Now that Nina is crashing at Sebastian's apartment while looking for a place of her own, how long can they keep up the pretense of just wanting to be friends?
This book had a lot of great aspects. I enjoyed the deep dive into Hollywood and fandom, how peeking behind the curtain can often ruin a much loved piece of pop culture. I appreciated the sibling relationships each had and how vastly different they were, Sebastian being very close to his sister while Nina and her sister, not so much. I loved Sebastian's journey to find his worth as a friend and human. But ultimately, this book just wasn't for me. There was so much build up to very little pay off. It was about 70% development, and then everything was very sudden. There was a side plot having to do with Nina and her father that had no real resolution other than a line in the epilogue. The chemistry between Nina and Sebastian built up but then when the match was struck it was the smallest fire ever and the result didn't match what had been growing between them.
This book had a lot of great aspects. I enjoyed the deep dive into Hollywood and fandom, how peeking behind the curtain can often ruin a much loved piece of pop culture. I appreciated the sibling relationships each had and how vastly different they were, Sebastian being very close to his sister while Nina and her sister, not so much. I loved Sebastian's journey to find his worth as a friend and human. But ultimately, this book just wasn't for me. There was so much build up to very little pay off. It was about 70% development, and then everything was very sudden. There was a side plot having to do with Nina and her father that had no real resolution other than a line in the epilogue. The chemistry between Nina and Sebastian built up but then when the match was struck it was the smallest fire ever and the result didn't match what had been growing between them.
June 27, 2021
Let me introduce you to my new favorite dynamic duo. The author's writing is flawless. From the first page, not only was I belly laughing at the witty repartee, but I was enraptured by these characters and their story. The authors bring you into the world of Nina and Sebastian and make you feel connected to them. It felt as if I was sitting right there having a conversation, rather than simply observing their story.
The tension between Nina and Sebastian could be felt deep in my bones. My heart ached with each interaction because their chemistry and connection was evident from the very first page. Sebastian and Nina’s relationship was very realistic and spoke truths that were often overlooked in the beginning, especially when there is a lot of pining and history involved. There were a lot of honest conversations that made this book feel authentic and broke down the fantasy love where the focus wasn’t the storybook HEA and that is refreshing to see in a romance book.
This was a perfect book that had all the essentials of a friends-to-more trope, but also had a lot of surprises and depth that could only be provided by these two authors. These characters had my heart, their story captivated me to where I devoured the book in hours, and I was sad when the last page ended. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for this ARC
The tension between Nina and Sebastian could be felt deep in my bones. My heart ached with each interaction because their chemistry and connection was evident from the very first page. Sebastian and Nina’s relationship was very realistic and spoke truths that were often overlooked in the beginning, especially when there is a lot of pining and history involved. There were a lot of honest conversations that made this book feel authentic and broke down the fantasy love where the focus wasn’t the storybook HEA and that is refreshing to see in a romance book.
This was a perfect book that had all the essentials of a friends-to-more trope, but also had a lot of surprises and depth that could only be provided by these two authors. These characters had my heart, their story captivated me to where I devoured the book in hours, and I was sad when the last page ended. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for this ARC
August 23, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an advanced electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Sebastian and Nina were best friends throughout college, connected by their mutual love of the show "Castles of Rust and Bone." They went their separate ways at the end of senior year, but 5 years later, the show brings them back together as both of them have jobs connected to the reboot. Will they finally become more than friends?
Though there were some predictable moments, there were also a few surprises. This book was cute and fun!
Sebastian and Nina were best friends throughout college, connected by their mutual love of the show "Castles of Rust and Bone." They went their separate ways at the end of senior year, but 5 years later, the show brings them back together as both of them have jobs connected to the reboot. Will they finally become more than friends?
Though there were some predictable moments, there were also a few surprises. This book was cute and fun!
March 6, 2022
"When you kiss a friend, the friendship dies."
~ J.J. Westingland, Castles of Rust and Bone
~ J.J. Westingland, Castles of Rust and Bone
May 4, 2022
Critical Score: 3
Personal Score: 3.5
Total Score: 6.5
Personal Score: 3.5
Total Score: 6.5
January 6, 2024
This needed like five more drafts and EASILY has the worst printing error I’ve ever seen in it. The moment they kiss it reverts to page 50 and doesn’t pick up til the epilogue??????? This is my 13th reason
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2021
I’m not saying that “Hollywood Ending” is the most brilliant inversion of a rom-com I’ve ever read… but I’m not not saying it, either.
