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Most Hated
DO YOU LIVE A FABULOUS, GLAMOROUS LIFE? ARE YOU THE
“TALK OF THE TOWN”?
In the merciless world of reality TV, three women try to change their lives, but end up with far more than they bargained for.
Zoe wants nothing more than to get ahead. She’s a producer on the hot docu-soap, Talk of the Town, and all her time and energy is focused on making it the best show ever. The most dramatic. The most interesting. The most addictive. The highest rated.
Dahlia Irvine knows two things for sure: this show’s her chance to have a career all her own and her NFL-hottie husband is totally and completely in love with her. Except when the cameras start rolling, everything she knew for sure it is no longer certain and the more she tries to fix what's wrong with her love and her life the worse it gets.
On the outside Sabrina, whose nickname is “The Countess of Controversy”, had it all. Gorgeous husband. Beautiful family. A title. But when her life comes crashing down around her, her cousin Budgie convinces her to join the show. Together they'll turn things around... except the pressure of the show, the pressure of her ex, and the pressure of her own expectations almost ruin her life all over again.
For the women working behind and in front of the camera on Talk of the Town, one of them will inevitably end up as the “most hated”. It's all in the name of great entertainment, but when real life blends with reality television no one comes out unscathed.
“TALK OF THE TOWN”?
In the merciless world of reality TV, three women try to change their lives, but end up with far more than they bargained for.
Zoe wants nothing more than to get ahead. She’s a producer on the hot docu-soap, Talk of the Town, and all her time and energy is focused on making it the best show ever. The most dramatic. The most interesting. The most addictive. The highest rated.
Dahlia Irvine knows two things for sure: this show’s her chance to have a career all her own and her NFL-hottie husband is totally and completely in love with her. Except when the cameras start rolling, everything she knew for sure it is no longer certain and the more she tries to fix what's wrong with her love and her life the worse it gets.
On the outside Sabrina, whose nickname is “The Countess of Controversy”, had it all. Gorgeous husband. Beautiful family. A title. But when her life comes crashing down around her, her cousin Budgie convinces her to join the show. Together they'll turn things around... except the pressure of the show, the pressure of her ex, and the pressure of her own expectations almost ruin her life all over again.
For the women working behind and in front of the camera on Talk of the Town, one of them will inevitably end up as the “most hated”. It's all in the name of great entertainment, but when real life blends with reality television no one comes out unscathed.
272 pages, Paperback
First published May 30, 2023
8 people are currently reading
8954 people want to read
About the author
Kara Alloway
1 book43 followersAfter graduating from McGill University, Kara was hired by Allure Magazine in Los Angeles. Kara quickly became known for her writing contributions, sharing her perspective on the world of fashion and beauty with a journalist approach. Kara was recruited back to Canada and became editor-in-chief of Ingenue Magazine which, under her direction, had the fastest growth in circulation among Canadian publication history for the teen demographic. In addition, Kara hosted a daily fashion and beauty radio show, interviewing icons including Stella McCartney, Laura Mercier, Zac Posen, Phoebe Philo, Diane Von Furstenburg, Bob Mackie and Oscar de La Renta. In 2017, Kara appeared in the Toronto franchise of The Real Housewives of Toronto, prompting several reviewers and viewers to ask, "Without Kara would there even be a show?” Kara currently has three shows in development as an executive producer. Most Hated is her first novel. She lives with her family in Toronto, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
May 30, 2023
Okay, this was a really interesting, super meta read for me. I knew I had to read this book when I read the description, and I lapped it up in a few days (even if there was some post-traumatic stress involved). Let me explain!
I was on a reality show years ago, and I was the villain. Boy did I get a bad edit! I remember several moments during filming thinking, "Are producers working against me here? My castmates?" The cast members talked about how they were being prompted to do things, we felt like we were being filmed constantly, etc. And then I got off the show and watched "Unreal" and I knew when learning about the behind-the-scenes and production, that I was royally screwed for when the show came out.
And boy was I right - not sure what I did to production, specifically to my producer, but they went in on me.
Anywho, this book surrounds a group of women that look similar to the Real Housewives of New York. You're hearing specifically from three women who are trying to change up their lives, reinvent themselves if you will, through reality television. And they end up way over their heads with overzealous producer Zoe, who reminded me SO MUCH of my own producer, phew. Take it from someone who went on reality television - obviously there has to be some hyperbole here, but I felt like I was right back on the set of "The Bachelor."
And as I read Zoe's character, I immediately had the same thought as I did all those years ago when I thought about my experience with production - how do they sleep at night? I really resonated with this quote at the end, when one of the women tried to make peace with what Zoe did to the women: "I yearned to find a way to pity her but found that the empathy would not come."
Reality television lovers - grab this one off the shelves!
Thank you to NetGalley and Rebooks for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was on a reality show years ago, and I was the villain. Boy did I get a bad edit! I remember several moments during filming thinking, "Are producers working against me here? My castmates?" The cast members talked about how they were being prompted to do things, we felt like we were being filmed constantly, etc. And then I got off the show and watched "Unreal" and I knew when learning about the behind-the-scenes and production, that I was royally screwed for when the show came out.
And boy was I right - not sure what I did to production, specifically to my producer, but they went in on me.
Anywho, this book surrounds a group of women that look similar to the Real Housewives of New York. You're hearing specifically from three women who are trying to change up their lives, reinvent themselves if you will, through reality television. And they end up way over their heads with overzealous producer Zoe, who reminded me SO MUCH of my own producer, phew. Take it from someone who went on reality television - obviously there has to be some hyperbole here, but I felt like I was right back on the set of "The Bachelor."
And as I read Zoe's character, I immediately had the same thought as I did all those years ago when I thought about my experience with production - how do they sleep at night? I really resonated with this quote at the end, when one of the women tried to make peace with what Zoe did to the women: "I yearned to find a way to pity her but found that the empathy would not come."
Reality television lovers - grab this one off the shelves!
Thank you to NetGalley and Rebooks for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2024
I received this ARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Let me preface this by saying that I don’t watch reality TV, I don’t enjoy it, I don’t find it worth my time (unless it’s like, cooking competitions). I picked this book precisely because of that, as I thought it would be an interesting exploration of the genre (which was implied in the blurb). Especially after I found out the author was a former reality TV participant.
Unfortunately, instead of the literary fiction I expected, I just found it to be rather shallow “chick lit”, a term I don’t even like using.
Six women join a “docu-soap” showcasing the lifestyle of the rich and glam. For Dahlia and Sabrina, as well as producer Zoe, this is also a chance at reinvention. These are the three POVs into which the book is split, though only one of them is in the first person. This seems like a random choice, but considering the frustrating misuse or lack of commas as well as sentences that didn’t make much sense to me, I’m once again pointing at editors.
The women get to know each other, their interactions and social events are scripted, and Zoe plays some really ugly tricks to amp up the drama, which include instigating catty fights and straight up roofing their drinks.
