The Love Machine

The Love Machine follows television executive Robin Stone's rise through the cutthroat world of 1960s network television. His career trajectory parallels his complex relationships with three women - model Amanda, journalist Maggie, and network founder's wife Judith - who each become deeply entangled in his life. The novel tracks the interconnected lives of numerous characters in the television industry, from desperate executives and struggling actors to producers and sponsors. At the center remains Stone, whose nickname "the Love Machine" stems from his views on television and his numerous romantic entanglements. Set against the backdrop of New York's media landscape, the story explores power dynamics in both professional and personal relationships. The book examines themes of ambition, sexuality, and the human cost of success in the entertainment industry.

Readers describe The Love Machine as a juicy, soap opera-style story that entertains but lacks the impact of Valley of the Dolls. Many cite the fast pace and behind-the-scenes look at 1960s television networks as engaging elements. Readers appreciated: - The insider view of TV industry politics and power dynamics - Complex female characters, particularly Amanda - Raw portrayal of ambition and relationships Common criticisms: - Less memorable than Valley of the Dolls - Male protagonist Robin Stone comes across as one-dimensional - Repetitive descriptions of clothing and appearances - Dated references and attitudes toward women Average ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (3,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (240+ ratings) "A guilty pleasure read that doesn't pretend to be literature," notes one Amazon reviewer. Multiple Goodreads reviewers mentioned skimming through excessive fashion descriptions while still finding the core story compelling enough to finish.

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🌟 The novel spent an impressive 32 weeks on The New York Times Best Seller list in 1969, becoming one of the decade's biggest literary hits 📺 The story was inspired by real-life CBS executive James Aubrey, nicknamed "The Smiling Cobra" for his ruthless management style 💫 The book was adapted into a major motion picture in 1971, starring John Phillip Law and Dyan Cannon ✍️ Susann wrote much of the novel while battling breast cancer, completing it between treatments at her apartment overlooking Central Park 🎭 Before becoming a novelist, Jacqueline Susann was an actress who appeared in numerous Broadway productions and television commercials, giving her firsthand insight into the entertainment world she wrote about