The Secret Life of Avery O'Dea

by Elise Marion

Photographer Dominic Ramsey is having a bad year. His car won’t start, the rent is weeks overdue, his girlfriend dumped him, and photography jobs have been few and far between. Moonlighting as a paparazzo to scrape up some extra cash isn’t exactly going well; there’s only so much money to be made in photos of tacky celebrity outfits.

Avery O’Dea has led her life in front of the cameras since shooting to stardom in her first romantic film. When her on-screen romance becomes something more she and her Hollywood beau are, at least the way the magazines tell it, a match made in heaven. So what if Avery’s had to convert to Ryan’s vegan lifestyle publicly in order to solidify the relationship to the public eye? So what if she’s had to make a few sacrifices in order to achieve the Hollywood dream?

When a daring photographer catches her in a lie and exposes the truth of Avery and Ryan’s relationship to the world, Avery realizes just how tired she is of being ‘America’s Sweetheart’, and the elaborate cover-up becomes a burden that she no longer wishes to bear. As she locks eyes with the photographer that set her world on fire with a single photo, she begins to long for more from life; passion, love, and the freedom to live her life as she pleases.

Genres: Contemporary

ebook

First published August 28, 2012

About the author

Elise Marion is a lover books and has a special place in her heart for sweet and sensual romance. Writing about love across all walks of life is her passion, as is reaching people through the written word. The Army wife and stay-at-home mother of two spends most of her time taking care of her children. Her second job includes writing stories about characters that people can fall in love with. When the Texas native isn’t caring for her family or writing, you can usually find her with her nose in a book, singing loudly, or cooking up something new in the kitchen.

Reviews

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

So, I have a secret…I love US weekly, especially the "Stars they're just like us" section. I get so tickled to see actors and actresses come out the house looking normal or at times a hot mess, doing normal things like going to the grocery story or coming out of the gym after a hard workout. So, The Secret Life of Avery O'Dea was right up my alley. Avery O'Dea is Americas sweetheart, she has it all, a successful career, an uber hot live in boyfriend and a secret. Avery has been living a lie for the last six years, the pressure of lying is starting to get to her, and she's tired of living the lie. However, all will be revealed with one damaging photo. Domini Ramsey is a photographer who is having the worst week ever, his long time girlfriend has left him, his car just broke down and he's just broke. However, things are looking up when he spots the actress Avery O'Dea at a local grocery store...and what does he find? After taking the picture of Avery that exposes her secret to the world, Dominic steps in and shows Avery that she doesn’t have to live a lie, that its time to be herself.

The Secret Life of Avery of O'Dea is a behind the scenes look at what happens when we find out something damaging about our favorite celebrities. Although a short read, the story and the characters were very well developed. I just fell in love with Avery, she was honestly a kind hearted woman who let fame isolate her in a persona not of her own making. Dominic Rivera was my kind of man, there is nothing sexier than a man who is secure in his manhood. Even though Dominic took the photo that changed Avery's life, and he truly felt bad, he was honest with himself and her he had bills and taking those pictures was his job. I loved that he was secure in loving a woman whose net worth vastly exceeded his, knowing that she was secure in his love was enough for him. This was the first time I've a story by the author Elise Marion and it wont be the last. She has several titles that I am dying to get my hands on. Well done Ms. Marion, I am officially a fan!
(Originally posted on Not Now...Mommy's Reading)

[Christy Sloat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was everything I thought it wasnt. Let me explain! I had no idea I would fall in love with Avery O'dea's character at all! But I did. She is not like your normal superstar, or maybe she is and it's the side we do not get to see of their lives. This steamy short book is enough to get you interested in the lives of Avery and Dominic and then leaves you wanting more.
It's steamy and I mean steamy!
This is how erotic romance should be written!!

[Franjessca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full Review posted on Book Lovin' Mamas

I've read Elise Marion’s paranormal romance and historical romance books before and I love this contemporary romance she wrote. =) She is one fantastic writer who can write books that keep you hooked from beginning to end. She amazes me also with how fast she writes her books and pushes them out to publish. I’m so happy for her as well since she is being released through Bottom Drawer Publications with this book. Congrats, Elise!!! If you’re a contemporary romance addict, you’ll need to buy this book. I highly recommend it. (Oh and let me not forget that this book does have some steam to it.) =) Every book Elise Marion has written since last year, has been FANTASTIC!
I look forward to more books from her shortly. I received a complimentary copy of “The Secret Life of Avery O’Dea from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Carly Fall · Rating 5 out of 5]

When one of Audrey's secrets get exposed by a paparazzi, she realizes that she is tired of living the lie that has been so carefully constructed for her.

Dominic is a sexy photographer moonlighting as a paparazzo. When he exposes Audrey to the world, he isn't think much beyond a pay day. Except that Audrey quickly gets under his skin and he wants to know the true Audrey, not the facade that has been presented to the world.

This book is a fabulous read. Audrey and Dominic have great chemistry, and the author has shown us enough of Audrey so that we do feel sorry for her, despite her fame and fortune.

The characters are well-written, the plot is a fun trip through celebrity life, the romance is sweet and hot all at one time, and I highly, highly recommend this book if you are looking for an excellent light read.

This book was provided to me by the author for a fair and honest review

[Gaele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elise Marion has opened that world behind the scenes with The Secret Life of Avery O’Dea. With characters that come alive and demand that they are seen as more than their individual labels of celebrity and paparazzo when a chance encounter at a grocery store starts to unravel a carefully constructed façade.

While the characters come alive, the setting is easy to visualize, and the confusion and doubt that Avery experiences in her frustration with the situation the publicity team created for her is well-defined and explored. Conversations are very well created, and fit quite smoothly into the plot, with voices clearly defined for each character. Even Dom’s questionable ethical choices to keep the eviction notice from his doorstep are presented as causing him difficulties – a nice change to the generalization that paparazzi are unfeeling and uncaring about consequences to the subjects of their photos.

Elise writes with a breezy style that gently leads the reader from one thought to the next, providing obstacles without truly steering you to the direction you “should’ take. What appears to be a light-hearted read can be so much more as you start to identify with the characters and see the world they occupy in a different light. A fun, quick read that stays with you when you catch that next flash of headline from the Celebrity gossip item you see in the checkout line.

I received an eBook copy from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.

[M.B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

*review to come as part of blog tour*

6 Dec update

I read this novella in hours, not because it's short (29k is a decent length), but because I NEEDED to know what was going to happen. From the very beginning, I was captivated by the characters and their journey.

I've sad this before when reviewing romance stories, the story was a little predictable, but that didn't make it any less compelling to read. The chemistry between Avery and Dominic was fantastic. I wasn't drawn much to Ryan as he felt more like a supporting role (which he is kinda) and he wasn't as developed as the 2 mains.

Because it's not a "full length" novel, the pace is quite fast, but nothing in the story felt rushed.

I would definitely read more by Elise Marion.

See the full review and more over at my blog: http://michbookreviews.wordpress.com

[Peggy Martinez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this quick read. I fell in love with the characters and loved the flow of writing. This might very well be the perfect summer read. Avery is the type of girl, even though she's famous, that any woman can relate to & Dominic is swoon-worthy, and I found myself grinning like a fool over the both of them. Just a caution: Falling Watermelons. hehehe

This was my first book by Elise Marion and I'm very glad I had a chance to read it. This is one of those books and Authors that blows the "indie authors don't measure up to traditionally published authors" myth out of the water. I will definitely be reading more from her.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tantalizing and tempting. You can’t put this down. From the moment you start reading the Hollywood background draws you in to a much juicier and intense Nottinghill story.
Ms. Marion does a wonderful job of bringing her two main characters to live and describing them both in a way that makes them truly complimentary, where you are desperate for their happiness from page one. As you read through their troubles I found myself lost in the glamour and enjoying every minute of an afternoon dedicated to a great couple that is still with me.
REVIEW AB – 2/11/2013

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must look like I'm obsessed with Elise's books .however much I hate obvious romances I'm a sucker for them, I can't help but enjoy them and think 'one day Sam one day' !
I loved this book, as no one particularly wants to be something they're not and to have a good looking guy know this...(I always imagine their good looking ;) hehe) well Dominic seems just perfect for Avery!!
Thanks again Elise...yet another I couldn't put down!! What are you doing to me!