This review will be broken up into two parts – the first three-quarters of the book, and the last quarter.
The first three quarters are a delightful rom-com that is a pleasure to read. The characters are fun and likable, including the supporting characters. The sexual tension is thick enough to cut with a knife. The gentle skewering of Hollywood and fandom through the lens of a fake Game of Thrones is expertly done, and made me laugh out loud on many occasions. In short, it’s a great rom-com. It also serves as a love letter to LA, which is *almost* enough to make me overcome my visceral disdain for LA.
And then we get to the last quarter, which is what takes this from “great rom-com” to “no, really, you MUST read this!!”
I wrote last year about how Ghosting: A Love Story was essentially the perfect book for me, and the highlight of my 2020 on Goodreads. I love Sarvenaz Taghavian’s writing across many books, and when she writes with Sarah Skilton, they create magic together. In a very different way, Hollywood Ending was also the perfect book for me, and is definitely among the best books I’ve read this year.
This review will be broken up into two parts – the first three-quarters of the book, and the last quarter.
The first three quarters are a delightful rom-com that is a pleasure to read. The characters are fun and likable, including the supporting characters. The sexual tension is thick enough to cut with a knife. The gentle skewering of Hollywood and fandom through the lens of a fake Game of Thrones is expertly done, and made me laugh out loud on many occasions. In short, it’s a great rom-com. It also serves as a love letter to LA, which is *almost* enough to make me overcome my visceral disdain for LA.
And then we get to the last quarter, which is what takes this from “great rom-com” to “no, really, you MUST read this!!”
I wrote last year about how Ghosting: A Love Story was essentially the perfect book for me, and the highlight of my 2020 on Goodreads. I love Sarvenaz Taghavian’s writing across many books, and when she writes with Sarah Skilton, they create magic together. In a very different way, Hollywood Ending was also the perfect book for me, and is definitely among the best books I’ve read this year.
November 28, 2021
This was a book equivalent of the lowest quality production values - everyone knows it's going to be awful, but the director insists it's "artistic" and delusionally believes the result will be so great nobody's going to care. The whole book felt fake, superficial and pretentious. I didn't like any of the characters enough to wish them well. To be fair, it didn't seem they liked each other any better.
It could be just the lens problem: we are stuck inside the heads of 2 extremely uninteresting and unsympathetic people - not in the evil-vilain sense, but in the "most banal, average and pointless" sense.
It could be just the lens problem: we are stuck inside the heads of 2 extremely uninteresting and unsympathetic people - not in the evil-vilain sense, but in the "most banal, average and pointless" sense.
May 5, 2021
I loved Skilton's "Ghosting: A Love Story" and found "Hollywood Ending" just as charming, witty and engaging. I laughed, I cried, I worried--I had a wonderful time! it's really a perfect read and a fine antidote to the madness of this past year. In addition to the appeal of the main characters, Nina and Sebastian, Skilton is brilliant at social satire, and her skewering of "Game of Thrones" type shows, streaming platforms, Hollywood entry level jobs and the stress of social media is hilarious. Go forth and read "Hollywood Ending!"
June 1, 2021
What a great book! Strong characters, real emotions, very relatable. I worried a little in the beginning that it was going to be too formulaic -- I mean, tropes are tropes for a reason, so it's impossible to avoid that entirely -- but it turned out to zig and zag away from where I thought it was headed with plenty of surprises. A worthy follow-up to the authors' first collaboration, it uses the same dual-narrative device to put us inside both main characters' hearts and minds in a sweet tale of Hollywood, fandom, friendship, and romance – and the often messy intersection of all of those.
December 27, 2021
Hollywood Ending was such a fun read. Friends to lovers isn't a favorite trope of mine, but this was done so well that you just have to love it. Sebastian and Nina are clearly meant to be from the first time you see them interact, and watching them find their way to each really felt like watching two friends of mine get together. The setting of the reboot of their favorite TV show was a great nod to fandoms and how strongly people can form bonds based on them.
Overall, I definitely recommend reading this one!
Overall, I definitely recommend reading this one!
September 10, 2021
I wish I could have gotten more into the story to finish it but the characters were just getting on my nerves too much. They are supposed to be in senior year of college when their friendship falls apart but every scene that shows them back them just reminded me of someone in high school and they seem to have that immaturity level. I had to dnf at 30% because I couldn’t focus on it any longer. I’m sure it’s someone’s cup of tea and that’s fine. It just wasn’t for me and I had to give up.
