Title: Public Relations
Author: Katie Heaney
First published May 9, 2017
368 pages, Paperback
Rating: 3.66
Overview
Barbara Walters has been an icon in the world of television journalism for over four decades. Her memoir, Audition: A Memoir, is an inspiring and captivating story of her extraordinary life.
From interviewing world leaders, movie stars, criminals, murderers, and celebrities of all kinds, Barbara Walters has turned her gift for examination onto herself to reveal the forces that have shaped her into the most important woman in the history of television journalism. In her memoir, she shares her roller-coaster ride of a childhood, her struggles with relationships, and the financial responsibility she took on for her family.
Against great odds, Barbara made it to the top of a male-dominated industry, becoming the first woman cohost of the Today show, the first female network news coanchor, and the creator and cohost of The View. Her story is a testament to her drive, perseverance, and a decent amount of luck.
Audition is a heartfelt and honest memoir that delves into the private and public life of one of the most fascinating figures in television history.
About the Author
Meet Katie Heaney, a talented author who has written Public Relations, Dear Emma, and Never Have I Ever, and is set to release a new memoir, Would You Rather? (Penguin Random House, February 2018).
Her writing has been featured in various publications, including New York magazine online, Cosmopolitan, The Atlantic, Racked, and The Hairpin. Katie currently resides in Brooklyn.
Editoral Review
Katie Heaney’s “Public Relations” is a fun and charming novel that effortlessly captures the essence of contemporary New York City. With witty banter, relatable characters, and a strong sense of place, Heaney sends readers on a delightful romp through the worlds of public relations and media.
The story centers on our protagonist, twenty-something-year-old aspiring PR maven, Rose Reed. After a PR disaster for a Hollywood star client, Rose and her boss, the larger-than-life Archie, are tasked with repairing the client’s image by launching a fake romance with a famous actor.
However, when things don’t go as planned, Rose finds herself in the middle of a media storm, struggling to keep control of the narrative and her personal life. Through Rose’s journey, Heaney explores themes of identity, social media, gender, sexuality, and the power of PR, weaving them seamlessly into the plot.
Heaney’s writing style is engaging and witty, with clever dialogue that will have readers laughing out loud. The book also excels in its portrayal of New York City, from the trendy Brooklyn neighborhoods to the flashy Upper East Side.
Heaney’s vivid descriptions bring the city to life, and readers will feel as though they are strolling through the streets alongside Rose and her friends. One of the strengths of “Public Relations” is its character development.
Rose is a relatable and likable protagonist, with flaws and imperfections that make her feel real. Her relationships with her friends, family, and love interests are nuanced and well-developed, adding depth and emotion to the story.
While “Public Relations” is certainly an enjoyable read, it does have some weaknesses. The plot can feel predictable at times, and the secondary characters are not as fully fleshed out as Rose.
Additionally, some readers may find the romantic subplot a bit clich. Despite these flaws, “Public Relations” is a delightful novel that will appeal to fans of contemporary fiction, romantic comedies, and those interested in the world of public relations and media.
It is a timely and relevant story that explores the power of image and the importance of authenticity in a social media-driven world. Overall, I highly recommend “Public Relations” for anyone looking for a light and entertaining read.
It is a charming and well-crafted novel that will leave readers feeling fulfilled and satisfied. I give it a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.
