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Favorite Daughters
Elyse Gibbons is out of her depth when, as an undergrad at Columbia, she's befriended by campus superstars Aubrey Adam-Drake and Marina Hunt. While Aubrey's grandfather is a former U.S. president and Marina's dad is a notorious mob lawyer, Elyse was raised in Pennsylvania by a single mother/language professor who made Elyse learn Chinese for allowance money. As her high-profile life evolves, Elyse must use the strength and perseverance she gained from her humble roots, even while joining ranks with the powerful and elite. Then, handsome and enigmatic Finn joins the three friends to form a tightly knit group of four, and life becomes even more complicated.
Years go by, Elyse is further drawn into Aubrey and Marina's world of influence and intrigue, and she will risk everything for her friends and for Finn-the love of her life. When Elyse becomes embroiled in her own political career, it's clear that one misstep can lead to earth-shattering consequences, one lie can cause devastating ruin, and to survive unscathed, betrayal is the only option.
Years go by, Elyse is further drawn into Aubrey and Marina's world of influence and intrigue, and she will risk everything for her friends and for Finn-the love of her life. When Elyse becomes embroiled in her own political career, it's clear that one misstep can lead to earth-shattering consequences, one lie can cause devastating ruin, and to survive unscathed, betrayal is the only option.
- GenresFiction
314 pages, Paperback
First published August 25, 2022
121 people are currently reading
2768 people want to read
About the author
Laurel Osterkamp
22 books525 followersLaurel Osterkamp is the award-winning author of roughly a dozen novels, such as Favorite Daughters and the #1 Amazon bestseller, Beautiful Little Furies. She is obsessed with writing and doesn't know how to stop. In addition to her novels, she has short fiction published in literary journals all over the web, writes a monthly column for Writer's Fun Zone, and runs her website, laurellit.com, with book reviews, lesson plans, and writing advice.
When she's not writing (which is rare) she's often teaching adult ESL or middle school enrichment classes, going running while listening to audiobooks, or educating her daughter about the OG teen soap opera, Beverly Hills 90210. She lives in Minneapolis with a family who loves to argue, and their cats, who love to hiss at each other. Ramona Quimby is her spirit animal.
Follow her on Instagram @laurel_osterkamp.
When she's not writing (which is rare) she's often teaching adult ESL or middle school enrichment classes, going running while listening to audiobooks, or educating her daughter about the OG teen soap opera, Beverly Hills 90210. She lives in Minneapolis with a family who loves to argue, and their cats, who love to hiss at each other. Ramona Quimby is her spirit animal.
Follow her on Instagram @laurel_osterkamp.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 7, 2022
Columbia University undergrad, Elyse Gibbons, is busy studying when she overhears a conversation between the two most famous girls on campus: Aubrey Adam-Drake, granddaughter of a U.S. President (accompanied by her Secret Service agent), and Marina Hunt, celebrity and daughter of a Mafia attorney. The girls meant for Elyse to overhear their story about a professor on campus who has sexually harassed Marina and other female students, because Elyse is a star journalist for “The Spectator,” Columbia University’s student newspaper. They bring their grievance to Finneas Beck, student president, who joins Marina and Aubrey in the library. The next day, after Elyse’s editor tells her she needs proof, and that Elyse must interview the professor as well as the students involved to get all sides of the story, she goes to Finn’s office, where she also meets up with Aubrey. Finn decides to make “Professorial Power Abuse” an agenda on the student government meeting agenda, and invites the professor himself to join. Of course, Marina, Aubrey, and Elyse are present, and Marina not only takes the podium, she invites another student victim to do the same. The success of the ensuing article has national outreach, and the quartet celebrate their success. Finn and Elyse become a couple. Years pass, they remain close, and Elyse is drawn into Marina and Elyse’s circle of fame, wealth, and influence. Elyse is willing to do anything for her friends and for Finn, the love of her life, and when she decides to pursue her own political career path, she is met with resistance from all three. When it becomes regrettably obvious that Elyse’s choices are betrayal or her own destruction, betrayal becomes her only option.
