What do you think?
Rate this book
Girls On Tour #2
Lily does L.A.
The second instalment in this hilarious, romantic and unputdownable five-part series. Perfect for fans of Lindsey Kelk's I Heart... novels.
Lily is an actress. At least, that's what she tells people, even though she's currently working in a call centre and her last big part was an ad for Sofa Warehouse. So when she's invited to her cousin Alice's wedding in LA, it's a dream come true. Alice's fiancé Sam is actually a Hollywood agent; how can Lily fail to get talent-spotted? There's only one problem; not only is Lily banned from mentioning acting, parts or producers to Sam, she's expected to spend the entire week doing wedding-related prep (read: chores) with Sam's boring groomsman Jesse. But Lily firmly believes that rules were made to be broken ...
Girls on Tour is an irresistible series of interlinked stories about four friends, ordinary girls who have extraordinary fun in faraway places. Expect the unexpected, the utterly hilarious and unforgettable, on this rollercoaster ride of love, laughs, surprises and sparks. You have a VIP pass to join each girl's adventure, so pack your bags and buckle your seatbelts, because just about anything is possible...
Lily is an actress. At least, that's what she tells people, even though she's currently working in a call centre and her last big part was an ad for Sofa Warehouse. So when she's invited to her cousin Alice's wedding in LA, it's a dream come true. Alice's fiancé Sam is actually a Hollywood agent; how can Lily fail to get talent-spotted? There's only one problem; not only is Lily banned from mentioning acting, parts or producers to Sam, she's expected to spend the entire week doing wedding-related prep (read: chores) with Sam's boring groomsman Jesse. But Lily firmly believes that rules were made to be broken ...
Girls on Tour is an irresistible series of interlinked stories about four friends, ordinary girls who have extraordinary fun in faraway places. Expect the unexpected, the utterly hilarious and unforgettable, on this rollercoaster ride of love, laughs, surprises and sparks. You have a VIP pass to join each girl's adventure, so pack your bags and buckle your seatbelts, because just about anything is possible...
76 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2014
2 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Nicola Doherty
15 books96 followersHi, I'm Nicola.
I grew up in Monkstown, Co. Dublin and studied English at Trinity College, Dublin and at Oxford. I worked in publishing for several years before writing my first book The Out of Office Girl.
Since then I've written four more books - If I Could Turn Back Time and Girls on Tour for adults, and Love and Other Man-Made Disasters and Lola Offline which are YA romances.
These days, reading comes much more easily to me than writing. I have to have a book on the go at all times. I mostly read on my Kindle but I also love to use the library (when there's not a pandemic on).
I grew up in Monkstown, Co. Dublin and studied English at Trinity College, Dublin and at Oxford. I worked in publishing for several years before writing my first book The Out of Office Girl.
Since then I've written four more books - If I Could Turn Back Time and Girls on Tour for adults, and Love and Other Man-Made Disasters and Lola Offline which are YA romances.
These days, reading comes much more easily to me than writing. I have to have a book on the go at all times. I mostly read on my Kindle but I also love to use the library (when there's not a pandemic on).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 18, 2014
Having read and loved Nicola's recent book If I Could Turn Back Time I was very excited about the Girls on Tour series which is about ordinary girls having extraordinary fun in faraway places. The first book Poppy Does Paris I enjoyed a lot, despite not being a huge fan of Paris. LA however is more me, and somewhere I would love to visit so I was especially excited about this instalment.
With a story so short it's almost impossible to discuss the plot but Lily is an aspiring actress who to be honest I loved from the first page when she quits her call centre job when she just goes one accent too far (will make sense when you read). Her cousin is getting married in LA and Lily is invited on the condition that she won't pester her cousin's fiancé Sam about the movie business. Let's just say mischief and hilarity ensues and it was a lot of fun to read. When I finished it I was left wanting more, which is both frustrating and the sign of a good read. I also love that Nicola transported us to LA in such a short space of time, often a short book can feel rushed and not capture it's setting but that definitely wasn't the case here.
As I said in my review for Poppy does Paris I love Nicola's writing which is definitely her own style yet has the hallmarks of everything that makes a good chick lit book. It's funny yet with serious moments too with characters that have their own identity rather than being cardboard cutouts we've read about a hundred times before, I especially like that each of the shorts is focusing on a different character but remaining connected in some way rather than the focus being just on one character.
Considering they are short stories Nicola manages to pack a lot in in such a short space of time. The character and story development over the book is fantastic and almost leaves me wishing for a full novel featuring these characters because you just get settled in and it's time to say goodbye. For a short read for half an hour or so you can't go wrong and so books one and two come highly recommended by me whilst we wait for book three Maggie does Meribel which certainly sounds interesting and is a change from the usual settings! However I think Nicola is an author who can't go wrong so I can't wait.
Thanks to Headline for the NetGalley review copy.
With a story so short it's almost impossible to discuss the plot but Lily is an aspiring actress who to be honest I loved from the first page when she quits her call centre job when she just goes one accent too far (will make sense when you read). Her cousin is getting married in LA and Lily is invited on the condition that she won't pester her cousin's fiancé Sam about the movie business. Let's just say mischief and hilarity ensues and it was a lot of fun to read. When I finished it I was left wanting more, which is both frustrating and the sign of a good read. I also love that Nicola transported us to LA in such a short space of time, often a short book can feel rushed and not capture it's setting but that definitely wasn't the case here.
As I said in my review for Poppy does Paris I love Nicola's writing which is definitely her own style yet has the hallmarks of everything that makes a good chick lit book. It's funny yet with serious moments too with characters that have their own identity rather than being cardboard cutouts we've read about a hundred times before, I especially like that each of the shorts is focusing on a different character but remaining connected in some way rather than the focus being just on one character.
