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Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone?
2002.
Twin sisters Madeline and Chelsea Stone are joint stars of the AtomicKids sitcom Double Trouble, but everyone knows it’s Maddie who shines most brightly. Until Chelsea beats her sister out for the role of a lifetime and is catapulted into the spotlight. And just as Chelsea’s star reaches impossible new heights, Maddie disappears.
2025.
Chelsea Stone retired from acting after her sister’s disappearance – but living life under the radar is easier said than done when you’re the most famous woman of your generation.
When a storage locker is found containing heart-breaking truths about the year Maddie went missing, Chelsea feels a flicker of hope for the first time in twenty years. This is her chance to discover what really happened to her twin, but to follow the trail she’ll have to face the past and step back into the spotlight . . .
Twin sisters Madeline and Chelsea Stone are joint stars of the AtomicKids sitcom Double Trouble, but everyone knows it’s Maddie who shines most brightly. Until Chelsea beats her sister out for the role of a lifetime and is catapulted into the spotlight. And just as Chelsea’s star reaches impossible new heights, Maddie disappears.
2025.
Chelsea Stone retired from acting after her sister’s disappearance – but living life under the radar is easier said than done when you’re the most famous woman of your generation.
When a storage locker is found containing heart-breaking truths about the year Maddie went missing, Chelsea feels a flicker of hope for the first time in twenty years. This is her chance to discover what really happened to her twin, but to follow the trail she’ll have to face the past and step back into the spotlight . . .
320 pages, Hardcover
First published April 9, 2026
About the author
Louise O'Neill
20 books2,371 followersLouise O' Neill is from Clonakilty, in west Cork. After graduating with a BA in English Studies at Trinity College Dublin, she went on to complete a post-grad in Fashion Buying at DIT. Having spent a year in New York working for Kate Lanphear, the senior Style Director of ELLE magazine, she returned home to Ireland to write her first novel.
She went from hanging out on set with A-list celebrities to spending most of her days in pyjamas while she writes, and has never been happier.
She went from hanging out on set with A-list celebrities to spending most of her days in pyjamas while she writes, and has never been happier.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fame, and the things people would do to get it, to keep it. It was a sickness.
2 1/2 stars. This book wasn't terrible, but given that O'Neill's books are among my all time favourites, it was a huge disappointment.
The pacing was off from the start, nothing like the addictively propulsive Idol. Despite having Chelsea's secrets teased constantly (“the worst thing I’ve ever done”), the first half is a terrible slog. I have to admit I couldn’t imagine anything she might have done that I would find that interesting, which made me unsure what I was reading for or needed to be concerned about. I don’t think it ever built enough momentum around the secret, so the stakes felt low. And either her sister was long-dead, as had been thought, or she was alive. Neither possibility felt particularly concerning.
The story inhabits two worlds— that of the early 2000s in which Chelsea and Maddie are child actors, and the present (2025) in which Maddie has long been missing, presumed dead, and Chelsea is now retired, married, and mother to two kids. Then a website pops up posting pics of never before seen notes written by Maddie, followed quickly by an attempt to blackmail Chelsea. If she doesn't play along, her secret will be revealed.
The subject matter is timely, to be sure. Right now in 2026, we’re paying close cultural attention to the early 2000s. The fashions are back, the predators are being smoked out, and an overdue conversation about celebrity culture— particularly the treatment of young women and girls —is being had. This book explores that toxic early noughties celebrity culture— the culture that destroyed Britney and gave millions of girls eating disorders.
It is a classic "ripped from the headlines" story, reflecting on this specific time and place. From Milo James— an early noughties blogger of the Perez Hilton variety —to the twins' overbearing mother who encourages their eating disorders, very reminiscent of McCurdy's mother in I’m Glad My Mom Died. I think if you’ve been paying attention to the news there will be no surprises in this one. And while everything the book says is true— parents shouldn’t be allowed to force kids into fame; there’s a whole ecosystem enabling abuses in Hollywood —I don't think it adds much to the conversation or finds a compelling new way into it. Books like The Comeback were telling similar stories 6 years ago.
I'll still read whatever Louise O'Neill writes next, but the combination of poor pacing and well-worn subject matter made this one a miss for me.
April 9, 2026
Unbelievably disappointing and extremely poorly edited. If you are going to write a book based in the States and the characters are American, do not use English or Irish colloquialisms ???
I had this issue with Idol as well and I’m not sure if Louise O’Neill is trying to break into the American market or something but her editors absolutely should have copped that Americans don’t generally say things like “I’ve sorted it” or “I reckon”, amongst other phrases.
Notwithstanding this, there is still the issue of the plot, which was very predictable and felt like a bit of a PSA for something that has been ongoing for YEARS now (and only scratched the surface). It also felt too modern with references to X, covid and DeuxMoi, not to mention the use of the term “unalive” instead of suicide ?! (this is a personal aversion that I have though so I can’t be too mean about it I suppose).
I have read every single LO’N book and this one has made me not want to read another. This does not feel like it was written by the same person who wrote Asking for It or The Surface Breaks. I did finish this in one day however I think this was intentional because I really, really wanted it to be over.
I had this issue with Idol as well and I’m not sure if Louise O’Neill is trying to break into the American market or something but her editors absolutely should have copped that Americans don’t generally say things like “I’ve sorted it” or “I reckon”, amongst other phrases.
Notwithstanding this, there is still the issue of the plot, which was very predictable and felt like a bit of a PSA for something that has been ongoing for YEARS now (and only scratched the surface). It also felt too modern with references to X, covid and DeuxMoi, not to mention the use of the term “unalive” instead of suicide ?! (this is a personal aversion that I have though so I can’t be too mean about it I suppose).
I have read every single LO’N book and this one has made me not want to read another. This does not feel like it was written by the same person who wrote Asking for It or The Surface Breaks. I did finish this in one day however I think this was intentional because I really, really wanted it to be over.
May 4, 2026
As with other Louise O Neill books, I think this would be better suited to young adult readers. It seems like the kind of book I’d have raved about as a teenager thinking it was hashtag deep.
The subject matter, i.e., toxic celebrity culture, child stars being exploited etc., has been done before and far better e.g., McCurdy’s book, and I don’t think this fiction work adds anything fresh or real to an already saturated field of media telling us that the noughties were terrible times. Also, considering its target audience was adults, I’m unsure as to why so much hand holding was required in explaining to us how awful it was. Though saying that, somehow it still managed to feel surface level in exploring those themes, making it somehow both over-explained and under-developed simultaneously.
