Have you ever daydreamed of being famous or just someone else? Sometimes living a lie is better than no life at all.  They say, the pasture is always greener on the other side, but is it? 
 

August 1996

Two young girls from very different backgrounds will become the best of friends in college.  Robin Mulcahey is from a well-to-do family; her main inspirations are boys and booze.   Her roommate, Amy Shiley, is studying to be an archeologist.  Amy has no idea about boys and does not drink.  She thinks Robin’s outgoing personality is that shining star. Even with all their differences, these two are inseparable.  Robin will go on to be a famous soap opera star in New York and Amy will go on to live her fairy tale of sorts.

Oh, almost forgot to tell you, the real twist in this story is Robin Mulcahey died on January 19, 1998. 

Understudy is by the critically acclaimed author Carole Bellacera.  Ms. Bellacera has just found a new fan with this reader!  What a totally enthralling book.  From the moment this story begins, until the very last page, you will become entrenched in this book.  The characters are people that you become emotional connected to.  The premise is so fresh; it gave this jaded reader thrilling tingles.  This is one outstandingly written tale that this reader will not soon forget, and neither will you! 

Robin and Amy could not be more opposite in personalities, and yet, it this polarity that attracts them to each other.  Binding them with a close, loving friendship.  Robin is the wild outgoing party girl.  Drinking, boys, and very little studying are her calling card.  Everything has always been handed to her. 

Then there is Amy, who comes from a dysfunctional family life.  Her mother is an alcoholic, living in a rest home.  Amy has had to work hard to get everything she has acquired.   She takes her studies seriously and is not into the party seen.  Robin’s parents take Amy under their wing and treat her like their own daughter; for once Amy feels like she has a real, normal family.

Understudy by Carole Bellacera, is what quality writing is all about, and it does not get any better than this book.  This novel is a 5-hearts plus!   If this review could have given it a 10, she would have.  Understudy is the best of the best in fictional romance!  Do not hesitate to get your hands on a copy today! 

 

Reviewed by Janalee
January 2006

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