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Out in Hollywood #4
In Her Spotlight
For fans of Casey McQuiston, Alexis Hall, and Meryl Wilsner, an actually hilarious, sweetly sexy, gloriously relatable, second chance, sapphic rom-com from the acclaimed author of For Her Consideration, starring a franchise Hollywood actress aims to prove her chops in a theatrical production directed by her ex whose heart she broke a decade earlier.
Hollywood actor Tess Gardner is not the kind of famous she set out to be. She's ready to show she’s more than Princess Platinum of the Vindicators series, a pretty face with CGI superpowers that literally sparkle. Tess wants to prove herself as an actor and that means theatre—the true calling of her thespian heart. But just when Tess lands a part working with an acclaimed stage director, a brewing scandal forces him out. His replacement? None other than hip, buzzy director Rebecca Frisch. The same Rebecca Frisch whose heart a firmly closeted Tess broke over a decade ago during summer stock . . .
As Tess wrestles with her lingering guilt and attraction to Rebecca, she also finds herself struggling to rein in her superstar status backstage. When things unexpectedly reignite with Rebecca, Tess bristles even more against the walls of her A-list life. Since the industry’s made it clear that girl-next-door superheroes can’t also be gay, coming out isn’t realistic for Tess. And ultimately, Rebecca will head back to New York and likely seek out a less complicated relationship anyway.
Will the curtain close on her chance for happiness or will Tess finally take a leading role in her own life?
Hollywood actor Tess Gardner is not the kind of famous she set out to be. She's ready to show she’s more than Princess Platinum of the Vindicators series, a pretty face with CGI superpowers that literally sparkle. Tess wants to prove herself as an actor and that means theatre—the true calling of her thespian heart. But just when Tess lands a part working with an acclaimed stage director, a brewing scandal forces him out. His replacement? None other than hip, buzzy director Rebecca Frisch. The same Rebecca Frisch whose heart a firmly closeted Tess broke over a decade ago during summer stock . . .
As Tess wrestles with her lingering guilt and attraction to Rebecca, she also finds herself struggling to rein in her superstar status backstage. When things unexpectedly reignite with Rebecca, Tess bristles even more against the walls of her A-list life. Since the industry’s made it clear that girl-next-door superheroes can’t also be gay, coming out isn’t realistic for Tess. And ultimately, Rebecca will head back to New York and likely seek out a less complicated relationship anyway.
Will the curtain close on her chance for happiness or will Tess finally take a leading role in her own life?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2026
27 people are currently reading
5255 people want to read
About the author
Amy Spalding
18 books945 followersAmy Spalding is the author of several novels, including the bestselling For Her Consideration, We Used to Be Friends and The Summer of Jordi Perez (and the Best Burger in Los Angeles), which was named a best book of 2018 by NPR, the Boston Globe, Kirkus Reviews, and more. She is a recipient of the 2023 Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award for the authentic, funny, and diverse representation of the LGBTQ+ community in her books.
Amy grew up in St. Louis and now lives in Los Angeles. She has a B.A. in Advertising & Marketing Communications from Webster University and an M.A. in Media Studies from The New School. Amy studied longform improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre.
Amy grew up in St. Louis and now lives in Los Angeles. She has a B.A. in Advertising & Marketing Communications from Webster University and an M.A. in Media Studies from The New School. Amy studied longform improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
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December 8, 2025pre-read:
im extremely sorry for my ARC updates girlies🎀 anyway, looking forward to this book, was such a fan of rwrb x
im extremely sorry for my ARC updates girlies🎀 anyway, looking forward to this book, was such a fan of rwrb x
May 6, 2026
It was my first book by this author and I have to say I was skeptical about the 1 pov thing, they're not my fave, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked it. I will definitely try some more of Amy's books.
You could really sense the pressure from the industry to maintain certain standards, especially among women, this made the finale even more beautiful.
Honestly, because of the 1 POV, I didn't really understand how they slept together the first time (this is one of the reasons why i don't read many 1 pov books, you miss part of the plot) but overall it's a good book, 3.5 ⭐ and 2.5🔥.
Bonus point for the best side character, the pug!!!
In this book you'll find:
Second chance
-Forced Proximity
-Coming out later in life
-Wealth Gap
-Slow Burn
-Celebrity Romance
-Contemporary
-HEA
-Director × Actresses
-Lesbian MCs
-Sapphic superpower
-Bossy Top
-Proud Pug Mum
-Secrecy
CW:Conservative homophobic household - mention of SA - dead parents - double standard
You could really sense the pressure from the industry to maintain certain standards, especially among women, this made the finale even more beautiful.
Honestly, because of the 1 POV, I didn't really understand how they slept together the first time (this is one of the reasons why i don't read many 1 pov books, you miss part of the plot) but overall it's a good book, 3.5 ⭐ and 2.5🔥.
Bonus point for the best side character, the pug!!!
In this book you'll find:
Second chance
-Forced Proximity
-Coming out later in life
-Wealth Gap
-Slow Burn
-Celebrity Romance
-Contemporary
-HEA
-Director × Actresses
-Lesbian MCs
-Sapphic superpower
-Bossy Top
-Proud Pug Mum
-Secrecy
CW:Conservative homophobic household - mention of SA - dead parents - double standard
April 18, 2026
Tess Gardner is a well-known actress, most famous for a Marvel-type role entitled Princess Platinum. She's famous but also held to a pretty high standard--and has to hold to pre-existing expectations. Ready to prove her acting chops, she get a theatric role, but a #MeToo scandals forces out her famous director. The replacement, Rebecca, just happens to be the same Rebecca whose heart Tess broke years ago at theater camp, since Tess was unwilling to admit her sexuality to herself, or Rebecca.
I love this series, though this book was a bit slower than the others. It wasn't quite as fun, with no big queer group of friends, and Tess was certainly hard to like. She's especially mean to her best friend, taking her for granted. And she lives up to her actress name, acting as if the world revolves her. (I could go without hearing the phrase "Professional Actress Tess Gardner" ever again.)
Eventually Tess' redemption arc makes it a bit easier to warm up to her--and the book. She's deeply closeted and hiding who she is: that's never easy. I found this more a coming out story than a true romance. The chemistry between Tess and Rebecca is a slow burn, without some of the wit and charm in other Spalding books. When the story focuses on Rebecca's exploration of her sexuality, it's nuanced and well-done.
We do get to see Max and Sadie (from the other books in this series) and a bit of Ari--that was fun, and I wish there was more of them. Over time, I warmed up to Tess' cast for the play and they were some strong foils for her. Overall, this story builds, culminating in a good ending.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Kensington in return for an unbiased review.
