What do you think?
Rate this book
Hollywood Sinners
POWER Marriage to Hollywood heartthrob Cole Steel secured Lana Falcon a glittering place on the red carpet. But running from a wicked past she has trapped herself in a gilded cage the price of freedom. . . her soul? REVENGE Kate diLaurentis s career is fading as quickly as her looks. . . What could be worse than discovering her husband s latest mistress is Hollywood s hottest starlet? Her only option the most shocking revenge. LUST Chloe French s innocent beauty has captured a million hearts, but no one s warned her of the dangerous, dark temptation of rock star Nate - will lust destroy her? GREED Las Vegas King, Robert St Louis s fairytale wedding to Sin City s richest heiress is tabloid gold. . . But scandal circles like a vulture - dirty secrets are about to be exposed! BETRAYAL From the deepest desires come the deadliest deeds. . . and these four couples are about to pay for their sins. . . Sexy. Sensational. . . Sinfully good.If you love Jackie Collins, then you ll devour Victoria Fox!‘Jackie Collins for the modern gal’ – Grazia
Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2011
27 people are currently reading
363 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Fox
244 books137 followersVictoria Fox lives in Bristol with her husband and young daughter. She used to work in publishing and is now the author of seven novels. Visit her at victoriafox.net and on Twitter @VFoxWrites.
Victoria's favourite things are blustery walks, golden retrievers and Argentinean red wine.
Victoria's favourite things are blustery walks, golden retrievers and Argentinean red wine.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
March 9, 2015
There were some interesting aspects in this book. And there were others which were horrific. Like rape for example. Number one of the short list of things I can`t handle. 3 stars in the end.
June 7, 2016
This isn't my usual kind of thing, but I was looking for something different and escapist, and this fit the bill. Lots of glamour, a glittering cast of flawed characters, a tragic back story, and a cracking pace, this story delivered exactly what I wanted. Until the end. I won't spoil it, but there were two strands to the story that I could have done without. First, the tying up of Lana's past history seemed, even in the context of this book, to be totally over the top, but I could have lived with that if it hadn't been so summarily dealt with at the end - too many unanswered questions, and the biggest one of all was, why didn't she actually know the one big single fact from her childhood tragedy that would have been checked. And the other strand was Elizabeth. I have to had it to Ms Fox for giving the reader this explanation (though I'd guessed from almost the first mention of the Italian what was going on), without actually explaining. Seriously, I was impressed by that. But I simply didn't think it was necessary. Did she deserve that - no. Did it add anything to the overall story - no. And my final grip - an epilogue that was totally epic, and which could have been much shorter.
On saying all that though, this did what I needed it to do, it gave me pure escapism, it was well-written, it was colourful and it was fun and it had a great galaxy of characters. So I will almost certainly turn to Ms Fox the next time I need another helping.
On saying all that though, this did what I needed it to do, it gave me pure escapism, it was well-written, it was colourful and it was fun and it had a great galaxy of characters. So I will almost certainly turn to Ms Fox the next time I need another helping.
March 20, 2017
Като за първи роман, вдига високо летвата. Има стил, напомнящ най-добрите романи на Даниел Стийл и Сандра Браун. Появила се е нова разказвачка. Адмирации!
December 19, 2013
If it were June, this title would hit the top of my “beach reads” list: not too challenging with characters that are outrageous, glamorous and a bit sex-crazed, with plenty of “out of the norm” events and activities to engage and entertain. Newly released with bookouture publishing, Victoria Fox’s chick-lit ‘bonkfest’ has the fun feel of your next must-have escapist read.
Billed as the ‘next’ Jackie Collins, I found that similarity worked only in the amount of intermingled story lines and the setting, and the pure unadulterated fun in reading. A hefty volume at 600 pages, the story reads reasonably quickly, the few moments that felt padded or overwrought were still entertaining and not distracting.
Characters are outrageously over the top, with flaws and insecurities that serve to make them more human and relatable. Although I don’t believe any of us will be walking a red carpet in the next moments, that glitz and glamour is the reason we watch the award shows, and are often glued to the gossip rags. There are no Kim K’s here however, even the characters that aren’t at the front of the line for your next best friend, they all have solid reasons for the spotlight they are in: even if as only the husband or next conquest of the ‘star’.
What is most memorable however, is the sheer delight that comes through in the author’s writing. You can see where she smiles or chuckles with evil glee as her characters are put through several wringers, with everyone getting some sort of comeuppance as befitting their misdeeds. Yes, Ms. Fox is a writer to watch, for pure unadulterated sexy fun that will transport, entertain and engage you for the hours it takes to finish. Curl up in a cozy chair, crack open this book and disappear within the pages for a few hours. You won’t be disappointed.
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Billed as the ‘next’ Jackie Collins, I found that similarity worked only in the amount of intermingled story lines and the setting, and the pure unadulterated fun in reading. A hefty volume at 600 pages, the story reads reasonably quickly, the few moments that felt padded or overwrought were still entertaining and not distracting.
Characters are outrageously over the top, with flaws and insecurities that serve to make them more human and relatable. Although I don’t believe any of us will be walking a red carpet in the next moments, that glitz and glamour is the reason we watch the award shows, and are often glued to the gossip rags. There are no Kim K’s here however, even the characters that aren’t at the front of the line for your next best friend, they all have solid reasons for the spotlight they are in: even if as only the husband or next conquest of the ‘star’.
What is most memorable however, is the sheer delight that comes through in the author’s writing. You can see where she smiles or chuckles with evil glee as her characters are put through several wringers, with everyone getting some sort of comeuppance as befitting their misdeeds. Yes, Ms. Fox is a writer to watch, for pure unadulterated sexy fun that will transport, entertain and engage you for the hours it takes to finish. Curl up in a cozy chair, crack open this book and disappear within the pages for a few hours. You won’t be disappointed.
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
May 1, 2014
This was a fun and swiftly moving book that I would definitely recommend for the beach or vacation. That it moved along quickly was a mercy because there are a hundred chapters (which is a great endorsement to e-read this one). Soaptastic and if I’m honest, downright over the top in the drama department. Sometimes, that’s just what I want and this delivered in spades.
While I enjoyed following Lana and Cole and Kate and Jimmy, my favorite couple to follow were Chloe and Nate. He was a piece of work and I loved every moment I was given a chance to hate on him. Chloe was the most endearing character to me in the entire book and I think she could have sustained a book all on her own. I pulled and hoped for her and worried when I knew she was on a collision course with heartbreak personally and professionally. I was least captivated with Elizabeth and Robert. Enter Alberto in Elizabeth’s storyline in a highly unexpected way and I admit that I really checked out on that part of the story. The flashbacks to Lana’s life and how in had intersected with Robert’s was interesting and well done. The settings were well rendered from LA, Vegas mostly and the Euro locales. I definitely enjoyed this one and the books I do take with me beachside this summer will have a bit to live up to.
I was given a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
While I enjoyed following Lana and Cole and Kate and Jimmy, my favorite couple to follow were Chloe and Nate. He was a piece of work and I loved every moment I was given a chance to hate on him. Chloe was the most endearing character to me in the entire book and I think she could have sustained a book all on her own. I pulled and hoped for her and worried when I knew she was on a collision course with heartbreak personally and professionally. I was least captivated with Elizabeth and Robert. Enter Alberto in Elizabeth’s storyline in a highly unexpected way and I admit that I really checked out on that part of the story. The flashbacks to Lana’s life and how in had intersected with Robert’s was interesting and well done. The settings were well rendered from LA, Vegas mostly and the Euro locales. I definitely enjoyed this one and the books I do take with me beachside this summer will have a bit to live up to.
I was given a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
December 9, 2013
An absolutely brilliant book. Sometimes, you buy a book based on the blurb and it doesn't live up to promise. Not this one. This one delivers everything promised and more. Racy, fun, this book transports you to another, more glamorous world, and it is as if you are on the sidelines, peeking in, as if you are partaking of the juiciest gossip. If you are tired of the mundane and want to escape for a while, this one's for you. Loved it. Highly recommended.
May 28, 2011
I don’t usually read these types of books, but I fancied something
different, this is a debut novel very predictable and very over the
top, an ok read.
different, this is a debut novel very predictable and very over the
top, an ok read.
October 20, 2011
Good story but too many 'main' characters
February 17, 2013
Nothing special.
April 13, 2011
Marriage to Hollywood heartthrob Cole Steel secured Lana Falcon a glittering place on the red carpet. But running from a wicked past she has trapped herself in a gilded cage the price of freedom…her soul? Kate diLaurentis’s career is fading as quickly as her looks… What could be worse than discovering her husband s latest mistress is Hollywood’s hottest starlet? Her only option the most shocking revenge. Chloe French’s innocent beauty has captured a million hearts, but no one’s warned her of the dangerous, dark temptation of rock star Nate – will lust destroy her? Las Vegas King, Robert St Louis’s fairytale wedding to Sin City’s richest heiress is tabloid gold… But scandal circles like a vulture – dirty secrets are about to be exposed! From the deepest desires come the deadliest deeds…and these four couples are about to pay for their sins...
Generally I’m not a fan of novels in the Jackie Collins mould. They’re too far-fetched for me and I generally prefer books that are a bit more real. But every once in a while I want to read something different, and I’ve recently found that these fat juicy books are fantastic when you’re looking to read something a bit different to the norm. I read Sasha Blake’s The Wish a while back and I enjoyed it. More recently I’ve read J.J. Salem’s new novel The Strip and, again, I liked the escape it provided. So when I was offered a review copy of Hollywood Sinners, I thought ‘Why not?’. It’s Victoria Fox’s debut novel and since she used to work as an editor, I was really interested in reading the book. It’s a massive read, coming in at a whopping 608 pages but once you get started, the pages do just seem to fly by.
Another reason I generally steer clear of these novels is the sheer magnitude of characters. You’re introduced to about 50 characters and you’re expected to keep track of them all and to have to keep up with so many characters does terrify me. Thankfully with Hollywood Sinners, although there are a lot of characters, the main, defined ones are easy to keep up with. Hollywood Sinners focuses, mainly, on four couples. Lana and Cole, Chloe and Nate, Kate and Jimmy and Robert and Elisabeth. They all have their own plots in the novel, with marriage, jealously, bed-hopping and secrets the order of the day. All of the characters are related to each other, intrinsically so, and it’s intriguing to unravel the story behind each and every one of these glamorous, rich people.
There are a number of plots running through the book. And many more sub-plots, too, so the pace of the book is always running high and fast. There’s Cole and Lana’s sham marriage, Chloe’s rise to stardom, the fact Kate is feeling out of the acting game at 40 and Robert and Elisabeth’s massive wedding that they haven’t yet set a date for. Dig a little deeper and there’s even more as our characters become linked or their stories from the past are revealed. Lana and Robert know each other from when they were growing up which was the most interesting sub-plot of the novel and we see flashbacks from their time growing up and how it affected them. That really took the pace of the novel up a notch as twists and turns were revealed. The book is set in Vegas, LA and England. It switches seamlessly from character to character, place to place. Vegas sounds like such a brilliant place and Fox describes it well. I truly felt like I was there, at the Orient, or on the Strip.
I must admit, I didn’t expect to like any of the characters. They’re all rich, spoiled, big-headed and cheat like no one’s business. But there are some nice people in there as well. The one who made the most impression on me was Lana Falcon, she has a past and is hiding a big secret, but I liked her immediately. She’s in circumstances beyond her control with her husband Cole and I felt myself sympathising with her. I didn’t much like Cole, her husband, he was a bit too controlling for my taste. I liked Chloe French, too, she’s a bit naive, is an up-and-coming actress and model and there’s lots about her to like. I didn’t like Kate DiLaurentis, she was plain old evil, no matter what her husband did. I didn’t much care for Elisabeth Bernstein, but I did like her partner Robert St Louis. It was a mixed bag of good characters and ones I didn’t like, and it was nicely balanced. There were many other characters, obviously, but the ones I’ve mentioned are our main bunch. There was someone for everyone and I was pleased to have not hated everyone like I very much expected to.
The ending was spectacular. It was built up and built up and built up until it all exploded. I was blown away and I could easily imagine every single scene that played out; it was like a movie scene, one I could easily see up on the big screen in fact. I thought it was very well done and I literally couldn’t put the book down because I was desperate to know how it was all going to play about come those final chapters. One thing Fox does well is building up the suspense. I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, and I truly didn’t want it to end. Those 600 pages were pages well read as far as I’m concerned. My only issue with the book was a subplot featuring Elisabeth and a man called Alberto. I knew exactly how that was going to play out and it rather grossed me out. (You’ll understand when you read the novel!). It was unnecessary, if you ask me and made me a bit uncomfortable. But that doesn’t detract from the book at all, it just adds shock value although it’s fair to say a book as shocking and twist-y as Hollywood Sinners wasn’t exactly lacking in shock value before then. Hollywood Sinners is a book to pack in your suitcase this summer and I can’t wait for Victoria’s next offering.
Generally I’m not a fan of novels in the Jackie Collins mould. They’re too far-fetched for me and I generally prefer books that are a bit more real. But every once in a while I want to read something different, and I’ve recently found that these fat juicy books are fantastic when you’re looking to read something a bit different to the norm. I read Sasha Blake’s The Wish a while back and I enjoyed it. More recently I’ve read J.J. Salem’s new novel The Strip and, again, I liked the escape it provided. So when I was offered a review copy of Hollywood Sinners, I thought ‘Why not?’. It’s Victoria Fox’s debut novel and since she used to work as an editor, I was really interested in reading the book. It’s a massive read, coming in at a whopping 608 pages but once you get started, the pages do just seem to fly by.
Another reason I generally steer clear of these novels is the sheer magnitude of characters. You’re introduced to about 50 characters and you’re expected to keep track of them all and to have to keep up with so many characters does terrify me. Thankfully with Hollywood Sinners, although there are a lot of characters, the main, defined ones are easy to keep up with. Hollywood Sinners focuses, mainly, on four couples. Lana and Cole, Chloe and Nate, Kate and Jimmy and Robert and Elisabeth. They all have their own plots in the novel, with marriage, jealously, bed-hopping and secrets the order of the day. All of the characters are related to each other, intrinsically so, and it’s intriguing to unravel the story behind each and every one of these glamorous, rich people.
There are a number of plots running through the book. And many more sub-plots, too, so the pace of the book is always running high and fast. There’s Cole and Lana’s sham marriage, Chloe’s rise to stardom, the fact Kate is feeling out of the acting game at 40 and Robert and Elisabeth’s massive wedding that they haven’t yet set a date for. Dig a little deeper and there’s even more as our characters become linked or their stories from the past are revealed. Lana and Robert know each other from when they were growing up which was the most interesting sub-plot of the novel and we see flashbacks from their time growing up and how it affected them. That really took the pace of the novel up a notch as twists and turns were revealed. The book is set in Vegas, LA and England. It switches seamlessly from character to character, place to place. Vegas sounds like such a brilliant place and Fox describes it well. I truly felt like I was there, at the Orient, or on the Strip.
I must admit, I didn’t expect to like any of the characters. They’re all rich, spoiled, big-headed and cheat like no one’s business. But there are some nice people in there as well. The one who made the most impression on me was Lana Falcon, she has a past and is hiding a big secret, but I liked her immediately. She’s in circumstances beyond her control with her husband Cole and I felt myself sympathising with her. I didn’t much like Cole, her husband, he was a bit too controlling for my taste. I liked Chloe French, too, she’s a bit naive, is an up-and-coming actress and model and there’s lots about her to like. I didn’t like Kate DiLaurentis, she was plain old evil, no matter what her husband did. I didn’t much care for Elisabeth Bernstein, but I did like her partner Robert St Louis. It was a mixed bag of good characters and ones I didn’t like, and it was nicely balanced. There were many other characters, obviously, but the ones I’ve mentioned are our main bunch. There was someone for everyone and I was pleased to have not hated everyone like I very much expected to.
The ending was spectacular. It was built up and built up and built up until it all exploded. I was blown away and I could easily imagine every single scene that played out; it was like a movie scene, one I could easily see up on the big screen in fact. I thought it was very well done and I literally couldn’t put the book down because I was desperate to know how it was all going to play about come those final chapters. One thing Fox does well is building up the suspense. I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, and I truly didn’t want it to end. Those 600 pages were pages well read as far as I’m concerned. My only issue with the book was a subplot featuring Elisabeth and a man called Alberto. I knew exactly how that was going to play out and it rather grossed me out. (You’ll understand when you read the novel!). It was unnecessary, if you ask me and made me a bit uncomfortable. But that doesn’t detract from the book at all, it just adds shock value although it’s fair to say a book as shocking and twist-y as Hollywood Sinners wasn’t exactly lacking in shock value before then. Hollywood Sinners is a book to pack in your suitcase this summer and I can’t wait for Victoria’s next offering.
January 24, 2023
Hollywood's power couple, Cole and Lana are living a lie. Theirs is one of the relationships media loves to celebrate. But for Lana and Cole it is a business relationship. Lana has a past that she wants to stay in the past. But her feelings for Robbie is her secret. For Robert, his success in Vegas will be consolidated with his marriage to Elizabeth. But they are yet to set the date for the wedding. For aspiring model Chloe and rock star Nate, it is a story of rising to the top. But in this intriguing Hollywood tale, their lives and careers are intricately linked.
August 13, 2018
Another great story in the similar style of Jackie Collins, this book delivered all it promises; sex, scandal wanton adultery and so much more. One for the beach at in the sun. Great book and love this author
July 19, 2017
Just the type of thing to read on your sun lounger by the pool. Maybe predictable in places and a bit too much action all crammed in at the end. But a strong holiday read.
April 9, 2020
I really enjoyed this novel, I love Jackie Collins and this has all her vibes.
May 10, 2020
New author for me, thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish.
Read
September 23, 2021"Hollywoodští hříšníci "
February 4, 2024
Overall, it wasn't my most favourite read. I think it was quite confusing having so many different POV's from different characters. However, it offered a true insight into Hollywood.
