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Hollywood Lost
Struggling to make ends meet during the Great Depression, Shelby Beckett flees the Oklahoma dust bowl to find work in the wardrobe department of Hollywood's largest movie studio. Surrounded by glamour and wealth, Shelby is charmed by box office star Flynn Sparks as well as Flynn's chief rival, fellow actor Dalton Andrews. As Shelby joins her suitors at opulent parties and intimate dinners, she rubs elbows with the likes of Clark Gable and Cary Grant and is drawn deeper into a lifestyle where her small town values are challenged or ignored. Lurking in the shadows of this Gatsby-like lifestyle is an unseen evil force that strangles beautiful women. Suspecting a madman is connected to the studio production where Shelby works, homicide chief detective Bill Barrister believes the only way to uncover the identity of the ruthless killer is to offer Shelby as bait. Hollywood Lost is a romantic suspense novel where separating reality from fantasy is all but impossible; where love is rare, life is cheap, and values are lost in pursuit of fame and fortune.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2015
About the author
Ace Collins
120 books220 followersCiting his Arkansas heritage, Christy Award winner Ace Collins defines himself as a storyteller. In that capacity, Collins has authored more than eighty books for 25 different publishers that have sold more than 2.5 million copies. His catalog includes novels, biographies, children’s works as well as books on history, culture and faith. He has also been the featured speaker at the National Archives Distinguished Lecture Series, hosted a television special, been featured on every network morning TV show and does college basketball play-by-play. He is married to Kathy Collins, Chair of the Education Department at Ouachita Baptist University, and the couple has two grown sons. Collins lives in Arkadelphia, Arkansas.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
October 9, 2021
Back in the day, it was my dream to meet one of my favorite celebrities. Though I've been a fan of various entertainment over the years, the sitcoms of yesteryear--ranging from Andy Griffith and I Love Lucy to Growing Pains and Home Improvement--have always had a special place in my heart. So, this throwback to Tinseltown in days gone by was right up my alley, not to mention great fun.
November 30, 2016
A special thank you to Abingdon Press and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Talented Ace Collins returns after his smashing hit, Color of Justice which landed on my Top 30 Books of 2014 , a 5 star winner might I add, many of these on my list are rapidly making movie deals; here’s hoping for another with these two.
HOLLYWOOD LOST, a novel of intrigue, romantic suspense, with a page-turner whodunit mystery, leaving you guessing "what is real and what is fantasy."
Set in 1936, deep in the heart of Hollywood’s Golden Age, in a city of glamour, greed, and wealth, a ruthless serial killer is at work, murdering and strangling beautiful and glamorous young women.
Los Angeles Homicide Chief Detective, Bill Barrister believes the murders are connected to Galaxy Studios, the crown jewel of the movie industry. The first woman was discovered in June, 1935 on a beach outside Malibu. The second, only a few months later, found tossed in a vacant lot in Beverly Hills. The third, dumped in an alley behind the restaurant of the stars. They all have a common theme; a broken match stick and all wearing the color blue.
In the meantime, young and beautiful twenty-one year old Shelby Beckett, is thrust into a Gatsby- like lifestyle far different than her Cordell, Oklahoma childhood where she learned to read, sew and cook, and all she wanted was to have a happy marriage with children one day. For the past three years it had been her paycheck that had kept the hounds away from her family’s door, utilizing her skills as a seamstress at a local dress shop. However, due to the Great Depression, her family had no other choice but to pick up and move to California to try and find work. Maybe things would be different here, as she was not going to get caught up in the Hollywood lifestyle.
Galaxy Studios was the crown jewel of the movie industry, headed by Jacob Yates with top talent led by the king of the box office, handsome, arrogant and charming, Flynn Sparks and his rival, Dalton Andrews.
Sparks had grown up poor in Gary, Indiana and migrated to California in his late teens, until the good-looking boy was discovered by Yates, rewriting his history. Sparks lived on the edge and had no fear of death, an adventurer living for thrills and excitement, a womanizer, and made millions for Galaxy. His nightlife consisted of women, parties, drinking and fighting and was always in the headlines with a different woman on his arm or in his bed. He was always on the prowl for a new conquest. Rival, Dalton Andrews, another looker, and poor boy from Kentucky, made rich-- did not care for Sparks and his latest bet with Sparks was his own Packard.
In the mix of things of course is Ellen Rains, Hollywood's most elite gossip columnist. She was the kind of woman who knows every skeleton in every closet. She got the drop on the stars and splashed the dirt to the world with her daily columns in newspapers, magazines, and radio shows. It appears she may also have an inside connection in the police department.
As the murders continue and the body count rises, Ellen and Yates have to protect Galaxy by using an innocent girl, Shelby to throw off the suspicion from their leading man, while an evil madman continues to kill, now known as the Hollywood Madman.
Ironically, Flynn Sparks is always the last to see the victims alive. Now the heat is on pointing to Galaxy Studios; however, the cops have to tread softly, as they represent most of the livelihood and income in the town and they have the money and the means to protect their actors.
Little does Shelby know the job in the wardrobe department as seamstress, would make her popular with the city’s most elite and the talk of the Tinsel town gossip columnist. In a city known for fortune and greed, the farm girl must maintain her small town morals and try to stay one step ahead of the killer. She has her suspicions of the two leading men, and now the cops want to use this innocent, churchgoing girl to draw out the killer.
Someone is stalking, watching and waiting for the next innocent girl to be led astray. Murderer lurks in the shadows, an innocent girl, two leading mean, a determined cop, a studio boss, a gossip columnist and a serial killer and all traveling down a dangerous road. Shelby quickly discovers that in Hollywood, the studios rewrite people's pasts to fit the kind of people they want to sell to the public.
Hollywood Lost is an engaging read, drawing you in from the glamour of the stunning front cover as you re-live the Gatsby-like glitz of the Golden Age and Old Hollywood, with twists and turns, keeping you guessing the identity of the killer and the motive. Ace does an outstanding job of throwing you off track, with well-developed characters giving a sense of mystic and charm--like I want to see this movie, now with a front row seat; can imagine the cast and the fashion and style of the era. A clever twist, having the actors act out the movie in order to draw out the real killer, where past and secrets come to surface for a classic twist of Hollywood detective suspense.
The fast-paced novel seemed a perfect fit for author Ace Collins with the vintage cars, the Hollywood names, stars, and style, with a good black and white old classic detective mystery of fame and fortune. Loved Shelby’s strong personality and character while maintaining her innocence, morals, and integrity when tempted by so many.
On a personal note, was traveling from FL to NC, and with a beautiful spring day, a swing in the woods, light breeze, waves from the boats, overlooking beautiful Lake Norman at Jetton Park--I spent hours with my e-reader, devouring LOST HOLLYWOOD, until I reached 85% and my battery died! Horrible timing- frantic, dying to learn the identity of the killer and how it would end--had to exit my much coveted spot, and race to the nearest Starbucks to charge and finish.
A delicious whodunit with a classic twist of Hollywood glam, suspense, intrigue, mystery, romance, and some light spiritual faith; an ideal selection for book clubs and group discussions (included). If you love the stars of the twenties, thirties, and forties - Clark Gable, Cary Grant, Gatsby, and a good Hollywood mystery, this one is for you!
As an added bonus, readers get a sneak preview of Collins’ upcoming THE FRUITCAKE MURDERS one you will want to add to your reading list, set in the mid-twenties in Chicago during Christmas.
JDCMustReadBooks
Talented Ace Collins returns after his smashing hit, Color of Justice which landed on my Top 30 Books of 2014 , a 5 star winner might I add, many of these on my list are rapidly making movie deals; here’s hoping for another with these two.
HOLLYWOOD LOST, a novel of intrigue, romantic suspense, with a page-turner whodunit mystery, leaving you guessing "what is real and what is fantasy."
Set in 1936, deep in the heart of Hollywood’s Golden Age, in a city of glamour, greed, and wealth, a ruthless serial killer is at work, murdering and strangling beautiful and glamorous young women.
Los Angeles Homicide Chief Detective, Bill Barrister believes the murders are connected to Galaxy Studios, the crown jewel of the movie industry. The first woman was discovered in June, 1935 on a beach outside Malibu. The second, only a few months later, found tossed in a vacant lot in Beverly Hills. The third, dumped in an alley behind the restaurant of the stars. They all have a common theme; a broken match stick and all wearing the color blue.
In the meantime, young and beautiful twenty-one year old Shelby Beckett, is thrust into a Gatsby- like lifestyle far different than her Cordell, Oklahoma childhood where she learned to read, sew and cook, and all she wanted was to have a happy marriage with children one day. For the past three years it had been her paycheck that had kept the hounds away from her family’s door, utilizing her skills as a seamstress at a local dress shop. However, due to the Great Depression, her family had no other choice but to pick up and move to California to try and find work. Maybe things would be different here, as she was not going to get caught up in the Hollywood lifestyle.
Galaxy Studios was the crown jewel of the movie industry, headed by Jacob Yates with top talent led by the king of the box office, handsome, arrogant and charming, Flynn Sparks and his rival, Dalton Andrews.
Sparks had grown up poor in Gary, Indiana and migrated to California in his late teens, until the good-looking boy was discovered by Yates, rewriting his history. Sparks lived on the edge and had no fear of death, an adventurer living for thrills and excitement, a womanizer, and made millions for Galaxy. His nightlife consisted of women, parties, drinking and fighting and was always in the headlines with a different woman on his arm or in his bed. He was always on the prowl for a new conquest. Rival, Dalton Andrews, another looker, and poor boy from Kentucky, made rich-- did not care for Sparks and his latest bet with Sparks was his own Packard.
In the mix of things of course is Ellen Rains, Hollywood's most elite gossip columnist. She was the kind of woman who knows every skeleton in every closet. She got the drop on the stars and splashed the dirt to the world with her daily columns in newspapers, magazines, and radio shows. It appears she may also have an inside connection in the police department.
As the murders continue and the body count rises, Ellen and Yates have to protect Galaxy by using an innocent girl, Shelby to throw off the suspicion from their leading man, while an evil madman continues to kill, now known as the Hollywood Madman.
Ironically, Flynn Sparks is always the last to see the victims alive. Now the heat is on pointing to Galaxy Studios; however, the cops have to tread softly, as they represent most of the livelihood and income in the town and they have the money and the means to protect their actors.
Little does Shelby know the job in the wardrobe department as seamstress, would make her popular with the city’s most elite and the talk of the Tinsel town gossip columnist. In a city known for fortune and greed, the farm girl must maintain her small town morals and try to stay one step ahead of the killer. She has her suspicions of the two leading men, and now the cops want to use this innocent, churchgoing girl to draw out the killer.
Someone is stalking, watching and waiting for the next innocent girl to be led astray. Murderer lurks in the shadows, an innocent girl, two leading mean, a determined cop, a studio boss, a gossip columnist and a serial killer and all traveling down a dangerous road. Shelby quickly discovers that in Hollywood, the studios rewrite people's pasts to fit the kind of people they want to sell to the public.
Hollywood Lost is an engaging read, drawing you in from the glamour of the stunning front cover as you re-live the Gatsby-like glitz of the Golden Age and Old Hollywood, with twists and turns, keeping you guessing the identity of the killer and the motive. Ace does an outstanding job of throwing you off track, with well-developed characters giving a sense of mystic and charm--like I want to see this movie, now with a front row seat; can imagine the cast and the fashion and style of the era. A clever twist, having the actors act out the movie in order to draw out the real killer, where past and secrets come to surface for a classic twist of Hollywood detective suspense.
The fast-paced novel seemed a perfect fit for author Ace Collins with the vintage cars, the Hollywood names, stars, and style, with a good black and white old classic detective mystery of fame and fortune. Loved Shelby’s strong personality and character while maintaining her innocence, morals, and integrity when tempted by so many.
On a personal note, was traveling from FL to NC, and with a beautiful spring day, a swing in the woods, light breeze, waves from the boats, overlooking beautiful Lake Norman at Jetton Park--I spent hours with my e-reader, devouring LOST HOLLYWOOD, until I reached 85% and my battery died! Horrible timing- frantic, dying to learn the identity of the killer and how it would end--had to exit my much coveted spot, and race to the nearest Starbucks to charge and finish.
A delicious whodunit with a classic twist of Hollywood glam, suspense, intrigue, mystery, romance, and some light spiritual faith; an ideal selection for book clubs and group discussions (included). If you love the stars of the twenties, thirties, and forties - Clark Gable, Cary Grant, Gatsby, and a good Hollywood mystery, this one is for you!
As an added bonus, readers get a sneak preview of Collins’ upcoming THE FRUITCAKE MURDERS one you will want to add to your reading list, set in the mid-twenties in Chicago during Christmas.
JDCMustReadBooks
May 18, 2015
Hollywood Lost was a very fun read! I loved the time period in which it took place and that the story revolved around a Hollywood movie studio. It was fascinating to read about that time. Also, having the mystery of serial killer on the loose added a lot of intrigue.
I liked how Shelby, the main character, didn't let Hollywood change her. The romance part of the story wasn't that great, just because there wasn't much to it and the ending left me wondering what was going to happen next for the characters.
Overall, I really enjoyed Hollywood Lost. I recommend it if you enjoy mysteries.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
I liked how Shelby, the main character, didn't let Hollywood change her. The romance part of the story wasn't that great, just because there wasn't much to it and the ending left me wondering what was going to happen next for the characters.
Overall, I really enjoyed Hollywood Lost. I recommend it if you enjoy mysteries.
*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*
October 21, 2017
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
Struggling to make ends meet during the Great Depression, Shelby Beckett flees the Oklahoma dust bowl to find work in the wardrobe department of Hollywood's largest movie studio. Surrounded by glamour and wealth, Shelby is charmed by box office star Flynn Sparks as well as Flynn's chief rival, fellow actor Dalton Andrews. As Shelby joins her suitors at opulent parties and intimate dinners, she rubs elbows with the likes of Clark Gable and Cary Grant and is drawn deeper into a lifestyle where her small town values are challenged or ignored.
Lurking in the shadows of this Gatsby-like lifestyle is an unseen evil force that strangles beautiful women. Suspecting a madman is connected to the studio production where Shelby works, homicide chief detective Bill Barrister believes the only way to uncover the identity of the ruthless killer is to offer Shelby as bait.
Bit of a mixed bag for me. Let's start with the positives:
I loved the setting - both location and time frame. I am a sucker for this period of American history and was dragged straight into the story. The authors knowledge of Hollywood at the time seems to be very good and can't fault him for that.
The conclusion of this book was a real winner as well. It was new and inventive and I will always praise an author for doing something a little different and pulling it off brilliantly.
And therein lies the problem for me. I liked the setting and the finish - the issue was everything else. I didn't connect with any of the characters except, ironically, for the killer, who was easily identified, despite the red herrings thrown at us. And, that obviously indicates that it wasn't much of a mystery either.
So, if you do enjoy the 30's and 40's in Hollywood, mixed with a little mystery and romance, then this could be the book for you.
Paul
ARH
Struggling to make ends meet during the Great Depression, Shelby Beckett flees the Oklahoma dust bowl to find work in the wardrobe department of Hollywood's largest movie studio. Surrounded by glamour and wealth, Shelby is charmed by box office star Flynn Sparks as well as Flynn's chief rival, fellow actor Dalton Andrews. As Shelby joins her suitors at opulent parties and intimate dinners, she rubs elbows with the likes of Clark Gable and Cary Grant and is drawn deeper into a lifestyle where her small town values are challenged or ignored.