I love this series, though this book was a bit slower than the others. It wasn't quite as fun, with no big queer group of friends, and Tess was certainly hard to like. She's especially mean to her best friend, taking her for granted. And she lives up to her actress name, acting as if the world revolves her. (I could go without hearing the phrase "Professional Actress Tess Gardner" ever again.)
Eventually Tess' redemption arc makes it a bit easier to warm up to her--and the book. She's deeply closeted and hiding who she is: that's never easy. I found this more a coming out story than a true romance. The chemistry between Tess and Rebecca is a slow burn, without some of the wit and charm in other Spalding books. When the story focuses on Rebecca's exploration of her sexuality, it's nuanced and well-done.
We do get to see Max and Sadie (from the other books in this series) and a bit of Ari--that was fun, and I wish there was more of them. Over time, I warmed up to Tess' cast for the play and they were some strong foils for her. Overall, this story builds, culminating in a good ending.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Kensington in return for an unbiased review.
April 12, 2026
(rounded up from 4.5)
If it makes me cry, it gets five stars. Them's the rules.
This was wholesome, low-angst, and I loved the supporting characters for once. Tess is a fairly famous actress who is tired of the usual comic book big-budget movies that have made her famous and is looking to get back to her roots in theatre. Unfortunately, the new director attached to her theatre debut is the woman she was in a theatre camp with in her twenties and whose heart she broke. Worse still, the woman is all grown up, still gorgeous, and seems not really affected by Tess ' bad behaviour in the past (I love that this is worse because relatable as all fuck).
I loved the journey of Tess opening up about her sexuality to her close friends and then further. There are some cute found friendships, cute banter amongst the characters, and a sweet and non-dramatic love story at the core of this. It is all very wholesome and sweet. Highly recommended if you enjoyed the rest of Amy Spalding's series about gay women in Hollywood.
If it makes me cry, it gets five stars. Them's the rules.
This was wholesome, low-angst, and I loved the supporting characters for once. Tess is a fairly famous actress who is tired of the usual comic book big-budget movies that have made her famous and is looking to get back to her roots in theatre. Unfortunately, the new director attached to her theatre debut is the woman she was in a theatre camp with in her twenties and whose heart she broke. Worse still, the woman is all grown up, still gorgeous, and seems not really affected by Tess ' bad behaviour in the past (I love that this is worse because relatable as all fuck).
I loved the journey of Tess opening up about her sexuality to her close friends and then further. There are some cute found friendships, cute banter amongst the characters, and a sweet and non-dramatic love story at the core of this. It is all very wholesome and sweet. Highly recommended if you enjoyed the rest of Amy Spalding's series about gay women in Hollywood.
April 21, 2026
3.8
If you love slow-burn, angsty second-chance romances where characters actually talk through their issues and grow together, this is for you.
It’s a love letter to theatre kids and a wonderful "come out to play" story.
Note: This is book 4 in the Out in Hollywood series, but it works perfectly as a standalone!
TROPES ✨
🔁 Second Chance
👯♀️ Sapphic Romance
🧲 Forced Proximity
☎️ Workplace Romance
🌶 2/5 Spice
🚫 Exes
Thanks to Hambright PR, NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced copy!
If you love slow-burn, angsty second-chance romances where characters actually talk through their issues and grow together, this is for you.
It’s a love letter to theatre kids and a wonderful "come out to play" story.
Note: This is book 4 in the Out in Hollywood series, but it works perfectly as a standalone!
TROPES ✨
🔁 Second Chance
👯♀️ Sapphic Romance
🧲 Forced Proximity
☎️ Workplace Romance
🌶 2/5 Spice
🚫 Exes
Thanks to Hambright PR, NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced copy!
February 26, 2026
I am OBSESSED WITH THIS ENTIRE SERIES. Could not put it down.
April 3, 2026
This is the first book I’ve read from Amy Spalding and I really enjoyed it. I’m looking forward to picking up the rest of the Out in Hollywood series.
I felt so bad for Tess that she couldn’t even confide in her brother or her best friend that she was gay and that she has met and left the love of her life at camp many years ago but that’s growing up in a conservative, homophobic household for you. I really wanted her to take the bull by the horns and slap her team around, I understand that you have to trust them but they were full on disagreeing with her lifestyle and second guessing every choice she made for her career.
I wish we had learned more about Rebecca, her current life and how she spent those years in between their first and second meeting. She sometimes felt a bit like a secondary character to me. Still, I enjoyed the resolution of the story, did grow invested in both main characters and loved how Tess fired insufferable Erica, took her personal life and career into her own hands and the world didn’t end when she was a out lesbian actress with a wife and an adorable dog.
Go sapphic superheroes!
Thank you to Amy Spalding, Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC.
I felt so bad for Tess that she couldn’t even confide in her brother or her best friend that she was gay and that she has met and left the love of her life at camp many years ago but that’s growing up in a conservative, homophobic household for you. I really wanted her to take the bull by the horns and slap her team around, I understand that you have to trust them but they were full on disagreeing with her lifestyle and second guessing every choice she made for her career.
I wish we had learned more about Rebecca, her current life and how she spent those years in between their first and second meeting. She sometimes felt a bit like a secondary character to me. Still, I enjoyed the resolution of the story, did grow invested in both main characters and loved how Tess fired insufferable Erica, took her personal life and career into her own hands and the world didn’t end when she was a out lesbian actress with a wife and an adorable dog.
Go sapphic superheroes!
Thank you to Amy Spalding, Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing, and Amy Spalding for an eARC in exchange for an unbiased review.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Four stars
When Tess Gardner, an actress famous for playing Princess Platinum in the Vindicators film franchise, takes a returns to her routes on stage, things don't go as smoothly as she'd like. Right as production begins the director is accused of sexually assaulting his colleagues, and a new director is brought in, none other than Tess's first love, Rebecca Frisch, who she ghosted over a decade ago and hasn't seen since.
Now, face-to-face with her past, Tess battles her resurfacing feelings for Rebecca, as well as decide how to come out to her brothers and her best friend, and maybe even the whole world.
While In Her Spotlight is the fourth book in the Out in Hollywood series, in some ways it feels like a departure from the narratives structure we've come to know from Amy Spalding. In previous books the romance has been the focus, but here it takes a bit more of a back seat to our lead character's career and personal drama. Still, it's a vital part of the story, but less of a driving force of the narrative than in the previous books. An interesting change of pace.
Honestly, this has been my least favourite book in the series so far, but I still loved it. It's a fantastic book, but it was hard to root for Tess when she was so self-oriented. I felt bad for Aisha for most of the story. Still, it was a four star read for me. Another great Out in Hollywood installment.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Four stars
Plus there was the way I felt around queer people, safe in a way I didn’t always understand. If I kept it all so locked up, if I couldn’t risk being myself and keeping my life as it was—and all the people who depended on that life—why did it still bring me such joy to stand near them?
