A review by fantasticallyfabled
Starstruck by Ivy Dawes

emotional funny hopeful slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Overall, this was a fantastic little love story. Kat and James were adorable together, and although I typically dislike a third-act breakup, the writing of this one was superb. It's not a breakup as much as a "we need to work on ourselves independently before this relationship can work" situation. It's much better than miscommunication or, even worse, not communicating at all. Kat and James approached challenges maturely and made relationship choices that set a solid foundation for the future. It was a breath of fresh air to read a romance novel featuring a "healthy" couple, as opposed to one that requires extensive couples therapy to stay together. 

 

I also have to say, when I read the synopsis—a love story about a PA falling in love with a movie star—I wasn't expecting the story to be realistic or relatable. But I was pleasantly surprised. Kat's and James' struggles were both relatable and believable. They were downright normal. I loved how James stood up to his father, and Kat followed her dream of becoming an actress. I especially loved how they both became successful despite the verbally abusive and unsupportive people in their lives.

 

For a debut novel, Ivy hit this one out of the park. I can't wait to read more of her work and watch her grow as an author!

** I received this book for free from Flower & Bear Books, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. **