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Fame
For the ultimate in glamour, it has to be Tilly Bagshawe. The must-read blockbuster for fans of Penny Vincenzi and Jilly Cooper.
Plucked from obscurity at the age of seventeen, Sabrina Leon is the new darling of the film scene, bagging lead roles in the hottest Hollywood movies. But a YouTube sensation on the web is about to destroy everything she's fought for…
After a bitter feud with a rival producer, hotshot movie producer Dorian Rasmirez has had the plug pulled on every project he goes near. Casting the disgraced Hollywood diva Sabrina Leon in Wuthering Heights is a risk that might cost him what remains of his career.
Newcomer Viorel Hudson, with his jet-black hair and high, slanting cheekbones has scored the role that every A-lister in Hollywood auditioned for—Heathcliff in Dorian Rasmirez's Wuthering Heights. But is he ready for his latest role? For a five million pound pay cheque, it's a risk he's willing to take.
Set against the backdrop of a sumptuous English country house, the filmmakers are desperate for some on-screen chemistry—but it’s off-camera that the sparks are really going to fly….
Plucked from obscurity at the age of seventeen, Sabrina Leon is the new darling of the film scene, bagging lead roles in the hottest Hollywood movies. But a YouTube sensation on the web is about to destroy everything she's fought for…
After a bitter feud with a rival producer, hotshot movie producer Dorian Rasmirez has had the plug pulled on every project he goes near. Casting the disgraced Hollywood diva Sabrina Leon in Wuthering Heights is a risk that might cost him what remains of his career.
Newcomer Viorel Hudson, with his jet-black hair and high, slanting cheekbones has scored the role that every A-lister in Hollywood auditioned for—Heathcliff in Dorian Rasmirez's Wuthering Heights. But is he ready for his latest role? For a five million pound pay cheque, it's a risk he's willing to take.
Set against the backdrop of a sumptuous English country house, the filmmakers are desperate for some on-screen chemistry—but it’s off-camera that the sparks are really going to fly….
478 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2011
175 people are currently reading
995 people want to read
About the author
Tilly Bagshawe
50 books912 followersMatilda Emily N. Bagshawe was born on 12 June 1973 in England, UK. She attended local all-girls Catholic schools near her family home in Surrey. She was a single mother at 17, but she won a place at Cambridge University and took Persephone, her ten-month-old baby daughter with her. As a journalist, she went on to enjoy a successful career in London, and contributed regularly to The Sunday Times, Daily Mail and Evening Standard, before turning her hand to novels. Her first book, Adored as Tilly Bagshawe, was a smash hit on both sides of the Atlantic in 2005, and she hasn't looked back since.
Tilly is married Robin Nydes, a US businessman, and the couple have two sons together, Zac and Theo. The family divide their time between their homes in London and Los Angeles. Tilly is also the sister of the writer and politician Louise Bagshawe.
Tilly is married Robin Nydes, a US businessman, and the couple have two sons together, Zac and Theo. The family divide their time between their homes in London and Los Angeles. Tilly is also the sister of the writer and politician Louise Bagshawe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
September 23, 2013
OMG- to borrow the words used by the heroine of my latest release, "I give Fame 5 overflowing, expensive champagne flutes!" I absolutely LOVED this book. It has been a very long time since I read a book that I thought about so often even when I wasn't reading.
Fame centered around the movie industry and the players in Hollywood from directors competing for the Academy Awards for best director and best picture, to the young, beautiful, talented and troubled actors, to the jealous and insecure spouses, to the ins and outs of creating and funding a movie. There was romance, intrigue, steamy sex, cat fights and back stabbing. There were also twists and turns and heart warming character development. I loved how unpredictable it was and that even though I knew how I wanted things to end up, I was never quite sure I was on track with the author. I'm happy to say that as far as the romantic elements were concerned, the author did not disappoint me at all.
Fame reminded me of the books I used to read in the late 1980s and early 1990s from Jackie Collins (Lucky), Judith Krantz (I'll Take Manhattan) and Sidney Sheldon (Master of the Game). I didn't think authors wrote those types of books anymore but I am so glad to find I was wrong. And I might have to re-read the above books now. Very happy to have discovered Ms. Bagshawe and cannot wait to read more from this extremely talented author.
Fame centered around the movie industry and the players in Hollywood from directors competing for the Academy Awards for best director and best picture, to the young, beautiful, talented and troubled actors, to the jealous and insecure spouses, to the ins and outs of creating and funding a movie. There was romance, intrigue, steamy sex, cat fights and back stabbing. There were also twists and turns and heart warming character development. I loved how unpredictable it was and that even though I knew how I wanted things to end up, I was never quite sure I was on track with the author. I'm happy to say that as far as the romantic elements were concerned, the author did not disappoint me at all.
Fame reminded me of the books I used to read in the late 1980s and early 1990s from Jackie Collins (Lucky), Judith Krantz (I'll Take Manhattan) and Sidney Sheldon (Master of the Game). I didn't think authors wrote those types of books anymore but I am so glad to find I was wrong. And I might have to re-read the above books now. Very happy to have discovered Ms. Bagshawe and cannot wait to read more from this extremely talented author.
February 26, 2012
Film directer and producer Dorian Rasmirez used most of his own money to finance his previous movie, which turned out to be a box office flop. His new film is a remake of Wuthering Heights and if he fails to make it a success his career will be over and he'll drown in his debts. So he needs great leads and stunning locations.
Dorian's Heathcliff will be English actor Viorel Hudson. He's handsome and charming, but he has never played a lead role in a big budget film, so will he be able to pull it out of the bag?
It's not going to be easy for either Dorian or Viorel as Cathy will be played by Sabrina Leon. Fresh out of rehab Sabrina's reputation has been left in shreds and is now desperate for a fresh start, so she immediately plans on seducing Viorel to get him on side. Dorian has only signed her because she'll work on Wuthering Heights for free and he's not going to give her an easy ride. Will her temper ruin things for her, Viorel, Dorian, or all of them?
Meanwhile care-worker Tish Crewe has temporarily returned from Romania to her family home, with her five year old adopted son Abel. Her family home is a beautiful estate in the Lake District called Loxley, but it is in disrepair and is burning money. Tish's brother is the one who has inherited the estate, but as he is off on his latest spiritual retreat Tish is the one who has been left to try to rescue her late father's pride and joy.
Luckily for Tish a way for Loxley to raise money soon presents itself; a film company wants to hire Loxley and use it as Thrushcross Grange for a remake of Wuthering Heights. At first Tish isn't convinced, but the film scout discovers that there is a farmhouse attached to Loxley and excitedly doubles the fee of the offer to Tish.
Back in Hollywood fellow film directer Harry Greene wrongly believes that Dorian wrecked his marriage and has made it his mission to destroy Dorian - both professionally and personally. Completely paranoid -perhaps borderline insane - Harry is just waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike...
Dorian Rasmirez is well known for his 'fairy tale' marriage to former sitcom star Chrissie Sanderson and the couple have a three year old daughter; Saskia. But behind the tabloids the couple are anything but happy - Chrissie unfairly blames Dorian for her failure to achieve a long term career. She is also very insecure and it's an open secret that she sleeps around.
Poor Dorian is totally in love with her and not only is there the stress of Wuthering Heights and the threat of Harry Greene, but he also has to handle Chrissie's volatile moods and selfish behaviour. Meanwhile poor Saskia has closer bonds with her nannies.
Handsome Viorel Hudson was adopted from Romania by a tory MP, in a move that was made for PR as opposed to love and her wanting a child. He grew up in boarding schools, before heading to Hollywood, home of the clinger-onners.
He has never had familial love or friends, so doesn't seem to know how to behave around people. He is a nice enough guy, but there are times where he can be thoughtless and his ego is screaming out to be punchered.
My favourite character here is Sabrina; she is so complex, sometimes I want to hug her and other times she is asking for a slap.
She has just completed rehab after drunkenly referring to the producer of her successful movie franchise as a slave driver, which has left her branded a racist. She's not and her divaish attitude is an act and all down to her being scared and confused, but it is a challenge to remember that when she's at her worst.
But the fact that I wanted to see her get an happily ever after - and see Chrissie get her just desserts - is what keep me turning the pages.
Dorian's Heathcliff will be English actor Viorel Hudson. He's handsome and charming, but he has never played a lead role in a big budget film, so will he be able to pull it out of the bag?
It's not going to be easy for either Dorian or Viorel as Cathy will be played by Sabrina Leon. Fresh out of rehab Sabrina's reputation has been left in shreds and is now desperate for a fresh start, so she immediately plans on seducing Viorel to get him on side. Dorian has only signed her because she'll work on Wuthering Heights for free and he's not going to give her an easy ride. Will her temper ruin things for her, Viorel, Dorian, or all of them?
Meanwhile care-worker Tish Crewe has temporarily returned from Romania to her family home, with her five year old adopted son Abel. Her family home is a beautiful estate in the Lake District called Loxley, but it is in disrepair and is burning money. Tish's brother is the one who has inherited the estate, but as he is off on his latest spiritual retreat Tish is the one who has been left to try to rescue her late father's pride and joy.
Luckily for Tish a way for Loxley to raise money soon presents itself; a film company wants to hire Loxley and use it as Thrushcross Grange for a remake of Wuthering Heights. At first Tish isn't convinced, but the film scout discovers that there is a farmhouse attached to Loxley and excitedly doubles the fee of the offer to Tish.
Back in Hollywood fellow film directer Harry Greene wrongly believes that Dorian wrecked his marriage and has made it his mission to destroy Dorian - both professionally and personally. Completely paranoid -perhaps borderline insane - Harry is just waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike...
Dorian Rasmirez is well known for his 'fairy tale' marriage to former sitcom star Chrissie Sanderson and the couple have a three year old daughter; Saskia. But behind the tabloids the couple are anything but happy - Chrissie unfairly blames Dorian for her failure to achieve a long term career. She is also very insecure and it's an open secret that she sleeps around.
Poor Dorian is totally in love with her and not only is there the stress of Wuthering Heights and the threat of Harry Greene, but he also has to handle Chrissie's volatile moods and selfish behaviour. Meanwhile poor Saskia has closer bonds with her nannies.
Handsome Viorel Hudson was adopted from Romania by a tory MP, in a move that was made for PR as opposed to love and her wanting a child. He grew up in boarding schools, before heading to Hollywood, home of the clinger-onners.
He has never had familial love or friends, so doesn't seem to know how to behave around people. He is a nice enough guy, but there are times where he can be thoughtless and his ego is screaming out to be punchered.
My favourite character here is Sabrina; she is so complex, sometimes I want to hug her and other times she is asking for a slap.
She has just completed rehab after drunkenly referring to the producer of her successful movie franchise as a slave driver, which has left her branded a racist. She's not and her divaish attitude is an act and all down to her being scared and confused, but it is a challenge to remember that when she's at her worst.
But the fact that I wanted to see her get an happily ever after - and see Chrissie get her just desserts - is what keep me turning the pages.
March 18, 2013
This is my first Tilly Bagshawe book and I just loved it. It is a l-o-n-g book, which usually I don't like, but the characters and story is so interesting and engaging, I could barely put it down.
Sabrina is a spoiled starlet; Vio is a handsome orphan raised by a ego-centric adoptive mother; Dorian is the "true believer" director of the film they star in. There is a lot of supporting cast and so many of those have their story to tell as well.
While the beginning is a very bumpy ride, their is a very happy ending. I don't want to give it away, so you will have to read the book to find out. Two thumbs up!
Sabrina is a spoiled starlet; Vio is a handsome orphan raised by a ego-centric adoptive mother; Dorian is the "true believer" director of the film they star in. There is a lot of supporting cast and so many of those have their story to tell as well.
While the beginning is a very bumpy ride, their is a very happy ending. I don't want to give it away, so you will have to read the book to find out. Two thumbs up!
December 28, 2011
Que boa surpresa. Apesar de ser um calhamaço de quase 500 páginas, este romance chick-lit lê-se muito bem! Tem muitas personagens e várias histórias mas surpreendentemente tudo se interliga muito bem. Estava à espera de um romance exagerado, com personagens clichés e vazias mas este livro não tem nada disso, as personagens parecem bem reais e realmente a autora mostra o outro lado da vida dos famosos em Hollywood que não é tão perfeita como pensam. Gostei mesmo do livro.
PS: Já tinha lido 2 livros da irmã da autora, a Louise Bagshawe mas fiquei mais agarrada a esta irmã ;)
PS: Já tinha lido 2 livros da irmã da autora, a Louise Bagshawe mas fiquei mais agarrada a esta irmã ;)
January 29, 2012
when I read scandalous by tilly bagshawe I was pretty sure no book could be better than this one. It was thrilling, erotic and simply scandalous. and even though fame was not nearly as "erotic" as scandalous, I actually think it is even better. the plot line, the characters, all the twists and turns - simply amazing. it's almost impossible to put it down and it is NOT one of those books where you already know how the whole story will end after reading the first few pages. I'm excited to read a lot more from tilly bagshawe, who definitely became one of my most favorite authors!
August 27, 2013
Interesting premise.
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to invest myself in the story before I was bombarded by the worst kind of language.
I really need to stop reading books written for adults.
Unfortunately, I wasn't able to invest myself in the story before I was bombarded by the worst kind of language.
I really need to stop reading books written for adults.
May 10, 2014
Achei o livro muito interessante, pois ele não tem apenas uma história principal ou um herói ou uma menina inocente apaixonada. São várias histórias, com personagens independentes e que de uma maneira ou de outra acabam se relacionando e todas essas histórias se tornam uma só (argh...complicado de explicar).
Os personagens são bem diferentes uns dos outros. Eles vivem realidades diferentes e possuem opiniões diferentes e isso acaba gerando um cenário muito interessante com direito a brigas, paixões inesperadas e corações partidos. Você acaba escolhendo aquele personagem com quem você mais se identificou e fica torcendo pra que ele tenha um final muito feliz.
São vários romances acontecendo ao mesmo tempo e cada hora um fica com um e se torna um troca troca muito louco (hehehe) e eu gostei disso, porque você não consegue saber quem vai ficar com quem no final das contas e tudo pode acontecer. Eu gosto de livros que a gente não consegue nem ter uma ideia de como vai ser o final.
Gostei de como a história pareceu real pra mim. Não conheço muito sobre a vida dos famosos e nem sobre os bastidores de Hollywood (só o que aparece nas fofocas), mas o livro mostra os dois lados da história: o que realmente acontece e o que aparece na mídia. A gente consegue visualizar como os famosos pensam e se sentem fora de todo o glamour que nós (pobres mortais) conhecemos e muitas vezes invejamos e como todas as decisões que eles precisam tomar podem afetar drasticamente sua carreira e que muitas vezes não tem volta.
De uma forma geral o livro conseguiu prender a minha atenção mas acho que eu demorei mais do que esperava para terminar. A partir da metade e mais pro final eu queria saber o que iria acontecer com os personagens e quem ia ficar com quem, então eu fiquei mais envolvida com a leitura. O final foi ao mesmo tempo decepcionante e justo pra mim. Eu estava torcendo loucamente pra uma coisa acontecer mas não aconteceu e mesmo essa coisa não acontecendo foi justo e bem próximo a nossa realidade. Dou uma nota 8 de 10 para esse livro, porque eu gostei mas não amei. Recomendo como uma leitura pra passar o tempo, sabe, pra ler a caminho do trabalho ou em uma viagem de avião bem longa (hehehe)
Os personagens são bem diferentes uns dos outros. Eles vivem realidades diferentes e possuem opiniões diferentes e isso acaba gerando um cenário muito interessante com direito a brigas, paixões inesperadas e corações partidos. Você acaba escolhendo aquele personagem com quem você mais se identificou e fica torcendo pra que ele tenha um final muito feliz.
