Well, this book is unquestionably a different work of art!

Rather than drawing readers into another supernatural horror story, Silvia Moreno-Garcia takes on the infamous Salome, briefly mentioned in two Gospels of the New Testament. She weaves her narrative into the 50s Hollywood entertainment circle, where politics, gossip, racism, and scheming dominate the scene, mirroring today's film industry dynamics, where diversity is gradually changing the landscape but white privilege still holds sway, and women are scrutinized for their personal lives in the name of open social media policies.

The storytelling unfolds in a half-documentary style with multiple narrations, intertwining Salome's story—a topic of a movie production. She is trapped in a golden cage, entangled in a forbidden love affair with a young preacher, compelled to make choices that could elevate her in the political arena but might also condemn her to bear permanent bloodstains on her hands.

As we delve into Salome's story, we are introduced to young Vera Larios—an unknown Mexican ingenue who surprisingly lands the role of Salome despite her limited acting experience. Quickly, she finds herself entangled in the gossip mill, criticized for rejecting unwarranted advances. We witness her transformation from a meek, obedient girl overshadowed by her more beautiful and talented sister to a feisty, tough, self-resilient individual as she connects with the true essence of Salome.

Another key character is Nancy Hartley—a impulsive, wild, and ambitious individual playing games to secure her place in Hollywood. She refuses to accept that the role she's dreamed of could go to an untalented Mexican girl. As Vera becomes a threat, Nancy embarks on a journey to secure her dream job, pushing the limits of what she is willing to do.

I was thoroughly hooked and enjoyed the completely different stories of these three women. I appreciated how Salome's story reflected in both Vera and Nancy, compelling them to make bold decisions by engaging with her cunning, smart, and deceitful femme fatale attributes.

This book is a brilliant blend of women's fiction and historical fiction, offering a realistic portrait of 50s Hollywood. Silvia Moreno-Garcia's remarkable research skills shine through, providing enlightening information about that era and offering insights into the early mechanisms of La La Land. The incorporation of film noir and thriller elements keeps you on your toes, with a forewarning that something tragic will unfold at the end to parallel Salome's shocking story.

The ending was executed with finesse, mirroring the excellence seen throughout the entire development. The characterization was marvelous, with Moreno-Garcia crafting flawlessly layered characters that readers can easily relate to.

Without a doubt, this book earns my five blazing La La Land stars. I wholeheartedly recommend this brilliant, whirlwind, and perfectly crafted concept!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Del Rey for generously providing me with a digital reviewer copy of this amazing book in exchange for my honest opinions.

This book had quite a few storylines. I liked all of them (especially Vera and Salome), except I really disliked the Nancy storylines. I know that she is the "bad guy", but I just don't feel as though her parts flowed with the rest of the story.