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Princess for Hire #1
Princezna k pronajmutí
Když čtrnáctiletou Desi Bascombovou objeví elitní agentura Façade – poskytující dvojníky členům královských rodin – její fádní život se v mžiku stane naprosto senzačním. Jak vysvětluje agentka Meredith, Desi má vzácné magické schopnosti: když si nanese na tváře starověkou egyptskou „královskou růž“, dočasně se promění v dokonalou dvojnici kterékoli princezny, jež potřebuje využít jejích služeb. Sen se stane skutečností, nebo snad ne?
Jak se to vezme. Desi brzy zjistí, že zaskakovat za princezny vyžaduje mnohem víc než nosit korunku a mávat do kamer. Schválně, co byste dělali vy, kdyby vás šikanovala starší sestra, vyčítala vám kila navíc a nutila vás držet drastickou dietu? Nebo kdybyste měli před celým amazonským domorodým kmenem předvést rituální tanec, o němž nemáte ani páru? Anebo kdyby se zničehonic objevil princeznin přítel, aby jí taktně naznačil, že mezi nimi je konec, a vy byste přitom věděli, že ona si přeje pravý opak?
V prvním díle téhle bláznivé trilogie se sen jedné dívky o přepychovém životě promění v něco většího: v přání pozitivně ovlivňovat chod věcí. A Desiin vliv skutečně nelze přehlédnout – je to jedno královské fiasko za druhým.
Jak se to vezme. Desi brzy zjistí, že zaskakovat za princezny vyžaduje mnohem víc než nosit korunku a mávat do kamer. Schválně, co byste dělali vy, kdyby vás šikanovala starší sestra, vyčítala vám kila navíc a nutila vás držet drastickou dietu? Nebo kdybyste měli před celým amazonským domorodým kmenem předvést rituální tanec, o němž nemáte ani páru? Anebo kdyby se zničehonic objevil princeznin přítel, aby jí taktně naznačil, že mezi nimi je konec, a vy byste přitom věděli, že ona si přeje pravý opak?
V prvním díle téhle bláznivé trilogie se sen jedné dívky o přepychovém životě promění v něco většího: v přání pozitivně ovlivňovat chod věcí. A Desiin vliv skutečně nelze přehlédnout – je to jedno královské fiasko za druhým.
208 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2010
59 people are currently reading
7536 people want to read
About the author
Lindsey Leavitt
21 books834 followersLindsey Leavitt is a Leo sun/Sagittarius rising, which makes her skilled at traveling, studying and sleeping in. She grew up in Las Vegas and now lives in the snowy mountains with her big, blended family. She is the author of over fifteen books for kids and teens. Lindsey had an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts. Visit her online at https://lindseyleavitt.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 537 reviews
May 5, 2011
At First Sight: Desi is 14 and stuck having the worst job ever - working for Pets Charming is a never ending string of undignified tasks such as being Gladys the Groundhog, scooping manure at a parade or taking a turn sitting on a dunk tank - and the rest of her life is not much better. Her Dad is all about 'work ethic' and won't let her quit her job, her Mom is a former beauty queen who now runs a Charm School - which Desi flunked -and dotes on Desi's baby sister.
So, when after a particularly bad day, Desi is reading the wanted adds on the paper, hopeful to find a new job, she sees a strange add urging her to call for Meredith if she thinks she has what it takes to be a Princess For Hire.
Figuring it's worth a shot, Desi calls for Meredith and gets sucked into the world of substitute princesses. See, for centuries and centuries, Meredith's agency has devoted itself to use magic to 'substitute' royalty while the real royals run about and have their little escapades. And Desi is their newest talent.
Standing in for a royal sounds glamorous, right? but Desi is about to find out that nothing is ever what it seems.
Second Glance: I got Princess for Hire close to a year ago - I won it from Free Book Friday Teens!, first time EVER that I had won anything - but my cousin sort of had it in her possession for a long time so I only got to read it now.
I quite adored this book, it was cute and sweet and full of magic. I really liked Desi and her struggles both as a sub and in life in general - her crush is dating her nemesis and she feels invisible more often than not - and how she goes about coping with what life throws at her. There is a core to her feelings that I found quite real, and I actually liked a lot of the characters in the book - specially two of the princesses Desi subs for.
I had some problems with Meredith in the beginning, but Smalls@Small Review told me to stick to her and I have to admit that, in the end, Meredith did come through, and I hope they explore more of her story in the next books.
Now, much as I liked this book -and I did like it from the start - it took me about two weeks to finish it, not because there was anything wrong with it but because at the beginning it was very easy to put down. I enjoyed it a lot while I was reading but it was very episodic and easy to put down once each adventure ended, but once I sat down to finish it, I read about two thirds of the novel in just two hours.
Bottom Line: I do love Desi and her world, I loved Princess for Hire and I can't wait to read the next book The Royal Treatment (which comes out on May 3rd). This book very much reads like a sweet, Disney movie and it's a nice, sweet treat.
Favorite Quote: "Exhausted, I found some pajamas and crawled into bed, thinking about how in every fairy tale, the heroine's problems melt away when she becomes a princess - everyone sees how special she is and loves her. None of the stories was about a chubby, lonely princess who played the French horn into a tape recorder in her duck-filled bedroom. Or about the chubby princess's substitute, for that matter.
Maybe that's what made them fairy tales.
Real life is never how you dreamed it."
So, when after a particularly bad day, Desi is reading the wanted adds on the paper, hopeful to find a new job, she sees a strange add urging her to call for Meredith if she thinks she has what it takes to be a Princess For Hire.
Figuring it's worth a shot, Desi calls for Meredith and gets sucked into the world of substitute princesses. See, for centuries and centuries, Meredith's agency has devoted itself to use magic to 'substitute' royalty while the real royals run about and have their little escapades. And Desi is their newest talent.
Standing in for a royal sounds glamorous, right? but Desi is about to find out that nothing is ever what it seems.
Second Glance: I got Princess for Hire close to a year ago - I won it from Free Book Friday Teens!, first time EVER that I had won anything - but my cousin sort of had it in her possession for a long time so I only got to read it now.
