Channeling Marilyn by Mima Tipper
Publisher: She Writes Press
Publishing: June 2nd, 2026
Format Read: Paperback ARC
Number of pages: 320 pages
Source: Books Forward
Opening Lines: "A flash of color dazzles me, catches me, like spotting a scarlet bird across a vast wintry landscape."
High school senior Lexa Donovan signs up for the school play on a whim, only to discover she's been cast as Cherie, the glamourous, sexy showgirl made famous by Marilyn Monroe in Bus Stop. It's a role she feels wildly unqualified for. At first, Lexa considers dropping out. Wouldn't it be better to quit rather than embarrass herself on the stage? But then, out of nowhere, she begins hearing the voice of Marilyn Monroe in her head. Soon Marilyn even appears, offering to be her personal acting coach. How can Lexa possibly walk away from that? As rehearsals begin, Lexa juggles her growing crush on Brian, along with the sharp glare of his jealous girlfriend, and an unexpected spark with Jeremy Leith. All the while, she battles with stage fright and works to transform herself into a leading lady worthy of the spotlight.
From the author of Kat's Greek Summer comes a super cute YA coming-of-age fantasy with a delightful paranormal twist. This was such a fun read full of humor, the nervous excitement of trying something new, and wonderfully relatable characters.
The story opens with someone waking from a dream, suddenly seeing brilliant colors where there had only been black and white. Slowly, Lexa comes into focus, a tall solid girl who feels stuck in what she sees as a dull, predictable life. I appreciated that although she's introduced as plus -size, that isn't the focus of the story. Instead, it centers on her fears, her self-doubt, and her complicated feelings for the two boys she's drawn to. Her insecurities feel very real and very common.
Mima Tipper shows Lexa's sensitive side and how she doesn't truly understand her own potential until she pushes herself. The story reinforces the idea that we shouldn't compare ourselves to others. We just need to try and do our best.
And Marilyn, the ghost acting coach is absolutely adorable. Her sweet southern-style endearments of "honey", "sweetie" and "sugar a girl has to have a few secrets" add so much charm. One of my favorite touches is when Marilyn is perched in the casting chair, munching popcorn as if she's directing Lexa's blockbuster from the afterlife. It's such an ingenious and charming visual that really captures Marilyn's playful confidence. She really encourages Lexa to take risks and to step out of her comfort zone, and those moments are some of the most delightful in the book. Read this if you're looking for a light romance, enjoy stories set in the theater world, are a Marilyn Monroe fan, or want a fun paranormal read. That this is releasing near Marilyn's 100th Birthday on June 1st feels like perfect timing!
** A huge thank you to Books Forward for the paperback ARC in exchange for an honest review**
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