I was intrigued at the start as to what Maddies two major secrets were, but both were teased so often throughout, they became increasingly obvious, so by the time they were ‘revealed’ it’s less of a twist and more of a confirmation.
I do think this would be a great book for younger readers, I’m just struggling to see why it was marketed for adults.
The subject matter, i.e., toxic celebrity culture, child stars being exploited etc., has been done before and far better e.g., McCurdy’s book, and I don’t think this fiction work adds anything fresh or real to an already saturated field of media telling us that the noughties were terrible times. Also, considering its target audience was adults, I’m unsure as to why so much hand holding was required in explaining to us how awful it was. Though saying that, somehow it still managed to feel surface level in exploring those themes, making it somehow both over-explained and under-developed simultaneously.
I was intrigued at the start as to what Maddies two major secrets were, but both were teased so often throughout, they became increasingly obvious, so by the time they were ‘revealed’ it’s less of a twist and more of a confirmation.
I do think this would be a great book for younger readers, I’m just struggling to see why it was marketed for adults.
Read
April 9, 2026#Gifted
Happy publication to the new novel from bestselling Irish author Louise O’ Neill. I read Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone over the space of a couple of days on holidays, finishing it on the plane home today and of course I cried at the last paragraph. I am a noted sap but even with that, it is very good, I’m pleased to say.
Twins Madeline and Chelsea Stone are child stars; think the Olsens and you’re on the right track, except everyone knows Maddie shines just a little bit brighter than her sister and is destined to be huge. That is until Chelsea gets the role of a lifetime, one that should have been Maddies. Just as Chelsea is catapulted into the big time, her sister disappears, presumed dead. Fast forward to 2025 and a documentary is being made that stirs all the old gossip about the twins back up, not being helped by an online blackmailer who has found all sorts of personal information about Madeline and intends to use it against Chelsea. Although terrible secrets about their past could come out, Chelsea sees it as an opportunity to find out what really happened to her sister, and before long she’s spirally down memory lane.
Louise O’ Neill does social commentary really well and this book is no different. The early 2000’s were a rough time for young female celebrities and that’s fully explored in flashbacks throughout the story. I’d almost forgotten about some of it; upskirting, circles of shame on magazine covers, the constant building up of very young women just to gleefully knock them down.
What a bleak time.
Of course the present day depicted in the book isn’t always better either but I like to think things have somewhat changed.
This was a really addictive read; the tension builds expertly and even though you know Chelsea has done something awful, I couldn’t help but feel for her. Taken advantage of by a narcissistic momager, and an older male director, constantly objectified and never allowed to be a child, she’s very much the product of a toxic environment and doesn’t know any better.
I feel like millennials in particular will relate strongly to this one but it’s a compelling read either way. Recommend!
Out now!
Happy publication to the new novel from bestselling Irish author Louise O’ Neill. I read Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone over the space of a couple of days on holidays, finishing it on the plane home today and of course I cried at the last paragraph. I am a noted sap but even with that, it is very good, I’m pleased to say.
Twins Madeline and Chelsea Stone are child stars; think the Olsens and you’re on the right track, except everyone knows Maddie shines just a little bit brighter than her sister and is destined to be huge. That is until Chelsea gets the role of a lifetime, one that should have been Maddies. Just as Chelsea is catapulted into the big time, her sister disappears, presumed dead. Fast forward to 2025 and a documentary is being made that stirs all the old gossip about the twins back up, not being helped by an online blackmailer who has found all sorts of personal information about Madeline and intends to use it against Chelsea. Although terrible secrets about their past could come out, Chelsea sees it as an opportunity to find out what really happened to her sister, and before long she’s spirally down memory lane.
Louise O’ Neill does social commentary really well and this book is no different. The early 2000’s were a rough time for young female celebrities and that’s fully explored in flashbacks throughout the story. I’d almost forgotten about some of it; upskirting, circles of shame on magazine covers, the constant building up of very young women just to gleefully knock them down.
What a bleak time.
Of course the present day depicted in the book isn’t always better either but I like to think things have somewhat changed.
This was a really addictive read; the tension builds expertly and even though you know Chelsea has done something awful, I couldn’t help but feel for her. Taken advantage of by a narcissistic momager, and an older male director, constantly objectified and never allowed to be a child, she’s very much the product of a toxic environment and doesn’t know any better.
I feel like millennials in particular will relate strongly to this one but it’s a compelling read either way. Recommend!
Out now!
Read
May 27, 2026Dnf for now.
June 5, 2026
2.5 stars ** V predictable and it was giving shein version of the Olsen twins lol
May 6, 2026
Although there was a sort of breathless urgency to Chelsea’s narrative – both in the past and present – that propelled the reading experience, on review, her lifestory is somewhat unconvincing. This is probably because she’s a composite of a lot of real people, as her sister, the titular disappeared Madeline, is also a composite. I’m likely only recognising some of the components, given how many comparisons there are in reviews to Jeanette McCurdy’s memoir, but the obvious ones are: the Olsen twins; any teen actress who had a ‘countdown to eighteen’ clock or an upskirt paparazzi shot on her eighteenth birthday; Katherine Heigl; Grimes. The problem for me is that the composites don’t meld together very well. Yes, having twins play both sides – one the people pleaser who swallows the abuse as the price of entry, one the contrarian who dares to have opinions of any kind and gets blackballed as ‘difficult’ – at least allows for both stories. But maybe that’s the problem. Maybe both stories needed their own breathing room.
Chelsea’s storyline in the present feels like it is often sacrificed for the storyline of the past, because the past is far more interesting and less morally dubious. Chelsea berates herself throughout for terrible mistakes she’s made, which boil down to trusting people who she believed had her best interests at heart, having an affair with a younger man after her husband cheated first, and having a fight with her sister where she said the kind of mean and shitty things all siblings say to each other at some point (it is truly the most brutal of relationships). At no point does she ever emote much over what it means to marry someone as rich and exploitative as Nick (there is no such thing as an ethical billionaire, even if the book doesn’t address this). Nick doesn’t appear to be aligned with Elon/Zuck/Besos in 2026 (maybe because instead of buying his competitors and ruining the products by prioritising shareholder returns he is still trying to make a rival actionable), and the question is – why? Every techbro is now showing his rightwing colours these days, what makes Nick different? The thing is, the story needed a method for Chelsea to live in splendid isolation, but … just retiring from the public eye would have been sufficient? Think of all the people who faded away without even wanting to. If she’d been willing to move to the Midwest, or a different country, she truly could have stopped being famous without marrying a rich man. There’s a couple of points where she uses his money, but given that Erin and Kelly betray her anyway, and the websites continue anyway, and Chelsea chooses to do her own detective work anyway, I feel like the need for grotesque wealth could have been written out. Have Chelsea pay off her dependents with her residuals. Don’t give a key witness to the ‘mystery’ soap-opera dementia. Etc etc. I mean, I’d be pretty confident O’Neill isn’t on the side of the billionaires here, but this was a big blind spot.
