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It's Got to Be Perfect: The Memoirs of a Modern-Day Matchmaker
#1 Amazon Bestseller (Biographical Fiction)
#1 Amazon Bestseller (Humour)
#1 Amazon Hot New Releases
When Ellie Rigby hurls her three-carat engagement ring into the gutter, she is certain of only one thing, that she has yet to know true love.
Following months of disastrous internet dates and conflicting advice from her dysfunctional friends, she decides to take matters into her own hands. Although now, instead of just looking for a man for herself, she's certain her life's purpose is to find deep and meaningful love for all the singles in the world.
Five years on, running the UK's biggest matchmaking agency, and with thousands of engagements to her name, she has all the answers she needs. She knows why eighty-five percent of relationships fail. She knows why twenty-eight is the most eligible age for a woman. She knows that by thirty-five she'll have only a thirty-percent chance of marriage.
Most of all, she knows that no matter what, it has to be perfect. Or does it?
Finalist - Readers' (US) Favorite
Finalist - Best Dating Book 2013
#1 Amazon Bestseller (Humour)
#1 Amazon Hot New Releases
When Ellie Rigby hurls her three-carat engagement ring into the gutter, she is certain of only one thing, that she has yet to know true love.
Following months of disastrous internet dates and conflicting advice from her dysfunctional friends, she decides to take matters into her own hands. Although now, instead of just looking for a man for herself, she's certain her life's purpose is to find deep and meaningful love for all the singles in the world.
Five years on, running the UK's biggest matchmaking agency, and with thousands of engagements to her name, she has all the answers she needs. She knows why eighty-five percent of relationships fail. She knows why twenty-eight is the most eligible age for a woman. She knows that by thirty-five she'll have only a thirty-percent chance of marriage.
Most of all, she knows that no matter what, it has to be perfect. Or does it?
Finalist - Readers' (US) Favorite
Finalist - Best Dating Book 2013
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2013
About the author
Haley Hill
4 books90 followers#1 Bestselling author Amazon US and UK, published by HarperCollins.
Latest release, LOVE IS... http://tinyurl.com/hv83nts
Haley was born in London in 1977, with a big heart, big feet and big ideals.
In 2005 she set up what turned out to be the UK’s biggest matchmaking agency. She wrote her debut novel, IT'S GOT TO BE PERECT, inspired by all she learnt about love and relationships.
The novel became an Amazon bestseller in UK and US and was offered a 3 book deal with HarperCollins. Her latest release, LOVE IS... a journey of discovery into how to make love last, is out now.
Love is... http://tinyurl.com/hv83nts
Latest release, LOVE IS... http://tinyurl.com/hv83nts
Haley was born in London in 1977, with a big heart, big feet and big ideals.
In 2005 she set up what turned out to be the UK’s biggest matchmaking agency. She wrote her debut novel, IT'S GOT TO BE PERECT, inspired by all she learnt about love and relationships.
The novel became an Amazon bestseller in UK and US and was offered a 3 book deal with HarperCollins. Her latest release, LOVE IS... a journey of discovery into how to make love last, is out now.
Love is... http://tinyurl.com/hv83nts
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
November 13, 2013
I was really excited to start reading this book. I love watching the TV programme The Millionaire Matchmaker and thought if this book is only half as funny as said TV programme, then I am in for a treat. And what a treat it was!! Haley’s description of the dating scene is utterly hilarious and the slightly cringe worthy moments make for such an exhilarating read.
I enjoyed Ellie’s character from the beginning on. I think, I speak for nearly all of us, in saying that at one point in our lives we have been through one or the other dating disasters described in the book (no, I won’t say which ones apply to me – I am glad I successfully manoeuvered myself out of the scary dating scene :-) ).
If you are feeling low and/or are trying to escape a bad day, pick up this book and I am sure it will plaster a huge smile back onto your face.
I enjoyed Ellie’s character from the beginning on. I think, I speak for nearly all of us, in saying that at one point in our lives we have been through one or the other dating disasters described in the book (no, I won’t say which ones apply to me – I am glad I successfully manoeuvered myself out of the scary dating scene :-) ).
If you are feeling low and/or are trying to escape a bad day, pick up this book and I am sure it will plaster a huge smile back onto your face.
August 24, 2015
The dedication in this book gives a clue to the expertise and knowledge the author really has of the matchmaking world. She actually launched and ran a highly successful ‘Elect Club dating agency’ and has used this experience to create an entertaining book on this theme. Knowing that background information made me more eager to read this since it is on a similar theme and I wasn’t disappointed - a story full of wonderful characters, all looking for their ideal perfect love. Their interactions are, at times, hilarious and the plot is well paced. A sweet chicklit to relax with, an ideal one to brighten your day and bring a smile to your face.
The heroine of the story is Ellie Rigby, who had so little success at find her match she decided to start her own agency. She has high ideals and believes her love needs to be perfect - but does it really? The first part of the book is about how she started it, sharing some hilarious moments and brilliant potential clients. Part Two is apparently some years later by which time the agency is the biggest in the UK with thousands of people introduced through it and now engaged or married. Throughout the story there are snippets relating to Ellie and her team’s interactions with clients, their ‘dates’ and her own love life (or lack of it). Statistics are frightening but she still hope she finds a hope of finding - and keeping - her true love, but you’ll have to read it yourself to find out if she does or doesn’t!
Thanks to the publisher for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The heroine of the story is Ellie Rigby, who had so little success at find her match she decided to start her own agency. She has high ideals and believes her love needs to be perfect - but does it really? The first part of the book is about how she started it, sharing some hilarious moments and brilliant potential clients. Part Two is apparently some years later by which time the agency is the biggest in the UK with thousands of people introduced through it and now engaged or married. Throughout the story there are snippets relating to Ellie and her team’s interactions with clients, their ‘dates’ and her own love life (or lack of it). Statistics are frightening but she still hope she finds a hope of finding - and keeping - her true love, but you’ll have to read it yourself to find out if she does or doesn’t!
Thanks to the publisher for letting me read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2013
From the first page I was hooked, this book has a good way of drawing the reader in. Especially with the funny exchanges between Ellie and her friends.
Ellie is likeable even at the start with her slightly skewed belief in finding the perfect man or what she constitutes as the perfect man. As Ellie is on her mission to match her clients together there are plenty of laugh out moments.
Each of the clients that Ellie had were unique characters trying to find love. Most of them were likeable and I thought the bit when Mr Marbella punched the snowboarder was great.
Overall I really enjoyed Ellie's matchmaking journey, this book had both laughs and some realistic romances. Well worth a read!
P.S
Thanks to Haley for my First Reads copy!
Ellie is likeable even at the start with her slightly skewed belief in finding the perfect man or what she constitutes as the perfect man. As Ellie is on her mission to match her clients together there are plenty of laugh out moments.
Each of the clients that Ellie had were unique characters trying to find love. Most of them were likeable and I thought the bit when Mr Marbella punched the snowboarder was great.
Overall I really enjoyed Ellie's matchmaking journey, this book had both laughs and some realistic romances. Well worth a read!
P.S
Thanks to Haley for my First Reads copy!
November 22, 2015
Review first posted on my blog: http://spoonfulofhappyendings.blogspo...
Ellie Rigby has had it with online dating. Looking for a decent guy seems to be like looking for a needle in a haystack and she's sick and tired of dealing with one dating disaster after another. Then one day, Ellie suddenly realises what she must do: if others can't help her find a suitable guy, why shouldn't she take matters into her own hands and step into the business side of the world of dating herself? Ellie sets up her own matchmaking agency and before she knows it, she has a whole list of clients to take care of. With a successful business at the age of twenty-eight, Ellie hopes it will only be a matter of time before she runs into her own Prince Charming. But while Ellie constantly tells her clients they have to let go of the idea of finding the perfect partner, she can't seem to shake that idea when it comes to her own dating life...
'It's Got to Be Perfect' was first released in 2013 and is based on author Haley Hill's own experiences after setting up her own matchmaking agency in 2005. I thought it was quite a promising debut novel and the author is actually working on a sequel right now, which I'm looking forward to picking up as well! I loved the basic plotline of the book; main character Ellie decides to move past all the dating disasters in her life and sets up her own matchmaking business. I loved reading about all the different people that wanted to make use of Ellie's services and how certain matches resulted in either happiness or disaster. A lot of different characters are introduced and some of the things they did really had me laughing out loud.
Unfortunately, I just didn't manage to really click with Ellie, the protagonist of the novel. She continued to be a bit distant and I wouldn't describe her as a warm and easy-to-love character. I probably liked Ellie's two colleagues Thea and Mandi better; they're two complete opposites but really worked well with the story. There was an unexpected time jump in the middle of the book which took me by surprise. We suddenly miss a few years in Ellie's life and business, which on the one hand was a pity because it really felt like I was missing certain details but on the other hand it was fun to have this look into the future. Overall, I thought 'It's Got to Be Perfect' was an entertaining and funny romance read about the world of matchmaking; not one of my absolute favourites, but worth picking up if you're a chick lit fan!
Ellie Rigby has had it with online dating. Looking for a decent guy seems to be like looking for a needle in a haystack and she's sick and tired of dealing with one dating disaster after another. Then one day, Ellie suddenly realises what she must do: if others can't help her find a suitable guy, why shouldn't she take matters into her own hands and step into the business side of the world of dating herself? Ellie sets up her own matchmaking agency and before she knows it, she has a whole list of clients to take care of. With a successful business at the age of twenty-eight, Ellie hopes it will only be a matter of time before she runs into her own Prince Charming. But while Ellie constantly tells her clients they have to let go of the idea of finding the perfect partner, she can't seem to shake that idea when it comes to her own dating life...
'It's Got to Be Perfect' was first released in 2013 and is based on author Haley Hill's own experiences after setting up her own matchmaking agency in 2005. I thought it was quite a promising debut novel and the author is actually working on a sequel right now, which I'm looking forward to picking up as well! I loved the basic plotline of the book; main character Ellie decides to move past all the dating disasters in her life and sets up her own matchmaking business. I loved reading about all the different people that wanted to make use of Ellie's services and how certain matches resulted in either happiness or disaster. A lot of different characters are introduced and some of the things they did really had me laughing out loud.
Unfortunately, I just didn't manage to really click with Ellie, the protagonist of the novel. She continued to be a bit distant and I wouldn't describe her as a warm and easy-to-love character. I probably liked Ellie's two colleagues Thea and Mandi better; they're two complete opposites but really worked well with the story. There was an unexpected time jump in the middle of the book which took me by surprise. We suddenly miss a few years in Ellie's life and business, which on the one hand was a pity because it really felt like I was missing certain details but on the other hand it was fun to have this look into the future. Overall, I thought 'It's Got to Be Perfect' was an entertaining and funny romance read about the world of matchmaking; not one of my absolute favourites, but worth picking up if you're a chick lit fan!
July 22, 2017
Full Review 24/10/13
I honestly don't know how to review this book as I so easily gave it five stars and just want to scream to the world "GO AND READ THIS BOOK!"
I have honestly never laughed so much whilst reading a book in my entire life. It was so funny, and cleverly written. I absolutely adored it. I think every person who reads this book would agree with me. There's just so much truth to the story and frankness with which author Haley Hill introduces us to the men and women of the world who wish to find their perfect match.
The story was written to absolute perfection. Haley Hill's writing style was absolutely brilliant, and Ellie's internal narrative was so much fun to read and so cleverly put together, that I would read another book by this author in a heartbeat. As well as it being light relief to read, I also thought that it was realistic and relatable to people today.
What I really loved about this book is how Haley Hill took the story to the next level by making the hope of a 'happily ever after' less likely. This really made me connect to the story in a way that I often don't with this sort of chick lit. Being able to sympathise with the desire for a 'happily ever after' I felt so in tune with the characters, both the clients, and Ellie when her relationship with Nick begins to sour.
Ellie and Nick's courtship is great to read for any romantic, yet I was more devastated than I usually am in books when their relationship ended four years later. It was a stark reminder that not everybody gets their happy ending with the person they love, and that sometimes we have to get through life alone. I was so desperate to see these characters reconcile and the connection to the characters Haley Hill gave me with her incredible writing, made the story even more emotional and heartfelt.
An extra fun part of this book was seeing what the clients wanted in their perfect partner. It gave a hilarious realisation to see that today we tend to have a shopping list for what we want in a partner, the most common being their appearance. Whilst some were more extreme than others (I laughed so much at some of the clients preferences), it shows that love tends to be a second thought despite how romantic many people are today.
Overall this was a fantastic read and is on my list of favourite books of all time. I have never laughed so much in my life, and would buy this book for my girlfriends for birthdays and christmas. 5 Stars!
I honestly don't know how to review this book as I so easily gave it five stars and just want to scream to the world "GO AND READ THIS BOOK!"
I have honestly never laughed so much whilst reading a book in my entire life. It was so funny, and cleverly written. I absolutely adored it. I think every person who reads this book would agree with me. There's just so much truth to the story and frankness with which author Haley Hill introduces us to the men and women of the world who wish to find their perfect match.
The story was written to absolute perfection. Haley Hill's writing style was absolutely brilliant, and Ellie's internal narrative was so much fun to read and so cleverly put together, that I would read another book by this author in a heartbeat. As well as it being light relief to read, I also thought that it was realistic and relatable to people today.
What I really loved about this book is how Haley Hill took the story to the next level by making the hope of a 'happily ever after' less likely. This really made me connect to the story in a way that I often don't with this sort of chick lit. Being able to sympathise with the desire for a 'happily ever after' I felt so in tune with the characters, both the clients, and Ellie when her relationship with Nick begins to sour.
Ellie and Nick's courtship is great to read for any romantic, yet I was more devastated than I usually am in books when their relationship ended four years later. It was a stark reminder that not everybody gets their happy ending with the person they love, and that sometimes we have to get through life alone. I was so desperate to see these characters reconcile and the connection to the characters Haley Hill gave me with her incredible writing, made the story even more emotional and heartfelt.
An extra fun part of this book was seeing what the clients wanted in their perfect partner. It gave a hilarious realisation to see that today we tend to have a shopping list for what we want in a partner, the most common being their appearance. Whilst some were more extreme than others (I laughed so much at some of the clients preferences), it shows that love tends to be a second thought despite how romantic many people are today.
Overall this was a fantastic read and is on my list of favourite books of all time. I have never laughed so much in my life, and would buy this book for my girlfriends for birthdays and christmas. 5 Stars!
October 1, 2013
I was SO looking forward to reading It’s Got To Be Perfect – I absolutely love the cover, it is gorgeous and something that really appeals to me, and the line “The memoirs of a modern-day matchmaker” had me very intrigued!
After many disastrous dates and conflicting advice from friends, Ellie decides it is time to take matters into her own hands! But she also decides she’s going to expand, and instead of just finding her Mr Right, she’s going to help all the singles out there find love! And five years on, she’s running the UK’s biggest matchmaking agency, with a great success rate and hundreds of engagements to her name! Most of all, she knows that it has to be perfect…or does it?
I absolutely loved It’s Got To Be Perfect! Haley has written such a fantastic novel and had me hooked from the first page. It was a story where once I’d started I found it impossible to put down, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Ellie!
To say it is funny is an understatement – this book had me laughing out loud hysterically. It is just such an addictive read, I was smiling and laughing and at times I was cringing too!
I liked Ellie from the beginning, I warmed to her straight away and she fascinated me. I loved reading about her role as a matchmaker, what she did, the advice she gave and how things ran when running a matchmaking agency. It gave me a real insight into another side of finding love, and I really enjoyed this. I’m sure there will be readers out there who can definitely relate to some of the scenes in the book too.
The characters are very vibrant – they jump to life from the pages and they are so interesting to read about! It’s Got To Be Perfect is really refreshing – it is honest, it is funny and it is fantastic. I’d definitely recommend this.
After many disastrous dates and conflicting advice from friends, Ellie decides it is time to take matters into her own hands! But she also decides she’s going to expand, and instead of just finding her Mr Right, she’s going to help all the singles out there find love! And five years on, she’s running the UK’s biggest matchmaking agency, with a great success rate and hundreds of engagements to her name! Most of all, she knows that it has to be perfect…or does it?
I absolutely loved It’s Got To Be Perfect! Haley has written such a fantastic novel and had me hooked from the first page. It was a story where once I’d started I found it impossible to put down, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Ellie!
To say it is funny is an understatement – this book had me laughing out loud hysterically. It is just such an addictive read, I was smiling and laughing and at times I was cringing too!
I liked Ellie from the beginning, I warmed to her straight away and she fascinated me. I loved reading about her role as a matchmaker, what she did, the advice she gave and how things ran when running a matchmaking agency. It gave me a real insight into another side of finding love, and I really enjoyed this. I’m sure there will be readers out there who can definitely relate to some of the scenes in the book too.
The characters are very vibrant – they jump to life from the pages and they are so interesting to read about! It’s Got To Be Perfect is really refreshing – it is honest, it is funny and it is fantastic. I’d definitely recommend this.
December 4, 2020
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free for a Blog Tour in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. I loved Ellie. from the very first page I thought this is a girl I could be friends with. With the opening chapter consisting of a wedding fair followed by Ellie throwing her engagement ring in the gutter I knew I was in for some drama. I absolutely loved Ellie's idea of starting a matchmaking service. I loved hearing her thoughts on who would be a good match for who and how they were getting on.
The book is in two parts the second part is 5 years after the first. It took me a few pages to realise this as there was no indication. I felt like a whole chunk of Ellie's life flew by and we missed it. I was saddened by this as it would have been nice to see how her life had changed over these 5 years.
Mandi and Mia Ellie's matchmaking assistants were great. Complete polar opposites, but this made it work. Both crashing against each other to meet somewhere in the middle.
Nick...hmmm what can I say about Nick. He's hot and very determined but other than that I'm not sure. I do not feel like I know him well enough.
This was a great read. It was funny, romantic and addictive, however it would be great to have another book about the 5 years that were skipped. This is an example of chicklit at it's best.
The book is in two parts the second part is 5 years after the first. It took me a few pages to realise this as there was no indication. I felt like a whole chunk of Ellie's life flew by and we missed it. I was saddened by this as it would have been nice to see how her life had changed over these 5 years.
Mandi and Mia Ellie's matchmaking assistants were great. Complete polar opposites, but this made it work. Both crashing against each other to meet somewhere in the middle.
Nick...hmmm what can I say about Nick. He's hot and very determined but other than that I'm not sure. I do not feel like I know him well enough.
This was a great read. It was funny, romantic and addictive, however it would be great to have another book about the 5 years that were skipped. This is an example of chicklit at it's best.
August 23, 2015
*Book provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
This story is inspired by the author’s own matchmaking experiences and together with the blurb that sounded really promising.
Ellie Rigby is a matchmaker and I really enjoyed having insight in what she’s doing. It’s a really hard job. Matching single people and meeting so many oft hem at the same time, her client list grows fast and meanwhile we also meet some friends of her. Haley found a great way to include this all in a book and describe these funny and entertaining scenes. I got swept into the story pretty fast and read these dates and matching tries with a lot of interest.
While Ellie is doing this all, she is craving for a man herself, she doesn’t get younger after all, right?! Well, she meets Nick, but it gets very complicated and I have to say, I don’t really know what to say about him, which is a bit of a pity.
Ellie is a great character, down to earth and normal and a joy to follow around.
Her assistants Mani and Mia also get their stories told and the bunch was so much fun. They are all very vibrant characters, who made the story sparkly.
The book is in two parts, the second part is set 5 years later. It took my a while to realise that and I felt that there wer parts of Ellie’s story missing here.
It’s Got To Be Perfect is a funny, romatic and sweet read, I really enjoyed it. Haley’s writing is vivid, fresh and very cute!
This story is inspired by the author’s own matchmaking experiences and together with the blurb that sounded really promising.
Ellie Rigby is a matchmaker and I really enjoyed having insight in what she’s doing. It’s a really hard job. Matching single people and meeting so many oft hem at the same time, her client list grows fast and meanwhile we also meet some friends of her. Haley found a great way to include this all in a book and describe these funny and entertaining scenes. I got swept into the story pretty fast and read these dates and matching tries with a lot of interest.