I received a copy through netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
I received a copy through netgalley in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
September 1, 2021
Content notes:
I really enjoyed Sarah Skilton’s story from the Summer in the City anthology, so I was curious about this book that she co-authored with Sarvenaz Tash. It’s a delightfully tropey second-chance, friends-to-lovers romance, all set amongst a TV show in Hollywood.
Nina and Sebastian were best friends for four years in college, bonded by their love of the hit show Castles of Rust and Bone. But in a plot twist worthy of the show, Sebastian has a secret: he’s nursed a crush on Nina from the beginning. Sebastian was afraid of confessing his crush for fear of ruining their friendship, but with college ending, he knows he needs to make a move. But in another surprise twist, their relationship ended suddenly on the night of the season finale before he had a chance to confess, and they haven’t spoken for five years – until they run into each other on the set of the reboot of their favorite show. Is this a chance to reboot their relationship as well?
Nina’s a fun character. Newly arrived to LA, she’s already got a boyfriend (her airport Uber driver, no less) and a promotion (maybe?) to social media manager for the streaming company who’s rebooting the show. Seeing Sebastian feels exactly like a second chance at their friendship. Sebastian’s got a job as an assistant to the producer, which basically means driving around and doing whatever she wants him to do. Sebastian is afraid of not belonging, of losing his friends. He didn’t really have any before college, and he thinks if he stops doin things for them – cooking, buying groceries – they’ll stop being friends with him. This second chance at a friendship with Nina is too precious to waste on the off-chance they could be a couple. After all, Nina’s never dated anyone for more than four months, and Sebastian doesn’t want to lose her again. But when Nina ends up rooming with him when she can’t put up with her insane roommate (leeches and bees and the next yoni egg, oh my) any longer, keeping things platonic is harder than ever – for both of them.
Why Nina and Sebastian’s relationship fell apart is something that’s gradually revealed to the reader as the book progresses. Their friendship is deeply tied into their love of the Game-of-Thrones-like show, down to quoting random lines or finishing each other’s sentences or just debating which couple is the OTP. Someone who’s more familiar with Game of Thrones might enjoy the constant references to show trivia more amusing; I have some superficial knowledge (I read 1.5 of the books before throwing in the towel) but not enough to really get it. It did sometimes feel like the only way they could interact was through that shared interest, to the exclusion of everyone else in their lives, including the reader. On top of that, a good portion of the book is spent with them both thinking the other isn’t interested, so while there’s lots of mutual pining, there’s not a ton of on-page relationship.
But while I could’ve used more of their relationship, it’s also very funny. Nina’s roommate is a hoot, and I adored Sebastian’s sister, Millie, whose fandom appears to be shipping Nina and Sebastian, as well as Nina’s straight-speaking social media maven, Sayeh. There was enough behind-the-scenes hijinks (between cake mix, actual cakes, and more than one goat) to keep me giggling, and the characters’ reactions to each further indignity had me laughing. The plot is very predictable, though that is used in an interesting way. There’s a lot of purposeful parallels between their college life and present day life, and it was entertaining to see them try not to make the same mistakes again.
Overall, I’d give this 3.5 stars. It’s cute and silly, and based on the humor and writing style, I’d give this author duo another try.
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I really enjoyed Sarah Skilton’s story from the Summer in the City anthology, so I was curious about this book that she co-authored with Sarvenaz Tash. It’s a delightfully tropey second-chance, friends-to-lovers romance, all set amongst a TV show in Hollywood.
“If I don’t recognize this for the reboot that it is, then I deserve to have my imaginary Writers Guild membership revoked.”
Nina and Sebastian were best friends for four years in college, bonded by their love of the hit show Castles of Rust and Bone. But in a plot twist worthy of the show, Sebastian has a secret: he’s nursed a crush on Nina from the beginning. Sebastian was afraid of confessing his crush for fear of ruining their friendship, but with college ending, he knows he needs to make a move. But in another surprise twist, their relationship ended suddenly on the night of the season finale before he had a chance to confess, and they haven’t spoken for five years – until they run into each other on the set of the reboot of their favorite show. Is this a chance to reboot their relationship as well?
“I can’t help thinking that if the show gets it right this time around, it could heal more than just my broken fandom heart.”
