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Split Ends: Sometimes the End is Really the Beginning
She's armed--with hot irons, sharp shears, and a flair for color.
She's dangerous--truly bad news for bad hair.
And she's going to do whatever it takes to make a place for herself in the exclusive Beverly Hills salon.
Even if that means sweeping hair, emptying trash, scrubbing dummy heads, and making soy lattes for the stars that come to Yoshi's salon.
Even if it means hiding the fact that she's not really an up-and-comer from New York, but a drunk's daughter from small-town Wyoming.
Even if it means igoring her attraction to a tall, dark stranger in a fedora who just stepped off the elevator . . . and into her heart.
But can a talented hairdresser from the sticks really make it in image-obsessed L.A.? And can she ever find true love and real success in a town that wrote the book on fake?
She's dangerous--truly bad news for bad hair.
And she's going to do whatever it takes to make a place for herself in the exclusive Beverly Hills salon.
Even if that means sweeping hair, emptying trash, scrubbing dummy heads, and making soy lattes for the stars that come to Yoshi's salon.
Even if it means hiding the fact that she's not really an up-and-comer from New York, but a drunk's daughter from small-town Wyoming.
Even if it means igoring her attraction to a tall, dark stranger in a fedora who just stepped off the elevator . . . and into her heart.
But can a talented hairdresser from the sticks really make it in image-obsessed L.A.? And can she ever find true love and real success in a town that wrote the book on fake?
336 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2007
33 people are currently reading
671 people want to read
About the author
Kristin Billerbeck
63 books613 followersAbout Kristin
I grew up with a strong sense of justice. I simply knew the way things should be. And since I’m not smart enough to be a district attorney, I am a novelist. My childhood was slightly confusing. I blame my parents for this. Oh heck, I’m going to blame them for everything. I think I would have turned out normal if it weren’t for them.
the billerbeck's
Okay, probably not. I am a fourth-generation Californian, and an American mutt, but identify most strongly with my Italian heritage. My mother’s family, of strong Norwegian/German descent, tried to teach me how to do things right. How to cook, clean, sew, budget accordingly – all the things a proper young girl should know to be a contributing member of society. I, however, failed miserably. For my 40th birthday, my grandmother gave me a cookie gun, so it’s clear she hasn’t given up on me yet! That is eternal optimism!
My dad’s Italian family taught me about the good life. The indulgent life. How to eat, shop and be merry. My Nana had very tiny feet and a penchant for shoes (she worked at the Emporium, no doubt to fund her shoe addiction). My afternoons at her house had no lessons, other than how to walk in her high heels, drape myself in her mink stole and drip myself with rhinestones. Tastefully, of course. I picked up on this lifestyle much quicker.
I graduated San Jose State University with a degree in Journalism & Mass Communications (emphasis in Advertising), gave my life to Jesus during college and found my true love in a Christian Singles’ Group, which yes, I skewer in “What a Girl Wants”. He is German. Practical. And a Contributing Member of Society. I am still Italian, fluffy and an aficionado of fine shoes & handbags.
Together, we have four children and now it’s our turn to confuse them. The circle of life. Dysfunctional family style.
I grew up with a strong sense of justice. I simply knew the way things should be. And since I’m not smart enough to be a district attorney, I am a novelist. My childhood was slightly confusing. I blame my parents for this. Oh heck, I’m going to blame them for everything. I think I would have turned out normal if it weren’t for them.
the billerbeck's
Okay, probably not. I am a fourth-generation Californian, and an American mutt, but identify most strongly with my Italian heritage. My mother’s family, of strong Norwegian/German descent, tried to teach me how to do things right. How to cook, clean, sew, budget accordingly – all the things a proper young girl should know to be a contributing member of society. I, however, failed miserably. For my 40th birthday, my grandmother gave me a cookie gun, so it’s clear she hasn’t given up on me yet! That is eternal optimism!
My dad’s Italian family taught me about the good life. The indulgent life. How to eat, shop and be merry. My Nana had very tiny feet and a penchant for shoes (she worked at the Emporium, no doubt to fund her shoe addiction). My afternoons at her house had no lessons, other than how to walk in her high heels, drape myself in her mink stole and drip myself with rhinestones. Tastefully, of course. I picked up on this lifestyle much quicker.
I graduated San Jose State University with a degree in Journalism & Mass Communications (emphasis in Advertising), gave my life to Jesus during college and found my true love in a Christian Singles’ Group, which yes, I skewer in “What a Girl Wants”. He is German. Practical. And a Contributing Member of Society. I am still Italian, fluffy and an aficionado of fine shoes & handbags.
Together, we have four children and now it’s our turn to confuse them. The circle of life. Dysfunctional family style.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
February 14, 2013
Um, this book was amazing. Seriously. It's my favorite book...yes, I know I have at least three *cough, cough, ten*. This book made me read others by Kristen but none of them has surpassed Split Ends. I love the quotes before each chapter, Dane-I really love Dane-, and Sarah-Claire should be real so I can be her best friend.
March 26, 2012
Ugh. The best part of this book was that each chapter had a quote from a Hollywood legend: Sofia Loren, Cary Grant, Ingrid Bergman, etc.
I wasn't loving the book at first, but decided to continue on. Not sure that was the best course of action. In addition to having a main character that seemed to be a contradiction in terms, to put it nicely, no character in this book was anyone I would want to spend time with. Plus, and this is a bad one, the editing off the book was poor. Most of the errors were simple editing mistakes, but there was one construction error that had me shaking my head in confusion.
If the one star and this review don't get the point across, don't wast time reading this book.
I wasn't loving the book at first, but decided to continue on. Not sure that was the best course of action. In addition to having a main character that seemed to be a contradiction in terms, to put it nicely, no character in this book was anyone I would want to spend time with. Plus, and this is a bad one, the editing off the book was poor. Most of the errors were simple editing mistakes, but there was one construction error that had me shaking my head in confusion.
If the one star and this review don't get the point across, don't wast time reading this book.
December 17, 2008
I had read a book by Ms Billerbeck before and had been seriously underwhelmed. I decided to give her a second chance and I'm glad I did. Split Ends is cute and romantic and just what I was in the mood for.
November 29, 2020
Definitely my favorite of this author that I have read. It is her funniest one and the character is not annoying like Ashley Stockingdale (I'm sorry but could she be whinier?). Read this one first which is why I read the A.S. series.
July 16, 2012
I cracked up off and on through this whole book. Not an unusual experience for me with Kristin's work. Such a sweet story, with those humorous moments that had me laughing so hard I got cramps in my side. And SO relieved to know I'm not the only who noticed the "plastic". LOL
September 12, 2014
Woman leaves WY to become a hairstylist to the stars in LA. She's a bit whiny for my taste.
March 16, 2009
This picked up speed as it went along, and then it was pretty entertaining. I'd give it a 3.5 if I knew how!
June 21, 2013
I just finished this book, and it reminded me that I really need to reread the first Kristin Billerbeck title I read last year...A Billion Reasons Why. I know I liked it then, but I think I would love to take another look. Another taste. That's what books are to me!
Anyway, back to Split Ends...when I received it, I thought I would probably coast through it and then pass it on to someone else. But I find myself savoring it, knowing I will want to enjoy it again sometime down the road, so I am giving it a permanent spot on my shelf. I guess I'm saying that I didn't really expect to like it, but I really did!
The first-person point-of-view gets me every time, even when it's not written as skillfully and realistically as Kristin writes it. I just love getting into the mind of a fun, interesting and REAL character like Sarah Claire. She is so vulnerable, so flawed, yet so gutsy and willing to take a chance! She has truly been through a lot, and it's really nice to see someone's dreams materialize when said someone is willing to work hard, exhibit self-control, and step out on faith to give God the reins of her life.
Another thing I loved right off was the prologue, which is repeated late in the book. It has a surprising twist! I am so tempted to make this a spoiler, but I will refrain. You'll know what I'm talking about when you read it for yourself.
And I've got to mention our hero in the story...oh yes! Even more wonderful than his description and his character is the way the Sarah Claire falls in love with him at first sight and how she cannot get over him even though she tries! I love the way that they are irresistible to each other.
Also enjoyed all the references to old Hollywood, old music, old stars, old antiques...etc. All in all, a very enjoyable book, and I am off to look for more Kristin Billerbeck. Who knew she wrote so many?
Anyway, back to Split Ends...when I received it, I thought I would probably coast through it and then pass it on to someone else. But I find myself savoring it, knowing I will want to enjoy it again sometime down the road, so I am giving it a permanent spot on my shelf. I guess I'm saying that I didn't really expect to like it, but I really did!
The first-person point-of-view gets me every time, even when it's not written as skillfully and realistically as Kristin writes it. I just love getting into the mind of a fun, interesting and REAL character like Sarah Claire. She is so vulnerable, so flawed, yet so gutsy and willing to take a chance! She has truly been through a lot, and it's really nice to see someone's dreams materialize when said someone is willing to work hard, exhibit self-control, and step out on faith to give God the reins of her life.
Another thing I loved right off was the prologue, which is repeated late in the book. It has a surprising twist! I am so tempted to make this a spoiler, but I will refrain. You'll know what I'm talking about when you read it for yourself.
And I've got to mention our hero in the story...oh yes! Even more wonderful than his description and his character is the way the Sarah Claire falls in love with him at first sight and how she cannot get over him even though she tries! I love the way that they are irresistible to each other.
Also enjoyed all the references to old Hollywood, old music, old stars, old antiques...etc. All in all, a very enjoyable book, and I am off to look for more Kristin Billerbeck. Who knew she wrote so many?
January 18, 2026
Jan 17, 2026 - 3 Stars
I thought I was pulling out a familiar comfort book as I've been striking out. Alas....
Okay, last I read this I had the updated version. For some reason this book was very nostalgic for me (I guess I can see how 2010 me when I first read it would have really connected with this), so I still gave it 4 stars though I remember being on the fence about keeping my copy.
This time I was able to have the original read to me, and... it has some cringe. I don't remember that last time, so I'm wondering if the comments in question were updated, or if I just didn't note that in my review. I also hadn't done a lot of romances at that point, so maybe this seemed good, but now I know there's better by comparison? I don't know. In any event, I'm ready to let my copy go and say, there's better clean authors out there.
June 7, 2022 - 4 stars
Content: minor Content (Christian based, so mostly talking about the temptation)
A bit sappy at times, but overall a good romance. I think it's worth your time.
Side note: I think the version I listened to this go might have been updated, because when they made a reference to the voice, I realized it couldn't have been in the version I read originally all these years ago. Generally flipped through the chapter and could find it. So I think the pop culture references have been updated or something. I don't know if anything else has changed.
July 17, 2010 - 4 stars
I gave it a four because it's been a while since I've read it.. and I can't remember how much I liked it... I do know I liked it though.
I thought I was pulling out a familiar comfort book as I've been striking out. Alas....
Okay, last I read this I had the updated version. For some reason this book was very nostalgic for me (I guess I can see how 2010 me when I first read it would have really connected with this), so I still gave it 4 stars though I remember being on the fence about keeping my copy.
This time I was able to have the original read to me, and... it has some cringe. I don't remember that last time, so I'm wondering if the comments in question were updated, or if I just didn't note that in my review. I also hadn't done a lot of romances at that point, so maybe this seemed good, but now I know there's better by comparison? I don't know. In any event, I'm ready to let my copy go and say, there's better clean authors out there.
June 7, 2022 - 4 stars
Content: minor Content (Christian based, so mostly talking about the temptation)
A bit sappy at times, but overall a good romance. I think it's worth your time.
Side note: I think the version I listened to this go might have been updated, because when they made a reference to the voice, I realized it couldn't have been in the version I read originally all these years ago. Generally flipped through the chapter and could find it. So I think the pop culture references have been updated or something. I don't know if anything else has changed.
July 17, 2010 - 4 stars
I gave it a four because it's been a while since I've read it.. and I can't remember how much I liked it... I do know I liked it though.
July 24, 2019
Sarah Claire is an up-and-coming hairstylist from Wyoming. That is until she moves to LA and is relegated to chief hair sweeper and coffee maker. Sarah Claire is determined to make a name for herself in this market and break the Winowski curse when it comes to love. She has talent. She has grit. But will her past keep her from success in the future
Better than the last Billerbeck book that I read. But I was still disappointed. I loved her Ashley Stockingdale series and recommended them to many people. However, I haven’t loved a lot since. This one had several dropped or randomly arranged story lines. Also (and I know this isn’t the author’s fault), there were many typos, misspellings, etc. And being the grammar-freak I am, that always takes away from the overall pleasure for me. I did like the main plot and the old movie references. Since this is our book club pick for February, I’m interested in seeing what everyone else has to say about it.
Better than the last Billerbeck book that I read. But I was still disappointed. I loved her Ashley Stockingdale series and recommended them to many people. However, I haven’t loved a lot since. This one had several dropped or randomly arranged story lines. Also (and I know this isn’t the author’s fault), there were many typos, misspellings, etc. And being the grammar-freak I am, that always takes away from the overall pleasure for me. I did like the main plot and the old movie references. Since this is our book club pick for February, I’m interested in seeing what everyone else has to say about it.
July 20, 2016
I liked this book at times because some things the main character said were pretty funny but overall it wasn't my favorite read. I found a lot of the characters annoying and not relatable due to the fact that they were extreme stereotypes of the kinds of people you MIGHT meet when living in LA. I hated her best friend the most I found her to be rude, annoying, and mean to the main character and the main character just batted it off as if oh that's just how she is. So that really annoyed me too. I found it annoying the main character contradicted herself most of the time. Also the plot just fell flat for me. There was nothing to keep me interested enough where I wanted to finish the book. So overall it was not the worst read but it was definitely not my favorite read.
September 7, 2008
I liked the prologue; short with a hint of what's to come but not necessarily how you expect it, and you recognize read it again near the end in context.
Interesting story about a girl trying to make it in the hair business after moving away from her small hometown and her alcoholic mother.
I liked this story more than three stars, but not necessarily as much as a full four. Since I have to choose and it was quite good, it gets four. Can't quite put my finger on why other than I want to say it was watery?
Interesting story about a girl trying to make it in the hair business after moving away from her small hometown and her alcoholic mother.
I liked this story more than three stars, but not necessarily as much as a full four. Since I have to choose and it was quite good, it gets four. Can't quite put my finger on why other than I want to say it was watery?
April 22, 2009
It's kind of a trite little Christian romance novel set in Hollywood. I think I'm a little too old for this book, but really wanted something lighter after my last read. It had some humorous characters and situations, and also some sadness. Lots of cliches, but surprisingly no gay hairdressers. (Or not, after all it is a Christian book. I was so waiting for that shoe to fall.)
It kind of went out there with a few things, but it did have that pull to get me to the end to see what was going to happen.
It kind of went out there with a few things, but it did have that pull to get me to the end to see what was going to happen.
July 12, 2011
I liked the plot line in this book. Who can resist the girl from the wrong side of the tracks having her dreams come true. That being said there were a few time that I felt the emotional responses of the characters were lacking. Sarah Claire's mother comes to L.A., gets in trouble at the airport, crashes a mentor meeting that Sarah is at, and is hauled away by the police, and Sarah goes home and cuts her roommates hair?! I felt that this particular part of the book could have been more realistic. I did like the book however, it is a good book to sit down and read in a day or two.
September 21, 2007
It was a good book. My complaint is that near the end after the climatic portion, it seemd as if the author was strapped down to finish the book and really skimmed over some very important scenes. It did end on a good note as the last couple pages were up to par with the rest of the book. A good read. I also enjoyed the quotes at the beginning of every chapter and how it had an old hollywood and hairstylist theme. I probably would not read it again though.
June 16, 2008
A friend of mine lend me this one. After "The Trophy Wives Club", I think I'll just give it another chance. After all, the author IS known as best-selling author. And I admire her (come one, it's not easy to write a novel!!)
But the result is the same. Nope, didn't like it. Same feeling I got. The character, the plot, everything is too shallow.
I guess Kristin Billerbeck's is just not for me. =P
But the result is the same. Nope, didn't like it. Same feeling I got. The character, the plot, everything is too shallow.
I guess Kristin Billerbeck's is just not for me. =P
June 25, 2008
I am definitely in summer reading mode, and this book was a fun one. Billerbeck is a Christian writer who doesn't beat you over the head with her religion. Her characters are very much a part of the current world. I think this is her best. I loved the Spa Girls series, but I don't remember much about them a month or so later. This one is more memorable. These will never be classics, but a great light read! My High School girls would love her.
November 22, 2008
Split Ends is a fun-filled trip to Beverly Hills through the eyes of Sarah Claire, an extremely likeable character with a terrific sense of humor. As someone who thought she didn't like chick lit, I found myself pleasantly surprised. I will never be able to say again that I don't enjoy this genre – Kristin Billerbeck has changed my mind. I highly recommend this humorous and inspiring story!
(Full review here: http://www.bookloons.com/cgi-bin/Revi...)
(Full review here: http://www.bookloons.com/cgi-bin/Revi...)
February 2, 2008
Not as good as other Billerbeck books I've read. I am so glad I live where inner beauty is cultivated, and I never feel that more than when I read a book where people have to have the latest hair style and color, designer clothes, and plastic skin. Eeks!
This was fun, but also contained some "mild" words, especially at the beginning, which are not considered appropriate at my house.
This was fun, but also contained some "mild" words, especially at the beginning, which are not considered appropriate at my house.
June 20, 2008
This book was really just ok. I was tempted to give it 2 stars, actually...but think that's a touch harsh.
Biggest complaint is that it felt like too much and not enough all at the same time. Bizarre.
A quick read, though...so not totally a waste of time. I did laugh a few times out loud, and know i cracked a smile a few times on the train as I was reading it.
Biggest complaint is that it felt like too much and not enough all at the same time. Bizarre.
A quick read, though...so not totally a waste of time. I did laugh a few times out loud, and know i cracked a smile a few times on the train as I was reading it.
September 27, 2010
Love this author... her books are fun, light hearted Christian fiction... all the chick-lit rage and they never fail to deliver.
Main character Sarah Clarie leaves Wyoming for LA to become a star hair stylist. Lots of drama from her past follows her and of course there may be love on the horizon. I found myself laughing out load as I read through the story.
I'd recommend it...
Main character Sarah Clarie leaves Wyoming for LA to become a star hair stylist. Lots of drama from her past follows her and of course there may be love on the horizon. I found myself laughing out load as I read through the story.
I'd recommend it...
February 23, 2014
Love this book. It's a quick read and fun. The author has a talent for moving plot forward, likable characters, and good dialogue. In some ways it's mildly unrealistic, but no more so than any chick flick. I enjoy the movie references and the subtle Christian perspective, as well as the encouraging truths Sarah learns. Overall, I recommend as great Christian chick lit and will likely read again.
May 4, 2009
This was a rare find, I think. It was a cute read, and even though it was a Christian fiction book, I still liked it. Not that Christian fiction books are bad, they are just usually too cheesy romantic or too preachy for me. And this one was neither. It was very cute and worth reading!
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June 29, 2009Picked this up at Walmart for a good price ( under 5 bucks ) i'm zippin through it as it is pretty good so far. Haven't done much readin lately so i was surprised that i found myself WANTING to read this one and see what happen's.
July 17, 2008
Funny, some good lines. Sarah moves from Wyoming to Hollywood, to make her mark on the beauty world. She meets some interesting characters, gets a job at a high-power salon, and meets the man of her dreams. But there is a hitch...there's always a hitch!
May 12, 2011
This would be something I would classify as a beach read. Its easy to read, doesn't take a lot of effort. It is definitely chik-lit, with a big emphasis on hair. It's worth looking into for a sunny day outside.
March 24, 2012
The main character was super annoying for most of the book. She acted VERY strange towards the main guy in the book, with her whole "Hollywood moments" and stealing his fedora. I normally like Kristin Billerbeck (Trophy Wives Club was great!), but this book didn't do it for me.
June 23, 2015
Definitely not the best Christian romance I've read. A decent story ruined by unlikable characters and suggestive dialogue; seriously, did there have to be that many references to "boobs"? Discerning readers can do much better than this.
July 6, 2015
My mom passed this on to me. Warning #1. The cover inside read thanks to Christian Fiction Writers. Warning #2. Hunky romantic love interest vows chastity, as does every man she meets in LA. Warning #3 noted and heeded. Gave this book away with 0 regrets.
July 23, 2015
I definitely enjoyed this author's other books more. I realize it's chick lit, but it's supposed to be Christian chick lit, and many of the characters were just too shallow. There were also a lot of typos, which doesn't enhance my opinion of this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews