Beyond Hollywood Strip by Shamron Moore (3.5 stars)

About Beyond Hollywood Strip

Publisher:  Vigliano Books
Page count: 339 pages

Callie Lambert is the hottest starlet in Hollywood. With a hit TV show under her belt, the tabloid-targeted actress–christened one of “The 20 Most Tantalizing Angelenos”–leads a charmed life, hobnobbing with fashionistas in Paris and industry bigwigs in Los Angeles .  She’s sexy, sassy, and unsinkable….and currently unemployed.

Beyond Hollywood Strip offers an inside look into the realities of being famous and beautiful, following Callie as she navigates the seedy underbelly of the entertainment industry. Juggling hunky ex-boyfriends, battling lawsuits from rival actresses, staying one step ahead of the press, organizing a charity event to honor her murdered friend…Callie’s got it all under control. But when she receives a mysterious letter from a young woman claiming to be her long-lost sister, Callie’s world begins to crack around the edges and all bets are off.

An ode to the literary popcorn of Jacqueline Susann, Beyond Hollywood Strip is a steamy, action-packed ride down Sunset Boulevard. Better buckle your seat belt…it’s going to be bumpy…

First book, Hollywood Strip, selected as a Finalist for the Pacific Book Review Award.

“Does for Hollywood what Sex and the City did for New York…So hot the pages will singe your fingers.” William Martin, NYT bestselling author

 “Doesn’t suffer from the constant label-naming of some contemporary women’s fiction, and fans of Cecily von Ziegesar and Lauren Weisberger will adore this insider’s view of an aspiring actress’ struggles and successes.” Booklist

Review

Callie Lambert wants to be taken seriously. Sure she's had her share of starring roles and success in Hollywood, but she wants more and constantly pushes her agent to get her better scripts and opportunities.

Life in Hollywood has shown her the worst sides of some people, and she finds herself in the tabloids and fighting mean-spirited lawsuits. Will the spotlight be worth the headaches?

Callie is feisty, tough, and determined--all qualities I love in a main character. Juicy behind the scenes details makes the book an interesting read, especially for people enamored with the idea of Hollywood and celebrity. It was like reading one tabloid article after another, but from the celebrity's point of view.

Unfortunately, I was expecting something a little more gritty and shocking. Plus, although there was a romance for Callie, it was at best a side story. I wished it had been brought more to the forefront. 

It's an enjoyable light read, however, especially for readers who want an inside glimpse into the life of a starlet.

Rating: 3.5 stars 

About Shamron Moore

The chronicles of Callie Lambert are loosely based on author Shamron Moore’s real life experiences as an actress and model. Shamron left her home state of Michigan to pursue the excitement of Los Angeles. She has appeared in numerous commercials, television shows and feature films. FHM named her one of the 100 Sexiest Women in the World. Nowadays, she prefers to focus on writing, one of her lifelong passions. Beyond Hollywood Strip is her second novel.

Connect with Shamron: Website | Facebook

Thanks to TLC for my review copy.

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.

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