In an age where online reviews are more influential than ever before, FIVE-STAR STRANGER follows a top-rated rental stranger who meticulously crafts various personas for different jobs. He can be an extra mourner at a funeral, a best man, an alcoholic brother, or even a father who’s always on the road for work. After many successful years, this carefully guarded stranger begins to struggle with separating his work and personal life.

I was drawn in by the unique premise of this one and it did not disappoint. It’s a quiet, tense, character-driven story with incredibly thought-provoking content. It had me contemplating if the protagonist’s career of monetizing friendship was ethically acceptable, especially when children are involved. It also explores the epidemic of loneliness in a constantly connected world. This was an impressive debut and would be a great book club pick. Thank you so much @scribnerbooks for my gifted copy!