Oh, we are lit within: MARLOWE BANKS, REDESIGNED.

Marlowe Banks, Redesigned by Jacqueline Firkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was in the mood for a cute romance between a "normal" person and a famous actor, and Marlowe Banks, Redesigned absolutely delivered.

Marlowe relocates across the country to take a job as a costume production assistant, fleeing the sting of bad reviews that tanked a show she worked on in NYC. Instead of designing, she’s stuck running errands and sorting receipts for her demanding boss, Babs. But when she unexpectedly steps in as a background actor, she shares a smoldering look with Angus Gordon, one of the show's leads—and the moment goes viral. Suddenly, Marlowe finds herself not just on-screen but also entangled in Angus' world.

Dating a celebrity (or appearing on a hit show) isn’t exactly ideal for someone with a deep fear of failure and public scrutiny. And Angus has his own struggles, too. If these two want a real shot, they’ll have to navigate their insecurities together.

This is a slow burn—Marlowe takes forever to realize Angus might actually like her—but it works. Their dynamic is sweet, funny, and refreshingly built on friendship rather than the typical insta-love found in Hollywood romances.

The behind-the-scenes TV set moments are a delight, and the supporting cast shines—especially Cherry, Marlowe’s hilarious and empowering best friend (yes, she’s the classic queer bestie, but she’s fantastic), and Babs, who may be a bit of a tyrant but plays the role of grumpy boss to perfection.

Beyond the romance, the book also offers thoughtful commentary on celebrity culture and the unrealistic images the media projects. Marlowe’s past relationships add emotional depth, highlighting themes of self-worth and breaking free from harmful conditioning.

Watching Marlowe and Angus come into their own—and into each other’s arms—is a truly satisfying journey. They’re an adorable couple, and their love story is one worth rooting for. 3.5 stars, rounded up.

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