Considering they are short stories Nicola manages to pack a lot in in such a short space of time. The character and story development over the book is fantastic and almost leaves me wishing for a full novel featuring these characters because you just get settled in and it's time to say goodbye. For a short read for half an hour or so you can't go wrong and so books one and two come highly recommended by me whilst we wait for book three Maggie does Meribel which certainly sounds interesting and is a change from the usual settings! However I think Nicola is an author who can't go wrong so I can't wait.
Thanks to Headline for the NetGalley review copy.
November 10, 2015
Also posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Lily Does L.A. is the second in a five part series of novellas, but it actually the first one I read. It's not because I mixed up the order, but funnily, I was first approved for this, then for the first part (Poppy Does Paris) on NetGalley. Anyway, there's absolutely no problem even you mix the order of these novellas, because they can be read and enjoyed as stand alone short stories too.
Lilly is a rather sassy character, hear dream is to become an actress, and when her cousin announces she's marrying a Hollywood agent, she sees this as a fantastic opportunity to go to L.A. and talk him into getting a role. But, she's forbidden to do such a thing, not when Alice needs help with the wedding preparations. Also, seems Lily is stuck with Jesse, Sam's borining groomsman.
Just like the previous part in the series, Lily does L.A. was fast paced, adorable little read, one I read with great enjoyment over just bit then half an hour. It's got everything a great chick lit novella is supposed to have, interesting and oh so not perfect heroine with big dreams, giggly moments as well as some serious ones. Nicola is a great writer, bringing her characters to life, even if these stories are rather short. You're literally sucked right into her characters' life, living and breathing through them. Which is rather hard to do in so little pages. I honestly wish both Lily Does L.A. and Poppy Does Paris were longer, because I could have more time to hang out with Lily and Poppy. But still, there was a lot of meat to these stories and I find them highly entertaining.
I'm already looking forward to the other parts in this series, can't wait to see what Nicola has got in store for us next. Short, easy to read, fun read that will leave you craving for some more Hollywood.
September 13, 2014
Lily is looking for work as an actress whilst working in call centres and hating every moment. After she gets sacked from her latest job- she heads out to LA to help her cousing with her wedding preparations. Her fiance is a Hollywood Agent and she has been warned not to approach him about representing her. She is tempted to find certain information to help her whilst she is there and you follow her as she races around a suburb of LA called Venice. Her cousin has a nightmare when things have to be cancelled and rebooked. Lily takes the role on board and visits flower markets, collects the dresses and checks out lots of other wedding planning ideas.
She is a bit of a loose cannon - but everything works out eventually. I am really enjoying this series of books.
With many thanks to the publisher Headline and net galley for a copy to review
She is a bit of a loose cannon - but everything works out eventually. I am really enjoying this series of books.
With many thanks to the publisher Headline and net galley for a copy to review
September 15, 2014
I loved this second instalment of Nicola Doherty Girls on Tour five part series. Each part is a stand alone novel about one of the girls but the stories are interlinked.
I love Lily, she is feisty, fun and sensitive at the same time. Lily is an out of work actress, she's been struggling to find her big break and has filled her time by doing random jobs to pay the bills. When Lily is offered the chance to go to LA to help her cousin organise her wedding out there she jumps at the chance. What follows is a fun adventure in LA for Lily were she discovers a new found confidence, new friends, new allies, new love. Nicola Doherty's writing is fresh, funny, honest and thoroughly enjoyable.
I love Lily, she is feisty, fun and sensitive at the same time. Lily is an out of work actress, she's been struggling to find her big break and has filled her time by doing random jobs to pay the bills. When Lily is offered the chance to go to LA to help her cousin organise her wedding out there she jumps at the chance. What follows is a fun adventure in LA for Lily were she discovers a new found confidence, new friends, new allies, new love. Nicola Doherty's writing is fresh, funny, honest and thoroughly enjoyable.
September 4, 2017
This is a short story, a great quick read. Perfect. Very easy read.
September 24, 2014
"Lily Does LA" by the very, very lovely Nicola Doherty is the second part in the "Girls on Tour" series and I am very happy to announce, my amigos, that the series can be read absolutely as stand - alone short stories, which, with my holey memory and tendency to forget why I went upstairs, what about the characters in books, is a brilliant thing.
Lily is an actress, at least she has learnt to be an actress. We meet her when she's being fired from work - again. The invitation to her cousin Alice's wedding in the very sunny LA couldn't arrive at better time then. The only problem is that Alice's husband - to - be works as Hollywood agent and it is STRICTLY FORBIDDEN to speak to him about the job in film, about castings, acting, actors, directors... About anything connected with film industry actually. Moreover, Lily is supposed to help Alice with the last - minute organization of the wedding and as she doesn't drive, she's stuck with Jesse's company, a very boring and wearing a tie Sam's cousin. Is Lily going to keep her promise? Is she going to really help, or rather disturb?
Lily was a great character. Oh yes, there was a moment that she was acting very selfish and I really had no idea that one person can make so much mess in one single day, but she was a good girl altogether and she always wanted to fix the mistakes that she made. That she more than often makes the wrong choices... well, that's life for you. Life pulls the rug from under her instantly and does all to complicate everything for her but our Lily faces up all the obstacles. She's very creative and full of ideas and is open for anything new, not necessary logic or obvious.
Nicola belongs to those authors who could write brilliant, larger than life, full of life characters, characters with their own personality. They're vivid, colourful and every single one that she introduces to us lives her/his own life. Even those of them that we don't know personally and only through email (ekhm, Lily) you can only like, or like to hate. Actually, she has described Jesse in such a way they my mind about him changed as many times as Lily's. Oh yes, he was a complex character :) Am not sure if necessarily my type but well, it's a story about Lily :)
The descriptions of LA were brilliant. You could say, what new can you write about LA, but yes, Nicola can. She introduces us to places that we don't often visit in books and makes it with a great fun, even if she writes about palm trees. She has described the places with such accuracy and certainty that I don't feel the need to go and see them with my own eyes (although it would be nice one day).
