So... The book could actually be a good job description for an editor.
It had a lot of potential, the storyline could've been enhanced with some tightening and much more understanding of the characters.
But currently speaking, the book was really hard to get into; the draft was absolutely rough and super rudimentary. The author basically wrote a shadow of the characters, almost in bullet points style. Like, here's Millie, Millie is a single mom writes novels under a pen name, she has a 10-year-old boy and her husband died few years ago.
Millie is pretty, you know this because Declan has to mention how mesmerized he is by her looks every paragraph. And so on.
It felt like the author could envision how the characters looked and what they were struggling with but she couldn't understand them. She created them based on a surface level details, which showed in how lacking the dialogues were, when there were dialogues in the first place since the writing style was mostly tell and not show.
Another thing that bothered me so much was how robotic the characters were, both in their heads and when interacting with one another. Their thoughts lacked the human feel, they were super stiff.
The ending was a clusterfuck of its own, it came out of nowhere and didn't make sense at all.
As I said before, an editor and a group of beta readers can do wonders, especially since the author is self published.
*I received an ARC of this book through netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*

I could not finish this book. I loved the premise and it started out well, but within a few pages quickly descended into a synopsis rather than a novel. The author chooses to tell you about something rather than show a scene establishing it every time- whether character back story, feelings, or thoughts, all we get is swift narration. The dialogue was same-y; characters lacked distinct voices. It seemed like the author couldn’t choose between trying to write like Colleen Hoover about a Colleen-Hoover-esque writer or to use a more Kerry Winfrey tone. I’m not a Hoover fan, so I’m probably not the audience for this book, but about 10% in I resorted to skimming, and I gave up at the 30% point. Not for me, and I will not be sharing my review online.

Millie Lands a Movie Deal by Melissa Martineau Alexander is a captivating and heartwarming story about a single mom and widow, Millie Chandler, who suddenly becomes the center of attention in the movie industry. Millie has been leading a quiet and successful life as an independent author under the pen name Ingrid Bleu. However, her life takes an exciting turn when her latest novel, Finding Samantha Merryweather, becomes a best-seller, and famous actress and producer, Lindsey Faulkner, expresses interest in obtaining the movie rights.

The story takes an interesting turn when Declan Garity, a former award-winning actor and screenwriter, and Lindsey Faulkner's former lover, enters the scene. Declan is determined to stage a comeback and believes that Millie's book is the perfect vehicle to do so. He rushes to Millie before Lindsey Faulkner can purchase the movie rights and convinces Millie that he is the right person to bring her book to the screen.

The book is well-written and engaging, and the characters are well-developed. Millie's apprehension about selling the rights to her book, especially to Declan, adds an element of suspense to the story. The book also explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the personal and professional cost of success.

Overall, Millie Lands a Movie Deal is an enjoyable and entertaining read that will leave you rooting for Millie and her journey towards making a decision that will change her life forever.

An absolute fantastic read! The story takes you on a rollercoaster ride filled with intrigue and suspense. Millie Chandler's life takes an unexpected turn when her quiet existence as a single mom and author is disrupted by the allure of Hollywood fame.

The characters are well-developed, and the plot keeps you hooked from start to finish. The author has crafted a story that explores the dilemmas of personal and professional success, making you question what you'd be willing to sacrifice. Millie Lands a Movie Deal is a wonderful tale of dreams, choices, and the pursuit of happiness. I couldn't put it down!

Hold onto your hats, folks, because Millie Lands a Movie Deal by Melissa Martineau Alexander is a wild ride from start to finish! This book is like a Hollywood blockbuster in written form, and it had me laughing, crying, and holding my breath all at once.

Why should you read it? Well, picture this: a small-town author, a fallen-from-grace movie star, and the glitzy world of Hollywood collide in a whirlwind of drama, love, and suspense. It's like a juicy tabloid story with heart. Melissa Martineau Alexander weaves a tale that's both heartwarming and thrilling, and you won't be able to resist rooting for Millie and Declan as they navigate the chaotic waters of the movie industry. So, grab a copy of Millie Lands a Movie Deal and get ready for a story that's as addictive as popcorn at a blockbuster premiere!

Alright, so Millie aka “Ingrid Bleu” is living her low-key author life. But suddenly, her book's a hit thanks to Lindsey Faulkner. In walks Declan Garity, a once-great Hollywood guy with a messy past. Now sober, he wants to turn Millie's book into a comeback movie.

I'm digging the whole publishing-to-movie process detailed in the book. Always wondered how that works, and this book explained it wonderfully.

It's a speedy read, around 100 pages, perfect for my short-book cravings. But, I gotta say – it didn't hit me as hard as I expected. Felt a bit too fast-paced, sometimes corny, but the tolerable kind. It had its ups, especially toward the end, but the start was a bit of a struggle.

Even with the bumpy ride, there's something about the author's style that's pulling me back in. Not the end yet, apparently. I'm curious, so I'll stick around for the next one.

Thanks for the ARC – it was a ride, for sure!

This is my first book by this author and I really liked it. There were so many places which were written with more nuances and sensibility and so it felt very beautiful. I'm not sure if the last part was just added to extend it to part 2 but it was a lot better than the usual cliche. The difficulties of a recovering alcoholic was dealt more humanly and honestly. Going with a 5 star.

I absolutely loved Hollywood themed fiction and romances, I am so excited to read Declan & Millie’s story and share my thoughts. I know readers are going to love this heartfelt story filled with chasing your dreams and redemption. I think I’m also going to make this title my next book club pick as well. Please watch this space for more.