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Charity Trickett Is Not So Glamorous
Bridget Jones fans will fall hard for this based-on-a-true-story, behind-the-scenes tale of a young woman’s calamitous adventures trying to break into the movie industry in 1990s Hollywood.
Hollywood, 1997. When Charity Trickett moves to LA to assist the director of the biggest blockbuster film of the year, she quickly realizes that Hollywood isn’t all red carpets and Rodeo Drive. But her determination to become a screenwriter and producer in this glamorous yet cutthroat industry cannot be stifled. Working harder than she ever has before, she impresses the top brass at Canopy Studios and inches herself closer to her dream. But her ambitions and tender heart are threatened by backstabbing coworkers, an evaporating bank account, love gone wrong, a mistake that could cost the studio hundreds of millions of dollars, and an FBI investigation that could land her in jail.
Surrounded by fame and money but unsure how to access either one, Charity’s grit and kindness steer her toward devoted friends and hopeful artists. If she can manage to stay out of trouble, maybe she can change bad to good.
Hollywood, 1997. When Charity Trickett moves to LA to assist the director of the biggest blockbuster film of the year, she quickly realizes that Hollywood isn’t all red carpets and Rodeo Drive. But her determination to become a screenwriter and producer in this glamorous yet cutthroat industry cannot be stifled. Working harder than she ever has before, she impresses the top brass at Canopy Studios and inches herself closer to her dream. But her ambitions and tender heart are threatened by backstabbing coworkers, an evaporating bank account, love gone wrong, a mistake that could cost the studio hundreds of millions of dollars, and an FBI investigation that could land her in jail.
Surrounded by fame and money but unsure how to access either one, Charity’s grit and kindness steer her toward devoted friends and hopeful artists. If she can manage to stay out of trouble, maybe she can change bad to good.
320 pages, Paperback
Published June 10, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 190 reviews
July 8, 2026
As a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, this novel first caught my attention with its eye-catching cover. I was hoping it would be the perfect light escape read.
Readers who enjoy immersive 1990s pop-culture nostalgia and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the Hollywood film industry may find themselves drawn to Charity Trickett's adventures.
At twenty-six, the former Vancouver production assistant heads to Hollywood determined to become a screenwriter, only to discover that the dream factory is filled with industry politics, difficult coworkers, and unexpected challenges. An FBI piracy investigation—drawn from the author's own real-life experience—adds an intriguing layer to the story.
The Canadian author, as a former MGM assistant investigated by the FBI during a film piracy case involving a movie starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, clearly brings authenticity to Charity's journey. That firsthand knowledge gives the Hollywood setting a believable, lived-in feel and was one of the novel's strongest aspects.
For me, however, the romance never fully blossomed. It remained more of a slow trickle than an emotional center, making it difficult to become invested in that part of the story. The novel also leans heavily into familiar chick-lit tropes, and at times the combination of workplace chaos, quirky mishaps, and romantic complications felt a bit overdone.
Still, Charity is an appealing, relatable protagonist, and the novel is an easy, fast-paced read. Readers looking for a light Hollywood adventure with an insider's perspective may find it an entertaining way to spend an afternoon.
As always, this is only one reader's opinion, so I encourage you to browse other reviews as well.
Readers who enjoy immersive 1990s pop-culture nostalgia and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the Hollywood film industry may find themselves drawn to Charity Trickett's adventures.
At twenty-six, the former Vancouver production assistant heads to Hollywood determined to become a screenwriter, only to discover that the dream factory is filled with industry politics, difficult coworkers, and unexpected challenges. An FBI piracy investigation—drawn from the author's own real-life experience—adds an intriguing layer to the story.
The Canadian author, as a former MGM assistant investigated by the FBI during a film piracy case involving a movie starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, clearly brings authenticity to Charity's journey. That firsthand knowledge gives the Hollywood setting a believable, lived-in feel and was one of the novel's strongest aspects.
For me, however, the romance never fully blossomed. It remained more of a slow trickle than an emotional center, making it difficult to become invested in that part of the story. The novel also leans heavily into familiar chick-lit tropes, and at times the combination of workplace chaos, quirky mishaps, and romantic complications felt a bit overdone.
Still, Charity is an appealing, relatable protagonist, and the novel is an easy, fast-paced read. Readers looking for a light Hollywood adventure with an insider's perspective may find it an entertaining way to spend an afternoon.
As always, this is only one reader's opinion, so I encourage you to browse other reviews as well.
September 30, 2025
When I picked this up over the summer, it was just what I needed in between my usual thriller line-up. Set in the late 90s, the story was centered on Charity who recently relocated to Hollywood from Canada for working in movie production. Things seemed to look bright and glittery at first, then reality hit with a demanding job, backstabbing colleagues, chasing a dream, and making ends meet.
I was a big fan of Bridget Jones books and The Devil Wears Prada, and Charity’s story fit right into the same bookshelf. It gave the fun and light moods with some work and romance drama. I did get frustrated with Charity’s blunders and naivety, but I couldn’t help but root for her.
Many thanks for the ARC I received in a Goodreads giveaway. Publication date: June 2025.
I was a big fan of Bridget Jones books and The Devil Wears Prada, and Charity’s story fit right into the same bookshelf. It gave the fun and light moods with some work and romance drama. I did get frustrated with Charity’s blunders and naivety, but I couldn’t help but root for her.
Many thanks for the ARC I received in a Goodreads giveaway. Publication date: June 2025.
April 19, 2025
A quirky, chaotic romp through 1990s Hollywood—equal parts heartfelt and hilarious. 🎬✨
Charity Trickett Is Not So Glamorous is a delightful mix of industry satire, emotional honesty, and sheer misadventure. Christine Stringer takes us behind the scenes of late-'90s Hollywood, where dreams glitter, reality bites, and one determined young woman stumbles (repeatedly) toward a career in film.
Charity is a charming, relatable protagonist—naïve, hopeful, stubborn, and just trying to keep her head above water while working for a mega-director on a blockbuster set. There are wild mishaps, awkward moments, and one near-catastrophe that made my stomach drop. I loved how the book balanced slapstick chaos with sharp observations about ambition, gatekeeping, and being a woman in a male-dominated industry.
The writing sparkles with wit, and despite the often absurd situations Charity finds herself in, there’s a beating heart at the centre of it all. Her vulnerability, resilience, and optimism kept me rooting for her—even when things got very messy.
It’s ideal for fans of Bridget Jones, The Devil Wears Prada, or anyone who's ever tried to break into a competitive field and lived to tell the tale (or write it down with a glass of wine in hand). Smart, funny, and oddly comforting.
Charity Trickett Is Not So Glamorous is a delightful mix of industry satire, emotional honesty, and sheer misadventure. Christine Stringer takes us behind the scenes of late-'90s Hollywood, where dreams glitter, reality bites, and one determined young woman stumbles (repeatedly) toward a career in film.
Charity is a charming, relatable protagonist—naïve, hopeful, stubborn, and just trying to keep her head above water while working for a mega-director on a blockbuster set. There are wild mishaps, awkward moments, and one near-catastrophe that made my stomach drop. I loved how the book balanced slapstick chaos with sharp observations about ambition, gatekeeping, and being a woman in a male-dominated industry.
The writing sparkles with wit, and despite the often absurd situations Charity finds herself in, there’s a beating heart at the centre of it all. Her vulnerability, resilience, and optimism kept me rooting for her—even when things got very messy.
It’s ideal for fans of Bridget Jones, The Devil Wears Prada, or anyone who's ever tried to break into a competitive field and lived to tell the tale (or write it down with a glass of wine in hand). Smart, funny, and oddly comforting.
April 30, 2025
I was so stinking excited to get this book! The book box was so cute and I loved everything inside it! As soon as I saw this cover and title I knew I wanted to read it. I love a 90s Hollywood era setting and this was exactly that!
Charity was such a fun character. This book had some really fun and laugh out loud funny moments. All of the 90s era references had me missing so many things! This will for sure be something the 90s babies and kids enjoy!
Charity was such a fun character. This book had some really fun and laugh out loud funny moments. All of the 90s era references had me missing so many things! This will for sure be something the 90s babies and kids enjoy!
November 1, 2025
Hollywood may sparkle, but it can be a minefield of chaos, mishaps, and unexpected disasters. Charity Trickett Is Not So Glamorous by Christine Stringer delivers a hilarious, heartfelt peek into 1990s Hollywood through the eyes of Charity, a young woman determined to break into the film industry. From assisting a blockbuster director to nearly derailing a major project, Charity navigates backstabbing coworkers, office politics, and her own missteps in ways that are both cringe-worthy and laugh-out-loud funny. Stringer perfectly captures the unpredictable energy of a workplace where ambition and ego collide.
Charity is the heart of the story. She is determined, flawed, naïve, and endlessly relatable. There were moments I wanted to shake her, yet her mistakes and triumphs felt authentic, grounding the chaos in a character you genuinely root for. Set in 1997, the story avoids smartphones and constant connectivity, allowing readers to experience a simpler, messier Hollywood. The supporting characters, from manipulative coworkers to sweet, understated romance interests, enrich the story and make Charity’s journey feel full and lived-in.
Fans of The Devil Wears Prada or 13 Going on 30 will feel at home here. The book balances slapstick humor with sharper observations about ambition, career obstacles, and friendship, offering both entertainment and relatability. Charity’s misadventures are a chaotic delight, her resilience inspiring, and the 1990s setting adds nostalgia that makes the story feel like a time capsule. Charity Trickett Is Not So Glamorous is a fun, heartfelt, and utterly engaging read that will leave you laughing, cheering, and wishing there was more time in this wonderfully chaotic world.
One of my latest faves!
Five out of five stars.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Charity is the heart of the story. She is determined, flawed, naïve, and endlessly relatable. There were moments I wanted to shake her, yet her mistakes and triumphs felt authentic, grounding the chaos in a character you genuinely root for. Set in 1997, the story avoids smartphones and constant connectivity, allowing readers to experience a simpler, messier Hollywood. The supporting characters, from manipulative coworkers to sweet, understated romance interests, enrich the story and make Charity’s journey feel full and lived-in.
Fans of The Devil Wears Prada or 13 Going on 30 will feel at home here. The book balances slapstick humor with sharper observations about ambition, career obstacles, and friendship, offering both entertainment and relatability. Charity’s misadventures are a chaotic delight, her resilience inspiring, and the 1990s setting adds nostalgia that makes the story feel like a time capsule. Charity Trickett Is Not So Glamorous is a fun, heartfelt, and utterly engaging read that will leave you laughing, cheering, and wishing there was more time in this wonderfully chaotic world.
One of my latest faves!
Five out of five stars.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2025
Set in the late 1990’s, this is an epic workplace women’s fiction book, based on true events. Charity aspires to be a movie writer and gets a gig working for a director at a Hollywood studio. This book was so unhinged in the best way. Charity puts up with sooooo much BS at her Hollywood job, and is pushed to the brink of insanity. I think anyone who is under appreciated at work will relate to this. The drama felt so real and I kept relating it to things that have happened to me at work (both prior and current job). I felt so bad for her! There are several characters you will hate (looking at you, Saffron!!). Thankfully she has close friends who help her along the way. And while the romance is secondary in this book, I loved that too. Definitely recommend this one!
💗 “No logical person has a handful of encounters with another person and thinks they’re in love.”
💗 “Where do I go to break down in private?”
💗 “No logical person has a handful of encounters with another person and thinks they’re in love.”
💗 “Where do I go to break down in private?”
July 8, 2026
Thank you to Spark Press for sending me an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed Charity Trickett Is Not So Glamorous by Canadian author Christine Stringer.
Set in the 90s, the story opens in Vancouver where Charity is an aspiring screenwriter working as a production assistant while navigating some disastrous personal setbacks.
No sooner has she extricated herself from one sticky situation than she gets what seems like a big break: the director invites her to move to L.A. to work as his assistant in a major studio.
Charity jumps at the chance, but all is not as rosy as it seems.
A lot of Charity's experience rang true for gig work in your 20s. She navigates:
- Terrible co-workers who have no boundaries
- Ambiguous job descriptions and reporting relationships
- Ethics around leveraging your connections
- Paying bills versus selling out
- Fake dating and 'we can't date' for various reasons
- Crashing hard on a core task and feeling like your professional life is on fire
Charity's friendship with rising star Vivy and her working relationship with Daniel, another assistant-turned producer, were the highlights for me.
The book ends somewhat suddenly--I kept flipping pages and was surprised when there wasn't more story. This is one rare case where I wished for an epilogue that wasn't there.
On the whole, a strong debut for Stringer and an enjoyable, breezy book. Perfect for a flight or beach read. Curious to see if this is the start of a series.
I enjoyed Charity Trickett Is Not So Glamorous by Canadian author Christine Stringer.
Set in the 90s, the story opens in Vancouver where Charity is an aspiring screenwriter working as a production assistant while navigating some disastrous personal setbacks.
No sooner has she extricated herself from one sticky situation than she gets what seems like a big break: the director invites her to move to L.A. to work as his assistant in a major studio.
Charity jumps at the chance, but all is not as rosy as it seems.
A lot of Charity's experience rang true for gig work in your 20s. She navigates:
- Terrible co-workers who have no boundaries
- Ambiguous job descriptions and reporting relationships
- Ethics around leveraging your connections
- Paying bills versus selling out
- Fake dating and 'we can't date' for various reasons
- Crashing hard on a core task and feeling like your professional life is on fire
Charity's friendship with rising star Vivy and her working relationship with Daniel, another assistant-turned producer, were the highlights for me.
The book ends somewhat suddenly--I kept flipping pages and was surprised when there wasn't more story. This is one rare case where I wished for an epilogue that wasn't there.
On the whole, a strong debut for Stringer and an enjoyable, breezy book. Perfect for a flight or beach read. Curious to see if this is the start of a series.
April 19, 2025
This was such a fun debut novel! It isn't in my typical genre as I don't read a lot of womens fic but have been trying to branch out and I really enjoyed it immediately! It has aspects of historical fiction too and I loved all the 90s references. It is such a great read for the summer or a beach read and the writing is quick witted and fun. Charity was such a rootable character that you couldn't help but want the best for. For sure recommend this for a fun beach read this summer!
