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They climbed up from the mean streets of Glasgow to the top of the world. Now these Hollywood icons are heading for a fall.
Twenty-five years ago, three friends from Glasgow shocked the world when they became Oscar-winning legends.

But now, they are all fighting for survival.



A-list actor Zander Leith has finally found happiness with his adored wife, Hollie. But a stalker with a familiar face is determined to take away the only peace he’s ever known.

Mirren McLean is one of the most powerful women in the industry. Successful. Respected. Untouchable. Until one mistake threatens to destroy her marriage and her career.

And Davie Johnston was once the king of late-night television. Now, his only chance to reclaim his crown is to gamble everything on himself.


Three stars, three tales of struggle and success. Now they’re discovering that in Hollywood, happy endings don’t last for ever.
Sometimes they’re just the calm before the storm…

352 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 7, 2023

574 people are currently reading
358 people want to read

About the author

Shari Low

48 books1,493 followers
*No1 Multi-Million Copy Best-Selling Author*

LATEST NOVEL, JUST ONE MORE DAY IS OUT NOW!
In a career spanning twenty five years, author Shari Low has published over 40 books, and sold over five million copies around the globe, hitting the best seller charts in many countries including UK, USA, Canada, Germany and Australia.

In 2020, her first novel, What If? (originally published in 2001), was updated and re-released, followed by the sequels What Now? and What Next?. All three novels became international best sellers.

Since then, several of Shari's books have been #1 chart-toppers - including One Day With You, One Moment in Time, One Christmas Eve, One Year After You, One Midnight With You, One Day & Forever and One Snowy Day (all published by Boldwood Books).

Shari has also co-written three Hollywood thrillers, The Rise, The Catch and The Fall, with LA-based TV presenter and actor Ross King.

In real life, once upon a time she met a guy, got engaged after a week, and thirty-something years later she lives near Glasgow with the one they said would never last. Their children have now grown and scattered across the world, so she spends an inordinate amount of time on video calls and aeroplanes.

For all the latest news, visit Shari on Facebook, twitter, instagram or at sharilow dot com

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5 stars
1,565 (61%)
4 stars
728 (28%)
3 stars
204 (8%)
2 stars
29 (1%)
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10 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
Profile Image for Mark.
1,704 reviews
June 7, 2023
Back for the 3rd ( will there be more? ) instalment in this ferociously fabulous series by Shari Low and Ross King
It really is good that a synopsis of the other 2 books is included,although I would recommend reading all 3,and also a list of characters and how they interact/relate to the main 3,even when you love a series and remember it all well it is still good to quickly read this before you get to the main event…..and what an event,these books are so story rich and character led they grab you from the opening and don’t let go right until the last….there is so much going on in the lives of Mirren,Zander and Davie…..all of it exciting and volatile and prone to going off in at least 3 directions and the fun of the book is living it with them and seeing exactly what does happen,I honestly could read about these 3 and the other characters in these books continuously…I feel I know them so well now
Its explosive,dynamic,emotive and a rip roaring great time,loved it

5 Stars
10/10
Profile Image for Jen.
1,149 reviews108 followers
June 11, 2023
Once again, I accidentally picked up a book in the middle of a series where I hadn’t read the previous books, but this was a fantastic story and gave me enough to catch me up. I thought the authors did a great job of giving enough info to those who have not read the other books while also not overly doing it for those who have read the others. The story centers on Hollywood elites named Mirren, Davie, and Zander who are in their late 40s and are dealing with a whole mess of personal and professional problems.

I felt like this story manages to be both light and dark at the same time. It deals with some very heavy stuff and also some heartbreaking stuff, but the authentic relationship between the characters just worked and made the whole thing feel like I was hanging out with friends. The authors really nailed the dynamic between these characters as well as the others in their circle. I was sad when it ended and have no doubt I’ll go back and read the 2 previous books.

Overall, the Hollywood vibe isn’t really my regular genre but I liked this book a lot and thought it had some good suspense without being a full on mystery. The characters made it engaging and I would have read about whatever they were doing! Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Catherine Craig (Angelic Light).
1,136 reviews20 followers
August 22, 2023
I wasn't sure what to expect from this general fiction book, as it is part 3 of a series, and I hadn't read the first two books, but since there was a summary of the characters and other stories at the start of the book, that really helped me, and then I could enjoy the new story of Zander, Mirren and Davie, former Glaswegians who are now living in Hollywood. The book is full of a lot of drama, twist and turns, suspense and excitement. Highly recommended!

Many thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for a copy of this book.
Profile Image for Grace J Reviewerlady.
2,135 reviews105 followers
Read
June 7, 2023
Having loved everything Shari Low has ever written, I took a chance on this series - and it just keeps getting better and better! This collaboration works so very well.

Three friends. from their Glasgow childhood, have made it to the highest echelons in Hollywood and are learning that's it is harder to stay at the top than it is to get there in the first place. Zander Leith has said goodbye to his womanising ways and married Hollie, the love of his life and the one woman who does understand him but, on reflection, he should have give the stalker a bit more thought that he did. Davie Johnston has lost his crown as the star of late night tv talks shows but there is a chance to get it back - if he is willing to put everything on the line. Mirren McLean's star is dimming after she made one mistake which comes back to bite her, Can they survive the latest events in their lives - or is it time to cut and run?

This is such an awesome series! Full of life and sparkle with such a lot going on. I like to think I can pick out the bits each author was responsible for - but, of course, I probably got it all completely wrong. With three such fabulous characters, there is massive scope for entertaining storylines and I don't think there were any missed opportunities. This is a book to immerse yourself in, enjoying the downs as well as the ups and when you finally reach the last page, you will feel properly entertained. A cracking series, and one I heartily recommend! 5*
Profile Image for Janalyn, the blind reviewer.
4,673 reviews143 followers
June 5, 2023
I am usually a humongous fan of Shari Low and was very excited to get this book she wrote with the Ross King. The fall is the third book in the trilogy done by both authors and overall I think it was a great story and the kind we have come to expect from Miss Low. The main three characters are famous in Hollywood but are originally from Scotland. The characters all had their big break but in the third book of the trilogy it seems to all be coming to an end Miriam, Davey and Xander has had much success in Hollywood but now except for Xander their love lives are in question and an ultimate happy ending is alluding them Davy was to get married but when he unknowingly invited a producer who is well known for being a sexual assaulter around town his fiancé breaks off the wedding David thinks his fault was in inviting the rumored assaulter but Holly has real world reasons she wants nothing to do with them Miriam‘s husband Mike only wants more time with her and so when she agrees to give it he agrees to move back in with her this is her one real love and someone she doesn’t want to let get away. Since the opening of her last rehab center in honor of her dead daughter who died from addiction she knows she will have more time to dedicate to her marriage. Xander is happy in his marriage to Holly a woman who has seen him through the worst of times and has also seen his uglier side and yet she still loves him and he couldn’t pay her back if he lived 100 years but unfortunately on the night of the Oscars there was a raging wildfire close to his home and it seems maybe just maybe Holly and Xander fell victim to it. The main portion of the book we go back in time to see how they all got to this Oscar night but everyone knows the laws of gravity when you throw something up it will fall back to its lowest point . As I said there are a few things I didn’t like about this book and one of them was how Dave fiancé just didn’t care that all his money was invested in the shell and how she wanted him to be a mind reader and I get it I read the book I know what happened but I just think they were too many things in place for her to just be the one who choreographed the outcome of such a humongous ordeal. Those are read the book you know what I’m saying I am not saying they will agree but I just think her all or nothing attitude was a bit naïve especially when so much was invested in her ultimatum or his maybe? Either way that isn’t something I usually see in her books but then again this was a collaboration and for the most part I really enjoyed the book as I always do with her books are usually do not go back and read previous books when the storyline is on going but there are too many things alluded to in this book that I must go back and quench my curiosity it’s so will definitely be reading the first and second book of this series. I have never given Miss Lowe’s books anything less than a four star rating and that is still the case with The Fall by Shari Low and Ross King. I received this book from NetGalley and Boldwood books but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
Profile Image for Staceywh_17.
3,726 reviews12 followers
June 11, 2023
The Fall is the third and hopefully not the last installment in this glitzy, glam series. Whilst there is a 'catch up' at the front of the book for those of you who haven't read the previous books in the series, I ask myself - why? Why would you start such a brilliant series on book three?

Low with the addition of Hollywood insider Ross King have between them created such a wonderfully exciting series featuring Davies, Mirren and Zander, firm friends from their younger days on the mean streets of Glasgow. Characters that I've found myself become emotionally invested in as the series has furthered.

Allow Low and King to take you on an explosive, twisty trip through the Hollywood Hills, up the red carpet and beyond.

Exciting, entertaining and not to dissimilar to the diet of Jackie Collins novels I grew up on.
Profile Image for Trina Dixon.
1,041 reviews49 followers
May 13, 2023
The third novel in this wonderful series following our 3 celebrities in Hollywood. But don't worry if you haven't read the first two and there is a brilliant recap of their lives so far at the beginning.
We meet Mirren, Davie and Zander a few years after the last book. The prologue indicates some tension but their lives seem to be on track. Zander is happily married, and Davie and Sarah are preparing their wedding but as the title suggests things are not going to go to plan.
I've loved this series so far, and I will be quite sad not to read anymore if this is the final installment. Its an ideal beach/ holiday read. I also think it would make a fabulous TV series
172 reviews9 followers
May 8, 2023
After reading The Rise and The Catch from Shari Low and Ross King, and loving both of them, I wasn’t sure what could possibly be left for Mirren, Davie and Zander! Oh my goodness, there was so much left to tell….and this story has been my favourite one yet. It became clear from the outset that all was not well for our three main characters, and the story as it unfolded through the book had me gripped. From about half way through, I just couldn’t put it down and loved every minute of it. I love the typically Scottish sense of humour that permeates even the darkest of storylines and I wonder if the story is now over…..please tell me there will be more……?!
Profile Image for Sammy Jackson.
580 reviews13 followers
September 10, 2023
Last book in the trilogy, wrapped up nicely, great set of books, if you like a bit of Jackie Collins or Jilly Cooper, then I'd suggest a read
Profile Image for Michele.
271 reviews
October 14, 2023
This was my least favorite book in the trilogy. This one just didn’t have the same mystery and intrigue as the other ones. And it seemed to make a monster out of a character that in the first 2 books was a jerk but well liked and respected by the main characters. Also killing off Hollie was terribly sad and leaving the book with Mirren realizing she’s in love with Zander was out of left field. It was nice to see their brother/sister dynamic and to turn it romantic seemed odd. I would have preferred she ended up with Mike. Glad Sarah and David could figure themselves out. But overall the story felt disconnected to the other 2 books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
758 reviews12 followers
June 9, 2023
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)

The one and only disturbing thing I’ve just come to realize about this Hollywood series created by these two authors, is that I’ve somehow missed the 2nd installment, The Catch! How that happened, I’m not sure, but I can honestly tell you that The Rise (reviewed here) was perfection, and The Fall is even better perfected!

Half a decade later, we catch up with three friends who initially seem to have escaped the chaos and turmoil of their infamously famous lives, but that elusive security only lasts so long. I love the way each chapter is given to us from various characters’ perspectives, so we’re not only peering in from the outside, but getting a front row seat to what is really occurring for all the major players. Zander finds love with Hollie, but his newfound status quo is torn from him. Mirren has finally reignited her own love life, as well, until one reckless choice threatens to ruin everything she’s worked so hard for. And Davie, the guy who can’t seem to take his relationships seriously, finds himself within one–until he’s not.

The writing style that is provided from both authors is pretty amazing. The quips, the dialogue, the structure. I never felt a lull on any page and when I had to take a break, I was always eager to get back to it and find out what would happen next. Granted, I read The Rise, so I’m invested in the characters, but this could easily be a standalone, too. Backstory is provided from the beginning, so anyone can pick up where the previous two books had left off–obviously, since I somehow missed the second book. There is an event that occurs for Sarah, Davie’s girl, that might have been explained more and I didn’t get the chance to explore that, but I never felt like I missed a beat. She explains it in detail and trust me, it’s excruciating. Given the climate and the times we live in, I have a feeling it will stick with me for a very long time.

Despite the seriousness, the intrigue, and the twists and turns with whodunnit moments, there are a lot of fun elements that are wrapped up within the words to The Fall. When characters are speaking to one another, the conversations are realistic. Like recordings taken from real-life people. I believe I described The Rise as a behind-the-scenes documentary, and for The Fall, I could easily see it as a bright shining screenplay for the big screen. It really is that good. It’s another five-star experience for this book series addition!
Profile Image for Angie.
1,124 reviews17 followers
June 18, 2023
This is the third in the series, and I have absolutely loved every moment of each of the books! While the other books definitely help set this one up, there is enough info at the beginning of each book and reminders throughout, that reading all three is not necessary. (This also helps when you read way too many books and forget what happened in the last book....)

The Fall picks up where The Catch left off, Mirren has had a mistake from her recent past haunt her as it is released in hopes of helping boost someone else's popularity. The fallout of this mess could impact her job, reputation and her marriage! Davie is left at the alter by his fiancee, a journalist from Glasgow who is working on a #MeToo project in Hollywood, after an unexpected wedding invite triggers memories of trauma she is not yet ready to share with him. He also struggles financially after he used his own money to fund a new show that seems to be riddled with bad luck. But it is quite obvious that Zander has the worst of things in this book. After some creepy incidences with a stalker he loses someone he loves in an unexpected and traumatic altercation with his stalker.

I love the connections (and perhaps elusions to) Catch and Kill by Ronan Farrow, about the Weinstein scandal. From addictions, to excessive waste of wealth, to the #MeToo movement, Low and King have done an excellent job showing the dichotomies of Hollywood and weaving in pressing issues with a very personal spin, making these fictional stories really resonant with readers. As with their previous books, Low and King have a way with building suspense, while also demonstrating the gap between the image and reality of those picture-perfect lives we see on magazines and TV. While I'm not certain, the book ended with a lot of perfectly tied up loose ends, so I feel like this may be the last in the series, but I really hope this author team pairs up again to bring more great books, I know I would be right there ready to read and review the next project they would take on!

I am so grateful to Rachel and Boldwood for organizing this tour and giving me the chance to join in on the fun! I always love a good boldwood #booktour!
Profile Image for Kath.
3,098 reviews
May 25, 2023
A resounding YAY boomed through my house when I was granted an early copy of this book. I abso-blooming-lutely LOVED the previous two books in this series - The Rise and The Catch - and please do read them first for full up experience of this one... The three main characters all have a bit of a backstory which, although there is a catch-up bit - it serves only as a memory link and not really as an alternative to reading the full books...
So... where are we... Zander and Mirren are happily married, Davie and Sarah are about to become so. But it is at their wedding that things go a bit off kilter... which basically also marks the decline for the rest of them... all for one and all that musketeer jazz...!
But I will leave you to read all the gory details yourself as the authors intended. It's all a bit interconnected and convoluted. Suffice to say that they really do put them through the wringer - warts and all. If you think they've been through enough - especially given the start they had and the incident that ties them forever - you ain't seen nothing yet...
I love Davie, Mirren and Zander as characters. Not always as people though! But they do tug at my emotions. And I guess it's the world they were born into and the lives that they have subsequently made for themselves that really hits the spot for me. I do love me an underdog made good. And undone. And made good again. Rinse and repeat. That's Hollywood for you!
And the way the books are written just really gels with me as a reader. I love the glamour and glitz, the intrigue and action. The peril - real and imagined, and over blown! All delivered in a no-nonsense fashion with no superfluous waffle or padding.
In fact, the only bad thing about the book was the ending. No... not what you think. I mean that I had to, once again, say goodbye to the characters. I have heard rumour that this is it. A trilogy. But I can't, WON'T believe that. Surely there is more to come. I blooming well hope so. Their stories are not finished for me.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Profile Image for Julie.
2,656 reviews42 followers
October 22, 2023
A heady mix of ruthless ambition, illicit desire and heart-stopping danger, Shari Low & Ross King’s The Fall is the perfect summer blockbuster.

Twenty-five years ago, the entire world had stood up and taken notice of three friends from the mean streets of Glasgow who had fought tooth and nail to get to the top of the entertainment industry to become Oscar-winning legends. However, the shine has quickly worn off as rather than resting on their laurels, Zander, Mirren and Davie are now fighting for survival. Their enemies are circling and angling for blood – and this time around they will not surrender!

Zander had been on top of the world when he had finally been able to be with the woman he loved with all of his heart. However, his romantic idyll is in jeopardy thanks to a stranger intent on destroying everything he holds dear to his heart. Mirren had become one of the most powerful women in the industry, however, when a fatal mistake cost her dear, she stood to lose everything she worked so hard for. Finally, late-night talk show host Davie had once had it all – until he had seen all that he’d striven for slip through his fingers. He has one chance to get all that he’d lost back. But is he strong enough to gamble his life for one last chance at stardom?

In a town built on dreams, will Zander, Mirren and Davie live to fight another day? Or have they become yesterday’s news?

Shari Low and Ross King’s Hollywood page-turners are juicy, shocking and so addictive, they put your favourite box set binge to shame and they’ve done it again with The Fall. Big, bold and brilliant from start to finish, this brutal exposé of life beyond the red carpet will keep you glued to its pages this summer.

In The Fall, the pace never flags, the shocks and revelations come thick and fast and the intensity and emotion will have you feeling every single thing the characters go through.

