Olivia Bloom has just graduated from college and has moved to Hollywood to pursue her dream of working in the fashion industry. She lands her dream job of working for a lingerie company, but quickly her career aspirations are pushed to the background as her social life explodes when she begins dating mega-rock star, Berkley Dalton. Olivia is immediately thrust into the limelight as the mysterious figure showing up on a celebrity's arm to high profile events. She quickly learns that dating a celebrity can be both exciting and tumultuous.

Katie Delahanty's debut novel, In Bloom, reminded me of The Princess Diaries or Pretty Woman. It features a strong, likable female lead who is suddenly thrown into a world that is lavish and exciting, so different from her normal life. The fun of In Bloom is following Olivia as she attends amazing parties, social galas and is treated to amazing dates. It's a glimpse into a rich life that so few get to experience. It often feels like an episode of The Bachelor and really, who wouldn't want to go on an amazing date?

Olivia is a ordinary woman who manages to catch the attention of a dream guy. The story is very much a fairytale. I can't imagine a female reader not falling in love with Berkley Dalton. He's utterly charming and romantic.

The story is filled with Hollywood scandal and tricks of a sneaky publicist, which made me think that Delahanty must have had some real life insight with regards to the entertainment industry. Either way, I loved the cattiness of the story and the trouble that it gave to our heroine, Olivia.

I always enjoy stories set in my hometown and In Bloom is filled with familiar locals and businesses. I read the story while on vacation in Europe and it made me homesick! I got a big kick out the mention of singer/actress, Samantha Shelton, who is a friend of mine from High School.

In Bloom is the perfect summer beach read. Delahanty writes a fast-paced page-turner and I look forward to reading her next novel.