August 22, 2012
Cole Steel is at the top of his game – he’s making fabulous movies, he’s the go-to man in Hollywood. If you want your movie to be a success, you cast Cole Steel in the main role. And he has the hottest up and coming actress as his wife, Lana Falcon. Lana has been cast in the one, the movie that could make her career by granting her that tiny gold statue that carries so much credibility. She’s stunningly beautiful, impeccably dressed and they make the most perfect red carpet couple. What the hordes of screaming, adoring fans don’t know is that Cole and Lana’s marriage is a sham – a water tight contract of convenience. Lana got elevated to the upper Hollywood echelon and Cole got the beautiful wife that his lifestyle demands. Cole feels that Lana is beginning to pull away from him and he doesn’t know why – for the security of his future, he knows he has to convince her to renew the contract, any way he can.
Kate diLaurentis was Cole’s first wife. She finally secured her freedom from Hollywood’s greatest control freak, her silence bought handsomely. She married Jimmy, a comedian/actor and the early bliss of their marriage is fading. It’s well known that Jimmy can’t keep it in his pants and Kate, in her early 40s, is a fading star. Her looks are going, the parts are drying up and her desperation is obvious. When a new starlet appears on the scene, Kate is spurred into action. She’s going to save it all: her career, her marriage, everything.
Chloe French is the young English model who has it all. Stunning good looks have led to fabulous modelling contracts which has led to a small part in a Hollywood movie starring Lana Falcon that has potential-Oscar written all over it. Chloe also has her boyfriend, rocker Nate, whom she adores, blissfully unaware that Nate isn’t quite as enamored as she is. When she finds out, Chloe’s good girl persona goes out the window. It got her no where so she doesn’t see the harm in playing a little bad and Jimmy is very interested.
Robert St Louis is Las Vegas’ premier casino/hotel owner and his pride and joy, The Orient, has secured the coup of the century: the Lana Falcon premiere will be held there. Robert is engaged to local heiress Elizabeth but the news that Lana Falcon’s movie will premiere in his hotel has his thoughts skittering back to many, many years ago and the beautiful teenage girl he loved and then lost.
Recently when I took my 2 children to visit my family interstate, I was weighed down with so much stuff that children involve, so I only took my Kindle. But my grandmother is an avid reader and is probably mostly responsible for how much I love to read today: she always fostered my love of books and reading when I was growing up, buying me books by the bucketload when I was young and then passing her own books onto me when I was older. One afternoon while I was visiting her, she gave me some books she’d read and mentioned that she thought this one was “filthy”. I was a little surprised, I know she doesn’t like the racy bits but she’s a Jilly Cooper, Jackie Collins etc reader, surely it couldn’t be too bad? So I took it back to my parents and ended up reading it in a day.
Because my Nan likes Jilly Cooper etc, I’m a graduate of reading them too and I have to admit, sometimes you just want a trashy bonkbuster. They’re fun, they’re naughty and they encompass all of the gossipy things we like to read about Hollywood stars/Royalty/the aristocracy/etc doing in those magazines. In this one, Cole Steel certainly reminds me of a certain blockbuster movie star: he’s in his 40s, he’s very handsome, he makes successful movies and he’s married to a much younger actress. He’s also a control freak and the entire marriage is a sham, a tightly-worded 5 year contract. Ringing any bells yet? This is not unlike several scenarios theorised for a famous Hollywood marriage that has recently hit the skids and I think it is those sorts of connections that enables the reader to really be drawn into the story. You impose real life people over the characters and it makes the book so much juicier and fun to imagine playing out in your head.
If I had to criticise this one, it’s a fraction too long. At over 500p, it really does lag a little in certain places and there’s filler that could have been cut. With a bonkbuster, you really just want plot and sex and sometimes those two are basically the same thing. Long moments of reflection and inner monologues tend to crawl by and make the pacing of the book uneven. And also….
**WARNING** **SPOILER**
It contains incest. Unintentional incest, but incest all the same. And I suspect that’s where my Nan crossed the line from skipping over the raunchier bits to “filthy, can not finish”. Still for me, it delivered on what it set out to do – a fun, sexy tale that also has a bit of meat to it.
Kate diLaurentis was Cole’s first wife. She finally secured her freedom from Hollywood’s greatest control freak, her silence bought handsomely. She married Jimmy, a comedian/actor and the early bliss of their marriage is fading. It’s well known that Jimmy can’t keep it in his pants and Kate, in her early 40s, is a fading star. Her looks are going, the parts are drying up and her desperation is obvious. When a new starlet appears on the scene, Kate is spurred into action. She’s going to save it all: her career, her marriage, everything.
Chloe French is the young English model who has it all. Stunning good looks have led to fabulous modelling contracts which has led to a small part in a Hollywood movie starring Lana Falcon that has potential-Oscar written all over it. Chloe also has her boyfriend, rocker Nate, whom she adores, blissfully unaware that Nate isn’t quite as enamored as she is. When she finds out, Chloe’s good girl persona goes out the window. It got her no where so she doesn’t see the harm in playing a little bad and Jimmy is very interested.
Robert St Louis is Las Vegas’ premier casino/hotel owner and his pride and joy, The Orient, has secured the coup of the century: the Lana Falcon premiere will be held there. Robert is engaged to local heiress Elizabeth but the news that Lana Falcon’s movie will premiere in his hotel has his thoughts skittering back to many, many years ago and the beautiful teenage girl he loved and then lost.
Recently when I took my 2 children to visit my family interstate, I was weighed down with so much stuff that children involve, so I only took my Kindle. But my grandmother is an avid reader and is probably mostly responsible for how much I love to read today: she always fostered my love of books and reading when I was growing up, buying me books by the bucketload when I was young and then passing her own books onto me when I was older. One afternoon while I was visiting her, she gave me some books she’d read and mentioned that she thought this one was “filthy”. I was a little surprised, I know she doesn’t like the racy bits but she’s a Jilly Cooper, Jackie Collins etc reader, surely it couldn’t be too bad? So I took it back to my parents and ended up reading it in a day.
Because my Nan likes Jilly Cooper etc, I’m a graduate of reading them too and I have to admit, sometimes you just want a trashy bonkbuster. They’re fun, they’re naughty and they encompass all of the gossipy things we like to read about Hollywood stars/Royalty/the aristocracy/etc doing in those magazines. In this one, Cole Steel certainly reminds me of a certain blockbuster movie star: he’s in his 40s, he’s very handsome, he makes successful movies and he’s married to a much younger actress. He’s also a control freak and the entire marriage is a sham, a tightly-worded 5 year contract. Ringing any bells yet? This is not unlike several scenarios theorised for a famous Hollywood marriage that has recently hit the skids and I think it is those sorts of connections that enables the reader to really be drawn into the story. You impose real life people over the characters and it makes the book so much juicier and fun to imagine playing out in your head.
If I had to criticise this one, it’s a fraction too long. At over 500p, it really does lag a little in certain places and there’s filler that could have been cut. With a bonkbuster, you really just want plot and sex and sometimes those two are basically the same thing. Long moments of reflection and inner monologues tend to crawl by and make the pacing of the book uneven. And also….
**WARNING** **SPOILER**
It contains incest. Unintentional incest, but incest all the same. And I suspect that’s where my Nan crossed the line from skipping over the raunchier bits to “filthy, can not finish”. Still for me, it delivered on what it set out to do – a fun, sexy tale that also has a bit of meat to it.
December 2, 2013
So hands up, from time to time I enjoy to read a bonkbuster, and as I have already read Victoria Fox and knew more or less what she's offering, I dived into "Hollywood Sinners" and enjoyed every page of the book.
This is a typical book for this genre. We have a lot of characters, we have trash, sex, drugs, many secrets and also glamour and views into celebrities lives. Like I said, we have many characters here, but it was not confusing and after few chapters I already knew who is who and who is together with whom.
There are actually four main couples in the book We meet Lana, married to Hollywood star Cole but we quickly learn that the marriage is not as glamorous and real as we think. There are Kate and Jimmy, both actors, both unhappy with their lives. Chloe, who is a model and rising star in Hollywood with Nate, a musician. And Elisabeth and Robert, who are going to be married soon but their relationship is not a bed of roses.
All the characters are in some or other way connected to each other, meet each other and - like in a good bonkbuster - have a lot of affairs, or their history starts long time back and they are about to be again re-acquainted. As the story progresses, many secrets are revealed and many unexpected situations occur.
There are many plots and sub - plots in this book but it has a right pace and is very easy to follow. Each chapter is given to one person which makes the reading pleasant and interesting, as the chapters usually ends with a twist, there is an opened question and I just wanted to read further to see what's going to happen.
I have either really liked the character or took a big dislike to them. Some of the situations were in my opinion too exaggerated, too unrealistic, some were hard for me to believe, but well, what do I know about Hollywood stars and their arranged marriages? Some sub - plots were predictable, some not, but one of them was not necessary for my liking and I am talking about Elisabeth - Alberto situation. It has left me a bit uncomfortable and although I have expected this, I was still feeling uncomfortable.
Lana was a normal woman but I actually can't believe she was hard enough for the film - business. Cole was a no - go, controlling and in love with himself, he actually reminds me of one actor but am not going to tell which one:) Chloe, okay, she stood for herself finally but she was too naive for me. I would like to kick Nate all they long, I can't remember such arrogant and unpleasant male character as he was. Then there was the marriage of Kate and Jimmy, and although Jimmy was not playing fair I did like him, he was in some ways funny and real. Elisabeth Bernstein, well, I think she got what she deserved although it was too gross for my liking and very, very shocking. She didn't deserve Robert, for sure, and well, if there was a real Robert, I would queue for him.
The tension in the book was built up, it has cumulated, until everything has exploded. The ending was of course spectacular but for my liking, after reading many bonkbusters, it was too rushed for me. It could be a little longer, with more surprises but nevertheless, I am feeling satisfied:) Yes, it was a little predictable, but the suspense was built wonderfully up. Altogether, this book is juicy, shocky, with twists and turns, glamour, murders and happy ends. Hoping for a new Victoria Fox's book soon.
I received a copy of this book from publisher via NetGalley.
This is a typical book for this genre. We have a lot of characters, we have trash, sex, drugs, many secrets and also glamour and views into celebrities lives. Like I said, we have many characters here, but it was not confusing and after few chapters I already knew who is who and who is together with whom.
There are actually four main couples in the book We meet Lana, married to Hollywood star Cole but we quickly learn that the marriage is not as glamorous and real as we think. There are Kate and Jimmy, both actors, both unhappy with their lives. Chloe, who is a model and rising star in Hollywood with Nate, a musician. And Elisabeth and Robert, who are going to be married soon but their relationship is not a bed of roses.
All the characters are in some or other way connected to each other, meet each other and - like in a good bonkbuster - have a lot of affairs, or their history starts long time back and they are about to be again re-acquainted. As the story progresses, many secrets are revealed and many unexpected situations occur.
There are many plots and sub - plots in this book but it has a right pace and is very easy to follow. Each chapter is given to one person which makes the reading pleasant and interesting, as the chapters usually ends with a twist, there is an opened question and I just wanted to read further to see what's going to happen.
I have either really liked the character or took a big dislike to them. Some of the situations were in my opinion too exaggerated, too unrealistic, some were hard for me to believe, but well, what do I know about Hollywood stars and their arranged marriages? Some sub - plots were predictable, some not, but one of them was not necessary for my liking and I am talking about Elisabeth - Alberto situation. It has left me a bit uncomfortable and although I have expected this, I was still feeling uncomfortable.
Lana was a normal woman but I actually can't believe she was hard enough for the film - business. Cole was a no - go, controlling and in love with himself, he actually reminds me of one actor but am not going to tell which one:) Chloe, okay, she stood for herself finally but she was too naive for me. I would like to kick Nate all they long, I can't remember such arrogant and unpleasant male character as he was. Then there was the marriage of Kate and Jimmy, and although Jimmy was not playing fair I did like him, he was in some ways funny and real. Elisabeth Bernstein, well, I think she got what she deserved although it was too gross for my liking and very, very shocking. She didn't deserve Robert, for sure, and well, if there was a real Robert, I would queue for him.
The tension in the book was built up, it has cumulated, until everything has exploded. The ending was of course spectacular but for my liking, after reading many bonkbusters, it was too rushed for me. It could be a little longer, with more surprises but nevertheless, I am feeling satisfied:) Yes, it was a little predictable, but the suspense was built wonderfully up. Altogether, this book is juicy, shocky, with twists and turns, glamour, murders and happy ends. Hoping for a new Victoria Fox's book soon.
I received a copy of this book from publisher via NetGalley.
October 30, 2015
I hold my hands up, I love trashy books! So when I read the sleeve of this book it seemed to be right up my street. It certainly isn’t lacking in substance with a whopping 608 pages. The media side is quick to hype this author as a Jackie Collins type read, but seeing as Jackie Collins has such a long and successful career, as well as a huge following; it’s quite a statement to make.
I dived straight into the book and immediately fell into the story. Victoria Fox gives a chapter for a character making it easy to follow. We meet all of the glamorous characters and get a feel for the situations they are in. Within the first few chapters I already knew who I did and didn’t like and the characters are (as expected) typically celeb-like with their various wealth and status.
The main story focuses on Lana Falcon who was although a great lead character, the only one that took me longer to get to know. However, as the story progresses and each of the character’s secrets are revealed it becomes more apparent why everybody is in the situation that they are. I liked the fact that Lana’s past as told as a separate story, where the author changed the font to make it clear which parts were in the past and which were present day. I also liked the main male lead of Robert St Louis and thought that if a man like that existed in real life, women would have a serious problem keeping their hands off him!
The one character and storyline that failed to make the book better was that including Alberto (I won’t say too much for fear of spoilers), but this for me ruined a large proportion of the book. Other than this particular character, the story I think was just what any ‘Bonkbuster’ fan would want. Plenty of sex, drugs and adultery along with a splash of celebrities and set it all down in the glitzy ton of Vegas.
The book was probably a little too long and it felt like a few parts were padded out a bit too much, but aside from that it went at a good pace and was a very easy read. There will be no great surprises and the ending was pretty predictable, however this book is exactly what it says, a Bonkbuster! It’s easy to read, full of trash but enjoyable all the same.
I will definitely look forward to her next book and hope that no characters such as Alberto turn up. Yes this book was okay, but to put her in the same league as Jackie Collins is a little too far from the truth at the moment. It is definitely the same style, but has certainly not reached the great heights that Jackie Collins is currently at.
I dived straight into the book and immediately fell into the story. Victoria Fox gives a chapter for a character making it easy to follow. We meet all of the glamorous characters and get a feel for the situations they are in. Within the first few chapters I already knew who I did and didn’t like and the characters are (as expected) typically celeb-like with their various wealth and status.
The main story focuses on Lana Falcon who was although a great lead character, the only one that took me longer to get to know. However, as the story progresses and each of the character’s secrets are revealed it becomes more apparent why everybody is in the situation that they are. I liked the fact that Lana’s past as told as a separate story, where the author changed the font to make it clear which parts were in the past and which were present day. I also liked the main male lead of Robert St Louis and thought that if a man like that existed in real life, women would have a serious problem keeping their hands off him!
The one character and storyline that failed to make the book better was that including Alberto (I won’t say too much for fear of spoilers), but this for me ruined a large proportion of the book. Other than this particular character, the story I think was just what any ‘Bonkbuster’ fan would want. Plenty of sex, drugs and adultery along with a splash of celebrities and set it all down in the glitzy ton of Vegas.
The book was probably a little too long and it felt like a few parts were padded out a bit too much, but aside from that it went at a good pace and was a very easy read. There will be no great surprises and the ending was pretty predictable, however this book is exactly what it says, a Bonkbuster! It’s easy to read, full of trash but enjoyable all the same.
I will definitely look forward to her next book and hope that no characters such as Alberto turn up. Yes this book was okay, but to put her in the same league as Jackie Collins is a little too far from the truth at the moment. It is definitely the same style, but has certainly not reached the great heights that Jackie Collins is currently at.
July 13, 2014
Hollywood Sinners is the debut novel from Victoria Fox, and I'd been waiting for it for quite some time before it was released. I'm not usually into 'bonkbusters' which is what this book is described as, but Hollywood Sinners has definitely changed that! The novel promises glamour and scandal, and that's pretty hard to turn down...
Cole Steel is the Hollywood heart-throb of the moment; sexy, rich, powerful; the man who every girl across the globe wants. Too bad he's already married to starlet Lana Falcon. But away from the glittering lights of the paparazzi and press, the seemingly perfect marriage is a whole different story. The marriage is merely a set-up; a beautiful, obedient wife for Cole, to shot to the world that he has it all. But there's something more sinister underneath the illusion of the perfect Hollywood husband and wife...
Before Lana signed the marriage contract, she was someone completely different. A girl on the run from a nasty past that could very well be coming back to haunt her. The only person who shares the full secret of what happened before she hit the big time is her childhood friend, now known as Robert St Louis, who is about to marry a Vegas heiress.
Meanwhile, sweet Brit star Chloe French is making a name for herself as a hot new model, but her relationship with rock star Nate may be her downfall. Chloe is at first oblivious to Nate's cheating ways, but how long can it last?
Back in the States, fading star Kate diLaurentis is conscious about securing more work, and it doesn't help that her comedian husband is well known for cheating.
Four famous couples are about to have their secrets and scandals revealed as their lives intertwine and possibly collide...
I loved this book so much! It's such a wonderful debut and had had me hooked from the very first page. Each couple's plot is intriguing and the secrets that each character has will keep you guessing throughout. My favourite character was Lana, who has escaped a terrible life only to be faced with the nightmare again.
Admittedly Hollywood Sinners rather far-fetched at times but I think that's partly what makes it such a fab read. If you love celebrity tales with extra helpings of juicy scandal then this is a must-read!
Rating: 5/5
Cole Steel is the Hollywood heart-throb of the moment; sexy, rich, powerful; the man who every girl across the globe wants. Too bad he's already married to starlet Lana Falcon. But away from the glittering lights of the paparazzi and press, the seemingly perfect marriage is a whole different story. The marriage is merely a set-up; a beautiful, obedient wife for Cole, to shot to the world that he has it all. But there's something more sinister underneath the illusion of the perfect Hollywood husband and wife...
Before Lana signed the marriage contract, she was someone completely different. A girl on the run from a nasty past that could very well be coming back to haunt her. The only person who shares the full secret of what happened before she hit the big time is her childhood friend, now known as Robert St Louis, who is about to marry a Vegas heiress.
Meanwhile, sweet Brit star Chloe French is making a name for herself as a hot new model, but her relationship with rock star Nate may be her downfall. Chloe is at first oblivious to Nate's cheating ways, but how long can it last?
Back in the States, fading star Kate diLaurentis is conscious about securing more work, and it doesn't help that her comedian husband is well known for cheating.
Four famous couples are about to have their secrets and scandals revealed as their lives intertwine and possibly collide...
I loved this book so much! It's such a wonderful debut and had had me hooked from the very first page. Each couple's plot is intriguing and the secrets that each character has will keep you guessing throughout. My favourite character was Lana, who has escaped a terrible life only to be faced with the nightmare again.
Admittedly Hollywood Sinners rather far-fetched at times but I think that's partly what makes it such a fab read. If you love celebrity tales with extra helpings of juicy scandal then this is a must-read!
Rating: 5/5
May 13, 2011
Hollywood Sinners is an explosive tale of love, jealousy and revenge that hops between glamorous locations in LA and Las Vegas. It follows the four couples of Lana Falcon and Cole Steel; Nate Reid and Chloe French; Robert St Louis and Elisabeth Sabell; and Kate diLaurentis and Jimmy Hart - their stories intertwine, overlap and finally collide in a delicious finale at a film premiere in Las Vegas.
For a debut novel, Victoria Fox writes with assurance - the pages fly by thanks to short, sharp chapters, larger-than-life characters and an intriguing plot. It certainly doesn't feel at all like a debut novel, and sits well alongside classic bonkbuster authors such as Jackie Collins.
The characters are a mix of those you love and those you loathe - as is usual in these types of novels there is a central character who is warm and the reader is able to root for; in Hollywood Sinners this character is Lana Falcon. The nature of her marriage and the past that comes back to haunt her allows the reader to feel great sympathy, and hope that everything will come good in the end.
I enjoyed the fact that this ending to the novel was hard to predict, certainly after a twist that Fox revealed a little over halfway through the story. I was kept guessing, and felt I *had* to read all the way to the end just to find out what would happen. Having a plot as engaging as this is a great addition to the usual threads you find through your usual bonkbuster.
I will complain a little about the sex! It was decent enough, but most of it felt quick and perfunctory - I didn't find myself *ahem* satisfied, and felt that Fox shied away a little from more *ahem* lengthy scenes. In future novels, I would happily see more of this! *grins*
Seriously, Hollywood Sinners is a perfect summer beach read. As I flew through the pages, I could almost feel the sun and taste the pina colada! It was thoroughly entertaining, with a refreshing youthful voice joining the field of bonkbusters. I will definitely be picking up Fox's next novel.
For a debut novel, Victoria Fox writes with assurance - the pages fly by thanks to short, sharp chapters, larger-than-life characters and an intriguing plot. It certainly doesn't feel at all like a debut novel, and sits well alongside classic bonkbuster authors such as Jackie Collins.
The characters are a mix of those you love and those you loathe - as is usual in these types of novels there is a central character who is warm and the reader is able to root for; in Hollywood Sinners this character is Lana Falcon. The nature of her marriage and the past that comes back to haunt her allows the reader to feel great sympathy, and hope that everything will come good in the end.
I enjoyed the fact that this ending to the novel was hard to predict, certainly after a twist that Fox revealed a little over halfway through the story. I was kept guessing, and felt I *had* to read all the way to the end just to find out what would happen. Having a plot as engaging as this is a great addition to the usual threads you find through your usual bonkbuster.
I will complain a little about the sex! It was decent enough, but most of it felt quick and perfunctory - I didn't find myself *ahem* satisfied, and felt that Fox shied away a little from more *ahem* lengthy scenes. In future novels, I would happily see more of this! *grins*
Seriously, Hollywood Sinners is a perfect summer beach read. As I flew through the pages, I could almost feel the sun and taste the pina colada! It was thoroughly entertaining, with a refreshing youthful voice joining the field of bonkbusters. I will definitely be picking up Fox's next novel.
April 27, 2012
**For more reviews, contests, interviews, book news and more go to my blog:
http://theheelshaveeyes.wordpress.com/
Victoria Fox is easily my new favourite author. The fabulous cover of this book is what urged me to pick it up and what lies within its pages is just as tantalising. I’d be interested to know if any of the characters were based on real people…I have my suspicions hehe.
The story follows four couples, each powerful, each with their own vices and all trying to keep up appearances in the public eye. I would usually find books with multiple locations and plot lines difficult to follow, but everything flowed so effortlessly with this book, the chapters are well structured and perfectly paced, the characters well developed and intriguing, add a couple of sexy romps and you have the perfect read to get you into the summer mood (especially with all this rain).
The thing I loved most though were the characters, sometimes I loved them sometimes I loathed them, my feelings towards them changed throughout the book, it made for a more interesting read. It was nice to read characters that aren’t so one-dimensional, or defined as the goodies and the baddies. There’s enough shock factor in this book without it being too crass and the twists and turns will keep you wanting to read on, as for the ending…didn’t see that coming.
If you ever wanted a backstage pass to the lives of the rich and famous (okay not all of them are like this but let’s be honest most are) this is defiantly the book for you. Nothing bad to say, loved it all. Congratulations Miss Fox.
http://theheelshaveeyes.wordpress.com/
Victoria Fox is easily my new favourite author. The fabulous cover of this book is what urged me to pick it up and what lies within its pages is just as tantalising. I’d be interested to know if any of the characters were based on real people…I have my suspicions hehe.
The story follows four couples, each powerful, each with their own vices and all trying to keep up appearances in the public eye. I would usually find books with multiple locations and plot lines difficult to follow, but everything flowed so effortlessly with this book, the chapters are well structured and perfectly paced, the characters well developed and intriguing, add a couple of sexy romps and you have the perfect read to get you into the summer mood (especially with all this rain).
The thing I loved most though were the characters, sometimes I loved them sometimes I loathed them, my feelings towards them changed throughout the book, it made for a more interesting read. It was nice to read characters that aren’t so one-dimensional, or defined as the goodies and the baddies. There’s enough shock factor in this book without it being too crass and the twists and turns will keep you wanting to read on, as for the ending…didn’t see that coming.
If you ever wanted a backstage pass to the lives of the rich and famous (okay not all of them are like this but let’s be honest most are) this is defiantly the book for you. Nothing bad to say, loved it all. Congratulations Miss Fox.
September 7, 2011
This book is very typical of its genre – and I’m not going to lie, I enjoyed every minute of it. Between reading my usual fantasy-type books, I enjoy something light and easy to read, normally with the more scandal, the better. And this definitely delivers.
The story itself follows four couples, whose lives turn out to be more intertwined than one would first imagine. Yeah, I know, it’s been done in loads of chick lit books before this one, but it didn’t mean I didn’t enjoy it. Whilst some of the story was a little predictable, there was enough sex and scandal to keep me reading, and Victoria Fox really does manage to pack in hundreds of dramatic – if not very ‘real life’ – events into the characters lives.
One thing I did notice was that actually, by the end, I wasn’t particularly keen on any of the characters, bar Robert. He was probably the only one I don’t remember acting like a complete ass at some point in the course of the story. That said, the characters were well developed throughout, and their motives were explained – especially with the backstory between Lana and Robert.
Overall, this book was a good holiday read – nice and easy going, ideal for the beach. Definitely not a bad effort for a debut novel, and even better for a kindle freebie!
The story itself follows four couples, whose lives turn out to be more intertwined than one would first imagine. Yeah, I know, it’s been done in loads of chick lit books before this one, but it didn’t mean I didn’t enjoy it. Whilst some of the story was a little predictable, there was enough sex and scandal to keep me reading, and Victoria Fox really does manage to pack in hundreds of dramatic – if not very ‘real life’ – events into the characters lives.
One thing I did notice was that actually, by the end, I wasn’t particularly keen on any of the characters, bar Robert. He was probably the only one I don’t remember acting like a complete ass at some point in the course of the story. That said, the characters were well developed throughout, and their motives were explained – especially with the backstory between Lana and Robert.
Overall, this book was a good holiday read – nice and easy going, ideal for the beach. Definitely not a bad effort for a debut novel, and even better for a kindle freebie!
September 5, 2011
I don't usually read chick lit, or bonk busters, or whatever category this belongs in, but I COULDN'T PUT IT DOWN. Whatever you are looking for in a book, surely readability and a good story that leads you on and makes you want to stay awake just a little bit longer so you can find out what happens, are crucial factors.
I really enjoyed being led through the story by Victoria Fox, a surprisingly skilled storyteller for a first time novelist. It's very, very tempting to go into the storyline, but I really don't want to spoil any of it. Let me just say you won't believe some of it. Well, actually, you might not 'believe' much of it, but you'll certainly enjoy getting sucked into the glitsy world Victoria Fox has created.
Now I need to find something else as good as this to read next. I might just need to re-read a bit of Jilly Cooper...
I really enjoyed being led through the story by Victoria Fox, a surprisingly skilled storyteller for a first time novelist. It's very, very tempting to go into the storyline, but I really don't want to spoil any of it. Let me just say you won't believe some of it. Well, actually, you might not 'believe' much of it, but you'll certainly enjoy getting sucked into the glitsy world Victoria Fox has created.
Now I need to find something else as good as this to read next. I might just need to re-read a bit of Jilly Cooper...
May 20, 2015
Love Victoria Fox books. Along the lines of Jackie Collins, who is my favourite author. The jump from city to city and the glamour and intrigue keep me glued to the end and I find it hard to put down. Just bought her new novel, Power Games, and can't wait to start that, however I have other favourite authors to read aswell so it may be some time yet. This book does not disappoint and it makes me wonder if she is basing it on a real actor couple, of whom I could possibly guess it is. Made me think that maybe this does go on in real life. Only halfway through the book at the moment and I don't want it to end. I actually feel as though I am in the novel itself, it draws me in. Would recommend all of her books.
July 24, 2015
On the way to London, I had been reviewing Victoria’s website, reading about her new novels. My mom then suprised me with her book – Hollywood Sinners. I found this book to be a really entertaining read. It has all the things that I like from a novel: glitz, glamour, sex and bitchiness! I thought that I would lose track of which characters were who, as there were so many, however I didn’t as the novel flowed well, and the characters all had their own unique personalities and mannerisms. Victoria also added a section at the back about herself, and her writing which I enjoyed reading. The book cover was also gorgeous. Would I read another of Victoria’s books? Of course! To read the interview with Victoria Fox, please see my ‘author interview’ page.
February 25, 2012
Many years ago, I loved Jackie Collins, Jilly Cooper, Shirley Conran with their sex and shopping bonkbusters.
It's been a long time since I read anything as good as those books, but this week, I have found someone that is up there with them.
This book is more modern than those books mentioned above with a bit more monogamy and less of the sleeping around, but the female characters are just as strong.
I did see Elizabeth's shock coming long before she did, though :)
I'm looking forward to reading more Foxiness.
It's been a long time since I read anything as good as those books, but this week, I have found someone that is up there with them.
This book is more modern than those books mentioned above with a bit more monogamy and less of the sleeping around, but the female characters are just as strong.
I did see Elizabeth's shock coming long before she did, though :)
I'm looking forward to reading more Foxiness.
June 16, 2015
OMG!!! This was amazing but totally screwy at the same time. I love love loved Lana's storyline. She was such a likeable well written character that I couldn't help but warm to her. Her backstory in Ohio is extremely interesting and I love how we were spoonfed little bits at a time.
However Elisabeth's story is way beyond screwy. Somehow I knew exactly what was going to happen there but it really didn't make reading it any easier.
However Elisabeth's story is way beyond screwy. Somehow I knew exactly what was going to happen there but it really didn't make reading it any easier.
Read
February 5, 2015Three beautiful women and their men. Not all is as it seems with the beautiful people-secrets from the past bring about a terrifying revenge and a family secret that will tear a family apart.
Not everyone lives happily ever after and in one case a marriage of convenience becomes repetitive since one party has a personal secret that becomes known only after the ink is dry on the "marriage license" so to speak.
A fast past novel.
Not everyone lives happily ever after and in one case a marriage of convenience becomes repetitive since one party has a personal secret that becomes known only after the ink is dry on the "marriage license" so to speak.
A fast past novel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews