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Jessica Beam Is a Hot Mess
An older title & cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
This book was previously published as The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance
When party loving Jessica Beam is betrayed by her best friend and turfed out of her home, she has no-one to turn to. Except maybe her posh long-lost grandmother Matilda...
But life isn't going well for Matilda either. The acclaimed etiquette books she wrote in her youth are no longer selling, her mortgage repayments are enormous and now her disheveled granddaughter has turned up out of the blue and she is not at all what Matilda hoped she'd be...
In an attempt to get a new book deal and make some much needed money, Jess and Matilda decide to use Matilda's old etiquette guides and teach messy, modern Jess how to become the ultimate demure lady. The true test of their project will be to capture the heart of the sexy, notorious playboy Leo Frost and prove that Matilda's guides still work.
Transforming Jess from trashy to tasteful will be no easy feat, and when Leo starts falling for Jess's newfound charms, what started out as a way to make some cash suddenly becomes a whole lot more complicated ...
Laugh your socks off with this hilarious feel-good chick lit read! It's packed with laugh out loud feel good moments, swoony, sexy romance, and truly unforgettable characters !
This book was previously published as The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance
When party loving Jessica Beam is betrayed by her best friend and turfed out of her home, she has no-one to turn to. Except maybe her posh long-lost grandmother Matilda...
But life isn't going well for Matilda either. The acclaimed etiquette books she wrote in her youth are no longer selling, her mortgage repayments are enormous and now her disheveled granddaughter has turned up out of the blue and she is not at all what Matilda hoped she'd be...
In an attempt to get a new book deal and make some much needed money, Jess and Matilda decide to use Matilda's old etiquette guides and teach messy, modern Jess how to become the ultimate demure lady. The true test of their project will be to capture the heart of the sexy, notorious playboy Leo Frost and prove that Matilda's guides still work.
Transforming Jess from trashy to tasteful will be no easy feat, and when Leo starts falling for Jess's newfound charms, what started out as a way to make some cash suddenly becomes a whole lot more complicated ...
Laugh your socks off with this hilarious feel-good chick lit read! It's packed with laugh out loud feel good moments, swoony, sexy romance, and truly unforgettable characters !
417 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2015
877 people are currently reading
4575 people want to read
About the author
Kirsty Greenwood
17 books2,204 followersKirsty Greenwood is a top ten bestselling author of funny, fearless and fast-paced romantic comedies about extraordinary love.
When she's not writing books she composes musicals, cooks new recipes with varying success, walks the blustery hills where she lives, buys too much glittery eyeshadow, sings to her dog, kisses her husband and reads all of the books she can get her grabby hands on.
If you want to find out about Kirsty's new releases and discounted books you can sign up to the newsletter here: www.kirstygreenwood.com/newsletter
Kirsty Instagrams at @kirsty_greenwood and can be found on Facebook at KirstyGreenwoodBooks. Say hi! She loves a natter.
When she's not writing books she composes musicals, cooks new recipes with varying success, walks the blustery hills where she lives, buys too much glittery eyeshadow, sings to her dog, kisses her husband and reads all of the books she can get her grabby hands on.
If you want to find out about Kirsty's new releases and discounted books you can sign up to the newsletter here: www.kirstygreenwood.com/newsletter
Kirsty Instagrams at @kirsty_greenwood and can be found on Facebook at KirstyGreenwoodBooks. Say hi! She loves a natter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 432 reviews
October 28, 2018
DNF @1% for reasons stated in my reading notes.
May 30, 2015
Dear friends, I had A Great Time reading this book!
It feels like it's been months since I've read a chick-lit and I wasn't even aware I missed it in my life.
This book reminded me how it feels to laugh out loud while just reading. It was good to be remembered.
In this book we follow Jessica, who is a party girl with not so much obligations or the work ethic in her life. All she wants to do is party, travel and not to take things seriously, until one day, the life slaps he. She has no job, no place to live and no money.
What I found in this novel is the fact that not one character in this book is likeable at the first apperience, but over the time, chapter by chapter, you start to get attached to them.
At first, I didn't like Jessica. I tought she was selfish and deserved what came for her. Despise that, I wanted to know how she's going to manage her new life. I also wondered if there's going to be that typical character development where the character puts her old life behind her and becomes a different person.
I can gladely say this book is free of all those big cliches.
Peach was my favorite character. I can totally imagine that girl somewhere in the real world.
Summer was the one we should probably think about as a b*tch, but I actually understood her and I would probably act the same way she did, if I was her. Does that make me a b*tch too? Probably, but at least an honest one.
After all, Jessica's leak of responsibilities and better judgement have put her in the position she found herself in.
Matilda, Jessica's Grandmother, was my least favorite character. Although, I would like to read her books so I could try some of her advices.
Don't let the cover and genre fool you! This book contains some serious topics, such as a suicide and depression, shattered loves and shettered pesronalities. That is what I like about this book the most.
And the fact that author knew how to present this story and touch those serious things in the book, but at the same time wrote a funny book without the dissrespect to people with simiral problems and in simiral situations, makes me appreciate her as an author.
If you seek for a new chick-lit, I warmly recommend this one.
I got this book for free in an exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Pan and Netgalley.
It feels like it's been months since I've read a chick-lit and I wasn't even aware I missed it in my life.
This book reminded me how it feels to laugh out loud while just reading. It was good to be remembered.
In this book we follow Jessica, who is a party girl with not so much obligations or the work ethic in her life. All she wants to do is party, travel and not to take things seriously, until one day, the life slaps he. She has no job, no place to live and no money.
What I found in this novel is the fact that not one character in this book is likeable at the first apperience, but over the time, chapter by chapter, you start to get attached to them.
At first, I didn't like Jessica. I tought she was selfish and deserved what came for her. Despise that, I wanted to know how she's going to manage her new life. I also wondered if there's going to be that typical character development where the character puts her old life behind her and becomes a different person.
I can gladely say this book is free of all those big cliches.
Peach was my favorite character. I can totally imagine that girl somewhere in the real world.
Summer was the one we should probably think about as a b*tch, but I actually understood her and I would probably act the same way she did, if I was her. Does that make me a b*tch too? Probably, but at least an honest one.
After all, Jessica's leak of responsibilities and better judgement have put her in the position she found herself in.
Matilda, Jessica's Grandmother, was my least favorite character. Although, I would like to read her books so I could try some of her advices.
Don't let the cover and genre fool you! This book contains some serious topics, such as a suicide and depression, shattered loves and shettered pesronalities. That is what I like about this book the most.
And the fact that author knew how to present this story and touch those serious things in the book, but at the same time wrote a funny book without the dissrespect to people with simiral problems and in simiral situations, makes me appreciate her as an author.
If you seek for a new chick-lit, I warmly recommend this one.
I got this book for free in an exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Pan and Netgalley.
January 8, 2020
Джес е изключително дразнещо и мега шантаво същество. Разсмя ме доста пъти. Хареса ми израстването ѝ и начина, по която все пак се разви историята. Оказа се интересна по един крайно неподозиращ начин. А и честно казано, имам пристрастия към книги, чието действие се развива в Лондон.
April 20, 2015
I really didn’t like Jess at first. She’s the type of girl you call when you want to have a fun night out. You don’t call her if it’s about anything else but a party, as she will probably embarrass the heck out of you by getting insanely drunk. So I do get why her roommate did what she did, but Summer could have just been honest with Jess, as now she was a stab backing witch.
So after being kicked out and with that also losing her job, Jess realizes she has nowhere to go to or anyone to turn to. Until she finds out about her grandma. Though they’ve never met, Jess quickly immerses herself in her life. It seems though that the grandmother is also in a pickle when it comes to money. Together with a publisher, they agree to write a new book. Using her grandmother’s tips and tricks, Jess is to catch a man.
Now up front you know that’s not going to end well. So the plot for the most part was predictable. It actually took a while to get to that point in the story, about the whole Jess meets man thing. Therefor the start was a bit slow for me.
Jess is certainly a fun character. She’s very direct, and seems to do only things that make her feel good. Jess has been avoiding anything “serious”, for example: romantic relationships outside the bedroom, birthday parties for her friends’ children, having any clue what to do with her life…
I felt really bad for Leo Frost pretty fast. He behaved like a jerk before, but it’s immediately clear that he’s different when it comes to Jess. I have to say that by the end, he was the most likable character of all.
The focus of the story was mostly on Jess, and her drama. There is certainly some growth within her throughout the story, and it’s necessary. I would have liked to have seen more romance. Now I had some trouble believing the connection between Jess and Leo, ’cause it all happened so fast.
All in all not a bad book. It was just a typical British chick lit. The characters were okay, plot somewhat predictable, not enough romance for me, though there was plenty of humor.
*I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
So after being kicked out and with that also losing her job, Jess realizes she has nowhere to go to or anyone to turn to. Until she finds out about her grandma. Though they’ve never met, Jess quickly immerses herself in her life. It seems though that the grandmother is also in a pickle when it comes to money. Together with a publisher, they agree to write a new book. Using her grandmother’s tips and tricks, Jess is to catch a man.
Now up front you know that’s not going to end well. So the plot for the most part was predictable. It actually took a while to get to that point in the story, about the whole Jess meets man thing. Therefor the start was a bit slow for me.
Jess is certainly a fun character. She’s very direct, and seems to do only things that make her feel good. Jess has been avoiding anything “serious”, for example: romantic relationships outside the bedroom, birthday parties for her friends’ children, having any clue what to do with her life…
I felt really bad for Leo Frost pretty fast. He behaved like a jerk before, but it’s immediately clear that he’s different when it comes to Jess. I have to say that by the end, he was the most likable character of all.
The focus of the story was mostly on Jess, and her drama. There is certainly some growth within her throughout the story, and it’s necessary. I would have liked to have seen more romance. Now I had some trouble believing the connection between Jess and Leo, ’cause it all happened so fast.
All in all not a bad book. It was just a typical British chick lit. The characters were okay, plot somewhat predictable, not enough romance for me, though there was plenty of humor.
*I received a copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
December 18, 2024
4.5 stars. Would have been 5 had the ending not felt so rushed.
