SEP did her magic again.
And the Crowd Went Wild is the 11th book in the Chicago Stars series. While it’s part of a long-running world, each book works perfectly as a standalone, with familiar characters making small appearances. Even though Dream a Little Dream (Book 4) still remains my favourite, this book did come close.
This time, the story follows Dancy Flynn who’s a once-popular actress whose career is crumbling after a very public divorce and humiliation. Dancy is messy, vulnerable, and deeply human. She’s going through emotional turmoil, yet watching her slowly rebuild herself is truly applaudable. Her growth doesn’t happen overnight, and that’s what makes it so satisfying. I especially loved the way she bonded with Watch, who was not her dog even though he was her dog (IYKYK).
We first meet the MMC, Clint Garrett, in Simply the Best as Rory’s brother. Here, he steps fully into the spotlight. Dancy nicknames him “Saint Clint,” and honestly, it fits. Clint is self-righteous in that very SEP-hero way. He is principled, controlled, and unable to stop himself from helping people, even when he probably should. But beneath that polished, disciplined exterior is a man who also needs to confront his own thoughts.
The dynamic between Dancy and Clint is classic Susan Elizabeth Phillips: sharp banter, emotional tension, and gradual vulnerability. Their connection builds through small, meaningful moments rather than dramatic twists. SEP excels at balancing humour with emotional depth, and this book is no exception. It’s tender without being overly sentimental and funny without losing its emotional weight.
Like so many books in the Chicago Stars series, this one also stays with you. It’s about second chances and not just in love, but in life. It’s about rediscovering yourself after public failure and learning that sometimes strength comes from allowing yourself to be seen.
This book has my heart, just like almost every SEP novel does.
My Rating: 4/5 stars
Get your copy of this book from here.
With love and lots of stories,
The Reading Lane
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