This is a pretty solid romance, something usual in this author, and with all the ingredients. The two MCs are alluring and very likable and also mature and professional, each in their own way, even Carly that at first seems to be a bit crazy and lost in the maelstrom of the star system, but this quickly changes for the better. Because from the moment Lauren and Carly meet, they feel attraction and desire and none of them do much to not follow that pull.

They are in two very different parts of the show business. Lauren wanted to be an actress but did not get it and settled for being a stage manager in a Minneapolis theater that has some good reputation despite not being in a prominent place within that industry. Carly has been famous and still lives on those embers, although lately the paparazzy and her own behavior have left an image of her as unprofessional and problematic. And work proposals for her are void. Until an offer arrives for her to star in a play.

For Carly it seems that the thing is not going to work, she does not know how to act in a theater and her behavior initially is that of a spoiled star. But Lauren is persistent and for the sake of making the play perfect, she motivates Carly and in turn discovers that the spoiled star is actually a woman a little scared and lost. And along the way, Lauren finds herself again with strength to pursue her dream of being an actress.

The drama is predictable and this time there were several ways in which it could happen. And to my liking, the way chosen by the author has been quite adequate and above all tender, sweet, romantic, sentimental, touching.

So I can only say that I liked this story, I loved it and I recommend it.

To the Moon and Back reminds us of a favorite childhood story, but this version couldn’t be more complex or decidedly more meandering to a happily ever after for Lauren and Carly. There are so many obstacles for them to overcome and each obstacle is thoughtfully written and intertwined with the progression of their love affair. Moreover, Lauren and Carly must grow and overcome their own demons and flaws before their relationship can work. Rarely do see an author give this much thought and overall respect to the growth of a love affair, but Melissa Brayden never ceases to amaze or surprise us with her unique perspectives. I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars rounded up.

Had I not seen the name Melissa Brayden, I quite likely would've overlooked this book. Neither the cover or title strict me as a Brayden book, moving on...

Moving on, this story is told in my favorite style of narration, third person point-of-view and from both heroines perspectives. Yay!!

The insight into theatre life was interesting, yet not entirely compelling as contradictory as that sounds.

As always when picking up a story by this author, you can expect to find well fleshed-out characters, by the end of the book you feel like you know them personally. I could easily be friends with either or both, but I never felt myself rooting for them as a couple and I can't put my finger on why.

Around the 83% mark I found myself muttering, "please don't do it...no, please don't, don't follow that formula. Then it happened. The drama-llama reared its ugly head. I don't mind a bit of angst, but when it goes on for weeks, I tire of it.

I guess there are tropes for a reason, readers love them, so maybe I'm being a little unfair. But seriously, does every lesbian have to break up before they can get their act together? (no pun intended)

I've read many books by Melissa Brayden and I'll continue to do so. Check this one out for yourself.

Oh how I love Melissa Brayden! I’ve read all of her books and I am so in awe that every new book she writes is just as good, if not better, than the last. She is a rock star author in my book. That being said, I found this book to be great. Lauren, wanted to be an actress but at the time it wasn’t in the cards so she worked her way up and became a stage manager at a prestigious company. She’s meticulous, detail oriented, focused, and motivated. Then in walks Carly, a spoiled starlet with zero time management skills. Fortunately the two find a common ground working together and eventually began a relationship. When Lauren was enlisted to take over acting in the play, things got interesting. And as her star began to rise, Carly whose star had fallen didn’t know how to handle it. I rooted for these two because it was obvious they were meant to be. I loved their witty dialogue and steamy connection. I honestly loved everything about this book. Melissa Brayden has written another hit!!