Jessica Beam is a Hot Mess! No, seriously, she is. Her life is one big party and she takes nothing seriously. Not even the most important meeting of her life. So when the book deal of the century derails in the most spectacular way, Jessica Beam is right in the middle of the fray, dressed in a ridiculous onesie, drunk on champagne and insulting one of the most influential guests at a book launch party: hotshot playboy, millionaire, ad-executive extraordinaire, Leo Frost.
When Jessica is unceremoniously fired and then evicted by her flat-mate, employer and bestie, Summer, she is left with nowhere to go but her grandmother Matilda's house in London. The grandmother she's never met.
As it turns out, Matilda is something of writer herself, having penned a much loved series of books during the 1950's on how to find a husband. Now destitute, Matilda and Jessica tenuously team up to revive Matilda's books by giving them a fresh, current spin. In order to do this, they set about proving these tried and true methods of the 50's still work in present day by selecting one Leo Frost as their unwitting test subject.
Having changed her appearance and taken on a new persona, Jessica easily falls into step with Leo's life, finding that he is not at all the man she expects him to be. Over time, learning that he's introspective, sensitive and artistic. Also, during this time in the parallel story, Jessica, who never takes anything seriously, finds herself forming real relationships with her newfound family.
Here's what Kirsty Greenwood does exceptionally well, she weaves together multiple storylines, building on them slowly as she develops her characters and fleshes out her plots, mixing and blending them seamlessly until you have this wonderful mosaic of storytelling. There are lots of underlying themes in Kirsty's novels as well, and this one is no exception. Themes like depression and substance abuse, absentee and overbearing parents, learning to trust one's instincts and reinventing yourself are all present in this novel.
Jessica isn't just some ditsy, carefree airhead, she's smart and sharp and perceptive. She's funny and a bit brash but she has a huge heart, even if she doesn't believe it so witnessing her evolution with each page turn is engrossing. As she learns to trust and believe in herself as someone capable of loving without there being an inevitable loss, a lesson her mother imparted on her, her love stories blossom. And by stories, I do mean stories, because Jessica learns throughout the course of this novel about all the various kinds of love a person can experience. In Peach, her grandmother's assistant, she learns about the love of true friendship. With Matilda, she experiences familial love. And in Leo, she finds romantic love. All of these build and swell and overtake the cool, party-girl Jessica we meet in the beginning until her former self is barely a memory.
I do recommend that if you read this, take the extra 30 minutes to read the FREE bonus epilogue available on the author's website because my one gripe about this novel is its ending, which felt rushed. I'm glad it was wrapped up neatly but it felt like a hollow victory. I wanted to explore more of the Leo and Jessica dynamic after the big reveal and we didn't get that. While the bonus epilogue doesn't necessarily spell out what happened, it does offer enough of the "after" to appease me. Also, I would have like a bit more Summer comeuppance since she was a rancid piece of work but I'm fine with the one sentence she was afforded in the epilogue. I took off half a star for the ending. Other than that, this book was amazing.
Jessica Beam is a Hot Mess! No, seriously, she is. Her life is one big party and she takes nothing seriously. Not even the most important meeting of her life. So when the book deal of the century derails in the most spectacular way, Jessica Beam is right in the middle of the fray, dressed in a ridiculous onesie, drunk on champagne and insulting one of the most influential guests at a book launch party: hotshot playboy, millionaire, ad-executive extraordinaire, Leo Frost.
When Jessica is unceremoniously fired and then evicted by her flat-mate, employer and bestie, Summer, she is left with nowhere to go but her grandmother Matilda's house in London. The grandmother she's never met.
As it turns out, Matilda is something of writer herself, having penned a much loved series of books during the 1950's on how to find a husband. Now destitute, Matilda and Jessica tenuously team up to revive Matilda's books by giving them a fresh, current spin. In order to do this, they set about proving these tried and true methods of the 50's still work in present day by selecting one Leo Frost as their unwitting test subject.
Having changed her appearance and taken on a new persona, Jessica easily falls into step with Leo's life, finding that he is not at all the man she expects him to be. Over time, learning that he's introspective, sensitive and artistic. Also, during this time in the parallel story, Jessica, who never takes anything seriously, finds herself forming real relationships with her newfound family.
Here's what Kirsty Greenwood does exceptionally well, she weaves together multiple storylines, building on them slowly as she develops her characters and fleshes out her plots, mixing and blending them seamlessly until you have this wonderful mosaic of storytelling. There are lots of underlying themes in Kirsty's novels as well, and this one is no exception. Themes like depression and substance abuse, absentee and overbearing parents, learning to trust one's instincts and reinventing yourself are all present in this novel.
Jessica isn't just some ditsy, carefree airhead, she's smart and sharp and perceptive. She's funny and a bit brash but she has a huge heart, even if she doesn't believe it so witnessing her evolution with each page turn is engrossing. As she learns to trust and believe in herself as someone capable of loving without there being an inevitable loss, a lesson her mother imparted on her, her love stories blossom. And by stories, I do mean stories, because Jessica learns throughout the course of this novel about all the various kinds of love a person can experience. In Peach, her grandmother's assistant, she learns about the love of true friendship. With Matilda, she experiences familial love. And in Leo, she finds romantic love. All of these build and swell and overtake the cool, party-girl Jessica we meet in the beginning until her former self is barely a memory.
I do recommend that if you read this, take the extra 30 minutes to read the FREE bonus epilogue available on the author's website because my one gripe about this novel is its ending, which felt rushed. I'm glad it was wrapped up neatly but it felt like a hollow victory. I wanted to explore more of the Leo and Jessica dynamic after the big reveal and we didn't get that. While the bonus epilogue doesn't necessarily spell out what happened, it does offer enough of the "after" to appease me. Also, I would have like a bit more Summer comeuppance since she was a rancid piece of work but I'm fine with the one sentence she was afforded in the epilogue. I took off half a star for the ending. Other than that, this book was amazing.
April 9, 2015
Originally posted on This Chick Reads
*Copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review*
'The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance' is the second book by amazingly talented Kirsty Greenwood. Last year I reviewed her book 'Yours Truly' (Read my review here) and I remember I was fascinated with her writing. I even remember thinking (and I say that in my review) that I can only imagine how good her next novel will be. And I'm so glad I was right. But no matter how good I expected her next novel to be, I must say I'm blown away by it. My all time favorite book and the book that got me hooked on the chick lit genre was Jane Green's 'Jemima J'. For years, despite reading hundreds of chick lits in between, it remained number one, high above the rest in this genre. But this book changed everything. So you'll understand when I say that this book is my bible and the best chick lit book I've ever read.
Everything about is just perfect. From the colorful, stunning cover with the gorgeous girl dressed vintage, to the beautiful writing and hilarious story line. I've never been so fascinated with a book heroine before. Jess Beam is wonderful, cider loving, up beat and a party animal. She's a girl you all either wish to be or wish to have in your life. When we meet her for the first time she works and lives with her best friend, Summer and writes articles for their site. An opportunity turns up for them to write a book and after seeing Jess is the talented one who'll do all the writing, Summer dumps her in the most cruel way. But even at these moments, Jess is not pathetic, though she's not only jobless but lost someone who she thought was a friend. Being stabbed in the back is something we've all experienced in our lives (if you haven't, well consider yourselves lucky), but even at times like this, Jess manages to rise above it and look for ways to survive.
After meeting her grandmother, famous writer though now completely broke, Matilda Beam, she's off to a new adventure. Back in the days Matilda Beam has been well known writer with a long lists of Guides written, such as how to behave like a lady or how to snatch a gentleman. When she meets a publisher trying to get her books republished, she's told her rules are out of fashion and totally not applicable for the modern woman. It is then that Matilda turns to Jess for help, whom she's to transform into a lady to prove her tips work.
I'm telling you, this book is good! I was laughing out loud, imagining Jess rolling her eyes at Matilda's tips, while good old Matilda is trying to make a point. Even now, days after I read this book, Jess is still living in my head and my heart. But it's not only Jess, Peach and Matilda are wonderful characters. The best thing about this book is that it's about friendship, family and of course, has a a bit of romance. It's an interesting mix of all the things I love in books and has all the ingredients a great chick lit novel is bound to have. It's obvious Ms Kirsty owns the chick lit genre, she bloody owns it! Not only was I hooked from page one, I was completely absorbed in it through out, forgetting about everything I needed to do. Even going to the bathroom! My bladder was screaming, but all I was thinking was I gotta read couple of pages more. And that is how I know this book is a hit, when it's larger even than Mother Nature.
I could say millions of things about why I love this book, yet I couldn't find a single flaw. It's perfect from any angle, the characters are unique and lovable, the story line flows and pages turn by itself. Ms Greenwood is undoubtedly the best thing that's happened to the chick lit genre and her writing is simply a breath of fresh air. If you're a chick lit fan, this book is a must! And don't you wait a day longer, just READ IT!
December 17, 2019
"Класически наръчник за любовта" представлява очарователната литературна версия на "Как да разкараш гаджето за десет дни". Е, в общи линии. Джесика Бийм е ходеща катастрофа, която сама не оценява собствената си стойност и талант. И не визирам свободното ѝ социално поведение. Неизбежно стигайки до дъното, младата жена ще открие, че на крехките 28 години все още има какво да научи за живота, любовта и самата себе си. Пътят ѝ към израстването ще ни позабавлява, поядоса, понатъжи, но в крайна сметка ще ни изпълни с чиста доза надежда и широка усмивка на удовлетворен читател.
September 18, 2015
Although there were some humorous/interesting scenes, this SO isn't what I expected this book to be about.
I expected it to go a little something like this:
Lady with history of one bad relationship after another finally gives up and is wandering around London, feeling sorry for herself, when she stumbles upon a book in a used book shop. It's titled: "The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance." It gives advice on how to dress, how to talk, posture, etc.
And this lady, willing to try anything at this point if it means her love life won't be a big failure, decides to give it a try.
She changes her hair, her clothes, her manner of speaking, and does happen to catch the attention of this really great guy. Only, after a while, she isn't sure that she can keep the act up, and worries that the guy is in love with someone she's not.
*** Spoilers below. So beware! lol
What I liked:
Jess getting all dolled up in 1950s outfits, making her hair and make up more vintage, etc.
The dates she had with Leo were pretty great too. Really enjoyed those!