What an exciting read this was, from start to finish! It dove deeply into the political realm, which is normally not my druthers when choosing a book. However, the characters and circumstances made “Favorite Daughters” infinitely readable, pulling me in from the beginning scene in the library, and carrying me through the ending. It was an adept and timely look at today’s and recent history’s politics, and Elyse was the perfect “Everyman” character. Daughter of a single mother who taught language at West Chester University, Elyse was required to learn Chinese for her allowance money. While she received a little push from the influence of her famous friends (who later turned on her and tried to destroy her political life), she found her calling, and was the product of her own hard work and dedication. In the end, Elyse was elated to discover she had one true best friend, who was present for her when no one else was in her corner. Elyse reminded me of the very best women in politics, and Laurel Osterkamp gracefully gave a firm nod to these women, both past and present. I highly recommend this excellent read, and look forward to reading more of Osterkamp’s work.
What an exciting read this was, from start to finish! It dove deeply into the political realm, which is normally not my druthers when choosing a book. However, the characters and circumstances made “Favorite Daughters” infinitely readable, pulling me in from the beginning scene in the library, and carrying me through the ending. It was an adept and timely look at today’s and recent history’s politics, and Elyse was the perfect “Everyman” character. Daughter of a single mother who taught language at West Chester University, Elyse was required to learn Chinese for her allowance money. While she received a little push from the influence of her famous friends (who later turned on her and tried to destroy her political life), she found her calling, and was the product of her own hard work and dedication. In the end, Elyse was elated to discover she had one true best friend, who was present for her when no one else was in her corner. Elyse reminded me of the very best women in politics, and Laurel Osterkamp gracefully gave a firm nod to these women, both past and present. I highly recommend this excellent read, and look forward to reading more of Osterkamp’s work.
May 21, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed Laurel Osterkamps’s Favorite Daughters, especially the protagonist Elyse Gibbons. We learn that from a young age, all she wanted was to make a difference in the world. The outspoken, passionate and honest to-a-fault Elyse is an undergrad at Columbia University when she meets the three people who will change her life in ways she could never have imagined: Aubrey Adam-Drake, born into a powerful political dynasty, Marina Hunt, a reality show celebutante with an infamously well-known father, and Finneas Beck, a charming and wealthy young man who captures Elyse’s heart.
Even as Elyse is drawn into the glamorous and exciting world her new friends inhabit, she manages to hold onto her hard-earned beliefs shaped by her humble beginnings and a strong desire to improve the lives of others. When she goes to work for the Drake family, she gets a backstage pass into the world of politics that few ever get to experience. Time and time again, Elyse is forced to make choices that may not always be in the varied and ever-changing ‘best interests’ of her family and friends. The old adage that ‘blood is thicker than water’ comes to mind as Elyse’s own political ambitions begin to evolve and she and her friends’ loyalties are tested. The Drake family may not be the shining symbol of democracy that Elyse had always believed but Aubrey’s devotion remains steadfast. Marina’s father pursues his own career in politics with frightening implications for all but the top 1%, with Marina and Finn appearing to be dedicated to making certain his aspirations are realized. Elyse is torn between the lure of politics on a national level and the draw of returning to her hometown where she could have a much greater impact.
Despite a burgeoning political career of her own, Elyse is not sure who to trust and who truly has her back. Is it Aubrey, whose own career aspirations dim when she starts a family of her own or Marina who seems to have it all but is hiding a deep secret or the feckless Finn, who can’t seem to commit to Elyse or his new fiancé.
Rumors swirl, lies are exposed and everyone’s secrets are revealed in Favorite Daughters; a tantalizing look into the underbelly of American politics, seen through the eyes of an idealistic and brave young woman determined to make a difference in the world. Five stars!
Even as Elyse is drawn into the glamorous and exciting world her new friends inhabit, she manages to hold onto her hard-earned beliefs shaped by her humble beginnings and a strong desire to improve the lives of others. When she goes to work for the Drake family, she gets a backstage pass into the world of politics that few ever get to experience. Time and time again, Elyse is forced to make choices that may not always be in the varied and ever-changing ‘best interests’ of her family and friends. The old adage that ‘blood is thicker than water’ comes to mind as Elyse’s own political ambitions begin to evolve and she and her friends’ loyalties are tested. The Drake family may not be the shining symbol of democracy that Elyse had always believed but Aubrey’s devotion remains steadfast. Marina’s father pursues his own career in politics with frightening implications for all but the top 1%, with Marina and Finn appearing to be dedicated to making certain his aspirations are realized. Elyse is torn between the lure of politics on a national level and the draw of returning to her hometown where she could have a much greater impact.
Despite a burgeoning political career of her own, Elyse is not sure who to trust and who truly has her back. Is it Aubrey, whose own career aspirations dim when she starts a family of her own or Marina who seems to have it all but is hiding a deep secret or the feckless Finn, who can’t seem to commit to Elyse or his new fiancé.
Rumors swirl, lies are exposed and everyone’s secrets are revealed in Favorite Daughters; a tantalizing look into the underbelly of American politics, seen through the eyes of an idealistic and brave young woman determined to make a difference in the world. Five stars!
December 17, 2023
I really liked this novel as it has so many layers--mainly involving deceit and blackmail! Protagonist Elyse is a junior at Columbia when she becomes friends with Aubrey, a politician and Marina, a reality tv star. But she has no idea how this friendship will impact each of their futures as both women attempt to manipulate her to gain power and influence. But Elyse is no slouch and although she realizes what they've done, she must find a way to regain her confidence and maintain her dignity. It's a lovely story about women, their desires, shortcomings, and ultimately their ability to overcome adversity to gain what they deserve!
November 6, 2022
Laurel Osterkamp has navigated politics and put it on the page with a main character that so many can relate to.
Read full review in the 2022 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2022 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
September 8, 2022
I cannot enthuse about this book enough! It’s my favourite book of 2022 by far and had me enthralled from the very first page to the last.
The characters were magnificently laid out and developed, the storyline intriguing and topical, the pace was just right, the writing top notch, and the overall outcome a wonderful read.
Favorite Daughters explores friendship, family, loyalty, betrayal, and all in a current setting, encapsulating the political scene and it’s relationship to media, powerful people and dynasties. Toss in Elyse Gibbons, a normal, everyday person, give it a stir, and you’re in for a great ride!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers.
The characters were magnificently laid out and developed, the storyline intriguing and topical, the pace was just right, the writing top notch, and the overall outcome a wonderful read.
Favorite Daughters explores friendship, family, loyalty, betrayal, and all in a current setting, encapsulating the political scene and it’s relationship to media, powerful people and dynasties. Toss in Elyse Gibbons, a normal, everyday person, give it a stir, and you’re in for a great ride!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers.
August 31, 2023
If you think the male dominated world of political campaign business is a snake pit, just wait till women make up their minds to “help” each other become elected. This is a contemporary statement about friendship, relationships, family loyalty and the obstacles women have to overcome to become leaders today. Enjoyable read, highlighting the things that make being a woman wonderful and an obstacle at the same time.
August 22, 2022
Aubrey Marina and Elise we’re all college students at Columbia they met when Aubrey in Marina we’re in the library talking about meeting the student body president thin back and getting his help to put A professor who was into sexual misconduct with the co-Ed‘s. Elise being on the school paper and their top reporter paid close attention and she would eventually investigate the story that helped bring other victims forward. Her and Aubrey and Marina would all become good friends Marina‘s mom is Eleanor Drake a senator from New York and marinas dad is Adrian Drake A shady Republican who is the man of the people he says what he wants and is totally politically incorrect edit all times. Soon Elise is working for Eleanor‘s campaign where she becomes a superstar and her and Finn becomes a thing she even moved in to his apartment and the Drake Towers. She finds out that Marina and Aubrey targeted her to overhear them into thin is dating marina with everything spinning out of control for a lease she decides to move back to Pennsylvania and work for Redings town mayor this is where her star will really shine and she will go viral and keep that momentum all the way to Washington DC as a junior council member. I don’t want to give everything away just know Aubrey is the Chelsea Clinton of the book and marina is the Ivanka Trump and that would make Finn Beck The Jared Kushner of the group. At least I imagine it’s just a made-up character. Either way I really and truly enjoyed the book I thought the first half was better than the latter half English the ending would’ve been a bit bigger. I don’t want to say white as to give anything away I was really and totally engaged but the closer it got to the second half I found myself zoning out but then when she broke her arm I was back in so it is so worth reading I do definitely recommend this book especially if you’re a fan of politics. I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
August 26, 2022
Laurel Osterkamp, ’Favorite Daughters’.
As an ARC reader I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily wrote an honest review. Here it is.
Rating: 5 (of 5 stars).
In general: Family ties or loyalty to best friends.
Main characters:
- Elyse Gibbons.
She’s a student in her junior year at Columbia University and reporter for the university student paper. After her study she becomes a speech writer for Audrey’s mother, a US senator. It’s the start of her political career.
- Aubrey Adam-Drake.
Also a student at the same University. She’s a daughter of the Drake dynasty, a very influential political family in the US. And is expected to become an important politician too.
- Marina Hunt.
Best friend of Aubrey at Columbia. A former young TV celebrity and model. Her family is very wealthy. Her dad, after a somewhat questionable business career, has political ambitions and expects his family to help him.
- Finneas ‘Finn’ Beck.
He’s the student body president at Columbia and friend of the three girls. After his study he becomes an investment banker and later the owner of an influential journal.
During their study and after their graduation the four are inseparable.
The author, Laurel Osterkamp, describes in an intriguing plot how their careers develop after their graduation. At first they help each other but gradually tensions arise: their families become political opponents and they struggle between loyalty to their family or being faithful to their friendships. The author describes with great insight and in detail their actions and feelings in this process of losing friendship or family.
The result is a very interesting story about credible main characters with their good and bad qualities, a fascinating (and not always nice) picture of American politics and a well written description of people’s maturing in life after university.
For me a pleasure to read this book that was cleverly put together.
R. Huiszoon.
As an ARC reader I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily wrote an honest review. Here it is.
Rating: 5 (of 5 stars).
In general: Family ties or loyalty to best friends.
Main characters:
- Elyse Gibbons.
She’s a student in her junior year at Columbia University and reporter for the university student paper. After her study she becomes a speech writer for Audrey’s mother, a US senator. It’s the start of her political career.
- Aubrey Adam-Drake.
Also a student at the same University. She’s a daughter of the Drake dynasty, a very influential political family in the US. And is expected to become an important politician too.
- Marina Hunt.
Best friend of Aubrey at Columbia. A former young TV celebrity and model. Her family is very wealthy. Her dad, after a somewhat questionable business career, has political ambitions and expects his family to help him.
- Finneas ‘Finn’ Beck.
He’s the student body president at Columbia and friend of the three girls. After his study he becomes an investment banker and later the owner of an influential journal.
During their study and after their graduation the four are inseparable.
The author, Laurel Osterkamp, describes in an intriguing plot how their careers develop after their graduation. At first they help each other but gradually tensions arise: their families become political opponents and they struggle between loyalty to their family or being faithful to their friendships. The author describes with great insight and in detail their actions and feelings in this process of losing friendship or family.
The result is a very interesting story about credible main characters with their good and bad qualities, a fascinating (and not always nice) picture of American politics and a well written description of people’s maturing in life after university.
For me a pleasure to read this book that was cleverly put together.
R. Huiszoon.
August 26, 2022
Overall Rating = 4.42
Storyline & Concept = 4.5
Writing & Delivery = 5
Editorial = 3.75
In university, Elyse Gibbons forges an unlikely friendship with two young women who are the campus celebrities and whose lives are polar opposites of her own humble roots. Elyse is driven to make the world a better place and embarks on a political career, soon finding herself the rising star of the Democratic Party. However, her success comes with a price. Her relationships with her friends, her boyfriend, and those circling her path are tested, destroyed, or strengthened amid the inner workings of political life.
The author of Favorite Daughters has created an intricately woven tale of friendship, love, and betrayal. The protagonist discovers the joys and trials of her ambitions, and I was firmly drawn into her life and adventures, wanting to know more. Adding to the intrigue was the unique situation of three young women, all connected to politics and placed in the difficult predicament of choosing between friendship and family. The novel held my interest throughout, and I felt a strong connection to the protagonist. The ending left me with the impression that there could be more to come in the life of Elyse Gibbons, which would be a very welcome treat.
Sublime Line: “Favorite Daughters is a finely-tuned and intriguing novel about love and betrayal along the rocky road to political success.”
Storyline & Concept = 4.5
Writing & Delivery = 5
Editorial = 3.75
In university, Elyse Gibbons forges an unlikely friendship with two young women who are the campus celebrities and whose lives are polar opposites of her own humble roots. Elyse is driven to make the world a better place and embarks on a political career, soon finding herself the rising star of the Democratic Party. However, her success comes with a price. Her relationships with her friends, her boyfriend, and those circling her path are tested, destroyed, or strengthened amid the inner workings of political life.
The author of Favorite Daughters has created an intricately woven tale of friendship, love, and betrayal. The protagonist discovers the joys and trials of her ambitions, and I was firmly drawn into her life and adventures, wanting to know more. Adding to the intrigue was the unique situation of three young women, all connected to politics and placed in the difficult predicament of choosing between friendship and family. The novel held my interest throughout, and I felt a strong connection to the protagonist. The ending left me with the impression that there could be more to come in the life of Elyse Gibbons, which would be a very welcome treat.
Sublime Line: “Favorite Daughters is a finely-tuned and intriguing novel about love and betrayal along the rocky road to political success.”
September 8, 2022
I was given a free copy of this book by Voracious Readers in exchange for a honest book review. Thank you for a copy of the book!
This story begins with young college student Elyse Gibbons finding her place with Aubrey Adam-Drake and Marina Hunt. The three become fast friends although Elyse feels out of her depth with her newfound social circle. The tale winds through Elyse’s twenties as she navigates friendship, love and career opportunities.
I really enjoyed this book from start to finish! Elyse is a strong protagonist that you find yourself rooting for from the very first chapter of the book. It is easy to believe that anything she puts her mind to she is capable of achieving. The author does a great job of weaving the tale between the three friends throughout the duration of the book, making you root for and against characters as the story twists and turns.
There is no need to have any prior knowledge of the inner workings of US politics too! The political world of the book is very well explained by the author and is easy to follow as someone who is not from America. A big thank you to the author for sharing their work!
This story begins with young college student Elyse Gibbons finding her place with Aubrey Adam-Drake and Marina Hunt. The three become fast friends although Elyse feels out of her depth with her newfound social circle. The tale winds through Elyse’s twenties as she navigates friendship, love and career opportunities.
I really enjoyed this book from start to finish! Elyse is a strong protagonist that you find yourself rooting for from the very first chapter of the book. It is easy to believe that anything she puts her mind to she is capable of achieving. The author does a great job of weaving the tale between the three friends throughout the duration of the book, making you root for and against characters as the story twists and turns.
There is no need to have any prior knowledge of the inner workings of US politics too! The political world of the book is very well explained by the author and is easy to follow as someone who is not from America. A big thank you to the author for sharing their work!
October 19, 2022
I DEVOURED Laurel Osterkamp’s most recently published and well-received novel, Favorite Daughters. It grabbed a hold of me from the very beginning and never let me go! I was compelled to stay up until all hours of the night to finish reading it, and yet I didn’t ever really want it to end. I enjoyed it way too much. I loved each of the four main characters, despite how often their behaviors were despicable or deplorable and unjustifiable. Each are flawed, yet all of them seem vulnerable and appear to have some redeeming qualities, at least until the end of the book when everyone’s true nature finally is revealed. This book is for anyone interested in a glimpse of the twisted relationship between politics, friendships, and family, and the impossibility of living inthe public eye while also being able to maintain a private life.
I‘d like to thank BookSirens, Ms. Osterkamp, and Black Rose Writing for providing me a digital advanced reader’s copy of Favorite Daughters. My review is voluntary.
I‘d like to thank BookSirens, Ms. Osterkamp, and Black Rose Writing for providing me a digital advanced reader’s copy of Favorite Daughters. My review is voluntary.
August 18, 2022
Thank you #NetGalley for providing me an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the book and recommend it to those who enjoy novels with a political story line. I was rooting for the protagonist, Elyse, even when she made some "bad/questionable" decisions. As I read, it was hard not to make comparisons to political figures and "powerful" families in the U.S. Once I read the author's notes at the end of the book, it became clear that the characters were inspired by such figures. This did not take away from my enjoyment of the book as it actually made the actions of the characters more believable. Overall, I enjoyed the drama between the characters, the ambition and personal struggle/development of Elyse, the family dynamics, and the political overtone. I could see, however, that some may not like the book, particularly those who are more right-leaning on the political spectrum as Elyse is a very progressive character.
I really enjoyed the book and recommend it to those who enjoy novels with a political story line. I was rooting for the protagonist, Elyse, even when she made some "bad/questionable" decisions. As I read, it was hard not to make comparisons to political figures and "powerful" families in the U.S. Once I read the author's notes at the end of the book, it became clear that the characters were inspired by such figures. This did not take away from my enjoyment of the book as it actually made the actions of the characters more believable. Overall, I enjoyed the drama between the characters, the ambition and personal struggle/development of Elyse, the family dynamics, and the political overtone. I could see, however, that some may not like the book, particularly those who are more right-leaning on the political spectrum as Elyse is a very progressive character.
January 22, 2023
The fact that Favorite Daughters wasn't classified as a Young Adult novel really disturbs me as I can't for the life of me see how readers of serious adult fiction could rate this book so highly. That being said, I stayed with it thinking that maybe I was missing something from this "Indies Today Finalist" (Contemporary Fiction) and "Firebird Book Award Winner" (Women't Fiction), but, nope, the characters, dialogue, and copy cat political themes kept getting worse and worse as the novel progressed. It's difficult for me to start a book and not finish it so I slogged through to the bitter end and don't think I've ever been so happy to be finished with a book in my life. As an avid reader, English major, political junky, and long-time Goodreads member, I'm still reeling from the implications.
August 25, 2022
I received this book for free and I am choosing to voluntarily leave an honest review. I enjoyed this book. Storylines and characters were plucked straight from the headlines and make for very believable fiction that highlights what happens when Elyse the middle class daughter of a single mom crosses paths with political royalty Marina, Aubrey, and Finn. The college years were a bit slow, but the story gains momentum as Elyse grows and changes as she works for politicians and eventually becomes a politician herself. I was left at the end with a sense of hope even as friendship developed , fizzled, and changed over the years for the characters. I hope to read more from this author in the future.
October 18, 2022
I am happy to have received a free copy of this book through Voracious Readers. The story is set in the torrid American political world. Elyse, the protagonist, has a strong moral center which is tested in this arena. Raised by her liberal-leaning, compassionate single mother, she wants better things for immigrants and the people at the bottom of the ladder, and naturally follows this into the political sphere. I found this story strangely engrossing. It covers Elyse's journey from a young political activist and supporter into her own political career. What was more engrossing though were the ways her friendships and relationships were tested again and again with the constantly shifting political landscape and the family loyalties in play.
August 8, 2022
Thank you to #NetGalley for letting me read an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Elyse, a Columbia student and aspiring journalist, is adopted by two privileged daughters of celebrities (Marina and Aubrey, respectively Ivanka Trump and Chelsea Clinton stand-ins) and the handsome student body president she falls for. We watch as she builds a future based on these new connections with the connected, and see it play out after the group has graduated. When things begin to go less smoothly, and Elyse begins to separate from the group, the plot picks up, especially as she enters the political realm (with AOC energy). “American Wife” meets “Gossip Girl.”
Elyse, a Columbia student and aspiring journalist, is adopted by two privileged daughters of celebrities (Marina and Aubrey, respectively Ivanka Trump and Chelsea Clinton stand-ins) and the handsome student body president she falls for. We watch as she builds a future based on these new connections with the connected, and see it play out after the group has graduated. When things begin to go less smoothly, and Elyse begins to separate from the group, the plot picks up, especially as she enters the political realm (with AOC energy). “American Wife” meets “Gossip Girl.”
August 28, 2022
A big thank you to NetGalley and Black Rose Writing for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. I found this to be an interesting read, convoluted. What is the truth? What is real? It has a lot of politics. This was a different type read for me. Friendship, using each other?? who knows. I have found that we truly never know anyone. Your best friend, the man you marry-they are never really who you think. People play roles and pretend and so who knows what they are really like. 4 stars Well worth a read.
January 5, 2026
this was a lovely story with strong characters. Visits the idea of how friendships can be bonded with the most unlikely characters. Elyse was a simple college girl was very little money trying her best to make it in life when she meets Aubrey, who comes from a family of politicians and Marina, a reality TV star.
The drama that occurs throughout between the friends is heartbreaking, manipulative, and at times cruel.
It shows how media and being in the public spotlight can really mess with a person and at times even change loyalties to your best friends.
The main character remains strong and true to herself
I felt that towards the middle of the book it tended to drag just a little bit. It may have been a bit wordy, but overall a really good book.
The drama that occurs throughout between the friends is heartbreaking, manipulative, and at times cruel.
It shows how media and being in the public spotlight can really mess with a person and at times even change loyalties to your best friends.
The main character remains strong and true to herself
I felt that towards the middle of the book it tended to drag just a little bit. It may have been a bit wordy, but overall a really good book.
February 20, 2023
I enjoyed parts of this chick lit/politics. I won this from a group of authors and I voluntarily chose to review this. I've given this a 4* rating and this is not for the under 18 readers. This is about 3 friends from collage, who take turns doing everything for each other and back stabing each other. One of the friends family is Democrat, one is Republican, and one is semi activist. Lots going on in this story and you may end up taking sides.
March 9, 2023
The story follows a young woman on a scholarship who becomes friends with two other women from privileged backgrounds. Her career develops in no small part due to her friends' families' social and political power. But just how far is she willing to go to compromise her own ideals? Will she be strong enough to break free from their hold on her? I truly enjoyed every moment of this page-turner!
August 28, 2022
This ARC was provided to me via Kindle, from Black Rose Writing and #NetGalley. Thank you for the opportunity to preview and review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
Riviting, spellbinding, an intriging read you don't want to put down.
Riviting, spellbinding, an intriging read you don't want to put down.
October 13, 2022
I thought this book sounded intriguing and the premise really interested me, and it didn't disappoint. I had visions in my mind of the people that the characters had been based on and that just made it more interesting for me. I really enjoyed it.
December 14, 2022
Read this!
This was a great book! I’m not much into politics, but following these women from college on to their chosen paths was emotional, with ups and down you don’t see coming. Some of the characters I loved, and others, not so much.
This was a great book! I’m not much into politics, but following these women from college on to their chosen paths was emotional, with ups and down you don’t see coming. Some of the characters I loved, and others, not so much.
November 16, 2023
Political
If I had known Elyse Gibbons would as on that side of the party, I may not have read this book. But I just concentrated on the other party because as normal she has switched them in this book, OBVIOUSLY!!!! IT IS A GREAT BOOK, I AM GLAD I READ IT!!!
If I had known Elyse Gibbons would as on that side of the party, I may not have read this book. But I just concentrated on the other party because as normal she has switched them in this book, OBVIOUSLY!!!! IT IS A GREAT BOOK, I AM GLAD I READ IT!!!
November 30, 2023
Favorite Daughters is a wonderful book!
The characters will remind you of people who are currently in the political eye. There is a lot of character development- positive and negative. The book was well- written and I highly recommend it.
The characters will remind you of people who are currently in the political eye. There is a lot of character development- positive and negative. The book was well- written and I highly recommend it.
November 7, 2022
Enjoyed the insider politics although the viciousness was cringey (and real). Great character development.
December 23, 2022
A riveting novel that captured my attention and didn't let go. A political thriller that shows the lengths people are willing to go to get what they want.
February 3, 2023
Good book. Easy read. I will definitely try more of her books.
February 7, 2023
First daughters
An interesting tale on Chelsea Clinton and Ivanka Trump. Its interesting because of peoples interactions with them. Personally and politically. Interesting.
An interesting tale on Chelsea Clinton and Ivanka Trump. Its interesting because of peoples interactions with them. Personally and politically. Interesting.
December 23, 2025
Full of angst & the lives of different girls as they navigate life & friendship from college to adulthood. An enjoyable read.
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