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Girl #1
Girl Stays in the Picture
Devon, the hottest chart-topping sixteenyear- old diva, has just landed in the south of France to film her Hollywood movie debut. With her French Caribbean beauty and ethereal voice, she aims to secure her newest crown—blockbuster box office—but she discovers sometimes a girl can’t get by without a little help from her friends. So when she befriends Livia Romero, the producer’s insanely gorgeous and insanely spoiled daughter, whose slammin’ new body is thanks to dropping two hundred pounds via stomach-stapling surgery; and Casey West, a personal assistant to the rival star, an entourage is born. And the paparazzi can’t get enough of them.
449 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 15, 2009
13 people are currently reading
927 people want to read
About the author
Melissa de la Cruz
187 books15.9k followersMelissa de la Cruz is the New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of many critically acclaimed and award-winning novels for teens including The Au Pairs series, the Blue Bloods series, the Ashleys series, the Angels on Sunset Boulevard series and the semi-autobiographical novel Fresh off the Boat.
Her books for adults include the novel Cat’s Meow, the anthology Girls Who Like Boys Who Like Boys and the tongue-in-chic handbooks How to Become Famous in Two Weeks or Less and The Fashionista Files: Adventures in Four-inch heels and Faux-Pas.
She has worked as a fashion and beauty editor and has written for many publications including The New York Times, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Allure, The San Francisco Chronicle, McSweeney’s, Teen Vogue, CosmoGirl! and Seventeen. She has also appeared as an expert on fashion, trends and fame for CNN, E! and FoxNews.
Melissa grew up in Manila and moved to San Francisco with her family, where she graduated high school salutatorian from The Convent of the Sacred Heart. She majored in art history and English at Columbia University (and minored in nightclubs and shopping!).
She now divides her time between New York and Los Angeles, where she lives in the Hollywood Hills with her husband and daughter.
Her books for adults include the novel Cat’s Meow, the anthology Girls Who Like Boys Who Like Boys and the tongue-in-chic handbooks How to Become Famous in Two Weeks or Less and The Fashionista Files: Adventures in Four-inch heels and Faux-Pas.
She has worked as a fashion and beauty editor and has written for many publications including The New York Times, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Allure, The San Francisco Chronicle, McSweeney’s, Teen Vogue, CosmoGirl! and Seventeen. She has also appeared as an expert on fashion, trends and fame for CNN, E! and FoxNews.
Melissa grew up in Manila and moved to San Francisco with her family, where she graduated high school salutatorian from The Convent of the Sacred Heart. She majored in art history and English at Columbia University (and minored in nightclubs and shopping!).
She now divides her time between New York and Los Angeles, where she lives in the Hollywood Hills with her husband and daughter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
July 28, 2020
"Voor mij was Saint Tropez een aangename verademing van alle thriller die ik dit jaar gelezen heb! Het is zeker een aanrader!"
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July 23, 2009
At first glance, Girl Stays In The Picture looked like a classic "rich girl" novel. You know what I'm talking about, right? The type of novel that is like a Gossip Girl or The A- List copy cat since it mainly focus on fashion, money, and boys. Though, don't get me wrong I love those type of novels, but unfortunately they seem to lack in two things: reality and substance. Luckily, Girl In The Picture had those type of drama issues but with substance and girls that you could relate to in one way or another.
The characters were one of my favorite parts of this novel. I loved how they all came from different backgrounds and had different problems they had to face each and every day. For example, Devon is the it girl pop star turned almost movie star turned rehab star turned movie star once again. Throughout this novel you got to see her fight to be recognized as a girl who can do anything and succeed, not a trashy star who went to rehab. Another one of the girls' was Cassey whose plan was to act like "assistant" to her best friend, Summer, while Summer worked on her new movie. I really liked how Melissa added the typical girl next door in Cassey because I loved how Cassey would do anything for anyone no matter what they did to her. Lastly, there was Livia who is the daughter of the world famous producer Sol Romero. Though, unlike her famous family, Livia was never one for the stoplight. Well, until she got surgery to make her skinny and as she thinks more "likable." Because of this, I was constantly rooting for Cassey to realize that she had something special going for her, her love of writing, and wasn't just anther former over weight girl who would fade into the background.
The plot was another high point. Since, it constantly had twists and turns that dragged you into Girl Stays In The Picture from the start and kept you there. Melissa De La Cruz's writing was also pretty darn good. Plus, I loved how fast it moved even though it had 400+ pages.
The only thing that got me a wee bit angry at this book was the cliffhanger ending because it leaves you on a note that you really didn't expect would happen. Sadly enough, by the looks of Ms. De La Cruz's website, it looks like she hasn't even began work on the next Girl Novel because there is no mention of it at all. Though, no matter how long it takes to get the next one out, I know one thing for sure: I'll definitely be racing out to get it.
Grade: A+
The characters were one of my favorite parts of this novel. I loved how they all came from different backgrounds and had different problems they had to face each and every day. For example, Devon is the it girl pop star turned almost movie star turned rehab star turned movie star once again. Throughout this novel you got to see her fight to be recognized as a girl who can do anything and succeed, not a trashy star who went to rehab. Another one of the girls' was Cassey whose plan was to act like "assistant" to her best friend, Summer, while Summer worked on her new movie. I really liked how Melissa added the typical girl next door in Cassey because I loved how Cassey would do anything for anyone no matter what they did to her. Lastly, there was Livia who is the daughter of the world famous producer Sol Romero. Though, unlike her famous family, Livia was never one for the stoplight. Well, until she got surgery to make her skinny and as she thinks more "likable." Because of this, I was constantly rooting for Cassey to realize that she had something special going for her, her love of writing, and wasn't just anther former over weight girl who would fade into the background.
The plot was another high point. Since, it constantly had twists and turns that dragged you into Girl Stays In The Picture from the start and kept you there. Melissa De La Cruz's writing was also pretty darn good. Plus, I loved how fast it moved even though it had 400+ pages.
The only thing that got me a wee bit angry at this book was the cliffhanger ending because it leaves you on a note that you really didn't expect would happen. Sadly enough, by the looks of Ms. De La Cruz's website, it looks like she hasn't even began work on the next Girl Novel because there is no mention of it at all. Though, no matter how long it takes to get the next one out, I know one thing for sure: I'll definitely be racing out to get it.
Grade: A+
May 24, 2016
yeah you know what don't even judge i went through a melissa de la cruz phase and i had this downloaded in my kindle.... it was a fast read and i didnt hate it *that* much
June 25, 2009
For me, Girl Stays in the Picture was squee-worthy to the tune of Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants and Sleepaway Girls. Pretty much good clean fun. I was surprised at how on their own these teenagers were but I think that goes along with the whole Hollywood lifestyle. I loved the glimpse in to film sets and overworked assistants.
One thing that really excited me about this book was that I couldn't pick a favorite character, usually I gravitate towards one or two that I feel like I understand better but in Girl Stays in the Picture I loved them all equally! For me that shows the strength of the characters. They all had their own uniquestorylines , Devon and her mess of a mother and the chance to clean up her act, but does anyone care? Livia, always in the background until a weight loss surgery brings her out of the shadows, and Casey who's totally out of her element with theHollywood elite! I just loved them all. You better believe I'm excited beyond belief that this is a series.
This book was an addiction for me, at 432 pages I wouldn't call it short. I somehow was finished it within 24 hours, which is pretty much unheard of for me with a book this size. I just couldn't put it down. I loved being right there in the adventures these three new friends were experiencing.
And oh the ending, how perfect. Can you say cliffhanger! I think I've already searched several times for information on the next book in the series and haven't found anything. I'm ready for it, bring it on!
I think this is the most fun I've had with a book in a few months and I'm excited a have a few of Melissa's other books to read!
One thing that really excited me about this book was that I couldn't pick a favorite character, usually I gravitate towards one or two that I feel like I understand better but in Girl Stays in the Picture I loved them all equally! For me that shows the strength of the characters. They all had their own uniquestorylines , Devon and her mess of a mother and the chance to clean up her act, but does anyone care? Livia, always in the background until a weight loss surgery brings her out of the shadows, and Casey who's totally out of her element with theHollywood elite! I just loved them all. You better believe I'm excited beyond belief that this is a series.
This book was an addiction for me, at 432 pages I wouldn't call it short. I somehow was finished it within 24 hours, which is pretty much unheard of for me with a book this size. I just couldn't put it down. I loved being right there in the adventures these three new friends were experiencing.
And oh the ending, how perfect. Can you say cliffhanger! I think I've already searched several times for information on the next book in the series and haven't found anything. I'm ready for it, bring it on!
I think this is the most fun I've had with a book in a few months and I'm excited a have a few of Melissa's other books to read!
November 19, 2011
I actually really enjoyed Girl Stays In the Picture By Melissa De La Cruz. It's one of those books that I thought I wouldn't have liked as much as I did. There were some flaws with the writing and the plot. Mostly in the end, and some parts started to get a little predictable. It's mainly about celebrities, and their lives, how they climb up to the top, and how they come crashing down, the good, the bad, and the tragically ugly in the life of stardom, and how the pressure of stardom can make you get out of control. I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a good read. At some parts, I did feel it was getting a little dull, which made me hesitant to pick it up, but I'm glad I did, because it didn't take long for it to get interesting again.
The characters were fairly well written. Most of the characters do meet up with the same problem; complications with love. In the end, everything is resolved with their love life, and for most, it ends in a happy ending. But for Devon, I think she's the only one that doesn't have a happy ending, because, well, her world basically falls apart, when she just finished climbing up to the top of stardom. Also, the ending will leave you guessing: Who? And why?? It's one of those ending's that lets you make it into your own ending, especially since, it's kind of a cliff hanger, and there aren't any specific clues.
The characters were fairly well written. Most of the characters do meet up with the same problem; complications with love. In the end, everything is resolved with their love life, and for most, it ends in a happy ending. But for Devon, I think she's the only one that doesn't have a happy ending, because, well, her world basically falls apart, when she just finished climbing up to the top of stardom. Also, the ending will leave you guessing: Who? And why?? It's one of those ending's that lets you make it into your own ending, especially since, it's kind of a cliff hanger, and there aren't any specific clues.
April 28, 2014
A fun, inside look inside teen celebrity life. I'm kinda bummed there's no plans to finish the series.
July 8, 2009
There was just something about this book that kept me reading until 3 AM. At around 420-something pages, it took me about three and a half hours to read. I just simply couldn't put it down.
I've read many of Melissa de la Cruz's books and I've noticed that many her books have some of the same things : changing POV, a normal average girl thrown into a new world, and lots of drama.
I liked the rotation of POV between the three main characters: Devon, Livia, and Casey. It allowed me to get a feel for each girl and just let me understand the characters a bit better. I did feel that the author mentioned Livia's body issues too much; and I found myself skipping those parts when they were mentioned (in all of Livia's chapters).
Devon's struggle to remain sober added more authenticity to her character, but I found it odd that she didn't notice that her mom and Randall were just using her. I mean Devon's been in the business for many years and she still can't tell when she's being used? That was a bit odd.
And Casey was the stereotypical "normal" girl who gets to experience the rich and famous lifestyle. I was a bit annoyed that it took Casey a while to find out that her friend, Summer, had changed. But I did like the insight into assistant's jobs and the other set tidbits thrown in. Even though the characters were flawed, I still wanted to know what would happen to them.
Now onto the plot. It was predictable. I knew what was going to happen but I couldn't put it down. But Melissa de la Cruz's writing has improved and she can write some great summer reads! While the book is the cliched "Hollywood" book, it has heart. I am dying to know what happens next since the book ended in a cliffhanger (not a big one, but a cliffhanger nonetheless).
Overall: A great summer read perfect for that sunny, lazy day. And even though it's predictable and the character's are a bit flawed, it's a very good fluff read.
I've read many of Melissa de la Cruz's books and I've noticed that many her books have some of the same things : changing POV, a normal average girl thrown into a new world, and lots of drama.
I liked the rotation of POV between the three main characters: Devon, Livia, and Casey. It allowed me to get a feel for each girl and just let me understand the characters a bit better. I did feel that the author mentioned Livia's body issues too much; and I found myself skipping those parts when they were mentioned (in all of Livia's chapters).
Devon's struggle to remain sober added more authenticity to her character, but I found it odd that she didn't notice that her mom and Randall were just using her. I mean Devon's been in the business for many years and she still can't tell when she's being used? That was a bit odd.
And Casey was the stereotypical "normal" girl who gets to experience the rich and famous lifestyle. I was a bit annoyed that it took Casey a while to find out that her friend, Summer, had changed. But I did like the insight into assistant's jobs and the other set tidbits thrown in. Even though the characters were flawed, I still wanted to know what would happen to them.
Now onto the plot. It was predictable. I knew what was going to happen but I couldn't put it down. But Melissa de la Cruz's writing has improved and she can write some great summer reads! While the book is the cliched "Hollywood" book, it has heart. I am dying to know what happens next since the book ended in a cliffhanger (not a big one, but a cliffhanger nonetheless).
Overall: A great summer read perfect for that sunny, lazy day. And even though it's predictable and the character's are a bit flawed, it's a very good fluff read.
May 21, 2013
Due to copy and paste, formatting has been lost.
Girl Stays in the Picture was a fun and fluffy read. Now that's not really true-- it was fun and fluffy, but it was also a tad bit serious at times. I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would-- I was worried that this would be a meh read.
I was wrong. It may have been light and fluffy, but on a rainy day this was exactly what I needed to cheer me up. My only real issue with this book is that it's part of a series, and ends on a cliffhanger. Normally, this wouldn't be such a big deal, except this book was released in 2009 and freaking goodreads doesn't show a sequel in the works. o.O
I'm actually having problems writing this review-- I don't really know what to say!
I liked Casey, Livia and Devon. I can't really pick a favorite, but I definitely relate to Casey more, because I'm a small town southern girl too. The difference between me and her is that I can't stand it when people talk down to me. Everyone puts their britches on one leg at a time, and you? Well, you're not better than me, just like I'm no better than you.
As a result, I hate it when anyone talks down to anything. And poor Casey just got the brunt of all of that, and I just...wanted to beat her boss to death. I'm not normally a violent person. But I wanted to. I have to move on, because I feel a rant bubbling up inside.
I loved the inside look at fame. It doesn't seem to be near as glam as everyone makes it out to be, and it was interesting to see what Devon, Casey and Livia all thought about it, and how they handled it. I also loved the sweet romances that were intermingled into the book. They were just too cute.
All in all, I enjoyed Girl Stays in the Picture and I'd love to see a sequel.
October 10, 2010
Three gorgeous girls. One sexy location. Girl Stays In The Picture by Melissa de la Cruz tells the story of three girls who are in Saint Tropez for the summer.
Devon is a pop star fresh out of rehab. She has been cast in a movie that is filming in Saint Tropez and she is hoping that she can gain her career and respect back. She is ready to make a change in her life and is determined to stay sober.
Casey is a regular old teenager whose best friend Summer is an up and coming singer and actress. Summer was cast in the same movie as Devon and she hires Casey to be her personal assistant for the summer. Casey is so excited to live a glamorous life for once, but she struggled when she realizes that her best friend has changed- for the worse.
Fat girl turned skinny and gorgeous Livia is in Saint Tropez for the summer because her dad is the producer of the film Devon and Summer are working on. Livia has serious body issues and after weight loss surgery, she is still struggling with her image. Livia becomes friends with Casey and Devon.
The story rotated points of view which is my favorite kind of story. It’s even what I’m doing in my own novel. I loved getting to hear what was going on in each girls head and each of their individual voices truly stood out. I loved getting to know each girl and her back story. It was interesting how all of their lives intertwined and some unlikely friendships came about because of their location.
The story itself was a little predictable, but who doesn’t like a little predictability every once in awhile? This book is a perfect beach read.
One thing that made me VERY angry was the intense cliffhanger ending! The book was pretty long and I was excited for everything to be neatly tied up in the end and we were left with serious questions. A sequel is in the works, but I don’t think de la Cruz has begun to work on it yet.
Devon is a pop star fresh out of rehab. She has been cast in a movie that is filming in Saint Tropez and she is hoping that she can gain her career and respect back. She is ready to make a change in her life and is determined to stay sober.
Casey is a regular old teenager whose best friend Summer is an up and coming singer and actress. Summer was cast in the same movie as Devon and she hires Casey to be her personal assistant for the summer. Casey is so excited to live a glamorous life for once, but she struggled when she realizes that her best friend has changed- for the worse.
Fat girl turned skinny and gorgeous Livia is in Saint Tropez for the summer because her dad is the producer of the film Devon and Summer are working on. Livia has serious body issues and after weight loss surgery, she is still struggling with her image. Livia becomes friends with Casey and Devon.
The story rotated points of view which is my favorite kind of story. It’s even what I’m doing in my own novel. I loved getting to hear what was going on in each girls head and each of their individual voices truly stood out. I loved getting to know each girl and her back story. It was interesting how all of their lives intertwined and some unlikely friendships came about because of their location.
The story itself was a little predictable, but who doesn’t like a little predictability every once in awhile? This book is a perfect beach read.
One thing that made me VERY angry was the intense cliffhanger ending! The book was pretty long and I was excited for everything to be neatly tied up in the end and we were left with serious questions. A sequel is in the works, but I don’t think de la Cruz has begun to work on it yet.
October 24, 2019
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4,25*
Wat was dat einde?! Euhm, excuse me?! Ik. Wil. Antwoorden!
Het boek deed me in het begin erg denken aan The Fame Game , maar in de loop van het verhaal bleek het helemaal op zichzelf te staan. De romance in het verhaal was erg schattig en de personages waren aardig (behalve Summer dan. Blegh!).
Het begin van het verhaal maakte me vooral boos, maar in de loop van het verhaal losten deze dingen zich op.
Wel vond ik de stukjes van artikelen van tabloids die tussen de hoofdstukken door te lezen waren wat overbodig. Er werd niks mee gedaan in de rest van het verhaal, behalve enkele verwijzingen naar de pers (wat prima had gekund zonder die artikelen).
4,25*
Wat was dat einde?! Euhm, excuse me?! Ik. Wil. Antwoorden!
Het boek deed me in het begin erg denken aan The Fame Game , maar in de loop van het verhaal bleek het helemaal op zichzelf te staan. De romance in het verhaal was erg schattig en de personages waren aardig (behalve Summer dan. Blegh!).
Het begin van het verhaal maakte me vooral boos, maar in de loop van het verhaal losten deze dingen zich op.
Wel vond ik de stukjes van artikelen van tabloids die tussen de hoofdstukken door te lezen waren wat overbodig. Er werd niks mee gedaan in de rest van het verhaal, behalve enkele verwijzingen naar de pers (wat prima had gekund zonder die artikelen).
July 24, 2009
It's like reading all the gossip blogs but better.
October 14, 2009
Love it!
Not your typical girlygirl book.
Was very enjoyable and the ending is left as a cliffhanger!
Darnnn just when it was getting so good too.
Spy x Devon <3 (:
Not your typical girlygirl book.
Was very enjoyable and the ending is left as a cliffhanger!
Darnnn just when it was getting so good too.
Spy x Devon <3 (:
December 9, 2019
Girl Stays in the Picture by Melissa de la Cruz was the first book I ever read when I started 8th grade. I loved this book because it was a romance, and I love romances, but also because this book forces the reader to put themselves in a popstar's shoes and look at life from a completely different perspective. This book made me have so much respect for those in the industry because I realised that being a celebrity is not as glamorous as people might attest. I realised that there was a lot that normal people can do that celebrities can't, like trust as many people, as so much of what goes on behind the scenes that's not visible to the world could harm their reputation if it spreads. Furthermore, this book made me value my friends so much more because the characters often face betrayal from their friends and those who they thought cared about them. I also realised that it is important to stay true to your roots, as often the characters get so caught up in the fame and the money that they forget about those who stuck with them through thick and thin, and those who got them to where they are today. I learned to always remember where I come from, and not put myself above others because of where I have landed, and that is a lesson I will carry forward with me for years to come.
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September 5, 2025Im not rating because I didn't finish, let alone really get into it at all. I've noticed that Melissa likes using a lot of descriptive words in one sentence. The premise seemed really interesting, I just dont think that some things were needed.
I also really got tired of all the news articles. They were fine having a few in the beginning. Then we just got more, and then I realized we would be getting them through the whole book. Normally, I dont mind a news article, especially in the beginning. But too much is just too much.
I also really got tired of all the news articles. They were fine having a few in the beginning. Then we just got more, and then I realized we would be getting them through the whole book. Normally, I dont mind a news article, especially in the beginning. But too much is just too much.
January 1, 2018
This was the ultimate fashion and drama novel that I read. It had me hooked inside and out and made me realize that not all books about A List Models should be judged. I was so happy reading this and learnt so much. Can't wait for the next book to come!
July 14, 2017
You can count on Melissa de la Cruz to write frothy stories about girls living in upper-class stardom. This one is clearly designed for a follow-up but come on. No plot twists or surprises at all.
September 26, 2009
Girl Stays in the Picture portrays the problems that different people in the show blitz encounter. Devon's role in the upcoming movie is getting shorter and shorter, Casey is an assistant to her best friend Summer, but is Summer still treating Casey as a friend or a nobody? Livia undergone surgery and became skinny. Now she has a perfect boyfriend and perfect life but there's more to this story.
After hearing some good reviews of this book and being a fan of Melissa's Angels on Sunset Boulevard , I was expecting a fast-paced, scandalous read. But, no. At 432 pages, it took me two weeks to finish this book. I kept reading and putting it down because it was dull.
The characters lacked depth and similarly like L.A. Candy, are two-dimentional. Moving on, I liked each individual characters. My favorite would be Casey as she seems like the most thoughtful and relatable. What this book lacks the most is a good climax. I feel that the climax is always anticlimatic which is a major turn off.
I don't know if it's just me or does anyone else agree that Melissa de la Cruz always uses the "tell" method instead of the "show" method. The first rule of writing is always “show, don’t tell.” It means showing the reader through your words what you want them to see; don't just tell them about it. For some articles on "show, don't tell," you can check out these websites: Daily Writing Tips, Writing World, Research Writing Techniques.
Here's an example of telling and not showing:
Do you agree? That this is "telling" and not "showing"? I'd re-write it as:
Ok I know I need working on for the ending of the sentence but I thought it was a good attempt. I'm not an author, just a teen blogger. I know I don't have much right to critique Melissa's work but it just bugged me that there was so much "telling". Despite the problems I have with the book, I found that the plot was good and if it had been better executed, I'm sure I would have enjoyed the book more. However, I doubt I will be reading the next book in the series.
Read this book if you're looking for something to occupy you for a few hours. You will probably like this book if you liked L.A. Candy.
This review can also be found at Read This Book! a YA book review blog. http://readthisbook.wordpress.com/
After hearing some good reviews of this book and being a fan of Melissa's Angels on Sunset Boulevard , I was expecting a fast-paced, scandalous read. But, no. At 432 pages, it took me two weeks to finish this book. I kept reading and putting it down because it was dull.
The characters lacked depth and similarly like L.A. Candy, are two-dimentional. Moving on, I liked each individual characters. My favorite would be Casey as she seems like the most thoughtful and relatable. What this book lacks the most is a good climax. I feel that the climax is always anticlimatic which is a major turn off.
I don't know if it's just me or does anyone else agree that Melissa de la Cruz always uses the "tell" method instead of the "show" method. The first rule of writing is always “show, don’t tell.” It means showing the reader through your words what you want them to see; don't just tell them about it. For some articles on "show, don't tell," you can check out these websites: Daily Writing Tips, Writing World, Research Writing Techniques.
Here's an example of telling and not showing:
Livia gave a tight smile. She would kill to have a plate of delicious, flaky, croissants. With butter. And jam. Slathered with butter and jam. That used to be one of her favorite things about coming to Europe for family vacations -- eating all the lavishly buttered food.
Do you agree? That this is "telling" and not "showing"? I'd re-write it as:
The craving for the delicious, flaky croissant was enticing. The wonderful aroma surrounding it was making Livia drool.
NO! I will not touch the croissant. After all the years of eating buttery food and getting ridiculed at, I can't let all my efforts go down the drain. Livia scolded herself.
Biting her lower lip and Livia stared longly at the buttery croissants, remembering why she always enjoyed coming to Europe for family vacations.
