Thursday, March 16, 2017

Review: AMERICA'S NEXT REALITY STAR



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.

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.

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