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Blind Ambition
Gripping, explosive, and timely, Lutishia Lovely's latest novel is a tale of one woman's shocking discovery--and how it turns her and her celebrity sister's different worlds upside down...
Since childhood, Chantel has idolized her older sister, Jett, a superstar performer. But she's seldom seen her Hollywood-based sibling. More on the shy side, Chantel is perfectly happy with her own modest singing career and quiet Missouri hometown life. But when their mother dies and Chantel's world is upended, she hopes that moving to Los Angeles will give her a fresh start--and a chance to know Jett better. But the truth is, she doesn't know Jett at all.
When Jett rebuffs her efforts to bond, Chantel learns a devastating secret she never could have imagined. Reeling and angry, Chantel soon comes up with the perfect vengeful a bestselling tell-all book that will reveal Jett's stormy past--and wreak havoc on the stardom she prizes more than anything or anyone. But Jett guards her private life for a reason and will stop at nothing to keep the past from being exposed. Now, between hard hidden truths and bitter new revelations, Chantel must decide how much payback is too much--and if the reward is worth the life-altering price.
Since childhood, Chantel has idolized her older sister, Jett, a superstar performer. But she's seldom seen her Hollywood-based sibling. More on the shy side, Chantel is perfectly happy with her own modest singing career and quiet Missouri hometown life. But when their mother dies and Chantel's world is upended, she hopes that moving to Los Angeles will give her a fresh start--and a chance to know Jett better. But the truth is, she doesn't know Jett at all.
When Jett rebuffs her efforts to bond, Chantel learns a devastating secret she never could have imagined. Reeling and angry, Chantel soon comes up with the perfect vengeful a bestselling tell-all book that will reveal Jett's stormy past--and wreak havoc on the stardom she prizes more than anything or anyone. But Jett guards her private life for a reason and will stop at nothing to keep the past from being exposed. Now, between hard hidden truths and bitter new revelations, Chantel must decide how much payback is too much--and if the reward is worth the life-altering price.
- GenresFiction
320 pages, Paperback
Published May 25, 2021
36 people are currently reading
1518 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
May 24, 2021
3.5 stars. This was a compelling read!
However, The book I read and the synopsis for this book are very different.
First, I’ll provide my brief overview of this book:
Chantel is a single mother to her son Artani and works as a copy editor for a small newspaper. Soon Chantel is reeling from the sudden death of her mother. When Chantel reaches out to her famous sister, Jett who is practically a stranger, she finds out that Jett is in no rush to head home for the funeral. Jett is trying to have a career comeback and is extremely private about her life and is hesitant to let anyone close.
Not long after her mother’s death, Chantel discovers a secret that contradicts everything she thought she knew. To make matters worse, both Chantel and Jett start receiving blackmail threatening to expose the secret.
This is where the book’s synopsis and the actual plot of the book differ. The book’s synopsis states that when Chantel learns this secret she seeks revenge by writing a “bestselling tell-all book that will reveal Jett’s stormy past — and wreak havoc on the stardom she prizes more than anything or anyone.”
That sounds juicy, but it never happens. I usually skim synopses, so I didn’t notice this discrepancy until I went back to look at it.
Ignoring the synopsis, I enjoyed reading this book, for the most part. I loved the chapter titles, which are throwback song titles. I was playing my own throwback playlist while reading this book. It was fun. The writing style was easy to fly through.
If you enjoy fast-paced novels about the bonds of family, you might try giving this a read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books for a digital ARC in exchange for my opinions.
However, The book I read and the synopsis for this book are very different.
First, I’ll provide my brief overview of this book:
Chantel is a single mother to her son Artani and works as a copy editor for a small newspaper. Soon Chantel is reeling from the sudden death of her mother. When Chantel reaches out to her famous sister, Jett who is practically a stranger, she finds out that Jett is in no rush to head home for the funeral. Jett is trying to have a career comeback and is extremely private about her life and is hesitant to let anyone close.
Not long after her mother’s death, Chantel discovers a secret that contradicts everything she thought she knew. To make matters worse, both Chantel and Jett start receiving blackmail threatening to expose the secret.
This is where the book’s synopsis and the actual plot of the book differ. The book’s synopsis states that when Chantel learns this secret she seeks revenge by writing a “bestselling tell-all book that will reveal Jett’s stormy past — and wreak havoc on the stardom she prizes more than anything or anyone.”
That sounds juicy, but it never happens. I usually skim synopses, so I didn’t notice this discrepancy until I went back to look at it.
Ignoring the synopsis, I enjoyed reading this book, for the most part. I loved the chapter titles, which are throwback song titles. I was playing my own throwback playlist while reading this book. It was fun. The writing style was easy to fly through.
If you enjoy fast-paced novels about the bonds of family, you might try giving this a read.
Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books for a digital ARC in exchange for my opinions.
April 7, 2023
Blind Ambition is exciting women’s fiction by Lutishia Lovely.
Chantel Scott has always lived in the shadow of her famous sister, Jett, even though they don’t relate like sisters ought to do. Circumstances are about to complicate their individual lives and their relationship.
Lutishia Lovely has given us a passionate tale of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. Vivid characters and an intense plot. 4 out of 5 stars.
