Falling Star

Jersey Girl #1

by Laura DeLuca

"A fantastically beautiful story and well worth the read. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series." - April Drew DiPalma feels like he's living a lie.

He's had it with his Hollywood persona, the high-maintenance women, and his sleazy agent. To escape the madness, he flees to a tourist town he'd often visited as a child. He never expected to find love on that little island. Then he stumbles upon Lainey alone on the swing set of a deserted beach.

After a dozen internet dating disasters, Lainey Riccardo has given up on romance--until she meets a West Coast hunk who has no trouble winning her heart. But Lainey only knows him as Drew, not the Oscar-nominated actor who's constantly scandalized in the tabloids.

When she learns the truth, will the small town Jersey girl be able to accept Drew's fast-paced life? Or will the truth drive her away forever?

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Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance

472 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 24, 2014

About the author

Laura “Luna” DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her four children and multiple cats. Her works include romantic thrillers, paranormal fiction, contemporary romance, and young adult. Visit her website at www.authorlauradeluca.blogspot.com for more information.

Reviews

[Christy McCurry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story. Even though I did find it to be very lengthy read.

Andrew "Drew" DiPalma ( Andy Palmer ) Well known actor. After 10 years in the Hollywood spotlight, along with dealing with his demanding Agent Paulie and his nagging co star Catherine Beaumont who is dead set on making their onscreen romance a reality.
He is tired of the Hollywood lifestyle He has lost touch with the small town boy from Pennsylvania he once was and he is determined to do something about it.

Lainey is simple girl with simple ways. Her dream is to become an author. She doesn't do fancy, she has had no luck dating scene. She devotes her time to her writing, her three best friends, Woody's club on Friday night for karaoke and practices in a little white magic.

Drew finds himself in Wildwood, New Jersey a small town where he visited as a child. This is where he meets Lainey small town Jersey girl who's sings like an angel. Drew realizes Lainey has no idea who he really is, they spend months together and he finds himself falling for Lainey and the small town She has so much passion for.
Now living in a web of lies and deceit he is afraid of losing the one thing that means most to him.

This is a wonderful story about truth, love, lies and forgiveness.

Why 4 stars instead of 5.
While I though it was a great story I felt that some of scenes were very lengthy unnecessarily. They could of been shortened without taking anything away for the story. I found myself getting impatient a few times and was fighting the urge to skip a page or two.

I would definitely recommend this book and I am very much looking forward to the next book.

[Paula]

It was good until the misunderstanding happened, then they were both idiots.

[Erica Alyson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Laura's writing. The stories, the characters, all of it intrigues me. It sucks you in and doesn't let go until the very end. I have read almost all of her books and I will continue to because I love them.

There is a uniqueness to her writing that just draws me in and fascinates me. I recommend this book and all others by this author!!! This books felt different then her other books but I loved it just the same. Super cute story line. <3 <3

[April Hollingworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review Courtesy of April Hollingworth

This is the first book in A Jersey Girl series, and it is a wonderful start to what promises to be a fabulous series. Lainey loves life and wants’ to be an author; while Drew is running from the life he’s created as a Hollywood actor. Upon a chance meeting they find happiness together, and drew’s eyes are opened up to the magic of the world and that facing your fears is the only way forward. But his secret of whom he is threatens everything he has gained with Lainey. Can they allow themselves to have the happiness and love they both deserve and want, or will the lies and the circumstances keep them apart? A fantastically beautiful story and well worth the read. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

Opening Scene:

“Cut!” the director shouted.

The Review:

Drew DiPalma feels like he’s living a lie. He’s fed up with his Hollywood persona, Andy Palmer, ruled by a sleazy agent and high-maintenance women. To escape from the madness he flees to the one place no one will think to look for him, a place he spent his childhood summers. What he never expected to find on the little island is love. But seeing Lainey singing while swinging on the swing sets, alone on a deserted section of the beach, Drew feels more human and himself than he has in years.
Lainey Riccardo has given up on love; her internet dating has turned into one disaster after another. Then she meets West Coast hunk Drew, and after spending time together Lainey soon realizes she’s losing her heart to him. But Lainey doesn't know that Drew is Andy Palmer, Hollywood heartthrob, Oscar –nominated actor who’s constantly in the tabloids.
Will Lainey and Drew find their happy ever after, or will the truth tear them apart. After all how will a small town girl survive in the fast pace of Hollywood?

Notable scene:

“Don’t move,” the girl ordered. She set her lips in a tight frown and her hand never wavered from her weapon. Her cheeks were flushed, either by the breeze or by her agitation. “I'm not afraid to use this.”
“All right.” Drew lifted his hands and took a step back, showing her that he was unarmed. “I'm really sorry. I didn't mean to scare you.”
She was unconvinced. “How would you feel if you found some strange guy gawking at you in the middle of nowhere?”
Drew shoved his hands in his pockets. His lips tugged back in a half smile. “The truth is, I've never seen a grown woman singing to herself on a swing set before. I found it intriguing and couldn't resist getting a better look.”
She wasn't beautiful-at least not by Hollywood standards. Most of his friends would have defined her as average, somewhat plain. Her long brown hair was tangled and messy from the wind, and her nose might have been slightly crooked. But there was something about her-something different. She still had her mace pointed at him, but despite her defensive stance, she didn't seem afraid. If anything, those big brown eyes were curious.
“What can I say? I'm a kid at heart.” She crinkled her forehead. “So why are you still standing there?”
Drew’s smile grew wider. He couldn't help teasing her, even though he was in a precarious position. “You told me not to move.”

FTC Advisory: Victoria Joy Stolte through Book Ninja Reviews provided me with a copy of Falling Star by Laura DeLuca. Published through Pagan Writers Press. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.

[Coco.V]

🎁 FREE on Amazon today (1/20/2020)! 🎁

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

I loved the characters and the atmosphere. The air in this book has a magical, spiritual quality to it. While the plot is a little predictable, it is still well worth the read. Drew is an overall 10, though he is a little dumb about how he approached things. Really enjoyed this book.

[Cherye Elliott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Falling

Enjoyed the book. Fast paced. Interesting. It will bring out all sorts of emotions out of you. I am sure you will definitely love the happily ever after.

[Michelle Cornwell-Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a huge fan of Author Laura Deluca since the Dark Musical Trilogies! Every book since that beginning series has shown the author’s growth and mastery of story-telling. Laura Deluca knows how to tell a great story! Whether Paranormal, Historical or Contemporary—Ms. Deluca’s books just keep getting better and better!

Falling Star is the tale of Mega-star Drew DiPalma who in an attempt of escaping the hectic and manic scene of Hollywood, heads back to a childhood vacationing spot in the small town of Wildwood, New Jersey. While spending some quality time at the beach, he meets Lainey Riccardo. She’s a small town girl, with a desire to become an Author. She lives in a quiet world. She does not have a completely satisfying job, but she does have some very cool friends and fun times at their favorite club called Woody’s. This is her life, simple. Drew is drawn to her and the world she represents and they fall in love.

But between the lies and secrets that Drew is hiding in attempt to remain, at least for a time in Lainey’s world, his real life begins to encroach on what he’s building with her and soon everything threatens to boil over. The question remains will Drew and Lainey survive the truth or will all be destroyed?

As always I enjoyed Falling Star immensely! I’m not sure how to explain it, but Ms. Deluca has a way of unfolding a story so seamlessly, that before long the reader is completely invested in the book! Drew and Lainey both are characters that I root for on every turn. I enjoy the interplay of their relationship, as well as the other relationships represented.

Ms. Deluca has incredible character development, description and she peppers the story with fast paced nuggets that keep the reading wanting to read more! Well written (as usual), awesome plot development and flow…Once again Laura Deluca delivers a gem!

I look forward to the next book in the Jersey Girl series and I recommend for those that enjoy Contemporary, Romance and Suspense!

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are so many books out right now about "normal" people finding romance with big name celebrities, yet I find myself diving into them again and again. Don't we all have that fantasy from time to time? It's even more unlikely that finding that true soulmate, but it is fun to dream.

