*Starred Review* After 30 years in show business, Lowe is the star of his first sequel. But instead of nabbing a superhero franchise à la Robert Downey Jr., he’s been reborn as a winning memoirist. Love Life is the highly anticipated follow-up to his glowingly reviewed Stories I Only Tell My Friends (2011). How many other 1980s heartthrobs have been blessed with a second (or third) act while approaching 50? Rather than being a desperate cash-grab from a fading star, Love Life is certain to boost Lowe’s professional profile even further while allowing the versatile actor to maintain an ever-thriving television career (Californication and Parks and Recreation are both recalled with candor and fondness). Those expecting more Hollywood tales will not be disappointed with first-person stories involving Warren Beatty, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Bill Clinton, and Madonna that only someone of Lowe’s stature could credibly share with such awestruck enthusiasm and thoughtful detail. Lowe credits his longevity to more than just talent, fame, or luck, however. He fills many pages with humble, effusive praise for his stable marriage and shares funny, relatable tales of fatherhood. These are the successes that matter most to him, the ones that have helped him stay sober and grounded while loving life to the fullest. High-Demand Backstory: The spectacular and even somewhat surprising commercial and critical success of the author’s previous memoir means automatic library interest in the latest installment. --Chris Keech
“[Lowe] skillfully weaves stories together with common themes and a philosophical perspective. … Fans who fear he gave up all the good stuff in the first book will be pleasantly surprised. … Lowe’s candor and willingness to admit his flaws create an authentic voice. His easy writing style will hook readers who won’t judge his book by the handsome man on its cover.” (
Associated Press)
“Lowe's self-effacing and straightforward assessments of his own foibles and weaknesses, combined with first-rate storytelling skills. . . .make [Love Life] still feel like a night on the town with a well-connected, charismatic friend with more tales to spill. . . .[I]t's sweet, and he includes very funny accounts. . . . Showing how well he can laugh at himself. ” (
USA Today)
“Lowe addresses his life with a welcome levity. This book confirms that Lowe is more than just a pretty face." (
Elle)
"[Lowe] writes with perspective and humorous self-effacement.” (
Entertainment Weekly)
“Not just pretty but witty and wise.” (
AARP Magazine)
“[Love Life] is loaded with showbiz anecdotes, self-deprecating tales and has a general sweetness that some readers might not be expecting from Lowe.” (
New York Post)
"Engaging, relatable… entertaining and admirably frank." (
The Washington Post)
“A savvy writer with a quick wit, Lowe invites readers into his world with easy charm and disarming frankness.” (
Kirkus Reviews)
"Lowe had been reborn as a winning memoirist." (
Booklist)
“Somehow Lowe manages to describe a visit to the Playboy Mansion and an unpleasant grade-school sleepover next to the manatee tank at Sea World with equal enthusiasm.” (
Book Forum)
“If you love Rob Lowe, you'll love his "Love Life."…. His self-effacing humor keeps the pace brisk.” (
Tulsa World)
“The fact that his second book is every bit as engaging as the first proves his point. I’m betting he could do an equally fine job on a third.” (
Miami Herald)
“Lowe vividly depicts what it was like to be a 19-year-old Hollywood heartthrob. . . . As in the best celebrity memoirs and musings,
Love Life is sprinkled with star power. . . . [Lowe] spills secrets and private thoughts with eloquence.” (
Bookpage)
“Lowe is a gifted storyteller who uses humor and self-deprecation to draw readers in, and keeps their attention with fun tales of Hollywood behind-the-scenes.” (
Carpool Candy)
“[An] easygoing but thoughtful memoir.” (
All You)
“Incredible. … This isn’t your typical celebrity written book. This was a fun read and very well written, that’ll have you laughing and shedding a tear along the way.” (
Red Carpet Crash)
“A wild ride of a memoir by Rob Lowe that will leave you amused, fascinated and ultimately charmed.” (
Shelf Awareness)
“[Lowe is] an interesting and perceptive writer.” (
Daily Mail)
“An interesting read, and a page-turner. Lowe has an amazing insight about life and what is important.” (
Family Choice Awards)
“Love Life is just as genially and charmingly guarded as its predecessor. … [Lowe] is admirably self-aware.” (
Good Men Project)