Diva: Living in the Fast Lane

by Neil Vickers

From the streets of Lagos to the catwalks of Milan, she stitched her name into ambition, beauty, and power—until fame demanded its price.

Jabari was born with nothing but talent, beauty, and a dangerous determination to never be poor again. Reinventing herself as Madam Sazzar, she claws her way into the glamorous world of fashion, where charm opens doors and love is just another negotiation.
But beneath the diamonds and designer heels lies a truth she can’t the past still watches her, the future isn’t guaranteed, and no amount of fame can fill what ambition leaves behind.

Then she meets Gino—a powerful man with secrets of his own. Is he her way up… or the one person who sees through the façade?

How far would you go to rewrite your story? And who would you leave behind to become unforgettable?

If you were captivated by Americanah, The Devil Wears Prada, or Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo… buy DIVA now and step into the world where glamour is power—and everything has a price.

“ Sumptuous, breathless, and unapologetically aspirational, DIVA is a page-turner about self-creation and the cost of living life in the fast lane. If you love powerful women, high-stakes ambition, and the glittering chaos of fame and reinvention, you’ll devour this novel and root for Madam Sazzar long after the final page.” Artisan Book Reviews

“An uplifting, heart-stirring story of hope, ambition, and fearless self-belief. DIVA reminds us that the world truly is your oyster.” Chick Lit Book Café Review

226 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 3, 2025

About the author

Neil Vickers Author Bio
I was one of four children. My mother and father were working class parents and I had a mainstream education. I finished school and my art teacher wanted me to go to art college but I started a five-year apprenticeship in plumbing and central heating and passed all my exams. I left after five years and went self employed installing gas central heating into existing homes and replacing older boilers.
I had a busy life and worked long hours so I never had time for leisure and reading books although I should have taken the opportunity to read. I never ever thought about writing a book but did later in life but never published anything I had written as they were a long way off finished and never revisited them again.
I started writing books again with a view to publishing them after the pandemic (Covid), it had given me a new lease of life to start writing again but this time not to just write a manuscript but to write it and publish it.
I seem to have been born with a gift of a creative mind and photographic memory, the books I write just seem to flow out my head as I am writing them. I seem to be able to write in any genre including fiction of course. I consider myself lucky as I have never read any fiction books. I find I do not affiliate my writing with any other author and do not mimic the style of any. I do my best to make a book exciting to read and entertaining for the reader.
I am currently writing three more books. I have four books currently in the worldwide market:
True Love Unlimited
True Love Unlimited The Conclusion
The Sixth Dimension Defined
DIVA Living in the fast lane

I have just completed my latest book DIVA Living in the fast lane September 2025 and i am currently a triple gold prize winner, awarded through Chick Lit Cafe and Artisan book reviewers USA.

Reviews

[Agnes Odek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Diva: Living in the Fast Lane by Neil Vickers is an interesting narrative of a young ambitious girl who wishes to conquer the world of fashion. Immediately after she turned eighteen, Madam Sazzar left her home in Africa with a one-way ticket to Europe. She believes she is a diva. All she has to do is show the world who she is.

This book is a great installment to a reader's library. It shows how resilience and courage are rewarding qualities to those who know how to wield them. Madam Sazzar, the protagonist, is also a representation of the mental battles we face; this is seen through her battle for being respectful. The plot unfolds at a steady pace, complementing the growth of Madam Sazzar.

Through descriptive prose the author expertly shows a world worth exploring. Madam Sazzar settled into the future she manifested. In a world of first-class, wealthy counterparts and mansions, she was a dreamer and more. Witty and arrogant with a humble past, her sense of fashion and unyielding mannerism act as a form of hope for those who wish to have a different life. From the rural areas in Nigeria to featuring on different fashion outlets, she is a sign for young girls who wish to take the same path to realize their dreams aren't far-fetched.

The author writes beautifully, bringing the characters to life. I loved the idea of having a character being so delusional that her delusions manifest into her reality. Hope, belief, encouragement, and trustworthiness are some of the main themes in the book. I enjoyed this curated world and would recommend it to young adults and fashion lovers. A round of editing with a focus on clarity would elevate this book, as it already proves to be a masterpiece, unrelenting like the characters it holds. This was a different world I was exposed to, and it might be someone else's dream. This book is a reference for those that feel their dreams may be far-fetched, a reminder that through determination anything is possible.

