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Picture Perfect
Order # 081582
Name: Emily Matthias
Phone: Call me anytime!
Date: I’d love one!
Print Quantity:
Um, a billion? I need pictures of everyone and everything. It’s the Outer Banks—everything is photogenic here. Especially Blake. And Spencer.
Size:
3 x 5
4 x 6
5 x 7
8 x 10
They’re tall. And handsome. Oh, you mean the photos?
Film:
Color
B & W
Actually, yes, this summer would make an excellent movie.
Single/Double:
Starting the vacation single. But maybe I’ll find Prints Charming!
Name: Emily Matthias
Phone: Call me anytime!
Date: I’d love one!
Print Quantity:
Um, a billion? I need pictures of everyone and everything. It’s the Outer Banks—everything is photogenic here. Especially Blake. And Spencer.
Size:
3 x 5
4 x 6
5 x 7
8 x 10
They’re tall. And handsome. Oh, you mean the photos?
Film:
Color
B & W
Actually, yes, this summer would make an excellent movie.
Single/Double:
Starting the vacation single. But maybe I’ll find Prints Charming!
352 pages, Paperback
First published May 27, 2008
18 people are currently reading
2183 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Clark
70 books390 followersI love reading books for children, young adults, new adults and all the old people after that.
I love writing for pretty much the same audiences.
I love writing for pretty much the same audiences.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
May 19, 2023
was it good? no. was it enjoyable? for maybe 3 minutes. will this couple last for even a week after the book ends? absolutely not. but it did get me in a summer mood, so i guess there’s that!!
March 31, 2011
Can I just say how CUTE this book is? The characters, the story, everything about it is adorable. The combination of skillful writing and a romantic plot makes for the perfect beach read.
Spencer and Emily's relationship isn't your average love story. While the idea of two people who have known each other their whole lives unexpectedly falling in love may seem a little cliché, Clark throws a few twists in to add some originality. The friendship between the four friends was clean and refreshing. It also helps if you toss in a few hilarious scenes, which Clark definitely does.
In the end, everything works out perfectly for the friends, just as it should in lighthearted chick lit. After finishing the book, I was left such a happy, hopeful feeling. Sometimes a girl just needs to read about a happy ending.
Overall, Picture Perfect is a lovely story of two long-time friends who discover their secret feelings for one another. I'd definitely recommend bringing this one along on your next trip to the beach, or picking it up if you're in the mood for a charming romance.
Spencer and Emily's relationship isn't your average love story. While the idea of two people who have known each other their whole lives unexpectedly falling in love may seem a little cliché, Clark throws a few twists in to add some originality. The friendship between the four friends was clean and refreshing. It also helps if you toss in a few hilarious scenes, which Clark definitely does.
In the end, everything works out perfectly for the friends, just as it should in lighthearted chick lit. After finishing the book, I was left such a happy, hopeful feeling. Sometimes a girl just needs to read about a happy ending.
Overall, Picture Perfect is a lovely story of two long-time friends who discover their secret feelings for one another. I'd definitely recommend bringing this one along on your next trip to the beach, or picking it up if you're in the mood for a charming romance.
September 29, 2016
What is it with meh endings these days? I'm always enjoying myself until the end. It's so annoying!
November 7, 2012
Reviewed by The Story Siren for TeensReadToo.com
Every couple of years, Emily's family goes on a reunion trip with her dad's college friends. It's been two years since she's seen her friends Heather, Adam, and Spencer. But it hasn't been long enough for Emily to forget her embarrassing declaration of her feelings to Spencer. She only hopes two years has been long enough for him to forget.
Heather suggests that she and Emily use this summer before they head off to college to find a summer fling. Emily agrees; she already has her eye on the boy next door, Blake! Too bad Spencer and Adam insist on following them everywhere, and Spencer always seems to show up at the worst times, like when Emily finally gets Blake alone!
This is my first time reading a book by Catherine Clark, and PICTURE PERFECT was the perfect fun summer read! It was light, entertaining, and very cute! I enjoyed all of the characters, especially Emily and Spencer! And the plot wasn't too serious, which makes it the perfect book for a lazy summer day!
I'm looking forward to reading more by Ms. Clark. I've heard great things about WISH YOU WERE HERE, and I also have a copy of BANANA SPLITSVILLE, so expect a review for that title soon!
Every couple of years, Emily's family goes on a reunion trip with her dad's college friends. It's been two years since she's seen her friends Heather, Adam, and Spencer. But it hasn't been long enough for Emily to forget her embarrassing declaration of her feelings to Spencer. She only hopes two years has been long enough for him to forget.
