My Double Life Review

My Double Life by Janette Rallison

Publisher: Putnam Juvenile

Release date: May 13, 2010

Source: Publisher/Author

Her whole life, Alexia Garcia has been told that she looks just like pop star Kari Kingsley, and one day when Alexia’s photo filters through the Internet, she’s offered a job to be Kari’s double. This would seem like the opportunity of a lifetime, but Alexia’s mother has always warned her against celebrities.

Rebelliously, Alexia flies off to L.A. and gets immersed in a celebrity life. Not only does she have to get used to getting anything she wants, she romances the hottest lead singer on the charts, and finds out that her own father is a singing legend. Through it all, Alexia must stay true to herself, which is hard to do when you are pretending to be somebody else!

Review:

My Double Life was a fantastic new release by one of my favorite authors. Alexia was a strong and likable main character that just wanted to do what was right. Growing up with her mother and grandmother, Alexia had never known the thrills of fame and fortune, so when celebrity Kari Kingsley's manager comes knocking, Alexia is especially excited at the chance to make extra money for college. Life in Hollywood is quite different than the quiet life Alexia lived before, and I could understand how overwhelming it was to her. The more things Kari had Alexia do for her, the more Alexia began to wonder- is this worth it? I loved watching Alexia's character develop and change. She had a lot of unique experiences in L.A. and learned a lot about both herself and her family.

Alexia wasn't the only great character. Her mother and grandmother were very sweet and only wanted what was best for Alexia. They had a great relationship, but Alexia wanted the freedom that L.A. offered. Kari, while at first seeming like a bossy, spoiled brat, proved to be a caring person. Her life was busy and she was dealing with a lot of personal problems as well. Grant, on the other hand, was the perfect person. Not only was he a popular rock star, but he was also a down to earth, caring guy. Unfortunately he thinks Alexia is Kari. There are a lot of twists and turns in the plot that follow, so you'll have to read My Double Life to find out what happens :)

As for the plot, it was extremely original and engaging. I had a hard time putting the book down- I just had to know what happened to Kari, Alexia, and Grant. My Double Life showed the ups and downs of stardom and proved that first impressions aren't always the right ones. There are a lot of surprising things that occur and the reader will have a fun and emotional time experiencing everything Alexia is.

Overall My Double Life was a heartfelt and fun read, with more serious undertones and a sweet romance. With great characters and a strong message, this is sure to be a hit with many readers. I can't wait to read any future books by Janette Rallison!

Overall: 4.5 out of 5 stars