Book Review: Fading Starlight

Lauren Summers was hoping for a brilliant future in fashion, but when one of her designs ends in an embarrassing red carpet wardrobe malfunction, she’s basically blackballed by the entire industry. An opportunity to work as a costume designer for a high school production couldn’t come at a better time. Though the job’s unpaid, Lauren is able to stay in a small fixer-upper of a cottage in a private neighborhood. Ready to retreat from reporters and prying eyes, Lauren accepts quickly.

Soon Lauren finds herself in a cottage surrounded by neighbors that are fiercely protective of their privacy, including the cranky and reclusive Charlotte Montgomery, who was once a Hollywood star. Charlotte doesn’t trust anyone due to events from her past, and Lauren is no exception. When Lauren tries to reach out to her with small kind gestures, she is only met with negativity. And when a reporter asks Lauren for information about Charlotte in exchange for helping her recover her reputation in the fashion industry, Lauren is tempted to betray her new neighbor. Will she choose her career or an opportunity to show compassion?

Kathryn Cushman’s Fading Starlight is a wonderful tale of redemption. It’s also really a story about faith and the importance of always doing the right thing, even if nothing is promised in return. Readers can’t help but feel sorry for Lauren, who seems so kind and genuine, but is constantly met with opposition. Despite her struggles, I loved how much Lauren loved and appreciated the art of fashion, so much so that she was eager to restore gowns with no expectation of payment. I also felt compassion for Charlotte, whose past was so filled with hurt and betrayal that she felt the need to retreat from the world. This story was also filled with wonderful supporting characters that you’re sure to love. I was really moved by this story and the relationships within its pages. I’m sure you will be too!

This review originally appeared on Luxury Reading.  A copy of this book was provided by Luxury Reading in exchange for my honest review.