Isn't It Bromantic? by Lyssa Kay Adams

Isn't It Bromantic? by Lyssa Kay Adams

Release Date - July 20, 2021 

Publisher Website - Penguin Random House Canada
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 352 pages
My Rating - 3.5/5

**received for review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

With his passion for romance novels, it was only a matter of time before Vlad took up the pen to write a novel the Bromance Book Club would swoon over.

Elena Konnikova has lived her entire adult life in the shadows. As the daughter of a Russian journalist who mysteriously disappeared after speaking out against government corruption, she escaped danger the only way she knew how. She agreed to marry her childhood friend, Vladimir, and move to the United States, where he is a professional hockey player in Nashville.

Vlad, aka The Russian, thought he could be content with his marriage of convenience. But after four years, it's become too difficult to continue in a one-sided relationship. He joined the Bromance Book Club to learn how to make his wife love him, but all he's learned is that he deserves more. He's ready to create his own sweeping romance--both on and off the page.

The Bros are unwilling to let Vlad forgo true love--and this time they're not operating solo. They join forces with Vlad's senior citizen neighbors, a group of meddling widows who call themselves The Loners. Just when things finally look promising, the danger from Elena's past life intrudes, and the book club will face their first-ever life-or-death grand gesture as they race to a happy ever after.

Fans of the Bromance Book Club series have been eagerly waiting for the character affectionately known as The Russian to have his own stand alone book which Lyssa Kay Adams has delivered with the fourth book in the series. Vlad takes center focus in this sweet romance that is sure to please fans.

If you like your romance on the sugary sweet side this is definitely the book for you. It may be a little on the too sweet side for some readers. There is plenty here for fans of the series to love but I predict this will be most popular with those who like this specific type of romance. If Vlad isn't your favourite character a large dose of him may not be for you.

Vlad is a fan favourite because he is an incredibly sweet soul. He is a gentle giant, and it was a delight to have his character expanded further. He is often the comic relief in the series but we get to see what a caring, and consuming heart he has. I think fans of his character will be pleased with how he is portrayed and the love story he has been given. He is a romantic at heart and very sensitive so it makes his romance a little more of the wear your heart on your sleeve variety.

Elena is a great character. Determined, stubborn, and focused. She is a natural fit with Vlad in a lot of ways. Her desire to be a journalist was something I found interesting and I wish that a certain part of her story arc had been developed more. It felt a little quickly tied up and I think it would have worked a little better if fleshed out more.

The romance is a blend of sweet and sexy. The sex scenes are similar to the other books in their more retrained but still sexy way. There are definitely moments that the chemistry is palpable between them. This is a connection built on friendship so that element feels especially earned.

The members of the aforementioned book club are delightful as usual. This group of tight-knit friends is always a joy to return to. All of the guys have grown throughout the series and each new addition works their way into your heart. I cannot wait to see who the next book is about (I have my guesses) because this is a world I cannot wait to visit again.

While this particular book may not have been my favourite in the series it still offered up a strong and enjoyable addition to it. I highly recommend this series if you enjoy romance reads. 

Survive The Night by Riley Sager

Survive The Night by Riley Sager

Release Date - June 29, 2021 

Publisher Website - Penguin Random House Canada
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 336 pages
My Rating - 5/5

**received in exchange of an honest review**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Malibu: August 1983. It's the day of Nina Riva's annual end-of-summer party, and anticipation is at a fever pitch. Everyone wants to be around the famous Rivas: Nina, the talented surfer and supermodel; brothers Jay and Hud, one a championship surfer, the other a renowned photographer; and their adored baby sister, Kit. Together the siblings are a source of fascination in Malibu and the world over--especially as the offspring of the legendary singer Mick Riva.

The only person not looking forward to the party of the year is Nina herself, who never wanted to be the center of attention, and who has also just been very publicly abandoned by her pro tennis player husband. Oh, and maybe Hud--because it is long past time for him to confess something to the brother from whom he's been inseparable since birth.

Jay, on the other hand, is counting the minutes until nightfall, when the girl he can't stop thinking about promised she'll be there.

And Kit has a couple secrets of her own--including a guest she invited without consulting anyone.

By midnight the party will be completely out of control. By morning, the Riva mansion will have gone up in flames. But before that first spark in the early hours before dawn, the alcohol will flow, the music will play, and the loves and secrets that shaped this family's generations will all come bubbling to the surface.

Malibu Rising is a story about one unforgettable night in the life of a family: the night they each have to choose what they will keep from the people who made them . . . and what they will leave behind. 

Riley Sager's Survive The Night takes so many of the things I am interested in and blends them together in to a engrossingly readable novel. It has elements of classic Hollywood, true crime, and cinematic flair. It should therefore be no surprise that this is now my personal favourite Riley Sager novel.

This book feels cinematic in so many ways and it definitely reads like a movie. You can visualize everything that is happening but the format of the writing invokes a movie as well. It captures that essence so thoroughly that I will be upset if this doesn't end up getting a movie adaptation. 

This is a love letter to to both Hitchcock films and women in them. Charlie displays the characteristics of a classic Hitchcock blonde and the plot feels very Hitchcockian to me. It will make you want to pair reading it with a watch of Shadow of a Doubt (and possibly binge a bunch of older thrillers). 

The entire premise of this book is entirely unsettling to me. You are in an enclosed space that is not easily escapable and with every moment that passes you become increasingly convinced that the person in that space with you is a serial killer. It is a great plot idea that was even more effective than I imagined.

The 90s setting is especially effective at creating more tension and raising the stakes. No cell phones means no easy access to help and that heightens every beat of dread woven into the story. This story wouldn't feel the same in more current times and that is part of what makes the story work.

The interaction between Josh and Charlie is the crux of the novel, especially at first. The limited setting, the inside of the car, makes the focus shift to the characters. There is something thrilling at each stomach drop and skipped heartbeat as things start to unravel. The first half is a restrained, but pulse pounding, increase in fear that feels more psychological when compared to the latter part of the book.

A suspense novel is built on the twists that it unveils. This one has reveals that you will see coming and hopefully a couple of surprises as well. I was very satisfied with the ending and felt it only added to overall tone of the novel. It is definitely a Hollywood type of ending that you only see in the movies.

This is a book for those who have ever gotten lost in a movie. It has a plucky and resourceful heroine at its core and is filled with enough suspense to keep you turning the pages. If you are someone who loves reading thrillers at the beach this will be your new obsession. 

Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Release Date - June 1, 2021 

Publisher Website - Penguin Random House Canada
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 384 pages
My Rating - 4/5

**purchased**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Malibu: August 1983. It's the day of Nina Riva's annual end-of-summer party, and anticipation is at a fever pitch. Everyone wants to be around the famous Rivas: Nina, the talented surfer and supermodel; brothers Jay and Hud, one a championship surfer, the other a renowned photographer; and their adored baby sister, Kit. Together the siblings are a source of fascination in Malibu and the world over--especially as the offspring of the legendary singer Mick Riva.

The only person not looking forward to the party of the year is Nina herself, who never wanted to be the center of attention, and who has also just been very publicly abandoned by her pro tennis player husband. Oh, and maybe Hud--because it is long past time for him to confess something to the brother from whom he's been inseparable since birth.

Jay, on the other hand, is counting the minutes until nightfall, when the girl he can't stop thinking about promised she'll be there.

And Kit has a couple secrets of her own--including a guest she invited without consulting anyone.

By midnight the party will be completely out of control. By morning, the Riva mansion will have gone up in flames. But before that first spark in the early hours before dawn, the alcohol will flow, the music will play, and the loves and secrets that shaped this family's generations will all come bubbling to the surface.

Malibu Rising is a story about one unforgettable night in the life of a family: the night they each have to choose what they will keep from the people who made them . . . and what they will leave behind. 

Taylor Jenkins Reid's books transport you. She made us desparate to watch Evelyn Hugo on the big screen and yearn to listen to Daisy Jones and the Six's greatest hits. In Malibu Rising she once again spins a tale of fame but instead focuses on the bonds of family and the thrill of the surf.

Malibu Rising is like a warm summer day spent at the beach. You can almost taste the salt water, and smell coconut scented sunscreen while reading this book. Malibu, and it's waves, become a character in the book and the setting is just as important as the plot in this case. She brings Malibu to life so vividly that you can picture it even if you've never been there.

Capturing a particular time period seems to be a talent this author has. It is part of what transports you into the world of the novel and makes it feel all the more authentic. This book focuses on the 1980s and you definitely get that vibe. The neon colours, the teased hair, and fashion are just some of the callbacks to that time. There are little things, like Nina's sexed up ad campaign and calendar, that are so clearly of that time period.  

Fans of this author's previous books may have spotted a familiar name in the synopsis. Yes, it is THAT Mick Rivera. If you thought he was an asshole in The Seven Husband's of Evelyn Hugo just wait until you see what else he got up to. He is easily the worst and yet I was still strangely captivated by him. The magnetic pull he is referenced as having works on readers too, apparently.

Much more interesting (and sympathetic), are his children. Nina, in particular, made my heart ache for many reasons but I loved all of the Rivera children. They are all scarred by the events that have touched them. Their fiercely close bond is the heart of this novel that revolves around family, trauma, forgiveness, and hope. These kids had to grow up much faster than they needed to and that is something that is woven deep into all aspects of who these characters are and who they want to become.

The infamous Rivera party is as ridiculous as you hope it will be going in. It is indeed the stuff of legend and you can see how it became this out of control thing from its humble beginnings. The chapters with the party shenanigans are funny, dizzying, and the perfect build up to the emotional and cathartic end section.

The emotional payoff comes from the ending like so many of Taylor Jenkins Reid's other novels. It is that ending that makes the entire journey for me and I definitely found myself sobbing through parts of it. 

Taylor Jenkins Reid has once again slayed me with her ability to make you fall into the story. I cannot wait to follow her into the 90s (where I assume she is headed with her next book) and am breathlessly awaiting to discover what exactly that will look like.

Cool for the Summer by Dahlia Adler

Cool for the Summer by Dahlia Adler

Release Date - May 11, 2021 

Publisher Website - Raincoast Books
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 272 pages
My Rating - 4/5

**received for an honest review**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Lara's had eyes for exactly one person throughout her three years of high school: Chase Harding. He's tall, strong, sweet, a football star, and frankly, stupid hot. Oh, and he's talking to her now. On purpose and everything. Maybe...flirting, even? No, wait, he's definitely flirting, which is pretty much the sum of everything Lara's wanted out of life.

Except she’s haunted by a memory. A memory of a confusing, romantic, strangely perfect summer spent with a girl named Jasmine. A memory that becomes a confusing, disorienting present when Jasmine herself walks through the front doors of the school to see Lara and Chase chatting it up in front of the lockers.

Lara has everything she ever wanted: a tight-knit group of friends, a job that borders on cool, and Chase, the boy of her literal dreams. But if she's finally got the guy, why can't she stop thinking about the girl?

Cool for the Summer is a story of self-discovery and new love. It’s about the things we want and the things we need. And it’s about the people who will let us be who we are.

I was excited to pick up Cool for the Summer after reading its Grease inspired synopsis. It seemed like it would be a fun read and I have previously enjoyed books by Dahlia Adler. It turned out to be quite the enjoyable read filled with just enough angst and romance.

The story is told through a dual timeline. The summer that Lara and Jasmine spend together and the school year after. It allows us to experience the highs of them falling in love and the awkwardness of their reunion. It is effective as it keeps us anchored and connected to both Lara's relationship with Jasmine and her relationship with Chase.

Each of Lara's potential relationships are given weight and care. You believe that she cares for both of these people. Neither person is made out to be awful or shown to be a bad choice. I like that the focus is on Lara and what is right for her. 

Most of this novel is Lara figuring out her sexuaity. She has had a crush on golden boy Chase for forever and is unsure what it means when she starts also having feelings for Jasmine during the summer. I thought that Lara's arc of discovery about herself and what her heart ultimately wants was well done.

Communication is the main cause of conflict as per most romance plot points in novels. Much of the angst could be solved by the characters having a conversation. It is something that works especially well here because there are characters who are figuring things out. They cannot have the conversations that need to be had until they work through things internally first. It added another layer to this often used trope that suited this particular plot.

This book did not disappoint and is definitely one you should toss into your beach tote this summer. I also recommend checking out Dahlia Adler's other books if you haven't yet.

The Birthday List by Devney Perry

 

The Birthday List by Devney Perry

Release Date - April 3, 2018

Publisher Website - Self Published 
Author Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 402 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**purchased**

Twelve Books/Twelve Friends Selection

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Poppy Maysen carries a journal in her purse. Its pages were filled long ago by a man who craved adventure, lived life to the fullest and never failed to make her laugh. The journal is his birthday list—one she vows to complete.

She’ll do the things he wanted to do most. Because maybe, just maybe, if she can finish his list, she can start to live again.

Poppy expects going through the birthday list will be hard. She expects it to hurt. But what she doesn’t expect is Cole. Could the man who watched her heart shatter be the one to put it back together again?

The Birthday List deals with processing grief and the ways in which opening ourselves up after a traumatic experience can be both complicated and rewarding. It's a beautifully told story that manages to both break your heart and mend it as you are reading.

The idea of the list from the title of this book is such an interesting one. There have been plenty of books about completing something in honour of someone who has died. The biggest thing that stood out to me about this particular list is how much we can tell about Jamie from the items on his list. The character work of explaining who he was is done in large part through this list and memories and it was done rather well. His sense of humour and outgoing nature is clearly captured.

The idea of moving on after Jamie's death is understandably something Poppy has mixed emotions about. She logically knows that Jamie would want her to live her life and be happy but she doesn't want to lose those precious memories of him. It brings up conflicting feelings and the reader gets to see her processing all of those emotions. The rush of falling in love again, the guilt that it stirs up, and finally acceptance as she works through all of it. Poppy was a very sympathetic character and someone that the reader is drawn to root for. 

Cole is one of the best love interests I have read about in quite a while. He is patient, gentle, and supportive. He knows what Jamie means to Poppy and respects that while still very much wanting to be part of her life. I appreciated that the book contrasted him and Jamie while making both guys seem decent and good for Poppy. The book doesn't shy away from either of their flaws and doesn't make Jamie a footnote in Poppy's story to further the new romance.

While this is a stand alone novel it does have a companion novel that focuses on some characters we meet in this novel. I am certainly curious to check out out the second book because the characters that it features are written in a way that makes you want to continue their story. 

Devney Perry is definitely an author whose work I want to explore more of in the future. The Birthday List made me cry, laugh, and swoon while also having a sweet message about healing. If your looking for a bittersweet story I highly recommend this one.

Rush by Kandi Steiner

Rush by Kandi Steiner

Release Date - August 25, 2015

Publisher Website - Self Published 
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 339 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**purchased**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Written like your favorite drama television show, the Palm South University series has been called "a mix of Greek meets Gossip Girl with a dash of Friends." Follow seven college students as they maneuver unrequited love, teacher/student romance, the tangles of “no strings” relationships, love triangles and more. Each “season” has six “episodes,” and just like when your favorite show hits Netflix, you can read just one episode at a time or binge the entire thing. With the perfect mix of angst, emotional romance, and romantic comedy, the Palm South University series is your next guilty addiction.

Drama. Lies. Sex.

Welcome to Palm South University.

The weather isn’t the only thing heating up in South Florida. At a school where fraternities and sororities don’t exactly play by the rules, relationships are bound to be tested. Parties and sex are definitely key ingredients in the Palm South recipe, but what happens when family issues, secret lives, and unrequited love get tossed in the mix?

Follow Cassie, Bear, Jess, Skyler, Erin, Ashlei, and Adam as they tackle college at a small, private beach town university. Written in television drama form, each episode of this serial will pull you deeper and deeper into the world of PSU.

Where the sun is hot and the clothes are scarce, anything can happen

Sometimes a book's hook is the style in which it is written. Rush is written to mimic your favorite binge worthy television shows with each book being a season and broken down from there into 'episodes' (or chapters/sections). This hook definitely made me curious and after finishing the first book in the series I would say it proved to be quite entertaining as well.

Greek life is something that I have no first hand experience with. My familiarity extends to what I have seen on television/movies or heard about in the news. This book's world revolves around the sororities and fraternities of the University it is set at. I have no basis to determine how authentic it is but it fits my understanding of what it means to belong to these organizations. It all seems a realistic scenario that feels heightened for dramatic impact which fits the television show vibe the series has going for it.

The only downside is that the cast of characters is rather large and I didn't feel like I got to spend a lot of time getting to know them. It is very plot driven novel filled with dramatic events and that makes it extremely readable but I hope the characterization expands in subsequent novels.

The large cast equals a few different points of view that the story is told from. I anticipated that it might be hard to follow, but once you settle into the rhythm of the book it is not an issue at all. It, in fact, allows for more secrets and interesting story arcs as you follow the different characters. I am interested in some story arcs, like the budding love triangle, over others but they are all interesting enough to keep the reader's attention. 

This book really has all of the plot elements you would expect to find in a book like this. It focuses on the friendships, romantic entanglements, and struggles that these students would face. It packs a good balance of angst and intrigue to make the story progress.

Rush is an entertaining, quick read that will be perfect for those who are fans of the soapy, drama filled CW television shows. It offers the kind of escapism that I predict many will be happy to discover after a heavier read.

Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas

Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas 

Release Date - January 12, 2021

Publisher Website -  Harper Collins Canada
Publisher Social Media - Twitter/Facebook/SavvyReader/Frenzy

Pages - 320 pages
My Rating - 5/5
**received for an honest review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

International phenomenon Angie Thomas revisits Garden Heights seventeen years before the events of The Hate U Give in this searing and poignant exploration of Black boyhood and manhood.

If there’s one thing seventeen-year-old Maverick Carter knows, it’s that a real man takes care of his family. As the son of a former gang legend, Mav does that the only way he knows how: dealing for the King Lords. With this money he can help his mom, who works two jobs while his dad’s in prison.

Life’s not perfect, but with a fly girlfriend and a cousin who always has his back, Mav’s got everything under control.

Until, that is, Maverick finds out he’s a father.

Suddenly he has a baby, Seven, who depends on him for everything. But it’s not so easy to sling dope, finish school, and raise a child. So when he’s offered the chance to go straight, he takes it. In a world where he’s expected to amount to nothing, maybe Mav can prove he’s different.

When King Lord blood runs through your veins, though, you can't just walk away. Loyalty, revenge, and responsibility threaten to tear Mav apart, especially after the brutal murder of a loved one. He’ll have to figure out for himself what it really means to be a man.

There are those books you pick up knowing you are going to be immersed in something icredible. Those books that you know are going to be good before you even turn to the first page. I knew that Concrete Rose was going to be a great reading experience, but it might also be Angie Thomas' best book to date.

Maverick Carter, Starr's father from The Hate U Give, takes the focus in this historically set novel that showcases how he became the man we meet in The Hate U Give. While it may technically be considered historical I think that as a coming of age story this book will still easily resonate with young readers.

Some books are mirrors and others are windows. This book is obviously a window for me as a reader but I am most excited for those who will find this to be a mirror to discover this book. Representation is important and Angie Thomas has created a beautiful, affirming story of a black teen finding his way. It can (and should) be enjoyed by everyone but I think this book will offer pure magic when it finds those readers it will most resonate with.

Logically I knew how close in age Seven and Starr were while reading The Hate U Give. I, however, did not get how hard that would have been on Maverick until I read this book. The Hate U Give's Maverick is so put together that it just doesn't register in the way that it should until you experience it in this book. It gave me a different perspective on the character which I think is entirely the point. There is a sympathy brought out in the reader for the choices he has to make and a deeper appreciation for the character we know he becomes.

This book really showcases the power and need for a strong support system. Maverick has people who care about him surrounding him. These people care enough to let him make mistakes and encourage him to own up to those mistakes. It is easier to believe in yourself when you know others believe in you and not everyone is afforded that gift. I really enjoyed all the supporting characters and their role in shaping Maverick's path both for the positive and negative.

If you loved The Hate U Give you will absolutely want to pick up Concrete Rose. Angie Thomas once again provides a book that is thought provoking, well written, compulsively readable, and engaging. It really is a must read for young adult fans.

None Shall Sleep by Ellie Marney

None Shall Sleep by Ellie Marney 

Release Date - September 1, 2020

Publisher Website - Hachette
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 400 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**received for an honest review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

The Silence of the Lambs meets Sadie in this riveting psychological thriller about two teenagers teaming up with the FBI to track down juvenile serial killers.

In 1982, two teenagers—serial killer survivor Emma Lewis and US Marshal candidate Travis Bell—are recruited by the FBI to interview convicted juvenile killers and provide insight and advice on cold cases. From the start, Emma and Travis develop a quick friendship, gaining information from juvenile murderers that even the FBI can't crack. But when the team is called in to give advice on an active case—a serial killer who exclusively hunts teenagers—things begin to unravel. Working against the clock, they must turn to one of the country's most notorious incarcerated murderers for help: teenage sociopath Simon Gutmunsson. Despite Travis's objections, Emma becomes the conduit between Simon and the FBI team. But while Simon seems to be giving them the information they need to save lives, he's an expert manipulator playing a very long game...and he has his sights set on Emma.

Captivating, harrowing, and chilling, None Shall Sleep is an all-too-timely exploration of not only the monsters that live among us, but also the monsters that live inside us.

Did you love Silence of the Lambs and waited impatiently for the new season of Mindhunter to drop? If you answered yes to either of those I have the perfect book for you to read. None Shall Sleep combines intense action with character development to create a highly engrossing read. 

Ellie Marney's writing showcases that she put a lot of thought and time into the creation of her characters. She makes sure that all of them are interesting in their own way and also ensures they fit into the story being told. It, for me, was where her writing really shined.

Emma's a victim who would rather be seen as anything else. The survivor of a serial killer her trauma is woven into both the character and story subtly and with care. Ellie Marney could have laid out every horrible thing that Emma suffered via flashback scenes but instead chooses to provide just enough hints to allow the reader's imagination to fill in the rest. A prospect that will conjure up more horrors than the author ever could. I like that she is tough but not closed off. She is strong and resilient in ways that felt true to her character.

Travis is a victim as well but in an entirely different way. Violence has touched him in its own way and it makes these two two halves of a whole. Their connection and chemistry felt natural because they each could instantly understand the other in a lot of ways.

The Mindhunter aspect of the story should be evident from the synopsis. It shares interviewing serial killers and of course its backdrop of the FBI and profiling. This aspect is where a bit of disbelief has to be given to the story. It was hard to believe that they would have been allowed to assist the FBI at all never mind in such a large capacity. I get why the main characters needed to be younger but it does pull you out of the story a bit. It is not enough to distract from your enjoyment but something that the reader is aware of and tracks.

The most compelling part of the story is Simon and his interactions with Emma. A teenaged serial killer who has plenty of charm and intelligence. He is Hannibal Lecter to Emma's Clarice Starling. Their conversations will bring flashbacks to the movie in particular. I found those scenes to be the most eclectic part of the story and the parts that had me most on edge. I could have easily read an entire book of just those conversations. The author captures a sort of breathless dread that is felt in a well done scene like this. 

If you, like me, are missing Mindhunter I highly recommend picking up this book. Ellie Marney has written a book that immediately made me want to reach for the sequel.

Fifth Avenue, 5 A. M. by Sam Wasson

Fifth Avenue, 5 A. M. by Sam Wasson 

Release Date - June 22, 2010

Publisher Website - Harper Collis Canada
Publisher Social Media - Twitter/Facebook/SavvyReader/Frenzy

Pages - 231 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**borrowed from the library**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Audrey Hepburn is an icon like no other, yet the image many of us have of Audrey—dainty, immaculate—is anything but true to life. Here, for the first time, Sam Wasson presents the woman behind the little black dress that rocked the nation in 1961. The first complete account of the making of Breakfast at Tiffany's, Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M. reveals little-known facts about the cinema classic: Truman Capote desperately wanted Marilyn Monroe for the leading role; director Blake Edwards filmed multiple endings; Hepburn herself felt very conflicted about balancing the roles of mother and movie star. With a colorful cast of characters including Truman Capote, Edith Head, Givenchy, "Moon River" composer Henry Mancini, and, of course, Hepburn herself, Wasson immerses us in the America of the late fifties before Woodstock and birth control, when a not-so-virginal girl by the name of Holly Golightly raised eyebrows across the country, changing fashion, film, and sex for good. Indeed, cultural touchstones like Sex and the City owe a debt of gratitude to Breakfast at Tiffany's.

In this meticulously researched gem of a book, Wasson delivers us from the penthouses of the Upper East Side to the pools of Beverly Hills, presenting Breakfast at Tiffany's as we have never seen it before—through the eyes of those who made it. Written with delicious prose and considerable wit, Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M. shines new light on a beloved film and its incomparable star. 

5th Avenue, 5 A.M. refers to the location and time in which THAT infamous Breakfast at Tiffany's scene was filmed. The iconic shot of Audrey Hepburn in that little black dress helped launch a few careers and definitely launched the fashion trend of the LBD (aka the little black dress). This book gives a snapshot of filming this movie while also giving a few details about the people behind it.

If you are looking for an in depth look at Audrey Hepburn's life this is not the book for you. This is a snapshot of a very specific chunk of time. It walks through the big events that shaped the creation and filming of the movie while sometimes giving pertinent background information on the people involved. 

Audrey is given plenty of attention and the author does not shy away from the sadder elements of the story. He mentions Audrey's miscarriages and marriage troubles because it impacted her while filming. Also discussed are the tensions on set thanks to nobody liking George Peppard. 

The story of the dress and Audrey's relationship with Hubert de Givenchy starts before Breakfast at Tiffany's. The book captures the moment when Audrey is sent to get clothes for the movie Sabrina and it launches a professional relationship that changes fashion. It is definitely the stuff of goosebumps when you realize how iconic and influential Audrey's style via de Givenchy was.

It was fascinating getting to know the details behind the filming of the infamous party scene. It, quite frankly, sounds exhausting and the opposite of fun but it certainly looks good on camera.

Those Mickey Rooney scenes that everyone finds problematic are referenced. Turns out they were included as a means to make the movie funnier. It does not translate as the entire bit is not funny in the slightest. I have always found those scenes out of place with the rest of the movie and really wish they would have taken them out. The context given here does not make them fit any better or make them any less problematic.

Truman Capote is given his share of space within these pages. I find it fascinating that he hated the movie and did not visit the set even once. He was not a fan of Audrey Hepburn's casting at all which baffles me because it is now one of her most well recognized roles. I definitely want to do a deeper dive into Truman and his 'Swans' now and learn more about all these women who claimed to be the inspiration for Holly Golightly.

A well researched look at a piece of American film culture. I am fairly certain that nobody on the set knew exactly what they were creating while filming Breakfast at Tiffany's and that makes the behind the scenes gossip even more interesting. It is also a testament to the talent involved because of the careers that springboarded from this movie. I highly recommend this if you are a fan of the film or just a fan of Audrey Hepburn. Just make sure you have time to watch the movie afterwards because you will definitely want to.

Lords of Chaos by Michael Moynihan and Didrik Soderlind

Lords of Chaos by Michael Moynihan and Didrik Soderlind

Release Date - November 1, 2003

Publisher Website - Feral House
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 391 pages
My Rating - 3/5
**purchased**

**content warning for talk of murder and suicide**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Growing up under his punk rocker dad's spotlight, eighteen-year-old Luke Greenly knows fame and wants nothing to do with it. His real love isn't in front of a crowd, it's on the page. Hiding his gift and secretly hoarding songs in his bedroom at night, he prefers the anonymous comfort of the locally popular podcast he co-hosts with his outgoing and meddling, far-too-jealousy-inspiringly-happy-with-his-long-term-boyfriend twin brother, Cullen. But that’s not Luke’s only secret. He also has a major un-requited crush on music blogger, Vada Carsewell.

Vada's got a five year plan: secure a job at the Loud Lizard to learn from local legend (and her mom's boyfriend) Phil Josephs (check), take over Phil's music blog (double check), get accepted into Berkeley's prestigious music journalism program (check, check, check), manage Ann Arbor's summer concert series and secure a Rolling Stone internship. Luke Greenly is most definitely NOT on the list. So what if his self-deprecating charm and out-of-this-world music knowledge makes her dizzy? Or his brother just released a bootleg recording of Luke singing about some mystery girl on their podcast and she really, really wishes it was her? 

In the late 1980s/early 1990s a group of Norwegian young men created a new type of music and plenty of newspaper headlines. They are now known for church burnings, a suicide, and multiple murders just as much as they are for their music. Lords of Chaos breaks down not just the murder of Øystein Aarseth but the entire scene.

I was already pretty familiar with the case thanks to the well researched three part series from the guys over at Last Podcast On The Left (episode 285 if you want to listen) and the equally captivating movie adaptation of this book. I couldn't help but compare the three to each other. The podcast and movie firmly focus on Aarseth's murder while the book more fully examines the scene as a whole.

The biggest difference is that the book digs more into the beliefs the people in this group had and how they may have created the conditions that led to the church burnings and deaths. The book focuses on the fact that some of the people involved in the black Metal scene were also racists much more than the movie does. They make a pretty good case for there being some overlap there and how this fact may have played a role in the larger picture at the time. It breaks down all these connections in a way that instantly allows the read to connect all the pieces. It also looks at various members religious beliefs and how Satanism may or may not have played a role.

The pacing felt a little uneven for me. The beginning breezes by and it stagnates a little in the middle and end sections. It felt repetitive at times as we kept hearing the same thing from various members of this scene said just in different ways. This may hammer home the point the authors are trying to make but left me a little underwhelmed as a reader.

There is also the question of how much the reader should believe. The movie based off the book touts that it is “based on truth, lies and what actually happened." Which should tell you everything. There is a mythology there to some of the actions attributed to various key players. You have certain people believing one thing that others swear is a lie. Lies are certainly plausible because for many people involved it was an act and they did and said things to make themselves seem a specific way. Nobody knows for sure if members of the band Mayhem really wore pieces of their fellow band member's skull as necklaces after he committed suicide or if they were pieces of animal bone. This entire thing is filled with things like this that may be overblow. Related is the scrutiny that should be given to the people being interviewed. The authors did a lot of research and interviews and they present these in a very unbiased, straightforward way. They let the subjects of their interviews speak for themselves without injecting opinions or commentary themselves. This means that there are going to be things that many readers will not agree with. Some have questioned why these people should be even given a voice but I think the message the book is presenting is a worthy one - even if I wanted to scream every time a murderer talked about their victim. It was rage inducing to have them say whatever they wanted about the victims because they are not around to tell their side of things thanks to the whole being murdered thing. I don't personally find anything a murderer says about their victim very reliable. 

This book basically left me with the same mindset that I had after watching the movie. These were a bunch of bored young men who were trying to one up each other. They ran wild and things basically turned into Lord of the Flies. It is a fascinating look at a specific point in music history and at a true crime case that leaves you with plenty to to think about. I recommend this for anyone wanting a deep dive into the Norwegian black metal scene as it is certainly detailed and thorough.

More Than Maybe by Erin Hahn

More Than Maybe by Erin Hahn

Release Date - July 21, 2020

Publisher Website - Raincoast Books
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 336 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**received for an honest review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Growing up under his punk rocker dad's spotlight, eighteen-year-old Luke Greenly knows fame and wants nothing to do with it. His real love isn't in front of a crowd, it's on the page. Hiding his gift and secretly hoarding songs in his bedroom at night, he prefers the anonymous comfort of the locally popular podcast he co-hosts with his outgoing and meddling, far-too-jealousy-inspiringly-happy-with-his-long-term-boyfriend twin brother, Cullen. But that’s not Luke’s only secret. He also has a major un-requited crush on music blogger, Vada Carsewell.

Vada's got a five year plan: secure a job at the Loud Lizard to learn from local legend (and her mom's boyfriend) Phil Josephs (check), take over Phil's music blog (double check), get accepted into Berkeley's prestigious music journalism program (check, check, check), manage Ann Arbor's summer concert series and secure a Rolling Stone internship. Luke Greenly is most definitely NOT on the list. So what if his self-deprecating charm and out-of-this-world music knowledge makes her dizzy? Or his brother just released a bootleg recording of Luke singing about some mystery girl on their podcast and she really, really wishes it was her? 

I have conflicting feelings about books that have a plot point revolving around a song written about one of the characters. I immediately want to read them but also usually end up disappointed. It seems like, for me at least, it is a premise that is tricky to get right. I am happy to say that my streak of disappointment is over because More Than Maybe pretty much hits all of the right notes.

This is one of the books that you'll fly through. It's pacing and charm ensures that you'll have a problem putting this one down. It's strength is the care that is taken to create these characters and ensuring that the reader cares about them. 

The family dynamics that both Vada and Luke are dealing with are really the heart of the book. The romance plot is fantastic and important to the story but I found myself more invested in the other plot elements. The synopsis focuses on the romantic elements but it is all the other stuff that made the story for me. I always love when the characters have something more than just the romantic side of things going on in a book and this one definitely delivers. 

The romance itself is well done and sweet. It perfectly captures those early stages where you circling around each other trying to determine if the other likes you too. It feels effortless with them texting song titles to each other as part of their flirty banter. I highly recommend listening to the songs included while reading for an extra bit of magic.

Music is really the soul of Erin Hahn's books. They revolve around music in a way that reminds you why you love music. It makes you want to create playlists and go check out local talent. Lyrics for important songs are crafted with care because they are often a vital puzzle piece to the story being told. If you are a music fan of any genre Erin's books will feel like love letters to something you love so much. 

If Erin Hahn's first book, You'd Be Mine, is country More Than Maybe is indie. It is a hip, feel like you discovered it read that is much a love letter to music as her first book is. It's got a lot of the same elements while still feeling quite different. If you are a contemporary young adult fan and are not reading Erin Hahn I highly encourage you to fix that immediately.

The Roommate by Rosie Danan

The Roommate by Rosie Danan

Release Date - September 15, 2020

Publisher Website - Penguin Random House Canada
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 336 pages
My Rating - 5/5
**received for an honest review from the publisher**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

House Rules:

Do your own dishes

Knock before entering the bathroom

Never look up your roommate online

The Wheatons are infamous among the east coast elite for their lack of impulse control, except for their daughter Clara. She’s the consummate socialite: over-achieving, well-mannered, predictable. But every Wheaton has their weakness. When Clara’s childhood crush invites her to move cross-country, the offer is too much to resist. Unfortunately, it’s also too good to be true.

After a bait-and-switch, Clara finds herself sharing a lease with a charming stranger. Josh might be a bit too perceptive—not to mention handsome—for comfort, but there’s a good chance he and Clara could have survived sharing a summer sublet if she hadn’t looked him up on the Internet...

Once she learns how Josh has made a name for himself, Clara realizes living with him might make her the Wheaton’s most scandalous story yet. His professional prowess inspires her to take tackling the stigma against female desire into her own hands. They may not agree on much, but Josh and Clara both believe women deserve better sex. What they decide to do about it will change both of their lives, and if they’re lucky, they’ll help everyone else get lucky too. 

The Roommate has been making a big splash with early buzz being a cascade of enthusiastic praise. As a result of this I had fairly high expectations picking up this one. Luckily this book not only met those expectations but surpassed them.

I've seen this referred to as a raunch-com in various write ups about the book. I think that's a clever description that is worthy of the characters in the book for a few reasons. This book is funny and sexy (with a heavy emphasis on the sexy). It is seriously fan yourself steamy but also manages to pack in a lot of heart and humour. It balances everything perfectly and keeps the pace going so that the pages seem to fly by.

Sex positivity and female sexual pleasure are a huge focus of this book. It is all about being both shameless in asking for what you want in bed and for shaming less those who do. It advocates a healthy, consensual sex life that is enjoyable for both partners. It gives a female gaze to an industry that normally is strictly focused on the male gaze. 

The opposites attract style romance works especially well here. Sheltered and more reserved Clara and more outgoing and social Josh are surprisingly perfect for each other. The road bumps they face along the way feel organic to who these characters are and blend in with the character growth they both have to go through. They each have issues outside the relationship that have to be overcome in order to move forward and I think both of them have very satisfying arcs. 

Josh is going to be a favourite among romance readers. He is confident, charming, and easily likeable. I think he may end up being one of my favourite romantic heroes. Clara is fantastic heroine as well that I predict many will love.

Another way this book circumvented my expectations was with the inclusion of Josh's ex Naomi. It went in a direction I was not anticipating but should have expected from the rest of this book. The female support and empowerment was woven in seamlessly with the rest of this book's message.

Rosie Danan has quickly launched herself on to my list of must read romance authors. She has given us a delightful debut that will instantly leave you craving more. I definitely will have no shame in wanting to get my hands on her next book as soon as possible.

The Heir Affair by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan

The Heir Affair by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan

Release Date - July 7, 2020

Publisher Website - Hachette 
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 464 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**received for an honest review from the publisher**

**spoilers for The Royal We**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

After a scandalous secret turns their fairy-tale wedding into a nightmare, Rebecca "Bex" Porter and her husband Prince Nicholas are in self-imposed exile. The public is angry. The Queen is even angrier. And the press is salivating. Cutting themselves off from friends and family, and escaping the world's judgmental eyes, feels like the best way to protect their fragile, all-consuming romance.

But when a crisis forces the new Duke and Duchess back to London, the Band-Aid they'd placed over their problems starts to peel at the edges. Now, as old family secrets and new ones threaten to derail her new royal life, Bex has to face the emotional wreckage she and Nick left behind: with the Queen, with the world, and with Nick's brother Freddie, whose sins may not be so easily forgotten—nor forgiven.

I adored The Royal We immensely when it cam out. I was entirely charmed by pretty much everything about it. I was especially charmed by Freddie, the second born heir to the throne. I was delighted when a sequel was announced and while it may not be the Freddie focused read I wanted it was a delight nevertheless. 

The novel picks up pretty much right after the events of the first book. Only a short amount of time has passed and that allows us to deal with the ramifications of some of those events. It also means that you absolutely have to read the first book before picking this one up. It is a direct sequel and not a companion novel.

Similar to the first book it is not as light as you imagine it being. There are a lot of heavy topics dealt with in these pages. The events that happen to these characters are allowed to be felt. They resonate with the characters in palpable, realistic ways. It is part of why I love this series so much. It makes the characters feel real. It pays attention to the public and private personas these characters would have and both aspects of these characters are nuanced.

Freddie may not be the sole focus but he has a very significant role. The fallout from his confession to Bex and his offer to run away with her features heavily in this book's plot. Freddie's feelings for Bex and how that makes everyone else feel (including Bex) is messy and complicated. It isn't easily wrapped up. It is not neat or pretty. It is given the heft it deserves and it impacts so may relationships in different ways. My only issue with the previous book was that this confession was barely dealt with  in a significant way and this rectified that. 

These characters are not always going to make the 'right' decisions. The authors constructed them to be imperfect and that includes making mistakes. I predict many may not 'like' Bex and will feel frustrated with her at times (among other characters). They are characters that you understand however. They are all under intense scrutiny in high pressure situations. The fact that they are disasters every so often makes them more authentic and realistic.

