The debut novel from author Natalie Morris is an entertaining read, perfect for young adult readers.
It follows the story of two friends, wannabe actress Emily and wannabe scientist Tyler, whose relationship is tested when Tyler accidentally achieves Emily's dream of stardom.
Star Crossed is an excellent, character-led novel. Morris presents the lead characters in great detail and the reader passes between each perspective as the novel unfolds, allowing us to intimately understand their hopes, fears and dilemmas. Morris cleverly makes us sympathise with both Emily and Tyler, so it is hard to pick a side, even when they are at odds.
The novel is ideal for young adult readers, as it follows the characters from school through to their late twenties. It also addresses themes that will resonate with teenagers, such as friendship, jealousy and fame. Tyler's experiences with stardom may even act as a warning to Gen Z readers who are desperately seeking fame themselves in this age of YouTube celebrity.
That said, older readers will also enjoy Star Crossed. I avidly turned the pages, invested in the challenges faced by the central friendship and keen to see their resolution. I particularly enjoyed the character James, who adds a third wheel to Emily and Tyler's relationship, bringing plenty of conflict and complexity to the story.
But rest assured, there are laughs along the way, whether it be Emily's melodramatic outbursts, Tyler's crafty agent, or the bickering, bantering exchanges between the two leads.
Star Crossed is an impressive debut. Morris looks set for stardom herself.
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It follows the story of two friends, wannabe actress Emily and wannabe scientist Tyler, whose relationship is tested when Tyler accidentally achieves Emily's dream of stardom.
Star Crossed is an excellent, character-led novel. Morris presents the lead characters in great detail and the reader passes between each perspective as the novel unfolds, allowing us to intimately understand their hopes, fears and dilemmas. Morris cleverly makes us sympathise with both Emily and Tyler, so it is hard to pick a side, even when they are at odds.
The novel is ideal for young adult readers, as it follows the characters from school through to their late twenties. It also addresses themes that will resonate with teenagers, such as friendship, jealousy and fame. Tyler's experiences with stardom may even act as a warning to Gen Z readers who are desperately seeking fame themselves in this age of YouTube celebrity.
That said, older readers will also enjoy Star Crossed. I avidly turned the pages, invested in the challenges faced by the central friendship and keen to see their resolution. I particularly enjoyed the character James, who adds a third wheel to Emily and Tyler's relationship, bringing plenty of conflict and complexity to the story.
But rest assured, there are laughs along the way, whether it be Emily's melodramatic outbursts, Tyler's crafty agent, or the bickering, bantering exchanges between the two leads.
Star Crossed is an impressive debut. Morris looks set for stardom herself.
If you would like Simon to review your book then check out his Review Policy for more information. Sign up to Simon's newsletter to hear more about his reading and writing projects.