I quite adored this book, it was cute and sweet and full of magic. I really liked Desi and her struggles both as a sub and in life in general - her crush is dating her nemesis and she feels invisible more often than not - and how she goes about coping with what life throws at her. There is a core to her feelings that I found quite real, and I actually liked a lot of the characters in the book - specially two of the princesses Desi subs for.
I had some problems with Meredith in the beginning, but Smalls@Small Review told me to stick to her and I have to admit that, in the end, Meredith did come through, and I hope they explore more of her story in the next books.
Now, much as I liked this book -and I did like it from the start - it took me about two weeks to finish it, not because there was anything wrong with it but because at the beginning it was very easy to put down. I enjoyed it a lot while I was reading but it was very episodic and easy to put down once each adventure ended, but once I sat down to finish it, I read about two thirds of the novel in just two hours.
Bottom Line: I do love Desi and her world, I loved Princess for Hire and I can't wait to read the next book The Royal Treatment (which comes out on May 3rd). This book very much reads like a sweet, Disney movie and it's a nice, sweet treat.
Favorite Quote: "Exhausted, I found some pajamas and crawled into bed, thinking about how in every fairy tale, the heroine's problems melt away when she becomes a princess - everyone sees how special she is and loves her. None of the stories was about a chubby, lonely princess who played the French horn into a tape recorder in her duck-filled bedroom. Or about the chubby princess's substitute, for that matter.
Maybe that's what made them fairy tales.
Real life is never how you dreamed it."
February 26, 2016
Basic Info
Format: Hardback
Pages/Length: 240pgs
Genre: Young Adult
At A Glance
Love Triangle/Insta Love/Obsession?: Slight obsession.
Cliff Hanger: Eh.
Triggers: n/a
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Score Sheet
All out of ten
Cover: 8
Plot: 8
Characters: 8
World Building: 7
Flow: 8
Series Congruity: n/a
Writing: 7
Ending: 7
Total: 7
In Dept
Best Part: Good plot!
Worst Part: Too rushed.
Thoughts Had: oh snap!; What a b.; Go you!!
Conclusion
Continuing the Series: yah
Recommending: yah
Short Review: This was a cute, quick read. I was confused on the last princess thou, we received "bios" on the first two princesses she subs for but not the third, which confused me because she was living poorly but hung out with a Prince and was considered a princess. The trial at the end was too rushed for me. The MC was a bit too bossy for my liking and too "eager" to help. I am eager to see which princesses she gets next!
Misc.
Book Boyfriend: None.
Best Friend Material: Shimmy!
Review in GIF Form:
November 11, 2013
Sometimes when you read a book, you feel like you're watching every scene as it unfolds. You know the feeling when details jump out at you and you can see and hear the characters so very clearly? Well, I certainly experienced just that when I read Princess for Hire.
I was so moved by Desi, a girl who wants to be accepted as her tee-shirt-creating, classic-movie-watching self but is relegated to working an after school job dressed up as a groundhog for a local mall's pet shop. It's the kind of job where you're bound to stumble into your crush and his girlfriend who just happens to be your former best friend. But it's this very job at Pets Charming that leads to a change in Desi's life. Sometimes when you make a wish on some very special fish, well, it can lead to an entirely different life. Can't it?
In this case, it does. Desi is transported out of her everyday, humdrum life and through the help of Meredith Pouffinski, Princess Agent Extraordinaire, Desi becomes a Princess Sub. You see princesses live exciting lives but sometimes they need a break. So who can step in for them? Why a Sub, of course.
You can imagine that this leads to some very funny and unexpected situations. I loved every one of them. I also loved the idea that princesses needed a break. It reminded me of one of my favorite movies, "Roman Holiday". You know the one where Audrey Hepburn plays a princess who needs a holiday? Well, it'll come as no surprise that it's one of Desi's favorite movies, too.
Lindsey has a delightful way of presenting the whimsical magic system, a plot line that pulls you in and a completely relatable main character. So if you feel like you always wanted to try your hand at being a princess, be sure to read Princess for Hire, it'll open up that What If moment for you. I know it did just that for me. And much to my relief there is a sequel in the works which will be released in May 2011. I need to know what happens between Desi and a certain boy.
I also want to mention that this is a perfect book for a mom and a tween daughter to share. My 7.5 year old has been glancing at the cover and it's just the kind of book that we would read outloud together.
I was so moved by Desi, a girl who wants to be accepted as her tee-shirt-creating, classic-movie-watching self but is relegated to working an after school job dressed up as a groundhog for a local mall's pet shop. It's the kind of job where you're bound to stumble into your crush and his girlfriend who just happens to be your former best friend. But it's this very job at Pets Charming that leads to a change in Desi's life. Sometimes when you make a wish on some very special fish, well, it can lead to an entirely different life. Can't it?
In this case, it does. Desi is transported out of her everyday, humdrum life and through the help of Meredith Pouffinski, Princess Agent Extraordinaire, Desi becomes a Princess Sub. You see princesses live exciting lives but sometimes they need a break. So who can step in for them? Why a Sub, of course.
You can imagine that this leads to some very funny and unexpected situations. I loved every one of them. I also loved the idea that princesses needed a break. It reminded me of one of my favorite movies, "Roman Holiday". You know the one where Audrey Hepburn plays a princess who needs a holiday? Well, it'll come as no surprise that it's one of Desi's favorite movies, too.
Lindsey has a delightful way of presenting the whimsical magic system, a plot line that pulls you in and a completely relatable main character. So if you feel like you always wanted to try your hand at being a princess, be sure to read Princess for Hire, it'll open up that What If moment for you. I know it did just that for me. And much to my relief there is a sequel in the works which will be released in May 2011. I need to know what happens between Desi and a certain boy.
I also want to mention that this is a perfect book for a mom and a tween daughter to share. My 7.5 year old has been glancing at the cover and it's just the kind of book that we would read outloud together.
