Your Preview Verdict: The Chateau on Sunset by Natasha Lester

Epic Love. Tragic Loss. Beautiful Friendship. The entrancing story of an orphan who grows up surrounded by the beautiful and the broken in the world’s most infamous hotel.

After her parents’ deaths, Aria Jones is sent to live with her reclusive starlet aunt at the Chateau Marmont, the hotel on Sunset Boulevard with a notorious reputation.

Left alone to wander the hotel, Aria sees everything-all the ways people wheel and deal for fame. But the Marmont isn’t meant for young girls with big hearts, and Aria discovers an insidious secret that will haunt her childhood.

As she matures, she finds solace in the hotel’s library. Her sole goal is to be as inconspicuous as possible. Until one day, the hotel is sold to mysterious rock star Theo Winchester and his troubled daughter, Adele. Will Aria realise there’s more to life than being invisible?

Captivating from its very first page, The Chateau on Sunset blends the beloved Jane Eyre story with the rich and colourful history of the entertainment industry from the 1950s to the 1970s.

Buy a copy of  The Chateau on Sunset here.

Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:

The Chateau on Sunset tells the story of Aria Jones, who goes to live at the Chateau Marmont with her reclusive actress aunt following the death of her parents. The hotel holds secrets many hope remain buried. For Aria to confront her past and build her future, she must uncover what lies within its walls. Set in Hollywood from the late 1950s to the late 1960s, the novel features a cast of complex, well-drawn characters—from her aunt, Devine Rey, to aspiring actresses Calliope and Flitter, and the new owner Theo Winchester and his daughter Adele. This is another novel by Natasha Lester that blends meticulous research with compelling storytelling, shining a light on strong female characters and lesser-known aspects of history. From the first page, I was gripped and could not put it down.
 Holly, WA, 5 stars

In a beautiful blend of historical and cinematic storytelling, Natasha Lester brings us the story of Aria, an orphaned thirteen-year-old who arrives at the glamorous Chateau Marmont to live with her legendary but reclusive aunt. Told across dual timelines seven years apart, Aria discovers that the secrets within the Chateau’s walls are not meant to leave. Befriended by aspiring actresses Calliope and Flitter, the ‘three sisters’ each long for something—power, fame, or solitude—but at what cost? This modern-day Jane Eyre explores resilience, courage, and the price of dreams, while celebrating the enduring strength of women. A powerful novel that leaves a lasting impression. 
Louise, QLD, 5 stars

Natasha Lester takes Aria on a journey from teenage orphan to accomplished author and starlet agent in the male-dominated Hollywood of the 1950s and 1960s. The sisterhood between Aria, Calliope and Flitter is tested by ruthless agents, directors, ambition and excess. Who will find love and success—and at what cost? As with Lester’s previous novels, her detailed research into the fashion, music and film of the era brings the story vividly to life. Another captivating read.
 Joan, WA, 5 stars

The Chateau on Sunset highlights themes still seen in today’s headlines, despite being set in the 1950s and 60s. It follows Aria Jones, an orphan taken in by her reclusive aunt at the infamous Chateau Marmont. As Aria fades into the background, she witnesses the struggles of young actresses trying to succeed in a glamorous yet exploitative world. Drawing parallels with Jane Eyre, Aria grows into a woman who challenges the male-dominated system around her. The Chateau itself becomes a character, bearing witness to the lives within. A novel of both confronting truths and hope—I devoured it.
 Susan, NSW, 5 stars

I loved this story of Aria, a young girl who loses her parents and is sent to live with her aunt at the Chateau Marmont, where she is largely left to fend for herself. With the help of two aspiring actresses, she learns to navigate life’s challenges. After love and heartbreak, Aria embarks on a journey of self-discovery that transforms her from an overlooked girl into a remarkable woman. A beautiful story of loss, love and resilience.
 Sally, VIC, 5 stars

Natasha Lester’s writing style is impeccable in this beautiful novel. Her ability to bring characters to life, combined with her thorough research, makes this a truly memorable read.
 Linda, NSW, 5 stars

I absolutely devoured this book in two days. It wasn’t until the end that I realised it was a modern take on Jane Eyre. I was moved to tears by the beautiful conclusion and found Aria’s journey deeply relatable. Highly recommended.
 Tina, SA, 5 stars

Inspired by Jane Eyre, this novel is set in the iconic Chateau Marmont and offers an often confronting look at the exploitation faced by aspiring actresses. While at times uncomfortable, it sheds light on important issues such as abuse and power imbalance, while also celebrating friendship, courage and hope for change.
 Pamela, QLD, 4 stars

The Chateau on Sunset is a fascinating novel filled with intriguing characters and layered mysteries. It’s a story that rewards a second reading to fully appreciate all its nuances.
 Martina, SA, 4 stars

This novel offers an engaging glimpse into the glamorous yet shadowed world of Hollywood. Aria’s journey from orphan to advocate for young actresses unfolds within the Chateau Marmont, a place that feels like a character in itself. A compelling and enjoyable read.
 Vivien, ACT, 5 stars

Buy a copy of  The Chateau on Sunset here.