While the story deals with misogyny, in particular the treatment of women in the public eye and the media, and internalized sexism that makes women see each other as competition, it did so in the most obvious, cartoonish ways possible. The character of Zoe, for example, is described as “ugly”, someone who isn’t particularly smart, unsociable… even her parents don’t like her! At first she’s positioned as someone who couldn’t care less about all this because she’s so emotionally detached, but then it becomes clear she’s jealous of the other women; her journey ends up being about wanting to be picked by a man. And of course, she’s the bad guy.
This tendency of pointing out how ugly/ridiculous/loser a woman was also happened to apply only to the other characters who were bitches to the end, except for Regan, who was a cool girl as lifted exactly from the Gone Girl monologue, and Lexi, who was mocked for her appearance only at first, until she turned out to be just a harmless gold-digger..
This wasn’t a terrible read per se; it was very light-hearted and might be fun for people who love the drama of reality TV. Just don’t expect any particularly profound thoughts on womanhood, feminism or the televisation of modern life. There was a also a missed opportunity of talking about racism, as all the participants are presumably white. For me, the way Zoe was written was a deal breaker; it just came off as a cry of “ugly, poor women are so jealous of me!!”
Let me preface this by saying that I don’t watch reality TV, I don’t enjoy it, I don’t find it worth my time (unless it’s like, cooking competitions). I picked this book precisely because of that, as I thought it would be an interesting exploration of the genre (which was implied in the blurb). Especially after I found out the author was a former reality TV participant.
Unfortunately, instead of the literary fiction I expected, I just found it to be rather shallow “chick lit”, a term I don’t even like using.
Six women join a “docu-soap” showcasing the lifestyle of the rich and glam. For Dahlia and Sabrina, as well as producer Zoe, this is also a chance at reinvention. These are the three POVs into which the book is split, though only one of them is in the first person. This seems like a random choice, but considering the frustrating misuse or lack of commas as well as sentences that didn’t make much sense to me, I’m once again pointing at editors.
The women get to know each other, their interactions and social events are scripted, and Zoe plays some really ugly tricks to amp up the drama, which include instigating catty fights and straight up roofing their drinks.
While the story deals with misogyny, in particular the treatment of women in the public eye and the media, and internalized sexism that makes women see each other as competition, it did so in the most obvious, cartoonish ways possible. The character of Zoe, for example, is described as “ugly”, someone who isn’t particularly smart, unsociable… even her parents don’t like her! At first she’s positioned as someone who couldn’t care less about all this because she’s so emotionally detached, but then it becomes clear she’s jealous of the other women; her journey ends up being about wanting to be picked by a man. And of course, she’s the bad guy.
This tendency of pointing out how ugly/ridiculous/loser a woman was also happened to apply only to the other characters who were bitches to the end, except for Regan, who was a cool girl as lifted exactly from the Gone Girl monologue, and Lexi, who was mocked for her appearance only at first, until she turned out to be just a harmless gold-digger..
This wasn’t a terrible read per se; it was very light-hearted and might be fun for people who love the drama of reality TV. Just don’t expect any particularly profound thoughts on womanhood, feminism or the televisation of modern life. There was a also a missed opportunity of talking about racism, as all the participants are presumably white. For me, the way Zoe was written was a deal breaker; it just came off as a cry of “ugly, poor women are so jealous of me!!”
March 23, 2024
Bridget's review:
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for access to the e-ARC. Reviews from talk lit, get hit podcast below!
In 'Most Hated' by Kara Alloway, the glitz and glamour of reality TV collide with the harsh realities of life, providing readers with an intriguing glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of fame and its consequences. Reading this book reminded me of watching The Bachelor and Co. with my friends back when I could handle the sycophantic behaviour of the contestants. Unfortunately (or fortunately), I have grown up and away from watching this kind of television, however, I did enjoy the brief return to that world through this book. I felt like shaking the characters' shoulders due to their naivete, but I think that is a representation of the juicy, yet realistic, plot!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for access to the e-ARC. Reviews from talk lit, get hit podcast below!
In 'Most Hated' by Kara Alloway, the glitz and glamour of reality TV collide with the harsh realities of life, providing readers with an intriguing glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of fame and its consequences. Reading this book reminded me of watching The Bachelor and Co. with my friends back when I could handle the sycophantic behaviour of the contestants. Unfortunately (or fortunately), I have grown up and away from watching this kind of television, however, I did enjoy the brief return to that world through this book. I felt like shaking the characters' shoulders due to their naivete, but I think that is a representation of the juicy, yet realistic, plot!
June 6, 2023
Fabulous. Dramatic. Reality tv in a book!
May 30, 2023
Debut author, Kara Alloway is no novice when it comes to this world. She is a former journalist turned Real Housewife of Toronto. Her behind-the-scenes knowledge shines through in this frothy, biting novel set in the making of a new housewife reality series.
The book alternates between three characters:
Zoe - the producer who will stop at nothing to get the hottest tea
Dahlia - new reality WAG looking to make a name for herself while juggling her strained marriage to a famed athlete
Sabrina - a fallen starlet who has been brutalized in the media following her divorce and separation from her daughter. She is looking to rehab her image via the show with her outrageous cousin Budgie.
Pepper in a former pop star, a sex toy mogul and a top social media influencer and you have the recipe for one strong cocktail. The situations are familiar but the character development runs deep. Alloway pulls back the curtain and shows the scars that fame and the desire for success leave.
There are two closed door sex scenes in the book. My only critique was that I wanted more heat! There was an opportunity to make this book steamy and I was here for it!
If you are looking for an entertaining summer read with a side of sass and ass then I highly recommend picking this one up!
The book alternates between three characters:
Zoe - the producer who will stop at nothing to get the hottest tea
Dahlia - new reality WAG looking to make a name for herself while juggling her strained marriage to a famed athlete
Sabrina - a fallen starlet who has been brutalized in the media following her divorce and separation from her daughter. She is looking to rehab her image via the show with her outrageous cousin Budgie.
Pepper in a former pop star, a sex toy mogul and a top social media influencer and you have the recipe for one strong cocktail. The situations are familiar but the character development runs deep. Alloway pulls back the curtain and shows the scars that fame and the desire for success leave.
There are two closed door sex scenes in the book. My only critique was that I wanted more heat! There was an opportunity to make this book steamy and I was here for it!
If you are looking for an entertaining summer read with a side of sass and ass then I highly recommend picking this one up!
May 13, 2023
I highly recommend this book - it's a super beach read, it's suspenseful, it's soapy and it's reality tv!
Most Hated is a fictional account of a reality show tell all and it's a thinly veiled look into the life of Kara Alloway - a Real Housewife of Toronto.
In Most Hated, we follow Zoe, a show runner who has put together a group of has been stars and socialites. Zoe is completely merciless and will stop at nothing to make her show the most talked about - the most well known and the most dramatic. It is addictive and eye opening and reminded me of the show UnReal only much, much better!
We also meet several women vying for a good edit all for different reasons. As the week continues, Zoe work behind the scenes to trigger the women and cause more and more drama, taking it further and further to the edge for a good shot - the ultimate question is, to what end? Kara Alloway provides an inside view to the well known culture of reality shows and the reveal is totally worth it. If you like reality tv, tell all stories or are just ready for soapy fun summer read, Most Hated is for you!
#erebooks #re:books #karaalloway #mosthated
Most Hated is a fictional account of a reality show tell all and it's a thinly veiled look into the life of Kara Alloway - a Real Housewife of Toronto.
In Most Hated, we follow Zoe, a show runner who has put together a group of has been stars and socialites. Zoe is completely merciless and will stop at nothing to make her show the most talked about - the most well known and the most dramatic. It is addictive and eye opening and reminded me of the show UnReal only much, much better!
We also meet several women vying for a good edit all for different reasons. As the week continues, Zoe work behind the scenes to trigger the women and cause more and more drama, taking it further and further to the edge for a good shot - the ultimate question is, to what end? Kara Alloway provides an inside view to the well known culture of reality shows and the reveal is totally worth it. If you like reality tv, tell all stories or are just ready for soapy fun summer read, Most Hated is for you!
#erebooks #re:books #karaalloway #mosthated
October 21, 2025
4.5 ★ rounded down because i don't want to know how the sausage gets made 😭
May 31, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and re:books for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
2.5 stars.
I think I was the wrong audience for this book. From the blurb on NG, it sounded very intriguing to me, but as I was reading, I remembered that I don’t like reality TV. Don’t know how I forgot about that. It was a struggle to get through this book because I didn’t emotionally connect with any of the characters or the plot points. It seemed like a really really bad, boring soap opera—and I actually like soap operas—and I was just never able to care for these characters. Maybe that was the point. Again, I don’t believe I was the right person to read this book.
I would recommend this book to anyone who actually like reality TV shows like the one Alloway presents.
2.5 stars.
I think I was the wrong audience for this book. From the blurb on NG, it sounded very intriguing to me, but as I was reading, I remembered that I don’t like reality TV. Don’t know how I forgot about that. It was a struggle to get through this book because I didn’t emotionally connect with any of the characters or the plot points. It seemed like a really really bad, boring soap opera—and I actually like soap operas—and I was just never able to care for these characters. Maybe that was the point. Again, I don’t believe I was the right person to read this book.
I would recommend this book to anyone who actually like reality TV shows like the one Alloway presents.
May 24, 2023
I’ll start by saying thank you to NetGalley and Rebooks, for an advanced copy of this book!
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
This book did a great job at making you feel. I was angry, I would even go as far as saying that I HATED one of the characters. It takes you into the inside of reality tv. If you like reality tv, you’ll like this book. There were a lot of twists, it’s multi POV, and super well written. I wish we got Budgies POV, she was cool the whole time. Loved the ending, and the downfall of Zoe. I enjoyed this book!
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
This book did a great job at making you feel. I was angry, I would even go as far as saying that I HATED one of the characters. It takes you into the inside of reality tv. If you like reality tv, you’ll like this book. There were a lot of twists, it’s multi POV, and super well written. I wish we got Budgies POV, she was cool the whole time. Loved the ending, and the downfall of Zoe. I enjoyed this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2023
If you watch reality tv, you know that any character can be the Most Hated - sometimes it’s the editing, sometimes it’s the character herself. New show Talk of the Town has a full cast of “most Hated” possibilities. There’s Dahlia, the sweet girl from a flyover state, who is hiding some important secrets from Mic, her hunky football tar husband. Cousins Budgie and Sabrina share a famous family and generational wealth but Sabrina is still wounded by her daughter and ex-husband’s behavior. Mariana is using the show to promote her ex toy business. Disturbed former singer Nicole (think Brittany) is hoping for a comeback and influencer Lexi wants more product placement on her social media. Add Zoe, an ambitious producer to the mix and you get the delicious, guilty pleasure that is Most Hated.
You will love this book! Its the perfect beach read! It’s well-written and full of surprising twists and turns. Look out for the surprise ending! 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, re:books and Kara Alloway for this ARC.
You will love this book! Its the perfect beach read! It’s well-written and full of surprising twists and turns. Look out for the surprise ending! 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, re:books and Kara Alloway for this ARC.
May 14, 2023
Most Hated by Kara Alloway. Thanks to @rebooks and @netgalley for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Three women try to change their lives through reality TV, but end up with more than they bargained for.
Any lover of reality shows and the drama within them will love this one. It’s basically a written version of a reality show, but you get an inside look at the producers , tricks, and fakeness as well. You will see why certain characters act as they do; genuine but also products of their immediate environment. It took some time for me to get all the characters straight but once I did, I was in for the ride.
“Because we want to make you look good. If we want to do that, we need other people to look like they’ve lost the plot. That’s how this works. Reveal or be revealed.”
Most Hated comes out 5/30.
Three women try to change their lives through reality TV, but end up with more than they bargained for.
Any lover of reality shows and the drama within them will love this one. It’s basically a written version of a reality show, but you get an inside look at the producers , tricks, and fakeness as well. You will see why certain characters act as they do; genuine but also products of their immediate environment. It took some time for me to get all the characters straight but once I did, I was in for the ride.
“Because we want to make you look good. If we want to do that, we need other people to look like they’ve lost the plot. That’s how this works. Reveal or be revealed.”
Most Hated comes out 5/30.
April 1, 2023
I loved this book. It was a good amount of gossip and drama that I like. It was interesting to see involved Zoe was and her overall downfall. This kept me guessing and it was a fun and drama filled read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2023
MOST HATED follows three women trying to change their lives by going on reality TV, and a producer who will stop at nothing to get ahead.
🥂 multiple POVs: three contestants and a producer
🥂 you get to see how being on reality TV affects the contestants during filming
🥂 a whole lot of producer manipulation & the lengths they will go to paint someone as a villain
This is a novel, but it opens your eyes to the ins and outs of reality television — the good and the bad. MOST HATED is like watching your favorite reality TV show in all its chaotic, drama-filled glory.
🥂 multiple POVs: three contestants and a producer
🥂 you get to see how being on reality TV affects the contestants during filming
🥂 a whole lot of producer manipulation & the lengths they will go to paint someone as a villain
This is a novel, but it opens your eyes to the ins and outs of reality television — the good and the bad. MOST HATED is like watching your favorite reality TV show in all its chaotic, drama-filled glory.
March 24, 2023
Loved this story. Definitely one to pickup if you love any sort of reality shows or the idea of influencing. The main character is so well done and I absolutely adore her.
January 29, 2024
Couldn’t put this one down.
July 11, 2023
I'm a sucker for books about trash tv, and when I saw this one it was no different. With a synopsis that promised glamorous drama and unexpected twists, this book delivered a juicy, behind-the-scenes peek into the ruthless world of reality television.