My thanks to Kensington Books, Dafina, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Chantel Scott has always lived in the shadow of her famous sister, Jett, even though they don’t relate like sisters ought to do. Circumstances are about to complicate their individual lives and their relationship.
Lutishia Lovely has given us a passionate tale of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. Vivid characters and an intense plot. 4 out of 5 stars.
My thanks to Kensington Books, Dafina, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
April 7, 2021
Chantel and Jett are sisters. They both are singers. They live in two different worlds and two different states. Chantel is a hometown girl while Jett is a celebrity. Both of their worlds are about to be turned upside down.
I really enjoyed the twists and turns of the story. The storyline and the plot is on fire. This is a fast-paced story. It took me a few days only because I was savoring the story. When I had to stop, I can wait to get back to the book. The author's writing style was clear and precise. I love how the author writes her stories. Also, the book cover is stunning.
The characters are loving, hateful, funny, realistic, and serious. I love all the characters, especially Chantel and Terrence; they are very relatable characters and you fall in love with all of them. I appreciate the author had several characters that intertwine, loved, and cared for each other.
I love how the author took each chapter and made them into the song titles. Every chapter of the author had me singing the song and wondering what twist was going to happen in that chapter. The two sisters had the ambition to become singers, but we're blinded by the circumstances in their lives. Will they overcome adversity and success and be successful, or will it be unsettling?
The themes are dysfunctional families, abandonment, lies, secrets, teenage pregnancy, death, and a lot of drama. The author’s storytelling is amazing. It had me on the edge of my seat and wanting more at the same time.
I recommend all my avid book readers to read this gripping tale of two sisters whose world gets turned upside down and filled with drama. I give this book five stars.
I really enjoyed the twists and turns of the story. The storyline and the plot is on fire. This is a fast-paced story. It took me a few days only because I was savoring the story. When I had to stop, I can wait to get back to the book. The author's writing style was clear and precise. I love how the author writes her stories. Also, the book cover is stunning.
The characters are loving, hateful, funny, realistic, and serious. I love all the characters, especially Chantel and Terrence; they are very relatable characters and you fall in love with all of them. I appreciate the author had several characters that intertwine, loved, and cared for each other.
I love how the author took each chapter and made them into the song titles. Every chapter of the author had me singing the song and wondering what twist was going to happen in that chapter. The two sisters had the ambition to become singers, but we're blinded by the circumstances in their lives. Will they overcome adversity and success and be successful, or will it be unsettling?
The themes are dysfunctional families, abandonment, lies, secrets, teenage pregnancy, death, and a lot of drama. The author’s storytelling is amazing. It had me on the edge of my seat and wanting more at the same time.
I recommend all my avid book readers to read this gripping tale of two sisters whose world gets turned upside down and filled with drama. I give this book five stars.
April 25, 2021
Blind Ambition by Lutishia Lovely (4 stars) tells an interesting story about two sisters; Chantel and Jett, who have very different lives. Chantel is a single mother and local lounge singer in Missouri, meanwhile her older sister Jett is a singing superstar living in LA.
“Blind ambition can lead towards a path not worth taking. It's best to live life with eyes wide open and, bravely authentic, and unapologetically out loud.”
The two sisters are brought together following the death of their mother and a web of secrets that Chantel discovers. I enjoyed how this book was an unconventional story about family and the relationship between Chantel and Jett. Lovely does a great job in characterization between the cast and despite their flaws, I liked both Chantel and Jett. I enjoyed how the story flip- flopped between their lives and perspectives; often with a bit of overlap about a situation.
The opposing views lead to lots of laughs along the way, complimented with a dash of the ridiculous celebrity lifestyle and a couple spicy scenes; Lovely created a well-rounded story. I enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for allowing me to be an early reader with the ebook ARC! If my review peaked your interest, I hope you check it out when it's released in May.
“Blind ambition can lead towards a path not worth taking. It's best to live life with eyes wide open and, bravely authentic, and unapologetically out loud.”
The two sisters are brought together following the death of their mother and a web of secrets that Chantel discovers. I enjoyed how this book was an unconventional story about family and the relationship between Chantel and Jett. Lovely does a great job in characterization between the cast and despite their flaws, I liked both Chantel and Jett. I enjoyed how the story flip- flopped between their lives and perspectives; often with a bit of overlap about a situation.
The opposing views lead to lots of laughs along the way, complimented with a dash of the ridiculous celebrity lifestyle and a couple spicy scenes; Lovely created a well-rounded story. I enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would!
Big thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for allowing me to be an early reader with the ebook ARC! If my review peaked your interest, I hope you check it out when it's released in May.
January 5, 2023
Great, quick read!
This was definitely not the book I expected it to be, but I still enjoyed it. The writing was fast paced and upbeat. I appreciated the funny/witty remarks and enjoyed the alternating view points.
The end was heartwarming and I love that the author wrapped it all up on the topics of authenticty, women empowerment, family, and healing from past trauma.
I definitely expected it to be more dramatic based on the synopsis and the secret didn’t seem like it should be a career ending secret, but it’s Hollywood I guess.
