"We Play Ourselves" is dark and funny and queer and I loved it. Cass is a wry and witty narrator, who is lured in by these cunning, too-good-to-be-true cultural wunderkinds, only to be repulsed by their dishonesty. It felt like a cutting indictment of what's regarded as "talent" and oh so very real. Entertainment, whether on-stage or on-screen, is SUCH a subjective, unmeritocratic pursuit, I think anyone who's struggled with the arbitrary nature of success in a creative industry will enjoy this book as much as I did.

I especially loved Cass's relationship with her agent's oversharing assistant.

After a scandal forces her from NY, a young playwright moves to LA and joins a strange film project with a neighbor.

Not knowing much about the NY theater culture, it was interesting to read about what it's like for playwrights and how especially difficult it can be for young people trying to make it in the business. It seems similar to the art world and how the road to success opens up with the approval of the same few people instead of any fair system.

I enjoyed the introspection and Cass's ideas about the world around her a bit more than the plot itself. I was confused as to why she kept going with Caroline's plans over and over again even though she was doubtful and hesitant. Caroline, on the other hand, definitely didn't seem charismatic enough to warrant such a following.

I think this novel will work better for people a bit older than younger, because of the portrayal of those young girls. I have no doubt there are young women in LA who resemble those characters but looking at the younger generation now, they are so much more than that. It seems to be poking fun at them more than trying to understand them at all.

Thank you to Netgalley/Random House for the ARC!

The story was so well written with a dry and dark humor skillfully embedded throughout. It addresses the heavy reality that success is relative and a never ending quest. On that quest, one must deal with, and come to terms with, the emotional backlash of their own actions.

I typically read books where I don’t have to think. This was not that book, but in the best way possible. It was outside of my comfort zone but such a pleasant surprise. So incredibly funny and thoughtful.

i looove the mystery and atmosphere of this book. the main character is witty and i enjoyed the overall experience of reading this

This queer feminist novel was just alright. I'm not jumping up and down over this book but I was able to finish it. Somewhere I believe this could be someones favorite book. It's just not mine.