The Cinderella Makeover

by Hope C. Tarr

[Angie]

The Cinderella Makeover was giving me The Swan flashbacks. Anyone remember that horrible show? Well, the show in this book wasn't as extreme, but the main them was still there: you're ugly and unlovable without the proper makeover! Greg is known as the "camera-shy CEO" but then he signs up for this reality show where he'll receive a makeover and win a chance at love. One of the coaches is Francesca, who failed to get his photo for a magazine spread, so she's a bit miffed at having to work with him again. But then a bet with a rival coach drives them closer together.

The Cinderella Makeover was definitely better than its predecessor, but still not great. Greg and Francesca are certainly more likeable, and the only part that really got on my nerves was the inevitable fight near the end. It was cute to see Francesca help Greg come out of his shell to help him win the competition (and her wager). He's a classic geek to chic fairy tale! But when he finds out about the bet, he understandable doesn't take it well. However, the bet was that he would WIN. Francesca was helping him WIN. He wanted to WIN. She wanted to WIN. What's the problem. He claims it's because she lied to him, but she didn't. It was just drama for the sake of drama.

In the end, The Cinderella Makeover was quick and cute. Nothing special or particularly memorable.