[Hannah Lindley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reads like a fast-moving character study of ambition taken to its most dramatic extremes. What makes it stand out is its fearless storytelling and its refusal to soften the edges of its main character. The narrative doesn’t ask for sympathy or approval; instead, it invites the reader to observe a mindset shaped by scarcity, survival, and an overwhelming desire to never be powerless again.

The strongest aspect of the book is its sense of momentum. Each chapter pushes forward with urgency, reflecting a life lived at full speed and without hesitation. The protagonist’s outlook on wealth, image, and influence is exaggerated but intentional, creating a larger-than-life tone that feels closer to a modern fable than a conventional novel. That boldness gives the story its identity and keeps it engaging.

There is also an underlying commentary on class, aspiration, and reinvention. The contrast between humble beginnings and elite environments highlights how deeply background can influence values and decision-making. Whether readers agree with the character or not, it is difficult not to be fascinated by her confidence and strategic thinking.

The book succeeds by committing fully to its voice and vision. It is provocative, energetic, and unapologetically different, making it a memorable and distinctive read that leaves a strong impression long after finishing.

[Steven Finkelstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jabari knows poverty and struggle. The streets of Lagos are dangerous, and survival is never guaranteed. Those who live there seldom dare to aspire to lofty heights. Jabari is certain that’s she’s different, though. Determined to become a star in the fashion industry, she invents and occupies the character of Madam Sazzar, beautiful, confident, and captivating. It works, and she reaches the upper echelons of the industry. However, the secrets of the life she left behind won’t stay buried, particularly when she meets the handsome, dashing Gino. He seems capable of seeing the woman behind the mask, and Jabari would like to trust him. What will become of her if she does, though?

Diva: Living in the Fast Lane, by Neil Vickers, is a thriller set against the glamorous backdrop of the international fashion industry. It is somewhat reminiscent of The Devil Wears Prada, though some other readers might be reminded more of The Talented Mr. Ripley.

The figure central to the plot, Jabari, alias Madam Sazzar, is a complex figure and a walking contradiction. She comes from a place of desperation, and that element fuels her, but it also haunts her. She understands that every move she makes must be a calculated one, and the reader can easily understand her exhaustion. Getting to where she wants to be wears on her nerves, but to reach the lofty pinnacle she aspires to and then to stay there, she is more than willing to repeatedly reinvent herself.

The dramatic tension created by this inner turmoil fuels the story wonderfully. Vickers is adept at juxtaposing scenes of squalor with ones of wealth and privilege. When the character of Gino is introduced, it’s the perfect mechanism for forcing a confrontation between everything that Jabari was and what she wishes to be.

At the heart of the narrative is the question of whether it’s worth it to compromise virtually everything to seize a brass ring, a Holy Grail of your own imagining. Whether Jabari is able to permanently turn her back on her more relatable qualities becomes the final tally of her sum total as a character and human being.

[Moná · Rating 5 out of 5]

In "Diva, Living the Fast Lane," author Neil Vickers introduced us to Jabari, a young woman full of diva energy, who snatched the reins of her life, bold in knowing she would not settle for anything less than what she deserved. Born in Lagos, Africa, she witnessed and lived a life in survival mode, so she refused this as becoming her forever reality. At 18 years old, she made the decision that her destiny was meant for something much greater than what Lagos could ever offer her. She embodied a new persona, fitting for her huge goals and aspirations in life, Madam Sazzar. With her "diva" attitude and boldness, she managed to score a connection to a wealthy man named Gino, best suited and aligned with her dream in mind, to be the Famous Diva Icon.

I enjoyed reading about Madam Sazzar; her character is relatable to many in today's society, as she has a goal in mind: to never be poor. It is commendable to see her be fierce and fearless, knowing that nothing in life would be handed to you and she was certain to take and have whatever she dreamed of. The story is built on inspiration and encouragement that you, too, can achieve the life you want. The book features numerous plot twists that will keep readers on the edge of their seats, making it a true page-turner that leaves them wanting to know what happens next. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves the fashion industry, yet wants to be aware of the darkness behind it. Relating to Madam Sazzar's story or craving a great rags-to-riches storyline, this is the book for you.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous fashion lovers fiction novel. I loved how the main character went after her dream and left Lagos, Africa and headed to Milan, Italy intent on beoming a well-known name in the fashion industry. This is such a fun, interestng and delightfully easy book to read and enjoy. Jabari is beautiful and talented and her dream is to enter the world of fashion and never be poor again. Her ambition and determination is so inspiring. Taking the saying, "if there's a will there's a way" to a whole new level.
But at what cost does doing whatever it takes to make a dream come true and what can true fame and fortune cost? This story has everything a reader who loves catwalk stories, fashion, cultural fiction, settings that are maginificent to behold in your imagination and a story that is so well-written and pulled together, that it doesn't skip a beat. Cohesive and purposeful, Neil Vickers effectively uses his tallent and craft of writing to create a complete and impactful experience for readera,

It's an engaging fabulous and meaningful story, excellent writing with a unique style and a thought-provoking conclusion. I can't get enough of fashion, style, the beauty and glamour industry, Italy, the rich life and all it entails which is good, yet a story that makes me realize that all of that is not all it's made out to be if there is loss or sacrifce in order to have it all. I hope award winning author Neil Vickers has Book #2 to follow.

[Luci L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bold and memorable!

From the very first pages, the story pulls you into a world driven by ambition, confidence, and an unapologetic hunger for success. What makes the story compelling is the fearless way it explores desire, power, and self-reinvention. The central character is bold, captivating, and impossible to ignore, commanding attention with every decision she makes. Her confidence is magnetic, and even when her choices are extreme, they feel deliberate and purposeful.

The writing embraces excess in a way that perfectly mirrors the mindset of its protagonist. The repetition of themes like wealth, status, and control doesn’t weaken the story; instead, it reinforces the obsessive drive that fuels her journey. This intensity creates a vivid portrait of someone determined to rise above her origins at any cost, making the narrative feel immersive and authentic.

One of the strongest elements is the contrast between hardship and luxury. The story powerfully shows how early struggles shape ambition and sharpen survival instincts. Rather than softening its message, the book leans into raw honesty, which makes it both gripping and thought-provoking.

This is a bold, memorable read that refuses to play it safe. Its confidence, energy, and unfiltered portrayal of ambition make it a standout story.

[Megan Brame · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Diva: Living in the Fast Lane” by Neil Vickers chronicles the whirlwind journey of a young, ambitious Nigerian woman who is plucked from obscurity and catapulted into the world of high fashion. After a chance encounter, she is taken under the wing of Gino, a wealthy and powerful Italian fashion mogul. He sees her as the future “face of fashion” and introduces her to a life of unimaginable luxury, complete with private helicopters, mansions, and designer everything. The narrative follows her as she navigates this glamorous new world, filled with opportunity, jealousy, and the intoxicating promise of fame and fortune.
All-in-all, it reads like a modern-day Cinderella story. The story is told through the protagonist’s unfiltered internal monologue, which gives readers a direct and often startlingly honest look into her ambition, materialism, and determination to succeed. While this stream-of-consciousness style provides a raw and intimate perspective, it can also feel repetitive as she repeatedly revisits her goals and desires. Those looking for deep character studies or complex plot twists might find it a bit straightforward, but readers who enjoy a dramatic and unapologetic look at the drive for success in the fashion world will find this a compelling escape.

[Desiree Delong · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fashion can be a cutthroat world, as was evidenced in The Devil Wears Prada. In Diva Living in the Fast Lane by Neil Vickers (inspired by said movie), we are introduced to a young woman named Jabari from Lagos. She reinvents herself as Madam Sazzar, entering this high-stakes fashion world. She has a chance encounter with Gino, a rich and powerful man in the world of Fashion.

The main character is extremely complex. She is a fierce woman who is also a flawed person who is struggling in the fashion world. This comes across in every page, and the fact that the book is set in countries known for their high fashion makes it appealing.

It has a very stream of consciousness style, giving us an inner view of this young woman wanting to take the fashion world by storm. Moments where it stands the strongest are when we see the main character finding herself torn between her home and the new world she’s found herself in.

Jabri’s relationship with Gino is very intriguing, adding some captivating romance in this fashion world. Vicker’s writing itself is engaging and strong with this romance arc. He paints a scene with every word on the page.

However, some issues arise with writing, which occasionally disrupt the reading experience. At times, the POV jumps between first person and third. It’s difficult to tell what her inner monologue is compared to the action happening on the screen. Additionally, the dialogue often becomes stilted due to the frequent and repetitive use of dialogue tags.

Overall, it is a nice read. Anyone who loves seeing someone reach for the stars and overcome their difficulties in life is going to enjoy Diva Living in the Fast Lane by Niel Vickers. Fashion lovers, in particular, should flock to this book.

[Mara Roane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Diva, Living in the Fast Lane is a well-written journey of ambition, glitz, and all the tolls that come with pursuing a goal. Author Neil Vickers’ key character, Madame Sazzar, is bold but ignorant and has some lessons to learn. She has a deep need for more than what Nigerian life has to give, influenced by her prior poverty and desire for approval from monetary achievement, and feels genuine and unadulterated. The gritty side of ambition—the self-centeredness and sacrifices, is not glossed over. Madame Sazzar’s metamorphosis is a key theme of the novel and I enjoyed her moral battles, the fashion industry she broke into and the glitz and glam of Milan. For those who love fashion fiction, catwalk fiction and the style, beauty, and stories centered on the fashion world, often focusing on models, designers, and the glitz and challenges of high fashion, as well the cultural changes she went through with all the excitement of her new life brought her and all in a new place where fashion, beauty and glamour rules. Diva—and I’m sure you will love it.

[Charlotte · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ohhhh, I loved this fashion fiction story centereted around the exciting and wonderful fashion industry and clothing styles and what is considered unlitmate beauty by many for those who are on the catwalk, showing off the famous designers latest fashion designs. The drama that is involved as well in the story seemed to fit well with what we hear the industy is like.
It is about the discovery of a young new-comer who had her heart set on breaking into the industry no matter what it took. But she does learn an important lesson that will resonate very deeply with less shallow readers. It is a wonderful story in an amazing setting, mainly in Milan Italy. I loved how Jabari left her hometown Lagos Africa to the become famous in the fashion industry with her beauty and talent. I wish there were more books in this genre. I searched and couldn't find too many So if you love this idea of stories set in and about fashion, the desgner industry, models, style, beauty, and a fabulous rags to riches story, this is it, Diva: Living in the Fast Lane by Neil Vickers

[Caroline Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am obsessed with fashion and could not put this down. I could really relate to this young lady’s story and that drive to be successful in something that interests you. I enjoyed seeing her go from a young girl in Nigeria to a supermodel on the catwalk. She has a complex relationship with this fashion head, Gino. She’s in love with him, but he’s much older and he views her more as a daughter at times. I thought it was very interesting. She really is a complete diva in every sense of the word and it was entertaining to see how she treats and views others. I would recommend this book to readers who love books set in countries like, Italy, or France and anyone who is a diva, or would love to be one, or models, or anyone who loves fashion! This is such a great fun and uplifting read with a message to the story.

[Allie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was highly interesting because Madam Sazzar, a 1000% diva, is not your usual hero. She is intensely focused on her goals and won’t let anyone get in her way. It’s both surprising and intriguing. Neil Vickers does a fantastic job with character development, showing his main character as a complex, flawed human who was influenced by her situation. Her poor background and high confidence are part of what makes her high maintenance. When she gets placed in the fast-paced, luxurious world of fashion, you see her thrive. As you read, you’ll be challenged to examine themes like identity, class, and ambition through her rags-to-riches adventure. I just finished reading it and I want more from this author.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is different—and in such a fabulous way. It boldly addresses the positive and negative aspects of ambition and the mentality of someone who is a diva. “Madam Sazzar” is 100% human and doesn’t mind showing it. It doesn’t bother her a bit to abandon her friends and family for the sake of passion and wealth. It makes you reflect on why people want things so bad and how far they will go to get them. It explores more than just her ambition as she falls in love with her wealthy benefactor, Gino. All in all, I think this novel is ethically complex, intriguing, and emotionally insightful, with tons of fun fashion lovers interactions and narration, ideas, and the glitz, glam and even problems that sometimes seem unsovable in the world of glam, fashion, beauty, competiveness and the mental toll it takes on many who end up losing themselves. This is the best novel I have read in at least a year. Now I am seeing- author Neil Vickers name, along with his new novel Diva, Living in the Fast Lane popping up everywhere online. Seems readers are grabbing a hold of this fantastically written, captivating and super fulfilling novel....And discovering a writer who is taking the women's fiction, contemporary, romance and literary fiction by storm. Can't wait for his next book....