But okay, I'm babbling. Altogether, I enjoyed LA much more than Paris, I had a feeling that here the writing was flowing smoothly, was lighter, as if Nicola found her fantastic, typical writing style again. I just had a feeling it's much more optimistic - maybe it was the sun? It was a great story with new beginnings, new friends, new city and finding things that you actually weren't looking for. And it is amazing that Nicola could make such a short story full of action, full of laughter but also with some softer and poignant moments. Can't wait for the part Nr. 3 - roll on Maggie in Maribel!
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
Lily is an actress, at least she has learnt to be an actress. We meet her when she's being fired from work - again. The invitation to her cousin Alice's wedding in the very sunny LA couldn't arrive at better time then. The only problem is that Alice's husband - to - be works as Hollywood agent and it is STRICTLY FORBIDDEN to speak to him about the job in film, about castings, acting, actors, directors... About anything connected with film industry actually. Moreover, Lily is supposed to help Alice with the last - minute organization of the wedding and as she doesn't drive, she's stuck with Jesse's company, a very boring and wearing a tie Sam's cousin. Is Lily going to keep her promise? Is she going to really help, or rather disturb?
Lily was a great character. Oh yes, there was a moment that she was acting very selfish and I really had no idea that one person can make so much mess in one single day, but she was a good girl altogether and she always wanted to fix the mistakes that she made. That she more than often makes the wrong choices... well, that's life for you. Life pulls the rug from under her instantly and does all to complicate everything for her but our Lily faces up all the obstacles. She's very creative and full of ideas and is open for anything new, not necessary logic or obvious.
Nicola belongs to those authors who could write brilliant, larger than life, full of life characters, characters with their own personality. They're vivid, colourful and every single one that she introduces to us lives her/his own life. Even those of them that we don't know personally and only through email (ekhm, Lily) you can only like, or like to hate. Actually, she has described Jesse in such a way they my mind about him changed as many times as Lily's. Oh yes, he was a complex character :) Am not sure if necessarily my type but well, it's a story about Lily :)
The descriptions of LA were brilliant. You could say, what new can you write about LA, but yes, Nicola can. She introduces us to places that we don't often visit in books and makes it with a great fun, even if she writes about palm trees. She has described the places with such accuracy and certainty that I don't feel the need to go and see them with my own eyes (although it would be nice one day).
But okay, I'm babbling. Altogether, I enjoyed LA much more than Paris, I had a feeling that here the writing was flowing smoothly, was lighter, as if Nicola found her fantastic, typical writing style again. I just had a feeling it's much more optimistic - maybe it was the sun? It was a great story with new beginnings, new friends, new city and finding things that you actually weren't looking for. And it is amazing that Nicola could make such a short story full of action, full of laughter but also with some softer and poignant moments. Can't wait for the part Nr. 3 - roll on Maggie in Maribel!
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
September 28, 2014
Also in http://chicklitpad.blogspot.com
Imagine this: You have always wanted to be an actress. The joy of being in a theatre, cinema performing behind a camera or in front of an audience gives you a rush you can’t explain. Except the only camera you have ever been behind is that of an ad for a low-quality product on the market which wouldn’t by nay chance emerge the biggest thing close to women’s perfume.
So your cousin invites you up for a wedding in L.A. EL-ay! The Mecca of all the world’s finest people. And some way, just somehow you think you might get your break and become the next biggest thing in women’s perfumes ads close to Scarlett Johansen when you stumble upon a talent scout. Then you find out your cousin’s groom is a film agent.
Really, the universe must be speaking to you.
But then there’s your dad and your cousin speaking to you; warning you, you are not allowed to bring up anything about movies so as not to put the groom in an awkward position than he already is selecting napkin colours for guests.
Do you perhaps need to sit back and help your cousin with all her hectic wedding preparations hoping your dreams would come to life? Or perhaps, take matters into your own hands (discarding the bridal bouquet) to make your own dreams come true?
Lily’s life summed up for your utmost delight.
MY REVIEW.
Pack up your bags, quit your job and go to Hollywood hoping you would land a role in a major picture. Loved the storyline of this book. Girl gets fired for practicing an accent on a job in a call center, Girl jets to L.A for her cousin’s wedding, Girl goes through all the wedding preparations lining herself up for auditioning for major TV roles. Superb!
If you love books for their heroines, Lily is your one stop. Funny, brutally honest except for the occasional lies needed in order to succeed, secretly pissed at her dad for ditching her mother for the F-Bomb and secretly covets Emma Stone for getting her break younger than her. You would be cheering Lily on all the way considering she’s an ordinary, relatable girl who just wants to make her dreams come true and would stop at nothing just so she could become that famous actress (we all secretly want to be too).
Some other characters made reading this book fun. Think Alice the cousin who encourages Lily never to give up yet expects her to keep her acting on the down-low all through her days in Hollywood. Fiona, Lily’s soon-to-be step-mum who tries way too hard to win her over. Cynthia, Alice’s Future Mother-In-Law who’s bent on giving the couple a wedding as traditional as possible no matter what it takes. Jesse, the groom’s cousin who’s so law-abiding about everything enough to make you cringe.
The ending to this novella was amazing, heart-warming and unexpected. I love that though it was a short-story it wasn’t predictable like a lot of others I have read. A star to the ending.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants something short, humorous and unpredictable. Anyone who’s wanted to follow their dreams should get this book. And if in doubt of something quick and sunny to pack for any holiday you should get this book too.
My work not done here. Off to post my review on Goodreads.
Imagine this: You have always wanted to be an actress. The joy of being in a theatre, cinema performing behind a camera or in front of an audience gives you a rush you can’t explain. Except the only camera you have ever been behind is that of an ad for a low-quality product on the market which wouldn’t by nay chance emerge the biggest thing close to women’s perfume.