Heather suggests that she and Emily use this summer before they head off to college to find a summer fling. Emily agrees; she already has her eye on the boy next door, Blake! Too bad Spencer and Adam insist on following them everywhere, and Spencer always seems to show up at the worst times, like when Emily finally gets Blake alone!
This is my first time reading a book by Catherine Clark, and PICTURE PERFECT was the perfect fun summer read! It was light, entertaining, and very cute! I enjoyed all of the characters, especially Emily and Spencer! And the plot wasn't too serious, which makes it the perfect book for a lazy summer day!
I'm looking forward to reading more by Ms. Clark. I've heard great things about WISH YOU WERE HERE, and I also have a copy of BANANA SPLITSVILLE, so expect a review for that title soon!
August 8, 2018
What a cute summery read!
Set during a vacation to the Outer Banks, the main character Emily’s father has stayed friends with some of his friends from college and they go on vacations together with their kids every summer. Emily hangs out with Heather, Adam, and Spencer, children of her father’s college friends. Emily and Heather decide that they want to have summer flings and start meeting guys and going on dates.
I really liked the family dynamic between Emily, her parents, and their friends. Too often in YA parents are either not there or checked out and not interested, but all the kids’ parents were interested in them.
I also liked the romance. The love interest was great and I thought he and Emily were good together.
A very sweet read that’s perfect for summer.
Set during a vacation to the Outer Banks, the main character Emily’s father has stayed friends with some of his friends from college and they go on vacations together with their kids every summer. Emily hangs out with Heather, Adam, and Spencer, children of her father’s college friends. Emily and Heather decide that they want to have summer flings and start meeting guys and going on dates.
I really liked the family dynamic between Emily, her parents, and their friends. Too often in YA parents are either not there or checked out and not interested, but all the kids’ parents were interested in them.
I also liked the romance. The love interest was great and I thought he and Emily were good together.
A very sweet read that’s perfect for summer.
April 26, 2017
Word book #2
Picture>
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May 26, 2011
And I thought Icing on the lake was the best, Picture Perfect couldn't even begin to cover it.
Emily participated in her family's schoolmates reunion practically every year, and that's where she knew Spencer, Heather and Adam. Well, you know kids, growing up together, Emily has a huge crush on Spencer, but after being rejected for the first time, she wanted to get over him. But wait, after 2 years, she's meeting him again very soon, wouldn't that be awkward? Would they finally be together?
I had such a great time reading this, it's not exactly a short novel, considerig I'm so veryily satisfied with the plot, and everything about it just screams TEEN ROMANCE + CUTE! I love the cover, honestly, and even more with the characters, I really thought that characters are really diversed.
Spencer being his old obnoxious, yet funny self.
Emily being the mature one.
Adam being the smartypants.
Heather being the outgoing one.
But they are a close knit of friend, and their relationship sort of reminded me of Connor, Jeremiah and Belly in The Summer I turned Pretty Series, only that had been quite intense, not that I'm saying this is not, but this book just blew me out of proportions.
Sorry, I just dig into Teen Romance so much! It's definitely a book you want to curl up with. There wasn't a time where I fell asleep, nor a time where I yawned, in fact, it was a total page turner and the jokes, gosh Spencer has his ways with words, and I just loved how Heather and Emily always seemed to shoot him back. Hah! Backfire. For an antisocial person like Spencer, he defintely knows hot to piss people off, LOL. Yes it's a typical teen romance, but hey! Who says they are un-enjoyable? It's Perfect to me...
I was laughing so hard that I swear I rocked the whole house, and I was drowning my loud sound with my pillow when I read the ending, the way I imagined the 'uh-oh' scene was just too hillarious. (you have to read it because I'm not leaking any spoilers, na ah) And also between conversations, I swear, there isn't any serious conversation that lasted for five minutes, there would always be bickering, sarcasm and mockery. Gosh I love them.
I always felt good after reading a good book, and for the TEEN ROMANCE section, I rate this 5 stars! Period!
Favourite quote (which is way too cheesy but made me facepalmed after laughing)
he’s the Spencerest of all the Spencers
Emily participated in her family's schoolmates reunion practically every year, and that's where she knew Spencer, Heather and Adam. Well, you know kids, growing up together, Emily has a huge crush on Spencer, but after being rejected for the first time, she wanted to get over him. But wait, after 2 years, she's meeting him again very soon, wouldn't that be awkward? Would they finally be together?
I had such a great time reading this, it's not exactly a short novel, considerig I'm so veryily satisfied with the plot, and everything about it just screams TEEN ROMANCE + CUTE! I love the cover, honestly, and even more with the characters, I really thought that characters are really diversed.
Spencer being his old obnoxious, yet funny self.
Emily being the mature one.
Adam being the smartypants.
Heather being the outgoing one.
But they are a close knit of friend, and their relationship sort of reminded me of Connor, Jeremiah and Belly in The Summer I turned Pretty Series, only that had been quite intense, not that I'm saying this is not, but this book just blew me out of proportions.
Sorry, I just dig into Teen Romance so much! It's definitely a book you want to curl up with. There wasn't a time where I fell asleep, nor a time where I yawned, in fact, it was a total page turner and the jokes, gosh Spencer has his ways with words, and I just loved how Heather and Emily always seemed to shoot him back. Hah! Backfire. For an antisocial person like Spencer, he defintely knows hot to piss people off, LOL. Yes it's a typical teen romance, but hey! Who says they are un-enjoyable? It's Perfect to me...
I was laughing so hard that I swear I rocked the whole house, and I was drowning my loud sound with my pillow when I read the ending, the way I imagined the 'uh-oh' scene was just too hillarious. (you have to read it because I'm not leaking any spoilers, na ah) And also between conversations, I swear, there isn't any serious conversation that lasted for five minutes, there would always be bickering, sarcasm and mockery. Gosh I love them.
I always felt good after reading a good book, and for the TEEN ROMANCE section, I rate this 5 stars! Period!
Favourite quote (which is way too cheesy but made me facepalmed after laughing)
he’s the Spencerest of all the Spencers
October 26, 2008
Every couple of years Emily’s family goes on a reunion trip with her dad’s college friends. It’s been two years since she’s seen her friends Heather, Adam and Spencer. But it hasn’t been long enough for Emily to forget her embarrassing declaration of her feelings to Spencer. She only hopes two years has been long enough for him to forget.
Heather suggests that her and Emily use this summer before they head off to college to find a summer fling. Emily agrees, she already has her eyes out for the boy next door, Blake! To bad Spencer and Adam insist on following them everywhere, and Spencer always seems to show up at the worst times, like when Emily finally gets Blake alone!
This is my first time reading Catherine Clark and Picture Perfect was the perfect fun summer read! It was light, entertaining, and very cute! I enjoyed all the characters especially Emily and Spencer! And the plot wasn’t too serious, the perfect book for a lazy summer day! I’m looking forward to reading more by Clark.
Heather suggests that her and Emily use this summer before they head off to college to find a summer fling. Emily agrees, she already has her eyes out for the boy next door, Blake! To bad Spencer and Adam insist on following them everywhere, and Spencer always seems to show up at the worst times, like when Emily finally gets Blake alone!
This is my first time reading Catherine Clark and Picture Perfect was the perfect fun summer read! It was light, entertaining, and very cute! I enjoyed all the characters especially Emily and Spencer! And the plot wasn’t too serious, the perfect book for a lazy summer day! I’m looking forward to reading more by Clark.
June 30, 2025
A PERFECT SUMMER BEACH READ 🏖️☀️😎
December 29, 2014
I didn't expect to love this one as much as I did! It's a story about four families in which the dads all graduated from the same college, and despite moving all over the country, they stay in touch and go on vacation together every two years or so. Enter their kids, Emily, Heather, Spencer, and Adam, who have all been friends since pretty much birth, but only get to see each other every few years. THIS IS SUCH A GREAT FRIENDSHIP STORY. The friendships between all of them together and any combination of them are wonderful (especially Emily and Heather), and their families are really great, too. The style of the book reminded me of Sarah Dessen a little bit.
The only reason I'm not giving this five stars, even though I very well could is
So yeah, overall, a fun YA summer read.
The only reason I'm not giving this five stars, even though I very well could is
So yeah, overall, a fun YA summer read.
August 21, 2012
Emily's family goes on vacation with her dad's college friends and their families every couple of years. This time, the East coast offers beaches, lighthouses, and lots of romance potential. The last time they took a trip, Emily declared her interest in Spencer and is embarrassed by his refusal, but maybe this time, things will be different.
All in all, a typical fluffy teen rom-com. Emily seemed quite boy crazy, flirting with anyone she can to get her mind of Spencer. I think my favorite part was Rapunzel. Haha.
All in all, a typical fluffy teen rom-com. Emily seemed quite boy crazy, flirting with anyone she can to get her mind of Spencer. I think my favorite part was Rapunzel. Haha.
August 11, 2025
3.5/5 stars
What a cute, summery read! Picture Perfect is set in the Outer Banks, during one of the trips where Emily’s family reunites with her dad’s college friends—and their now-grown kids: Heather, Adam, and Spencer. It’s been two years since Emily’s painfully awkward confession to Spencer, and she’s praying time has erased the memory. Heather proposes one last pre-college mission: find a summer fling. Emily agrees—especially with the boy-next-door, Blake, in easy range—but Spencer and Adam keep materializing at inconvenient moments, and Spencer in particular has a knack for showing up just when Emily thinks she finally has a moment alone.
What I liked most (and have seen others say this too) was the intergenerational dynamic. Too often in YA, parents are absent or disengaged; here, the families are present, involved, and actually like their kids. The beach-house camaraderie (cookouts, gentle ribbing, shared history) grounds the story and gives it warmth. The Outer Banks setting adds a breezy, sun-drenched backdrop that suits the “one last summer” vibe. This was my first Catherine Clark, and the writing delivered exactly what I wanted: light, clean, and easy to fly through.
Spencer, the love interest, took a while to grow on me. Early on he reads more annoying than charming. He felt rude, evasive, and not particularly transparent. The banter between him and Emily doesn’t really register as flirting until quite late (around the 75% mark), so I spent a good stretch unsure whether he even liked her. Once the book lets him soften and shows more of his rapport with Emily (and Heather), he becomes one of the more endearing characters; I just wish that shift had arrived sooner.
If you’re looking for high-stakes drama or intense romance, this stays firmly in “low-angst” territory. But as a clean, feel-good, beachy palate cleanser...especially perfect after something mentally taxing (hello, FE exam)…Picture Perfect hits the spot. Light, entertaining, and very cute; not especially memorable, but a pleasant way to spend an afternoon in the sun!
What a cute, summery read! Picture Perfect is set in the Outer Banks, during one of the trips where Emily’s family reunites with her dad’s college friends—and their now-grown kids: Heather, Adam, and Spencer. It’s been two years since Emily’s painfully awkward confession to Spencer, and she’s praying time has erased the memory. Heather proposes one last pre-college mission: find a summer fling. Emily agrees—especially with the boy-next-door, Blake, in easy range—but Spencer and Adam keep materializing at inconvenient moments, and Spencer in particular has a knack for showing up just when Emily thinks she finally has a moment alone.
What I liked most (and have seen others say this too) was the intergenerational dynamic. Too often in YA, parents are absent or disengaged; here, the families are present, involved, and actually like their kids. The beach-house camaraderie (cookouts, gentle ribbing, shared history) grounds the story and gives it warmth. The Outer Banks setting adds a breezy, sun-drenched backdrop that suits the “one last summer” vibe. This was my first Catherine Clark, and the writing delivered exactly what I wanted: light, clean, and easy to fly through.
Spencer, the love interest, took a while to grow on me. Early on he reads more annoying than charming. He felt rude, evasive, and not particularly transparent. The banter between him and Emily doesn’t really register as flirting until quite late (around the 75% mark), so I spent a good stretch unsure whether he even liked her. Once the book lets him soften and shows more of his rapport with Emily (and Heather), he becomes one of the more endearing characters; I just wish that shift had arrived sooner.
If you’re looking for high-stakes drama or intense romance, this stays firmly in “low-angst” territory. But as a clean, feel-good, beachy palate cleanser...especially perfect after something mentally taxing (hello, FE exam)…Picture Perfect hits the spot. Light, entertaining, and very cute; not especially memorable, but a pleasant way to spend an afternoon in the sun!
June 11, 2025
Such an easy and cute summer read. Gave me the summer vibes.
I felt bad for Emily the next morning when they got stuck on Ocracoke Island. I dislike Spencer for that, but I also get where he was coming from but still, that was not an excuse. At least, he made it up to Emily in the end.
I also feel bad for Blake. He was not a great person, but he was treated poorly and made fun of.
I felt bad for Emily the next morning when they got stuck on Ocracoke Island. I dislike Spencer for that, but I also get where he was coming from but still, that was not an excuse. At least, he made it up to Emily in the end.
I also feel bad for Blake. He was not a great person, but he was treated poorly and made fun of.
October 15, 2022
Going through books and rereading them from my childhood to see whether to keep or pass along. This one was a very slow book that took me a while to read again. I used to love these types of books but I would say it’s best for 7th/8th grade age group.
January 6, 2025
🎼Tommy’s party - peach pit
AHHH this was so adorable. I recommend for anyone who’s looking for a cute, summer romance. Not only was the author great at making emily seem real, but also creating the perfect, relatable vacation setting. I’m so happy I picked this up.
AHHH this was so adorable. I recommend for anyone who’s looking for a cute, summer romance. Not only was the author great at making emily seem real, but also creating the perfect, relatable vacation setting. I’m so happy I picked this up.
October 8, 2017
One of the best romance books I've read
April 24, 2018
Liked it enough; cute, quick read.
June 30, 2018
Enjoyed this book a lot more than I originally expected to.
July 21, 2020
I found Heather to be the only honest mature character with a realistic look at life. I felt The mc and Spenser were unlikeable especially after they treated Blake so poorly.
July 28, 2024
2⭐
No me gustó, el protagonista es detestable y en ningún momento tuvo un cambio para bien. Siento que Emily merecía a alguien mejor sin ninguna duda. Lo que si me gustó fue la amistad de los papás.
No me gustó, el protagonista es detestable y en ningún momento tuvo un cambio para bien. Siento que Emily merecía a alguien mejor sin ninguna duda. Lo que si me gustó fue la amistad de los papás.
October 12, 2025
Little romance read kinda basic, been done before.
May 5, 2023
Picture Perfect by Doug_03 on Wattpad
March 4, 2023
Super cheesy and cute , I thought it was adorable. I’ve read it about 2-3 times already.
February 19, 2013
Originally posted in My Book Musings.
You know how sometimes, you just need a light book to pass away the time, and to just read something that's not overly dramatic or too serious and make you feel emotionally heavy? Well, Picture Perfect was just what I needed after a long week. It was relaxing, easy to read, with the story just flowing from page to page. I found myself not thinking about any other book, clinging to the easy vibes I was getting from this.
Emily is a high school senior, about to attend college come September. She usually takes vacations with her family and her parents' group of friends, who all went to Linden. She is great friends with the children of her parents' friends, Heather, Adam, and Spencer. I love that there was no unnecessary drama and conflict among the four of them, barring the romantic feelings Emily has been feeling for Spencer. I think it's great that Catherine Clark wrote them as good friends instead of making them out as enemies.
I felt like the story was a coming-of-age story of Emily, as she slowly sheds her parents' expectations to do ballet and explore what she actually wants to do, and how dating is like. It was really refreshing to see someone so clueless about flirting and so shy about it, as lately all the girls in the books seem quite bold and upfront. Plus, she was so gutsy, finding the balls to admit to Spencer she likes him...twice.
One of the things I liked about reading Picture Perfect is I'm reminded and feel involved in other love stories, without getting my heart broken. Haha sorry, who ever enjoyed having their heart broken? Plus, I'm happy I got a happy ending. Although sometimes I do wish the characters wouldn't end up together, just so the story would be different and stand out. Is it just me who feels this way or are there other readers out there who wishes the same thing?
I think the best character I like in the story though is not Emily, but Heather. I admire her strength, especially facing her father's friends like that. It must have been quite painful for her seeing all her dad's buddies having fun and being reminded of her dad when he was alive. However, despite her strength, she shows her human side when she cries. I'm glad she's also brave enough to cry, and that Adam and Spencer were real nice to her when she did. Some guys just feel so helpless and act like jerks instead, or flee, at the sight of a woman's tears.
Not much can be said about Adam, he was not as active in the story as Spencer and Heather. He is portrayed as quite the athlete, with a smoking bod and seems to be protective and nice. I do wonder why he and Heather were not made into a couple, but maybe that would just be so cliche?
Spencer is bookish. Your type of guy, ladies? He brings along a book almost everywhere and he volunteered to rebuild houses. He also seems to be protective, as evidenced when he keeps coming to Emily's rescue. He also displays his sensitive side as he opens up to Emily about his past heartbreak, his other secrets, and the letter he writes to her. I like that he finally "manned" up in the end. I understand how awkward that would have been. I sure hope they didn't break up in the end. Wait, they're not real characters, but every character I read makes me think that they're real and I can't help but fantasize that they all lived their happily-ever-afters. Am I alone in this one?
Fans of light reads, chick lit YA, or those just looking for something to pass the time pleasurably, just might enjoy Picture Perfect. I have to admit the cover didn't really interest me, I just needed something to read, and I chose something from Catherine Clark because I enjoyed The Day I Met Him, the book she wrote for the Love Stories series (remember that one? I still collect those!) but I have no regrets about choosing this one!
Ciao and happy musings!
You know how sometimes, you just need a light book to pass away the time, and to just read something that's not overly dramatic or too serious and make you feel emotionally heavy? Well, Picture Perfect was just what I needed after a long week. It was relaxing, easy to read, with the story just flowing from page to page. I found myself not thinking about any other book, clinging to the easy vibes I was getting from this.
Emily is a high school senior, about to attend college come September. She usually takes vacations with her family and her parents' group of friends, who all went to Linden. She is great friends with the children of her parents' friends, Heather, Adam, and Spencer. I love that there was no unnecessary drama and conflict among the four of them, barring the romantic feelings Emily has been feeling for Spencer. I think it's great that Catherine Clark wrote them as good friends instead of making them out as enemies.
I felt like the story was a coming-of-age story of Emily, as she slowly sheds her parents' expectations to do ballet and explore what she actually wants to do, and how dating is like. It was really refreshing to see someone so clueless about flirting and so shy about it, as lately all the girls in the books seem quite bold and upfront. Plus, she was so gutsy, finding the balls to admit to Spencer she likes him...twice.
One of the things I liked about reading Picture Perfect is I'm reminded and feel involved in other love stories, without getting my heart broken. Haha sorry, who ever enjoyed having their heart broken? Plus, I'm happy I got a happy ending. Although sometimes I do wish the characters wouldn't end up together, just so the story would be different and stand out. Is it just me who feels this way or are there other readers out there who wishes the same thing?
I think the best character I like in the story though is not Emily, but Heather. I admire her strength, especially facing her father's friends like that. It must have been quite painful for her seeing all her dad's buddies having fun and being reminded of her dad when he was alive. However, despite her strength, she shows her human side when she cries. I'm glad she's also brave enough to cry, and that Adam and Spencer were real nice to her when she did. Some guys just feel so helpless and act like jerks instead, or flee, at the sight of a woman's tears.
Not much can be said about Adam, he was not as active in the story as Spencer and Heather. He is portrayed as quite the athlete, with a smoking bod and seems to be protective and nice. I do wonder why he and Heather were not made into a couple, but maybe that would just be so cliche?
Spencer is bookish. Your type of guy, ladies? He brings along a book almost everywhere and he volunteered to rebuild houses. He also seems to be protective, as evidenced when he keeps coming to Emily's rescue. He also displays his sensitive side as he opens up to Emily about his past heartbreak, his other secrets, and the letter he writes to her. I like that he finally "manned" up in the end. I understand how awkward that would have been. I sure hope they didn't break up in the end. Wait, they're not real characters, but every character I read makes me think that they're real and I can't help but fantasize that they all lived their happily-ever-afters. Am I alone in this one?
Fans of light reads, chick lit YA, or those just looking for something to pass the time pleasurably, just might enjoy Picture Perfect. I have to admit the cover didn't really interest me, I just needed something to read, and I chose something from Catherine Clark because I enjoyed The Day I Met Him, the book she wrote for the Love Stories series (remember that one? I still collect those!) but I have no regrets about choosing this one!
Ciao and happy musings!
September 17, 2011
Every few years, Emily's dad drags the family along to some vacation spot where they spend a few weeks in the summer with his old college friends. All his friends have kids that are the same age, so Emily, Spencer, Adam, and Heather have known each other forever. This year, the trip will be different though. It's the summer before college, and the first time Emily will have seen Spencer in a long time. The last time she saw him, she pronounced her love for him, and he awkwardly ignored her. Her friend Heather convinces her that this is the PERFECT time to have a fling, and Emily decides that she's right. Now, Emily has to get over Spencer, find someone to have a fling with, and enjoy her summer.
First of all, the characters. I didn't really feel like I connected with Emily a whole lot, probably because she had liked Simon. Simon is like OMG the hugest dick ever. He seriously needs to get over himself. I didn't feel like I really understood Emily a whole lot because of that, and her desperation to meet someone new. And the weird thing is, that I pretty much disliked Simon from the beginning of the book. But then, towards the middle-end ish, I actually started liking him. So thumbs up for the author for being able to change my mind like that!
I felt like the ending was too short, however. I felt that there were a few loose ends that should have been tied. Such as, the calendar Emily was making. It seems almost like a metaphor throughout the story, and she mentions it a lot. She was supposed to make the calendar as a gift for everyone, but the story ended before she could give it to them. It's not a huge deal, I just think that that thought should have been completed. Also, Blake!
I liked the basic idea of the story, though it wasn't anything too special. It made me laugh out loud on multiple occasions, and definitely was entertaining at some parts. It was a quick read that didn't require too much concentration and chick-lit happiness. I love romance/girly books, and if Picture Perfect sounds interesting, than read it! But if it sounds kinda ehh, skip it and go for another book. I enjoyed this book, and it had it's good moments, but it wasn't anything too special. So, 3 out of 3 stars !
First of all, the characters. I didn't really feel like I connected with Emily a whole lot, probably because she had liked Simon. Simon is like OMG the hugest dick ever. He seriously needs to get over himself. I didn't feel like I really understood Emily a whole lot because of that, and her desperation to meet someone new. And the weird thing is, that I pretty much disliked Simon from the beginning of the book. But then, towards the middle-end ish, I actually started liking him. So thumbs up for the author for being able to change my mind like that!
I felt like the ending was too short, however. I felt that there were a few loose ends that should have been tied. Such as, the calendar Emily was making. It seems almost like a metaphor throughout the story, and she mentions it a lot. She was supposed to make the calendar as a gift for everyone, but the story ended before she could give it to them. It's not a huge deal, I just think that that thought should have been completed. Also, Blake!
I liked the basic idea of the story, though it wasn't anything too special. It made me laugh out loud on multiple occasions, and definitely was entertaining at some parts. It was a quick read that didn't require too much concentration and chick-lit happiness. I love romance/girly books, and if Picture Perfect sounds interesting, than read it! But if it sounds kinda ehh, skip it and go for another book. I enjoyed this book, and it had it's good moments, but it wasn't anything too special. So, 3 out of 3 stars !
December 9, 2015
I feel like this book should go into a category called Perfect Beach Reads or something catchier. Picture Perfect is one of those cute, quick reads that you don’t have to concentrate too hard to catch everything. That kind of sounds like a back-handed compliment, but that is not the way I intended it.
The story was a pretty cool idea of summer vacation with family and friends all getting together in one big house. I always thought it would be kind of cool to do that growing up. When we went on vacation with just the immediate family, which was still awesome. The whole group aspect though seems like fun (this coming from a massive introvert).
I was pretty unimpressed by the chemistry between Emily and Spencer. They seemed to forced and the situations that pushed them together were way too contrived to work naturally with the flow of the book. I’m positive that I rolled my eyes more than once when they were together.
Blake sucked and that was before he acted like a jerk. I really hate the word y’all (which he says a lot). I went to school in SC and I’ve had enough of that accent; it’s not adorable to me. Moral of the story, guys will still act like idiots no matter what the age difference is or how mature they seem to be. That may sound bitter or cynical, but it’s not meant to. That was actually what I got from the book.
I did enjoy Picture Perfect overall. It was a quick read; only took me a few hours to read. If you’re looking for the standard young adult contemporary, quick read then Picture Perfect is pretty perfect for you.
For more reviews, check out Reviews In A Pinch today!
The story was a pretty cool idea of summer vacation with family and friends all getting together in one big house. I always thought it would be kind of cool to do that growing up. When we went on vacation with just the immediate family, which was still awesome. The whole group aspect though seems like fun (this coming from a massive introvert).
I was pretty unimpressed by the chemistry between Emily and Spencer. They seemed to forced and the situations that pushed them together were way too contrived to work naturally with the flow of the book. I’m positive that I rolled my eyes more than once when they were together.
Blake sucked and that was before he acted like a jerk. I really hate the word y’all (which he says a lot). I went to school in SC and I’ve had enough of that accent; it’s not adorable to me. Moral of the story, guys will still act like idiots no matter what the age difference is or how mature they seem to be. That may sound bitter or cynical, but it’s not meant to. That was actually what I got from the book.
I did enjoy Picture Perfect overall. It was a quick read; only took me a few hours to read. If you’re looking for the standard young adult contemporary, quick read then Picture Perfect is pretty perfect for you.
For more reviews, check out Reviews In A Pinch today!
December 15, 2011
Now, this wasn't a disappointment. I actually enjoyed reading Picture Perfect unlike when I was reading So Inn Love.
So, the story revolves around Emily as she goes to a two-week summer vacation with her family. It's like a tradition. From time to time, her dad and his college friends meet up and spend the vacation together. Through the years, Emily had befriended the sons and daughters of her father's friends. Now, after two years, Emily meet up again with Heather, Spencer and Adam.
