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Honeymoon Stage
Brimming with wit and romance, this twisty trip back to the early 2000s follows as a former production assistant’s upcoming marriage descends into the confusion, chaos, and karmic consequences of reality TV.
It’s the night before her wedding, and Cassidy Baum isn’t sure she wants to get married…Or maybe she just doesn’t want to get married on set, surrounded by cameras and crew, with the crushing weight of everyone watching.
As a production assistant, Cassidy’s used to being behind the camera, not in front of it. But her fiancé is a former child star and musician, and their wedding makes the perfect spin-off for Honeymoon Stage, the groundbreaking celebreality show she once worked on.
Five years ago, the show fell apart—for dramatic reasons Cassidy is still struggling to understand. Now, Cassidy is forced to reckon with what happened on set to search out the truth once and for all before her wedding is broadcast to the world.
Rumors, lies, and suspicions come rushing back. And if Cassidy can’t figure out a way to make sense of the past, her own happily ever after may not be so happy after all.
It’s the night before her wedding, and Cassidy Baum isn’t sure she wants to get married…Or maybe she just doesn’t want to get married on set, surrounded by cameras and crew, with the crushing weight of everyone watching.
As a production assistant, Cassidy’s used to being behind the camera, not in front of it. But her fiancé is a former child star and musician, and their wedding makes the perfect spin-off for Honeymoon Stage, the groundbreaking celebreality show she once worked on.
Five years ago, the show fell apart—for dramatic reasons Cassidy is still struggling to understand. Now, Cassidy is forced to reckon with what happened on set to search out the truth once and for all before her wedding is broadcast to the world.
Rumors, lies, and suspicions come rushing back. And if Cassidy can’t figure out a way to make sense of the past, her own happily ever after may not be so happy after all.
271 pages, Paperback
First published November 4, 2025
107 people are currently reading
4261 people want to read
About the author
Margaux Eliot
1 book22 followersMargaux Eliot is excited to give early aughts pop culture its due. Writing as Julia Fine, she is also the author of speculative novels The Upstairs House, What Should Be Wild, and Maddalena and the Dark. She lives in Chicago with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
July 12, 2025
Honeymoon Stage follows Cassidy Baum across two timelines - as a production assistant for an early 2000s celebrity reality show and on the eve/day of her to-be televised wedding in 2007. The show Cassidy works on, called Honeymoon Stage (loosely based on MTV’s The Newlyweds) follows popstar Maggie McKee and former baseball player Jason Dean as they navigate their first years of marriage. Maggie and Jason have turned over the rights to any privacy in their new home in exchange for a chance to make a name for themselves on television. As Cassidy dives further into the world of reality tv and celebrity, she realizes that the shiny images onscreen are far from the truth, and that both fame and spinning stories come at a cost.
I thoroughly enjoyed this! The dual timelines were very engaging and it was satisfying to see how all the pieces from the earlier timeline came together to form Cassidy’s wedding day. The story had a fun beach-read feel but was anchored by razor-sharp writing and a strong feminist lens. I loved reading a story that really felt like the early 2000s pop culture moments, but felt steeped in a 2025 point of view. Eliot’s point of view on the cost of fame and pitfalls of reality television felt present throughout. She handled the character of Maggie McKee with clear care and empathy, while still giving Maggie the necessary sparkly and wild air of celebrity as seen through Cassidy’s eyes. Also - truly no one writes a complicated female relationship quite like Margaux. I’m a big fan and definitely recommend! 4.5/5 stars from me
I thoroughly enjoyed this! The dual timelines were very engaging and it was satisfying to see how all the pieces from the earlier timeline came together to form Cassidy’s wedding day. The story had a fun beach-read feel but was anchored by razor-sharp writing and a strong feminist lens. I loved reading a story that really felt like the early 2000s pop culture moments, but felt steeped in a 2025 point of view. Eliot’s point of view on the cost of fame and pitfalls of reality television felt present throughout. She handled the character of Maggie McKee with clear care and empathy, while still giving Maggie the necessary sparkly and wild air of celebrity as seen through Cassidy’s eyes. Also - truly no one writes a complicated female relationship quite like Margaux. I’m a big fan and definitely recommend! 4.5/5 stars from me
October 20, 2025
Touted as a twisty trip back to the early 2000’s and it follows former TV production assistant Cassidy Baum and on the night before she marries Gabriel Leighton a former child star of The Tiger Crew; she over hears him talking to a woman and wonders if he’s getting cold feet or it's something more sinister?
They are re-enacting the wedding a spin-off of the show Honeymoon Stage by holding their own nuptials in front of a camera and the main star Maggie is going to be the matron of honor, and the confusing dual timeline goes between 2002 and 2007.
