LISA LEHMANN ~ AUTHOR & PHOTOGRAPHER
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BOOKS

book cover featuring radio headphones and a microphone against radio airwaves: RADIO STARR: A Novel by Lisa Lehmann
RADIO STARR: A Novel
A Woman's Love Affair with Radio and the Cost of Reinvention
FRESH WATER PRESS
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"For all your reading needs."

To break through as a woman in rock radio, a starry-eyed DJ spins alter egos that unravel her identity and moral fabric. How much of herself is she willing to lose to survive the man’s world of 1980s radio?

If you love the nostalgia and music of Daisy Jones & The Six and the zaniness of WKRP in Cincinnati, you'll love reading RADIO STARR!

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New! THE RADIO BOOKSHELF -- discover the best books about the business.

All Eva LaVette wants is a great career and a perfect marriage. Can she have both? 
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A '70s girl in an '80s world, Eva finds her life upended on a frigid Wisconsin night when she discovers a passion for radio. It’s a feeling that ignites her soul, but conflicts with her husband’s traditional values. Fearless and a bit naive, Eva adopts on-air facades that both hide and reveal her deepest desires. As she navigates the trials of format changes, overnight shifts, sexist vibes, and the fear of being fired, she grapples with the consequences of her choices. Radio plays both a true love and a bad boyfriend; Eva is seduced time and again.​

RADIO STARR is a dramatic historical fiction and workplace romance about fame, ambition, strong female characters and complicated relationships. It's the perfect book club read.


 ​Radio legends love RADIO STARR!

"I adored this book and can’t wait for the sequel. The author nailed it!"
 ~ Liane Hansen, former NPR Weekend Edition host

"It's a unique take on radio written from a realistic but still joyous perspective. It flows... the ups and downs, the self-doubt, elation, marital strife, and 'inside radio' elements..."

​ ~ Lee Harris, National Radio Hall of Fame Inductee

"I didn’t want to put it down. As a lifelong radio professional, this book is perfection—the real deal!
​Eva is such an interesting character. Her insecurities come through.”
~ Gabby Parsons, retired radio personality

"It's a love letter to the old days of carts and typewritten copy, skipping records and overnight shifts. Anyone who has worked in radio will fall in love with radio all over again."
~ Carol Shay Hornung, Civic Media (and author of the Dez Duchiene Mysteries)



cover of radio starr with headphones and a microphone
It's chock full of radio bits
Dead air dreams, hitting the post, accidentally saying your real name, cue burn, rigged contests, breaking up with someone while you're on the air, cart farts, pesky AEs, Marti units hitting power lines, radio urban legends, getting fired, live remotes, show prep, smoking in the studio, stuttering, taking requests, tight playlists, tumbling carts, getting locked out of the station, gifts from prisoners, cleaning the station on overnights, chimping to your own ads, terrible pay, PDs screaming on the hotline, working every holiday, wacko callers/telephone screamers, and writing ad copy. For all your ______ needs...


cover of the novel RADIO STORM by Lisa Lehmann with a boombox, radio signal tower, and 90s colors

    RADIO STORM - the sequel, coming in 2027! Notify me when it's available:

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WISCONSIN BOOKSTORES:
WordHaven BookHouse, 923 N 8th St, Sheboygan
 The Nook,  211 N. 9th St, Manitowoc
LaDeDa Books, 1624 New York Ave, Manitowoc
Down the Barrel Books, 3310 Calumet Ave, Manitowoc
Uncorked Book Lounge, 1610 Washington St, Two Rivers
To stock the novel, contact Tara at Fresh Water Press

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cover of Lake Michigan: The Wisconsin Shore, a coffee table book of photography

Lisa's Lake Michigan photography book and more...



The major themes of RADIO STARR
1. Identity. The heart of the novel. Eva's microphone gives her permission to become someone different—or perhaps to become more completely herself. The novel asks whether the identities we perform for other people eventually become part of who we really are.
2. Career vs. marriage. Eva's professional ambition conflicts with her husband's more traditional expectations. She's forced to consider whether she can have the career she wants without sacrificing her marriage or herself. It's about "adulting."
3. Women in a male-dominated industry. The radio world of the 1980s provides an interesting backdrop. Eva navigates sexism and workplace expectations while trying to establish herself
a '70s girl in an '80s world pictured wearing a long braid and a suede jacket for the novel RADIO STARR

Books comparable to RADIO STARR:
  • Daisy Jones & The Six with it's  its messy relationships, strong women, glamorous creative works, and addictive behind-the-scenes drama.
  • The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid — A Hollywood icon tells the story of her extraordinary life, loves, ambitions, and secrets. It has the same juicy, character-driven feel as Radio Starr.
  • The Final Revival of Opal & Nev by Dawnie Walton — About a groundbreaking rock duo in the 1970s.
  • Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid — Fierce female ambition, complicated relationships, fame, and a woman determined to reclaim her legacy.
  • The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai — Historical fiction with an emotionally rich ensemble cast and a strong connection between past and present.
  • City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert — A young woman's life in 1940s New York theater, filled with glamour, friendship, sexuality, independence, and scandal. Similar to the women behaving badly in glamorous settings appeal.
  • The Thorn Birds by Colleen McCullough — Sweeping historical family drama, forbidden love, ambition, and decades of complicated relationships.
  • The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah — A mother and daughter in 1970s Alaska and the complicated bonds between women.

Customer Reviews 4.9 out of 5 stars on Amazon for Radio Starr a novel like Daisy Jones & The Six
REVIEWS: 4.9 stars on Amazon, 4.8 stars on Goodreads

​Thomas
I just finished Radio Starr. I did a stint as a DJ on a radio station in the early ‘70s and I found the author’s descriptions of the ins and outs of that world accurate, informative and very entertaining! I typically don’t read during the day, but I have found myself sneaking into the bedroom and reading the book. Highly recommended!

​Carol
I Fell in Love With Radio All Over Again
Eva is a college student when we meet her, with dreams of making it in the radio world in the 1980s. Radio was rife with low wages, sexism, long hours, and all kinds of awful ... but we did it anyway. This is a love letter to the old days of carts and typewritten copy, skipping records and overnight shifts ... anyone who has worked in radio - and who has loved radio - will find lots to love about this book.
 
Gail
Though I love it, I read fiction only once or twice a year, because that’s all I have time for. This year I chose Radio Starr. Very nicely done. The treatment of women was clearly shown without being preachy. I found the main character very relatable, and I liked how it ended. It made for some very pleasant afternoons. My compliments to the author.
 
Char
Radio Starr is a real page-turner, and I don't say that often! After working over 22 years in radio broadcasting in 3 different markets, and at 7 different stations it kept me trying to prepare for what might be next and surprised me every time. She'll have you wanting to step in and be a part of this story. Whether you work in broadcasting or always wondered what happens before it hits the airwaves Radio Starr is sure to pull you into the story to discover what happens at your favorite station.
 
Kathy
An engaging journey into the world of radio. Eva’s story is captivating and authentic. I’d highly recommend this book.
 
Buxton
The best description Radio Starr can be summed up as the disc jockeys in her story might say: “It’s a hit!” The story is a flashback for the reader, back to the turbulent eighties, as Eva Lavette struggles to find both career and marital happiness...
Having been in the radio industry during this decade (and having written about it myself), I can attest that “it’s all true” (especially the bad parts). Lehmann weaves the twin tales of Eva’s efforts for an on-air position with fame (and a little dignity) and love. Her playful chapter titles and the musical selections that are part of the novel add both humor and clarity. You’ll be rooting for Eva to break through and reach her goals…but does she?
 
Brittni
Radio Starr is full of retro vibes and nostalgia, all while tackling the challenges of being a woman in a man’s world in the 1980’s. Eva, the protagonist, believes she must adopt different personas to find success in her career in radio. This novel is heartfelt and easy reading at times, but then also dives deep into moments of fear and passion. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey of finding out what it means to be happy with who you are, all set to the music of my childhood.
 
Tina
The manic pace and magic of radio are revealed in this nostalgic, music-fueled, coming-of-age romp where the protagonist is often her very own antagonist. Each time I had to set the book down, I continued to think about the story until I could pick it up again. A sure sign of a good book.
 
Kevin
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Radio Starr. The details about the atmosphere of late-night radio studios, the sound of bulk erasing carts, and the smell of stale coffee and recording tape made it easy to immerse myself in the story. The characters, egos, and situations are all very true to life as well.
The story was interesting and thought provoking, capturing the world of smaller market radio very accurately. As a former broadcaster from the same era as the Radio Starr story, the authentic descriptions of the sights, sounds, smells, and stress dreams of life in radio triggered lots of nostalgic memories.
I recommend it to anyone who has ever shared the fascination of radio as a listener or a broadcaster.
 
Michael
Readers who miss the heyday of being the ninth caller to win concert tickets from their favorite radio station, or who remember finally being able to put a voice with the face when meeting a deejay at a live event, or who simply wonder how radio stations operated in the pre-digital era will find plenty to savor in this nostalgic read. Eva LaVette is a young on-air personality with some heavy personal baggage and soaring professional aspirations. As a woman in a male-dominated and chauvinistic biz in the Seventies and Eighties, she adopts multiple on-air personas before finally realizing who she truly is. "Radio Starr" is a memorable coming-of-age tale set against the age-old and endlessly fascinating backdrop of radio. (Warning: You may experience flashbacks to episodes of "WKRP in Cincinnati.")
 
Jen
Such an accurate telling of what it was like to be a woman in radio in the 80’s!!

Jennifer
I adored this novel from start to finish.
As a contemporary of Radio Starr’s main character, Eva LaVette, this reader was swamped with nostalgia. The music mentioned in Radio Starr runs like the soundtrack to my younger self (all on vinyl). Lisa Lehmann’s writing is crisp and tight, and her characters deeply drawn. In particular, Eva is so recognizable in all her flawed, heroic, funny, and heartbreaking glory that it is impossible not to become emotionally attached to her. Her emotional journey is as bumpy as her career path, but the reader cheers for Eva all the way.
Radio Starr will transport readers to a time when women were finding new careers outside the home. A time when it seemed as though the world was opening up to women. And yet, Eva’s story also mirrors a time when women had to endure workplace harassment, mostly in the form of microaggressions. Like me, those readers who worked outside the home during the 80’s will remember how it was and know that, although we haven’t reached parity, it’s a whole lot better. Five stars for Radio Starr and its author, Lisa Lehmann.
 
Emilie
I found it fascinating to follow the main character's journey while getting a behind the scenes glimpse into the radio world of the 1980's. Eva is a complex, likable character that you'll be rooting for the whole way through! So many twists and turns that kept me guessing what would be next for Eva as she navigated workplace challenges and important decisions in her personal life.
 
MCK
Sweet Read
Radio Starr by Lisa Lehmann is a fun, fast-paced read about Eva LaVette, a woman trying to break into the radio business and make it all the way to star status. Eva is easy to root for, and her journey through the ups and downs of radio keeps the story moving.
I liked how the book shows the excitement and pressure of being on the air, while also giving Eva a personal story about chasing her dreams and figuring out who she wants to be.
I couldn't put it down, because i had to know whether Eva, and those cowboy boots, would make it to the big time. Overall, this is an entertaining and inspiring book about ambition, reinvention, and following a dream. Loved it!
 
Anonymous
Fun 80s Nostalgia
I loved Radio Starr. It's a lively and engaging story about a young woman trying to make her way as a disc jockey in 1980s Wisconsin. The author is a former DJ, and her first-hand knowledge of the radio business shines in the detailed descriptions of what really goes behind the scenes at a radio station -- not only the technical aspects of the job, but the outsized egos, the slimy managers, and the overzealous fans. The heroine, Evie, is a character any woman can relate to as she struggles to reconcile her dream of being a radio star with her commitment to her marriage and wistful hopes for a more stable life. Radio Staff is the perfect summer beach book.
 
Todd
A nostalgic and uplifting journey
Radio Starr at first drips with the nostalgic flair of the 70s especially its music and vibe. As you get further into the main character "Eva" and her story her ambitions, desires and the past wounds she carries drive her to sate a longing from within.
We are opened up to her world which she unabashedly shares warts and all in her journey towards fulfillment in her job, marriage and place as a woman with goals and a longing to express herself meaningfully.
It’s well worth reading especially to many men who might benefit from a woman's perspective in relationships and how to nurture and mend them. Insightful and ultimately uplifting.
 
ka4037
Smart, fun, and I couldn’t put it down
I absolutely loved this book. It was funny and fun, but also at times heartbreaking. Most of all, I didn’t want to put it down. The thing I loved best, apart from the characters and the story, were the details about life in the 80s. For example, there’s a tiny detail where a character licks a stamp. It’s such a small thing, but it made me feel like I was actually living in the scenes. And the way the author describes the music made me feel like I was hearing the songs. I can’t recommend this book enough.
 
Linda
For everyone who listens to the radio
I worked in radio my entire life. Back in the 70's and 80's, it was not an easy road for women. But were the good parts worth the bad? Radio Starr will answer that question and leave you wanting to know more.
If you listened to the radio when you were young, this book will bring it all back. She uncovers the secrets and shares the truths.
 
Kevan
Everybody who has ever been in radio would enjoy this novel!
It was fun being reminded of how exciting it was - especially in the early days of being on the radio. It was also a good reminder of all the holidays and weekends radio people work. Great job developing Eva as a person! You made me care about her!
 
Mike
Great book! It’s a must-read.
What a fun book! I love the characters and the storyline. Definitely a blast from the past to the days of vinyl records, turn tables, and radio disc jockeys. I’m usually disappointed with most book endings. Not the case with this book and it kept me interested all the way through! I was not expecting that ending!

kathy
Read this for an engaging trip into the world of radio.
What a wonderful read. It effortlessly took me back to the ‘80s. The story made this a “can’t put down” book. I quickly became invested in Eva’s story. I have to admit I did not expect how it ended but it was certainly satisfying. I’d highly recommend this book.
 
Anonymous
Trip back in time with a great cast of radio personalities
I could not put this book down! It was easy to imagine all of the radio characters. I could picture them so clearly. Eva’s story is heartwarming and keeps you intrigued about where her life and career will take her.

L. Maristatter
A fun ode to '80s culture, music, and misogyny. Lehmann gives a fascinating snapshot of the times while detailing the protagonist's journey of pain, and self-discovery. For anyone who struggled through the decade, trying to create a career in a constantly shifting cultural and moral landscape: This novel sees you.

Radio Starr: Historical Fiction, Coming of Age, Women’s Fiction, Literary Fiction, Workplace Romance, Family Life Fiction, Friendship Novel, Family Saga. Novels set in Wisconsin, Novels Set in the Midwest, About Radio, In the ‘80s, Marriage Love and Romance, ‘80s music, like Daisy Jones & the Six, like Firefly Lane, Music Industry, Radio Industry, Radio in the 1980s, Books about Musicians, and Rock and Roll Music.
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