WOW. What a fun read this was, I couldn't put it down. A lot of books are being compared to Yellowface with any somewhat similar plot (if you haven't read Yellowface, do it!), but I do think this is an apt comparison. The story follows Naledi Moruakgomo, who goes by Eddie as she tries to break into the very white, very male industry of playwriting in modern day UK. When she meets Hugo at a cafe and they form a friendship, they hatch a plan to have him submit it under his name, after she is rejected over and over. What happens next is quite the ride, and I found this book so propulsive. There was never a dull moment!

An impressive plot, strong lead characters and good writing. But something didn’t click for me and it never quite hooked me. Maybe just not the right season for me to read it.

I enjoyed being on the sidelines of the people we meet in this interesting and topical
modern day version of subtle and at the same time, over the top unintentional OR
not, discrimination directed towards a young woman and her attempt to have her
play successfully marketed.
The plan, which started out as a ‘simple secret,’ took on a life of its own that, by
the time hearts have broken, relationships destroyed and careers cracked, the
deception became more important that the societal issues that became the
ruination of many.
This is a powerful debut novel from the talented Warona Jay. It is a privilege to
have been able to read this book.
My thanks to Atria Books via NetGalley for the ARC and download of this book for
review purposes.

Not what I thought it would be. An interesting premise but not the book for me. It might appeal to other readers.

Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!

WOW. Is all I can really say. This book dealt with themes of worthiness, confidence, self-expression, etc. I enjoyed reading this book and I saw myself in this book as well. Many kudos to the author for tackling such "uncomfortable" themes with grace and humor. I really recommend reading this book! 4.5/5 stars

This novel doesn’t just entertain; it ignites conversation on the complexities of identity, ambition, and the price of authenticity in a world obsessed with appearances. A brilliantly crafted narrative that will leave you questioning the very nature of success and friendship.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Eddie is sure that her play is brilliant, but that it has been rejected due to racism and prejudice in the theatre world. A chance meeting with Hugo starts a con in which they pass him off as the author and it does phenomenally well. They struggle with when to come clean about the true playwright.

The book makes reference to JK Rowling and how her name was changed so that boys would read Harry Potter. It made me think- what would have happened if she published under her actual name, Joanne Rowling? I can’t help but wonder.

But this situation is really different, the play is about the immigrant experience, so an immigrant would be really marketable as the playwright. I really appreciate the premise of this book, in execution it was a bit lacking. It was extremely British. Ultimately I found the conclusion unsatisfying, but it is a good story.

Thanks to @netgalley and @atriabooks for the ARC. Book to be published February 25, 2025.

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