March 21, 2010
Princess for Hire is a fun,whimsical read that many will find Irresistible.I loved Desi she was relatable,funny and, easy to like.during this whole book I never felt like I wanted stop reading because it was too boring or dull it always kept me entertained which is very rare.In this book Desi takes the place/substitute for princesses who want to take a break and get away.Desi finds her self in some weird situations but somehow ends up making things better because she does what she believes is right. The plot moved quickly in this book which was really good because I hate (dislike) books that have plots that seem to drag on forever.The end of this book made me so happy but yet so sad at the same time because Desi finally realizes who is the right guy for her but it might be near impossible for them to be together.
Overall: Princess for Hire is a magical book by debut author Lindsey Levitt That brings out your inner princess.
Overall: Princess for Hire is a magical book by debut author Lindsey Levitt That brings out your inner princess.
January 25, 2013
This book was quite simply "adorbs." I loved Desi and her ironic t-shirts, I loved the princesses that she was subbing for. Such a clever and fun idea!
November 14, 2019
One of my childhood favourites. Cute, simple and magical. A little cliche, but it’s an easy read.
January 13, 2011
People say not to judge a book by its cover, but I do. I know, that’s a bad thing to do but I can’t help it. I actually love Princess to Hire’s cover (even though my friends wouldn’t believe me). It’s really pretty. And it fits the story.
Desi is a believable character. She got into a disagreement with her old best friend and now they’re enemies. Oh yeah, and she makes her own shirts. That’s actually pretty interesting. Her personality strengthens throughout the book as she begins to take the place of princesses. She develops at a rate that makes her a realistic character and her personality makes her likeable Although she probably wouldn’t be my best friend, I would definitely be school friends with her! The plot of this story is very original. I’ve heard of agencies where they help the princess go into hiding and stuff, but never actually heard ofsomeone who takes her place! You would think it’s all fairytales and happy endings, but it’s not. The princesses that Desi takes the place for have far from the perfect lives’ everyone imagines. And every time she completed a mission, I wanted to know what would happen next in the princess’s life. Desi’s life isn’t easy, but she sees that royal life isn’t as amazing as it’s cracked up to be.
The message of this book is to make an impact. It doesn’t mean to stop global warming; it means that the little choices in life can really change things. Desi wants to change things for the princesses even though she’s told not to. Impact. I think it’s a wonderful message because each of us can make an impact. And this book certainly had an impact on me!
This book is for people who like prince and princesses. It’s also for people who want to be royalty. But I recommend this boon to everyone who wants a great read with a great message!
Desi is a believable character. She got into a disagreement with her old best friend and now they’re enemies. Oh yeah, and she makes her own shirts. That’s actually pretty interesting. Her personality strengthens throughout the book as she begins to take the place of princesses. She develops at a rate that makes her a realistic character and her personality makes her likeable Although she probably wouldn’t be my best friend, I would definitely be school friends with her! The plot of this story is very original. I’ve heard of agencies where they help the princess go into hiding and stuff, but never actually heard ofsomeone who takes her place! You would think it’s all fairytales and happy endings, but it’s not. The princesses that Desi takes the place for have far from the perfect lives’ everyone imagines. And every time she completed a mission, I wanted to know what would happen next in the princess’s life. Desi’s life isn’t easy, but she sees that royal life isn’t as amazing as it’s cracked up to be.
The message of this book is to make an impact. It doesn’t mean to stop global warming; it means that the little choices in life can really change things. Desi wants to change things for the princesses even though she’s told not to. Impact. I think it’s a wonderful message because each of us can make an impact. And this book certainly had an impact on me!
This book is for people who like prince and princesses. It’s also for people who want to be royalty. But I recommend this boon to everyone who wants a great read with a great message!
February 25, 2011
Honestly, I wouldn't have picked up this book were it not for the author. I knew Leavitt's writing style would be authentic and entertaining at the least, soulful and original at its best. While Princess for Hire may not really be a "soulful" kind of story, it sure captured everything else on the spectrum!
I wasn't sure how I felt about Desi at first--which is pretty true-to-life. What 15-year-old are you sure about at first? They're not even sure about themselves! But she quickly drew me in and I found myself staying up late, devouring the book to see how all her adventures play out.
If the rest of the trilogy is as engaging, witty, clever and plain ol' FUN as this book, princesses (and their subs) have just found a new fan.
Here's a summary from Amazon: Fifteen-year-old Desi feels she is wasting her life in Idaho, between her job at the pet store, where she has to wear a groundhog costume, and her bitter ex-friend Celeste, whose father was sent to jail by Desi’s attorney dad. So when Desi is offered an enchanted position as a “sub” for real princesses, why would she say no? With a desire to help these girls—whether it’s an older sister’s crash diet or a rite-of-passage ceremony—Desi gets in some hot water and in the process discovers some important truths about her own life. With creativity and a sense of humor, this first novel is a delightful romp. The provision of magic makes all things possible, and the sense of place is vividly realized. Fans of The Princess Diaries (2000) and Ella Enchanted (1997) will be pulled in by Desi and her refusal to accept the status quo. Fortunately for them, Leavitt’s first novel is not her last—she is working on a sequel. Grades 5-8. --Melissa Moore
I wasn't sure how I felt about Desi at first--which is pretty true-to-life. What 15-year-old are you sure about at first? They're not even sure about themselves! But she quickly drew me in and I found myself staying up late, devouring the book to see how all her adventures play out.
If the rest of the trilogy is as engaging, witty, clever and plain ol' FUN as this book, princesses (and their subs) have just found a new fan.
Here's a summary from Amazon: Fifteen-year-old Desi feels she is wasting her life in Idaho, between her job at the pet store, where she has to wear a groundhog costume, and her bitter ex-friend Celeste, whose father was sent to jail by Desi’s attorney dad. So when Desi is offered an enchanted position as a “sub” for real princesses, why would she say no? With a desire to help these girls—whether it’s an older sister’s crash diet or a rite-of-passage ceremony—Desi gets in some hot water and in the process discovers some important truths about her own life. With creativity and a sense of humor, this first novel is a delightful romp. The provision of magic makes all things possible, and the sense of place is vividly realized. Fans of The Princess Diaries (2000) and Ella Enchanted (1997) will be pulled in by Desi and her refusal to accept the status quo. Fortunately for them, Leavitt’s first novel is not her last—she is working on a sequel. Grades 5-8. --Melissa Moore
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January 26, 2014This book was a quick read, and basically a Disney movie in written form (notice the publisher includes Disney on the spine). It was a good book to read in between other books for sure.
The main character is hired to fill in for royalty, so we find her in many odd situations. The best part about this job to me was how the author described the bubble she traveled in (I'd like to try that once).
The plot never got too thick - the character didn't have to deal with any deep problems or anything like that - though, like I said, very Disney all around.
I'm actually pretty interested to read the next book in the series, because many of the characters had personality traits that could be built on. Great book if you enjoy princess or fantasy themes.
The main character is hired to fill in for royalty, so we find her in many odd situations. The best part about this job to me was how the author described the bubble she traveled in (I'd like to try that once).
The plot never got too thick - the character didn't have to deal with any deep problems or anything like that - though, like I said, very Disney all around.
I'm actually pretty interested to read the next book in the series, because many of the characters had personality traits that could be built on. Great book if you enjoy princess or fantasy themes.
July 18, 2010
My sister left this book downstairs. I made fun of her because it's so PINK. She got ticked and bet me that if I read the book, I'd like it. I took her up on it. I lost the bet. This book was intelligent (yes, I know it's a tween book, but there it is) and laugh out loud funny, especially the Las Vegas scene. So I admit it. I'm a guy and I liked a pink book. So sue me. Just let me read the sequel when it comes out.
September 26, 2025
This was …um… interesting.
July 28, 2017
Desi wishes for a better job and *poof* becomes a Princess for Hire. This book is hilarious and fun and has bubble bath tubs full of heart. I absolutely love Desi and look forward to reading more of her adventures . . .
March 1, 2011
Princess for Hire by Lindsey Leavitt follows Desi, a girl who just wants to make an impact. Desi is a independent girl who loves designing her own t-shirts. She's feeling down on herself when she makes a wish on a magic fish. Later while looking in the paper she sees an add for stand in princesses. She's soon whisked off in a magical bubble to start her new job stepping in for princesses so they can take a break from their lives. Desi not only steps into the lives of the princesses she's subbing for but she tries to make them better.
This is a delightful fluffy read that girls will love. Who hasn't dreamed of being a princess for a day? Desi's adventures are fun and exciting and there is a touch of romance thrown in to wrap everything up. The book reads like a Disney channel movie with a main character who is a good role model and who fights for what she believes is right. This is a book that's perfect for the young romantic. It has a sweet romance with a first kiss and a realization that finding a boy that likes her and treats her well is what she really wants.
Appropriateness: There is nothing even slightly objectionable in this book and I would have no problem handing it to a fourth grader who wanted to read a romance and I think it would be loved by middle school aged readers. The lexile is 670 putting it about a fourth grade reading level.
This is a delightful fluffy read that girls will love. Who hasn't dreamed of being a princess for a day? Desi's adventures are fun and exciting and there is a touch of romance thrown in to wrap everything up. The book reads like a Disney channel movie with a main character who is a good role model and who fights for what she believes is right. This is a book that's perfect for the young romantic. It has a sweet romance with a first kiss and a realization that finding a boy that likes her and treats her well is what she really wants.
Appropriateness: There is nothing even slightly objectionable in this book and I would have no problem handing it to a fourth grader who wanted to read a romance and I think it would be loved by middle school aged readers. The lexile is 670 putting it about a fourth grade reading level.
August 28, 2009
Just finished Princess for Hire, and I have to say, it was HILARIOUS. Younger than most of the books I read, it completely engaged me and kept me turning the pages. The author's humor is pure gold.
And honestly, when I got to the last chapter, I was SO disappointed it was over. It's going to be an amazing series!!!!!
And honestly, when I got to the last chapter, I was SO disappointed it was over. It's going to be an amazing series!!!!!
Read
July 21, 2011I won a signed copy of this book in the Help Write Now auction, and absolutely ate it up. Love Desi. Love Meredith. Love the whole idea of choosing to "impact" instead of being blinded by tiaras. I can't wait until my daughter is old enough to read this. Especially since it was dedicated, "Princess Lucia...Impact!" I am certain it's going to be a favorite!
February 6, 2017
2.5 stars
I had higher hopes for this is and I guess that's why I'm so disappointed.
It wasn't terrible, I think it's mostly because she's 12 and I can't relate to tween feelings.. Also I expected more adventure and they were boring and were over as soon as they started. Then she went to court and that was short and pants.. I won't be reading more.. :/
I had higher hopes for this is and I guess that's why I'm so disappointed.
It wasn't terrible, I think it's mostly because she's 12 and I can't relate to tween feelings.. Also I expected more adventure and they were boring and were over as soon as they started. Then she went to court and that was short and pants.. I won't be reading more.. :/
June 7, 2018
Desi is beyond shocked when she is hired by the Façade Agency to stand in for vacationing princesses, all because she has magical potential - a power and job no one can ever know she has. Trouble is, balancing her duties and desire to help the girls she substitutes for could have dire consequences for her chances of ever getting a paycheck! Leavitt gives readers a delightful and heartwarming tale that is sure to please fans of urban fantasy. Slipping in and out of appearances is going to be tougher to get used to than Desi ever dreamed!
April 7, 2020
This book was hard for me to get into, while I really enjoyed the concept, the main character was hard for me to enjoy as I went through the book. Through most of the book I did struggle, only the last 100 pages was I able to really enjoy. By the end of the book I was actually really enjoying my time reading but it was a rocky road with this book. I do hope to continue the series one day.
July 7, 2021
One time I had a dreamed and dreamt of chaotic good and desi bascomb appeared
October 10, 2022
As a 28 year old, I was obviously not the target audience for this book.
Once I got over being annoyed at Desi, I was then cheering her on big time!
Quite enjoyable :)
Once I got over being annoyed at Desi, I was then cheering her on big time!
Quite enjoyable :)
Read
November 18, 2017I read it. It was nice👑👑 😌
May 3, 2010
★★★★☆ I loved it
Wanted: teenage girl to serve as substitute princess. Must be willing to travel. Please call Meredith.
Desi's life sucks. She has to wear a stupid, furry costume at work, the guy she likes doesn't know she exists and her former best friend hates her. So when she's accepted as a substitute princess, it looks like she might finally have a chance to shine... And there's a hot prince to meet! But is Desi really up to the royal challenge? After all, the life of a princess isn't just tiaras and glass slippers...
I'd like to start by saying I'm shocked I loved this so much! I mean, it sounded like a book I'd enjoy but thought that it'd be aimed at an age a bit too young for my loving tastes. I love surprises and this definitely was a big one for me. The story started off introducing us to Desi's average, normal life and the people who make her tick. Then the magic kicks in when her colleague tells her about the magical fish he bought that grants wishes. Desi thinks he's crazy but gives it a go when he's not looking. That's when the story really kicks in to gear.
Desi is an easily liked character who due to actions not of her own has been dealt a bad last couple years for being blamed for something that was really out of anyone's control. She's a wallflower but steps up to the task at hand and always does her best. Which leads her to becoming a substitute princess. She enjoys being able to step out of her own skin and help others out even though she doesn't have the confidence to do it in her own life. Quite a few lovable and hateable (is that a word?) characters float in and out of her story leaving their own impression and make her feel more worthwhile. She has a lot more guts than I do with the jobs she takes on which really makes me want to take more chances in my life. She has her standard (silly) crush, the crush on the unavailable teenager and then a maybe possible new crush on the new boy in town. The last one will definitely be getting more involved with the next book from the way it's set up.
Once I hit halfway I couldn't put Princess For Hire down. Desi gets stuck in some really unusual situations and I squirmed with her with the steps she took to get through them. I'm really looking forward to reading more about the mystery boy (Reed) and how Desi deals with her impossible crush as well as the new adventures her job is going to take her on. This books is perfect for Middle Grade and YA books readers. If you're unsure if you'll like, try to borrow it from the library/friend and definitely give it a go.
Cover: I love this one compared to the hardcover version. They are both related to the story but this one has more character by depicting an actual scene.
Princess For Hire Series
1. Princess For Hire
2. Untitled (out late Spring, 2011)
I received this book from Egmont for review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Wanted: teenage girl to serve as substitute princess. Must be willing to travel. Please call Meredith.
Desi's life sucks. She has to wear a stupid, furry costume at work, the guy she likes doesn't know she exists and her former best friend hates her. So when she's accepted as a substitute princess, it looks like she might finally have a chance to shine... And there's a hot prince to meet! But is Desi really up to the royal challenge? After all, the life of a princess isn't just tiaras and glass slippers...
I'd like to start by saying I'm shocked I loved this so much! I mean, it sounded like a book I'd enjoy but thought that it'd be aimed at an age a bit too young for my loving tastes. I love surprises and this definitely was a big one for me. The story started off introducing us to Desi's average, normal life and the people who make her tick. Then the magic kicks in when her colleague tells her about the magical fish he bought that grants wishes. Desi thinks he's crazy but gives it a go when he's not looking. That's when the story really kicks in to gear.
Desi is an easily liked character who due to actions not of her own has been dealt a bad last couple years for being blamed for something that was really out of anyone's control. She's a wallflower but steps up to the task at hand and always does her best. Which leads her to becoming a substitute princess. She enjoys being able to step out of her own skin and help others out even though she doesn't have the confidence to do it in her own life. Quite a few lovable and hateable (is that a word?) characters float in and out of her story leaving their own impression and make her feel more worthwhile. She has a lot more guts than I do with the jobs she takes on which really makes me want to take more chances in my life. She has her standard (silly) crush, the crush on the unavailable teenager and then a maybe possible new crush on the new boy in town. The last one will definitely be getting more involved with the next book from the way it's set up.
Once I hit halfway I couldn't put Princess For Hire down. Desi gets stuck in some really unusual situations and I squirmed with her with the steps she took to get through them. I'm really looking forward to reading more about the mystery boy (Reed) and how Desi deals with her impossible crush as well as the new adventures her job is going to take her on. This books is perfect for Middle Grade and YA books readers. If you're unsure if you'll like, try to borrow it from the library/friend and definitely give it a go.
Cover: I love this one compared to the hardcover version. They are both related to the story but this one has more character by depicting an actual scene.
Princess For Hire Series
1. Princess For Hire
2. Untitled (out late Spring, 2011)
I received this book from Egmont for review. All opinions expressed here are my own.
October 8, 2014
Desi Bascomb is a fifteen-year-old living in boring Sproutsville, Idaho and working at Pets Charming. Instead of playing with cute puppies or kittens all day, Desi dresses up in a groundhog costume to help promote the store. Her work look doesn't exactly help her social standing which has taken a tumble since a particularly interesting falling out with her ex-BFF Celeste (read to find out about it).
Desi's just hoping for something to make her life more like Audrey Hepburn movie when she spies an interesting ad in the newspaper. Suddenly there's someone else in her bathroom. Desi's relaxing bubble bath is less relaxing and more confusing when Meredith, her green haired godmother of sorts shows up with some news. Turns out Desi has an ability that--with a little help--allows her to be a substitute for princesses who need a little break.
Soon, Desi's filling in for royal girls around the world and finding out that there's more to it than the fancy dresses and glamour that she expected.
The first installment in Linsdey Leavitt's new series is a whole lot of fun. Desi is a great main character who really is like no other character I can think of--but also not so different that it's annoying or weird. She's a quirky girl who doesn't like being like everyone else or following all of the rules, but still worries about how her social life. She's very well developed and it's her unique traits that really make her able to be a main character that is temporarily pretending to be other characters. The same is true of Meredith, as well and I really look forward to learning more about them in future books.
While Princess for Hire is a book that could almost be read by middle grade readers (it reads easily like that and doesn't contain the language or sex that would be a problem) it also works extremely well for the target YA readers and even adult readers.
