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Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely?
In 1969 twenty-three-year-old starlet Lori Lovely, the apple of Hollywood’s eye, shocks the world by ditching a promising film career to take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience as a Benedictine nun. Gossip columnists and scandal sheets can’t get enough of the story. Why would a successful starlet take the veil? Was she hiding from someone? Did it have anything to do with the tragic death of her costar, heartthrob singer Lucas Wesley?
In 1990 Lu Tibbott is under the gun to complete her senior thesis in modern American history. Instead of spending weeks in dusty archives, Lu decides to dig into a true twentieth-century mystery and write about her aunt Lori, now the Mother Abbess at a cloistered convent in rural New England. Biographers, bloggers, and media types have long speculated about her aunt’s sudden departure from Hollywood. Mother Lori, however, has refused all requests for interviews—until Lu arrives at the abbey with a tape recorder in hand. To her delight, Mother Lori announces she’s finally ready to talk...but only if Lu is truly ready to listen.
In 1990 Lu Tibbott is under the gun to complete her senior thesis in modern American history. Instead of spending weeks in dusty archives, Lu decides to dig into a true twentieth-century mystery and write about her aunt Lori, now the Mother Abbess at a cloistered convent in rural New England. Biographers, bloggers, and media types have long speculated about her aunt’s sudden departure from Hollywood. Mother Lori, however, has refused all requests for interviews—until Lu arrives at the abbey with a tape recorder in hand. To her delight, Mother Lori announces she’s finally ready to talk...but only if Lu is truly ready to listen.
336 pages, Hardcover
Published September 2, 2025
51 people are currently reading
8895 people want to read
About the author
Sarah McCoy
14 books1,257 followersSARAH McCOY is the New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling author of eight books. Her work has been featured in Newsweek, Lit Hub, Huffington Post, Read It Forward, and other publications. She hosted the NPR WSNC Radio program “Bookmarked with Sarah McCoy” and is the founder of The McCoy Grant. Sarah taught English writing at Old Dominion University and at the University of Texas at El Paso. She lives with her husband Doc B, dog Gilly, and cat Tutu in North Carolina.
Connect with Sarah on Instagram at @SarahMMcCoy, on her Facebook Fan Page, Goodreads, or via www.sarahmccoy.com.
Connect with Sarah on Instagram at @SarahMMcCoy, on her Facebook Fan Page, Goodreads, or via www.sarahmccoy.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 1, 2025
ARC for review. To be published September 2, 2025.
3 stars
In 1969, 23 year old starlet Lori Lovely (what a terrible stage name. I winced when she and whomever came up with it.) gave Hollywood a big shock when she swore off its glitz and glamour to take her vows as a Benedictine nun. Why would an up and coming actress who had already had one role for the ages do such a thing? Was she on the run? Unlucky in love?
In 1990, Lu Tibbott is being forced to complete her college senior thesis in modern American history and decides to write about her Aunt Lori, now the Mother Abbess at a cloistered convert in rural Connecticut. Lori has always refused interviews but she can’t say no to her niece and she’s finally ready to reveal all.
Obviously this book is heavily based on the life of Delores Hart, to whom it is dedicated and in reading the afterward the reader learns that the author had a lengthy, multi-year correspondence with Hart and became very close to her, so my guess is that if you want the story in a fictionalized form, this is the book to read (however, I THINK Hart either wrote or collaborated on a non-fiction book, so, you know, if you want truth…). In addition, parts of this book also draw from the real life experiences of actress Olivia Hussey, who starred in “Romeo and Juliet.”
Also, if this book interests you, let me toot the horn of….myself and suggest that you not read any other synopsis of this book, maybe including the one here on GR and possibly on the back of the book, because the one that accompanied the ARC gave away a major spoiler that I would just as soon not have known, and there was absolutely no reason to disclose it. So, you are to read nothing about this book in advance other than my non-spoilering review! Just like your mama told you, keep yourself pure!
The book itself was fine. Someone in the middle of it called it something like “wholesome” and that’s a pretty good description. This description pre-dates me, but it is what I image the Mickey Rooney/Judy Garland movies were like. Good ol’ family entertainment, then no one ever has sex! Yay! No, really, I liked it fine.
3 stars
In 1969, 23 year old starlet Lori Lovely (what a terrible stage name. I winced when she and whomever came up with it.) gave Hollywood a big shock when she swore off its glitz and glamour to take her vows as a Benedictine nun. Why would an up and coming actress who had already had one role for the ages do such a thing? Was she on the run? Unlucky in love?
In 1990, Lu Tibbott is being forced to complete her college senior thesis in modern American history and decides to write about her Aunt Lori, now the Mother Abbess at a cloistered convert in rural Connecticut. Lori has always refused interviews but she can’t say no to her niece and she’s finally ready to reveal all.
Obviously this book is heavily based on the life of Delores Hart, to whom it is dedicated and in reading the afterward the reader learns that the author had a lengthy, multi-year correspondence with Hart and became very close to her, so my guess is that if you want the story in a fictionalized form, this is the book to read (however, I THINK Hart either wrote or collaborated on a non-fiction book, so, you know, if you want truth…). In addition, parts of this book also draw from the real life experiences of actress Olivia Hussey, who starred in “Romeo and Juliet.”
Also, if this book interests you, let me toot the horn of….myself and suggest that you not read any other synopsis of this book, maybe including the one here on GR and possibly on the back of the book, because the one that accompanied the ARC gave away a major spoiler that I would just as soon not have known, and there was absolutely no reason to disclose it. So, you are to read nothing about this book in advance other than my non-spoilering review! Just like your mama told you, keep yourself pure!
The book itself was fine. Someone in the middle of it called it something like “wholesome” and that’s a pretty good description. This description pre-dates me, but it is what I image the Mickey Rooney/Judy Garland movies were like. Good ol’ family entertainment, then no one ever has sex! Yay! No, really, I liked it fine.
April 2, 2025
DNF
I did not finish this, though it was fine. Just...fine.
Gorgeous cover and I enjoyed the vintage vibes. But nothing much really happened. I kept waiting for the tumultuous and shocking things promised in the description and I eventually gave up waiting.
It's a nice and wholesome fictional biography and Lori really was Lovely and that was about it.
May revisit in the future, but it's not for my present mood.
*ARC via Publisher
I did not finish this, though it was fine. Just...fine.
Gorgeous cover and I enjoyed the vintage vibes. But nothing much really happened. I kept waiting for the tumultuous and shocking things promised in the description and I eventually gave up waiting.
It's a nice and wholesome fictional biography and Lori really was Lovely and that was about it.
May revisit in the future, but it's not for my present mood.
*ARC via Publisher
July 29, 2025
I loved this novel. Lori Lovely has had a fascinating life. This one made me laugh, cry and wonder what her life was like. I loved the mention of Longaberger Baskets & Pottery as I sold these products for 10 years.
Fame, fortune and all that goes with it can be a lot to handle for anyone. Can Lori find the peace she has been wanting after a tragedy? Filled with wonder, tragedy and family dynamics that make this one a MUST read! Thank you Sarah for sharing your book with Beyond the Pages. I have pre-ordered my copy.
Fame, fortune and all that goes with it can be a lot to handle for anyone. Can Lori find the peace she has been wanting after a tragedy? Filled with wonder, tragedy and family dynamics that make this one a MUST read! Thank you Sarah for sharing your book with Beyond the Pages. I have pre-ordered my copy.
August 16, 2025
I liked this a lot! This is based on a true story and I dig it. I was a little worried it would be really religious but it’s definitely not.
Currently reading
September 5, 2025Just Starting this, but find it such an interesting idea. Lori was a well known Starlet and left to become a Nun. Now years later, she agrees to tell her story.
🧡🩵🧡🩵
🧡🩵🧡🩵
April 1, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced ARC!
A beautifully tragic story that completely pulled me in—I ate this book up. Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely? gave me loose Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo vibes, with its emotional depth, layered storytelling, and a touch of old Hollywood glamor-meets-tragedy.
The dual timeline—bouncing between past and present—was handled so well. It never felt confusing or forced, and it added to the suspense in the best way. I will say, I wasn’t a fan of how the “tape recording” sections were styled; they pulled me out of the story just a bit. But honestly, it didn’t take away from how much I loved the book overall.
I suspected the ending early on but kept second-guessing myself the entire time, which made the payoff even more satisfying. The story explores so many rich themes: love, loss, identity, and understanding. I do wish the whole “T” situation had a more solid resolution instead of just fading out, but that’s really my only critique.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who’s looking for a heartfelt and thought-provoking read. It’s one of those stories that lingers with you after you turn the last page.
A beautifully tragic story that completely pulled me in—I ate this book up. Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely? gave me loose Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo vibes, with its emotional depth, layered storytelling, and a touch of old Hollywood glamor-meets-tragedy.
The dual timeline—bouncing between past and present—was handled so well. It never felt confusing or forced, and it added to the suspense in the best way. I will say, I wasn’t a fan of how the “tape recording” sections were styled; they pulled me out of the story just a bit. But honestly, it didn’t take away from how much I loved the book overall.
I suspected the ending early on but kept second-guessing myself the entire time, which made the payoff even more satisfying. The story explores so many rich themes: love, loss, identity, and understanding. I do wish the whole “T” situation had a more solid resolution instead of just fading out, but that’s really my only critique.
I’d recommend this book to anyone who’s looking for a heartfelt and thought-provoking read. It’s one of those stories that lingers with you after you turn the last page.
August 31, 2025
**Thank you William Morrow for my gifted copy** Wow. 4.25 stars - rounding up. The tears I had reading this was not what I would’ve expected when I first started reading this book. This book definitely gives vintage, old Hollywood vibes and I’ve always been a fan of older movies. The fact that this book is actually loosely based off a prior actress in real life blew my mind. I enjoyed this book so much and loved the many emotions it brought.
August 28, 2025
What happened to Lori Love: Sally McCoy
The first chapter sends Lu Tibbott under strict time constraints to complete her thesis in modern history or not graduate as her professor insisted she write her thesis about something or someone she knows. The second second is the most is she’ll dig into the archives and write about her Aunt Lori now the Mother Abbess at at a cloistered convent in rural New England. Decision made she drove over 600 miles to the convent and here is where it begins.
We begin in 1964 as her aunt begins her journey before she’s born and we learn how she came to live with her sister and husband in East Harlem working in their photography studio and creating create head shots and more. Adding her portrait to the wall helped but Lori wanted more. A stranger came barging into the studio made all false claims that he could make her a star, she managed to take one of the head shots and send it to Paramount Studio and she meets Ginny. The audition to dance in one if their movies as she was accepted. Told her sister Marie and Bill pact no parents.
Then it’s amazing she gets the part but Ginny has bigger ideas for both of them. Will they advance into bigger places to dance and even more.
Back to 1990 and her aunt at the Abbess to tell it more in her own words.
We meet her as Lu finds her way and then a macaw that the abbess has died not fly but is lived. Her friend Ginny from the past is a famous star and dies her aunt know her as she begins to reflect more on her past.
The past lets us meet Lori as she climbs the ladder of success with her friend Ginny. Getting cast in a huge show from Paramount Studio and then sent for by Mrs. Crawford told she got the part of Juliet. Lucas Wesley was keen after meeting her and but there were rules that needed to be followed regarding her curriculum and that ICA has a student who earned the lead. Then finding Ginny where was she and told her family her version of church. Then told her sister and Bill who were thrilled for her. Changed her name to Lori Lovely from Lucy. Her parents were thrilled especially her dad. Then Ginny got a role in a dance ensemble and secrets shared.
Then Ginny is hurt and Lori begins filming in the directors villa and the scenes and wardrobe are created and the tension rises but somehow she and Lucas are well suited and the scenes are fine to perfection will this lead to more than friendship? The scenes are well defined and then we go back to the present 1990.
Taking about the candles they make and about recreational drugs as Aunt Lori shared a commutation from the past. Lu has to watch her words and pages 133/135 illuminates it more. Chapter 13 the Marquee and her aunts changing her name to Lori Lovely and she and Lucas has scenes but does he use drugs and more?
Chapters 14-16 the scenes get intense.
Then back to 1990 and Lori shares newspaper stories and memory about a wedding that aunt Lori
Is decked out but Lu is imagining she’s somewhere else. Paragraphs 2 and 3 page 168.
Meeting Tony and Nico invited all cast to his home then chapter 18 what odd things did Lori see. Then the revelation comes as we read the chat between Lu and Lori pages 192-194.
Then read chapters 19-22 then Women’s retreat where her life changes. Then the women’s retreat and callings part 7 and where it all changed and then where is Ginny? But first she films Murder on the Nile and learning Ginny is now Jennifer Cockburn. She’s married now and aunt Lori and Ginny found each other years later as a nun. Will Lori talk to Sadie?Page 258 read the interview. Plus more pages 259-260.
Then the unthinkable as Lori learns that her last boyfriend or date left her something what will
She do?
Then the things needed and then the death of Lucas. Chapter 29 and the police involved car accident and Lucas is gone. Who will take her unborn child? You won’t believe who! Who’s to blame and why her recriminations? Read chapter 30 and you will smile as who has her child. Page 311 what happened to Lori Lovely ?
Now hear the truth and who was Lu’s parents ?
An unexpected and surprise ending and a thesis learn the fate of her thesis and more. Told in two voices and engages you till the end. The answer to the title you need to read for yourself.
Fran Lewis just reviews
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2025
This is a book that needs to be on everyone’s TBR.
What Happened to Lori Lovely was everything I was hoping for, expecting and so much more. The story of a Hollywood starlet turned Nun grabbed my attention. This book is about family, found family/friends, life, womanhood and of course love. The love Lori had with each step of her life and telling her story through her niece Lu.
I liked the dual timeline with bouncing from Lori’s past and her present. I love the choice of having the person finally telling her story being her niece that clearly loves and admires her so much. I didn’t realize it till the last 25% of the book - she was there to hear a part of her story as well. At least a confirmation on something.
For the entirety of the story we’re all wondering “Why did Lori Lovely leave Hollywood to become a nun? And was it due to her friend and former co-stars death” and when that question is finally answered I audibly gasped. Now I did “figure it out” at 85%. It’s clear due to a specific part in the book. And then reading the part of Lucas and his death - OH GOD….that was heartbreaking .
This story is told in a way where you feel like you’re audience member listening to this story that Lori is telling. And as a new character is introduced and you get to know them, you fall in love with them at the same time that Lori does. Her family. Her friends. They feel like they are your family and friends too. God I loved this story so so so much.
It a favorite of 2025 for sure. I recommend it highly. Lit. fiction and “Family Fiction” are not normally a genre type that I reach for (and this almost read like a memoir) but I am so happy that I did with this one! Thank you for the ARC NetGalley and Sarah McCoy. I will be buying this when it comes out - grab a copy on September 2nd
What Happened to Lori Lovely was everything I was hoping for, expecting and so much more. The story of a Hollywood starlet turned Nun grabbed my attention. This book is about family, found family/friends, life, womanhood and of course love. The love Lori had with each step of her life and telling her story through her niece Lu.
I liked the dual timeline with bouncing from Lori’s past and her present. I love the choice of having the person finally telling her story being her niece that clearly loves and admires her so much. I didn’t realize it till the last 25% of the book - she was there to hear a part of her story as well. At least a confirmation on something.
For the entirety of the story we’re all wondering “Why did Lori Lovely leave Hollywood to become a nun? And was it due to her friend and former co-stars death” and when that question is finally answered I audibly gasped. Now I did “figure it out” at 85%. It’s clear due to a specific part in the book. And then reading the part of Lucas and his death - OH GOD….that was heartbreaking .
This story is told in a way where you feel like you’re audience member listening to this story that Lori is telling. And as a new character is introduced and you get to know them, you fall in love with them at the same time that Lori does. Her family. Her friends. They feel like they are your family and friends too. God I loved this story so so so much.
It a favorite of 2025 for sure. I recommend it highly. Lit. fiction and “Family Fiction” are not normally a genre type that I reach for (and this almost read like a memoir) but I am so happy that I did with this one! Thank you for the ARC NetGalley and Sarah McCoy. I will be buying this when it comes out - grab a copy on September 2nd
September 3, 2025
Thank you William Morrow Books for my #gifted copy of Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely? #williammorrow #williammorrowbooks #WhateverHappenedToLoriLovely #SarahMcCoy
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐋𝐨𝐫𝐢 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐲?
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐒𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐡 𝐌𝐜𝐂𝐨𝐲
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
I have found a new favorite in Sarah McCoy! This is my first book by this author but it will not be my last! I loved this book! I was drawn to this book by the cover but I was hooked by the first page and I could not put this one down! It was the perfect blend of history and mystery and it kept me intrigued the entire time! I love how this book was written in the dual timeline format and I felt like McCoy did a beautiful job painting a picture of what life was like for Lori Lovely and all the glitz and glam that Hollywood had to offer. Throughout the entire book, I felt like the scenes were so vivid and I felt like McCoy did such an amazing job writing such detailed scenes. While this book had some difficult themes, I thought they were explored and handled so well. I love books that keep me guessing the entire time, and this was one of them! If you have not yet read a book my McCoy, make this one your first!
❤️History x Mystery
❤️Dual Timeline
❤️Old Hollywood Glam
❤️Family Secrets
❤️Based on a True Story
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐋𝐨𝐫𝐢 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐲?
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐒𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐡 𝐌𝐜𝐂𝐨𝐲
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
I have found a new favorite in Sarah McCoy! This is my first book by this author but it will not be my last! I loved this book! I was drawn to this book by the cover but I was hooked by the first page and I could not put this one down! It was the perfect blend of history and mystery and it kept me intrigued the entire time! I love how this book was written in the dual timeline format and I felt like McCoy did a beautiful job painting a picture of what life was like for Lori Lovely and all the glitz and glam that Hollywood had to offer. Throughout the entire book, I felt like the scenes were so vivid and I felt like McCoy did such an amazing job writing such detailed scenes. While this book had some difficult themes, I thought they were explored and handled so well. I love books that keep me guessing the entire time, and this was one of them! If you have not yet read a book my McCoy, make this one your first!
❤️History x Mystery
❤️Dual Timeline
❤️Old Hollywood Glam
❤️Family Secrets
❤️Based on a True Story
August 31, 2025
Enjoyable and interesting dual-perspective historical. Usually in books of this type, I have a marked preference for one of the two timelines, but in this one I thoroughly enjoyed both. I found the book to be nicely evocative of both the 90s and the 60s, I also enjoyed the glimpses into both moviemaking and the religious live.
September 2, 2025
Temporary review while I process this one:
I gasped. I cried - both the ugly kind and the happy kind. I read this book in one sitting. Certain moments resonated with me on such a deep level I’m still trying to find the words. Right now, I’m firmly in the book hangover phase, but one thing is clear: this is going straight into my all-time favorites pile.
Also worth noting: there are strong religious themes throughout the book. I’m not religious - not even a little - and yet I was completely captivated. It honestly felt like I went to church…and surprisingly, I loved it.
I gasped. I cried - both the ugly kind and the happy kind. I read this book in one sitting. Certain moments resonated with me on such a deep level I’m still trying to find the words. Right now, I’m firmly in the book hangover phase, but one thing is clear: this is going straight into my all-time favorites pile.
Also worth noting: there are strong religious themes throughout the book. I’m not religious - not even a little - and yet I was completely captivated. It honestly felt like I went to church…and surprisingly, I loved it.
August 24, 2025
When I read the synopsis of "Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely?" in an email I was sent from Netgalley, I was immediately interested. It's the story of a young Hollywood actress of the late 50's and early 60's, whose star is on the rise, but who leaves fame and fortune behind to become a Catholic nun. I instantly thought it must be the fictionalized version of the real-life actress Dolores Hart, who made her big screen debut opposite Elvis Presley in "Loving You" and went on to have roles in several other films including "Where the Boys Are" and "Francis of Assisi".
But while there are certainly many parts of the book that mirror Dolores Hart's life, it is not her exact story, and author Sarah McCoy even comments that she was inspired by the stories of three real-life actresses.
The novel begins in first person with Lori, now Mother Lori, telling her story from the very beginning of her life, and then alternates with Lucille, Lori's niece, who is writing her college thesis and chose to interview her aunt. The two have a very loving relationship, which only grows deeper as Lucille finds out more about her aunt's life before entering the monastery.
I thought Sarah McCoy did a great job capturing the glamor and allure of Hollywood in its heyday, as well as relating the realization that Mother Lori has that fame and fortune are not the true longing of her heart.
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC ebook of this novel.
But while there are certainly many parts of the book that mirror Dolores Hart's life, it is not her exact story, and author Sarah McCoy even comments that she was inspired by the stories of three real-life actresses.
The novel begins in first person with Lori, now Mother Lori, telling her story from the very beginning of her life, and then alternates with Lucille, Lori's niece, who is writing her college thesis and chose to interview her aunt. The two have a very loving relationship, which only grows deeper as Lucille finds out more about her aunt's life before entering the monastery.
I thought Sarah McCoy did a great job capturing the glamor and allure of Hollywood in its heyday, as well as relating the realization that Mother Lori has that fame and fortune are not the true longing of her heart.
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC ebook of this novel.
September 3, 2025
Captivating from the very beginning this story follows women from two generations of the Hickey family. One is a college student who has to finish her thesis in a few short months and the other is a famous actress who shocked the world by becoming a nun.
August 24, 2025
In 1969, Hollywood starlet Lori Lovely has captured the world’s attention with her debut in “Romeo and Juliet” leading to a promising career for the small town North Carolina girl. She shocks everyone as she disappears from public life and takes her vows as a Benedictine nun. I really loved the portrayal of the starlet’s rise into stardom with the behind the scenes glimpses. Her attention to details of a time period before social media is accurate and appreciated. Her tales of Lori Lovely’s interactions with the Catholic nuns were refreshing and compelling, enough so to make our starlet’s later choices to seek them out more understandable. I truly enjoyed this story and urge my fellow readers to pick up a copy of “Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely”! Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for my ARC, all opinions are my own.
August 12, 2025
Lucille-Marie (Lu) is named after her aunt and her mother. She's in her 5th year of college and has changed her major several times as nothing really fit her. She has been warned this year that she has to complete her thesis this semester in order to graduate and will not be allowed to reenroll next semester. After her advisor helps to reframe history as a living person, she opts to do her thesis on her aunt Lori Lovely, a movie star who had disappeared from the public eye to become a nun. This also allows Lu to ask the questions she's always wondered but been too scared to ask. She will finally get to know what happened to Lori Lovely.
The story is told from the POV of Lu in present time and Lori in the past. This really added to the anticipation as it would break away from Lori's story right when something major had either happened or was about to happen. While I had figured out the big reveal at the end of the book fairly early on, I changed my mind about some of the details throughout the reading. Lori's story was absolutely mesmerizing, with both the carefree and heartbreaking sides of life in the spotlight. I also loved how the author put some suggestions at the end of the book if you wanted to learn more about the people that inspired the novel.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow, and Sarah McCoy for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The story is told from the POV of Lu in present time and Lori in the past. This really added to the anticipation as it would break away from Lori's story right when something major had either happened or was about to happen. While I had figured out the big reveal at the end of the book fairly early on, I changed my mind about some of the details throughout the reading. Lori's story was absolutely mesmerizing, with both the carefree and heartbreaking sides of life in the spotlight. I also loved how the author put some suggestions at the end of the book if you wanted to learn more about the people that inspired the novel.
Huge thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow, and Sarah McCoy for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 20, 2025
When we think of the old Hollywood stars we think of those who are married multiple times or are so burnt out that they drop off the face of the earth. However in the case of What Happened to Lori Lovely one family member will put the pieces of the puzzle together to figure out the true story. I will also add that this is a dual timeline story with one timeline taking place in present day while the other takes place in the early days of Hollywood. I always enjoy stories when it is one character interviewing another because the interviewer always get excited when they are about to hear the next part of the story.
Our modern day timeline focuses on a college girl named Lucille who decides to interview her retired Aunt who was an actress and later decided to become a nun. Lu of course believes that this tale will be filles with glamor and excitement however along the way the discoveries she finds out about her aunts career was filled with stress and and heartbreak. I can understand that some people would make the investment to go into the church because it will be quiet and peaceful compared to the loud and chaotic Hollywood life.
Overall if you are someone who likes to read the history of old Hollywood this novel is definitely one you should check out. I for one was very impressed with the information that was displayed in the novel. When you think about it when you interview any kind of person in whatever field you learn a lot about what goes on behind closed doors.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.
Our modern day timeline focuses on a college girl named Lucille who decides to interview her retired Aunt who was an actress and later decided to become a nun. Lu of course believes that this tale will be filles with glamor and excitement however along the way the discoveries she finds out about her aunts career was filled with stress and and heartbreak. I can understand that some people would make the investment to go into the church because it will be quiet and peaceful compared to the loud and chaotic Hollywood life.
Overall if you are someone who likes to read the history of old Hollywood this novel is definitely one you should check out. I for one was very impressed with the information that was displayed in the novel. When you think about it when you interview any kind of person in whatever field you learn a lot about what goes on behind closed doors.
I received an arc copy from Netgalley and all opinions are of my own.
July 26, 2025
This is a book where you fall in love with each character. An amazingly well told story that immerses
the reader in the lives of each person. Great read from Goodreads!
the reader in the lives of each person. Great read from Goodreads!
June 22, 2025
Sarah McCoy's transports you to the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood as a young Carolina girl makes her path to quickly become Hollywood's brightest star; and then suddenly...at the age of 24, mysteriously escapes to live the life of a nun in a convent. With "Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" vibes, Lori Lovely has famously never given an interview about her past and why she chose to leave behind the stars of Hollywood; until her niece comes to visit her at the Abbey with a tape recorder in hand, writing her college thesis; and all of Lori Lovely's secrets come to light. The ending of this book absolutely wrecked me- I thought it was beautifully told.
A fascinating homage to the troubles hidden behind the lights of Hollywood, and the secrets that stars keep from the public eye, McCoy's novel is a page turning historical mystery with hints of romance that will keep you up late at night to find out just exactly WHATEVER HAPPENED TO LORI LOVELY....
A fascinating homage to the troubles hidden behind the lights of Hollywood, and the secrets that stars keep from the public eye, McCoy's novel is a page turning historical mystery with hints of romance that will keep you up late at night to find out just exactly WHATEVER HAPPENED TO LORI LOVELY....
July 18, 2025
THIS BOOK!!!! Pub date: 9/2. The celebs. The movie sets. The Italian countryside. The 60's. The 90's.The juxtaposition between a Southern Baptist turned Catholic. The secrets. The love. The sex. The drugs. The lies. The reveals. The heartache. ALL OF IT. I did not want this book to end. 😭 I already miss Lovely and Lucas. This is a MUST READ.
April 5, 2025
WOW! This book was incredible and easily a favorite of mine! I love historical fiction that doesn't go tooooo far back, and loved the late-'60s storyline. The premise was fascinating as well — the story of how a young Hollywood starlet became a nun. And the writing was absolutely flawless, easy and conversational yet poetic, which is hard to achieve! Highly recommend and I am just sad that you have to wait until September to read it.
July 7, 2025
Many knew her as the famous actress, Lori Lovely. She was born Lucille Hickey and then later became Sister Jude and then the Mother Abbess. When her niece, Lu, decides to write her senior thesis on her Aunt Lori, the true story unfolds about what happened to make a 23 year old star of Hollywood in 1969 leave the glamour behind to become a cloistered nun. You will find the story intriguing and a page turner as you learn about her past. It is a story of friendship, forbidden love, and secrets.
September 1, 2025
“history is the way we tell it, and i told it the best i could. was it fact or fiction? both and neither.”
whatever happened to lori lovely? is the bittersweet story of a 1960s hollywood starlet who shocked the world when she traded a budding film career for life as a nun, as told to the niece who arrives at her convent in 1990 to interview her and uncover the true story behind her beloved aunt’s much-speculated-upon departure from hollywood.
while it doesn’t quite live up to its gorgeous cover, lori lovely is enjoyable despite its flaws. i often dislike the interviewer POV chapters in books with this format because they feel like a distraction from the “historical” figure’s story, but lori and lu’s relationship is perhaps the strongest dynamic here and lu’s chapters only add to the story. they balance each other well—a starlet who skyrockets to the lonely pinnacle of success and celebrity and finds herself asking what comes next, and a somewhat lost history major seeking answers and a subject for her senior thesis. this dynamic also allows for an easy way to explore history—the versions of it we’re told, the versions we tell ourselves, and the truth—and whether we can ever truly know a celebrity.
where lori lovely falls short is its pacing, which often feels rushed to the point of leaving characters, relationships, and storylines underdeveloped. some of these can be explained by lori self-censoring or lu working against a deadline, other instances don’t come across as intentional choices on mccoy’s part. and while she avoids overt preachiness, lori lovely does at times feel a little christian fiction-adjacent in tone. things are tied up a little too neatly. every couple lori encounters is happily and heterosexually married. there’s a wholesome patina over (almost) everything.
the book is also openly based on the lives of several real actresses, namely mother dolores hart (who mccoy communicated with for years and met with in person) and olivia hussey. several plot points are borrowed directly from hart and hussey’s lives with only name changes to fictionalize them.
overall, i would class lori lovely as fun but forgettable. i assume mccoy wanted to be respectful to the women she drew inspiration from, but the end result feels like a very safe, shallow character and story.
this ARC was provided by the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
rating: 3.25/5.0 stars
September 1, 2025
Based heavily on the life of Delores Hart, Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely is the story of one of Hollywood's biggest young stars who shocked the entertainment world by entering a convent and becoming a Benedictine nun.
Lori Lovely was the star of the celebrated Romeo and Juliet The Musical alongside superstar Lucas Wesley. It was instant success and fame for the small-town North Carolina girl. Now, in an effort to help her beloved niece, Mother Abbess (Lori) has agreed to tell her story.
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Beside the clear line to Delores Hart, there's hints of Olivia Hussey, Elvis, James Dean and other old Hollywood greats. It's a fairly tame look at the dangers of Hollywood. A few mentions of sleeping pills, references to sex, etc. Nothing scandalous in any real way. But....it's also fairly predictable.
I mean, the 'twist' was obvious from the very beginning, however, the world that Lori shared with her niece was full and vibrant.
If you like Taylor Jenkins Reid, this is of that ilk so read away.
Thanks to NetGalley and the pulishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Lori Lovely was the star of the celebrated Romeo and Juliet The Musical alongside superstar Lucas Wesley. It was instant success and fame for the small-town North Carolina girl. Now, in an effort to help her beloved niece, Mother Abbess (Lori) has agreed to tell her story.
----
Beside the clear line to Delores Hart, there's hints of Olivia Hussey, Elvis, James Dean and other old Hollywood greats. It's a fairly tame look at the dangers of Hollywood. A few mentions of sleeping pills, references to sex, etc. Nothing scandalous in any real way. But....it's also fairly predictable.
I mean, the 'twist' was obvious from the very beginning, however, the world that Lori shared with her niece was full and vibrant.
If you like Taylor Jenkins Reid, this is of that ilk so read away.
Thanks to NetGalley and the pulishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
July 30, 2025
Sarah McCoy's Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely offers a captivating glimpse into Hollywood's Golden Age as a prominent actress abruptly leaves the spotlight to join a convent. The writing style is consistently engaging with an interesting storyline. While the novel's premise and characters are compelling, the pacing felt a bit uneven—the initial chapters felt very drawn out, and the ending felt somewhat rushed. Despite a touch of predictability, I enjoyed this unique journey. I'd rate it 3 stars and would recommend to others!
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow Books for the Advance Reader Copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and William Morrow Books for the Advance Reader Copy.
June 21, 2025
I was really drawn in by the cover and the premise—it sounded like it might have the same kind of emotional pull as The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo or The Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry. But unfortunately, this one didn’t quite grab me. I kept waiting for that hook to pull me in, but it never came, and I found myself not feeling curious enough to come back to it.
September 5, 2025
@williammorrowbooks | #partner 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥 𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗗 𝗧𝗢 𝗟𝗢𝗥𝗜 𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗟𝗬? by Sarah McCoy tells the story of a young Hollywood ingenue from the 1960’s who walked away from her growing career to become a nun. That’s one of the timelines in this story. It includes Lori’s time before she became an actress, her unlikely discovery, and all that happened over the course of that career. The other timeline takes place in 1990, when she’s being interviewed by her niece, Lu, for the senior thesis Lu wants to write about her aunt and her unusual choice / career shift.
I really enjoyed Lori’s past timeline. It was fun and light and made for a nice break in some heavier books I’d been reading. It reminded me of an old-fashioned musical where hardships happen, but love prevails. The later timeline wasn’t as interesting to me, but its sections were brief, so easy to get through. Unfortunately, about two-thirds of the way in, I reached a point in the story where I knew exactly where it was going to end up. I wasn’t sure how it would get there, but I wasn’t surprised either. In the end, I found 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘏𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘰𝘳𝘪 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘺? to be entertaining in the moment, but it won’t be a book that stays with me. ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫✨
I really enjoyed Lori’s past timeline. It was fun and light and made for a nice break in some heavier books I’d been reading. It reminded me of an old-fashioned musical where hardships happen, but love prevails. The later timeline wasn’t as interesting to me, but its sections were brief, so easy to get through. Unfortunately, about two-thirds of the way in, I reached a point in the story where I knew exactly where it was going to end up. I wasn’t sure how it would get there, but I wasn’t surprised either. In the end, I found 𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘏𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘓𝘰𝘳𝘪 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘺? to be entertaining in the moment, but it won’t be a book that stays with me. ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫✨
July 6, 2025
Thank you William Morrow and Harper Collin’s for the ARC. Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely is a great summer read! It moves in a dual timeline, from the film industry in the 1960’s to an abbey in 1990, where a former famous Hollywood starlet is now the Mother Abbess. Her story has it all: fame, romance, mystery, friendship, and family. It’s for anyone who enjoys Taylor Jenkins Reid novels.
March 27, 2025
This was a wonderful story with two different women searching for answers and acceptance in a chaotic world.
One does that by turning to God and vows. The other through questions and interviews.
I do wish there had been more of Wesley's backstory and emotions - not just that he was an actor and good Southern Boy, but what made him really in love with Lori.
But even with that little quip, I have to say all the characters were rich in feeling. Even with some plot holes left hanging (such is life) -- the characters brought this story home.
At the ending I was satisfied and felt like I had read a good thesis and knew what had happened to Lori Lovely, and that is what truly matters.
One does that by turning to God and vows. The other through questions and interviews.
I do wish there had been more of Wesley's backstory and emotions - not just that he was an actor and good Southern Boy, but what made him really in love with Lori.
But even with that little quip, I have to say all the characters were rich in feeling. Even with some plot holes left hanging (such is life) -- the characters brought this story home.
At the ending I was satisfied and felt like I had read a good thesis and knew what had happened to Lori Lovely, and that is what truly matters.
July 25, 2025
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
4.25 stars (maybe more)
"History is a recollection of what we decide. The rest gets mulched. Kind of like what a lot of people do with religion. Cherry-pick."
What a wonderful surprise this was! I have never read Sarah McCoy. I have been struggling for a while with historical fiction- I often find that I am very interested in the plot, but the writing falls short or there's too much romance injected into the story. Not here.
In 1968, Lori Lovely had rocketed to stardom as an actress. By the next year, she was committing herself to a life as a Benedictine nun. This book asks how a once Southern Baptist from North Carolina who was on track to massive fame ended up in an abbey in Connecticut and the journey that took her there. It's a dual timeline story, as her niece interviews her about her life in the 1990s with all the flashbacks to the 60s. The current timeline was definitely weaker.
I loved Lori, her family of origin, and her found family. I loved the settings of Hollywood and Italy in the 1960s. I also loved the part that faith and grace play here- faith in God yes, and grace given from the Divine, but also the love and grace we give and receive to one another. McCoy does an amazing job of this without it ever one feeling preachy or heavy handed which is no small task. So much of it shows up in the love the characters show to one another throughout the book. I was entertained and moved, and there is some truly lovely writing here. (No pun intended.) My only quibble was was the surprise we see at the end you can see coming from a mile away and I really found unnecessary. But I couldn't put this down! If you love a period piece, a fun romp through Hollywood, a found family story, and need something good and positive (almost wholesome- who AM I?) don't miss this. Also, it's based on the lives of three actresses, primarily Delores Hart, who McCoy developed a real relationship with. I'm planning on settling in to Google soon. : )
4.25 stars (maybe more)
"History is a recollection of what we decide. The rest gets mulched. Kind of like what a lot of people do with religion. Cherry-pick."
What a wonderful surprise this was! I have never read Sarah McCoy. I have been struggling for a while with historical fiction- I often find that I am very interested in the plot, but the writing falls short or there's too much romance injected into the story. Not here.
In 1968, Lori Lovely had rocketed to stardom as an actress. By the next year, she was committing herself to a life as a Benedictine nun. This book asks how a once Southern Baptist from North Carolina who was on track to massive fame ended up in an abbey in Connecticut and the journey that took her there. It's a dual timeline story, as her niece interviews her about her life in the 1990s with all the flashbacks to the 60s. The current timeline was definitely weaker.
I loved Lori, her family of origin, and her found family. I loved the settings of Hollywood and Italy in the 1960s. I also loved the part that faith and grace play here- faith in God yes, and grace given from the Divine, but also the love and grace we give and receive to one another. McCoy does an amazing job of this without it ever one feeling preachy or heavy handed which is no small task. So much of it shows up in the love the characters show to one another throughout the book. I was entertained and moved, and there is some truly lovely writing here. (No pun intended.) My only quibble was was the surprise we see at the end you can see coming from a mile away and I really found unnecessary. But I couldn't put this down! If you love a period piece, a fun romp through Hollywood, a found family story, and need something good and positive (almost wholesome- who AM I?) don't miss this. Also, it's based on the lives of three actresses, primarily Delores Hart, who McCoy developed a real relationship with. I'm planning on settling in to Google soon. : )
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