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Behind the Scenes: Things are Never Quite as They Appear
Never wear a pair of high heels on a film set no matter how good they may look!
Bethan Brooks works in London for the ultimate boss from Hell, trying to support her wannabe rockstar boyfriend. But are The Vampire Squirrels really ever going to make it big or is she doomed to be a secretary forever? Luckily, Bethan finds the perfect escape when going to the cinema. There she loses herself in another world and forgets all about the dreaded filing and monotonous office work. Imagine her surprise when one day she encounters her favourite actor on the Tube. Suddenly, she finds herself part of the glamorous movie world she only ever dreamed about. With more at stake than she could ever realise, does she really want to know what goes on behind the scenes?
'Inspiring and uplifting novel, which speaks to the millions of girls stuck in a rut' Leah Loves
Bethan Brooks works in London for the ultimate boss from Hell, trying to support her wannabe rockstar boyfriend. But are The Vampire Squirrels really ever going to make it big or is she doomed to be a secretary forever? Luckily, Bethan finds the perfect escape when going to the cinema. There she loses herself in another world and forgets all about the dreaded filing and monotonous office work. Imagine her surprise when one day she encounters her favourite actor on the Tube. Suddenly, she finds herself part of the glamorous movie world she only ever dreamed about. With more at stake than she could ever realise, does she really want to know what goes on behind the scenes?
'Inspiring and uplifting novel, which speaks to the millions of girls stuck in a rut' Leah Loves
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 26, 2015
3 people are currently reading
446 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Childs
7 books24 followersSophie Childs is a home educating mother of five and freelance writer. Her claims to fame include hosting an open mic night with Ewan McGregor in the audience and winning both The Weakest Link and The Chase. When she's not running around after her children, dog, and chickens, she writes and writes and writes.
Her first novel, Behind the Scenes, was published by So Vain Books in February 2015 and her second, We Just Clicked is now available. She's currently hard at work on her third, The Trouble With Secrets, due out in October 2016.
Her first novel, Behind the Scenes, was published by So Vain Books in February 2015 and her second, We Just Clicked is now available. She's currently hard at work on her third, The Trouble With Secrets, due out in October 2016.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
December 31, 2015
**I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
This read was much more enjoyable than I anticipated. The thing I especially appreciated was that the main focus was not on the love aspect of the story. This is a story about ambition and working hard. This is a story about a girl working on her and making her life better. If that includes romance then...so be it! This plot was so fun and entertaining. Although it was very predictable and the writing was nothing too astounding I definitely enjoyed reading it. It was great entertainment.
This read was much more enjoyable than I anticipated. The thing I especially appreciated was that the main focus was not on the love aspect of the story. This is a story about ambition and working hard. This is a story about a girl working on her and making her life better. If that includes romance then...so be it! This plot was so fun and entertaining. Although it was very predictable and the writing was nothing too astounding I definitely enjoyed reading it. It was great entertainment.
March 3, 2015
Posted originally http://www.reviewedthebook.co.uk/2015...
I love books which have a take on career-based dreams rather than just falling in love and Behind the Scenes fit the bill. It was a light-hearted, fun read with well-drawn characters and plenty of drama throughout. The story takes off pretty quickly, when on a Tube journey to work, main character Bethan meets Vincent Constantine, an upcoming actor she’s a huge fan of. She soon has another chance encounter with Vincent which later transpires to her getting the chance to become assistant to him and his wife, the life of dreams with movie sets and film premieres and maybe a bit of dry cleaning and early, wasted wake-up calls too. Behind the Scenes was a fun, escapist read and one I really did not want to put down.
There was lots I liked about this book. I enjoyed reading all the descriptions of Bethan’s new job, the things she’d have to do as assistant and the lives of the celebrities she was meeting. Though I obviously don’t have much knowledge of the celebrity world, in some books I find the personalities of famous people to be really overdone and a little cringeworthy but in Behind the Scenes, we get a contrast of the more laid-back actor Vincent along with his wife who is very demanding and a little full of herself at times. It was a lot easier to read in this book and I found it fascinating to read. Another aspect I really liked was the celebrity name-checking and mentions of some familiar London locations. This is again something I’m often not that keen on in books but I thought in this case it really helped me built up a picture of the scenarios in the novel and even routine things like the stresses of London commuting were easy to relate to and written well.
I read this book in two sittings and that was mostly thanks to the character of Bethan who I really did like, but at the same time I kind of wanted to tell her off a lot of the time to. She had a really nice personality and was trusting and mostly helpful – a character pretty difficult to dislike but she was also a bit of a pushover and the way she let people treat her was infuriating (if possibly quite similar to the way I act sometimes…). Her boyfriend Lee always seemed to be full of excuses, her best friend Maria could be a bit cutting and really almost everyone she seemed to know tried to push her around. I sympathised with Bethan and really wanted her to stand up for herself. She needed to take some chances, more than just the mistakes glaringly obvious to everyone but her. I loved the author’s writing of all the characters and how I was always wondering if there was more to them than it seemed. Learning about which characters could be trusted was a bit of a running theme throughout this book and there were a couple of characters that I really wanted to be trustworthy but I was so anxious they wouldn’t be! I just found the story engrossing and wanted the best for Bethan.
Behind the Scenes was, for me, a really lovely story about chasing dreams and discovering yourself, for lack of a less-clichéd way of putting it. It’s entertaining, quite dramatic and with a few twists that I could kind of see coming but really didn’t care because I still enjoyed reading it. I LOVED the last few chapters and throughout the whole highs and lows seen in this story, I was always reading with a smile on my face thanks to the author’s charming style of writing.
*Book received in exchange for an honest review.
April 12, 2015
This is one of those feel-good chic-lit stories that have you routing for the main character and being rewarded time and again. This story left me with the kind of feeling I get from movies like The Holiday or In Her Shoes.
Girly to the max, this book is one to cozy down with a hot chocolate and a box of truffles. I also found, though, that this story was very inspiring and encourages girl-power and a dream career.
I would definitely recommend this to fans of chic-lit as this is going to remain one of those up-there titles you can tuck into any time. Perfect for a warm summer's day, a chilly night by the fire and certainly when you need some cheering up! - Enjoy!
Girly to the max, this book is one to cozy down with a hot chocolate and a box of truffles. I also found, though, that this story was very inspiring and encourages girl-power and a dream career.
I would definitely recommend this to fans of chic-lit as this is going to remain one of those up-there titles you can tuck into any time. Perfect for a warm summer's day, a chilly night by the fire and certainly when you need some cheering up! - Enjoy!
June 10, 2015
This was a lovely read. Bethan is in a job she doesn't enjoy, her boyfriend is taking her for granted and she dreams of her life taking another direction. When she sees her favourite actor on the tube she is so excited. He is flattered to be recognised and invites her onto his filmset for the day.
She's offered a job which is her dream and it's lovely to be 'behind the scenes' - even if the perfect job has certain aspects which aren't so pleasant.
It deals with hopes and dreams, relationships and difficult bosses!
With many thanks to So Vain books and Net Galley for a chance to read this one.
She's offered a job which is her dream and it's lovely to be 'behind the scenes' - even if the perfect job has certain aspects which aren't so pleasant.
It deals with hopes and dreams, relationships and difficult bosses!
With many thanks to So Vain books and Net Galley for a chance to read this one.
February 24, 2015
3.5 stars.