While Ellie is doing this all, she is craving for a man herself, she doesn’t get younger after all, right?! Well, she meets Nick, but it gets very complicated and I have to say, I don’t really know what to say about him, which is a bit of a pity.
Ellie is a great character, down to earth and normal and a joy to follow around.
Her assistants Mani and Mia also get their stories told and the bunch was so much fun. They are all very vibrant characters, who made the story sparkly.
The book is in two parts, the second part is set 5 years later. It took my a while to realise that and I felt that there wer parts of Ellie’s story missing here.
It’s Got To Be Perfect is a funny, romatic and sweet read, I really enjoyed it. Haley’s writing is vivid, fresh and very cute!
December 27, 2016
Matchmaker wanted.
Must care about people, be a self-starter and willing to work antisocial hours. No qualifications necessary.
And what wasn’t mentioned in the job offer – a perfect candidate should correctly distinguish shapes of women’s breasts (or as you prefer – tits), has the ability to drink an absurd amount of wine (not Californian ones!) and must truly and deeply believe in love (especially the one from Celine Dion’s songs) or at least in…statistics.
So, do you have guts to become a matchmaker?
When Ellie’s perfect relationship with not-so-perfect fiancé ends and she finds herself with a long list of desirable and absolutely-not-desirable requirements for her future Mr Right, she unexpectedly gets an idea of her new life’s purpose – to find deep and meaningful love for all the singles in the world.
The novel is a heart-warming, incredibly funny story which offers an insightful look at relationships in the modern world. Haley’s book is not only a light and engaging love story but also an interesting story about love.
(I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.)
Must care about people, be a self-starter and willing to work antisocial hours. No qualifications necessary.
And what wasn’t mentioned in the job offer – a perfect candidate should correctly distinguish shapes of women’s breasts (or as you prefer – tits), has the ability to drink an absurd amount of wine (not Californian ones!) and must truly and deeply believe in love (especially the one from Celine Dion’s songs) or at least in…statistics.
So, do you have guts to become a matchmaker?
When Ellie’s perfect relationship with not-so-perfect fiancé ends and she finds herself with a long list of desirable and absolutely-not-desirable requirements for her future Mr Right, she unexpectedly gets an idea of her new life’s purpose – to find deep and meaningful love for all the singles in the world.
The novel is a heart-warming, incredibly funny story which offers an insightful look at relationships in the modern world. Haley’s book is not only a light and engaging love story but also an interesting story about love.
(I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.)
October 16, 2013
I have just finished this and I absolutely loved it :)
I was hooked from the first page, couldn't wait to keep reading and find out what happened next, Ellie is a really likeable character and the book is really funny.
I will be looking out for future books from Haley.
I was hooked from the first page, couldn't wait to keep reading and find out what happened next, Ellie is a really likeable character and the book is really funny.
I will be looking out for future books from Haley.
October 1, 2013
A rather hilarious romp through the world of matchmaking. Recommend to all chick-lit lovers!
April 3, 2019
Four stars is probably a little bit generous but I did like this book. Especially in the way that it grew from a 'love is a feeling and soulmates are real' type to a 'love I shall what you make it and the only perfect match gives you happiness and sadness in equal measure' type stories.
Light and fun the message I think is something everyone needs to hear at some point in their lives. Although the way Ellie treated Joanna and some of the other characters could be a bit better, she was a good protagonist and she felt real.
Borrowed this book from the library but would consider buying it for $2 at an op shop if I saw it so I can have it in my collection.
Light and fun the message I think is something everyone needs to hear at some point in their lives. Although the way Ellie treated Joanna and some of the other characters could be a bit better, she was a good protagonist and she felt real.
Borrowed this book from the library but would consider buying it for $2 at an op shop if I saw it so I can have it in my collection.
September 11, 2018
This book would be enjoyable if only for the treasure trove of bad dates and all the 'worst' of what can happen on the dating scene. But it is actually more than that, in that it is also an enjoyable story with an engaging and sympathetic character
January 13, 2021
Not sure why this has a rating of 3.28, I really enjoyed it! I wasn't expecting to because I'd never heard of the author and it just looked and sounded like a boring romance but I decided to read it anyway and I'm glad I did!
February 7, 2017
Hilarious, funny modern romance.
I won this book in a goodreads.com giveaway. It is a nice light-hearted comedy and some of the writing gets to your emotions too. (eg. page 65 re the dog). The book starts off where Ellie, engaged to Robert, is at a Wedding Show with friends. Robert has made excuses as to why he couldn't attend and Ellie tells of his penchant for porn. She eventually ends their relationship and tosses her engagement ring away. She then has to start all over again in her quest to find Mr Right. This is quite a fun read with some very humorous moments, and sometimes, a bit of suspense. It would make a good holiday read. It is quite saucy at times. If you like a good old fashioned read then maybe this isn't for you?-Catherine Cookson it is not! I liked it quite a lot but even then, at times it made me feel a little old. I think it's perhaps more suited to a younger audience than me, maybe 20's and 30's, but yes I did enjoy it and some of it I absolutely loved. There are some great humorous similes in this book, I kept chuckling at these. Very different to any I have seen before, unusual, funny and refreshing. Haley Hill has interesting new ways of saying more usual expressions. Ellie tries dating again and decides it is her vocation to become a matchmaker. This makes for lots of characters coming and going throughout the book, so I sometimes found it difficult to keep track of them. Some would be 'one-date-wonders' and would quickly flash in and out of the action so it wasn't necessary to remember everyone. Some scenes I wasn't keen on but there are really people like this so it's realistic I suppose. There are some good dialogue scenes, very readable. I like that some of the story is told through emails and text messages, this adds to the variety and realism for me. As the story really got going, I was reading well into the small hours-a sure sign of a good book. There is a really hilarious incident-totally different-an injury that's certainly never cropped up in any book I have read before! Haley Hill has drawn on her own real life experiences as a matchmaker for this book so it's amazing to think if this is one of those true happenings that someone has told her of! There are a lot of slightly overdone descriptions of women in this book for me-we're not all perfect busty blondes-and I don't want to be- I would have liked more down-to-earth characters as well, characters with flaws and extra weight etc. The presentation of this book is wonderful. It has a lovely distinctive cover, a gorgeous pinky-purple colour. It would catch your eye in any bookshop. In the print copy, each page number is encased by two little hearts either side of it-this is a nice little touch that just finishes it off as a whole package. Very well thought-out. I enjoyed this book. It only suffered a bit because I had a long spell of non-reading. Just as I had really got into it and was devouring it, I was really ill and didn't have the urge to pick up any form of reading which is very unlike me. For a couple of weeks I had a gap in the story so I was concerned I would lose the thread and have to restart the book. Once I was well again, I got back into it easily and enjoyed it all over again. For this reason it is a bit difficult to judge the real pace of this book. The book was fairly accurate. The main error for me was the word 'span' as in 'she span around'-I think this should read 'spun around', this expression was used a few times. Another error is on page 126-'a broad as a' should read 'as broad as a'. Page 142 repeated word-'could the truth could ever be' and page 227 'violin quartet'-this should be 'string quartet'-it isn't four violins, it always consists of two violins, a viola and a cello so is a string quartet. Enjoyable, fresh, bubbly, amusing. Well worth a read.
I won this book in a goodreads.com giveaway. It is a nice light-hearted comedy and some of the writing gets to your emotions too. (eg. page 65 re the dog). The book starts off where Ellie, engaged to Robert, is at a Wedding Show with friends. Robert has made excuses as to why he couldn't attend and Ellie tells of his penchant for porn. She eventually ends their relationship and tosses her engagement ring away. She then has to start all over again in her quest to find Mr Right. This is quite a fun read with some very humorous moments, and sometimes, a bit of suspense. It would make a good holiday read. It is quite saucy at times. If you like a good old fashioned read then maybe this isn't for you?-Catherine Cookson it is not! I liked it quite a lot but even then, at times it made me feel a little old. I think it's perhaps more suited to a younger audience than me, maybe 20's and 30's, but yes I did enjoy it and some of it I absolutely loved. There are some great humorous similes in this book, I kept chuckling at these. Very different to any I have seen before, unusual, funny and refreshing. Haley Hill has interesting new ways of saying more usual expressions. Ellie tries dating again and decides it is her vocation to become a matchmaker. This makes for lots of characters coming and going throughout the book, so I sometimes found it difficult to keep track of them. Some would be 'one-date-wonders' and would quickly flash in and out of the action so it wasn't necessary to remember everyone. Some scenes I wasn't keen on but there are really people like this so it's realistic I suppose. There are some good dialogue scenes, very readable. I like that some of the story is told through emails and text messages, this adds to the variety and realism for me. As the story really got going, I was reading well into the small hours-a sure sign of a good book. There is a really hilarious incident-totally different-an injury that's certainly never cropped up in any book I have read before! Haley Hill has drawn on her own real life experiences as a matchmaker for this book so it's amazing to think if this is one of those true happenings that someone has told her of! There are a lot of slightly overdone descriptions of women in this book for me-we're not all perfect busty blondes-and I don't want to be- I would have liked more down-to-earth characters as well, characters with flaws and extra weight etc. The presentation of this book is wonderful. It has a lovely distinctive cover, a gorgeous pinky-purple colour. It would catch your eye in any bookshop. In the print copy, each page number is encased by two little hearts either side of it-this is a nice little touch that just finishes it off as a whole package. Very well thought-out. I enjoyed this book. It only suffered a bit because I had a long spell of non-reading. Just as I had really got into it and was devouring it, I was really ill and didn't have the urge to pick up any form of reading which is very unlike me. For a couple of weeks I had a gap in the story so I was concerned I would lose the thread and have to restart the book. Once I was well again, I got back into it easily and enjoyed it all over again. For this reason it is a bit difficult to judge the real pace of this book. The book was fairly accurate. The main error for me was the word 'span' as in 'she span around'-I think this should read 'spun around', this expression was used a few times. Another error is on page 126-'a broad as a' should read 'as broad as a'. Page 142 repeated word-'could the truth could ever be' and page 227 'violin quartet'-this should be 'string quartet'-it isn't four violins, it always consists of two violins, a viola and a cello so is a string quartet. Enjoyable, fresh, bubbly, amusing. Well worth a read.
February 25, 2014
Read more of this and the rest of it at readadultromance.com.
Matchmaker, Matchmaker, Make me a Match
I'm torn between giving It's Got to Be Pefect a 4 or 5 stars because you can't have 4.5 stars. When I read the synopsis of the book (it was listed in a Goodreads Giveaway) I knew I would want to win it and read it. But then as luck would have it, it was free for the day on Kindle! (I didn't win it, btw.)
It was Valentine's Day and after all the festivities were done, I read the book in my bed. All that anticipation did not go to waste because I enjoyed all the insight given in the book. After Ellie left her fiance, she decides to open a matchmaking agency with the success of pairing up her male best friend. Match-making ahoy!
I really wanted to like this book. It had everything I was looking for. Strong women, romance, supportive partners-in-crime, great idea to set up the story. And I did like it with positive women and freeing ideas of how women can behave. The men take a backseat in the story. Ellie tries to encompass men and women from all facets who all looked for different things and things that she didn't agree with. She allows her clients to make their own mistakes and try to match themselves up with people who would never work out. Her hopefulness in trying again and again for her clients and always believing in love is so positive to see and refreshing. She is not naive (her new employee, Mandi) or cynical (her new employee after that, Mia) so she manages to strike a balance between the two and act as the mediator.
The thing I didn't like about it was that it showed a lot more than it told. We read about how Ellie loves her significant other but we rarely - if any - see the two of them actually interact with each other. Ellie talks about how love is loving the person underneath - something she tells her clients often - but to me it looks like she likes the lifestyle the partnership offers. Again, something she tells her client to avoid going into any relationship.
Another thing that irked me was the constant jump around and introduction of new characters. I had to re-read a passage several time because it jumped from her flat (she was with her roommate) to a random bar and someone named Caro. (I also thought the ebook was missing pages. And it still could?) At first, I thought it was a nickname to her friend Cordelia. But then I realized they were two entities. In the end I was still unsure who she was other than a good friend that comes and goes.
I remembered another thing - how come Ellie never turns down any client. Even if they treat her badly or are actually horrible human beings. Instead she lets them yell and demean her, and she still finds them a match. When her agency explodes with new clients, she has the ability to pick and choose whoever she wants. She doesn't. It was infuriating to see her getting yelled at.
Despite all that, It's Got to Be Perfect is still a great book to read when you want to see women up-front-and-centre, have positive women friends and takes control of her life. There's no controlling men yanking our protagonist around. There's no helpless princess waiting to be rescued. I give it a 4.5 and rounded down to 4 (out of 5). I really wish I could give it a 5.
Matchmaker, Matchmaker, Make me a Match
I'm torn between giving It's Got to Be Pefect a 4 or 5 stars because you can't have 4.5 stars. When I read the synopsis of the book (it was listed in a Goodreads Giveaway) I knew I would want to win it and read it. But then as luck would have it, it was free for the day on Kindle! (I didn't win it, btw.)
It was Valentine's Day and after all the festivities were done, I read the book in my bed. All that anticipation did not go to waste because I enjoyed all the insight given in the book. After Ellie left her fiance, she decides to open a matchmaking agency with the success of pairing up her male best friend. Match-making ahoy!
We aren't entitled to love. We have to earn it and fight to keep it. And even then most of the time it shit all over us.
I really wanted to like this book. It had everything I was looking for. Strong women, romance, supportive partners-in-crime, great idea to set up the story. And I did like it with positive women and freeing ideas of how women can behave. The men take a backseat in the story. Ellie tries to encompass men and women from all facets who all looked for different things and things that she didn't agree with. She allows her clients to make their own mistakes and try to match themselves up with people who would never work out. Her hopefulness in trying again and again for her clients and always believing in love is so positive to see and refreshing. She is not naive (her new employee, Mandi) or cynical (her new employee after that, Mia) so she manages to strike a balance between the two and act as the mediator.
The thing I didn't like about it was that it showed a lot more than it told. We read about how Ellie loves her significant other but we rarely - if any - see the two of them actually interact with each other. Ellie talks about how love is loving the person underneath - something she tells her clients often - but to me it looks like she likes the lifestyle the partnership offers. Again, something she tells her client to avoid going into any relationship.
Another thing that irked me was the constant jump around and introduction of new characters. I had to re-read a passage several time because it jumped from her flat (she was with her roommate) to a random bar and someone named Caro. (I also thought the ebook was missing pages. And it still could?) At first, I thought it was a nickname to her friend Cordelia. But then I realized they were two entities. In the end I was still unsure who she was other than a good friend that comes and goes.
I remembered another thing - how come Ellie never turns down any client. Even if they treat her badly or are actually horrible human beings. Instead she lets them yell and demean her, and she still finds them a match. When her agency explodes with new clients, she has the ability to pick and choose whoever she wants. She doesn't. It was infuriating to see her getting yelled at.
Despite all that, It's Got to Be Perfect is still a great book to read when you want to see women up-front-and-centre, have positive women friends and takes control of her life. There's no controlling men yanking our protagonist around. There's no helpless princess waiting to be rescued. I give it a 4.5 and rounded down to 4 (out of 5). I really wish I could give it a 5.
October 22, 2013
CHANCE TO WIN YOUR SIGNED COPY OF IT'S GOT TO BE PERFECT ON MY BLOG RIGHT NOW http://missbookworm23.blogspot.co.uk/... PART OF FICTION ADDICTION BOOK TOUR.
Title: It's Got To Be Perfect
Author: Haley Hill
Publisher: Troubador
Publication Date: 1st September 2013
Blurb
VIEW BOOK TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFzSc4...
"When Ellie Rigby hurls her three-carat engagement ring into the gutter, she is certain of only one thing, that she has yet to know true love.
Following months of disastrous internet dates and conflicting advice from her dysfunctional friends, she decides to take matters into her own hands. Although now, instead of just looking for a man for herself, she’s certain her life’s purpose is to find deep and meaningful love for all of the singles in the world.
Five years on, running the UK’s biggest matchmaking agency, and with hundreds of engagements to her name, she has all the answers she needs.
She knows why eighty-five percent of relationships fail. She knows why twenty-eight is the most eligible age for a woman. She knows that by thirty-five she’ll have only a thirty-percent chance of marriage.
Most of all, she knows that no matter what, it has to be perfect.
Or does it?
It's Got to Be Perfect is inspired the author's six years as a matchmaker in London
Verdict
- Amazingly & A Funny Read one to treasure forever!
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!! Sorry I just had to say that! Haley Hill is just a fantastic lady who has become a first time author and I am so happy for her.
I first met Haley when she asked me to read & review her book for her and i was so excited and I was then asked by Sharon Goodwin for Fiction Addiction could I be part of the book tour for It's got to be perfect and I jumped at the chance.
I enjoyed this book ever so much!
It's got to be perfect is a fantastic read which is inspired on Haley's six years as a matchmaker in London. So you can imagine while reading this you giggle like mad at some of the people who wanted matchmaking and what they got up to on their dates.
I love the character Ellie Rigby and seeing her blossom from having a crappy engagement with her fiance when she throws her engagement ring away and from crappy internet dates, blind dates and conflict advice from her friends to then deciding one day she could change all that by becoming a matchmaker and setting up what would be the UK's biggest matchmaking agency.
Do all relationships & Marriages have to be perfect? That's where Ellie Rigby comes in handy!
I loved this book and I was forever giggling along, It is an easy read that you will read and love some of the characters and the matchmaking dates that happen.
I am sooo happy that Haley finally finished this book as she had been writing it for years but with all her experience and stories she has been able to write a superb and wonderful book that people will love and treasure forever!
Thank you Haley Hill for giving me the chance to be part of your book tour and giving me the pleasure of having a book I can now treasure forever and being a pleasure of Author/Blogger friendship. Also a huge thank you to Sharon Goodwin from Fiction Addiction Book Tours :)
Title: It's Got To Be Perfect
Author: Haley Hill
Publisher: Troubador
Publication Date: 1st September 2013
Blurb
VIEW BOOK TRAILER: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFzSc4...
"When Ellie Rigby hurls her three-carat engagement ring into the gutter, she is certain of only one thing, that she has yet to know true love.
Following months of disastrous internet dates and conflicting advice from her dysfunctional friends, she decides to take matters into her own hands. Although now, instead of just looking for a man for herself, she’s certain her life’s purpose is to find deep and meaningful love for all of the singles in the world.
Five years on, running the UK’s biggest matchmaking agency, and with hundreds of engagements to her name, she has all the answers she needs.
She knows why eighty-five percent of relationships fail. She knows why twenty-eight is the most eligible age for a woman. She knows that by thirty-five she’ll have only a thirty-percent chance of marriage.
Most of all, she knows that no matter what, it has to be perfect.
Or does it?
It's Got to Be Perfect is inspired the author's six years as a matchmaker in London
Verdict
- Amazingly & A Funny Read one to treasure forever!
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!! Sorry I just had to say that! Haley Hill is just a fantastic lady who has become a first time author and I am so happy for her.
I first met Haley when she asked me to read & review her book for her and i was so excited and I was then asked by Sharon Goodwin for Fiction Addiction could I be part of the book tour for It's got to be perfect and I jumped at the chance.
I enjoyed this book ever so much!
It's got to be perfect is a fantastic read which is inspired on Haley's six years as a matchmaker in London. So you can imagine while reading this you giggle like mad at some of the people who wanted matchmaking and what they got up to on their dates.
I love the character Ellie Rigby and seeing her blossom from having a crappy engagement with her fiance when she throws her engagement ring away and from crappy internet dates, blind dates and conflict advice from her friends to then deciding one day she could change all that by becoming a matchmaker and setting up what would be the UK's biggest matchmaking agency.
Do all relationships & Marriages have to be perfect? That's where Ellie Rigby comes in handy!
I loved this book and I was forever giggling along, It is an easy read that you will read and love some of the characters and the matchmaking dates that happen.
I am sooo happy that Haley finally finished this book as she had been writing it for years but with all her experience and stories she has been able to write a superb and wonderful book that people will love and treasure forever!
Thank you Haley Hill for giving me the chance to be part of your book tour and giving me the pleasure of having a book I can now treasure forever and being a pleasure of Author/Blogger friendship. Also a huge thank you to Sharon Goodwin from Fiction Addiction Book Tours :)
September 12, 2016
4.5 Stars!
I was so delighted and grateful to get a chance to read and review It's Got to Be Perfect! I had read a couple of reviews of it, and then got a chance to see the book trailer. After that I was sold, and I just had to read it for myself. The book trailer is so cute, and I wanted to share it with you all, so here goes:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFzSc4...
The story begins with a young woman named Ellie, who is engaged to man who she believes is perfect. He's rich, handsome, and athletic. She soon learns he's not all what he's cracked up to be, and finds herself single once again.
Two years later, and Ellie's still single. She's dated a lot of guys that she wished she'd never met. She's exasperated and frustrated. She has expectations for what she wants in a man, and will not settle for anything less. What Ellie doesn't seem to realize at first, is that she isn't quite perfect herself, so to expect perfection from a man, isn't ideal. Thankfully, her friend Matthew, sets her straight and calls her on her double standards. I really liked Matthew. He gives Ellie great advice and doesn't hold back when it comes to honesty. He once asked her why dating a wealthy man was important?
"So I can live in a big house and have a nice lifestyle, without having to worry about money."
My new friend Matthew's reply:
"Well, madam," he began peering over his glasses, "in this day and age, a lady can go out and achieve such things without the aid of a man. So, you're just being a lazybones."
Isn't he great??
Ellie begins to rethink her approach to finding Mr. Right, and decides to help others find their perfect match instead. She really believes there's someone perfect for each of us. She starts a matchmaking service, and soon hires on a couple of associates to help her when her new business takes off.
It's Got to be Perfect was very entertaining and funny! I enjoyed reading other peoples' opinions about what they think love is and what their ideal, perfect mate would be like. Many of the characters were quirky and fun. I also appreciated that we got to follow some of them of them for a few years and see how they were doing on their search for love and happiness. I especially liked Jeremy and Harriet's story. I'll admit, I wasn't sure what to think of Harriet at first, but I grew to like her in the end, and I found I could relate to her.
Victoria and Mandi were two more characters that I enjoyed reading about. The banter between these two was hilarious, as they were complete opposites. I was surprised to find that there was more to Mandi then what she appeared be most times. She turned out to be very intelligent and thoughtful.
I found myself wanting to read more, once I finished this book. I wanted to see if Ellie did find her HEA after all. I can only imagine that she did. She learned so much throughout this book, and her expectations for what she wanted in a mate did indeed change.
I was so delighted and grateful to get a chance to read and review It's Got to Be Perfect! I had read a couple of reviews of it, and then got a chance to see the book trailer. After that I was sold, and I just had to read it for myself. The book trailer is so cute, and I wanted to share it with you all, so here goes:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFzSc4...
The story begins with a young woman named Ellie, who is engaged to man who she believes is perfect. He's rich, handsome, and athletic. She soon learns he's not all what he's cracked up to be, and finds herself single once again.
Two years later, and Ellie's still single. She's dated a lot of guys that she wished she'd never met. She's exasperated and frustrated. She has expectations for what she wants in a man, and will not settle for anything less. What Ellie doesn't seem to realize at first, is that she isn't quite perfect herself, so to expect perfection from a man, isn't ideal. Thankfully, her friend Matthew, sets her straight and calls her on her double standards. I really liked Matthew. He gives Ellie great advice and doesn't hold back when it comes to honesty. He once asked her why dating a wealthy man was important?
"So I can live in a big house and have a nice lifestyle, without having to worry about money."
My new friend Matthew's reply:
"Well, madam," he began peering over his glasses, "in this day and age, a lady can go out and achieve such things without the aid of a man. So, you're just being a lazybones."
Isn't he great??
Ellie begins to rethink her approach to finding Mr. Right, and decides to help others find their perfect match instead. She really believes there's someone perfect for each of us. She starts a matchmaking service, and soon hires on a couple of associates to help her when her new business takes off.
It's Got to be Perfect was very entertaining and funny! I enjoyed reading other peoples' opinions about what they think love is and what their ideal, perfect mate would be like. Many of the characters were quirky and fun. I also appreciated that we got to follow some of them of them for a few years and see how they were doing on their search for love and happiness. I especially liked Jeremy and Harriet's story. I'll admit, I wasn't sure what to think of Harriet at first, but I grew to like her in the end, and I found I could relate to her.
Victoria and Mandi were two more characters that I enjoyed reading about. The banter between these two was hilarious, as they were complete opposites. I was surprised to find that there was more to Mandi then what she appeared be most times. She turned out to be very intelligent and thoughtful.
I found myself wanting to read more, once I finished this book. I wanted to see if Ellie did find her HEA after all. I can only imagine that she did. She learned so much throughout this book, and her expectations for what she wanted in a mate did indeed change.
August 24, 2015
"It's Got to be Perfect" is Haley Hall's debut novel and as she herself was a professional match - maker I thought the idea of writing a book about what she really knows and can do is a great one. It truly appeals to me, just imagine how much fun it can be! And so, full of hope and expectations, I started to read this novel.
And the beginning was good, albeit very quick. I felt as if a whirlwind of action got by - Ellie, the main character, decides she's going to be a match - maker and she immediately becomes a match - maker, without researching, without anything, only collecting people in the pubs and restaurants, and it somehow works.
Unfortunately, quickly I found that I really couldn't care less about what's going to happen, and how many new characters are going to be introduced to us. Also, the easiness the whole business is blossoming was a matter of confusion for me. I mean, Ellie just started it, just like we click our fingers, and there was not a single problem, not a single money issue, and the clients were appearing also just like that.
Then, suddenly, somewhere in the middle, the book just jumps forwards few years. We don't know why, we don't know what happened in between, we know nothing, only that the company is working and growing.
The idea of this book was really good in my opinion, it's just that for me it seemed ragged, not thought through. There was so much potential in this dating business, and some of the dates were really funny, but I missed a depth to this all, some feeling. Also, the descriptions of the dating business were for me a little too superficial, I'd love to hear more about how, when, why and who, and I'd missed much more hilarious stories. What I also find a shame is that I didn't get any clearer information how the couples were actually matched - this I would love to know! I just had a feeling that the story is dragging nowhere.
I also couldn't connect with the characters. No idea why, because they seemed to be normal characters, but there was nothing that made me care about them. They were just very straightforward characters, okay, decent people but they had nothing in them that would make them to the top, and make them unforgettable or special.
I also found myself skipping the whole pages, as the story just wasn't able to keep my attention, and I was thinking as I am this far already, I'm going to finish this book, no matter what. I think that it just started promising, but then only went downhill. It makes me really sad, because I had incredibly high expectations for this novel, and I am truly disappointed that it didn't work for me. But oh my goodness, please do check this book for yourself - it has some really great reviews, so you might find this a hilarious read, just something that you were looking for! I am really sad it was not the case for me, as I so wanted to love the story! Nevertheless, I am looking forward to a new book from Haley Hill, and hope to be able to read it sooner rather than later!
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
October 6, 2015
Fun, fast-paced and fabulous, Haley Hill’s brilliant debut novel, It’s Got To Be Perfect, is just the thing to chase the autumn blues away!
When Ellie Rigby had met her boyfriend Robert, she thought that she had finally hit the jackpot. Successful, wealthy and as sexy as sin, Robert looked like he’d just walked out of one of her romantic fantasies. When he had got down on one knee and proposed to her, Ellie had been over the moon. However, her dream of a perfect wedding was quickly smashed to smithereens when she realised that her soon-to-be husband was a rat of the highest order who had a penchant for lying and cheating – not to mention a very dubious Internet search history. With all her hopes for the future cruelly dashed, Ellie lost no time in packing her bags, chucking her ring in the gutter and bidding farewell to what was going to be the biggest mistake of her life!
Ellie might be down, but she is certainly not out. Undeterred in her quest to find her Mr Right, Ellie decides to dust herself off, put on her sexiest outfit and throw herself body and soul into the London dating scene. After all, how hard can it be to find a rich, handsome and affluent bachelor in one of the world’s largest cities? Pretty damn hard, as it happens! With the singles scene seeming to be dominated by liars, cheaters and weirdos, Ellie wonders whether she should just pack it all in – until she gets a brainwave that turns her entire life upside down…
In a world full of dating apps, Internet chat rooms and casual hook-ups, Ellie decides that the time has come to put the personal touch back into romance and courtship. A scientist by training, Ellie realises that she must use her knowledge of chemistry to match up the capital’s lonely singletons and help them on to the road to their happy ever after. When she turns matchmaking into a business, Ellie is floored by how successful her enterprise becomes and pretty soon, she becomes the expert on all things romantic. With a growing client list and successful matches aplenty, Ellie soon begins to wonder: will she ever find the right man for herself?
A match with a client soon changes everything, but will Ellie find the happiness she has been searching for for most of her adult life? Or will she come to the conclusion that she is better off single?
Fans of Jane Costello and Lindsey Kelk are going to love Haley Hill’s fantastic debut novel! Wickedly funny, deliciously feel-good and wonderfully told, It’s Got to Be Perfect is a compulsively readable contemporary tale guaranteed to make you laugh out loud!
With a fantastic heroine you’d love to go for cocktails with, a cast of terrific supporting characters you cannot help but adore, delightful humour and compelling emotional drama, It’s Got to Be Perfect is a first-rate debut that you will not be able to resist.
When Ellie Rigby had met her boyfriend Robert, she thought that she had finally hit the jackpot. Successful, wealthy and as sexy as sin, Robert looked like he’d just walked out of one of her romantic fantasies. When he had got down on one knee and proposed to her, Ellie had been over the moon. However, her dream of a perfect wedding was quickly smashed to smithereens when she realised that her soon-to-be husband was a rat of the highest order who had a penchant for lying and cheating – not to mention a very dubious Internet search history. With all her hopes for the future cruelly dashed, Ellie lost no time in packing her bags, chucking her ring in the gutter and bidding farewell to what was going to be the biggest mistake of her life!
Ellie might be down, but she is certainly not out. Undeterred in her quest to find her Mr Right, Ellie decides to dust herself off, put on her sexiest outfit and throw herself body and soul into the London dating scene. After all, how hard can it be to find a rich, handsome and affluent bachelor in one of the world’s largest cities? Pretty damn hard, as it happens! With the singles scene seeming to be dominated by liars, cheaters and weirdos, Ellie wonders whether she should just pack it all in – until she gets a brainwave that turns her entire life upside down…
In a world full of dating apps, Internet chat rooms and casual hook-ups, Ellie decides that the time has come to put the personal touch back into romance and courtship. A scientist by training, Ellie realises that she must use her knowledge of chemistry to match up the capital’s lonely singletons and help them on to the road to their happy ever after. When she turns matchmaking into a business, Ellie is floored by how successful her enterprise becomes and pretty soon, she becomes the expert on all things romantic. With a growing client list and successful matches aplenty, Ellie soon begins to wonder: will she ever find the right man for herself?
A match with a client soon changes everything, but will Ellie find the happiness she has been searching for for most of her adult life? Or will she come to the conclusion that she is better off single?
Fans of Jane Costello and Lindsey Kelk are going to love Haley Hill’s fantastic debut novel! Wickedly funny, deliciously feel-good and wonderfully told, It’s Got to Be Perfect is a compulsively readable contemporary tale guaranteed to make you laugh out loud!
With a fantastic heroine you’d love to go for cocktails with, a cast of terrific supporting characters you cannot help but adore, delightful humour and compelling emotional drama, It’s Got to Be Perfect is a first-rate debut that you will not be able to resist.
October 21, 2013
Also posted on This Chick Reads
Giveaway of 3 signed paperbacks on the blog, so make sure you visit and enter.
Holy cow, I never imagined matchmaking could be so hard! I remember, back in the days when I was cool and young (yes, there were times like that:)) people would beg me to pair them with someone because I was such a social bee and the COOL girl (at least people told me that HA!).
But unlike Ellie, the MC in this novel, I never thought of turning it into a business (have to say it’s an awesome idea though). After a disastrous ending of her relationship, Ellie decides she needs a change. A new career, a new man – practically a new life! So why not try matchmaking, after all she could help other people find their soul mates and actually make some money of it, though money is not the primary reason for starting this business. Easy peasy right? You find a descent looking client, make a detailed list of all the things they love/hate doing and pair them with someone who shares sames interest.
Shazam! Not only you’ve made profit, but actually done a good deed! And it couldn’t be hard, I mean, there are so many great people out there looking for the other half.
Well…things are not that easy, and Ellie is soon to find out.
‘I don’t need a hero, just a descent guy. One who doesn’t have nasal hair, a porn addiction or a personality disorder’
I’m gonna be really honest with you, I didn’t like Ellie much at the beginning. I didn’t like the fact she’s dating someone that’s not officially divorced. It’s not just a question of morality guys, but it’s very rare that relationships like this work and most of the time someone gets really hurt. So, as much as I was sorry for what Ellie is going through, I must say she should have been more mature to foresee some things. I really couldn’t understand why she would want to be with Richard when he’s so disrespectful to her. But anyway, as the story continued Ellie kind of grew on me. I saw the fun side of her, she’s out spoken and really believes in love and putts lots of effort into matching her clients with the perfect ONE.
What I enjoyed the most was the humor. Some parts had me laughing really hard and even now, when thinking of them I can’t help but smile. The novel is inspired by the author’s experience in matchmaking, and that made it even more fun to read.
To sum it up, this really is an easy and entertaining read. If you’re looking for a fun read and some great humor – look no further. ‘It’s Got to Be Perfect’ could be just the perfect book for you.
Giveaway of 3 signed paperbacks on the blog, so make sure you visit and enter.
Holy cow, I never imagined matchmaking could be so hard! I remember, back in the days when I was cool and young (yes, there were times like that:)) people would beg me to pair them with someone because I was such a social bee and the COOL girl (at least people told me that HA!).
But unlike Ellie, the MC in this novel, I never thought of turning it into a business (have to say it’s an awesome idea though). After a disastrous ending of her relationship, Ellie decides she needs a change. A new career, a new man – practically a new life! So why not try matchmaking, after all she could help other people find their soul mates and actually make some money of it, though money is not the primary reason for starting this business. Easy peasy right? You find a descent looking client, make a detailed list of all the things they love/hate doing and pair them with someone who shares sames interest.
Shazam! Not only you’ve made profit, but actually done a good deed! And it couldn’t be hard, I mean, there are so many great people out there looking for the other half.
Well…things are not that easy, and Ellie is soon to find out.
‘I don’t need a hero, just a descent guy. One who doesn’t have nasal hair, a porn addiction or a personality disorder’
I’m gonna be really honest with you, I didn’t like Ellie much at the beginning. I didn’t like the fact she’s dating someone that’s not officially divorced. It’s not just a question of morality guys, but it’s very rare that relationships like this work and most of the time someone gets really hurt. So, as much as I was sorry for what Ellie is going through, I must say she should have been more mature to foresee some things. I really couldn’t understand why she would want to be with Richard when he’s so disrespectful to her. But anyway, as the story continued Ellie kind of grew on me. I saw the fun side of her, she’s out spoken and really believes in love and putts lots of effort into matching her clients with the perfect ONE.
What I enjoyed the most was the humor. Some parts had me laughing really hard and even now, when thinking of them I can’t help but smile. The novel is inspired by the author’s experience in matchmaking, and that made it even more fun to read.
To sum it up, this really is an easy and entertaining read. If you’re looking for a fun read and some great humor – look no further. ‘It’s Got to Be Perfect’ could be just the perfect book for you.
February 14, 2014
"It's Got to Be Perfect" which I won from Goodreads Giveaways is a witty and humorous romp into the world of matchmaking. It begins when Ellie Rugby,a woman who wants a loving relationship with a man who embodies her ideal qualities is faced with the betrayal of her fiancée. Robert not only enjoys the sexual allure of pornography but wants to reunite with his ex-wife because of the high cost of a divorce and to keep Ellie as his mistress. Shocked and hurt she hurls her three-carat engagement ring into a gutter, but instead of wallowing in self-pity Ellie begins a matchmaking business to help other singles find true love.
In a society that equates sex with love her job is not easy, her own broken relationship making her somewhat cynical, but determined to bring happiness to desperately seeking singles. She embarks on a journey, building a successful matchmaking agency and even finds love herself.
The plot is both bitter and sweet, but delightfully funny. Haley Hill with experience in UK's matchmaking industry weaves a story that 's realistic and honest, inspired by the loving but sometimes hopeless interactions of singles. She builds a plot that looks at not only the painful side of broken relationships, the superficiality and moral decay of values in today's dating scene, but contrasts this with the fulfillment, happiness and love that a small percentage of couples find. The story stresses the fact that no one is perfect, that everyone has weaknesses and strengths, and the importance of working on a relationship if it is to succeed.
The characters are well-crafted and funny bringing sparkle and energy to the story. Ellie wants a decent guy and a solid relationship, but after a broken relationship is uncomfortable around men who are attracted to her. She's a determined woman with a good heart who sincerely wants to help others. Her dysfunctional friends Caro and Cordelia look at life through slightly warped glasses, equating one night stands, and sexual encounters with love. Matthew, Ellie's long-term friend and short-term flatmate is sensible and wise, giving her sound advice. Nick is a wonderful match for Ellie, steadfast, loving, trustworthy and funny in his pursuit of her, but realistic and frank about her weaknesses. In contrast Robert's wealthy, self-centered and shallow. I liked her fellow matchmakers Mandi and Mia; one eager and exuberant, the other ambitious and competitive. And even Victoria the flawless beauty, wins your heart with her openness, and her plotting to see her friend happy.
This is a story that gives hope that love with the right person is still possible. It is entertaining and amusing to read and will charm the hearts of women who love chick-lit.
In a society that equates sex with love her job is not easy, her own broken relationship making her somewhat cynical, but determined to bring happiness to desperately seeking singles. She embarks on a journey, building a successful matchmaking agency and even finds love herself.
The plot is both bitter and sweet, but delightfully funny. Haley Hill with experience in UK's matchmaking industry weaves a story that 's realistic and honest, inspired by the loving but sometimes hopeless interactions of singles. She builds a plot that looks at not only the painful side of broken relationships, the superficiality and moral decay of values in today's dating scene, but contrasts this with the fulfillment, happiness and love that a small percentage of couples find. The story stresses the fact that no one is perfect, that everyone has weaknesses and strengths, and the importance of working on a relationship if it is to succeed.
The characters are well-crafted and funny bringing sparkle and energy to the story. Ellie wants a decent guy and a solid relationship, but after a broken relationship is uncomfortable around men who are attracted to her. She's a determined woman with a good heart who sincerely wants to help others. Her dysfunctional friends Caro and Cordelia look at life through slightly warped glasses, equating one night stands, and sexual encounters with love. Matthew, Ellie's long-term friend and short-term flatmate is sensible and wise, giving her sound advice. Nick is a wonderful match for Ellie, steadfast, loving, trustworthy and funny in his pursuit of her, but realistic and frank about her weaknesses. In contrast Robert's wealthy, self-centered and shallow. I liked her fellow matchmakers Mandi and Mia; one eager and exuberant, the other ambitious and competitive. And even Victoria the flawless beauty, wins your heart with her openness, and her plotting to see her friend happy.
This is a story that gives hope that love with the right person is still possible. It is entertaining and amusing to read and will charm the hearts of women who love chick-lit.
December 8, 2015
How can one become a matchmaker when she can't find love herself? Find out in IT'S GOT TO BE PERFECT.
When her umpteenth online date turns into yet another loser, Ellie Rigby decides to take matters into her own hands and starts her own matchmaking business. Visiting bars and billing herself and her besties as "headhunters," Ellie quickly builds a successful business matching couples based on their preferences and her gut. When she's pursued by the friend of a client, she can't help but refuse his advances...after all, she's in no place to date right now! Undaunted, Nick woos Ellie with a single minded focus, and she's helpless to resist. Join Ellie and friends on their romantic adventures in matchmaking.
IT'S GOT TO BE PERFECT is a cute chick-lit story that'll make you smile and laugh and, if you're single, relate to the perils of dating, and if you're attached, thank your lucky stars not to have to be in the meat/meet market any longer. The majority of this story is focused on Ellie's adventures in matchmaking along with the people she meets. There's Stacey and Lacey (compared to sausages being waved under eligible men's noses), Cassandra (the penis breaker), William (with a tennis skirt fetish) and Henry (who wants his woman's nipples to be the perfect shade of pink). The cast of characters are fabulous, I absolutely adored the variety of people that came to Ellie looking for love, hearing their non-negotiable desires for a mate and laughing when they inevitably wind up wanting something totally different.
Ellie's relationship with Nick was a secondary storyline that didn't get much page time, though I don't want to spoil the fun by going into details about their coupledom. IT'S GOT TO BE PERFECT had no actual sex in the storyline, just some groping and kissing and such. It's told from Ellie's POV, and I enjoyed the London vibe of the entire story. The only thing I didn't like was the ending; it felt rushed and incomplete, though it does leave things open for a follow up novel.
Bottom Line: A really fun read by the owner of UK's largest matchmaking agency turned author. Though this story isn't completely autobiographical, it's loosely based on the people she met through the years. I'll look forward to more from Ms. Hill's file folders of eligible folks. - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
When her umpteenth online date turns into yet another loser, Ellie Rigby decides to take matters into her own hands and starts her own matchmaking business. Visiting bars and billing herself and her besties as "headhunters," Ellie quickly builds a successful business matching couples based on their preferences and her gut. When she's pursued by the friend of a client, she can't help but refuse his advances...after all, she's in no place to date right now! Undaunted, Nick woos Ellie with a single minded focus, and she's helpless to resist. Join Ellie and friends on their romantic adventures in matchmaking.
IT'S GOT TO BE PERFECT is a cute chick-lit story that'll make you smile and laugh and, if you're single, relate to the perils of dating, and if you're attached, thank your lucky stars not to have to be in the meat/meet market any longer. The majority of this story is focused on Ellie's adventures in matchmaking along with the people she meets. There's Stacey and Lacey (compared to sausages being waved under eligible men's noses), Cassandra (the penis breaker), William (with a tennis skirt fetish) and Henry (who wants his woman's nipples to be the perfect shade of pink). The cast of characters are fabulous, I absolutely adored the variety of people that came to Ellie looking for love, hearing their non-negotiable desires for a mate and laughing when they inevitably wind up wanting something totally different.
Ellie's relationship with Nick was a secondary storyline that didn't get much page time, though I don't want to spoil the fun by going into details about their coupledom. IT'S GOT TO BE PERFECT had no actual sex in the storyline, just some groping and kissing and such. It's told from Ellie's POV, and I enjoyed the London vibe of the entire story. The only thing I didn't like was the ending; it felt rushed and incomplete, though it does leave things open for a follow up novel.
Bottom Line: A really fun read by the owner of UK's largest matchmaking agency turned author. Though this story isn't completely autobiographical, it's loosely based on the people she met through the years. I'll look forward to more from Ms. Hill's file folders of eligible folks. - See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...
December 2, 2013
This story, inspired by the author’s own matchmaking memoirs, follows protagonist Ellie as she sets off out into the world of matchmaking, which she sometimes find hard to believe herself after her own disastrous attempts at an adult relationship.
Ellie is engaged to Robert, Robert who spends most of his time watching porn and working late, and then justifying both to Ellie. But when Robert tilts her world upside down, she finds herself hurling her engagement ring down the drain and in search of a new flatmate. She decides to set up a matchmaking business, based on giving people what they truly want in a partner and so she sets off on her business venture with gusto.
I immediately liked Ellie’s character. She seemed down to earth and pretty normal, as it goes, so it was really easy to relate to her, it is also easy to empathise with her, on her situation with Robert. It leaves you feeling sorry for her but already starting to root for her and for her situation to turn around. While her friends round about her seem to be growing up, getting serious and settling down her life is heading in the completely opposite direction. Setting up her matchmaking business is a bold move, and Ellie seems to be very perceptive in what she thinks other people need, which is fun to read, as sometimes her perception about the clients is a bit skewed!
Her business starts to grow and Ellie meets loads of people, from all different walks of life. The variety of the characters she meets adds colour to her story, with an especially huge splash of pink added by her Barbie impersonating assistant. Although each matchmake-ee has a different story, Haley has written it in such a way that a small glimpse into their life through Ellie’s eyes lets you feel like they’ve had a prominent role.
I had read the book’s blurb but had forgotten what it was about. I think that helped here as I didn’t already have an ending predicted, which would have been wrong anyway now I think about it! This is a really great story, with plenty of fun and will have you laughing out loud.Haley Hill
Ellie is engaged to Robert, Robert who spends most of his time watching porn and working late, and then justifying both to Ellie. But when Robert tilts her world upside down, she finds herself hurling her engagement ring down the drain and in search of a new flatmate. She decides to set up a matchmaking business, based on giving people what they truly want in a partner and so she sets off on her business venture with gusto.
I immediately liked Ellie’s character. She seemed down to earth and pretty normal, as it goes, so it was really easy to relate to her, it is also easy to empathise with her, on her situation with Robert. It leaves you feeling sorry for her but already starting to root for her and for her situation to turn around. While her friends round about her seem to be growing up, getting serious and settling down her life is heading in the completely opposite direction. Setting up her matchmaking business is a bold move, and Ellie seems to be very perceptive in what she thinks other people need, which is fun to read, as sometimes her perception about the clients is a bit skewed!
Her business starts to grow and Ellie meets loads of people, from all different walks of life. The variety of the characters she meets adds colour to her story, with an especially huge splash of pink added by her Barbie impersonating assistant. Although each matchmake-ee has a different story, Haley has written it in such a way that a small glimpse into their life through Ellie’s eyes lets you feel like they’ve had a prominent role.
I had read the book’s blurb but had forgotten what it was about. I think that helped here as I didn’t already have an ending predicted, which would have been wrong anyway now I think about it! This is a really great story, with plenty of fun and will have you laughing out loud.Haley Hill
August 27, 2015
Fabulously entertaining, had me smiling and laughing from cover to cover. If you have ever fancied yourself as a bit of a matchmaker between your friends and acquaintances, then you will love this book, as this is matchmaking done on a huge scale, with very little science, just gut instinct.
Ellie is fed up of online dating, after having one bad date after another. She decides to become a matchmaker and set up a dating agency, with a little help from her friends. From working in a Chemistry lab to a provider of human Chemistry, it is a sure fire idea to success.
I loved Ellie target and attempt to sign her original client base, and then watching as the agency grew from strength to strength, with her hiring 2 more matchmakers.. Mandi and Thea.
Mandi is bubbly, vivacious, full of life, sparkly and a complete and utter believer in true love. Thea is more down to earth, practical and far more interested in making money, than whether "love" exists. I enjoyed seeing the different approaches the ladies had to matchmaking, and how they deal with clients.
It's Got To Be Perfect is full of laughs from the interviews with new clients, and their usually unrealistic expectations of the opposite sex, to details from some of the dates, this book will have you laughing out loud (or at the very least groaning in recognition at a lot of the details!)
It isn't all laughs there is a healthy helping of romance in this book too, from Ellie's fledgling romance with Nick to some of the agency's success stories, which are incredibly sweet.
I loved the various characters in this book, even the slightly more obnoxious male clients attempting to be paired up, had their upsides even if it was making me chuckle or roll my eyes!
It is very clear that Haley Hill's personal experience at running a dating agency must have given her a whole variety of material to base this book on, and it is always lovely to see an author writing about a topic they clearly know very well.
It's Got To Be Perfect is a brilliant book, great Bank Holiday reading, and a whole lot of fun.
Thank you so much Cara Thompson for this ARC. This was my honest review.
Ellie is fed up of online dating, after having one bad date after another. She decides to become a matchmaker and set up a dating agency, with a little help from her friends. From working in a Chemistry lab to a provider of human Chemistry, it is a sure fire idea to success.
I loved Ellie target and attempt to sign her original client base, and then watching as the agency grew from strength to strength, with her hiring 2 more matchmakers.. Mandi and Thea.
Mandi is bubbly, vivacious, full of life, sparkly and a complete and utter believer in true love. Thea is more down to earth, practical and far more interested in making money, than whether "love" exists. I enjoyed seeing the different approaches the ladies had to matchmaking, and how they deal with clients.
It's Got To Be Perfect is full of laughs from the interviews with new clients, and their usually unrealistic expectations of the opposite sex, to details from some of the dates, this book will have you laughing out loud (or at the very least groaning in recognition at a lot of the details!)
It isn't all laughs there is a healthy helping of romance in this book too, from Ellie's fledgling romance with Nick to some of the agency's success stories, which are incredibly sweet.
I loved the various characters in this book, even the slightly more obnoxious male clients attempting to be paired up, had their upsides even if it was making me chuckle or roll my eyes!
It is very clear that Haley Hill's personal experience at running a dating agency must have given her a whole variety of material to base this book on, and it is always lovely to see an author writing about a topic they clearly know very well.
It's Got To Be Perfect is a brilliant book, great Bank Holiday reading, and a whole lot of fun.
Thank you so much Cara Thompson for this ARC. This was my honest review.
August 14, 2016
Fabulously entertaining, had me smiling and laughing from cover to cover. If you have ever fancied yourself as a bit of a matchmaker between your friends and acquaintances, then you will love this book, as this is matchmaking done on a huge scale, with very little science, just gut instinct.
Ellie is fed up of online dating, after having one bad date after another. She decides to become a matchmaker and set up a dating agency, with a little help from her friends. From working in a Chemistry lab to a provider of human Chemistry, it is a sure fire idea to success.
I loved Ellie target and attempt to sign her original client base, and then watching as the agency grew from strength to strength, with her hiring 2 more matchmakers.. Mandi and Thea.
Mandi is bubbly, vivacious, full of life, sparkly and a complete and utter believer in true love. Thea is more down to earth, practical and far more interested in making money, than whether "love" exists. I enjoyed seeing the different approaches the ladies had to matchmaking, and how they deal with clients.
It's Got To Be Perfect is full of laughs from the interviews with new clients, and their usually unrealistic expectations of the opposite sex, to details from some of the dates, this book will have you laughing out loud (or at the very least groaning in recognition at a lot of the details!)
It isn't all laughs there is a healthy helping of romance in this book too, from Ellie's fledgling romance with Nick to some of the agency's success stories, which are incredibly sweet.
I loved the various characters in this book, even the slightly more obnoxious male clients attempting to be paired up, had their upsides even if it was making me chuckle or roll my eyes!
It is very clear that Haley Hill's personal experience at running a dating agency must have given her a whole variety of material to base this book on, and it is always lovely to see an author writing about a topic they clearly know very well.
It's Got To Be Perfect is a brilliant book, great Bank Holiday reading, and a whole lot of fun.
Thank you so much Cara Thompson for this ARC. This was my honest review.
Ellie is fed up of online dating, after having one bad date after another. She decides to become a matchmaker and set up a dating agency, with a little help from her friends. From working in a Chemistry lab to a provider of human Chemistry, it is a sure fire idea to success.
I loved Ellie target and attempt to sign her original client base, and then watching as the agency grew from strength to strength, with her hiring 2 more matchmakers.. Mandi and Thea.
Mandi is bubbly, vivacious, full of life, sparkly and a complete and utter believer in true love. Thea is more down to earth, practical and far more interested in making money, than whether "love" exists. I enjoyed seeing the different approaches the ladies had to matchmaking, and how they deal with clients.
It's Got To Be Perfect is full of laughs from the interviews with new clients, and their usually unrealistic expectations of the opposite sex, to details from some of the dates, this book will have you laughing out loud (or at the very least groaning in recognition at a lot of the details!)
It isn't all laughs there is a healthy helping of romance in this book too, from Ellie's fledgling romance with Nick to some of the agency's success stories, which are incredibly sweet.
I loved the various characters in this book, even the slightly more obnoxious male clients attempting to be paired up, had their upsides even if it was making me chuckle or roll my eyes!
It is very clear that Haley Hill's personal experience at running a dating agency must have given her a whole variety of material to base this book on, and it is always lovely to see an author writing about a topic they clearly know very well.
It's Got To Be Perfect is a brilliant book, great Bank Holiday reading, and a whole lot of fun.
Thank you so much Cara Thompson for this ARC. This was my honest review.
October 20, 2015
My review is also available at http://thebookworldofanne.blogspot.co...
This book had a lot of the ingredients that made me think I would really enjoy it but it fell quite flat for me.
Unfortunately from the very first chapter I felt incredulous about the main character. Ellie, a scientist who has spent her entire career working in a laboratory, has had a series of bad dates so on the spur of the moment decides to quit her job and become a matchmaker. Chapter two sees her headhunting for men and women in all the poshest/trendiest bars in London, with a focus only on those who are the most attractive or wealthy. There's barely a mention of concern about whether she will build a client base or whether she can afford to live in the meantime.
The main focus of the book appears to be on looks. Are all men and women really that shallow? The vast majority of the women in the book are portrayed as being interested only in how wealthy the men were or how sexy, very little was mentioned about personality apart from focussing on a few of the male characters who would make inappropriate comments at every opportunity or who would only brag about the size of their appendages and on how important big breasts were.
A real low point of the book for me was when Ellie held her first matchmaking party and all the singles start practically having an orgy in the club, with multiple mentions of humping and hands going under various clothing... I think you get the picture.
The characters also all blurred together, I had to check back in the book to work out who some of the characters were and had little interest in who they actually ended up with.
On the plus side, it did make me laugh a few times but I couldn't tell you what happened in the book that actually made me laugh.
This book had a lot of the ingredients that made me think I would really enjoy it but it fell quite flat for me.
Unfortunately from the very first chapter I felt incredulous about the main character. Ellie, a scientist who has spent her entire career working in a laboratory, has had a series of bad dates so on the spur of the moment decides to quit her job and become a matchmaker. Chapter two sees her headhunting for men and women in all the poshest/trendiest bars in London, with a focus only on those who are the most attractive or wealthy. There's barely a mention of concern about whether she will build a client base or whether she can afford to live in the meantime.
The main focus of the book appears to be on looks. Are all men and women really that shallow? The vast majority of the women in the book are portrayed as being interested only in how wealthy the men were or how sexy, very little was mentioned about personality apart from focussing on a few of the male characters who would make inappropriate comments at every opportunity or who would only brag about the size of their appendages and on how important big breasts were.
A real low point of the book for me was when Ellie held her first matchmaking party and all the singles start practically having an orgy in the club, with multiple mentions of humping and hands going under various clothing... I think you get the picture.
The characters also all blurred together, I had to check back in the book to work out who some of the characters were and had little interest in who they actually ended up with.
On the plus side, it did make me laugh a few times but I couldn't tell you what happened in the book that actually made me laugh.
November 4, 2013
Haley Hill's It's Got To Be Perfect is an energetic and amusing read. As I read through Hill's book, I laughed aloud, even to the point of tears. The author's flow is much similar to real life, addressing issues relating to the dating world. I loved the main character Ellie. She is similar to many other women that are looking for love in an unbelievably hectic scene. Ellie, from the very beginning, was in love with the idea of being in love. So many times, we make sacrifices and neglect to see what should be called out as red flags. One such red flag was the soon-to-be-divorced man that Ellie was originally dating. Her outrageous plans with this tool were shattered when she became devastated by reality. After it was all said and done, she ended up alone. This was a turning point in her life because like other women out there, she needed to take a step back and re-evaluate herself.
Rather than mope around, Ellie eventually took the high road and started a matchmaking business. Sounds crazy? Of course it was. But here's the thing, there is a lesson to be learned in this experience. Ellie got a chance to study her clients. It wasn't just about trying to get people together based on the superficial desires. No way! Ellie learned so much more about people and even herself.
It's Got To Be Perfect was a fun read! It's the type of book that you can carry to your reading nook with a favorite glass of wine and pull out the chocolate truffles from Godiva. And then when you're finished, you tell your BFFs to check it out for themselves. Then after they've all giggled through the read, you can all get together and have a fantastic girl's night out focusing on how Haley Hill captured the dating experience so well.
Rather than mope around, Ellie eventually took the high road and started a matchmaking business. Sounds crazy? Of course it was. But here's the thing, there is a lesson to be learned in this experience. Ellie got a chance to study her clients. It wasn't just about trying to get people together based on the superficial desires. No way! Ellie learned so much more about people and even herself.
It's Got To Be Perfect was a fun read! It's the type of book that you can carry to your reading nook with a favorite glass of wine and pull out the chocolate truffles from Godiva. And then when you're finished, you tell your BFFs to check it out for themselves. Then after they've all giggled through the read, you can all get together and have a fantastic girl's night out focusing on how Haley Hill captured the dating experience so well.
September 16, 2014
Ellie has the perfect life all laid out in front of her. She’s set to be married to a wonderful man, she plans to go back to school and then she’ll settle into her role as the quintessential London wife. But when her perfect future falls apart, she’s left picking up the pieces and starting over on her own. After tossing the engagement ring, Ellie enters the horrifying world of dating in your 30’s. After years of bad encounters, and one final horrendous online date, she decides it’s time to take matters into her own hands. If she can’t find love for herself, she’ll use her experience to help others find their perfect match.
Filled with fun and quirky characters, It’s Got To Be Perfect is an entertaining read that’s oh-so-relatable! I found myself nodding in agreement when Ellie was recounting some of her online dating horror stories and often laughing aloud at the adventures of her clients. While Hill’s insight on what it’s like to be a woman dating in her 30’s was spot on, she also managed to shed some light on how men see the dating game as well. Ellie’s story doesn’t go exactly as you’d expect which is a refreshing change from the typical girl meets guy, girl loses guy, guy wins her back with big romantic gesture that so often found in chick-lit. My only real complaint is that the story fell apart a bit at the end. It would have been nice to have the conclusion focus a bit more on Ellie rather than her clients.
Overall, It’s Got To Be Perfect is a fun story that will appeal to all women who’ve had wade through the murky waters of the dating world while searching for their perfect match.
Filled with fun and quirky characters, It’s Got To Be Perfect is an entertaining read that’s oh-so-relatable! I found myself nodding in agreement when Ellie was recounting some of her online dating horror stories and often laughing aloud at the adventures of her clients. While Hill’s insight on what it’s like to be a woman dating in her 30’s was spot on, she also managed to shed some light on how men see the dating game as well. Ellie’s story doesn’t go exactly as you’d expect which is a refreshing change from the typical girl meets guy, girl loses guy, guy wins her back with big romantic gesture that so often found in chick-lit. My only real complaint is that the story fell apart a bit at the end. It would have been nice to have the conclusion focus a bit more on Ellie rather than her clients.
Overall, It’s Got To Be Perfect is a fun story that will appeal to all women who’ve had wade through the murky waters of the dating world while searching for their perfect match.
August 17, 2016
I rather enjoyed this, quite a nice meaty romance novel that I got for free from a donation to the library at work. I mean it's quite standard in the sense that it is about a woman looking for a man and how our lives aren't really fulfilled until we've done that. (If you've read my reviews you'll know that I have a proper problem with that plot-line). BUT I did really enjoy all the stuff around the matchmaking although the finances of it are glossed over (haha how does she rent all the locations for the meetings and parties?! and pay her staff?!). Lots of interesting statistics - 28 is the most perfect age for a woman to meet someone and settle down. Men at 35 are at the perfect stage to meet someone and settle down. From what I've observed it's not too far off the truth. Essentially the older we get women are less desirable but men are desirable at pretty much whatever age. (Great). Also some great bits on love and how it's a choice and takes work, and it isn't something that happens overnight (something I agree with 100%).
Essentially this story charts how one woman finally figures out that 'love' and 'being with someone' is a bit like an optional extra to a life well lived, not something that we're all entitled to. Like Oh yeah I want to be married and have 2 kids and a house. How? It doesn't happen without some work. And it's not someone's else's job to make your life better - they make you want to live your life better (there's a very firm difference). Really it's a good read - really enjoyed it.
Essentially this story charts how one woman finally figures out that 'love' and 'being with someone' is a bit like an optional extra to a life well lived, not something that we're all entitled to. Like Oh yeah I want to be married and have 2 kids and a house. How? It doesn't happen without some work. And it's not someone's else's job to make your life better - they make you want to live your life better (there's a very firm difference). Really it's a good read - really enjoyed it.
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