I loved every minute of this book... until the end. The end fell so flat for me. Super duper predictable ending. The story was dark and interesting otherwise.

I couldn't put this story of an aspiring actress and her clashes with a theater director and programmer down. So dark and twisty and violent, my kind of must-read.

I was bored through most of this...waiting for something to actually happen. And then...in the last chapter...something happened.

This novel is a slow burn but overall enjoyable.

I'd recommend reading instead of listening to the audio. I think it would be more intense in your own head.

natalie portman as nina sayers you'll always be famous

This book was a TIME!

Kira Rascher is extremely ambitious. She will stop at nothing to get a role on a play named Temper. This would be the role of a lifetime, and it will require her to work with one of the most difficult men in the industry, Malcolm Mercer. He is a director who takes whatever he wants from his performers. Kira is more than aware of Malcolm's reputation, but it doesn't deter her in any way.

Malcolm's theater co-founder, Joanna Cuyler can spot trouble a mile away when it comes to Kira's audition for the play. She is Malcolm's partner in a romantic sense, even though she knows what he does with his actresses. Even so, Joanna is really disturbed by Kira's presence.

Malcolm, Kira and Joanna all have dangerous secrets. These very secrets could indeed affect the play, but more so, their lives. Their desires are base, through and through, and if it takes violence to get what each of them want, well, so be it.

I kind of love it when I read a story where I just about despise everyone. Kudos to Layne Fargo to created such unlikable characters, whether they are primary or secondary. Despite my ire, I have to admit to finding this story enthralling. After all, watching people self-destruct, even when they strive to see others fail, is weirdly entertaining.

I cannot wait to see what this author has on tap next. She wrote a fantastic psychological thriller and I am ecstatic that this debut author could keep me focused from beginning to end. She has an upcoming read in 2020, Learn Her Wrath. I imagine it will be another terrific read.

Many thanks to Gallery and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.

This book is a genuine page-turner. It drags you into the world of Chicago storefront theatre from the very first page and takes you on a roller coaster of dramatic twists and turns all from the viewpoints of the female characters (yes please!). It so accurately depicts psychological manipulation that as a reader you feel growing rage for the victims while simultaneously cheering the author on for getting it so correct. Readers beware: once you begin this book, you will NOT want to put it down!

4.25/5. I loved this book right up until the ending-although maybe no other ending was possible. Beautiful and captivating, although not quite up to the level that They Never Learn reached for me.

4.5

AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH