A lovely insight into the glamorous world of Hollywood! This book is based around the making of a blockbuster that was set in The Great War, so it definitely has more depth than the average holiday read. I found that both the modern day story and the snippets of the past were very gripping encouraging you to read on. As this book is based on a movie set, you feel you are there and you can really lose yourself in the setting.
As you continue to read you can feel a love story developing, however it is not obvious how it will end so you are constantly speculating. The main character Ella is a loveable, naïve make-up artist who is easily persuaded. You almost want to stand up and protect her as you really feel her vulnerability come through. A great ending, unpredictable and not too cheesy!
Overall rating: 7/10 - a slightly slow beginning, it took a few chapters to get stuck into it. Once the story got going you couldn't put it down! The twist with the War story (which is rather romantic in itself) brings an extra dimension which was needed in this book. Recommend for those interested in the glamorous lifestyle of Hollywood and what it's really like to be a famous movie star! Those holidaying in France may enjoy this too as it captures the heart of a French City and also those who like a book where 2 stories intertwine.
Having read Adele Parks' books before I had high expectations, and I am pleased that this book did not disappoint! A lovely story about adult life, making friends, coping through tough times and enjoying the good times. The characters in this book are very well defined, getting a real feel for each one. You really connect with the characters leaving you feeling sorry for a few of them - one suffering from Alzheimer's, one trying for a baby - and hope they get the happy ending they deserve. This book made me cry, smile and surprised me in places.
Chapters are set as months so a lot happens in this book over a year or two. You get a lot of insight into the main character Eloise's life and how kind and generous she is to her family and friends. The book is not set around one grand ending so it's hard to predict what will happen which makes it even more gripping.
Overall rating: 8/10 - A very well written, complex book. The characters stand out and emotion overcomes you. An unexpected ending and the way the book flows adds to the enjoyment of the read. I would recommend to those who like more depth to characters, with more emotions and a real insight into their lives. This book does have a happy ending, however, there is an on-going sadness throughout the book, so definitely not the traditional chick-lit. Someone who is on a boating holiday or on a country-side retreat will enjoy reading about similar scenery.
Straight from the first page you can tell this book will be a fun, girly, chick-lit with a lot of fashion talk! The story is about a personal shopper trying to balance motherhood with work, when a new challenge crops up. Each chapter starts off with a description of one of the characters outfits which gives this book the unique factor.
The main character Annie is lots of fun and full of energy and very loveable. The book is set in Ireland then New York, and Carmen Reid really captures the spirit of New York. It is a book that makes you want to read on, it gives you a good insight into the fashion world and how determination really does pay off! Not too predictable either, the book throws a few surprises along the way.
Overall rating: 8/10 - A more typical holiday read - gripping, fun, girly and thrilling. The plot is not too cheesy, a variety of characters makes it interesting and more exciting to read. I would recommend to fashion followers who love chick-lits and anyone who has been to New York or wants to go it really gets you excited about the city.