I like Lainey because I can relate to many parts of her personality. She has been through hell, yet manages to keep picking herself up and moving forward. She is working in a job that may not be her top choice for career, but it is working for now. She is strong and beautiful, yet finds herself feeling self-conscious and unaware of all of her amazing gifts. It's one thing for her girlfriends to tell her how wonderful she is, and something completely different for a new hottie to do the same. She also wants to trust people and expects people to be trustworthy. I also see a lot of the author in this character, from the bits I have gathered from reading all of her books.

Drew is understandably tired of the Hollywood life. He doesn't fit into the phony side of LA and misses leading a "normal" life. He also seeks true happiness in romance. I don't like that he lies to Lainey for so long, especially when he has his chance time and time again to tell her the truth. Yet, I want to forgive him at the same time, because he is so wonderful.

As often happens with authors, each subsequent book of hers gets better and better. I have been a fan of DeLuca's since I read her musicals series. I see growth in her character and plot development and descriptions of places and situations. In this book, I felt even more drawn into the story and didn't want to put down the Kindle. It flowed well and was a great escape for a few hours. It's also a slightly different path for her to take, and one that I am looking forward to continuing to read as the series continues.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falling Star is about two people from very different parts of the world. Jersey Shore girl Lainey lives and works in a Wildwood New Jersey and Drew is across the US living a rising actors dream.

When Drew decides to take a break and heads to the shore a place he recalls was relaxing to him as a child he meets Lainey. Lainey is just chilling alone on a swing, feeling the wind in her hair when suddenly a sexy stranger is way to close. She does what any Jersey Girl would do in this situation and threatens him. Intrigued by this sexy, strong woman he decides he will make it his mission to get to know her while keeping his true star identity hidden.

I loved how Laura added so many details about the Jersey Shore. I even appreciated how Drew wanted to keep his identity hidden and escape the celebrity world for a little while. I found myself really upset with him when he would pass up every opportunity to tell Lainey the truth as they discovered more about each other especially when she was so open and honest with him.

Knowing a little about Laura DeLuca I loved how she weaved in more elements of Wicca this time around. Some of my favorite parts revolved around Lainey and her girlfriends. Laura must be a really great girlfriend because all of her girl characters tend to have a awesome friends who really know and support each other.

At times I felt like I was reading a Laura DeLuca biography. Jersey Girl, Wicca, and a desire to be a Writer. Sounds like Laura to me.

Laura characters are always very real. You feel like they can be your friends and to be totally honest, this was my favorite Laura DeLuca book yet and I have reviewed a few.

I highly recommend this book about friendship, romance, and forgiveness. Great job Laura

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I've read other books from Laura DeLuca, and am always fascinated at how well she can present a story. Even though I've never been to South Jersey, and do have a rather typical idea of what Jersey is like, she has painted a whole different scene in my head about what South Jersey really looks and feels like.
The story line was rather typical, overworked, over-stressed Hollywood star runs away to a small town where no one seems to recognize him, and he gets to live a few blissful months under the radar where he falls in love with a small-town girl.Eventually the secret is going to come out, and when it does, it does with typical flash and drama.
Despite the story line being typical, the author write it so exceptionally well that I fell in love with Lainey and Drew. I rooted for them every step of the way, and hoped the story line would be different. Happy endings are always good though, it's how the author gets us to those happy endings that make or break the story. Laura DeLuca definitely made it a winner. I can't wait to read the next in this series.

[Alina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this for a challenge - A book that takes place in your hometown. It's obvious the author is also from my small hometown county. She named places, towns, roads, landmarks, all that I am so familiar with. It was neat in that sense that I could really relate to the setting of the book. The author drew out each of the main characters so that you felt like you really knew them. When the book is over but you are still thinking about the characters, then you know it is a good book and this was the case for me. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because the sex scenes were too explicit. And, personally, as a christian believer, I could not relate to the witchery. Her next book in this series thankfully just came out in October and I will be reading it as it continues the story but with one of the minor characters becoming the main character. Although this is certainly not Christian fiction, Laura DeLuca's writing style is very much like Karen Kingsbury's which I also enjoy.

[S. Policar · Rating 5 out of 5]

***I did the editing on this work and thus cannot speak of any errors I may have or may not have found.***

This book, like all of Laura's work, is like a breath of fresh air in a sea of repetitive story-lines. This book takes the story of the typical boy meets girl, and breaths new life into it creating something new and refreshing.

The story not only draws the reader in with itself, but it of course wouldn't be complete without Laura's subtle touches of the Pagan faith thrown in for good measure; which are all very good life lessons everyone should have.

The reader will want to slap the stupid out Drew and Lainey on more than one occasion, and the emotions from both are clearly felt due to the amazing desciptions. Laura definitely has a way with words, which many know is almost a lost art in the literary world.

I look forward to In Perfect Harmony which is book 2 of the Jersey Girls series.

I give this book 5 of 5 paws

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome!!!

Merged review:

Ms. DeLuca does it again! I am familiar with the Southern New Jersey area that she describes in this book. Many of the scenes brought back a lot of great memories. Her story grabs you from the beginning. You will cheer for the heroine throughout the book. You will fall in love with the hero (most of the time) because he finally realizes that his life was going along too fast. I guarantee you will really dislike the villainess. Many times while reading, I was mentally slapping the high and mighty Cat.
The love scenes were steamy and heartwarming at the same time! I highly recommend reading "Falling Star". I am impatiently waiting for the next book in the series! Way to go Laura. Keep up the great work. I am so looking forward to more of your literary awesomeness!

[Katrina Roets · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I opened the Kindle last night and chose a random book, this was the one that was right on top. I have to say that other than some editing errors, I really enjoyed this book. That is the one downside to being an editor. Mistakes tend to jump out at me. However, there weren't that many and since the story was easy to follow, wrong word usage didn't hold it up one bit. Not only Lainey and Drew, but the entire gang were characters that you wanted to know. I know that I wanted to be a part of that far before the end of the book. I won't give away the ending, but I am thrilled to say that there is going to be another book in this series. I can't wait until it comes out and fingers crossed that you'll see a review right here!

[Melissa Cheslog · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is a cute concept. The heroine is a sweet girl that has a secret passion for writing in her free time. She has three close friends that are all unique and each brings out the best in the others. She can sing but is very shy and reserved. The hero is a burnt out movie star that is fed up with all that Hollywood has to offer. He leaves LA for Wildwood, New Jersey, in the hopes of some rest and relaxation. They meet at the beach and begin a relationship. He is going by his birth name so she doesn't realize that her boyfriend is Hollywood's beloved Man of the Year. The story does get slow at some points but it is well written. A hurricane, an arrogant agent, and a crazy co-star add to the plot. All in all it is a good story.

[Kim Motzer reisdorf · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful love story about Drew who is a famous actor that is burnt out on life. He's tired of the fast life, the way people act, he needs a vacation. So, he takes off. Pretty good idea I think. He takes off to Wildwood, New Jersey where he spent some time when he was younger. His plan is to relax, hang out on the beach and hopefully not get noticed as a movie star. Soon after arrive he meets Lainey and as soon as he sees her on the swing singing her heart out he knows she's going to be someone special. What follows is a great story about love, trust and forgiveness. I'll definitely be looking for the next book to come out.

[Seanna Yeager · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won a free copy through a goodreads contest.

I have never read a book by this author before, I am so glad I found her writing.

This romance was sweet, hot and filled with great characters. I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series. I love when a series is focused around a strong group of friends.

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Actor/ falling in love with a normal girl stories, so I couldn't wait to read this. It was good, but at times dragged on and I found myself wanting to skip ahead. I love me some good sex scenes, but references to"member and rod" aren't sexy at all. Overall a decent read, and I want to read the next book in the series, since I am anxious to see what happens between the characters.

[Haya · Rating 1 out of 5]

Booooooooring

The characters were too good and nice . They were never quirky or fun. It's just a story about two of the most boring people in the who got together.
I want my money back....

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!