'L.A. Candy' book review

"L.A. Candy" is the first of a three-book installment written by reality TV star and fashion designer Lauren Conrad. The novel, which has appeared consistently on the New York Times best-seller list since its June 2009 release, is quickly becoming a fan favorite.

Conrad began her reality TV career on MTV's "Laguna Beach" in 2004 and later starred in her own show, "The Hills," which premiered in 2007. "The Hills" followed Conrad as she moved to Los Angeles to begin a prestigious and high-profile internship.

And since that is basically what Conrad's book is about, give or take a few "creative" differences, fans of the show should love "L.A. Candy."

"L.A. Candy" is the story of Jane Roberts, a sweet and innocent 19-year-old beauty who is moving to L.A. with her "gorgeous brainiac" best friend, Scarlett.

After only a few nights in Los Angeles, "PopTV" producer, Trevor Lord, discovers the two in one of the city's most popular nightclubs. Immediately, the producer realizes the two girls would be perfect for his new reality show, "L.A. Candy."

And just like that, Jane and Scarlett's lives change forever. No more waiting in lines at clubs, no more shabby apartments and no more privacy.

On the first night, the two girls are miked up and set to film; Jane and Scarlett meet their costars at yet another nightclub. Completing the cast of Lord's new reality show is Madison, who is described as the "spoiled, rich heiress" and Gaby, the "loveable ditz."

Of course there are problems along the way, including demanding bosses, boy troubles and backstabbing friends.

However, these mundane and predictable conflicts make this book extremely forgettable. It is evident that this book will not make money based solely on its literary content. The name "Lauren Conrad" plastered across the cover is the largest selling feature this book has to offer.

The characters, with the exception of Jane, are unfortunately flat and do not leave a lasting impression. Despite being one of the main characters of the book, readers are left knowing only a few details about Scarlett. She's sarcastic, smart and "exotic, but not too exotic" and that's about it.

However, fans of Conrad's reality career may excuse her downfalls as an author because "L.A. Candy" does provide readers with a behind-the-scenes look of the production of a reality TV show. Readers also might delight in deciphering who is who, as all the characters in "L.A. Candy" have been presumably inspired by the real cast of "The Hills."

Despite its downfalls, "L.A. Candy" is a relaxing, easy read. It will probably not leave readers on the edge of their seats nor hungry for more, but at least it is mildly entertaining.

This writer can be contacted at features@theeastcarolinian.com.