Hey Book Friends! In November Book of the Month Club had so many great romance options. One of the ones I chose to get was “Stars in Your Eyes” by Kacen Callender, and let me tell you, it’s a story of love, fame, and self-discovery that will leave you starry-eyed. Sorry, had to make the pun. This is a romance book, but be warned. It is not for everyone. There are triggers and if that’s not your cup of tea. That’s ok, maybe the next story will be.

Let’s talk characters, Logan Gray is a child star who turned into Hollywood’s bad boy actor. His talent is as undeniable as his troubles are infamous. Just wait until you find out about his past. (Again friends there are triggers in this book, and Logan’s past has a off page SA discussion.)

On the other side of the spotlight is Mattie Cole, an up-and-coming golden boy adored by all but haunted by his own insecurities. (More triggers here, this time with an unaccepting family member.) The two are cast as leads in a new romantic film and Logan’s public declaration that Matt has “zero talent” leads to many complications.

In a bid to salvage the film’s publicity, Logan and Mattie find themselves reluctantly entangled in a fake-dating scheme. What starts as a strategic move to create positive buzz on their upcoming film turns into a journey of self-discovery and, unexpectedly, a real blossoming romance. As the lines between fiction and reality blur, the two actors grapple with real feelings in the face of public scrutiny and resurfacing wounds from their pasts.

This book is more than a love story and some of you may not want to classify it as a romance at all, it’s an exploration of identity, of healing, and of growth. Kacen Callender crafts this narrative that goes beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, delving into the complexities of being human, fame, and the vulnerabilities that lie just beneath the surface.

One thing I personally loved was the grumpy Logan and Mattie sunshine duo. Their on-screen chemistry spills into real life, blurring the lines while creating a nuanced and authentic portrayal of love in the midst of fame’s harsh spotlight and working through ones past and current insecurities. Callender’s storytelling is tender, hopeful, and at times, beautifully raw.

If you’re a fan of Complicated, Queer, Diverse Stories then “Stars in Your Eyes” deserves a spot on your reading list. It’s a blend of romance, with thought-provoking themes, and characters you’ll root for long after the story ends.

So if you want to read more, grab your copy from your favorite library or bookseller, find a cozy reading spot, and get ready for a journey through the glitzy, complicated world of Hollywood. “Stars in Your Eyes” is an emotional rollercoaster that you won’t want to put down for one second. Happy reading, friends!