Five years ago, the Honeymoon Stage ended after two and a half seasons and Cassidy is still trying to understand why? I’m really sorry but I didn’t connect to any of the characters in this novel including Cassidy, Maggie, Gabe, Jason or Lauren.
I think this is supposed to be some kind of tribute towards television shows like Nick and Jessica, I’m sorry but I found it a slog to read, the narrative jumped all over the place and it moved at a snail pace.
I received a copy of Honeymoon Stage by Margaux Eliot from NetGalley and Little A Publishing in exchange for an honest review. Give me something more like the Gilmore Girls any day and I would have been so blissfully happy and devoured it. Maybe my old brain just didn’t get the story, time period and two stars from me.
I won’t be sharing this review anywhere other than on Goodreads and as I think it would be unkind to Ms Eliot.
They are re-enacting the wedding a spin-off of the show Honeymoon Stage by holding their own nuptials in front of a camera and the main star Maggie is going to be the matron of honor, and the confusing dual timeline goes between 2002 and 2007.
Five years ago, the Honeymoon Stage ended after two and a half seasons and Cassidy is still trying to understand why? I’m really sorry but I didn’t connect to any of the characters in this novel including Cassidy, Maggie, Gabe, Jason or Lauren.
I think this is supposed to be some kind of tribute towards television shows like Nick and Jessica, I’m sorry but I found it a slog to read, the narrative jumped all over the place and it moved at a snail pace.
I received a copy of Honeymoon Stage by Margaux Eliot from NetGalley and Little A Publishing in exchange for an honest review. Give me something more like the Gilmore Girls any day and I would have been so blissfully happy and devoured it. Maybe my old brain just didn’t get the story, time period and two stars from me.
I won’t be sharing this review anywhere other than on Goodreads and as I think it would be unkind to Ms Eliot.
August 8, 2025
Honeymoon Stage by Margaux Eliot. Thanks to @kayepublicity for the gifted Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It’s the night before Cassidy Baum’s wedding, yet she’s surrounded by cameras and crew. As she reminisces on how she got her, it takes her back to the early 2000’s as she started a job as a production assistant on a reality TV show.
Anyone who lived through reality shows of the 2000’s will appreciate this one. While the characters are not real celebrities, they seem heavily modeled off of Jessica and Nick, and the reality show very similar to the Newlyweds. My favorite parts of this story were the clips and details about the show. While that’s light hearted, there are some serious topics as well. I enjoyed the drama behind Cassidy’s story and love how her and Gabe grew into their confidence and each other.
“Sometimes the person you think that you are, the character you’ve made yourself out to be in your own head, is no realer than the mask of a TV celebrity.”
Honeymoon Stage comes out 11/4.
It’s the night before Cassidy Baum’s wedding, yet she’s surrounded by cameras and crew. As she reminisces on how she got her, it takes her back to the early 2000’s as she started a job as a production assistant on a reality TV show.
Anyone who lived through reality shows of the 2000’s will appreciate this one. While the characters are not real celebrities, they seem heavily modeled off of Jessica and Nick, and the reality show very similar to the Newlyweds. My favorite parts of this story were the clips and details about the show. While that’s light hearted, there are some serious topics as well. I enjoyed the drama behind Cassidy’s story and love how her and Gabe grew into their confidence and each other.
“Sometimes the person you think that you are, the character you’ve made yourself out to be in your own head, is no realer than the mask of a TV celebrity.”
Honeymoon Stage comes out 11/4.
July 6, 2025
If you ever watched Newlyweds with Nick and Jessica or find yourself yearning for more gossip about behind the scenes on The Hills, you must must must pick this one up. As a reality TV junkie, this story was right up my alley and was so fun to read. I loved that at moments, you could tell where the inspiration from a character action came from, and I so appreciated that at the end of the story, the author acknowledged all the early 2000's girlies that suffered in the public eye. The pacing on this one is really good – once you start, there's really not a slow moment. There are two POVs (one past, one present) and I think the way those POV changes are interspersed was super well done.
*Thanks to Little A and NetGalley for the ARC!*
*Thanks to Little A and NetGalley for the ARC!*
July 1, 2025
This was the absolute perfect beach and vaca read for me, an elder millennial who was shaped massively but the media and popular treatment of my generation's female pop stars in the early aughts. I'm so grateful Jessica Simpson is on her own redemption arc at the moment; this book, especially its ending (please see it through) is a welcome, tangy side dish. Justice for Maggie, always and forever.
July 17, 2025
˗ˏˋ 5 stars ⟡ ݁₊ .
this was such a unique book and i thoroughly enjoyed reading it. i loved the little mystery subplot as well. i literally did not know who the trust whilst reading it. if you love watching reality tv shows, this book is for you! 10/10 would recommend!!
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
this was such a unique book and i thoroughly enjoyed reading it. i loved the little mystery subplot as well. i literally did not know who the trust whilst reading it. if you love watching reality tv shows, this book is for you! 10/10 would recommend!!
⤷ thank you to netgalley, the publisher and the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2025
If you like books about fame and like watching reality tv, then don’t you should really check this one out.
A dual timeline book, following the character as she works on a reality tv set, to later starring in her own reality show of sorts, it’s really a ride. With spot on characters, drama, and unexpected twists, I really didn’t know where this book was going.
I was hooked from the first page. The plot just grabbed me and did a great job at keeping me interested in and engaged in the story. It was really a great story surrounding the reality tv scene.
I love how the author added twists, between characters and with the plot itself. Such a fantastic novel that I can’t hype enough right now.
A debut novel that I recommend you check out if it seems up your alley! And one I’m hoping there could be a sequel too? I can see so many paths taken to keep the plot moving.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, received from Kaye Publicity and Margaux Eliot. However, all thoughts and views reflected are strictly my own opinions.
A dual timeline book, following the character as she works on a reality tv set, to later starring in her own reality show of sorts, it’s really a ride. With spot on characters, drama, and unexpected twists, I really didn’t know where this book was going.
I was hooked from the first page. The plot just grabbed me and did a great job at keeping me interested in and engaged in the story. It was really a great story surrounding the reality tv scene.
I love how the author added twists, between characters and with the plot itself. Such a fantastic novel that I can’t hype enough right now.
A debut novel that I recommend you check out if it seems up your alley! And one I’m hoping there could be a sequel too? I can see so many paths taken to keep the plot moving.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, received from Kaye Publicity and Margaux Eliot. However, all thoughts and views reflected are strictly my own opinions.
October 21, 2025
Dual timelines, reality tv, reality and a lot of drama and I was here for it.
This was truly a fun read. Nothing was as it seems, as it is with reality tv. The relationships were all suspect. The industry seemed very flawed and our main character is just struggling to find her place in it all.
Pub: Nov 4
Thank you firefly for the copy!
This was truly a fun read. Nothing was as it seems, as it is with reality tv. The relationships were all suspect. The industry seemed very flawed and our main character is just struggling to find her place in it all.
Pub: Nov 4
Thank you firefly for the copy!
June 30, 2025
I loved this book so much ! It is an entertaining and insightful insider look at the beginning of reality television. The main character is flawed and feisty and the dialogue is laugh out loud funny. The love story is believable and the twists keep you rooting for the couple to find their way. It’s also a well researched critique of early 2000s popular culture and the way young female celebrities were (mis)treated and unfairly judged. If you like Curtis Sittenfeld or Emily Henry, you will love this book!
July 23, 2025
I could not put this down!
Perfect for anyone who ever watched Newlyweds and wondered what was really going on behind the scenes….
Gabe & Cassidy ❤️
When’s the next Margaux Eliot book coming out?!?!
Perfect for anyone who ever watched Newlyweds and wondered what was really going on behind the scenes….
Gabe & Cassidy ❤️
When’s the next Margaux Eliot book coming out?!?!
November 5, 2025
Honeymoon Stage takes place in two timelines in the aughts - the "present day" which falls on the wedding weekend of Cassidy and Gabe in 2007, where we're left wondering if the two will make it down the aisle after Cassidy overhears Gabe talking to a mysterious women about "coming clean to her" and "the past" where Cassidy is working as a production assistant in 2002 on the reality tv show "Honeymoon Stage," which is a spoof of Nick and Jessica's "Newlyweds" show and also features the early days of Cassidy and Gabe's courtship. Turns out Gabe was a child star alongside Maggie McKee, the female half of the Honeymoon Stage couple, and Maggie was his first love. As secrets are revealed about Maggie and Jason's relationship when the cameras are off, Cassidy is left questioning everything.
This is a hard book to recap because there were so many moving pieces across two timelines. Overall though, it was a mostly fun read, albeit incredibly shallow. The storyline about how (name omitted) died and whether anyone was responsible for their death was weird though and completely overblown in a way that took some of the enjoyment out of the second half of the book. I did enjoy the way the big mystery of who Gabe was talking to and what he was hiding was the throughline of the story and the way the present day was tied back to chapters of the show in the past. That being said, the ending definitely left me wanting more, although I saw what was happening as the book was winding down and there was only so much story left to tell. It was a fun, frothy read about reality tv in the early 2000s that would make for a good palate cleaner between more serious titles.
Overall: 3.25/5
This is a hard book to recap because there were so many moving pieces across two timelines. Overall though, it was a mostly fun read, albeit incredibly shallow. The storyline about how (name omitted) died and whether anyone was responsible for their death was weird though and completely overblown in a way that took some of the enjoyment out of the second half of the book. I did enjoy the way the big mystery of who Gabe was talking to and what he was hiding was the throughline of the story and the way the present day was tied back to chapters of the show in the past. That being said, the ending definitely left me wanting more, although I saw what was happening as the book was winding down and there was only so much story left to tell. It was a fun, frothy read about reality tv in the early 2000s that would make for a good palate cleaner between more serious titles.