São vários romances acontecendo ao mesmo tempo e cada hora um fica com um e se torna um troca troca muito louco (hehehe) e eu gostei disso, porque você não consegue saber quem vai ficar com quem no final das contas e tudo pode acontecer. Eu gosto de livros que a gente não consegue nem ter uma ideia de como vai ser o final.
Gostei de como a história pareceu real pra mim. Não conheço muito sobre a vida dos famosos e nem sobre os bastidores de Hollywood (só o que aparece nas fofocas), mas o livro mostra os dois lados da história: o que realmente acontece e o que aparece na mídia. A gente consegue visualizar como os famosos pensam e se sentem fora de todo o glamour que nós (pobres mortais) conhecemos e muitas vezes invejamos e como todas as decisões que eles precisam tomar podem afetar drasticamente sua carreira e que muitas vezes não tem volta.
De uma forma geral o livro conseguiu prender a minha atenção mas acho que eu demorei mais do que esperava para terminar. A partir da metade e mais pro final eu queria saber o que iria acontecer com os personagens e quem ia ficar com quem, então eu fiquei mais envolvida com a leitura. O final foi ao mesmo tempo decepcionante e justo pra mim. Eu estava torcendo loucamente pra uma coisa acontecer mas não aconteceu e mesmo essa coisa não acontecendo foi justo e bem próximo a nossa realidade. Dou uma nota 8 de 10 para esse livro, porque eu gostei mas não amei. Recomendo como uma leitura pra passar o tempo, sabe, pra ler a caminho do trabalho ou em uma viagem de avião bem longa (hehehe)
September 3, 2015
I can't say I'd actually recommend this book. The story itself was OK, and I didn't give up on it just because I had invested so much time that I wanted to see how it ended, but really I wouldn't have wasted my time had I known. I found the language and the overly descriptive sex scenes a bit over the top and unnecessary to the plot. But then again, although I'm getting old, my imagination still works well enough that I don't need all that crap to get the picture. So, if I were you I'd pass this one by for a good old-fashioned romance if you need a distraction...don't waste your time on this one.
April 4, 2016
Addictive
There are HEA s but who with whom??? Really, it was one circuitous route after another to get there. As for heroes, flawed, wounded imperfect heroes abound. I don't give many 5 stars and can't believe I'm doing so with such a 'different' book. Those routes were hard pills to sWallow at times. However, it was quite difficult, at times impossible to put down my kindle. I was up most of the night listening and then again as soon as I awoke. That makes it deserving of those 5 stars I think.
I am curious about the author's other stories. I may have to pace myself though if they are remotely similar. The narrator works, as well....and so many don't.
There are HEA s but who with whom??? Really, it was one circuitous route after another to get there. As for heroes, flawed, wounded imperfect heroes abound. I don't give many 5 stars and can't believe I'm doing so with such a 'different' book. Those routes were hard pills to sWallow at times. However, it was quite difficult, at times impossible to put down my kindle. I was up most of the night listening and then again as soon as I awoke. That makes it deserving of those 5 stars I think.
I am curious about the author's other stories. I may have to pace myself though if they are remotely similar. The narrator works, as well....and so many don't.
September 12, 2013
I love love love Tilly Bagshawe's writing!! She's an amazing author. Her stories are thorough, complex, detailed, and simply great. This book, Fame, was simply wonderful. Thank you Tilly for yet again another great story!
February 16, 2014
This was one step heavier than fluff and fairly enjoyable. It gets oddly explicit a few times; I'm not opposed to that when it fits well with the story, but these scenes had no real purpose. Kind of jarring, just because they had a totally different tone from the rest of the book.
March 25, 2013
A nice enough diversionary read. A little explicit at times. I didn't leave with any investment in the characters or any lingering interest. It was fun for the moment, nothing more or less.
November 26, 2023
By far the funniest book I read the entire year. That being said, it may not be for everyone.
However, if you like “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë, stories about movie stars and, movies, and old castles, and also enjoy neat, erotic scenes sprinkled throughout the book, THIS is your book.
The book’s main plot is that famous movie director Dorian Rasmirez tries to save his career as a director, his marriage, and his family finances by doing a re-shoot of “Wuthering Heights.”
Which is a high stakes enterprise, since everybody knows that director William Wyler’s dramatization of “Wuthering Heights” was nominated for 8 Oscars, and that Laurence Oliver indeed won the Oscar for his performance of Heathcliff.
To make matters more complicated, Rasmirez has a hard time getting his hands on money since he is involved in a nasty feud with producer Harry Greene, who sabotages all of Rasmirez efforts behind his back. In order to save money and hinder that anything about his production leaks out, Rasmirez takes his troupe of actors first to Great Britain, where they shoot at the country estate of Tish Crewe (who isn’t actually the owner of the property, her hippie brother is) and at Rasmirez’s own ‘Schloss’ in Romania.