Shari Low and Ross King’s The Fall is an electric, explosive and gloriously entertaining rollercoaster ride that is simply fabulous.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
3,761 reviews44 followers
June 2, 2023
📣🎬Loved the constant suspense!😲

I adored this quick-moving drama of three striving Scots living the precarious life of the rich and famous in Hollywood. For me, the story moves so easily, quickly and excitingly between the three and their significant others that I was totally caught up and didn't want it to end!

Almost every page had a sense that another shoe was going to drop, another wrinkle to mess up the main characters' lives. Davie, Mirren and Zander went through so much in The Rise and The Catch, the first two novels in this trilogy, that I just read with my mouth open as more and more tragedy and career destruction poured out, aimed at these three.

My personal favorite part of the storyline belonged to Zander. My heart went out to him as he rode the rollercoaster between happiness and despair.

TW: There's significant content addressing sexual exploitation by Hollywood's powerful media magnates, one fictional movie studio head in particular. I did not find it particularly graphic, but just be warned the subject is an important thread throughout the novel.

The writers certainly created a fantastic plot and characters I could sympathize with. So good(!) and the ending had me satisfied, almost, because there's a little HFN that left me wanting total closure of the happy kind.

If you've read the first two books, you might find some of the backstory provided a bit repetitive. I, on the other hand, appreciated the reminders. For someone new to Davie, Mirren and Zander's story, I think the backstory filler is needed and would provide just the right amount of history to get why the characters are in their present predicament.

Definitely recommended, and this comes from a reader who normally steers clear of Hollywood dramas. I am a big fan of author Shari Low and the quality of her and co-author Ross King's storytelling truly sucked me in.

A big thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
Profile Image for Sharon Rimmelzwaan.
1,464 reviews44 followers
June 11, 2023
The Fall is the third and final book in The Hollywood Thriller Trilogy. Written by Shari Low and Ross King MBE, this trilogy is one I am so sad to see the end of. From the first to the last book, I lapped up every word.

I always enjoy Shari Low's work, and after reading the first book in this trilogy, I do hope Shari and Ross team up again. I was so glad to hear The Fall was available for me to read and as soon as I picked it up everything melted away, apart from the lives of Zander, Mirren, Davie and the people around them. The first few pages had my heart in my mouth, and then, the story slipped back in time.

The story is as fresh as the first book, and I was as captivated as every other time I returned to these characters. I felt like I knew the trio after the first book, and this book made me feel I was just rejoining them on their journeys. I was quite emotional as all three of their lives started to fall apart at the seams. It was like having friends and wishing I could help them through, particularly Zander. I do have a soft spot for that man! They are all so realistically created.  I am sure Ross King MBE could get this trilogy on the screen, I can easily see it on the TV.

What an ending for these characters, and it's an open-ended one. I would be so pleased to see another instalment. I can't cope if this is the end! There are so many possibilities. The Hollywood Thriller Trilogy has been such an addictive read for me. I hated getting to the end of all of them, and this book is the worst as I know its meant to be a final book.

If you love a thriller, that's well written with flawed and realistic characters that you love to invest in. Action and intrigue that just keeps giving. You need to read this. Every book is a standalone because the authors do a catch-up at the start of the book and a who's who, too. I loved every single moment of every single book.
Thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books.
Profile Image for Cassondra Perea.
616 reviews6 followers
July 14, 2023
Book Review:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

What do you get when best-selling author Shari Low and renowned tv/ radio host, actor, and producer Ross King join forces? The Fall!

The Fall, is the third book in a stand-alone series Low and King pen; in which three childhood friends from, Glasgow, defeat the odds and make it big in, Hollywood. The Fall, finds the three main characters Zander, Davie, and Mirren (now in their forties) struggling to hold onto the personal and professional success they once had. With all three of their lives on the brink of destruction, can their friendship pull off another unimaginable win?

This fusion of suspense and pop culture made, The Fall, one of the most exciting books I have read in quite some time. I was caught off guard by all the twists and turns. The inclusion of the pop culture references brought a sense of levity to all the dramatics. Every time I discovered a real person or event mentioned, I felt like I found an easter egg.

Jumping into the middle of a series is not something I usually advocate. In my experience, though most series are marketed as standalone books, they are best read in chronological order. Therefore I was skeptical to start The Fall, having not read the first two books (The Rise and The Catch). However, I am a huge, Shari Low, fan and couldn’t resist.

Low and King, exceeded all of my expectations with this series! They took the necessary steps to fill their readers in. Prior to chapter one, an in-depth recap of important plot points from both, The Rise and The Catch, is given. They also include character breakdowns for not only main characters, but secondary ones as well. While I have no need to go back and read, The Rise and The Catch, I will be doing so because the story is just too good.

I highly recommend picking up a copy of, The Fall (and the rest of the series). Special thanks to a Netgalley, Shari Low, Ross King and Boldwood Books for allowing me to read this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Molly Robinson.
92 reviews
January 13, 2025
unnecessary addition to the series

Though this book was not entirely unenjoyable, I couldn’t help but think how unnecessary it felt. I loved the first two books of this series and really enjoyed getting to know the characters and understands their actions and motivations. In this book, however, it felt as though the author chose things to happen to them purely for the sake of it.

The time jump made sense for the book, but the amount of large plot points that we were told took place between the second book and this book felt extreme. Despite the last book having ended in a satisfying and believable way, this book throws it all out of the window by telling us it all, once again, went wrong.

I also found the relationships between every character became so 2D and unoriginal. The amount of descriptions of how much they each loved one another became quite sickly. Then how someone who’d just joined the group had the same relationship with them all as those who’d been friends for decades felt completely unbelievable.

Despite having felt so connected to the characters in the previous books, this actually made me care so much less about what happened to them all. I think the cherry on top of the cake for me was the very final page where one of the consistent relationships was completely undermined for the sake of an out of the blue confession of romantic love. This completely ruined everything the character had been through in my eyes.

Overall I’d recommend reading the first two of this series and then simply act as though this one doesn’t exist. A great writing style but the content simply ruined what had been developed throughout two previous books.
Profile Image for Julia.
3,104 reviews100 followers
June 1, 2023
The Fall by Shari Low and Ross King is a contemporary thriller suspense and the final book in the Hollywood Thriller series. I had not read the previous books and found this could be read as a stand-alone. However, I would recommend reading the previous books first as I did get a little confused at times.
The novel is mainly set in Hollywood where it is glitz and glamour, truth and lies, dog eat dog. There are those who use their power to corrupt – and seemingly get away with it. It takes bravery and tenacity to stand up, investigate and seek to right the wrongs.
Life in Hollywood, in the spotlight can be challenging. We see the desire of characters to return to their roots.
The reality of Hollywood is that it is not real. It is all for show. “None of it is real and you don’t need it to be happy.” Fame and fortune will ultimately never satisfy as you are only as big as your last hit.
Grief threatens to sink. “It hurt just to breathe, just to exist.” There is the longing for things to be just as they were. The pain of grief cuts like a knife.
Roots are important. A trio grew up in Glasgow – through poverty and riches, truth and lies, they are united. Their friendship surviving it all the years have thrown at them.
The Fall is an epic Hollywood read that reveals a friendship that lasts.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
A word of caution: there are scenes and language some readers may not like.
300 reviews
May 12, 2024
Another well written blockbuster that you just can't put down.

I don't love it as much as the previous two books, but only because I disagree with a few decisions the authors made and would have liked to see a few things go in a different direction (particularly the very last little twist in the prologue that just didn't feel right, or believable, to me).

Shari & Ross write in a style that just drags you in and you find yourself totally invested in the lives and futures of these characters. Despite the things I would have preferred to go a little differently, I could not put this book down and stayed up way too late finishing it.

As with the previous book, we open at a cliffhanger, and then work our way back from the start through all the events leading up to this day and event.

This time, however, I put the pieces together way earlier on and had a fair idea of who was responsible for what but, there were still a few missing pieces that didn't become clear until much closer to the end to connect it all together.

Feel kind of disappointed that it's the end of the trilogy - it's a bit like saying goodbye to some old friends. I think this would be a great trilogy to see made into a TV mini-series.

I listened to the Audible Audio version of this book and found both narrators suited to the story.

Am I glad I read it - yes
Was it a waste of my time - no
Would I sit down and read it all over again - yes
Would I read more by this author based on this book - yes, starting another Shari Low book right away - hope it's as good as this trilogy was.
Profile Image for Nebulous.
343 reviews8 followers
June 7, 2023
The Fall is a part of the Hollywood Thriller series, something I wasn't aware of. So, you have been given a disclaimer as I power on with my review. This is my first read of Shari Low and Ross King, and it was delightful. This book is heavy on the narrative style across three characters, and its execution is well done, for it kept me engaged. You do not have to read the other two books to understand the premise, but it can get overwhelming with the number of supporting characters. I promise you it gets better with every page.

Out of the three characters, Davie's wit and banter with his ex-wife and his fiance made me giggle and was a standout. Mirren and Xander have a more serious undertone as their challenges are painful, insightful and reflective. The Oscars are used as the present, and the plot powers on through different vantage points of the past. The integration of the current plight of Hollywood, along with the pop culture references, made this book refreshing.

Overall, I recommend this read if you're enamoured with the fame and glamour of Hollywood or if you're looking for something light to read. However, I recommend reading books one and two first to understand the characters and their motivations better.

Thank you, NetGalley & Boldwood Books, for inviting me to read this e-ARC. This honest review is left voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sharon Valler:  Live Love Read Review.
1,042 reviews17 followers
June 7, 2023
The Fall, by Shari Low and Ross King

Davie, Mirren and Zander grew up in a poor part of Glasgow and were childhood friends. Years later, they are all big names in Hollywood and have been through a lot together, although it seems they still have more challenges to face, in this book.

This is the third book in the series and I haven’t read the previous two, so the summary of the story to date in the front of the book was a great addition.

As I read that summary, I found myself thinking that I won’t ever be able to remember who’s who, but the book itself is easy to follow and there were only a couple of moments where I had to stop and think about who someone was and how they were linked. So although I imagine it’s better if you have read the whole series, it’s absolutely not essential and this is a great read in it’s own right.

I felt there were some great Jackie Collins vibes, in terms of the Hollywood drama and the lowdown on what really goes on “in a town that was forever afraid to scratch beneath the glitter on the streets in case they were confronted with the horrors in the gutter”

This brilliant book takes the reader from the Oscars to the most rundown part of Glasgow and shows how even the closest a friendships can be put to the test when power, money and success come into play.

5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest review.

Profile Image for Connie.
2,518 reviews62 followers
June 14, 2023
Mirren, Davie, and Zander all grew up in a tough neighborhood in Glasgow. Through hard work and endurance, they are all now Hollywood superstars. To escape their dire lives in Glasgow, they did a very bad thing but covered it up and hope it stays covered. At one time, something happened that drove the friends apart, but they have now reconciled.

Mirren, a successful author, had separated from her husband but they have now reconciled. She lost a daughter to drugs and now supports drug treatment centers in her daughter’s name. Her son, Logan is a successful singer.

Zander has married his long-time agent but there is someone out there that wants to ruin their lives.

Davie has been a successful talk show host but now he is having financial problems.

Sarah McKenzie is a Scottish journalist who is on a mission to see to it that a wealthy and influential man gets his comeuppance for his abuse of women.

The characters are believable as we see their lives intertwine, but as I’m an avid reader and don’t follow Hollywood, this book is much like a soap opera. However, I’m sure there will be others that will enjoy this book immensely.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Anne.
764 reviews
May 12, 2023

I was intrigued by the blurb for this book and wow, did it exceed my expectations. This is a very, very good book that I thoroughly enjoyed. I didn't realise it is the third in a series and really appreciated the list of characters at the start and a brief synopsis of what had gone on in the previous books. I think this is a very well written book with three likeable main characters who I took to from the beginning. The story moved from past to present so effortlessly and The Fall was a real pleasure to read. I loved that the story was told through the individual characters and the authors definitely grabbed and held my interest and attention here right to the last page. It is about hitting rock bottom, friendships, secrets, lies and has a realistic and very believable plot line. I liked the open ending, not sure if another book will follow, if yes I'll definitely want to read it and will also catch up reading the first two that I've missed. This book has really hit the mark for me and I'd recommend it although would say read this series in correct order to know the characters from the beginning.
Profile Image for Sarah.
304 reviews3 followers
May 27, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and the authors, Low and King, for the opportunity to read this ARC in response to an honest review.

LOVED IT!!!

The third Low and King book in the series and it was yet another great one. We again get to follow the lives of our three favourite and unlikely Glaswegian celebrities through the twists and turns of the lives of the famous. The third in this series follows much closer to Mirren than Davie or Zander but they aren’t excluded from the devastation and destruction that often follows them. There are some hard hitting topics still within this lighthearted summer read including aspects of the #metoo movement, addiction, sexual assault and loss. It produced tears, laughs and gasps and I am really hoping there is a fourth book as this is quickly becoming one of my favourite series.

