One of the great things about being done with copy edits is that I now have time to read again!
It’s no secret that we’re a little obsessed with reality
television, so, I was delighted to be able to pick up Laura Heffernan's AMERICA'S NEXT REALITY STAR, and
I’m happy to say that the author does a wonderful job using the backdrop of the
competition to explore her main character and all the drama inherent in the
setting and the wide range of contestants.
I’ve always wondered what makes a well-adjusted person
decide to compete in a show like Big Brother (called The Fishbowl here). Every
show has at least one sympathetic person who could be your best friend, or your
work buddy. America's Next Reality Star follows Jen,
who could very well fall into that category. She’s a 24-year-old marketing assistant who decides to try out
for a show after losing her job, boyfriend, and being evicted from her
apartment. Since most of us who have
gone through our twenties, or are in our twenties, can relate to at least one of
these circumstances, you can’t help but root for her.
While certain
characters follow standard roles one would see on a reality show (the male and
female villains, the cheerleader, etc.) as the competition continues we grow
fonder of most of them, as Jen lets down
her guard and forms alliances. We also love to root against the worst villain
of them all, the backstabbing Arianna. And isn't that one of the most fun aspects of reality television?
The book also asks timely questions about the nature of romance on
such shows. Can it ever be real? How can you trust someone? In Justin, Jen has a totally swoon worthy crush, but one
that makes her choices on the show more complicated.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book for its humor, romance, and for its fun character studies, not to mention the creative challenges. I will certainly pick up the sequel as soon as it comes out.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book for its humor, romance, and for its fun character studies, not to mention the creative challenges. I will certainly pick up the sequel as soon as it comes out.
Title: America’s Next Reality Star
Author: Laura Heffernan
Publisher: Lyrical Shine - Kensington
Series: Reality Star #1
Release Date: March 7, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
ISBN: 9781516101542
About Laura Heffernan:
Laura
Heffernan is living proof that watching too much TV can pay off. When not
watching total strangers participate in arranged marriages, drag racing queens,
or cooking competitions, Laura enjoys travel, baking, board games, helping with
writing contests, and seeking new experiences. She lives in the Northeast with
her amazing husband and two furry little beasts.
Add to your TBR list: Goodreads
Available at: Amazon | Barnes
and Noble | Kobo | iTunes
