ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jennifer Niven's American Blonde continues the story of Velva Jean Hart, a young girl from the Carolina mountains turned war hero, and eventually 40s Hollywood star. As I enjoy reading fiction set during the Hollywood studio-system, so-called "Golden Age" era, the premise of this novel grabbed me. I hadn't realized at the time that "American Blonde" is the fourth novel to star Velva Jean, but after reading I can vouch that the story stands well enough on its own. You may be inspired to backtrack for the full saga afterward.
Velva Jean has returned triumphant from the war, and has little time to rest before she's approached by MGM to parlay her heroism into a film career. Transformed into starlet Kit Rogers, she reconnects with a fellow WASP and quickly learns how the major studios work to cover up scandals and minor inconveniences like the sudden death of a box office draw. In this case, though, it's Kit's friend, and she isn't going to play along. She's determined to solve a mystery at the risk of her career and fame.
"American Blonde" mixes golden age drama with a touch of noir mystery. It's not gritty like Ellroy's LA-set crime books, but you'll sense touches of the seedy side of Hollywood. Solid story with a likable female lead, hints of romance and further adventures to come.
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