There are some lighter, more fun moments in among the drama and heartbreak. These moments ring like joyful bells and will have you craving more of them. They are timed perfectly and allowed the reader to connect with the characters even more.

Family secrets are revealed and the way everything is wound together is very clever. There are story parallels that will eventually be obvious but I enjoyed how it all came together. It's juicy and scandalous enough to be worthy of a fictitious royal family.

If you loved the first book I highly recommend picking up the second. It gives you more of everything you loved in the first book be that drama, royal family secrets, Bex and Nick cuteness, or (thankfully) more Freddie.

You Should See Me In A Crown by Leah Johnson

You Should See Me In A Crown by Leah Johnson
Release Date - June 2, 2020

Publisher Website - Scholastic
Publisher Social Media - Twitter

Pages - 328 pages
My Rating - 4/5
**purchased**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

Liz Lighty has always believed she's too black, too poor, too awkward to shine in her small, rich, prom-obsessed midwestern town. But it's okay -- Liz has a plan that will get her out of Campbell, Indiana, forever: attend the uber-elite Pennington College, play in their world-famous orchestra, and become a doctor.

But when the financial aid she was counting on unexpectedly falls through, Liz's plans come crashing down . . . until she's reminded of her school's scholarship for prom king and queen. There's nothing Liz wants to do less than endure a gauntlet of social media trolls, catty competitors, and humiliating public events, but despite her devastating fear of the spotlight she's willing to do whatever it takes to get to Pennington.

The only thing that makes it halfway bearable is the new girl in school, Mack. She's smart, funny, and just as much of an outsider as Liz. But Mack is also in the running for queen. Will falling for the competition keep Liz from her dreams . . . or make them come true?

There are some books that leave you with a feeling when you are done. This feeling becomes the thing that you most strongly associate with the book. In the case of You Should See Me In A Crown that feeling would be joy. It's easily a must read for young adult contemporary fans and offers up a delightful distraction when you need it.

This book reminds me of a modern John Hughes movie. The focus on the race for Prom Queen makes it feel so classically high school in a way that those movies also capture. The entire vibe is a much more updated version of the tone of those movies. It made the book feel very comforting in a way that those movies have when I watch them while feeling ill. 

Leah Johnson's writing is a stand out of this novel. The book reads as breezy and light and that takes a lot of skill. It's pacing and flow are a testament to the writing skills that are displayed. This author is definitely one to watch and one I would put on par with any of those authors considered the greats of young adult contemporaries.

Liz is the type of main character that the reader wants to root for. She's such a winsome character and so well crafted that she leaps off the page. I could easily see both this story and this character in a movie on Netflix. Her story arc is going to be relatable to so many people. It's a coming of age story with Liz finding her voice and discovering things about herself along the way.

The romance is really sweet and filled with just the right amount of conflict and angst. It's woven into the plot effectively so that it feels integral to the story instead of an afterthought. It has those beats of a high school set romance but still feels fresh and exciting.

This book does tackle some more serious and important topic and does so with a lot of heart. It manages to deal with topics in a way that keeps the tone of the rest of the novel. It is part of the story rather than being the story. Things like family member illness, and grief are given the heft they need while still keeping the lighter tone of the story. Racism  and homophobia are also touched upon throughout the story. The biggest element though is Liz feeling like an outsider and learning to love herself. This is what is given the most weight and what makes the story as charming as it is.

This is a joyful read that will ultimately leave you with a smile on your face. I would highly recommend reading it for anyone who loved Simon vs The Homosapiens Agenda as reading this gave me many of the same feelings. It has a great message of self acceptance and being proud of who you are and is just the feel good read we could all use right now.

Today we are celebrating the release of EMPIRE HIGH UNTOUCHABLES by Ivy Smoak by participating in the blog tour! This is a contemporary romance, standalone title that is available now in Kindle Unlimited. Join Ivy's Group for access to bonus content from the book.  

Read it Here (Kindle Unlimited)

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

 
Join Ivy's Facebook Group for Details.

Empire High Untouchables by Ivy Smoak

A Contemporary Romance | Available now in Kindle Unlimited

Add it to Goodreads

Book Blurb: The Untouchables. That’s what everyone calls the Hunter and Caldwell brothers. At least, it’s my best friend’s nickname for them. And since she’s the only one that talks to me at my new school, I’ll take her word for it. The nickname probably comes from the fact that they’re exorbitantly wealthy. Old wealth. The kind that isn’t flaunted around. But you can tell by the way they carry themselves. Or maybe the name just refers to the fact that they’re so beautiful it’s almost hard to look at them. No matter the reason for their nickname, it’s an ironic one. Because I’ve only been going to this school for a week and I already want to touch.

Read it Here (Kindle Unlimited)

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

 

BY INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING AUTHOR IVY SMOAK

★★★★★ “My favorite book this year!!”
★★★★★ “Gahh! My heart. I adored this book.”
★★★★★ “IT WAS AMAZING.”
★★★★★ “Oh my, plot twist! I did NOT see that one coming!”
★★★★★ “It’s literally IMPOSSIBLE to put down.”
★★★★★ “Buckle in for this emotional roller coaster!”

 

AUTHOR INFORMATION:  Ivy Smoak is the international bestselling author of The Hunted series. When she's not writing, you can find her binge watching too many TV shows, taking long walks, playing outside, and generally refusing to act like an adult. She lives with her husband in Delaware.  

FIND IVY SMOAK:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Bookbub | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

Empire High Untouchables by Ivy Smoak
Release Date - July 9, 2020
Pages - pages
My Rating - 4/5
**received for an honest review**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

The Untouchables. That’s what everyone calls the Hunter and Caldwell brothers. At least, it’s my best friend’s nickname for them. And since she’s the only one that talks to me at my new school, I’ll take her word for it.

The nickname probably comes from the fact that they’re exorbitantly wealthy. Old wealth. The kind that isn’t flaunted around. But you can tell by the way they carry themselves. Or maybe the name just refers to the fact that they’re so beautiful it’s almost hard to look at them.

No matter the reason for their nickname, it’s an ironic one. Because I’ve only been going to this school for a week and I already want to touch.

I had never read an Ivy Smoak book previous to picking up Empire High Untouchables. I was immediately sold with the premise, but I wasn't sure what to expect otherwise. There was something comforting about reading Empire High Untouchables. It felt like easing back into a world that I was already familiar with. It manages to be a mix of both old and new with the situations feeling familiar, and the characters making it resonate in a different way. Many of Ivy's fans will feel that sense of returning even more as I believe there are characters within this story that appear in other novels by this author.

