Nerd Girl Loves Books

4 stars

A fun and entertaining fiction set in the early 1920’s.

This was a fun, well-written book that I enjoyed reading. The story is very entertaining. It’s set in 1921 Hollywood and the main characters are young adults trying to break into the movie industry. It was fun to read about a time period in Hollywood that I didn’t know much about. Make sure to read the information after the story ends as the author provides a fun history lesson of people and events depicted in the story.

The book is focused on three characters, Irene, Millie and Henry. The story opens with the trio being members of a traveling burlesque show. While on a train heading to yet another city in the southwest, Irene and Millie hatch a plan to jump off the train and free themselves. As they get ready to jump, Henry decides to take the leap as well and join them. They make their way to Hollywood where they hope to fulfill their dreams of acting in the new silent movies, or “flickers”.

Living in Hollywood is both exhilarating and terrifying for the group as they endure the highs and lows that come with being a struggling actor. The author explores tough subjects with sensitivity and doesn’t flinch from some of the more uncomfortable prejudices against women, minorities and different religions that existed during the times. I recommend you read this book.

I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.