What do you think?
Rate this book
Splendid Little Schemes
It's not a pyramid scheme. It's an opportunity—for revenge.
Victoria Sterling is living her dream life in Splendor Springs, where Mormons, mommy bloggers, and MLMs reign supreme. The flawless influencer only needs one more recruit to reach the top of Puremetics, but when she targets Anna Price, she unknowingly threatens her picture-perfect life.
That's because a mistyped address sends down-on-her-luck Anna to the wrong house, crashing a meeting of the OWLS—an unlikely group of silver-haired activists. The rebel women convince Anna to enroll in Vicky's downline and help take down Puremetics from the inside.
As their worlds collide, the cracks from Vicky's past become too large to ignore. With each shattering revelation, she wonders if she can maintain the shiny facade upholding her business empire or if taking down her corrupt boss is worth risking it all.
Full of heart, humor, and powerful women, Splendid Little Schemes is a must-read for fans of sharp and entertaining books like The Devil Wears Prada. Grab your copy and get ready for a thrilling tale of ambition, friendship, and redemption.
Victoria Sterling is living her dream life in Splendor Springs, where Mormons, mommy bloggers, and MLMs reign supreme. The flawless influencer only needs one more recruit to reach the top of Puremetics, but when she targets Anna Price, she unknowingly threatens her picture-perfect life.
That's because a mistyped address sends down-on-her-luck Anna to the wrong house, crashing a meeting of the OWLS—an unlikely group of silver-haired activists. The rebel women convince Anna to enroll in Vicky's downline and help take down Puremetics from the inside.
As their worlds collide, the cracks from Vicky's past become too large to ignore. With each shattering revelation, she wonders if she can maintain the shiny facade upholding her business empire or if taking down her corrupt boss is worth risking it all.
Full of heart, humor, and powerful women, Splendid Little Schemes is a must-read for fans of sharp and entertaining books like The Devil Wears Prada. Grab your copy and get ready for a thrilling tale of ambition, friendship, and redemption.
309 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 10, 2024
2 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 17, 2024
As someone who has no first hand knowledge of MLM or the condition of women in religious Utah, I found the setting of this story quite frightening.
But I really liked this book. The story is interesting and very entertaining, the characters are fully developed and show a lot of heart, and it is darkly funny at times.
The narration of the audiobook by the author herself was great.
It also played on of some of my favourite tropes of old women spreading chaos, women supporting women and found family.
I had a great time and would gladly recommend it.
But I really liked this book. The story is interesting and very entertaining, the characters are fully developed and show a lot of heart, and it is darkly funny at times.
The narration of the audiobook by the author herself was great.
It also played on of some of my favourite tropes of old women spreading chaos, women supporting women and found family.
I had a great time and would gladly recommend it.
October 6, 2024
A woman gets more than she bargains for when she agrees to take down the head of an MLM. Overall the story was pretty interesting. I got a little confused with all the characters and with who knew what and which side people fell on. The narrator did a really good job. Would recommend to anyone who likes a light mystery. Thanks to NetGalley for a chance to review!
September 6, 2024
Thank you so much to Strong Stories LLC, the author and NetGalley for the eARC!
I tore through this book in just two days - I was popping my earbuds in to listen any time I had the chance!
It was clear from the onset that the author really knows her stuff; Strong is well-versed in all things MLM and is fluent in Mormon-ese. The reader is immediately immersed in Vicky’s world and will be furious at the blaring injustices before we even meet Anna, who is both the target of Vicky’s scheming and the game changer. Come ready to get angry and then have your heart melt a few times over! This was just the white collar thriller I was looking for. 4.5 stars rounded up for exceeding my expectations of the book’s premise/genre.
I tore through this book in just two days - I was popping my earbuds in to listen any time I had the chance!
It was clear from the onset that the author really knows her stuff; Strong is well-versed in all things MLM and is fluent in Mormon-ese. The reader is immediately immersed in Vicky’s world and will be furious at the blaring injustices before we even meet Anna, who is both the target of Vicky’s scheming and the game changer. Come ready to get angry and then have your heart melt a few times over! This was just the white collar thriller I was looking for. 4.5 stars rounded up for exceeding my expectations of the book’s premise/genre.
October 3, 2024
I didn’t expect to love this quite as much as I did, which says a lot when I spent the majority of the time really almost despising one of the main characters in the book.
Splendid Little Schemes is about women peddling MLM schemes as ways to dream big and live a luxurious life through mummy blogging and influencing their way to the top. Victoria a Mormon wife, mother and MLM star living her best life in Slendor Springs when she targets Anna Price and that’s where it all starts to get interesting.
This story had a surprising amount of twists and turns given I thought it would have had a fairly limiting set of boundaries given its storyline focus. I disliked Victoria for at least 85% of this book, yet somehow Strong manages to keep you gripped in even when writing a truly unlikeable character. The portrayal of religious women in Utah, LGBT struggles and how MLMs target women were written perfectly, it really strikes you that the author paid close attention to ensure this felt real.
A full 5 star read from me. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this audiobook. The narrator was fantastic & made the audiobook easy to tune into.
Splendid Little Schemes is about women peddling MLM schemes as ways to dream big and live a luxurious life through mummy blogging and influencing their way to the top. Victoria a Mormon wife, mother and MLM star living her best life in Slendor Springs when she targets Anna Price and that’s where it all starts to get interesting.
This story had a surprising amount of twists and turns given I thought it would have had a fairly limiting set of boundaries given its storyline focus. I disliked Victoria for at least 85% of this book, yet somehow Strong manages to keep you gripped in even when writing a truly unlikeable character. The portrayal of religious women in Utah, LGBT struggles and how MLMs target women were written perfectly, it really strikes you that the author paid close attention to ensure this felt real.
A full 5 star read from me. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of this audiobook. The narrator was fantastic & made the audiobook easy to tune into.
September 6, 2024
A great book for people who are interested in the messed up world of MLMs (multi level marketing schemes or pyramid schemes). If you have watched any documentaries on MLMs this book is for you. Also for people who watched Real Housewives of Salt Lake City (RHOSLC).
With multiple protagonists we dive into the odd world of women who believe in MLMs and rope other women in, and women trying to fight them. Mirroring the last years it's interesting to see both perspectives and why women join in the first place. Adding a layer of Mormonism is really interesting. The pacing is quite good, although the flashbacks do add to the overall understaning of the book, they are a bit slower than the rest. Even though the topic is quite heavy it reads away pretty quickly.
I'm not sure how much of this is true, but a lot tracks from the documentaries I have seen and articles I have read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC
With multiple protagonists we dive into the odd world of women who believe in MLMs and rope other women in, and women trying to fight them. Mirroring the last years it's interesting to see both perspectives and why women join in the first place. Adding a layer of Mormonism is really interesting. The pacing is quite good, although the flashbacks do add to the overall understaning of the book, they are a bit slower than the rest. Even though the topic is quite heavy it reads away pretty quickly.
I'm not sure how much of this is true, but a lot tracks from the documentaries I have seen and articles I have read.
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC
September 5, 2024
A splendid contemporary novel set in suburban Utah. There were no reviews yet, but I’m glad I decided to take a chance on this novel skewering multi-level marketing schemes and devout Mormons, two subjects that need bright lights trained upon them. It’s also about secrets and the lies we tell ourselves. Most important, it’s about female empowerment, and how none of us has to go it alone. The overall tale has a predictable but entertaining storyline and satisfying ending. A fun read with some character growth. The author does a good job narrating it. 3.6 rounded up.
My thanks to the author, publisher, and #NetGalley for early access to #SplendidLittleSchemes for review purposes.
My thanks to the author, publisher, and #NetGalley for early access to #SplendidLittleSchemes for review purposes.
September 12, 2024
I would like to give this book 4.5 stars.
I truly enjoyed this story about a perfect Mormon mom, Vicky, on track to make her way up the ladder to becoming a high-ranking seller for a pyramid-scheme-like marketing company and brings Anna on board to make that happen.
Anna, however, isn't able to sell her soul, even though she really wants to for different reasons than our hungry-for-success leader, Vicky.
The flow is fast-paced, and the characters are lovable. I fell for Anna, Jane, Gloria, Blaze, and even Victoria as they try to make sense of their place in this crazy world of selling, ranking, and trying to make each of their worlds into a better place.
Everyone has a role to play, ones that change every time they turn around, in making things happen at this year's convention, and the action doesn't stop until the very end in this action-filled thriller.
I wanted more when it ended, and I guess that's the best way for a story to end.
I truly enjoyed this story about a perfect Mormon mom, Vicky, on track to make her way up the ladder to becoming a high-ranking seller for a pyramid-scheme-like marketing company and brings Anna on board to make that happen.
Anna, however, isn't able to sell her soul, even though she really wants to for different reasons than our hungry-for-success leader, Vicky.
The flow is fast-paced, and the characters are lovable. I fell for Anna, Jane, Gloria, Blaze, and even Victoria as they try to make sense of their place in this crazy world of selling, ranking, and trying to make each of their worlds into a better place.
Everyone has a role to play, ones that change every time they turn around, in making things happen at this year's convention, and the action doesn't stop until the very end in this action-filled thriller.
I wanted more when it ended, and I guess that's the best way for a story to end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2024
As a 30-something middle-ish-class woman, I have been approached by a lot of MLMers through the years, and even joined a few (for the discount, of course). Essential oils, beauty products, 'adult' things, jewelry, children's books, and even packaged food and mixes. I know how they operate. I know the jargon they use and the sickly positive vibes they project like the batman spotlight for encouragement and motivation...and damn, if this book did not capture that vibe perfectly.
Vicky is a high ranking Puremetics consultant looking for the next great team member to recruit and push her up over the next line of promotion in her business. She is currently the fastest growing upper tier star of the company and wants to keep up the momentum. When she meets Anna, a new member of their community, she pounces on the opportunity to get her (and her contacts back in Oregon) in her downline. But a mistaken address leads Anna to a different sort of meeting that will change the course of both their lives. Instead of a spy-day style girl's night to sample Puremetics products, Anna has stumbled upon one full of anti-MLMers looking to take down the beast that is Puremetics and its enigmatic leader.
This is a scathing commentary on MLM pyramid scheme style direct-sales marketing companies and the way they prey on the vulnerable (women, mostly, but really any and everyone new consultants can convince to join). While the book does not mention any real MLM companies (except a brief reference to the OG Avon) and is perhaps a caricature of some of their most despicable practices & of those who lead companies like these, it certainly takes a stance against them.
Religion is another rampant theme. Vicky's husband's career is in the Mormon church, and her family has always been devout in that religion (yep-it's set in Utah, how'd you guess?). I'm not sure if it was a critique of this religion in particular, or stringent religious beliefs which encourage deep life-long guilt for making very human mistakes, and sometimes simply being who you are in general. Either way, the issues are characterized well within the plot of the novel, driving character decisions and living rent free in the character's heads. There may also be a nod to scientology mixed in there somewhere that I didn't miss (but seriously, where are you Shelly Miscavige?!).
The perspective shifts between a few characters to show many aspects of the issues. There is the diehard 'business owner' Puremetics consultant, an anti-MLM hero with a personal vendetta, and a normal-ass chica with her own problems who gets swept up in all of it. The 'mission' to take them down gives the novel clear focus and makes it so compelling.
I don't watch a lot of reality tv myself, but I imagine fans of it would eat this novel up. It's got suburban drama with a side of Stepford going on. I loved it, I think you will too.
Vicky is a high ranking Puremetics consultant looking for the next great team member to recruit and push her up over the next line of promotion in her business. She is currently the fastest growing upper tier star of the company and wants to keep up the momentum. When she meets Anna, a new member of their community, she pounces on the opportunity to get her (and her contacts back in Oregon) in her downline. But a mistaken address leads Anna to a different sort of meeting that will change the course of both their lives. Instead of a spy-day style girl's night to sample Puremetics products, Anna has stumbled upon one full of anti-MLMers looking to take down the beast that is Puremetics and its enigmatic leader.
This is a scathing commentary on MLM pyramid scheme style direct-sales marketing companies and the way they prey on the vulnerable (women, mostly, but really any and everyone new consultants can convince to join). While the book does not mention any real MLM companies (except a brief reference to the OG Avon) and is perhaps a caricature of some of their most despicable practices & of those who lead companies like these, it certainly takes a stance against them.
Religion is another rampant theme. Vicky's husband's career is in the Mormon church, and her family has always been devout in that religion (yep-it's set in Utah, how'd you guess?). I'm not sure if it was a critique of this religion in particular, or stringent religious beliefs which encourage deep life-long guilt for making very human mistakes, and sometimes simply being who you are in general. Either way, the issues are characterized well within the plot of the novel, driving character decisions and living rent free in the character's heads. There may also be a nod to scientology mixed in there somewhere that I didn't miss (but seriously, where are you Shelly Miscavige?!).
The perspective shifts between a few characters to show many aspects of the issues. There is the diehard 'business owner' Puremetics consultant, an anti-MLM hero with a personal vendetta, and a normal-ass chica with her own problems who gets swept up in all of it. The 'mission' to take them down gives the novel clear focus and makes it so compelling.
I don't watch a lot of reality tv myself, but I imagine fans of it would eat this novel up. It's got suburban drama with a side of Stepford going on. I loved it, I think you will too.
September 22, 2024
I'm torn on this one! It's quite well written but i didn't feel the characters were completely believable; when I was part of an MLM, I met a lot of Mormon ladies from Utah (I'm British), but none were as ruthless as Vicky, despite many of them being very focussed. MLMs are a tricky one as many, many women do get pushed into buying in a load of stock that they end up stuck with, in order to move up the rankings, but that's not just the MLM company or the upline's fault, it's up to the individual to know their own mind and say no! Personally, I had a lot of fun, learnt a lot and made some money in my few years in the biz and I refused to be drawn into the cult-like aspect that MLMs are famed for.
What I found way more disturbing, again, having met and become friends with several Mormons, is the bigotry and toxicity of organised religion, which is absolutely not exclusive to the LDS church, but across most sectors of religious based businesses/cults, more commonly known as churches, and I wasn't sure whether the author was portraying this behaviour as something she agreed with and was part of, or something she didn't support, Vicky's reaction to her Son's sexuality was heartbreaking. A mother shunning her own child in the name of an unsubstantiated idealism - awful that this is still happening in 2024, but sadly, we know it is.
Anna was confusing. At points she was driven and at others she would come across as weak. I didn't feel convinced that she would have signed up thousands of women in order to bring down a CEO with little or no evidence that he had done anything wrong at that point.
I wasn't convinced at the situation that led Anna to meet Gloria and the OWLS; would a driven and arguable successful businesswoman like Vicky not know her own address?!
If you can suspend a lot of disbelief, it"s a fun and interesting read. I listened to the audiobook, which the author narrated herself.
3 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Robin Strong and Strong Stories, for an ARC in return for an honest review.
What I found way more disturbing, again, having met and become friends with several Mormons, is the bigotry and toxicity of organised religion, which is absolutely not exclusive to the LDS church, but across most sectors of religious based businesses/cults, more commonly known as churches, and I wasn't sure whether the author was portraying this behaviour as something she agreed with and was part of, or something she didn't support, Vicky's reaction to her Son's sexuality was heartbreaking. A mother shunning her own child in the name of an unsubstantiated idealism - awful that this is still happening in 2024, but sadly, we know it is.
Anna was confusing. At points she was driven and at others she would come across as weak. I didn't feel convinced that she would have signed up thousands of women in order to bring down a CEO with little or no evidence that he had done anything wrong at that point.
I wasn't convinced at the situation that led Anna to meet Gloria and the OWLS; would a driven and arguable successful businesswoman like Vicky not know her own address?!
If you can suspend a lot of disbelief, it"s a fun and interesting read. I listened to the audiobook, which the author narrated herself.
3 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Robin Strong and Strong Stories, for an ARC in return for an honest review.
September 10, 2024
(half e-book half audiobook)
I thought this book was pretty good, the story was interesting, I did want to keep reading to see what would happen. I liked the change of heart that some characters had went through.
It was interesting to read about MLMs but I feel like it was lacking a bit, and focused a bit too much on religion. That made it less enjoyable to me.
For the audiobook portion I listened to, there were so many words mispronounced it drove me crazy. All words like "idea" or similar words with an "ee" or "ea" were all pronounced wrong and it seemed messy and just missed in the editing/revision process.
Overall the book was a bit too "yay we beat the bad guy" with a few too many unrealistically perfect scenarios that just happened to be the answer to their new problem that showed up. I liked the side stories, like the story of Gloria and Fiona and the other LGBTQ+ themes in the book.
There were some parts that just fell short, I wish things were covered in stronger light, like the actual takedown of a crappy scammer CEO and abusive person, the fact that Vicky had 4 children but literally only focused on 1 ever, like who was taking care of the other 3 kids this whole time since her husband was a misogynistic "working man" who could not be bothered to do such things".
With the misogynistic ideology, heavy religious idealism, and some other unfitting themes were brought up in the book it took away from the overall story, since nothing was ever "fixed" or corrected. I kept the review at 3 stars since it was interesting learning a tiny bit about MLMs and I wanted to see the end of the book and what would happen.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for this ARC!!
I thought this book was pretty good, the story was interesting, I did want to keep reading to see what would happen. I liked the change of heart that some characters had went through.
It was interesting to read about MLMs but I feel like it was lacking a bit, and focused a bit too much on religion. That made it less enjoyable to me.
For the audiobook portion I listened to, there were so many words mispronounced it drove me crazy. All words like "idea" or similar words with an "ee" or "ea" were all pronounced wrong and it seemed messy and just missed in the editing/revision process.
Overall the book was a bit too "yay we beat the bad guy" with a few too many unrealistically perfect scenarios that just happened to be the answer to their new problem that showed up. I liked the side stories, like the story of Gloria and Fiona and the other LGBTQ+ themes in the book.
There were some parts that just fell short, I wish things were covered in stronger light, like the actual takedown of a crappy scammer CEO and abusive person, the fact that Vicky had 4 children but literally only focused on 1 ever, like who was taking care of the other 3 kids this whole time since her husband was a misogynistic "working man" who could not be bothered to do such things".
With the misogynistic ideology, heavy religious idealism, and some other unfitting themes were brought up in the book it took away from the overall story, since nothing was ever "fixed" or corrected. I kept the review at 3 stars since it was interesting learning a tiny bit about MLMs and I wanted to see the end of the book and what would happen.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for this ARC!!
September 15, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Audio ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for allowing me a copy of this audio book in return for an honest review.
Mormon mum Victoria Sterling needs one more recruit to level up in Puremetics, the MLM business she is succeeding in. A chance meeting at the supermarket introduces her to Anna Price, a single mother who has just moved into the area. When Anna turns up at the wrong address she finds herself being talked into becoming a mole to bring down Puremetics by a group of elderly social justice warriors.
Robin Strong narrated her novel, and did an excellent job at giving each of the characters their own voices. I did find the narration a little slow and noticed a couple of fumbles but when I sped it up to 1.5x this wasn’t a problem.
What I liked: This was a fun book, the plot twisted around and kept me interested. The primary and secondary characters were all realistic and I found myself at times fuming at certain behaviours, a sure sign I’m invested in a story.
What didn’t work for me: I have no major complaints, some things I saw coming but there were no notable flaws in the story. It’s just another case of not meeting my personal spark factor that would net this as a 5 star review.
Final thoughts: A cleverly spun tale set in the world of Mummy bloggers and MLM schemes.
Who would enjoy this: Fans of contemporary fiction.
Mormon mum Victoria Sterling needs one more recruit to level up in Puremetics, the MLM business she is succeeding in. A chance meeting at the supermarket introduces her to Anna Price, a single mother who has just moved into the area. When Anna turns up at the wrong address she finds herself being talked into becoming a mole to bring down Puremetics by a group of elderly social justice warriors.
Robin Strong narrated her novel, and did an excellent job at giving each of the characters their own voices. I did find the narration a little slow and noticed a couple of fumbles but when I sped it up to 1.5x this wasn’t a problem.
What I liked: This was a fun book, the plot twisted around and kept me interested. The primary and secondary characters were all realistic and I found myself at times fuming at certain behaviours, a sure sign I’m invested in a story.
What didn’t work for me: I have no major complaints, some things I saw coming but there were no notable flaws in the story. It’s just another case of not meeting my personal spark factor that would net this as a 5 star review.
Final thoughts: A cleverly spun tale set in the world of Mummy bloggers and MLM schemes.
Who would enjoy this: Fans of contemporary fiction.
September 4, 2025
What a splendid little book! I didn't know much about the storyline before diving in, and I was unsure where the book was headed in the beginning, but I was very quickly pulled in.
There are a lot of interesting bits about this book, the first for me was being introduced to a bunch of unlikeable characters right off the bat. I was slightly worried at first, however, you won't wait long before meeting the more lovable characters. It was a very natural shift, one I have never seen any other author even attempt to do.
This story is an accumulation of women from various backgrounds, engrossed in completely different lifestyles. We're exposed to toxicity found in both the unethical group and the folks we're supposed to love. I found this quite refreshing, as this often happens in real life. A little good found in the bad, and a little bad found in the good.
I felt the characters were very well developed, to the point where I started to have strong emotions in response to some of their actions. Did I yell out loud at a few characters? Yes, yes I did. While the women held their own, the teenagers provided a welcome edge to the story.
Needless to say, I really enjoyed Splendid Little Schemes. I'm a sucker for any story where a bunch of women take down the patriarchy and this did not disappoint. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading about women coming together to take down nasty little men :)
There are a lot of interesting bits about this book, the first for me was being introduced to a bunch of unlikeable characters right off the bat. I was slightly worried at first, however, you won't wait long before meeting the more lovable characters. It was a very natural shift, one I have never seen any other author even attempt to do.
This story is an accumulation of women from various backgrounds, engrossed in completely different lifestyles. We're exposed to toxicity found in both the unethical group and the folks we're supposed to love. I found this quite refreshing, as this often happens in real life. A little good found in the bad, and a little bad found in the good.
I felt the characters were very well developed, to the point where I started to have strong emotions in response to some of their actions. Did I yell out loud at a few characters? Yes, yes I did. While the women held their own, the teenagers provided a welcome edge to the story.
Needless to say, I really enjoyed Splendid Little Schemes. I'm a sucker for any story where a bunch of women take down the patriarchy and this did not disappoint. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading about women coming together to take down nasty little men :)
September 10, 2024
Thank you Netgalley for this advanced audio edition of Splendid Little Schemes by Robin Strong.
Ummm, you're telling me that you've written a book about a bunch of MLM's in Mormonland Utah, and a group of women conspires to bring the pyramid scheme down from the inside? Sign me right up!
This book was so silly, and I loved it. There's a ton of LDS culture and vernacular, and if you're sensitive to the less savory aspects of them being exposed, approach with caution. But listen, there's a reason that Utah is known as the scam capital of the country, and I think it's okay to acknowledge why.
The story primarily revolves around Victoria, a high ranking seller of her MLM that specializes in par-quality skin care, and Anna, a fresh fish that just moved to Utah and desperate for friends. Victoria will stop at nothing to recruit Anna to her company, but what she doesn't know is that Anna has already been caught. The OWLs, another group of ladies have employed Anna to join the MLM in order to expose the predator who runs it. The scandal runs deep, and hands get very dirty, and people might even be disappearing...
Campy, fun, kind of goofy. It doesn't take itself too seriously, but also, if you've lived through the Mormom MLM boom of the last few decades, you GET IT.
Ummm, you're telling me that you've written a book about a bunch of MLM's in Mormonland Utah, and a group of women conspires to bring the pyramid scheme down from the inside? Sign me right up!
This book was so silly, and I loved it. There's a ton of LDS culture and vernacular, and if you're sensitive to the less savory aspects of them being exposed, approach with caution. But listen, there's a reason that Utah is known as the scam capital of the country, and I think it's okay to acknowledge why.
The story primarily revolves around Victoria, a high ranking seller of her MLM that specializes in par-quality skin care, and Anna, a fresh fish that just moved to Utah and desperate for friends. Victoria will stop at nothing to recruit Anna to her company, but what she doesn't know is that Anna has already been caught. The OWLs, another group of ladies have employed Anna to join the MLM in order to expose the predator who runs it. The scandal runs deep, and hands get very dirty, and people might even be disappearing...
Campy, fun, kind of goofy. It doesn't take itself too seriously, but also, if you've lived through the Mormom MLM boom of the last few decades, you GET IT.
September 15, 2024
This was a very fun read. Vicky Sterling is just one recruit away from hitting her goal in her MLM (multi-level marketing) Puremetics business. But when her recruit target - Anna Price is befriended by the OWLS, (an underground activist group of old ladies) Anna is talked into becoming a mole to infiltrate Vicky's Purmetics group and bring down what is in a reality pyramid scheme. The head of Puremetics, Christian White is as sleazy as they come and has hurt many women with his ponzi schemes in the past. The OWLS are out to get him any way they can. The fact that these women were mostly Mormon and very devout threw an extra layer into the mix. Mormon pyramid schemes, who would have thought! I really liked the way that all the characters grew in one way or another and became more inclusive and open minded by the end. There is a lot of humor and heart to this book, really a lot of fun. The author Robin Strong narrated the audio version of the book I listened to and she did a wonderful job. Highly recommended. 4.5 stars.
Many thanks to Net Galley and Strong Stories, LLC for a chance to listen to an audio version of this entertaining novel. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Net Galley and Strong Stories, LLC for a chance to listen to an audio version of this entertaining novel. All opinions are my own.
September 19, 2024
This is book is hard to put down (or in my case the audiobook is hard to pause). The plot keeps you engaged.
Victoria Sterling is an influencer, mom, wife and needs another recruit to reach the top in an MLM company.
She finds Anna Price, that is new in town and seems a good fit. But the plot thickens when Anna is recruited by a team of activists that want to take down the MLM company.
I do not have much information about MLM companies,
but from what I know, the minority get rich on the majority’s work. And most of them get stuck with merchandising and debt.
My favorite part of the story is Vicky’s development as a character and the way those ladys worked together. You have a story about family, friendship and corruption.
Thank you Netgalley and Strong Stories for an advance copy of the audiobook. This is my honest opinion.
The book is narated by the autor who did a good job.
I have to check out her other books.
Victoria Sterling is an influencer, mom, wife and needs another recruit to reach the top in an MLM company.
She finds Anna Price, that is new in town and seems a good fit. But the plot thickens when Anna is recruited by a team of activists that want to take down the MLM company.
I do not have much information about MLM companies,
but from what I know, the minority get rich on the majority’s work. And most of them get stuck with merchandising and debt.
My favorite part of the story is Vicky’s development as a character and the way those ladys worked together. You have a story about family, friendship and corruption.
Thank you Netgalley and Strong Stories for an advance copy of the audiobook. This is my honest opinion.
The book is narated by the autor who did a good job.
I have to check out her other books.
September 24, 2024
Have you ever been harassed by a #bossbabe to change your life and join her empire (pyramid scheme?)? If so, this story is for you.
What a fun read this was. While not a traditional thriller, the book reminded me of one because of how tightly focused it was on the primary conflict and the drive toward the outcome. Though it's not full of twists and turns, it felt like a thriller in its own right due to the chilling realism with which the MLM (multi-level marketing) company at its core was portrayed.
Unlike several of my recent reads, Splendid Little Schemes was refreshingly well-written and easy to follow, and I definitely needed that! I did notice some believability gaps—for instance, the jumps ahead in time could have used more harassment from Vicky to Anna to maintain tension—but overall, it was a minor issue in an otherwise enjoyable story.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Victory Editing, and the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What a fun read this was. While not a traditional thriller, the book reminded me of one because of how tightly focused it was on the primary conflict and the drive toward the outcome. Though it's not full of twists and turns, it felt like a thriller in its own right due to the chilling realism with which the MLM (multi-level marketing) company at its core was portrayed.
Unlike several of my recent reads, Splendid Little Schemes was refreshingly well-written and easy to follow, and I definitely needed that! I did notice some believability gaps—for instance, the jumps ahead in time could have used more harassment from Vicky to Anna to maintain tension—but overall, it was a minor issue in an otherwise enjoyable story.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Victory Editing, and the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 21, 2024
This was such a pleasant audiobook experience! It was charming, quirky, and overall a well written book.
The good: The author is clearly very good at writing. The tone was very fun and it took on some serious topics in a very real way while keeping the overall tone lighthearted. In addition, the way she framed MLM salespeople (particularly stay at home moms trying to build independence and confidence) as fellow victims to the wider issue of pyramid schemes, rather than painting them as slimey, terrible people is refreshing to see.
The less-than good (for me): This book read a little bit like a Disney Channel Original Movie. It was cutesy and kitschy and spunky and a bit cliched at times. That said, that does not make this a bad or poorly written book. I think it just wasn't for me as a reader.
*ps-- thank you Netgalley/Storm Publishing for giving me this the ARC in exchange for my honest review :)*
The good: The author is clearly very good at writing. The tone was very fun and it took on some serious topics in a very real way while keeping the overall tone lighthearted. In addition, the way she framed MLM salespeople (particularly stay at home moms trying to build independence and confidence) as fellow victims to the wider issue of pyramid schemes, rather than painting them as slimey, terrible people is refreshing to see.
The less-than good (for me): This book read a little bit like a Disney Channel Original Movie. It was cutesy and kitschy and spunky and a bit cliched at times. That said, that does not make this a bad or poorly written book. I think it just wasn't for me as a reader.
*ps-- thank you Netgalley/Storm Publishing for giving me this the ARC in exchange for my honest review :)*
December 31, 2024
3.5 / 5 ⭐
In Splendid Little Schemes, Vicky Sterling’s influencer-perfect life takes a hit when her latest MLM recruit, Anna Price, turns out to be part of a rebel group determined to take down Puremetics from the inside. As Anna works her way into Vicky’s world, Vicky’s carefully crafted image starts to unravel, forcing her to face her past and rethink what really matters.
This book is a fun mix of light mystery, dark humor, and heartfelt moments with plenty of twists to keep things interesting. Perfect for anyone curious about the wild world of MLMs or hooked on MLM documentaries (like me! I'm looking at you, LuLa Rich). A book that's all about female empowerment and the power of connection. With a little over-the-top drama, solid character growth, and a satisfying ending, it’s an entertaining and enjoyable read that I'd recommend to anyone interested in this kind of subject matter!
In Splendid Little Schemes, Vicky Sterling’s influencer-perfect life takes a hit when her latest MLM recruit, Anna Price, turns out to be part of a rebel group determined to take down Puremetics from the inside. As Anna works her way into Vicky’s world, Vicky’s carefully crafted image starts to unravel, forcing her to face her past and rethink what really matters.
This book is a fun mix of light mystery, dark humor, and heartfelt moments with plenty of twists to keep things interesting. Perfect for anyone curious about the wild world of MLMs or hooked on MLM documentaries (like me! I'm looking at you, LuLa Rich). A book that's all about female empowerment and the power of connection. With a little over-the-top drama, solid character growth, and a satisfying ending, it’s an entertaining and enjoyable read that I'd recommend to anyone interested in this kind of subject matter!
September 6, 2024
Splendid Little Schemes by Robin Strong follows the lives of three woman effected by a MLM company in various ways. It was a compulsive read, especially if you have ever been preyed through "Hey Hun" cold messages or the false promises of 6 figures if you just invest in XYZ company and get real comfortable hearing the word "no". Though fiction, there is a lot of familiarity in the way these operations work and I would love to meet some OWLs in real life. Humorous, with a bit of heavy relationship challenges (TW: domestic abuse and sexual harassment ) intertwining the three women's lives. You'll root for the underdogs and keep listening/turning the pages to see if they will succeed in their takedown attempt.
Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date 10/10/24.
Thank you to Netgalley and Victory Editing for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date 10/10/24.
September 9, 2024
Thank you so much to Strong Stories LLC, the author and NetGalley for the eARC!
I sometimes have a hard time with audiobooks, but I loved the author’s narration of this story - although I did listen at 1.5 speed.
The author really had a good handle on the MLM world and appeared to have an understanding of the Mormon lifestyle. There are 3 main characters whose lives are intertwined and the author does a great job of keeping each story line interesting and fast paced.
This was a really good story. As most of us have at least some experience with MLMs, whether you’ve been asked to participate in a “party”, join one or have actually worked with one, this is something most of us can relate to even if it’s just on the surface. I definitely recommend this book, although there are some trigger warnings- DV and SA, but nothing graphic or too detailed. Overall I loved it!
I sometimes have a hard time with audiobooks, but I loved the author’s narration of this story - although I did listen at 1.5 speed.
The author really had a good handle on the MLM world and appeared to have an understanding of the Mormon lifestyle. There are 3 main characters whose lives are intertwined and the author does a great job of keeping each story line interesting and fast paced.
This was a really good story. As most of us have at least some experience with MLMs, whether you’ve been asked to participate in a “party”, join one or have actually worked with one, this is something most of us can relate to even if it’s just on the surface. I definitely recommend this book, although there are some trigger warnings- DV and SA, but nothing graphic or too detailed. Overall I loved it!
October 4, 2024
Splendid Little Schemes written and read by Robin Strong is a fun listen. The story touches on both lighthearted and heavier topics and kept me entertained the entire time. The story also gave me a lot to think about - both the Mormon religion/culture and MLMs. Have you ever been to an MLM party? You might want to check this bad boy out.
There was a lot to like about this book. The three main characters and their unique lives and problems and how their story intertwined was quite entertaining. I think I listened to this one in 2 days. This is a good one to read while sitting by a pool, possibly sipping on a fro-fro drink or iced coffee (gasp!).
Thank you to NetGalley and Strong Stories, LLC for this advance audio copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There was a lot to like about this book. The three main characters and their unique lives and problems and how their story intertwined was quite entertaining. I think I listened to this one in 2 days. This is a good one to read while sitting by a pool, possibly sipping on a fro-fro drink or iced coffee (gasp!).
Thank you to NetGalley and Strong Stories, LLC for this advance audio copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 16, 2024
This was a sneak peak into the wild, crazy and messed up world of MLMs at it's best! Set in Utah, this book gives us a glimpse into both the Mormon lifestyle and MLMs all at once and I was there for it. Right from the beginning I was sucked in by the story and the characters were all so well-developed making for an engaging and fun experience all the way around. The way this one ended was perfect too!
The narration of the audio version was exceptional. I don't often say that there's a book I'd read again - but this one would be on that list. I definitely recommend putting it on your TBR. You're in for drama, humor, suspense and even a touch of romance - it's got it all. Check it out!!!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC audio of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The narration of the audio version was exceptional. I don't often say that there's a book I'd read again - but this one would be on that list. I definitely recommend putting it on your TBR. You're in for drama, humor, suspense and even a touch of romance - it's got it all. Check it out!!!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC audio of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 29, 2024
Splendid Little Schemes by Robin Strong
This book was an unexpected delight…. Puremetics is a mlm pyramid scheme and Victoria is the queen in her neighborhood. When she tries to recruit a new person to the group, she doesn’t expect what happens and it changes everything for them all.
Firstly Victoria is mormon. I have never read a book where this was part of the story and I kinda liked it. It added a new dimension to the story. It’s out of control, wild and funny! It was a riot and I enjoyed every second of it.
The OWLs are a group of older ladies and they use their collective powers to right wrongs. It was so good! I enjoyed the plot and I loved all the characters. Anna, a single mother, gets pulled into a scheme to bring the CEO of the company down and it was so clever!
October 7, 2024
Robin Strong (author and narrator) did an awesome job narrating Splendid Little Schemes.
Anna is new to the area. Accidently driving to the wrong address, she assists a group of seniors to help bring justice to a pyramid scheme with harmful products.
Several LOL spots.. (Many books promise to be funny, this one delivers.)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Robin Strong and Strong Stories, LLC (self published? ... kudos!) for approving my request to read the advance review copy of Splendid Little Schemes in exchange for an honest review. Approx 9.25 hours, publication date is Oct 10, 2024.
Utah setting.
Anna is new to the area. Accidently driving to the wrong address, she assists a group of seniors to help bring justice to a pyramid scheme with harmful products.
Several LOL spots.. (Many books promise to be funny, this one delivers.)
Many thanks to NetGalley, Robin Strong and Strong Stories, LLC (self published? ... kudos!) for approving my request to read the advance review copy of Splendid Little Schemes in exchange for an honest review. Approx 9.25 hours, publication date is Oct 10, 2024.
Utah setting.
December 12, 2024
4⭐
An underground feminist activist group takes down a pyramid scheme? Adding Mormons & female empowerment to the mix? Yes, please!
Absolutely ATE this book up! Although some parts were somewhat predictable, the way it's written had me craving to know what happens next.
✨ Thank goodness for character development, because I couldn't stand Vicky, shame!
✨✨ I listened to the audiobook (narrated by the author themselves), and they did a great job, especially with distinguishing the different voices between the characters.
✨✨✨ Thank you Strong Stories, LLC & NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
An underground feminist activist group takes down a pyramid scheme? Adding Mormons & female empowerment to the mix? Yes, please!
Absolutely ATE this book up! Although some parts were somewhat predictable, the way it's written had me craving to know what happens next.
✨ Thank goodness for character development, because I couldn't stand Vicky, shame!
✨✨ I listened to the audiobook (narrated by the author themselves), and they did a great job, especially with distinguishing the different voices between the characters.
✨✨✨ Thank you Strong Stories, LLC & NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 10, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I am lucky to have never had to experience the predatory nature of religion or MLMs so this book at first was quite unnerving as I went in blind (read a few months after reading the blurb and requesting so I had forgotten what was coming) and had no clue where the story was going to go. However, as the story went on and Anna started to come into her own I really enjoyed it. I loved the strong female characters and how they managed to come together by the end of it to do what’s best for the victims of Christian.
September 21, 2024
Overall I enjoyed this book. Coming from an area that MLMs are huge and having joined a few myself this was spot on. I loved the women supporting women aspect and the sisterhood they created all coming from different walks of life and ages. It was inspiring all those women coming together for the greater good.
While I am a Christian woman and I don’t personally have any knowledge of the Mormon faith or the religious area of Utah (I could have done without a lot of that information) it was a nice clean story.
While I am a Christian woman and I don’t personally have any knowledge of the Mormon faith or the religious area of Utah (I could have done without a lot of that information) it was a nice clean story.
October 7, 2024
This was a fun read! I love consuming anti-MLM content so this right up my alley. I was really familiar with the whole MLM structure and how it operates but I feel like that could be really helpful for others to read who aren't as familiar.
I'm glad they discussed how predatory the industry is especially towards moms & women overall. All of the aspects relating to MLM was accurate and gave the reader a good idea of life is like for someone who is in that industry. The story was entertaining and touched on some heavier topics. I was engaged throughout the whole book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Strong Stories for this advance copy in exchange for my honest review!
I'm glad they discussed how predatory the industry is especially towards moms & women overall. All of the aspects relating to MLM was accurate and gave the reader a good idea of life is like for someone who is in that industry. The story was entertaining and touched on some heavier topics. I was engaged throughout the whole book.
Thank you to NetGalley and Strong Stories for this advance copy in exchange for my honest review!
July 27, 2025
A 3.5 for me. Entertaining book! I listened to the audio which I recommend. It kept me engaged. I found the exploration of MLMs and stay-at-home Mormon moms to be interesting — MLMs (in theory) offered agency and financial freedom that women didn’t have otherwise. Vicky was the most compelling character to me with consideration of how her faith and history impacted her choices and actions (at least in the first 2/3ish of the book). I did get “Hollywood” vibes in the way the story evolved and played out - a bit exaggerated, predictable, and pat. Still, a fun read!
August 1, 2025
Splendid Little Schemes had a clever premise, but it didn’t quite work for me. It’s super niche with a lot of Mormon and MLM slang that would be hard to follow unless you are very familiar with it.
The characters were a bit all over the place, and the plot had some weird holes to try to take the story a certain direction. I’ve worked in direct sales (outside Utah), and most people I’ve met really do want to help others and be a force for good and change and none of that angle was addressed here either.
Interesting idea, but it just didn’t come together in this book.
The characters were a bit all over the place, and the plot had some weird holes to try to take the story a certain direction. I’ve worked in direct sales (outside Utah), and most people I’ve met really do want to help others and be a force for good and change and none of that angle was addressed here either.
Interesting idea, but it just didn’t come together in this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews