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A review by vaniavela
A Beautiful Way to Die by Eleni Kyriacou
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Set in 1954, A Beautiful Way To Die, follows the story of Stella Hope, a star who has fallen from grace after a car accident left her ex-husband, Max, disfigured. Now, making low-budget films, she’s trying to reclaim some of her former glory. Earlier that year, Virginia Rose, a naïve English actress, finds herself caught in the charm of a handsome star—none other than Stella’s ex, Max. But as is often the case in this world, nothing is as it seems.
The pacing of the book is fantastic. The way the author shifts between perspectives keeps the story moving at a perfect speed—enough to keep you hooked and wanting more. What I really appreciated was how the author balanced the glamour of Hollywood with the industry's darker, more corrupt side. It’s an honest look at how power, fame, and the people behind it all can be dangerous, especially for women.
The characters are incredibly well-developed, particularly Ginny and Stella. Both women are complex—sympathetic yet deeply flawed. Watching them navigate an industry built on manipulation and exploitation is both engaging and eye-opening.
And then there’s the twist—something I didn’t see coming at all. I spent much of the book wondering who would end up in a certain position, but the way things unfolded left me with a rather shocking—and somewhat bittersweet—reveal. I liked the twist, but wow, it was so unexpected in the best way.
This was my first book by this author, and I’m definitely excited to read more of her work. From start to finish, A Beautiful Way To Die is an unforgettable and captivating read, filled with suspense, emotion, and plenty of Hollywood secrets.
The pacing of the book is fantastic. The way the author shifts between perspectives keeps the story moving at a perfect speed—enough to keep you hooked and wanting more. What I really appreciated was how the author balanced the glamour of Hollywood with the industry's darker, more corrupt side. It’s an honest look at how power, fame, and the people behind it all can be dangerous, especially for women.
The characters are incredibly well-developed, particularly Ginny and Stella. Both women are complex—sympathetic yet deeply flawed. Watching them navigate an industry built on manipulation and exploitation is both engaging and eye-opening.
And then there’s the twist—something I didn’t see coming at all. I spent much of the book wondering who would end up in a certain position, but the way things unfolded left me with a rather shocking—and somewhat bittersweet—reveal. I liked the twist, but wow, it was so unexpected in the best way.
This was my first book by this author, and I’m definitely excited to read more of her work. From start to finish, A Beautiful Way To Die is an unforgettable and captivating read, filled with suspense, emotion, and plenty of Hollywood secrets.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Forced institutionalization, and Sexual harassment
Minor: Homophobia, Suicide, and Car accident