When I Was Alice by Jennifer Murgia

Historical Mystery

320 Pages

CamCat Books

June 25, 2024

Wow! I read this book in one day!

21 year old Grace Brighton is beside herself with worry for her brother as he lies in a coma after a car accident. One night in desperation she climbs the famous Hollywood sign to make a wish for his recovery. Grace, though, loses her footing and falls, only to wake up in 1953 Hollywood. She stumbles upon a movie lot and everyone believes she’s Alice Montgomery, a rising star who disappeared just days earlier. Grace has no choice but to step into Alice’s shoes, but she soon learns that not everyone is happy to see her return and that something nefarious is going on the movie lot. 

Fans of historical mysteries mixed with time travel should scoop this up. I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the book as Grace unraveled a sinister side to the movie making business. I wasn’t sure who she should trust and there is a nail-biting scene towards the end. I don’t want to give any spoilers away, but just know that you will find stellar writing, an intricate and captivating plot and a main character to root for. It is just so well done. 5 glowing stars!