Overall: 3.25/5
November 10, 2025
I really enjoyed this audiobook! The book leaned more heavily toward romance than the blurb indicated, so I was a bit worried. However, the bouncing back and forth between the two timelines helped keep the pace moving at a great clip. The plot was twisty and absurd in places, but it actually contributed to the fun. I laughed. And I was invested in how everything would turn out for all our main charachters. Overall, I really appreciated this look back into the early aughts, as a former superfan of Newlyweds and other bingeworthy "groundbreaking" reality TV.
Thanks to Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for the advance listening copy.
Thanks to Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for the advance listening copy.
November 4, 2025
Honeymoon Stage (thank you @kayepublicity ) may look light and shiny, just like those early 2k pop stars.
But it definitely hides a darker side.
In 2007, Cassidy is about to get married on a reality TV show. It's a spin-off of the show where she worked as a production assistant in 2002, about young pop star Maggie and her baseball playing husband Dean. Think Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey on Newlyweds.
I went into this expecting a romance. And the romance storyline is there, and fun. I loved the will-they won't-they between Cassidy and former child star Gabriel.
But their relationship is far from breezy. Especially since Maggie isn't the vapid blonde she plays on TV, and is much more manipulative than anyone gives her credit for.
It's a look at how fame- and men- can twist and darken. The line between what we see and the truth. And even how our own perceptions shape our reality.
Come for the juicy reality show gossip. But stay for the sharp social critique.
But it definitely hides a darker side.
In 2007, Cassidy is about to get married on a reality TV show. It's a spin-off of the show where she worked as a production assistant in 2002, about young pop star Maggie and her baseball playing husband Dean. Think Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey on Newlyweds.
I went into this expecting a romance. And the romance storyline is there, and fun. I loved the will-they won't-they between Cassidy and former child star Gabriel.
But their relationship is far from breezy. Especially since Maggie isn't the vapid blonde she plays on TV, and is much more manipulative than anyone gives her credit for.
It's a look at how fame- and men- can twist and darken. The line between what we see and the truth. And even how our own perceptions shape our reality.
Come for the juicy reality show gossip. But stay for the sharp social critique.
November 9, 2025
2.5 ⭐️ Good reminder that idgaf about famous people
Read
November 10, 2025Perfect book for the absolutely insane week of work and busy chaos
October 23, 2025
Honeymoon Stage is brimming with wit, nostalgia, and early 2000s reality TV drama. The story follows Cassidy, a former production assistant who suddenly finds herself back in front of the camera when her upcoming marriage to Gabe, a former child star and musician, turns into the perfect spinoff opportunity. But as the cameras start rolling again, Cassidy is forced to face the chaos, confusion, and consequences of her past on set.
This book feels like a love letter to reality TV. It’s fast-paced, dramatic, and filled with all the gossip, rumors, and questionable choices that made early 2000s television so addictive. I especially loved the alternating timelines and commentary on fame, media, and perception.
That said, I found myself wishing for a bit more focus on Cassidy and Gabe’s romance. While the side characters and subplots add fun layers of drama, they overshadowed the emotional depth of the main relationship. I wanted to feel more connected to them and really root for their happily ever after.
Overall, Honeymoon Stage is an entertaining read that's great for readers who love behind-the-scenes stories and messy celebrity lives.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher & NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
This book feels like a love letter to reality TV. It’s fast-paced, dramatic, and filled with all the gossip, rumors, and questionable choices that made early 2000s television so addictive. I especially loved the alternating timelines and commentary on fame, media, and perception.
That said, I found myself wishing for a bit more focus on Cassidy and Gabe’s romance. While the side characters and subplots add fun layers of drama, they overshadowed the emotional depth of the main relationship. I wanted to feel more connected to them and really root for their happily ever after.
Overall, Honeymoon Stage is an entertaining read that's great for readers who love behind-the-scenes stories and messy celebrity lives.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher & NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
November 11, 2025
Honeymoon Stage was an absolute delight to read! The kind of book with a delicious nugget on every page—a laugh-out-loud one-liner, a morsel of Millennial nostalgia, an insightful takedown of sexist early aughts celebrity culture, a thrilling, unexpected twist (and then another, and another). The core romantic plotline was beautifully tender, without being over-saccharine. The writing was sharp and accessible and full of wisdom. This book was such a fun read and ride. I was sad it had to end!
October 13, 2025
The premise sounded intriguing but I could not connect to Cassidy or the other characters and neither of the two timelines were compelling to me, though I was more interested in the present day/pre-wedding story. I think readers interested in reality dating show production and relationship dramas may enjoy.
Thank you to Little A and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a copy.
