Iman Hariri-Kia delivers a sharp, satirical commentary on the cult of celebrity with The Most Famous Girl in the World. Through the eyes of Rose Aslani, a disheveled but determined journalist, we get a front-row seat to the absurdities of fame, power, and the social media machine that churns out influencers like Poppy Hastings—a scammer turned icon.
Rose’s journey is an emotional rollercoaster that’s both hilarious and surprisingly heartfelt. Her guilt and obsession with unmasking Poppy are relatable, even as they drive her deeper into a personal crisis. The constant tension between Rose’s need for justice and Poppy’s ever-growing fame keeps the plot compelling, making it difficult to put the book down.
Hariri-Kia’s witty writing is one of the novel’s strongest elements. She captures the ridiculousness of influencer culture with campy brilliance, painting Poppy as a blend of Kardashian-esque allure and shady con artist energy. The humor is biting, especially in how the narrative critiques the public’s fascination with scammers turned celebrities.
The romance subplot, involving a rogue FBI agent, adds some spice but doesn’t overshadow Rose’s main mission. Their banter is fun, though at times, it feels like it leans into cliché territory, and I found myself more interested in Rose’s unraveling than their chemistry.
Overall, The Most Famous Girl in the World is a clever, fast-paced novel that holds a mirror up to our obsession with fame and scandal. It’s a bit over-the-top, but that’s part of its charm. Perfect for fans of dark humor and social satire, this one’s a wild, enjoyable ride.
Rating: 4/5 stars
The Bookish Ashley 
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