[Sapphyria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Saph's Review:

When Dominic, a down-on-his-luck photographer turns to taking pictures of today's biggest stars and selling them to the tabloids, he catches the break of a lifetime. He catches "America's Sweetheart" Avery O' Dea with something that blows her whole image to smithereens, netting him enough cash to completely upgrade his current lifestyle.

Avery knew she was skating on thin ice going to the local grocer and buying non-vegan food; she just figured she wouldn't get caught with the goods. Even when the hot Matthew McConaughey-lookalike starts taking pictures of her, instead of dropping the ice cream and fleeing, Avery jumps him, breaking his camera in the process. But the memory card was completely intact.

The media disaster caused by the revealing photo forces Avery and her live-in boyfriend, an actor named Ryan, to evaluate their lives and the secrets that they have been harboring the six years they've been together as a "couple." The lies they both have fed their fans, the media, and the general public were nothing more that popularity contests but now Avery and Ryan must face facts: It's time to confess, hope that they can survive the scandal, and move on with their lives.

During this time, Avery has another encounter with Dominic; this time at an art show featuring some of his work. These pieces are truly what Dom wants to do with his life; he doesn't want to stalk celebrities forever. They were just a means to survive, to make money when he had no other option. He wasn't planning on falling for Avery; it just happened.

The Secret Life of Avery O' Dea is a great glimpse into the life of celebrities and the paparazzi that love them. We get to see a close-up cause-effect of paparazzi chasing down and exposing popular stars and the, sometimes huge, effect it causes on the person mentally, physically, and emotionally. (Think Princess Diana). I'm glad the author explored this topic and, although fictional, showed her readers some of the behind-the-scenes situations that occur.

The exploration of Avery and who she was, became, is currently, and really wants be again is eye opening on so many levels. She basically lost complete sight of herself and suppressed her roots; where she came from and who she really is underneath the title Avery O' Dea. Dominic was just the person to do that. It's just too bad it took being outed by a photograph for both her and Ryan to come clean about their lives together.

I really enjoyed this short novella. There was depth in the story that can certainly be compared to how it actually is between stars and photographers. Everything about the novella was clear and understandable, making it not only a quick read but entertaining without having to sit back and analyze anything.

Without divulging too much, the only part I didn't like was Ryan's attitude during the exposure of their lie. He seemed focused on the fact that Avery blew it. Avery, however, pretty much tailored her lifestyle to Ryan's right down to the food she would or wouldn't eat. What a hard charade to have keep up to save appearances. Being public figures makes things doubly worse ~ so many more people scrutinizing your every move like predators ready to strike when the gettin' is good. This was a necessary aspect of the novella so instead of detracting from the story, it helped keep it strong ~ That doesn't mean I have to like it.

There are some steamy parts to the novella and they are incredibly hot and yet, very tasteful! A nice bit of erotic romance without going over the top.

I actually teared up near the end when Avery presented Dominic with a surprise.......Read the book ~ it is so worth it!

Review Copy Courtesy Of: The author, in exchange for an honest review.

[A.R. Von · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this story! I really felt the intense immediate chemistry that was flowing between the two main characters. The Secret Life of Avery O’Dea is a fun, sensual and very realistic read that will have you turning its pages until the very end. This is a book any romance reader will have fun with :)

Avery is a woman that many can relate to, even if they are not movie stars or famous in any way. She’s a tough as nails woman that does not take what she has for granted and has had it with the whole Hollywood scene and all of its falsehoods. She is tired of portraying someone she is not, especially since she is very proud of her roots, success and all around what makes her, her. Now she just has to find a way to get her life the way she wants, no needs it to be and soon!

Dominic is a very talented yet struggling artist. He loves to photograph and while he’s waiting for his big moment to come, he earns his living by taking photos of celebrities and selling them to magazines and such. He does not do it to be malicious, nor does he do it as a career. It just something to help make ends meet, for now. When he sees a perfect opportunity to get himself out of his current rut, he takes it (of course). But what happens from there is shocking, hilarious and very passionate. Dominic’s life is about to change for good.

You feel the intensity of these two characters right from when they first meet. There’s no denying it. They both have different lifestyles they live, but want to change, make it real to themselves. Together they make it happen (even without meaning to) and then some! A completely satisfying story that I’m very happy to have read!

[Deana-Coffee, Books, Life Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Secret Life of Avery O’Dea by Elise Marion

A fun and sexy read!!

Who knew that one picture could change your life.
Image was everything for Avery O’Dea, America’s favorite actress. She has the looks, the top Actor boyfriend, and speaks out on animal right. However when you’re famous and vegan even a trip to the store for food can be dangerous.
Up and coming photographer, Dominic Ramsey is down on his luck. Real jobs are few and far between, he’s trying to make the rent working as a paparazzo. Without much luck, I should add. On a crappy day, some luck comes his way, with a chance sighting of none other than the lovely Ms. O’Dea shopping at the grocery store. With a few clicks of his camera and her pushing him into a display of watermelons, this chance meeting changed both of them forever.
Ms. Marion created a wonderful story with inside look at what celebrity life could be. Dominic and Avery are well written and complement each other (even when they did not care for one another). The story is an easy read with wonderful dialog and a steamy beach moment that is not only hot, but my heart flutter just a bit. I loved seeing Avery be her true self around Dominic. The way the two interacted with one another from the beginning of the book, well you are just going to have to read it. A quick and light hearted read that is prefect for a summer day! I highly recommend this read.

4 stars!
I was given this eBook in return for an honest review!

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick Notes:
1. 3rd person, alternating POV
2. adult contemporary romance
3. novella (94pgs)

Basically, if you're looking for a short, one sitting, feel good read, then this is the one for you. There's barely any conflict or angst. And Avery's problem get resolved very quickly. It's insta-love as well. Even though it's a novella, I still felt like the characters were developed well. There wasn't a lot of character interactions in the first part of the novella, which annoyed me. And if you're wondering about the sexy-time scenes- they're pretty basic, nothing kinky, but they are descriptive. (I think there's 2 sex scenes).

[Renee Watson Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

For the fame and the lies attached to the fame Avery is longing for more and finds it in Dominic. The photographer that allowed her to realize her self is a great read for learning to get back to self.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[The TBR Pile *Book review site* · Rating 3 out of 5]

http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/1/post/2...

To the world it seems like Avery O´Dea has everything. A loved and famous movie star with the gorgeous boyfriend and the perfect life. Dominic is a photographer moonlighting as a paparazzo. When one of his pictures exposes that parts of Avery´s "perfect life" isn´t so
perfect, Audrey realizes that she doesn´t want to live a lie anymore. She realizes what she wants is Dominic, a man who actually seems interested in knowing her for who she really is.

This is a good, short and cute read. To me though this story feels like a synopsis for a book rather than a story.

[Natalija · Rating 4 out of 5]

Based on the blurb, I expected a lot of angst and high emotions in this book, which isn't really my thing, but what a got instead was a feel-good book with two genuinely likable characters. They are human and flawed, and undeniably right for each other. I'm not going to go into details because the others have done that already, but if you are anything like me, you'll definitely enjoy this "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade" kind of story. Recommended!

P.S. The only quibble I had with the book was Avery's eye colour. One moment it's honey-brown and the next it's dark blue denim.

[Tracy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cute super short cute read. Really thought extremely unrealistic the super fast time frame..

First time they meet she attacks him in a grocery store
Second time they meet the share deep passionate kiss in the hall of a very public art gallery
Third time photo shoot he recues her from paparazzi takes her to his home viola...fall in to the bed

[J.A. Kenney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting take on a modern celebrity life.

Avery is everybody's girl next door, but her life is a lie.

Meeting the man of her dreams brings her back to reality, and forces her to be who she really is.

Pretty little modern romantic fantasy!