There were times when some of the princesses' lives seemed almost. . . simply imagined, but I think it actually worked the longer I thought about it. What Desi did each time and how things worked for her, etc seemed to be the focus and everything was written very well for that.
Princess for Hire was not a very complicated book but it was super, super fun and cute and it was also one I found myself thinking about after it was over--which I always find to be an indicator of a great book (at least when they're good thoughts which these were!).
I definitely can't wait for more of the Princess for Hire books or from Lindsey Leavitt.
9/10
Desi's just hoping for something to make her life more like Audrey Hepburn movie when she spies an interesting ad in the newspaper. Suddenly there's someone else in her bathroom. Desi's relaxing bubble bath is less relaxing and more confusing when Meredith, her green haired godmother of sorts shows up with some news. Turns out Desi has an ability that--with a little help--allows her to be a substitute for princesses who need a little break.
Soon, Desi's filling in for royal girls around the world and finding out that there's more to it than the fancy dresses and glamour that she expected.
The first installment in Linsdey Leavitt's new series is a whole lot of fun. Desi is a great main character who really is like no other character I can think of--but also not so different that it's annoying or weird. She's a quirky girl who doesn't like being like everyone else or following all of the rules, but still worries about how her social life. She's very well developed and it's her unique traits that really make her able to be a main character that is temporarily pretending to be other characters. The same is true of Meredith, as well and I really look forward to learning more about them in future books.
While Princess for Hire is a book that could almost be read by middle grade readers (it reads easily like that and doesn't contain the language or sex that would be a problem) it also works extremely well for the target YA readers and even adult readers.
There were times when some of the princesses' lives seemed almost. . . simply imagined, but I think it actually worked the longer I thought about it. What Desi did each time and how things worked for her, etc seemed to be the focus and everything was written very well for that.
Princess for Hire was not a very complicated book but it was super, super fun and cute and it was also one I found myself thinking about after it was over--which I always find to be an indicator of a great book (at least when they're good thoughts which these were!).
I definitely can't wait for more of the Princess for Hire books or from Lindsey Leavitt.
9/10
May 3, 2011
This enchanting book gets a solid 4 gnomes and a gnome hat out of 5 gnomes for having a funny and smart main character who gets quite an interesting job. I actually stayed up late reading and finished the book at about two in the morning. It's the kind of book that'll put you in a good mood and make you smile as you read it. Desi's a great character.
Desi starts off the story inside a gopher costume. Needless to say, she would love a more glamorous job then what she has now at the pet store. She hopes to make a better impression in eighth grade but as the story starts you see that her chances to be popular don't look so good.
Desi's a very relatable character because she wants to fit in among the popular kids but can't. Her nickname and what her former best friend calls her, is Ditzy. She's a little eccentric but has some big ideas, like having a tee shirt business and always trying out for the school plays. Desi's kind of the odd ball of her family and her sister takes more after her mom and has the whole beauty queen in training deal going on.
One day she makes, a wish that changes her life. Desi finds herself a magical job that is a lot better than the pet shop but it has some interesting responsibilities. This agency actually replaces royalty when they need a vacation.
I love this agency's mode of travel and their makeup that allows them to become doubles to the princesses that they replace. Desi gets to replace some what you would call unconventional princesses that seem to need a little bit more than a vacation from their lives. Getting to be a wide range of princesses gives her some great insights into her own life and how she views the world.
Desi's unconventional thinking gets her into some trouble but her new way of thinking may be just what makes her so good at this job and benefit her in future princess jobs. This story is full of magic, secrets, and a heroine with a sense of humor and heart. I can't wait to see where this series goes next and I'll be eagerly waiting to read the second book in the series.
Desi starts off the story inside a gopher costume. Needless to say, she would love a more glamorous job then what she has now at the pet store. She hopes to make a better impression in eighth grade but as the story starts you see that her chances to be popular don't look so good.
Desi's a very relatable character because she wants to fit in among the popular kids but can't. Her nickname and what her former best friend calls her, is Ditzy. She's a little eccentric but has some big ideas, like having a tee shirt business and always trying out for the school plays. Desi's kind of the odd ball of her family and her sister takes more after her mom and has the whole beauty queen in training deal going on.
One day she makes, a wish that changes her life. Desi finds herself a magical job that is a lot better than the pet shop but it has some interesting responsibilities. This agency actually replaces royalty when they need a vacation.
I love this agency's mode of travel and their makeup that allows them to become doubles to the princesses that they replace. Desi gets to replace some what you would call unconventional princesses that seem to need a little bit more than a vacation from their lives. Getting to be a wide range of princesses gives her some great insights into her own life and how she views the world.
Desi's unconventional thinking gets her into some trouble but her new way of thinking may be just what makes her so good at this job and benefit her in future princess jobs. This story is full of magic, secrets, and a heroine with a sense of humor and heart. I can't wait to see where this series goes next and I'll be eagerly waiting to read the second book in the series.
May 17, 2010
At the beginning of the year, I won a contest. My prize? Princess for Hire by Lindsey Leavitt! I was very excited because this book ranked very high on my "to read" list.
I thought Lindsey Leavitt came up with a really interesting premise for her debut. Seriously. What little girl hasn't pretended to be a princess? Or fantasized about replacing her ho-hum daily existence with something more exciting and glamorous? I know I have, which made "Princess For Hire" a delectable treat from beginning to end.
I thought the characters were marvelously entertaining, especially Desi's no-nonsense princess agent Meredith. She's tough on the outside, but has a soft spot or Desi and really wants what's best for her and all of the princesses involved.
Desi is a typical girl dealing with boy trouble, bullies, and daily humiliation. This not only makes her sympathetic, but also easy to relate to. I enjoyed reading the shenanigans she got herself into as she subbed for various princesses. Some of her faux pas were laugh out loud funny.
I was also impressed by the character development. The story alternated between Desi's princess adventures and her home life in Idaho, which not only shines a spotlight on how very different the two worlds are, but also helps Desi come to a better understanding of each lifestyle, turning mistakes into valuable lessons. Being a princess isn't all about a life of luxury, makeovers, and popularity, it's also about having a heart and caring for others. And Desi has a gigantic beating heart.
As the cover suggests, Princess For Hire is girly and pink and fun. It was a quick read and a delightful escape. I really liked it and look forward to Desi's future princess adventures.
I thought Lindsey Leavitt came up with a really interesting premise for her debut. Seriously. What little girl hasn't pretended to be a princess? Or fantasized about replacing her ho-hum daily existence with something more exciting and glamorous? I know I have, which made "Princess For Hire" a delectable treat from beginning to end.
I thought the characters were marvelously entertaining, especially Desi's no-nonsense princess agent Meredith. She's tough on the outside, but has a soft spot or Desi and really wants what's best for her and all of the princesses involved.
Desi is a typical girl dealing with boy trouble, bullies, and daily humiliation. This not only makes her sympathetic, but also easy to relate to. I enjoyed reading the shenanigans she got herself into as she subbed for various princesses. Some of her faux pas were laugh out loud funny.
I was also impressed by the character development. The story alternated between Desi's princess adventures and her home life in Idaho, which not only shines a spotlight on how very different the two worlds are, but also helps Desi come to a better understanding of each lifestyle, turning mistakes into valuable lessons. Being a princess isn't all about a life of luxury, makeovers, and popularity, it's also about having a heart and caring for others. And Desi has a gigantic beating heart.
As the cover suggests, Princess For Hire is girly and pink and fun. It was a quick read and a delightful escape. I really liked it and look forward to Desi's future princess adventures.
August 30, 2016
I keep a well stocked library-borrowed bookshelf at home, because one never knows what type of book may be needed at any given time. I found myself with a serious headcold the other day and even the Danielle Steel novel looked too complicated, so I grabbed this one. After a quick two hour read, I was even glad I had the cold!!
How can you not like a novel that starts with the main character, 13 year old Desi, working at the mall's pet shop wearing a Glady the Gopher costume? Throw in having big feet, braces, a big forehead, former beauty queen mother, your major crush crushing on your nemisis, and a hometown of Sproutville Idaho and life pretty much sucks. Things get much better when Desi reads a want ad while taking a bubble bath and has a major "Calgon, take me away" moment.
Apparently, Desi has magic potential or MP as they call it in the substitute princess business. Meredith, Desi's agent from the Facade Agency, whisks Desi away for her introduction to the world of substitute royalty, where Desi is trained in the art of standing in when princesses and minor royalty want to escape from their tedious lives. After gopher heads in Idaho, Desi thinks this is a dream come true and is quickly thrust into a series of substitute jobs for really minor royalty.
As with many YA novels, Desi finds that her life isn't as bad as she thinks it is and that the idealistic royal life isn't as great as she thinks it would be. Desi's journey through her life as well as the lives of her "clients" shows a thoughtful, yet humorous take on the pangs of growing up. This is a delightful book and I will enjoy the next Desi experience, even without the cold.
How can you not like a novel that starts with the main character, 13 year old Desi, working at the mall's pet shop wearing a Glady the Gopher costume? Throw in having big feet, braces, a big forehead, former beauty queen mother, your major crush crushing on your nemisis, and a hometown of Sproutville Idaho and life pretty much sucks. Things get much better when Desi reads a want ad while taking a bubble bath and has a major "Calgon, take me away" moment.
Apparently, Desi has magic potential or MP as they call it in the substitute princess business. Meredith, Desi's agent from the Facade Agency, whisks Desi away for her introduction to the world of substitute royalty, where Desi is trained in the art of standing in when princesses and minor royalty want to escape from their tedious lives. After gopher heads in Idaho, Desi thinks this is a dream come true and is quickly thrust into a series of substitute jobs for really minor royalty.
As with many YA novels, Desi finds that her life isn't as bad as she thinks it is and that the idealistic royal life isn't as great as she thinks it would be. Desi's journey through her life as well as the lives of her "clients" shows a thoughtful, yet humorous take on the pangs of growing up. This is a delightful book and I will enjoy the next Desi experience, even without the cold.
December 28, 2009
Princess for Hire was just as sugary sweet and bubbly as the cover it has.
Desi was a character that was so hard not to like. She was sweet, funny, real and just someone who was so hard not to root for her. I loved how she would risk getting in trouble with her boss by helping the princesses she was subbing for in more personal and self-esteem building ways then were allowed because it showed what a great person she was along with what a fantastic friend she would be if she was real. Further more, I personally think Desi will especially be loved by the pre-teens and younger teens because a lot of the problems she faces such as friend drama, the feeling of not fitting in and low scale boy drama are ones that those girls tend to deal with. Along with this, the princesses she deals with are basically the same leaving me to love getting to know them even if it was just for a short time.
While I liked the premise ( Seriously, how cool would it be to sub in for real life princess?), I felt the execution failed at times. Since the story had the tendency to drag on and become predictable. Though, usually before I knew it the story would take a new turn and become interesting again. Leaving this to not be the biggest of problems.
Overall, Lindsey Leavitt's Princess For Hire is a great read for pre-teens and younger teens looking for a more innocent and tamer read than some of the other books out there in the YA world. I'm looking forward to seeing how this series develops over time.
Grade: B
Desi was a character that was so hard not to like. She was sweet, funny, real and just someone who was so hard not to root for her. I loved how she would risk getting in trouble with her boss by helping the princesses she was subbing for in more personal and self-esteem building ways then were allowed because it showed what a great person she was along with what a fantastic friend she would be if she was real. Further more, I personally think Desi will especially be loved by the pre-teens and younger teens because a lot of the problems she faces such as friend drama, the feeling of not fitting in and low scale boy drama are ones that those girls tend to deal with. Along with this, the princesses she deals with are basically the same leaving me to love getting to know them even if it was just for a short time.
While I liked the premise ( Seriously, how cool would it be to sub in for real life princess?), I felt the execution failed at times. Since the story had the tendency to drag on and become predictable. Though, usually before I knew it the story would take a new turn and become interesting again. Leaving this to not be the biggest of problems.
Overall, Lindsey Leavitt's Princess For Hire is a great read for pre-teens and younger teens looking for a more innocent and tamer read than some of the other books out there in the YA world. I'm looking forward to seeing how this series develops over time.
Grade: B
February 11, 2010
A wonderful, fanciful read. Sheer pleasure for an afternoon reading.
First let me say I really wish I had had books like this around when I was a young adult. In Princess For Hire, Lindsey Leavitt does a wonderful job mixing reality with the fantasy. How many teenage girls have trouble with their friends? How many just want to fit in and get the one guy they crush on? I know I did as a teenager and this is exactly where Desi is at. Her best friend got mad at her and took all her friends away and she wants the guy her ex-best friend has. Sounds pretty normal to me.
Then she finds out from her agent, Meredith, that she has magical powers and she is sought after as a stand-in for royalty when they just want to escape. All Desi needs is the magical rouge compact and she looks just like the royalty. It's a dream job for Desi, but for the fact that she is just supposed to stand-in for royalty not stand up for them. As royalty Desi finds courage that she doesn't have in her real life and of course hysterical hijinks will follow. I laughed and cried through this book. So much rings true for teenage girls even with royalty.
Desi grows as a character along with Meredith's character and I enjoyed seeing how that came about. Desi's adventures kept me interested through the whole book and I am looking forward to more of her adventures in future books.
First let me say I really wish I had had books like this around when I was a young adult. In Princess For Hire, Lindsey Leavitt does a wonderful job mixing reality with the fantasy. How many teenage girls have trouble with their friends? How many just want to fit in and get the one guy they crush on? I know I did as a teenager and this is exactly where Desi is at. Her best friend got mad at her and took all her friends away and she wants the guy her ex-best friend has. Sounds pretty normal to me.
Then she finds out from her agent, Meredith, that she has magical powers and she is sought after as a stand-in for royalty when they just want to escape. All Desi needs is the magical rouge compact and she looks just like the royalty. It's a dream job for Desi, but for the fact that she is just supposed to stand-in for royalty not stand up for them. As royalty Desi finds courage that she doesn't have in her real life and of course hysterical hijinks will follow. I laughed and cried through this book. So much rings true for teenage girls even with royalty.
Desi grows as a character along with Meredith's character and I enjoyed seeing how that came about. Desi's adventures kept me interested through the whole book and I am looking forward to more of her adventures in future books.
July 17, 2011
First of all, I'm not quite sure how this is a YA book and not an MG book. I got it out of the YA section in my library and until I was reading it, I didn't realize that the main character was going to be 13. Normally I don't read real-life-esque MG books because I just find it a bit odd. This one wasn't too bad, though.
There were quite a few funny and hart-warming moments, but overall, I wasn't that impressed. For much of the book, I found Desi to be overly-dramatic and self-centered. She was absolutely obsessive about her crush but not at all in an understandable way. The absurdness of her crush had me wanting to punch her in the face a few times. I know a crush isn't really enough to go off of for a review, though.
I enjoyed the new spin on princesses. The lives weren't too glamorous (though I'm hoping for some glamour in the next!) and you got to see the nitty-gritty of the real princess's lives instead silly little surface problems we normal see when it comes to royalty.
In all, though, while this book wasn't bad, it wasn't remarkable either. The fist-pumping "You go, girl!" moments didn't outshine Desi's annoying obsession and inability to look past herself (even when helping others), but it was good enough to pick up the next one and continue in the story.
There were quite a few funny and hart-warming moments, but overall, I wasn't that impressed. For much of the book, I found Desi to be overly-dramatic and self-centered. She was absolutely obsessive about her crush but not at all in an understandable way. The absurdness of her crush had me wanting to punch her in the face a few times. I know a crush isn't really enough to go off of for a review, though.
I enjoyed the new spin on princesses. The lives weren't too glamorous (though I'm hoping for some glamour in the next!) and you got to see the nitty-gritty of the real princess's lives instead silly little surface problems we normal see when it comes to royalty.
In all, though, while this book wasn't bad, it wasn't remarkable either. The fist-pumping "You go, girl!" moments didn't outshine Desi's annoying obsession and inability to look past herself (even when helping others), but it was good enough to pick up the next one and continue in the story.
September 27, 2023
- If they made a movie of my life, I'd hire Audrey Hepburn to play me too!
- Old movies, Animal lover, Clarinet player, and Audrey Hepburn references...This book is awesome!!
- The story was a really fun, light, and clean read! Sometimes...you just gotta pick one of these up to break up the other stuff.
- I have to say that this book was a guilty pleasure. Everything on the cover screams "Not For Me!!" I don't know why I picked it up. I'm glad I did though, I enjoyed it...more than I should have.
- The whole Hayden thing was LAME!! What a waste of time! I knew the guy was a loser from the beginning!
- There were a few things that were a little dramatic and meh.
- I really love Desi. I can relate to her on a lot of things. I really love that she wanted to make an impact. She helped girls achieve what they couldn't do for themselves. That takes guts! I don't know if I could have done that.
- I really enjoyed seeing Desi's character develop and become more.
- I liked that the author spelled Karl with a K. My hubby's grandpa's name is spelled like that. K's are better!
- I also really liked the fairy tale elements of the story. It was fun!
- Old movies, Animal lover, Clarinet player, and Audrey Hepburn references...This book is awesome!!
- The story was a really fun, light, and clean read! Sometimes...you just gotta pick one of these up to break up the other stuff.
- I have to say that this book was a guilty pleasure. Everything on the cover screams "Not For Me!!" I don't know why I picked it up. I'm glad I did though, I enjoyed it...more than I should have.
- The whole Hayden thing was LAME!! What a waste of time! I knew the guy was a loser from the beginning!
- There were a few things that were a little dramatic and meh.
- I really love Desi. I can relate to her on a lot of things. I really love that she wanted to make an impact. She helped girls achieve what they couldn't do for themselves. That takes guts! I don't know if I could have done that.
- I really enjoyed seeing Desi's character develop and become more.
- I liked that the author spelled Karl with a K. My hubby's grandpa's name is spelled like that. K's are better!
- I also really liked the fairy tale elements of the story. It was fun!
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