The characters added to that sense of familiarity in that the author obviously knows who these characters are. The voices of the characters feel strong and sure. It is evident that the author is comfortable writing these particular characters and that makes them resonate a little more with the reader.

Brooklyn is grieving the loss of her mother. Her mother's death turned her entire world upside down and took away everything from her (including her home) so to say she is adjusting would be an understatement. She's very much still grieving and I think the book does a good job in presenting how a loss like this is always part of your thoughts, even if you've progressed past the most debilitating stages of grief. She's someone that people would refer to as 'a good girl'. She's sheltered compared to some of the other characters. I appreciated that she wasn't jaded and was willing to give people the benefit of the doubt even if it leaves her open to being taken advantage of by others.

The romance in this one had a dynamic that is instantly recognizable. The love interest who is hot one minute and cold the next. The one who tries to distance himself for the good of the love interest. The forbidden aspect of them being together. It's a trope that romance readers know well and it works here. The added element of another guy being interested in Brooklyn also makes the dynamic more fun and interesting. I was also surprised at how restrained all of the romances were. There are some intense kissing scenes, but it never goes farther than that. I think it works for the type of character Brooklyn is and her the journey that she is on.

The supporting cast of characters stood out to me. I loved the supportive and caring relationship between Brooklyn and her uncle. The friendship between Brooklyn and Kennedy was another highlight. The Untouchables themselves (who are the Caldwells, and Hunters) are intriguing. I wish we had gotten to learn a little bit more about this group of guys who seem to have it all but actually are really messy and flawed. Hopefully we dive into more of the dynamic in the upcoming books.

The end was something I pieced together earlier in the novel, but it was the journey to that reveal that made it satisfying anyway. It only resonates because we have gone through everything else with Brooklyn. It hits harder because we know how this is going to impact her. It sets up the sequel nicely, and ensures that it is going to filled with even more angst and drama (if that is even possible).

This is exactly the kind of book I want to read when I am looking for a distraction. It has over the top tension and reads like watching some of my favourite CW television shows. If you're looking for something that fits that criteria I recommend picking up a copy of Empire High Untouchables. Just be prepared to desperately want to read the second book immediately.

All That Heaven Allows by Mark Griffin

All That Heaven Allows by Mark Griffin
Release Date - December 4, 2018

Publisher Website - Harper Collins Canada
Publisher Social Media - Twitter/Facebook/SavvyReader/Frenzy

Pages - 469 pages
My Rating - 5/5
**purchased**

Here is the Goodreads synopsis

The definitive biography of the deeply complex and widely misunderstood matinee idol of Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Devastatingly handsome, broad-shouldered and clean-cut, Rock Hudson was the ultimate movie star. The embodiment of romantic masculinity in American film throughout the ‘50s and ‘60s, Hudson reigned supreme as the king of Hollywood.

As an Oscar-nominated leading man, Hudson won acclaim for his performances in glossy melodramas (Magnificent Obsession), western epics (Giant) and blockbuster bedroom farces (Pillow Talk). In the ‘70s and ‘80s, Hudson successfully transitioned to television; his long-running series McMillan & Wife and a recurring role on Dynasty introduced him to a whole new generation of fans.

The icon worshipped by moviegoers and beloved by his colleagues appeared to have it all. Yet beneath the suave and commanding star persona, there was an insecure, deeply conflicted, and all too vulnerable human being. Growing up poor in Winnetka, Illinois, Hudson was abandoned by his biological father, abused by an alcoholic stepfather, and controlled by his domineering mother.

Despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Hudson was determined to become an actor at all costs. After signing with the powerful but predatory agent Henry Willson, the young hopeful was transformed from a clumsy, tongue-tied truck driver into Universal Studio’s resident Adonis. In a more conservative era, Hudson’s wholesome, straight arrow screen image was at odds with his closeted homosexuality.

As a result of his gay relationships and clandestine affairs, Hudson was continually threatened with public exposure, not only by scandal sheets like Confidential but by a number of his own partners. For years, Hudson dodged questions concerning his private life, but in 1985 the public learned that the actor was battling AIDS. The disclosure that such a revered public figure had contracted the illness focused worldwide attention on the epidemic.

Drawing on more than 100 interviews with co-stars, family members and former companions, All That Heaven Allows finally delivers a complete and nuanced portrait of one of the most fascinating stars in cinema history.

Author Mark Griffin provides new details concerning Hudson’s troubled relationships with wife Phyllis Gates and boyfriend Marc Christian. And here, for the first time, is an in-depth exploration of Hudson’s classic films, including Written on the Wind, A Farewell to Arms, and the cult favorite Seconds. With unprecedented access to private journals, personal correspondence, and production files, Griffin pays homage to the idol whose life and death had a lasting impact on American culture.

After watching Ryan Murphy's Hollywood I was particularly excited to read All That Heaven Allows. I was intrigued by that television's fiction version of a Hollywood star I knew little about. This book offers a look at the life and career of Rock Hudon that, perhaps fittingly, keeps the reader at arms length.

My biggest takeaway from this book is that Rock Hudson was a kind, flirtatious man who loved acting and had a strong drive to succeed. He was shaped by his manager Henry Wilson (who is infamous for being awful) into a glamorous movie star but never lost his small town boy nature.

The author, Mark Griffin, is meticulous when it comes to Rock Hudson's career. He goes through each role Rock played and offers some anecdotes about each one. It is sure to please the fans of his film career as that is where most of the details are held. This had the double edge sword , however, of eventually feeling repetitive. It may have given a through account of his career but it left me wanting to know more about the man behind those performances.

Rock Hudson wanted to hide a lot of himself from the public. He was open with those in his circle but was mostly a private person. This is particularly true with his sexuality. It way have been an open secret in Hollywood that Rock Hudson was gay but it was not something the general public knew. Rock Hudson is perhaps most associated with the AIDS crisis for most people as he was one of the first celebrities to be diagnosed and die from the virus. This book, I felt, did a decent job at not giving that fact the focus of the book. It feels more like a celebration of his career than a look at his death.

Those looking for a salacious sexual tell all will not find that here. Rock's various relationships (and some casual hookups) were peppered throughout but they are mostly included to give nuance to Rock's mindset and other events that were happening.

I left this book feeling like I knew more about Rock Hudson than I did before starting it and so in that respect the author has succeeded. However, I feel this is a surface, brief outline portrait of a man who was surely more complex than what is painted within these pages. Those wanting an overview of his career are going to be satisfied but those wanting more of a picture of the man behind the movie star will probably end up reading another biography after. I personally finished wanting to watch more of his movies, and something tells me that Rock Hudson himself may have wanted it that way.