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Text from GR review:

I received an early copy of TEMPER via #netgalley, and proceeded to tear through it in under 24 hours (much of which was spent at rehearsal: an ideal location for reading this book). What an absolutely riveting debut! Layne Fargo immerses readers in the incestuous and tightly-wound world of the Chicago theatre scene, introducing us to a cast of utterly authentic (and utterly twisted) characters. In most books with dual POV, one narrator feels less central than the other, or at least less interesting--but in TEMPER, both Kira and Joanna are equally compelling, and their stories are inseparable. The plot unfolds at a brisk tempo, but doesn't lose its restraint until the narrative demands it, and the manipulation intertwining among every significant character leaves questions of motive and loyalty hanging until the final moments.


In addition to its tight pacing and well-drawn universe, TEMPER examines the psychological and sexual power dynamics of the performing arts world in a way that is both timely and timeless. This novel is neither preachy nor heavy-handed--it's a thriller above all else--but its thematic content is integral to the plot and exposes the complexity of an industry built on star-power and egos. TEMPER is dark, subversive, scorching, and feminist. I can't wait to read more of Layne Fargo's work!

“What she’s describing sounds exactly like something Mal would do. Fuck the venue, fuck the audience, fuck what’s appropriate - all that matters to him is making the best, boldest, most authentic choices. No wonder he’s so certain about her.”

This IS A CAN’T PUT DOWN, READ IN ONE SITTING, HOLY >%*$ SO GOOD read. It’s a snow day, stay in bed, do nothing else until you plow through it read. SERIOUSLY! There’s nothing like a book that just grabs you from the first page, and it’s extra special when it’s not something you identify with (I have no drama/theater background, and that didn’t stop me at all from loving it!).

On that note! This is a story told from two perspectives - Kira and Joanna - set in the theater world. Kira’s hired to star in a production opposite Joanna’s business partner, Malcom. Malcom has a reputation for being a genius... but also dark, cruel, and manipulative.

I LOVED the pacing, language, and imagery in this story. It’s well done in a way that makes you want to read slowly and savor it, but it’s got the plot of a book you have to rush through because of the plot. SO SO SO GOOD. Add it to you to be read list now!

just finished Temper by Layne Fargo and HOLY CRAP one of my fav books of the last six months. It’s what other dark, twisted, character-driven books aspire to. One actress, one actor, one play, so many ugly backstories and events happening just “offstage” that your head starts to spin with what’s real and what isn’t. The play within the book is a great mirror for the story itself, but it manages not to hit you over the head with unsubtle echoing.The would-be protagonist might be your least favorite person in the story, but that’s exactly right for what this is. It’s dirty and gritty and so, so entertaining. Highly recommend, especially if you liked The Luckiest Girl Alive or Black Swan. #Temper @laynefargo @netgalley #arc #bookstagram #bookreview #book #reading

This was WICKED and sexy and so so so good. I was consumed by Kira, Joanna and Max and their dynamic. Just when I thought the book was going in one direction, it took an unexpected turn and I became addicted and obsessed with finishing this book in one sitting. That ending had me SHOOK. Even though we're only 2 weeks into the new year, this will definitely be on the top of my favorites list for 2019.

Holy worth the wait! I was as consumed by this book as the characters themselves are consumed by the play. There is this constant power struggle between the characters, but also within the reader to try to unfurl this twisted web that is beautifully woven by Fargo’s fiery writing style and attitude. It’s intense, it’s hot, it’s amazing. Really so happy to not have to wait until July to read this book! NetGalley graciously provided an ARC that was flawless and should go straight to press right now. The comparison to Black Swan here is a good one, but not a complete replica by any means. It’s just so powerful that you’re left wondering who had the control over whom throughout this thrilling ride with a pulse-pounding ending!

Where to begin? Malcolm and Joanna co-own a theater company in Chicago. The play, "Temper", has been chosen for the next event for their theater. Although not a front-runner for the female lead - Malcolm chooses Kira for the leading part - opposite himself. Malcolm and Joanna have a long history as do Kira and Spence. Spence works as a "fight coordinator" for Temper, also.

The story is told from various perspectives. Very impressive character writing is evident in this suspenseful, if not a bit twisted, tale of interactions among people. (Particularly those who crave the theater). All four of the main characters (and most of the incidental ones, as well) have personal flaws and hurt that obviously still both haunt and sting them.

You will not be able to put the book down. The need to know the powerful events that center around all of the characters is quite strong (and definitely worth the read) !

A MUST READ and a winner for Lynne Fargo!

Many thanks to Simon & Schuster - Scout Press and NetGalley for an impressive read!

Temper is the perfect example of being the frog in the boiling water. You're reading it, and it feels like nothing much is happening, you're just chilling in this land of fantastic writing and Chicago theater, and then you realize, wait, VERY MUCH is happening, and oh wow, did she really just do that, did HE really just do that, and WHAT is GOING ON WAIT -- and then when you realize what you're in for, it's over, and you're left with the thought: They really Did That.

In other words, this book is a rollercoaster of the best kind. From the very first chapter, I was pulled right into Kira and Joanna's worlds. These two characters are so distinct, and so different. On closer inspection, they are similar in deeper ways, but they each go about getting what they want in different ways. I somehow expected the two of them to become friends, or at least allies, from reading the blurb. But I quickly realized that would not be possible -- and I LOVED that. No petty woman-hating drama here, just two women who so fiercely reach for what they want.

The way Layne Fargo weaves in events of the past into the narration of the present is so seamless and natural. We learn lots about Joanna's and Kira's pasts, but it never feels like infodumping or excessive flashbacks. And I loved the slow reveals of the things that made these two women become the way they are.

Malcolm is also a perfect villain. I don't want to say too much about him or what he does, because the experience of reading it does more to show how terrible he is than I could ever do by explaining.

All in all, reading Temper was an experience I'm so grateful I got to have. This book releases in July and I can't recommend it enough if you like female characters with agency and dark books that catch you by surprise. I also recommend it for anyone whose heart belongs to Chicago (like mine). There are so many lovely nuggets in here that made me homesick for my city.

I do want to share a TRIGGER WARNING for emotional and physical abuse. Particularly if you've suffered this kind of abuse, I recommend keeping in contact with someone you trust while you read this book. Just in case.

I absolutely adored this book. Would have read it in one sitting if I had the luxury, so make no mistake—it’s a page turning delight! Told from the alternating perspectives of an actress and the executive director of a theater company, the narrative deftly jumps back and forth both to compel the reader forward and to fascinate with the contrast between these two points of view. Incredibly sexy and steamy, this book is also laugh-out-loud funny. And in many ways, it’s heartbreaking. This is more than just a twisty, dramatic, psychological thriller sort of book, although as a psychological thriller I think it’s excellent. It’s a deep exploration of toxic relationships and holds nothing back as it spirals toward a conclusion that somehow manages to feel both surprising and inevitable.

A bloody, sexy high drama -- extremely dark and so much fun to read. Love how the characters cross and come into conflict.