ADORED

In its plotting, characterization, and atmosphere, this first novel seems influenced by prime-time soap operas. Its style, on the other hand, seems more influenced by a good English teacher. A young, irresistibly sexy, foul-mouthed, and ruthlessly ambitious heroine--granddaughter of a famed matinee idol--aspires to stardom against her parents' will. Barbara Rosenblat employs her legendary skill, flair, and imagination, as well as a delightful shamelessness in rendering scenes of sex and decadence. Only her phrasing strikes one as below her wonted standards--that is, it's good but not excellent, punctuated by a bit of wheezing. Y.R. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 06]