Thank you to Little A and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a copy.
October 7, 2025
Nice twists, but inadequately explored. Couldn't invest into any of the characters, just like actual reality tv characters.
November 13, 2025
“Honeymoon Stage” follows Cassidy, a former reality TV show PA who is about to marry Gabe, a man she met while working on the set of a show like “Newlywoods: Nick and Jessica”. But is Gabe keeping something from her? Does she have a reason to call off their wedding? Easier said than done since it’s also being filmed for TV.
This book is a genre bender in that it was kind of all over the place tonally. The description of the book says it all – “brimming with wit and romance, this twisty tale …”. So what is it? A mystery? Romance? General contemporary fiction? I couldn’t really keep up from moment to moment. And the ending was quite confusing to me.
I’ll note that there are some reviewers who seem to feel the same way I do, but even more who loved it. So I think I may be in the minority here in feeling like it was just ok.
Readers who love reality TV, especially those who were raised on “Newlyweds”, will enjoy this though if they go in with proper expectations, just looking for a fun and soapy read.
PS: Thank you to NetGalley and Little A for providing me with an Advanced Reading Copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
This book is a genre bender in that it was kind of all over the place tonally. The description of the book says it all – “brimming with wit and romance, this twisty tale …”. So what is it? A mystery? Romance? General contemporary fiction? I couldn’t really keep up from moment to moment. And the ending was quite confusing to me.
I’ll note that there are some reviewers who seem to feel the same way I do, but even more who loved it. So I think I may be in the minority here in feeling like it was just ok.
Readers who love reality TV, especially those who were raised on “Newlyweds”, will enjoy this though if they go in with proper expectations, just looking for a fun and soapy read.
PS: Thank you to NetGalley and Little A for providing me with an Advanced Reading Copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own!
November 2, 2025
It’s the night before her wedding, and Cassidy Baum isn’t sure she wants to get married… Or maybe she just doesn’t want to get married on set. As a production assistant, Cassidy is used to being behind the camera, not in front of it. But her fiancé is a former child star and musician, and their wedding makes the perfect spin-off for Honeymoon Stage, the groundbreaking celebreality show she once worked on. Five years ago, the show fell apart—for dramatic reasons Cassidy is still struggling to understand. Now, Cassidy is forced to reckon with what happened on set to search out the truth once and for all before her wedding is broadcast to the world.
This was such a fun, quick, entertaining read. Absolutely loved the reality TV aspects of it all, and the way it felt like peeking behind the curtain of something that's so popular and so incredibly interesting, as someone who absolutely loves television and is incredibly fascinated by how everything about it works. The writing is so captivating, and so witty, it truly made for such a wonderful read. The characters are so fascinating, so complex, honestly so perfectly written, it truly feels like they are real celebrities— or celebrity adjacent. There are so many interesting characters and subplots going on, and they are handled so well, it never feels like too much, and they all work perfectly to add layers to the story, and they all wrap up in a way that makes everything fit so satisfyingly. I listened to the audiobook for this one, and it definitely made my reading experience all the more fun; the narrator did an incredible job bringing this story to life, and making it even more engaging.
Many thanks to Brilliance Publishing & NetGalley for the ALC. All opinions are my own.
This was such a fun, quick, entertaining read. Absolutely loved the reality TV aspects of it all, and the way it felt like peeking behind the curtain of something that's so popular and so incredibly interesting, as someone who absolutely loves television and is incredibly fascinated by how everything about it works. The writing is so captivating, and so witty, it truly made for such a wonderful read. The characters are so fascinating, so complex, honestly so perfectly written, it truly feels like they are real celebrities— or celebrity adjacent. There are so many interesting characters and subplots going on, and they are handled so well, it never feels like too much, and they all work perfectly to add layers to the story, and they all wrap up in a way that makes everything fit so satisfyingly. I listened to the audiobook for this one, and it definitely made my reading experience all the more fun; the narrator did an incredible job bringing this story to life, and making it even more engaging.
Many thanks to Brilliance Publishing & NetGalley for the ALC. All opinions are my own.
November 5, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
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Cassidy gets a job as an assistant on the new reality show Honeymoon Stage following the first year of marriage between two famous people (think Newlyweds with Jessica Simpson). Being the early 2000’s this was the first show of its kind and Cassidy had no idea what to expect, all she knew is that it could not possibly be interesting. Little does she know it would change her life, as she spends years trying to unravel many things she shouldn't have seen.