There’s another aspect that didn’t sit comfortably for me, and it’s the various points at which Chelsea or the narrative berate someone for ‘stealing’ plot points from real people’s lives. In particular, Erin writes a screenplay about her daughters’ early success. I can fully understand Chelsea’s sense of betrayal here, but … what is this book if not the exact same thing? I hesitate to say it’s ‘exploitation’ to use the Olsens, for example, to explore the concept of the dubious nature of child labour in Hollywood, but it cannot be denied that they are the immediate progenitors. Maybe the Olsens would feel some kind of way about this book, even if it’s on their side? To some extent, all literature is cribbing from real life. Quite a lot of novels are autobiographical, which means the loved ones of the writers are collateral damage. Equally, there’s a throwaway line about the children in influencer content and their treatment being equivalent to child actors, which is also concerning to me. I don’t approve of child influencers, but given the situation – it’s their parents filming and directly profiting – it’s a way gnarlier situation in one way, but also safer in another. Aside from the very fact of it being a form of abuse (if that’s your opinion), being filmed by your parents for doing cute shit is not inherently unsafe and exploitative the way an open set with sex scenes is, for example. Really it’s not the filming so much as the wide sharing that’s the problem, whereas – as O’Neill shows – the rot is in every level of the film set.
It leaves wide open the question of whether child actors should exist at all. If you’re saying child influencers shouldn’t – which I agree with – then the obvious corollary is child actors shouldn’t either. There are so few salutary examples of child actors having fulfilling and healthy lives and careers, and so many cautionary tales, that it seems obvious, if presenting huge difficulties to portraying many stories on screen. But the book doesn’t posit this.
Finally, although the title asks whatever happened to Madeline, we never really find out. The ‘clue’ about her death perhaps having been exaggeratedly reported is tenuous, and we only have it confirmed in the final line. I want to know what she’s been doing, because she’s obviously navigating her exit from fame and infamy far better than Chelsea, and presumably without having married a bad man/billionaire to do so.
Chelsea’s storyline in the present feels like it is often sacrificed for the storyline of the past, because the past is far more interesting and less morally dubious. Chelsea berates herself throughout for terrible mistakes she’s made, which boil down to trusting people who she believed had her best interests at heart, having an affair with a younger man after her husband cheated first, and having a fight with her sister where she said the kind of mean and shitty things all siblings say to each other at some point (it is truly the most brutal of relationships). At no point does she ever emote much over what it means to marry someone as rich and exploitative as Nick (there is no such thing as an ethical billionaire, even if the book doesn’t address this). Nick doesn’t appear to be aligned with Elon/Zuck/Besos in 2026 (maybe because instead of buying his competitors and ruining the products by prioritising shareholder returns he is still trying to make a rival actionable), and the question is – why? Every techbro is now showing his rightwing colours these days, what makes Nick different? The thing is, the story needed a method for Chelsea to live in splendid isolation, but … just retiring from the public eye would have been sufficient? Think of all the people who faded away without even wanting to. If she’d been willing to move to the Midwest, or a different country, she truly could have stopped being famous without marrying a rich man. There’s a couple of points where she uses his money, but given that Erin and Kelly betray her anyway, and the websites continue anyway, and Chelsea chooses to do her own detective work anyway, I feel like the need for grotesque wealth could have been written out. Have Chelsea pay off her dependents with her residuals. Don’t give a key witness to the ‘mystery’ soap-opera dementia. Etc etc. I mean, I’d be pretty confident O’Neill isn’t on the side of the billionaires here, but this was a big blind spot.
There’s another aspect that didn’t sit comfortably for me, and it’s the various points at which Chelsea or the narrative berate someone for ‘stealing’ plot points from real people’s lives. In particular, Erin writes a screenplay about her daughters’ early success. I can fully understand Chelsea’s sense of betrayal here, but … what is this book if not the exact same thing? I hesitate to say it’s ‘exploitation’ to use the Olsens, for example, to explore the concept of the dubious nature of child labour in Hollywood, but it cannot be denied that they are the immediate progenitors. Maybe the Olsens would feel some kind of way about this book, even if it’s on their side? To some extent, all literature is cribbing from real life. Quite a lot of novels are autobiographical, which means the loved ones of the writers are collateral damage. Equally, there’s a throwaway line about the children in influencer content and their treatment being equivalent to child actors, which is also concerning to me. I don’t approve of child influencers, but given the situation – it’s their parents filming and directly profiting – it’s a way gnarlier situation in one way, but also safer in another. Aside from the very fact of it being a form of abuse (if that’s your opinion), being filmed by your parents for doing cute shit is not inherently unsafe and exploitative the way an open set with sex scenes is, for example. Really it’s not the filming so much as the wide sharing that’s the problem, whereas – as O’Neill shows – the rot is in every level of the film set.
It leaves wide open the question of whether child actors should exist at all. If you’re saying child influencers shouldn’t – which I agree with – then the obvious corollary is child actors shouldn’t either. There are so few salutary examples of child actors having fulfilling and healthy lives and careers, and so many cautionary tales, that it seems obvious, if presenting huge difficulties to portraying many stories on screen. But the book doesn’t posit this.
Finally, although the title asks whatever happened to Madeline, we never really find out. The ‘clue’ about her death perhaps having been exaggeratedly reported is tenuous, and we only have it confirmed in the final line. I want to know what she’s been doing, because she’s obviously navigating her exit from fame and infamy far better than Chelsea, and presumably without having married a bad man/billionaire to do so.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2026
Whatever Happened to Madeleine Stone – Louise O’Neill
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Thank you to Penguin Ireland for sending me a copy of this - I absolutely loved it.