So your cousin invites you up for a wedding in L.A. EL-ay! The Mecca of all the world’s finest people. And some way, just somehow you think you might get your break and become the next biggest thing in women’s perfumes ads close to Scarlett Johansen when you stumble upon a talent scout. Then you find out your cousin’s groom is a film agent.
Really, the universe must be speaking to you.
But then there’s your dad and your cousin speaking to you; warning you, you are not allowed to bring up anything about movies so as not to put the groom in an awkward position than he already is selecting napkin colours for guests.
Do you perhaps need to sit back and help your cousin with all her hectic wedding preparations hoping your dreams would come to life? Or perhaps, take matters into your own hands (discarding the bridal bouquet) to make your own dreams come true?
Lily’s life summed up for your utmost delight.
MY REVIEW.
Pack up your bags, quit your job and go to Hollywood hoping you would land a role in a major picture. Loved the storyline of this book. Girl gets fired for practicing an accent on a job in a call center, Girl jets to L.A for her cousin’s wedding, Girl goes through all the wedding preparations lining herself up for auditioning for major TV roles. Superb!
If you love books for their heroines, Lily is your one stop. Funny, brutally honest except for the occasional lies needed in order to succeed, secretly pissed at her dad for ditching her mother for the F-Bomb and secretly covets Emma Stone for getting her break younger than her. You would be cheering Lily on all the way considering she’s an ordinary, relatable girl who just wants to make her dreams come true and would stop at nothing just so she could become that famous actress (we all secretly want to be too).
Some other characters made reading this book fun. Think Alice the cousin who encourages Lily never to give up yet expects her to keep her acting on the down-low all through her days in Hollywood. Fiona, Lily’s soon-to-be step-mum who tries way too hard to win her over. Cynthia, Alice’s Future Mother-In-Law who’s bent on giving the couple a wedding as traditional as possible no matter what it takes. Jesse, the groom’s cousin who’s so law-abiding about everything enough to make you cringe.
The ending to this novella was amazing, heart-warming and unexpected. I love that though it was a short-story it wasn’t predictable like a lot of others I have read. A star to the ending.
I recommend this book to anyone who wants something short, humorous and unpredictable. Anyone who’s wanted to follow their dreams should get this book. And if in doubt of something quick and sunny to pack for any holiday you should get this book too.
My work not done here. Off to post my review on Goodreads.
November 22, 2014
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2... second instalment in this hilarious, romantic and unputdownable five-part series. Perfect for fans of Lindsey Kelk’s I Heart… novels.
Lily is an actress. At least, that’s what she tells peop…le, even though she’s currently working in a call centre and her last big part was an ad for Sofa Warehouse. So when she’s invited to her cousin Alice’s wedding in LA, it’s a dream come true. Alice’s fiancé Sam is actually a Hollywood agent; how can Lily fail to get talent-spotted? There’s only one problem; not only is Lily banned from mentioning acting, parts or producers to Sam, she’s expected to spend the entire week doing wedding-related prep (read: chores) with Sam’s boring groomsman Jesse. But Lily firmly believes that rules were made to be broken …
Girls on Tour is an irresistible series of interlinked stories about four friends, ordinary girls who have extraordinary fun in faraway places. Expect the unexpected, the utterly hilarious and unforgettable, on this rollercoaster ride of love, laughs, surprises and sparks. You have a VIP pass to join each girl’s adventure, so pack your bags and buckle your seatbelts, because just about anything is possible…
WHAT I SAY
This is the second novella in a five part series but you can read as a standalone book as i did . It a very fast paced short read, but so much happens in this fab story it only 75 pages
The book a nice uplifting read it will make you laugh . You will be transport to LA with Lily the way Nicola wrote the story it just took me there with them .
At the start i did not like lily she was selfish and seem to cause a few dramas herself . I like that she worked in a call centre you could just see her doing the job she could be so witty did she love or hate the job ? All she want to do was be an actress .
Her cousin ask her to go to LA to help her plan her wedding . Soon lily realised that the soon to be husband in the film industry could he help her ? But she been banned from asking him to help her but how does she over come it you will have to read to see .
The book takes you on this fab trip with Lily could she get what see wants? She seemed to grow up in LA to me . I just enjoy her sense of mischief she just made me laugh
It just a great fun read we see a nice caring side to lily too you just want to read to see what going to happen next
There are a few love interest too going on . I just liked the writing style it just a nice quick fun read .
The wedding planing sounded so fun i enjoy reading all about it . All the character were great fun . Jesse was great a doing the small jobs she made me smile
All the character just seem to jump out the page and you felt you were there with them it a nice book to read any time
4 stars a nice fun read paced with action very fast paced
I like to thank net gallery for letting me review
Lily is an actress. At least, that’s what she tells peop…le, even though she’s currently working in a call centre and her last big part was an ad for Sofa Warehouse. So when she’s invited to her cousin Alice’s wedding in LA, it’s a dream come true. Alice’s fiancé Sam is actually a Hollywood agent; how can Lily fail to get talent-spotted? There’s only one problem; not only is Lily banned from mentioning acting, parts or producers to Sam, she’s expected to spend the entire week doing wedding-related prep (read: chores) with Sam’s boring groomsman Jesse. But Lily firmly believes that rules were made to be broken …
Girls on Tour is an irresistible series of interlinked stories about four friends, ordinary girls who have extraordinary fun in faraway places. Expect the unexpected, the utterly hilarious and unforgettable, on this rollercoaster ride of love, laughs, surprises and sparks. You have a VIP pass to join each girl’s adventure, so pack your bags and buckle your seatbelts, because just about anything is possible…
WHAT I SAY
This is the second novella in a five part series but you can read as a standalone book as i did . It a very fast paced short read, but so much happens in this fab story it only 75 pages
The book a nice uplifting read it will make you laugh . You will be transport to LA with Lily the way Nicola wrote the story it just took me there with them .
At the start i did not like lily she was selfish and seem to cause a few dramas herself . I like that she worked in a call centre you could just see her doing the job she could be so witty did she love or hate the job ? All she want to do was be an actress .
Her cousin ask her to go to LA to help her plan her wedding . Soon lily realised that the soon to be husband in the film industry could he help her ? But she been banned from asking him to help her but how does she over come it you will have to read to see .
The book takes you on this fab trip with Lily could she get what see wants? She seemed to grow up in LA to me . I just enjoy her sense of mischief she just made me laugh
It just a great fun read we see a nice caring side to lily too you just want to read to see what going to happen next
There are a few love interest too going on . I just liked the writing style it just a nice quick fun read .
The wedding planing sounded so fun i enjoy reading all about it . All the character were great fun . Jesse was great a doing the small jobs she made me smile
All the character just seem to jump out the page and you felt you were there with them it a nice book to read any time
4 stars a nice fun read paced with action very fast paced
I like to thank net gallery for letting me review
January 28, 2015
Posted originally http://www.reviewedthebook.co.uk/2014...
The Girls on Tour series started off brilliantly with Poppy Does Paris back in July and the next instalment, Lily Does L.A. was just as entertaining. Lily is a hopeful actress and thinks all her Christmases have come at once when she gets an invite to her cousin Alice’s wedding to Hollywood agent fiancé Sam. She sees it as the perfect chance to build her career but of course, nothing is ever that straight-forward. Instead, chaos ensues in true chick-lit fashion and this is a quick but very fun read.
There’s a great opening to this book with a scene with Lily working at the call centre. Liking to push her boss’ buttons a little too far, Lily ends up sacked, or quitting her job and this was very funny and the best way to start off the book. It made me laugh and at the same time it helped me instantly connect with Lily, setting the tone for the rest of the book. Lily was not an obvious likeable main character – she seemed to have the mentality of being a little selfish, especially when trying to progress her acting career, and she was quite good at making bad decisions too. But I love that we get to follow Lily on her journey and see her grow, rather than a lot of other books in this genre where the main character has few flaws and it’s all the people around her that need to change. I easily warmed to Lily’s sense of mischief and her tendency to not think before she acted and she was in no way a bad person – it’s just okay to not be perfect.
Nicola Doherty is one of my favourite chick lit authors for a reason and Lily Does L.A. only made me love her style of writing even more. This is a novella and not all of it is set in L.A., yet she did a great job at building up the setting so you can picture it and feel like you’re there, in amongst the palm trees watching everything unfold. I love authors who can really transport you to a setting and give you that holiday feel and this Girls on Tour series really achieves that. I also love Nicola’s character development. The girls in this series are fun and full of life and energy which really lifts your spirits and in Lily Does L.A., we’re brought some well-developed supporting characters too. Sam, Alice and Jesse were all built up well and we get a good picture of their personalities and who they really are, which is impressive given the size of the novel. The plot developed at a great pace, with nothing feeling too rushed or forced, and the ending was a little different to what I had been expecting but a satisfying way to end L.A., and I can’t wait for Maggie Does Meribel in December.
*Book gifted for honest review.
October 28, 2014
First posted on Dreaming Wit Open Eyes
I kindly received Lily Does L.A. in exchange of an honest review by the publisher via NetGalley.
Girls on Tour is a series of five interlinked e-novellas about four friends who find fun, romance and adventure abroad. It features glamorous locations and hot men, The e-novellas are coming out between July 2014 and April 2015. Lastly, Girls on Tour brings all five novellas together in one volume with extra material, published in ebook and paperback in April 2015. Lily Does L.A. is the second instalment in this hilarious, romantic and unputdownable five-part series. Perfect for fans of Lindsey Kelk's I Heart... novels. Eventhough it is part of a series, you can read it as an stand alone novella too.
In this installment we meet Lily, a young british woman and aspiring actress. For paying her bills, she is currently working at a call center. To make her job bearable she is practising her accents on the phone with the customers. Her boss is not very pleased about that and fires her. There could have been a better timing for the wedding invitation of Lily's cousin Alice to turn up. This is just what she needs. It's a dream to come true for Lily to finally visit the United States and be spotted for a blockbuster. This shoudn't be much of a problem because Alice husband to be as an hollywood agent. He will help her out, won't he? When Lily arrives in L.A., she is supposed to help Alice with the last - minute organization of the wedding. Rather helping with the wedding organisation Lily pretty much turns her cousins world upside down...
Overall, I very enjoyed this part of the series. I loved the excitement, the pace of the novella, the humor and Lily's laugh out loud moments. There is a ton of good humor in this book, a very light read, good chick lit which makes it very easy to get into Lily's life and it works so well. The characters were fantastic, the plot kept me highly entertained the entire way through. I loved seeing how everything of Lily’s plans finally coming together towards the end of the book.
Thankfully the series continues in December with Maggie Does Meribel, because I don't think I am quite ready to let the series go just yet... I can't wait to get my hands on it and find out which kind of an adventure Nicola has written for us next.
I kindly received Lily Does L.A. in exchange of an honest review by the publisher via NetGalley.
Girls on Tour is a series of five interlinked e-novellas about four friends who find fun, romance and adventure abroad. It features glamorous locations and hot men, The e-novellas are coming out between July 2014 and April 2015. Lastly, Girls on Tour brings all five novellas together in one volume with extra material, published in ebook and paperback in April 2015. Lily Does L.A. is the second instalment in this hilarious, romantic and unputdownable five-part series. Perfect for fans of Lindsey Kelk's I Heart... novels. Eventhough it is part of a series, you can read it as an stand alone novella too.
In this installment we meet Lily, a young british woman and aspiring actress. For paying her bills, she is currently working at a call center. To make her job bearable she is practising her accents on the phone with the customers. Her boss is not very pleased about that and fires her. There could have been a better timing for the wedding invitation of Lily's cousin Alice to turn up. This is just what she needs. It's a dream to come true for Lily to finally visit the United States and be spotted for a blockbuster. This shoudn't be much of a problem because Alice husband to be as an hollywood agent. He will help her out, won't he? When Lily arrives in L.A., she is supposed to help Alice with the last - minute organization of the wedding. Rather helping with the wedding organisation Lily pretty much turns her cousins world upside down...