Nina’s a fun character. Newly arrived to LA, she’s already got a boyfriend (her airport Uber driver, no less) and a promotion (maybe?) to social media manager for the streaming company who’s rebooting the show. Seeing Sebastian feels exactly like a second chance at their friendship. Sebastian’s got a job as an assistant to the producer, which basically means driving around and doing whatever she wants him to do. Sebastian is afraid of not belonging, of losing his friends. He didn’t really have any before college, and he thinks if he stops doin things for them – cooking, buying groceries – they’ll stop being friends with him. This second chance at a friendship with Nina is too precious to waste on the off-chance they could be a couple. After all, Nina’s never dated anyone for more than four months, and Sebastian doesn’t want to lose her again. But when Nina ends up rooming with him when she can’t put up with her insane roommate (leeches and bees and the next yoni egg, oh my) any longer, keeping things platonic is harder than ever – for both of them.
“A knight always keeps his word.”
I grin. “You’re only a knight on the streets,” I quote back the next line. Sebastian’s eyes open and he turns his head.
We’re staring at each other when we say, at the exact same time, “But a freak in the sheets.”
We’re both grinning. Not a real line from the show, of course, but exactly what we turned and said to each other simultaneously seven years ago, watching that scene from the common room couch.”
Why Nina and Sebastian’s relationship fell apart is something that’s gradually revealed to the reader as the book progresses. Their friendship is deeply tied into their love of the Game-of-Thrones-like show, down to quoting random lines or finishing each other’s sentences or just debating which couple is the OTP. Someone who’s more familiar with Game of Thrones might enjoy the constant references to show trivia more amusing; I have some superficial knowledge (I read 1.5 of the books before throwing in the towel) but not enough to really get it. It did sometimes feel like the only way they could interact was through that shared interest, to the exclusion of everyone else in their lives, including the reader. On top of that, a good portion of the book is spent with them both thinking the other isn’t interested, so while there’s lots of mutual pining, there’s not a ton of on-page relationship.
But while I could’ve used more of their relationship, it’s also very funny. Nina’s roommate is a hoot, and I adored Sebastian’s sister, Millie, whose fandom appears to be shipping Nina and Sebastian, as well as Nina’s straight-speaking social media maven, Sayeh. There was enough behind-the-scenes hijinks (between cake mix, actual cakes, and more than one goat) to keep me giggling, and the characters’ reactions to each further indignity had me laughing. The plot is very predictable, though that is used in an interesting way. There’s a lot of purposeful parallels between their college life and present day life, and it was entertaining to see them try not to make the same mistakes again.
Overall, I’d give this 3.5 stars. It’s cute and silly, and based on the humor and writing style, I’d give this author duo another try.
I received an advance review copy of this book from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
December 25, 2023
(Rezensionsexemplar)
Als ich den Klappentext des Buches gelesen habe, war ich direkt begeistert. Es hat sich nach einer süßen romantischen und leichten Geschichte angehört.
Was es auch im Endeffekt war.
Erstmal worum geht es überhaupt?
Nina und Sebastian waren beste Freunde und große Fans der legendären Serie "Castles of Rust and Bone", die sie während ihrer gesamten Zeit an der Universität begleitet hat. Doch nach dem enttäuschenden Finale endete ihre Freundschaft abrupt, und Sebastian musste jede Hoffnung auf eine romantische Beziehung zu Nina begraben. Fünf Jahre später leben sie beide in L.A., und ihre Lieblingsserie wird fortgesetzt. Nina arbeitet als Social-Media-Koordinatorin für den Streamingdienst, der die Serie ausstrahlen wird, während Sebastian für die Produktionsfirma arbeitet. Es scheint die perfekte Gelegenheit zu sein, sich wieder zu treffen, aber es warten auch einige Überraschungen hinter den Kulissen auf die beiden einstigen Superfans.
Der Einstieg des Buches ist gut gewählt es wird erstmal von dem Anfang Ihrer Freundschaft erzählt. Wieso diese beendet wurde, wird erst im Laufe des Buches geklärt. Das Buch hatte viele kleine Wendungen was mir gefiel und der Spannungsbogen wurde auch gut gewählt. Trotzdem kann ich nicht sagen das es mich vollkommen überzeugt hat. Ich habe definitiv schon bessere Bücher gelesen. Aber trotzdem wer etwas leicht, lockeres und lustiges lesen möchte ist hier goldrichtig.
Wer aber mehr Fokus auf die romantischen Part legt, dies ist eher nüchtern. Auch muss man sich viel auf Serieninhalte freuen. Es wird fast aufjeder Seite etwas davon Thematisiert. Da ich selber keine Fanatsy Bücher so gerne lese, war die Fanatsy Serie nicht so mein Fall. Was mich in meinem Lesefluss etwas gestört hat, ist aber Geschmackssache :).
Die kleinen Chats und Social Media Postings auf Twitter die durch andere Schriftarten gekennzeichnet wurden gefielen mir sehr. Ich liebe sowas in Büchern. Auch der Schlagabtausch zwischen den Protagonisten war hier und da immer amüsant und hat ein paar Lacher gebracht. Man hat aber auch mit den Protagonisten sehr mitgefühlt und hoffte einfach auf ein gutes Ende. Besonders die letzten 30 Seiten waren sehr nervend aufreibend...
Also alles in allem ein gutes Buch was man für zwischendurch gerne lesen kann. Man hat mir hier viele Emotionen entlockt und war ein süßes Buch für zwischendurch.
Als ich den Klappentext des Buches gelesen habe, war ich direkt begeistert. Es hat sich nach einer süßen romantischen und leichten Geschichte angehört.
Was es auch im Endeffekt war.
Erstmal worum geht es überhaupt?
Nina und Sebastian waren beste Freunde und große Fans der legendären Serie "Castles of Rust and Bone", die sie während ihrer gesamten Zeit an der Universität begleitet hat. Doch nach dem enttäuschenden Finale endete ihre Freundschaft abrupt, und Sebastian musste jede Hoffnung auf eine romantische Beziehung zu Nina begraben. Fünf Jahre später leben sie beide in L.A., und ihre Lieblingsserie wird fortgesetzt. Nina arbeitet als Social-Media-Koordinatorin für den Streamingdienst, der die Serie ausstrahlen wird, während Sebastian für die Produktionsfirma arbeitet. Es scheint die perfekte Gelegenheit zu sein, sich wieder zu treffen, aber es warten auch einige Überraschungen hinter den Kulissen auf die beiden einstigen Superfans.
Der Einstieg des Buches ist gut gewählt es wird erstmal von dem Anfang Ihrer Freundschaft erzählt. Wieso diese beendet wurde, wird erst im Laufe des Buches geklärt. Das Buch hatte viele kleine Wendungen was mir gefiel und der Spannungsbogen wurde auch gut gewählt. Trotzdem kann ich nicht sagen das es mich vollkommen überzeugt hat. Ich habe definitiv schon bessere Bücher gelesen. Aber trotzdem wer etwas leicht, lockeres und lustiges lesen möchte ist hier goldrichtig.
Wer aber mehr Fokus auf die romantischen Part legt, dies ist eher nüchtern. Auch muss man sich viel auf Serieninhalte freuen. Es wird fast aufjeder Seite etwas davon Thematisiert. Da ich selber keine Fanatsy Bücher so gerne lese, war die Fanatsy Serie nicht so mein Fall. Was mich in meinem Lesefluss etwas gestört hat, ist aber Geschmackssache :).
Die kleinen Chats und Social Media Postings auf Twitter die durch andere Schriftarten gekennzeichnet wurden gefielen mir sehr. Ich liebe sowas in Büchern. Auch der Schlagabtausch zwischen den Protagonisten war hier und da immer amüsant und hat ein paar Lacher gebracht. Man hat aber auch mit den Protagonisten sehr mitgefühlt und hoffte einfach auf ein gutes Ende. Besonders die letzten 30 Seiten waren sehr nervend aufreibend...
Also alles in allem ein gutes Buch was man für zwischendurch gerne lesen kann. Man hat mir hier viele Emotionen entlockt und war ein süßes Buch für zwischendurch.
July 26, 2023
Ich gucke auch gerne Serien und Filme, aber die beiden Hauptfiguren in Hollywood Ending sind wirklich besessen von Castles Of Rust And Bone, einem fiktiven Werk, das mich stark an Game Of Thrones erinnert hat. Der Einblick in diese Obsession hat mich direkt in das Buch hinein gezogen. Wir erfahren, wie Nina und Sebastian sich durch die Serie kennengelernt haben und in ihrem Fan sein voll aufgehen. Irgendwie trennt sich ihre Freundschaft dann und wir steigen fünf Jahre später wieder ein, als beide einen Job in Los Angeles ergattern konnten. Sebastian bei einer Produktionsfirma und Nina als Social Media Managerin. Beide Firmen arbeiten für ihre Lieblingsserie und so werden die beiden immer mehr mit der Wahrheit rund um die Serie konfrontiert, sehen, wie es hinter den Kulissen abgeht und kommen sich dabei auch wieder näher.
Mir gefiel gerade alles, was am Filmset passiert ist, richtig gut. Das war teils kurios, teils lehrreich, teils witzig.
Nina und Sebastian hingegen blieben mir ein bisschen fern. Beide waren schon irgendwie sympathisch und okay, aber dass die beiden seit Ewigkeiten ineinander verknallt sind, aber nicht so richtig zueinander finden, hat jetzt keine Begeisterungsstürme und Quietsch-Attacken in mir hervorgerufen.
Ich muss auch sagen, dass sich die Geschichte von Anfang an gezogen hat wie Kaugummi. Immer wieder gab es interessante Passagen, die aber immer wieder von Absätzen voller Nichtigkeiten unterbrochen waren. So hatte ich das Gefühl, im Buch überhaupt nicht vorwärts zu kommen und einfach ewig dran zu sein.
Trotzdem hatte ich immer Spaß beim Lesen – bis das letzte Drittel kam. Hier haben die Autorinnen das Buch meiner Meinung nach ein bisschen gegen die Wand gefahren. Den Verlauf, den Ninas und Sebastians Beziehung hier nimmt, fand ich für das, was die beiden einander bedeuten und wie sie bis dato miteinander umgegangen waren, absolut unpassend und ich will diese Art von Realität in einem Liebesroman, der bis dahin locker und heiter war, eigentlich auch nicht lesen.
Insgesamt war es nette Unterhaltung, aber das Ende hat mir gar nicht gefallen, ich hab nicht verstanden, warum überhaupt diese Richtung eingeschlagen wurde und wieso zum Schluss hin dann alles so schnell abgehandelt werden musste.
Mir gefiel gerade alles, was am Filmset passiert ist, richtig gut. Das war teils kurios, teils lehrreich, teils witzig.
Nina und Sebastian hingegen blieben mir ein bisschen fern. Beide waren schon irgendwie sympathisch und okay, aber dass die beiden seit Ewigkeiten ineinander verknallt sind, aber nicht so richtig zueinander finden, hat jetzt keine Begeisterungsstürme und Quietsch-Attacken in mir hervorgerufen.
Ich muss auch sagen, dass sich die Geschichte von Anfang an gezogen hat wie Kaugummi. Immer wieder gab es interessante Passagen, die aber immer wieder von Absätzen voller Nichtigkeiten unterbrochen waren. So hatte ich das Gefühl, im Buch überhaupt nicht vorwärts zu kommen und einfach ewig dran zu sein.
Trotzdem hatte ich immer Spaß beim Lesen – bis das letzte Drittel kam. Hier haben die Autorinnen das Buch meiner Meinung nach ein bisschen gegen die Wand gefahren. Den Verlauf, den Ninas und Sebastians Beziehung hier nimmt, fand ich für das, was die beiden einander bedeuten und wie sie bis dato miteinander umgegangen waren, absolut unpassend und ich will diese Art von Realität in einem Liebesroman, der bis dahin locker und heiter war, eigentlich auch nicht lesen.
Insgesamt war es nette Unterhaltung, aber das Ende hat mir gar nicht gefallen, ich hab nicht verstanden, warum überhaupt diese Richtung eingeschlagen wurde und wieso zum Schluss hin dann alles so schnell abgehandelt werden musste.
June 28, 2022
This book got so many things right. The characters were perfect, with both Nina and Sebastian feeling like real, authentic, messy, well-rounded human beings. They had believable backstories that crept into their present selves, genuine emotions and realistic reactions. Even better, it wasn’t just the main characters that the authors fleshed out so completely. The sisters, Millie and Sayeh, were highlights of their own, each a complex source of light and reflection for Nina and Sebastian, as well as the reader. The relationships between characters were, too, authentic and human. The characters lived, grew, made mistakes, got hurt, struggled with work and times changing, grew some more. I really cared for the couple and loved the misunderstandings, Tash and Skilton perfected the ‘I like them but there’s no way they like me’ x2 trope and I was so invested in their relationship. This book was a sure 4 stars, creeping up perhaps to 4.5!
However, when they finally got together, I strangely realised that… I didn’t care that much about it!! It was inevitable and it was at face value the climax I was waiting for. But something didn’t quite feel as exciting and satisfying as I had expected. There was still a decent section of the book left and I felt it was okay. I liked how the characters continued to grow and develop. I enjoyed their individual story arcs. But, ultimately, I felt my earlier emotions dim somewhat and it never completely claimed by interest in the couple. This last section let this book down, but it did not take away completely from the complex characters or the plot built with layers and humanity. 3.5-4/5.
However, when they finally got together, I strangely realised that… I didn’t care that much about it!! It was inevitable and it was at face value the climax I was waiting for. But something didn’t quite feel as exciting and satisfying as I had expected. There was still a decent section of the book left and I felt it was okay. I liked how the characters continued to grow and develop. I enjoyed their individual story arcs. But, ultimately, I felt my earlier emotions dim somewhat and it never completely claimed by interest in the couple. This last section let this book down, but it did not take away completely from the complex characters or the plot built with layers and humanity. 3.5-4/5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2021
Let me introduce you to my new favorite dynamic duo. The author's writing is flawless. From the first page, not only was I belly laughing at the witty repartee, but I was enraptured by these characters and their story. The authors bring you into the world of Nina and Sebastian and make you feel connected to them. It felt as if I was sitting right there having a conversation, rather than simply observing their story.
The tension between Nina and Sebastian could be felt deep in my bones. My heart ached with each interaction because their chemistry and connection was evident from the very first page. Sebastian and Nina’s relationship was very realistic and spoke truths that were often overlooked in the beginning, especially when there is a lot of pining and history involved. There were a lot of honest conversations that made this book feel authentic and broke down the fantasy love where the focus wasn’t the storybook HEA and that is refreshing to see in a romance book.
This was a perfect book that had all the essentials of a friends-to-more trope, but also had a lot of surprises and depth that could only be provided by these two authors. These characters had my heart, their story captivated me to where I devoured the book in hours, and I was sad when the last page ended. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for this ARC
The tension between Nina and Sebastian could be felt deep in my bones. My heart ached with each interaction because their chemistry and connection was evident from the very first page. Sebastian and Nina’s relationship was very realistic and spoke truths that were often overlooked in the beginning, especially when there is a lot of pining and history involved. There were a lot of honest conversations that made this book feel authentic and broke down the fantasy love where the focus wasn’t the storybook HEA and that is refreshing to see in a romance book.
This was a perfect book that had all the essentials of a friends-to-more trope, but also had a lot of surprises and depth that could only be provided by these two authors. These characters had my heart, their story captivated me to where I devoured the book in hours, and I was sad when the last page ended. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington for this ARC
December 28, 2021
I enjoyed this romance about two super fans of a fantasy TV show (think Game of Thrones) who both end up working on the show’s remake.
Nina and Sebastian were best friends in college, they watched their favorite show together and were inseparable. Everything changed in their relationship after the finale episode, and now the two haven’t spoken in years.
Nina and Sebastian both wanted more than friendship from their relationship in college, and when they see each other after 5 years, time slips away and they relate to each other just like they used to. They still have issues to work through, however. Sebastian is insecure and worried that everyone around him will leave, and Nina is afraid to let go and trust. They need to tell each other how they really feel but they’re getting in their own way.
I liked the way the author had them work through their issues, and I loved the other characters, who were quirky and memorable. The behind the scenes making of a TV show was interesting to read about and made a great backdrop for the story. There are genuinely funny parts too, which made the book even better.
I recommend this book, 4 stars. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Nina and Sebastian were best friends in college, they watched their favorite show together and were inseparable. Everything changed in their relationship after the finale episode, and now the two haven’t spoken in years.
Nina and Sebastian both wanted more than friendship from their relationship in college, and when they see each other after 5 years, time slips away and they relate to each other just like they used to. They still have issues to work through, however. Sebastian is insecure and worried that everyone around him will leave, and Nina is afraid to let go and trust. They need to tell each other how they really feel but they’re getting in their own way.
I liked the way the author had them work through their issues, and I loved the other characters, who were quirky and memorable. The behind the scenes making of a TV show was interesting to read about and made a great backdrop for the story. There are genuinely funny parts too, which made the book even better.
I recommend this book, 4 stars. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
August 19, 2021
Nina and Sebastian are best friends and super fans of a game of thrones esq. television show. But as seniors in college, the show gets canceled and a relationship forms breaking up their friendship. Fast forward 5 years, both living in California and working for the reboot of their favorite show they run into each other in the parking lot and realize how much they miss each other and pick up right where they left off. While their picture perfect lives look great from the outside, on the inside both start wondering if working for a show you're a fan of isn't as great as it sounds and the feelings their old selves had for each other are both at the forefront. Can they get together almost 10 years later? Or will the relationship ruin their friendship forever.
