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Lear Family Trilogy #2
Beauty Queen
In the sequel to Material Girl, Rebecca, the middle sister in the Lear family, moves to Austin to pick up the pieces of her life after her husband leaves her for another woman and takes a volunteer job as a campaign strategist for a family friend, never expecting to encounter Matt Parrish, a tough attorney. Original.
416 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 6, 2004
226 people are currently reading
891 people want to read
About the author
Julia London
190 books3,137 followersJulia London is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of more than two dozen romantic fiction novels. She is the author of the popular historical romance series, the Cabot Sisters, including The Trouble with Honor, The Devil Takes a Bride, and The Scoundrel and the Debutante. She is also the author of several contemporary romances, including Homecoming Ranch, Return to Homecoming Ranch, and The Perfect Homecoming.
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a six-time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
September 4, 2025
3.80 ⭐️
Mejor que el anterior pero aún le falta para ser redondo
Mejor que el anterior pero aún le falta para ser redondo
September 5, 2017
My Musings
I really loved Rebecca and Grayson is the cutest little guy. Matt is an awesome hero, and absolutely loved the ending, just perfect. Can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy ☺reading 📚!
I really loved Rebecca and Grayson is the cutest little guy. Matt is an awesome hero, and absolutely loved the ending, just perfect. Can't wait to read the next one in this series. Happy ☺reading 📚!
January 18, 2010
The second book in the series "Beauty Queen", features Rebecca Lear, the star child of the family. Rebecca was once married to a well-to-do man, with whom she had a child with. She was a socialite stay at home mom that had given up her dreams of becoming an artist to become a beauty queen and appease her father.
When Rebecca's husband decides to take a younger wife and leave her hanging she is left feeling worthless and without any marketable skills.
To support her 5 year old son she takes the only job she can get. She works for Tom Masters campaign for lieutenant Governor of Texas. Shes finally gaining some self-confidence and some much needed experience, when she finds herself going head to head with an obnoxious lawyer. Matt Parish isn't amused that he has to work with a former beauty queen with no political experience, and he lets her know that every chance he gets.
With the common goal of showing each other up, they manage to overcome some major campaign problems as well as find some common ground. The get to know each other better and find out that they have more in common than they could have ever expected.
When Rebecca's husband decides to take a younger wife and leave her hanging she is left feeling worthless and without any marketable skills.
To support her 5 year old son she takes the only job she can get. She works for Tom Masters campaign for lieutenant Governor of Texas. Shes finally gaining some self-confidence and some much needed experience, when she finds herself going head to head with an obnoxious lawyer. Matt Parish isn't amused that he has to work with a former beauty queen with no political experience, and he lets her know that every chance he gets.
With the common goal of showing each other up, they manage to overcome some major campaign problems as well as find some common ground. The get to know each other better and find out that they have more in common than they could have ever expected.
July 18, 2013
Beauty Queen by Julia London is book two of the Fancy Lives of the Lear Sister series. Rebecca is a divorcée with a young son trying to find her place in the world after her husband of ten years leaves her for another woman. No longer willing to be the doormat her former husband made her think she was, she strives to find a job to help find herself but as a former Miss Texas who dropped out of collage to be a wife she is immensely under qualified for anything. Matt Parish is a charming, good looking lawyer with a soft spot for the underdog. When asked to join the campaign of an old buddy to run for Lt. Governor he begrudgingly accepts. Rebecca is asked to join the same campaign because her numerous contacts and filthy rich father, she agrees even though she has no knowledge of politics, she sees it as her chance to prove her worth. Sparks fly between Matt and Rebecca as they bicker back and forth over who is wrong and right and politics. An undeniable attraction brings them together, but will politics ruin their chances before they even get started.
I enjoyed this book the most out of the three. Both characters are stubborn and strong willed not willing to bend for the other until they learn to bend together.
I enjoyed this book the most out of the three. Both characters are stubborn and strong willed not willing to bend for the other until they learn to bend together.
January 17, 2011
This book completely involved my emotions. I couldn't put it down! The characters were well developed, and I can't wait to read all the other related books! It made me cry several times...it's that good! Starts out slow, but it quickly builds momentum.
September 17, 2011
Book 2. Not as good as the first.
November 9, 2024
Rebeca Lear está en una encrucijada, acaba de divorciarse, tiene un hijo pequeño, dinero suficiente para vivir y nada que hacer; se ha pasado toda la vida siguiendo las expectativas de sus controladores padres y luego de su infiel esposo. Y ahora con 30 años, está ex reina de belleza se pregunta que hacer. Trata de buscar respuestas atiborrandose de libros de autoayuda, hace un seminario de transformación personal, rescata perros abandonados, busca trabajo -aunque con cero experiencia no encuentra. Nada parece funcionar... Hasta que su camino se cruza con Matt, abogado, mujeriego, pragmático y algo arrogante. Es muy divertida la interacción entre ellos, porque el pincha todo el tiempo a Rebeca y la obliga a salir de ese caparazón.
Ambos son voluntarios en la campaña política de un senador por el estado de Texas; Matt al principio no entiende que hace esta extraterrestre en medio de la campaña, pero poco a poco el también debe descubrirse a sí mismo.
Helado, arte, charlas y Escenas triple x, este libro es encantador.
Ambos son voluntarios en la campaña política de un senador por el estado de Texas; Matt al principio no entiende que hace esta extraterrestre en medio de la campaña, pero poco a poco el también debe descubrirse a sí mismo.
Helado, arte, charlas y Escenas triple x, este libro es encantador.
May 3, 2018
I only made it to 35% and even that was torture. I have read hundreds of books and can count on one hand how many books I did not finish. The hero was horrible. I wouldn't describe him as arrogant. He was just plain mean and demeaning to the heroine. Calling her LOONEY TUNES! Wow. I have no idea what people are thinking about how this book is good. I really liked the heroine and the transformation journey she was on, but could not handle the hero. I don't care how great looking he is if he spoke to me that way, I could never go there!!
May 31, 2021
Disappointed
The characters are boring and not fully developed in my opinion. I had to force myself to finish the book. The main character is beautiful, and that seems to be of great importance to the story. Supposedly both protagonists are "smart" and yet they are clueless for most of the story. I have read and enjoyed Julie London stories in the past, but this was not worth my money nor time. Perhaps the rest of the series is better???? I have no desire to find out.
The characters are boring and not fully developed in my opinion. I had to force myself to finish the book. The main character is beautiful, and that seems to be of great importance to the story. Supposedly both protagonists are "smart" and yet they are clueless for most of the story. I have read and enjoyed Julie London stories in the past, but this was not worth my money nor time. Perhaps the rest of the series is better???? I have no desire to find out.
February 21, 2019
I really loved Rebecca and Grayson is the cutest little guy. Matt Parrish, seorang pengacara sukses, tampan dan idealis. Tapi terperangkap dalam dunia politik. Ditambah Rebecca, mantan Ratu Kecantikan Texas yang cantik, sopan dan populer. Sayangnya, suami Rebecca berkhianat.
Oh, happy reading 📚 !!
Rating Book: ★★★★☆ (4,2/5)
Oh, happy reading 📚 !!
Rating Book: ★★★★☆ (4,2/5)
September 27, 2019
This is another book that I got because I liked the one before in the sequel but then wasn’t interested in the description. It took me months to start it. But then, I remembered and was happy I did. I enjoyed this one, as well.
September 25, 2017
Sweet
This book had a few crazy moments. The heroine was finding herself and along the way found true love and happiness
This book had a few crazy moments. The heroine was finding herself and along the way found true love and happiness
February 6, 2018
Good read!
This was a fun read. I enjoyed Rebecca a lot and I loved the banter with Matt. It also left me excited for the next one.
This was a fun read. I enjoyed Rebecca a lot and I loved the banter with Matt. It also left me excited for the next one.
October 20, 2018
Good but too long.
Good but too long. Considering the length there should’ve been a lot more happening in this book than there was.
Good but too long. Considering the length there should’ve been a lot more happening in this book than there was.
April 11, 2019
Phenomenal book!!!
I love Julia’s books, she is one of my favourite authors.
I love this series.
I loved this book from start to finish.
I love the characters and the story.
I love Julia’s books, she is one of my favourite authors.
I love this series.
I loved this book from start to finish.
I love the characters and the story.
July 3, 2019
So, the author is telling me that the heroine who has two neurons in her brain becomes successful by the end. She grated on my nerves for so long that it's miracle that I live to tell about it.
March 23, 2021
I liked it
I did like it. It wasn't was good as the first one because certain situations end to be predictable it you read the first one but still it was a page turner.
I did like it. It wasn't was good as the first one because certain situations end to be predictable it you read the first one but still it was a page turner.
July 28, 2013
Narrated by Natalie Ross
5 stars - Book Content
3 stars - Narration
Over the years I have delighted in both Julia London’s historical and contemporary titles. When it comes to her historical titles, I prefer her earlier books – they seem meatier than her later formulaic tales. But when Ms. London turns to her contemporary voice, I’m rarely disappointed. She has a significant contemporary backlist although the number is confusing as her Thrillseekers Anonymous series is being rereleased with new titles. But each of the seven (out of nine total) London contemporaries I have read (or been fortunate enough to listen to) has rated at least a B read (or listen) – definitely what I consider a go-to author for contemporary tales.
Beauty Queen, up to this point, has been one of my favorites of the bunch. I have read it three times in print since its original 2004 release and was thrilled to discover that it was being released this month in audio format. The ever-so-reliable Natalie Ross performs so you better believe hero Matt Parrish sounds all male and is performed as written. Ross certainly knows how to get her male characters right. Her heroine Rebecca however, the driving force of this story, left me disappointed. Was it the fact that her character was firmly established in my head after my numerous print reads? Possibly. But I think it more likely that the narrator took another path with Rebecca’s personality. More on that later.
Rebecca Lear comes from money and is the middle of three sisters. She has recently endured a humiliating divorce after her unfaithful husband left her for another woman. A former Miss Texas, it can’t be said that Rebecca holds many job skills other than throwing parties and being the wife to a successful man. Her self-esteem has suffered greatly and she’s devoted to two things – taking care of her young son and self help books. She’s convinced that she must get a job to feel useful. When an old acquaintance running for Lieutenant Governor (of Texas) requests that she join his campaign staff, she sees it as her opportunity to gain job skills while contributing to a larger cause.
Matt Parrish is already working hard on the campaign as the lead strategist. He is a tough litigator with a heart – he’s known to take on the less profitable cases. He’s also known as a man who leaves a trail of broken hearts (or enraged former lovers) as he moves through life. He can hardly believe the beauty queen he must endure for the sake of the campaign. She’s a socialite who knows nothing about the world of politics and the candidate is giving her way too much leeway in the campaign. And she brings her five-year-old son with her to the office!
Beauty Queen is a pure contemporary, hands-down my favorite romance sub-genre. It’s all about the push and pull of the leads’ relationship, their growth as individuals, and their relationships with others. A winning formula – no doubt. And mix that with Natalie Ross – a narrator who gets romance. She once again pulls off a narration that is clearly differentiated with characters you know just by hearing their voice. All appear to remain true to the written word until it comes to Rebecca.
Although she has a rich girl background and that Miss Texas title, Rebecca worked well for me in print as I envisioned a level-headed, considerate woman who is just trying to get on with her life. She’s known as the loving and understanding one in the family who, admittedly, does thrive on perfectionism in her home but things are definitely starting to fray around those edges as evidenced by the growing number of stray dogs who are now pets. Now for the Rebecca I heard performed by Ms. Ross. This Rebecca was rich and used to getting her way. Rather than being earnest in her arguments and reasoning with Matt, she sounded alternately immature or a bit of a “mean girl.” Rather than hearing her clearly written vulnerability and understandable reasons for resisting Matt, the performance hinted at a bitchy spoiled nature. As I have little tolerance for such tendencies, I almost felt as if I didn’t know this Rebecca at times.
I’m not one to complain about narrators laughing along with the written word – I think it works more times than not. Here, Natalie Ross’ use of laughter was too much – distracting from numerous characters rather than adding charm or warmth. In particular, Rebecca’s laugh often sounded empty, adding to the above negative image I was already fighting.
Still, the former beauty queen and the hotshot lawyer is a formula that works very well and Beauty Queen is well performed. But I’ll be returning to this favored tale in print as I prefer my interpretation of the heroine.
This review was written for the 6/24/13 Speaking of Audiobooks column. http://www.likesbooks.com/blog/?p=101...
5 stars - Book Content
3 stars - Narration
Over the years I have delighted in both Julia London’s historical and contemporary titles. When it comes to her historical titles, I prefer her earlier books – they seem meatier than her later formulaic tales. But when Ms. London turns to her contemporary voice, I’m rarely disappointed. She has a significant contemporary backlist although the number is confusing as her Thrillseekers Anonymous series is being rereleased with new titles. But each of the seven (out of nine total) London contemporaries I have read (or been fortunate enough to listen to) has rated at least a B read (or listen) – definitely what I consider a go-to author for contemporary tales.
Beauty Queen, up to this point, has been one of my favorites of the bunch. I have read it three times in print since its original 2004 release and was thrilled to discover that it was being released this month in audio format. The ever-so-reliable Natalie Ross performs so you better believe hero Matt Parrish sounds all male and is performed as written. Ross certainly knows how to get her male characters right. Her heroine Rebecca however, the driving force of this story, left me disappointed. Was it the fact that her character was firmly established in my head after my numerous print reads? Possibly. But I think it more likely that the narrator took another path with Rebecca’s personality. More on that later.
Rebecca Lear comes from money and is the middle of three sisters. She has recently endured a humiliating divorce after her unfaithful husband left her for another woman. A former Miss Texas, it can’t be said that Rebecca holds many job skills other than throwing parties and being the wife to a successful man. Her self-esteem has suffered greatly and she’s devoted to two things – taking care of her young son and self help books. She’s convinced that she must get a job to feel useful. When an old acquaintance running for Lieutenant Governor (of Texas) requests that she join his campaign staff, she sees it as her opportunity to gain job skills while contributing to a larger cause.
Matt Parrish is already working hard on the campaign as the lead strategist. He is a tough litigator with a heart – he’s known to take on the less profitable cases. He’s also known as a man who leaves a trail of broken hearts (or enraged former lovers) as he moves through life. He can hardly believe the beauty queen he must endure for the sake of the campaign. She’s a socialite who knows nothing about the world of politics and the candidate is giving her way too much leeway in the campaign. And she brings her five-year-old son with her to the office!
Beauty Queen is a pure contemporary, hands-down my favorite romance sub-genre. It’s all about the push and pull of the leads’ relationship, their growth as individuals, and their relationships with others. A winning formula – no doubt. And mix that with Natalie Ross – a narrator who gets romance. She once again pulls off a narration that is clearly differentiated with characters you know just by hearing their voice. All appear to remain true to the written word until it comes to Rebecca.
Although she has a rich girl background and that Miss Texas title, Rebecca worked well for me in print as I envisioned a level-headed, considerate woman who is just trying to get on with her life. She’s known as the loving and understanding one in the family who, admittedly, does thrive on perfectionism in her home but things are definitely starting to fray around those edges as evidenced by the growing number of stray dogs who are now pets. Now for the Rebecca I heard performed by Ms. Ross. This Rebecca was rich and used to getting her way. Rather than being earnest in her arguments and reasoning with Matt, she sounded alternately immature or a bit of a “mean girl.” Rather than hearing her clearly written vulnerability and understandable reasons for resisting Matt, the performance hinted at a bitchy spoiled nature. As I have little tolerance for such tendencies, I almost felt as if I didn’t know this Rebecca at times.
I’m not one to complain about narrators laughing along with the written word – I think it works more times than not. Here, Natalie Ross’ use of laughter was too much – distracting from numerous characters rather than adding charm or warmth. In particular, Rebecca’s laugh often sounded empty, adding to the above negative image I was already fighting.
Still, the former beauty queen and the hotshot lawyer is a formula that works very well and Beauty Queen is well performed. But I’ll be returning to this favored tale in print as I prefer my interpretation of the heroine.
This review was written for the 6/24/13 Speaking of Audiobooks column. http://www.likesbooks.com/blog/?p=101...
April 11, 2019
Phenomenal book!!!
I love Julia’s books, she is one of my favourite authors.
I love this series.
I loved this book from start to finish.
I love the characters and the story.
I love Julia’s books, she is one of my favourite authors.
I love this series.
I loved this book from start to finish.
I love the characters and the story.
December 25, 2014
Beauty Queen is the second book in the Lear Family trilogy. This time, the spotlight falls to the second sister, Rebecca Lear. Rebecca is a former beauty queen. She’s just got through divorce. With no special skills or job experience, she’s trying to find who Rebecca really is. Along the way, she’s invited to volunteer for a political campaign. An old friend of her ex-husband is running for lieutenant governor for Texas. She’s invited because of her social connection, but she sees it as an opportunity for a real job experience. Little did she know that a smart and handsome lawyer Matt Parrish is also part of the team. The same man who she met at the park and she accused for stealing her quesadilla.
Like the first book, in this book we have a rom-com situation. Being in the same political campaign team, Rebecca and Matt’s relationship becomes more than just a colleague. Rebecca appears as a lost woman who’s trying to move on with her life by reading self-help books. She’s more relatable than the main from the first book, Robin. Matt is a charming man. Yet, he could be an a-hole sometimes when he’s being a bossy, arrogant lawyer. They are so different, but adorable together.
I like the second book better than the first. The goal of this book is clearer than the first one. Beauty Queen focuses on the dynamic relationship between Rebecca and Matt, with brief appearances from previous book’s characters. There’s also a sideline story from Aaron Lear. He’s an interesting character. He’s mean and full of sarcasm, but a softie when it comes to his family.
All in all, I like Beauty Queen. I had so much fun with this sister and I want to meet the third sister. If you’ve read the first book, I recommend on continuing the series. It’s dramatic, funny and a bit steamy. Yeah, Beauty Queen also has some sexy scenes. I think this warning applies to the series overall, but I just want to remind you anyway.
Like the first book, in this book we have a rom-com situation. Being in the same political campaign team, Rebecca and Matt’s relationship becomes more than just a colleague. Rebecca appears as a lost woman who’s trying to move on with her life by reading self-help books. She’s more relatable than the main from the first book, Robin. Matt is a charming man. Yet, he could be an a-hole sometimes when he’s being a bossy, arrogant lawyer. They are so different, but adorable together.
I like the second book better than the first. The goal of this book is clearer than the first one. Beauty Queen focuses on the dynamic relationship between Rebecca and Matt, with brief appearances from previous book’s characters. There’s also a sideline story from Aaron Lear. He’s an interesting character. He’s mean and full of sarcasm, but a softie when it comes to his family.
All in all, I like Beauty Queen. I had so much fun with this sister and I want to meet the third sister. If you’ve read the first book, I recommend on continuing the series. It’s dramatic, funny and a bit steamy. Yeah, Beauty Queen also has some sexy scenes. I think this warning applies to the series overall, but I just want to remind you anyway.
June 27, 2010
This is the 2nd book in the Lear trilogy starring the ex beauty queen and divorcee, Rebecca who in her quest to find herself and become independent, ends up volunteering in a political campaign. She meets lawyer Matt, he loves her son, Grayson, they fall in love...etc etc
Side story: Her dad is dying and trying to win the mom back because in the first book when he was mean to Robin, she left. His cancer had gone into remission but it has returned and in the end, he finally goes out to LA to get her. At the campaign gala, Rebecca is finally able to stand up for herself and she questions Todd, the politician and then ends up working for the Independent. Matt splits up with his partner in order to focus on pro-bono legal work.
Book has some cute little quotes at the start of each chapter.
Some of my favs:
You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing that we call “failure” is not the falling down, but the staying down. Mary Pickford
I like work: It fascinates me. I can sit and look at it for hours… Jerome K. Jerome
If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere. ..Frank A. Clark
If I’ve done anything I’m sorry for, I’m willing to be forgiven…Edward N. Westcott
Happiness is having a large, loving, caring, close-knit family in another city… George Burns
Man, unlike any other thing organic or inorganic in the universe grows beyond his work, walks up the stairs of his concepts, emerges ahead of his accomplishments…John Steinbeck
When you get to the end o f your rope, tie a knot and hang on…Franklin D. Roosevelt
The world is round and the place that may seem like the end may also be the beginning…Ivy Baker Priest
Side story: Her dad is dying and trying to win the mom back because in the first book when he was mean to Robin, she left. His cancer had gone into remission but it has returned and in the end, he finally goes out to LA to get her. At the campaign gala, Rebecca is finally able to stand up for herself and she questions Todd, the politician and then ends up working for the Independent. Matt splits up with his partner in order to focus on pro-bono legal work.
Book has some cute little quotes at the start of each chapter.
Some of my favs:
You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing that we call “failure” is not the falling down, but the staying down. Mary Pickford
I like work: It fascinates me. I can sit and look at it for hours… Jerome K. Jerome
If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’t lead anywhere. ..Frank A. Clark
If I’ve done anything I’m sorry for, I’m willing to be forgiven…Edward N. Westcott
Happiness is having a large, loving, caring, close-knit family in another city… George Burns
Man, unlike any other thing organic or inorganic in the universe grows beyond his work, walks up the stairs of his concepts, emerges ahead of his accomplishments…John Steinbeck
When you get to the end o f your rope, tie a knot and hang on…Franklin D. Roosevelt
The world is round and the place that may seem like the end may also be the beginning…Ivy Baker Priest
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2013
Beauty Queen", the second book in "The Fancy Lives of the Lear Sisters" by Julia London follows Rebecca, the second daughter of Aaron Lear. Lear is a self-made man and one of the richest in Texas, who wants his to be sure his girls will be fine without him once he is diagnosed with cancer. Rebecca is a former Miss Texas, who gave up her own dreams to be the "Perfect" wife and mother. When her husband moves on, she has to find a way to stand on her own two feet, and find direction, without help from her father. In the process of trying to find her place, she has an embarrassing encounter with Matt Parrish, lawyer and ladies' man.
When an opportunity to gain real-world experience falls in Rebecca's lap, it sets up an unexpected encounter with Matt, and the fun begins. The interaction between the two kept me laughing, and both end up on journeys to find themselves and each other. For these two characters, most of the conflict comes in this journey. The additional characters (both human and canine) add to the fun of this novel. There is also her conflicted feelings about her father, as well as Aaron Lear's continuing quest to make things right with his estranged wife.
London continues to create characters and stories I love to read. I can't wait to read the third and final story in this trilogy, to see how the "baby" of the family finds her way, and to see if Aaron can fix his own relationship before it is too late.
When an opportunity to gain real-world experience falls in Rebecca's lap, it sets up an unexpected encounter with Matt, and the fun begins. The interaction between the two kept me laughing, and both end up on journeys to find themselves and each other. For these two characters, most of the conflict comes in this journey. The additional characters (both human and canine) add to the fun of this novel. There is also her conflicted feelings about her father, as well as Aaron Lear's continuing quest to make things right with his estranged wife.
London continues to create characters and stories I love to read. I can't wait to read the third and final story in this trilogy, to see how the "baby" of the family finds her way, and to see if Aaron can fix his own relationship before it is too late.
May 24, 2013
I really enjoyed Julia London's, Beauty Queen, the second in the Lear Family Trilogy. The background is that the father has told his three daughters that they have to earn their way or they will be cut off.
This is Rebecca's story. A former beauty queen with a fake friends, a lifestyle that doesn't have a lot of substance and a husband who has just left her and their child for a younger woman Beauty Queen envelops us in Rebecca's struggle to find herself and her sense of worth - all while struggling to make ends meet without a lot of marketable skills. She gets a job helping to manage a political campaign and meets Matt Parrish. Sparks flew when they met, but they weren't of the romantic kind. Matt thinks she is an airhead and she thinks that he is arrogant. (He is!)
The story follows their developing friendship and then romance as they get to know each other and realize that the candidate their working for isn't all that worthy.
I enjoyed the back and forth between the characters and watching Rebecca discover herself. The background characters were a lot of fun and this was a very fast paced read. I've already downloaded the third in the series from Amazon and can't wait to get started.
This is Rebecca's story. A former beauty queen with a fake friends, a lifestyle that doesn't have a lot of substance and a husband who has just left her and their child for a younger woman Beauty Queen envelops us in Rebecca's struggle to find herself and her sense of worth - all while struggling to make ends meet without a lot of marketable skills. She gets a job helping to manage a political campaign and meets Matt Parrish. Sparks flew when they met, but they weren't of the romantic kind. Matt thinks she is an airhead and she thinks that he is arrogant. (He is!)
The story follows their developing friendship and then romance as they get to know each other and realize that the candidate their working for isn't all that worthy.
I enjoyed the back and forth between the characters and watching Rebecca discover herself. The background characters were a lot of fun and this was a very fast paced read. I've already downloaded the third in the series from Amazon and can't wait to get started.
Read
September 19, 2011The Lear Sisters Trilogy by Julia London
Material Girl, Beauty Queen, and Miss Fortune.
Material Girl – Oldest sister Robin is a high powered V.P. at daddy’s company a job she is ill prepared for and frankly sucks at. Meet Jake a guy from the wrong side of the tracks trying to make it as a contractor while studying architecture.
Beauty Queen – Middle sister former Miss Texas, Rebecca, is newly divorced from her childhood sweetheart with a small child who cries for his nanny. Meet man whore Matt the lawyer with a heart.
Miss Fortune – Sweet, quirky, baby sister Rachel professional student and self-saboteur. Meet Flynn investigator for Lloyds of London.
I really liked the fact that I could relate to all three sisters. I wasn’t sure I would because I mean “poor little rich girl” times three. But even rich girls have daddy issues. All three girls could be someone you’ve met. Pushy over achiever Rachel, underestimated good looker Rebecca, and Rachel with a heart of gold who lets everyone walk over her because she never feels good enough.
Warning somehow Jake’s nephew Cole from Material Girl turns into his son in the next two books.
Material Girl, Beauty Queen, and Miss Fortune.
Material Girl – Oldest sister Robin is a high powered V.P. at daddy’s company a job she is ill prepared for and frankly sucks at. Meet Jake a guy from the wrong side of the tracks trying to make it as a contractor while studying architecture.
Beauty Queen – Middle sister former Miss Texas, Rebecca, is newly divorced from her childhood sweetheart with a small child who cries for his nanny. Meet man whore Matt the lawyer with a heart.
Miss Fortune – Sweet, quirky, baby sister Rachel professional student and self-saboteur. Meet Flynn investigator for Lloyds of London.
I really liked the fact that I could relate to all three sisters. I wasn’t sure I would because I mean “poor little rich girl” times three. But even rich girls have daddy issues. All three girls could be someone you’ve met. Pushy over achiever Rachel, underestimated good looker Rebecca, and Rachel with a heart of gold who lets everyone walk over her because she never feels good enough.
Warning somehow Jake’s nephew Cole from Material Girl turns into his son in the next two books.
February 25, 2013
3.25stars actually
Book 2 of the Lear Trilogy spotlights middle sister Rebecca who is still recovering from her shocking divorce as she tries to stand on her own and find job! She cutely meets dark handsome Matt Parish then horror meets him again as they are working on the same campaign.
Rebecca is so out of her element on so many things but thanks to all of the self improvement she has been working on, she is never without a plan. Matt had it all together until he met Rebecca who changed all the rules for him. They are good characters with enough layers to keep them energy and they had good chemistry together. The plot is thin but the secondary characters do succeed in providing the necessary support.
The biggest drawback for me is this was a reprinted digital version that could have used someone to actually check it for errors. there were many typos which took away from the enjoyment of the book and even a couple that took you out of the story. (and ultimately affected the rating.
This is a good rainy day or beach read and typos notwithstanding I will read the final entry to this trilogy.
Book 2 of the Lear Trilogy spotlights middle sister Rebecca who is still recovering from her shocking divorce as she tries to stand on her own and find job! She cutely meets dark handsome Matt Parish then horror meets him again as they are working on the same campaign.
Rebecca is so out of her element on so many things but thanks to all of the self improvement she has been working on, she is never without a plan. Matt had it all together until he met Rebecca who changed all the rules for him. They are good characters with enough layers to keep them energy and they had good chemistry together. The plot is thin but the secondary characters do succeed in providing the necessary support.
The biggest drawback for me is this was a reprinted digital version that could have used someone to actually check it for errors. there were many typos which took away from the enjoyment of the book and even a couple that took you out of the story. (and ultimately affected the rating.
This is a good rainy day or beach read and typos notwithstanding I will read the final entry to this trilogy.
December 5, 2014
3.5 STARS
"The second installment in London's contemporary Lear sisters trilogy (Material Girl, etc.) showcases her talent for depicting the progress of intimacy between two equally strong and unpredictable lovers. As a young woman, Rebecca Lear gave up her dreams of an artistic career to be a dutiful daughter, a beauty pageant queen and a glittering socialite wife. Now, a divorcee with a five-year-old son, she discovers that a life spent meeting others' expectations has left her with no marketable experience and even less self-esteem. She dives into self-help books and searches for a confidence-bolstering job but has little success until she finds a position helping manage Tom Masters's campaign for lieutenant governor of Texas. At campaign headquarters, she immediately butts heads with campaign consultant Matt Parrish, a handsome trial lawyer with a bossy, arrogant demeanor, but as they work on the increasingly problematic campaign, the two find common ground." (From Amazon)
A good sequel...I enjoyed the romance and humour. This novel starts a bit slow but picks up and is great as the first book. I cannot wait to read the third book in the series.
"The second installment in London's contemporary Lear sisters trilogy (Material Girl, etc.) showcases her talent for depicting the progress of intimacy between two equally strong and unpredictable lovers. As a young woman, Rebecca Lear gave up her dreams of an artistic career to be a dutiful daughter, a beauty pageant queen and a glittering socialite wife. Now, a divorcee with a five-year-old son, she discovers that a life spent meeting others' expectations has left her with no marketable experience and even less self-esteem. She dives into self-help books and searches for a confidence-bolstering job but has little success until she finds a position helping manage Tom Masters's campaign for lieutenant governor of Texas. At campaign headquarters, she immediately butts heads with campaign consultant Matt Parrish, a handsome trial lawyer with a bossy, arrogant demeanor, but as they work on the increasingly problematic campaign, the two find common ground." (From Amazon)
A good sequel...I enjoyed the romance and humour. This novel starts a bit slow but picks up and is great as the first book. I cannot wait to read the third book in the series.
May 24, 2013
Julia London has a wonderful trilogy surrounding the Lear sisters. Launching out from a historical path, to a more modern one is a big success for Julia. Each sister has a different path; and all are affected when they find out that their father is dying.
Rebecca; a former beauty queen, and sometimes mom (a nanny has practically raised her son)goes through a bitter divorce. Looking for a job when you have NO experience doing anything is almost impossible. Luckily, Rebecca is invited to help with a political campaign.
Rebecca meets Matt under some strange circumstances, and they butt heads immediately. Rebecca has to learn who she is and what she wants in life. She is forced to find herself. Along the way, she learns about being a mom, and even finds that she has more talents than she ever knew were inside her. Matt, and their feud to be the best during the campaign is the inspiration she needs to find herself and her place in the world.
A great read, I look forward to reading the remaining books in the series.
Rebecca; a former beauty queen, and sometimes mom (a nanny has practically raised her son)goes through a bitter divorce. Looking for a job when you have NO experience doing anything is almost impossible. Luckily, Rebecca is invited to help with a political campaign.
Rebecca meets Matt under some strange circumstances, and they butt heads immediately. Rebecca has to learn who she is and what she wants in life. She is forced to find herself. Along the way, she learns about being a mom, and even finds that she has more talents than she ever knew were inside her. Matt, and their feud to be the best during the campaign is the inspiration she needs to find herself and her place in the world.
A great read, I look forward to reading the remaining books in the series.
June 5, 2015
Hmm ini knapa ebooknya ndak ada tanda bacanya? Jd lier... Btw, Rebecca ini selama married dgn Bud ngapain aja? Deket ama anaknya aja engga, krn setelah bercerai Gray selalu menanyakan nanny-nya drpd ibunya sendiri. Sampai2 Gray berharap nanny-nya married dgn ayahnya. Lagian yah si Rebecca ini lebih bnyk mikirin Matt atau kampanye drpd mikirin cara spy lebih deket dgn anaknya. Cerita banyak ttg kampanye dimana Rebecca & Matt menjadi sukarelawan. In the end, tdk bnyk org spt Rebecca & Matt yg berani utk stand up (dgn segala konsekuensinya) jika org yg didukung tdk sesuai dgn prinsip/hati nurani yaitu kepentingan rakyat. Namanya jg politik, bnyk negoisasi & balas budi.
Ini ending ceritanya knapa gantung? Bnyk pertanyaan yg blm terjawab spt : siapa yg menang pemilihan? Apa karir yg dipilih Rebecca & Matt sukses? Kapan mereka married? Knapa porsi interaksi Gray,Rebecca/Matt tdk diperbanyak? 2,5 stars
Ini ending ceritanya knapa gantung? Bnyk pertanyaan yg blm terjawab spt : siapa yg menang pemilihan? Apa karir yg dipilih Rebecca & Matt sukses? Kapan mereka married? Knapa porsi interaksi Gray,Rebecca/Matt tdk diperbanyak? 2,5 stars
November 9, 2014
The second in the series and I find myself reading the series backwards (again). I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I liked the book well enough I just really did not care for Rebecca that much. Although I did love how she always rescued dogs and ended up keeping the ones nobody else would take. I did not care for Matt at the beginning but he really grew on me right away. Rebecca is a former Beauty Queen recently divorced and a single mother. Her child was mostly raised by nanny's up until the divorce and she is now trying to find herself. She does not need a job but wants one. She finds she is not qualified for much of anything so she starts volunteering on a campaign. Matt also works on the campaign and they find themselves always disagreeing which of course lead to a romance. It was a good read but I enjoyed the 3rd book in the series Miss Fortune better.
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