Book Review: Plotting to Win by Tara Chevrestt

Book reviews

2 July

Plotting to Win by Tara ChevresttebookReview copy provided by publisher/ NetgalleyEscape Publishing, June 2013 Synopsis- In New York City, seven writers compete for a hundred thousand dollars, a publishing contract with Bright House, and the title of the next bestseller. One is Felicity James. One is Victor Guzman.Drama, plagiarism, and trash talk play out to enthralled audiences across the country as all seven contestants compete against each other in a range of heated challenges, with tensions reaching breaking point. As Felicity and Victor start up a show‐mance, their relationship burns up the ratings.Will this sizzling fling escalate into a vicious battle for money and fame, or will these two authors manage to write their own happy ending? Review- In Tara Chevrestt's novel Plotting to Win, she draws from the dramas of reality television to create a unique romance novel set in New York City. Felicity James is one of seven writers who have been selected to compete for a hundred thousand dollars and a publishing contract with Bright House. She’s up against some talented writers, some of who will do anything to win. Handsome Latino Victor Guzman is one of those contestants who has a very personal reason for winning the bestseller title and more importantly the cash.Initially he hopes to put Felicity off her game but she is not wooed by his charms (not straight away anyway) even if she does sense an attraction. What neither of them expects is to join forces and develop a friendship within the confines of their shared living quarters; their life portrayed through the cameras and of course a game where no one can be trusted.Plot-wise I really enjoyed the challenges and how it was all connected to honing the craft of writing and securing a publishing deal. However, I did feel that Felicity won a little too easily. It was hard to believe that the other writers were so atrocious, considering they would have been selected among the top entrants to compete on the show. Regardless of this minor issue, I thought the challenges and the conflict (sometimes a bit too dramatic) were entertaining and I could really envision a reality show like this… no matter how ridiculous it could be.The relationship between Felicity and Victor’s relationship development begins from an attraction and develops into a friendship and hidden-camera kiss. The relationship development was probably the weakest part of the story as it does lack emotional depth. The external conflict was well set up as it was clear why it would be a bad idea to have a fling when they both wanted to win the competition, but the internal conflict wasn’t as well fleshed out and so the tension between the couple lagged at times.Even though I’d have liked stronger romantic development, Plotting to Win was still an enjoyable, unique novel that was a fun way to pass the hours and envision a reality show that probably isn’t too far from what we’d expect on television.