Zoe, the ambitious producer, kept me hooked with her relentless pursuit of ratings and drama. Dahlia's struggle to salvage her picture-perfect marriage while battling the pressures of the show had me rooting for her even when I found her a bit insufferable. And Sabrina,, the Countess of Controversy, had me constantly on edge, waiting to see how her life would unravel.
However, there were moments when the pacing of the story felt a bit uneven. Some scenes dragged on while others could have used more development. Additionally, the plot twists, although entertaining, sometimes felt a bit predictable. Nonetheless, these minor flaws didn't dampen my overall enjoyment of the book and the peek it gave into the dark side of reality tv.
Thanks so much to re:books as well as NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eGalley of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts!
Zoe, the ambitious producer, kept me hooked with her relentless pursuit of ratings and drama. Dahlia's struggle to salvage her picture-perfect marriage while battling the pressures of the show had me rooting for her even when I found her a bit insufferable. And Sabrina,, the Countess of Controversy, had me constantly on edge, waiting to see how her life would unravel.
However, there were moments when the pacing of the story felt a bit uneven. Some scenes dragged on while others could have used more development. Additionally, the plot twists, although entertaining, sometimes felt a bit predictable. Nonetheless, these minor flaws didn't dampen my overall enjoyment of the book and the peek it gave into the dark side of reality tv.
Thanks so much to re:books as well as NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eGalley of this book in exchange for my honest thoughts!
June 18, 2024
3.50 - Although I have a lot of negative and nitpicking critiques to offer about this book, I'll start with the positive.
This story was VERY entertaining, it was almost like watching a real reality TV show and seeing different personalities clash with each other was oddly funny to me. I think that at its core, I enjoyed the book because I just fucking love drama. I love a good messy story of he said-she said and it’s exactly what this book is about. So yeah, big kudos for that.
The writing was decent. The story is told from three distinct perspectives, but only one uses the first person, the other two have an external narrator, which was a bit off-putting. I think this is the first time I've ever encountered a book that frequently switches between first and third person narration. I also came across many typos, mispelled names, and a few misplaced commas and dots. In addition, some sentences were formulated in an unnatural way, and there were instances where the paragraphs didn't make a lot of sense.
Now onto me nitpicking this book apart lol
I found it childish, almost cartoonish for lack of better terms, how the “mean girls” were described as or: “nerdy, fat and boring” (Zoe) or “full of botox, stupid and superficial” (Nicole, Marianna) while the “good girls” (Dahlia, Sabrina, Budgie) were described as these beautiful, blameless women with killer bodies. They are “the unfortunate victims of the other nasty women that are just jealous of them because they are so naturally pretty and sexy :(”. Like please, this narrative is getting old and boring, and once you notice it, you can’t unsee it, it’s present in every pages.
For me, Zoe was the character who had the most potential. She was sadly butchered up. Her character would have been much better if her problems had been hinted at earlier in the story, rather than after 90% of the book (chapter 38). It would have been beneficial for her character to have mentioned her mental illness or suicidal thoughts at the beginning and would have definitely made me appreciate her a lot more. I believe it would have been better for her development as well, but unfortunately, that isn't the case, and thus her character becomes flat. From what I can tell, her presence is only because the story required an evil character to torment and manipulate the main girls.
Another problem I had with this book is how mean the characters were. I can sympathize with an antagonist who is evil for no reason, but here it just doesn't make sense. The book aims to create relatable and 'human-like' characters, but some of the girls' actions were irrationally mean and rude and for what?? What was the purpose behind? Why did they act like that? Why did they resent some of the girls? Why did they feel so much animosity? Nothing is ever explained, they were just nasty for the sake of making Dahlia look like the poor victim of the story. Womp womp!
This ties down to my first critique and my next one, which is how annoying most of the characters were. I’m talking about FIVE characters, Aubrey, Zoe, Mick, Marianna and Nicole. None of them had any redeeming qualities. Whenever they spoke, I had the urge to throw the book out of my window and smash my head against the wall.
I'm going to wrap up this review with one last complaint lol. Which is the ending that I found tacky. The whole “Dahlia wrote a book about reality TV!! You might actually be reading her book right now ;)” It's uninteresting and a bad way to end the story. It’s like when authors use the “and then, the MC woke up!” as a finale. It’s supposed to be mind blowing but it’s just overused and boring. The “plot twist” about the reality TV show being about Zoe and not the girls was alsooo boring, I was almost disappointed because throughout the book I really wanted to see the feedback of the viewers, the final product, the reaction of the girls to the evil editing and the aftermath of everything but there’s none of that.
I can’t deny that I was entertained and I did enjoy all the drama and messiness of it all. But there are a lot of flaws, and I think a good editor could have greatly benefited this book.
This story was VERY entertaining, it was almost like watching a real reality TV show and seeing different personalities clash with each other was oddly funny to me. I think that at its core, I enjoyed the book because I just fucking love drama. I love a good messy story of he said-she said and it’s exactly what this book is about. So yeah, big kudos for that.
The writing was decent. The story is told from three distinct perspectives, but only one uses the first person, the other two have an external narrator, which was a bit off-putting. I think this is the first time I've ever encountered a book that frequently switches between first and third person narration. I also came across many typos, mispelled names, and a few misplaced commas and dots. In addition, some sentences were formulated in an unnatural way, and there were instances where the paragraphs didn't make a lot of sense.
Now onto me nitpicking this book apart lol
I found it childish, almost cartoonish for lack of better terms, how the “mean girls” were described as or: “nerdy, fat and boring” (Zoe) or “full of botox, stupid and superficial” (Nicole, Marianna) while the “good girls” (Dahlia, Sabrina, Budgie) were described as these beautiful, blameless women with killer bodies. They are “the unfortunate victims of the other nasty women that are just jealous of them because they are so naturally pretty and sexy :(”. Like please, this narrative is getting old and boring, and once you notice it, you can’t unsee it, it’s present in every pages.
For me, Zoe was the character who had the most potential. She was sadly butchered up. Her character would have been much better if her problems had been hinted at earlier in the story, rather than after 90% of the book (chapter 38). It would have been beneficial for her character to have mentioned her mental illness or suicidal thoughts at the beginning and would have definitely made me appreciate her a lot more. I believe it would have been better for her development as well, but unfortunately, that isn't the case, and thus her character becomes flat. From what I can tell, her presence is only because the story required an evil character to torment and manipulate the main girls.
Another problem I had with this book is how mean the characters were. I can sympathize with an antagonist who is evil for no reason, but here it just doesn't make sense. The book aims to create relatable and 'human-like' characters, but some of the girls' actions were irrationally mean and rude and for what?? What was the purpose behind? Why did they act like that? Why did they resent some of the girls? Why did they feel so much animosity? Nothing is ever explained, they were just nasty for the sake of making Dahlia look like the poor victim of the story. Womp womp!
This ties down to my first critique and my next one, which is how annoying most of the characters were. I’m talking about FIVE characters, Aubrey, Zoe, Mick, Marianna and Nicole. None of them had any redeeming qualities. Whenever they spoke, I had the urge to throw the book out of my window and smash my head against the wall.
I'm going to wrap up this review with one last complaint lol. Which is the ending that I found tacky. The whole “Dahlia wrote a book about reality TV!! You might actually be reading her book right now ;)” It's uninteresting and a bad way to end the story. It’s like when authors use the “and then, the MC woke up!” as a finale. It’s supposed to be mind blowing but it’s just overused and boring. The “plot twist” about the reality TV show being about Zoe and not the girls was alsooo boring, I was almost disappointed because throughout the book I really wanted to see the feedback of the viewers, the final product, the reaction of the girls to the evil editing and the aftermath of everything but there’s none of that.
I can’t deny that I was entertained and I did enjoy all the drama and messiness of it all. But there are a lot of flaws, and I think a good editor could have greatly benefited this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
May 14, 2023In a world where reality TV reigns supreme, Kara Alloway takes readers on a captivating journey in “Most Hated,” where three women find themselves entangled in a web of ambition, love, and the harsh reality of the entertainment industry. Through this gripping tale, Alloway explores themes of internalized misogyny and the complex dynamics between women, offering a thought-provoking read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the sting of betrayal or mistreatment.
The story revolves around Zoe, a driven producer of the hit docu-soap “Talk of the Town,” who will stop at nothing to make her show the most dramatic, addictive, and highest-rated on television. Dahlia, a woman confident in her husband’s unwavering love, sees the show as her chance for a career of her own. However, as the cameras roll, her once-certain world starts to crumble. And then there’s Sabrina, known as “The Countess of Controversy,” whose seemingly perfect life falls apart, leading her to join the show as a means to regain control. But the pressures of the industry, her past relationship, and her own expectations threaten to unravel her life once again.
Alloway expertly weaves together these three women’s stories, highlighting the complexities of their relationships, both on and off the screen. Through their experiences, she delves into the pervasive issue of internalized misogyny and the struggles women face when relating to one another. The author’s personal insights on how sociological influences shape female interactions add depth and authenticity to the narrative.
“Most Hated” cleverly uses the backdrop of a reality TV show to explore these themes, drawing parallels to real-life situations that captivate public attention. Alloway astutely reflects on the fascination society has with women’s interactions, exemplified by shows like “Vanderpump Rules” and headline-grabbing incidents such as “Scandoval” or the cheating scandals on the “Housewives” franchises. She highlights the underlying implications of these interactions, emphasizing their relatability and the universal struggles that women face in their relationships with one another.
The strength of this novel lies in the authenticity of its characters and their emotional journeys. As the women navigate the cutthroat world of reality TV, their flaws and vulnerabilities are laid bare, making them relatable and engrossing. Alloway’s writing style is engaging, maintaining a balance between light-heartedness and thoughtfulness, ensuring that readers remain hooked from start to finish.
Overall, “Most Hated” is a captivating read that skillfully combines the allure of reality TV with a thought-provoking exploration of internalized misogyny and the complex dynamics between women. Kara Alloway’s insightful storytelling and relatable characters make this book an enjoyable and engaging experience. Whether you are a fan of reality TV or simply interested in exploring the intricacies of female relationships, “Most Hated” is a must-read that will leave you contemplating the power dynamics that exist both on and off the screen.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
The story revolves around Zoe, a driven producer of the hit docu-soap “Talk of the Town,” who will stop at nothing to make her show the most dramatic, addictive, and highest-rated on television. Dahlia, a woman confident in her husband’s unwavering love, sees the show as her chance for a career of her own. However, as the cameras roll, her once-certain world starts to crumble. And then there’s Sabrina, known as “The Countess of Controversy,” whose seemingly perfect life falls apart, leading her to join the show as a means to regain control. But the pressures of the industry, her past relationship, and her own expectations threaten to unravel her life once again.
Alloway expertly weaves together these three women’s stories, highlighting the complexities of their relationships, both on and off the screen. Through their experiences, she delves into the pervasive issue of internalized misogyny and the struggles women face when relating to one another. The author’s personal insights on how sociological influences shape female interactions add depth and authenticity to the narrative.
“Most Hated” cleverly uses the backdrop of a reality TV show to explore these themes, drawing parallels to real-life situations that captivate public attention. Alloway astutely reflects on the fascination society has with women’s interactions, exemplified by shows like “Vanderpump Rules” and headline-grabbing incidents such as “Scandoval” or the cheating scandals on the “Housewives” franchises. She highlights the underlying implications of these interactions, emphasizing their relatability and the universal struggles that women face in their relationships with one another.
The strength of this novel lies in the authenticity of its characters and their emotional journeys. As the women navigate the cutthroat world of reality TV, their flaws and vulnerabilities are laid bare, making them relatable and engrossing. Alloway’s writing style is engaging, maintaining a balance between light-heartedness and thoughtfulness, ensuring that readers remain hooked from start to finish.
Overall, “Most Hated” is a captivating read that skillfully combines the allure of reality TV with a thought-provoking exploration of internalized misogyny and the complex dynamics between women. Kara Alloway’s insightful storytelling and relatable characters make this book an enjoyable and engaging experience. Whether you are a fan of reality TV or simply interested in exploring the intricacies of female relationships, “Most Hated” is a must-read that will leave you contemplating the power dynamics that exist both on and off the screen.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
August 19, 2023
"Most Hated" by Kara Alloway seems to be a novel that delves into the intriguing and complex dynamics of reality television, specifically focusing on the lives of three women navigating the world of a popular reality show. The book appears to explore themes of ambition, relationships, self-identity, and the consequences of living in the spotlight. Here are the key points about the book:
1. **Reality TV Drama:** The novel centers around the lives of three women who are connected by their involvement in the reality TV show "Talk of the Town." The show offers a glimpse into their struggles, successes, and challenges as they try to navigate fame, relationships, and personal growth within the context of the show.
2. **Protagonists with Unique Stories:** The three main characters, Zoe, Dahlia, and Sabrina, each have their own motivations and aspirations. Zoe is a producer determined to make the show a success, Dahlia seeks personal fulfillment while dealing with the impact of her husband's fame, and Sabrina, the "Countess of Controversy," must face the public scrutiny that comes with her reality TV persona.
3. **Exploring Complex Themes:** The novel appears to explore the concept of internalized misogyny and the dynamics of women's relationships, especially in the context of reality television. It tackles the idea of women betraying and mistreating each other, as well as the societal pressures that contribute to these dynamics.
4. **Relatability and Relevance:** The author suggests that the themes explored in the book are relatable to many women, as they reflect common issues and challenges faced by women when relating to one another. The book seems to offer a deeper exploration of the complexities and motivations behind women's interactions, drawing parallels to real-life situations.
5. **Engaging and Reflective:** "Most Hated" aims to engage readers through its exploration of reality TV drama while also encouraging reflection on larger societal issues. The novel appears to combine the allure of reality TV with a deeper examination of the implications of fame, relationships, and personal growth.
6. **Summer Reading:** The book is positioned as a compelling summer read, catering to fans of reality TV or those intrigued by the drama and dynamics of such shows. It seems to offer a blend of entertainment and introspection for readers seeking a thought-provoking yet entertaining story.
Overall, "Most Hated" by Kara Alloway appears to offer an engaging narrative that peels back the layers of reality TV to reveal the complexities of women's relationships, self-perception, and societal pressures. It seems like a novel that bridges entertainment with thoughtful exploration, making it a potentially intriguing choice for readers interested in these themes.
1. **Reality TV Drama:** The novel centers around the lives of three women who are connected by their involvement in the reality TV show "Talk of the Town." The show offers a glimpse into their struggles, successes, and challenges as they try to navigate fame, relationships, and personal growth within the context of the show.
2. **Protagonists with Unique Stories:** The three main characters, Zoe, Dahlia, and Sabrina, each have their own motivations and aspirations. Zoe is a producer determined to make the show a success, Dahlia seeks personal fulfillment while dealing with the impact of her husband's fame, and Sabrina, the "Countess of Controversy," must face the public scrutiny that comes with her reality TV persona.
3. **Exploring Complex Themes:** The novel appears to explore the concept of internalized misogyny and the dynamics of women's relationships, especially in the context of reality television. It tackles the idea of women betraying and mistreating each other, as well as the societal pressures that contribute to these dynamics.
4. **Relatability and Relevance:** The author suggests that the themes explored in the book are relatable to many women, as they reflect common issues and challenges faced by women when relating to one another. The book seems to offer a deeper exploration of the complexities and motivations behind women's interactions, drawing parallels to real-life situations.
5. **Engaging and Reflective:** "Most Hated" aims to engage readers through its exploration of reality TV drama while also encouraging reflection on larger societal issues. The novel appears to combine the allure of reality TV with a deeper examination of the implications of fame, relationships, and personal growth.
6. **Summer Reading:** The book is positioned as a compelling summer read, catering to fans of reality TV or those intrigued by the drama and dynamics of such shows. It seems to offer a blend of entertainment and introspection for readers seeking a thought-provoking yet entertaining story.
Overall, "Most Hated" by Kara Alloway appears to offer an engaging narrative that peels back the layers of reality TV to reveal the complexities of women's relationships, self-perception, and societal pressures. It seems like a novel that bridges entertainment with thoughtful exploration, making it a potentially intriguing choice for readers interested in these themes.
August 1, 2023
"Indulge in a delightful and addictive summer read with 'Most Hated' by Kara Alloway. This debut novel is the perfect companion for lounging by the pool, relaxing on the beach, or even cozying up by the fire in the Southern Hemisphere. With her background as a self-proclaimed 'villain protagonist' on the Real Housewives of Toronto and experience as a reality TV show producer, Alloway brings a wealth of insider knowledge and expertise to her writing.
'Most Hated' combines all the drama and melodrama of a reality TV show with keen insights into the motivations of those who willingly reveal their dirty laundry (and clean lingerie!) for the world to analyze. As readers dive into the book, they'll find themselves engrossed in a world of intrigue, where every twist and turn keeps them guessing until the final pages. Alloway's storytelling effortlessly guides us through the ups and downs, creating a narrative that is hard to put down.
What sets this book apart is its underlying depth and timeliness. Amidst the glitz and glamour of reality TV and society's obsession with influencers, Alloway provocatively examines our relentless pursuit of perfection—not just in our bodies, but in every aspect of our lives. In the age of constant scrutiny and judgment, 'Most Hated' challenges us to reflect on the price we pay for societal validation and its impact on our mental and physical well-being.
While 'Most Hated' is a fast and funny read, it holds a mirror up to our current zeitgeist, sparking important conversations about the consequences of our obsession with appearance and public approval. It's refreshing to see a beach book tackle relevant and thought-provoking themes without sacrificing the entertainment factor.
Whether you're a fan of reality TV or simply seeking an engrossing and timely read, pre-order 'Most Hated' now and prepare to be hooked from May 30. Alloway's debut novel offers a compelling blend of gossip, reflection, and sheer enjoyment, making it a standout choice for your summer reading list."
'Most Hated' combines all the drama and melodrama of a reality TV show with keen insights into the motivations of those who willingly reveal their dirty laundry (and clean lingerie!) for the world to analyze. As readers dive into the book, they'll find themselves engrossed in a world of intrigue, where every twist and turn keeps them guessing until the final pages. Alloway's storytelling effortlessly guides us through the ups and downs, creating a narrative that is hard to put down.
What sets this book apart is its underlying depth and timeliness. Amidst the glitz and glamour of reality TV and society's obsession with influencers, Alloway provocatively examines our relentless pursuit of perfection—not just in our bodies, but in every aspect of our lives. In the age of constant scrutiny and judgment, 'Most Hated' challenges us to reflect on the price we pay for societal validation and its impact on our mental and physical well-being.
While 'Most Hated' is a fast and funny read, it holds a mirror up to our current zeitgeist, sparking important conversations about the consequences of our obsession with appearance and public approval. It's refreshing to see a beach book tackle relevant and thought-provoking themes without sacrificing the entertainment factor.
Whether you're a fan of reality TV or simply seeking an engrossing and timely read, pre-order 'Most Hated' now and prepare to be hooked from May 30. Alloway's debut novel offers a compelling blend of gossip, reflection, and sheer enjoyment, making it a standout choice for your summer reading list."
April 12, 2023
my take on Most Hated by Kara Alloway 🎥
(Being released on the 30/5)
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
📸 this novel follows a group of women involved in a new reality show called ‘Talk of the Town’. All the women have their own motivations for being part of the cast, good or otherwise, just as those behind the show will do anything they can to make it a hit.
🍾 I devoured this book. It was a rollercoaster - in both the fast pace and twists - and I finished it in a matter of days. I didn’t really know what I was expecting going into this novel, something saccharine and fluffy perhaps? But it was better, and heavier, than I expected.
📱 First up, I really enjoyed Dahlia as a character. She felt authentic, likable and I was thoroughly rooting for her throughout the book, especially when she made some tough calls and stuck up for herself. I also really loved Budgie and Sabrina - but I wish the Leo relationship was fleshed out more (was she ok with his connections to the show?). I also wish Aubrey and Sabrina’s relationship got a chapter or two more, but also appreciate that they were a subplot amongst other things.
🥂 While I also really loved the inside look into the filming of a reality show, I wish we got a bit more of Zoe, Fiona and Regan. And even Nicole actually- just a bit more around their motivations. Since this book leaned towards Sally Hepworth-esque thriller territory, I was ready for some villain monologuing.
📺 Overall this book was a novel I’d definitely recommend to a friend, and will be doing so when it’s released in May!
✨ disclaimer: I was sent an ARC of this book, with no payment involved.
(Being released on the 30/5)
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
📸 this novel follows a group of women involved in a new reality show called ‘Talk of the Town’. All the women have their own motivations for being part of the cast, good or otherwise, just as those behind the show will do anything they can to make it a hit.
🍾 I devoured this book. It was a rollercoaster - in both the fast pace and twists - and I finished it in a matter of days. I didn’t really know what I was expecting going into this novel, something saccharine and fluffy perhaps? But it was better, and heavier, than I expected.
📱 First up, I really enjoyed Dahlia as a character. She felt authentic, likable and I was thoroughly rooting for her throughout the book, especially when she made some tough calls and stuck up for herself. I also really loved Budgie and Sabrina - but I wish the Leo relationship was fleshed out more (was she ok with his connections to the show?). I also wish Aubrey and Sabrina’s relationship got a chapter or two more, but also appreciate that they were a subplot amongst other things.
🥂 While I also really loved the inside look into the filming of a reality show, I wish we got a bit more of Zoe, Fiona and Regan. And even Nicole actually- just a bit more around their motivations. Since this book leaned towards Sally Hepworth-esque thriller territory, I was ready for some villain monologuing.
📺 Overall this book was a novel I’d definitely recommend to a friend, and will be doing so when it’s released in May!
✨ disclaimer: I was sent an ARC of this book, with no payment involved.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2024
Book review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Most Hated by @ is a witty and interesting book about an eclectic group of women coming together to work on a glamorous and glitzy reality tv show ‘Talk of the Town’ 👀✨
The book focuses on three major narrators: Zoe, the producer, who will do just about anything to make her show as dramatic and successful as possible. Dahlia, the wife of am NFL player who is looking for a chance to reinvent herself and have her own career. And Sabrina, a child starlet turned divorced countess, who was dragged into this production by her cousin and is no stranger to bad coverage in the media.
Each character is fleshed out so well and has her own motivations, styles and quirks. The narration for each main character was interesting as well! Dahlia was written in first person, while Zoe and Sabrina were in third.
The plot was well written and extremely compelling. Each woman, while a part of the show, has her own drama happening. And while it was all intertwined through the show, what happened behind the scenes was just as interesting. The banter between the characters was excellent and I really enjoyed watching them all build relationships with each other.
It held my attention right up to the end and I will say it was a very satisfying ending. I definitely enjoyed this read!
If you like reality tv and want to see a glimpse of behind the scenes mechanizations I’d definitely recommend Most Hated!
Thank you so much to @rebooks for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review! 💖
Most Hated by @ is a witty and interesting book about an eclectic group of women coming together to work on a glamorous and glitzy reality tv show ‘Talk of the Town’ 👀✨
The book focuses on three major narrators: Zoe, the producer, who will do just about anything to make her show as dramatic and successful as possible. Dahlia, the wife of am NFL player who is looking for a chance to reinvent herself and have her own career. And Sabrina, a child starlet turned divorced countess, who was dragged into this production by her cousin and is no stranger to bad coverage in the media.
Each character is fleshed out so well and has her own motivations, styles and quirks. The narration for each main character was interesting as well! Dahlia was written in first person, while Zoe and Sabrina were in third.
The plot was well written and extremely compelling. Each woman, while a part of the show, has her own drama happening. And while it was all intertwined through the show, what happened behind the scenes was just as interesting. The banter between the characters was excellent and I really enjoyed watching them all build relationships with each other.
It held my attention right up to the end and I will say it was a very satisfying ending. I definitely enjoyed this read!
If you like reality tv and want to see a glimpse of behind the scenes mechanizations I’d definitely recommend Most Hated!
Thank you so much to @rebooks for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review! 💖
June 20, 2023
For those of you who want a fun, light, catty summer book for reading by the pool or ocean (or lounging by the fire, if you're in New Zealand or Australia), you are in luck, since the debut novel by Kara Alloway, Most Hated will fit the bill perfectly. Alloway, the self proclaimed "villain protagonist of the Real Housewives of Toronto" is also a former fashion and beauty editor, television and radio host, and most important in the context of Most Hated, a reality TV show producer.
Clearly, the woman knows her stuff. The book has all the drama—and melodrama—of a reality TV show, but with plenty of insight into what makes someone choose to air their dirty laundry (and clean lingerie!) on air for the whole world to dissect their actions and reactions. So, if you like your beach books to be full of intrigue, and to keep you guessing until the last few pages, pre-order Most Hated right now; it hits the streets May 30.
I have to add that this fast and funny read is as timely and perfect for the zeitgeist as some much more serious (and truly boring) books out there. The moment we are in might just be the perfect time to examine our society's obsession with not just reality TV and influencers, but the pursuit of perfection in our bodies and in life, as it is viewed/judged by an audience. And the price we all risk paying, as far as our mental and physical health.
Clearly, the woman knows her stuff. The book has all the drama—and melodrama—of a reality TV show, but with plenty of insight into what makes someone choose to air their dirty laundry (and clean lingerie!) on air for the whole world to dissect their actions and reactions. So, if you like your beach books to be full of intrigue, and to keep you guessing until the last few pages, pre-order Most Hated right now; it hits the streets May 30.
I have to add that this fast and funny read is as timely and perfect for the zeitgeist as some much more serious (and truly boring) books out there. The moment we are in might just be the perfect time to examine our society's obsession with not just reality TV and influencers, but the pursuit of perfection in our bodies and in life, as it is viewed/judged by an audience. And the price we all risk paying, as far as our mental and physical health.
May 29, 2023
It’s no secret that in reality television, the magic ingredient is almost *always* woman vs woman conflict. We learned all about the psychological warfare women are willing to use against one another in an attempt to get ahead in the book Queen Bees and Wannabees, which later turned into the film Mean Girls. And like ancient Romans at the Colosseum, we continue to show up and watch women devour each other with a sickening delight. Most Hated not only examines the ways in which women are pitted against each other for television ratings, but examines how women are viewed by society in general.
Quick summary: A group of wealthy women are cast in a new reality tv show. They’re at the mercy of a ruthless producer who will stop at nothing from getting ratings. What are they willing to risk in exchange for screen time? A marriage? A loved one? Self-dignity? Kara Alloway, of Real Housewives of Toronto, delivers a dramatic and soapy read sure to please!
This one goes out to all of my reality TV fans! Whether you choose to indulge in Bravo, The Bachelor, Big Brother, The Kardashians, or any of the other reality shows out there, fans of reality television will love this book.
Quick summary: A group of wealthy women are cast in a new reality tv show. They’re at the mercy of a ruthless producer who will stop at nothing from getting ratings. What are they willing to risk in exchange for screen time? A marriage? A loved one? Self-dignity? Kara Alloway, of Real Housewives of Toronto, delivers a dramatic and soapy read sure to please!
This one goes out to all of my reality TV fans! Whether you choose to indulge in Bravo, The Bachelor, Big Brother, The Kardashians, or any of the other reality shows out there, fans of reality television will love this book.
May 31, 2023
This book was a mixture between Real Housewives and Unreal tv shows. The story was told through the perspective of a producer on a reality show and a couple of the contestants on the show. The first half of the book I found really difficult to get through. It was slow and I didn't connect with any of the characters. The Producer was the villian and the contestants were all various stereotypes from women on reality tv shows. At the halfway point it got interesting and there were times where I identified with a couple of the ladies on the show and if not, at least was rooting for them. Before that I didn't care much for any of the characters and wasn't sure I wanted to continue with the book.
I had predicted the ending so it wasn't a big shock to me. As someone who is well versed in the world of reality tv it only made sense to flip the script the way the author did. I was rooting for this ending otherwise I would have really not liked this book.
If you are a reality tv show fan this could be a fun, beach read if you want to get your fix while lounging by a body of water.
Thank you to NetGalley and Rebooks for the arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
I had predicted the ending so it wasn't a big shock to me. As someone who is well versed in the world of reality tv it only made sense to flip the script the way the author did. I was rooting for this ending otherwise I would have really not liked this book.
If you are a reality tv show fan this could be a fun, beach read if you want to get your fix while lounging by a body of water.
Thank you to NetGalley and Rebooks for the arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2023
I love a good reality show, and have gobbled up multiple books about the behind-the-scenes drama on these reality sets (fiction and non-fiction) and this one was great!!
I wasn't aware until afterwards that the author was a part of the Real Housewives franchise as I haven't watched all of the cities -- but wow what a great fictionalized version of the show...it makes you wonder how much of this is the truth of what she's experienced on set.
Somehow you hate and yet feel empathy toward these characters, and while wishing something bad would happen to expose a character or two - I also found myself feeling protective of them too. All in a good reality show, right?
I would have loved more perspectives of the other show participants, but really enjoyed the perspectives we were given. As a reality TV fan, I knew there would be a lot of manipulation by production and it was fun to get to be in the mind of Zoe, the young PA on set.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
I wasn't aware until afterwards that the author was a part of the Real Housewives franchise as I haven't watched all of the cities -- but wow what a great fictionalized version of the show...it makes you wonder how much of this is the truth of what she's experienced on set.
Somehow you hate and yet feel empathy toward these characters, and while wishing something bad would happen to expose a character or two - I also found myself feeling protective of them too. All in a good reality show, right?
I would have loved more perspectives of the other show participants, but really enjoyed the perspectives we were given. As a reality TV fan, I knew there would be a lot of manipulation by production and it was fun to get to be in the mind of Zoe, the young PA on set.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
May 23, 2023
Thank you Netgalley and Rebooks for providing me with this ARC.
This book was really intriguing. I personally don’t consume a lot of reality tv but this book is absolutely made for people who do.
Why do women even participate in this kind of show, where do they come from, which struggles do they face and what is their personal agenda? But the book also explores how these reality shows are manipulated by the showrunners and their cut throat ways of getting the most „scandalous“ of sound bites or shots of the participants to twist the narrative into the most „entertaining“ outcome while having their own career goals in sight.
The book takes a very dark turn and the reader is left to wonder how far people are willing to go for their own success.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book was really intriguing. I personally don’t consume a lot of reality tv but this book is absolutely made for people who do.
Why do women even participate in this kind of show, where do they come from, which struggles do they face and what is their personal agenda? But the book also explores how these reality shows are manipulated by the showrunners and their cut throat ways of getting the most „scandalous“ of sound bites or shots of the participants to twist the narrative into the most „entertaining“ outcome while having their own career goals in sight.
The book takes a very dark turn and the reader is left to wonder how far people are willing to go for their own success.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 1, 2023
I grew up being a reality tv show junkie. Gotta say though that the Real Housewives franchises haven’t ever really been on my radar. This book just sounded too fun to pass up though.
Most Hated chronicles the filming of a new reality show with 6 women in different stages of their lives. It’s told in 3 POV’s: Dahlia, the wife of a football player who’s trying to step out of his spotlight; Sabrina, the actress turned royalty turned recluse; and Zoe, a producer on the show who will stop at nothing to create drama.
I really enjoyed the book. I couldn’t tell what would happen next and I loved how it ended. I hope the author keeps writing, because she knows how to write a fun story.
Thanks as always to NetGalley for the ARC.
Most Hated chronicles the filming of a new reality show with 6 women in different stages of their lives. It’s told in 3 POV’s: Dahlia, the wife of a football player who’s trying to step out of his spotlight; Sabrina, the actress turned royalty turned recluse; and Zoe, a producer on the show who will stop at nothing to create drama.
I really enjoyed the book. I couldn’t tell what would happen next and I loved how it ended. I hope the author keeps writing, because she knows how to write a fun story.
Thanks as always to NetGalley for the ARC.
April 24, 2023
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my review. All opinions are mine.
Does anyone else remember the LA Candy series written by Lauren Conrad that was loosely based on her time on reality tv? That's the type of vibe that Most Hated gave me, except darker. Either way, I was just as enthralled with this book as I was with that series back in the day. Essentially, a group of women who are all well known in their own right, are thrown together on a tv show that is being run by someone who will do whatever they can to get the drama-- even if they have to manufacture it. If you're someone like me who watches trash reality tv, you'll LOVE this book!
Look for Most Hated to be published on 5/30/2023.
Does anyone else remember the LA Candy series written by Lauren Conrad that was loosely based on her time on reality tv? That's the type of vibe that Most Hated gave me, except darker. Either way, I was just as enthralled with this book as I was with that series back in the day. Essentially, a group of women who are all well known in their own right, are thrown together on a tv show that is being run by someone who will do whatever they can to get the drama-- even if they have to manufacture it. If you're someone like me who watches trash reality tv, you'll LOVE this book!
Look for Most Hated to be published on 5/30/2023.
June 15, 2024
📚: Most Hated by Kara Alloway
⭐️: 3/5
The gist: The TV show UnREAL, but with Real Housewives as the setting — and a bit of a darker twist by the end.
The good: I am what one may call a Real Housewives aficionado — and that’s what drew me into this book initially. Ultimately, this read landed average, at best, with a cast of characters a bit less likable (or love to hate-able) than real life RHONY.
The eh: Despite this being a short read (less than 300 pages), it took awhile to get through. Whether it’s its pacing, character development, a twist at the end that landed flat, or a combination of all three, I’ll take an actual Real Housewives marathon on Bravo instead.
Thanks to re: books via @netgalley for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review!
⭐️: 3/5
The gist: The TV show UnREAL, but with Real Housewives as the setting — and a bit of a darker twist by the end.
The good: I am what one may call a Real Housewives aficionado — and that’s what drew me into this book initially. Ultimately, this read landed average, at best, with a cast of characters a bit less likable (or love to hate-able) than real life RHONY.
The eh: Despite this being a short read (less than 300 pages), it took awhile to get through. Whether it’s its pacing, character development, a twist at the end that landed flat, or a combination of all three, I’ll take an actual Real Housewives marathon on Bravo instead.
Thanks to re: books via @netgalley for the digital ARC in exchange for an honest review!
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