Book Review of 'Her Part to Play' by Jenny Erlingsson

Happy Wednesday Bookworms!

I am calling 2024 the year of finding new, phenomenal authors and I'm so excited to be sharing another author that is not only new to me but new to the world! I am featuring her debut novel and to say I was shook by this novel is an understatement.

I hope you enjoy my thoughts on this wonderful Contemporary Romance and don't forget to scroll to the bottom of this post and enter the amazing giveaway from JustRead Tours!

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for Her Part to Play by Jenny Erlingsson hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Her Part to Play

Author: Jenny Erlingsson

Publisher: Revell

Release Date: June 18, 2024

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Desperate for extra income after her mother's passing, Adanne accepts a last-minute job as a makeup artist for a movie filming in her small Alabama hometown. She's working to save her parents' legacy and help her brother, but the money hardly seems worth having to face the actor who got her fired from her last job in Hollywood.

John Pope has made his share of mistakes over the years. But after turning his life over to God and enduring a messy breakup, he's ready to start rebuilding his career. Imagine his surprise when the woman called in to cover for his usual makeup artist is a quiet but feisty newcomer on the set--and definitely not a fan.

Sparks of tension--and could that be attraction?--fly between them, but Adanne hates the spotlight, and John's scheming manager has bigger plans for him than to end up with the humble makeup girl from the small-town South. Can these star-crossed lovers find their way to happiness? Or will the bright lights of Hollywood blind their eyes to what's right in front of them?

Debut author Jenny Erlingsson's diverse cast comes alive with faith, romance, and a touch of humor to create a story worthy of the big screen.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Christianbook | Bookshop

My Review

We start with an actor that is in his feelings on a movie set. Pan over to a lowly makeup artist who clearly carries the weight of the world on her shoulders. Their paths have crossed before, but he doesn’t remember. All he knows is there is something there between the two of them but is too preoccupied by his own issues to give it anymore thought. Still, there is an undeniable spark that is drawing them together and that’s when the magic truly begins.

I seriously cannot believe this is a debut novel. It’s clear that this author has a raw talent that cannot be faked. Her heart and passion are evident not only in the characters but the story as a whole. It was truly a pleasure to witness, and I cannot tell you how much this novel touched me on a profound level. Every time I would read one scene and think wow this is my favorite scene another one would come behind it and outdo it. There are some sweet and tender moments that stole my breath right along with my heart.

Despite being a big movie star, I like how down-to-earth and self-aware John is. Adanne is genuine and your heart can’t help but be awed and inspired by her selflessness. She is the queen we all should aspire to be. They share their faith, and I enjoyed seeing their inner struggles as they are navigating life and this new, budding relationship that goes from playful and snarky to a deep, spiritual and visceral level.

This novel was masterfully done with lovable and relatable characters, a setting that is both picturesque and Hollywood all rolled into one and is a beautiful picture of coming to the end of yourself to find exactly what you’ve been searching for.

My Rating: ★★★★★

About the Author

Jenny Erlingsson is an author and speaker of Nigerian descent. After 12 years working in junior high and women's ministry, she moved with her family from Alabama to Iceland. When she's not running after her four kids or ministering alongside her husband, she can be found writing romantic fiction and creative nonfiction to inspire deep faith in diverse settings, as well as encouraging other writers. Her other writings have been featured on (in)courage, Live Original, Velvet Ashes, and more. And in the margins, you might find her reading five books at a time with a side of Icelandic chocolate.

Connect with Jenny by visiting JennyErlingsson.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of Her Part to Play and a $25 gift card to Bookshop.org!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight July 10, 2024 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on July 17, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

Enter Giveaway

Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!