I like the characters. I like Emily and her obsession to photography. I like the fact that the characters aren't perfect. They seemed real to me. But what can I say? What I loved most about this book was of course the tandem of Emily and Spencer.
Spencer -- cute and arrogant. He's always teasing Emily but I could see that they click. Even though they're arguing most of the times, the banters and exchanges between the two of them were funny and entertaining. And Spencer's actions towards the whole Emily and Blake thing were really obviously cute. It was very palpable that he was into Emily and that's the reason why he messed up Emily's time with Blake at the balcony. And he kept following Emily around! :)
Unfortunately, like So Inn Love, the conflict isn't that creative and well thought of. I could call it trivial, even. Nonetheless, Catherine Clark was able to deliver sweetness and cuteness in this book. When Spencer and Emily finally got together, I kept on smiling. And his way of apologizing was romantic, if you ask me.
Basically, it was a cute light read.
So, the story revolves around Emily as she goes to a two-week summer vacation with her family. It's like a tradition. From time to time, her dad and his college friends meet up and spend the vacation together. Through the years, Emily had befriended the sons and daughters of her father's friends. Now, after two years, Emily meet up again with Heather, Spencer and Adam.
I like the characters. I like Emily and her obsession to photography. I like the fact that the characters aren't perfect. They seemed real to me. But what can I say? What I loved most about this book was of course the tandem of Emily and Spencer.
Spencer -- cute and arrogant. He's always teasing Emily but I could see that they click. Even though they're arguing most of the times, the banters and exchanges between the two of them were funny and entertaining. And Spencer's actions towards the whole Emily and Blake thing were really obviously cute. It was very palpable that he was into Emily and that's the reason why he messed up Emily's time with Blake at the balcony. And he kept following Emily around! :)
Unfortunately, like So Inn Love, the conflict isn't that creative and well thought of. I could call it trivial, even. Nonetheless, Catherine Clark was able to deliver sweetness and cuteness in this book. When Spencer and Emily finally got together, I kept on smiling. And his way of apologizing was romantic, if you ask me.
Basically, it was a cute light read.
July 5, 2013
This was such a cute summer read! I loved all these characters because they were actually so much fun to follow!
Review is coming!
07/5/13
So this was a really cute and fast summer read. It was sort of the kind of book you use for a book hangover (when you've just read a really good book and you don't know what to do with your life...(: ).
I, personally, did not like the characters at all, but somehow I still found myself liking the story. Therefore, this book gets 3 stars (nothing special, nothing terrible).
Emily was not an exceptional sassy or sweet character, and at times she irritated me with her shyness or nervousness. Em had problems with speaking with boys...now I'm not calling myself the master of boys, but damn, she was shy as hell. She didn't even know how to have a normal conversation with her best friend, Spencer, otherwise known as her ex love-interest, if that's a thing(:
Spencer was one annoying son of beeotch, because his sarcasm and anti-social personality never set well for me. No one likes a sassy, anti-social, sarcastic for no reason boy.
I never found myself enjoying Spencer's presence...except for a part when he dissed Emily's...boy...? I don't know what you would call a boy who isn't your boyfriend, but you want to date him...or there is potential... I have no idea, but Spencer and Emily's friends were really funny in that one situation with Emily's boy...(:
There was nothing special about this book, but it was fun read because of the storyline!
Review is coming!
07/5/13
So this was a really cute and fast summer read. It was sort of the kind of book you use for a book hangover (when you've just read a really good book and you don't know what to do with your life...(: ).
I, personally, did not like the characters at all, but somehow I still found myself liking the story. Therefore, this book gets 3 stars (nothing special, nothing terrible).
Emily was not an exceptional sassy or sweet character, and at times she irritated me with her shyness or nervousness. Em had problems with speaking with boys...now I'm not calling myself the master of boys, but damn, she was shy as hell. She didn't even know how to have a normal conversation with her best friend, Spencer, otherwise known as her ex love-interest, if that's a thing(:
Spencer was one annoying son of beeotch, because his sarcasm and anti-social personality never set well for me. No one likes a sassy, anti-social, sarcastic for no reason boy.
I never found myself enjoying Spencer's presence...except for a part when he dissed Emily's...boy...? I don't know what you would call a boy who isn't your boyfriend, but you want to date him...or there is potential... I have no idea, but Spencer and Emily's friends were really funny in that one situation with Emily's boy...(:
There was nothing special about this book, but it was fun read because of the storyline!
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