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Standom
Singer-turned-actress Sara Silver is thrilled when producer Mika Williams offers her the role of a lesbian detective in a hot new series. And with in-demand actresses Christina Landis and Abby Farina onboard, the show is sure to be a hit. But when Christina’s personal life gets in the way of her performance, and she exits the show in a wave of bury-your-gays backlash, Abby moves into the role as Sara’s love interest.
Totally fine. Except for that secret post-fundraiser kiss they haven’t talked about, and the fact Abby is supposedly straight.
Totally fine. Except for that secret post-fundraiser kiss they haven’t talked about, and the fact Abby is supposedly straight.
300 pages, Paperback
Published April 14, 2022
3 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Maryn Scott
6 books6 followersMaryn Scott grew up in Minnesota where she learned to hate the cold, eat hot dishes, and disparage the Vikings. At eighteen she fled the north to attend college at the University of Wyoming. There she learned she hates the wind but loves women. She now resides in Colorado where the climate is perfect and so is her partner. After a career in the classroom, she’s thrilled to spend her retirement writing and traveling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 5, 2022
Actresses.
In hindsight, I realise this story isn't long, but I took a long time to finish it. There's a lot of potential in this celebrity romance but the execution needed some refining. The main problem, I think, is that it lacks focus. This story is meant to be a romance between two actresses, Sara and Abby, who are involved in the filming of a queer film, but a third character, Mika, the film director, seems to have a partial lead role in this story. In addition, there are things that happen along the way that isn't unfamiliar to the celebrity trope, but I think the author added way too much stuff that diluted the charm off a story that should have been a lot simplier.
This isn't Maryn Scott's first book. It's her second, I think. But it's the first one of hers I've read. I think Scott has potential and I look forward to reading her future work.
I received an ARC from Bella Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
In hindsight, I realise this story isn't long, but I took a long time to finish it. There's a lot of potential in this celebrity romance but the execution needed some refining. The main problem, I think, is that it lacks focus. This story is meant to be a romance between two actresses, Sara and Abby, who are involved in the filming of a queer film, but a third character, Mika, the film director, seems to have a partial lead role in this story. In addition, there are things that happen along the way that isn't unfamiliar to the celebrity trope, but I think the author added way too much stuff that diluted the charm off a story that should have been a lot simplier.
This isn't Maryn Scott's first book. It's her second, I think. But it's the first one of hers I've read. I think Scott has potential and I look forward to reading her future work.
I received an ARC from Bella Books through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2022
I stayed up till 2am to finish this gem. It was the first book I’ve read by this author and I doubt it will be the last. Maryn Scott’s writing is very well done and her characters are very well developed. I found myself rooting for them throughout the book and was anxious to see that happily ever after. There is a depth to the story and characters that I wasn’t expecting based on the blurb and cover. The dialogue is witty and entertaining, Abby is hilarious and I loved hearing her banter with just about every other character in the book. Sara has a quiet grace about her and though she is the multi talented star in this scenario, she is portrayed as a humble, kind human. Loved this and will likely be reading it again sooner than later because Abby was just that cute. Only complaint is that Abby is supposed to be in her first time WLW relationship but the book skips over the revelation to the public and her family. Would have liked to have a scene at least showing her family’s reaction. Overall great book that I will definitely pick up again in the future.
May 25, 2022
Based on the synopsis I was expecting a cute and sweet story, but Scott totally surprised me with Abby and Sara's story. It was sweet how the two form a strong foundation in their friendship, their intimacy scenes built from a slow born to a raging inferno. I honestly did not expect all the things that happened in the book to happen but it sure made for an interesting read to me. I loved it.
March 26, 2022
Maryn Scott’s debut Talented Amateur didn’t work for me but I saw potential in the writing. With this second book I see the same potential but it just doesn’t work out the way I wanted it to/ hoped for.
The book begins with a lot of lesbian characters is Hollywood trying to get a new show up for a new streaming service. I got confused early on on who the main characters actually were. I think after finishing it I can say one main is the half of a romance and the other the boss, not involved in the romance. It’s a little strange. I think there are too many storylines happening, too many half backstories to have a clear picture of the the characters. It’s a shame because they all seem likeable, I really like Silver and Abby. For Silver we do get some story but for Abby, next to none.
The story and the romance are a bit flat, but again there is so much potential ontheven writing. One thing I absolutely didn’t enjoy were the written out scenes of the series the characters are shooting. For it would have been much better if that was just told, like normally when people do a job, instead of it being like reading (part of) a script.
As said, lots of potential but misses the mark a bit for me. And again, as with the debut I think both title and blurb are slightly misleading.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
The book begins with a lot of lesbian characters is Hollywood trying to get a new show up for a new streaming service. I got confused early on on who the main characters actually were. I think after finishing it I can say one main is the half of a romance and the other the boss, not involved in the romance. It’s a little strange. I think there are too many storylines happening, too many half backstories to have a clear picture of the the characters. It’s a shame because they all seem likeable, I really like Silver and Abby. For Silver we do get some story but for Abby, next to none.
The story and the romance are a bit flat, but again there is so much potential ontheven writing. One thing I absolutely didn’t enjoy were the written out scenes of the series the characters are shooting. For it would have been much better if that was just told, like normally when people do a job, instead of it being like reading (part of) a script.
As said, lots of potential but misses the mark a bit for me. And again, as with the debut I think both title and blurb are slightly misleading.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
October 19, 2023
I really hesitate to call this a romance, because the romantic relationship between Sara and Abby is definitely not the main focus of the story. I was sucked in by the description of two women being costars on a TV show and falling for each other in the midst of “bury your gays” backlash and one of them getting criticism for supposedly being straight. While I was interested in the TV show aspect of the story and how it would impact their romance, this book felt like it was more concerned with telling the story of Corsetti’s Will and its production rather than Sara and Abby falling for one another. Some of the stuff that is mentioned in the synopsis as the basis of their relationship doesn’t even start happening until almost halfway into the book.
Something that’s odd about this story is that before Abby is even introduced there’s another POV character outside of her and Sara. Mika, the creator of the TV show, has her own POV chapters throughout the book. But it’s not like she’s ever one of the love interests and it’s not a polyamorous romance. It just felt odd to have an outside POV in a romance novel.
I feel like I could’ve still enjoyed this book if I found the TV show parts of the plot to be super compelling, but I didn’t. They were just nonsensical and felt like they were going against everything I’ve ever heard about the behind the scenes of Hollywood productions. Everything was just so over the top and lacking in nuance. This could’ve been a good avenue to discuss fan backlash and what issues can come about from only wanting openly queer actors to play queer parts. But this just didn’t really do that.
Ugh.
Something that’s odd about this story is that before Abby is even introduced there’s another POV character outside of her and Sara. Mika, the creator of the TV show, has her own POV chapters throughout the book. But it’s not like she’s ever one of the love interests and it’s not a polyamorous romance. It just felt odd to have an outside POV in a romance novel.
I feel like I could’ve still enjoyed this book if I found the TV show parts of the plot to be super compelling, but I didn’t. They were just nonsensical and felt like they were going against everything I’ve ever heard about the behind the scenes of Hollywood productions. Everything was just so over the top and lacking in nuance. This could’ve been a good avenue to discuss fan backlash and what issues can come about from only wanting openly queer actors to play queer parts. But this just didn’t really do that.
Ugh.
July 28, 2024
Another gem from my TBR shelves! Sara is a successful lesbian singer who's coming out of a successful movie. When she's picked to star in a lesbian driven television series. When her costar playing her on screen girlfriend begs off the show. The show runner decides to have the other actress playing her business partner become her on screen lover. Abby is the actress playing her.
This isn't just a wlw story, there's betrayal, a mystery and love. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! 5 stars!
This isn't just a wlw story, there's betrayal, a mystery and love. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! 5 stars!
May 15, 2022
I see the reviews are all over the map on this one. Well, I loved it. Ne warned though as there is much going on here and it is not just a simple love story. It has many fleshed out characters and a background story as well. I ate this up and killed this book in a very fast time for me. There was some small issues but there pretty much always is. Great characters, great story so 4.5 stars from me and will look for her next book and see where she goes from here.
September 26, 2022
SO Realistic!
Sara is a singer and an actress. She has been offered the lead in a lesbian detective show. Her co-star Christina, who is also a lesbian should make the show a hit but its not to be. When Abby gets offered Christina’s role the gay community is enraged that a straight actress is playing a lesbian. What no one knows is that Abby and Sara shared a kiss that knocked both their socks off. Because of legal issues, they aren’t allowed to even talk and things are just getting worse and worse. Is there a way to make this right? Do they stand a chance or is everything too much of a mess for anyone to continue?
This book is a bit heavy but ever so good. I totally fell for Abby and my heart bled for her. Fortunately she has so much courage and strength, even though she loses her way a bit. Sara is also a sweetie who is fighting a losing battle. As hard as this book is sometimes, there is light and love and joy that makes it all worth it. This book is one that stayed with me for a long time and I know I will be reading it again. This is an author I will be keeping my eye on!
Sara is a singer and an actress. She has been offered the lead in a lesbian detective show. Her co-star Christina, who is also a lesbian should make the show a hit but its not to be. When Abby gets offered Christina’s role the gay community is enraged that a straight actress is playing a lesbian. What no one knows is that Abby and Sara shared a kiss that knocked both their socks off. Because of legal issues, they aren’t allowed to even talk and things are just getting worse and worse. Is there a way to make this right? Do they stand a chance or is everything too much of a mess for anyone to continue?
This book is a bit heavy but ever so good. I totally fell for Abby and my heart bled for her. Fortunately she has so much courage and strength, even though she loses her way a bit. Sara is also a sweetie who is fighting a losing battle. As hard as this book is sometimes, there is light and love and joy that makes it all worth it. This book is one that stayed with me for a long time and I know I will be reading it again. This is an author I will be keeping my eye on!
April 3, 2022
3.5 stars upgraded to 4
Sara Silver is on a three-year hiatus from her popular rock band and has just finished making a movie that has garnered her critical accolades for her acting talent. Mika Williams is a film producer who offers Sara the role of an out lesbian detective in her new television series. There is only one or two major problems once the various roles are cast. The second lead and Sara’s movie love interest can’t act, and finally quits the movie. The woman, Abby Farina, chosen to replace the love interest is straight, which infuriates the film’s fans. Chaos ensues and grows.
Maryn Scott has written a complex book about the world of making a streaming series with a large cast of characters, none of whom are developed with enough detail to set them apart from the rest. The first part of the book features Sara while the rest of the book focuses on Abby with Sara making the occasional guest appearances. Woven between these two characters is Mika, who has her own set of problems. Scott doesn’t delve into any one character deeply, but reveals small details about Sara, but not about Abby. Perhaps her best character is Mika, but she isn’t supposed to be a main character. Readers will, of course, wonder if this isn’t the set-up book for a series, and the author didn’t want to reveal too much so she’d have something to tell the reader about the characters over the course of the next books.
Scott is a very good writer with potential if she can learn that, for the most part, her readers want to get to know – and like – her characters.
This book has enough details about how a series with lesbian main characters is made to make it interesting and if for no other reason, readers might want to read this book. Be aware, however, that this is not your traditional LesFic romance or even a friends-to-lovers romance so if that’s what you’re in the mood for, this may not be a satisfactory choice.
My thanks to Bella Books and NetGalley for an eARC.
Sara Silver is on a three-year hiatus from her popular rock band and has just finished making a movie that has garnered her critical accolades for her acting talent. Mika Williams is a film producer who offers Sara the role of an out lesbian detective in her new television series. There is only one or two major problems once the various roles are cast. The second lead and Sara’s movie love interest can’t act, and finally quits the movie. The woman, Abby Farina, chosen to replace the love interest is straight, which infuriates the film’s fans. Chaos ensues and grows.
Maryn Scott has written a complex book about the world of making a streaming series with a large cast of characters, none of whom are developed with enough detail to set them apart from the rest. The first part of the book features Sara while the rest of the book focuses on Abby with Sara making the occasional guest appearances. Woven between these two characters is Mika, who has her own set of problems. Scott doesn’t delve into any one character deeply, but reveals small details about Sara, but not about Abby. Perhaps her best character is Mika, but she isn’t supposed to be a main character. Readers will, of course, wonder if this isn’t the set-up book for a series, and the author didn’t want to reveal too much so she’d have something to tell the reader about the characters over the course of the next books.
Scott is a very good writer with potential if she can learn that, for the most part, her readers want to get to know – and like – her characters.
This book has enough details about how a series with lesbian main characters is made to make it interesting and if for no other reason, readers might want to read this book. Be aware, however, that this is not your traditional LesFic romance or even a friends-to-lovers romance so if that’s what you’re in the mood for, this may not be a satisfactory choice.
My thanks to Bella Books and NetGalley for an eARC.
May 22, 2022
I recently read Talented Amateur, Maryn Scott's debut, and absolutely loved it. Standom is so different to her first, but in small ways I can see comparisons. Both novels had a plot that slowly unravels and pulls lots of different elements in. This is something I particularly like about Scott's writing and she does it well in Standom.
There's a lot happening in Standom - there's a romance between Sara and Abby, a sabotage plot for Mika's vision, and commentary on social media. I really liked these elements and how they worked together, but found the romance between Sara and Abby to be slightly disappointing. There's not a lot of air time between them as a couple and although I could see their chemistry, I would've loved getting to know them more as a fully-fledged couple to cement their pairing.
I would love to read a second book that features more about Mika and/or Dani. I really liked them both as characters and would love to read more about them.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
There's a lot happening in Standom - there's a romance between Sara and Abby, a sabotage plot for Mika's vision, and commentary on social media. I really liked these elements and how they worked together, but found the romance between Sara and Abby to be slightly disappointing. There's not a lot of air time between them as a couple and although I could see their chemistry, I would've loved getting to know them more as a fully-fledged couple to cement their pairing.
I would love to read a second book that features more about Mika and/or Dani. I really liked them both as characters and would love to read more about them.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bella Books for a copy of this novel. ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2022
Rated 4 1/2 stars
Maryn Scott, I feel slightly ashamed I haven’t picked your work up earlier because this was a great read.
I enjoyed both characters and Abi just made me feel really great. You know when you read a character and can instantly picture the person.
I’ve seen some reviews that say someone’s first time with a woman might be a lot more nervous but I thought how it was done was perfect. I was nervous but I was young , I think if I come out the age I am now I would be more confident. If I had a passion and desire that pushed me then that would control the nerves. I’m digressing but I wanted to mention it.
I don’t want to put a spoiler out there but there was a part in the story I found myself holding my breathe. Your understand the bit I mean when I get there. I felt scared , angry , nervous and was dreading to read on. Only because Scott really captivated me.
Both mains and side characters are really likeable. I’m very glad I picked up this book and can’t wait to read more.
Thank you
Maryn Scott, I feel slightly ashamed I haven’t picked your work up earlier because this was a great read.
I enjoyed both characters and Abi just made me feel really great. You know when you read a character and can instantly picture the person.
I’ve seen some reviews that say someone’s first time with a woman might be a lot more nervous but I thought how it was done was perfect. I was nervous but I was young , I think if I come out the age I am now I would be more confident. If I had a passion and desire that pushed me then that would control the nerves. I’m digressing but I wanted to mention it.
I don’t want to put a spoiler out there but there was a part in the story I found myself holding my breathe. Your understand the bit I mean when I get there. I felt scared , angry , nervous and was dreading to read on. Only because Scott really captivated me.
Both mains and side characters are really likeable. I’m very glad I picked up this book and can’t wait to read more.
Thank you
December 19, 2022
This story has been a bit surprising for me, in the sense that I have been liking it more throughout it, even knowing that the drama was yet to come but even when it did, it seemed totally timely and well-handled. Relatively speaking , it has seemed similar to And Playing the Role of Herself, a book that I loved and I keep revisiting from time to time. If you don't know it, I take this opportunity to recommend it to you.
The story consists of the preparation and filming of a series that wants to be a pioneer in the field of thriller, starring a lesbian woman in a stable and loving relationship, as opposed to the typical characters of lesbians in series, who are always negative characters and are often quickly removed.
It is interesting to discover all the obstacles that the industry is putting in front of the production team, the issues between the protagonists themselves and some problems that no one sees coming.
The women who star in the series are Sara, a successful musician who is also successfully starting out in the world of acting. The other main character is Abby, an actress without relevant successes but with talent. Sara is out and proud and is going to play the lesbian detective. Sara is straight and stars as the daughter of the detective who is Sara's partner. Other protagonists appear, such as Christina, the one who plays Sara's girlfriend in the series, Mika, the lesbian producer of the series who is putting all her assets and prestige so that it comes out as she intends. All influential and participants in the good final result.
And as a climax, throughout the story we are seeing in a crude way the way in which the current media and social networks can influence and affect the results of a project and personal lives with almost impunity. All the content regarding this matter has been very correct and truthful, sadly.
Publisher Bella Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
The story consists of the preparation and filming of a series that wants to be a pioneer in the field of thriller, starring a lesbian woman in a stable and loving relationship, as opposed to the typical characters of lesbians in series, who are always negative characters and are often quickly removed.
It is interesting to discover all the obstacles that the industry is putting in front of the production team, the issues between the protagonists themselves and some problems that no one sees coming.
The women who star in the series are Sara, a successful musician who is also successfully starting out in the world of acting. The other main character is Abby, an actress without relevant successes but with talent. Sara is out and proud and is going to play the lesbian detective. Sara is straight and stars as the daughter of the detective who is Sara's partner. Other protagonists appear, such as Christina, the one who plays Sara's girlfriend in the series, Mika, the lesbian producer of the series who is putting all her assets and prestige so that it comes out as she intends. All influential and participants in the good final result.
And as a climax, throughout the story we are seeing in a crude way the way in which the current media and social networks can influence and affect the results of a project and personal lives with almost impunity. All the content regarding this matter has been very correct and truthful, sadly.
Publisher Bella Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
March 29, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this book because of the main characters but there is a lot more to the story. Sara Silver is a successful singer and beginning an acting career after a nominated break out role. Mika Williams pitches her a private detective series for a new streaming service. Her goal is to have a lesbian in a positive loving relationship as part of the show. Abby is a young and rising actress that is going to be on the series. There is focus on using social media to promote viewership of the series and streaming service. Also on the negative side of media as well. The series itself is a huge part of this book. Whole scenes are depicted either giving the dialogue or choreographing shots. And the backlash that threatens the series is harsh and comes from unexpected sources.
The two MCs are fabulous. Sara is talented, kind and vulnerable. Abby delighted me with her put goodness out into the world attitude and it was hard to watch her get crushed. I love their flirting, friendship and romance. There are almost too many other characters. I enjoyed Sara’s brother but the story works just as well without him. Same goes for Sara’s band mate. I don’t need to know that a staff member betrays Mika if I don’t see the consequence for it. Mika’s fathers maneuverings help fill out her storyline and I’m not clear on how that ends because after his last threats it gets dropped.
The book wants to take on a lot: Is the story a romance? How to make a controversial series? Harassment in the workplace? Good and evil of social media? I really enjoyed reading the book but the changing the emphasis of the storyline was confusing to me. The last chapter does act as a decent epilogue. But it is telling to me that the final paragraph is focused on producer Mika’s thoughts and not the romantic leads. This is my second book by the author and the two are very different. I look forward to what she writes next. I’m still rounding to four stars because of my enjoyment of the romantic leads. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 stars)
The two MCs are fabulous. Sara is talented, kind and vulnerable. Abby delighted me with her put goodness out into the world attitude and it was hard to watch her get crushed. I love their flirting, friendship and romance. There are almost too many other characters. I enjoyed Sara’s brother but the story works just as well without him. Same goes for Sara’s band mate. I don’t need to know that a staff member betrays Mika if I don’t see the consequence for it. Mika’s fathers maneuverings help fill out her storyline and I’m not clear on how that ends because after his last threats it gets dropped.
The book wants to take on a lot: Is the story a romance? How to make a controversial series? Harassment in the workplace? Good and evil of social media? I really enjoyed reading the book but the changing the emphasis of the storyline was confusing to me. The last chapter does act as a decent epilogue. But it is telling to me that the final paragraph is focused on producer Mika’s thoughts and not the romantic leads. This is my second book by the author and the two are very different. I look forward to what she writes next. I’m still rounding to four stars because of my enjoyment of the romantic leads. Thank you to NetGalley and Bella Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 stars)
May 15, 2022
3.5 - I like the first half. Then the last half just goes: WTF just happened? Well, it'll be summarized via flashback, news, statements... Anything but writing the plot - which is fine since it was so content-dense, but it wasn't executed well enough to get away with it.
I think the most disappointing thing is that the cover doesn’t reflect the actual genre of this book. I was expecting a cute romcom, I got a cute romcom … for like the first half, then thriller and dark and a jumble mess for the other half. I don’t think this can be categorized as a plot twist, more like we were robbed and lied to. I think that I would’ve perceived this book better if the cover and the book description weren’t purposely misleading.
At first, I really like it: you get a 2-in-1 kinda deal, the book itself and the show existing within the book. Then there was so much going on. Then the title made sense, which is clever and honestly sent me chills. There's so much potential that can be explored, but seemed to be glossed over with fast-forward or summary.
I like the chemistry between Abby and Sarah in the first half. Later on, their dynamic seems illogical.
Also, there're too many main characters that their storylines aren't executed completely.
I think the most disappointing thing is that the cover doesn’t reflect the actual genre of this book. I was expecting a cute romcom, I got a cute romcom … for like the first half, then thriller and dark and a jumble mess for the other half. I don’t think this can be categorized as a plot twist, more like we were robbed and lied to. I think that I would’ve perceived this book better if the cover and the book description weren’t purposely misleading.
At first, I really like it: you get a 2-in-1 kinda deal, the book itself and the show existing within the book. Then there was so much going on. Then the title made sense, which is clever and honestly sent me chills. There's so much potential that can be explored, but seemed to be glossed over with fast-forward or summary.
I like the chemistry between Abby and Sarah in the first half. Later on, their dynamic seems illogical.
Also, there're too many main characters that their storylines aren't executed completely.
April 20, 2022
Thanks to Bella Books & NetGalley for providing this eARC.
This book grabbed me, so I'll definitely give it that. I was trying to get through another ARC that just felt like a slog, and so the ease that I had in getting into this one was refreshing.
This is advertised as a romance on NetGalley, and certainly the cover they've gone with gives the impression of a light and breezy romance, which I think is incorrect marketing. Yes, there IS romance, and a HEA ending, but honestly, it's not the focus of the book. For one thing, there's too many POV characters. Hell, even Dani, the social media guru, gets a POV chapter. We probably spend equal or more time with Mika, the show's creator and showrunner, as we do Abby, Sara's ostensible love interest (off-screen, and eventually on as well). If you go in looking for a fluffy romance, I think you'll be disappointed. The couple times Maryn does throw in sex scenes they honestly feel cold and detached.
Really, I think this is more appropriate to look at this title as being more along the lines of Honey Girl. It's not as well written, mind you, but with the way that it focuses on Mika, and looks at what it means to be a queer woman trying to get a show off the ground that represents a lesbian character in a loving relationship, as well as both the wonderful and toxic side of fandom culture, it's honestly better representative to think of this as literary fiction. If you go at the book from that standpoint, I think it's much more enjoyable.
Getting past all that, I liked this story! I really enjoyed the characters, for the most part. I'd probably watch the hell out of Cosetti's Will and think Maryn Scott should do more with that premise...we get so many instances of snippets from the episodes/script, we may as well get a book about it. I liked that Clexacon featured so prominently, though I think given that fact the organizers of the convention should probably at least been given a nod in the acknowledgements.
Structure-wise, there were some issues. A couple instances where a character talks about something they've seen, but we don't get context, or where a chapter ends in a manner that seems kind of jarring.
I've going to give this 3.5 stars rounded down. I liked what the author did with the story, but not necessarily always how she went about it, and also think it's mis-categorized.
This book grabbed me, so I'll definitely give it that. I was trying to get through another ARC that just felt like a slog, and so the ease that I had in getting into this one was refreshing.
This is advertised as a romance on NetGalley, and certainly the cover they've gone with gives the impression of a light and breezy romance, which I think is incorrect marketing. Yes, there IS romance, and a HEA ending, but honestly, it's not the focus of the book. For one thing, there's too many POV characters. Hell, even Dani, the social media guru, gets a POV chapter. We probably spend equal or more time with Mika, the show's creator and showrunner, as we do Abby, Sara's ostensible love interest (off-screen, and eventually on as well). If you go in looking for a fluffy romance, I think you'll be disappointed. The couple times Maryn does throw in sex scenes they honestly feel cold and detached.
Really, I think this is more appropriate to look at this title as being more along the lines of Honey Girl. It's not as well written, mind you, but with the way that it focuses on Mika, and looks at what it means to be a queer woman trying to get a show off the ground that represents a lesbian character in a loving relationship, as well as both the wonderful and toxic side of fandom culture, it's honestly better representative to think of this as literary fiction. If you go at the book from that standpoint, I think it's much more enjoyable.
Getting past all that, I liked this story! I really enjoyed the characters, for the most part. I'd probably watch the hell out of Cosetti's Will and think Maryn Scott should do more with that premise...we get so many instances of snippets from the episodes/script, we may as well get a book about it. I liked that Clexacon featured so prominently, though I think given that fact the organizers of the convention should probably at least been given a nod in the acknowledgements.
Structure-wise, there were some issues. A couple instances where a character talks about something they've seen, but we don't get context, or where a chapter ends in a manner that seems kind of jarring.
I've going to give this 3.5 stars rounded down. I liked what the author did with the story, but not necessarily always how she went about it, and also think it's mis-categorized.
December 14, 2022
Standom Shined
I remember liking this one as soon as I saw the cover. I thought, “well, that’s a great name and a cool cover. I wonder what it’s going to be about.” Fast forward to now, and Standom is a book about making a tv show for a new streaming network. And not only that but making a show that seems to break a bunch of the stereotypes not just about cop-style shows but about women as leading actors, especially those that are gay.
Scott does a great job of going into the weeds around the show’s filming. We meet Sara pretty quickly and are introduced to her and her “issues” that aren’t explained (the rumors are it’s a drug problem or an ED, but she insists it’s neither of those things). The way that Scott wrote the scenes around how the show was being made, the difficulties on and off set, and especially the social media aspect (how it tries to control the show and the actors in any way possible) was great. Some people feel like Scott went too into the weeds, but it was a refreshing change of pace for me.
Standom was one of the first romance books I’ve read that I couldn’t exactly tell who was going to be the romantic interest of Sara. I think it was written that way specifically, too. I believe that Scott wanted to keep us guessing. A few times, I thought, “maybe her, or her,” and I was wrong. Similar to Sara’s experience as well.
The issues that come out (workplace harassment claims) and the scenes around that. Then the PTSD/reactions after were all spot on, in my opinion. Overall, we got a well-written and thought-out book that ticked all the boxes I was looking for. With some added ones, I didn’t realize I wanted/needed in a story like this. I thought that Ann Sprinkle did a great job performing this one. There were a lot of characters, and I didn’t feel lost once.
I remember liking this one as soon as I saw the cover. I thought, “well, that’s a great name and a cool cover. I wonder what it’s going to be about.” Fast forward to now, and Standom is a book about making a tv show for a new streaming network. And not only that but making a show that seems to break a bunch of the stereotypes not just about cop-style shows but about women as leading actors, especially those that are gay.
Scott does a great job of going into the weeds around the show’s filming. We meet Sara pretty quickly and are introduced to her and her “issues” that aren’t explained (the rumors are it’s a drug problem or an ED, but she insists it’s neither of those things). The way that Scott wrote the scenes around how the show was being made, the difficulties on and off set, and especially the social media aspect (how it tries to control the show and the actors in any way possible) was great. Some people feel like Scott went too into the weeds, but it was a refreshing change of pace for me.
Standom was one of the first romance books I’ve read that I couldn’t exactly tell who was going to be the romantic interest of Sara. I think it was written that way specifically, too. I believe that Scott wanted to keep us guessing. A few times, I thought, “maybe her, or her,” and I was wrong. Similar to Sara’s experience as well.
The issues that come out (workplace harassment claims) and the scenes around that. Then the PTSD/reactions after were all spot on, in my opinion. Overall, we got a well-written and thought-out book that ticked all the boxes I was looking for. With some added ones, I didn’t realize I wanted/needed in a story like this. I thought that Ann Sprinkle did a great job performing this one. There were a lot of characters, and I didn’t feel lost once.
April 18, 2022
I was so excited for this book, the premise sounded like it’d make a great celebrity romance, but I was quite disappointed unfortunately.
First off, I’m not a fan of the title (yea that was intended). Yes, the standom, the fans were a big part of the story line, but they’ve never been explicitly called a “standom” and the word itself feels foreign and might need an explanation for some non-social media users.
Secondly, there was a LOT going on. The storyline of the TV show was incredibly detailed (although very interesting, maybe that could also be a book?) and I feel like it took up space that could’ve been used for more character development. The characters felt very flat. I can’t tell you a single thing about Abby except that she’s an actress. I know a bit more about Sara, but only barely. We only meet Abby, the love interest in chapter 8, if I‘m correct. The director of the show, Mika, has a very central role in the book, there’s a lot written in her view which makes little sense for the plot of the story. She’s more of a side character, although with lots of influence on the plot seeing as she’s got the power and connections. I think what could’ve helped this book is more focus on one story line, it got tangled up in many different ones intertwined,
Despite all my criticism so far, the book itself was easy to read and I did enjoy the idea, just the execution was lacking. It’s like a new shiny book present wrapped in old and dirty newspaper. I was able to finish the book within a day, it did captivate me quite a bit and was entertaining, but I will probably not be rereading.
First off, I’m not a fan of the title (yea that was intended). Yes, the standom, the fans were a big part of the story line, but they’ve never been explicitly called a “standom” and the word itself feels foreign and might need an explanation for some non-social media users.
Secondly, there was a LOT going on. The storyline of the TV show was incredibly detailed (although very interesting, maybe that could also be a book?) and I feel like it took up space that could’ve been used for more character development. The characters felt very flat. I can’t tell you a single thing about Abby except that she’s an actress. I know a bit more about Sara, but only barely. We only meet Abby, the love interest in chapter 8, if I‘m correct. The director of the show, Mika, has a very central role in the book, there’s a lot written in her view which makes little sense for the plot of the story. She’s more of a side character, although with lots of influence on the plot seeing as she’s got the power and connections. I think what could’ve helped this book is more focus on one story line, it got tangled up in many different ones intertwined,
Despite all my criticism so far, the book itself was easy to read and I did enjoy the idea, just the execution was lacking. It’s like a new shiny book present wrapped in old and dirty newspaper. I was able to finish the book within a day, it did captivate me quite a bit and was entertaining, but I will probably not be rereading.
April 2, 2022
From the blurb, it’s easy to assume this is just a wlw celebrity romance. Don’t get me wrong, it certainly is that but there is also so much more to this story than I was expecting. Some might find this a distraction from the romance but I really enjoyed the additional subplots. From family power dynamics to social media hate to toxic Hollywood culture, there was a lot to cover.
When Sara Silver, fresh off a Golden Globe nomination for what she assumed would be a one time acting gig, is offered a role in Mika Williams new show she’s hesitant. It soon becomes clear that the chemistry just isn’t there with her on-screen girlfriend. But there is chemistry with her co-star, Abby, who as far as everyone knows is straight. Mika Williams has dreamed about making this show her entire life and she’s willing to do everything she can to make it happen. It seems like everything is trying to prevent that from happening. Not the least of which is Sara’s on-screen girlfriend suddenly leaving the show.
This book was hard to put down and it did a perfect job of managing the tension. At times I was angry right along with the characters and other times I was laughing at the dynamic between the different characters. Abby was easily my favorite character and her growth throughout the novel was really well done.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
When Sara Silver, fresh off a Golden Globe nomination for what she assumed would be a one time acting gig, is offered a role in Mika Williams new show she’s hesitant. It soon becomes clear that the chemistry just isn’t there with her on-screen girlfriend. But there is chemistry with her co-star, Abby, who as far as everyone knows is straight. Mika Williams has dreamed about making this show her entire life and she’s willing to do everything she can to make it happen. It seems like everything is trying to prevent that from happening. Not the least of which is Sara’s on-screen girlfriend suddenly leaving the show.
This book was hard to put down and it did a perfect job of managing the tension. At times I was angry right along with the characters and other times I was laughing at the dynamic between the different characters. Abby was easily my favorite character and her growth throughout the novel was really well done.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2022
🏳️🌈👩❤️👩📚⚢🎬🎤📱🕵️♀️📹🎞️💻📺👩❤️💋👩📖👭🏳️🌈
I received an ARC copy of Maryn Scott’s “Standom’’ from Bella Books (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
So, here it is !!!
My rating : 3⭐️
It’s my first book by this still new author … It’s quite good but it could have been even better. Honestly, I really see a lot of potential in the writing but it didn’t totally work out the way I hoped. This “failure” is due to the book’s lack of development about some topics which are way more complex than the one you could have thought finding in the novel while reading the blurb …
The book begins with a lot of lesbian characters in Hollywood trying to get a new show up for a new streaming service. I got confused early on who the main characters actually were and then I figures out that, seemingly, the story’s originally told from 3 POVs because 3 MCs appear : MC1 Sara, the singer turned actress who falls in love with her co-star in the TV show aka MC2 Abby, and MC3 Mika, the film director who is NOT involved romantically with anyone …
° sadly, the ‘‘romance’’ felt a little off, well, flat, if you prefer … and this, despite the likeable side of Sara and Abby and their great chemistry that was mentioned more than once. As a matter of fact, both the romantic side and the dramatic one of the story could have had more depth with a ‘‘less easily’’ resolved Christina situation, with a real battle fought against the nasty people &, so, an exposure of who Mike Williams and Luciana Raithman are truly are…IMO, the ‘‘silent’’ & ‘‘peaceful’’ resolution of the scandal provoked by the false accusation of Christina against Abby is NOT credible especially given the level of hatred the initial (and single) tweet gave birth to and the ‘‘buzz’’ oriented politics we have been told about all the novel long …
° There are bold topics in the book but given the importance / gravity of some of them, it’s a definitely too short, bland and too magically solved book to be totally credible. OK, that’s true, this novel did a good job to begin to denounce a bunch of unhealthy and shameful behaviors, fanatism & straight-bashing being just two of them. But sadly, I’m afraid the author only scratched the surface of the much more deeper things. I wish she had been way bolder. As I said, lots of potential in there but it misses the mark for me. … I appreciated this passage though because it summarises well some things: {Sara’s face softened. “Well, first because Abby is an incredible woman who’s very special to me and to everyone at Corsetti’s Will.” Keisha reached back and squeezed Abby’s hand. Sara continued, “I’m also deeply saddened that members of the gay community and our allies are responsible for spreading hate. As a community, we’ve been victims of hate and know the depth of the pain it causes. I always believed we took the higher road. I was wrong.”}
A couple of other things:
°° About the French terms and other things about them …
*as a French, I found it very annoying to see a capital C at the beginning of ‘‘Champagne’’ ‘cause ‘‘Champagne’’ with a capital C is a French region, the one which gave the beverage its name …
* the repetitive use of ‘‘fancy Champagne’’ was tiresome especially since champagne is known wolrdwild to be a fancy drink, so that’s redundant …
* when it come to the use of foreign names needing an accent like, for example, ‘‘Dom Perignon’’ (it’s mentioned in the book), seriously, it’s not rocket science to check on the internet for the proper spelling => Dom Pérignon …
°° I’m not into fan fiction, gossip magazines, etc … I get it when you appreciate someone, you want to know how they are doing but I can’t figure out how some people can become totally brain-washed (nope, they can’t think straight – pun intended – neither can they think by themselves, like the adepts of a sect.) about all the crap which can be said in magazines. And, even if, yes, I think LGBTQ+ actors and actresses are underrepresented in the cinema & TV shows industry, TBH I don’t really care if an actor or actress portraying a gay character is gay (or bi or anywhere else on the rainbow spectrum) in real life. Like I don’t wonder if an actor or actress portraying a straight character is heterosexual or somewhere on the same rainbow spectrum. Why? Because what matters to me it’s the person’s talent, not their personal (and sometimes sexual) orientation. So I think it’s totally crazy to have such reactions as the ones described in the book. Sadly I know things like that happen in the real world and it’s insane as well as unsafe because by acting like the villains (even temporary ones like the ‘‘group of fans’’ harassing and threatening Abby), the people doing so are no better than the bigots LGBTQ+ people could come across during their lives. Why ??? Well, because, even if they’d probably deny it, such people are, let’s say it, extremists and haters… And don’t get me started on the stalkerish aspect of the ‘‘fans’’ (in this case it’s really fanatics … and fanatics are dangerous in my opinion!), their voyerism !!! Always wanting to know what their ‘‘idoles’’ are doing and when they can’t, just inventing something, assuming that this or that is THE ‘‘truth’’ that could make a good hashtag … Duh, that’s so insane !!
°° I confess that I’ve been very surprised to find a presentation page of another book from the publisher by another author (“Low KeyLove” by Cheri Ritz) at the beginning of the book instead of Standom’s. Hopefully it’ll have been fixed before the official release of the novel…
To shortly summarise my view, I’d say something like this :
- Did I enjoy this book? => Not as much as I wanted to.
- Did I find the characters believable? => Not totally due to the lack of character development
- Is this book now included in my "must be re-read"-list? => No
- Will I purchase the paperback? => No
- Would I read another book by this author? => She’s still a newbie so, maybe I’ll give her another try, someday…
- Would I recommend this book => I’ll let people use their free will to read the novel, or not …
🏳️🌈👩❤️👩📚⚢🎬🎤📱🕵️♀️📹🎞️💻📺👩❤️💋👩📖👭🏳️🌈
I received an ARC copy of Maryn Scott’s “Standom’’ from Bella Books (via NetGalley) in exchange for an honest review.
So, here it is !!!
My rating : 3⭐️
It’s my first book by this still new author … It’s quite good but it could have been even better. Honestly, I really see a lot of potential in the writing but it didn’t totally work out the way I hoped. This “failure” is due to the book’s lack of development about some topics which are way more complex than the one you could have thought finding in the novel while reading the blurb …
The book begins with a lot of lesbian characters in Hollywood trying to get a new show up for a new streaming service. I got confused early on who the main characters actually were and then I figures out that, seemingly, the story’s originally told from 3 POVs because 3 MCs appear : MC1 Sara, the singer turned actress who falls in love with her co-star in the TV show aka MC2 Abby, and MC3 Mika, the film director who is NOT involved romantically with anyone …
° sadly, the ‘‘romance’’ felt a little off, well, flat, if you prefer … and this, despite the likeable side of Sara and Abby and their great chemistry that was mentioned more than once. As a matter of fact, both the romantic side and the dramatic one of the story could have had more depth with a ‘‘less easily’’ resolved Christina situation, with a real battle fought against the nasty people &, so, an exposure of who Mike Williams and Luciana Raithman are truly are…IMO, the ‘‘silent’’ & ‘‘peaceful’’ resolution of the scandal provoked by the false accusation of Christina against Abby is NOT credible especially given the level of hatred the initial (and single) tweet gave birth to and the ‘‘buzz’’ oriented politics we have been told about all the novel long …
° There are bold topics in the book but given the importance / gravity of some of them, it’s a definitely too short, bland and too magically solved book to be totally credible. OK, that’s true, this novel did a good job to begin to denounce a bunch of unhealthy and shameful behaviors, fanatism & straight-bashing being just two of them. But sadly, I’m afraid the author only scratched the surface of the much more deeper things. I wish she had been way bolder. As I said, lots of potential in there but it misses the mark for me. … I appreciated this passage though because it summarises well some things: {Sara’s face softened. “Well, first because Abby is an incredible woman who’s very special to me and to everyone at Corsetti’s Will.” Keisha reached back and squeezed Abby’s hand. Sara continued, “I’m also deeply saddened that members of the gay community and our allies are responsible for spreading hate. As a community, we’ve been victims of hate and know the depth of the pain it causes. I always believed we took the higher road. I was wrong.”}
A couple of other things:
°° About the French terms and other things about them …
*as a French, I found it very annoying to see a capital C at the beginning of ‘‘Champagne’’ ‘cause ‘‘Champagne’’ with a capital C is a French region, the one which gave the beverage its name …
* the repetitive use of ‘‘fancy Champagne’’ was tiresome especially since champagne is known wolrdwild to be a fancy drink, so that’s redundant …
* when it come to the use of foreign names needing an accent like, for example, ‘‘Dom Perignon’’ (it’s mentioned in the book), seriously, it’s not rocket science to check on the internet for the proper spelling => Dom Pérignon …
°° I’m not into fan fiction, gossip magazines, etc … I get it when you appreciate someone, you want to know how they are doing but I can’t figure out how some people can become totally brain-washed (nope, they can’t think straight – pun intended – neither can they think by themselves, like the adepts of a sect.) about all the crap which can be said in magazines. And, even if, yes, I think LGBTQ+ actors and actresses are underrepresented in the cinema & TV shows industry, TBH I don’t really care if an actor or actress portraying a gay character is gay (or bi or anywhere else on the rainbow spectrum) in real life. Like I don’t wonder if an actor or actress portraying a straight character is heterosexual or somewhere on the same rainbow spectrum. Why? Because what matters to me it’s the person’s talent, not their personal (and sometimes sexual) orientation. So I think it’s totally crazy to have such reactions as the ones described in the book. Sadly I know things like that happen in the real world and it’s insane as well as unsafe because by acting like the villains (even temporary ones like the ‘‘group of fans’’ harassing and threatening Abby), the people doing so are no better than the bigots LGBTQ+ people could come across during their lives. Why ??? Well, because, even if they’d probably deny it, such people are, let’s say it, extremists and haters… And don’t get me started on the stalkerish aspect of the ‘‘fans’’ (in this case it’s really fanatics … and fanatics are dangerous in my opinion!), their voyerism !!! Always wanting to know what their ‘‘idoles’’ are doing and when they can’t, just inventing something, assuming that this or that is THE ‘‘truth’’ that could make a good hashtag … Duh, that’s so insane !!
°° I confess that I’ve been very surprised to find a presentation page of another book from the publisher by another author (“Low KeyLove” by Cheri Ritz) at the beginning of the book instead of Standom’s. Hopefully it’ll have been fixed before the official release of the novel…
To shortly summarise my view, I’d say something like this :
- Did I enjoy this book? => Not as much as I wanted to.
- Did I find the characters believable? => Not totally due to the lack of character development
- Is this book now included in my "must be re-read"-list? => No
- Will I purchase the paperback? => No
- Would I read another book by this author? => She’s still a newbie so, maybe I’ll give her another try, someday…
- Would I recommend this book => I’ll let people use their free will to read the novel, or not …
🏳️🌈👩❤️👩📚⚢🎬🎤📱🕵️♀️📹🎞️💻📺👩❤️💋👩📖👭🏳️🌈
July 7, 2022
There is lots to really like about this novel. Set in the world of celebrity it explores a really interesting topic of fandom and how much it should or does influence what we see produced. It also explores the question of where does advocacy end and unhealthy control start in some of these discussions. The role of social media and the mainstream media in all of this.
Things I loved about this novel: I loved the character of Abby and her interplay with Sara. I really found the premise and question of the novel interesting and it kept me page turning till the end.
There was a lot going on in this novel and feel like some of the story arcs didn't quite get the attention they needed. Buut having said that they were addressed and there were no hanging issues. I just would have liked to know more.
Overall a really enjoyable read. If you like romances that have a bit more going on then just girl meets girl problem happens and then they have a HEA this is one too put on your TBR list.
Things I loved about this novel: I loved the character of Abby and her interplay with Sara. I really found the premise and question of the novel interesting and it kept me page turning till the end.
There was a lot going on in this novel and feel like some of the story arcs didn't quite get the attention they needed. Buut having said that they were addressed and there were no hanging issues. I just would have liked to know more.
Overall a really enjoyable read. If you like romances that have a bit more going on then just girl meets girl problem happens and then they have a HEA this is one too put on your TBR list.
March 28, 2022
I enjoyed reading this book, it was well written with an engaging, almost dual storyline and well developed characters. The reason I said it feels like a double storyline is because you get the story featured in the blurb where a well known actress starts appearing in a tv show playing a lesbian who grows close to her straight co star. The other storyline is behind the scenes and the ramifications of bringing this show to the public and what enfolds on social media.
I enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would. It was fast paced and gripping and I read it in one very short sitting.
I enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would. It was fast paced and gripping and I read it in one very short sitting.
April 4, 2022
Double treat in this fast paced book.
Sara, a music star and a rising acting star, is cast as the lead in a police show that promises to will feature a lesbian story never seen before. Her romantic partner on screen, Christina, is cold and not a very good actress. Abby, her work partner is anything but, on set and in real life.
Corsetti’s Will, the show described in the book is something I would watch in real life. The show’s description and the real life events are running in parallel and make this book intense and fast paced.
There’s drama and there’s conspiracy and I absolutely loved reading it, would definitely recommend it.
Sara, a music star and a rising acting star, is cast as the lead in a police show that promises to will feature a lesbian story never seen before. Her romantic partner on screen, Christina, is cold and not a very good actress. Abby, her work partner is anything but, on set and in real life.
Corsetti’s Will, the show described in the book is something I would watch in real life. The show’s description and the real life events are running in parallel and make this book intense and fast paced.
There’s drama and there’s conspiracy and I absolutely loved reading it, would definitely recommend it.
April 11, 2022
This is my first time for reading a Maryn Scott book, and already looking to read her others
I just loved this story from page 1 to the very end.
The relationship between Sara and Abby from day one is cute and sweet, loved reading about to fun filled characters
The story is realistic, original and sadly truthful of how social media can make you or break you.
I think there is more to tell about the supporting character Mika, and I'm hopeful that there will be more books to come
Would I recommend: Yes if you're looking for that keep me interested to the end type of book
I just loved this story from page 1 to the very end.
The relationship between Sara and Abby from day one is cute and sweet, loved reading about to fun filled characters
The story is realistic, original and sadly truthful of how social media can make you or break you.
I think there is more to tell about the supporting character Mika, and I'm hopeful that there will be more books to come
Would I recommend: Yes if you're looking for that keep me interested to the end type of book
July 24, 2022
I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Hollywood brought Sara and Abby together but it's their chemistry that keeps them close to each other. While navigating troubles in the set and unexpected feelings, will these two characters find their way to each other?
A nice, light romance with two likable main characters and a story that will make you keep reading and rooting for a happy ending. In my opinion, it could have a bigger emphasis on the main characters relationship, but still a good bbok
Hollywood brought Sara and Abby together but it's their chemistry that keeps them close to each other. While navigating troubles in the set and unexpected feelings, will these two characters find their way to each other?
A nice, light romance with two likable main characters and a story that will make you keep reading and rooting for a happy ending. In my opinion, it could have a bigger emphasis on the main characters relationship, but still a good bbok
May 24, 2024
Intense and almost to realistic. Hope this isn't a spoiler, all comes out okay in the end. Abby is funny and lively. Sara is cool. Mika is driven and amazing. The supporting cast is very well done.
I don't always have time to actually sit and read but I kept wanting to turn the pages on this one.
I don't always have time to actually sit and read but I kept wanting to turn the pages on this one.
November 12, 2022
Un put downable
A real page turner of a book that that I binge read until the early hours of the morning. Sara Silver was a great Main character but Abbey stole the limelight. All the characters were well rounded and loved the way all the sub plots were tied up at the finish.
A real page turner of a book that that I binge read until the early hours of the morning. Sara Silver was a great Main character but Abbey stole the limelight. All the characters were well rounded and loved the way all the sub plots were tied up at the finish.
June 4, 2023
I have been a reader from childhood. I have loved books even before realising I am queer. While I really love women loving woman romance novels, what I love more is well written characters with a story to tell. And this books delivers it all. I’ll definitively checkout other books by the author.
May 12, 2022
I made it about 30% in and don't think I'm going to continue. I don't like the writing and I think the plot makes no sense.
The first 30% at least are a serious drag. I couldn't get into it at all, there are just so many bits that are straight up boring fluff. After 30%, I'd expect the plot to be in full progress, but it all still feels like it's being set up, lots of exposition and very little actual progress. I like the intro to be out of the way quickly instead of literally taking up half the story.
The book bombards the reader with lots of unnecessary names and details while the actually relevant parts of the story are lackluster in content and execution. We get pages worth of characters just straight up doing a reading of the show, which is mostly a repeat of an earlier occasion where the plot gets explained in detail, and yet most of the introduction of the main characters is glossed over and very superficial.
It doesn't help that the entire thing is apparently being told from 3 different perspectives, for reasons I don't understand. Mika is just the most boring character imaginable, and I don't understand why she needs so much "screen" time.
As for the plot...
The entire plot hinges on the producer casting her two most important parts of her show without letting them meet first. After they meet, have 0 chemistry and all of her writers tell her the other actress needs to be recast, she then proceeds to shrug it off and publish pictures of them together as their characters (without having filmed a single scene yet!?), apparently because she needs some social media followers. Have I mentioned that the producer is apparently super famous and has the backing of a huge network, but apparently *desperately* needs to cast a person because of some social media followers, despite her ruining her show, which apparently is incredibly important to her. It makes no sense and had me incredibly annoyed.
The other character, Abby, hasn't really been introduced yet, and I don't really care about her. There were scenes with her, some even from her perspective, but she's never really introduced. She just suddenly appears and that's it. She seems a bit like an afterthought so far, whereas Mika gets way too much attention for being a generic and uninteresting side character.
The first 30% at least are a serious drag. I couldn't get into it at all, there are just so many bits that are straight up boring fluff. After 30%, I'd expect the plot to be in full progress, but it all still feels like it's being set up, lots of exposition and very little actual progress. I like the intro to be out of the way quickly instead of literally taking up half the story.
The book bombards the reader with lots of unnecessary names and details while the actually relevant parts of the story are lackluster in content and execution. We get pages worth of characters just straight up doing a reading of the show, which is mostly a repeat of an earlier occasion where the plot gets explained in detail, and yet most of the introduction of the main characters is glossed over and very superficial.
It doesn't help that the entire thing is apparently being told from 3 different perspectives, for reasons I don't understand. Mika is just the most boring character imaginable, and I don't understand why she needs so much "screen" time.
As for the plot...
The entire plot hinges on the producer casting her two most important parts of her show without letting them meet first. After they meet, have 0 chemistry and all of her writers tell her the other actress needs to be recast, she then proceeds to shrug it off and publish pictures of them together as their characters (without having filmed a single scene yet!?), apparently because she needs some social media followers. Have I mentioned that the producer is apparently super famous and has the backing of a huge network, but apparently *desperately* needs to cast a person because of some social media followers, despite her ruining her show, which apparently is incredibly important to her. It makes no sense and had me incredibly annoyed.
The other character, Abby, hasn't really been introduced yet, and I don't really care about her. There were scenes with her, some even from her perspective, but she's never really introduced. She just suddenly appears and that's it. She seems a bit like an afterthought so far, whereas Mika gets way too much attention for being a generic and uninteresting side character.
June 7, 2022
Overall, I thought the plot and setup were really cool. The execution was decent and I had a pretty good time reading this. I will say that I was a bit lost sometimes since I don't know a lot about cop shows. There was also some really good pieces about fame, being a queer person with a platform and fandom which I enjoyed reading.
THINGS I LIKED:
I love how lesbian is stated clearly and explicitly.
The premise is fascinating!!!
The relationships between Sarah and her best friend and brother were so wholesome. I like how she has a strong support system.
The portrayal of fame and Hollywood was very good, especially from Sarah's perspective.
I enjoyed reading about Mika's POV of her relationship with her dad- it was very real and raw.
I love Abby and Sara's banter!!! Their friendship and romance were so adorable.
I like how Sara and Abby never actually broke up- they just had some conflict in the way but they always made it clear they loved each other.
THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE:
I feel like Abby was introduced way too late- I wish we'd gotten a hint at her being a character sooner.
I wish there had been less homophobia from Mika's dad and more other bad behavior instead because it felt like the author was relying on homophobia to explain how he sucks. There could be other ways to show it in different instances as well.
I didn't understand the whole Christina subplot- I wish it had been portrayed better.
Sometimes I was kind of confused about who's POV it was. I didn't realize Abby was a POV character until like 150 pages in
THINGS I LIKED:
I love how lesbian is stated clearly and explicitly.
The premise is fascinating!!!
The relationships between Sarah and her best friend and brother were so wholesome. I like how she has a strong support system.
The portrayal of fame and Hollywood was very good, especially from Sarah's perspective.
I enjoyed reading about Mika's POV of her relationship with her dad- it was very real and raw.
I love Abby and Sara's banter!!! Their friendship and romance were so adorable.
I like how Sara and Abby never actually broke up- they just had some conflict in the way but they always made it clear they loved each other.
THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE:
I feel like Abby was introduced way too late- I wish we'd gotten a hint at her being a character sooner.
I wish there had been less homophobia from Mika's dad and more other bad behavior instead because it felt like the author was relying on homophobia to explain how he sucks. There could be other ways to show it in different instances as well.
I didn't understand the whole Christina subplot- I wish it had been portrayed better.
Sometimes I was kind of confused about who's POV it was. I didn't realize Abby was a POV character until like 150 pages in
July 5, 2022
*Thank you NetGalley and publishers for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
I had a really difficult time getting in to this book. From the description, it had all the story features that I typically enjoy. It features celebrities, Hollywood romances, etc. The story centers on Sara Silver (singer/actress), Mika Williams (producer), and Abby Farina (actress) as they navigate a new tv series about a lesbian detective.
The start of the book made me feel the romance was going to go in a certain direction and when it didn’t, I was a little confused. I don’t want to give too much away, but the majority of the book centered on two characters and then the third comes in without much backstory. I think that’s when I really started having a difficult time finishing the book. What I did like though, was the Hollywood aspect. I think the writing was fun and the story was almost there, but just not my favorite!
I had a really difficult time getting in to this book. From the description, it had all the story features that I typically enjoy. It features celebrities, Hollywood romances, etc. The story centers on Sara Silver (singer/actress), Mika Williams (producer), and Abby Farina (actress) as they navigate a new tv series about a lesbian detective.
The start of the book made me feel the romance was going to go in a certain direction and when it didn’t, I was a little confused. I don’t want to give too much away, but the majority of the book centered on two characters and then the third comes in without much backstory. I think that’s when I really started having a difficult time finishing the book. What I did like though, was the Hollywood aspect. I think the writing was fun and the story was almost there, but just not my favorite!
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