What I didn't like:
Making up with Leo.
That whole scene didn't make sense to me at all. It wrapped up too nicely. Why did Leo have such a change of heart? Yes, I get the whole "quitting my job and pursuing art angle" (that was very consistent), but then....he just inexplicably forgives Jess, allows her to release the book, and even offers to illustrate for it??!?!?! WTF?!?!? She just shattered his heart! Broke all of his delusions. Made him realize that someone had made a fool out of him! Why would he ever come back?
Rose and Thom.
Okay. Why did Jess get mad at Matilda over all of this? Thom took the $20,000 and ran. I don't give a shit if he came back for 4 days later. The fact that he took the money and left makes me see red. Good riddance! And, it seems that he was a gambler. I don't care if he paid Rose back! If you EVER have a boyfriend who gambles and asks you for money to sustain his gambling habit, DO NOT fall in love with him! Run for the hills! Arrrrrgggggghhhh.
Jamie. Okay, I get that Jess didn't love him, and they were just never meant to be. But Jamie WAS falling for her. And they were boinking all of the time! And then they just become friends!?!??! I don't think Jamie would've been okay with this arrangement.
Valentina. Why did she talk so weird, calling Jess "duckling" and "lavender fluff" and "kitten paw" etc. Wasn't she closer to Jess and Leo's age? These odd pet names make her seem like a grandmother character.
Her character didn't seem consistent, either. She seemed nice enough. I get that her heart was broken when Leo dumped her. But being vindictive enough to ask Jess to make Leo fall in love with her under false pretenses just didn't jive with me. It didn't seem to fit her character at all.
In fact, I think this would have been a stronger story if the Valentina/Leo love connection was gone entirely. Jess could conceivably picked Leo on her own, as she had a bad encounter with him early on in the book.
Summer. I wish she would have crashed and burned more. I was waiting for her inevitable demise (or at least, demise of her career) and then.... we really don't hear much about her, other than Jess posting weird stuff on their blog, and Summer changing the password. Talk about anti-climatic!
I think it would have been MUCH better for Jess to release the book, get a lot of attention for it, and then Summer comes crawling back, begging to be part of it.
I really enjoyed Kirsty's first book, "Yours Truly." That's why I was so excited to read this one! It just wasn't what I expected at all :(
I expected it to go a little something like this:
Lady with history of one bad relationship after another finally gives up and is wandering around London, feeling sorry for herself, when she stumbles upon a book in a used book shop. It's titled: "The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance." It gives advice on how to dress, how to talk, posture, etc.
And this lady, willing to try anything at this point if it means her love life won't be a big failure, decides to give it a try.
She changes her hair, her clothes, her manner of speaking, and does happen to catch the attention of this really great guy. Only, after a while, she isn't sure that she can keep the act up, and worries that the guy is in love with someone she's not.
*** Spoilers below. So beware! lol
What I liked:
Jess getting all dolled up in 1950s outfits, making her hair and make up more vintage, etc.
The dates she had with Leo were pretty great too. Really enjoyed those!
What I didn't like:
Making up with Leo.
That whole scene didn't make sense to me at all. It wrapped up too nicely. Why did Leo have such a change of heart? Yes, I get the whole "quitting my job and pursuing art angle" (that was very consistent), but then....he just inexplicably forgives Jess, allows her to release the book, and even offers to illustrate for it??!?!?! WTF?!?!? She just shattered his heart! Broke all of his delusions. Made him realize that someone had made a fool out of him! Why would he ever come back?
Rose and Thom.
Okay. Why did Jess get mad at Matilda over all of this? Thom took the $20,000 and ran. I don't give a shit if he came back for 4 days later. The fact that he took the money and left makes me see red. Good riddance! And, it seems that he was a gambler. I don't care if he paid Rose back! If you EVER have a boyfriend who gambles and asks you for money to sustain his gambling habit, DO NOT fall in love with him! Run for the hills! Arrrrrgggggghhhh.
Jamie. Okay, I get that Jess didn't love him, and they were just never meant to be. But Jamie WAS falling for her. And they were boinking all of the time! And then they just become friends!?!??! I don't think Jamie would've been okay with this arrangement.
Valentina. Why did she talk so weird, calling Jess "duckling" and "lavender fluff" and "kitten paw" etc. Wasn't she closer to Jess and Leo's age? These odd pet names make her seem like a grandmother character.
Her character didn't seem consistent, either. She seemed nice enough. I get that her heart was broken when Leo dumped her. But being vindictive enough to ask Jess to make Leo fall in love with her under false pretenses just didn't jive with me. It didn't seem to fit her character at all.
In fact, I think this would have been a stronger story if the Valentina/Leo love connection was gone entirely. Jess could conceivably picked Leo on her own, as she had a bad encounter with him early on in the book.
Summer. I wish she would have crashed and burned more. I was waiting for her inevitable demise (or at least, demise of her career) and then.... we really don't hear much about her, other than Jess posting weird stuff on their blog, and Summer changing the password. Talk about anti-climatic!
I think it would have been MUCH better for Jess to release the book, get a lot of attention for it, and then Summer comes crawling back, begging to be part of it.
I really enjoyed Kirsty's first book, "Yours Truly." That's why I was so excited to read this one! It just wasn't what I expected at all :(
February 3, 2016
So erm, I have a new favourite book of all time. I actually really do mean that too. We fall in love with books so many times don't we? But there's always one that gets you. And in that I don't mean it gets you teary-eyed or gushy and shit, I mean it gets you! You as a person. You identify so much in the characters, the situations, in every page. The hurt, the laughter, the love all gets whacked up to a million and the feels come down hard. When a book does that to you, and it's really quite a tough job to do, you know you've found your book. The book that was written for you. And, this was definitely written for me. (Yeah, I know it wasn't written especially for me, but I can pretend it was)
Anyway, the book is tremendous. It's seriously good fun. It has you giggling manically and doing great big lol's. (Did I really just write lol's? Shoot me right now!) As soon as you start reading and are thrown straight into bed with Jessica Beam you fall in total love with her. She Is the ultimate heroine. What's even better is that she's northern. That comes through something wicked in this read. I obviously get northern humour a lot more than others so it was right up my street, but I do honestly think it would be up any ones street.
I'm a complete sucker for a good love story, and one that has a good twist, a bit of heartbreak, and a bitchy villain. So it was perfect for me.
Oh and I adore the 50s era. Obvs some of you have already met me and seen how I dress up. Well if am out of me jarmers like.
I am just far too excited with this book. Oh and you know what else right? I watched a film when I was young and I fell in love with it. I watched it over and over. As I got older no one had even heard of it. I was gutted. It took me years to track down a DVD in UK format too. So when in this book, that was personally written for me, and had me swooning over the clothes, characters, and everything else it had in it. It also had, wait for it.... TEEN WITCH! Fucking Teen Witch please!! Not even just that though, it was my ultimate favourite part of the entire film.
I am so so so in love with this book. It is 3:38am now and I am seriously going to wake my husband up to tell him about it. If he kills me it will have been worth it. Shit review I know, but I just can't. I am just far too excited for it. I know for a fact it is going to be one of the biggest sellers of 2015. It is Chicklit with a whopping big crown on.
Kirsty Greenwood I applaud you. Your awesome imagination. Your brilliant story-telling skills. AND, that you wrote me a book! ;)
Go buy this book. Don't even wait. Go now. Go on. Even if it's the e-book. Just do it. (Nike Swoosh)
5/5
Anyway, the book is tremendous. It's seriously good fun. It has you giggling manically and doing great big lol's. (Did I really just write lol's? Shoot me right now!) As soon as you start reading and are thrown straight into bed with Jessica Beam you fall in total love with her. She Is the ultimate heroine. What's even better is that she's northern. That comes through something wicked in this read. I obviously get northern humour a lot more than others so it was right up my street, but I do honestly think it would be up any ones street.
I'm a complete sucker for a good love story, and one that has a good twist, a bit of heartbreak, and a bitchy villain. So it was perfect for me.
Oh and I adore the 50s era. Obvs some of you have already met me and seen how I dress up. Well if am out of me jarmers like.
I am just far too excited with this book. Oh and you know what else right? I watched a film when I was young and I fell in love with it. I watched it over and over. As I got older no one had even heard of it. I was gutted. It took me years to track down a DVD in UK format too. So when in this book, that was personally written for me, and had me swooning over the clothes, characters, and everything else it had in it. It also had, wait for it.... TEEN WITCH! Fucking Teen Witch please!! Not even just that though, it was my ultimate favourite part of the entire film.
I am so so so in love with this book. It is 3:38am now and I am seriously going to wake my husband up to tell him about it. If he kills me it will have been worth it. Shit review I know, but I just can't. I am just far too excited for it. I know for a fact it is going to be one of the biggest sellers of 2015. It is Chicklit with a whopping big crown on.
Kirsty Greenwood I applaud you. Your awesome imagination. Your brilliant story-telling skills. AND, that you wrote me a book! ;)
Go buy this book. Don't even wait. Go now. Go on. Even if it's the e-book. Just do it. (Nike Swoosh)
5/5
April 30, 2015
Jess finds herself homeless and jobless on the same day after expecting to be signing a big book deal with her best friend on an internet concept they run, that she writes for her friend. At a book launch where her friend conveniently poured a drink over her outfit before they left and convinced her to go in a onesie, she manages to sabotage the launch and meets an obnoxious man.
She decides to seek out her estranged grandma and what follows is a gloriously, frothy bubble of her being forced to try out her 1950's style 'How to meet a man' type books in a hope that they can save her grandma's house . She's not entirely caught up in the 50's world and still enjoys being Jess behind her grandma's back.
As part of the book deal she has to use her grandma's tips to 'snare' a man- and the publisher has chosen the 'obnoxious' man she met at the book launch.They plan outfits and hair and 'topics for conversation' in a bid for her to win this gentleman round! Although she feels out of place in the 50's styling, she does start to feel differently and actually enjoys the dates with Leo.
I loved the dates, her blossoming friendship with Peach and her new relationship with her Grandma. There are family skeletons hiding in the cupboards and more heartbreak for them all. The dates were wonderfully described and I loved both Leo and Jess.
With many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this lovely book.
She decides to seek out her estranged grandma and what follows is a gloriously, frothy bubble of her being forced to try out her 1950's style 'How to meet a man' type books in a hope that they can save her grandma's house . She's not entirely caught up in the 50's world and still enjoys being Jess behind her grandma's back.
As part of the book deal she has to use her grandma's tips to 'snare' a man- and the publisher has chosen the 'obnoxious' man she met at the book launch.They plan outfits and hair and 'topics for conversation' in a bid for her to win this gentleman round! Although she feels out of place in the 50's styling, she does start to feel differently and actually enjoys the dates with Leo.
I loved the dates, her blossoming friendship with Peach and her new relationship with her Grandma. There are family skeletons hiding in the cupboards and more heartbreak for them all. The dates were wonderfully described and I loved both Leo and Jess.
With many thanks to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this lovely book.
July 1, 2020
Леле, тази книга се оказа изненадващо освежаваща. Джес беше дразнещо същество през половината време, но по един нелеп начин, а да наблюдавам как тази разхвърляна, цапната в устата и с натрапчив проблем с връзките, лудетина се преобразява в жена, която най-накрая намира семейство, добри приятели и мъж, на който би отдала сърцето си беше вълнуващо. Сладка, забавна, но и затрогваща история.
March 30, 2021
5 BEAM-TASTIC STARS
Oh my gosh!
This story gave me huge John Tucker Must Die vibes and I LOVE IT.
Jess is a mess. She’s loud and loves to drink. Everywhere she goes she leaves her mark but underneath all the loudness is a loving king and caring woman. A woman that feels and is afraid.
Leo is a secret, a secret you can’t wait to unveil. After lots of girlfriends and some heartbreaks he’s painted as a playboy, a man who breaks hearts but underneath all the gossip is a man who knows what he wants and is clear from the start. A man who wants to be loved for who he is and not what he has.
Watching this whole story play out was intriguing. Although I enjoyed it A LOT I was sat waiting, waiting for the s**t storm that was going to come, it was inevitable and damn, it came down hard. It hurt my heart.
Not going to lie though, I was shielding my eyes from the second hand embarrassment a few times. The state this woman gets herself in is insane and oh dear, I had to put the book down for a few haha.
This is my first read from this author and I become obsessed with it within the first couple pages. These two captured my attention from the get go. I love them so much.
Oh my gosh!
This story gave me huge John Tucker Must Die vibes and I LOVE IT.
Jess is a mess. She’s loud and loves to drink. Everywhere she goes she leaves her mark but underneath all the loudness is a loving king and caring woman. A woman that feels and is afraid.
Leo is a secret, a secret you can’t wait to unveil. After lots of girlfriends and some heartbreaks he’s painted as a playboy, a man who breaks hearts but underneath all the gossip is a man who knows what he wants and is clear from the start. A man who wants to be loved for who he is and not what he has.
Watching this whole story play out was intriguing. Although I enjoyed it A LOT I was sat waiting, waiting for the s**t storm that was going to come, it was inevitable and damn, it came down hard. It hurt my heart.
Not going to lie though, I was shielding my eyes from the second hand embarrassment a few times. The state this woman gets herself in is insane and oh dear, I had to put the book down for a few haha.
This is my first read from this author and I become obsessed with it within the first couple pages. These two captured my attention from the get go. I love them so much.
April 9, 2015
http://www.pagetostagereviews.com/201...
Jessica Beam is not the likeliest of literary heroes. She is wild and careless, and it doesn't come as a huge surprise when all her luck runs out at once and she finds herself an out of work Billy no-mates. And because she'd been sharing a flat with her ex-best friend, she's suddenly homeless too. So in a fit of anger she kidnaps her roommate Summer's cat, Mr Belding, packs her belongings in a bin liner and sets out for the only possible roof-over-her-head she can think of; the house of the grandmother she has never met.
Matilda Beam was an icon back in the 1950s. She penned a series of successful books providing young women with all the advice they needed to behave like proper ladies and snag themselves a suitable husband. Nowadays though, she lives in a house far too big and far too cluttered for just her, and as the unopened bills pile up she is unable to convince her publisher that her books are still very relevant for the 21st century woman and should be reprinted.
When Jess unexpectedly appears on her doorstep she is the least lady-like woman Matilda has ever laid eyes on, yet there is something about her granddaughter that makes Matilda take her in. And when Matilda claims that her vintage guides can provide Jess with everything she needs to get back on top, and catch a handsome man to boot, the two realise that the new-found relationship can be mutually beneficial.
I loved how Kirsty Greenwood forced two absolute opposites like Jess and Matilda together as their completely different views on dating and romance provided a lot of interesting dynamics within the novel. While main character Jess was not at all what I was expecting when I started reading – rather than a sweet and instantly likeable character, as usually is the case in romantic comedy books, she was brash and selfish – this made the story exciting and unexpected. I did not know from the very first page what the conclusion would be, or how Jess' journey would pan out, and that made it a very enjoyable ride indeed.
It wasn't just about Jess and Matilda either, Kirsty has sprinkled her second novel with some fantastic supporting characters as well, from those I instantly loved, such as Matilda's assistant Peach, to those I disliked with a passion (*cough* Summer *cough*). It was an interesting bunch of people and their diversity created some great and very memorable scenes (point in case, Peach's first date).
What makes this foremost such a fantastic novel though, is Kirsty's brilliant voice running throughout. It is incredibly fresh and funny, I dare you not to laugh-out-loud while reading about some of the more 'interesting' situations Jess manages to get herself into. There was definitely some eye-rolling from me, as I couldn't believe what she got up to next, but her escapades also made for a hugely entertaining reading experience. There was even one occasion where she made me laugh until actual tears were running down my face. On. The. Train. People stared.
It wasn't all fun and games though, there was a great story at the core of the novel and the vintage tips throughout appealed to the nostalgic in me as well. And thought not quite going all the way back to the 1950s, I loved the heavy dose of pop culture references running through the story, which will particularly appeal to those who grew up in the 80s and 90s. After finishing the book I had the sudden desire to rewatch Saved By The Bell, The Goonies (Best. Film. Ever.) and The O.C., while listening to some Kings of Leon Live, subliminal message received.
From the eye-catching cover and enticing title to the wonderful vintage tips and the utterly brilliant story hiding within, there is nothing not to love about The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance – this is a rom-com read at its very best.
Jessica Beam is not the likeliest of literary heroes. She is wild and careless, and it doesn't come as a huge surprise when all her luck runs out at once and she finds herself an out of work Billy no-mates. And because she'd been sharing a flat with her ex-best friend, she's suddenly homeless too. So in a fit of anger she kidnaps her roommate Summer's cat, Mr Belding, packs her belongings in a bin liner and sets out for the only possible roof-over-her-head she can think of; the house of the grandmother she has never met.
Matilda Beam was an icon back in the 1950s. She penned a series of successful books providing young women with all the advice they needed to behave like proper ladies and snag themselves a suitable husband. Nowadays though, she lives in a house far too big and far too cluttered for just her, and as the unopened bills pile up she is unable to convince her publisher that her books are still very relevant for the 21st century woman and should be reprinted.
When Jess unexpectedly appears on her doorstep she is the least lady-like woman Matilda has ever laid eyes on, yet there is something about her granddaughter that makes Matilda take her in. And when Matilda claims that her vintage guides can provide Jess with everything she needs to get back on top, and catch a handsome man to boot, the two realise that the new-found relationship can be mutually beneficial.
I loved how Kirsty Greenwood forced two absolute opposites like Jess and Matilda together as their completely different views on dating and romance provided a lot of interesting dynamics within the novel. While main character Jess was not at all what I was expecting when I started reading – rather than a sweet and instantly likeable character, as usually is the case in romantic comedy books, she was brash and selfish – this made the story exciting and unexpected. I did not know from the very first page what the conclusion would be, or how Jess' journey would pan out, and that made it a very enjoyable ride indeed.
It wasn't just about Jess and Matilda either, Kirsty has sprinkled her second novel with some fantastic supporting characters as well, from those I instantly loved, such as Matilda's assistant Peach, to those I disliked with a passion (*cough* Summer *cough*). It was an interesting bunch of people and their diversity created some great and very memorable scenes (point in case, Peach's first date).
What makes this foremost such a fantastic novel though, is Kirsty's brilliant voice running throughout. It is incredibly fresh and funny, I dare you not to laugh-out-loud while reading about some of the more 'interesting' situations Jess manages to get herself into. There was definitely some eye-rolling from me, as I couldn't believe what she got up to next, but her escapades also made for a hugely entertaining reading experience. There was even one occasion where she made me laugh until actual tears were running down my face. On. The. Train. People stared.
It wasn't all fun and games though, there was a great story at the core of the novel and the vintage tips throughout appealed to the nostalgic in me as well. And thought not quite going all the way back to the 1950s, I loved the heavy dose of pop culture references running through the story, which will particularly appeal to those who grew up in the 80s and 90s. After finishing the book I had the sudden desire to rewatch Saved By The Bell, The Goonies (Best. Film. Ever.) and The O.C., while listening to some Kings of Leon Live, subliminal message received.
From the eye-catching cover and enticing title to the wonderful vintage tips and the utterly brilliant story hiding within, there is nothing not to love about The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance – this is a rom-com read at its very best.
February 7, 2025
Забавна и хулиганска , така бих определила книгата. Харесвам такива героини. Много ми напомнят на самата мен в недалечното минало. Сравнявам начина на писане мислено , с корифея за мен в това - Софи Кинсела. Е, има някои сходства, но това което ги различава е езика. Тя не използва псувни и въобще цинични думи за да бъде интересна. "Може да съм хванала чувства" си намерих и ще си запазя.
April 14, 2015
Originally reviewed for Bookaholic Confessions
The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance introduces us to party animal, pear-cider loving, twenty-something Jessica Beam. Her pastimes include casual sex and creating some of the funniest swear words known to man.
However, when her laid back attitude leads to her losing her job on the blog she works on with her best friend, Summer, she also loses her home at the same time. Being jobless and homeless is no biggie for Jessica Beam, though. It’s nothing a few pear ciders won’t cure, and anyway a plan soon comes together… Jessica intends to track down her long-lost Grandmother, Matilda Beam.
Matilda lives in a mahoosive house and surely won’t mind lending Jessica a few quid in order for her to go travelling and have a bit of a break from life. Right?
Erm, not exactly. Matilda was the author of a series of books back in the 1950s known as the ‘Good Woman’ guides. Although they were a huge success Matilda has since fallen on hard times after her husband left her with masses of debt. Shocked and appalled at her granddaughters appearance, seeming lack of morals and language, Matilda fears she is having some sort of breakdown and offers Jessica a place to stay.
Whilst Jessica is desperate to flee the junk-cluttered house and her bedroom full of creepy looking porcelain dolls, Matilda forms a plan and it just happens to be a good ‘un. Disheartened that her Good Woman guides have been turned down for re-publishing, Matilda wants to bring out a new book, in the form of an experiment. Can her guides from the 1950s turn wild, potty-mouthed, party-loving Jessica into a sophisticated, demure young lady? And so How to Catch a Man Like it’s 1955 is born…
I can safely say that The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance is THE book I was most excited about reading so far this year. I became a fully fledged Kirsty Greenwood fan after loving her debut novel, Yours Truly, and so I have been eagerly anticipating the release of her second book. There’s also the fact that I have been hearing hundreds and hundreds of good things about this story. Of course, I did have that slight fear in the back of my mind…what if it doesn’t live up to the hype? However, as soon as I had read the first three pages I knew that this novel wasn’t going to live up to the hype…It was totally going to SMASH the hype and be even more amazing than I originally thought.
Firstly I need to talk about Kirsty’s writing. Wowser. It’s just brilliant, so much so that you don’t feel like you’re actually reading a book. It feels like you’re sat cosied up with your BFF’s having a good old gossip. You get the same amount of enjoyment, excitement, laughs and pleasure that you would only in book format. Kirsty’s style of writing is down-to-earth, realistic, effortless to read and an absolute joy. The characters that she has created rank amongst some of my favourites and whilst Jessica might not start off at the most likeable of characters, I found myself kind-of loving her, even at the start. Yes, she could be frustrating, selfish and even slightly delusional at times but boy, oh, boy does this girl make for great reading. Her use of language is first class and some of the swear words that she creates I am TOTALLY adopting. Seeing her transform before my very eyes into a ‘lady’ was absolutely fascinating. Her journey navigating pointy bras, corsets and the art of glove dropping really does form the basis of a great story. Can tips from the 1950s really work in the modern dating world?
Then there’s the supporting characters; I adored Peach, hated Summer and of course, there’s the love interest…or should that be interest(s). I loved how Leo was portrayed throughout the story. To start off with I was in agreement with Jess (he was a knob-prince, definitely) but I found myself wavering along with ‘Lucille’ later on in the story. Eeek.
The other things I loved about The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance is how there is so much going on. There is never a dull page, its excitement, laughter, drama and intrigue all the way. I was particularly fascinated to find out what the deal was with Matilda and Jessica’s mother Rose (who sadly died when Jessica was eighteen). Something had obviously happened between them as they became estranged, but Kirsty only gives very slight clues as to what, and the more the story progresses, the more is unravelled…
I also loved how there were snippets from Matilda’s books at the start of each chapter and how they relate to what’s happening. The extracts from Rose Beam’s diary were also a fascinating extra and made the story that little bit more juicer as you become desperate to find out what happened.
The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance is a book that has EVERYTHING right, even the cover is delicious. I would give it a million, billion, trillion stars (or shoes in my case….) if I could because it is the perfect romantic comedy. Hilarious, touching, warm and an all round beautiful story. I’d raid the positive adjective bank and use every single one to describe this novel, but then my review would be even longer. So I’ll finish up by recommending this book to everyone (yes, you at the back there!) and also by making the rather bold claim that it is one of my favourite books EVER. Kirsty Greenwood, I love you and can’t wait to see what you bring us next…
The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance introduces us to party animal, pear-cider loving, twenty-something Jessica Beam. Her pastimes include casual sex and creating some of the funniest swear words known to man.
However, when her laid back attitude leads to her losing her job on the blog she works on with her best friend, Summer, she also loses her home at the same time. Being jobless and homeless is no biggie for Jessica Beam, though. It’s nothing a few pear ciders won’t cure, and anyway a plan soon comes together… Jessica intends to track down her long-lost Grandmother, Matilda Beam.
Matilda lives in a mahoosive house and surely won’t mind lending Jessica a few quid in order for her to go travelling and have a bit of a break from life. Right?
Erm, not exactly. Matilda was the author of a series of books back in the 1950s known as the ‘Good Woman’ guides. Although they were a huge success Matilda has since fallen on hard times after her husband left her with masses of debt. Shocked and appalled at her granddaughters appearance, seeming lack of morals and language, Matilda fears she is having some sort of breakdown and offers Jessica a place to stay.
Whilst Jessica is desperate to flee the junk-cluttered house and her bedroom full of creepy looking porcelain dolls, Matilda forms a plan and it just happens to be a good ‘un. Disheartened that her Good Woman guides have been turned down for re-publishing, Matilda wants to bring out a new book, in the form of an experiment. Can her guides from the 1950s turn wild, potty-mouthed, party-loving Jessica into a sophisticated, demure young lady? And so How to Catch a Man Like it’s 1955 is born…
I can safely say that The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance is THE book I was most excited about reading so far this year. I became a fully fledged Kirsty Greenwood fan after loving her debut novel, Yours Truly, and so I have been eagerly anticipating the release of her second book. There’s also the fact that I have been hearing hundreds and hundreds of good things about this story. Of course, I did have that slight fear in the back of my mind…what if it doesn’t live up to the hype? However, as soon as I had read the first three pages I knew that this novel wasn’t going to live up to the hype…It was totally going to SMASH the hype and be even more amazing than I originally thought.
Firstly I need to talk about Kirsty’s writing. Wowser. It’s just brilliant, so much so that you don’t feel like you’re actually reading a book. It feels like you’re sat cosied up with your BFF’s having a good old gossip. You get the same amount of enjoyment, excitement, laughs and pleasure that you would only in book format. Kirsty’s style of writing is down-to-earth, realistic, effortless to read and an absolute joy. The characters that she has created rank amongst some of my favourites and whilst Jessica might not start off at the most likeable of characters, I found myself kind-of loving her, even at the start. Yes, she could be frustrating, selfish and even slightly delusional at times but boy, oh, boy does this girl make for great reading. Her use of language is first class and some of the swear words that she creates I am TOTALLY adopting. Seeing her transform before my very eyes into a ‘lady’ was absolutely fascinating. Her journey navigating pointy bras, corsets and the art of glove dropping really does form the basis of a great story. Can tips from the 1950s really work in the modern dating world?
Then there’s the supporting characters; I adored Peach, hated Summer and of course, there’s the love interest…or should that be interest(s). I loved how Leo was portrayed throughout the story. To start off with I was in agreement with Jess (he was a knob-prince, definitely) but I found myself wavering along with ‘Lucille’ later on in the story. Eeek.
The other things I loved about The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance is how there is so much going on. There is never a dull page, its excitement, laughter, drama and intrigue all the way. I was particularly fascinated to find out what the deal was with Matilda and Jessica’s mother Rose (who sadly died when Jessica was eighteen). Something had obviously happened between them as they became estranged, but Kirsty only gives very slight clues as to what, and the more the story progresses, the more is unravelled…
I also loved how there were snippets from Matilda’s books at the start of each chapter and how they relate to what’s happening. The extracts from Rose Beam’s diary were also a fascinating extra and made the story that little bit more juicer as you become desperate to find out what happened.
The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance is a book that has EVERYTHING right, even the cover is delicious. I would give it a million, billion, trillion stars (or shoes in my case….) if I could because it is the perfect romantic comedy. Hilarious, touching, warm and an all round beautiful story. I’d raid the positive adjective bank and use every single one to describe this novel, but then my review would be even longer. So I’ll finish up by recommending this book to everyone (yes, you at the back there!) and also by making the rather bold claim that it is one of my favourite books EVER. Kirsty Greenwood, I love you and can’t wait to see what you bring us next…
April 15, 2015
Where to start?! You know when a book is just perfect from start to finish, faultless, amazing, epic, all the words? Well, that's The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance and it is hands down one of the best and most fun Women's Fiction books I have ever read. No exaggeration. And it's funny, like serious laugh-out-loud funny. Lindsey Kelk level. From just the very first chapter I knew I was going to love this book.
Jessica Beam finds herself thrown out by her boss and 'best friend' Summer, and with nowhere else to go she suddenly remembers about her long-lost (and rich) grandmother, Matilda. Turning up on her doorstep for a loan, Jess is disappointed to discover her grandmother isn't rich, her 1950s Good Woman guides are out of print, and she can't keep up with the mortgage repayments. An idea is formed for a new book, where Jess will follow the Good Woman guides, and transform herself into a lady that will capture the heart of the notorious Leo Frost, proving that this outdated advice still works in the present day. What can possibly go wrong?
I loved Jess from the very first page, whilst at the same time being a little bit thankful I wasn't with her at the time of some of her more outrageous moments, it's easy to see why she drives some people crazy. But for the most part, she is just fabulous and I wish she was an actual real-life woman. She's somebody that readers will root for from the very beginning. When her bitch of a best friend kicks her out (I spent half the book hoping that something horrible would happen to Summer), she's definitely in need of a new one (ahem, me) and that comes in the form of Peach, her grandmother's assistant. Even the secondary characters in this book are amazing.
I really liked Matilda, and enjoyed watching our two very different characters clash and I especially liked how they both managed to change each other for the better. I loved how each chapter started with advice from the Good Woman guides. Some of it hilarious, bits of it shocking and some of it just downright wrong but not all of it irrelevant. It was a lot of fun watching Jess being transformed, or rather her trying to change. It was definitely a challenge. I did have a couple of ideas about where the main story arc would go, but in the background there's a little bit of a mystery involving Jessica's mother, and I loved this part of the story, and was desperate to find out what happened in the past. And there may also be more than one love interest... I did change my mind numerous times as I read this book.
Without wanting to sound repetitive, there is just not one single thing about this book that I could fault, not one. It was so refreshing to read a book like this, something so different to other books like it at the moment. The Women's Fiction genre at the minute is just fantastic, incredibly strong, and I have no doubt that Kirsty Greenwood is going to become a firm favourite of mine. I am already eyeing up Yours, Truly on Amazon. This is easily one of the best books released this year so far, so if you are thinking about buying it, don't even hesitate. If you don't love it, I'll give you your money back! I am still sulking that it's over, so sorry TBR but I'll be snarling you for a while longer before starting a new book. In case you couldn't already tell, this book comes very highly recommended by me.
Jessica Beam finds herself thrown out by her boss and 'best friend' Summer, and with nowhere else to go she suddenly remembers about her long-lost (and rich) grandmother, Matilda. Turning up on her doorstep for a loan, Jess is disappointed to discover her grandmother isn't rich, her 1950s Good Woman guides are out of print, and she can't keep up with the mortgage repayments. An idea is formed for a new book, where Jess will follow the Good Woman guides, and transform herself into a lady that will capture the heart of the notorious Leo Frost, proving that this outdated advice still works in the present day. What can possibly go wrong?
I loved Jess from the very first page, whilst at the same time being a little bit thankful I wasn't with her at the time of some of her more outrageous moments, it's easy to see why she drives some people crazy. But for the most part, she is just fabulous and I wish she was an actual real-life woman. She's somebody that readers will root for from the very beginning. When her bitch of a best friend kicks her out (I spent half the book hoping that something horrible would happen to Summer), she's definitely in need of a new one (ahem, me) and that comes in the form of Peach, her grandmother's assistant. Even the secondary characters in this book are amazing.
I really liked Matilda, and enjoyed watching our two very different characters clash and I especially liked how they both managed to change each other for the better. I loved how each chapter started with advice from the Good Woman guides. Some of it hilarious, bits of it shocking and some of it just downright wrong but not all of it irrelevant. It was a lot of fun watching Jess being transformed, or rather her trying to change. It was definitely a challenge. I did have a couple of ideas about where the main story arc would go, but in the background there's a little bit of a mystery involving Jessica's mother, and I loved this part of the story, and was desperate to find out what happened in the past. And there may also be more than one love interest... I did change my mind numerous times as I read this book.
Without wanting to sound repetitive, there is just not one single thing about this book that I could fault, not one. It was so refreshing to read a book like this, something so different to other books like it at the moment. The Women's Fiction genre at the minute is just fantastic, incredibly strong, and I have no doubt that Kirsty Greenwood is going to become a firm favourite of mine. I am already eyeing up Yours, Truly on Amazon. This is easily one of the best books released this year so far, so if you are thinking about buying it, don't even hesitate. If you don't love it, I'll give you your money back! I am still sulking that it's over, so sorry TBR but I'll be snarling you for a while longer before starting a new book. In case you couldn't already tell, this book comes very highly recommended by me.
April 11, 2015
Full review:
http://iheart-chicklit.blogspot.com/2...
Can I fanboy over this masterpiece by Kirsty Greenwood? Again? Seeing that I was gushing all great things about her debut novel, Yours Truly back in 2013. Oh, how I missed reading, guffawing and loving every page of Yours Truly. When I received a proof copy of The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance, I did an inexorable squeak and whoop of delight.
http://iheart-chicklit.blogspot.com/2...
Can I fanboy over this masterpiece by Kirsty Greenwood? Again? Seeing that I was gushing all great things about her debut novel, Yours Truly back in 2013. Oh, how I missed reading, guffawing and loving every page of Yours Truly. When I received a proof copy of The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance, I did an inexorable squeak and whoop of delight.
March 17, 2023
Kirsty Greenwood is a new author to me and I am very impressed. She has written a story that is a bit different but still as much fun as you would expect from a good chick-lit. I like how she shows that mistakes can carry on down the generations. Jess is a troubled soul due to misguided decisions by others and she goes on an unwilling journey of self-discovery. Of course there is plenty of alcohol and mishaps along the way. I recommend this book.
January 17, 2023
I adored it very nicely written
April 11, 2015
Guilty as charged, I haven't read Kirsty Greenwood's debut novel "Yours, Truly" yet, even though it waits patiently on my kindle, and even though I have heard so many paeans about her writing. I am solemnly promising to make up for it asap, as, let's be honest, The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance has just blown my mind. It was one of the most anticipated books this spring and let me tell you, it is a book that is worth all the buzz, all the hype and thousand more.
The perfection starts with the title and the cover already, don't you think? The girl on it couldn't be more vintage, and the colours are so beautiful! And it had me snorting with laughter already at the end of chapter 1, which was very short nota bene, so couldn't there be a better start to a book? Yes, the right answer is NO.
There is so much happening in this story that it's almost impossible to summarize it in only few sentences! Jess Beam is a blogger, who's living with her boss and best friend in the person of Summer. Because of the popularity of the blog, there is a chance the girls may be offered a book deal. Unfortunately, at the event they are invited to, everything goes belly up and they can forget their book. What's more, Summer seems to think that it's all Jessica's fault and she decides not only to drop her texts for the blogs (though it were Jess's brilliant texts that made the blog so popular!), but she also tells her to move out...
What now? Jess is all alone in this world, as her mum died when she was 18... But wait! There is, after all, this long - lost grandmother, Matilda Beam... Little Jess knows what is expecting her at her grandma's big house...
What is this? A project. To save the house and re - publish Matilda's old books, she and Jess must prove that the old tips about Good Woman from the 50's are still up - to - date! And that thanks to those tips they will able to catch a good man. Who is the best victim? Why, hello, Leo Frost, the one with whom Jess had had the (un)pleasure to disagree during the book launch, and who is the ex of Valentina, Jess and Matilda's publicist...
OMG. I could go on and on about the story - every page brings something new, there is not a single flat moment, there is always something happening! So many twists and turns and obstacles being put in the ways, jealous friends and lost - but also won - opportunities!
I so wanted to see what is going to come out from the project of proving that the tips from the 50's are still working in the bad, vulgar 21st century, and I so wanted to see how Matilda is going to change Jess. Matilda, long time ago a very famous writer with her Good Woman tips, now completely broke, couldn't adapt to the new times and getting to know Jess, with her swearing all the time or even coming across her in very intimate situation, VERY, was absolutely shocked but oh my, more challenging, the better!
Although I must admit, I had some problems with Jessica at the beginning and it took me some time to get used to her. But then I thought, hell, because I couldn't have lived with her, because I think she's a little too crazy for my liking, because I think she's lazy and doesn't think about anyone else but herself, constantly drunk with really questionable morals, but hell, it doesn't mean that she's a bad person, right? And oh my gosh, how much she proved me wrong, too! But oh my god, you can imagine my panic, can't you? Jess changes, but she also stays the same, I know it doesn't make sense, but it is as it is, I probably just grown up to like her through the whole book because she totally, absolutely, freakingly deserves to be liked. She might have been light - headed, walking on air girl but deep inside she was unbelievably good, loyal and wanted all the best for everyone.
I was a little appalled by Jess and her approach, searching for her grandmother only because of the money, and agreeing for the new, life - changing project with only money in subconscious. I have thought, Jeez, Jess, stop it, there are other values in life too.
And as much as Jess annoyed me, I think that creating such a character was intended by Kirsty. She has managed to do something that doesn't often happens with characters, because usually they are straightforward, but here our Jess went from very charming to very irritating, and once you wanted to shake her, bang her head on the wall, and in the next second you wanted to hug her. And there were reasons for her behaviour, which Kirsty slowly reveals and unravels through the story. But the fact is that, the more Jess grows up, the more proud I felt of her, and ended the book absolutely adoring her.
What I absolutely adored in Jess is the fact that she never looked back. She might have been dumped, stabbed in the back by her best friend, left totally alone but she was like this proverbial phoenix, always rising from the ashes. And she was always up for a new adventure, albeit reluctantly - like the new project with Matilda - but nevertheless, willing to try.
I liked that Kristy made Leo a growing character. When we get to know him, he is described (usually by his ex - girlfriends) as a git, playboy, arrogant... you have the picture. But slowly, slowly, together with Jess aka Lucille we get to know his other, more gentle side and learn that hmmm, in fact he's not so bad. Leo was hilarious and Kirsty has described him as such an unpleasant guy, yuck, really. I was so curious how Jess is going to seduce him, as she didn't like him as well. Well, she thought she didn't like him... Oh well, it wasn't easy to know what one is feeling with doctor Jamie downstairs in his office in grandma's house, right?
Kristy has created a bunch of brilliant, vivid, popping out of the pages support characters and it was the biggest fun to read about them. Of course Jess is the heart of the story, but there is also Matilda, her grandmother, who likes to deal with business by starting to cry, which our poor Jess can't stand because it melts her heart, there is Peach, the probably last virgin in this age on the planet, Peach with her antics, oh my god, she was incredible and had me in tears (tears of joy) when planning all the best - friends - evening or going on her first date with the postman. Hilarious! James, Leo, to name a few, and Summer, the awful, awful Summer, from the very beginning I was frowning and thinking, how Jess can consider this madam to be her best friend at all? She used Jess and I so, so hoped she was going to be lost without Jess and her impact to the website (but I missed this very much, this is the only sub - plot that was not ended for my liking, it was left open). And don't forget a cat, Mr Belding, a character of his own. I don't like cats, but this one had a right attitude.
So yes, after being taken under her grandmother's wing Jess changes - doesn't change. I think she has just seen and realised some things, seen that life is not only a bed of roses, and perhaps grown up a little. I, in fact, couldn't wait to see Jessica being turned into a "Good Woman" by her grandmother, thinking: she! A Good Woman! And sarcastically laughing: ha! ha! But the more she pretended to be Lucille, the more of the good - womanness rubbed off on her. And this is what I really like, this change - no change in Jessica, because as much as she changed, I think that deep down she stayed true to herself, as we could see it in one of the last scenes when she told Leo point - blank what he gets.
So as you can see, I was totally fascinated by Jess. She was a cider - freak and party animal with big mouth and incredible love for swearing.
I can't tell you how much I have enjoyed Jess's grandmother Matilda and what she did with Jess, and the whole make - over. The descriptions of big hair, pointy boobs, miniscule waists and very detailed make - up were absolutely brilliant, and it was a joy to see how much Jess felt for her alter - ego Lucille Darling.
This book is good, oh my, how good this book is! It's written in incredibly vivid, colourful way and the scenes has just slipped before my very own eyes. I still can see the pointy boobs . The interaction and usually disagreement between Jess and Matilda sounded so normal and natural, just like a banter between granddaughter and grandmother. Kirsty has also wonderfully captured and described the budding of the feeling between Jess and Leo, it was so gentle and sweet.
I absolutely loved how each of the chapter began with a small advice from Matilda's old books and how this advice related to the content of the chapter. My word, I think I would so love to live in the 50's, wear a red lipstick and white gloves! Also, we were treated to some entries from Jess's mum's diary and it slowly but steadily showed us that the truth, or this what Jess thought was truth, was in fact one big lie, so apart of a lot of humour there are some more touching scenes in the story as well.
This book has it all. Quirky heroine, absolutely loveable characters, bit of drama, bit of romance, and a lot of laugh. Kirsty has written the ultimate chick - lit novel, period. The story flows smoothly and seamlessly and in fact this book is like a fresh of breath air. It has really fulfilled all my expectations and more. I have only missed an epilogue, where I'd see that someone's TV series were absolute, epic fail!!! But other than that, it was perfect. I hope you already have your copy? If not, there is no point in wasting your time - just go and buy it, for you, for your mum, sister and best friends, they're going to be verrrry thankful!
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
The perfection starts with the title and the cover already, don't you think? The girl on it couldn't be more vintage, and the colours are so beautiful! And it had me snorting with laughter already at the end of chapter 1, which was very short nota bene, so couldn't there be a better start to a book? Yes, the right answer is NO.
There is so much happening in this story that it's almost impossible to summarize it in only few sentences! Jess Beam is a blogger, who's living with her boss and best friend in the person of Summer. Because of the popularity of the blog, there is a chance the girls may be offered a book deal. Unfortunately, at the event they are invited to, everything goes belly up and they can forget their book. What's more, Summer seems to think that it's all Jessica's fault and she decides not only to drop her texts for the blogs (though it were Jess's brilliant texts that made the blog so popular!), but she also tells her to move out...
What now? Jess is all alone in this world, as her mum died when she was 18... But wait! There is, after all, this long - lost grandmother, Matilda Beam... Little Jess knows what is expecting her at her grandma's big house...
What is this? A project. To save the house and re - publish Matilda's old books, she and Jess must prove that the old tips about Good Woman from the 50's are still up - to - date! And that thanks to those tips they will able to catch a good man. Who is the best victim? Why, hello, Leo Frost, the one with whom Jess had had the (un)pleasure to disagree during the book launch, and who is the ex of Valentina, Jess and Matilda's publicist...
OMG. I could go on and on about the story - every page brings something new, there is not a single flat moment, there is always something happening! So many twists and turns and obstacles being put in the ways, jealous friends and lost - but also won - opportunities!
I so wanted to see what is going to come out from the project of proving that the tips from the 50's are still working in the bad, vulgar 21st century, and I so wanted to see how Matilda is going to change Jess. Matilda, long time ago a very famous writer with her Good Woman tips, now completely broke, couldn't adapt to the new times and getting to know Jess, with her swearing all the time or even coming across her in very intimate situation, VERY, was absolutely shocked but oh my, more challenging, the better!
Although I must admit, I had some problems with Jessica at the beginning and it took me some time to get used to her. But then I thought, hell, because I couldn't have lived with her, because I think she's a little too crazy for my liking, because I think she's lazy and doesn't think about anyone else but herself, constantly drunk with really questionable morals, but hell, it doesn't mean that she's a bad person, right? And oh my gosh, how much she proved me wrong, too! But oh my god, you can imagine my panic, can't you? Jess changes, but she also stays the same, I know it doesn't make sense, but it is as it is, I probably just grown up to like her through the whole book because she totally, absolutely, freakingly deserves to be liked. She might have been light - headed, walking on air girl but deep inside she was unbelievably good, loyal and wanted all the best for everyone.
I was a little appalled by Jess and her approach, searching for her grandmother only because of the money, and agreeing for the new, life - changing project with only money in subconscious. I have thought, Jeez, Jess, stop it, there are other values in life too.
And as much as Jess annoyed me, I think that creating such a character was intended by Kirsty. She has managed to do something that doesn't often happens with characters, because usually they are straightforward, but here our Jess went from very charming to very irritating, and once you wanted to shake her, bang her head on the wall, and in the next second you wanted to hug her. And there were reasons for her behaviour, which Kirsty slowly reveals and unravels through the story. But the fact is that, the more Jess grows up, the more proud I felt of her, and ended the book absolutely adoring her.
What I absolutely adored in Jess is the fact that she never looked back. She might have been dumped, stabbed in the back by her best friend, left totally alone but she was like this proverbial phoenix, always rising from the ashes. And she was always up for a new adventure, albeit reluctantly - like the new project with Matilda - but nevertheless, willing to try.
I liked that Kristy made Leo a growing character. When we get to know him, he is described (usually by his ex - girlfriends) as a git, playboy, arrogant... you have the picture. But slowly, slowly, together with Jess aka Lucille we get to know his other, more gentle side and learn that hmmm, in fact he's not so bad. Leo was hilarious and Kirsty has described him as such an unpleasant guy, yuck, really. I was so curious how Jess is going to seduce him, as she didn't like him as well. Well, she thought she didn't like him... Oh well, it wasn't easy to know what one is feeling with doctor Jamie downstairs in his office in grandma's house, right?
Kristy has created a bunch of brilliant, vivid, popping out of the pages support characters and it was the biggest fun to read about them. Of course Jess is the heart of the story, but there is also Matilda, her grandmother, who likes to deal with business by starting to cry, which our poor Jess can't stand because it melts her heart, there is Peach, the probably last virgin in this age on the planet, Peach with her antics, oh my god, she was incredible and had me in tears (tears of joy) when planning all the best - friends - evening or going on her first date with the postman. Hilarious! James, Leo, to name a few, and Summer, the awful, awful Summer, from the very beginning I was frowning and thinking, how Jess can consider this madam to be her best friend at all? She used Jess and I so, so hoped she was going to be lost without Jess and her impact to the website (but I missed this very much, this is the only sub - plot that was not ended for my liking, it was left open). And don't forget a cat, Mr Belding, a character of his own. I don't like cats, but this one had a right attitude.
So yes, after being taken under her grandmother's wing Jess changes - doesn't change. I think she has just seen and realised some things, seen that life is not only a bed of roses, and perhaps grown up a little. I, in fact, couldn't wait to see Jessica being turned into a "Good Woman" by her grandmother, thinking: she! A Good Woman! And sarcastically laughing: ha! ha! But the more she pretended to be Lucille, the more of the good - womanness rubbed off on her. And this is what I really like, this change - no change in Jessica, because as much as she changed, I think that deep down she stayed true to herself, as we could see it in one of the last scenes when she told Leo point - blank what he gets.
So as you can see, I was totally fascinated by Jess. She was a cider - freak and party animal with big mouth and incredible love for swearing.
I can't tell you how much I have enjoyed Jess's grandmother Matilda and what she did with Jess, and the whole make - over. The descriptions of big hair, pointy boobs, miniscule waists and very detailed make - up were absolutely brilliant, and it was a joy to see how much Jess felt for her alter - ego Lucille Darling.
This book is good, oh my, how good this book is! It's written in incredibly vivid, colourful way and the scenes has just slipped before my very own eyes. I still can see the pointy boobs . The interaction and usually disagreement between Jess and Matilda sounded so normal and natural, just like a banter between granddaughter and grandmother. Kirsty has also wonderfully captured and described the budding of the feeling between Jess and Leo, it was so gentle and sweet.
I absolutely loved how each of the chapter began with a small advice from Matilda's old books and how this advice related to the content of the chapter. My word, I think I would so love to live in the 50's, wear a red lipstick and white gloves! Also, we were treated to some entries from Jess's mum's diary and it slowly but steadily showed us that the truth, or this what Jess thought was truth, was in fact one big lie, so apart of a lot of humour there are some more touching scenes in the story as well.
This book has it all. Quirky heroine, absolutely loveable characters, bit of drama, bit of romance, and a lot of laugh. Kirsty has written the ultimate chick - lit novel, period. The story flows smoothly and seamlessly and in fact this book is like a fresh of breath air. It has really fulfilled all my expectations and more. I have only missed an epilogue, where I'd see that someone's TV series were absolute, epic fail!!! But other than that, it was perfect. I hope you already have your copy? If not, there is no point in wasting your time - just go and buy it, for you, for your mum, sister and best friends, they're going to be verrrry thankful!
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
March 31, 2021
Не очаквах да ми бъде чак толкова забавна и приятна, защото главната героиня доста ми лазеше по нервите с всичките си необмислени постъпки, но определено претърпява развитие.
Хареса ми много и фокуса върху семейството и мостовете между поколенията.
Препоръчвам, ако:
*харесвате романтични книги
*търсите нещо лежерно и разпускащо
*си падате по английски хумор (действието се развива в Лондон)
Книжни поздрави,
Криси
Хареса ми много и фокуса върху семейството и мостовете между поколенията.
Препоръчвам, ако:
*харесвате романтични книги
*търсите нещо лежерно и разпускащо
*си падате по английски хумор (действието се развива в Лондон)
Книжни поздрави,
Криси
December 26, 2019
3,5 * по скоро.
April 27, 2015
Originally posted on Paris Baker's Book Nook.
Thank you so much to Pan Macmillan for providing me with an ARC via NetGalley. The buzz round this book has been pretty epic, I think it was probably the most anticipated book of the year so far for chick lit fans. There wasn’t a word I’d read about it that wasn’t absolutely raving about how brilliant and funny it was, so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a copy and find out what all the fuss was about!
It didn’t take long to work it out, as I was laughing out loud right from the get-go. Jessica Beam is my hero. She is just down right hilarious. Yes, she is frustrating, childish and at times selfish, particularly at the start, but there’s a certain determination and zeal about her that was hard not to be drawn into. Summer is Jess’s “best friend,” roommate and boss, but at heart is nothing more than a totally vindictive cow, who has used Jess when it suited her. When Jess suddenly finds herself jobless, friendless and homeless, she remembers about the grandmother she’s never met, and – after a quick Google – is overjoyed to discover she’s an author of the best-selling Good Woman Guides from the 50s; she must have some cash to spare for her long-lost granddaughter, right?
Unfortunately, Matilda Beam is not quite the star she once was, with her books out of production and her husband no longer around to take care of the accounts, things aren’t going great for her either. Appalled at Jess’s undignified looks and language – not to mention the lack of a husband at her age! – Matilda takes in her wayward granddaughter, and a lifeline for both of them suddenly arises when a top publishing house wants to put a modern spin on the Good Woman Guides – with Jess as the Guinea Pig. As much as the idea of being a perfect 50s housewife makes Jess want to gag, she’s in no position to refuse and reluctantly agrees, and, oh my, how the hilarity ensues. The victim is selected: the publishers ex, Leo Frost, who happened to recently make a mockery of Jess at a book launch, so she’s undercover getting their story and payback all in one.
Let’s just say, a life of graceful obedience does not exactly come naturally to our Jess, and sometimes the harder she tries, the more everything goes tits-up. But no matter how badly she screws things up, I couldn’t help but love her all the more, it was so wonderful watching her develop throughout the story. Matilda and her assistant, Jess’ new BFF Peach, were equally brilliant, and I just wanted to jump right into the pages and live it with them all.
I seriously could go on and on about how brilliant and fabulous and hilarious and wonderful and ALL OF THE AWESOME ADJECTIVES this is, but honestly, just buy it, go buy it right now, and you will discover for yourself why this book is not to be missed.
Thank you so much to Pan Macmillan for providing me with an ARC via NetGalley. The buzz round this book has been pretty epic, I think it was probably the most anticipated book of the year so far for chick lit fans. There wasn’t a word I’d read about it that wasn’t absolutely raving about how brilliant and funny it was, so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a copy and find out what all the fuss was about!
It didn’t take long to work it out, as I was laughing out loud right from the get-go. Jessica Beam is my hero. She is just down right hilarious. Yes, she is frustrating, childish and at times selfish, particularly at the start, but there’s a certain determination and zeal about her that was hard not to be drawn into. Summer is Jess’s “best friend,” roommate and boss, but at heart is nothing more than a totally vindictive cow, who has used Jess when it suited her. When Jess suddenly finds herself jobless, friendless and homeless, she remembers about the grandmother she’s never met, and – after a quick Google – is overjoyed to discover she’s an author of the best-selling Good Woman Guides from the 50s; she must have some cash to spare for her long-lost granddaughter, right?
Unfortunately, Matilda Beam is not quite the star she once was, with her books out of production and her husband no longer around to take care of the accounts, things aren’t going great for her either. Appalled at Jess’s undignified looks and language – not to mention the lack of a husband at her age! – Matilda takes in her wayward granddaughter, and a lifeline for both of them suddenly arises when a top publishing house wants to put a modern spin on the Good Woman Guides – with Jess as the Guinea Pig. As much as the idea of being a perfect 50s housewife makes Jess want to gag, she’s in no position to refuse and reluctantly agrees, and, oh my, how the hilarity ensues. The victim is selected: the publishers ex, Leo Frost, who happened to recently make a mockery of Jess at a book launch, so she’s undercover getting their story and payback all in one.
Let’s just say, a life of graceful obedience does not exactly come naturally to our Jess, and sometimes the harder she tries, the more everything goes tits-up. But no matter how badly she screws things up, I couldn’t help but love her all the more, it was so wonderful watching her develop throughout the story. Matilda and her assistant, Jess’ new BFF Peach, were equally brilliant, and I just wanted to jump right into the pages and live it with them all.
I seriously could go on and on about how brilliant and fabulous and hilarious and wonderful and ALL OF THE AWESOME ADJECTIVES this is, but honestly, just buy it, go buy it right now, and you will discover for yourself why this book is not to be missed.
March 5, 2016
Firstly I have to say a big thank you to Karen as I won a copy of this fabulous book in a give away over on her blog's page, My Reading Corner.
The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance is a fabulous light hearted read that is extremely
entertaining.
Jessica Beam is a great character. She is the ultimate party girl and lives life to the full. That is until her so called best friend gets fed up of her drunken antics and cuts her ties with her, leaving her jobless and homeless.
To be honest for Jess, I think this is the kick up the backside she needs to realise she is an adult and probably needs to start behaving like a grown up. To be fair to her though she has had it tough and not had the normal upbringing that most of us will have had. Luckily for Jess she remembers that she has a grandmother, who even though she hasn't met, decides to drop her presence on.
Jess's grandmother is a really lovely woman who is very old school and is quite prim and proper. She has a lovely ditzy PA/helper/carer who lives in called Peaches who was just adorable. To be fair apart from Summer the ex best friend, I really loved all the characters n this book.
In the hope of making some money to save from being evicted from the lovely home that Jess's grandmother owns they have to prove that a guide from the 1950's will still work in capturing a man's heart in the present day. Well I have to say the book certainly got a lot more fun from this point onwards. Like Jess to start with I wasn't to sure of the womaniser Leo that she has to entrap but even he grew on me.
The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance really is a wonderful book and one I would highly recommend.
The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance is a fabulous light hearted read that is extremely
entertaining.
Jessica Beam is a great character. She is the ultimate party girl and lives life to the full. That is until her so called best friend gets fed up of her drunken antics and cuts her ties with her, leaving her jobless and homeless.
To be honest for Jess, I think this is the kick up the backside she needs to realise she is an adult and probably needs to start behaving like a grown up. To be fair to her though she has had it tough and not had the normal upbringing that most of us will have had. Luckily for Jess she remembers that she has a grandmother, who even though she hasn't met, decides to drop her presence on.
Jess's grandmother is a really lovely woman who is very old school and is quite prim and proper. She has a lovely ditzy PA/helper/carer who lives in called Peaches who was just adorable. To be fair apart from Summer the ex best friend, I really loved all the characters n this book.
In the hope of making some money to save from being evicted from the lovely home that Jess's grandmother owns they have to prove that a guide from the 1950's will still work in capturing a man's heart in the present day. Well I have to say the book certainly got a lot more fun from this point onwards. Like Jess to start with I wasn't to sure of the womaniser Leo that she has to entrap but even he grew on me.
The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance really is a wonderful book and one I would highly recommend.
January 29, 2019
Jess is a friend, family and connection user
Alcohol and sex abuser
She's a frightened little girl running scared
She's too selfish and flawed to go through life prepared
When a business event for her friend important seem
Jess is living it up high on her alcoholic theme
To control herself she surely must
But the you cannot on her trust
Why wouldn't she get drunk and ruin it all
And then cry like a brat when she's kicked out of the ball
Afterwards, when no one seems to want her around
She heads towards London feeling family bound
Just kidding, she has no idea of family or duty
But from her estranged grandma want some money so she can travel and tan her booty
So, off to grandma's house she goes to beg for cash
And who cares if she the old woman's feelings smash
When Jess can't cope she indulges in sex and wine
She finds it hard even with the old woman to dine
When a book deal to scam a guy comes up
Jess can't help but fall for the sob
She abuses his trust
She feels it's a must
She doesn't care about how she him treats
As long as she the assignment completes
When she's outed by a former friend
She still expects it all to her will shall bend
Through the experience she does learn of family and love
But too little too late, when I think of all the things above
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Alcohol and sex abuser
She's a frightened little girl running scared
She's too selfish and flawed to go through life prepared
When a business event for her friend important seem
Jess is living it up high on her alcoholic theme
To control herself she surely must
But the you cannot on her trust
Why wouldn't she get drunk and ruin it all
And then cry like a brat when she's kicked out of the ball
Afterwards, when no one seems to want her around
She heads towards London feeling family bound
Just kidding, she has no idea of family or duty
But from her estranged grandma want some money so she can travel and tan her booty
So, off to grandma's house she goes to beg for cash
And who cares if she the old woman's feelings smash
When Jess can't cope she indulges in sex and wine
She finds it hard even with the old woman to dine
When a book deal to scam a guy comes up
Jess can't help but fall for the sob
She abuses his trust
She feels it's a must
She doesn't care about how she him treats
As long as she the assignment completes
When she's outed by a former friend
She still expects it all to her will shall bend
Through the experience she does learn of family and love
But too little too late, when I think of all the things above
READ THE FULL REVIEW ON MY blog
November 5, 2018
LOL and Feels
I loved this book! It was so great that I finished it in one day. At first, Jess, the FMC, wasn't terribly likable. She still found a way to burrow into your heart, even though, you didn't care for her behavior. Grandma Beam and Peach were fantastic, as well as Jaime and Leo.
This book was super funny, but it had so many layers in it that it wasn't slapstick or cliche. It also really brought out the feels. It was endearing and sweet. It is just something you must read.
5 stars!!!!!
I loved this book! It was so great that I finished it in one day. At first, Jess, the FMC, wasn't terribly likable. She still found a way to burrow into your heart, even though, you didn't care for her behavior. Grandma Beam and Peach were fantastic, as well as Jaime and Leo.
This book was super funny, but it had so many layers in it that it wasn't slapstick or cliche. It also really brought out the feels. It was endearing and sweet. It is just something you must read.
5 stars!!!!!
December 12, 2015
Actual rating 3.5. I hated the first 100 pages of this book, but found myself truly enjoying rest. Perfect kind of chick lit to read on a rainy day and share with all of your girlfriends (perhaps after a viewing of How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days;))
October 24, 2016
I've been meaning to read this books for months. I'm so glad I did. It is very funny. I love the heroine, Jess. And I especially love the quotes from her grandmother's book of dating. This novel has received great reviews, and it deserves all of them.
May 9, 2016
Great book. I loved reading all about Jess. Loved the way it ended & hope there will be more books about them all!
April 28, 2015
4.5 stars
This is like a cross between The Princess Diaries, How To Lose a Guy in Ten Days and Cinderella only with more swears, belly laughs and sexy times. Loved it!
This is like a cross between The Princess Diaries, How To Lose a Guy in Ten Days and Cinderella only with more swears, belly laughs and sexy times. Loved it!
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