When Tess Gardner, an actress famous for playing Princess Platinum in the Vindicators film franchise, takes a returns to her routes on stage, things don't go as smoothly as she'd like. Right as production begins the director is accused of sexually assaulting his colleagues, and a new director is brought in, none other than Tess's first love, Rebecca Frisch, who she ghosted over a decade ago and hasn't seen since.
Now, face-to-face with her past, Tess battles her resurfacing feelings for Rebecca, as well as decide how to come out to her brothers and her best friend, and maybe even the whole world.
While In Her Spotlight is the fourth book in the Out in Hollywood series, in some ways it feels like a departure from the narratives structure we've come to know from Amy Spalding. In previous books the romance has been the focus, but here it takes a bit more of a back seat to our lead character's career and personal drama. Still, it's a vital part of the story, but less of a driving force of the narrative than in the previous books. An interesting change of pace.
Honestly, this has been my least favourite book in the series so far, but I still loved it. It's a fantastic book, but it was hard to root for Tess when she was so self-oriented. I felt bad for Aisha for most of the story. Still, it was a four star read for me. Another great Out in Hollywood installment.
April 17, 2026
This book? Pure spotlight magic.
In Her Spotlight by Amy Spalding delivers a romance that feels both intimate and cinematic, like watching two hearts rehearse their way back to each other under the glow of stage lights. Tess Gardner is such a compelling FMC—caught between the glittering cage of Hollywood fame and her quiet, aching desire to be seen for who she really is. And Rebecca? Sharp, grounded, and carrying just enough history to make every interaction crackle.
The second-chance romance here is deliciously layered. Their past isn’t just backstory—it lingers in every glance, every bit of tension, every almost-touch. You can feel the unfinished business humming beneath the surface like a live wire.
What really stole the show for me was the exploration of identity and visibility. Tess’s struggle with being closeted in an industry that profits off a carefully curated image felt painfully real. It adds weight to the romance, turning it into something deeper than chemistry—it becomes about courage, truth, and choosing yourself even when the world is watching.
And the theatre setting? Absolutely perfect. It mirrors everything—performance vs. authenticity, scripted lines vs. real emotions. The way their relationship unfolds alongside rehearsals feels intentional and poetic, like love itself is part of the production.
✨ Expect:
* Second-chance sapphic romance
* Hollywood fame vs. real identity
* Emotional tension that hurts so good
* Theatre kid vibes with heart
By the final act, I was fully invested, emotionally wrecked (in the best way), and rooting so hard for Tess to step into her own life—not just the roles written for her.
This isn’t just a love story. It’s about stepping out of the shadows and into your own spotlight—and wow, does it shine.
In Her Spotlight by Amy Spalding delivers a romance that feels both intimate and cinematic, like watching two hearts rehearse their way back to each other under the glow of stage lights. Tess Gardner is such a compelling FMC—caught between the glittering cage of Hollywood fame and her quiet, aching desire to be seen for who she really is. And Rebecca? Sharp, grounded, and carrying just enough history to make every interaction crackle.
The second-chance romance here is deliciously layered. Their past isn’t just backstory—it lingers in every glance, every bit of tension, every almost-touch. You can feel the unfinished business humming beneath the surface like a live wire.
What really stole the show for me was the exploration of identity and visibility. Tess’s struggle with being closeted in an industry that profits off a carefully curated image felt painfully real. It adds weight to the romance, turning it into something deeper than chemistry—it becomes about courage, truth, and choosing yourself even when the world is watching.
And the theatre setting? Absolutely perfect. It mirrors everything—performance vs. authenticity, scripted lines vs. real emotions. The way their relationship unfolds alongside rehearsals feels intentional and poetic, like love itself is part of the production.
✨ Expect:
* Second-chance sapphic romance
* Hollywood fame vs. real identity
* Emotional tension that hurts so good
* Theatre kid vibes with heart
By the final act, I was fully invested, emotionally wrecked (in the best way), and rooting so hard for Tess to step into her own life—not just the roles written for her.
This isn’t just a love story. It’s about stepping out of the shadows and into your own spotlight—and wow, does it shine.
February 26, 2026
Amy Spaldings books just always manage to make me smile and giggle. i loved these characters together, i love the journey of finding out what you want and going for it, regardless of what others think, i love the setting. this is just so good. i really really hope what we get an afterlight by illumicrate special edition of this one!!
thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review.
thank you to netgalley and the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2026
Delightful and quite possibly my favorite of this series! Just a note, though - 5’10” is tall but it’s not that tall! I am able to move around in society on a daily basis without people commenting on how I must have played basketball or asking how the weather is up there!
March 14, 2026
My favourite in the series I think - solid romance, sped through it in a day!
March 16, 2026
4.5 stars
In Her Spotlight is the first book I've read from the author. The book was so good. It'll be in my top 3 of March.
In Her Spotlight is the first book I've read from the author. The book was so good. It'll be in my top 3 of March.
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March 16, 2026Tess is a successful Hollywood star best know for her superhero movies. She wants to change her image and pursue her love of the theatre and is about to begin a play. After a director change right before rehearsals start it turns out her ex Rebecca will be the director. Rebecca is a well know stage director and unbeknownst to anyone else was Tess’s first and only love. Tess has still never come out with the worry about career and personal ramifications. Will Tess be able to overcome these fears and be able to fully be who she is and have a second chance with Rebecca? This was a well written book with a lot of interesting information about movie and stage productions as well as Hollywood in general. Tess was an interesting character and the supporting characters brought a lot to the book. I definitely enjoyed this book and found the writing engaging. This is the 4th book in a series and can be read as a standalone.
April 17, 2026
4.5 stars
April 30, 2026
Thank you Hambright for a arc of this one 💕 it was fabulous, such a wholesome refreshing book! Would highly recommend this one to anyone!!
February 28, 2026
I have really enjoyed this series and this one may be my favorite. (It’s either this or the second book with the first book close behind.) Tess is a great character - very sweet but a little bit of a spoiled diva given her life as an A list star. She’s also completely closeted. She’s never come out even to her best friend or her brother (her other best friend). One time just after college she had a summer long romance with her roommate (Rebecca) at summer stock which ended when Tess abandoned her to move to LA. Now, when Tess has finally convinced her team to let her take a break from making comic book blockbusters for huge amounts of money and do a stage play, her long ago girlfriend pops back up in her life as the replacement director of her play. Tess feels guilty about how she treated Rebecca, unsure of herself among stage actors, and frustrated that her team keeps trying to push her away from the kind of projects she wants and towards more blockbusters. She slowly comes out keeping careful track of the exact number of people she’s let know until finally she talks about it at a public event. This leaves her feeling both exhilarated and nervous. When her publicist calls too early the next morning to work out a strategy to walk her coming out back, Tess fires her and finally takes control of her own life. The happy ending follows. Along the way various characters from previous books show up including Max (delightful as always) and Ari Fox. Unusually, my favorite parts of this book are between the lovers. Not necessarily in order, but they include Tess firing her publicist, Tess calling a meeting of her team to lay down the law about what she wants for the future of her career, and her Zoom call with her three brothers to alert them that she’s come out before they find out on the internet. It turns out that they all already know because their kids have seen the news and they’re absolutely supportive - the way you wish it could always happen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 11, 2026
I was provided an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I mostly enjoyed this. I liked how this was about more than their romance but also this famous actress and her career. I enjoyed the plot. It truly drew me in from beginning to end, the characters and the romance were just the cherry on top. There were a few lines that took me out a little and keep me from rating this 5 stars but I still had a great time and I hope we get more books in this series!
I mostly enjoyed this. I liked how this was about more than their romance but also this famous actress and her career. I enjoyed the plot. It truly drew me in from beginning to end, the characters and the romance were just the cherry on top. There were a few lines that took me out a little and keep me from rating this 5 stars but I still had a great time and I hope we get more books in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
📖 Title: In Her Spotlight- Out in Hollywood #4
✍🏾 Author: Amy Spalding- I've read all books in the series
📅Publication date: 2/24/26 | Read: 2/20/26
📃 Format: e-Book 336 pgs.
Genre:
*Contemporary Romance
*LGBTQIA+
Tropes:
*2nd chance romance
*sapphic romance
*workplace romance
*coming out
👆🏾POV:1st person single
⚠️TW: family neglect, homophobia, death of parents, Me Too movement mentioned
🌎 Setting: LA
Summary: It has been over a decade since Tess broke up with Rebecca in pursuit of an acting career in Hollywood. Tess gets the lead role in "Hometown" with her ex-girlfriend as the director, bringing up her guilt, and closeted sexuality. Rebecca starts off cool and professional, but later admits she was a wreck when Tess ended things. They start hooking up again though Tess knows things can't get serious because her superhero persona Princess Platinum can't be openly gay.
👩🏾 Heroine: Tess Gardner-30's, a movie franchise actress in Vindicators' as Princess Platinum (think Avengers) who wants to do theater
👩🏾 Heroine: Rebecca Frisch-30's, a writer from NYC replaced director Geoffrey Gordon who was fired after sexual harassment cases.
🎭 Other Characters:
*Andy-Tess's brother-has a landscaping business
*Aisha-Tess's BFF, former actress turned teacher
*Michael, Henry, Kathleen, and Ashlee-the actors in the play
*Joyce-Tess's agent
*Max +Riley-Tess's managers
*Erica- Tess's theatrical agent
*Rosie-Tess's dog
🤔 My Thoughts: I didn't connect with Tess or Rebecca in the beginning. Tess came off spoiled and entitled driving a Porsche and expecting to be waited on hand and foot. Rebecca seemed very nonchalant about working with Tess when she later confessed to being heart broken. I would have liked more background on Tess and Aisha's relationship, and for Tess and Rebecca to have gotten real with each other sooner. Tess wanted to keep their hookups secret and had her handlers make decisions for her. Rebecca lost out again when they broke up because Tess's about to start Vindicators 4. There was also the underlying misogyny by producers not wanting Rebecca to be celebrated as the play's director.
Rating: 3/5 ✨
Spice level: 3/5 🌶️ open door
🙏🏾Thanks to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing| Kensington, and Amy Spalding for this ARC! I voluntarily give my honest review, and all opinions are my own.
✍🏾 Author: Amy Spalding- I've read all books in the series
📅Publication date: 2/24/26 | Read: 2/20/26
📃 Format: e-Book 336 pgs.
Genre:
*Contemporary Romance
*LGBTQIA+
Tropes:
*2nd chance romance
*sapphic romance
*workplace romance
*coming out
👆🏾POV:1st person single
⚠️TW: family neglect, homophobia, death of parents, Me Too movement mentioned
🌎 Setting: LA
Summary: It has been over a decade since Tess broke up with Rebecca in pursuit of an acting career in Hollywood. Tess gets the lead role in "Hometown" with her ex-girlfriend as the director, bringing up her guilt, and closeted sexuality. Rebecca starts off cool and professional, but later admits she was a wreck when Tess ended things. They start hooking up again though Tess knows things can't get serious because her superhero persona Princess Platinum can't be openly gay.
👩🏾 Heroine: Tess Gardner-30's, a movie franchise actress in Vindicators' as Princess Platinum (think Avengers) who wants to do theater
👩🏾 Heroine: Rebecca Frisch-30's, a writer from NYC replaced director Geoffrey Gordon who was fired after sexual harassment cases.
🎭 Other Characters:
*Andy-Tess's brother-has a landscaping business
*Aisha-Tess's BFF, former actress turned teacher
*Michael, Henry, Kathleen, and Ashlee-the actors in the play
*Joyce-Tess's agent
*Max +Riley-Tess's managers
*Erica- Tess's theatrical agent
*Rosie-Tess's dog
🤔 My Thoughts: I didn't connect with Tess or Rebecca in the beginning. Tess came off spoiled and entitled driving a Porsche and expecting to be waited on hand and foot. Rebecca seemed very nonchalant about working with Tess when she later confessed to being heart broken. I would have liked more background on Tess and Aisha's relationship, and for Tess and Rebecca to have gotten real with each other sooner. Tess wanted to keep their hookups secret and had her handlers make decisions for her. Rebecca lost out again when they broke up because Tess's about to start Vindicators 4. There was also the underlying misogyny by producers not wanting Rebecca to be celebrated as the play's director.
Rating: 3/5 ✨
Spice level: 3/5 🌶️ open door
🙏🏾Thanks to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing| Kensington, and Amy Spalding for this ARC! I voluntarily give my honest review, and all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
(4.5 Stars) Tess Gardner is a Hollywood actress known for her role in a big CGI action series. The Juilliard trained actress wants to get back to her theater roots and jumps at the chance to work on stage with a famed director. Days before she begins rehearsals he resigns because of #MeToo issues and an up and coming director is brought in to replace him. The director happens to be Rebecca Frisch who has been Tony nominated. They spent one blissful season doing summer stock theater as roommates that turned into more. Rebecca had wanted Tess to follow her to NYC but she already had planned to move to Hollywood with her brother and left without warning. It is now a decade later and Tess who is very, very closeted still feels that draw to Rebecca.
The story is told from Tess’s POV. Beginning in the theater she comes off pampered because in movies doing things for herself can be taking away someone's job or messing up shot set ups. She is somewhat self aware but at times can forget to check in on the needs or her best friend and brother. I like that Rebecca is talented as a director. Honestly, the romance felt secondary to me but memorable. I think what raises the bar for Spalding’s books is all the details of working in Hollywood and in this case the stage too. This reads to me as women’s fiction with a romance. It shines in seeing Tess go from her closed off self to working well with her new theater friends. There are lots of details about the work of agents, publicists, stylists and more. Tess has them all working for her and often they are in control and are pushing for the next big movie deal instead of listening to her wants. It is nice to see Tess grow into herself as she becomes authentic. I didn’t see as big of a story arch for Rebecca but I liked her character.
This is the fourth in the Out In Hollywood series and I have read them all. I appreciated appearances from other MCs, but this can be read as a stand alone novel. I really liked several of the side characters and of course Rosie the Pug. I also love all the details of the clothes and outfits they are wearing. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
The story is told from Tess’s POV. Beginning in the theater she comes off pampered because in movies doing things for herself can be taking away someone's job or messing up shot set ups. She is somewhat self aware but at times can forget to check in on the needs or her best friend and brother. I like that Rebecca is talented as a director. Honestly, the romance felt secondary to me but memorable. I think what raises the bar for Spalding’s books is all the details of working in Hollywood and in this case the stage too. This reads to me as women’s fiction with a romance. It shines in seeing Tess go from her closed off self to working well with her new theater friends. There are lots of details about the work of agents, publicists, stylists and more. Tess has them all working for her and often they are in control and are pushing for the next big movie deal instead of listening to her wants. It is nice to see Tess grow into herself as she becomes authentic. I didn’t see as big of a story arch for Rebecca but I liked her character.
This is the fourth in the Out In Hollywood series and I have read them all. I appreciated appearances from other MCs, but this can be read as a stand alone novel. I really liked several of the side characters and of course Rosie the Pug. I also love all the details of the clothes and outfits they are wearing. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
🌶️ very mild
Professional Actress Tess Gardner™ didn’t set out to be a star in an Avengers-esque action superhero movie, but she feels like it’s cramping her style. She much prefers the theatre, and agrees to be in the starring role of an LA production of a new play. But when a last-minute director shake up happens, Tess is confronted with a secret from her past. A decade ago, Tess broke Rebecca’s heart; Tess went on to superhero movies, and Rebecca went on to becoming a buzz-worthy director. With Tess’s career on the line, can she risk coming out to the world, or risk breaking Rebecca’s heart all over again?
This is the fourth book in Amy Spalding's Out In Hollywood series, and fans of this sapphic series will love this book just as much as the previous books in the series (including some favorite characters dropping in like Max and Ari!). The difference with this installment though is that coming out is a major plot line, as Tess thinks she must stay closeted for her career. It’s not that I didn’t like it, but I think the beauty of the other books in the series is that their queer identity is the starting point, allowing room for romance in the plot; in this book, romance is almost the secondary plot. It’s a good coming out story, and I love the integration of the Second Chance, Workplace, and Forced Proximity tropes into a theater production. It’s a heartwarming sapphic love story, full of pop culture references that any fan would adore, and a good coming out story nonetheless. Fans of the series will definitely appreciate this latest installment!
Just a warning: there is a #MeToo element in the plot, without any direct mention or personal experience described.
Reviewed as part of an #ARC from #Booksparks and #NetGalley. Many thanks to Kensington Books for the #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. #WRC2026 #HibernateWithBookSparks
Read this book if:
🍟 your go-to order at In-N-Out is fries and a vanilla milkshake
🍨 you would never turn down butterscotch pudding
🌽 you love a shout-out to the queer kids in the Midwest
Follow me on Instagram for more book reviews!
🌶️ very mild
Professional Actress Tess Gardner™ didn’t set out to be a star in an Avengers-esque action superhero movie, but she feels like it’s cramping her style. She much prefers the theatre, and agrees to be in the starring role of an LA production of a new play. But when a last-minute director shake up happens, Tess is confronted with a secret from her past. A decade ago, Tess broke Rebecca’s heart; Tess went on to superhero movies, and Rebecca went on to becoming a buzz-worthy director. With Tess’s career on the line, can she risk coming out to the world, or risk breaking Rebecca’s heart all over again?
This is the fourth book in Amy Spalding's Out In Hollywood series, and fans of this sapphic series will love this book just as much as the previous books in the series (including some favorite characters dropping in like Max and Ari!). The difference with this installment though is that coming out is a major plot line, as Tess thinks she must stay closeted for her career. It’s not that I didn’t like it, but I think the beauty of the other books in the series is that their queer identity is the starting point, allowing room for romance in the plot; in this book, romance is almost the secondary plot. It’s a good coming out story, and I love the integration of the Second Chance, Workplace, and Forced Proximity tropes into a theater production. It’s a heartwarming sapphic love story, full of pop culture references that any fan would adore, and a good coming out story nonetheless. Fans of the series will definitely appreciate this latest installment!
Just a warning: there is a #MeToo element in the plot, without any direct mention or personal experience described.
Reviewed as part of an #ARC from #Booksparks and #NetGalley. Many thanks to Kensington Books for the #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. #WRC2026 #HibernateWithBookSparks
Read this book if:
🍟 your go-to order at In-N-Out is fries and a vanilla milkshake
🍨 you would never turn down butterscotch pudding
🌽 you love a shout-out to the queer kids in the Midwest
Follow me on Instagram for more book reviews!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🎭 In Her Spotlight by Amy Spalding 🎭 ARC review 🎭 pub date Feb 24, 2026 🎭
Amy has done it again - between relatable lead characters and the colourful array of supporting characters, she’s created another facet to her Out in Hollywood series that draws readers in and takes them on a wild adventure.
The 4th instalment in the series tells the story of Tess Gardner, an actress known for blockbuster movies, returning to her happy place: theatre.
Much to the annoyance of her team (agents, publicists, managers, etc), who see it as a less lucrative option for her, Tess longs to tread the boards like she did before her star rose on the silver screen. She’s cast in a new play with a world renowned director that she’s admired for years - only for him to be forced to step down after allegations are made against him by several actresses throughout his career.
What Tess didn’t expect, was that her ex would be his replacement. Her female ex. Which she’s told not a soul about. Not even her brother or best friend. Or her adorable snort goblin of a pug, Rosie.
The re-introduction of Rebecca Frisch to Tess’s world send the actress for a loop.
Her feelings are still very much there for Rebecca, but with everything else going on in her life (trying to adjust to theatre instead of movie sets, wanting desperately to fit in with her cast members while her publicist keeps forcing her to stand out in front of them), Tess starts to question the life that she has versus the life that she so desperately wants but doesn’t think she deserves. Because of what she did to Rebecca the first time they were together.
As Tess lets herself feel for Rebecca again, and Rebecca lets her, the journey they have is a beautiful one.
Amy creates such well-rounded characters, detailed locations you feel you could step right in to, and lead characters you can’t help but root for.
I had read book 1 and 2 of the Out in Hollywood series, but hadn’t yet read book 3, and that was absolutely fine as characters from the first 2 books made appearances in this one - so if you’re like me, jump straight in!
Amy has done it again - between relatable lead characters and the colourful array of supporting characters, she’s created another facet to her Out in Hollywood series that draws readers in and takes them on a wild adventure.
The 4th instalment in the series tells the story of Tess Gardner, an actress known for blockbuster movies, returning to her happy place: theatre.
Much to the annoyance of her team (agents, publicists, managers, etc), who see it as a less lucrative option for her, Tess longs to tread the boards like she did before her star rose on the silver screen. She’s cast in a new play with a world renowned director that she’s admired for years - only for him to be forced to step down after allegations are made against him by several actresses throughout his career.
What Tess didn’t expect, was that her ex would be his replacement. Her female ex. Which she’s told not a soul about. Not even her brother or best friend. Or her adorable snort goblin of a pug, Rosie.
The re-introduction of Rebecca Frisch to Tess’s world send the actress for a loop.
Her feelings are still very much there for Rebecca, but with everything else going on in her life (trying to adjust to theatre instead of movie sets, wanting desperately to fit in with her cast members while her publicist keeps forcing her to stand out in front of them), Tess starts to question the life that she has versus the life that she so desperately wants but doesn’t think she deserves. Because of what she did to Rebecca the first time they were together.
As Tess lets herself feel for Rebecca again, and Rebecca lets her, the journey they have is a beautiful one.
Amy creates such well-rounded characters, detailed locations you feel you could step right in to, and lead characters you can’t help but root for.
I had read book 1 and 2 of the Out in Hollywood series, but hadn’t yet read book 3, and that was absolutely fine as characters from the first 2 books made appearances in this one - so if you’re like me, jump straight in!
Read
February 27, 2026Tl;dr: A charming romance bringing you into the world of LA theater, with a dash of self improvement. The negative is that the formula is starting to feel a slight bit tired to me. Single POV, first person.
This really feels like an Amy Spalding book, with all of the good and a bit of the bad that comes with that. It’s funny (I personally found it even funnier than on her terms), it’s heartwarming, it features a multitude of characters that you want to spend time with, it has a flawed main character that you can’t help but root for, and a love interest you have to struggle not to fall in love with yourself. The main characters feel like they genuenly like each other, and at least I did very much root for them.
The bad is that this book feels very similar in it’s structure to others of Spalding’s books (I will type out a bit more on this in the slightly spoilery part below), and that the MC feels similar to most of her MCs. I am also pretty sick of the «I live here, this has no future because you are only here for a short bit»-trope, but I can’t blame that on the book.
Generally though, I did really enjoy this read, which also in no small part was helped by the always excellent narration of Lori Prince, the queen of sapphic comedy narration. I really do recommend it!
🚨Some spoilers:
The formula I feel is a bit tired includes:
- A main character not believing they are worth the love of the love interest, which isn’t really believable given how obvious it is that the love interest in completely head over heels.
- Some pretty unnecessary miscommunication
- The MC needing to be alone to make the big strides in her self improvement journey, only to not be the one to put it on the line for the love interest.
But despite this, I would read it again, and this probably wouldn’t bother me if I hadn’t read others of Spalding’s books 😊
This really feels like an Amy Spalding book, with all of the good and a bit of the bad that comes with that. It’s funny (I personally found it even funnier than on her terms), it’s heartwarming, it features a multitude of characters that you want to spend time with, it has a flawed main character that you can’t help but root for, and a love interest you have to struggle not to fall in love with yourself. The main characters feel like they genuenly like each other, and at least I did very much root for them.
The bad is that this book feels very similar in it’s structure to others of Spalding’s books (I will type out a bit more on this in the slightly spoilery part below), and that the MC feels similar to most of her MCs. I am also pretty sick of the «I live here, this has no future because you are only here for a short bit»-trope, but I can’t blame that on the book.
Generally though, I did really enjoy this read, which also in no small part was helped by the always excellent narration of Lori Prince, the queen of sapphic comedy narration. I really do recommend it!
🚨Some spoilers:
The formula I feel is a bit tired includes:
- A main character not believing they are worth the love of the love interest, which isn’t really believable given how obvious it is that the love interest in completely head over heels.
- Some pretty unnecessary miscommunication
- The MC needing to be alone to make the big strides in her self improvement journey, only to not be the one to put it on the line for the love interest.
But despite this, I would read it again, and this probably wouldn’t bother me if I hadn’t read others of Spalding’s books 😊
March 6, 2026
Thank you @booksparks for this #gifted book and the 2026 BookSparks Winter Reading Challenge.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In Her Spotlight by Amy Spalding is a heartfelt second-chance romance set against the backdrop of theater and Hollywood. The story follows actress Tess and director Rebecca, who unexpectedly find themselves working together again years after a painful breakup. When Rebecca is assigned to direct the play Tess is starring in, old feelings and unresolved history quickly resurface.
I always enjoy second-chance romances, and the premise here was especially compelling. Years earlier, Tess wasn’t ready to come out publicly and ended their relationship despite still loving Rebecca, which understandably left a lot of hurt behind. Watching them navigate those lingering emotions while working closely together created a lot of tension and longing throughout the story.
I liked the glimpses into their past and seeing pieces of how their relationship originally developed. The behind-the-scenes look at acting and directing also added an interesting layer, though at times the technical aspects of theater took up a bit more space than the romance itself. Still, the emotional payoff at the end was really satisfying.
This is the fourth book in the Out in Hollywood series, but it works perfectly well as a standalone. Overall, a thoughtful and engaging second-chance romance with a unique showbiz setting.
#books #bookishlife #booklover #readingisfun #iowabookstagrammers #iowabookstagram #harpermuse #sponsored #inherspotlight #amyspalding #WRC2026 #hibernatewithbooksparks #booksparks #WRC2026ambassador
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
In Her Spotlight by Amy Spalding is a heartfelt second-chance romance set against the backdrop of theater and Hollywood. The story follows actress Tess and director Rebecca, who unexpectedly find themselves working together again years after a painful breakup. When Rebecca is assigned to direct the play Tess is starring in, old feelings and unresolved history quickly resurface.
I always enjoy second-chance romances, and the premise here was especially compelling. Years earlier, Tess wasn’t ready to come out publicly and ended their relationship despite still loving Rebecca, which understandably left a lot of hurt behind. Watching them navigate those lingering emotions while working closely together created a lot of tension and longing throughout the story.
I liked the glimpses into their past and seeing pieces of how their relationship originally developed. The behind-the-scenes look at acting and directing also added an interesting layer, though at times the technical aspects of theater took up a bit more space than the romance itself. Still, the emotional payoff at the end was really satisfying.
This is the fourth book in the Out in Hollywood series, but it works perfectly well as a standalone. Overall, a thoughtful and engaging second-chance romance with a unique showbiz setting.
#books #bookishlife #booklover #readingisfun #iowabookstagrammers #iowabookstagram #harpermuse #sponsored #inherspotlight #amyspalding #WRC2026 #hibernatewithbooksparks #booksparks #WRC2026ambassador
December 10, 2025
The ‘Out in Hollywood’ series by Amy Spalding has been one of my absolute reading joys this year. How perfect then to finish off the year with her new one ‘In her Spotlight’. I found this one especially lovely as it’s set in the world of theatre making and it’s also one of my favourite sub-genres ( as Jane Austen would say) ‘the second attachment’. This series of standalone books is interconnected by queer ‘ladies who brunch’ a warm network of creative, diverse and witty friends who have their own love stories but then pop up as minor characters in the other books.
This one is about ‘professional actress Tess Gardner’ and Tess herself who has lost herself in this public persona. Wildly successful for her role as Princess Platinum, Tess has lobbied her control-freak team for the opportunity to take on a theatre role. The complication? The director is Tess’ first, lost and only love Rebecca Frisch.
From their first interaction it’s obvious that there’s still chemistry between Tess and ‘effortlessly competent, unsettlingly attractive’ Rebecca. There’s a lovely friendship with fellow cast members Ashlee and Kathleen, a redemption arc for sometimes brusque theatre snob Michael, excellent fashion including ‘a glossy black Chloe leather jacket’ that help the reemerging real Tess ‘feel like a badass’. At one point I wondered where are the ladies who brunch but then they arrive like a sapphic cavalry. Of course there is Amy Spading’s warmth, perfect dialogue and quirky LA vibes. In Her Spotlight is my kind of book and I hope it will be yours too.
This one is about ‘professional actress Tess Gardner’ and Tess herself who has lost herself in this public persona. Wildly successful for her role as Princess Platinum, Tess has lobbied her control-freak team for the opportunity to take on a theatre role. The complication? The director is Tess’ first, lost and only love Rebecca Frisch.
From their first interaction it’s obvious that there’s still chemistry between Tess and ‘effortlessly competent, unsettlingly attractive’ Rebecca. There’s a lovely friendship with fellow cast members Ashlee and Kathleen, a redemption arc for sometimes brusque theatre snob Michael, excellent fashion including ‘a glossy black Chloe leather jacket’ that help the reemerging real Tess ‘feel like a badass’. At one point I wondered where are the ladies who brunch but then they arrive like a sapphic cavalry. Of course there is Amy Spading’s warmth, perfect dialogue and quirky LA vibes. In Her Spotlight is my kind of book and I hope it will be yours too.
March 7, 2026
In Her Spotlight is the fourth interconnected standalone in the series Out in Hollywood. While it is part of a series, I don’t think you need to read the previous books to enjoy this one. I personally read the first book in the series (wave to my anxious girl Nina) before reading this one, but even if I hadn’t, I don’t think it would have change dmy enjoyment. Though there are a couple of cute cameos from at least one previous book.
Tess, the FMC POV, is a mega star actress starring in a Marval-esque franchise (reminded me of Scarlett Johansson / Black Widow) but wants to go back to her roots in theater. She lands a role to star in a revival show, but is taken by surprise when the male director is replaced (#MeToo reference) with a new director who happens to be her ex-girlfriend whom she was in love with during their early theater days. As a second chance romance, this book had a lot of emphasis on Tess’s struggles with being closeted and the effect it has on herself and her relationship with Rebecca, both in the past and in the present.
There is definitely a lot of angst and yearning, especially in a forced proximity workplace environment with a twist of the forbidden. The FMC goes through a lot of reflection and growth and the ending is really cute. I saw a couple of other reviews mention there is too much focus on the theater, but personally I enjoyed getting a glimpse into the world.
Thank you to Amy Spalding and Kensington Publishing | Kensington for providing a copy. I am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Tess, the FMC POV, is a mega star actress starring in a Marval-esque franchise (reminded me of Scarlett Johansson / Black Widow) but wants to go back to her roots in theater. She lands a role to star in a revival show, but is taken by surprise when the male director is replaced (#MeToo reference) with a new director who happens to be her ex-girlfriend whom she was in love with during their early theater days. As a second chance romance, this book had a lot of emphasis on Tess’s struggles with being closeted and the effect it has on herself and her relationship with Rebecca, both in the past and in the present.
There is definitely a lot of angst and yearning, especially in a forced proximity workplace environment with a twist of the forbidden. The FMC goes through a lot of reflection and growth and the ending is really cute. I saw a couple of other reviews mention there is too much focus on the theater, but personally I enjoyed getting a glimpse into the world.
Thank you to Amy Spalding and Kensington Publishing | Kensington for providing a copy. I am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
March 17, 2026
In Her Spotlight by Amy Spalding had a really interesting premise exploring identity, fame, and second chances through a Hollywood lens and I appreciated what it was trying to do emotionally, even if it didn’t fully land for me.
The dynamic between Tess and Rebecca carries a lot of the story, especially with their history and the tension of working together again. I liked the idea of revisiting a past relationship under completely different circumstances, and there are definitely moments where that emotional weight comes through.
I haven’t read the earlier books in the Out in Hollywood series yet, but I did enjoy getting a glimpse of the interconnected friend group and the broader industry setting it made the world feel lived-in and has definitely made me interested in going back and reading the rest.
For me, the pacing felt a bit uneven, and a lot of the story leans heavily on Tess being stuck or uncertain, which made it harder to stay fully invested at times. I found myself wanting a little more forward momentum, both in the plot and in the relationship development.
That said, I did appreciate where the story ultimately lands. This may be one of the only books that I would of been interested to read from a dual POV. Sometimes I feel like that is overdone quite a bit, but it would have worked really well here.
Overall, this was a solid, character-driven story with an emotional core that will likely resonate more with readers who enjoy introspective journeys and second-chance relationships, even if it wasn’t a standout for me personally.
The dynamic between Tess and Rebecca carries a lot of the story, especially with their history and the tension of working together again. I liked the idea of revisiting a past relationship under completely different circumstances, and there are definitely moments where that emotional weight comes through.
I haven’t read the earlier books in the Out in Hollywood series yet, but I did enjoy getting a glimpse of the interconnected friend group and the broader industry setting it made the world feel lived-in and has definitely made me interested in going back and reading the rest.
For me, the pacing felt a bit uneven, and a lot of the story leans heavily on Tess being stuck or uncertain, which made it harder to stay fully invested at times. I found myself wanting a little more forward momentum, both in the plot and in the relationship development.
That said, I did appreciate where the story ultimately lands. This may be one of the only books that I would of been interested to read from a dual POV. Sometimes I feel like that is overdone quite a bit, but it would have worked really well here.
Overall, this was a solid, character-driven story with an emotional core that will likely resonate more with readers who enjoy introspective journeys and second-chance relationships, even if it wasn’t a standout for me personally.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced reader copy.
3.5 stars
Tess Gardner is famous. She's a lead in the franchise Vindicators superhero movies, has a beautiful house, and a cute (and famous in her own right) pug named Rosie. But she isn't satisfied; she wants more from her career. When she's given the chance to go back to her theater roots, to be in a female-written play, she jumps at it, even if her team isn't enthusiastic. But then the director gets taken down by the #MeToo movement and Tess' ex-girlfriend, Rebecca Frisch steps in. Tess is even more thrown by the fact that Rebecca doesn't seem to have any particular emotion toward Tess--even though Tess ghosted her when they were dating. As the two are forced to work together closely, can they move beyond the terrible way their relationship ended and start over?
This wasn't my favorite of Amy Spalding's Out in Hollywood books. It had a slower start than the others and that threw me for a moment. Tess, as a main character wasn't as compelling as some of the other main characters, though Rebecca was a delight to read and Rosie the pug is one of my favorite canine characters that I've read. IN HER SPOTLIGHT is still worth diving into for the continued expansion of the Out in Hollywood world. I especially appreciate how each novel approaches the Hollywood machine from a different perspective.
In Her Spotlight is out February 24, 2026
3.5 stars
Tess Gardner is famous. She's a lead in the franchise Vindicators superhero movies, has a beautiful house, and a cute (and famous in her own right) pug named Rosie. But she isn't satisfied; she wants more from her career. When she's given the chance to go back to her theater roots, to be in a female-written play, she jumps at it, even if her team isn't enthusiastic. But then the director gets taken down by the #MeToo movement and Tess' ex-girlfriend, Rebecca Frisch steps in. Tess is even more thrown by the fact that Rebecca doesn't seem to have any particular emotion toward Tess--even though Tess ghosted her when they were dating. As the two are forced to work together closely, can they move beyond the terrible way their relationship ended and start over?
This wasn't my favorite of Amy Spalding's Out in Hollywood books. It had a slower start than the others and that threw me for a moment. Tess, as a main character wasn't as compelling as some of the other main characters, though Rebecca was a delight to read and Rosie the pug is one of my favorite canine characters that I've read. IN HER SPOTLIGHT is still worth diving into for the continued expansion of the Out in Hollywood world. I especially appreciate how each novel approaches the Hollywood machine from a different perspective.
In Her Spotlight is out February 24, 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Another lovely foray into LA and Hollywood. This one is a little slower to get into, mostly because Tess Gardner is not honest with herself, so it is harder for us to get to know her. We still care, though, and want her to figure herself out.
This one is set in the theater instead of in movies. I have a little bit of theater experience, I was Shep Henderson in Bell, Book, and Candle in high school, and from what I know, everything rings true. There is a special magic when the book stands up and starts walking around. Words on the page become movements on the stage.
If you are looking for a "Hollywood glamour" story, this might not be it. Tess has largely made her peace with the press and paparazzi, but her life is constrained by her fame. Yes, some fancy dresses show up, but just the right jeans might be more important in the story.
I appreciate the bits of good writing, quietly setting up later moments, whether it is grilled cheese or bathrobes.
I also like that this series doesn't take the lazy road where everyone in the friend group is gay and we march through them book by book. These books are all loosely coupled and could be read in any order, with a few minor spoilers, like a character being married in one book but single in an earlier one.
Just read all of them, in order or not.
Kensington Publishing was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via NetGalley for an honest review.
This one is set in the theater instead of in movies. I have a little bit of theater experience, I was Shep Henderson in Bell, Book, and Candle in high school, and from what I know, everything rings true. There is a special magic when the book stands up and starts walking around. Words on the page become movements on the stage.
If you are looking for a "Hollywood glamour" story, this might not be it. Tess has largely made her peace with the press and paparazzi, but her life is constrained by her fame. Yes, some fancy dresses show up, but just the right jeans might be more important in the story.
I appreciate the bits of good writing, quietly setting up later moments, whether it is grilled cheese or bathrobes.
I also like that this series doesn't take the lazy road where everyone in the friend group is gay and we march through them book by book. These books are all loosely coupled and could be read in any order, with a few minor spoilers, like a character being married in one book but single in an earlier one.
Just read all of them, in order or not.
Kensington Publishing was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via NetGalley for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I think this is the last book in Amy Spalding’s Out in Hollywood collection, and if that’s true, goodness, she went out with a full-on fireworks finale. This was my favorite book in the whole series, which is really saying something.
Tess Gardner is this universe’s version of an A-list Marvel star — and she is miserable. Yeah, sure, she’s rich and famous, but these days she feels like nothing more than a brand that exists to make other people money. Her dream is to return to the stage, her first love, even though everyone on her team thinks it’s a terrible idea. She does it anyway, and immediately crashes into her other first love: hotshot theater director Rebecca Frisch. They fell hard for each other doing summer theater a million years ago and haven’t seen each other since.
Like all of Amy Spalding’s novels, this is a queer love story, and! It’s a story about a queer woman struggling to understand who she really is, what she really wants, to embrace her heart’s truest desires, and be brave enough to live a real life in an industry built on endless sleight of hand. Oh, and of course there’s an incredible pet who’s a supporting star! I’ve always been obsessed with theater, but I don’t have any actual experience with it; In Her Spotlight took me behind the scenes in the way I’ve always wanted to go. Also, if you loved Max from all the other books, as much as I loved Max from all the other books, you’re gonna end this series with an enormous grin on your face.
Tess Gardner is this universe’s version of an A-list Marvel star — and she is miserable. Yeah, sure, she’s rich and famous, but these days she feels like nothing more than a brand that exists to make other people money. Her dream is to return to the stage, her first love, even though everyone on her team thinks it’s a terrible idea. She does it anyway, and immediately crashes into her other first love: hotshot theater director Rebecca Frisch. They fell hard for each other doing summer theater a million years ago and haven’t seen each other since.
Like all of Amy Spalding’s novels, this is a queer love story, and! It’s a story about a queer woman struggling to understand who she really is, what she really wants, to embrace her heart’s truest desires, and be brave enough to live a real life in an industry built on endless sleight of hand. Oh, and of course there’s an incredible pet who’s a supporting star! I’ve always been obsessed with theater, but I don’t have any actual experience with it; In Her Spotlight took me behind the scenes in the way I’ve always wanted to go. Also, if you loved Max from all the other books, as much as I loved Max from all the other books, you’re gonna end this series with an enormous grin on your face.
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