Louise O’Neill has done it again. This book completely consumed me from start to finish, and I genuinely couldn’t put it down. It’s gripping, unsettling, and emotionally sharp in a way that only she seems to do so effortlessly.
The dual timeline works so well here, slowly peeling back the layers of Maddie’s disappearance while building this quiet, aching tension in the present. The mystery itself is compelling, but what really stood out to me was the exploration of fame, sisterhood, and identity - especially the complicated dynamic between Maddie and Chelsea. It felt so real and, at times, deeply uncomfortable in the best way.
Chelsea as a narrator was fascinating. There’s something almost hollow about her life in 2025, shaped entirely by grief, guilt, and the shadow of her sister. Watching her step back into the spotlight and confront the past was both heartbreaking and addictive to read.
O’Neill’s writing is, as always, incredibly sharp and atmospheric. There’s this underlying sense of unease throughout the entire book—you know something is wrong long before you fully understand what, and that tension never lets up.
And that reveal??? I genuinely did not see it coming, but it made perfect, devastating sense.
Dark, thought-provoking, and completely gripping - this is easily one of my favourite reads of the year.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5
Thank you to Penguin Ireland for sending me a copy of this - I absolutely loved it.
Louise O’Neill has done it again. This book completely consumed me from start to finish, and I genuinely couldn’t put it down. It’s gripping, unsettling, and emotionally sharp in a way that only she seems to do so effortlessly.
The dual timeline works so well here, slowly peeling back the layers of Maddie’s disappearance while building this quiet, aching tension in the present. The mystery itself is compelling, but what really stood out to me was the exploration of fame, sisterhood, and identity - especially the complicated dynamic between Maddie and Chelsea. It felt so real and, at times, deeply uncomfortable in the best way.
Chelsea as a narrator was fascinating. There’s something almost hollow about her life in 2025, shaped entirely by grief, guilt, and the shadow of her sister. Watching her step back into the spotlight and confront the past was both heartbreaking and addictive to read.
O’Neill’s writing is, as always, incredibly sharp and atmospheric. There’s this underlying sense of unease throughout the entire book—you know something is wrong long before you fully understand what, and that tension never lets up.
And that reveal??? I genuinely did not see it coming, but it made perfect, devastating sense.
Dark, thought-provoking, and completely gripping - this is easily one of my favourite reads of the year.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
From the very first pages, #whateverhappenedtomadelinestone brims with suspense and emotion, laced with a powerful sense of nostalgia. It’s a compelling, beautifully written read that doesn’t shy away from difficult, very real issues that feel especially relevant today. What stood out most was its sharp commentary on celebrity culture- and how, despite everything we know, it can still be deeply problematic. A thought-provoking, unputdownable read. 📚💭
August 3, 2026
A well-plotted, glamorous, and dark thriller! 🌟
I loved the dual timelines following twin child stars Madeline and Chelsea Stone, who find fame at a very young age. The flashbacks beautifully highlight the toxic, high-pressure world of young fame—pushed relentlessly by their mother and agent, denied breaks, and constantly shamed over their appearance.
The contrast between the two eras is perfectly balanced. It mirrors Madeline’s tragic career and personal decline against Chelsea's sudden rise to stardom after a lucky break, leading into a tense present-day desperate search for the truth behind Madeline's disappearance. Highly recommend!
I loved the dual timelines following twin child stars Madeline and Chelsea Stone, who find fame at a very young age. The flashbacks beautifully highlight the toxic, high-pressure world of young fame—pushed relentlessly by their mother and agent, denied breaks, and constantly shamed over their appearance.
The contrast between the two eras is perfectly balanced. It mirrors Madeline’s tragic career and personal decline against Chelsea's sudden rise to stardom after a lucky break, leading into a tense present-day desperate search for the truth behind Madeline's disappearance. Highly recommend!
May 18, 2026
This was quite cliche and predictable and lacked any depth. I had high hopes early on but it never got where I wanted it to and then it ended.
June 15, 2026
2.5⭐️
I was bored but a little intrigued?? But would have really appreciated an epilogue
I was bored but a little intrigued?? But would have really appreciated an epilogue
June 25, 2026
Will there be a sequel???
September 20, 2026
It seems that some parts of this book do not fit together very well, which is not ideal for a mystery.
* The ominous prologue on which the story hangs is based around a prophecy from a fortune teller called ‘Madame Destiny’. Said prophecy states that one twin will be “the most celebrated woman of her generation”. But Chelsea is also described as “the most famous teen star of her generation”, which is by no stretch of the imagination the same thing. She then promptly retires. So why is the prophecy considered fulfilled?
* Chelsea is being blackmailed for exactly one million dollars. This is a big deal to her, and the reason she is forced to do a reunion show of her big teen hit. But on the first page of the first chapter of the book she states that she once spent one million dollars in a single shopping spree. Granted it was her husband’s money, but it seems like there wasn’t much issue about her spending it. Maybe O’Neill just can’t think of any other amounts of money besides one million, but it it seems to weaken the panic over the amount somewhat?
* It turns out that the blackmailer’s actual goal was to get Chelsea to do a reunion series of her TV show, rather than get any money. In which case they were extremely lucky that Chelsea decided unprompted that there was no other way for her, an unimaginably rich woman, to get the cash.
* At one point a smashed vase becomes a smashed lamp within the same paragraph.
* In 2025 a director carries around a paper copy of a very sensitive script he isn’t going to work on until next year in his laptop bag, in order that it can be a clue for Chelsea.
Some of the problems are little things, which only show a lack of care. Some of them are bigger, and show genuine plot weaknesses. But they work together to weaken what mystery structure O’Neill tries to build.
On top of this Chelsea is pretty stupid. Or at least, as a protagonist she is spectacularly unaware of any events past, present and future, taking forever to put together even the most obvious clues. She is also very dull, her big, blackmail-worthy secret finally being revealed to be something predictable and uninteresting. The blackmailer doesn’t even have any actual evidence of the whole thing, so it’s hard to be particularly concerned about the whole matter.
And then there’s the big revelation of Chelsea’s betrayal. Not only is it incredibly obvious, it doesn’t even make sense. Switching audition tapes with a twin? Firstly, even I know you say your name in an audition tape. Secondly both twins believe that the casting hinges entirely on these tapes rather than the their recognised body of work alongside the director for whom they are casting? Or even a second audition? A meet-up? Another round to narrow things down? Anything but one single tape!
The book ticks all the expected boxes: #MeToo, male abuse of power, the curse of the child star. It even includes a black character purely so that she can mention racism twice, as a Bad Thing. But there is very little behind these talking points: no depth, no believable characters, only cursory plot development. All the basics having been covered, it heads hurriedly towards an over-dramatic conclusion featuring a standard public shaming and a last-minute, barely explained redemption. It’s not believable, but luckily it ends before there’s any real time to question it.
Overall there just isn’t all that much to this book which you can’t guess from the synopsis.
* The ominous prologue on which the story hangs is based around a prophecy from a fortune teller called ‘Madame Destiny’. Said prophecy states that one twin will be “the most celebrated woman of her generation”. But Chelsea is also described as “the most famous teen star of her generation”, which is by no stretch of the imagination the same thing. She then promptly retires. So why is the prophecy considered fulfilled?
* Chelsea is being blackmailed for exactly one million dollars. This is a big deal to her, and the reason she is forced to do a reunion show of her big teen hit. But on the first page of the first chapter of the book she states that she once spent one million dollars in a single shopping spree. Granted it was her husband’s money, but it seems like there wasn’t much issue about her spending it. Maybe O’Neill just can’t think of any other amounts of money besides one million, but it it seems to weaken the panic over the amount somewhat?
* It turns out that the blackmailer’s actual goal was to get Chelsea to do a reunion series of her TV show, rather than get any money. In which case they were extremely lucky that Chelsea decided unprompted that there was no other way for her, an unimaginably rich woman, to get the cash.
* At one point a smashed vase becomes a smashed lamp within the same paragraph.
* In 2025 a director carries around a paper copy of a very sensitive script he isn’t going to work on until next year in his laptop bag, in order that it can be a clue for Chelsea.
Some of the problems are little things, which only show a lack of care. Some of them are bigger, and show genuine plot weaknesses. But they work together to weaken what mystery structure O’Neill tries to build.
On top of this Chelsea is pretty stupid. Or at least, as a protagonist she is spectacularly unaware of any events past, present and future, taking forever to put together even the most obvious clues. She is also very dull, her big, blackmail-worthy secret finally being revealed to be something predictable and uninteresting. The blackmailer doesn’t even have any actual evidence of the whole thing, so it’s hard to be particularly concerned about the whole matter.
And then there’s the big revelation of Chelsea’s betrayal. Not only is it incredibly obvious, it doesn’t even make sense. Switching audition tapes with a twin? Firstly, even I know you say your name in an audition tape. Secondly both twins believe that the casting hinges entirely on these tapes rather than the their recognised body of work alongside the director for whom they are casting? Or even a second audition? A meet-up? Another round to narrow things down? Anything but one single tape!
The book ticks all the expected boxes: #MeToo, male abuse of power, the curse of the child star. It even includes a black character purely so that she can mention racism twice, as a Bad Thing. But there is very little behind these talking points: no depth, no believable characters, only cursory plot development. All the basics having been covered, it heads hurriedly towards an over-dramatic conclusion featuring a standard public shaming and a last-minute, barely explained redemption. It’s not believable, but luckily it ends before there’s any real time to question it.
Overall there just isn’t all that much to this book which you can’t guess from the synopsis.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2026
Since they were kids Erin Stone clung to the prophecy that her children would become famous. Granted, the same psychic had said one of them would die before she was thirty, but the quest for them to become child stars is on.
Madeline and Chelsea were instantly recognisable. Child stars, cute and happy to do what they were asked to stay in the spotlight. Unfortunately, while Chelsea became a star under the tutelage of The Director Madeline imploded. Rumours of drug taking and poor behaviour plagued her. And when she disappears her story becomes one of those mysteries the family cannot escape.
After retiring shortly after her sister’s disappearance, Chelsea has always wondered what happened to her sister. Years later it seems she could be about to get some of the answers she craved.
Chelsea’s big secret wasn’t such a big secret. There’s so much around this situation that feels wrong, with many who could have stopped things happening choosing to look the other way because of the lure of fame.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review this before publication.
Madeline and Chelsea were instantly recognisable. Child stars, cute and happy to do what they were asked to stay in the spotlight. Unfortunately, while Chelsea became a star under the tutelage of The Director Madeline imploded. Rumours of drug taking and poor behaviour plagued her. And when she disappears her story becomes one of those mysteries the family cannot escape.
After retiring shortly after her sister’s disappearance, Chelsea has always wondered what happened to her sister. Years later it seems she could be about to get some of the answers she craved.
Chelsea’s big secret wasn’t such a big secret. There’s so much around this situation that feels wrong, with many who could have stopped things happening choosing to look the other way because of the lure of fame.
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me the chance to read and review this before publication.
April 20, 2026
Had a great time with this! The dual timelines worked really well and as a millennial the same age as the twins, the pop culture setting felt very familiar to me. The mystery kept me hooked.
I saw someone say they felt this was predictable and they were disappointed by that, but I feel like the ‘predictability’ of the earlier timeline was the entire point. That’s the commentary. I thought it was handled well and I really enjoyed seeing older Chelsea come to grips with her younger self’s actions and reality.
The psychic element was such a good addition, too!
I saw someone say they felt this was predictable and they were disappointed by that, but I feel like the ‘predictability’ of the earlier timeline was the entire point. That’s the commentary. I thought it was handled well and I really enjoyed seeing older Chelsea come to grips with her younger self’s actions and reality.
The psychic element was such a good addition, too!
May 25, 2026
Enjoyed this in terms of the story and pace though it sometimes approached Lifetime movie territory when it tried to make sanctimonious statements about the abuse of children working in Hollywood, which obviously is terrible, but the way it's inserted here isn't organic and just repurposes hot takes from former child star memoirs and documentaries. One part had the protagonist looking directly at the camera and saying to her live stream audience "you are all complicit in my abuse" which is pretty word-for-word out of "I, Tonya" and also kind of not actually true. This aside, though, the story of twin child TV stars Chelsea and Maddie is interesting and full of little twists and turns as they transition to adulthood and one goes missing. I read it quickly and wasn't ever bored!
February 19, 2026
Review of advance copy received via NetGalley. I loved this! Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone by Louise O’Neill is a gripping and assured novel that offers a different take on the complexities of the Me Too movement. The story is genuinely suspenseful, with convincing, well-drawn characters at its centre, particularly our protagonist, Chelsea Stone. While it explores dark themes, it never feels heavy-handed; the message is delivered with an efficient touch and cleverly entwined in the novel’s titular mystery. Distinct from O’Neill’s earlier work yet recognisably hers in its themes, this is a compelling and satisfying read. I am a long-time fan and this one was worth the wait.
August 31, 2026
If you've already read I'm Glad My Mom Died then don't bother reading this. And if you haven't read I'm Glad My Mom Died then just read that instead.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Louise O’Neill is an instant, drop everything author for me. Her writing is consistently superlative. ‘Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone?’ is an excellent addition to her body of work. I devoured it! It's incredibly nostalgic for those of us who grew up in this era. O'Neill doesn't pull any punches and makes a great fist of exploring misogyny (especially within the mainstream media) impossible patriarchal beauty standards, exploitation and the sort of abhorrent behaviour that sparked the #MeToo movement. I think that Louise O'Neill excels especially in the illustration of grey areas. Few things are black and white in this story (as in life), which adds to the complexity of the characters. It's also a confronting piece of work. It really made me consider my own complicity. After all, if we didn't crave gossip and view successful, famous women through a Machiavellian lens of envy, would there be a global market for trashy tabloids and magazines? Perhaps we can all do better.
I'm gutted to have finished reading. I would love to hear a well-narrated audiobook version and surely the book will be optioned for film/television?🤞🏻Fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid will love this. I can't recommend it highly enough. Simply superb! F*ck the Patriarchy! All hail Queen Louise!
I'm gutted to have finished reading. I would love to hear a well-narrated audiobook version and surely the book will be optioned for film/television?🤞🏻Fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid will love this. I can't recommend it highly enough. Simply superb! F*ck the Patriarchy! All hail Queen Louise!
September 7, 2026
I’m not normally a reader of mystery / thriller but this had me hooked. The writer had me guessing until the end and with so many twists and turns had my questioning until the very end
Read
April 9, 2026Louise O’Neill has done it again.
I’ve yet to meet an O’Neill novel I didn’t enjoy, but this one properly got its hooks into me. It’s sharp, addictive, unsettling, and absolutely steeped in that glossy, grimy early-2000s celebrity culture that so many of us remember a bit too well.
We move across decades here, from the 80s to the 2000s and into the present day, and it works so well. Right from the start, with Erin bringing her twin girls to a fortune teller and hearing that one child will be famous while the other will be dead by thirty, there’s this feeling of dread hanging over everything. You know something awful is coming, and O’Neill makes you sit in that discomfort all the way through.
Madeline and Chelsea Stone are child stars shaped, pushed, packaged and used by everyone around them. Their mother is all ambition and projection, but she’s hardly the only one feeding off them. Agents, directors, friends, the whole machine of fame, everybody wants a piece. One sister rises. One sister spirals. Then Madeline vanishes just as Chelsea’s star is taking off, and the fallout of that ripples through the next twenty years.
What I really loved was how this is more than a mystery. Yes, the disappearance keeps the pages turning, and yes, I was hooked from the first page, but the real strength of the novel is in what it says about fame, identity, exploitation and the damage done to girls who are turned into products before they’re old enough to know themselves. It’s bleak in places, and rightly so.
Chelsea is such a compelling character too. Not always likeable, not always easy to sit with, but full of guilt, hunger, grief and that awful pull of the spotlight. Her voice carries the whole thing.
It’s glamorous and poisonous, sad and gripping, and full of that precise, cutting social commentary O’Neill does so well. A quick read, but not a slight one.
If you love stories about child stardom, fame gone rotten, messy family dynamics and dark early-2000s nostalgia, this one’s well worth picking up.
Thank you to the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy via NetGalley; all opinions my own.
I’ve yet to meet an O’Neill novel I didn’t enjoy, but this one properly got its hooks into me. It’s sharp, addictive, unsettling, and absolutely steeped in that glossy, grimy early-2000s celebrity culture that so many of us remember a bit too well.
We move across decades here, from the 80s to the 2000s and into the present day, and it works so well. Right from the start, with Erin bringing her twin girls to a fortune teller and hearing that one child will be famous while the other will be dead by thirty, there’s this feeling of dread hanging over everything. You know something awful is coming, and O’Neill makes you sit in that discomfort all the way through.
Madeline and Chelsea Stone are child stars shaped, pushed, packaged and used by everyone around them. Their mother is all ambition and projection, but she’s hardly the only one feeding off them. Agents, directors, friends, the whole machine of fame, everybody wants a piece. One sister rises. One sister spirals. Then Madeline vanishes just as Chelsea’s star is taking off, and the fallout of that ripples through the next twenty years.
What I really loved was how this is more than a mystery. Yes, the disappearance keeps the pages turning, and yes, I was hooked from the first page, but the real strength of the novel is in what it says about fame, identity, exploitation and the damage done to girls who are turned into products before they’re old enough to know themselves. It’s bleak in places, and rightly so.
Chelsea is such a compelling character too. Not always likeable, not always easy to sit with, but full of guilt, hunger, grief and that awful pull of the spotlight. Her voice carries the whole thing.
It’s glamorous and poisonous, sad and gripping, and full of that precise, cutting social commentary O’Neill does so well. A quick read, but not a slight one.
If you love stories about child stardom, fame gone rotten, messy family dynamics and dark early-2000s nostalgia, this one’s well worth picking up.
Thank you to the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy via NetGalley; all opinions my own.
March 18, 2026
The plot of this book really grabbed my interest - a mystery to be solved with social commentary about the influence of the Naughties on women? Right up my street.
The first 30% definitely had me hooked, with the set up of what happened to Chelsea's sister, Maddie, being teased out in the first few chapter's. This story is told on two timelines - one in the years before Maddie's disappearance when they were children, and a current timeline in which we see Chelsea try to maintain the 'perfect' life she has set up for herself. These shifting timelines kept the narrative going well and definitely added an air of suspense and mystery.
I liked the pop culture references initially, but after a while they came to be too much for me. After the first several examples of the how the Naughties was a horrendous time for female celebrities - weight loss, body checking, drugs, sex headlines etc - I felt like the author didn't trust that the I as the reader would be able to get the gist from there. Though it is definitely shown in the character's actions, it was told more, leading me to feel like it was being constantly overexplained rather than letting the story and the character's speak for themselves. The ending was predictable but this wasn't necessarily a bad thing, it was quite fitting.
The first 30% definitely had me hooked, with the set up of what happened to Chelsea's sister, Maddie, being teased out in the first few chapter's. This story is told on two timelines - one in the years before Maddie's disappearance when they were children, and a current timeline in which we see Chelsea try to maintain the 'perfect' life she has set up for herself. These shifting timelines kept the narrative going well and definitely added an air of suspense and mystery.
I liked the pop culture references initially, but after a while they came to be too much for me. After the first several examples of the how the Naughties was a horrendous time for female celebrities - weight loss, body checking, drugs, sex headlines etc - I felt like the author didn't trust that the I as the reader would be able to get the gist from there. Though it is definitely shown in the character's actions, it was told more, leading me to feel like it was being constantly overexplained rather than letting the story and the character's speak for themselves. The ending was predictable but this wasn't necessarily a bad thing, it was quite fitting.
March 21, 2026
I was excited to read this story about two famous twin child actresses, growing up in the 90s/00s spotlight (definitely a lot of Olsen similarities!)
It started really strong but unfortunately I felt the story began to drift and by the end I wasn’t hugely invested. Thank you anyway for the ARC.
It started really strong but unfortunately I felt the story began to drift and by the end I wasn’t hugely invested. Thank you anyway for the ARC.
May 15, 2026
I had high hopes for this book but the plot never really went anywhere and the story overall was quite predictable. I’m a reader who needs to be able to get to know the characters and I didn’t feel I could do that.
Also, what an ending, no closure at all which was really disappointing.
Also, what an ending, no closure at all which was really disappointing.
April 13, 2026
“Fame, and the things people would do to get it, to keep it. It was a sickness.”
Twins sisters Madeline and Chelsea Stone are joint stars of the AtomicKids sitcom Double Trouble, but everyone knows Maddie is the star. That is until Chelsea is chosen for the role everyone believed Maddie would get. As Chelsea’s fame reaches dizzying heights, Maddie vanishes.
Ooh this was so good I loved it! An unflinching account of the world of child stars, shown as both an opportunity but also an exploitation. I loved the writing and how interviews, diary excerpts and blog posts were used here and there to tell the story.
There’s a real air of unsettling nostalgia in the chapters detailing the past as the twins rise to fame and a reminder of how dark Hollywood can be. I’d forgotten how toxic the celebrity gossip blogs were back then and millennial readers will really remember these!
I thought it was a really addictive and compelling read about the dark side of the world of child stars and celebrity, the hunger to not only achieve fame but the desperate need to hold onto it.
Erin, the girls mom was the epitome of “momager”, and a truly unlikeable but fascinating character. Everything she does is in her own interest and her lack of maternal instinct is stark.
The present day is 2025 and Chelsea has stepped away from the limelight and lives a privileged and private life. That is until a storage unit filled with Maddie’s belongings is found and Chelsea has to face the events of the past and the secrets she has spent years hiding.
I had such conflicting emotions surrounding Chelsea’s actions, feeling sorry for her at times and then flipping to disgust.
There are some unanswered questions at the end which I found a little frustrating but an overall brilliantly addictive story.
4.5🌟
July 4, 2026
I'm a big fan of Louise O'Neill writing so when I heard she had a new book coming out I just knew I had to preorder. Plus I got to hear her speak at the Cúirt book festival this year which was amazing! I ended up buddy read Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone with @janereadseverything which is a great way of tackling your TBR and getting each other's thoughts!
The book tackles the story of twin sisters Chelsea and Madeline Stone, two child star actors destined for lifetime stardom. However, their mother is told a prophecy when they are young that one will be the most influential woman and the other will die before her 30th birthday. Partially set between the height of their fame in 2002 and modern day 2025, the books delves in Chelsea's life, she's retired from acting and her sisters disappearance still remains a mystery. When a random blog site starts posting Maddie's possessions including diaries and letters in the internet it sets Chelsea into a spiral of uncovering the real truth about the disappearance and coming to recognise the harsh realities of fame at such a young age.
I love a dual timeline and I loved it in this! The madness of the early 2000s is explored so well and highlights the toxicity of the press and public perception of celebrities. I forgot how crazy some of the headlines and blog sites could be, it really sets you back to that pop culture phase. I loved how we got to see the development of Maddie and Chelsea in their lives and careers and the media scrutiny which could be so cruel especially to Maddie in this. I would have loved more insights into Maddie as I loved her character and her outspokenness. I couldn't wait to uncover the secrets around the blog/storage locker and Maddie's disappeareance. I did guess some twists but not all!
Overall, I enjoyed this one and slipping into the world of Hollywood. Although I will say I did find the ending a little infuriating but maybe there will be a sequel, I will definitely read it!
The book tackles the story of twin sisters Chelsea and Madeline Stone, two child star actors destined for lifetime stardom. However, their mother is told a prophecy when they are young that one will be the most influential woman and the other will die before her 30th birthday. Partially set between the height of their fame in 2002 and modern day 2025, the books delves in Chelsea's life, she's retired from acting and her sisters disappearance still remains a mystery. When a random blog site starts posting Maddie's possessions including diaries and letters in the internet it sets Chelsea into a spiral of uncovering the real truth about the disappearance and coming to recognise the harsh realities of fame at such a young age.
I love a dual timeline and I loved it in this! The madness of the early 2000s is explored so well and highlights the toxicity of the press and public perception of celebrities. I forgot how crazy some of the headlines and blog sites could be, it really sets you back to that pop culture phase. I loved how we got to see the development of Maddie and Chelsea in their lives and careers and the media scrutiny which could be so cruel especially to Maddie in this. I would have loved more insights into Maddie as I loved her character and her outspokenness. I couldn't wait to uncover the secrets around the blog/storage locker and Maddie's disappeareance. I did guess some twists but not all!
Overall, I enjoyed this one and slipping into the world of Hollywood. Although I will say I did find the ending a little infuriating but maybe there will be a sequel, I will definitely read it!
April 5, 2026
There’s no business like showbusiness, and Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone is an insightful story about a former child star in an industry that consume young and talented people and spit them out for entertainment.
Chelsea and Madeline Stone are twin sisters and stars of Double Trouble, a series at AtomicKids. Both girls decide to audition for the role of a lifetime, but it is Chelsea who gets the part. While Chelsea’s star rises to fame, Madeline’s fall from grace is all over the place in the tabloids and juice channels, until she disappears.
Years later, a storage room is found, containing Madeline’s stuff from the year she disappeared, and Chelsea is determined to find out what happened to her twin.
I was HOOKED from the first page, the suspense was good, for sure, but what stood out were the psychological observations around fame. It touches on the many reasons people go to lengths for stardom, but also on the toxicity of a system that exploits and disposes young people.
The characters were, arguably, a tad on the nose, in the sense that they were almost (emphasis on almost) stereotypical - but it didn’t bother me too much as there was enough story to back things up. It showed how the system punished whoever stood up for themselves and rewarded those who fell in line, that is, until the people decided you were no longer desirable.
That’s why it felt especially satisfying when Chelsea FINALLY stood up and did what was right for her.
Highly entertaining!
Chelsea and Madeline Stone are twin sisters and stars of Double Trouble, a series at AtomicKids. Both girls decide to audition for the role of a lifetime, but it is Chelsea who gets the part. While Chelsea’s star rises to fame, Madeline’s fall from grace is all over the place in the tabloids and juice channels, until she disappears.
Years later, a storage room is found, containing Madeline’s stuff from the year she disappeared, and Chelsea is determined to find out what happened to her twin.
I was HOOKED from the first page, the suspense was good, for sure, but what stood out were the psychological observations around fame. It touches on the many reasons people go to lengths for stardom, but also on the toxicity of a system that exploits and disposes young people.
The characters were, arguably, a tad on the nose, in the sense that they were almost (emphasis on almost) stereotypical - but it didn’t bother me too much as there was enough story to back things up. It showed how the system punished whoever stood up for themselves and rewarded those who fell in line, that is, until the people decided you were no longer desirable.
That’s why it felt especially satisfying when Chelsea FINALLY stood up and did what was right for her.
Highly entertaining!
May 9, 2026
Whatever Happened to Madeline Stone? / Louise O’Neill
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~ Just apologize, she said to her sister. Just say you're sorry and then - Then be a good girl. Do as they tell you. Smile and say how grateful you are for every opportunity they give you. It's easy, when you know how… ~
What nostalgia…with a caveat. Nostalgia in the sense that the 00s were such a terrible time for young female celebrities. There was no joy in this. It was bleak. This book brought it all back and it was actually shameful.
Told through dual timeline. LON expertly notches the tension throughout it all and it’s just so addictive. And infuriating. Her social commentary like all her books is just so on point.
Chelsea we know has done something awful. And even in its climax you empathise for her. Living a life of child stardom with a narcissistic momager and an older director and fame at a young age - not to mention alongside someone who looks exactly like you who disappears - to her current life with all that hardship, who wouldn’t. It’s not eat the rich, the Stone Sisters were damaged by trauma. But I was fascinated to see how one action can determine so, so much.
The overarching mystery is captivating, and the final result is one of hope. The reunion was peak.
A bleak but enthralling read.
TBR Pile: Graig
Bought: Hubb 16, New Ross - 10/04/26
* Read: 08/05/26 - 09/05/26
* Release Date: 10/04/26
* ISBN: 9781787635364
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~ Just apologize, she said to her sister. Just say you're sorry and then - Then be a good girl. Do as they tell you. Smile and say how grateful you are for every opportunity they give you. It's easy, when you know how… ~
What nostalgia…with a caveat. Nostalgia in the sense that the 00s were such a terrible time for young female celebrities. There was no joy in this. It was bleak. This book brought it all back and it was actually shameful.
Told through dual timeline. LON expertly notches the tension throughout it all and it’s just so addictive. And infuriating. Her social commentary like all her books is just so on point.
Chelsea we know has done something awful. And even in its climax you empathise for her. Living a life of child stardom with a narcissistic momager and an older director and fame at a young age - not to mention alongside someone who looks exactly like you who disappears - to her current life with all that hardship, who wouldn’t. It’s not eat the rich, the Stone Sisters were damaged by trauma. But I was fascinated to see how one action can determine so, so much.
The overarching mystery is captivating, and the final result is one of hope. The reunion was peak.
A bleak but enthralling read.
TBR Pile: Graig
Bought: Hubb 16, New Ross - 10/04/26
* Read: 08/05/26 - 09/05/26
* Release Date: 10/04/26
* ISBN: 9781787635364
May 13, 2026
Madeline and Chelsea are twin sisters and child stars. When they're only two years old, their pushy, "I'll do anything for fame" mom is given a prophecy - one of the sisters would be the biggest star of their generation, the other will die before 30.
Years later, Chelsea has become a global star, while Madeline has disappeared. Then information about Madeline from a newlh found storage unit starts to appear. Chelsea is unsettled - would anyone find what she did to Maddie?
This was my first Louise O'Neill book, and it was a compulsive read. Finished the book in 2 days, and overall it was enjoyable.
I found the twists and turns slightly predictable at times, but that didn't take away from the book. I felt like it was trying to be a commentary of many things - tech billionaires, trad wives, Hollywood, the industry.. but it was a bit surface level.
I know many people compare this book to I'm so glad my mom died - which I loved- and I think it's both fair and unfair. That book goes a lot deeper to expose what it's truly like to be a child star, but it's also someone's lived experience (which I don't think is true for the author here). So it's hard to say 'it lacks authenticity and depth" when it could have never been as deep as someone's real life story
Overall, I think this is a good book and I'm definitely open to reading more from Louise O'Neill
Years later, Chelsea has become a global star, while Madeline has disappeared. Then information about Madeline from a newlh found storage unit starts to appear. Chelsea is unsettled - would anyone find what she did to Maddie?
This was my first Louise O'Neill book, and it was a compulsive read. Finished the book in 2 days, and overall it was enjoyable.
I found the twists and turns slightly predictable at times, but that didn't take away from the book. I felt like it was trying to be a commentary of many things - tech billionaires, trad wives, Hollywood, the industry.. but it was a bit surface level.
I know many people compare this book to I'm so glad my mom died - which I loved- and I think it's both fair and unfair. That book goes a lot deeper to expose what it's truly like to be a child star, but it's also someone's lived experience (which I don't think is true for the author here). So it's hard to say 'it lacks authenticity and depth" when it could have never been as deep as someone's real life story
Overall, I think this is a good book and I'm definitely open to reading more from Louise O'Neill
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