This book was super cute and funny. The secondary characters were quirky and interesting. I related super hard to Sebastian's character flaws of people pleasing and bribing his friends. And Nina's character flaws of not deserving love was also very relevant and relatable. You want to shake Nina and Sebastian and different points at the book and yell OPEN YOUR EYES! Overall this was an enjoyable book, lighthearted and dreamy if you ever wanted to live in LA.
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC in return for an honest review
This book was super cute and funny. The secondary characters were quirky and interesting. I related super hard to Sebastian's character flaws of people pleasing and bribing his friends. And Nina's character flaws of not deserving love was also very relevant and relatable. You want to shake Nina and Sebastian and different points at the book and yell OPEN YOUR EYES! Overall this was an enjoyable book, lighthearted and dreamy if you ever wanted to live in LA.
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC in return for an honest review
December 11, 2021
This book was a bit boring for the first half ... Nina and Sebastian are way too much into their favorite TV show and it gets tiring after a while. I pushed on and eventually it was finally about what I wanted to read about - their secret long time feelings for each other. YES! Nina finally told Sebastian how she felt by just walking up to him and kissing him! And then I felt completely cheated because the story fast forwards a few days and they are already a couple! Where was Sebastian's reaction to finally learning Nina felt the same way about him? Where was the moment she knew he really did care for her, too? This is my favorite moment of a romance , when the MC's finally admit their feelings and to have it completely missing after a pretty big build up just really ticked me off and I almost stopped reading the book right there. Again, I pushed on but it was just a big let down...Nina's suddenly wishy washiness of dumping him after pining for him for 9 years was just ridiculous. It almost seemed like a half hearted attempt to up the excitement again to finish the story. Although I really liked Sebastian as a character, the rest of the book made me realize I don't want to read any more from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2023
Diese Geschichte wird abwechselnd in Nina's und Sebastian's Perspektive erzählt. Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist flüssig und das Setting in Los Angeles mit dem Hollywood Aspekt ist sehr gut gelungen.
Leider fokusiert sich die Geschichte zu sehr auf die Serie "Castle of Rust and Bones", was gleichzeitig auch die einzige Verbindung zwischen unseren Protagonisten zu sein scheint. Damit liegt der Blickpunkt der Romantik zwischen ihnen eher weiter hinten. Fast alles in deren Beziehung zueinander bezieht sich auf das gleiche Fangirlen der Serie und das hat mich etwas genervt. Dadurch hab ich das Gefühl bekommen, dass zwischen den Beiden eher eine platonische Beziehung steht und keine romantische Beziehung. Deshalb war ich nicht so sehr daran interessiert, dass man denen einmal etwas Festes werden soll. Das hat mein Vergnügen zum Lesen dann auch teilweise verringert. Doch auch die Chemie zwischen den Beiden war beinahe nicht zu bemerken. Grundsätzlich war ich mehr an Sebastian's Schwester Millie interessiert als an den beiden Protagonisten.
Auch wenn ich an einigen Stellen genervt und gelangweilt war, konnte ich mich das Buch trotzdem gut unterhalten. Deshalb erhält dieses Buch von mir 2,5 ⭐️
Leider fokusiert sich die Geschichte zu sehr auf die Serie "Castle of Rust and Bones", was gleichzeitig auch die einzige Verbindung zwischen unseren Protagonisten zu sein scheint. Damit liegt der Blickpunkt der Romantik zwischen ihnen eher weiter hinten. Fast alles in deren Beziehung zueinander bezieht sich auf das gleiche Fangirlen der Serie und das hat mich etwas genervt. Dadurch hab ich das Gefühl bekommen, dass zwischen den Beiden eher eine platonische Beziehung steht und keine romantische Beziehung. Deshalb war ich nicht so sehr daran interessiert, dass man denen einmal etwas Festes werden soll. Das hat mein Vergnügen zum Lesen dann auch teilweise verringert. Doch auch die Chemie zwischen den Beiden war beinahe nicht zu bemerken. Grundsätzlich war ich mehr an Sebastian's Schwester Millie interessiert als an den beiden Protagonisten.
Auch wenn ich an einigen Stellen genervt und gelangweilt war, konnte ich mich das Buch trotzdem gut unterhalten. Deshalb erhält dieses Buch von mir 2,5 ⭐️
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