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WOW WOW WOW, a very accurate ode to the early 2000’s, millennials rejoice! When Gabe was texting Cassidy and apologized that he knew texting her I was expensive I wanted to stand up and clap my hands. Texting used to cost money for EVERY text sent AND received if you were unaware. BUT the plot. I had no idea what I signed up for when I requested this book, I thought it looked like a nice early 2000’s romance and I got something so much better. This book is part romance, part reality tv, part drama, part mystery, and ALL GOOD. No part outshines another, it all blends so seamlessly together. I loved the reality TV plot, it was SO Newlyweds. The dumb blonde hot young wife, the not-as-famous husband, trying to live their lives before reality TV got so scripted. The romance between Cassidy and Gabe was mysterious, passionate, and felt real. The weird friendship between Cassidy and Maggie was intriguing. I loved reading about Cassidy’s job, the life of a production assistant on such a weird job that didn’t really exist before then. This is such a quick, fun, nostalgic read. If you were a millennial who binged Newlyweds, Simple Life, etc. you will LOVE this book.
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Cassidy gets a job as an assistant on the new reality show Honeymoon Stage following the first year of marriage between two famous people (think Newlyweds with Jessica Simpson). Being the early 2000’s this was the first show of its kind and Cassidy had no idea what to expect, all she knew is that it could not possibly be interesting. Little does she know it would change her life, as she spends years trying to unravel many things she shouldn't have seen.
-
WOW WOW WOW, a very accurate ode to the early 2000’s, millennials rejoice! When Gabe was texting Cassidy and apologized that he knew texting her I was expensive I wanted to stand up and clap my hands. Texting used to cost money for EVERY text sent AND received if you were unaware. BUT the plot. I had no idea what I signed up for when I requested this book, I thought it looked like a nice early 2000’s romance and I got something so much better. This book is part romance, part reality tv, part drama, part mystery, and ALL GOOD. No part outshines another, it all blends so seamlessly together. I loved the reality TV plot, it was SO Newlyweds. The dumb blonde hot young wife, the not-as-famous husband, trying to live their lives before reality TV got so scripted. The romance between Cassidy and Gabe was mysterious, passionate, and felt real. The weird friendship between Cassidy and Maggie was intriguing. I loved reading about Cassidy’s job, the life of a production assistant on such a weird job that didn’t really exist before then. This is such a quick, fun, nostalgic read. If you were a millennial who binged Newlyweds, Simple Life, etc. you will LOVE this book.
October 31, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley and Brilliance Audio for an ARC of this audiobook.
This book was phenomenal! I loved how the author paid homage to the early aughts, when reality TV was just starting to take over pop culture. This is a great fiction story, interwoven in a love story that doesn’t make the listener want to barf (sorry - Romance novels aren’t my favorite).
Told in dual timelines alternating between October 2007 and the years 2002 to 2004, we meet our female main character, Cassidy. She is a likable character who is trying to break her way into television as a Production Assistant in the.new reality show “Honeymoon Stage” (very obviously based on the Nick Lachey/Jessica Simpson Newlywed show from the same era). The start of her relationship journey with former child star Gabriel also endears her to listeners of this audiobook.
I don’t know if it was because I was about the same age as Cassidy was during the time period in this book or because I love all things pop culture but I finished this audiobook in record time. At no point did I find the plot dragged on and I loved how the dual timelines built up the story. I hope that the author continues to write under this name and genre (I’m not a fan of her fantasy novels under the name “Julia Fine”).
This book was phenomenal! I loved how the author paid homage to the early aughts, when reality TV was just starting to take over pop culture. This is a great fiction story, interwoven in a love story that doesn’t make the listener want to barf (sorry - Romance novels aren’t my favorite).
Told in dual timelines alternating between October 2007 and the years 2002 to 2004, we meet our female main character, Cassidy. She is a likable character who is trying to break her way into television as a Production Assistant in the.new reality show “Honeymoon Stage” (very obviously based on the Nick Lachey/Jessica Simpson Newlywed show from the same era). The start of her relationship journey with former child star Gabriel also endears her to listeners of this audiobook.
I don’t know if it was because I was about the same age as Cassidy was during the time period in this book or because I love all things pop culture but I finished this audiobook in record time. At no point did I find the plot dragged on and I loved how the dual timelines built up the story. I hope that the author continues to write under this name and genre (I’m not a fan of her fantasy novels under the name “Julia Fine”).
November 5, 2025
This book is for fans of reality TV, misunderstandings, and a tribute to the early 2000s.
Cassidy finds herself as a PA on a reality television show with a couple who may or may not love each other. She knew Maggie as a child, but they had not seen each other in at least a decade. Along the way, she meets the love of her life, Gabe. But it isn't a smooth road to forever.
I have mixed emotions about this book. There are some great parts, and some not-so-great parts. I felt the book moved at a slow pace, and while it primarily flashes back to 2002 to give us the backstory of this reality show and Cassidy, it also shares her story in 2007 and her wedding to Gabe.
I didn't connect to Cassidy because she was too idealistic, which may have had something to do with her age (early to mid 20s). She had her mind set on how the world should be, and was sure someone was killed by one of the cast members. Yet, she had no proof. It was all in her head. I did enjoy watching her relationship with Gabe unfold. However, she jumped to many conclusions even with Gabe.
While slower-paced, I thought it picked up around 75% through. It was an enjoyable story despite its flaws.
We give it 3 1/2 paws up.
Cassidy finds herself as a PA on a reality television show with a couple who may or may not love each other. She knew Maggie as a child, but they had not seen each other in at least a decade. Along the way, she meets the love of her life, Gabe. But it isn't a smooth road to forever.
I have mixed emotions about this book. There are some great parts, and some not-so-great parts. I felt the book moved at a slow pace, and while it primarily flashes back to 2002 to give us the backstory of this reality show and Cassidy, it also shares her story in 2007 and her wedding to Gabe.
I didn't connect to Cassidy because she was too idealistic, which may have had something to do with her age (early to mid 20s). She had her mind set on how the world should be, and was sure someone was killed by one of the cast members. Yet, she had no proof. It was all in her head. I did enjoy watching her relationship with Gabe unfold. However, she jumped to many conclusions even with Gabe.
While slower-paced, I thought it picked up around 75% through. It was an enjoyable story despite its flaws.
We give it 3 1/2 paws up.
October 15, 2025
I received an advanced copy of this book through NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The premise sounded interesting, as someone who was in her 20s in the early aughts, working 1st postgraduate job. Cassidy Baum wants to work in tv and gets a job as a PA on a reality show.
There are 2 timelines in this book that slow down the pacing tremendously. in 2007, Cassidy was the star of a reality program getting married on camera to get a free wedding. Then, back in 2002, when she started her job on the reality show that's supposed to be like Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey.
The most interesting thing that happens- happens to someone who works for the show and if could been more interesting to lean into the mystery of that, but it was more a 20s becoming an adult kind of story. For a book under 300 pages, the story dragged at times. Most of the characters, especially Maggie and Lauren, were unlikeable.
I am not sure I would recommend based on my review, the description was more interesting than the reality. 2.75 rounded up, available November 4. The author did get the early 2000's very accurate.
There are 2 timelines in this book that slow down the pacing tremendously. in 2007, Cassidy was the star of a reality program getting married on camera to get a free wedding. Then, back in 2002, when she started her job on the reality show that's supposed to be like Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey.
The most interesting thing that happens- happens to someone who works for the show and if could been more interesting to lean into the mystery of that, but it was more a 20s becoming an adult kind of story. For a book under 300 pages, the story dragged at times. Most of the characters, especially Maggie and Lauren, were unlikeable.
I am not sure I would recommend based on my review, the description was more interesting than the reality. 2.75 rounded up, available November 4. The author did get the early 2000's very accurate.
July 31, 2025
Two timeline (early 2002, 2006-7) between Cassidy and Gabe. Cassidy working as PA in reality show Honeymoon Stage; Setting remind me of Nick Lachey and Jessica Simpson's Newly Weds reality show even though I didn't watch with little twist and turns in this book.
Gabe ran into Cassidy's car as their meet cute and didn't think much until she needed his signature for her show. Cassidy and Gabe kept things casual (pretty long time) until they decided to give it a go.
Cassidy's work place wasn't what she expected. It was more toxic and everything seems to be scripted even though it suppose to be reality TV. And star of Honeymoon Stage was her cousin and she was her boyfriend's biggest crush since they both worked together when they were teenagers and he was still pining for her until he met Cassidy.
Death, betrayal and suspense keep the book little more interesting however, it started really slow and I couldn't get into it for long time.
This wasn't what I was expecting after reading little synopsis.
It did remind me of 2000 since I grew up in that time period.
I wish there were more reference of that time and I wasn't sure of the ending as well.
thanks to Netgalley and Little A for ARC copy
Gabe ran into Cassidy's car as their meet cute and didn't think much until she needed his signature for her show. Cassidy and Gabe kept things casual (pretty long time) until they decided to give it a go.
Cassidy's work place wasn't what she expected. It was more toxic and everything seems to be scripted even though it suppose to be reality TV. And star of Honeymoon Stage was her cousin and she was her boyfriend's biggest crush since they both worked together when they were teenagers and he was still pining for her until he met Cassidy.
Death, betrayal and suspense keep the book little more interesting however, it started really slow and I couldn't get into it for long time.
This wasn't what I was expecting after reading little synopsis.
It did remind me of 2000 since I grew up in that time period.
I wish there were more reference of that time and I wasn't sure of the ending as well.
thanks to Netgalley and Little A for ARC copy
December 22, 2025
4.5 stars
Remember that show Newlyweds with Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey from back in the early 2000's? Well, this totally gave me those vibes and I was there for it! As a huge reality TV fan, this book was right up my ally. This might have been a little darker than the real series, but showing both the positive and negative behind the scenes scripting and toxicity of what we call reality TV was super eye-opening.
Maggie and Gabe have what on the surface looks like the perfect marriage, but what's really going on underneath? And when one of the "characters" dies in a freak allergic reaction accident, is everything really as innocent as it seems...
This was a fun throwback listen for any reality TV fan. For what I went into expecting to be a light and fluffy experience gave me both that and something deeper. It was great! The audio narration and pacing was excellent and this was and all around enjoyable listen!
Big thanks to NetGalley & the publisher for the opportunity to review!
Remember that show Newlyweds with Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey from back in the early 2000's? Well, this totally gave me those vibes and I was there for it! As a huge reality TV fan, this book was right up my ally. This might have been a little darker than the real series, but showing both the positive and negative behind the scenes scripting and toxicity of what we call reality TV was super eye-opening.
Maggie and Gabe have what on the surface looks like the perfect marriage, but what's really going on underneath? And when one of the "characters" dies in a freak allergic reaction accident, is everything really as innocent as it seems...
This was a fun throwback listen for any reality TV fan. For what I went into expecting to be a light and fluffy experience gave me both that and something deeper. It was great! The audio narration and pacing was excellent and this was and all around enjoyable listen!
Big thanks to NetGalley & the publisher for the opportunity to review!
November 3, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, author Margaux Eliot, and Little A for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Cute, quick read! The setting of the early-mid 2000s and the dawn of reality television made this a fun read. I thought there was genuine chemistry between Cassidy and Gabe for the most part, and I was really curious to how the drama would unfold. Some of the scenes with Cassidy working on Honeymoon Stage were a bit repetitive, and I would have liked to get to know Cassidy as an individual more instead. I also thought the ending wrapped up too neatly; for all the scenarios that were being teased in suspense the whole novel, the true answer fell a bit flat for me and was not that interesting. I wish that it would have leaned more into being a full drama thriller vs just a dramatic novel. Besides my personal things I wasn't a huge fan of, I still thought it was fun and juicy, and I read it in a single afternoon!
Cute, quick read! The setting of the early-mid 2000s and the dawn of reality television made this a fun read. I thought there was genuine chemistry between Cassidy and Gabe for the most part, and I was really curious to how the drama would unfold. Some of the scenes with Cassidy working on Honeymoon Stage were a bit repetitive, and I would have liked to get to know Cassidy as an individual more instead. I also thought the ending wrapped up too neatly; for all the scenarios that were being teased in suspense the whole novel, the true answer fell a bit flat for me and was not that interesting. I wish that it would have leaned more into being a full drama thriller vs just a dramatic novel. Besides my personal things I wasn't a huge fan of, I still thought it was fun and juicy, and I read it in a single afternoon!
November 26, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, in exchange for an unbiased review.
This was a draw-me-in concept: A former PA on a 2000-era reality TV show (seemingly based on Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey's "Newlyweds") is getting married on a new reality show many years later, and her wedding day is plagued with the unresolved traumas of her past job.
However, while just a bit over 256 pages, this book took me nearly 10 days to finish because the pacing was so interminably slow, and the characters just weren't that interesting. At the halfway mark, the story pace picked up, but by then I was disinterested in Gabe, the possibly-a-cheater fiancée, the possibly-a-psycho reality TV star, and the FMC, yet another white girl who needs to "find her true self," and finds it in a man.
There are worse things to read, so I give this a half-hearted 3 stars, mainly for the creativity of the concept (if not the execution).
This was a draw-me-in concept: A former PA on a 2000-era reality TV show (seemingly based on Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey's "Newlyweds") is getting married on a new reality show many years later, and her wedding day is plagued with the unresolved traumas of her past job.
However, while just a bit over 256 pages, this book took me nearly 10 days to finish because the pacing was so interminably slow, and the characters just weren't that interesting. At the halfway mark, the story pace picked up, but by then I was disinterested in Gabe, the possibly-a-cheater fiancée, the possibly-a-psycho reality TV star, and the FMC, yet another white girl who needs to "find her true self," and finds it in a man.
There are worse things to read, so I give this a half-hearted 3 stars, mainly for the creativity of the concept (if not the execution).
November 3, 2025
This was cute, but I found the dual timelines confusing and too close together to be much more than that. Honestly, the characters felt like real life reality TV characters from the early 2000s, so they were created perfectly, however I never connected with reality TV, so found it hard to connect with the characters. The timelines were 2002 when the characters met and 2007 right before their wedding. I thought that both timelines were well done and well connected, I just sometimes found it hard to differentiate which timeline we were in... a 5 year difference is not much. Overall, it was cute. Took me back to the early 2000s, which is always fun, but the dual timelines were at times confusing and the characters were also sometimes hard to connect with. If you are looking for something quick and fun, this may be it. Thank you netgalley for my advanced reader copy.
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