Bestselling author Staci Hart brings you a new series where secret society parties and the thrill of the unknown tempt fate.Stella Spencer has one enemy—her secrets. The world’s obsession with the Bright Young Things is real. Every lavish party thrown by the most exclusive group in New York is a spectacle, stalked not only by the media, but by the police commissioner, who’s declared war. He’s out … commissioner, who’s declared war. He’s out to ruin everyone’s good time, starting with uncovering the mysterious benefactor leading the group, thus answering the question on everyone’s lips.
Who is Cecelia Beaton?
And no one knows it’s Stella.
If society finds out the truth, her plans will unravel. And with one smoldering look from a stranger, her carefully ordered world catches fire.
Levi Hunt has one plan—get the story.
His future at Vagabond magazine depends on his ability to do the one thing no one can: infiltrate the Bright Young Things. If he can find out who Cecelia Beaton is, he’ll earn enough notoriety to permanently secure his career.
His dreams are at his fingertips, so long as he doesn’t blow his cover. But one night with the brightest, most brilliant young thing of all, and he knows he’ll have to make a choice.
The job he loves or the woman of his dreams.
Secrets and lies. Love and laughter. And two people with something to hide and everything to gain.
Welcome to the party.
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Star Bright by Staci Hart was a bit mysterious, yet very much entertaining!
Levi Hunt enters the lavish world of the Bright Young Things where he is equally fascinated and taken aback. Levi is a born and breed New Yorker, having had to work his way to the top. He doesn’t come from riches and it takes him some time to get used to the lives of those associated with the Bright Young Things, especially now that he must infiltrate their parties for a series he’s writing about.
Stella Spencer is a socialite and a key member of the Bright Young Things. Though she’s fierce, she’s never felt love and affection from her own family. So, being apart of such a fabulous group provides that need for her as she finally feels apart of a tribe.
When Levi and Stella meet each other for the first time it’s an instant attraction. The chemistry between the two is electric, but they both are harboring secrets that could hurt the other in the end.
Though I found the novel to be, at times predictable, as well as the beginning a bit slow, I really enjoyed it all the same. I absolutely loved the period costumes, parties, and I just couldn’t get enough of the characters.
Star Bright is filled with drama, angst, love, and a vibe that felt very much like an episode of Gossip Girl! I am excited to dive deeper into all things Bright and Young… Until the next invite 😉
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*
Star Bright is beyond anything Staci has written before now. And she wrote Bad Penny, my golden standard for the perfect book, sooooo that’s saying something.
Staci had me from the dedication.
“To those of you searching for a place to belong.”
And that is exactly what Staci gives us in the Bright Young Things. I am IN LOVE with this vibrant, fun group of chosen family and the way they support each other, no questions asked.
The BYT are only one of the things I love about this world. Stella and Levi are just *chef’s kiss* and I can’t get enough of them. They just fit in the best way and I don’t know what else to say about them.
This book and its theme of belonging and celebrating life instead of just living is exactly what the world needs right now.
Completely alluring, Star Bright is a new glamorous and glitzy world from Staci Hart filled with secrets, dramas, betrayals, mystery, and love.
Levi Hunt is a staff writer at Vagabond, a culture and music magazine. Being the only one with an ‘in’ to the lush parties thrown by some of New York’s wealthiest, he dons on his journalist hat and goes undercover, seeking to unveil the secrecy behind the elites who throw said parties. Coming from a different class of people, Levi has his own presumptions regarding the Bright Young Things and the more he attends their lavish parties, the more he uncovers and his assumptions are proven wrong.
Stella Spencer is a socialite, a heiress, and the one behind the elaborate, luxurious parties. She is Cecelia Beaton, but not for all the reasons the world believes. Beneath the surface of her is a woman who trusts too easy, yet a woman yearning for good, happiness, and love. So, she throws fancy, albeit secret, parties and accumulates friends like it’s her life’s passion, which could not be more true as in doing so, Stella creates a place in the world where not only she feels as if she belongs but her friends do, too.
Levi and Stella where complete opposites, yet somehow Levi’s rough-edgedness fit perfectly with Stella’s soft-refinedness.
As a reader, I loved the fact that I went in knowing Levi’s ulterior motives, per se, as well as knowing the true identity of one, Cecelia. So, this story was essentially a story in which readers are waiting for the characters to discover the other’s secrets. Now, I did feel there were perfect moments for both characters to reveal their secrets to one another, yet, and maybe for predictability’s sake, they did not which left me in a state of waiting for the aftermath that the secrets would surely cause.
Though a bit slow-moving, plot wise, in the beginning, Staci Hart crafted an aesthetically pleasing world with unforgettable characters, wrapped in a shimmering bow of beautiful descriptions and lyrical prose, all in a nod to the former Bright Young Things.
Cecelia, where’s my invite?
My favorite aspect about the book: the romance, the friendships, and the writing. Full disclosure: the romance is kind of insta-lovey. Levi and Stella initially wanted a no-strings-attached kind of thing especially since Levi would leave the country for his career, but ofcourse they both got attached. It worked for me, I think they have great chemistry. The friendships are great because they’re like a family, a place to belong. The writing makes me feel like I want to jump right in the book with the way the parties are described.
I wish more of the mystery would unravel throughout the series. I’m looking forward to it, there’s so much potential with the friend group introduced (Z definitely needs a book!).
When I read the blurb about Star Bright, I was immediately excited to dive into the world Ms Hart had created. There aren’t a lot of Contemporary Romance books that venture into Old Hollywood and the style of parties and traditions that have been passed down to generations. The lavishness and exclusivity of the Bright Young Things pulled me in and of course the biggest question of all – who is Cecilia Beaton?
I want to start by saying that I loved the idea of the story. The whole Gatsby meets Hollywood ‘party like the 20s’ vibe is strong and I loved that. I also loved the friendship between the core group of Bright Young Things. They were their own brand of misfits, leaning and relying on each other. They were a family and it showed whenever they were together.
However, the story didn’t do it for me on multiple fronts. There was a tad too many parties; so much so that they started to feel like fillers. I couldn’t see the point of the parties or how they helped any significant movement of the story, apart from an instance or two. All they did was reinforcing the idea of kinship among the elite kids, again and again, who felt alone but still celebrating the fact that they were alive.
The involvement of the police? This might just be a “me” thing but I really didn’t quite get the full picture or the idea behind Warren and his insane obsession with the Bright Young Things and their parties.
The romance between Levi and Stella just wasn’t convincing enough. I didn’t feel the chemistry nor was I sold on the attraction those two felt for each other. There were too many things happening in this relationship and honestly, I expected better handling from both of them, especially Levi.
Stella and Levi in general just didn’t appeal as a couple.
Stella, to me, came across not only as entitled but super selective to her secret most of the time. Yes, she is fun, sweet and an overall cheerful character, but some of her reactions seemed hypocritical, if not over the top. She would always jump to conclusions based on the half-baked facts and without listening to the full story which would then lead to her making rash decisions and then regretting them.
Levi, if I were to compare him to Stella, was a tad bit better in characterization and definitely the mature one out of the two of them. I didn’t care much for his shadiness and the way he kept putting off telling the truth. (Which when revealed led to Stella’s jumping to conclusions, rash decisions and fickle behaviour… Men, I tell you.)
Overall, while Start Bright does have all the elements and I know for a fact that this story is a top favourite for a lot of readers, it just didn’t work for me.
3 Stars!
Star Bright is about a modern day Bright Young Things group in NYC throwing the best parties that are lavish and have mystery and only the elite are invited. Stella Spencer, is a part of that Bright Yoiung Things group. Levi is trying to get access to them in order to write up a story.
Levi Hunt, whose future at Vagabond magazine depends on his ability to do the one thing no one can: infiltrate the Bright Young Things. If he can find out who Cecelia Beaton is. Levi, rides a bike, he’s a journalist, photographer, grew up in harsh circumstances everything you dream of that is Levi.
These are elite NYC characters. They are searching for a place of belonging, to fit in, to live and to love. Will Levi be able to get in with the Bright Young Things Elite group? Will Stella be able to keep her secret?
I did receive a free ARC copy of this book. l am freely leaving an honest review.
“You know the longing we all share? The searching we do for that piece of us that’s missing? I found what I’d been looking for when I found you.”
Imaginative, decadent, intriguing — you won’t be able to set it down. Star Bright is an experience like no other and I cannot wait to delve further into the lavish world of the Bright Young Things that Staci Hart has crafted with this amazing cast of characters. I’m looking forward to Hidden Gem!
4.5 stars
And be sure to check out the prequel that was release after Star Bright, Shooting Star.
This is such a fun read. Staci Hart is amazing at not only the romance of the story but weaving in people/side characters that you can’t wait for more. I loved the idea of the 20s in today and this group of friends just trying to find the joy in life. It’s also so real of a story you can see this all happening- the good and the bad. Two people from different worlds learning how to trust each other. Levi is that super sexy smart guy everyone one loves even when he is an ass and this is no different you will love him!
The flow and story line are just 100! I read this in one setting and couldn’t stop reading it was so good! I can’t wait for more- Staci as set this up for like 10 books I want to see all these Bright Young Things get their HEA!
Overall, 4.5 stars and 4 steam
I loved this book, is was so much fun to read it and I totally enjoyed the relationship between Stella and Levi and the parties.
Stella was an amazing character and her friends were the perfect combination to make this book what it is.
Levi was a charm too and I loved how much he cared for his dad.
I can’t wait to keep reading about this new world in Staci’s books
“Five stars there’s no other option! Wow! When I first read the blurb about this book I was hooked and intrigued but Staci’s completely knocked me out with this epic and magnificent story. Just wow and wow again. Star Bright was different from the previous books I’ve read of her and she doesn’t know how to disappoint. A world of glamour, lights and well… glam. Stella and Levi were the kind of characters that you cant help but love. Differents, originals and interesting indeed. A must read!”
Stella, Z, New York City, and glittering parties. Staci thrusts readers into a creative new series with a clever combining of the Bright Young Things of the past and today’s modernization. Levi Hunt is looking for the scoop on the rich, boisterous affairs, he’s set on uncovering THE Cecelia Burton, it’s his key to success. He’s up to the task, willing to take any risk, until Stella Spencer’s eyes meet his. She’ll reveal to him the beauty and power in the secretive affairs, but not before falling for his lies, not before they’re too entangled to make it out unscathed. Sparkling, descriptive, and oh so fun, Star Bright is just the start of the Bright Young Things.
“You can’t have the story and the girl.”
Holy writing, Staci Hart! The prose in this novel is just beyond! It’s elegant, descriptive, flowery when necessary, and equally as blunt when the dialogue calls for it. I’m a Staci fan girl, I’ll read whatever she gives us, but this truly is her best work. I could picture every character, every scene, every party playing out before me.
I loved Star Bright so darn much. With jazz playing in the background I dove headfirst into the sequins alongside Levi. He’s a good guy with a chip on his shoulder and a goal in mind, his ill-conceived idea just luckily landed him among the right people, the right girl. I love that Staci gives us a hero to love, but shares his flaws right away too. Stella, in all her wealth and beauty, has a heart of gold. She collects friends, cares generously, and loves hard, albeit naively. You read this with a pit feeling in your stomach, waiting for the other shoe to drop, as readers we know the truth, but it’s impossible to not want these two together. Alongside the fated couple are some standout secondary characters, Staci did some incredible world building with them, and I can’t wait to see the others in their own novels.
“‘…And what a thing to belong to, isn’t it?’
‘A very bright thing.’
‘A very bright thing indeed.'”
Star Bright is a great new series introductory novel and stands out for just how fun and magical it is to read. The first time Levi enters a BYT party he goes down a rabbit hole of feathers and charm and beauty and we go right along with him. I could live in this novel and I highly recommend you accept an invitation to the hottest party of the year, too.
4.5 Magical Stars. The chemistry between Stella and Levi is electric. Their journey is not is filled with betrayal as well as twists and turns. I adored the supporting cast, they all add to the storyline. You’ll be hooked from beginning to end. Absolutely worth the read!
Star Bright was a fantastic introduction to the glamorous, intriguing and glitzy world of the Bright Young Things. The captivating new world in this series pulled me in quickly with amazing characters and the unique family they formed.
Stella was the life of the party but there was so much more to her than just a lively and mysterious young socialite. She had a huge heart and guarded those she loved fiercely. Levi was her complete opposite with his rough and edgy manner but boy did he make me swoon. Though their worlds were completely different these two just clicked. Their imperfect relationship started off with fiery sparks as Stella and Levi held me an all too willing captive as a beautiful bond formed between them.
Star Bright brought me into the mesmerizing world of the Bright Young Things and I loved every moment of the lights and glamor. With just the right mix of suspense, mystery, intrigue, fantastic characters, romance and friendship this book has left me hooked and craving more. I’m beyond intrigued to see what’s in store for the rest of the Bright Young Things I’ve already come to love.
“You can’t have the story and the girl.”
Welcome to the luxurious and exotic world of theme parties in New York, courtesy of the select and exclusive group called Bright Young Things. Millionaire heirs, media personalities, fame, money and glamour. In an environment completely different from the real world, the fascination caused by this group generates speculation, being the main enigma: who is Cecelia Beaton, the person behind all this.
Levi hopes to unravel this mystery. Journalist, he manages to infiltrate a party and hopes to find out who the mysterious woman is. With plans that the article he is writing will help him not only in the current magazine where he works, but also takes him on bigger projects, having a glimpse into the life of the elite can be just as pleasurable. Or unexpected.
Stella is a well-known heiress. With secrets that can harm her if they surface and a history of trusting the wrong people, a relationship is the last thing she expects. But the mysterious man who catches her eye can be a good fun.
Like water and wine, these two are quite different. But both hide secrets that can put trust at risk. With the police commissioner willing to find out who is the responsible and put an end to the parties, the confusion in their lives is just beginning.
I loved the theme of the book, each party takes the reader to a whole new world. Although the group is rated as rich eccentrics wanting to have fun, we see that in the end, they form a family, with each one counting on the other in all situations.
A good start for the series and looking forward to the next books.
Do you like love stories full of sensuality, mystery, betrayals, intrigues and irreverent friends?
That’s what you’ll find in Star Bright. A humorous mix of Gossip Girl and the Great Gatsby with characters who love the pleasure provided by Bright Young Thing theme parties. A select, refined and secret club where only handpicked people can enter.
Levi is a journalist who wants to cover the war in Syria and for that he finds a way to penetrate BYT’s exclusive parties to create a story about its mysterious hostess and there he meets the stunning Stella Spencer who takes him off the axes in every way, but secrets and lies can get in the way of this couple.
The chemistry between Levi and Stella explodes through the pages and it is impossible not to cheer and fall in love with them.
I loved the way they approach and fall in love so much. And most of all I loved the drag queen Zeke passionately and I already want a book for her.
This was such a fun read and a great start to a new series. I love this cover it was one of the first things that grabbed my attention.
I enjoyed getting into the world of The Bright Young Things. They have lavish parties with everyone who is anyone is there. It is hard to get an invite, the parties are always held at secret locations. star Bright pulled me in from the first chapter and I loved every minute. I loved the characters and the story and can’t wait for the next book in this series.
“I don’t want yesterday or tomorrow. All I want is you and me and now.”
Star Bright is yet another example of why Staci Hart’s storytelling is my favorite. I’m in awe of this Gatsby-esque world, the elegance of it all, and how effortlessly it translates to paper.
Levi and Stella’s romance was the kind that sweeps you off your feet. It was fun, full of heart and heat. Complete magic. Everything I hope to get from a romance.
I’m so excited to see where we’re taken next in this series that sparkles!
Star Bright is the first in a brand new series by Staci Hart.
It is the story of Stella and Levi. But even more so, it is the story of Cecelia Beaton and the Bright Young Things.
This novel isn’t just a love story. It is a celebration of life and of living. The BYTs are so much more than what they appear to be beyond the glittering parties. Yes, many of them are well off financially, and an argument can be made that they are spoiled rich kids, but growing up with money doesn’t equate to happiness. “No one is free of problems, nor are they free of flaws.” Many of these characters come from broken homes, loveless homes, have absentee parents. In their society, everything is about appearances, and people choose to see what they want to see.
The BYTs are friends, but even more so they are a family, and for those who watch their shenanigans from the sidelines, the BYTs represent a fanciful and coveted ideal. They seem to shout from the rooftops, “We are alive, and what a magnificent thing that is!”
If there is one piece of advice I took away from this story, it is this:
“Because our time in this world is brief, and if we spent more time celebrating the gift instead of wallowing in all we hate, the world would be a very different place.”
I didn’t coin it but the best description of this book is Gossip Girl meets The Great Gatsby. It was EVERYTHING and might be Staci’s best writing ever.
Okay y’all. read this book in one sitting and I an ADDICTED to this world. tis as exhilarating and sexy and just , let you inhibition go and fall in love.
The romance in this book was everything. I love Liv from the very start and you have no idea wha you are getting with Stella. They both have their secrets but when you are together they are explosive and sexy and just the romance jumps off the page at you.
This book was sexy and fun and brought some big mentions about where you fit in with your world and preconceptions. I loved that Staci played on these things while also delivering a romance to end all.
Perfection. I want more please!
This was a hard one to rate for me. I love this author’s writing style, and that doesn’t change with this one. I can imagine myself in the middle of the action while reading some of the scenes. My problem is the lying the main characters are doing. A little misunderstanding would be one thing, but their relationship is based on lies from both of them, and I’m not a fan. The relationship between the Bright Young Things is awesome though. This author has a way of making friends more like family and again, this one is no different. So on that aspect it would have been a 4 star read for me, but the relationship between the 2 MCs just didn’t do it for me. I will definitely be reading to find out what happens in the next book though =)
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.