Get swept away to the French Riviera in this novel that Kirkus Reviews calls “a heartfelt debut” about becoming the main character in your own life…
“An uplifting new novel about following your dreams” available now from Park Row Books x HarperCollins
Because life is too short to play a supporting role…
Poppy Banks is a self-doubting novelist with horrible writer’s block who has to write a book in order to inherit her aunt’s villa on the French Riviera.
When the writing countdown begins, Poppy realizes she has more to confront than her writer’s block. Family drama, complicated romances and self-doubt all threaten to throw her off course.
In this fun and heartwarming debut, Poppy must decide if she can live up to her aunt’s—and her own—desire to be the main character in her own life.
Editorial Reviews of MCE
“Sparkling fiction debut… Varon crafts fully realized protagonists whose authorial ambitions and frustrations will resonate with bookish readers. The plot takes many satisfying turns, and the beautiful French backdrop will appeal to armchair travelers. Varon has a promising career in fiction in front of her.” —Publishers Weekly
“The risks of making a fresh start permeate Main Character Energy, a smartly crafted and spunky romantic comedy, and the first novel by Jamie Varon. Varon delivers an immensely fun travel adventure. This well-plotted, lively rom-com is populated by a large cast of diverse, colorful characters, beguiling romance, and lots of pleasant surprises.” —Shelf Awareness
“Varon’s debut features a likable, plus-size heroine capable of achieving her dreams—if she can find the confidence. The romantic subplot is enjoyable, and the descriptions of the Riviera are stunning, but the focus is on Poppy’s journey towards self-acceptance. This uplifting novel is ideal for fans of Beth Morrey and Kate Clayborn.” —Booklist
“[Varon] deftly captures how it feels to be of a certain age without possessing the life one had hoped for, and descriptions of the sun-soaked French Riviera are rich and vivid. A heartfelt debut.” —Kirkus Reviews
“Main Character Energy absolutely dazzled me from the opening scene until the very last page. Poppy Banks is an immensely relatable and likable heroine on a journey of self-discovery with the potential to achieve her dreams and live her very best life in the French Riviera. Needless to say, I was hooked! I read this wonderful novel compulsively and with great joy. Highly recommend!” —Jenn McKinlay, New York Times bestselling author of Summer Reading
“Main Character Energy embraces the best and worst parts of writing with candor and heart. Poppy is bright and complicated and utterly enchanting in Jamie Varon’s debut.” —Ashley Poston, New York Times bestselling author of The Dead Romantics
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