Review: Isn't She Lovely by Lauren Layne

Isn't She Lovely by Lauren Layne

Publication Date: October 28, 2013
Page Count: 243
Published by: Random House LLC
Source: eArc received from publisher in exchange for an honest review
Genre: New Adult

Synopsis from Goodreads:

"Who knew that pretending you're not falling for someone would be so much more difficult than pretending that you are?"

Stephanie Kendrick gave up her whole summer to ace her NYU film school screenwriting course, so she's pissed to be stuck with a preppy, spoiled frat boy as her writing partner. Then again, with her piercings, black-rimmed eyes, and Goth wardrobe, Stephanie isn't exactly Ethan Price's type, either. He's probably got his eye on some leggy blonde with a trust fund... or does he?

As the summer scene kicks off in the Hamptons, Ethan is desperate to make his snobbish mother forget the pedigreed girl who broke his heart. While Stephanie's a stretch as a decoy, the right makeover and a pastel cardigan just might do the trick. She may not love the idea of playing Ethan's brainless Barbie girlfriend, but the free rent and luxurious digs make a tempting offer. So does the promise of a ready-made screenplay idea inspired by their charade.

But when Stephanie steps into Ethan's privileged world, the "acting" begins to feel all too real. The kissing and touching that were intended to fool the Hamptons crowd wind up manipulating "them." And Stephanie faces a question she's too afraid to ask: Is Ethan falling for the real her or for the dolled-up princess he wants to see?

This is such a cute and fun story. I didn't know what to expect going into it, and I was really surprised by how much I enjoyed it!

Stephanie and Ethan are spending their summer trying to avoid their families, but for different reasons. They meet when they are assigned as partners in a summer class they are taking at NYU. For their assignment, they must write a screenplay about a modern version of Pygmalion. They come up with a plan to write a true to life screenplay based on Stephanie changing from a moody goth chick into a dress and sweater wearing socialite and trying to fit into Ethan's life of wealth and privilege. As they spend more time together and grow closer, Stephanie doesn't know if Ethan likes her for her true self, or if he only likes the fake version of her.

From the first time they met, I enjoyed the chemistry and witty banter between Stephanie and Ethan. I loved the dual POV and felt that it really allowed me get to know both characters very well. I loved seeing the story through both of their eyes! They are complete opposites - from backgrounds, to interests, to looks. But despite their differences, they had that indescribable something that made sense when they were together.

My favorite thing about Isn't She Lovely was the communication between Stephanie and Ethan. As they grew closer they were able to open up and be honest with each other. They had wonderful conversations and learned so much about each other. I loved the way their relationship progressed - it felt natural and right. They both had tremendous growth, and they made such an impact on each others lives. I enjoyed going on this journey of self-discovery with Stephanie and Ethan.

Overall, I enjoyed everything about this book. It was very entertaining, with tons of humor and really great dialogue. Isn't She Lovely really left me with a lot of good feelings and a smile on my face.

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars