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Top Model: Estelle Li and the September Issue

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Obsession, coercion, and blackmail!?

Estelle Li is a young and aspiring, Chinese-American model who’s equally vulnerable as she is strong and independent.

She’s willing to sacrifice everything and do whatever it takes to achieve her dream of becoming the next top model.

This sort of mindset is undoubtedly required to become a top fashion model, with competition high and opportunities few and far between.

But it comes at a high price.

Follow Estelle Li on her path towards stardom as she tackles personal and professional demons along the way.

Will she become the model she’s always dreamed of being? Or will the fashion industry chew her up and spit her out?

For any readers looking for a story that encapsulates the experience of what it’s like to navigate the cutthroat world of modeling, you don’t want to miss out on reading this book!

Prepare to gasp in shock and be left jaw-dropped as you journey through and witness what it takes to be a top fashion model through the eyes of Estelle Li.

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First published January 14, 2022

21 people are currently reading
14 people want to read

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Adam Jay Ung

3 books1 follower

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5 stars
35 (61%)
4 stars
17 (29%)
3 stars
1 (1%)
2 stars
4 (7%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Lubov Leonova.
Author 5 books137 followers
June 5, 2023
Is it easy to fit into the beauty industry?

The story of Estelle is both captivating and touching. The author did a great job showing the young woman and her dedication to achieving her dreams. Being a model is a hard job, and I learned more about all the struggles that modern girls face in this industry - from starving, trying to fit the fashion standards, to frank sexual harassment. I loved the way the character develops, slowly building boundaries and fighting back.

The only thing that made the reading process bumpy was inconsistent POV and ‘head-to-head’ jumping. It was especially distracting in the dialogues.

Overall, the story was absolutely worth reading, and I recommend it to everyone who wants to immerse themselves into the world of modeling.
Profile Image for Anita.
94 reviews2 followers
September 6, 2023
The title of this book confused me. It comes across as though this is supposed to be a magazine, but it’s not, it’s obviously a story… but the title just doesn’t work for it.

Still, I dug in and wham! Right from the beginning, I could not help but notice how bad the formatting of the interior is. It’s all wrong! This is fiction, why is there no first line indentation for the paragraphs, and no spacing between paragraphs either? This is just justified text that runs together, with the exception of some indentation for notes (which also has no change in font to set them apart). No effort at all has gone into formatting the interior of this book; it is visually booooring. At least there are scene breaks. I find this pretty ironic considering the subject matter is all about… looks. And lets not talk about editing, a human Editor was obviously not utilized with this book. If one had been, so many issues would have been caught.

As for the story itself, there’s no substance here, and the issues with the point of view switching is just flat-out irritating. I need a story to grab me; this one just did not, I still wasn’t into this book by chapter 4 “Lipstick Stains” (30% into the digital book); normally I would have stopped reading and moved on to another book, but I persevered.

I hate to say it but I just could not connect with the main character in order to invest in her story. Other than the fact that I know she is Chinese-American and she weighs less than I ever have and is still trying to weigh less, I know nothing about her really; there’s no background here, there’s no real story development. Same with the other characters, everyone is far too two-dimensional. What’s driving this woman, why should I be pulling for her to succeed? I feel that this author has given me nothing to sink my teeth into, nothing to connect to or root for. I may have been able to do so when the MeToo issues were interjected, but the way she behaves and her own shallowness made it impossible to get on her side. I may be a woman, but a woman won’t just see a MeToo issue and automatically jump on the woman’s side of the story, especially if that woman is off-putting in her own behavior. The authors way of presenting these issues feels a bit tone-deaf.

This author really should take part in some writer’s groups and present some of his work to get feedback. He needs to learn story and character development.

Sorry, I just cannot recommend this book.
38 reviews
March 14, 2023
Very interesting book!

The story follows Estelle Li, a young model who is determined to make it big in the industry, as she navigates through photo shoots, runways, and the pressures of being a top model. The book portrays Estelle as a relatable and ambitious protagonist, while also addressing important themes such as societal beauty standards and women's struggles in male-dominated industries. Overall, the book is a gripping and entertaining read that will leave readers eager for more.



Make it more interesting

"Top Model: Estelle Li and the September Issue" by Adam Jay Ung is an electrifying page-turner that provides a gripping glimpse into the glamorous and often cut-throat world of high fashion. Through the eyes of Estelle Li, a determined and ambitious young model, readers are taken on a thrilling ride through photo shoots, runways, and behind the scenes of the industry's biggest events. Ung's vivid descriptions and fast-paced writing style transports readers to the frontlines of the fashion industry, while also delving deeper into themes such as beauty standards and the gender disparities within the industry. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or simply looking for an adrenaline-fueled read, "Top Model: Estelle Li and the September Issue is a must-read that will leave you on the edge of your seat and craving for more.

Profile Image for G. Gaynor.
Author 25 books108 followers
March 7, 2023
I wanted to enjoy this book. I thought it could be an easy read about a model in the fashion industry - a 'beach book', if you will. That was unfortunately not the case. The main issue I had was that the central character is profoundly unsympathetic and completely unlikeable. I'm not rooting for her - I can't stand her. There's nothing redeeming about her. The remaining cast of characters is two-dimensional and utterly unremarkable. Caricatures of who the author thinks they should be. The entire offering is lacking in depth. It's surface storytelling that doesn't give the reader anything to sink their teeth into or care about. It's essentially a pedestrian accounting of a string of events held together with the 'glue' of the main character's whining about her Asian family dynamics and how she's not a famous model.

This book could also greatly benefit from significant editing. Throughout the novel there are words used incorrectly, character POV that jumps from one to the other without warning, a lack of flow, and juvenile prose. Overall it just wasn't worth my time.
Profile Image for Mark Sneed.
Author 20 books32 followers
September 8, 2023
The Ugliness of Beauty

This is a good effort to show the behind the scenes of what it takes to be a successful model. Everyone thinks it’s easy. Be super skinny. Walk the runway. Get your pictures taken. But what is nice or revealing is the idea of the sacrifices that each model has to make for their future success. The story centers on Estelle Li a young and beautiful Chinese-American attempting to make it as a model. She’s a Ford model and that says a lot about Estelle without saying a lot about Estelle. She is aware of the industry and knows the players. The villain here is the over the top photographer who holds the careers of models literally and figuratively in his hands. Don’t want to give to much away but suffice it to say that the photographer is not a good guy. The story painstakingly illustrates the ugliness of modeling and the sacrifices made for the beauty. The story is a contradiction in ways and except for a few formatting errors I enjoyed the story. Check it out if you like a behind the scenes type of story.
Profile Image for Steve Lindahl.
Author 13 books35 followers
February 24, 2024
Top Model tells the story of Estelle Li, a young Asian woman trying to make it in the competitive world of fashion modeling. Estelle is a great example of someone with a strong personality trait that is simultaneously her best and worst quality. She is extremely ambitious and willing to do anything it takes to get ahead. Readers can admire her strength and determination, but her ambition pushes her to places she shouldn’t go.

The novel is centered on Estelle, yet there are also interesting characters around her. Lily is her agent and her friend. She is concerned for Estelle but keeps her client’s career at the top of her priorities, even if she might deny doing that. And then there is Sofie Tsai, another Asian model who is younger than Estelle but has had more success. They are extremely competitive.

Top Model gives us an inside picture of the modeling industry, which may exist to showcase beauty but is often ugly at its core. The novel is captivating. If you pick it up, you’ll have problems putting it down.
Profile Image for Penny Kaluza.
1 review
September 30, 2024
“Top Model: Estelle Li and the September Issue” is a contemporary fiction novel that emphasizes the world of modeling and fashion. The main character, Estelle Li, is portrayed as a rising star in the modeling industry who is trying her best to get her face on a leading magazine cover.

The writing style is engaging and descriptive, making it very easy to visualize each scene. The characters are human and emotional throughout the storyline. The plot is well-structured, with enough twists and turns to keep my attention until the end.

The author does an excellent job of keeping the story moving forward steadily without feeling rushed or dragging. His writing has many human emotions, including ambition, resilience, and self-discovery. Estelle’s journey feels authentic and relatable.

The setting is vivid and immersive, transporting readers into the fashion industry. Overall, “Top Model: Estelle Li and the September Issue” is a thoroughly enjoyable read that I highly recommend to fans of contemporary fiction and those interested in the fashion world.

Profile Image for Lika Vetra.
Author 1 book4 followers
January 7, 2025
Estelle is a former schoolgirl who lives alone in a tiny apartment, with no hobbies, no friends, little family support and in addition, imprisoned in a petite body. The only big thing in her minor life is her dream to become a top model. At first glance it seems like this dream will never come true however hard she works on her shape, skin and poses. But in the world of fashion, everything is possible because this world is unpredictable, snaky and hypocrite. Adam Jay Ung credibly talks about castings, runaway shows, photoshoots, designers and photographers. Probably his knowledge stems from his other job since he also works as a cameraman in the entertaining industry. And the more you read, the more you understand that the “Top Model’s book cover is not a sweet illustration but rather a photo negative of the story.
4 reviews
April 7, 2024
"Estelle Li and the September Issue" is an excellent read, masterfully capturing the arduous journey toward becoming a supermodel. The author delves into the intense struggles models face, from adhering to strict physical standards to navigating the ruthless world of social media, spotlighting the mental and physical tolls these pressures can exact. Furthermore, the narrative addresses the sensitive issue of sexual predation within the industry, handling it with a commendable balance of tact and clarity, avoiding gratuitous details while still portraying the gravity of the situation. This book offers a nuanced, insightful exploration of the beauty industry's less glamorous facets, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the true costs of perfection.
Author 1 book
December 27, 2023
Thought-provoking and well written

Just finished reading this book about a model's journey in the cutthroat world of fashion modeling. It's a gripping story that doesn't shy away from the darker side of the industry. What really hit home was how it portrayed the clash of Asian and American cultural expectations through Estelle's experiences. It’s intense, with a mix of emotions, and packed with moments that keep you turning the pages. The insights into the fashion world are as eye-opening as they are chilling. Estelle's character is strong yet relatable, making you root for her through every twist and turn. A thought-provoking, well-crafted read!
Author 4 books17 followers
April 6, 2022
Excellent debut novel!

I have to say I loved this! In fact, I finished this in one sitting (which hardly ever happens)!

It was well-written, with an incredible amount of detail of the modelling circuit in NY. It was a page-turner, the drama unfolding very organically, becoming darker by the minute, aspiration turning into obsession. The Chinese- American angle was quite refreshing.

I really enjoyed this and would recommend it whole-heartedly. Honestly looking forward to the follow-up. P.S. The updated cover is much better too.
44 reviews1 follower
July 16, 2022
Eye opening story that will obviously be continued.

Estelle evolves and it is not pretty. While beautiful, she is manipulated by the fashion industry into altering herself in unhealthy ways. Eventually, her obsessive drive to reach the top turns her towards darkness and vengeance. Idealism displayed in the outset of the story becomes tainted by terrible actions at the end. This blurs the reader's perspective of who is good and who is evil. The ending obviously sets up a sequel.
Profile Image for Jim Hardison.
Author 25 books73 followers
January 29, 2023
Sharp and well-written

I wasn’t expecting this to be as dark and gritty as it turned out to be, but that was a pleasant surprise. I went back and forth between four and five stars for the rating. On the con side, the ground the plot covers is fairly straightforward and the changes in main character seem to happen a little too quickly. On the pro side, the writing was highly polished, the characters were generally well drawn and engaging, and the story was well paced. Ultimately decided to go with five stars.
Profile Image for Jeffrey Harvey.
Author 2 books4 followers
March 26, 2023
Interesting modelling story

The story has some character developmental issues and it is sometimes hard to cheer for the main character when she pushes everyone away including family. Why I do not know much about the actual modeling franchise, I could envision this story happening. One of the things that I noticed is the main character was turning into the person she didn't like, her rival. Overall, the story is easy to read and has a very plausible story line of the fast paced modeling profession.
309 reviews16 followers
February 15, 2024
The dark, disturbing realities of modeling!


Top Model by Adam Jay Ung is a detailed peek into the fashion industry, seen through the eyes of Estelle Li, a Chinese-American aspiring model whose dream rapidly turns into a harrowing quest for success.

Ung's narrative and background in the entertainment industry deliver an intensely emotional story From the first page to the last, where power struggles and the high cost of perfection mark the book.

This book will be a good read for fans of intense drama with a strong female protagonist.
Profile Image for Bridgit O'Connell.
76 reviews
October 9, 2024
An exciting, twisty, heart-pounding look into the lives of models

I really felt very bad for Estelle and all the shit she went through to become a top model and how many people treated her like crap along the way; not to mention the relationships and sacrifices she had to lose and make along the path. Definitely a good read for anybody at all interested in what models go through and what it would be like to be one. It was a good read, I was really invested. Nice amount of cattiness and girl rivalry. These are women on a mission. Loved it!
Profile Image for Hope Hatton.
64 reviews1 follower
February 27, 2023
A page turner

I am so glad this is only book 1 ... i can’t wait to read the next one! found it to be a page turner as I furiously read it to find out what would happen to Estelle next. I don’t want to say too much to create a spoiler alert. But the book definitely takes you into the world of high fashion modeling and many of its dark secrets. If you like drama fiction, read this!
Profile Image for J.A. Martin.
Author 24 books38 followers
May 19, 2023
Interesting story

Estelle Li wants to make it as a top model in NY. She keeps reaching for her dreams as her traditional father pressures her to get a real job, as the other models fight fiercely for the best gigs, and a rapacious photographer takes advantage where he can. This is the world of modelling. I thought the characters were relatable, if a bit cliched, but love the story of Estelle, and rooted for her throughout the book.
Profile Image for Jorge Jorge.
Author 82 books3 followers
September 5, 2024
Industry can be incredibly demanding

The fashion industry can be incredibly demanding on models who strive to reach their goals. This is the story of Estella Li, who does everything she can to become the best, pushing herself to meet the industry's high expectations. She even jeopardizes her health in the process. It’s a captivating read that sparks curiosity, taking you deep into the inner workings of this industry.
Profile Image for Charlie Dogo.
197 reviews8 followers
October 1, 2024
Climbing the modeling ladder

What a moving and horrifying experience, “The Life of becoming a Top Model”, and in this book, author Adam Jay Ung, depicts a perfect example; from anorexia, body shamming, social media influence, cultural diversity and expectations of family values, pressures from within, sexual harassment and abuse”. As I read Estelle’s story, it truly touched me. She’s a survivor, and has found purpose in life.
26 reviews
December 21, 2024
Obsession and Ambition at what cost?

Estelle Li is a young Asian American woman driven to become a top model. Along the way, she succumbs to pressure to 'loose inches'. Believing the only way to succeed is to do anything asked of her, she looses enough but becomes very physically ill. She also experiences rape/sexual abuse. Nothing will stop this young woman from achieving her dreams.

Is the price she pays worth the pain? Read this well written fast paced book.
Profile Image for Alicia Marsland.
Author 7 books8 followers
July 26, 2023
Pathetic and depressing

I would give it only one star, but it does have a socially redeeming value in exposing the dangers of being on the runway, but the values are a bit on the raunchy side anyway. I am assuming there’s going to be a follow-on book and maybe this girl is going to learn some further lessons that will make the series worthwhile. But I really didn’t enjoy this.
Profile Image for Syd Gilmore.
Author 3 books11 followers
August 5, 2023
It's hard to put down this book because of its dark humor, oddball characters, and crazy plot. The story was original, imaginative, and skillfully written, and the characters were eccentric yet likable. Humor and dark satire blend seamlessly throughout the narrative. This may be an interesting departure from the ordinary, both as reading material and as a character study.
Profile Image for Marie Jimenez.
Author 4 books
January 21, 2024
insightful view on modeling

This book was sad to really get an inside look in this industry that takes girls and makes them try to achieve the impossible with their bodies. Estelle’s journey in the modeling world is self damaging. From sleazy photographers to crazy diets. This was a great read
Author 1 book2 followers
October 12, 2024
Interesting Story !!

This book is very well written, the description of the book caught my attention. This book shows what the world of high fashion is like as we see only pretty part of it. This book gave me a whole new perspective on what goes behind all the glitz and glammer. Great read !!
Profile Image for Jackie Kang.
Author 2 books64 followers
October 20, 2024
behind the scenes of the fashion industry

This is a raw and compelling story about the life of an aspiring fashion model. The story of Estelle is filled with tension and kept me turning the pages. Even though parts of the story felt a bit cliche, I could empathize with her turmoil. Well written, I would recommend this to other readers.
24 reviews1 follower
November 2, 2024
A page turner…

I found myself hoping that this is an out of date opinion writing of the fashion industry ( which is how I found myself viewing events). A page -turner nonetheless, drawn in to Estelle’s story and a take on things that I’m certainly aware used to be how things were in fashion…
306 reviews3 followers
January 20, 2023
A quick summary

Estelle Li is a young and aspiring, Chinese-American fashion model whose relentless ambition becomes a dangerous obsession as she struggles to break out in the industry while being consumed by the high price of perfection.
Author 3 books1 follower
May 5, 2023
cultural differences meets in a novel

The story is about a young lady of 20 years old who discovered her way through fashion industry. Her background of being Chinese American caused her a lot of cultural shocks.
61 reviews
August 30, 2023
Entertainment deluxe

Interesting read into the life of modeling and perspective on being model of a different culture striving to survive the wiles of other American models. Creative storytelling with a realistic view behind the doors of the struggles in the modeling industry.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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