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Warpaint
'When Glasgow Makeup Artist Willow meets dashing New Yorker Rick and marries him after a whirlwind romance, her new life in NYC is far from the perfect fresh start she imagines.'
Stuck behind the cosmetics counter of her local Glasgow department store, and with no prospects of promotion, Willow Campbell’s life is going nowhere.
But Willow’s life takes a surprising twist when a mysterious yellow book falls into her hands. She follows its advice and takes a risk - allowing herself to be swept off her feet by dashing New Yorker Rick Delgado. Ignoring the warnings of her colleagues and flat mate, she heads off into the sunset with him…however when she gets to New York, his “Manhattan” loft turns out to be a bedsit in Queens and his ex-girlfriend Isabella appears to be in residence.
Scorned, Isabella alerts the authorities of a suspected ‘Green Card Wedding’, setting off a chain reaction with dramatic consequences…
Faced with the threat of deportation, and her marriage over before it had the chance to begin, will Willow find the courage to stay in New York City and make all her Makeup Artistry dreams come true?
Told in Willow’s smart, refreshingly honest voice, Warpaint explores the challenges of expat life through wry humour and the outrageous and outlandish fun of the makeup artistry world.
Stuck behind the cosmetics counter of her local Glasgow department store, and with no prospects of promotion, Willow Campbell’s life is going nowhere.
But Willow’s life takes a surprising twist when a mysterious yellow book falls into her hands. She follows its advice and takes a risk - allowing herself to be swept off her feet by dashing New Yorker Rick Delgado. Ignoring the warnings of her colleagues and flat mate, she heads off into the sunset with him…however when she gets to New York, his “Manhattan” loft turns out to be a bedsit in Queens and his ex-girlfriend Isabella appears to be in residence.
Scorned, Isabella alerts the authorities of a suspected ‘Green Card Wedding’, setting off a chain reaction with dramatic consequences…
Faced with the threat of deportation, and her marriage over before it had the chance to begin, will Willow find the courage to stay in New York City and make all her Makeup Artistry dreams come true?
Told in Willow’s smart, refreshingly honest voice, Warpaint explores the challenges of expat life through wry humour and the outrageous and outlandish fun of the makeup artistry world.
198 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 3, 2020
27 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
J.J. Maya
2 books4 followersJ.J. MAYA is a Scottish author and luxury travel copywriter.
J.J. draws upon her experience working as a Flight Attendant and Makeup Artist as the inspiration for her debut novel, WARPAINT.
After spending a decade living in the USA, Maya knows the challenges and rewards of living as an immigrant in a foreign land.
In 2009, J.J. returned to her Scottish roots with her husband and two sons and later graduated with an MA in Television Fiction Writing. Her writing has appeared in Wallpaper*Magazine, The Sunday Times Travel Magazine and I-Escape. She can be found at the cosmetics counter hunting down the perfect red lipstick.
WARPAINT is the first book in a two-book series. Stay in touch and be the first to know when the sequel is due to be released!
J.J. draws upon her experience working as a Flight Attendant and Makeup Artist as the inspiration for her debut novel, WARPAINT.
After spending a decade living in the USA, Maya knows the challenges and rewards of living as an immigrant in a foreign land.
In 2009, J.J. returned to her Scottish roots with her husband and two sons and later graduated with an MA in Television Fiction Writing. Her writing has appeared in Wallpaper*Magazine, The Sunday Times Travel Magazine and I-Escape. She can be found at the cosmetics counter hunting down the perfect red lipstick.
WARPAINT is the first book in a two-book series. Stay in touch and be the first to know when the sequel is due to be released!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
July 14, 2020
Warpaint was a lot of fun and a great distraction for these times. A lot was going on at so much so there was never a dull moment even though the book is just under 200 pages. Willow went through a lot of drama and I found her to be strong through it. Although the ending was predictable, I liked it.
Thank you to the publisher and to Netgalley for the advanced copy!
Thank you to the publisher and to Netgalley for the advanced copy!
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March 21, 2020Super cute story! If you love makeup and a feel good ending, this is your book!
July 17, 2020
War paint was a feisty, funny portrait of the triumph of hope over expectation. J.J.Maya brought New York and the retail world of cosmetics alive with a strong storyline and relatable characters. I loved the sassy, can-do attitude of the heroine throughout, despite her many setbacks. It was good to see a strong female lead supported by the men around her. I can thoroughly recommend this tightly written novel.
August 3, 2020
I actually found this novel from instagram and I am so happy with it!! “Warpaint” was such an interesting novel to read! I love how it brought you into the story and showed that sometimes you need to do things for yourself instead of letting fate handle everything. I love how it showed that taking risks is scary, but it can lead you on some of the best paths. This book was a wonderful read!
August 4, 2020
I found Willow to be an inspiring character, who was willing to take a chance in life (even although nothing went to plan) she showed a strong determination to succeed while carrying out her job as a Makeup Artist in D'Arcy's Department Store.
I really enjoyed this book and I am so looking forward to the sequel.
I really enjoyed this book and I am so looking forward to the sequel.
May 20, 2020
This is such a cute and fun romantic read. If you want an escape, this is a must-read.
September 11, 2020
“Damn him! Why did he walk into my life and cause all this chaos?” “Because you attracted him in. That book you’re always reading—what’s it called? “You Only Get One Life—” I finished the sentence for him, “Here’s How to Live It.” “Yeah! That’s the one!” He rounded on me, smiling wickedly, “Just a suggestion…. maybe you should put the book away… I mean don’t take this the wrong way, but it doesn’t seem to be doing you much good, does it?”
There's something about warpaint which screams like so many books I have read and loved back in my law school. I haven't read a chick lit in a long time and Warpaint broke my dry spell! Makeup Artist Willow and her romance with New Yorker, Rick with his ex, Isabella playing the devil. Warpaint is Book One in the heartwarming Second Chance OhSoBoutique! Series and it's safe to say- I WILL read the second part. If I say I am waiting for the sequel, that too in Chick lit romance meets comedy, that means I really liked the book!
I laughed, cried and sympathized with Willow. The body of warpaint is hilarious and get you out of your slump read. The writing is exquisite in places, the story could not have been better in other places and in between these places is a reader who won't stop flipping pages. Superstar writing with such detailed New Yorker vibes that I really want to see some sort of adaptation of Warpaint in near future. Another round of The Devil Wears Prada but Makeup edition? Or milder version of Zoolander meets Death Becomes Her? BTW, have you watched these two movies? 😊😝
You can try to dirty my name, but I'll wear your hate like war paint- Madalyn Beck in Dragon Hearts & Dandelion Fuzz
And that's the quote which knocked over me as I went on a happening-unhappening journey with Maya to peek a boo in Willow's sorrows and her inner turmoils. I could associate with each character. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Pretty Woman have always been my top 10 and I could see shades of my love for these movies in this book. Now when does that happen? I must say, without giving you any spoilers that the relationships were relatable yet far fetched and enduring yet comical. Flappers entertainment in some places, pleasing.
There's something about warpaint which screams like so many books I have read and loved back in my law school. I haven't read a chick lit in a long time and Warpaint broke my dry spell! Makeup Artist Willow and her romance with New Yorker, Rick with his ex, Isabella playing the devil. Warpaint is Book One in the heartwarming Second Chance OhSoBoutique! Series and it's safe to say- I WILL read the second part. If I say I am waiting for the sequel, that too in Chick lit romance meets comedy, that means I really liked the book!
I laughed, cried and sympathized with Willow. The body of warpaint is hilarious and get you out of your slump read. The writing is exquisite in places, the story could not have been better in other places and in between these places is a reader who won't stop flipping pages. Superstar writing with such detailed New Yorker vibes that I really want to see some sort of adaptation of Warpaint in near future. Another round of The Devil Wears Prada but Makeup edition? Or milder version of Zoolander meets Death Becomes Her? BTW, have you watched these two movies? 😊😝
You can try to dirty my name, but I'll wear your hate like war paint- Madalyn Beck in Dragon Hearts & Dandelion Fuzz
And that's the quote which knocked over me as I went on a happening-unhappening journey with Maya to peek a boo in Willow's sorrows and her inner turmoils. I could associate with each character. How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Pretty Woman have always been my top 10 and I could see shades of my love for these movies in this book. Now when does that happen? I must say, without giving you any spoilers that the relationships were relatable yet far fetched and enduring yet comical. Flappers entertainment in some places, pleasing.
June 27, 2020
Stay strong. Stay calm. You can do this.
🦄🦄🦄
When Willow decided to marry Rick and move from Glasgow to New York after knowing him for just a few weeks she thought she'd finally found true love.
But, all is not as it seems as she finds herself in a less than acceptable loft in Queens, which is overrun by ants and ex-girlfriends.
As rumours start to circulate about Rick, Willow can't help but wonder if she's left s perfectly good life in Glasgow for nothing.
But Willow has big dreams to be a Top Makeup Artist in New York and nothing can get in the way, not even the fear of deportation.
🦄🦄🦄
Warpaint is a contemporary romance novel by J.J. Maya
Willow is someone who is steadfast and strong minded, but she's also a sucker for love.
Everything happens for a reason, she fell in love with Rick and came to USA thinking of finding love, but got so much more instead.
Even the genre is romance, I feel like the book is more focused on Willow finding herself and what's right for her and there could have been a bit more drama between she and Rick given the circumstances to make the book a bit more interesting.
She does make a lot of quick decisions that aren't thought all the way through and inevitably leads her in a bigger web, but that's the way she is.
The storyline is good with a few integral plot points such as her Green Card issue and the ex girlfriend, so it's like watching a drama unfold with every revelation made.
It's a quick and cute read but I do wish there was a little more substance to the story.
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 8/10
Melina L.
🦄🦄🦄
When Willow decided to marry Rick and move from Glasgow to New York after knowing him for just a few weeks she thought she'd finally found true love.
But, all is not as it seems as she finds herself in a less than acceptable loft in Queens, which is overrun by ants and ex-girlfriends.
As rumours start to circulate about Rick, Willow can't help but wonder if she's left s perfectly good life in Glasgow for nothing.
But Willow has big dreams to be a Top Makeup Artist in New York and nothing can get in the way, not even the fear of deportation.
🦄🦄🦄
Warpaint is a contemporary romance novel by J.J. Maya
Willow is someone who is steadfast and strong minded, but she's also a sucker for love.
Everything happens for a reason, she fell in love with Rick and came to USA thinking of finding love, but got so much more instead.
Even the genre is romance, I feel like the book is more focused on Willow finding herself and what's right for her and there could have been a bit more drama between she and Rick given the circumstances to make the book a bit more interesting.
She does make a lot of quick decisions that aren't thought all the way through and inevitably leads her in a bigger web, but that's the way she is.
The storyline is good with a few integral plot points such as her Green Card issue and the ex girlfriend, so it's like watching a drama unfold with every revelation made.
It's a quick and cute read but I do wish there was a little more substance to the story.
🦄🦄🦄
Rated 8/10
Melina L.
September 19, 2020
Kept my interest but had its issues🤔
3.5 🌟stars
I picked up this book because of the heroine's Scottish connection. I found that her Scottish roots, though mentioned, did not really play much into the story. The plot did hold my attention from start to finish but I can't say it was very memorable.
Willow, the heroine, seemed scattered and inconsistent. I don't know if the author meant her to be that way or if it was just the writing and the inclusion of such a variety of subplots in a shorter book. Willow cares deeply about something or someone one moment yet seems to move with barely a backward glance rather quickly, especially in her hot and cold treatment of her new husband. He may be a jerk, but we barely get to see him interact with Willow, nor do we know much about the whirlwind courtship that got her to the States in six weeks🙁.
The immigration subplot for Willow and the department store where she fortuitously falls into a job was, IMO, broadly drawn and not successful. And there were inconsistencies like having the sun come up at six a.m. at the darkest time of the year and mentioning Rick experiencing Scottish winter when their courtship happened in the fall!
If you are just looking for a light, somewhat plausible single girl adventure in a world full of pitfalls, then you may enjoy this relatively quick read. I can't say I disliked it, but I had been hoping for something better.
Thanks to publisher Books Go Social and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
3.5 🌟stars
I picked up this book because of the heroine's Scottish connection. I found that her Scottish roots, though mentioned, did not really play much into the story. The plot did hold my attention from start to finish but I can't say it was very memorable.
Willow, the heroine, seemed scattered and inconsistent. I don't know if the author meant her to be that way or if it was just the writing and the inclusion of such a variety of subplots in a shorter book. Willow cares deeply about something or someone one moment yet seems to move with barely a backward glance rather quickly, especially in her hot and cold treatment of her new husband. He may be a jerk, but we barely get to see him interact with Willow, nor do we know much about the whirlwind courtship that got her to the States in six weeks🙁.
The immigration subplot for Willow and the department store where she fortuitously falls into a job was, IMO, broadly drawn and not successful. And there were inconsistencies like having the sun come up at six a.m. at the darkest time of the year and mentioning Rick experiencing Scottish winter when their courtship happened in the fall!
If you are just looking for a light, somewhat plausible single girl adventure in a world full of pitfalls, then you may enjoy this relatively quick read. I can't say I disliked it, but I had been hoping for something better.
Thanks to publisher Books Go Social and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 11, 2022
This book was completely not what I was expecting going by the front cover but I was honestly very surprised - in a good way.
Was a nice easy rom-com book set in New York, with lots going on in between.
Very easy to read, with a big mix of different characters.
My only grumble is that the ending was left very open, and didn't conclude some of what had been building throughout, but hopefully that just means there will be a sequel at some point.
Was a nice easy rom-com book set in New York, with lots going on in between.
Very easy to read, with a big mix of different characters.
My only grumble is that the ending was left very open, and didn't conclude some of what had been building throughout, but hopefully that just means there will be a sequel at some point.
August 17, 2020
Wonderful easy read. The story takes us through the ups and downs of a rushed marriage and the challenges a failed relationship poses on immigration. I enjoyed reading this book and would recommend it to others!
September 6, 2020
Thank you to @netgalley for this copy of warpaint for an honest review.
This was a quick, cute, read.
The characters were likeable and the end was wrapped up in a way that was satisfying.
This was a quick, cute, read.
The characters were likeable and the end was wrapped up in a way that was satisfying.
July 21, 2020
As a proud Scot I had to know what would make a fellow countryman up and leave her life in our beautiful country. Love, dear reader, the usual culprit!
Make up artist Willow leaves behind her beauty counter in Glasgow, she has fallen in love with handsome New Yorker Rick, he appears to have it all, good looks, charm, money and a loft in Manhattan. Despite warnings from her friends and colleagues she finds herself 6 weeks later married and on a plane to NYC to start her new married life.
What could go wrong? Marrying a man she has only just met and doesn’t know anything about? His not quite ex with a baby on board, oh and that loft in Manhattan is a crappy apartment in Queens. Willow’s dreams of taking on the Big Apple are falling apart before she has even got started.
With her immigration paperwork going through the motions, returning home is not an option so she puts on her lippy, hits the streets and finds herself a job working in a luxury department store, here she finds unlikely friends and allies along with her husbands baby mama working along side her.
Her dreams are shattering around her but she knuckles down and starts doing what she does best, make people feel good about themselves, impressing her boss in the process but there is always a spanner in the works and she finds herself at her lowest point with Immigration breathing down her neck.
Can she make a new life in New York?
I really enjoyed this book, I love a strong Scottish female character and despite her many hurdles, Willow got on with it even when she found herself down to her last dollars. I did feel like giving her a telling off - “Why the hell are you marrying a man you’ve just met?!!!” - but I know that true love works in mysterious ways, I know a couple who got engaged after just two weeks and are still married 40 odd years later. I think I’m just a little impressed that she had the balls to just go for it, to make that jump and to see what happens, she had nothing to lose.
I’d have like to hear a wee bit more about Rick and Willow’s whirlwind romance, would there have been more signs that he wasn’t being entirely truthful.
It was a good fun read, the perfect antidote to these uncertain times.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Make up artist Willow leaves behind her beauty counter in Glasgow, she has fallen in love with handsome New Yorker Rick, he appears to have it all, good looks, charm, money and a loft in Manhattan. Despite warnings from her friends and colleagues she finds herself 6 weeks later married and on a plane to NYC to start her new married life.
What could go wrong? Marrying a man she has only just met and doesn’t know anything about? His not quite ex with a baby on board, oh and that loft in Manhattan is a crappy apartment in Queens. Willow’s dreams of taking on the Big Apple are falling apart before she has even got started.
With her immigration paperwork going through the motions, returning home is not an option so she puts on her lippy, hits the streets and finds herself a job working in a luxury department store, here she finds unlikely friends and allies along with her husbands baby mama working along side her.
Her dreams are shattering around her but she knuckles down and starts doing what she does best, make people feel good about themselves, impressing her boss in the process but there is always a spanner in the works and she finds herself at her lowest point with Immigration breathing down her neck.
Can she make a new life in New York?
I really enjoyed this book, I love a strong Scottish female character and despite her many hurdles, Willow got on with it even when she found herself down to her last dollars. I did feel like giving her a telling off - “Why the hell are you marrying a man you’ve just met?!!!” - but I know that true love works in mysterious ways, I know a couple who got engaged after just two weeks and are still married 40 odd years later. I think I’m just a little impressed that she had the balls to just go for it, to make that jump and to see what happens, she had nothing to lose.
I’d have like to hear a wee bit more about Rick and Willow’s whirlwind romance, would there have been more signs that he wasn’t being entirely truthful.
It was a good fun read, the perfect antidote to these uncertain times.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2020
I really enjoyed the quirky story of Warpaint. It follows 30-something Willow in her move to New York with her new husband, but things aren't going in the direction she thought for her fairytale romance. The character of Willow has a fresh voice and I liked the journey she went through.
That said, this book was frustratingly short, I felt it sacrificed some seriously needed detail. My biggest gripe is the romance (or lack thereof) but there is very little backstory given into Rick and Willow's romance other than their first meeting. All their interaction just makes me think Rick is a jerk and I have no idea why she was with him to begin with. Had this been explored more, I think the emotional punch of the story would have been far more impactful.
Warpaint is the beginning of a series, so I will wait for the next book and hope we continue to see Willow's story evolve!
*I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
That said, this book was frustratingly short, I felt it sacrificed some seriously needed detail. My biggest gripe is the romance (or lack thereof) but there is very little backstory given into Rick and Willow's romance other than their first meeting. All their interaction just makes me think Rick is a jerk and I have no idea why she was with him to begin with. Had this been explored more, I think the emotional punch of the story would have been far more impactful.
Warpaint is the beginning of a series, so I will wait for the next book and hope we continue to see Willow's story evolve!
*I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
July 29, 2020
Now more than ever in this Covid crazy time, we need to take care of ourselves. Enter make up and high jinx. Love love Willow. Her Brit grit is inspirational. As an immigrant in the US I can vouch for the whole 'illegal alien' thing and the Gestapo tactics of Homeland security. I am a Dior addict and this hit all the marks. I loved the random kindness of Jake and Jackson. Never quit believing. Can't wait for the sequel. Can't wait to walk through Saks 5th avenue soon and just imbibe the artistry. Queer Eye watch out for JJ Maya!
August 4, 2020
Loved this book! What a bit of light relief and pure escapism from the current situation! And now that we can travel, this would be a perfect holiday read! Light, refreshing and funny! If you like Sophie Kinsella, you will love J.J. Maya! A great first book and I look forward to the sequel!
December 11, 2020
Willow Campbell, a 33-year-old makeup artist with no family and no friends but her colleagues and her overbearing roommate, leaves hometown Glasgow in Ireland to go live with her handsome new American husband Rick Delgado in New York. Rick has an apartment in Manhattan, and though she has only known him for six weeks, what could go wrong? The course of their love is charted in a little yellow book, and Willow is full of hope.
Willow is sold on romance but it is a rude awakening that awaits her in New York. On arriving at the building, she realises that the fancy apartment of her dreams is nothing but a loft reeking of cigarettes and infested with ants. Worse, she finds in the bathroom scanty underwear and other evidence of a woman’s presence.
Rick’s ex-girlfriend, Isabella, tells Willow that she is expecting Rick’s child. Suddenly nothing is right. Desperate to escape the shame of having to be deported back to the life she left behind, Willow must find herself a job while proving to the authorities that she and Rick are happily married. It is the only way that her Green card can be processed.
She finds herself a job at a department store, D’Arcy, somehow breaking through the reserve of the formidable owner, Gigi Gerson, known to her employees as Mrs G. She finds a friend in Jackson, a fellow Irish who came over with the man of his dreams and found despair. But it isn’t smooth sailing. Isabella is also employed at the same department store and Willow finds herself thwarted by her at every step.
But Willow is too angry with Rick to even attempt a compromise with him. Especially after she buys a ticket to Glasgow and is convinced by Jackson to give her romance with Rick another chance. She returns to the apartment, hoping to find Rick heartbroken and finds Isabel and Rick doing things they shouldn’t.
But then Mrs G offers her a way out. If she can win the makeup competition, then she could cement her place in America. But Isabella is offering stiff competition. Will she succeed?
This chick-lit book was a fun read. I liked the idea of Willow making her own place in a foreign city, moving on from the obscurity of her life in Glasgow to working as a makeup artist in New York, totally unfazed by the disaster that her romance had turned into.
Willow is the kind of character who acts first, and thinks later. Most of the problems she suffers are a result of her failure to think things through.
Music plays a huge role in the book between songs playing in Rick’s home, Jackson’s home, or D’Arcy’s, it seemed as if everything had a musical score which spoke to Willow.
One thing I really liked was how New York felt like a character in itself. The author re-created its crowds, its culture and its vibe. It piqued my desire to see this glorious city for myself someday.
There were some mistakes. A man called Cecil is qualified as the doorman of the apartment building the second times his name is mentioned, not the first, leaving me to wonder who he was.
Another thing that I found irritating was the one tear and the two fat tears that were constantly sliding down Willow’s cheeks. Rick had a single bead of sweat. Just as annoying.
The whole romance between Willow and Rick would have felt more real to us if we had seen their courtship up close, but we are only part of the picture after
I’m not generally into makeup, but in Willow’s hands, makeup is warpaint that gives people confidence by helping them to hide their blemishes.
Willow made me care about her even though I generally don’t care about the fashion and makeup industry.
Willow is sold on romance but it is a rude awakening that awaits her in New York. On arriving at the building, she realises that the fancy apartment of her dreams is nothing but a loft reeking of cigarettes and infested with ants. Worse, she finds in the bathroom scanty underwear and other evidence of a woman’s presence.
Rick’s ex-girlfriend, Isabella, tells Willow that she is expecting Rick’s child. Suddenly nothing is right. Desperate to escape the shame of having to be deported back to the life she left behind, Willow must find herself a job while proving to the authorities that she and Rick are happily married. It is the only way that her Green card can be processed.
She finds herself a job at a department store, D’Arcy, somehow breaking through the reserve of the formidable owner, Gigi Gerson, known to her employees as Mrs G. She finds a friend in Jackson, a fellow Irish who came over with the man of his dreams and found despair. But it isn’t smooth sailing. Isabella is also employed at the same department store and Willow finds herself thwarted by her at every step.
But Willow is too angry with Rick to even attempt a compromise with him. Especially after she buys a ticket to Glasgow and is convinced by Jackson to give her romance with Rick another chance. She returns to the apartment, hoping to find Rick heartbroken and finds Isabel and Rick doing things they shouldn’t.
But then Mrs G offers her a way out. If she can win the makeup competition, then she could cement her place in America. But Isabella is offering stiff competition. Will she succeed?
This chick-lit book was a fun read. I liked the idea of Willow making her own place in a foreign city, moving on from the obscurity of her life in Glasgow to working as a makeup artist in New York, totally unfazed by the disaster that her romance had turned into.
Willow is the kind of character who acts first, and thinks later. Most of the problems she suffers are a result of her failure to think things through.
Music plays a huge role in the book between songs playing in Rick’s home, Jackson’s home, or D’Arcy’s, it seemed as if everything had a musical score which spoke to Willow.
One thing I really liked was how New York felt like a character in itself. The author re-created its crowds, its culture and its vibe. It piqued my desire to see this glorious city for myself someday.
There were some mistakes. A man called Cecil is qualified as the doorman of the apartment building the second times his name is mentioned, not the first, leaving me to wonder who he was.
Another thing that I found irritating was the one tear and the two fat tears that were constantly sliding down Willow’s cheeks. Rick had a single bead of sweat. Just as annoying.
The whole romance between Willow and Rick would have felt more real to us if we had seen their courtship up close, but we are only part of the picture after
I’m not generally into makeup, but in Willow’s hands, makeup is warpaint that gives people confidence by helping them to hide their blemishes.
Willow made me care about her even though I generally don’t care about the fashion and makeup industry.
August 22, 2020
This was my very first time to read a Rom Com and no doubt, it was absolutely an unputdownable one!
Willow is a Scottish make up artist who fell in love with Rick from New York. It was just 6 weeks, they both met and they decided to tie the knots. Willow was given so many warnings, not to marry that Rick whose past was still veiled to Willow but then as the destiny would have it, she listened to no one and flew all over the way to New York City to live a lavish life with the man, she knew only for 6 weeks.
As they reach NY city, so many things start unveiling which are too much for Willow to digest. There is this lady named Isabella who claims to be carrying a baby of Rick in her womb and Rick shrugs of saying that it's not his baby. Is Rick lying or is it really his baby?
Being a make up artist, Willow finds a job for herself in NY city but then as her luck would have it, she finds Isabella working for the same company. What happens when two of these ladies will see each other almost every day?
It is one of those books which will make you laugh and sad here and there. As it was my first time of reading a Rom Com, I was clueless about what should I expect so I was just reading this book with no expectations. This book had some kind of magic on me and from the initial chapters, it started grabbing my attention so much that I couldn't wait to finish it.
More or less, this book is about how Willow reacts to all the problems that comes in her way. How much courage will she be able to show in a completely new city, after knowing that Rick was with Isabella for 7 years and suddenly dumped her just to marry Willow. Will her dreams come true in this New York City or will she return to her home and lead a normal boring life which she was leading before Rick entered in her life?
Writing style is so smooth and perfect for a plot like this. I was really amazed by author's way of weaving a story like this, which is enjoyable as well as inspiring, depending on how readers would take it.
I really liked how well developed characters and situations are there in this book. Willow seems to be reading this "Yellow Book" which guided her to take every step forward and marry Rick. In short it was something related to law of attraction and Willow seemed to be cursing that book sometimes when things went against her wish.
I completely enjoyed this book as it really was a fun and interesting read. I would recommend this book to everyone who is 18+ and would be interested in reading a Rom Com.
Willow is a Scottish make up artist who fell in love with Rick from New York. It was just 6 weeks, they both met and they decided to tie the knots. Willow was given so many warnings, not to marry that Rick whose past was still veiled to Willow but then as the destiny would have it, she listened to no one and flew all over the way to New York City to live a lavish life with the man, she knew only for 6 weeks.
As they reach NY city, so many things start unveiling which are too much for Willow to digest. There is this lady named Isabella who claims to be carrying a baby of Rick in her womb and Rick shrugs of saying that it's not his baby. Is Rick lying or is it really his baby?
Being a make up artist, Willow finds a job for herself in NY city but then as her luck would have it, she finds Isabella working for the same company. What happens when two of these ladies will see each other almost every day?
It is one of those books which will make you laugh and sad here and there. As it was my first time of reading a Rom Com, I was clueless about what should I expect so I was just reading this book with no expectations. This book had some kind of magic on me and from the initial chapters, it started grabbing my attention so much that I couldn't wait to finish it.
More or less, this book is about how Willow reacts to all the problems that comes in her way. How much courage will she be able to show in a completely new city, after knowing that Rick was with Isabella for 7 years and suddenly dumped her just to marry Willow. Will her dreams come true in this New York City or will she return to her home and lead a normal boring life which she was leading before Rick entered in her life?
Writing style is so smooth and perfect for a plot like this. I was really amazed by author's way of weaving a story like this, which is enjoyable as well as inspiring, depending on how readers would take it.
I really liked how well developed characters and situations are there in this book. Willow seems to be reading this "Yellow Book" which guided her to take every step forward and marry Rick. In short it was something related to law of attraction and Willow seemed to be cursing that book sometimes when things went against her wish.
I completely enjoyed this book as it really was a fun and interesting read. I would recommend this book to everyone who is 18+ and would be interested in reading a Rom Com.
August 31, 2020
Book Name: Warpaint
Genre: Rom com/ fiction
Summary: Scottish Makeup Artist Willow meets dashing New Yorker, Rick, and marries him after a whirlwind romance. But her new life in NYC is far from the perfect fresh start she imagined.
My Opinion: This is the first book in the series and I happen to read it recently and I am in aww, like totally this book was so relatable and extremely gorgeous. This book follows, Willow's story a well going make up artist who suddenly gets married to Rick about whom she isn't much aware but things really start to change when she moves to NYC and she discovers so much about Rick's past and things get more intense yet interesting when Isa enters her life, she changes her normal happy life but how is Isabella related to Rick? Oh, you will to know it in the book not now, this book makes me connect with Willow so much, she is a character who takes decisions in the way I used to when I a teen, truly fast and sometimes crazy but in the same way she falls into some real crazy traps about her marriage and her life. I would say, the characters are so well developed as each character has their own different flavor which makes them more unique, Willow is soft hearted, a bit crazy and open to many new things. The language is si easy to go with, page after page I got more familiar with the amazing storytelling. I totally did now expect that it would turn out this way, but towards the end it becomes more interesting and fast paced. I totally enjoyed it.
Good and Bad: I really loved how a self built woman protagonist was potrayed. This book is going to be my personal favorite.
My favorites from the book:
I loved Willow, as I said she is so relatable but she is also so well built with layers and is so fun to read, there are many things which are sure to make you laugh. It's also stuffed with some deeper scenarios.
Target Audience: Anyone who enjoys a blend of romance, thrill and comedy. Readers above 14 will definitely enjoy it.
What to expect: Drama, fun, twists, laughter and an engaging story.
Final verdict: I would definitely suggest it. You should atleast read it once, go for it.
Rating: 4.25 /5
Genre: Rom com/ fiction
Summary: Scottish Makeup Artist Willow meets dashing New Yorker, Rick, and marries him after a whirlwind romance. But her new life in NYC is far from the perfect fresh start she imagined.
My Opinion: This is the first book in the series and I happen to read it recently and I am in aww, like totally this book was so relatable and extremely gorgeous. This book follows, Willow's story a well going make up artist who suddenly gets married to Rick about whom she isn't much aware but things really start to change when she moves to NYC and she discovers so much about Rick's past and things get more intense yet interesting when Isa enters her life, she changes her normal happy life but how is Isabella related to Rick? Oh, you will to know it in the book not now, this book makes me connect with Willow so much, she is a character who takes decisions in the way I used to when I a teen, truly fast and sometimes crazy but in the same way she falls into some real crazy traps about her marriage and her life. I would say, the characters are so well developed as each character has their own different flavor which makes them more unique, Willow is soft hearted, a bit crazy and open to many new things. The language is si easy to go with, page after page I got more familiar with the amazing storytelling. I totally did now expect that it would turn out this way, but towards the end it becomes more interesting and fast paced. I totally enjoyed it.
Good and Bad: I really loved how a self built woman protagonist was potrayed. This book is going to be my personal favorite.
My favorites from the book:
I loved Willow, as I said she is so relatable but she is also so well built with layers and is so fun to read, there are many things which are sure to make you laugh. It's also stuffed with some deeper scenarios.
Target Audience: Anyone who enjoys a blend of romance, thrill and comedy. Readers above 14 will definitely enjoy it.
What to expect: Drama, fun, twists, laughter and an engaging story.
Final verdict: I would definitely suggest it. You should atleast read it once, go for it.
Rating: 4.25 /5
September 12, 2020
Sheesh! Sometimes a book doesn’t really reveal itself until a few chapters in, and then other times, you know immediately that it’s going to be a painful ride. Sadly, the latter is the case with Warpaint; a hollow plot set on a six week flash in the pan shotgun marriage – except the baby isn’t theirs, and a central female character whose dream in life is to apply makeup to the stars. Leaving her dull life in Glasgow, Willow dreams of the grand life to be as she joins new husband Rick in New York. Except, the dream is always better than reality of course, and our duo’s brief marriage -literally, as in a day, ends within the first 20 pages. And perhaps this is where the tale should have ended as it is extremely difficult to build anything meaty or realistic, or even remotely relatable on such a flimsy starter. And at times it was genuinely difficult to even determine what sort of characters were being described. Despite this and quite ironically, Maya over describes simple matters, using excessive adverbs and abstract nouns for basic actions and events so much so that things were just very hyper-unreal. it is evident however, that there is some well rounded language skills but unfortunately, the thin and crispy plot didn’t enable some of the better writing to hold it’s own weight – and instead, it appeared melodramatic and utterly out of context. As the narrative continues, the mismanagement of tension becomes even more strange, and in many ways, it felt like reading a reasonably well linked diary of sorts without the ‘dear diary’ headers. Simply, there weren’t really any highs, and equally, the lows were underwhelming. Willow was 2 dimensional and Rick was somehow even more bewildering as a character. And whilst I enjoyed the attempt at a fighting spirit achieving her dreams against the odds, I just wasn’t attached to any of it.
December 25, 2020
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸- 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗣𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁: 𝗔 𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗥𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗱𝘆 (𝗔 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘂𝗽 𝗔𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝟭)
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿- 𝗝.𝗝. 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗮
This was my absolute first ideal opportunity to pursue a Rom-Com and it was totally an amazing one! Love is blind, we all know but come let's experience it in a brand new style.
Willow is a Scottish make-up craftsman who went gaga for Rick from New York. It was only a month and a half, the two of them met and they chose to tie the bunches. Willow was given countless admonitions, not to wed that Rick. She listened to no one and flew all over the way to New York City with the man, she knew distinctly for about a month and a half. But her new life in NYC is far from the perfect fresh start she imagined.
So, what will happen next? What will be the situation when she will find more about Rick's past? There is this woman named Isabella who professes to convey a child of Rick in her belly and Rick shrugs of saying that it's not his infant. Being a make-up artist, Willow gets a new line of work for herself in NY city however then it just so happens, she discovers Isabella working for a similar organization. What happens when two of these women will see each other consistently?
Frankly saying this concept was new for me so I didn't know what to expect while reading this but this storyline will make you laugh and sad in between. The composing style is so smooth and ideal for a plot this way. I was truly astonished by the writer's method of weaving a story like this, which is agreeable just as moving, contingent upon how pursuers would take it.
Anyone who enjoys a blend of romance, thrill, and comedy. Readers above 14 will definitely enjoy it. I would definitely suggest it. Overall, it was an engaging story. So, congratulations to the Author.
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿- 𝗝.𝗝. 𝗠𝗮𝘆𝗮
This was my absolute first ideal opportunity to pursue a Rom-Com and it was totally an amazing one! Love is blind, we all know but come let's experience it in a brand new style.
Willow is a Scottish make-up craftsman who went gaga for Rick from New York. It was only a month and a half, the two of them met and they chose to tie the bunches. Willow was given countless admonitions, not to wed that Rick. She listened to no one and flew all over the way to New York City with the man, she knew distinctly for about a month and a half. But her new life in NYC is far from the perfect fresh start she imagined.
So, what will happen next? What will be the situation when she will find more about Rick's past? There is this woman named Isabella who professes to convey a child of Rick in her belly and Rick shrugs of saying that it's not his infant. Being a make-up artist, Willow gets a new line of work for herself in NY city however then it just so happens, she discovers Isabella working for a similar organization. What happens when two of these women will see each other consistently?
Frankly saying this concept was new for me so I didn't know what to expect while reading this but this storyline will make you laugh and sad in between. The composing style is so smooth and ideal for a plot this way. I was truly astonished by the writer's method of weaving a story like this, which is agreeable just as moving, contingent upon how pursuers would take it.
Anyone who enjoys a blend of romance, thrill, and comedy. Readers above 14 will definitely enjoy it. I would definitely suggest it. Overall, it was an engaging story. So, congratulations to the Author.
July 18, 2020
💞The book follows the intresting journey of Willow Campbell a make up artist having a pretty much great life until she comes across Rick and his dramatic family, his mother Rosa again an interesting character, I don't know why but I liked Rosa, lol! But more of all, the book follows Willow's journey of self-discovery, trying to figure out her life she ends up into many dramatic situations, meets many intresting characters and finally ends up into a place where she questions her fate and decisions, on the other hand we have Rick, a well built character who didn't go with my taste maybe because I am Willow's fan, I love how the story takes twists and turns and it gets more and more engaging after each chapter.
.
.
It is a very quirky read, the fun element is so well explored and I totally felt I was watching a movie, the book has a well built sarcastic plot which is worth converted into a movie! Readers of all kind will enjoy this book, mostly because it just doesn't focuses on the theme romance but it also explores human aspects of living, it's filled with love, emotions and laughter. It also talked about marriage, though vaguely but if you are a reader who grasps important themes and topics then I am sure you will get what I mean. Go guys, read it because it's nostalgic and fun, overall it's worth it.
.
Rating: 4🌟
August 30, 2020
"I was one of those strange people who liked their own company and relished time alone."This is not the type of genre which I would usually choose to read, however, with a MC from Glasgow, I couldn't resist. The plot follows Willow, a make-up artist who has just arrived in New York with her new husband. Instead of the Manhattan apartment she dreamt of, Rick lives in a small bedsit and his ex-girlfriend is clearly still in the picture.
I would definitely say this is a feel-good novel and would recommend it to people who are needing a little pick-me-up. Willow is a strong lead and I loved her positivity. I very much doubt I would have been able to work alongside my husband's pregnant girlfriend without screaming. The book is relatively short and easy to read.
However, I felt Willow was a little stereotypically Scottish. There were references to tea, irn-bru, whisky and Tunnocks Tea Cakes all within the first three chapters. The plot was also quite predictable and the ending a little too perfect to be believable. Overall, the book read too much like a movie, but I thought it was well-written and amusing.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for providing a review copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 21, 2020
Book: Warpaint
Rating: 4/5
Author: J.J. Maya
Warpaint by J.J.Maya will surely make your day <3 and you will love this one to the core for sure. This latest Romcom by the Author J.J. Maya is totally outstanding. In this story, Willow is a Scottish make-up artist who fell in love with Rick from New York and later they got married but it was totally different after that what she had imagined.
I totally loved the character of willow in this one. The way she takes all the decisions are commendable and many of them will also relate as well. You will always be on the edge while reading this one because of the interesting twists. Language is also quite easy so everyone will get along with this one. Big ups to the Author for this lovely book “Warpaint”.
This was an amazing read for me and it was worth the time as well. I completed this book within 2 days, I would recommend this book to all the youngsters around 20+ to read this one :D. Also, I’m super excited for the sequel of this one now.
#BookReview
#BookReviewer.
Rating: 4/5
Author: J.J. Maya
Warpaint by J.J.Maya will surely make your day <3 and you will love this one to the core for sure. This latest Romcom by the Author J.J. Maya is totally outstanding. In this story, Willow is a Scottish make-up artist who fell in love with Rick from New York and later they got married but it was totally different after that what she had imagined.
I totally loved the character of willow in this one. The way she takes all the decisions are commendable and many of them will also relate as well. You will always be on the edge while reading this one because of the interesting twists. Language is also quite easy so everyone will get along with this one. Big ups to the Author for this lovely book “Warpaint”.
This was an amazing read for me and it was worth the time as well. I completed this book within 2 days, I would recommend this book to all the youngsters around 20+ to read this one :D. Also, I’m super excited for the sequel of this one now.
#BookReview
#BookReviewer.
September 17, 2020
💌I know this book can turn into a movie one day. As I read through the pages an imaginary world formed in my mind where Scottish Makeup Artist Willow meets a handsome New Yorker, Rick, and marries him after a sweet romance between the two. But her new life in NYC is far from the perfect fresh start as she is faced with the threat of deportation and her marriage gets over before it had the chance to begin.
💌The question now arises as you read more and more will Willow find the courage to stay in New York and make all her makeup artistry dreams come true? How will she cope up with this situation? Will she return to her home and lead a back to normal boring life?
💌Warpaint is a very interesting, romantic ,funny portrait of the triumph of hope over expectation. J.J. Maya brought New York and the retail world of cosmetics alive with a strong storyline and relatable characters.
💌J.J. Maya is a Scottish debut author and luxury travel copywriter. She has written this book on the basis of her experience working as a Flight Attendant and Makeup Artist in American Beauty Halls.
💌The question now arises as you read more and more will Willow find the courage to stay in New York and make all her makeup artistry dreams come true? How will she cope up with this situation? Will she return to her home and lead a back to normal boring life?
💌Warpaint is a very interesting, romantic ,funny portrait of the triumph of hope over expectation. J.J. Maya brought New York and the retail world of cosmetics alive with a strong storyline and relatable characters.
💌J.J. Maya is a Scottish debut author and luxury travel copywriter. She has written this book on the basis of her experience working as a Flight Attendant and Makeup Artist in American Beauty Halls.
April 2, 2021
A solid 4.5 stars for this thoroughly enjoyable tale that weaves together the plight of a naive new bride immigrating from Scotland to America where disillusionment awaits. It’s not the American Dream that lets Willow down, (mostly) nor the guidance she seeks from her bible-like book of wisdom and enlightenment, it’s her new scumbag of a husband, whom she married after only six weeks.
I love the fact that scrappy Willow pulled up her bootstraps and soldiered on, and I especially enjoyed that she found true love in a circle of friends who championed her to go after the life she truly deserved.
I would’ve liked to see a little clearer motivation about why Willow was unfairly deceived and comeuppance to those who lied to her and made her early days such fresh hell. Otherwise, I enjoyed the author’s clever storytelling, a few unexpected plot twists, the grand department store setting, and the introduction of such interesting, colourful and memorable characters.
I love the fact that scrappy Willow pulled up her bootstraps and soldiered on, and I especially enjoyed that she found true love in a circle of friends who championed her to go after the life she truly deserved.
I would’ve liked to see a little clearer motivation about why Willow was unfairly deceived and comeuppance to those who lied to her and made her early days such fresh hell. Otherwise, I enjoyed the author’s clever storytelling, a few unexpected plot twists, the grand department store setting, and the introduction of such interesting, colourful and memorable characters.
March 8, 2021
(1.5) This book started out with a lot of promise. The premise was interesting and held my attention as I couldn't wait to find out what would happen to Willow next. I quickly lost interest after quite a few spelling and grammar mistakes, as well as generally weak writing. The story was filled with confusing plot holes and it felt as though the author grew lazier and lazier with her writing as the story progressed. The ending was far too convenient in my opinion. There is to be a sequel, but I will not be reading it.
January 3, 2022
I had high expectations from this book after reading the blurb but was left disappointed.
The potential to make this a fabulous read was there but it missed the mark totally.
I took a dislike to willow quite quickly, she was reactive and didn’t seem reasonable at all. Some of the things she did were totally ridiculous.
The ending of the story was even worse.
The potential to make this a fabulous read was there but it missed the mark totally.
I took a dislike to willow quite quickly, she was reactive and didn’t seem reasonable at all. Some of the things she did were totally ridiculous.
The ending of the story was even worse.
September 23, 2020
It’s cute comedy story, which prompts us to look at our life problems and how most of them can be solved if we keep working towards them rather than running away from them. The tone of the story is satirical and the big fashion names which are thrown every few chapters kept me interested and going. A cute light read especially for those who love makeup and fashion industry.
December 5, 2022
I won this book in a giveaway from @chicklitcentral and @j.j.maya ! I thought it was a fantastic debut, and it was unlike anything I have ever read! Loved the characters and loved the storyline! I cannot wait to pick up more by this author. Eagerly anticipating reading her next novel, Willow.
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