Ok I know I need working on for the ending of the sentence but I thought it was a good attempt. I'm not an author, just a teen blogger. I know I don't have much right to critique Melissa's work but it just bugged me that there was so much "telling". Despite the problems I have with the book, I found that the plot was good and if it had been better executed, I'm sure I would have enjoyed the book more. However, I doubt I will be reading the next book in the series.
Read this book if you're looking for something to occupy you for a few hours. You will probably like this book if you liked L.A. Candy.
This review can also be found at Read This Book! a YA book review blog. http://readthisbook.wordpress.com/
June 21, 2012
To see full review including a special trend spotlight analysis click here: http://yalbookbriefs.blogspot.com/201...
Really on the fence about this one I think 3.75 stars would be appropriate.
Be forewarned if you don't like light reads you'll probably not like this book.
And okay, there is some substance to this book. There are little mysteries here and there, but the book in essence is about a summer in France. On a movie set, no less. But still, it's about living it up in France. Which I love, but others might not like.
In typical de la Cruz style the novel revolves around three protagonists. I can't complain about any of them. Each of them were unique in their own way. Okay, so maybe I did want some more of Devon's backstory. But I thought...well, that's what sequels are for right? Well, yes but this book isn't going to have a sequel...it was but....it's complicated.
As for the plot itself it's pretty simplistic. I often wonder if de la Cruz wrote this book in her sleep. Writing about glamorous people is obviously her forte. But Melissa is better than this book. If you've read her Blue Bloods books, you know that plotting is one of her specialties as well. And while there is a plot to this book, it's a bit of a snooze fest to the very end where things pick up.
Best Feature: St. Tropez: Have I mentioned that I want to go to France? All kidding aside, I would've gone there to study abroad if it had been an opiton. It's essentially the perfect place to set a book, see Anna and the French Kiss. However, I have to say I am really happy that Melissa decided to set Girl in the Picture in St. Tropez rather than Paris. It sort of gave a different look at the country. And I will have to say with Melissa's writing I felt like I got to experience France when in fact I haven't.
Worst Feature: Cliffhanger Ending: Usually I like cliffhangers, but in this book you're never going to find out what happens to these girls unless you read Melissa's FAQ's. The series got canceled because Melissa decided to focus her energies on other projects. And I guess I can appreciate that. I'd rather have one good book with an unresolved ending then a bunch of sequels that were quite shitty. But still, things were just starting to get juicy.....
Appropriateness: There is some cursing in this book, teenage drinking and drug use are seen and discussed. Additionally there are some sex scenes and sexual related material that happens in this book. It's definitely not for younger teens.
Really on the fence about this one I think 3.75 stars would be appropriate.
Be forewarned if you don't like light reads you'll probably not like this book.
And okay, there is some substance to this book. There are little mysteries here and there, but the book in essence is about a summer in France. On a movie set, no less. But still, it's about living it up in France. Which I love, but others might not like.
In typical de la Cruz style the novel revolves around three protagonists. I can't complain about any of them. Each of them were unique in their own way. Okay, so maybe I did want some more of Devon's backstory. But I thought...well, that's what sequels are for right? Well, yes but this book isn't going to have a sequel...it was but....it's complicated.
As for the plot itself it's pretty simplistic. I often wonder if de la Cruz wrote this book in her sleep. Writing about glamorous people is obviously her forte. But Melissa is better than this book. If you've read her Blue Bloods books, you know that plotting is one of her specialties as well. And while there is a plot to this book, it's a bit of a snooze fest to the very end where things pick up.
Best Feature: St. Tropez: Have I mentioned that I want to go to France? All kidding aside, I would've gone there to study abroad if it had been an opiton. It's essentially the perfect place to set a book, see Anna and the French Kiss. However, I have to say I am really happy that Melissa decided to set Girl in the Picture in St. Tropez rather than Paris. It sort of gave a different look at the country. And I will have to say with Melissa's writing I felt like I got to experience France when in fact I haven't.
Worst Feature: Cliffhanger Ending: Usually I like cliffhangers, but in this book you're never going to find out what happens to these girls unless you read Melissa's FAQ's. The series got canceled because Melissa decided to focus her energies on other projects. And I guess I can appreciate that. I'd rather have one good book with an unresolved ending then a bunch of sequels that were quite shitty. But still, things were just starting to get juicy.....
Appropriateness: There is some cursing in this book, teenage drinking and drug use are seen and discussed. Additionally there are some sex scenes and sexual related material that happens in this book. It's definitely not for younger teens.
June 30, 2013
This book pulled me in two different directions at times I didn't like it at all but at others I simply couldn't put it down. It took me at least 20 minutes to decide whether or not to rate it 3 stars or four but in the end I think this book is particularly worthy of four stars because the cliffhanger at the end makes me want to keep reading the series.
This book has a lot of twists and turns which I really liked you never really know what is going to happen but on the other hand there are times where the book was very predictable (I know I just contradicted myself). For instance:
1. Clearly Summer and Jamie where not actually in a relationship (did anyone else smell the publicity stunt right after the 'relationship' became official)
2. Devon was not going to end up with Double R (Randall)
3. Trevor was cheating on Livia
The reason that I continued reading was that this book went through some very difficult issues like drug and alcohol addictions, pressure of having a child mother and people who struggle with obesity. Devon and Livia definitely went through some deep problems and I felt a strong connection to both whose families were unsupportive (Livia through her struggles with her weight and Devon through her mother's inability to be an adult). Casey on the other hand was a nice normal break from the glitz and glam of fame and money and allowed the reader a character to be able to relate to and her insecurities were ones that I think everyone has struggled with.
Usually I really don't like books with spoilt rich kids who live their life like their are 22 when their 16 but the issues discussed in the book and particularly Casey allowed the book to become something I could relate with. The magazine and blog clippings also showed the difference in what is reported in tabloids and what is the actual truth.
The end of the book (Not including the cliffhanger) was a bit of a let down all their problems got tied up into a little ribbon and I know I should have been expecting it but still it was a little bit of a let down when every girl ended up with her prince charming (yay Spy and Devon scene). The cliffhanger of who drugged Devon will definitely keep me reading the series.
This book has a lot of twists and turns which I really liked you never really know what is going to happen but on the other hand there are times where the book was very predictable (I know I just contradicted myself). For instance:
1. Clearly Summer and Jamie where not actually in a relationship (did anyone else smell the publicity stunt right after the 'relationship' became official)
2. Devon was not going to end up with Double R (Randall)
3. Trevor was cheating on Livia
The reason that I continued reading was that this book went through some very difficult issues like drug and alcohol addictions, pressure of having a child mother and people who struggle with obesity. Devon and Livia definitely went through some deep problems and I felt a strong connection to both whose families were unsupportive (Livia through her struggles with her weight and Devon through her mother's inability to be an adult). Casey on the other hand was a nice normal break from the glitz and glam of fame and money and allowed the reader a character to be able to relate to and her insecurities were ones that I think everyone has struggled with.
Usually I really don't like books with spoilt rich kids who live their life like their are 22 when their 16 but the issues discussed in the book and particularly Casey allowed the book to become something I could relate with. The magazine and blog clippings also showed the difference in what is reported in tabloids and what is the actual truth.
The end of the book (Not including the cliffhanger) was a bit of a let down all their problems got tied up into a little ribbon and I know I should have been expecting it but still it was a little bit of a let down when every girl ended up with her prince charming (yay Spy and Devon scene). The cliffhanger of who drugged Devon will definitely keep me reading the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2014
It is true what Kirkus Reviews had said about this book: "Readers looking for a Gossip Girl with heart will be thrilled." Although, I don't actually think that it was a dead-ringer to Gossip Girl again. And I've never actually read any of Melissa de la Cruz's chic-lit books since I've only read all of her Blue Bloods novels. But somehow, she came through with this one and she just never ceased to amaze me.
Girl Stays in the Picture was mainly about Hollywood - the life of celebrities and Hollywood royals behind the cameras and photos, the rise to the top with the scathing and the clawing and the publicity stunts, to the crashes and burns, then the rise again. It was also about the beauty and the ugliness of it all, too. The three main characters, Devon, Olivia, and Casey, were struggling with their own problems of work, insecurities, desires, and basically, their love life. But what surprised me was when they all became friends, because I seriously thought that this was yet another catty chic-lit, where girls were ready to pounce and scratch. I was wrong though, and that's what I actually ended up liking about this book, since that detail really surprised me.
There were a lot of things that happened in this book, revolving in the setting of summer in St. Tropez. At first, it sort of started slow, but what kept me going was the intrigue of what was going to happen next to the girls. Of course, I also thought they were sort of naive at first, but they have developed really well towards the ending where things manage to finally go in the right direction of their lives and mainly, their love life. The writing's good, although it did have a few problems here and there, but the plot made me overlook all of that. She did manage to close down the subplots very well of course, even if there were some things that ended up predictable, still... There's just something so refreshing about this book since it ended with a happy note and a cliffhanger, that will make one wonder who it was, and why? With that said, it made me want to have the next book (I assume it has), and I rate this with four stars...
It's just perfect for a light and delightful read.
Girl Stays in the Picture was mainly about Hollywood - the life of celebrities and Hollywood royals behind the cameras and photos, the rise to the top with the scathing and the clawing and the publicity stunts, to the crashes and burns, then the rise again. It was also about the beauty and the ugliness of it all, too. The three main characters, Devon, Olivia, and Casey, were struggling with their own problems of work, insecurities, desires, and basically, their love life. But what surprised me was when they all became friends, because I seriously thought that this was yet another catty chic-lit, where girls were ready to pounce and scratch. I was wrong though, and that's what I actually ended up liking about this book, since that detail really surprised me.
There were a lot of things that happened in this book, revolving in the setting of summer in St. Tropez. At first, it sort of started slow, but what kept me going was the intrigue of what was going to happen next to the girls. Of course, I also thought they were sort of naive at first, but they have developed really well towards the ending where things manage to finally go in the right direction of their lives and mainly, their love life. The writing's good, although it did have a few problems here and there, but the plot made me overlook all of that. She did manage to close down the subplots very well of course, even if there were some things that ended up predictable, still... There's just something so refreshing about this book since it ended with a happy note and a cliffhanger, that will make one wonder who it was, and why? With that said, it made me want to have the next book (I assume it has), and I rate this with four stars...
It's just perfect for a light and delightful read.
August 4, 2009
Melissa de la Cruz sure knows how to delight readers looking for a guilty-pleasure read, despite the predictable plot and formulaic characters. GIRL STAYS IN THE PICTURE has everything we could want out of this type of book: sympathetic yet glamorous characters, hot boys, scandals and deception, romance, and exotic locale and costumes.
The changing POV allows readers to embrace Devon, Livia, and Casey as our own friends—friends to which glam and dramatic things happen, of course. We’re meant to cheer for and cry with our beautiful, yet vulnerable, protagonists as they maneuver the dangerous waters of fame and fortune.
However, Melissa’s novels are beginning to blend together in my head. “Tried and true” does not necessarily work best in the book world. Devon’s insecurities clashing with her reputation, Livia’s body image issues, and Casey’s innocent beauty—are things reminding you of THE AU PAIRS yet? The climax of the story involves lots of broken hearts, breakdowns, and revelations of secrets…only to all be resolved in an ending that would’ve been completely saccharine had it not been for the cliffhanger ending (which works kind of well in this case).
Similarly, the boys in GIRL are not as well developed as they can be; they seem to be vague incarnations of every girl’s dream boy, with no true personalities of their own. I would’ve loved more backstory and development of the romantic relationships. I was also rather put off that everything came together so neatly in the end for everyone. Much as we know that these three girls’ stories are not even close to reality, except the pretend one that’s in our head, would it hurt to leave just a little bittersweetness in the story?
That being said, I enjoyed GIRL STAYS IN THE PICTURE for its fast and furious peak into the lives of the rich and famous. Melissa de la Cruz remains my go-to author for guilty-pleasure reads, and this series starter will not disappoint those looking for exactly that.
The changing POV allows readers to embrace Devon, Livia, and Casey as our own friends—friends to which glam and dramatic things happen, of course. We’re meant to cheer for and cry with our beautiful, yet vulnerable, protagonists as they maneuver the dangerous waters of fame and fortune.
However, Melissa’s novels are beginning to blend together in my head. “Tried and true” does not necessarily work best in the book world. Devon’s insecurities clashing with her reputation, Livia’s body image issues, and Casey’s innocent beauty—are things reminding you of THE AU PAIRS yet? The climax of the story involves lots of broken hearts, breakdowns, and revelations of secrets…only to all be resolved in an ending that would’ve been completely saccharine had it not been for the cliffhanger ending (which works kind of well in this case).
Similarly, the boys in GIRL are not as well developed as they can be; they seem to be vague incarnations of every girl’s dream boy, with no true personalities of their own. I would’ve loved more backstory and development of the romantic relationships. I was also rather put off that everything came together so neatly in the end for everyone. Much as we know that these three girls’ stories are not even close to reality, except the pretend one that’s in our head, would it hurt to leave just a little bittersweetness in the story?
That being said, I enjoyed GIRL STAYS IN THE PICTURE for its fast and furious peak into the lives of the rich and famous. Melissa de la Cruz remains my go-to author for guilty-pleasure reads, and this series starter will not disappoint those looking for exactly that.
April 9, 2011
I actually really enjoyed Girl Stays In the Picture By Melissa De La Cruz. It's one of those books that I thought I wouldn't have liked as much as I did. There were some flaws with the writing and the plot. Mostly in the end, and some parts started to get a little predictable. It's mainly about celebrities, and their lives, how they climb up to the top, and how they come crashing down, the good, the bad, and the tragically ugly in the life of stardom, and how the pressure of stardom can make you get out of control. I highly recommend this book if you're looking for a good read. At some parts, I did feel it was getting a little dull, which made me hesitant to pick it up, but I'm glad I did, because it didn't take long for it to get interesting again.
The characters were fairly well written. Most of the characters do meet up with the same problem; complications with love. In the end, everything is resolved with their love life, and for most, it ends in a happy ending. But for Devon, I think she's the only one that doesn't have a happy ending, because, well, her world basically falls apart, when she just finished climbing up to the top of stardom. Also, the ending will leave you guessing: Who? And why?? It's one of those ending's that lets you make it into your own ending, especially since, it's kind of a cliff hanger, and there aren't any specific clues. Pretty intense story huh?
The characters were fairly well written. Most of the characters do meet up with the same problem; complications with love. In the end, everything is resolved with their love life, and for most, it ends in a happy ending. But for Devon, I think she's the only one that doesn't have a happy ending, because, well, her world basically falls apart, when she just finished climbing up to the top of stardom. Also, the ending will leave you guessing: Who? And why?? It's one of those ending's that lets you make it into your own ending, especially since, it's kind of a cliff hanger, and there aren't any specific clues. Pretty intense story huh?
April 19, 2015
I found this book in the library, I only started reading it because of the summary and decided to give it a try.
This book revolves around three different girls who is entering into the world of show biz, whether they joined in it because they wanted too or fate so happens to bring them in there. I didn't really think this book was spectacular or praise worthy. The plot was interesting on the blurb but when I read through the actual book I was disappointed. But I still kept flipping through the pages. However I dislike the ending because it was a cliffhanger and especially that there will probably be no sequel to it. Sadly the ending was the only thing that made me want to read more of this (It was that intriguing)
The characters themselves weren't that bad, they were a group of girls who all had problems with love. Many different love interests and I thought the romance itself was sorta rushed and didn't make any sense. But the friendship between the girls seemed genuine and that they actually cared for each other, that was something I liked.
From this book I learned that becoming popular and famous can change the ones you trusted the most, and that you need to be open minded and see the potential red flags in your relationships with others. Whether it's friendships/romantic/family. Overall characters were okay, the drama was enjoyable and the romance was poorly thought out.
This book revolves around three different girls who is entering into the world of show biz, whether they joined in it because they wanted too or fate so happens to bring them in there. I didn't really think this book was spectacular or praise worthy. The plot was interesting on the blurb but when I read through the actual book I was disappointed. But I still kept flipping through the pages. However I dislike the ending because it was a cliffhanger and especially that there will probably be no sequel to it. Sadly the ending was the only thing that made me want to read more of this (It was that intriguing)
The characters themselves weren't that bad, they were a group of girls who all had problems with love. Many different love interests and I thought the romance itself was sorta rushed and didn't make any sense. But the friendship between the girls seemed genuine and that they actually cared for each other, that was something I liked.
From this book I learned that becoming popular and famous can change the ones you trusted the most, and that you need to be open minded and see the potential red flags in your relationships with others. Whether it's friendships/romantic/family. Overall characters were okay, the drama was enjoyable and the romance was poorly thought out.
November 3, 2009
I really enjoyed Girl Stays in the Picture. It was a very clever commentary on popular culture and celebrities, and the plotline was very engaging. The story focuses on three girls: Devon, a pop starlet fresh out of rehab; Livia, an Oscar winning producer's daughter; and Casey, assistant to Devon's rival. The trio of heroines all find themselves in the south of France where Devon is shooting a movie. The problem is the studio doesn't trust Devon after her hard-partying ways, and her part in the movie continues to grow smaller and smaller. Meanwhile Livia tries to identify herself now that she is no longer a fat girl and Casey falls for a charming Brittish movie star her best friend- and current emloyer- is dating. There is plenty of drama and an abundance of love interests. Dividing the chapters are gossip columns and papparazi reports, chronicling the exciting summer. Many of the books characters are thinly disguised celebrities most readers will recognize. The book is very current, all of it taking place during summer 2009. The characters are likable and the writing is always witty. As the plot thickens, readers will find themselves turning the pages more and more eagerly. Girl Stays in the Picture is a deliciously contemporary novel, that is as hot as the girls' sweltering summer in Saint-Tropez. It will leave you dying for a sequel.
May 3, 2011
This book looked so promising and I have been excited to read this ever since I saw it in the bookstore. I love Melissa de la Cruz's "Blue Blood Series", so I thought this one would be just as good. I will say that this book was good, just not what I was expecting.
The first complaint that I have is that this book is way too long. I sometimes thought I would never get to the end of it. Also some of the plot lines were too dragged out for me. It was just too easy to put this book down and go do something else.
My favorite story out of the three girls was Casey. I kept trying to get through the other girl's stories just to read from her point of view. I seriously wouldn't of mind it, if the story was completely Casey's. The other two girls were okay, although Devon and Livia would get all my nerves from time to time. The ending of the book was what did it for me. I was very pleased with what happened, and can't wait to see if the author writes another a book in the series. I'm still curious to see who slipped that drug in Devon's water. My first suspect would be Summer, and my second being Randall.
Overall, I do recommend this read for something light and fun and of course in the summer. I wish I would of saved this for a summer read, I might of even liked it better. I will continue to read this series whenever the author decides to write more!
The first complaint that I have is that this book is way too long. I sometimes thought I would never get to the end of it. Also some of the plot lines were too dragged out for me. It was just too easy to put this book down and go do something else.
My favorite story out of the three girls was Casey. I kept trying to get through the other girl's stories just to read from her point of view. I seriously wouldn't of mind it, if the story was completely Casey's. The other two girls were okay, although Devon and Livia would get all my nerves from time to time. The ending of the book was what did it for me. I was very pleased with what happened, and can't wait to see if the author writes another a book in the series. I'm still curious to see who slipped that drug in Devon's water. My first suspect would be Summer, and my second being Randall.
Overall, I do recommend this read for something light and fun and of course in the summer. I wish I would of saved this for a summer read, I might of even liked it better. I will continue to read this series whenever the author decides to write more!
August 14, 2010
Solid three star book. It worked for me a lot better than de la Cruz's books normally do. I probably won't remember much about it in . . . oh, say, a week, but it kept me pretty entertained.
I kind of wish she'd made the characters older, though. They were 16 and it got me thinking how, mostly, the famous real people of that age seem pretty well behaved. No real scandals at all. Or maybe I'm just not reading the right gossip!
It also included one of my, oh, not strong enough to be called a pet peeve, but annoyances, maybe? There are several made up references to real life people or things ("the Jones Brothers," "You Weekly") and that's always frustrating to me, especially since there were also references to similar real life things (like TMZ).
And the cliffhanger was just annoying. It probably would've been more interesting to reveal the actual information instead of being all dramatic about it. (And I don't think I'll read the sequel, so it didn't work on that level, either.)
But, again, cute read, and it has several non-white characters, so that's always nice to see.
I kind of wish she'd made the characters older, though. They were 16 and it got me thinking how, mostly, the famous real people of that age seem pretty well behaved. No real scandals at all. Or maybe I'm just not reading the right gossip!
It also included one of my, oh, not strong enough to be called a pet peeve, but annoyances, maybe? There are several made up references to real life people or things ("the Jones Brothers," "You Weekly") and that's always frustrating to me, especially since there were also references to similar real life things (like TMZ).
And the cliffhanger was just annoying. It probably would've been more interesting to reveal the actual information instead of being all dramatic about it. (And I don't think I'll read the sequel, so it didn't work on that level, either.)
But, again, cute read, and it has several non-white characters, so that's always nice to see.
October 11, 2010
To tell you the truth, this book was hilarious. It was shallow, self-absorbed, and in truth, kind of a horrible book. The first two is why I gave this sorry piece of literature(:/) two stars. While attempting to finish this book(I didn't by the way) I had this odd feeling that I was at the dentist's office, where all they have there are stupid magazines like Seventeen magazine and I was forced to read one out of boredom. And similarly to magazines like Seventeen, I just wanted to laugh the whole way through. Where's the struggle? Where's the desperation? Where's the tears about something actually meaningful??? This whole book, it was about celebrities and their "tough" lives. Really? The three girls in this book....they just made me so mad, because their only worries were so trivial. "I don't have a big enough role in my movie". "I have two guys who like me". "My friend's famous and I'm not" UGHHHHHHHHHHHHH. I don't maybe I'm misjudging this book. All I know is that you won't see me reading any more books like this again. If I can help it.
October 11, 2009
What’s it like being a teen superstar? Okay. If you can’t be a teen superstar, why not become an assistant to a teen superstar? Devon has the lead in a movie; she’s a recording diva turned actress. She also had a drug problem. Livia has lost weight through surgery and now she’s beautiful. But she doesn’t feel beautiful. Casey is an assistant to Summer, another teen superstar. The three girls become friends and sparks begin to fly!
Note: A well-written book about teenagers who are the Beautiful People in Saint Tropez, France. Devon has lost a major role in a movie because she goes to rehab; Livia becomes Devon’s friend and supporter, even though her father is the producer of the movie; Casey is only an assistant, but her kindness draws Devon and Livia to her. Together they support each other through betrayals, paparazzi, and romance. A major cliffhanger at the end may turn into a series.
Note: A well-written book about teenagers who are the Beautiful People in Saint Tropez, France. Devon has lost a major role in a movie because she goes to rehab; Livia becomes Devon’s friend and supporter, even though her father is the producer of the movie; Casey is only an assistant, but her kindness draws Devon and Livia to her. Together they support each other through betrayals, paparazzi, and romance. A major cliffhanger at the end may turn into a series.
July 25, 2009
Talk about scandalous and gossip-licious! This story was chalk-full of hookups and dramatic twists.
My Summary: Ever wonder what's behind all the gossip and drama in Hollywood? Now's your chance to dive deep into the lives of Devon and Summer, two competing actresses; Jamie, teen heart-throb; Livia, the producer's daughter; and Casey, Summer's best friend turned assistant, and many more, as they film Juicy. Shooting in France, this colorful crew moves their way through movie sets, parties, and relationships that just don't seem to last.
I enjoyed this book, being able to live a more "luxurious" life, but after it was all done and read, I'm glad I'm not a big hot-shot movie star. As you're sure to learn, not everything is the way it appears, but you'll definitely go crazy for this pick.
My Summary: Ever wonder what's behind all the gossip and drama in Hollywood? Now's your chance to dive deep into the lives of Devon and Summer, two competing actresses; Jamie, teen heart-throb; Livia, the producer's daughter; and Casey, Summer's best friend turned assistant, and many more, as they film Juicy. Shooting in France, this colorful crew moves their way through movie sets, parties, and relationships that just don't seem to last.
I enjoyed this book, being able to live a more "luxurious" life, but after it was all done and read, I'm glad I'm not a big hot-shot movie star. As you're sure to learn, not everything is the way it appears, but you'll definitely go crazy for this pick.
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