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Finding Jessica Lambert
Jessica Lambert, movie star and ingénue, is in danger of burning out. Returning to London for the premiere of her latest film, she’s recognised everywhere she goes. When she runs away through the streets of London, she’s taken in by the beautiful and more mature Anna. The two hide in the sanctuary of Anna’s roof-top flat, a haven away from the crowds, but why has Anna removed herself from the world?
As the two women get to know each other, stripping away the layers, both appreciate what each does for the other. This could be the start of something wonderful, more than either of them know.
As the two women get to know each other, stripping away the layers, both appreciate what each does for the other. This could be the start of something wonderful, more than either of them know.
436 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 30, 2020
319 people are currently reading
2358 people want to read
About the author
Clare Ashton
16 books1,608 followersClare Ashton loves writing sapphic stories. Whether it’s a romcom or mystery, there’s always a queer woman about. With gorgeous settings, from the hills of Wales to college halls of Oxford, every book is a travel destination from the comfort of an armchair. Best known for her award-winning, sunny romance, Poppy Jenkins, and rollercoaster family drama, The Goodmans, Clare has a new series that captures the best of both and more, with Meeting Millie kicking off The Oxford Romance series.
Clare lives in the UK with her wife and kids and can be found spending too much time on social media – https://linktr.ee/clareashton
Clare lives in the UK with her wife and kids and can be found spending too much time on social media – https://linktr.ee/clareashton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 399 reviews
December 30, 2020
4.25 Stars. This was a really good contemporary romance. I’m still on my quest to knock off the top level of my to read list so of course Ashton was there sitting near the top. I loved her last book, The Goodmans, and knowing that this was a celebrity romance (one of my favorite tropes) well let’s just say that I was frustrated that this book sat on my kindle for so long, waiting to be read. While I didn’t end up enjoying this as much as The Goodmans, I feel like this is a book I will remember and might even appreciate it more as time goes by.
I’m shocked to be saying this but I struggled with this book in the beginning. Right around the 20% mark I almost DNF’d this. I was not thinking a DNF forever, but just a DNF for now with hope that I could give this a try in the future. I could not connect with the characters or even the dialogue. While one of the characters is only in her 20’s (this is an age-gap romance), she was feeling super young to me. I could not really see a connection forming between the characters, and I was just feeling lost as this didn’t seem like an Ashton book to me. As tempted as I was to quit and move on to another book, I just knew I shouldn’t really doubt Ashton, plus all my friends who loved this book. I kept on reading and shortly after the 30% mark the book finally clicked for me. I don’t know what happened but it was like night and day and finally I felt that Ashton magic. I’m so happy I didn’t give up and miss out on such an enjoyable story. I thought this was important to mention encase there are readers that come after me that have similar trouble at first. Keep reading, the story gets so much better and you will soon find that you don’t want to put the book down.
I ended up loving the whole flow and structure of the story. It was so nice to have some conflict and angst but that it was made to have the characters question their behavior and bring each other closer. It was a part of their story and character growth, and not just thrown in at the end like it normally is. I really wish more romance authors would try writing like this because it works so much better and it makes you really believe in the possibility of a HEA ending.
I’m late to the party on this book so it has many wonderful reviews already. There is not much left for me to say that hasn’t been said already so I’ll keep this review on the shorter side for me. If you are a celebrity romance fan I don’t think you can go wrong with this book. Yes, I found the beginning to be quite bumpy, but I’m so glad I didn’t give up and that I was able to really enjoy this read. This is currently available on Kindle Unlimited.
I’m shocked to be saying this but I struggled with this book in the beginning. Right around the 20% mark I almost DNF’d this. I was not thinking a DNF forever, but just a DNF for now with hope that I could give this a try in the future. I could not connect with the characters or even the dialogue. While one of the characters is only in her 20’s (this is an age-gap romance), she was feeling super young to me. I could not really see a connection forming between the characters, and I was just feeling lost as this didn’t seem like an Ashton book to me. As tempted as I was to quit and move on to another book, I just knew I shouldn’t really doubt Ashton, plus all my friends who loved this book. I kept on reading and shortly after the 30% mark the book finally clicked for me. I don’t know what happened but it was like night and day and finally I felt that Ashton magic. I’m so happy I didn’t give up and miss out on such an enjoyable story. I thought this was important to mention encase there are readers that come after me that have similar trouble at first. Keep reading, the story gets so much better and you will soon find that you don’t want to put the book down.
I ended up loving the whole flow and structure of the story. It was so nice to have some conflict and angst but that it was made to have the characters question their behavior and bring each other closer. It was a part of their story and character growth, and not just thrown in at the end like it normally is. I really wish more romance authors would try writing like this because it works so much better and it makes you really believe in the possibility of a HEA ending.
I’m late to the party on this book so it has many wonderful reviews already. There is not much left for me to say that hasn’t been said already so I’ll keep this review on the shorter side for me. If you are a celebrity romance fan I don’t think you can go wrong with this book. Yes, I found the beginning to be quite bumpy, but I’m so glad I didn’t give up and that I was able to really enjoy this read. This is currently available on Kindle Unlimited.
August 30, 2021
Edit: August 30th, 2021, audiobook review.
I love this book so much. I love the story, I love the writing, I most of all love the main characters, Anna and Jess. It wasn’t an easy book for me to read, and listening was slightly easier because I already knew the story (which was a good thing as I started listening on a walk on the cliff and part of chapter 2 got lost to the wind). But the reasons why it’s not easy are also the reasons why I love it.
I’m very much like Jess in many respects (social awkwardness, that feeling that you’ve not been giving the same set of rules as everyone else at the start of the game, the mimicking when you’re not sure how to act, the not thinking well on your feet…) but my experience of closing down resembles Anna’s. Whenever the author mentions “something the old Anna would have done” or “someone from before”, it resonates with me because that’s how I speak of my life. There’s a before and a now. Until not long ago, my blog was named Not Me Anymore, and as I’ve explained before, it’s because I’m both the same person I always was and not, like Anna. I changed the name recently because it didn’t make as much sense now that 99.99% of what I post is reviews, but what it meant is still very true. It’s an interesting experience to be able to relate to both MCs, even more so to what makes them fragile.
Jess and Anna’s relationship, their falling in love, is so evident, so delicate, so delightful yet painful at times, that getting to witness it feels precious. Sometimes you meet someone in whatever circumstances and there’s an instant connection. It can be love, it can be friendship, it’s often deep and feels like fate. For someone like me, who struggles with interactions (unlike Anna, I was always like that, even in my own “before”), it’s both terrifying and elating. Clare Ashton describes it perfectly, the easiness, the immediate trust, the surprise too.
Even though I’d already loved them when I read them, some scenes sounded even better in audio. The back and forth between Jess and Anna when they’re both trying to figure out the other’s sexual orientation is hilarious, and the intimate scenes are even sexier. I have minor issues with the narration (the men’s voices aren’t very distinctive, the narrator’s slight lisp was sometimes distracting – and I say that as someone with a lisp of my own, which may have made me more sensitive to it, and I wish Anna’s voice was as melodious as Clare Ashton describes it), but nothing that stopped me from enjoying it a lot. The pace is great, the tone is too, Jess’s voice is perfect, there are nuances and subtle changes that make it lovely overall.
The only thing that could make this book better would be if I didn’t know it yet and got to read it for the first time again.
------------------------------------------------
Finding Jessica Lambert took my breath away, literally and figuratively. I loved it and it totally triggered my anxiety.
I knew what I was getting into. My friend Gaby from LezReviewBooks, who read it before I did (her review is here), told me it reminded her of me. So yeah, I knew. Good news is, it really was worth pushing through, and if I can do it, you probably can too.
I guess I should apologise right now, since this review will be a lot more about me than about the book. Which you should definitely read. I’m not giving it 5* because I’m a narcissist and it speaks to me, I’m giving it 5* because it’s awesome, with fantastic characters, sweet romance and steamy scenes.
Jess and Anna meet on the London Tube, with Jess in the midst of a panic attack and Anna stepping up to help. Despite the age difference and both women’s struggles (for different reasons) with anxiety, they click immediately. They both open up to each other surprisingly fast, showing who they really are yet both hiding part of themselves, the professional part.
In French, when something happens behind closed doors, like a hearing, court proceedings etc., we call that a huis clos. There’s a huis clos feel to the first part of this story, but not in a claustrophobic way, rather in a safe haven way. Anna brings Jess to her small roof-top flat and they stay there for a couple of days, away from the world and everything that’s terrifying Anna nowadays and exhausting Jess. Everything is simple, then. Easy. Natural. Then life takes over again but neither is on her own anymore, they’re already stronger together. That’s one of the things I loved, that sense of strength that comes from having the right person by your side. Jess may not always understand what Anna is going through (and vice versa) but she gets her, and Anna gets Jess. It also doesn’t hurt that they have amazing chemistry.
I have a confession to make: this is my first book by Clare Ashton. I own a few others but haven’t read them yet. Don’t ask why, I don’t know. Life, lack of time, the usual. No good reason, really. Anyway, my first. And it begins with an anxiety-filled scene, one character in a panic attack with the other on the edge of her own. In the Tube, ie the London metro, when a lot of mine happen in the Paris metro (which I almost never take anymore). Ugh. Thank you, brain, for managing that and for holding on.
My situation and Jess’s (and Anna’s to some extent) are nothing alike and yet they are. Burning out is burning out, whatever the reasons, whatever the life. Even your dream job can kill you slowly from the inside. You either get out on time or you break. It’s that simple. One of life’s rare instances where things are truly black and white.
Beyond the burnout, I’m also a lot like Jess (not the movie star side, nor the English person of colour part, obviously): social interactions exhaust me, noises and lights stun me, I thrive in small chosen groups, I don’t deal well with surprises, I need time to process, sometimes even with the simplest things, so I hate phone calls and chit chat. In the right circumstances, I’m bright and witty and fun, but not so much when I’m overwhelmed.
So yeah, reading this has been hard. And so so so worth it. Jess is adorable and I felt like swooning anytime Anna spoke. We’re going to need this in audiobook, by the way.
I’m very character-driven, which makes this book all the more appreciated. Besides Jess and Anna, it is filled with quite a few lovely (and not so lovely) characters. Jess’s family wins all the awards, whereas Anna’s mother would go home with the Razzie. There’s a lot more to love in this book than its characters, however. It’s beautifully written, for one. It shows the other side of the fame coin, the price of success. It’s poignant yet never whiny, it’s full of angst and hope, it’s sexy and human and delightful.
My friend Jules said it best in her review, and allowed me to borrow her words: “Do not expect a big, loud plot. Instead, sit back and appreciate a masterful telling that is devastating in the passion and turmoil it creates. Pay attention to the quiet moments that the author uses to amplify their relationship. Anticipation can be brutally delicious, especially when the author delivers the heat with perfect timing. Read and be thrilled.” That’s it. Read and be thrilled.
I love this book so much. I love the story, I love the writing, I most of all love the main characters, Anna and Jess. It wasn’t an easy book for me to read, and listening was slightly easier because I already knew the story (which was a good thing as I started listening on a walk on the cliff and part of chapter 2 got lost to the wind). But the reasons why it’s not easy are also the reasons why I love it.
I’m very much like Jess in many respects (social awkwardness, that feeling that you’ve not been giving the same set of rules as everyone else at the start of the game, the mimicking when you’re not sure how to act, the not thinking well on your feet…) but my experience of closing down resembles Anna’s. Whenever the author mentions “something the old Anna would have done” or “someone from before”, it resonates with me because that’s how I speak of my life. There’s a before and a now. Until not long ago, my blog was named Not Me Anymore, and as I’ve explained before, it’s because I’m both the same person I always was and not, like Anna. I changed the name recently because it didn’t make as much sense now that 99.99% of what I post is reviews, but what it meant is still very true. It’s an interesting experience to be able to relate to both MCs, even more so to what makes them fragile.
Jess and Anna’s relationship, their falling in love, is so evident, so delicate, so delightful yet painful at times, that getting to witness it feels precious. Sometimes you meet someone in whatever circumstances and there’s an instant connection. It can be love, it can be friendship, it’s often deep and feels like fate. For someone like me, who struggles with interactions (unlike Anna, I was always like that, even in my own “before”), it’s both terrifying and elating. Clare Ashton describes it perfectly, the easiness, the immediate trust, the surprise too.
Even though I’d already loved them when I read them, some scenes sounded even better in audio. The back and forth between Jess and Anna when they’re both trying to figure out the other’s sexual orientation is hilarious, and the intimate scenes are even sexier. I have minor issues with the narration (the men’s voices aren’t very distinctive, the narrator’s slight lisp was sometimes distracting – and I say that as someone with a lisp of my own, which may have made me more sensitive to it, and I wish Anna’s voice was as melodious as Clare Ashton describes it), but nothing that stopped me from enjoying it a lot. The pace is great, the tone is too, Jess’s voice is perfect, there are nuances and subtle changes that make it lovely overall.
The only thing that could make this book better would be if I didn’t know it yet and got to read it for the first time again.
------------------------------------------------
Finding Jessica Lambert took my breath away, literally and figuratively. I loved it and it totally triggered my anxiety.
I knew what I was getting into. My friend Gaby from LezReviewBooks, who read it before I did (her review is here), told me it reminded her of me. So yeah, I knew. Good news is, it really was worth pushing through, and if I can do it, you probably can too.
I guess I should apologise right now, since this review will be a lot more about me than about the book. Which you should definitely read. I’m not giving it 5* because I’m a narcissist and it speaks to me, I’m giving it 5* because it’s awesome, with fantastic characters, sweet romance and steamy scenes.
Jess and Anna meet on the London Tube, with Jess in the midst of a panic attack and Anna stepping up to help. Despite the age difference and both women’s struggles (for different reasons) with anxiety, they click immediately. They both open up to each other surprisingly fast, showing who they really are yet both hiding part of themselves, the professional part.
In French, when something happens behind closed doors, like a hearing, court proceedings etc., we call that a huis clos. There’s a huis clos feel to the first part of this story, but not in a claustrophobic way, rather in a safe haven way. Anna brings Jess to her small roof-top flat and they stay there for a couple of days, away from the world and everything that’s terrifying Anna nowadays and exhausting Jess. Everything is simple, then. Easy. Natural. Then life takes over again but neither is on her own anymore, they’re already stronger together. That’s one of the things I loved, that sense of strength that comes from having the right person by your side. Jess may not always understand what Anna is going through (and vice versa) but she gets her, and Anna gets Jess. It also doesn’t hurt that they have amazing chemistry.
I have a confession to make: this is my first book by Clare Ashton. I own a few others but haven’t read them yet. Don’t ask why, I don’t know. Life, lack of time, the usual. No good reason, really. Anyway, my first. And it begins with an anxiety-filled scene, one character in a panic attack with the other on the edge of her own. In the Tube, ie the London metro, when a lot of mine happen in the Paris metro (which I almost never take anymore). Ugh. Thank you, brain, for managing that and for holding on.
My situation and Jess’s (and Anna’s to some extent) are nothing alike and yet they are. Burning out is burning out, whatever the reasons, whatever the life. Even your dream job can kill you slowly from the inside. You either get out on time or you break. It’s that simple. One of life’s rare instances where things are truly black and white.
Beyond the burnout, I’m also a lot like Jess (not the movie star side, nor the English person of colour part, obviously): social interactions exhaust me, noises and lights stun me, I thrive in small chosen groups, I don’t deal well with surprises, I need time to process, sometimes even with the simplest things, so I hate phone calls and chit chat. In the right circumstances, I’m bright and witty and fun, but not so much when I’m overwhelmed.
So yeah, reading this has been hard. And so so so worth it. Jess is adorable and I felt like swooning anytime Anna spoke. We’re going to need this in audiobook, by the way.
I’m very character-driven, which makes this book all the more appreciated. Besides Jess and Anna, it is filled with quite a few lovely (and not so lovely) characters. Jess’s family wins all the awards, whereas Anna’s mother would go home with the Razzie. There’s a lot more to love in this book than its characters, however. It’s beautifully written, for one. It shows the other side of the fame coin, the price of success. It’s poignant yet never whiny, it’s full of angst and hope, it’s sexy and human and delightful.
My friend Jules said it best in her review, and allowed me to borrow her words: “Do not expect a big, loud plot. Instead, sit back and appreciate a masterful telling that is devastating in the passion and turmoil it creates. Pay attention to the quiet moments that the author uses to amplify their relationship. Anticipation can be brutally delicious, especially when the author delivers the heat with perfect timing. Read and be thrilled.” That’s it. Read and be thrilled.
June 25, 2020
Clare Ashton is one of the best lesfic writers out there. I admire not only her writing talent but also the variety of her work. She can produce dark novels such as ‘Pennance’, angsty books like ‘After Mrs. Hamilton’ and feel-good romances as ‘Poppy Jenkins’. While ‘Finding Jessica Lambert’ is a romance, it delves into the depth of the human psyche, the despair of people suffering from anxiety and somehow, it comes out with a message of love and hope.
Jessica Lambert is a famous movie star who is burnt out from overwork and the pressure of fame. When running away in the midst of a panic attack, she is taken in by the enigmatic and more mature Anna, who lives a life isolated from the world. Without knowing anything about each other, both women feel an intense connection. But what happens when reality bites?
This was such an amazing read. ‘Finding Jessica Lambert’ is a masterclass on how to build chemistry between two apparently very different characters – in age, race, and personality – and make it work effortlessly. Ms. Ashton builds a magnetic connection from the leads’ first casual encounter and slowly forms such a strong bond between them that it’s impossible to think them apart from each other.
‘Finding Jessica Lambert’ is a lesbian age-gap romance book about overcoming inner demons, imaginary and real. It’s hard to find in fiction flawed characters that are so appealing in both their strengths and shortcomings so much so that they seem to come out of the page with a life of their own. That’s what makes this story so appealing.
Ms. Ashton has a way with words that is almost cinematographic, the reader can see the story unfold in front of their eyes. In the background, London is another main character, a city that can be both beautiful and oppressive. I lived there for 7 years and I felt transported to the capital in every single description of the cityscape. It was like traveling without moving from my room.
I have no complaints about this book apart from wishing that the author could write faster because her books are incredible journeys that I’m always willing to take. I cannot recommend it more. 5+ stars.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
Jessica Lambert is a famous movie star who is burnt out from overwork and the pressure of fame. When running away in the midst of a panic attack, she is taken in by the enigmatic and more mature Anna, who lives a life isolated from the world. Without knowing anything about each other, both women feel an intense connection. But what happens when reality bites?
This was such an amazing read. ‘Finding Jessica Lambert’ is a masterclass on how to build chemistry between two apparently very different characters – in age, race, and personality – and make it work effortlessly. Ms. Ashton builds a magnetic connection from the leads’ first casual encounter and slowly forms such a strong bond between them that it’s impossible to think them apart from each other.
‘Finding Jessica Lambert’ is a lesbian age-gap romance book about overcoming inner demons, imaginary and real. It’s hard to find in fiction flawed characters that are so appealing in both their strengths and shortcomings so much so that they seem to come out of the page with a life of their own. That’s what makes this story so appealing.
Ms. Ashton has a way with words that is almost cinematographic, the reader can see the story unfold in front of their eyes. In the background, London is another main character, a city that can be both beautiful and oppressive. I lived there for 7 years and I felt transported to the capital in every single description of the cityscape. It was like traveling without moving from my room.
I have no complaints about this book apart from wishing that the author could write faster because her books are incredible journeys that I’m always willing to take. I cannot recommend it more. 5+ stars.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
See all my reviews at www.lezreviewbooks.com
July 23, 2020
There goes Ms. Ashton reminding me why she’s one of the best lesfic authors out there !
Brilliant story, brilliant characters, brilliant writing!
I highly recommend this book! I enjoyed every single second of it!
Brilliant story, brilliant characters, brilliant writing!
I highly recommend this book! I enjoyed every single second of it!
July 29, 2020
Captivating story with multi layered writing.
The plot. While in the midst of a massive anxiety attack, and dodging a possible stalker, superstar Jessica Lambert finds safety in the company of a reclusive woman named Anna. Not only does Anna prove to be a calming presence, she also allows Jess a moment to breath while hiding out in Anna's apartment. But now that everything has calmed down, it seems both woman are more than curious about the other and inevitably questions about their identity start to arise.
The characters. Jess may be a famous movie star but I found myself really connecting with this woman. She suffers from panic and anxiety issues like I do and frankly finds other people exhausting to be around. *whispers* Me too! Then there's the mysterious Anna. Right off the bat I clocked her sometimes odd behavior and immediately started connecting the dots about her background. More on that in the paragraphs below.
The writing. As I've pointed out in the title of this review, Clare Ashton's writing is always multi layered. This isn't just a cookie cutter romance novel, the plot is well thought out and offers a gripping story about two women, each with their own secrets. Add to that the sizzling chemistry between the MC's and you have one hell of a page turner.
The special. Review number 500 and I honestly couldn't have chosen a better book to read. Having fallen in love with Clare's writing in "Poppy Jenkins" and "The Goodmans", this book became an automatic read as soon as it was released.
The negative. Without spoiling anything hopefully, a few years ago I went through something similar to Anna's experience. Though the whole ordeal lasted roughly four months, it forever changed me. It was quite honestly very difficult to get through some chapters because my own experience would come flooding back. But I suppose that's also why I also managed to connect with Anna as well.
The verdict. Though this book tackles some difficult issues, I still loved everything about it. It's a re-read for sure some time in the future and certainly a must read for anyone looking for a heartfelt and sweet story. Full 5* rating!
The plot. While in the midst of a massive anxiety attack, and dodging a possible stalker, superstar Jessica Lambert finds safety in the company of a reclusive woman named Anna. Not only does Anna prove to be a calming presence, she also allows Jess a moment to breath while hiding out in Anna's apartment. But now that everything has calmed down, it seems both woman are more than curious about the other and inevitably questions about their identity start to arise.
The characters. Jess may be a famous movie star but I found myself really connecting with this woman. She suffers from panic and anxiety issues like I do and frankly finds other people exhausting to be around. *whispers* Me too! Then there's the mysterious Anna. Right off the bat I clocked her sometimes odd behavior and immediately started connecting the dots about her background. More on that in the paragraphs below.
The writing. As I've pointed out in the title of this review, Clare Ashton's writing is always multi layered. This isn't just a cookie cutter romance novel, the plot is well thought out and offers a gripping story about two women, each with their own secrets. Add to that the sizzling chemistry between the MC's and you have one hell of a page turner.
The special. Review number 500 and I honestly couldn't have chosen a better book to read. Having fallen in love with Clare's writing in "Poppy Jenkins" and "The Goodmans", this book became an automatic read as soon as it was released.
The negative. Without spoiling anything hopefully, a few years ago I went through something similar to Anna's experience. Though the whole ordeal lasted roughly four months, it forever changed me. It was quite honestly very difficult to get through some chapters because my own experience would come flooding back. But I suppose that's also why I also managed to connect with Anna as well.
The verdict. Though this book tackles some difficult issues, I still loved everything about it. It's a re-read for sure some time in the future and certainly a must read for anyone looking for a heartfelt and sweet story. Full 5* rating!
August 13, 2024
I am still basking in post-book bliss from this one. What a literary delight. It is no secret that Ms. Ashton is one of my favourite lesfic authors, and when her books come out (too far and few between for my liking), I unashamedly drop whatever I am reading to dig into hers. And this one did not disappoint.
I devoured the characters of Jess and Anna. The author delved deep into their psyches for this one and put mental health on centre stage (literally). Anxiety and panic, identity, heavy baggage of responsibility, creepy people, loyalty, dirt-bag mothers, another amazing grandmother, hot sex....it's all there, folks. I fell for the characters hard. As always, Ms. Ashton describes her environments and setting with lovely, unforgettable details, and has firecracker side characters such as Penny and Nan for comic relief.
Even the title fucking rocks. Yes, Jessica Lambert is a celebrity, and this book takes us on a journey of her finding herself again. However, Anna "found" Jess on the train, and without that meeting, she may not have been able to find her way back to her true self. This story is equally about two intriguing women, with a 15 year age gap, but it's so eloquent, so real, so relatable in the emotional department. You don't have to be a famous actress to "get" this book.
Guys, I even paused my brand new PS4 game (LAST OF US II GO GET IT DAMN IT'S AMAZING), to inhale this fantastic book. Even though it is longer than traditional lesfic, I wanted more. MORE! I already want to go back to page one and tease out any missed details. I wish I had more words, but really, doesn't a 5/5 sum it up?
I devoured the characters of Jess and Anna. The author delved deep into their psyches for this one and put mental health on centre stage (literally). Anxiety and panic, identity, heavy baggage of responsibility, creepy people, loyalty, dirt-bag mothers, another amazing grandmother, hot sex....it's all there, folks. I fell for the characters hard. As always, Ms. Ashton describes her environments and setting with lovely, unforgettable details, and has firecracker side characters such as Penny and Nan for comic relief.
Even the title fucking rocks. Yes, Jessica Lambert is a celebrity, and this book takes us on a journey of her finding herself again. However, Anna "found" Jess on the train, and without that meeting, she may not have been able to find her way back to her true self. This story is equally about two intriguing women, with a 15 year age gap, but it's so eloquent, so real, so relatable in the emotional department. You don't have to be a famous actress to "get" this book.
Guys, I even paused my brand new PS4 game (LAST OF US II GO GET IT DAMN IT'S AMAZING), to inhale this fantastic book. Even though it is longer than traditional lesfic, I wanted more. MORE! I already want to go back to page one and tease out any missed details. I wish I had more words, but really, doesn't a 5/5 sum it up?
January 7, 2021
No words to express how much I loved it. I should have read it earlier.
I would have read this book earlier had I read the blurb because of my partiality for ice queens and celebrities. But I didn’t and it only piqued my interest when it showed up in many people’s top 10 list of books in 2020.
I struggle to put to words how amazing this book is and how much I love it, so I’m not going to even try. Most people would have read this by now and those who haven’t, need to.
Jessica Lambert is a movie star in danger of burning out. Returning to London for the premiere of her latest film, she’s recognised everywhere she goes and that is when she runs away. She is taken in by a beautiful and mature Anna who has reclused herself for years. Anna and her flat soon become a safe haven for Jess. And as the two get acquainted and layers are stripped away, both appreciate what each does for the other.
This book started slow to the point that the characters did practically nothing but appreciated each other all day long. But that was when it struck me just how eloquent Ashton was, so much so that I considered giving this book five stars even without a plot. This story picked up speed shortly after and it never really slowed down and by this time I was captivated completely by the plot, the writing, the characters and everything else the author had to offer. This includes the side characters (yes, I meant Penny). I found myself laughing and bawling my eyes out at various moments of the four hours I spent reading and having to placate two starving and angry bunnies after that (I forgot about them, sorry.)
All I want to say is I should have read this earlier.
I would have read this book earlier had I read the blurb because of my partiality for ice queens and celebrities. But I didn’t and it only piqued my interest when it showed up in many people’s top 10 list of books in 2020.
I struggle to put to words how amazing this book is and how much I love it, so I’m not going to even try. Most people would have read this by now and those who haven’t, need to.
Jessica Lambert is a movie star in danger of burning out. Returning to London for the premiere of her latest film, she’s recognised everywhere she goes and that is when she runs away. She is taken in by a beautiful and mature Anna who has reclused herself for years. Anna and her flat soon become a safe haven for Jess. And as the two get acquainted and layers are stripped away, both appreciate what each does for the other.
This book started slow to the point that the characters did practically nothing but appreciated each other all day long. But that was when it struck me just how eloquent Ashton was, so much so that I considered giving this book five stars even without a plot. This story picked up speed shortly after and it never really slowed down and by this time I was captivated completely by the plot, the writing, the characters and everything else the author had to offer. This includes the side characters (yes, I meant Penny). I found myself laughing and bawling my eyes out at various moments of the four hours I spent reading and having to placate two starving and angry bunnies after that (I forgot about them, sorry.)
All I want to say is I should have read this earlier.
July 10, 2020
Just...how? How, how, HOW does Clare Ashton keep knocking these out the park? Her range is immaculate, wow. Once I saw reviews cropping up of her new book, I was all ready to devour it.
Then, this author delivers a romantic, clever, gorgeous, celebrity-focused, age-gap slow burn story starring two absolutely crush-worthy leads! I'm relieved when other lesfic authors give me one, but two!? Ashton could teach a master class.
I almost don't want to type too much. This deserves to be read. (watch as I proceed to type too much)
And if this helps: holy lady parts, this woman can write some sexy love scenes. I wasn't disappointed at all. Especially with the buildup to it.
I've had issues with some non-POC lesfic writers' portrayal of WOC (in this case, black/white) characters in the past. Well, I take no issue here. Jess is portrayed in a nuanced way, free of tired tropes and out-of-touch dialogue. I can tell that Ashton was very sensitive to this, even bringing up racial bigotry without hitting us over the head with it. Jess is also neurodivergent! What a delight she is, with her beautiful dark eyes, killer body, and (swoon) awkwardness! I love a well-written awkward lady.
As for Anna. I'm smitten. I am in book love. Nothing more to say there.
Another thing was well-done and something I don't think I see enough:
Did I mention there's flirting? Lots of it and it's delicious.
This is all over the place, so I'll stop here. If any of my scrambled review appeals to you, read it. Now! Five stars!
Then, this author delivers a romantic, clever, gorgeous, celebrity-focused, age-gap slow burn story starring two absolutely crush-worthy leads! I'm relieved when other lesfic authors give me one, but two!? Ashton could teach a master class.
I almost don't want to type too much. This deserves to be read. (watch as I proceed to type too much)
And if this helps: holy lady parts, this woman can write some sexy love scenes. I wasn't disappointed at all. Especially with the buildup to it.
I've had issues with some non-POC lesfic writers' portrayal of WOC (in this case, black/white) characters in the past. Well, I take no issue here. Jess is portrayed in a nuanced way, free of tired tropes and out-of-touch dialogue. I can tell that Ashton was very sensitive to this, even bringing up racial bigotry without hitting us over the head with it. Jess is also neurodivergent! What a delight she is, with her beautiful dark eyes, killer body, and (swoon) awkwardness! I love a well-written awkward lady.
As for Anna. I'm smitten. I am in book love. Nothing more to say there.
Another thing was well-done and something I don't think I see enough:
Did I mention there's flirting? Lots of it and it's delicious.
This is all over the place, so I'll stop here. If any of my scrambled review appeals to you, read it. Now! Five stars!
June 25, 2020
Loved this age gap story. So hard to put down. Highly recommended!
January 18, 2021
This cover? Yeah, not a fan. It feels like a 60s throw-back. Possibly a 60s throw-up. So I'm really glad I came across it attached to a great review that piqued my interest despite the awful cover.
The first semi-analytical thought I had about this book is that it was slow but I was enjoying it anyway. Like, the pace felt glacial with the author spending a lot of space on establishing the inner worlds and contexts of the main characters. It wasn't long after that where I realized that this pacing was a substantial part of why I found it so engaging. Both Anna and Jess are internal processers with related, but different, inner landscapes in crisis. We meet Jess as she is going through something like a breakdown caused by her increasing fame. And Anna is able to offer security and peace due to having worked hard to find it for herself; only for us to discover that she is at a point of plateau she desperately needs to get past. So Anna needs the courage to break out of some of the careful bounds she has created for herself. And Jess needs the courage to establish some careful bounds to protect the most vulnerable parts of herself from the rigors of her profession.
So you see how internal that all is, right? So it's a good thing that the author is extremely good at mapping those inner landscapes and making them interesting and relevant. It helps, of course, that the story is centered around both protagonists being in a state of flux, so there's plenty of action, even if it's largely internal.
But that's all subtle structure things and wouldn't have worked if Jess and Anna weren't interesting, both in their own rights as well as in their engagement with each other. I loved seeing them support and trust one another, even in the parts where that broke down and they had to rebuild. And I'll admit to being impatient during a dark moment and its aftermath. Because I like it when people get over themselves and forge stronger bonds from adversity. But that wouldn't have been true to these characters and the inner constructs Ashton had so carefully wrought.
So yeah, what I'm saying is that this is a solid five stars that I devoured gratefully. I'll admit that the pacing took some getting used to and that will throw readers out of the story if a fast pace and lots of events are your thing. But I was happy to settle into the storytelling and just gorge on the characters as they were presented.
A note about race: I loved more than a little that Jess was bi-racial and that she embraced that as a strength in her career. Yes, it meant she was a bigger lightning rod for both positive and negative obsession, but it also meant she stood out in ways she could leverage. A note in the end has the author state some trepidation with that aspect of the story and things she did to overcome potential hazards in writing her character. I'm not sure how this will ring for others, but I thought it was a strong aspect of the story in all the right ways. That said, I'm hardly an accurate barometer for that, being an old white guy, myself...
A note about Steamy: There are three explicit sex scenes, I think, putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. They were extremely well-done and fit the tone of the story (i.e. as much internal effects as physical ones). Further, they were in service to the arc of the story and thus very well-done.
The first semi-analytical thought I had about this book is that it was slow but I was enjoying it anyway. Like, the pace felt glacial with the author spending a lot of space on establishing the inner worlds and contexts of the main characters. It wasn't long after that where I realized that this pacing was a substantial part of why I found it so engaging. Both Anna and Jess are internal processers with related, but different, inner landscapes in crisis. We meet Jess as she is going through something like a breakdown caused by her increasing fame. And Anna is able to offer security and peace due to having worked hard to find it for herself; only for us to discover that she is at a point of plateau she desperately needs to get past. So Anna needs the courage to break out of some of the careful bounds she has created for herself. And Jess needs the courage to establish some careful bounds to protect the most vulnerable parts of herself from the rigors of her profession.
So you see how internal that all is, right? So it's a good thing that the author is extremely good at mapping those inner landscapes and making them interesting and relevant. It helps, of course, that the story is centered around both protagonists being in a state of flux, so there's plenty of action, even if it's largely internal.
But that's all subtle structure things and wouldn't have worked if Jess and Anna weren't interesting, both in their own rights as well as in their engagement with each other. I loved seeing them support and trust one another, even in the parts where that broke down and they had to rebuild. And I'll admit to being impatient during a dark moment and its aftermath. Because I like it when people get over themselves and forge stronger bonds from adversity. But that wouldn't have been true to these characters and the inner constructs Ashton had so carefully wrought.
So yeah, what I'm saying is that this is a solid five stars that I devoured gratefully. I'll admit that the pacing took some getting used to and that will throw readers out of the story if a fast pace and lots of events are your thing. But I was happy to settle into the storytelling and just gorge on the characters as they were presented.
A note about race: I loved more than a little that Jess was bi-racial and that she embraced that as a strength in her career. Yes, it meant she was a bigger lightning rod for both positive and negative obsession, but it also meant she stood out in ways she could leverage. A note in the end has the author state some trepidation with that aspect of the story and things she did to overcome potential hazards in writing her character. I'm not sure how this will ring for others, but I thought it was a strong aspect of the story in all the right ways. That said, I'm hardly an accurate barometer for that, being an old white guy, myself...
A note about Steamy: There are three explicit sex scenes, I think, putting this in the middle of my steam tolerance. They were extremely well-done and fit the tone of the story (i.e. as much internal effects as physical ones). Further, they were in service to the arc of the story and thus very well-done.
July 30, 2020
Celeb romance with a difference. This age gap romance features two women both dealing with forms of PTSD thanks to their careers. An unlikely pairing of a young, hip, biracial woman cast in a successful superhero movie series and dealing with the loss of privacy celebrity brings in this 21st century and an older woman with issues of her own, locked in a shrinking world of work and few friends.
Jess has rocketed to stardom and is struggling to cope with her fan base, stalkers and the realities of the career choice she has made. Anna has withdrawn from the world at large but reaches out to help this young woman and in the process discovers the fire she once held for her career of choice.
I love how Ashton builds so many layers into her stories. This one unravels slowly but packs a punch. Anna shepherds this young stressed out woman, not knowing her past or her present, revealing her own humanity while protecting this vulnerable woman. Jess is a diamond in the rough, old before her time, forced into the spotlight and unsure if she wants all the attention. Their relationship blossoms as each dodge reality but revel in their time together. I love the connections made between Jess and Anna, both finding strengths in the other, both finding comfort in a kindred spirit.
There are bumps along the way. There are always bumps but this couple, these two strong, damaged women are impossible to resist, impossible not to root for and hope they overcome their differences. They belong together.
I loved this book.
Jess has rocketed to stardom and is struggling to cope with her fan base, stalkers and the realities of the career choice she has made. Anna has withdrawn from the world at large but reaches out to help this young woman and in the process discovers the fire she once held for her career of choice.
I love how Ashton builds so many layers into her stories. This one unravels slowly but packs a punch. Anna shepherds this young stressed out woman, not knowing her past or her present, revealing her own humanity while protecting this vulnerable woman. Jess is a diamond in the rough, old before her time, forced into the spotlight and unsure if she wants all the attention. Their relationship blossoms as each dodge reality but revel in their time together. I love the connections made between Jess and Anna, both finding strengths in the other, both finding comfort in a kindred spirit.
There are bumps along the way. There are always bumps but this couple, these two strong, damaged women are impossible to resist, impossible not to root for and hope they overcome their differences. They belong together.
I loved this book.
May 28, 2021
My experience with Clare Ashton's books are at a complete extreme from each other: a DNF ("After Mrs. Hamilton") and five stars ("Poppy Jenkins"). I wasn't sure where "Finding Jessica Lambert" would land but I put it as solidly good around 4.25 stars.
As with most indie reads, I find this book had a unique spirit to it that was allowed to live. It's hard to articulate the difference between indie and professionally published books but there's something about published reads that often feels more blunted and formulaic. There's a bit of wild west element, for better or worse, that gets to flourish when an author is outside of that space and I found that to be true with "Finding Jessica Lambert".
At the heart of "Finding Jessica Lambert" is both an age-gap romance (fourteen or fifteen years) and a story about two people who are examining their own lives, realizing they're unhappy, and making different decisions to move towards that personal happiness.
There are several things I liked about this read. Particularly, it was refreshing that the couple meets each other right away. With most romances we have a couple of separate POV chapters between the leads before they even meet. In this one, we see Anna and Jessica interact from the first few pages. And, many romances tease readers with a will they/won't they get together until the last pages of the book. In this one, they do get together earlier on but the question is more "how can they stay together"? It's enough of a twist to make the genre fresh.
And, that said, I really enjoyed both characters, Anna and Jessica. Jessica is a mid-twenties Hollywood blockbuster actress that launched her career being the lead in a superhero franchise. The craze around her celebrity status is huge but she remains a down to earth, kind person. Anna is a total shut-in recluse who needs order and routine after suffering a trauma five years prior. Both ladies complement each other well and I loved seeing their chemistry build.
I also liked that both characters do have introspection and ultimately follow their gut to deliver on their own happiness even when it scares them to death. There are a lot of feels in this.
The premise of the story is unique and the journey through the read is impactful. For lack of a better word, the writing felt textured, much like the difference between a well done home cooked meal vs a fast food take out. There are also some interesting twists and reveals in the book that were cleverly executed. On the whole, I was completely sucked in.
About the only thing I didn't like is that the book does have a break-up period (which 90% of romances seem to do these days) but I'll say it at least happens well before the end of the book so we get to see the characters rebuild their connection. This section of the book though isn't the most fun to go through. And, there's a scene where Anna is pretty terrible towards Jessica and she never really apologizes to her about her behavior. Anna acknowledges her behavior with a different character but I wish she addressed it directly with Jessica.
Though the book is fairly intense both with the romance and darker themes, Ashton delivers humor and lighter moments throughout the book especially through Anna's best friend, Penny.
Some other unique elements: Jessica is mixed race (white and black ethnicity), has a soft butch look while also sometimes being feminine and is somewhat gender fluid, and defines herself as queer. Anna is white and bisexual.
All in all, I really enjoyed this read and would recommend.
As with most indie reads, I find this book had a unique spirit to it that was allowed to live. It's hard to articulate the difference between indie and professionally published books but there's something about published reads that often feels more blunted and formulaic. There's a bit of wild west element, for better or worse, that gets to flourish when an author is outside of that space and I found that to be true with "Finding Jessica Lambert".
At the heart of "Finding Jessica Lambert" is both an age-gap romance (fourteen or fifteen years) and a story about two people who are examining their own lives, realizing they're unhappy, and making different decisions to move towards that personal happiness.
There are several things I liked about this read. Particularly, it was refreshing that the couple meets each other right away. With most romances we have a couple of separate POV chapters between the leads before they even meet. In this one, we see Anna and Jessica interact from the first few pages. And, many romances tease readers with a will they/won't they get together until the last pages of the book. In this one, they do get together earlier on but the question is more "how can they stay together"? It's enough of a twist to make the genre fresh.
And, that said, I really enjoyed both characters, Anna and Jessica. Jessica is a mid-twenties Hollywood blockbuster actress that launched her career being the lead in a superhero franchise. The craze around her celebrity status is huge but she remains a down to earth, kind person. Anna is a total shut-in recluse who needs order and routine after suffering a trauma five years prior. Both ladies complement each other well and I loved seeing their chemistry build.
I also liked that both characters do have introspection and ultimately follow their gut to deliver on their own happiness even when it scares them to death. There are a lot of feels in this.
The premise of the story is unique and the journey through the read is impactful. For lack of a better word, the writing felt textured, much like the difference between a well done home cooked meal vs a fast food take out. There are also some interesting twists and reveals in the book that were cleverly executed. On the whole, I was completely sucked in.
About the only thing I didn't like is that the book does have a break-up period (which 90% of romances seem to do these days) but I'll say it at least happens well before the end of the book so we get to see the characters rebuild their connection. This section of the book though isn't the most fun to go through. And, there's a scene where Anna is pretty terrible towards Jessica and she never really apologizes to her about her behavior. Anna acknowledges her behavior with a different character but I wish she addressed it directly with Jessica.
Though the book is fairly intense both with the romance and darker themes, Ashton delivers humor and lighter moments throughout the book especially through Anna's best friend, Penny.
Some other unique elements: Jessica is mixed race (white and black ethnicity), has a soft butch look while also sometimes being feminine and is somewhat gender fluid, and defines herself as queer. Anna is white and bisexual.
All in all, I really enjoyed this read and would recommend.
July 29, 2020
My first thought as I began reading this book was that it was more Les Lit than Les Fic. An absolute beauty in pace and storytelling in which the author is always in control.
Jessica and Anna are thrown together in the craziest way possible, on the London Tube, two strangers connecting, not in a romantic way but rather in a panic of desperation and fear. I think when people meet under heightened circumstances, it creates a short cut to emotional intimacy. Such is the case with these two woman. It doesn’t matter that there’s a 15 year age gap or that they come from different backgrounds. Almost immediately, the bond is there and from it, the author weaves a silken narrative between Jess and Anna that opens a new world for both of them.
Do not expect a big, loud plot. Instead, sit back and appreciate a masterful telling that is devastating in the passion and turmoil it creates. Pay attention to the quiet moments that the author uses to amplify their relationship. Anticipation can be brutally delicious, especially when the author delivers the heat with perfect timing. Read and be thrilled.
Jessica and Anna are thrown together in the craziest way possible, on the London Tube, two strangers connecting, not in a romantic way but rather in a panic of desperation and fear. I think when people meet under heightened circumstances, it creates a short cut to emotional intimacy. Such is the case with these two woman. It doesn’t matter that there’s a 15 year age gap or that they come from different backgrounds. Almost immediately, the bond is there and from it, the author weaves a silken narrative between Jess and Anna that opens a new world for both of them.
Do not expect a big, loud plot. Instead, sit back and appreciate a masterful telling that is devastating in the passion and turmoil it creates. Pay attention to the quiet moments that the author uses to amplify their relationship. Anticipation can be brutally delicious, especially when the author delivers the heat with perfect timing. Read and be thrilled.
September 6, 2020
Just a short review from me as so much is already written.
A perfect example of a complex story without getting lost in too many topics. Clare Ashton did an excellent job creating interesting personalities, weaving in uncomfortable issues such as stage fright, the pros and cons of being famous, experiencing panic attacks, stalking, and what effects it can have on an actress. Besides we experience such a sensitive age-gap love story with Anna and Jessica, it’s just heartwarming.
Fantastic plot, exciting characters, a good balance of fear and positive feelings, good tempo, and excellent writing.
A touching romance which I highly recommend.
My rating 5 stars.
A perfect example of a complex story without getting lost in too many topics. Clare Ashton did an excellent job creating interesting personalities, weaving in uncomfortable issues such as stage fright, the pros and cons of being famous, experiencing panic attacks, stalking, and what effects it can have on an actress. Besides we experience such a sensitive age-gap love story with Anna and Jessica, it’s just heartwarming.
Fantastic plot, exciting characters, a good balance of fear and positive feelings, good tempo, and excellent writing.
A touching romance which I highly recommend.
My rating 5 stars.
July 5, 2020
On the rare occasion, a book is so damn good that it requires more than the available five stars. This is one. It might be the perfect romance. Since I probably can't use this word in my Amazon review, I'll say it here: I fucking loved it. It's just....everything. Read it. I know I will - over and over again.
Update: Next day and I'm still not over it. *sigh*
Update: Next day and I'm still not over it. *sigh*
Read
December 16, 2020Is Jessica Lambert a metaphor for all of us?
Clare Ashton creates proper characters. The real-life sort that exist because they are complex, complicated, thoughtful and three-dimensional. And in this novel, we meet the delightful Jess Lambert, and the enigmatic Anna Mayhew. Both women are wonderfully layered, and bring all sorts of baggage to their relationship, which they must unpack together and separately.
Like all Ashton novels, the story is so well-constructed and such a beautiful journey that I was bereft upon finishing it. But thank goodness for the decent length of Clare Ashton’s novels, because it means that we take those tentative, tingly steps towards the development of a relationship without illogically leaping ahead because page count is knocking on the door. We fall in love with Jess and Anna, who are equally and independently wonderful. Both suffer from anxiety, but for entirely different reasons. Both hide behind a metaphorical mask, but also for entirely different reasons. Yet both need to be found.
Finding something usually means that we know it’s been lost. However, normally we need to know what has been lost to be able to find it. So in this story, before Jessica Lambert can be found, Anna and Jess have to answer the question; who is she?
Anna finds Jess on the train, but she hasn’t found her yet, because to find Jess, Anna needs to find herself. Jess is lost within her famous celebrity persona and much of her anxiety stems from the realisation that she might not be able to remember who she is anymore.
Of course, sometimes, to find something you have to look in a place you haven’t tried. Jess discovers in Anna a new place to settle her thoughts. Anna, perhaps not searching at the time, sees in Jess an opportunity to breathe.
However, Anna and Jess are not there to rescue each other as they remove their physical and emotional self-imposed restrictions. They exist independently as strong women who are battling their own anxieties. They have strategies in place to cope. They have boundaries to keep them safe, even when external elements keep reaching in to draw them out.
This becomes evident when both characters recognise that they are a product of their families and those closest to them. Penny, Anna’s best friend and an unfiltered force of nature, pushes just enough to be the perfect foil to Anna’s reluctance to let go. It is Penny, along with Matt, Jess’s best friend, who nudge Anna and Jess so that they find each other again. Penny, in particular, is an exceptional secondary character, as is Jess’s Nan, who is another unfiltered force of nature. Even though Anna’s mother is awful and judgmental and tries to solidify Anna’s boundaries, she is so well-created that my dislike of her was palpable. A well-written secondary character forces readers to respond viscerally, and it is little wonder that the development of Anna and Jess is impacted upon so much by these characters. All three have been given outstanding dialogue, and in Penny’s case, it is eyebrow-raising, laugh out loud commentary.
Anna and Jess’s relationship develops, stepping forward, then back, and forward again, and we move with it, willing them on as they tread gently beyond their restrictions. Because when they do, their relationship is breathtaking.
Finding Jessica Lambert takes our hand from the very beginning, and presents two strangers, welcomes two friends, and explores two lovers, so that two people discover themselves. It’s a wonderful journey.
Clare Ashton creates proper characters. The real-life sort that exist because they are complex, complicated, thoughtful and three-dimensional. And in this novel, we meet the delightful Jess Lambert, and the enigmatic Anna Mayhew. Both women are wonderfully layered, and bring all sorts of baggage to their relationship, which they must unpack together and separately.
Like all Ashton novels, the story is so well-constructed and such a beautiful journey that I was bereft upon finishing it. But thank goodness for the decent length of Clare Ashton’s novels, because it means that we take those tentative, tingly steps towards the development of a relationship without illogically leaping ahead because page count is knocking on the door. We fall in love with Jess and Anna, who are equally and independently wonderful. Both suffer from anxiety, but for entirely different reasons. Both hide behind a metaphorical mask, but also for entirely different reasons. Yet both need to be found.
Finding something usually means that we know it’s been lost. However, normally we need to know what has been lost to be able to find it. So in this story, before Jessica Lambert can be found, Anna and Jess have to answer the question; who is she?
Anna finds Jess on the train, but she hasn’t found her yet, because to find Jess, Anna needs to find herself. Jess is lost within her famous celebrity persona and much of her anxiety stems from the realisation that she might not be able to remember who she is anymore.
Of course, sometimes, to find something you have to look in a place you haven’t tried. Jess discovers in Anna a new place to settle her thoughts. Anna, perhaps not searching at the time, sees in Jess an opportunity to breathe.
However, Anna and Jess are not there to rescue each other as they remove their physical and emotional self-imposed restrictions. They exist independently as strong women who are battling their own anxieties. They have strategies in place to cope. They have boundaries to keep them safe, even when external elements keep reaching in to draw them out.
This becomes evident when both characters recognise that they are a product of their families and those closest to them. Penny, Anna’s best friend and an unfiltered force of nature, pushes just enough to be the perfect foil to Anna’s reluctance to let go. It is Penny, along with Matt, Jess’s best friend, who nudge Anna and Jess so that they find each other again. Penny, in particular, is an exceptional secondary character, as is Jess’s Nan, who is another unfiltered force of nature. Even though Anna’s mother is awful and judgmental and tries to solidify Anna’s boundaries, she is so well-created that my dislike of her was palpable. A well-written secondary character forces readers to respond viscerally, and it is little wonder that the development of Anna and Jess is impacted upon so much by these characters. All three have been given outstanding dialogue, and in Penny’s case, it is eyebrow-raising, laugh out loud commentary.
Anna and Jess’s relationship develops, stepping forward, then back, and forward again, and we move with it, willing them on as they tread gently beyond their restrictions. Because when they do, their relationship is breathtaking.
Finding Jessica Lambert takes our hand from the very beginning, and presents two strangers, welcomes two friends, and explores two lovers, so that two people discover themselves. It’s a wonderful journey.
October 29, 2021
I listened to the audiobook and I think I’m about the last person to read this, so no review necessary. Just wow, the warmth in this story was amazing and I fell in love with Jess and Anna. Excellent narration too!
June 28, 2020
Jessica Lambert is on the verge of breaking down when Anna Mayhew rescues her from the Tube. The two strangers seek refuge in Anna's flat, where Anna has been living a secluded life for the last five years. Over the weekend, the pair falls into an easy pattern of mundane ordinary life, feeling safe and liberated in each other's presence. As their time together ticks by, neither Jess nor Anna want it to end. But too much are at stake when Anna does not know Jess is a superstar and Jess has no idea of Anna's past. Will they meet again, defy reality, and fight to be with each other?
I will start by saying that I absolutely adore Jess and Anna.
This age-gap, celebrity romance set in the UK featured Jess, a young, straight-forward, bi-racial movie star, and Anna, a rather mysterious thirty-nine-year-old suffering from her past. I love how their fifteen-year age gap has played an important part in their romance with Jess bringing more youthful energy and bluntness while Anna supplying more calmness and life experience. And the celebrity aspect of the romance is also remarkable.
Jess and Anna are so similar yet still very different. They are both highly anxious strong women, and that plays a huge part in the story. But their backgrounds cannot be more far apart: Jess's family is pure joy, highly supportive of her, and radiates love; Anna's mother is decorous and demoralising. Their respective families heavily impact their lives and getting to know them adds a lot to the story. Also, I love how every interaction between Jess and Anna, whether having good outcomes or repercussions, is both out of indulgence for themselves and consideration for each other. Their needs align, and despite the many obstacles they might face because of that, it is love, clear as day.
Finding Jessica Lambert is relatively long for a romance. Because of this, it is more than just the relationship development between Jess and Anna that matters. It also covers the defining moments of their lives where they evolve as individuals. As readers, we easily fall in love with both Jess and Anna while they are living through this frightening time of change. The growth of their relationship mirrors their character developments. They are not each others’ saviours, but companions who are sure safe spaces. I especially appreciate that the first few chapters take everything slow. The first quarter of the book is dedicated to their first weekend, and I love that. We get to be fully present when our mains go from being complete strangers to a little beyond friendship.
The words thrum with wistfulness and read smoothly. I feel the heavy emotions undulating in each sentence while my insides go weak from their brimming love and openness. Jess and Anna really are quite a pair. The book is aptly named. Finding Jessica Lambert is not just about Jess running away from events at the beginning of the book, but also about Anna finding Jess first on the Tube and then a place in her life and Jess finding herself.
Finding Jessica Lambert is a beautiful romance between two strong relatable women. With their love radiating from dialogues, thoughts, and the smallest gestures, it is impossible not to fall for Jess and Anna as well as the book.
I received an e-ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I will start by saying that I absolutely adore Jess and Anna.
This age-gap, celebrity romance set in the UK featured Jess, a young, straight-forward, bi-racial movie star, and Anna, a rather mysterious thirty-nine-year-old suffering from her past. I love how their fifteen-year age gap has played an important part in their romance with Jess bringing more youthful energy and bluntness while Anna supplying more calmness and life experience. And the celebrity aspect of the romance is also remarkable.
Jess and Anna are so similar yet still very different. They are both highly anxious strong women, and that plays a huge part in the story. But their backgrounds cannot be more far apart: Jess's family is pure joy, highly supportive of her, and radiates love; Anna's mother is decorous and demoralising. Their respective families heavily impact their lives and getting to know them adds a lot to the story. Also, I love how every interaction between Jess and Anna, whether having good outcomes or repercussions, is both out of indulgence for themselves and consideration for each other. Their needs align, and despite the many obstacles they might face because of that, it is love, clear as day.
Finding Jessica Lambert is relatively long for a romance. Because of this, it is more than just the relationship development between Jess and Anna that matters. It also covers the defining moments of their lives where they evolve as individuals. As readers, we easily fall in love with both Jess and Anna while they are living through this frightening time of change. The growth of their relationship mirrors their character developments. They are not each others’ saviours, but companions who are sure safe spaces. I especially appreciate that the first few chapters take everything slow. The first quarter of the book is dedicated to their first weekend, and I love that. We get to be fully present when our mains go from being complete strangers to a little beyond friendship.
The words thrum with wistfulness and read smoothly. I feel the heavy emotions undulating in each sentence while my insides go weak from their brimming love and openness. Jess and Anna really are quite a pair. The book is aptly named. Finding Jessica Lambert is not just about Jess running away from events at the beginning of the book, but also about Anna finding Jess first on the Tube and then a place in her life and Jess finding herself.
Finding Jessica Lambert is a beautiful romance between two strong relatable women. With their love radiating from dialogues, thoughts, and the smallest gestures, it is impossible not to fall for Jess and Anna as well as the book.
I received an e-ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 3, 2023
6 Stars - AMAZING!!!!
You guys! If you have been putting off reading this book like I was, just stop, literally stop whatever you are doing to start reading this book. I don't know why I was dragging my heels on picking this one up but the sheer number of overwhelmingly positive reviews by my lovely Goodreads friends finally convinced me to stop dawdling and get on the bandwagon. I am sooooo glad I did!!
The main characters are so perfectly flawed. The plot is perfectly plotted. The secondary characters fleshed out and stole scenes right and left. I laughed, I cried (not really), I saw Cats (definitely not) but I did laugh and swoon and freaking loved this book. I kid you not, I grabbed my kindle at least 3 times and said aloud "I love this book!". I forced my sister to listen to me read parts that made me laugh.
This book was so good it is seriously one of the highlights of my beach house vacation.
GO. NOW. READ!!!
You guys! If you have been putting off reading this book like I was, just stop, literally stop whatever you are doing to start reading this book. I don't know why I was dragging my heels on picking this one up but the sheer number of overwhelmingly positive reviews by my lovely Goodreads friends finally convinced me to stop dawdling and get on the bandwagon. I am sooooo glad I did!!
The main characters are so perfectly flawed. The plot is perfectly plotted. The secondary characters fleshed out and stole scenes right and left. I laughed, I cried (not really), I saw Cats (definitely not) but I did laugh and swoon and freaking loved this book. I kid you not, I grabbed my kindle at least 3 times and said aloud "I love this book!". I forced my sister to listen to me read parts that made me laugh.
This book was so good it is seriously one of the highlights of my beach house vacation.
GO. NOW. READ!!!
November 18, 2021
Reading takes time away from writing, but I will always make time for Clare Ashton's books. (All right. I'm behind, but I have her newest, The Tell Tale, on my Kindle.)
On the surface, Finding Jessica Lambert follows the structure of a formula romance, but that's where the resemblance ends. With careful details and precise language, the author gets into the bodies and souls of her characters. Not much actually happens in this book. We meet and get to know the two beautifully drawn main characters, one upper-crust British and one mixed race from more modest circumstances--by degrees. The central conflict--a crisis of confidence that causes them to run from their chosen profession is internal. However, it becomes clear why the only solution to finding their way back is each another. Brilliantly paced and written. I loved it.
On the surface, Finding Jessica Lambert follows the structure of a formula romance, but that's where the resemblance ends. With careful details and precise language, the author gets into the bodies and souls of her characters. Not much actually happens in this book. We meet and get to know the two beautifully drawn main characters, one upper-crust British and one mixed race from more modest circumstances--by degrees. The central conflict--a crisis of confidence that causes them to run from their chosen profession is internal. However, it becomes clear why the only solution to finding their way back is each another. Brilliantly paced and written. I loved it.
August 22, 2020
With Finding Jessica Lambert, author Clare Ashton opts for a character-driven book and it turned out to be a pure delight to read.
Anna Mayhew and Jessica Lambert are dropped together on the first page, while travelling the London underground. Jess – who just returned from France - is in the midst of a massive panic attack. Anna recognizes the woman is in distress and about to lose it, and takes her home to her little roof-top flat.
This is the beginning of a wonderful story where two very different people, who’s path’s probably would never have crossed otherwise, find solace with each other. A very necessary break for Jess, a second chance for Anna, and a life changer for both of them.
There are secrets they keep from each other and also from the reader. I applaud how Ashton can spin and stretch this without spilling all the beans at once. The build-up is exquisite. Anna’s bff Penny and her 2-year old daughter Bibs are a joy. Penny acts as a catalyst for both Anna and Jess and there are some hilarious scenes to break the tension. Another marvelous side character is Jess’ nan, a very robust and warm individual.
Okay, this book is the real thing, like all of Ashton’s work. Her fans have it on their Kindle already (no doubt), if you are still dithering (why?!) it’s on KU as well and if you are new to this author NOW is the time to start reading her. Pronto! This woman is lesfic royalty, ffs!
f/f some sweet lovin’
Themes: London, age-gap, anxiety, inner demons, actress, London, woman of color, paparazzi, stalker, strict regime, mommy issues, Atlassia, that stage scene broke my heart, when you wait too long and it becomes too big.
5 Stars
Anna Mayhew and Jessica Lambert are dropped together on the first page, while travelling the London underground. Jess – who just returned from France - is in the midst of a massive panic attack. Anna recognizes the woman is in distress and about to lose it, and takes her home to her little roof-top flat.
This is the beginning of a wonderful story where two very different people, who’s path’s probably would never have crossed otherwise, find solace with each other. A very necessary break for Jess, a second chance for Anna, and a life changer for both of them.
There are secrets they keep from each other and also from the reader. I applaud how Ashton can spin and stretch this without spilling all the beans at once. The build-up is exquisite. Anna’s bff Penny and her 2-year old daughter Bibs are a joy. Penny acts as a catalyst for both Anna and Jess and there are some hilarious scenes to break the tension. Another marvelous side character is Jess’ nan, a very robust and warm individual.
Okay, this book is the real thing, like all of Ashton’s work. Her fans have it on their Kindle already (no doubt), if you are still dithering (why?!) it’s on KU as well and if you are new to this author NOW is the time to start reading her. Pronto! This woman is lesfic royalty, ffs!
f/f some sweet lovin’
Themes: London, age-gap, anxiety, inner demons, actress, London, woman of color, paparazzi, stalker, strict regime, mommy issues, Atlassia, that stage scene broke my heart, when you wait too long and it becomes too big.
5 Stars
June 26, 2020
I really love this author and I have read everything she has published so far.
In my opinion, this is her best book.
Beyond the typical elements of a romance novel, it has a remarkable psychological depth and touches the inner cords of human life. It talks about the abysses of trauma and of love as the motivation that can be so powerful to push us to pull us out of them; it talks about the necessary and painful effort to overcome all the dark obstacles along the path, about the failures and eventually about complete resurrection. It does it with sensitivity but with lightness, even with a subtle touch of humour sometimes, without being heavy despite the difficult topic. It succeeds in being believable.
The main characters are utterly wonderful, both a mixing of beauty, strength and fragility. You will fall in love with the lovable Jessica Lambert, because - honestly - it's impossible not to. But it is Anna who will make you live the most intense side of the story. I have been enchanted by her initially, then I felt compassion for her, then she longly exasperated me. I was even mad at her at a certain point. And at last she conquered me.
This book is a must-read, both entrancing and compelling.
In my opinion, this is her best book.
Beyond the typical elements of a romance novel, it has a remarkable psychological depth and touches the inner cords of human life. It talks about the abysses of trauma and of love as the motivation that can be so powerful to push us to pull us out of them; it talks about the necessary and painful effort to overcome all the dark obstacles along the path, about the failures and eventually about complete resurrection. It does it with sensitivity but with lightness, even with a subtle touch of humour sometimes, without being heavy despite the difficult topic. It succeeds in being believable.
The main characters are utterly wonderful, both a mixing of beauty, strength and fragility. You will fall in love with the lovable Jessica Lambert, because - honestly - it's impossible not to. But it is Anna who will make you live the most intense side of the story. I have been enchanted by her initially, then I felt compassion for her, then she longly exasperated me. I was even mad at her at a certain point. And at last she conquered me.
This book is a must-read, both entrancing and compelling.
June 21, 2020
I was hooked from the first page. I completely loved the plot. I was in seventh heaven.
P.S. Don't you dare miss Clare Ashton's books. I find her one of the best authors nowadays.
P.S. Don't you dare miss Clare Ashton's books. I find her one of the best authors nowadays.
July 27, 2020
Holy hell, what a wonderful book!!
I was still suffering from burnout when I picked this up. And honestly, the first few chapters of the book seemed a bit slow. I thought that the whole book would be about them getting to know each other, but boy was I wrong!
Finding Jessica Lambert is multi-layered book with strong and likable characters. It is filled with so much love and tenderness, it feels like Clare Ashton can melt your heart with her words.
I grew to love the pace of the story and I appreciate how Clare Ashton stripped down the characters’ layers one at a time to reach great depths. I usually prefer slow-burns to insta-love, but there was so much kindness, understanding, and tenderness between the couple that it just worked for me. Truly a great read!
I was still suffering from burnout when I picked this up. And honestly, the first few chapters of the book seemed a bit slow. I thought that the whole book would be about them getting to know each other, but boy was I wrong!
Finding Jessica Lambert is multi-layered book with strong and likable characters. It is filled with so much love and tenderness, it feels like Clare Ashton can melt your heart with her words.
I grew to love the pace of the story and I appreciate how Clare Ashton stripped down the characters’ layers one at a time to reach great depths. I usually prefer slow-burns to insta-love, but there was so much kindness, understanding, and tenderness between the couple that it just worked for me. Truly a great read!
July 5, 2020
This book is easily 10 on 10. Thank you Clare Ashton for such a sweet and sigh worthy reading experience.
November 21, 2020
You are going to want to read this one if you haven't already. It truly is a fantastic read. Clare Ashton has given us a book that is thoughtful, romantic, well paced, multi-layered book. All in all this one is a delight to wrap yourself up in and escape.
When the book begins we are introduced to Jessica Lambert in the middle of a full blow panic attack. She cannot escape her current situation and is paralyzed by the uncertainty around her when a kind stranger, Anna Mayhew, comes to her rescue. You see Jess is a world famous actress who is in the middle of her new movie's promotional tour. The pressure is overwhelming and she is exhausted by the lifestyle.
Anna sees the younger women in distress and recognizes the signs of her fear and distress immediately. Believing that Jess is running from a stalker, Anna steps in and gives her a place to just be. They become friends, enjoying the company of one another and the more time they spend together the feelings become stronger.
Of course their are bumps along the way, I won't spoil them for you by going into detail. Remember how I said this book was multi-layered. As Ashton peels one away, you find another one that makes the plot that much richer. Like a glass of fine wine, this is one you sit back and enjoy. Let the story carry you. So good, I highly recommend!
When the book begins we are introduced to Jessica Lambert in the middle of a full blow panic attack. She cannot escape her current situation and is paralyzed by the uncertainty around her when a kind stranger, Anna Mayhew, comes to her rescue. You see Jess is a world famous actress who is in the middle of her new movie's promotional tour. The pressure is overwhelming and she is exhausted by the lifestyle.
Anna sees the younger women in distress and recognizes the signs of her fear and distress immediately. Believing that Jess is running from a stalker, Anna steps in and gives her a place to just be. They become friends, enjoying the company of one another and the more time they spend together the feelings become stronger.
Of course their are bumps along the way, I won't spoil them for you by going into detail. Remember how I said this book was multi-layered. As Ashton peels one away, you find another one that makes the plot that much richer. Like a glass of fine wine, this is one you sit back and enjoy. Let the story carry you. So good, I highly recommend!
October 18, 2024
4.5⭐️This book was one of my TBR since forever. There is something about Ashton's writing that I like; it’s delicate and blunt at the same time. Maybe very British.
Anna and Jess meet and connect in an unexpected way. They are in a bubble and it is so sweet. They are attracted to each other physically and mentally. It’s like the deepest part of them understands and recognizes each other’s pain even before they do. The reader feels so lucky to witness those intimate scenes. Then the bubble bursts and angst comes. I loved the twists and plots. I found everything I was looking for in books: sweetness, complex and layered characters, and a touch of angst.
Things go from 1 to 100 in the end, and things move a bit too fast for my taste, but it was 100% satisfying.
Another amazing read from Ashton
Anna and Jess meet and connect in an unexpected way. They are in a bubble and it is so sweet. They are attracted to each other physically and mentally. It’s like the deepest part of them understands and recognizes each other’s pain even before they do. The reader feels so lucky to witness those intimate scenes. Then the bubble bursts and angst comes. I loved the twists and plots. I found everything I was looking for in books: sweetness, complex and layered characters, and a touch of angst.
Things go from 1 to 100 in the end, and things move a bit too fast for my taste, but it was 100% satisfying.
Another amazing read from Ashton
September 10, 2020
5+ Stars for Clare Ashton’s Finding Jessica Lambert. So far this is my favorite and highest rated book for 2020.
Another wonderfully written story with very likable and well-developed characters, who despite their age gap (Anna is 39 and Jess is 24), find they had more in common than they realized.
It’s an unusual first meeting. In the late, evening, Anna was riding the London Underground when she notices a beautiful woman running onto her Railway car. Anna knows the look, on herself. The woman is panicked and frightened as she hides under her hooded sweatshirt. She is running from someone. Anna befriends her and takes her to her sanctuary, her rooftop apartment. It turns out the Jess is a world-famous actress, recognized wherever she goes. Attracting fans with cell phone cameras and stalkers.
Jess reflects on Anna: There was a calmness about her, a serenity. While the world hurtled round outside, there she was going about her life at her own pace, hiding away, and Jess slowed in her presence. The rest of the world disappeared to a blur of white noise in the stillness of Anna’s sphere, so much that Jess had forgotten about the chaos waiting for her outside.
Unfortunately, the magical romantic weekend comes to the end and unexpectedly, their real worlds collide.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
P.S. I couldn't help but think of one of my favorite movies - Notting Hill. Julia Roberts' character hides out at Hugh Grant's roof top apartment when the paparazzi are out in full force. And of course, Hunger Games.
Another wonderfully written story with very likable and well-developed characters, who despite their age gap (Anna is 39 and Jess is 24), find they had more in common than they realized.
It’s an unusual first meeting. In the late, evening, Anna was riding the London Underground when she notices a beautiful woman running onto her Railway car. Anna knows the look, on herself. The woman is panicked and frightened as she hides under her hooded sweatshirt. She is running from someone. Anna befriends her and takes her to her sanctuary, her rooftop apartment. It turns out the Jess is a world-famous actress, recognized wherever she goes. Attracting fans with cell phone cameras and stalkers.
Jess reflects on Anna: There was a calmness about her, a serenity. While the world hurtled round outside, there she was going about her life at her own pace, hiding away, and Jess slowed in her presence. The rest of the world disappeared to a blur of white noise in the stillness of Anna’s sphere, so much that Jess had forgotten about the chaos waiting for her outside.
Unfortunately, the magical romantic weekend comes to the end and unexpectedly, their real worlds collide.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
P.S. I couldn't help but think of one of my favorite movies - Notting Hill. Julia Roberts' character hides out at Hugh Grant's roof top apartment when the paparazzi are out in full force. And of course, Hunger Games.
October 10, 2025
Clare Ashton is slowly burrowing her way into being one of my top 5 romance writers. The pacing on this was just delicious. Jess and Anna are instantly connected and smitten. The comfort level between the two was so fast, yet so believable. Anna is working her way through PTSD and Jess is neurodivergent and suffering from extreme burnout. They needed each other at the exact time that they met.
The road was not smooth as there are secrets and lies of omission. Neither of these situations arise out of malice, but out of self-protection. The only thing that is stopping Anna and Jess from being together was fear. The writing is very much focused on character development and the revelations come in small bites. It was like having a very fancy dinner with lots of courses.
I adored Finding Jessica Lambert. I love Anna and Jess. Jess’s family was a nice little surprise and Anna’s mom deserved what she got in the end. And wow, the steamy parts were paced so well, no gnashing of teeth or slamming into each other, just tenderness and the right amount of smut to make my heart pound a little bit. Now I need the audiobook.
The road was not smooth as there are secrets and lies of omission. Neither of these situations arise out of malice, but out of self-protection. The only thing that is stopping Anna and Jess from being together was fear. The writing is very much focused on character development and the revelations come in small bites. It was like having a very fancy dinner with lots of courses.
I adored Finding Jessica Lambert. I love Anna and Jess. Jess’s family was a nice little surprise and Anna’s mom deserved what she got in the end. And wow, the steamy parts were paced so well, no gnashing of teeth or slamming into each other, just tenderness and the right amount of smut to make my heart pound a little bit. Now I need the audiobook.
March 7, 2023
**Update 3/7/23**
This is the 3rd time I have read this book and I stayed up until 1am to finish it even though I know how it ends. These two just draw me in and I like it more each time I read it. I have updated to 5 stars because I feel like a book that's been read 3x and still keeps me awake reading into the night deserves all of them.
This is the 3rd time I have read this book and I stayed up until 1am to finish it even though I know how it ends. These two just draw me in and I like it more each time I read it. I have updated to 5 stars because I feel like a book that's been read 3x and still keeps me awake reading into the night deserves all of them.
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