"Behind the Scenes" is Sophie Childs' first novel, even though she has ghost - written numerous non - fiction or children books, as well as novels and memoirs before, but I would say that it was a great decision to finally publish her own book! Yes, you know me, sucker for a good cover, and I absolutely love this one, it's lovely, and suits the story one hundred per cent. The premise of it is also very promising, and I was one happy bunny when the book landed on my kindle and I could read it. I adore glamorous stories where you can spot one or two celebrities and hear some gossip!
Bethan and her boyfriend live together in London, and while he is following his dream of being a rock - star (not the case unfortunately), Bethan is working as a secretary, providing money for herself and Lee, whose not earning a single penny. Bethan finds escape in the cinema, she would love to work in film one day. But is this at all possible? Is Lee's band going to break through and become popular or is Bethan doomed to her boring, unfulfilling job till the end of her days?
One random meeting of her favourite actor on the Tube changes everything. Suddenly she finds herself behind the scenes - but is this really THIS what she so dreamed about? Is glamorous really glamorous? Is being sent to the dry cleaner really worth risking her own relationship? Is there really a relationship between her and Lee at all?
So, the story follows Bethan. At the beginning I had some issues with her, she behaved so irresponsibly and she really asked for the dismission from work, and I really couldn't understand her obsession with putting everything on Facebook. It's so not in anymore Bethan, it was so childish and flashy. I also couldn't grasp why is she so long with Lee, as it was obvious why Lee was with her: money. Nevertheless, the more into the book I was, the more I was starting to warm to her, seeing her coping with her everyday life and not giving up on her dreams. And at the end I found myself cheering her up, feeling like shouting: you go, girl! She was a little naive and a little too nice for her own good but altogether, she was a lovely girl. And till now I can't understand how her best friend could call herself "best friend", how could she be so cold and calculated? I have felt something - not going to tell you what, as don't want to spoil the reading for you - but when my suppositions were confirmed, I couldn't still believe that she could do something like this, I was still really shocked. That Bethan so quickly recovered was a miracle, and this miracle name was Jonathan. Lovely guy, who helped our Bethan to pull the wool from her eyes and open to the world.
There were of course other characters in the book, especially those so close to our Bethan, like Lee and Bethan's best friend. There was one scene when Bethan talked with her friend after she saw what's going on and she told Bethan that her boyfriend was with her only because of the money. Money was actually a topic often broached in the story, especially when it came to Bethan and Lee's relationship, and it really wondered me that Bethan hasn't seen what I saw. But hearing this, told in such manner, I guess I would kill the girl with my bare hands. There were in fact more moments when I, having been Bethan, would kill people with my bare hands, for example when her ex - boss compared her to a monkey. Why did she allow this? She wanted to see herself as an independent woman but let other people to treat her as a doormat, and she wasn't able to stand for herself. You can't allow for everything just because it's your job. There is something called dignity and backbone and Bethan lacked in this. But I think she was so because she perhaps didn't want to hurt anyone and just put herself far, far at the back. She just needed much more confidence, although, on the other, she so quickly found herself at her new job, didn't she?
The characters were well drawn and also good developed, and Sophie has this incredible talent to write them in a way that makes you love them or love them to hate. You fell for the characters or want them to fall. There was no other option for me, I either kept my fingers crossed or wanted to kick some backsides!
I liked the way the author helped Bethan to find her dream job - it was not too forced, or too unbelievable. It was through a coincidence, but very believable and I totally enjoyed how her friendship with Vincent developed. He was a very likeable film star, I liked his attitude and the fact that he behaved like a "normal" person.
The first part of the book was a little like a chewing gum - Bethan was only whingeing how much she hates her job but doing nothing to change it. It gained the so wished - for speed in the second part, and I really liked the descriptions of the "behind the scenes", they were interesting, had a little gossip - y feeling to them as well, and for me, a total virgin when it comes to the film plans and PA work, it was a great joy to read them.
So when Bethan started her new job and Vincent's wife turned out to be the Boss from Hell Nr. 2, I have expected this plot to develop in totally different direction! Big brownie points go to the author for taking me so much by surprise :) OK, at the beginning the changes in mood and all the pulling the rug out from under Bethan's feet were a little too obvious, plain as a day and the whole behaviour too predictable, she was so much stereotyped, described as the demanding, sneaky and deceitful person from the TV or gossip pages, behaving in exactly the way that we expected her to behave, and it was the weakest point in the plot in my opinion, as well as the fact that she oh so quickly changed her demeanour towards Bethan.
The book lacked this "something" in some parts but other than that, it was a sweet and charming read that I enjoyed. It shows that yes, we should have dreams because one day they may come true, and that after a storm comes a calm and there is always a way, we only must grab our chances. I liked those messages in this book, thanks to them this is an optimistic and uplifting story.
So altogether, "Behind the Scenes" makes a great story, with nicely written characters and plot that feels fresh and more than often takes you by surprise. Sophie Childs has for sure found her own writing style and voice and she knows what she wants to write. I am going to keep my eye on her next book, as am desperate to see what she has in store for us.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
"Behind the Scenes" is Sophie Childs' first novel, even though she has ghost - written numerous non - fiction or children books, as well as novels and memoirs before, but I would say that it was a great decision to finally publish her own book! Yes, you know me, sucker for a good cover, and I absolutely love this one, it's lovely, and suits the story one hundred per cent. The premise of it is also very promising, and I was one happy bunny when the book landed on my kindle and I could read it. I adore glamorous stories where you can spot one or two celebrities and hear some gossip!
Bethan and her boyfriend live together in London, and while he is following his dream of being a rock - star (not the case unfortunately), Bethan is working as a secretary, providing money for herself and Lee, whose not earning a single penny. Bethan finds escape in the cinema, she would love to work in film one day. But is this at all possible? Is Lee's band going to break through and become popular or is Bethan doomed to her boring, unfulfilling job till the end of her days?
One random meeting of her favourite actor on the Tube changes everything. Suddenly she finds herself behind the scenes - but is this really THIS what she so dreamed about? Is glamorous really glamorous? Is being sent to the dry cleaner really worth risking her own relationship? Is there really a relationship between her and Lee at all?
So, the story follows Bethan. At the beginning I had some issues with her, she behaved so irresponsibly and she really asked for the dismission from work, and I really couldn't understand her obsession with putting everything on Facebook. It's so not in anymore Bethan, it was so childish and flashy. I also couldn't grasp why is she so long with Lee, as it was obvious why Lee was with her: money. Nevertheless, the more into the book I was, the more I was starting to warm to her, seeing her coping with her everyday life and not giving up on her dreams. And at the end I found myself cheering her up, feeling like shouting: you go, girl! She was a little naive and a little too nice for her own good but altogether, she was a lovely girl. And till now I can't understand how her best friend could call herself "best friend", how could she be so cold and calculated? I have felt something - not going to tell you what, as don't want to spoil the reading for you - but when my suppositions were confirmed, I couldn't still believe that she could do something like this, I was still really shocked. That Bethan so quickly recovered was a miracle, and this miracle name was Jonathan. Lovely guy, who helped our Bethan to pull the wool from her eyes and open to the world.
There were of course other characters in the book, especially those so close to our Bethan, like Lee and Bethan's best friend. There was one scene when Bethan talked with her friend after she saw what's going on and she told Bethan that her boyfriend was with her only because of the money. Money was actually a topic often broached in the story, especially when it came to Bethan and Lee's relationship, and it really wondered me that Bethan hasn't seen what I saw. But hearing this, told in such manner, I guess I would kill the girl with my bare hands. There were in fact more moments when I, having been Bethan, would kill people with my bare hands, for example when her ex - boss compared her to a monkey. Why did she allow this? She wanted to see herself as an independent woman but let other people to treat her as a doormat, and she wasn't able to stand for herself. You can't allow for everything just because it's your job. There is something called dignity and backbone and Bethan lacked in this. But I think she was so because she perhaps didn't want to hurt anyone and just put herself far, far at the back. She just needed much more confidence, although, on the other, she so quickly found herself at her new job, didn't she?
The characters were well drawn and also good developed, and Sophie has this incredible talent to write them in a way that makes you love them or love them to hate. You fell for the characters or want them to fall. There was no other option for me, I either kept my fingers crossed or wanted to kick some backsides!
I liked the way the author helped Bethan to find her dream job - it was not too forced, or too unbelievable. It was through a coincidence, but very believable and I totally enjoyed how her friendship with Vincent developed. He was a very likeable film star, I liked his attitude and the fact that he behaved like a "normal" person.
The first part of the book was a little like a chewing gum - Bethan was only whingeing how much she hates her job but doing nothing to change it. It gained the so wished - for speed in the second part, and I really liked the descriptions of the "behind the scenes", they were interesting, had a little gossip - y feeling to them as well, and for me, a total virgin when it comes to the film plans and PA work, it was a great joy to read them.
So when Bethan started her new job and Vincent's wife turned out to be the Boss from Hell Nr. 2, I have expected this plot to develop in totally different direction! Big brownie points go to the author for taking me so much by surprise :) OK, at the beginning the changes in mood and all the pulling the rug out from under Bethan's feet were a little too obvious, plain as a day and the whole behaviour too predictable, she was so much stereotyped, described as the demanding, sneaky and deceitful person from the TV or gossip pages, behaving in exactly the way that we expected her to behave, and it was the weakest point in the plot in my opinion, as well as the fact that she oh so quickly changed her demeanour towards Bethan.
The book lacked this "something" in some parts but other than that, it was a sweet and charming read that I enjoyed. It shows that yes, we should have dreams because one day they may come true, and that after a storm comes a calm and there is always a way, we only must grab our chances. I liked those messages in this book, thanks to them this is an optimistic and uplifting story.
So altogether, "Behind the Scenes" makes a great story, with nicely written characters and plot that feels fresh and more than often takes you by surprise. Sophie Childs has for sure found her own writing style and voice and she knows what she wants to write. I am going to keep my eye on her next book, as am desperate to see what she has in store for us.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
March 3, 2015
I was given an ecopy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Stephanie of So Vain Books Ltd as part of the blog tour.
Firstly, what a fab premise for a story. How many of us are going through the motions at work, turning up for the cheque at the end of the month? This story focuses on Bethan who is definitely not living the dream, either at work or at home - she is put upon by both her wannabe rock-star boyfriend and her boss. She is a huge film fan and spends her spare time escaping into a world she can only dream about - that is, until a chance meeting with a film idol. She first saw him on the tube, then again in a favourite restaurant of hers. An invitation to a day on a film set, sees Bethan grabbing a once in a life time opportunity with both hands.
This was a hugely entertaining, yet heart felt story. Bethan, without doubt is an amazing character that I connected with straight away. She had me laughing at her antics and cringing with embarrassment one minute then feeling heartfelt pain and pity for her the next. To say that life has dealt Bethan a bit of a bum deal is perhaps a slight exaggeration but she is definitely one of those characters that people put upon. She inadvertently allows people to take advantage of her and doesn't actually seem to see it, always wanting to do the right thing and please other people - her parents, boyfriend, best friend and boss. Although, I don't think any of them took advantage of her with malice, it was just she was a willing victim - her subversive character allowed them to always put themselves and their needs first.
This was a book about relationships and discovery. About self doubt and realisation. A very light hearted read with a few strong messages. Ultimately, if you want to live the dream, you have to make it happen. Sometimes in life we have to make choices that benefit others more than ourselves but there comes a time when we should put ourselves first.
From the moment Bethan arrived on the film set her demeanour changed - flashes of a different character shone through, she appeared a more confident person. Her honesty and integrity wrapping around her like armour protecting her through some of the traumas still to come her way.
I loved the way Sophie described the various relationships throughout this book - her descriptive skills are so clearly fine tuned to human nature. I never warmed to Lee, as I'm sure was the intention. As Bethan's boyfriend they should have been at least, equal partners. But, if he was going to put anyone on a pedestal it would be himself - his ego was so large even when he did say or do something nice I was left wondering what the catch was - everything was for his own gains. In contrast Jonathan, a person Bethan met on set, turns out to be the complete opposite. Even as a friend he put Bethan's needs and thoughts first - giving her enough room to grow and develop without pushing himself forward. He was the tonic she needed, always positive, nudging her gently forwards towards her own realisation and goals - I found myself smiling quietly to myself whenever he was around. Others were not so obvious, Maria her best friend, on the surface appears to be supportive but more often than not she pushed Bethan aside to seek her own gains. Bethan clearly couldn't see this and neither could I until an impartial spectator shared their thoughts. Thereafter, I read the scenario's and situations differently - it was like having a light switched on.
This was an enjoyable read, made even more so by the fly on the wall feeling I got as Bethan hobnobbed with the stars and trod the red carpet. She comes across as the girl next door, thus making her comments and reactions to life more than realistic. Watching her character and confidence grow as the story developed was just lovely and sometimes dreams can and do come true. Perfect slice of escapism - thank you Sophie
Firstly, what a fab premise for a story. How many of us are going through the motions at work, turning up for the cheque at the end of the month? This story focuses on Bethan who is definitely not living the dream, either at work or at home - she is put upon by both her wannabe rock-star boyfriend and her boss. She is a huge film fan and spends her spare time escaping into a world she can only dream about - that is, until a chance meeting with a film idol. She first saw him on the tube, then again in a favourite restaurant of hers. An invitation to a day on a film set, sees Bethan grabbing a once in a life time opportunity with both hands.
This was a hugely entertaining, yet heart felt story. Bethan, without doubt is an amazing character that I connected with straight away. She had me laughing at her antics and cringing with embarrassment one minute then feeling heartfelt pain and pity for her the next. To say that life has dealt Bethan a bit of a bum deal is perhaps a slight exaggeration but she is definitely one of those characters that people put upon. She inadvertently allows people to take advantage of her and doesn't actually seem to see it, always wanting to do the right thing and please other people - her parents, boyfriend, best friend and boss. Although, I don't think any of them took advantage of her with malice, it was just she was a willing victim - her subversive character allowed them to always put themselves and their needs first.
This was a book about relationships and discovery. About self doubt and realisation. A very light hearted read with a few strong messages. Ultimately, if you want to live the dream, you have to make it happen. Sometimes in life we have to make choices that benefit others more than ourselves but there comes a time when we should put ourselves first.
From the moment Bethan arrived on the film set her demeanour changed - flashes of a different character shone through, she appeared a more confident person. Her honesty and integrity wrapping around her like armour protecting her through some of the traumas still to come her way.
I loved the way Sophie described the various relationships throughout this book - her descriptive skills are so clearly fine tuned to human nature. I never warmed to Lee, as I'm sure was the intention. As Bethan's boyfriend they should have been at least, equal partners. But, if he was going to put anyone on a pedestal it would be himself - his ego was so large even when he did say or do something nice I was left wondering what the catch was - everything was for his own gains. In contrast Jonathan, a person Bethan met on set, turns out to be the complete opposite. Even as a friend he put Bethan's needs and thoughts first - giving her enough room to grow and develop without pushing himself forward. He was the tonic she needed, always positive, nudging her gently forwards towards her own realisation and goals - I found myself smiling quietly to myself whenever he was around. Others were not so obvious, Maria her best friend, on the surface appears to be supportive but more often than not she pushed Bethan aside to seek her own gains. Bethan clearly couldn't see this and neither could I until an impartial spectator shared their thoughts. Thereafter, I read the scenario's and situations differently - it was like having a light switched on.
This was an enjoyable read, made even more so by the fly on the wall feeling I got as Bethan hobnobbed with the stars and trod the red carpet. She comes across as the girl next door, thus making her comments and reactions to life more than realistic. Watching her character and confidence grow as the story developed was just lovely and sometimes dreams can and do come true. Perfect slice of escapism - thank you Sophie
March 10, 2015
When Niten at So Vain Books emailed me, offering me the opportunity to blurb one of their new novels Behind The Scenes, I felt quite pleased. I’m very rarely offered the opportunity to provide blurbs for a book, so it made me feel quite special to be asked, although I only agreed because I genuinely wanted to read Behind The Scenes. I absolutely love novels that delve into the underbelly of the film world and this one sounded delightful!
Books set in and around the film industry are my favourites. I’m not a big movie buff, but I do like to know what goes on behind the scenes, and the aptly titled Behind The Scenes does that. We get to see what it’s like for a normal girl like Bethan to live the dream – to be a personal assistant to a famous movie star (or going to be famous) Vincent Constantine. One day I would love to go and see a film being made behind the scenes – well, actually, I would like to go over to LA and be an audience member when they film The Big Bang Theory. That’s my dream!
What I liked best about Behind The Scenes were the characters. Yes, there were a few cliche characters and a few cliche plot points – Bethan’s best friend Maria talking about her new “boyfriend” was the most obvious thing ever, and I just wanted to slap her for being such an awful person, especially since Bethan was actually really lovely. She was literally the sweetest – she didn’t hold grudges, she did her job to the best of her ability (and did it bloody well), and despite the fact that people continuously pooed on her, she didn’t let it get her down and I love people like Bethan who get up when they’re knocked down. I also really loved getting to know Vincent, who despite not being a big Cumberbatch fan (I literally haven’t seen him in anything) I sort of felt Vincent was a bit like him.
In my personal opinion, I probably would have written the novel in first-person. Don’t get me wrong, I liked the third-person narrative and Childs did it well, I just feel we would have got a much better insight in to Bethan with first-person and since the novel was always focused on Bethan, that wouldn’t have been a problem to do at all. Apart from that, there was very little wrong with the novel. A first-person narrative would have just allowed us to feel more involved in the story.
Behind The Scenes was such a fun read, I am so glad I took the chance on the novel, and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Bethan, Vincent and (in particular) Jonathan! Everyone needs a Jonathan in their lives to pep them up (although I was curious about his orientation the first time we met him!!!!). This is definitely one to pick up if you’re a movie buff and it’s great to go behind the scenes on a film, especially with such a delectable actor like Vincent…
Books set in and around the film industry are my favourites. I’m not a big movie buff, but I do like to know what goes on behind the scenes, and the aptly titled Behind The Scenes does that. We get to see what it’s like for a normal girl like Bethan to live the dream – to be a personal assistant to a famous movie star (or going to be famous) Vincent Constantine. One day I would love to go and see a film being made behind the scenes – well, actually, I would like to go over to LA and be an audience member when they film The Big Bang Theory. That’s my dream!
What I liked best about Behind The Scenes were the characters. Yes, there were a few cliche characters and a few cliche plot points – Bethan’s best friend Maria talking about her new “boyfriend” was the most obvious thing ever, and I just wanted to slap her for being such an awful person, especially since Bethan was actually really lovely. She was literally the sweetest – she didn’t hold grudges, she did her job to the best of her ability (and did it bloody well), and despite the fact that people continuously pooed on her, she didn’t let it get her down and I love people like Bethan who get up when they’re knocked down. I also really loved getting to know Vincent, who despite not being a big Cumberbatch fan (I literally haven’t seen him in anything) I sort of felt Vincent was a bit like him.
In my personal opinion, I probably would have written the novel in first-person. Don’t get me wrong, I liked the third-person narrative and Childs did it well, I just feel we would have got a much better insight in to Bethan with first-person and since the novel was always focused on Bethan, that wouldn’t have been a problem to do at all. Apart from that, there was very little wrong with the novel. A first-person narrative would have just allowed us to feel more involved in the story.
Behind The Scenes was such a fun read, I am so glad I took the chance on the novel, and I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Bethan, Vincent and (in particular) Jonathan! Everyone needs a Jonathan in their lives to pep them up (although I was curious about his orientation the first time we met him!!!!). This is definitely one to pick up if you’re a movie buff and it’s great to go behind the scenes on a film, especially with such a delectable actor like Vincent…
September 15, 2015
Bethan Brooks is working a monotonous office job to support herself and her unemployed, musician boyfriend, while daydreaming about the glitz and glam of working in the movie industry. One day, she runs into her favorite movie star, Vincent Constantine, and after bumping into him a second time, he invites her on the set.
“What happens on set, stays on set.”
She helps out on set, and makes quite the impression. She just might have a real future in the film industry!
Unfortunately, not everyone is happy about Bethan’s future, including her own boyfriend, and someone is out to sabotage her, someone she would never suspect…
Bethan bounces back, but what she isn’t aware of is what’s going on behind the scenes, both in her love life and career. Her life is becoming like one of the movies she watches on the big screen!
My Thoughts
My favorite character was Bethan. She came off as real to me, and I really liked her personality. I never liked her boyfriend Lee because he was unsupportive of her dreams and aspirations, (despite him living in a fantasy world himself). I didn’t feel that they were a good match, (which I’m sure was intentional by the Author).
Behind The Scenes was rather predictable. I saw the big reveal coming from a mile away. The author left little clues throughout the story that made me want to scream to Bethan, “Hellllllo! Can’t you see who “Mongoose” is!?” I mean, is anyone really THAT clueless? I will chock that up to Bethan’s trusting nature, and her head being up in the clouds due to being really excited to work in the movies. (The author did allude to Bethan’s naivety in the beginning of the novel, when she wasn’t able to discern a sarcastic joke.)
Behind The Scenes focuses more on career than love, but there is some romance in this novel to round everything out. I found the plot to be believable, and I couldn’t have asked for a better ending for Bethan. All around, a good read!
British-English Chick Lit novels always put me in a good mood, and for that, I am grateful to the author. I would recommend this novel to others who enjoy chick lit novels, that are set in London. There is something so magical about that setting, and I really enjoy novels that take place in this city!
Oh, and word of advice, take it from Bethan, always wear sensible shoes on the set! :)
***I received an e-copy of Behind The Scenes by So Vain Books Inc., in exchange for a fair, honest, and thoughtful book review. This in no way swayed my opinion or rating.
Please read my full book review, which includes buy links, Author information, and more! https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...
“What happens on set, stays on set.”
She helps out on set, and makes quite the impression. She just might have a real future in the film industry!
Unfortunately, not everyone is happy about Bethan’s future, including her own boyfriend, and someone is out to sabotage her, someone she would never suspect…
Bethan bounces back, but what she isn’t aware of is what’s going on behind the scenes, both in her love life and career. Her life is becoming like one of the movies she watches on the big screen!
My Thoughts
My favorite character was Bethan. She came off as real to me, and I really liked her personality. I never liked her boyfriend Lee because he was unsupportive of her dreams and aspirations, (despite him living in a fantasy world himself). I didn’t feel that they were a good match, (which I’m sure was intentional by the Author).
Behind The Scenes was rather predictable. I saw the big reveal coming from a mile away. The author left little clues throughout the story that made me want to scream to Bethan, “Hellllllo! Can’t you see who “Mongoose” is!?” I mean, is anyone really THAT clueless? I will chock that up to Bethan’s trusting nature, and her head being up in the clouds due to being really excited to work in the movies. (The author did allude to Bethan’s naivety in the beginning of the novel, when she wasn’t able to discern a sarcastic joke.)
Behind The Scenes focuses more on career than love, but there is some romance in this novel to round everything out. I found the plot to be believable, and I couldn’t have asked for a better ending for Bethan. All around, a good read!
British-English Chick Lit novels always put me in a good mood, and for that, I am grateful to the author. I would recommend this novel to others who enjoy chick lit novels, that are set in London. There is something so magical about that setting, and I really enjoy novels that take place in this city!
Oh, and word of advice, take it from Bethan, always wear sensible shoes on the set! :)
***I received an e-copy of Behind The Scenes by So Vain Books Inc., in exchange for a fair, honest, and thoughtful book review. This in no way swayed my opinion or rating.
Please read my full book review, which includes buy links, Author information, and more! https://aprillwood.wordpress.com/2015...
March 19, 2015
Review first posted on my blog: http://spoonfulofhappyendings.blogspo...
Bethan Brooks has always dreamed of working in the film industry. Unfortunately, the closest she actually gets is going to the cinema by herself, dreaming away while watching all kinds of films. Though Bethan doesn't like her job as a secretary, it pays the bills and helps her support her boyfriend Lee who doesn't have a job because he is trying to make it with his rock band 'The Vampire Squirrels.' One day, the unexpected happens as Bethan bumps into one of her favourite actors on the Tube on her commute into work. One thing leads to another and this meeting suddenly means the start of big changes in Bethan's life. She finally gets the chance to experience what life is like behind the scenes of the film world. Question is, is this really what she wants and worth giving up her life for...?
The author of this novel, Sophie Childs, has extensive ghostwriting experience and I must say I'm really glad she decided to write her very own book because I really enjoyed 'Behind the Scenes.' The storyline was really interesting, the characters were well-drawn and the author's writing style was really easy to get into. It did take me a bit of time to really warm to the main protagonist, Bethan; she's a bit naive and I couldn't understand why she was still together with her lazy boyfriend Lee. At the same time, I guess we all have a friend who has fallen blindly in love with someone, or a couple that stays together because it's safe and familiar, so in that way I also think the situation might be familiar to readers.
While the storyline is a bit predictable in places, this didn't bother me at all while reading the book. I thought the story was really entertaining and I finished the book in 1 day, constantly curious to see what would happen next. As I mentioned before, the characters are well-developed and different (some of them you'll love and some of them are quite easy to hate!), and I specifically warmed to Vincent, the famous actor Bethan bumps into and who is just a great guy. This was just a really enjoyable read and I'm already curious about Sophie Childs' next release. Overall, 'Behind the Scenes' is an entertaining, fun and light-hearted story which I hope other chick lit fans will enjoy as much as I did!
Bethan Brooks has always dreamed of working in the film industry. Unfortunately, the closest she actually gets is going to the cinema by herself, dreaming away while watching all kinds of films. Though Bethan doesn't like her job as a secretary, it pays the bills and helps her support her boyfriend Lee who doesn't have a job because he is trying to make it with his rock band 'The Vampire Squirrels.' One day, the unexpected happens as Bethan bumps into one of her favourite actors on the Tube on her commute into work. One thing leads to another and this meeting suddenly means the start of big changes in Bethan's life. She finally gets the chance to experience what life is like behind the scenes of the film world. Question is, is this really what she wants and worth giving up her life for...?
The author of this novel, Sophie Childs, has extensive ghostwriting experience and I must say I'm really glad she decided to write her very own book because I really enjoyed 'Behind the Scenes.' The storyline was really interesting, the characters were well-drawn and the author's writing style was really easy to get into. It did take me a bit of time to really warm to the main protagonist, Bethan; she's a bit naive and I couldn't understand why she was still together with her lazy boyfriend Lee. At the same time, I guess we all have a friend who has fallen blindly in love with someone, or a couple that stays together because it's safe and familiar, so in that way I also think the situation might be familiar to readers.
While the storyline is a bit predictable in places, this didn't bother me at all while reading the book. I thought the story was really entertaining and I finished the book in 1 day, constantly curious to see what would happen next. As I mentioned before, the characters are well-developed and different (some of them you'll love and some of them are quite easy to hate!), and I specifically warmed to Vincent, the famous actor Bethan bumps into and who is just a great guy. This was just a really enjoyable read and I'm already curious about Sophie Childs' next release. Overall, 'Behind the Scenes' is an entertaining, fun and light-hearted story which I hope other chick lit fans will enjoy as much as I did!
April 26, 2015
Behind the Scenes, Things are never quite as they appear, Sophie Childs
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance
I was looking forward to this, love a film setting, and was hoping that it would be one of those where the star falls in love with Bethan....
Sadly I quickly changed my mind – I really didn’t like Bethan, in fact I didn’t like her boyfriend or her best friend either. Bethan moaned about her job and boss, but spends most of her time there doing things other than works and trying to shirk off early. She comes across as a doormat for the boyfriend, and its kind of easy to see very early what’s going on there. Lee is selfish, rude and just walks over Bethan and sometimes I think why on earth are they together, it seems that its more important to her that he’s good-looking, chasing fame ( and certainly more important to him!) and wanted by other women, than they have a genuine relationship. She just accepts all his excuses. When she loses her job one moments she’s worrying about paying the next months rent, then she’s out shopping, retail therapy. Clearly not that worried about the rent...Then there’s her best friend – a vapid, shallow girl, who sleeps with anyone that takes her fancy, and sees men with girlfriends as OK – she tells herself if they were happy then the boyfriend wouldn’t approach her. I really can’t like that kind of selfish person.
As for the story – well, its kind of light,no real depth to the characters or story IMO and I found it really hard to believe the way everything just went Bethan’s way, from meeting Vincent to the jobs that followed just when she needed them. I liked Vincent but would he really be oblivious to what a bitch his wife really was? Overall I just couldn't get into the story – I did finish it but it was hard going, it was one of those where it just wasn’t right for me. as ever though its just one view and there will be many that differ. thankfully we all want different stories – it’d be dull if we didn’t!
Stars: Sorry but this one is a two – just didn’t cut it for me.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance
I was looking forward to this, love a film setting, and was hoping that it would be one of those where the star falls in love with Bethan....
Sadly I quickly changed my mind – I really didn’t like Bethan, in fact I didn’t like her boyfriend or her best friend either. Bethan moaned about her job and boss, but spends most of her time there doing things other than works and trying to shirk off early. She comes across as a doormat for the boyfriend, and its kind of easy to see very early what’s going on there. Lee is selfish, rude and just walks over Bethan and sometimes I think why on earth are they together, it seems that its more important to her that he’s good-looking, chasing fame ( and certainly more important to him!) and wanted by other women, than they have a genuine relationship. She just accepts all his excuses. When she loses her job one moments she’s worrying about paying the next months rent, then she’s out shopping, retail therapy. Clearly not that worried about the rent...Then there’s her best friend – a vapid, shallow girl, who sleeps with anyone that takes her fancy, and sees men with girlfriends as OK – she tells herself if they were happy then the boyfriend wouldn’t approach her. I really can’t like that kind of selfish person.
As for the story – well, its kind of light,no real depth to the characters or story IMO and I found it really hard to believe the way everything just went Bethan’s way, from meeting Vincent to the jobs that followed just when she needed them. I liked Vincent but would he really be oblivious to what a bitch his wife really was? Overall I just couldn't get into the story – I did finish it but it was hard going, it was one of those where it just wasn’t right for me. as ever though its just one view and there will be many that differ. thankfully we all want different stories – it’d be dull if we didn’t!
Stars: Sorry but this one is a two – just didn’t cut it for me.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
April 19, 2016
Bethan Brooks spends her days working a boring job in reinsurance and comes home to her somewhat pathetic boyfriend in the evenings. Her boyfriend Lee is a wedding singer that she met at her cousin’s wedding where he was part of the entertainment. On the side he’s in a band called The Vampire Squirrels. Between his wedding gigs and band practices, Bethan doesn’t see much of Lee.
Although Bethan has a boring job and an MIA boyfriend, things begin looking up when fate intervenes, and she meets one of her favorite TV actors. Suddenly Bethan is brushing shoulders with famous people like Vincent Constantine and Ronnie Ruth. During her introduction to a new side of the celebrity world, she also meets someone that offers fantastic advice; no boyfriend is worth holding yourself back from reaching for your dreams, and if they really loved you, they’d want you to be happy and would support your dreams and goals.
Bethan begins to wonder if leavingher comfort zone will lead her to something wonderful that will make her truly happy. One of the most important themes of the novel is to not let your boyfriend-or anyone else for that matter-keep you from going after your dreams. Another theme of the novel is that idea that sometimes there will be people in your life that lie, cheat, and commit the ultimate betrayal. Life is about being able to move past the betrayaland taking control by deleting the toxic people from your life. Behind the scenes people can be so different than the way they present themselves to the world, and sometimes, perception isn’t everything.
I really enjoy the writer’s voice and writing style throughout the novel. The story was humorous but not overly so, interesting but not overkill, and filled with indicators of what was to come, but not so much that it’s all given away at once. There was one shocker that I knew was going to happen but there was a shocker that I definitely didn’t see coming! I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and can’t wait to see what else this author has written.
5/5 Stars
I received an Advanced Review Copy complimentary from the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Although Bethan has a boring job and an MIA boyfriend, things begin looking up when fate intervenes, and she meets one of her favorite TV actors. Suddenly Bethan is brushing shoulders with famous people like Vincent Constantine and Ronnie Ruth. During her introduction to a new side of the celebrity world, she also meets someone that offers fantastic advice; no boyfriend is worth holding yourself back from reaching for your dreams, and if they really loved you, they’d want you to be happy and would support your dreams and goals.
Bethan begins to wonder if leavingher comfort zone will lead her to something wonderful that will make her truly happy. One of the most important themes of the novel is to not let your boyfriend-or anyone else for that matter-keep you from going after your dreams. Another theme of the novel is that idea that sometimes there will be people in your life that lie, cheat, and commit the ultimate betrayal. Life is about being able to move past the betrayaland taking control by deleting the toxic people from your life. Behind the scenes people can be so different than the way they present themselves to the world, and sometimes, perception isn’t everything.
I really enjoy the writer’s voice and writing style throughout the novel. The story was humorous but not overly so, interesting but not overkill, and filled with indicators of what was to come, but not so much that it’s all given away at once. There was one shocker that I knew was going to happen but there was a shocker that I definitely didn’t see coming! I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and can’t wait to see what else this author has written.
5/5 Stars
I received an Advanced Review Copy complimentary from the author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 23, 2015
Bethan has a job she doesn't like and her boss is horrible. He's unkind, demanding and whatever she does, it's never good enough. She's looking for a way to escape, but her boyfriend doesn't want her to leave her job. He needs her income to support his career as a rock star. Unfortunately he isn't very successful, but he always knows how to convince Bethan to keep fighting for his dreams instead of her own. When she meets her number one celebrity, Bethan can't believe it. Things get even better when he invites her for a day on a movie set. When she's asked to make herself useful Bethan doesn't hesitate for one minute, she loves being there and working for actors doesn't feel like work at all. She feels at home straight away. Unfortunately there's no way she can pursue a career as an assistant on set, because her boyfriend doesn't let her. Or can she and what will happen when she does go for her own career instead of his? Does she really know her boyfriend very well? And is the movie world really so glamorous?
Bethan is such a sympathetic and hardworking girl. From the first moment the reader knows that she's way too good for her boyfriend, but it's something she needs to find out for herself. The journey there was really interesting. I also liked how she discovered more and more about herself and the things she liked. She needs some self confidence very badly and when she gets it her life will be so different from what it used to be. Of course reality isn't like a fairytale, so she has to work hard and there will be obstacles, but Bethan is a strong girl. That's something I really liked. What I also liked was the behind the scenes information about film sets and the life of actors and other celebrities. Behind the Scenes is such a light and fun read, I enjoyed it very much. It's perfect to take with you when you go on holiday or when you need something to cheer you up on an evening in.
Bethan is such a sympathetic and hardworking girl. From the first moment the reader knows that she's way too good for her boyfriend, but it's something she needs to find out for herself. The journey there was really interesting. I also liked how she discovered more and more about herself and the things she liked. She needs some self confidence very badly and when she gets it her life will be so different from what it used to be. Of course reality isn't like a fairytale, so she has to work hard and there will be obstacles, but Bethan is a strong girl. That's something I really liked. What I also liked was the behind the scenes information about film sets and the life of actors and other celebrities. Behind the Scenes is such a light and fun read, I enjoyed it very much. It's perfect to take with you when you go on holiday or when you need something to cheer you up on an evening in.
February 14, 2016
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to meet an actor you really admire in the most unlikely of places? Well that is exactly what happened to Bethan Brooks, when she meets Vincent on the tube. From this chance meeting, Bethan's life changes completely.
At the start she is living with her boyfriend Lee, who is determined to hit it big with is band The Vampire Squirrels, and is in a job she hates and has a boss who doesn't seem to like her either. Lee is very unsupportive of any conversation Sophie has wanting to change her life, and doesn't seem that impressed by her meeting with Vincent, but he does like some of the consequences.
I really didn't like Lee's attitude towards Bethan, and was just willing her to come to her senses and dump him. There were two other potential boyfriends for Bethan and my initial gut feeling as to who she would end the book with was incorrect, which is always good, as it means the story kept surprising me.
Bethan seems to be a bit naive at time, especially when it comes to relationships, and I could argue she had doormat tendencies, with how she was acting at times.
When Bethan though gets invited Behind the Scenes, at the film Vincent is currently working on, the book really gets going, and becomes incredibly entertaining. I loved all the people that were working on the film set, and there are some great scenes.
This is Sophie Childs' debut book, and her writing is very clear and concise, you get a great feel for the story, and I found the book was really easy and enjoyable to read.
At the start she is living with her boyfriend Lee, who is determined to hit it big with is band The Vampire Squirrels, and is in a job she hates and has a boss who doesn't seem to like her either. Lee is very unsupportive of any conversation Sophie has wanting to change her life, and doesn't seem that impressed by her meeting with Vincent, but he does like some of the consequences.
I really didn't like Lee's attitude towards Bethan, and was just willing her to come to her senses and dump him. There were two other potential boyfriends for Bethan and my initial gut feeling as to who she would end the book with was incorrect, which is always good, as it means the story kept surprising me.
Bethan seems to be a bit naive at time, especially when it comes to relationships, and I could argue she had doormat tendencies, with how she was acting at times.
When Bethan though gets invited Behind the Scenes, at the film Vincent is currently working on, the book really gets going, and becomes incredibly entertaining. I loved all the people that were working on the film set, and there are some great scenes.
This is Sophie Childs' debut book, and her writing is very clear and concise, you get a great feel for the story, and I found the book was really easy and enjoyable to read.
May 17, 2015
Originally reviewed at www.125pages.wordpress.com
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.25 Stars
Bethan Brooks is an average girl; an admin in an insurance agency, girlfriend of a struggling wedding band musician and best friend to Maria who is ever so slightly more glamorous than her. When fate smiles on her and she finds herself chatting to her favorite actor on the subway it sets her on a path to the life she has always dreamed of.
Behind the Scenes is a solid entry in the British Isles chick lit category. Reminiscent of She’ll Take It by Mary Carter, this story checked off all of the boxes needed to satisfy. Bethan, while flighty and terrible with spending, is relatable and someone you want to root for. Her boyfriend, Lee, is the typical struggling a-hole artist who Bethan loves in spite of his narcissism. Maria, the bestie, is there for Bethan and helps support her, while ever so slightly reminding her that she is better. The chance encounters that change Bethan’s life are book believable and I enjoyed that the new opportunities weren’t just handed to her. A nice change of pace was that the story did not revolve around a movie star falling in love with and bettering our heroine just by being famous. The side plot involving Maria and a mystery man was very obvious but was needed to move the story forward. A good debut entry that will have me looking forward to Sophie Childs’ next novel.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.25 Stars
Bethan Brooks is an average girl; an admin in an insurance agency, girlfriend of a struggling wedding band musician and best friend to Maria who is ever so slightly more glamorous than her. When fate smiles on her and she finds herself chatting to her favorite actor on the subway it sets her on a path to the life she has always dreamed of.
Behind the Scenes is a solid entry in the British Isles chick lit category. Reminiscent of She’ll Take It by Mary Carter, this story checked off all of the boxes needed to satisfy. Bethan, while flighty and terrible with spending, is relatable and someone you want to root for. Her boyfriend, Lee, is the typical struggling a-hole artist who Bethan loves in spite of his narcissism. Maria, the bestie, is there for Bethan and helps support her, while ever so slightly reminding her that she is better. The chance encounters that change Bethan’s life are book believable and I enjoyed that the new opportunities weren’t just handed to her. A nice change of pace was that the story did not revolve around a movie star falling in love with and bettering our heroine just by being famous. The side plot involving Maria and a mystery man was very obvious but was needed to move the story forward. A good debut entry that will have me looking forward to Sophie Childs’ next novel.
April 15, 2015
Originally posted on: http://www.albainbookland.com/2015/04...
Behind the Scenes is the fun debut of Sophie Childs. Centered around the movie industry and its ins and outs, I am sure that any movie lover will enjoy this read. This is one of those easy and quick reads that you can finish in a couple of sittings and that leaves you with a smile on your face.
Our heroine, Bethan Brooks, is a lovely girl who thanks to a bit of luck has finally landed his dream opportunity to work in the movies as a PA to a rising star. I liked how she was determined to follow her dreams and was not afraid to work hard to reach them. But I have to admit that I found her a bit too naive, especially with her personal life. There were some twists in that department that I could totally see coming and I just wanted to shout to her to open her eyes.
My favourite characters in the story were Vincent, the rising star who was so kind to Bethan, and Jonathan who made me laugh the most. As for the female characters, I think Bethan was in real need of some nice female company...
All in all, for me, Behind the Scenes was a good story, not great, but fun. And it delivered what was promised: laughs, insight in the movies world, charming characters (and not so charming ones) and a nice ending.
Behind the Scenes is the fun debut of Sophie Childs. Centered around the movie industry and its ins and outs, I am sure that any movie lover will enjoy this read. This is one of those easy and quick reads that you can finish in a couple of sittings and that leaves you with a smile on your face.
Our heroine, Bethan Brooks, is a lovely girl who thanks to a bit of luck has finally landed his dream opportunity to work in the movies as a PA to a rising star. I liked how she was determined to follow her dreams and was not afraid to work hard to reach them. But I have to admit that I found her a bit too naive, especially with her personal life. There were some twists in that department that I could totally see coming and I just wanted to shout to her to open her eyes.
My favourite characters in the story were Vincent, the rising star who was so kind to Bethan, and Jonathan who made me laugh the most. As for the female characters, I think Bethan was in real need of some nice female company...
All in all, for me, Behind the Scenes was a good story, not great, but fun. And it delivered what was promised: laughs, insight in the movies world, charming characters (and not so charming ones) and a nice ending.
November 18, 2015
Behind The Scenes is the story of a woman who realizes her dream of working in the film industry in the most unlikely of opportunities. Being the sole breadwinner because her boyfriend, Lee, is a mooch and not brave enough or willing to give up the job she hates because jobs are hard to come by, Bethan Brooks finds respite in the cinema to help her forget her troubles. Bethan is tickled when a chance meeting on the tube with her favorite film star opens doors of opportunity for her and literally changes her life.
New to me author Sophie Childs writes a very likable character in Bethan. She is one of those characters that elicit immediate empathy and compassion from the reader. I enjoyed watching her bravely take on new challenges and face adversity and do so with her head held high. This story made me laugh when Bethan realizes the folly of not dressing appropriately on the film set. This story made me angry on her behalf when Lee’s true character and nature are revealed. This story made me cheer when Bethan comes out on top in spite of those around her who would see her fail. I highly recommend this story to fans of romance and feel good stories that give the reader a solid connection to the characters.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Behind the Scenes from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
New to me author Sophie Childs writes a very likable character in Bethan. She is one of those characters that elicit immediate empathy and compassion from the reader. I enjoyed watching her bravely take on new challenges and face adversity and do so with her head held high. This story made me laugh when Bethan realizes the folly of not dressing appropriately on the film set. This story made me angry on her behalf when Lee’s true character and nature are revealed. This story made me cheer when Bethan comes out on top in spite of those around her who would see her fail. I highly recommend this story to fans of romance and feel good stories that give the reader a solid connection to the characters.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Behind the Scenes from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2015
Book received in exchange for an honest review :)
I don't often read chick-lit but when Steph and Sophia asked me to read Behind the Scenes I was intrigued! As it turns out Behind the Scenes was really enjoyable and a great holiday read! One of the best things about chick-lit is its escapism, and this book does that really well.
The main character, Bethan, is easy to identify with and embodies difficulties that many young women face today (including tedious job hunts and low self confidence!) The characters were all well-crafted and in a way its a shame that the book couldn't have been a tad longer to give the reader greater insight into the personal quirks of each one. I feel that although sufficient time was given to describing Lee and Melissa's personalities, more could be given to Jonathan and Vincent.
As others have mentioned above, the plot is largely predictable and there aren't many dramatic twists - but then that clearly isn't what Ms Childs is trying to achieve with Behind the Scenes. It's a sweet story, an easy holiday read and I look forward to seeing what she does next!
I don't often read chick-lit but when Steph and Sophia asked me to read Behind the Scenes I was intrigued! As it turns out Behind the Scenes was really enjoyable and a great holiday read! One of the best things about chick-lit is its escapism, and this book does that really well.
The main character, Bethan, is easy to identify with and embodies difficulties that many young women face today (including tedious job hunts and low self confidence!) The characters were all well-crafted and in a way its a shame that the book couldn't have been a tad longer to give the reader greater insight into the personal quirks of each one. I feel that although sufficient time was given to describing Lee and Melissa's personalities, more could be given to Jonathan and Vincent.
As others have mentioned above, the plot is largely predictable and there aren't many dramatic twists - but then that clearly isn't what Ms Childs is trying to achieve with Behind the Scenes. It's a sweet story, an easy holiday read and I look forward to seeing what she does next!
April 13, 2015
4 STARS
This was a really fun chic lit, in the style of Sophie Kinsella. I could imagine Bethan, the heroine of BEHIND THE SCENES, getting on like a house on fire with Becky from SK's SHOPAHOLIC books!
The movie/'behind the scenes' element was something new and a brilliant bit of wish-fulfilment (I don't think I'd be able to take the pressure, but it doesn't stop me dreaming!), and the actor characters were well-written and believable. Sophie Childs is great at characterisation, and I swooned with Bethan at the love interest (no names as I don't want to spoil anything). My only complaint is the way Lee, Bethan's boyfriend, is written rather obviously as a nasty piece of work, and not given any redeeming feature except fantastic good looks. I could have believed in Bethan's ralationship/love with him a bit more if he had had some genuinely good traits as well as the bad.
But overall, this was good, juicy chic-lit fun, and I'm looking forward to what Sophie Childs comes up with next!
This was a really fun chic lit, in the style of Sophie Kinsella. I could imagine Bethan, the heroine of BEHIND THE SCENES, getting on like a house on fire with Becky from SK's SHOPAHOLIC books!
The movie/'behind the scenes' element was something new and a brilliant bit of wish-fulfilment (I don't think I'd be able to take the pressure, but it doesn't stop me dreaming!), and the actor characters were well-written and believable. Sophie Childs is great at characterisation, and I swooned with Bethan at the love interest (no names as I don't want to spoil anything). My only complaint is the way Lee, Bethan's boyfriend, is written rather obviously as a nasty piece of work, and not given any redeeming feature except fantastic good looks. I could have believed in Bethan's ralationship/love with him a bit more if he had had some genuinely good traits as well as the bad.
But overall, this was good, juicy chic-lit fun, and I'm looking forward to what Sophie Childs comes up with next!
April 15, 2016
Bethan’s boyfriend is Lee. She recently got a secretarial job with the boss from hell. But she has to stick it out for now. Lee has a band and promises it will hit it big soon. Bethany is a big film fan so escapes to see an occasional movie as she is supporting both her and Lee. On a commute to work Bethan sees her favorite actor and chats with him. Then he invites her to a day on the set.
I did not really click with this story. I didn’t like how Lee walks all over Bethan and she puts up with it. She hates her job but doesn’t look for another. Then to top it off she is supporting both herself and Lee. Her best friend goes out with men that are taken with a shallow excuse and that is just selfish and mean. I just didn’t find much I really liked.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
I did not really click with this story. I didn’t like how Lee walks all over Bethan and she puts up with it. She hates her job but doesn’t look for another. Then to top it off she is supporting both herself and Lee. Her best friend goes out with men that are taken with a shallow excuse and that is just selfish and mean. I just didn’t find much I really liked.
I received an ARC of this story for an honest review.
June 19, 2015
A Fun book!
This was a fun book to read by Sophie Childs. Bethan Brooks works at a job she hates with a boss from Hell so she can support her boyfriend. While out one day she meets her favorite celebrity Vincent Constantine, she can’t believe her luck. When Vincent invites her to the set one day she jumps at the chance. While on the set, she gets a job offer as Vincent’s assistant she can’t believe her luck. If you are looking for a fun book with likable characters and a story about chasing your dreams then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
This was a fun book to read by Sophie Childs. Bethan Brooks works at a job she hates with a boss from Hell so she can support her boyfriend. While out one day she meets her favorite celebrity Vincent Constantine, she can’t believe her luck. When Vincent invites her to the set one day she jumps at the chance. While on the set, she gets a job offer as Vincent’s assistant she can’t believe her luck. If you are looking for a fun book with likable characters and a story about chasing your dreams then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
January 23, 2016
Really enjoyed this story. The heroine, Bethan, gets an opportunity to pursue her dreams after an unexpected encounter with her favourite actor on the tube but, whilst her career has taken a positive turn, her relationship has taken a negative turn and there are more surprises in store. I couldn't help liking Bethan. She's a bit trusting and naive but believable with it. We've all done stupid things in the past like jumping to conclusions, being blind to the truth and putting things on Facebook that we probably shouldn't! A light-hearted and easy read, I look forward to reading more from Sophie Childs in the future
March 18, 2015
I've never been one to pick up a chick-lit, but after reading Behind the Scenes, my opinion on the genre has changed completely. I was drawn into the story from the first chapter and didn't put down the book until the very last word. Despite being fiction, the story felt incredibly realistic with the engaging characters and the accurate representations of specific areas in glamorous London. The beautifully written and modern story has more drama than a reality TV show, and the shocking turn of events leaves the readers feeling incredibly empathetic on this emotional roller-coaster ride.
May 10, 2015
I really liked this book a lot. I like that the whole focus wasn't just on finding a boyfriend. It dealt with a career and a future for Bethan as well. I hated her boyfriend, her best friend and Pete, her boss. I kind of ticked me off that Bethan was such a mat they all just walked all over. I was glad to see she finally got her act together and weeded desperately needed friend garden.
Thanks So Vain and Net Gallery for the opportunity to read and review this very entertaining book that I definitely recommend.
Thanks So Vain and Net Gallery for the opportunity to read and review this very entertaining book that I definitely recommend.
December 29, 2015
Overall cute, but predictable with one-dimensional characters. Bethan is naive and clueless. Her boyfriend is a jerk, her best friend a skank, her new boss a knight in shining armour, his wife a cow.
Each character is very easily summed up in a few words and doesn't show any characteristics other than those, so nothing complex about any of them.
The story itself was ok, cute at times, but fell flat due to the lack of complexity in the characters and being so predictable.
Each character is very easily summed up in a few words and doesn't show any characteristics other than those, so nothing complex about any of them.
The story itself was ok, cute at times, but fell flat due to the lack of complexity in the characters and being so predictable.
April 2, 2015
This is a really enjoyable novel. I liked Bethan from the outset and could really identify with her dissatisfaction with office life, having worked in one myself years ago. Unfortunately, I never had a life changing experience on the tube! This is a good fun read, with believable characters who you care about and I can’t wait for the next one from this author. Highly recommended.
Want to read
July 20, 2017Can't wait to receive it! Looking forward to reading it. Will update and post a honest review when I receive and am able to read it.
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