Book Review: Geekerella

Geek girl Elle Wittimer lives and breathes Starfield, the classic science-fiction series she grew up watching with her late father. So when she sees a cosplay contest for a new Starfield movie, she has to enter. The prize? An invitation to the ExcelsiCon Cosplay Ball and a meet-and-greet with the actor slated to play Federation Prince Carmindor in the reboot. With savings from her gig at the Magic Pumpkin food truck and her dad’s old costume, Elle’s determined to win – unless her stepsisters get there first.

Teen actor Darien Freeman used to live for cons – before he was famous. Now they’re nothing but autographs and awkward meet-and-greets. Playing Carmindor is all he has ever wanted, but Starfield fandom has written him off as just another dumb heartthrob. As ExcelsiCon draws near, Darien feels more and more like a fake – until he meets a girl who shows him otherwise. But when she disappears at midnight, will he ever be able to find her again?

Part-romance, part-love letter to nerd culture, and all totally adorbs, Geekerella is a fairy tale for anyone who believes in the magic of fandom.

Read (finished): April 20, 2019

Rating: ⭐ 5/5 stars

“Look to the stars. Aim. Ignite.” – Federation Prince Carmindor

Is it possible to join a made-up fandom? Because I am ready to completely devote myself to Starfield.

Cinderella retellings are my favorite (I stopped counting how many A Cinderella Story movie marathons I’ve had), but this one is different from the others. Geekerella is the perfect mix of nerd culture and fairy tale romance. Elle has loved the sci-fi series Starfield for as long as she can remember. She even has a blog dedicated to it. Living with her horrible stepmother and stepsisters, Starfield is also the one thing that makes her feel connected to her dad.

One day, Elle finds herself texting with a stranger, who turns out to be the one and only Darien Freeman. Darien, the male lead in the upcoming Starfield reboot, is a secret fan of the beloved sci-fi series. As a rising star, Darien struggles with hiding his true self from his fans in order to protect his image. Elle is the only one he can truly feel like himself with – even if it is over text.

Now, here comes something more squeal-worthy. Elle hates the actor Darien Freeman, and Darien hates the blogger (Elle) who is quick to assume he is just another heartthrob looking for money. Completely unaware of the other’s identity, the two begin to grow feelings for one another.

A story of romance and being true to yourself (geeks and nerds unite!), Ashley Poston’s Geekerella has easily become one of my favorite YA contemporaries.

Until next time, happy reading! ♡