As expected, the writing from Low/King is flawless. The development of plot leading on from the previous books is seamless and the introduction of new characters brings new life to what is essentially the same setting of the previous two books. Thoroughly recommended for a quick and enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Michelle Fairchild.
482 reviews4 followers
June 15, 2023
I recently finished reading "The Fall" and found myself completely engrossed in the intricate plot, which gradually revealed secrets and surprises that kept me engaged until the very end. The pacing was well-balanced, allowing for moments of introspection and reflection, interspersed with thrilling twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The authors skillfully explored themes of forgiveness, second chances, and the power of love, adding depth and substance to the narrative.

While I thoroughly enjoyed "The Fall," I must admit that there were a few minor drawbacks that prevented it from achieving perfection. There were times when the pacing felt slightly uneven, with certain sections progressing slower than others. Additionally, a few plot points could have been further explored and resolved, leaving some loose ends that may leave readers craving a more definitive conclusion. Despite these minor flaws, however, I still highly recommend "The Fall" to anyone looking for a thrilling and thought-provoking read.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for letting me read this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
9 reviews
August 14, 2023
I really enjoyed this trilogy. The characters were engaging and the storylines and the inside knowledge of Hollywood was captivating and e lighting.
One thing that did annoy me as the stories went on was the constant need to recap things. I know the books are a trilogy and that some readers may have missed a book but that’s what the recap at the start of books 2 & 3 were for. It was just wearing thin by the end.

The books have so many twists and turns throughout that it will keep you on the edge of your seat. When you think it’s going in one direction it flips and turns it on it’s head. That said, something things were a little obvious!

I also felt really annoyed with the ending of book 3. If felt like it came out of nowhere and there were no hints towards this. The awakening that the character has really undermines what we’ve been told about Zander and Hollie’s relationship throughout and it felt like the author devalued it.

I would definitely recommend the books as a fabulous and entertaining escapism read!
Fingers crossed for more but perhaps the authors could focus on the secondary characters such as Logan and Lauren, Jenny and Darcy or even Alina and Drego!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jo Lee.
1,181 reviews24 followers
June 3, 2024
This series was the gift that kept on giving. I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, I’ve covered my eyes. I’ve been shocked, stunned, disgusted devastated and elated, I can’t believe it’s over already. It’s like saying goodbye to friends.

Again every Chapter is a song, I honestly can’t express enough how much I love this, Each time the soundtracks are as fantastic as the writing, this series could make a fantastic tv series or movie, the whole world would fall in love with the characters, the story is ready the soundtrack is ready - if only someone had Hollywood connections, oh wait!! Speaking of Hollywood connections, from the first book I’ve been thinking there are lots of famous names, shows movies etc scattered amongst the fiction, that add validity and believability to the story’s. I wonder how much of the fiction is actually fact.

As from the beginning there are some really distressing events that had me sobbing, but more importantly I felt that everything was handed so carefully and respectfully by the authors.

I loved this series, My song for my review is
Vanessa Williams Save The Best For Last


Loved it!
All the stars 🌟
#Jorecommends
1,021 reviews18 followers
May 6, 2023
I was not expecting to see the direction of the storyline in “The Fall” to make such a dramatic shift from happiness for our characters to utter despair and pain for Mirren, Zander and Davie. I won’t give anything away, but the title of the book perfectly depicts the future for our beloved characters. Regardless of what happened to them in the past, nothing could have prepared me for how hard they all fell into a place they never wanted to go. Their fall from grace in Hollywood was one thing, but their personal lives became media fodder and it was amazing to see how fast they fell out of popularity with the entertainment community. The one person who they all thought they could trust was playing a dangerous game and they were at a loss at what to do. Was there anyone in their inner circle they could really trust? When Hollywood secrets and lies were revealed it was Mirren, Zander and Davie, along with his girlfriend Sarah, who dug deep to finally tell a story that had been hidden for years. Throughout their journey we saw them deal with their personal disappointments with the strength and dignity that was the very soul of their friendship. No matter what happens, good or bad, they would always be there for each other.
Profile Image for Roz.
714 reviews16 followers
May 8, 2023
An excellent third instalment of this brilliant series written by authors Shari Low and Ross King. Best read as a part of the series but the excellent introduction will give you the full background of the cast of players and introduce some new ones.

Brilliant characters and pacy writing, dealing with the lives of three former Glaswegians made good in Hollywood. The Fall is the 3rd in the series and as per the title of the book times have become hard for Zander, Mirren and Davie. Loss of a loved one, the pressure of an adulterous liaison and the foolhardiness of backing yourself far too far when all else fails.

Dealing with real issues in life as well as the trappings of fame and fortune this is a great read and I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen to the three of them. I eagerly await the next instalment as the ending is surely hinting that there is more to come from this writing duo.

Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
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