Bring in actors Viorel Hudson, who is supposed to outdo Laurence Olivier’s performance, and Sabrina Leon, an amazingly talented actress who shoots the movie for free as a last-ditch effort to repair her Hollywood image (problems with drugs, a racial slur, and erratic behavior made her un-employable) and suspect that - obviously – more than one drama is about to unfold.
About three quarters into the book the book's various love stories' outcomes become predictable but that takes nothing away from the ups and downs, the intrigues, the “major attraction was in the air” moments, and the beautiful elaborations about “Wuthering Heights.” Readers who have issues with steamy erotic scenes might want to stay away from this book.
A toast to Dorian Ramirez !
5 ***** stars
However, if you like “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Brontë, stories about movie stars and, movies, and old castles, and also enjoy neat, erotic scenes sprinkled throughout the book, THIS is your book.
The book’s main plot is that famous movie director Dorian Rasmirez tries to save his career as a director, his marriage, and his family finances by doing a re-shoot of “Wuthering Heights.”
Which is a high stakes enterprise, since everybody knows that director William Wyler’s dramatization of “Wuthering Heights” was nominated for 8 Oscars, and that Laurence Oliver indeed won the Oscar for his performance of Heathcliff.
To make matters more complicated, Rasmirez has a hard time getting his hands on money since he is involved in a nasty feud with producer Harry Greene, who sabotages all of Rasmirez efforts behind his back. In order to save money and hinder that anything about his production leaks out, Rasmirez takes his troupe of actors first to Great Britain, where they shoot at the country estate of Tish Crewe (who isn’t actually the owner of the property, her hippie brother is) and at Rasmirez’s own ‘Schloss’ in Romania.
Bring in actors Viorel Hudson, who is supposed to outdo Laurence Olivier’s performance, and Sabrina Leon, an amazingly talented actress who shoots the movie for free as a last-ditch effort to repair her Hollywood image (problems with drugs, a racial slur, and erratic behavior made her un-employable) and suspect that - obviously – more than one drama is about to unfold.
About three quarters into the book the book's various love stories' outcomes become predictable but that takes nothing away from the ups and downs, the intrigues, the “major attraction was in the air” moments, and the beautiful elaborations about “Wuthering Heights.” Readers who have issues with steamy erotic scenes might want to stay away from this book.
A toast to Dorian Ramirez !
5 ***** stars
May 23, 2011
The raw, sexual beauty of Sabrina Leon demands the attention of all who come into contact with her. Plucked from obscurity at the age of seventeen she’s the new darling of the film scene, bagging lead roles in the hottest blockbusters. But Sabrina Leon has a problem. There’s a youtube sensation on the web that’s set to destroy everything she’s fought for… Hotshot movie producer Dorian Razmirez has struggles of his own. A bitter feud with rival producer and playboy, Harry Greene, has resulted in the plug being pulled on every project he goes near. Casting the disgraced Hollywood diva Sabrina Leon in Wuthering Heights is a risk that might cost him what remains of his career. Viorel Hudson, with his jet-black hair, high, slanting cheekbones and smooth, coffee coloured skin, was always destined for great things. Now he’s scored a role that every A-lister in Hollywood auditioned for – Heathcliff in Dorian Razmirez’s Wuthering Heights. He may be at the height of his career, but is he ready for his latest role? For a five million pound pay cheque, it’s a risk he’s willing to take. Set against a backdrop of a sumptuous crumbling English country house, the film-set of Wuthering Heights is going to be as salacious as the setting is beautiful.
I’ve heard lots about Tilly Bagshawe, her sister is Louise who also writes Chick Lit novels, and she has quite a few fans. However, I generally don’t like the big blockbuster novels because usually there’s just so much going on that there needs to be a cast list at the start of all of the books! However during 2011, I’ve been getting into them more and more – Hollywood Sinners by Victoria Fox, the upcoming The Strip by JJ Salem, Daddy’s Girls by Tasmina Perry and I’ve found them to be wonderfully exotic novels that allow me to fully immerse myself in the fiction. So when I received Fame earlier in the week, I was thrilled. I thought it sounded brilliant and where else to start with my first Tilly Bagshawe novel than with her latest book? Let me tell you, I bloomin’ loved it.
Fame is a rather massive novel, coming in at just under 500 pages, but let me tell you, every single page is worthy of being in this novel. I absolutely breezed through the novel, and if I’m honest, I am kind of surprised at how much I loved the book. I thought the plot was fantastic, the suspense is there right from the first page as the Prologue of the novel begins at the Oscars ceremony before spooling back to right before Dorian Rasmirez’s adaptation of Wuthering Heights is even filmed. We’re slowly introduced to all the players in the novel. There’s Sabrina Lyon, a wildly talented actress who’s a bit of a wild child; Viorel Hudson, saved from a life of poverty in Romania by his ‘saint’ of a mother; Tish Crewe, who runs an orphanage in Romania and whose father owns Loxley House; Dorian Rasmirez, the director of the Wuthering Heights remake and then there’s Harry Greene, Dorian’s huge rival, who’s desperate to take Dorian down! Those are the main characters in the novel, although there are plenty others like Tish’s son, Abel, Dorian’s wife and daughter, and other characters like that.
I must admit, every time I read a novel like this, with so much going on and so many characters I feel as if I’m going to hate the characters. And then I’m surprised when, actually, I like them. Because most of them are actors (or in Dorian’s case a director), they’re obviously not like you and me. Because they’re rich! And famous! And beautiful! And although Sabrina, Viorel and Dorian are all of those things, Bagshawe writes them in such a way that although they have many faults, they are human beings. And although I didn’t agree with much of what they did, I found myself liking them anyway, despite myself. They’re all very larger than life, but they are all presented in such a way that people like us, when reading the novel, can sympathise with them rather than hate them for being ungrateful rich people. Tish is probably the most normal of the characters and I found myself entranced by her story. I loved her son, Abel, he was such a cute little character. As the novel neared its conclusion, I found myself rooting for them all to get their happy endings. I generally don’t expect love stories in books like this, but there were some brilliant ones during Fame!
Fame is set in Derbyshire, LA and Romania and Tilly has undoubtedly done a lot of research into all of the areas. The glitz and glamour of LA compared to the stark and poor Romania was shocking and eye-opening. I’ve never read a novel set in Romania before, and I found it fascinating learning all about the children who are orphaned or put into care or are in need of Tish’s help. It did rather put into perspective just how grateful the famous people should be to be so rich and well cared for. I thought the setting in Derbyshire was amazing. I absolutely loved every page that was set in the Crewe’s ancestral home Loxley Hall. I could imagine the filming playing out really easily, with the brooding fog and wide expanses of land and the crumbling family pile. I could see Sabrina and Viorel in their costumes as they filmed. Many a time, you don’t get a feel for a novel’s location, but in Fame you really do. Tilly mentions in her acknowledgement that she and her husband run a charity named FRODO to help young Romanian children and her passion for that runs clear during those scenes in Romania. The book is even dedicated to two children she met (Abel and Viorel) and I think that is one of the sweetest things ever, it really puts your in life into perspective when you’re able to learn about somebody who has a much worse life than yours.
This book blew me away. Tilly’s ability to spin a wonderful novel are in abundance here and I just kept turning the pages, wanting to read more, more, more. It is definitely a novel people will be taking on their holidays this year, because it is indeed a definitive beach read. It seems wrong to call it a beach read, actually, because yes you can read it on a beach but it’s not a trashy novel at all. I honestly have no complaints at all about the novel, I loved the characters (most of the time, anyway), I thought the locations were perfect, and the writing was superb. Tilly wipes the floor with most writers out there, her prose is just immense. I will be eagerly buying up Tilly’s previous novels and I will be eagerly awaiting her next read. I can see why she’s so popular, it’s hard to have a story that flows brilliantly from beginning to end, but Fame does that and it does it easily. The pages just whoosh by and I was sad to see it finish, although the finish was superb, too. I am a total sucker for happy endings and anyone else who loves happy ending will be more than satisfied with Fame. It has it all, it really does.
I’ve heard lots about Tilly Bagshawe, her sister is Louise who also writes Chick Lit novels, and she has quite a few fans. However, I generally don’t like the big blockbuster novels because usually there’s just so much going on that there needs to be a cast list at the start of all of the books! However during 2011, I’ve been getting into them more and more – Hollywood Sinners by Victoria Fox, the upcoming The Strip by JJ Salem, Daddy’s Girls by Tasmina Perry and I’ve found them to be wonderfully exotic novels that allow me to fully immerse myself in the fiction. So when I received Fame earlier in the week, I was thrilled. I thought it sounded brilliant and where else to start with my first Tilly Bagshawe novel than with her latest book? Let me tell you, I bloomin’ loved it.
Fame is a rather massive novel, coming in at just under 500 pages, but let me tell you, every single page is worthy of being in this novel. I absolutely breezed through the novel, and if I’m honest, I am kind of surprised at how much I loved the book. I thought the plot was fantastic, the suspense is there right from the first page as the Prologue of the novel begins at the Oscars ceremony before spooling back to right before Dorian Rasmirez’s adaptation of Wuthering Heights is even filmed. We’re slowly introduced to all the players in the novel. There’s Sabrina Lyon, a wildly talented actress who’s a bit of a wild child; Viorel Hudson, saved from a life of poverty in Romania by his ‘saint’ of a mother; Tish Crewe, who runs an orphanage in Romania and whose father owns Loxley House; Dorian Rasmirez, the director of the Wuthering Heights remake and then there’s Harry Greene, Dorian’s huge rival, who’s desperate to take Dorian down! Those are the main characters in the novel, although there are plenty others like Tish’s son, Abel, Dorian’s wife and daughter, and other characters like that.
I must admit, every time I read a novel like this, with so much going on and so many characters I feel as if I’m going to hate the characters. And then I’m surprised when, actually, I like them. Because most of them are actors (or in Dorian’s case a director), they’re obviously not like you and me. Because they’re rich! And famous! And beautiful! And although Sabrina, Viorel and Dorian are all of those things, Bagshawe writes them in such a way that although they have many faults, they are human beings. And although I didn’t agree with much of what they did, I found myself liking them anyway, despite myself. They’re all very larger than life, but they are all presented in such a way that people like us, when reading the novel, can sympathise with them rather than hate them for being ungrateful rich people. Tish is probably the most normal of the characters and I found myself entranced by her story. I loved her son, Abel, he was such a cute little character. As the novel neared its conclusion, I found myself rooting for them all to get their happy endings. I generally don’t expect love stories in books like this, but there were some brilliant ones during Fame!
Fame is set in Derbyshire, LA and Romania and Tilly has undoubtedly done a lot of research into all of the areas. The glitz and glamour of LA compared to the stark and poor Romania was shocking and eye-opening. I’ve never read a novel set in Romania before, and I found it fascinating learning all about the children who are orphaned or put into care or are in need of Tish’s help. It did rather put into perspective just how grateful the famous people should be to be so rich and well cared for. I thought the setting in Derbyshire was amazing. I absolutely loved every page that was set in the Crewe’s ancestral home Loxley Hall. I could imagine the filming playing out really easily, with the brooding fog and wide expanses of land and the crumbling family pile. I could see Sabrina and Viorel in their costumes as they filmed. Many a time, you don’t get a feel for a novel’s location, but in Fame you really do. Tilly mentions in her acknowledgement that she and her husband run a charity named FRODO to help young Romanian children and her passion for that runs clear during those scenes in Romania. The book is even dedicated to two children she met (Abel and Viorel) and I think that is one of the sweetest things ever, it really puts your in life into perspective when you’re able to learn about somebody who has a much worse life than yours.
This book blew me away. Tilly’s ability to spin a wonderful novel are in abundance here and I just kept turning the pages, wanting to read more, more, more. It is definitely a novel people will be taking on their holidays this year, because it is indeed a definitive beach read. It seems wrong to call it a beach read, actually, because yes you can read it on a beach but it’s not a trashy novel at all. I honestly have no complaints at all about the novel, I loved the characters (most of the time, anyway), I thought the locations were perfect, and the writing was superb. Tilly wipes the floor with most writers out there, her prose is just immense. I will be eagerly buying up Tilly’s previous novels and I will be eagerly awaiting her next read. I can see why she’s so popular, it’s hard to have a story that flows brilliantly from beginning to end, but Fame does that and it does it easily. The pages just whoosh by and I was sad to see it finish, although the finish was superb, too. I am a total sucker for happy endings and anyone else who loves happy ending will be more than satisfied with Fame. It has it all, it really does.
February 20, 2021
Had to read this book as it's central theme is a remake of Wuthering Heights...I loved the song by Kate Bush. This novel did not disappoint, Love, Lust and scandal, revenge, disappointment, and superb locations. Ordinary everyday people, super stars, The Oscars, Aristocratic family home, charity making a difference in Romania, superstars in multi million dollar mansions... How do you weave them all together... Read this book....a page turner I couldn't put down.
October 14, 2023
Exciting and Fun to Read
Though I didn't like the ending very much, not wanting to see evil triumph in any shape or form, the book is a very good read and would make an excellent film. The characters were lively and complex. The relationships seemed real and not cardboard cutouts. Sabrina was my favorite character by far. Harry was the character I detested the most, followed closely by Chrissy.
Though I didn't like the ending very much, not wanting to see evil triumph in any shape or form, the book is a very good read and would make an excellent film. The characters were lively and complex. The relationships seemed real and not cardboard cutouts. Sabrina was my favorite character by far. Harry was the character I detested the most, followed closely by Chrissy.
May 16, 2017
I finished this and felt sure that I'd read it before. Not sure if that's true or if it's just the same story again, but it wasn't my favorite of hers anyway. I didn't like any of the characters and I felt like it was just too far fetched at the end, even for a suspend reality trashy fun type book.
June 19, 2017
Candy floss... sure... but deliciously written with devilish humor and offering a sneak peak into a world few experience.
This book actually got me to read Wuthering Heights (finally) as the umpteenth pop reference of the weighty novel throughout my literary journey.
I really enjoyed reading this book and will look into more of Ms Bagshawe's writing. Xx
This book actually got me to read Wuthering Heights (finally) as the umpteenth pop reference of the weighty novel throughout my literary journey.
I really enjoyed reading this book and will look into more of Ms Bagshawe's writing. Xx
June 4, 2019
A beach read
I've had this book in my kindle for a long time now, a few years. I've been playing catch up recently. It was a long book for what it was, just a beach read about these characters bed hopping so often sometimes i didn't know which ones i should be rooting for! In the end i wanted to know the outcome of the movie and who would end up with whom.
I've had this book in my kindle for a long time now, a few years. I've been playing catch up recently. It was a long book for what it was, just a beach read about these characters bed hopping so often sometimes i didn't know which ones i should be rooting for! In the end i wanted to know the outcome of the movie and who would end up with whom.
October 28, 2020
This was a fun read, and I enjoyed the arcs of all the characters and the high-drama lifestyle of the Hollywood players. I did find the tendency to refer to every single female characters breasts as 'apples' or occasionally 'melons' got to be a bit much, and certainly made the sex scenes funny instead of sexy.
February 2, 2023
Fame is a double edged sword in more ways than one.
Ms Bagshawe did a lovely job with the various character descriptions and points of view. However, despite the fact that most of the characters are in the movie industry, it wasn't really necessary to give detailed information on their designer clothes.
Otherwise, it was a nice escape from reality.
Ms Bagshawe did a lovely job with the various character descriptions and points of view. However, despite the fact that most of the characters are in the movie industry, it wasn't really necessary to give detailed information on their designer clothes.
Otherwise, it was a nice escape from reality.
August 31, 2017
Not quite predictable
Some parts are, but not all. The characters are engaging. Even though the idea is centered on Wuthering Heights, it's not actually about the book/movie. It was a whole different take and just as enjoyable.
Some parts are, but not all. The characters are engaging. Even though the idea is centered on Wuthering Heights, it's not actually about the book/movie. It was a whole different take and just as enjoyable.
July 6, 2019
Stretched in the middle..nevertheless a good read with the right amount of thrill, romance and the twists & turns!
September 13, 2020
Good read.
November 12, 2020
I read this book back in 2010 - my 4th Tilly's book.
I liked all her books.
I throw it away as doing some housework.
I liked all her books.
I throw it away as doing some housework.
February 19, 2021
Awful
Read
September 17, 2021"Sláva"
July 21, 2023
Standard Bagshawe, gives everything one expects from a Tilly or Louise book.
June 30, 2024
I LOVED this book. Sabrina is my spirit animal. I also loved that it was really long.
June 5, 2013
Reviewed by: Crystal B
Book provided by: provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
: Fame is the first work I have read by Tilly Bagshawe, I always enjoy finding new authors. I enjoyed reading this book that basically felt like a behind the scenes look into a movie production. The story starts with Dorian Rasmirez finding the actors to work on his newest project. The story takes us all the way from the beginning of the movie until after they have finished the production and it’s ready for release. There is some drama when it comes to release time but I don’t want to spoil that for you.
Here are my thoughts and feelings on the main characters in the book.
Dorian has his hands full with a very showy, irritating wife. I liked Dorian and the fact that he really did try to please his wife, she just wasn’t the please able type. I also liked that how he worked with his actors and was able to form friendships with them as they worked through the film. As for that wife of his, Chrissie, that woman is a piece of work and I did not like her at all. She was so not worthy of the husband that has treated her like a queen.
Sabrina the lead actress in the film starts out with a really bad attitude but as the story went on I found myself actually liking her and hoping for the best for her. At the beginning of this book I will admit that I really did not like this girl. I thought she was a spoiled actress that thought she was allowed to act badly just because of who she is.
Viorel Hudson the lead actor has lead an interesting life. He was adopted as a child with a cold upbringing. I really liked Viorel even when he had moments of just being the typical Hollywood Playboy. He too definitely grew as the story went on.
Tish Crewe has been working in Romania helping the orphaned children. She goes home to England to help with her family home. It turns out this is where a lot of the movie scenes take place. Tish has her hands full with her brother who owns the estate but has a terrible habit of disappearing. I admired Tish from the beginning she is a very busy woman but takes the time to go home to help clean up the mess her brother left behind. I loved that she is a single parent raising her adorable adopted son Abel. Able forms a strong bond with Viorel. I loved how this movie star that is making huge money to shoot this film takes time to bond with this sweet boy.
This is a really long book but there is so much story to be told that I never found myself not totally enthralled with the drama, the romances, and twists and turns along the way. I really loved how Tilly Bagshawe wrapped the story up at the end. I really didn’t expect some of the things that happened. I don’t want to spoil anything so I’ll just say that you must read it for yourself.
Book provided by: provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
: Fame is the first work I have read by Tilly Bagshawe, I always enjoy finding new authors. I enjoyed reading this book that basically felt like a behind the scenes look into a movie production. The story starts with Dorian Rasmirez finding the actors to work on his newest project. The story takes us all the way from the beginning of the movie until after they have finished the production and it’s ready for release. There is some drama when it comes to release time but I don’t want to spoil that for you.
Here are my thoughts and feelings on the main characters in the book.
Dorian has his hands full with a very showy, irritating wife. I liked Dorian and the fact that he really did try to please his wife, she just wasn’t the please able type. I also liked that how he worked with his actors and was able to form friendships with them as they worked through the film. As for that wife of his, Chrissie, that woman is a piece of work and I did not like her at all. She was so not worthy of the husband that has treated her like a queen.
Sabrina the lead actress in the film starts out with a really bad attitude but as the story went on I found myself actually liking her and hoping for the best for her. At the beginning of this book I will admit that I really did not like this girl. I thought she was a spoiled actress that thought she was allowed to act badly just because of who she is.
Viorel Hudson the lead actor has lead an interesting life. He was adopted as a child with a cold upbringing. I really liked Viorel even when he had moments of just being the typical Hollywood Playboy. He too definitely grew as the story went on.
Tish Crewe has been working in Romania helping the orphaned children. She goes home to England to help with her family home. It turns out this is where a lot of the movie scenes take place. Tish has her hands full with her brother who owns the estate but has a terrible habit of disappearing. I admired Tish from the beginning she is a very busy woman but takes the time to go home to help clean up the mess her brother left behind. I loved that she is a single parent raising her adorable adopted son Abel. Able forms a strong bond with Viorel. I loved how this movie star that is making huge money to shoot this film takes time to bond with this sweet boy.
This is a really long book but there is so much story to be told that I never found myself not totally enthralled with the drama, the romances, and twists and turns along the way. I really loved how Tilly Bagshawe wrapped the story up at the end. I really didn’t expect some of the things that happened. I don’t want to spoil anything so I’ll just say that you must read it for yourself.
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