This was definitely not the book I expected it to be, but I still enjoyed it. The writing was fast paced and upbeat. I appreciated the funny/witty remarks and enjoyed the alternating view points.
The end was heartwarming and I love that the author wrapped it all up on the topics of authenticty, women empowerment, family, and healing from past trauma.
I definitely expected it to be more dramatic based on the synopsis and the secret didn’t seem like it should be a career ending secret, but it’s Hollywood I guess.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2022
A light weekend read.
June 13, 2021
A story about 2 sisters and a secret that was supposed to be kept forever, but came out after the passing of their mother. I did figure out the secret pretty early on in the story. Although the premise of the book has been done a lot, there were a few surprises, as well as a couple of jaw dropping moments that kept the story interesting. It was a book that I was able to get through pretty quickly.
I received a copy of this book via Kensington Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a copy of this book via Kensington Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 8, 2021
There were lots of things I loved about Blind Ambition. It was a fun look into the world of the rich and famous, the song references were great, and I always appreciate a book about family secrets and their repercussions. I also loved the ultimate message about the importance of family.
However, I had a hard time connecting to Jett. She was very self-absorbed and didn't care for others. Her lies were unnecessarily convoluted, and she threatened violence against several characters pretty quickly. While I did like Chantel, I wish she had stood up to her sister more. Although I did love her sneaky detective work. 2.5 stars.
Also worth noting: the description for this book is not accurate. Chantel does not move to LA, threaten to write a tell-all book, or try to get any sort of revenge. There is a major secret between the famous Jett and her sister Chantel, and the book is about Chantel uncovering this secret and then coming to terms with it.
Thank you to Kensington for a copy of this book!
However, I had a hard time connecting to Jett. She was very self-absorbed and didn't care for others. Her lies were unnecessarily convoluted, and she threatened violence against several characters pretty quickly. While I did like Chantel, I wish she had stood up to her sister more. Although I did love her sneaky detective work. 2.5 stars.
Also worth noting: the description for this book is not accurate. Chantel does not move to LA, threaten to write a tell-all book, or try to get any sort of revenge. There is a major secret between the famous Jett and her sister Chantel, and the book is about Chantel uncovering this secret and then coming to terms with it.
Thank you to Kensington for a copy of this book!
June 12, 2021
This wasn’t a great read. I couldn’t really ever relate to Jett and she remained unsympathetic for a LONG time. Chantel, I liked, even if she did strike me as a bit helpless. The writing was a bit amateur but it was a quick read, even if it was a bit obvious
Read
December 4, 2021dnf at 12 pages. for some reason the dialogue was off to me and I couldn’t read it. for example, “she’s gone and she’s not coming back” about a dead mom from a grown woman sounded like dorothy in my head. also, too much exposition crammed into the first few pages. can’t do it.
August 28, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this novel by Lutishia Lovely, she once again bought the drama and kept you guessing. This book had lies, secrets and drama. Everything you want in a good book.
April 23, 2023
This is the first time I’ve read this author, and I must say when I read the synopsis, I couldn’t wait to sink my eyes into the read. But something weird happened. The synopsis and the actual story are two different stories, and I didn’t like nor appreciate that. I’m not sure if this was an oversight from the publisher and/or the author? Or was this a trick to get people to read? I’m not sure which is correct, but what I do know is I was a bit disappointed to say the least.
So, ignore the synopsis and read my review to get a true sense of what this story was about. Chantel was a young woman newly divorced and beginning life as a single mom with her son, Artani. Her husband decided drugs, drinking, gambling and other women were more his speed, so Chantel sent him on his merrily way. As she’s settling into single-mom mode, her mother, Anna, had taken ill and suddenly passed away. Even though Chantel had two very good friends, the person she needed the most was her big sister, Jett.
Jett was a famous singer and entertainer. Much like her sister, Chantel had singing chops as well, but wasn’t as fortunate to get discovered. Hmm, one would think Jett would have put her on, but Jett being the narcissist she was, that spotlight couldn’t be shared by anyone other than herself. Chantel did everything she could to reach out to her sister to advise her that their mother had passed, but Jett was too busy living the dream with her boy toy of the month and couldn’t have bothered to return Chantel’s calls.
That is, until finally she listened to the voice messages and called Chantel right away. Of course, Chantel was distraught and grief-stricken, and Jett advised she’d be home on the first red eye to join her. What Chantel didn’t know at the time of their mother’s death was how much debt she was in. The bank was about to foreclose on their mother’s house, and she didn’t have enough money to pay for it as well as all the debt she racked up from her ex-husband’s gambling addiction. She advised Jett of her financial situation and Jett wasn’t thinking about lending her sister a dime to help her with jack.
The two siblings butted heads quite a bit and couldn’t seem to come to any terms. Eventually, they work some of their mother’s affairs out and she invites her sister and nephew to come out to Los Angeles and spend some time with her and to see how she lives. Artani was ecstatic over Jett’s current living arrangements, but Chantel wasn’t all that impressed. But what she didn’t know was Jett wasn’t doing as well financially as she would have everyone believe. Jett’s career was pretty much over, and she was about to get her second wind with becoming a judge for a singing competition. Things were finally looking up for Jett and she and Chantel's sisterly relationship was somewhat coming together.
But, right as things were starting to coast along, Chantel began cleaning out their mother’s house when she discovered a photograph that changed the course of her life and threatened the comeback Jett was so hoping for. So, readers, you’ll have to read to find out the rest.
As you can clearly see, what I just explained is vastly different than what the synopsis states. I kept waiting for Chantel to write this tell-all book, which is what hooked me into reading this in the first place, only to discover that narrative never happened. In fact, don’t pay the synopsis any attention because this story has nothing to do with what the author wrote. And what I found most disappointing is I was really hoping the story did go the way it was promoted. This story is not bad by any means. I did like the story and the characters were well thought out and planned, but I didn’t care for the ending because it didn’t match where the story was taking the reader. It’s not a bad ending, but again, you’ll have to read to decide for yourself.
Overall, this wasn’t a bad read. You will not struggle to get through it. In fact, the opposite is true. It’s quite engaging and has some really touching moments. I did enjoy the authenticity of the location of the story, as well as the integrity and interaction with the characters. Lovely wrote a decent book, but it’s too bad what she originally was going to go with isn’t what the story ended up being. That’s too bad because I ended up deducting a couple of stars for it. I don’t like being lied to about what a book is about. I absolutely hate that. If she would have gone with what the story was about, my review may have been different. But I keep it 100 with my readers.
To read original post, please go to: https://www.thesexynerdrevue.com/2023...
So, ignore the synopsis and read my review to get a true sense of what this story was about. Chantel was a young woman newly divorced and beginning life as a single mom with her son, Artani. Her husband decided drugs, drinking, gambling and other women were more his speed, so Chantel sent him on his merrily way. As she’s settling into single-mom mode, her mother, Anna, had taken ill and suddenly passed away. Even though Chantel had two very good friends, the person she needed the most was her big sister, Jett.
Jett was a famous singer and entertainer. Much like her sister, Chantel had singing chops as well, but wasn’t as fortunate to get discovered. Hmm, one would think Jett would have put her on, but Jett being the narcissist she was, that spotlight couldn’t be shared by anyone other than herself. Chantel did everything she could to reach out to her sister to advise her that their mother had passed, but Jett was too busy living the dream with her boy toy of the month and couldn’t have bothered to return Chantel’s calls.
That is, until finally she listened to the voice messages and called Chantel right away. Of course, Chantel was distraught and grief-stricken, and Jett advised she’d be home on the first red eye to join her. What Chantel didn’t know at the time of their mother’s death was how much debt she was in. The bank was about to foreclose on their mother’s house, and she didn’t have enough money to pay for it as well as all the debt she racked up from her ex-husband’s gambling addiction. She advised Jett of her financial situation and Jett wasn’t thinking about lending her sister a dime to help her with jack.
The two siblings butted heads quite a bit and couldn’t seem to come to any terms. Eventually, they work some of their mother’s affairs out and she invites her sister and nephew to come out to Los Angeles and spend some time with her and to see how she lives. Artani was ecstatic over Jett’s current living arrangements, but Chantel wasn’t all that impressed. But what she didn’t know was Jett wasn’t doing as well financially as she would have everyone believe. Jett’s career was pretty much over, and she was about to get her second wind with becoming a judge for a singing competition. Things were finally looking up for Jett and she and Chantel's sisterly relationship was somewhat coming together.
But, right as things were starting to coast along, Chantel began cleaning out their mother’s house when she discovered a photograph that changed the course of her life and threatened the comeback Jett was so hoping for. So, readers, you’ll have to read to find out the rest.
As you can clearly see, what I just explained is vastly different than what the synopsis states. I kept waiting for Chantel to write this tell-all book, which is what hooked me into reading this in the first place, only to discover that narrative never happened. In fact, don’t pay the synopsis any attention because this story has nothing to do with what the author wrote. And what I found most disappointing is I was really hoping the story did go the way it was promoted. This story is not bad by any means. I did like the story and the characters were well thought out and planned, but I didn’t care for the ending because it didn’t match where the story was taking the reader. It’s not a bad ending, but again, you’ll have to read to decide for yourself.
Overall, this wasn’t a bad read. You will not struggle to get through it. In fact, the opposite is true. It’s quite engaging and has some really touching moments. I did enjoy the authenticity of the location of the story, as well as the integrity and interaction with the characters. Lovely wrote a decent book, but it’s too bad what she originally was going to go with isn’t what the story ended up being. That’s too bad because I ended up deducting a couple of stars for it. I don’t like being lied to about what a book is about. I absolutely hate that. If she would have gone with what the story was about, my review may have been different. But I keep it 100 with my readers.
To read original post, please go to: https://www.thesexynerdrevue.com/2023...
December 31, 2021
Blind Ambition is about two women, Chantel and Jeanette aka Jett and the familial relationship between the two after their mother has died.
I thought I really would like this, since it does follow two artist seemingly on different stages of their careers and it's about family. However I could not get invested into the story, really.
I didn't really like the way that "the mystery" was treated as some kind of Jerry Springer type of drama, but then in the end it supposed to be this super wholesome and emotional ending. However a lot of the emotional weight and nuance was told instead of being shown.
I just felt like Lovely could've leaned into that vibe more or just balanced it out.
This book also felt still stuck in the time where those types of tv-shows were all the rage and not viewed as problematic as hell, especially since Jett is supposed to be this washed-up celebrity trying to claw her way back into Hollywood, by appearing on a singing contest as a judge...? No mentions of tiktok and Instagram and Youtube just one time.
Also the fact that none of the two really seemed to write their own music or really seem that passionate about singing in the first place, but more as a means to make money or a way to get out of their hometown.
And almost all of the guys in this book are described by what they can do with their dick or just their sex life in general. Even with the "love interests", it felt like I was first introduced to that aspect of their life then what they were like as a person or what they even looked like. Since the book does take a more feminist approach in the latter quarter of the book it seemed a bit of a weird thing to do, especially since there was also quite a bit of slut-shaming, specifically towards one guy in the book. Not just men tho and there was also quite a lot of girl on girl hate.
This is a review of an arc from NetGalley.
I thought I really would like this, since it does follow two artist seemingly on different stages of their careers and it's about family. However I could not get invested into the story, really.
I didn't really like the way that "the mystery" was treated as some kind of Jerry Springer type of drama, but then in the end it supposed to be this super wholesome and emotional ending. However a lot of the emotional weight and nuance was told instead of being shown.
I just felt like Lovely could've leaned into that vibe more or just balanced it out.
This book also felt still stuck in the time where those types of tv-shows were all the rage and not viewed as problematic as hell, especially since Jett is supposed to be this washed-up celebrity trying to claw her way back into Hollywood, by appearing on a singing contest as a judge...? No mentions of tiktok and Instagram and Youtube just one time.
Also the fact that none of the two really seemed to write their own music or really seem that passionate about singing in the first place, but more as a means to make money or a way to get out of their hometown.
And almost all of the guys in this book are described by what they can do with their dick or just their sex life in general. Even with the "love interests", it felt like I was first introduced to that aspect of their life then what they were like as a person or what they even looked like. Since the book does take a more feminist approach in the latter quarter of the book it seemed a bit of a weird thing to do, especially since there was also quite a bit of slut-shaming, specifically towards one guy in the book. Not just men tho and there was also quite a lot of girl on girl hate.
This is a review of an arc from NetGalley.
June 25, 2021
Blind Ambition is a family drama that is full of emotion, tragedy, and secrets. Lutisha Lovely writes from the perspective of both sisters giving readers a chance to see the side of both sisters as they navigate their lives after loss.
Chantel lives in Missouri with her mom and son. She is happy singing at a club on most nights and loves the simple life. When her mother passes away, she connects with her sister Jett. They never had that sisterly bond but maybe this tragedy will bring them closer together.
Jett is a famous singer living in Hollywood. She is sassy, fierce, and goes after whoever and whatever she wants. She is living her best life and it gets turned upside when her sister tells her that her mother has passed away. Jett has always kept her distance from her mother and Chantel and that weighs on her.
When Chantel and Jett begin talking more, they become more friendly. Chantel even agrees to visit her in LA. Chantel and her son spend the week with Jett and they have a wonderful time. But Chantel is thrown for a loop when she sees a birth certificate with another name than her mother's.
Chantel begins to investigate and delve into family secrets. When she starts asking Jett questions, this adds some tension to their newfound bond. There are lots of ups and downs but the story comes together in the end.
I give Blind Ambition 4 stars. It's a fast-paced read that you can easily finish in one sitting. Chantel and Jett have two different personalities and that just adds to the drama of the story. I think readers will enjoy the journey these two take to not only dealing with grief but finding a way to connect with one another.
Chantel lives in Missouri with her mom and son. She is happy singing at a club on most nights and loves the simple life. When her mother passes away, she connects with her sister Jett. They never had that sisterly bond but maybe this tragedy will bring them closer together.
Jett is a famous singer living in Hollywood. She is sassy, fierce, and goes after whoever and whatever she wants. She is living her best life and it gets turned upside when her sister tells her that her mother has passed away. Jett has always kept her distance from her mother and Chantel and that weighs on her.
When Chantel and Jett begin talking more, they become more friendly. Chantel even agrees to visit her in LA. Chantel and her son spend the week with Jett and they have a wonderful time. But Chantel is thrown for a loop when she sees a birth certificate with another name than her mother's.
Chantel begins to investigate and delve into family secrets. When she starts asking Jett questions, this adds some tension to their newfound bond. There are lots of ups and downs but the story comes together in the end.
I give Blind Ambition 4 stars. It's a fast-paced read that you can easily finish in one sitting. Chantel and Jett have two different personalities and that just adds to the drama of the story. I think readers will enjoy the journey these two take to not only dealing with grief but finding a way to connect with one another.
March 9, 2021
𝐑𝐄𝐖𝐈𝐄𝐖:
📚 Blind Ambition | 𝐁𝐲 Lutishia Lovely
3.5 stars
This is an interesting story about two sisters, Chantel is a local singer in Missouri and Jett is a superstar singer in LA. The sisters have quite an age difference and aren't very close. That is until their mother's death brings them together and Chantel finds out somethings about her life that only Jett can give her answers to.
I really loved this story, but I didn’t feel like it was a book “I just couldn’t put down,” and that’s how I landed on 3.5 stars.
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐃:
✨ An unconventional family story.
✨ Reading from multiple characters' POV.
✨ It's a little spicy!
✨ A fun story about fame.
✨ I felt like it had a really good ending and resolution.
✨ Own Voices author!
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫:
💔 I liked that the book switched back and forth between Jett and Chantel's POV, however, it was not consistent after the first few chapters. Personally, I prefer when it is every other chapter, to make it predictable, but this one felt like sometimes I had to double-check who was talking in that chapter.
TW: racial slurs, sexual assault, rape, death (probably more).
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞:
“Blind ambition can lead towards a path not worth taking. It's best to live life with eyes wide open and, bravely authentic, and unapologetically out loud.” 💝
𝐁𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞: This was a good story, and I would recommend it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the eArc of this book!
📚 Blind Ambition | 𝐁𝐲 Lutishia Lovely
3.5 stars
This is an interesting story about two sisters, Chantel is a local singer in Missouri and Jett is a superstar singer in LA. The sisters have quite an age difference and aren't very close. That is until their mother's death brings them together and Chantel finds out somethings about her life that only Jett can give her answers to.
I really loved this story, but I didn’t feel like it was a book “I just couldn’t put down,” and that’s how I landed on 3.5 stars.
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐃:
✨ An unconventional family story.
✨ Reading from multiple characters' POV.
✨ It's a little spicy!
✨ A fun story about fame.
✨ I felt like it had a really good ending and resolution.
✨ Own Voices author!
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈 𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫:
💔 I liked that the book switched back and forth between Jett and Chantel's POV, however, it was not consistent after the first few chapters. Personally, I prefer when it is every other chapter, to make it predictable, but this one felt like sometimes I had to double-check who was talking in that chapter.
TW: racial slurs, sexual assault, rape, death (probably more).
𝐐𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞:
“Blind ambition can lead towards a path not worth taking. It's best to live life with eyes wide open and, bravely authentic, and unapologetically out loud.” 💝
𝐁𝐨𝐭𝐭𝐨𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞: This was a good story, and I would recommend it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the eArc of this book!
Want to read
July 30, 2021All I can say is that this book was wow. What a great storyline and well developed characters by the author. There was a lot of emotional ups and downs along with romance, drama, suspense and plot twist.
Chantel Scot is a newspaper editor by day and a lounge singer on the weekends. Her older sister Jet is a big time singer, actress out in California. Chantel and Jet have not been very close and when Chantel calls Jet to let her know that there mother has died from injuries in a tragic accident. Jet still doesn’t show much love for her sister or mother.
Some time later while cleaning out her mother’s home, Chantel finds out that her mother has been keeping a dark secret for years. Now Chantel is on a mission to find out the truth. In the meantime now someone is blackmailing Jet, Chantel and the town newly elected mayor. What does all three of them have in common to be blackmailed. You will have to read the book to find out. I don’t want to give any spoilers.
This was a page-turner for me especially trying to figure out who the blackmailer is. I highly recommend this book to read.
Cassandra H.
I received a ARC copy of this book from Netgalley and this review is of my own honest opinion and thoughts.
Chantel Scot is a newspaper editor by day and a lounge singer on the weekends. Her older sister Jet is a big time singer, actress out in California. Chantel and Jet have not been very close and when Chantel calls Jet to let her know that there mother has died from injuries in a tragic accident. Jet still doesn’t show much love for her sister or mother.
Some time later while cleaning out her mother’s home, Chantel finds out that her mother has been keeping a dark secret for years. Now Chantel is on a mission to find out the truth. In the meantime now someone is blackmailing Jet, Chantel and the town newly elected mayor. What does all three of them have in common to be blackmailed. You will have to read the book to find out. I don’t want to give any spoilers.
This was a page-turner for me especially trying to figure out who the blackmailer is. I highly recommend this book to read.
Cassandra H.
I received a ARC copy of this book from Netgalley and this review is of my own honest opinion and thoughts.
May 28, 2022
4.25 rating
Characters are a bit over-the-top, but that's what makes it an entertaining read. Jett boiled my blood. She is a selfish self-centered narcissist who will mow down anyone in her way. She is awful to her sister Chantel who is 16 years her junior. Jett changed her name, left her town and never looked back. She not only abandoned her city, she abandoned her mother and sister as well.
After a horrific fatality, Chantel finds a birth certificate in her Mom's things stating that her identity is anything but accurate. And with that information the decent to lies, madness and blackmail begins. Chantel who's in her thirties is just too naive for me to stomach. I don't know if it's naiveté or being passive. She raked my nerves. However, she did redeem herself with her detective skills. The best was the love of Blanche,(the sisters Mom's best friend) and the church ladies. She went out of her way to assist and lighten the load for Chantel. What she gave to her at the new home was heartwarming.
This book evoked many emotions. I was pissed, sad and laughing out loud at times. I would recommend this book and the audio narrated by Wren Landreau.
Thank to Kensington Books/Dafina for the eARC via Netgalley
Characters are a bit over-the-top, but that's what makes it an entertaining read. Jett boiled my blood. She is a selfish self-centered narcissist who will mow down anyone in her way. She is awful to her sister Chantel who is 16 years her junior. Jett changed her name, left her town and never looked back. She not only abandoned her city, she abandoned her mother and sister as well.
After a horrific fatality, Chantel finds a birth certificate in her Mom's things stating that her identity is anything but accurate. And with that information the decent to lies, madness and blackmail begins. Chantel who's in her thirties is just too naive for me to stomach. I don't know if it's naiveté or being passive. She raked my nerves. However, she did redeem herself with her detective skills. The best was the love of Blanche,(the sisters Mom's best friend) and the church ladies. She went out of her way to assist and lighten the load for Chantel. What she gave to her at the new home was heartwarming.
This book evoked many emotions. I was pissed, sad and laughing out loud at times. I would recommend this book and the audio narrated by Wren Landreau.
Thank to Kensington Books/Dafina for the eARC via Netgalley
November 29, 2023
The GOODREADS description is incorrect. But it's still a very good book.
Chantel and her older sister,Jett, just lost their mother in a traffic accident. While going through her mom's papers, Chantel finds out that she might not be who she thinks she is.
She eventually finds out that her much older sister is actually her mother.
Ordinarily, this would be a small scandal. But Jett is now a rising star in Hollywood and will stop at nothing to keep on that track to the top. And wants to bury the story.
The big problem is that someone else knows and threatens to blow the story wide open.
I really enjoyed this story. Chantel felt so true to how I would feel in her shoes. I felt sympathy for Jett, but her persistent "Me first" attitude made her a hard character to like.
I would definitely read something else from this author.
Chantel and her older sister,Jett, just lost their mother in a traffic accident. While going through her mom's papers, Chantel finds out that she might not be who she thinks she is.
She eventually finds out that her much older sister is actually her mother.
Ordinarily, this would be a small scandal. But Jett is now a rising star in Hollywood and will stop at nothing to keep on that track to the top. And wants to bury the story.
The big problem is that someone else knows and threatens to blow the story wide open.
I really enjoyed this story. Chantel felt so true to how I would feel in her shoes. I felt sympathy for Jett, but her persistent "Me first" attitude made her a hard character to like.
I would definitely read something else from this author.
May 25, 2021
I enjoyed this story and the progression of Jett and Chanel's relationship over time. I won't give any spoilers but I could see the initial plot twist from a mile away. After that, the story definitely took us on a ride of two women both trying to figure out essentially who they are in different ways. The death of their mother forced them to both address things from the past, with Chantel being thrown for a loop and Jett facing the things she left behind for blind ambition. I like where they ended up ultimately, although I think there was more to be desired into the specifics of their growth so it felt a bit rushed.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2021
Blind Ambition is a book about how family secrets don't always remain a secret.
Sisters Chantel and Jett are forced to connect after their mother dies. Their mother's death opens the door to many secrets, particularly Chantel's parentage. Chantel and Jett live two totally different lives: Jett is a famous singer and Chantel lives a quiet life as a divorced mom. The two must face the truth and right their wrongs to honor their mother and move forward with their lives.
Blind Ambition is a fast-paced read. I figured out early what was going to happen, There are lots of details, some unnecessary, that made it more of a whodunit? but overall, it's a decent read. Not what the description described it to be, however.
Sisters Chantel and Jett are forced to connect after their mother dies. Their mother's death opens the door to many secrets, particularly Chantel's parentage. Chantel and Jett live two totally different lives: Jett is a famous singer and Chantel lives a quiet life as a divorced mom. The two must face the truth and right their wrongs to honor their mother and move forward with their lives.
Blind Ambition is a fast-paced read. I figured out early what was going to happen, There are lots of details, some unnecessary, that made it more of a whodunit? but overall, it's a decent read. Not what the description described it to be, however.
November 16, 2021
I liked this book just fine. It just wasn’t anything special. One of the reveals I figured out early on and it was pretty obvious. So I didn’t feel shocked when it came to actually revealing it.
Also, I really didn’t like that one of the characters lies about being raped. Actually, none of the characters were particularly likable - not even the side characters.
At times the dialogue didn’t feel authentic. More like the characters were talking just to convey information to the reader and it just didn’t seem like natural conversation.
However, I enjoyed the premise of the story. I love stories about famous people and this had potential to be really good it just didn’t get there for me.
Also, I really didn’t like that one of the characters lies about being raped. Actually, none of the characters were particularly likable - not even the side characters.
At times the dialogue didn’t feel authentic. More like the characters were talking just to convey information to the reader and it just didn’t seem like natural conversation.
However, I enjoyed the premise of the story. I love stories about famous people and this had potential to be really good it just didn’t get there for me.
January 23, 2022
This was a great book. If you are a person who experienced their teens in the 90s are even leading to your twenties, you were absolutely appreciate the the nostalgia in this book. I myself, was a teen in the 90s. This book is not about that time. However, the adults in the book we're teens during 90s or in their twenties during the 90s. This book has a lot of nostalgia along with drama and suspense. Lutishia Lovely has always been incredibly great at bringing the Contemporary fiction Romance drama and what she does for this particular genre is what James Patterson does for Thrillers. She keeps you turning the page and dropping your jaw.
May 21, 2021
I really enjoyed the story line and the character development throughout the book. The characters were given realistic personalities and realistic life choices. There were moments that I would read something naughty/dirty I would look around to see if anyone was watching me 🤣😂😅. I also enjoyed the title of the each chapter; they are named after old school songs ( essentially the author gave you a play list )
✨
Here’s a quote from the book that stayed with me: “But time goes fast and before you know it, life is over. Sometimes the ending comes with no warning”.
✨
✨
Here’s a quote from the book that stayed with me: “But time goes fast and before you know it, life is over. Sometimes the ending comes with no warning”.
✨
May 28, 2021
Sing A Song
Jett and Chantel sisters with beautiful voices living and singing in two different worlds. Their lives become a tossed salad with the death of their mother, when secrets are revealed with one sister wanting then to stay secrets while the other is clamoring for the truth to be told. The ending twist I didn't see coming at all. I enjoyed the old school song chapter names.
Thank you to Net Galley and Ms. Lovely for the advance copy of this book. for an honest review.
#Cillasbookmaniacs #Netgalley #MamaToni #singing #Sisters
Jett and Chantel sisters with beautiful voices living and singing in two different worlds. Their lives become a tossed salad with the death of their mother, when secrets are revealed with one sister wanting then to stay secrets while the other is clamoring for the truth to be told. The ending twist I didn't see coming at all. I enjoyed the old school song chapter names.
Thank you to Net Galley and Ms. Lovely for the advance copy of this book. for an honest review.
#Cillasbookmaniacs #Netgalley #MamaToni #singing #Sisters
February 17, 2022
I absolutely loved this story. Lutishia Lovely did an excellent job of keeping me glued to the pages. When Chantel finds out a devastating secret that turned her world upside down I felt like I was on the journey with her. Just when i thought the story would become predictable and I had it all figured out there was another plot twist. I have been a fan of Ms Lovely's work for quite some time now and this book deepens the love. Thank you to Netgalley and Dafina for allowing me an advanced copy. I highly recommend this book.
Read
May 25, 2021The blurb for this book doesn't match the story inside the cover. The story itself is enough, just not what I expected. This was an OK read, good for an afternoon lakeside, poolside or beachside- simply written, and the audio kept me engaged. I skipped around through the ending chapters, as I felt the story dragging with conversations and detail to make the book longer but doesn't necessarily enhance the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2021
Excellent read
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Chantel was divorced and rebuilding her life with her son. The untimely death of her mother revealed family secrets, that had her reevaluate herself. Her sister Jett was a large piece of the puzzle. Unfortunately, Jett was self absorbed and deceitful. She only cared about growing and maintaining her status in Hollywood. This is their journey to truth.
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Chantel was divorced and rebuilding her life with her son. The untimely death of her mother revealed family secrets, that had her reevaluate herself. Her sister Jett was a large piece of the puzzle. Unfortunately, Jett was self absorbed and deceitful. She only cared about growing and maintaining her status in Hollywood. This is their journey to truth.
July 10, 2021
I received an ARC of Blind Ambition quite a while back - got started it, and life got in the way, as it sometimes does. Picked it up again a couple of days ago - my apologies to the author, Kensington Books, and Goodreads for this delay.
This is a story of a family and a secret that was never supposed to come to light. I guessed part of the secret pretty early, but the author did a really good job of keeping me guessing about the other half.
This is a story of a family and a secret that was never supposed to come to light. I guessed part of the secret pretty early, but the author did a really good job of keeping me guessing about the other half.
July 31, 2021
I won a copy of this novel in a Goodreads Giveaway. Thank you!
The writer’s style took some getting used to for me, but brought the story and characters to life in an authentic way. Beyond that, I overall found the story a bit too predictable for my taste, and the ending to be rushed and a little too fairy tale like, which didn’t seem to fully fit to me.
Enjoyable, but not a standout favorite.
The writer’s style took some getting used to for me, but brought the story and characters to life in an authentic way. Beyond that, I overall found the story a bit too predictable for my taste, and the ending to be rushed and a little too fairy tale like, which didn’t seem to fully fit to me.
Enjoyable, but not a standout favorite.
January 7, 2026
2.5 💫
The first half of this book is genuinely intriguing and I felt the writing created a wonderful story in my head. However, the progression, mixed with the jilted dialogue and transitions, and the very ill-fitting conclusion just didn’t sit right with me. It also didn’t help that the story’s premise does not match what actually transpires in the book. The use of redundant tertiary characters to serve as the real villains just made the plot fall much farther down the hill.
The first half of this book is genuinely intriguing and I felt the writing created a wonderful story in my head. However, the progression, mixed with the jilted dialogue and transitions, and the very ill-fitting conclusion just didn’t sit right with me. It also didn’t help that the story’s premise does not match what actually transpires in the book. The use of redundant tertiary characters to serve as the real villains just made the plot fall much farther down the hill.
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