No matter how coveted or seemingly wonderful a life is, there are always darker sides. A collaboration between Julie Cross and Mark Perini explore the backrooms and dark moments of fashion and modeling. Additionally, there is an interview with Mark Perini, a Ford Model, and a Giveaway where you could win a copy of the book AND a one year subscription to Cosmopolitan magazine.
Halfway Perfect
This solidly young adult novel drops into my ‘teen read’ options for the older teen readers, most especially for its honest portrayal of the drawbacks and disadvantages to what seems to be a ‘dream career’ for many: fashion modeling.
Eve and Alex both are stand-out characters in their own right. Eve was a model with some pretty horrible experiences, but she’s survived it all, and now wants to make a name for herself as a photographer. Intelligent, determined and independent, she is an ‘eyes on the prize’ sort of person, not allowing the many difficulties or distractions prevent her from reaching her dream.
The inclusion of Alex was interesting for two reasons: first as a character he has a solid voice and a plan for his life, not to mention his obvious (and displayed) love for his often crazy family. Secondly, he’s solidly a “good guy” with a genuine regard for Eve, even before the romance started to develop. The perspective of a male model was an interesting one, giving readers a look at the industry in a fresher way, and seeing the similarities and differences for both Eve and Alex as they navigate the minefield.
I loved that the romance was developed and not instant: while the attraction was obvious, the banter and gentle transition through collegial interactions to some steamy romance was paced with care, and never felt pushed or rushed. And the support that they provided for one another when the wholly greasy and despicable antagonist started to worm into events gives readers a chance to cheer and jeer with equal measure.
A surprising read that wasn’t what I expected yet it hit every element, A touch of darkness and grit add a plausible tone that brings the real world difficulties and struggles that are behind the pretty advertisements, and gives readers an opportunity to learn as both Eve and Alex meet and confront those challenges head on.
Title: Halfway Perfect
Author: Julie Cross, Mark Perini
Genre: Teen Reads
Published by: Sourcebooks Fire
ISBN: 140229719X
Published on: 5 May, 2015
Format:eARC
Pages: 384
Rated:
Heat:
Get Your Copy: Amazon ♦ iTunes ♦ Kobo ♦ Downpour ♦ Book Depository ♦ Google Bestselling author Julie Cross teams up with Ford model Mark Perini to pen a poignant and gritty YA novel about love and the dark side of modeling and the fashion industry
Eve's time as a fashion model nearly destroyed her-now she's determined to build a career behind the camera lens. But landing a coveted photography internship brings her face to face with her dark past-and her ex.
While Eve is snapping pictures, up-and-coming male model Alex is launching his career-which, for him, involves maintaining a fake relationship with his co-star, Elana.
But Alex is falling for Eve, and Eve won't let herself get hurt again. If Alex can pull off a fake love with Elana, can he convince Eve to risk a secret affair with him?
A copy of this title was provided via for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Q&A with International Model and Author Mark Perini
#1 – What got you started in modeling?When I was 17, I worked at an Abercrombie Kids store at the Smithhaven mall. One day the manager said there was going to be a casting for the campaign held in NYC, and they wanted me to represent the store.My reservations were two-fold. One was that I didn’t want to miss school because it’s a nightmare trying to makeup work for AP classes. Secondly, I didn’t think I was in the same league as the guys and girls on the wall. They were legit models, how could I compete?
At the behest of my manager and my friends I conceded and went. I ended up booking a campaign with Hollister then I did a sport/active video for Abercrombie and Fitch a few weeks later. It was an awesome way to start in the industry.
#2 – Where’s the favorite place you’ve been for work?
I went to Milan for Fashion Week a few years back and I ended up staying for two months. I fell in love with Italy and I felt very at home. I ended up writing a big chunk of Halfway Perfect in Milan. So Italy will always hold a special place in my heart.
Another favorite location was in China. I went to the Great Wall and was so captivated by the sheer size and scale. I’d seen a million photos but none of them did the wall justice. Being there in person is another thing altogether.
You feel like a warrior on those walls and you can feel the centuries of history flowing through the stones.
#3 – What are your plans for after your modeling career is over?
I’ve been modeling for 10+ years. I decided early on that I needed a plan B. So I put college first, I got a business degree from Seton Hall University. Right now I run a Web Design/Social Media Consulting company called Icee Social. So between the writing and the coding, I’ve hopefully got a bright future.
Having said all that I’ve known male models in their sixties that are still going strong, so who knows what the future will hold!
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