What do you think?
Rate this book
Starlight Trilogy #2
Starbright
For starlet Elizabeth Sutton, it’s difficult to tell which has more momentum: her burgeoning film career, or the growing intimacy in her forbidden romance with notorious Hollywood outsider, Aidan Evans.
When the opportunity to costar in a feature film arrives, Beth and Aidan fight to keep their relationship out of Hollywood’s rumor mill and away from the ever-watchful eyes of Starlight Studios head Luther Mertz, who condemns a union between them and threatens the future of Beth’s acting career.
The pressure mounts as the cameras roll. Beth and Aidan navigate the precarious heights of superstardom while exploring their physical desires in secret. Beth grapples between the debilitating nervousness over her sexual inexperience and her unbridled need for Aidan. Meanwhile, the demons from Aidan’s past he thought forever vanquished linger on the fringes of a fragile inner peace . . .
Starbright is the second book in The Starlight Trilogy, a story of love and redemption set against the backdrop of the final years of Hollywood's Golden Age.
Five Reasons To Read The Starlight Trilogy:
1. A sweeping technicolor tale of forbidden romance.
2. A detailed homage to the Golden Age of Hollywood cinema.
3. Cameos from many of your favorite classic film stars.
4. Transformation of a small town girl to silver screen starlet through Hollywood’s unforgiving lens.
5. Close-up of a 1950s bad boy channeling a tragic past and the stress of sudden super stardom through the art of Method acting.
When the opportunity to costar in a feature film arrives, Beth and Aidan fight to keep their relationship out of Hollywood’s rumor mill and away from the ever-watchful eyes of Starlight Studios head Luther Mertz, who condemns a union between them and threatens the future of Beth’s acting career.
The pressure mounts as the cameras roll. Beth and Aidan navigate the precarious heights of superstardom while exploring their physical desires in secret. Beth grapples between the debilitating nervousness over her sexual inexperience and her unbridled need for Aidan. Meanwhile, the demons from Aidan’s past he thought forever vanquished linger on the fringes of a fragile inner peace . . .
Starbright is the second book in The Starlight Trilogy, a story of love and redemption set against the backdrop of the final years of Hollywood's Golden Age.
Five Reasons To Read The Starlight Trilogy:
1. A sweeping technicolor tale of forbidden romance.
2. A detailed homage to the Golden Age of Hollywood cinema.
3. Cameos from many of your favorite classic film stars.
4. Transformation of a small town girl to silver screen starlet through Hollywood’s unforgiving lens.
5. Close-up of a 1950s bad boy channeling a tragic past and the stress of sudden super stardom through the art of Method acting.
564 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2014
About the author
Alexandra Richland
10 books178 followersAlexandra Richland spends rotating twelve-hour shifts working as a registered nurse at a Toronto hospital, indulging in her love of science and medicine and caring for patients with their own unique tales to tell.
When she is not on duty, Alexandra escapes into her own imagination. Therein lies a fantasy world of thrilling adventure, gorgeous men, classic Hollywood glamour, exotic getaways, and a seductive dose of romance. Alexandra captures these stories in her popular novels, The Starlight Trilogy and Frontline, her novella, Slip Away, and her short story, Gilded Cage.
Say hello to her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Alexandra.Richland) and on Twitter (www.twitter.com/RebelMissAlex).
When she is not on duty, Alexandra escapes into her own imagination. Therein lies a fantasy world of thrilling adventure, gorgeous men, classic Hollywood glamour, exotic getaways, and a seductive dose of romance. Alexandra captures these stories in her popular novels, The Starlight Trilogy and Frontline, her novella, Slip Away, and her short story, Gilded Cage.
Say hello to her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Alexandra.Richland) and on Twitter (www.twitter.com/RebelMissAlex).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 9, 2014
Actual 4.5
My Review:
I was introduced to Alexandra Richland's writing with her book Frontline. Even though I really enjoyed Frontline, I LOVED her Starlight series. I started the first book Starlight on Sunday afternoon and have spent the last three days absolutely absorbed into this world. I finished the first book late last night and spend all day reading book 2. I wanted to have my review for book 1 up as well, but unfortunately I could not make it in time to do so. But never fear I WILL review the first book later I the day.
As is my custom with the second book in the series, I won't go too much into the detail of the synopsis, but instead focus on the aspects of the book that I really enjoyed. But to get a taste of this story, take a look at the excerpt below and the teaser above.
Before I even get into the plot or even the character development or world building, I must start off with the first thing that made me fall for the story; the amazing writing. The best way for me to explain the writing in this book is to compare it to paintings. There are certain paintings that are meant to be abstract. The painter takes one or maybe a few different color of paint, and completes their image with a few single strokes. They there are those painting that might have taken the artist months to paint with many different colors, layers and dement ions to the painting. And that is how I would describe the style in Alexandra has written this book. She describes everything so beautifully that it allows you to get so engulfed into the story where you feel that you are actually there.
The next aspect of this book that I really enjoyed was the chara6cter development. We got to know Beth and Aiden really well in book 1 - Starlight, and they over came a lot in book 2, specifically Beth. However in book 2 we get to see them grow even more as a couple as well as individually.
I loved seeing how Alexandra wove in the historical aspects, specially as they applied to the golden Hollywood years. Living in California; Los Angles specifically, I always get asked by out of towers about Hollywood. And Frankly Hollywood now a days is a dirty crowded street, with lot of tourists, adults dressed up in costumes and a ton of souvenir shops. I think what most people are looking for when they think about "Hollywood," is the glitz and glamour that Alexandra describes in this book. And it was absolutely enjoyable to read about.
You find yourself getting invested in so many aspects of the book - the characters, the world, and specifically the writing. After reading over 800 pages of this amazing story between Beth and Aiden, I am lost in a haze and really wish I had book 3 to find out how their story continues
My Review:
I was introduced to Alexandra Richland's writing with her book Frontline. Even though I really enjoyed Frontline, I LOVED her Starlight series. I started the first book Starlight on Sunday afternoon and have spent the last three days absolutely absorbed into this world. I finished the first book late last night and spend all day reading book 2. I wanted to have my review for book 1 up as well, but unfortunately I could not make it in time to do so. But never fear I WILL review the first book later I the day.
As is my custom with the second book in the series, I won't go too much into the detail of the synopsis, but instead focus on the aspects of the book that I really enjoyed. But to get a taste of this story, take a look at the excerpt below and the teaser above.
Before I even get into the plot or even the character development or world building, I must start off with the first thing that made me fall for the story; the amazing writing. The best way for me to explain the writing in this book is to compare it to paintings. There are certain paintings that are meant to be abstract. The painter takes one or maybe a few different color of paint, and completes their image with a few single strokes. They there are those painting that might have taken the artist months to paint with many different colors, layers and dement ions to the painting. And that is how I would describe the style in Alexandra has written this book. She describes everything so beautifully that it allows you to get so engulfed into the story where you feel that you are actually there.
The next aspect of this book that I really enjoyed was the chara6cter development. We got to know Beth and Aiden really well in book 1 - Starlight, and they over came a lot in book 2, specifically Beth. However in book 2 we get to see them grow even more as a couple as well as individually.
I loved seeing how Alexandra wove in the historical aspects, specially as they applied to the golden Hollywood years. Living in California; Los Angles specifically, I always get asked by out of towers about Hollywood. And Frankly Hollywood now a days is a dirty crowded street, with lot of tourists, adults dressed up in costumes and a ton of souvenir shops. I think what most people are looking for when they think about "Hollywood," is the glitz and glamour that Alexandra describes in this book. And it was absolutely enjoyable to read about.
You find yourself getting invested in so many aspects of the book - the characters, the world, and specifically the writing. After reading over 800 pages of this amazing story between Beth and Aiden, I am lost in a haze and really wish I had book 3 to find out how their story continues
January 16, 2015
I first heard about the Starlight Trilogy through word of mouth. Many of my trusted online friends had been talking up the story on twitter before the release of the first book in 2013, so I downloaded the book onto my kindle as soon as it was available.
And then I was promptly consumed by real life. *frowns*
After a very hectic time, I gladly welcomed a long holiday weekend. I decided to spend some of my time off by enjoying a bit of leisure reading. I began Starlight early one morning, figuring I’d read a few chapters before moving on with my day.
Well, as it turns out, I rarely moved from my favorite reading perch for hours. Once I was drawn in by the Prologue, there was no going back. Over the course of the afternoon, I found it nearly impossible to put my kindle down, and by the evening I had finished the story.
I spent the next year eagerly awaiting the release of the second book, Starbright, and my expectations for a worthy sequel were quickly met. In writing this series, Alexandra Richland has demonstrated great skill as a storyteller. The romance between Aidan and Beth builds slowly during the course of the first book, but their love story is genuine and profound. Starbright builds upon the fragile foundation of this couple’s relationship as the two young lovers develop their physical intimacy.
“Please don’t go yet.”
Aidan’s tenacity vanished. He turned around. The look in Beth’s eyes showed she wanted him here as much as he didn’t want to leave. He approached her slowly and discovered she was no longer shaking. He touched a tender hand to her cheek. She was no longer cold.
Aidan bathed in her vanilla scent, which was extra potent from the rain. Her lips were just an impulse away, but he wasn’t about to be reckless with her. Not with Beth. Not his fragile little dove.
“You’re so beautiful.” The compliment slipped from his lips in a reverent whisper.
Aidan dipped his head and swept his arms around her waist. Beth closed her eyes in silent offering. Ever so slowly, he brought their lips together, his hands traveling down her side to her hips.
Beth whimpered and returned the kiss, weaving her fingers into his damp hair, tugging, swirling, and scratching. Aidan took that as a green light to go further. With a gentle nudge, his tongue entered her mouth.”
Beyond the tantalizing attraction these two feel toward one another, Starbright offers much more to the reader. The backdrop of the movie studio is incredible in its detail and is filled with fascinating secondary characters, some of whom are completely fictional and some of whom are amongst the biggest stars in the history of cinema. Chief among these characters is Starlight Studios head, Luther Mertz, who views any connection between the rebellious Aidan and the demure Beth as a detriment to his carefully managed empire.
“…he withdrew a magazine from the top drawer of his desk and slid it toward her. The publication was opened to a specific article, which he positioned so she could look at it right-side up.
“Explain this photo of you and Aidan Evans in Santa Barbara.”
The blood drained from Beth’s face. She gripped the armrests and rose from her chair, peering over the desk at the publication. It was an issue of Life magazine. The largest photograph was the group shot of her, Aidan, and their friends taken after the race. The other photographs were of Aidan and his Porsche. Surely the group photograph wasn’t the source of her boss’s anger?
Mr. Mertz slapped his hand down on the magazine and dragged it toward him. “Why were you at Mr. Evans’ race? He is no good for your image, and a racetrack is not a place you should be visiting under any circumstances.”
Beth sat back down in her chair. It was crucial to handle the situation calmly. Mr. Mertz had no proof that she and Aidan were in a relationship.”
It is clear that the author has a deep respect and knowledge for 1950’s Hollywood. As such, a reader can be swept up into the fantastic life of movie-making while still feeling that the novel offers a realistic portrayal of both the era and the larger-than-life circumstances that took place in the entertainment capital of the world.
The cast of secondary characters are rich in both complexity and amusement, and the bustling activity of life behind the gates of Starlight Studios is glamorous and enthralling. If you are looking for a carefully crafted and well-written love story, I highly recommend reading Starlight and Starbright. The conclusion of this trilogy, Stardust, is expected to release during 2015, and I know I’ll be one of the first in line to buy a copy.
And then I was promptly consumed by real life. *frowns*
After a very hectic time, I gladly welcomed a long holiday weekend. I decided to spend some of my time off by enjoying a bit of leisure reading. I began Starlight early one morning, figuring I’d read a few chapters before moving on with my day.
Well, as it turns out, I rarely moved from my favorite reading perch for hours. Once I was drawn in by the Prologue, there was no going back. Over the course of the afternoon, I found it nearly impossible to put my kindle down, and by the evening I had finished the story.
I spent the next year eagerly awaiting the release of the second book, Starbright, and my expectations for a worthy sequel were quickly met. In writing this series, Alexandra Richland has demonstrated great skill as a storyteller. The romance between Aidan and Beth builds slowly during the course of the first book, but their love story is genuine and profound. Starbright builds upon the fragile foundation of this couple’s relationship as the two young lovers develop their physical intimacy.
“Please don’t go yet.”
Aidan’s tenacity vanished. He turned around. The look in Beth’s eyes showed she wanted him here as much as he didn’t want to leave. He approached her slowly and discovered she was no longer shaking. He touched a tender hand to her cheek. She was no longer cold.
Aidan bathed in her vanilla scent, which was extra potent from the rain. Her lips were just an impulse away, but he wasn’t about to be reckless with her. Not with Beth. Not his fragile little dove.
“You’re so beautiful.” The compliment slipped from his lips in a reverent whisper.
Aidan dipped his head and swept his arms around her waist. Beth closed her eyes in silent offering. Ever so slowly, he brought their lips together, his hands traveling down her side to her hips.
Beth whimpered and returned the kiss, weaving her fingers into his damp hair, tugging, swirling, and scratching. Aidan took that as a green light to go further. With a gentle nudge, his tongue entered her mouth.”
Beyond the tantalizing attraction these two feel toward one another, Starbright offers much more to the reader. The backdrop of the movie studio is incredible in its detail and is filled with fascinating secondary characters, some of whom are completely fictional and some of whom are amongst the biggest stars in the history of cinema. Chief among these characters is Starlight Studios head, Luther Mertz, who views any connection between the rebellious Aidan and the demure Beth as a detriment to his carefully managed empire.
“…he withdrew a magazine from the top drawer of his desk and slid it toward her. The publication was opened to a specific article, which he positioned so she could look at it right-side up.
“Explain this photo of you and Aidan Evans in Santa Barbara.”
The blood drained from Beth’s face. She gripped the armrests and rose from her chair, peering over the desk at the publication. It was an issue of Life magazine. The largest photograph was the group shot of her, Aidan, and their friends taken after the race. The other photographs were of Aidan and his Porsche. Surely the group photograph wasn’t the source of her boss’s anger?
Mr. Mertz slapped his hand down on the magazine and dragged it toward him. “Why were you at Mr. Evans’ race? He is no good for your image, and a racetrack is not a place you should be visiting under any circumstances.”
Beth sat back down in her chair. It was crucial to handle the situation calmly. Mr. Mertz had no proof that she and Aidan were in a relationship.”
It is clear that the author has a deep respect and knowledge for 1950’s Hollywood. As such, a reader can be swept up into the fantastic life of movie-making while still feeling that the novel offers a realistic portrayal of both the era and the larger-than-life circumstances that took place in the entertainment capital of the world.
The cast of secondary characters are rich in both complexity and amusement, and the bustling activity of life behind the gates of Starlight Studios is glamorous and enthralling. If you are looking for a carefully crafted and well-written love story, I highly recommend reading Starlight and Starbright. The conclusion of this trilogy, Stardust, is expected to release during 2015, and I know I’ll be one of the first in line to buy a copy.
March 16, 2017
Aidan Evans. That is the only thing I need to say to review this book! It is brilliant, the only thing missing here is that I need the next book now!
The suspense behind what Aidan is hiding, plus the struggles of having a relationship off the cameras is becoming quite difficult. The climb to stardom isn't as easy as it seems and would Beth overcome her inexperience in order to be with Aidan, and would Aidan triumph over in his battles against his dragons.
Beth and Aidan have officially landed in my heart and soul. Alexandra Richland brings this next book of the Starlight Trilogy with such an amazing story. This is a must read people, no other way around it. Just grab it and thank me later, but beware if you become addicted you'll just have to make line for us who are now impatiently waiting for the next book and pick a ticket to get Aidan, because he will become your next hot book boyfriend.
May 11, 2014
Starbright is the second book of Alexandra Richland's Starlight Trilogy. The trilogy follows actors Elizabeth Sutton and Aidan Evans as they navigate their budding stardom in 1950s Hollywood. As a fan of classic movies from this time period, the trilogy so far is an interesting jaunt into the workings of the studio system--contracts, Method acting, public image, etc. In the first installment, Beth and Aidan finally acknowledge their attraction towards one another. But like all relationships, the story doesn't end with a first kiss, and that's where Starbright begins. Alexandra delves deeper into her main characters, exposing their greatest fears and steering them onto paths of redemption as they grow closer and trust one another. I, for one, am looking forward to the final installment!
February 28, 2014
The only thing wrong with this book was that I wanted-- no, NEEDED-- this book to keep going!! I ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!! I cannot wait for Book 3!!
Aidan in this installment really pulled at my heart strings! SQUEE!! Sweet Beth makes you just want to hug her. AND can we talk about the writing?! AHHHH!! Amazing! Alex hit it out of the park! Homerun! ;)
Aidan in this installment really pulled at my heart strings! SQUEE!! Sweet Beth makes you just want to hug her. AND can we talk about the writing?! AHHHH!! Amazing! Alex hit it out of the park! Homerun! ;)
May 20, 2014
As always, Alexandra Richland did not disappoint with the second part of the beautiful story of Beth and Aidan. Starbright continues from where Starlight left off, and had left me eagerly awaiting the third and final part of the story!
June 14, 2014
my review will be posted on the blog tour for orchard book club. 6th May 2014
October 7, 2014
I hated to come to the end of this book. I fell in love with the story and Characters. I love old movies and love the nostalgia of Hollywood.
I highly recommend this series it is a nice read.
I highly recommend this series it is a nice read.
April 4, 2015
Once again, the reader is transported in time through rich detail and complex characters. Alexandra Richland has a talent for writing that puts her novels above most others in the genre. I was so engaged with Starbright that I completed my own research into James Dean, her inspiration for the Starlight series.
While I thought the first book, Starlight, was so successful because it was engaging without the eroticism, Starbright develops the characters further by adding a layer of complexity regarding their issues with intimacy and Aiden's childhood. The historical setting and sensual scenes are what give this book a quality of its own. I can't wait for Stardust!
While I thought the first book, Starlight, was so successful because it was engaging without the eroticism, Starbright develops the characters further by adding a layer of complexity regarding their issues with intimacy and Aiden's childhood. The historical setting and sensual scenes are what give this book a quality of its own. I can't wait for Stardust!
January 24, 2015
i was planning to wait till the last installment came out but DAMN i was hooked... one of the things i love about this series is that, there is no 3rd party involved.
May 15, 2015
just love this story
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews