Max Van Doren has a wish list, and a great career and a girlfriend are at the top. But despite being pretty good at her job as an assistant to one of Hollywood’s fastest rising talent agents, she has no idea how to move up the ladder. And when it comes to her love life, she’s stuck in perpetual lust for an adorably perfect bartender named Sadie. Her goals are clear—and Max has everything but the self-confidence to go for them. Even her mother seems to assume she’ll be crawling home to her childhood bedroom at some point... When Max’s roommate, Chelsey—an irritatingly gorgeous and self-assured influencer in plus-size and queer spaces—offers to sponsor her for a new self-actualization app, Max gives in. If she can’t run her own life, maybe an algorithm guiding her choices will help? Suddenly Max is scoring big everywhere, and her dreams are achingly close to coming true. But when one of Chelsey’s posts reveals Sadie’s part in the app’s campaign, Max is poised for heartbreak on all fronts. Tired of the sponcon life with its fake friends and endless selfies, Max realizes that to have true influence, she’ll have to find the courage to make her own, totally authentic way in the world...
Finding Love and Self-Belief: A Dive into "At Her Service" by Amy Spalding
In the vibrant and often chaotic world of Los Angeles, Max Van Doren is navigating the complexities of her twenties with dreams of career success and romantic fulfillment. Amy Spalding’s "At Her Service," the second book in the Out in Hollywood series, offers a deeply relatable and heartwarming journey of self-discovery, resilience, and love. For fans of contemporary romance, particularly those seeking authentic queer representation, this novel is a must-read.
A Relatable Protagonist in a Glamorous Setting
Max Van Doren is not your typical romance heroine. She’s an assistant to a rising Hollywood talent agent, struggling to climb the career ladder while harboring a crush on Sadie, a charming bartender at her local queer dive bar, Johnny’s. Unlike many romance novels where the protagonists have their lives neatly figured out, Max is mired in self-doubt and insecurity. She has clear goals but lacks the self-confidence to pursue them, a struggle that many readers will find achingly familiar.
Spalding's portrayal of Max’s life in Los Angeles is more than just a backdrop; the city itself becomes a character in the story. The author vividly captures the essence of LA, from its glamorous industry events to the more intimate, lesser-known spaces that give the city its unique character. For those who’ve never been to Los Angeles, "At Her Service" offers a glimpse into the city’s diverse and vibrant culture, making it almost feel like a personal tour.
The Journey of Self-Actualization
One of the central themes of "At Her Service" is Max’s journey toward self-actualization. When Max’s roommate, Chelsey—a confident influencer in plus-size and queer spaces—suggests she try a new self-actualization app, Max reluctantly agrees. The app promises to guide her toward achieving her dreams, and at first, it seems to work wonders. Max starts making strides in her career and feels more empowered to pursue her romantic interest in Sadie.
However, the journey is far from smooth. Max’s reliance on the app and the subsequent realization of its superficial nature push her to confront her insecurities head-on. This aspect of the novel beautifully illustrates the often messy reality of personal growth. It’s not a straightforward path but rather a series of ups and downs, mistakes, and realizations.
A Unique Romance
While "At Her Service" is marketed as a romance, it stands out by focusing more on Max’s personal growth than on the romantic plot. Sadie, the object of Max’s affection, is not as prominently featured as one might expect in a traditional romance. Instead, much of what we know about Sadie comes from Max’s perspective, which is sometimes inaccurate. This narrative choice highlights Max’s internal struggles and her tendency to project her insecurities onto others.
Despite this, the romance between Max and Sadie is sweet and genuine. It unfolds gradually, allowing readers to savor the moments of connection between the two. The fact that both characters have short hair—a rarity in sapphic fiction—adds a layer of representation that many readers will appreciate.
A Cast of Memorable Characters
Beyond Max and Sadie, "At Her Service" features a cast of supporting characters who add depth and humor to the story. Nina and Ari from the first book in the series, "For Her Consideration," make welcome appearances, showcasing their growth and adding continuity to the series. Chelsey, Max’s roommate, is particularly noteworthy. Her confidence and influence challenge Max to step out of her comfort zone, serving as a catalyst for much of Max’s development.
A Fresh Take on Modern Romance
Amy Spalding’s "At Her Service" is a fresh, feel-good novel that blends humor, romance, and a poignant exploration of self-worth. It’s a story that doesn’t shy away from the messiness of life and the struggles of finding one’s place in the world. Instead, it embraces these challenges, making the eventual triumphs all the more satisfying.
For readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a strong sense of place and a touch of romance, "At Her Service" is a delightful read. It’s a reminder that while technology and external validation can be helpful, true self-actualization comes from within. Max’s journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and the importance of embracing one’s authentic self.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Amy Spalding or new to her work, "At Her Service" is a novel that will leave you inspired and eager for more.
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Amy Spalding, Director, Digital Media at Callan Advertising Company || Author 
Crafting Heartfelt Narratives with Humor and Diversity
Amy Spalding is a celebrated author whose novels captivate readers with their authentic, funny, and diverse representation of the LGBTQ+ community. With a talent for weaving relatable stories that resonate deeply with readers, Amy has firmly established herself in the literary world. Her works, including the bestselling For Her Consideration, We Used to Be Friends, and The Summer of Jordi Perez (and the Best Burger in Los Angeles), have garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades.
Amy's journey began in St. Louis, where she cultivated a love for storytelling from a young age. Her passion for the written word led her to pursue a B.A. in Advertising & Marketing Communications from Webster University. She later earned an M.A. in Media Studies from The New School, where she honed her skills in crafting compelling narratives and understanding the intricacies of media representation.
In addition to her formal education, Amy immersed herself in the world of improvisational comedy. She studied longform improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, an experience that not only sharpened her wit but also influenced her distinctive writing style, characterized by humor and spontaneity. This background in improv comedy adds a dynamic and engaging quality to her storytelling, making her characters and dialogues come alive.
Amy's literary debut was met with enthusiasm, and she quickly became known for her ability to create stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking. Her novel The Summer of Jordi Perez (and the Best Burger in Los Angeles) was a standout success, earning recognition as one of the best books of 2018 by NPR, the Boston Globe, Kirkus Reviews, and more. This novel, like many of her works, is celebrated for its positive representation of LGBTQ+ characters and its exploration of themes such as friendship, self-discovery, and love.
In 2023, Amy's contributions to literature and the LGBTQ+ community were recognized with the prestigious Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award. This honor highlights her commitment to writing stories that reflect the diverse experiences of her readers, offering visibility and validation to those who see themselves in her characters.
Amy's novels often explore the complexities of relationships, the challenges of growing up, and the joy of finding oneself. We Used to Be Friends delves into the intricacies of friendship and the pain of drifting apart, while For Her Consideration explores the nuances of love and the importance of self-acceptance. Through her work, Amy provides readers with a mirror in which they can see their own experiences reflected, fostering a sense of connection and understanding.
Now residing in Los Angeles, Amy continues to write stories that touch the hearts of her readers. Her life in the vibrant city provides endless inspiration, from the eclectic culture to the diverse community. When she's not writing, Amy enjoys exploring the city, indulging in its culinary delights, and engaging with fans on social media.
Amy Spalding's dedication to creating heartfelt, humorous, and inclusive narratives has made her a beloved figure in contemporary literature. Her ability to blend humor with profound insights into the human experience ensures that her stories will continue to resonate with readers for years to come. To learn more about Amy and her work, visit her website at theamyspalding.com.
In Amy Spalding's world, every story is an opportunity to laugh, to reflect, and to feel seen. Her books invite readers to embark on journeys of love, friendship, and self-discovery, making her a cherished voice in modern storytelling.