Overall, I very enjoyed this part of the series. I loved the excitement, the pace of the novella, the humor and Lily's laugh out loud moments. There is a ton of good humor in this book, a very light read, good chick lit which makes it very easy to get into Lily's life and it works so well. The characters were fantastic, the plot kept me highly entertained the entire way through. I loved seeing how everything of Lily’s plans finally coming together towards the end of the book.
Thankfully the series continues in December with Maggie Does Meribel, because I don't think I am quite ready to let the series go just yet... I can't wait to get my hands on it and find out which kind of an adventure Nicola has written for us next.
September 16, 2014
Lily Does L.A. is the second novella in Nicola Doherty's Girls on Tour series. I really enjoyed part one so was looking forward to reading this installment too.
As the title suggests the story revolves around Lily. Lily is an aspiring actress who has yet to break into the big time. As we meet her she is working in a call centre, and not at all happy. However, she is soon given the opportunity to escape to LA when she gets word that her cousin Alice is getting married out there, and would like Lily to go out and help with arrangements.
We also meet Sam, who is Alice's fiancé, and works in the film business....will Lily be able to resist trying to tap him up for help? There is also Jesse who is Sam's groomsman, and enlisted to help Lily with the preparations.
As the novella is only 75 pages I don't want to say much more about the plot, or it will give it away and spoil it for others reading it. I will say that I enjoyed it. I found it a fun quick read that would be great for some time out, for commuting, or just for a short bit of escapism.
I had a not of a roller coaster ride in my like / dislike of Lily. The way her story begins it tugged at my heart strings slightly and I built up an impression of what I thought she would be like. When she reached LA I changed my mind, and really went off her, but she redeemed herself to me in the end!
As with other books I have read by Nicola, I really did enjoy this one. I like the way she writes. I feel it connects me to the characters and situations and I usually become immersed in the plot quickly. There is a good mixture of laughter, but also some softer mor caring moments too. And of course, a love interest....
A good uplifting, feel good book that made me laugh. I would love to know what happens next for Lily, and am looking forward to meeting another of the girls in part three.
Thank you to Headline for providing a copy of the book via Netgalley in return for an honest review.
September 25, 2014
Firstly thank you to Headline for approving me for a copy of this to review via NetGalley. This is the second instalment in Nicola Doherty’s fabulous Girls on Tour series. The series started off with Poppy Does Paris and you can find my review here.
This is the story of Lily, a struggling British actress, and her adventures in LA helping her cousin out with her imminent wedding.
I really enjoyed Poppy Does Paris and was already anticipating the second part in the series. Lily is instantly likeable as a character. She’s trying so hard to make her mark as an actor (as she prefers to be called) and is working her way through temp job after temp job. The first scene with Lily sets the tone for the rest of what is a fun read.
I loved the contrast between Lily’s home life and her adventure in LA. She’s had tragedy in her life and really her home life sort of just felt grey. Dull, uninspiring and hard work. Her holiday in LA couldn’t be more different with its exciting atmosphere and the feeling of vitality. The description of LA completely transports you there and even though I’ve not been (yet!) I definitely could imagine myself there.
Lily manages to get herself up to all sorts in the short period of time that she’s in LA which will have you laughing out loud, falling in love and feeling all emotional. I loved the wedding planning and I loved seeing all of Lily’s plans finally coming together. I loved the development of her character throughout and the definite difference and growth you could see in her towards the end of the book.
There are another 3 parts to this series and I’m really looking forward to continuing. Fans of Lindsey Kelk will really love the characters and the settings in the series so far and I think that fans of Paige Toon will also enjoy it
This is the story of Lily, a struggling British actress, and her adventures in LA helping her cousin out with her imminent wedding.
I really enjoyed Poppy Does Paris and was already anticipating the second part in the series. Lily is instantly likeable as a character. She’s trying so hard to make her mark as an actor (as she prefers to be called) and is working her way through temp job after temp job. The first scene with Lily sets the tone for the rest of what is a fun read.
I loved the contrast between Lily’s home life and her adventure in LA. She’s had tragedy in her life and really her home life sort of just felt grey. Dull, uninspiring and hard work. Her holiday in LA couldn’t be more different with its exciting atmosphere and the feeling of vitality. The description of LA completely transports you there and even though I’ve not been (yet!) I definitely could imagine myself there.
Lily manages to get herself up to all sorts in the short period of time that she’s in LA which will have you laughing out loud, falling in love and feeling all emotional. I loved the wedding planning and I loved seeing all of Lily’s plans finally coming together. I loved the development of her character throughout and the definite difference and growth you could see in her towards the end of the book.
There are another 3 parts to this series and I’m really looking forward to continuing. Fans of Lindsey Kelk will really love the characters and the settings in the series so far and I think that fans of Paige Toon will also enjoy it
November 16, 2014
Lily is one of the most funniest characters you could read about, being an actress is all she can dream about but so far she hasn't had much luck at all. Apart from a couple of small parts, she can hardly claim to be a actress but when she get the chance to help out with her cousins wedding in LA after she quit her job (though there maybe a small chance she was fired as well), she hopes that this maybe her big break.
Although, once she finds out that her cousin, Alice is marrying a Hollywood Agent, she decide that at least one good thing will come out of this trip, apart from her cousins wedding of course. Though, all she needs is to get Sam, Alice's fiancé on his own to ask him if he can help her, but that is proving to be quite difficult especially after she gets roped into doing most of the wedding planning since she arrived.
So when she gets her hands on Sam's contact book, Lily can't help herself by using it to her advantage, now if only she could escape away from her wedding planning partner aka driver, Jesse. Lily shouldn't find Jesse attractive given that she needs to focus on her career and the fact that he is engaged but things never go the way they are meant to.
Though all she needs now is to make it through the rest of her stay in LA without anyone finding out all the bad things she has done during her time in LA including a strongly worded email to someone coming to the wedding. Although things are never that simple, Lily gets thrown in drama that she never expected and with some unexpected consequences as well.
Lily Does LA is a funny story of an actress who will do anything to get her big break all the while trying to plan a wedding. With its amusing characters, beautiful city and amazing plot, I couldn't think of a reason not the read Lily Does LA.
If I had to sum up this book in three words, they would be Humour, Dramatic and Amazing.
Although, once she finds out that her cousin, Alice is marrying a Hollywood Agent, she decide that at least one good thing will come out of this trip, apart from her cousins wedding of course. Though, all she needs is to get Sam, Alice's fiancé on his own to ask him if he can help her, but that is proving to be quite difficult especially after she gets roped into doing most of the wedding planning since she arrived.
So when she gets her hands on Sam's contact book, Lily can't help herself by using it to her advantage, now if only she could escape away from her wedding planning partner aka driver, Jesse. Lily shouldn't find Jesse attractive given that she needs to focus on her career and the fact that he is engaged but things never go the way they are meant to.
Though all she needs now is to make it through the rest of her stay in LA without anyone finding out all the bad things she has done during her time in LA including a strongly worded email to someone coming to the wedding. Although things are never that simple, Lily gets thrown in drama that she never expected and with some unexpected consequences as well.
Lily Does LA is a funny story of an actress who will do anything to get her big break all the while trying to plan a wedding. With its amusing characters, beautiful city and amazing plot, I couldn't think of a reason not the read Lily Does LA.
If I had to sum up this book in three words, they would be Humour, Dramatic and Amazing.
October 11, 2014
This is the second installment of the 'Girls on Tour' series and I have to say that this one, Lily does LA is my favourite so far.
I love Nicola Doherty's writing, it is humourous, fun and just pure chick lit, this short story is everything her full length novels have to offer.
This is about Lily, she is a British actress, but other than having the odd commercial, ends up paying the bills by working in a call centre; waiting for her big break. Lily decides enough is enough, she can't take working where she is any longer and after being sacked for putting on accents, (which she is sure actually helps sell the product) she decides to go to LA to help her cousin plan her wedding.
Although this is a short story, so much happens in it, I felt completely satisfied reading it and loved Doherty's writing style. It is so smooth and enjoyable. For me I really enjoyed it and loved the wedding planning aspect of the story. I felt I was with Lily and fell in love with her right from thje start.
Jesse is also a bit hit with me and I adored the day they spent together, Jesse helping her run errands. I particularly love the interaction that happens between Lily and Alice's best friend, I had my mouth wide open while reading it as I could not believe what she was doing.
When writing a review for a short story it is really hard not to give the whole plot away, this is certainly a series you need to read, especially if you lobe Lindsey Kelk or Sophie Kinsella.
I cannot wait to read the third in the installment. I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.
I love Nicola Doherty's writing, it is humourous, fun and just pure chick lit, this short story is everything her full length novels have to offer.
This is about Lily, she is a British actress, but other than having the odd commercial, ends up paying the bills by working in a call centre; waiting for her big break. Lily decides enough is enough, she can't take working where she is any longer and after being sacked for putting on accents, (which she is sure actually helps sell the product) she decides to go to LA to help her cousin plan her wedding.
Although this is a short story, so much happens in it, I felt completely satisfied reading it and loved Doherty's writing style. It is so smooth and enjoyable. For me I really enjoyed it and loved the wedding planning aspect of the story. I felt I was with Lily and fell in love with her right from thje start.
Jesse is also a bit hit with me and I adored the day they spent together, Jesse helping her run errands. I particularly love the interaction that happens between Lily and Alice's best friend, I had my mouth wide open while reading it as I could not believe what she was doing.
When writing a review for a short story it is really hard not to give the whole plot away, this is certainly a series you need to read, especially if you lobe Lindsey Kelk or Sophie Kinsella.
I cannot wait to read the third in the installment. I would like to thank the publisher for sending this in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2015
Synopsis
The life of an actor is never easy; it is even more difficult when you are an out of work actor whose biggest acting achievement is a two second walk on part on a sofa advert. Unfortunately, this is the situation that Lily finds herself in. When the opportunity comes up for Lily to travel to LA to be part of her cousin’s wedding she jumps on it. When she finds out her cousin’s future husband is a Hollywood agent it looks like Lily’s luck is about to change.
Review
I loved the first part of the Girls on Tour series – Poppy Does Paris. I did find Lily Does LA a little bit harder to get into.
Initially, I found Lily a little bit petulant. She was selfish and attracted the wrong kind of drama. I have to admit, she was really hard to like. Unlike Poppy – who seemed to make genuine mistakes, Lily caused her own drama and then didn’t really take responsibility for her actions.
However, once Lily had her life epiphany and had a complete character arc reveal she became quite likable, to the point that I am looking forward to reading more about her in the rest of the series.
So whilst I would say that Poppy Does Paris is more enjoyable do not give up Lily Does LA. Lily does become more likable and her story was actually very enjoyable.
The life of an actor is never easy; it is even more difficult when you are an out of work actor whose biggest acting achievement is a two second walk on part on a sofa advert. Unfortunately, this is the situation that Lily finds herself in. When the opportunity comes up for Lily to travel to LA to be part of her cousin’s wedding she jumps on it. When she finds out her cousin’s future husband is a Hollywood agent it looks like Lily’s luck is about to change.
Review
I loved the first part of the Girls on Tour series – Poppy Does Paris. I did find Lily Does LA a little bit harder to get into.
Initially, I found Lily a little bit petulant. She was selfish and attracted the wrong kind of drama. I have to admit, she was really hard to like. Unlike Poppy – who seemed to make genuine mistakes, Lily caused her own drama and then didn’t really take responsibility for her actions.
However, once Lily had her life epiphany and had a complete character arc reveal she became quite likable, to the point that I am looking forward to reading more about her in the rest of the series.
So whilst I would say that Poppy Does Paris is more enjoyable do not give up Lily Does LA. Lily does become more likable and her story was actually very enjoyable.
June 23, 2015
This is book 2 of 4, and they are I guess short stories (this one at 76 pages). I try to avoid short stories as by the time I am into them, they are finishing. In one respect, I should have waited and got the book featuring all 4 girls together (Girls On Tour), instead I read them as separates. The first one I liked but it ended too quickly. However, with this one I felt like I was getting a whole lot more as we meet Lily (Alice from book 1 is her cousin) who is venturing out to LA for Alice and Sam’s wedding.
Lily is stark raving bonkers and dreams of being an actress. What better place to start than LA, and surely she can fit stuff in around the wedding…can’t she? This second book was brilliant and I loved all the characters so much. Although Alice is a secondary character it felt like I was getting the rest of the story as we see what is going on with her and Sam.
Funny and light hearted this was a thoroughly enjoyable read, and I have already got Girls on Tour Book 3 lined up and ready to go.
Lily is stark raving bonkers and dreams of being an actress. What better place to start than LA, and surely she can fit stuff in around the wedding…can’t she? This second book was brilliant and I loved all the characters so much. Although Alice is a secondary character it felt like I was getting the rest of the story as we see what is going on with her and Sam.
Funny and light hearted this was a thoroughly enjoyable read, and I have already got Girls on Tour Book 3 lined up and ready to go.
October 6, 2014
This is the second instalment in Nicola Doherty’s fabulous Girls on Tour series, I read the first one Poppy Does Paris, earlier in the year and really enjoyed it.
These books have been a great change for me away from the normal Crime fiction that I read. And I must say I have really enjoyed them.
Lily wants to be an actress, but so far has just not had that lucky break. Or any luck at all come to think of it.
She quits her job at a call centre, and is then asked to go to LA to help her cousin organise her wedding.
Great, the chance of a lifetime, what can possible go wrong? Even better she realised her cousins husband is in the film industry. But she is banned for asking him for any help with acting work.
Lily gets up to all sorts in LA. I really dont want to give to much away, with this only being a short story. What I will say is it is a fun and intersting read. A Brilliant adition to any trip you are going on, as you will get through it in no time.
These books have been a great change for me away from the normal Crime fiction that I read. And I must say I have really enjoyed them.
Lily wants to be an actress, but so far has just not had that lucky break. Or any luck at all come to think of it.
She quits her job at a call centre, and is then asked to go to LA to help her cousin organise her wedding.
Great, the chance of a lifetime, what can possible go wrong? Even better she realised her cousins husband is in the film industry. But she is banned for asking him for any help with acting work.
Lily gets up to all sorts in LA. I really dont want to give to much away, with this only being a short story. What I will say is it is a fun and intersting read. A Brilliant adition to any trip you are going on, as you will get through it in no time.
December 8, 2014
I was so excited to start reading the second book in the Girls on Tour series. So when I got it I settled in straight away to head off to LA with Lily. Now I have to admit, I'm a bit of a Doherty groupie, and it really pains me to say this, but I didn't really enjoy much. To me it just didn't have the Nicola Doherty wit, shine and fun, which made it flat and long for me. I know that sounds stupid because duh! Nicola Doherty wrote it. God, I hate being negative you know, it upsets me because I know how hard authors work to produce these books for us.
On the up though, I did adore Lily. From the moment you meet her, you take to her no-shit-attitude and balls, she's a fantastic heroine.
I will carry on with the series because I know there will be greatness in there.
2.5/5
On the up though, I did adore Lily. From the moment you meet her, you take to her no-shit-attitude and balls, she's a fantastic heroine.
I will carry on with the series because I know there will be greatness in there.
2.5/5
April 12, 2020
Reviews can also be found on my blog Escapades of a Bookworm
Lily is determined to be an actress, so much so that she lets other opportunities pass her by. But then she has to help her cousin – Alice – with her wedding preparations, and it turns out she is quite good at it.
We witness Lily race around LA not only to help Alice but maybe land herself a movie role – the only problem she has been banned from talking about acting.
Lily loves LA and does a lot of typical tourist things, like visiting Venice beach and having a drink at Chateau Monteau.
The romance here is more sweet than in Poppy does Paris. And Lily is more of a loose cannon than Poppy. But everything works out in the end. Another good story!
Lily is determined to be an actress, so much so that she lets other opportunities pass her by. But then she has to help her cousin – Alice – with her wedding preparations, and it turns out she is quite good at it.
We witness Lily race around LA not only to help Alice but maybe land herself a movie role – the only problem she has been banned from talking about acting.
Lily loves LA and does a lot of typical tourist things, like visiting Venice beach and having a drink at Chateau Monteau.
The romance here is more sweet than in Poppy does Paris. And Lily is more of a loose cannon than Poppy. But everything works out in the end. Another good story!
September 21, 2014
Lily gets fired from her job and goes to LA to help her cousin (Alice) plan her wedding.
Alice's wedding plans has a last minute hitch and Lily pulls out all the stops to make the day special.
A great short story and looking forward to reading the next in the series.
Alice's wedding plans has a last minute hitch and Lily pulls out all the stops to make the day special.
A great short story and looking forward to reading the next in the series.
February 8, 2015
fab short story
March 12, 2015
Good short book and incorporated characters from Out of Office Girl. Ideal if you don't have long to read a book and just want to read for a few hours.
December 16, 2016
Good
Girly read, laugh out loud and very addictive. I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to starting the next book
Girly read, laugh out loud and very addictive. I really enjoyed reading it and look forward to starting the next book
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews