Starstruck by L.A. Witt

By: Unknown on Tuesday, November 04, 2014

Title:  Starstruck
Series:  Bluewater Bay #1
Author:  L.A. Witt
Published:  November 3/14 by Riptide Publishing
Length:  275pgs
Format:   ecopy
Genre:  m/m contemporary romance
Shelf:  netgalley
Rating:  ★★★★★

Synopsis from Goodreads:

Hollywood is full of dirty secrets, but Carter refuses to be Levi’s.

Retired action star Levi Pritchard has made a quiet life for himself in the sleepy logging town of Bluewater Bay, Washington. But then Hollywood comes to film the wildly popular television series Wolf’s Landing, and Bluewater Bay isn’t so sleepy anymore. His retirement doesn’t stick, either, because he’s offered a part on the show—exactly the kind of complex role he’d always wanted, one that would prove him more than a glorified stuntman. The only catch? He has to stay in the closet—no matter how attractive he finds his co-star.

Carter Samuels is the critically-acclaimed male lead on Wolf’s Landing. And now, the man who inspired him to take up acting—and made him realize he’s gay—is joining the cast, and sparks fly between them instantly. But Carter is out and proud and determined to stay true to himself.

Remaining just friends is the only thing to do, as both the studio and Levi’s disapproving, dysfunctional family keep reminding them. Except their friendship deepens by the day, tempting them with what they can’t have but both desperately need.

My Review:

What a wonderfully exciting story. Witt combines the excitement of show business with the realities of everyday life to create a complete picture for her audience. Witt masterfully works comic relief into this story that at times becomes tactfully controversial. It’s like real life: well balanced and really makes you think. Romance and personal ideals collide with family and work obligations in such a manner that you can’t help but fall in love with this story. At the same time Witt’s picturesque descriptions paint this town in a uniquely vivid light. Not only do you read this story, you visit it.

This is a strongly character driven tale. The two very strong male leads both draw you in in a very different manner. Witt develops them both well, allowing you to see both sides of the coin. Also, the obvious differentiation between the ‘Hollywood’ and ‘not Hollywood’ characters is comically apparent. You really get a feel for how topsy-turvey this town has become.

Every once in a while you trip over one of those authors where everything they write is a gem. For me, this novel exemplifies why Witt is one of those authors.

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