The Sunset Crowd

I just finished the Sunset Crowd by Karin Tanabe and here are my musings.


It's LA in the 1970s... Sex, drugs and celebrities on sunset blvd is the norm and when Theodora Leigh, a paramount assistant who looks like a movie star, comes crashing into the lives of Evra, the daughter of a movie star and Bea, a photographer for Vogue and rolling stones.... Evra is on the arm of Kai, the screenwriter of the moment... Bea has been in love with Kai since they were kids and Theodora.... Is looking to replace them all.

I actually really enjoyed this book. I love historical fiction so the bar is always set really high. I love Karin Tanabe's writing style, it flowed well and she really set the Hollywood vibes for me. I felt like I was there partying.. An insider!!!

The characters were on point. Anyone on the cusp of fame will always feel fake to a degree and this was nailed for me. Friends in the front, frenemy behind your back. Classic!!

I didn't like Kai but that was the point. You weren't supposed to fawn over him. He is the epitome of Hollywood. It was so well done that you can tell the author did a lot of research on the era and the comings and goings of the time.

It touches on some difficult subjects but its not covered in detail but just in case, TW sexual assault, drug use and all round debauchery. I loved the plot, I loved the atmosphere and it made me nostalgic for a time before I was born.

Excellent read, I couldn't put it down.

5 stars and out now!

Thank you to @stmartinspress for my gifted copy