Thanks to booksparks for the advance gifted copy!
Thanks to booksparks for the advance gifted copy!
May 7, 2025
i just loved this book!! charity is such a loveable character, i was rooting for her the whole time and she just felt so down to earth and real. i also loved (almost) all the side characters! all the ones you were supposed to love anyway lol
loooove the fact that all the chapters were 90s pop culture references, so fun!
honestly i just enjoyed this book so much, such a great story and i love that it’s based on the true story of what actually happened to the author as well!
thank you to netgalley and spark point for this ARC!!!
loooove the fact that all the chapters were 90s pop culture references, so fun!
honestly i just enjoyed this book so much, such a great story and i love that it’s based on the true story of what actually happened to the author as well!
thank you to netgalley and spark point for this ARC!!!
June 21, 2025
*Paperback
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨ (3.5/5)
The cover was adorable and it was chock full of late 90s-early 2000s nostalgia. The chapter titles brought back so many memories and for the younger crowd there is a 411 section in the back of the book to explain the significance of each title.
I actually learned a surprising amount about Hollywood while reading this one. While it is a work of fiction, the author had a similar experience which inspired this story.
🎥Toxic work environment
🎬Hollywood
🎥Schmoosing
🎬Comeback Story
🎥Party crashers
Overall I liked it, although it got a bit repetitive at times and my interest waned. I actually enjoyed the characters a lot and wanted more development out of them.
I thought Charity was likable. I was actually a little surprised at how things ended with her nemesis at the office, surprised in a good way. I also love when characters find their voice and that part of the book was well executed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨ (3.5/5)
The cover was adorable and it was chock full of late 90s-early 2000s nostalgia. The chapter titles brought back so many memories and for the younger crowd there is a 411 section in the back of the book to explain the significance of each title.
I actually learned a surprising amount about Hollywood while reading this one. While it is a work of fiction, the author had a similar experience which inspired this story.
🎥Toxic work environment
🎬Hollywood
🎥Schmoosing
🎬Comeback Story
🎥Party crashers
Overall I liked it, although it got a bit repetitive at times and my interest waned. I actually enjoyed the characters a lot and wanted more development out of them.
I thought Charity was likable. I was actually a little surprised at how things ended with her nemesis at the office, surprised in a good way. I also love when characters find their voice and that part of the book was well executed.
May 25, 2025
3.5⭐️
This is a salacious, fictionalized, behind the scenes of working in the movie industry. It’s as horrible and glamorous as you think.
Charity is a pushover that has goals and is trying to find a path to make her mark. While dealing with a lot of drama.
This was fun and new but often felt disjointed. I was craving more flow to understand how we got from one scene to another.
Overall, a very fun read that makes me glad I don’t work in Hollywood.
Pub date: June 10
Thank you serif for the copy 🤍🤍
July 13, 2026
Based on the author's real-life experiences as a former MGM studio assistant, this is a story about a kind-hearted woman who fights to keep her head above water as a Hollywood assistant. Through a series of misadventures, she becomes a resilient underdog with main-character energy.
In 1997, aspiring screenwriter Charity leaves a cheating boyfriend in Canada after landing a coveted assistant job at a Hollywood studio. However, she encounters toxic office politics, sabotage, and misogyny. Then, a mistake she makes could cost the studio millions and prompts an FBI investigation.
Charity is genuine and considerate, and her empathetic approach makes her likable but also makes her susceptible to manipulation by others. So, as she navigates the steep learning curve of the film industry, she makes some mistakes but we see a lot of growth across the story. I rooted for her.
Fortunately, Charity does meet some good people along the way, and I liked several of the supporting characters. I enjoyed the author's writing style, and this is a solid debut novel, but I would have liked a longer ending or epilogue. Overall, this is a quick, entertaining read that pulls the curtain back on Hollywood. Loved the nostalgic chapter titles, titled with fun 90s pop-culture references.
Julia Whelan does a phenomenal job with the audiobook narration! She captures Charity's vulnerabilities and anxieties as well as her wit. She made each character sound unique and draws you into the story
In 1997, aspiring screenwriter Charity leaves a cheating boyfriend in Canada after landing a coveted assistant job at a Hollywood studio. However, she encounters toxic office politics, sabotage, and misogyny. Then, a mistake she makes could cost the studio millions and prompts an FBI investigation.
Charity is genuine and considerate, and her empathetic approach makes her likable but also makes her susceptible to manipulation by others. So, as she navigates the steep learning curve of the film industry, she makes some mistakes but we see a lot of growth across the story. I rooted for her.
Fortunately, Charity does meet some good people along the way, and I liked several of the supporting characters. I enjoyed the author's writing style, and this is a solid debut novel, but I would have liked a longer ending or epilogue. Overall, this is a quick, entertaining read that pulls the curtain back on Hollywood. Loved the nostalgic chapter titles, titled with fun 90s pop-culture references.
Julia Whelan does a phenomenal job with the audiobook narration! She captures Charity's vulnerabilities and anxieties as well as her wit. She made each character sound unique and draws you into the story
August 4, 2026
4.5⭐️
🎙️Narrated by Julia Whelan
Yalllllll this was so fun! Idk what I was expecting but it wasn’t to be so enamored in this book & these characters that I had to lay in bed to finish listening before I could fall asleep!!
I loved the look into Hollywood in the 90s, but instead of from an actors perspective we’re in the other producer side of it. We get to see all of the things that go into a movie actually getting made & that process! Charity is just trying to survive and move up in her career. There’s drama, there’s romance, there’s a friend group & real life moments that all pulled the story together for me so well. It’s women’s fiction at its finest & I am truly so impressed with this debut!
🎧If you have a chance, listen to the audiobook! It’s narrated by Julia Whelan & at the end there’s an entire Q&A with the author that gave me so much insight into this being based on a true story! (The downfall of charity actually happened to the author when she was working in Hollywood!) & that part made me love the book even more! As always Julia does amazing & is truly one of the most phenomenal narrators out there!
Thank you so much to booksparks for the gifted book and audiobrary for the audiobook! 🫶🏼
🎙️Narrated by Julia Whelan
Yalllllll this was so fun! Idk what I was expecting but it wasn’t to be so enamored in this book & these characters that I had to lay in bed to finish listening before I could fall asleep!!
I loved the look into Hollywood in the 90s, but instead of from an actors perspective we’re in the other producer side of it. We get to see all of the things that go into a movie actually getting made & that process! Charity is just trying to survive and move up in her career. There’s drama, there’s romance, there’s a friend group & real life moments that all pulled the story together for me so well. It’s women’s fiction at its finest & I am truly so impressed with this debut!
🎧If you have a chance, listen to the audiobook! It’s narrated by Julia Whelan & at the end there’s an entire Q&A with the author that gave me so much insight into this being based on a true story! (The downfall of charity actually happened to the author when she was working in Hollywood!) & that part made me love the book even more! As always Julia does amazing & is truly one of the most phenomenal narrators out there!
Thank you so much to booksparks for the gifted book and audiobrary for the audiobook! 🫶🏼
July 4, 2026
This book is so much fun! If you’re looking for an easy, heart-filled summer read, consider giving this book a go. The audiobook is narrated by Julia Whelan so you know it’s going to be great.
Charity is a blast. It’s the 1990s and she’s making the move to LA for a new opportunity in the movie industry. Charity is a character that’s easy to love, giving everyone a chance, and dealing in kindness. I loved how relatable she is, and found myself rooting for her through all her trials. And man she handled her coworker well. I would have not been as patient or kind.
I flew through this book over a run / post run snack so you know it’s good! Also the hat was fantastic during the run 😉
Thank you to @booksparks @christinestringerauthor and @myaudiobrary for the audiobook. All opinions are my own.
Charity is a blast. It’s the 1990s and she’s making the move to LA for a new opportunity in the movie industry. Charity is a character that’s easy to love, giving everyone a chance, and dealing in kindness. I loved how relatable she is, and found myself rooting for her through all her trials. And man she handled her coworker well. I would have not been as patient or kind.
I flew through this book over a run / post run snack so you know it’s good! Also the hat was fantastic during the run 😉
Thank you to @booksparks @christinestringerauthor and @myaudiobrary for the audiobook. All opinions are my own.
July 16, 2026
4.25/5
This was such a fun nostalgia inducing read! Thanks to Booksparks and Audiobrary for the complimentary Audio copy! The combination of Christine's writing and Julia Whelan's narration felt like a feel good 90s Saturday at the movies. You will find yourself loving rooting for Charity the underdog as she navigates her way through Hollywood as an executive production assistant as a transplant with big screenwriting dreams. For much of the book it felt like Charity was suddenly the luckiest girl to land in LA. Loved watching her build her new found family and enjoyed the quirky cast of characters she chose for such. Definitely gave Devil Wears Prada Vibes witfh the competitveness within her professional space. I loved every second and definitely recommend for a quick feel good entertaining read.
This was such a fun nostalgia inducing read! Thanks to Booksparks and Audiobrary for the complimentary Audio copy! The combination of Christine's writing and Julia Whelan's narration felt like a feel good 90s Saturday at the movies. You will find yourself loving rooting for Charity the underdog as she navigates her way through Hollywood as an executive production assistant as a transplant with big screenwriting dreams. For much of the book it felt like Charity was suddenly the luckiest girl to land in LA. Loved watching her build her new found family and enjoyed the quirky cast of characters she chose for such. Definitely gave Devil Wears Prada Vibes witfh the competitveness within her professional space. I loved every second and definitely recommend for a quick feel good entertaining read.
May 7, 2025
I saw the blurb for Bridget Jones fans and was like I am in!
I loved the writing style, it was so easy to follow and you feel like you are sitting in the office building with Charity, Casper and Saffron in LA, watching the office politics of the ‘90s film industry.
I got The Devil Wears Prada vibes with the relationship with Saffron and FMC Charity. Saffron as a character mad me so angry (in a good way), she was so manipulative and back stabbing. She was written so well that you just wanted to get back at her for being so jealous and petty! Casper fed into that with his wishy washy favoriting them. I think when an author can make you hate a character without making them do truly bad/evil things, bravo!
And then her hunky coworker is just the most stellar guy! Very closed door romance, but just the sweet solid guy to counter balance the jerks in the side characters that you can imagine in Hollywood life.
And then at about the 95% mark, I started crying, I felt so connected and rooting for Charity that when she is finally broke and broken and is going to give up it was like noooo!
5 stars for evoking such emotions! This is not the great American novel, but something you could see as a movie with a young Reese Witherspoon in.
I loved the writing style, it was so easy to follow and you feel like you are sitting in the office building with Charity, Casper and Saffron in LA, watching the office politics of the ‘90s film industry.
I got The Devil Wears Prada vibes with the relationship with Saffron and FMC Charity. Saffron as a character mad me so angry (in a good way), she was so manipulative and back stabbing. She was written so well that you just wanted to get back at her for being so jealous and petty! Casper fed into that with his wishy washy favoriting them. I think when an author can make you hate a character without making them do truly bad/evil things, bravo!
And then her hunky coworker is just the most stellar guy! Very closed door romance, but just the sweet solid guy to counter balance the jerks in the side characters that you can imagine in Hollywood life.
And then at about the 95% mark, I started crying, I felt so connected and rooting for Charity that when she is finally broke and broken and is going to give up it was like noooo!
5 stars for evoking such emotions! This is not the great American novel, but something you could see as a movie with a young Reese Witherspoon in.
April 24, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and SparkPress for the e-arc!
This was fun! At first when I started the first couple of chapters, I wasn’t sure if this book was for me, but after getting a little deeper into the story, there came a point where I needed to know what happened next. I ended up really enjoying Charity’s character and seeing what was next for her. I also really enjoyed the different characters throughout the story as well, but wished there was some more clarity/development surrounding some of the relationships she had.
The pop culture references (especially the chapter titles) were greatly appreciated and I was surprised to learn that the author actually experienced some of the things Charity went through.
Overall, it was very much worth the read and would be a perfect book to bring to the beach or on vacation.
All opinions are my own.
This was fun! At first when I started the first couple of chapters, I wasn’t sure if this book was for me, but after getting a little deeper into the story, there came a point where I needed to know what happened next. I ended up really enjoying Charity’s character and seeing what was next for her. I also really enjoyed the different characters throughout the story as well, but wished there was some more clarity/development surrounding some of the relationships she had.
The pop culture references (especially the chapter titles) were greatly appreciated and I was surprised to learn that the author actually experienced some of the things Charity went through.
Overall, it was very much worth the read and would be a perfect book to bring to the beach or on vacation.
All opinions are my own.
September 1, 2025
This would’ve been 2000% more interesting if she fell for Vivy instead of Kai Nothingburger. (Also, mp3 players weren’t sold in the US until 1998, which I literally stopped reading to investigate, but that’s neither here nor there.)
November 14, 2025
Thank you to Kevin Wilson, NetGalley, and SparkPress for providing me with a copy of this e‑ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Charity Trickett is Not So Glamourous was a fun read in parts, mostly because of Charity herself. She’s quirky, witty, and handles herself with confidence in some pretty wild situations. I especially loved the moment she caught her boyfriend in a “lie,” the coffee incident, and the way she stood her ground with people who underestimated her. Those scenes really showed her strength and humor.
Where the book lost me was in the romance. When Charity fell for her new love interest, I couldn’t help but think… why him? He was easily the most cringy and annoying character in the entire story, and it made the romance feel forced and distracting compared to the rest of her journey.
Overall, this was a decent read with a strong, entertaining lead character, but the love story didn’t work for me. A solid 3 stars.
Charity Trickett is Not So Glamourous was a fun read in parts, mostly because of Charity herself. She’s quirky, witty, and handles herself with confidence in some pretty wild situations. I especially loved the moment she caught her boyfriend in a “lie,” the coffee incident, and the way she stood her ground with people who underestimated her. Those scenes really showed her strength and humor.
Where the book lost me was in the romance. When Charity fell for her new love interest, I couldn’t help but think… why him? He was easily the most cringy and annoying character in the entire story, and it made the romance feel forced and distracting compared to the rest of her journey.
Overall, this was a decent read with a strong, entertaining lead character, but the love story didn’t work for me. A solid 3 stars.
July 12, 2026
Thank you to Book Sparks, Audiobrary and Christine Stringer for this audiobook. All opinions are my own.
This was such a fun story! I loved the late 1990s Hollywood setting and being back in the world of CDs, pagers and dial up internet.
As someone who worked in TV for a short period of time, it was great to see the accurate and not-so-glamorous world of the entertainment industry and all the ridiculous tasks she was put through.
Charity is such a quirky character and there were so many scandals that she was involved in that kept the story interesting and I did feel for her! There were some great villains while other side character that I adored. And, although it was secondary, I also really liked her romance with Kai.
The audiobook is narrated by the brilliant Julia Whelan and she does a fantastic job as always! She really brought these characters to life and I definitely recommend on audiobook.
This was such a fun story! I loved the late 1990s Hollywood setting and being back in the world of CDs, pagers and dial up internet.
As someone who worked in TV for a short period of time, it was great to see the accurate and not-so-glamorous world of the entertainment industry and all the ridiculous tasks she was put through.
Charity is such a quirky character and there were so many scandals that she was involved in that kept the story interesting and I did feel for her! There were some great villains while other side character that I adored. And, although it was secondary, I also really liked her romance with Kai.
The audiobook is narrated by the brilliant Julia Whelan and she does a fantastic job as always! She really brought these characters to life and I definitely recommend on audiobook.
May 26, 2025
Charity Trickett is Not So Glamorous is a smart, funny, and refreshingly original novel that takes readers deep into the heart of 1990s Hollywood, where ambition runs high and the industry is cut throat. The story follows Charity, a determined director’s assistant with dreams of becoming a screenwriter and producer, as she navigates the male-dominated film world with hard work, humor, and a close circle of successful, supportive friends.
I’m usually hesitant to want my favorite books adapted for the screen, but I couldn’t help imagining how perfect this story would be as a TV series. It has all the charm, drama, and wit that would make it a binge-worthy hit.
Charity Trickett is Not So Glamorous hits shelves on 6/10, make sure it’s at the top of your TBR. You won’t be disappointed.
Thanks you NetGalley and SparkPress for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I’m usually hesitant to want my favorite books adapted for the screen, but I couldn’t help imagining how perfect this story would be as a TV series. It has all the charm, drama, and wit that would make it a binge-worthy hit.
Charity Trickett is Not So Glamorous hits shelves on 6/10, make sure it’s at the top of your TBR. You won’t be disappointed.
Thanks you NetGalley and SparkPress for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 22, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was fast paced and easy to grasp. Perfect for a summer read. I also really enjoyed the 90s themed chapter titles. As someone who grew up in the 90s the setting and time frame was nostalgic.
I enjoyed the entire story as a whole, but the ending just fell flat. It left me wishing there were more. I’m so happy everything worked out but it had me questioning if she would’ve just mentioned her problem to Vivy from jump … we would’ve got 2-3 chapters of them working the film.
I’m asking for a sequel please! I have to know more. Thank you NetGalley, Christine Stringer, & the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I enjoyed the entire story as a whole, but the ending just fell flat. It left me wishing there were more. I’m so happy everything worked out but it had me questioning if she would’ve just mentioned her problem to Vivy from jump … we would’ve got 2-3 chapters of them working the film.
I’m asking for a sequel please! I have to know more. Thank you NetGalley, Christine Stringer, & the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 12, 2025
I loved this book.
The plot is tightly written, no loop holes, no superfluous characters or scenes. I like that in a book. I feel like this is the kind of book I want to read over and over. So, I will definitely be checking out anything Stringer writes from here on out.
We find Charity moving up in the movie business, moving from Vancouver to work in LA. Stringer obviously has first-hand knowledge of what goes on in Tinseltown and it's not so glamorous, but we know that as an audience. What makes this book so good is that Charity finds some good eggs, just like her. I kept waiting for the shoe to drop; for her and for there to be more villains, and I was pleasantly surprised that I could just enjoy these characters.
The only thing I would say is I felt the ending could have given me more. I like the feeling of optimism at the end, but I could have used 5-10 more pages to tie it all together. Regardless, this is a great novel by a Canadian writer and I very much look forward to more from her!
Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The plot is tightly written, no loop holes, no superfluous characters or scenes. I like that in a book. I feel like this is the kind of book I want to read over and over. So, I will definitely be checking out anything Stringer writes from here on out.
We find Charity moving up in the movie business, moving from Vancouver to work in LA. Stringer obviously has first-hand knowledge of what goes on in Tinseltown and it's not so glamorous, but we know that as an audience. What makes this book so good is that Charity finds some good eggs, just like her. I kept waiting for the shoe to drop; for her and for there to be more villains, and I was pleasantly surprised that I could just enjoy these characters.
The only thing I would say is I felt the ending could have given me more. I like the feeling of optimism at the end, but I could have used 5-10 more pages to tie it all together. Regardless, this is a great novel by a Canadian writer and I very much look forward to more from her!
Thank you to Net Galley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 24, 2025
A very quick read that delves into the life of a twenty-something, female assistant, trying to make it in 90s Hollywood. As a millennial, I loved the homage to 90’s pop-culture by way of chapter titles. Charity was a very well developed character and this is a tale of how quickly a person can go from zero to hero, then back to zero, in Hollywood. I enjoyed this book and hope there’s a sequel so that we can see what happens to Miss Trickett next.
August 4, 2025
This is was a cute book.
I definitely romanticize the 1990s. I was just a kid, but I loved all the glitz and glam of Hollywood. I wanted to be grown up and wear nice things and drive fancy cars. Very 13 going on 30 mindset. Now I want to go to bed at 9pm and my kobo.
So this book scratched my childhood dream’s itch.
Fancy celebrities
Being young a scrappy
Trying to make your dreams come true
That anything is possible mentality of your 20s
I definitely romanticize the 1990s. I was just a kid, but I loved all the glitz and glam of Hollywood. I wanted to be grown up and wear nice things and drive fancy cars. Very 13 going on 30 mindset. Now I want to go to bed at 9pm and my kobo.
So this book scratched my childhood dream’s itch.
Fancy celebrities
Being young a scrappy
Trying to make your dreams come true
That anything is possible mentality of your 20s
June 4, 2025
Great book! It took me a bit to get into the story since it's not my usual genre, but once I did, I was hooked. I loved the 90s references used as chapter titles - they added a fun touch. The portrayal of the challenges faced by women in the industry was also an interesting and insightful aspect. I'm looking forward to reading more books by this author.
June 25, 2025
Actually obsessed lol Charity’s a whole mess in the best way. Totally felt like watching your chaotic bestie try to keep it together, and honestly? I was rooting for her the whole time. It’s funny, real, and had me low-key emotional at points. Not perfect, but super fun.
July 8, 2026
I enjoyed this. It takes place when people still had pagers and it was nice to go back a few years and enjoy the nostalgia. The main character was fun and I enjoyed seeing her growth. I even got so frustrated with the “villian” of the story which made me realize I was vested in the story. I LOL several times. I really look forward to book 2.
June 7, 2025
Thank you SparkPress, NetGalley and author Christine Stringer for the advanced e-book copy for an opportunity to review. All opinions are my own.
Charity is a fantastic, relatable main character with early career drive and energy. Set in 1990’s Hollywood, this book is filled with fantastic pop-culture references any GenX reader or fan of that decade will get a kick out of. The first 2/3 of the book, I didn’t want to put it down. The Nellie Olsen (Little House on the Prairie) sabotaging energy the character Saffron brought was captivating!
***SLIGHT SPOILER HERE***I was just waiting for her to get caught or get her due…but she doesn’t. ***END OF SPOILER***
And the last 1/3 of the story went in a different direction that lowered my interest level. The story seemed to hop around a bit at the end, but wrapped up nicely with strong friendship / found family vibes.
Overall, a fun summer read with some laugh out loud moments. This was a 3.75/5 read for me - fun, interesting, just a little inconsistent toward the end.
Charity is a fantastic, relatable main character with early career drive and energy. Set in 1990’s Hollywood, this book is filled with fantastic pop-culture references any GenX reader or fan of that decade will get a kick out of. The first 2/3 of the book, I didn’t want to put it down. The Nellie Olsen (Little House on the Prairie) sabotaging energy the character Saffron brought was captivating!
***SLIGHT SPOILER HERE***I was just waiting for her to get caught or get her due…but she doesn’t. ***END OF SPOILER***
And the last 1/3 of the story went in a different direction that lowered my interest level. The story seemed to hop around a bit at the end, but wrapped up nicely with strong friendship / found family vibes.
Overall, a fun summer read with some laugh out loud moments. This was a 3.75/5 read for me - fun, interesting, just a little inconsistent toward the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2025
My First ARC and it was so perfect. I really loved this book especially since I am a millennial and love all things 90s. I saw some of myself in Charity and that's what had me cheering her on the whole way. This was my first women fic where the plot wasn't solely based on a romance and honestly it was a breath of fresh air. Don't get me wrong I love a good romance and spicy scenes but seeing her find her LA family and stand up for herself to a bunch of toxic people was really validating. She also had a really IDF attitude about a lot of things that I honestly wish I had sometimes. Definitely consider picking this one up when it its shelves on June 10th, you wont be disappointed.
Thank you Charity, for showing us not all the things in life have to be glamorous and perfect.
Thank you Charity, for showing us not all the things in life have to be glamorous and perfect.
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