Lurking in the shadows of this Gatsby-like lifestyle is an unseen evil force that strangles beautiful women. Suspecting a madman is connected to the studio production where Shelby works, homicide chief detective Bill Barrister believes the only way to uncover the identity of the ruthless killer is to offer Shelby as bait.
Bit of a mixed bag for me. Let's start with the positives:
I loved the setting - both location and time frame. I am a sucker for this period of American history and was dragged straight into the story. The authors knowledge of Hollywood at the time seems to be very good and can't fault him for that.
The conclusion of this book was a real winner as well. It was new and inventive and I will always praise an author for doing something a little different and pulling it off brilliantly.
And therein lies the problem for me. I liked the setting and the finish - the issue was everything else. I didn't connect with any of the characters except, ironically, for the killer, who was easily identified, despite the red herrings thrown at us. And, that obviously indicates that it wasn't much of a mystery either.
So, if you do enjoy the 30's and 40's in Hollywood, mixed with a little mystery and romance, then this could be the book for you.
Paul
ARH
June 4, 2022
Set in Hollywood during the great Depression, the Beckett family moves from Oklahoma to Los Angeles for work. Both Shelby and her father get jobs in the movie industry. He makes sets and she makes and repairs costumes. When young actresses start getting murdered the police want Shelby to act as bait. Pretending to be something she is not goes against all of her beliefs but helping the police to catch a murderer is something she also believes in.
June 7, 2020
Even though this book is by a Christian author, I gave it 4⭐️ due to subject matter of the book. It eludes to sex, and is about a serial killer who strangles their victims.
It was a bit of a cheesy read, didn’t really have any real Christian value, but made for a good “summer read”
It was a bit of a cheesy read, didn’t really have any real Christian value, but made for a good “summer read”
March 9, 2020
Very capturing
The story had many turns even towards ending was more, and stayed interesting, not to mention just a good American History , well written.
The story had many turns even towards ending was more, and stayed interesting, not to mention just a good American History , well written.
March 24, 2024
What a crazy, mixed up, amazing story! An insider's view of the inner workings of a motion picture studio in the dawn of Hollywood, with all the glitz and intrigue and elbow-rubbing.
May 10, 2026
Ace did a great job making me guess. I thought I knew. Then I thought I knew again and again. I like his books and glad I stumbled on his work.
May 21, 2015
Suspense is not my usual genre of choice, even romantic suspense, but I was lured into the premise of this book by the promise of Hollywood’s Golden Age. I am a huge fan of classic movies, and I was expecting the written version of a film noir flick. Sadly, there wasn’t much mystery to be had, the twist I was waiting for never appeared, and it wasn’t until the last third of the book that I really engaged with this novel.
I can’t fault Collins’ research—it fits well with what I know about old Hollywood, and the writing itself is not bad with a nice balance of prose and dialogue. The problems are really the characters he has created for us and the pace at which the clues are revealed.
There aren’t very many likeable characters, or even fleshed out ones. Shelby is one of the few realistic inhabitants of this novel. Her genuine faith makes her stand out as she sticks to her convictions in a difficult environment that tests her constantly; she struggles with temptation and overcomes it.
Only one of her love interests gains any depth but much of what he does leaves him unlikable most of the time, and they are kept apart by misunderstandings that seemed artificial and forced—even his rival seems to better understand Shelby. This lack left me, as the reader, wondering if she wouldn’t be better off scrapping all of her options for romance and finding someone in the world outside of Hollywood.
The police come off as bumbling and incompetent—as the reader, I was able to piece together one important group of details from the head of homicide’s reminiscences within the first ten pages. His inability to do so was frustrating, especially as it was so obvious. The clues are generally revealed too quickly and in too obvious a manner, though the author did plant enough red herrings to have me question my conclusion occasionally. This caused the tension in the novel to suffer as we already knew too much and when Shelby was and wasn’t in real danger.
Given this story deals with murder, there are going to be some questionable elements, though nothing crosses the line into graphic. Some of what passes for romance is lust, plain and simple, and references to casual sex abound though it is never described. The bad boy character makes no apologies for his behavior and remains two-dimensional for much of the novel.
One thing that Collins did exceedingly well occurs towards the end of the novel and is what made this book enjoyable at the end: the line between the fantasy of the movie studios and the reality of what was happening outside of the script is largely blurred, to the point that the reader is even confused for a bit. In that way, I was put in Shelby’s position as she tries to sort out what is Hollywood publicity and who the people she works with really are.
Unfortunately, this story is largely predictable, and in a mystery that is never good. It wasn’t until the last third of the book that I began to rapidly turn those pages to find out how it was going to end. While I don’t think suspense fans will be impressed, those interested in classic Hollywood might find enough help them enjoy this tale. It was hard for me to connect with the unlikable characters or to feel enough tension to keep me reading. Ultimately, if I hadn’t had to finish this book, I don’t know that I would have, but I’m glad I persevered because the last third of the novel proved to be a worthwhile read.
This review originally appeared at The Christian Manifesto (http://thechristianmanifesto.com/fict...), where I received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for this honest review.
I can’t fault Collins’ research—it fits well with what I know about old Hollywood, and the writing itself is not bad with a nice balance of prose and dialogue. The problems are really the characters he has created for us and the pace at which the clues are revealed.
There aren’t very many likeable characters, or even fleshed out ones. Shelby is one of the few realistic inhabitants of this novel. Her genuine faith makes her stand out as she sticks to her convictions in a difficult environment that tests her constantly; she struggles with temptation and overcomes it.
Only one of her love interests gains any depth but much of what he does leaves him unlikable most of the time, and they are kept apart by misunderstandings that seemed artificial and forced—even his rival seems to better understand Shelby. This lack left me, as the reader, wondering if she wouldn’t be better off scrapping all of her options for romance and finding someone in the world outside of Hollywood.
The police come off as bumbling and incompetent—as the reader, I was able to piece together one important group of details from the head of homicide’s reminiscences within the first ten pages. His inability to do so was frustrating, especially as it was so obvious. The clues are generally revealed too quickly and in too obvious a manner, though the author did plant enough red herrings to have me question my conclusion occasionally. This caused the tension in the novel to suffer as we already knew too much and when Shelby was and wasn’t in real danger.
Given this story deals with murder, there are going to be some questionable elements, though nothing crosses the line into graphic. Some of what passes for romance is lust, plain and simple, and references to casual sex abound though it is never described. The bad boy character makes no apologies for his behavior and remains two-dimensional for much of the novel.
One thing that Collins did exceedingly well occurs towards the end of the novel and is what made this book enjoyable at the end: the line between the fantasy of the movie studios and the reality of what was happening outside of the script is largely blurred, to the point that the reader is even confused for a bit. In that way, I was put in Shelby’s position as she tries to sort out what is Hollywood publicity and who the people she works with really are.
Unfortunately, this story is largely predictable, and in a mystery that is never good. It wasn’t until the last third of the book that I began to rapidly turn those pages to find out how it was going to end. While I don’t think suspense fans will be impressed, those interested in classic Hollywood might find enough help them enjoy this tale. It was hard for me to connect with the unlikable characters or to feel enough tension to keep me reading. Ultimately, if I hadn’t had to finish this book, I don’t know that I would have, but I’m glad I persevered because the last third of the novel proved to be a worthwhile read.
This review originally appeared at The Christian Manifesto (http://thechristianmanifesto.com/fict...), where I received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for this honest review.
August 25, 2015
Ace Collins in his new book, “Hollywood Lost” published by Abingdon Press takes us into the life of Shelby Beckett.
From the back cover: “She must have been pretty before someone strangled her.”
Deep in the heart of Hollywood’s Golden Age, someone is murdering beautiful women. The victims are polished, manicured, and far too young to be dead. Behind the glamour and wealth, behind the opulent parties and screaming fans, a ruthless killer lurks. Homicide chief detective Bill Barrister believes the murderer is somehow connected to the crown jewel of the movie industry: Galaxy Studios, home of the box office rivals Flynn Sparks and Dalton Andrews and a young woman named Shelby Beckett.
Thrust into a Gatsby-like lifestyle far different than her childhood in the Oklahoma dust bowl, Shelby only wanted to escape the Great Depression and find work. Little did she know, her job in the Galaxy wardrobe department would make her popular with the city’s most elite-and make her the target of a serial strangler. As hard as it is to fit into a city known for fortune and greed, Shelby must maintain her small-town morals…and try to stay alive.
Hollywood, 1936, not the place where moral values were running high. There is a serial killer who is strangling women. The cops narrow down their field of search to Galaxy Studios. That’s where Shelby Beckett works. Now the cops set Shelby up to be the next victim of this serial killer. Let’s face it if there is ever going to be a book that is going to have you reading super fast so that you can flip to the next page trying to find out what is going on next this is the book. A Serial Killer, loads of suspense and mystery are oozing out of this book. And did I mention there is romance? Mr. Collins throws in all kinds of sub-plots that keep the story moving briskly. I do not think you will figure out who the murderer is until Mr. Collins tells you who it is. This is an excellent thriller that you will not want to put down until you actually finish it.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Abingdon Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: “She must have been pretty before someone strangled her.”
Deep in the heart of Hollywood’s Golden Age, someone is murdering beautiful women. The victims are polished, manicured, and far too young to be dead. Behind the glamour and wealth, behind the opulent parties and screaming fans, a ruthless killer lurks. Homicide chief detective Bill Barrister believes the murderer is somehow connected to the crown jewel of the movie industry: Galaxy Studios, home of the box office rivals Flynn Sparks and Dalton Andrews and a young woman named Shelby Beckett.
Thrust into a Gatsby-like lifestyle far different than her childhood in the Oklahoma dust bowl, Shelby only wanted to escape the Great Depression and find work. Little did she know, her job in the Galaxy wardrobe department would make her popular with the city’s most elite-and make her the target of a serial strangler. As hard as it is to fit into a city known for fortune and greed, Shelby must maintain her small-town morals…and try to stay alive.
Hollywood, 1936, not the place where moral values were running high. There is a serial killer who is strangling women. The cops narrow down their field of search to Galaxy Studios. That’s where Shelby Beckett works. Now the cops set Shelby up to be the next victim of this serial killer. Let’s face it if there is ever going to be a book that is going to have you reading super fast so that you can flip to the next page trying to find out what is going on next this is the book. A Serial Killer, loads of suspense and mystery are oozing out of this book. And did I mention there is romance? Mr. Collins throws in all kinds of sub-plots that keep the story moving briskly. I do not think you will figure out who the murderer is until Mr. Collins tells you who it is. This is an excellent thriller that you will not want to put down until you actually finish it.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Abingdon Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
May 17, 2015
Hollywood Lost by Ace Collins is a hard boiled mystery set in 1930's Hollywood. Shelby Beckett and her parents leave Oklahoma behind when their farm is foreclosed on and head to Los Angeles where a friend arranges for Shelby's father to get work as a stage carpenter at the fictitious Galaxy Studios. Shelby, a seamstress is also hired to work in the studio's wardrobe department. There she makes friends with her co-workers and is wooed by two different men, both stars in the studio's stable. Flynn Sparks is a shameless playboy and Dalton Andrews is kind, but jaded. And one of them may be a murderer. Women who are related to the Galaxy studio are strangled.
Hollywood Lost, part of Abingdon Press's Christian fiction line, presents an intriguing mystery. It also accomplishes something more. It presents situations that cause people to consider and question the norms of society. On the Galaxy Studios lot nothing and no one are what they seem and people are willing to do whatever it takes - right or wrong - to get what they need, whether it is a chance at fame or money to support a family. Secrets also must be kept at any cost. But Shelby is determined to hold on to her morals in spite of Hollywood's siren call. Nevertheless she is soon confronted by some hard choices. Does she allow a killer to remain free when it is in her power to help the police catch him? Or does she refuse because she will be putting her reputation, her morals and even her life on the line?
On the surface there are plenty of the usual Christian platitudes that can, from a lesser talent, leave a story stale and flat. But in this book they are simply the first layer of the onion. Those who care to go deeper will find threads of thought on judging others, sacrifice, second chances, the misuse of power and more. This is a great mystery for Christian fiction lovers and I would not hesitate to recommend it mystery lovers who don't normally read Christian fiction as well.
Hollywood Lost, part of Abingdon Press's Christian fiction line, presents an intriguing mystery. It also accomplishes something more. It presents situations that cause people to consider and question the norms of society. On the Galaxy Studios lot nothing and no one are what they seem and people are willing to do whatever it takes - right or wrong - to get what they need, whether it is a chance at fame or money to support a family. Secrets also must be kept at any cost. But Shelby is determined to hold on to her morals in spite of Hollywood's siren call. Nevertheless she is soon confronted by some hard choices. Does she allow a killer to remain free when it is in her power to help the police catch him? Or does she refuse because she will be putting her reputation, her morals and even her life on the line?
On the surface there are plenty of the usual Christian platitudes that can, from a lesser talent, leave a story stale and flat. But in this book they are simply the first layer of the onion. Those who care to go deeper will find threads of thought on judging others, sacrifice, second chances, the misuse of power and more. This is a great mystery for Christian fiction lovers and I would not hesitate to recommend it mystery lovers who don't normally read Christian fiction as well.
June 23, 2015
Once again, Ace Collins takes his readers back to the past, this time with an absorbing tale about murder and movies during the Great Depression. It’s 1936, and Shelby has been forced to leave the only home she’s ever known when the family farm in Oklahoma is repossessed by the bank. Hollywood is unlike anything she’s experienced before, and well-meaning individuals are all too willing to give her advice. But beautiful young women from the studio where she works are turning up murdered, all seemingly strangled by the same illusive killer. Shelby needs to not only keep her soul intact, but also stay alive in the process.
Hollywood Lost reads at times like a film noir. There are ambitious starlets, movie studio moguls who think they’re above the law, actors with the world at their feet, and ambitious female reporters. I could imagine it playing out in black and white, with Grant, Stewart, and Cagney taking the main roles. The key players are all involved when the murderer is revealed in an original, but fitting, method. I thought I knew the identity of the killer early on. I was wrong. I was also wrong in my second choice. Ace Collins throws in plenty of false leads, written in such a way to make the reader think they’ve solved the puzzle.
If you want to lose yourself in a murder mystery this summer, this is definitely one I recommend.
Thank you to Abingdon Press for my complimentary copy of Hollywood Lost, which I downloaded from NetGalley. A review was not required.
Hollywood Lost reads at times like a film noir. There are ambitious starlets, movie studio moguls who think they’re above the law, actors with the world at their feet, and ambitious female reporters. I could imagine it playing out in black and white, with Grant, Stewart, and Cagney taking the main roles. The key players are all involved when the murderer is revealed in an original, but fitting, method. I thought I knew the identity of the killer early on. I was wrong. I was also wrong in my second choice. Ace Collins throws in plenty of false leads, written in such a way to make the reader think they’ve solved the puzzle.
If you want to lose yourself in a murder mystery this summer, this is definitely one I recommend.
Thank you to Abingdon Press for my complimentary copy of Hollywood Lost, which I downloaded from NetGalley. A review was not required.
April 16, 2015
The machinations of a movie studio mogul coupled with a serial killer’s obsession and a beautiful, young heroine recently arrived from the Oklahoma dust bowl are the centerpieces of Ace Collins latest offering set in Hollywood’s Golden Age.
HOLLYWOOD LOST follows Shelby Beckett from her meager farm girl beginnings to assistant to the head of the wardrobe department of Galaxy studios where her talent with needle and thread guarantee her a job and her beauty allows her to rubs elbows with the heartthrobs of the silver screen. While the featured characters in the novel, like Detective Bill Barrister and his young sidekick Barry Jenkins flow directly from the authors fertile imagination, there are a multitude of other players in this huge cast that certainly resemble some of the Hollywood elite of the early 40’s. Gossip maven Ellen Rains bears a striking resemblance to Hedda Hopper, wardrobe designer Betsy Minser could double for Edith Head, while two of the “pretty boy movie stars” Flynn Sparks and Dalton Andrews could be based on a number of heart-throbs of the era - - - a couple who come to mind are Errol Flynn and Tyrone Power - - - - but those are just the faces that appeared in my minds eye while I read.
This story inside a story is well-plotted and rife with red herrings. If you enjoy the characterizations and pacing of the noir books and movies of the late 30's and early 40's, then this trip down memory lane to Depression-era Hollywood should suit you to a “T”.
HOLLYWOOD LOST follows Shelby Beckett from her meager farm girl beginnings to assistant to the head of the wardrobe department of Galaxy studios where her talent with needle and thread guarantee her a job and her beauty allows her to rubs elbows with the heartthrobs of the silver screen. While the featured characters in the novel, like Detective Bill Barrister and his young sidekick Barry Jenkins flow directly from the authors fertile imagination, there are a multitude of other players in this huge cast that certainly resemble some of the Hollywood elite of the early 40’s. Gossip maven Ellen Rains bears a striking resemblance to Hedda Hopper, wardrobe designer Betsy Minser could double for Edith Head, while two of the “pretty boy movie stars” Flynn Sparks and Dalton Andrews could be based on a number of heart-throbs of the era - - - a couple who come to mind are Errol Flynn and Tyrone Power - - - - but those are just the faces that appeared in my minds eye while I read.
This story inside a story is well-plotted and rife with red herrings. If you enjoy the characterizations and pacing of the noir books and movies of the late 30's and early 40's, then this trip down memory lane to Depression-era Hollywood should suit you to a “T”.
July 15, 2015
Nothing is as it seems especially in Hollywood where money, power, and fame are idols.
A Hollywood Thriller of murder, intrigue, and mystery when a string of attractive women from the studios of Galaxy are found strangled to death after being with Flynn Sparks, Hollywood’s leading man.
The detectives on the case are at a loss. With money and power behind Galaxy Studios, how can justice are served? The detectives see an opening when they seek the help of innocuous Shelby Beckett, an employee of Galaxy Studios who works in the costume department and has the eye of Sparks. Shelby sees the fake and the pull of Galaxy and its stars. Coming from the Midwest, with a strong sense of who she is and who she should be, she does not get pulled into the fantasy of Flynn Sparks.
Shelby knows that Flynn is for himself and his own desires but is he the cold blooded killer that it seems like he might be. If he is not, who is behind the murders and why do they point to Flynn Sparks?
This was an enjoyable read for me. There were no f-bombs and a basically clean read that kept you at the edge of your seat as you go thru the list of characters. How they came to find out who the actual killer was movie drama at its finest. A real who dun it.
A Special Thank You to Abingdon Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
A Hollywood Thriller of murder, intrigue, and mystery when a string of attractive women from the studios of Galaxy are found strangled to death after being with Flynn Sparks, Hollywood’s leading man.
The detectives on the case are at a loss. With money and power behind Galaxy Studios, how can justice are served? The detectives see an opening when they seek the help of innocuous Shelby Beckett, an employee of Galaxy Studios who works in the costume department and has the eye of Sparks. Shelby sees the fake and the pull of Galaxy and its stars. Coming from the Midwest, with a strong sense of who she is and who she should be, she does not get pulled into the fantasy of Flynn Sparks.
Shelby knows that Flynn is for himself and his own desires but is he the cold blooded killer that it seems like he might be. If he is not, who is behind the murders and why do they point to Flynn Sparks?
This was an enjoyable read for me. There were no f-bombs and a basically clean read that kept you at the edge of your seat as you go thru the list of characters. How they came to find out who the actual killer was movie drama at its finest. A real who dun it.
A Special Thank You to Abingdon Press and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.
February 24, 2016
Putting this book in the "read" column, but I'm not finishing it. I picked it up on the "new book" shelf at the library, while waiting for a couple of books that I had on reserve. Normally, I would finish the book, even if it's not any good, but the reserves are available now, and this one is going back. It's ham-handed and preachy, with stilted dialog. The murderer is fairly obvious, even though I only got about half-way through the book. I checked out this "Ace Collins", and it appears he's written quite a few books, including a series called, "In the President's Service", set in the WWII era, with a woman as the main character. Also, a series called "Stories Behind", covering a multitude of Christian subjects. I picked this book, because it was a whodunit set in 1930's Hollywood. If you want good books on that subject, check out any of James Ellroy's, either the "Lloyd Hopkins" series, or the "L.A. Quartet", which includes "L.A. Confidential", and "The Black Dahlia". Your choice is up to you, of course, but I won't be wasting any time on Mr. Collins' work in the future.
May 2, 2015
This book was just ok for me. I didn't really like any of the characters. Flynn was a pompous jerk, Dalton was ok, but the author made him weirdly aggressive towards the middle of the book (I think in an attempt to make you believe he could be the killer, though it's doesn't work at all), and Shelby was a self-righteous, preachy bore.
Every time Dalton went to giver her a compliment, she compared him to Flynn...I'm surprised he bothered speaking to her at all.
As for the mystery part, it really isn't that much of a mystery. As soon as the killer was introduced in the early portion of the book, I knew it would be him. It just didn't make sense for it to be anyone else.
Overall, ok book. Absolutely love the time period and the Old Hollywood feel to the story, but absolutely none of the characters appealed to me.
Every time Dalton went to giver her a compliment, she compared him to Flynn...I'm surprised he bothered speaking to her at all.
As for the mystery part, it really isn't that much of a mystery. As soon as the killer was introduced in the early portion of the book, I knew it would be him. It just didn't make sense for it to be anyone else.
Overall, ok book. Absolutely love the time period and the Old Hollywood feel to the story, but absolutely none of the characters appealed to me.
May 12, 2015
****Copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review****
I enjoyed Hollywood Lost - it's set in a period that I'm always really intrigued by and has an interesting premise. I think Golden Age Hollywood is such a great setting for a novel like this - it really lends itself to thrillers and suspense.
However, I did have the culprit sussed quite early on - despite the author's attempts to the throw you off the scent, but denoument was inventive and there were enough revelations towards the end that it didn't spoil my enjoyment. I found the characters quite hard to empathise with - even the ones I found sympathetic had moments where I just wanted to slap them!
I'll keep an eye out for more from Ace Collins though.
I enjoyed Hollywood Lost - it's set in a period that I'm always really intrigued by and has an interesting premise. I think Golden Age Hollywood is such a great setting for a novel like this - it really lends itself to thrillers and suspense.
However, I did have the culprit sussed quite early on - despite the author's attempts to the throw you off the scent, but denoument was inventive and there were enough revelations towards the end that it didn't spoil my enjoyment. I found the characters quite hard to empathise with - even the ones I found sympathetic had moments where I just wanted to slap them!
I'll keep an eye out for more from Ace Collins though.
May 11, 2015
This novel is written in the style of the 1930s hard boiled detective stories. Collins did a good job of getting the style right for that era. I have read many of Collins' novels and I missed the snappy dialog and the tight plots I am used to. the characters seemed a little flat to me but that might have been the style of the era. I appreciated most the unusual way the strangler was brought to light. In general, a pretty good novel but I have read better from this author.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1PeoUYO.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
See my complete review at http://bit.ly/1PeoUYO.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
June 6, 2015
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing this ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
The story takes place in the 1930's in Hollywood. You can tell Collins did his research because he painted the setting correctly for the time period. The story is suppose to be a mystery, but most readers will figure out the whodunnit piece real early in the story. The characters could have been developed more, it would help to relate to the main characters. It was a decent read, and if old Hollywood interests you, then you will love it.
The story takes place in the 1930's in Hollywood. You can tell Collins did his research because he painted the setting correctly for the time period. The story is suppose to be a mystery, but most readers will figure out the whodunnit piece real early in the story. The characters could have been developed more, it would help to relate to the main characters. It was a decent read, and if old Hollywood interests you, then you will love it.
December 6, 2015
This was my first time reading an Ace Collins novel. Hollywood Lost was interesting and suspenseful (some scenes made me jump!), but I was able to figure out the whodunit, which was a little disappointing. Collins is a great writer and I'm looking forward to reading The Yellow Packard very soon.
Many thanks to Abingdon Press and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Many thanks to Abingdon Press and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 22, 2015
I thought this was a pretty good book. The strong character of Shelby was one I really loved. Her internal dialogue and witty remarks often had me smiling. Perhaps I am not one to pick up on clues laid out in the book as some knew who the murderer was early on, but I was guessing until almost the end.
Thank you to NetGalley and Abingdon for a copy of this book--the opinions and thoughts are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Abingdon for a copy of this book--the opinions and thoughts are my own.
September 25, 2015
There was something about the writing that was a little distracting. Still the story pulled me through. It'a murder mystery with plenty of suspects and some interesting characters. I love this time period in Hollywood, so it was fun to travel to 1930s Hollywood. And the plot really did pull me in after the first quarter of the book. Still there were a lot of threads to this whodunit -- enough to keep you guessing until almost the end.
October 20, 2015
Travel back to 1936 Hollywood in this latest thriller by Collins. He establishes the setting and characters perfectly and keeps the reader guessing until the end. Shelby's faith is put to the test but she remains true to her Christian upbringing. She learns what is real and what isn't as life unfolds on a movie studio lot. If you enjoy being transported to a different time and place and living the story along with the characters, this is a book for you.
July 7, 2016
This was a surprisingly good mystery. It's set during 1936 at a Hollywood movie studio. There were clues throughout but the conclusion of the mystery was still surprising since there were many twists and turns to get there. As characters remarked, all is not as it seems.
March 23, 2016
Very good mystery. Fast-moving and interesting who-done-it.
I didn't guess the killer's identity until close to the end.
I didn't guess the killer's identity until close to the end.
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