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Beauty to Die For: A Spa Mystery
Juliette Taylor walked away from her career as a supermodel twenty-five years ago. Now approaching fifty – an emotionally complex milestone -- she co-owns a beauty supply company that makes skincare products for salons and spas. Her niche is pampering Christian women who usually spend more time caring for others than for themselves under the Isn’t it time someone took care of YOU for a change? When Juliette arrives at the Palm Grotto Spa to host a spiritual retreat, she runs into an old modeling colleague, Raven, who had always been disliked in the industry for many reasons. She isn’t there for the retreat; in fact, her presence at the spa is somewhat mysterious.Not long after Raven makes a cryptic threat to Juliette, the unsympathetic back-then beauty is found dead, poisoned by something in the green clay of a chai soy wrap. The following morning, a banner for the retreat has been unceremoniously It’s your turn to be nurtured, to be restored . . . to be murdered. Suspicion is directed at Juliette who has history with Raven and certainly knows how to use beauty products. But for murder?! Now she must find the real killer before the police really take care of her.
352 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2012
27 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
November 8, 2015
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When I think of this book, the first thing that comes to my mind is the image of the matryoshkas.
This novel is a mystery wrapped in another mystery and it seems unending. Each chapter is full of surprises and makes you wonder if the story is actually how you thought it would be initially: As a matryoshka.
The story, which already has an interesting argument, catches you from the beginning and turns on your detective skills. But what most caught my attention were the characters. Each of them are so unpredictable, that at first I thought I could guess what would coming next, but I was wrong: the characters are too complex to know them for a few chapters.
Moreover, judging by the cover, I expected a romantic story with a light mystery, but I was surprised to find terrorism, counterfeit products, a look at the world of modeling and the beauty industry, and a romance like in a movie that makes you sigh.
What also caught my attention was the honestly way that the authors talk about the world of modeling and beauty industry. On more than one occasion, I was surprised with some details of this world that I sincerely unaware; and also left me with the same impression that this book: that not everything is what it seems.
I hope to read the next book in this series because I want to read more of Juliette’s adventures.
-I recieved a book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review-
April 10, 2019
1.5 Stars
Too long. Too much extraneous exposition. An unsatisfying ending. Unfortunately, a chore to finish.
Too long. Too much extraneous exposition. An unsatisfying ending. Unfortunately, a chore to finish.
April 15, 2013
Former supermodel from those 1980 days of acclaim Kim Alexis teams up with best-seller Mindy Starns Clark to write the spa mysteries. Beauty to Die For is about one of those former-model types, twenty-five years after the hype.
Juliette Taylor gets the gumption to walk away from modeling through a magical afternoon meeting with the perfect dream man while stuck at an airport. Marcus Stone is at a crossroads moment in his life as well, and the two of them challenge each other to be true to themselves, and to meet up later when they get their lives together. Twenty-five years of Stuff Happens.
Meanwhile, Juliette opens up her own very successful skin-care business. A Christian, Juliette also does retreats and conferences, aka Juliette Taylor Events. Her skin care products, however, were used as a terrorist money-maker front when her products were counterfeited and sold with substandard and dangerous ingredients. When a former colleague dies right at the very spa Juliette is conducting one of her Events, Juliette hopes and prays a counterfeit JT Lady product isn’t to blame.
Since Marcus has become an expert in disaster prevention and relief, he participates in busting the counterfeiters. Once he sees Juliette’s name as a potential suspect/victim, he devises a plan to meet her again. Now divorced, he’s ready to reclaim his soul mate. But does she feel the same?
The counterfeiting also affects the spa workers, and while sometimes a lethal reaction to particular ingredients is just an accident, sometimes it’s murder. Clark walks a fine line when she reveals information late enough to almost be cheat-the-reader material. Fortunately, the revelation does nothing to add to or change the plot or character motivations.
It’s fun to see how Juliette and Marcus get together, work together and save each other. A subplot includes a romance between coworkers at the spa. Self-examination by faith-based characters will challenge readers to do the same. Told from multiple viewpoints and flashbacks, Beauty to Die For has some slow moments and repetitious re-hashing angst, but otherwise, those who like lighter-side suspense with emotional men and long-lost and found love will find a few enjoyable hours of entertainment.
Juliette Taylor gets the gumption to walk away from modeling through a magical afternoon meeting with the perfect dream man while stuck at an airport. Marcus Stone is at a crossroads moment in his life as well, and the two of them challenge each other to be true to themselves, and to meet up later when they get their lives together. Twenty-five years of Stuff Happens.
Meanwhile, Juliette opens up her own very successful skin-care business. A Christian, Juliette also does retreats and conferences, aka Juliette Taylor Events. Her skin care products, however, were used as a terrorist money-maker front when her products were counterfeited and sold with substandard and dangerous ingredients. When a former colleague dies right at the very spa Juliette is conducting one of her Events, Juliette hopes and prays a counterfeit JT Lady product isn’t to blame.
Since Marcus has become an expert in disaster prevention and relief, he participates in busting the counterfeiters. Once he sees Juliette’s name as a potential suspect/victim, he devises a plan to meet her again. Now divorced, he’s ready to reclaim his soul mate. But does she feel the same?
The counterfeiting also affects the spa workers, and while sometimes a lethal reaction to particular ingredients is just an accident, sometimes it’s murder. Clark walks a fine line when she reveals information late enough to almost be cheat-the-reader material. Fortunately, the revelation does nothing to add to or change the plot or character motivations.
It’s fun to see how Juliette and Marcus get together, work together and save each other. A subplot includes a romance between coworkers at the spa. Self-examination by faith-based characters will challenge readers to do the same. Told from multiple viewpoints and flashbacks, Beauty to Die For has some slow moments and repetitious re-hashing angst, but otherwise, those who like lighter-side suspense with emotional men and long-lost and found love will find a few enjoyable hours of entertainment.
August 19, 2012
Juliette and her business partner, Didi are heading to Palm Grotto Resort to talk about their beauty product line JT Lady. It looks like it is going to be a good weekend. That is until Juliette bumps into her rival, Raven. It seems that Raven is also heading to Palm Grotto Resort for some rest and relaxation. How much is the cost of beauty worth…murder? It seems that it is as Raven is murdered.
This book sounded like a fun, chick-lit, cozy mystery. This book for me was just ok. The reasons for this is because Juliette seemed so wishy-washy. One moment Juliette would feel bad for Raven and the next moment Juliette would be upset with Raven. This bugged me with Juliette as she jumped off the handle too quickly without getting all the details. I know this had to do with her and Raven’s past. In addition, I would think that Juliette is a smart woman being a business woman and all but she didn’t really show it all the time in this book. It was amazing that other Didi would have to explain things to Juliette in such great length before she got it.
Also, I felt that this book could have been shorten about a hundred pages. It felt like it took a long time for the story to pick up speed and then it was a steady pace all the way to the end. A nice combined effect by Kim Alexis and Mindy Starns Clark.
This book sounded like a fun, chick-lit, cozy mystery. This book for me was just ok. The reasons for this is because Juliette seemed so wishy-washy. One moment Juliette would feel bad for Raven and the next moment Juliette would be upset with Raven. This bugged me with Juliette as she jumped off the handle too quickly without getting all the details. I know this had to do with her and Raven’s past. In addition, I would think that Juliette is a smart woman being a business woman and all but she didn’t really show it all the time in this book. It was amazing that other Didi would have to explain things to Juliette in such great length before she got it.
Also, I felt that this book could have been shorten about a hundred pages. It felt like it took a long time for the story to pick up speed and then it was a steady pace all the way to the end. A nice combined effect by Kim Alexis and Mindy Starns Clark.
September 10, 2016
This book is not the typical fast-paced mystery book that you could expect. This story unfolds slowly, because the mystery is building in pieces. However, even the most insignificant conversation can be the key piece to solve the mystery at the end.
As in the books of Agatha Christie, in this novel the most important is the development of the characters and their psychology because by reading it, you realize that the mystery is not easy to solve and there is always a surprise after another.
The final revelation of the identity of the murderer left me very shocked because I had no idea it was that person. Also, I like how the other mysteries surrounding the entire complex case is resolved.
The romance added a plus to the story and I loved how faith played an important role in the story.
The main characters are enjoyable and I'm looking forward to read them in their next adventure.
-Thanks to the publisher for providing me a review copy. This fact didn't influence the review-
As in the books of Agatha Christie, in this novel the most important is the development of the characters and their psychology because by reading it, you realize that the mystery is not easy to solve and there is always a surprise after another.
The final revelation of the identity of the murderer left me very shocked because I had no idea it was that person. Also, I like how the other mysteries surrounding the entire complex case is resolved.
The romance added a plus to the story and I loved how faith played an important role in the story.
The main characters are enjoyable and I'm looking forward to read them in their next adventure.
-Thanks to the publisher for providing me a review copy. This fact didn't influence the review-
August 11, 2015
BEAUTY TO DIE FOR starts slow and doesn’t really pick up until toward the end of the book. It also seemed a bit over-long. There is a lot of spa information in there that I didn’t know (having never been to one) and I learned a lot. It was funny with the police trying to figure out which refrigerator was for what. I also liked Crystal. She was naïve, (and a bit predictable) but she was real where Juliette seemed to keep an too-perfect façade at all times—unless she was hiding from Raven or some other stress-inducer (that made her seem weak, though I totally get why she would).
I liked that the characters had a favorite candy and jokes to go along with it and that Marcus and Juliette reconnected after so long. I also liked the faith message to keep Christ at the center of our lives. Marcus’ mom was great. I fell in love with her.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries you might enjoy this book.
I liked that the characters had a favorite candy and jokes to go along with it and that Marcus and Juliette reconnected after so long. I also liked the faith message to keep Christ at the center of our lives. Marcus’ mom was great. I fell in love with her.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries you might enjoy this book.
August 19, 2020
This stand alone is a cozy Christian romantic mystery set in a fabulous spa in the California desert. The Christian message was delivered thoughtfully. It was a nice change to have the romantic hero and heroine be in their 50s instead of being 20- or 30-something. The mystery itself was so so, but the information on the damage and terrorist implications of counterfeit products was eye opening. Anyone looking for an inspirational message will find it here.
I received this as an ARC some years ago, so it's another one off my TBR pile.
I received this as an ARC some years ago, so it's another one off my TBR pile.
May 7, 2013
Former supermodel turned skin products producer,is running a wellness retreat at a spa when a former model dies while getting a wrap using her products. Is it linked to the counterfeit products she has been battling? And how will she deal with the re-entrance into her life of the One that Got Away?
I really enjoyed this story. The characters were interesting and the mystery more complex than I expected. And the setting was definitely a place I'd like to go... Fun.
I really enjoyed this story. The characters were interesting and the mystery more complex than I expected. And the setting was definitely a place I'd like to go... Fun.
May 6, 2016
I read this because I read another book by Clark (Whispers of the Bayou) and I enjoyed it. However, this book was predictable. I knew "whodunnit" much earlier than the "big reveal" and I founded the romance to be forced and cheesy. This book certainly was no page turner but once I was "in" I decided I might as well see it through. Uninspiring all the way around.
August 3, 2021
When Juliette retired from being a supermodel and started her skin care company with her friend Didi, she knew it was only because of the encouragement of Marcus, a stranger she met at the airport who helped her realize that her career wasn't worth feeling miserable. 25 years later she hasn't seen Marcus again, referring to him as the one who got away, but her business is thriving and she is running conferences all across the country about pampering yourself. This weekend's retreat is especially for women who volunteer at their church and don't take time for themselves, and Juliette is looking forward to being able to pamper these women that always put themselves first. Now that the business of counterfeit products from her company seems to be looked after, she knows she'll be able to relax right along with them. Then a former supermodel acquaintance, Raven, shows up and threatens her life, then ends up dead not long after. Reeling from the shock of the death while Raven was using one of Juliette's skin care products, she almost doesn't even realize Marcus is at the resort as well. Is this their chance to finally make it work, or will the reason Marcus is there keep them apart?
I confess to being somewhat illiterate when it comes to beauty products. I know the basics, but a day at the spa isn't something high on my priority list. Makeup is also pretty much a no-go for me, but I understand the basics of skin care. This book is coauthored by a former supermodel so they could have gone overboard with the treatments they chose, but instead the book was user friendly. Most of it glossed over the treatments, and what treatments they did mention they had a reason to always explain it to a character who didn't know what it was so someone like me knew. I do confess the bad guy wasn't a surprise to me, although the back story had a surprising element. If I found another book in this series I would read it.
I confess to being somewhat illiterate when it comes to beauty products. I know the basics, but a day at the spa isn't something high on my priority list. Makeup is also pretty much a no-go for me, but I understand the basics of skin care. This book is coauthored by a former supermodel so they could have gone overboard with the treatments they chose, but instead the book was user friendly. Most of it glossed over the treatments, and what treatments they did mention they had a reason to always explain it to a character who didn't know what it was so someone like me knew. I do confess the bad guy wasn't a surprise to me, although the back story had a surprising element. If I found another book in this series I would read it.
February 6, 2019
Spa madness
Kim Alexis & Mindy Starns Clark have collaborated on a cozy mystery that keeps the reader turning pages. Set in a gorgeous spa in Czlifornia, the two main characters, Marcus Stone and Juliette Taylor each have backstories that are woven into the current mystery. The flashbacks are not the smoothest, but eventually the story is told. I would recommend this for mystery fans.
Kim Alexis & Mindy Starns Clark have collaborated on a cozy mystery that keeps the reader turning pages. Set in a gorgeous spa in Czlifornia, the two main characters, Marcus Stone and Juliette Taylor each have backstories that are woven into the current mystery. The flashbacks are not the smoothest, but eventually the story is told. I would recommend this for mystery fans.
May 10, 2018
I really enjoyed the book. Kept me guessing to the end who were the 'culprits' and who had done what. Good, clean cut romance. Damaged psyche, lonely people, relationships made and lost...had a lot of great ingredients in it!
March 25, 2019
Wow - I couldn't put this one down
So many stories within the story, yet they all lined up in the end. There were some great lessons here, without being too preachy, and enough plot twists to keep me on the edge of my seat. Great job!
So many stories within the story, yet they all lined up in the end. There were some great lessons here, without being too preachy, and enough plot twists to keep me on the edge of my seat. Great job!
April 27, 2020
Read
Mar 3-Apr 17. I took a long time reading this book because i was not in a reading mood.
The book however is entertaining on levels of romance and mystery.
I read the large print edition, very comfortable reading
Mar 3-Apr 17. I took a long time reading this book because i was not in a reading mood.
The book however is entertaining on levels of romance and mystery.
I read the large print edition, very comfortable reading
November 20, 2025
Read this book twice and forgot to update when I finished lol. This is a really good book and I could read it again. Excellent and easy storyline to follow through. I can’t think of anything negative to say about it tbh.
June 19, 2017
tried this again, but just can't get into it
December 9, 2017
Didn't see this coming
Liked the story, loved the story line and kept me glued to it until the end. Great who done it.
Liked the story, loved the story line and kept me glued to it until the end. Great who done it.
May 27, 2021
I enjoyed the story. It had enough mystery and romance without the sexual parts that so many books seem to include.
February 21, 2024
Raven the aging supermodel and mega witch gets dead by a toxic mud wrap. A slow burn mystery
October 7, 2025
This was a good read. I like the surprise ending for me and seeing if I could figure out some of the key details before they were revealed. I also loved the reference to Peppermint Patties.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2012
I'm really not a huge fan of mysteries, which made BEAUTY TO DIE FOR: A SPA MYSTERY an odd choice for a book I selected to read and review. But, the cover is cute and the premise sounded adorable and fun, so it was worth a risk despite my slight genre bias.
So, starting off with the plot -- Juliette is an ex-supermodel who grew weary of the superficiality and chaos of her job, finally getting up the nerve to leave her career behind after a random encounter with he who would later be known as the-one-who-got-away. Marcus happened to be stuck in the same airport at the same time as Juliette and the two quickly bonded over their mututal distain for their current lifestyles, agreeing each would leave their problematic jobs and meet up again in the future once their individual issues had been resolved.
Despite the strong feelings of attraction and undestanding, Marcus never showed up again to meet Juliette -- or so she thinks, at least. Years later, Juliette owns a successful beauty supply line that works with spas, often on retreats for Christian women, and Marcus works as a disaster specialist, providing assistance lately to the FBI on terroism issues.
Recently, though, a terrorist plot has been involving counterfeit products, including beauty supplies, which somehow leads Juliette to be a prime target on a terrorist hit list that Marcus uncovers on the job. Although he cannot violate confidentiality agreements with the FBI, he feels obligated to somehow warn the woman who stole his heart so many years ago. He arranges an "accidental" meeting at Juliette's next spa retreat to covertly give her just enough information to keep her safe...
Unfortunately, in the meantime, another former supermodel, Raven, has unexpectedly shown up at the same spa retreat. Juliette suspects Raven is trying to sneak her way into the beauty product industry or wonders if she might be somehow caught up in the beauty counterfeit business -- but things get out of control when Raven is found dead on a massage table after one of Juliette's products is poisoned.
Soon, there is long list of possible suspects and motivations for tihs murder, and it is soon revealed at this may not be the first murder related to this particular spa. So, is this all about counterfeit beauty products or is there something more sinister going on now? And can Marcus really protect Juliette while keeping her in the dark, or will this former supermodel be the next to die?
I actually thought this was a pretty entertaining, engaging mystery and I was surprised to find that I didn't know within the first half of the book how things might end. At times it felt like there were a lot of extra characters and side stories, to the point that I found myself flipping back and forth to remind myself what names went with what crimes. On the one hand, this made things feel a little unnecessarily busy and muddled, but on the other hand it definitely kept me more unable to guess, before the end, who might really be behind the murders.
This *is* a Christian mystery, but I don't think the message is in-your-face enough to really deter someone who is not particularly seeking out an inspirational read. The messages and lessons are really subtle without being overtly preachy, but I do think they're present enough to please readers who are specifically wanting a nice, clean read.
I think I'd recommend this more to fans of chick lit than to hardcore mystery fans, especially those who enjoy chick lit centered on characters who are a little older than what you'd expect in most novels of this type. The story was fun and cute enough that I'd definitely consider reading other selections by this author in the future.
I did receiver an electronic copy of this book for the purposes of providing an honest review -- and I do stand by the fact that all thoughts are my own and are influenced by the manner in which the book was received.
So, starting off with the plot -- Juliette is an ex-supermodel who grew weary of the superficiality and chaos of her job, finally getting up the nerve to leave her career behind after a random encounter with he who would later be known as the-one-who-got-away. Marcus happened to be stuck in the same airport at the same time as Juliette and the two quickly bonded over their mututal distain for their current lifestyles, agreeing each would leave their problematic jobs and meet up again in the future once their individual issues had been resolved.
Despite the strong feelings of attraction and undestanding, Marcus never showed up again to meet Juliette -- or so she thinks, at least. Years later, Juliette owns a successful beauty supply line that works with spas, often on retreats for Christian women, and Marcus works as a disaster specialist, providing assistance lately to the FBI on terroism issues.
Recently, though, a terrorist plot has been involving counterfeit products, including beauty supplies, which somehow leads Juliette to be a prime target on a terrorist hit list that Marcus uncovers on the job. Although he cannot violate confidentiality agreements with the FBI, he feels obligated to somehow warn the woman who stole his heart so many years ago. He arranges an "accidental" meeting at Juliette's next spa retreat to covertly give her just enough information to keep her safe...
Unfortunately, in the meantime, another former supermodel, Raven, has unexpectedly shown up at the same spa retreat. Juliette suspects Raven is trying to sneak her way into the beauty product industry or wonders if she might be somehow caught up in the beauty counterfeit business -- but things get out of control when Raven is found dead on a massage table after one of Juliette's products is poisoned.
Soon, there is long list of possible suspects and motivations for tihs murder, and it is soon revealed at this may not be the first murder related to this particular spa. So, is this all about counterfeit beauty products or is there something more sinister going on now? And can Marcus really protect Juliette while keeping her in the dark, or will this former supermodel be the next to die?
I actually thought this was a pretty entertaining, engaging mystery and I was surprised to find that I didn't know within the first half of the book how things might end. At times it felt like there were a lot of extra characters and side stories, to the point that I found myself flipping back and forth to remind myself what names went with what crimes. On the one hand, this made things feel a little unnecessarily busy and muddled, but on the other hand it definitely kept me more unable to guess, before the end, who might really be behind the murders.
This *is* a Christian mystery, but I don't think the message is in-your-face enough to really deter someone who is not particularly seeking out an inspirational read. The messages and lessons are really subtle without being overtly preachy, but I do think they're present enough to please readers who are specifically wanting a nice, clean read.
I think I'd recommend this more to fans of chick lit than to hardcore mystery fans, especially those who enjoy chick lit centered on characters who are a little older than what you'd expect in most novels of this type. The story was fun and cute enough that I'd definitely consider reading other selections by this author in the future.
I did receiver an electronic copy of this book for the purposes of providing an honest review -- and I do stand by the fact that all thoughts are my own and are influenced by the manner in which the book was received.
August 3, 2012
Kim Alexis and Mindy Starns Clark in their new book, “Beauty to Die For” Book One in A Spa Mystery Series published by B&H Publishing Group introduces us to Juliette Taylor and Marcus Stone.
From the Back Cover: Twenty-five years ago, Juliette Taylor walked away from her career as a supermodel after a chance encounter with a handsome stranger. She’s never regretted that decision–and never forgotten the man who gave her the courage to change her life.
These days Juliette’s ministry is providing encouragement to women who spend their time caring for and nurturing others. She uses her successful skin care line and spa retreats to rejuvenate these “servers”.
Isn’t it time someone took care of YOU for a change?
That’s the theme for this weekend’s retreat. Juliette can’t wait.
But as she heads for the retreat at the world-renowned Palm Grotto Resort and Spa, she runs into Raven, a fellow supermodel from back in the day known for her fiery red hair and equally fiery temper. Within minutes Raven flies into a rage and threatens to kill Juliette.
Two hours later Raven is dead.
Filled with guilt and sadness, at first Juliette doesn’t even notice the arrival of TOTGA–The One That Got Away. Now she must sort out her feelings for this man from her past, as well as try to learn who killed her old modeling rival and why–before she becomes the prime suspect.
Or the next victim.
Kim Alexis has had experience being a supermodel. Mindy Starns Clark is a superb writer of murder mysteries. Together these two talented ladies have come up with a great beginning to, what promises to be, a wonderful series. We go to Spas and retreats to relax and to be pampered. Some of us like mud baths and avocado facials; all of us enjoy a good massage. Raven is at the Spa for none of these things and her presence there is actually quite mysterious.
Once Raven dies primary suspicion falls on Juliette, after all the two women had fought and Raven had threatened her. Entering into this is Marcus Stone who co-owns a disaster prevention company and is a FBI consultant. He is also the great love from twenty-five years ago. Now these two team up to solve a murder and prevent another one–Juliette’s.
I have to say this is a great mystery, a great start to a new series and a great romance. This is a thriller as Juliette’s life is in great danger as she is trying to find the murderer who does not want to be found and will kill again to stay that way. I enjoyed the theme of resolving the past and making up for past mistakes. Both Raven and Marcus are individuals from Juliette’s past that return to her present so that issues can be resolved. “Beauty to Die For” is an exciting book. If you enjoy a good suspenseful, murder mystery thriller then this is the book for you. I thoroughly enjoyed “Beauty to Die For” and am already looking forward to the next collaboration between these two talented ladies.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Wynn-Wynn Media for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the Back Cover: Twenty-five years ago, Juliette Taylor walked away from her career as a supermodel after a chance encounter with a handsome stranger. She’s never regretted that decision–and never forgotten the man who gave her the courage to change her life.
These days Juliette’s ministry is providing encouragement to women who spend their time caring for and nurturing others. She uses her successful skin care line and spa retreats to rejuvenate these “servers”.
Isn’t it time someone took care of YOU for a change?
That’s the theme for this weekend’s retreat. Juliette can’t wait.
But as she heads for the retreat at the world-renowned Palm Grotto Resort and Spa, she runs into Raven, a fellow supermodel from back in the day known for her fiery red hair and equally fiery temper. Within minutes Raven flies into a rage and threatens to kill Juliette.
Two hours later Raven is dead.
Filled with guilt and sadness, at first Juliette doesn’t even notice the arrival of TOTGA–The One That Got Away. Now she must sort out her feelings for this man from her past, as well as try to learn who killed her old modeling rival and why–before she becomes the prime suspect.
Or the next victim.
Kim Alexis has had experience being a supermodel. Mindy Starns Clark is a superb writer of murder mysteries. Together these two talented ladies have come up with a great beginning to, what promises to be, a wonderful series. We go to Spas and retreats to relax and to be pampered. Some of us like mud baths and avocado facials; all of us enjoy a good massage. Raven is at the Spa for none of these things and her presence there is actually quite mysterious.
Once Raven dies primary suspicion falls on Juliette, after all the two women had fought and Raven had threatened her. Entering into this is Marcus Stone who co-owns a disaster prevention company and is a FBI consultant. He is also the great love from twenty-five years ago. Now these two team up to solve a murder and prevent another one–Juliette’s.
I have to say this is a great mystery, a great start to a new series and a great romance. This is a thriller as Juliette’s life is in great danger as she is trying to find the murderer who does not want to be found and will kill again to stay that way. I enjoyed the theme of resolving the past and making up for past mistakes. Both Raven and Marcus are individuals from Juliette’s past that return to her present so that issues can be resolved. “Beauty to Die For” is an exciting book. If you enjoy a good suspenseful, murder mystery thriller then this is the book for you. I thoroughly enjoyed “Beauty to Die For” and am already looking forward to the next collaboration between these two talented ladies.
If you would like to listen to interviews with other authors and professionals please go to www.kingdomhighlights.org where they are available On Demand.
To listen to 24 hours non-stop Christian music please visit our internet radio station www.kingdomairwaves.org
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book for free from Wynn-Wynn Media for this review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 8, 2012
Juliette Taylor is visiting the Palm Grotto Resort and Spa in Cahuilla Springs, California, to lead a Christian retreat weekend. The ex-supermodel has a brand of exclusive skincare products, JT Lady, and Palm Grotto is one of her main customers. However, an internal investigation suggests that products are being counterfeited.
Also on his way to Palm Grotto is Marcus, an expert in disaster prevention and recovery. He met Juliette decades ago when she was at the height of her fame, and fell hard for her. Marcus has been working with the FBI on a counterfeiting case, and it seems that Juliette's business has been targeted by the criminals, which gives him an excuse to reconnect.
Another spa guest is Raven, an ex-supermodel with a reputation for diva behaviour and temper tantrums, and a difficult past. Raven's presence is a puzzle that turns into a mystery when she is found to have died during a routine beauty treatment. Juliette joins up with Marcus to protect the reputation of her products by finding the real culprit.
Beauty to Die For didn’t really work for me, despite the cool cover and the catchy title. In the beginning, Juliette and Raven have a mini-showdown in the airport before arising at the resort. As a reader, I thought Juliette was totally misinterpreting what Raven said to her, and I couldn’t understand why. I still don’t, as it turns out that my immediate interpretation of Raven’s comment was, in fact, correct. But it took Juliette most of the book to work that out, even though she’s supposed to be this switched-on businesswoman.
We are told early in the book that people don’t really understand how difficult modelling is. Well, this isn’t really a statement that is going to gain sympathy from many readers, because it just seems to show how out of touch with reality the fashion industry is (many jobs in life are difficult. Supermodels have the advantage of having found a high-paying difficult job, not a minimum-wage difficult job). Later (much later) in the book, Juliette is remembering a photo shoot, and we are actually shown the difficulties she alluded to. This scene gave me a much better understanding of the issues, and made Juliette seem a lot more likeable. But it should have come earlier. As readers, we want to like our fictional heroines and heroes, so we need to be given reasons to like them.
I also got annoyed by the supposed incompetence of the police investigating Raven’s death. They didn’t actually feature in the story, except to get things wrong or to not look at vital evidence. Instead, Juliette was all over the resort, listening in on conversations and finding all the missing links. This also seemed odd – no one questioned that a guest (albeit an important guest) kept nosing around staff-only areas? And the counterfeiting seemed to be set up to be a major plot point, but really was just a device to get Marcus in the picture. There was potential, but aspects of the plot were too unbelievable, even for fiction.
It’s not to say I didn’t like the book at all. I thought the action scenes were well done, the ending was lovely, and I really liked the way the spa weekend was aimed at Christian women who spend too much time giving to others was great (sign me up!). But the second half of the book was not strong enough to make up for the weak first half.
Thanks to B&H Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
Also on his way to Palm Grotto is Marcus, an expert in disaster prevention and recovery. He met Juliette decades ago when she was at the height of her fame, and fell hard for her. Marcus has been working with the FBI on a counterfeiting case, and it seems that Juliette's business has been targeted by the criminals, which gives him an excuse to reconnect.
Another spa guest is Raven, an ex-supermodel with a reputation for diva behaviour and temper tantrums, and a difficult past. Raven's presence is a puzzle that turns into a mystery when she is found to have died during a routine beauty treatment. Juliette joins up with Marcus to protect the reputation of her products by finding the real culprit.
Beauty to Die For didn’t really work for me, despite the cool cover and the catchy title. In the beginning, Juliette and Raven have a mini-showdown in the airport before arising at the resort. As a reader, I thought Juliette was totally misinterpreting what Raven said to her, and I couldn’t understand why. I still don’t, as it turns out that my immediate interpretation of Raven’s comment was, in fact, correct. But it took Juliette most of the book to work that out, even though she’s supposed to be this switched-on businesswoman.
We are told early in the book that people don’t really understand how difficult modelling is. Well, this isn’t really a statement that is going to gain sympathy from many readers, because it just seems to show how out of touch with reality the fashion industry is (many jobs in life are difficult. Supermodels have the advantage of having found a high-paying difficult job, not a minimum-wage difficult job). Later (much later) in the book, Juliette is remembering a photo shoot, and we are actually shown the difficulties she alluded to. This scene gave me a much better understanding of the issues, and made Juliette seem a lot more likeable. But it should have come earlier. As readers, we want to like our fictional heroines and heroes, so we need to be given reasons to like them.
I also got annoyed by the supposed incompetence of the police investigating Raven’s death. They didn’t actually feature in the story, except to get things wrong or to not look at vital evidence. Instead, Juliette was all over the resort, listening in on conversations and finding all the missing links. This also seemed odd – no one questioned that a guest (albeit an important guest) kept nosing around staff-only areas? And the counterfeiting seemed to be set up to be a major plot point, but really was just a device to get Marcus in the picture. There was potential, but aspects of the plot were too unbelievable, even for fiction.
It’s not to say I didn’t like the book at all. I thought the action scenes were well done, the ending was lovely, and I really liked the way the spa weekend was aimed at Christian women who spend too much time giving to others was great (sign me up!). But the second half of the book was not strong enough to make up for the weak first half.
Thanks to B&H Publishing and NetGalley for providing a free ebook for review.
August 30, 2012
This novel has a few great things going for it: a nice cover, a good premise that gets the reader interested and that gives the expectation of a cozy, fun and enjoyable murder/mystery ride. It is told from different, very well written point of views that flow nicely from one character to the next. It has a very, very likable male lead, written with the perfect man in mind and it works. Marcus’ character was written so well; this is the kind of man every woman wants. The story has a nicely written romantic side for Juliette and her long lost love, Marcus, that was sweet, cute and very refreshing. I also really liked how well developed Crystal’s character was, as well as her part in advancing the story.
However, as well written as Marcus’ character was, Juliette’s was not. Although we got to know Marcus, his feelings, his emotions, and his thoughts, we mostly see Juliette as a business woman. Yes, we get to see her afraid, feel threatened, be in love, but not to the same extent as Marcus. And that is a shame because Juliette is the lead, the heroin, but by the end of the book you still cannot feel connected to her, at least not in the same way as with Marcus.
Also, I really didn’t like how dumb the lead characters were. In the beginning, Raven threatens Juliette and says something that baffles her. The reader, however, will know right away what Raven is referring to and seeing the leads racking their brains trying to figure it out is very irritating. Also, there are a few times that the secondary characters had to explain their conclusions to the leads as if they were children because they couldn’t understand. Again, the reader gets it instantly and it’s very easy to lose your patience with the main characters.
The story takes too long to advance; too much time is spent with information that, while valuable, was unnecessary in a book of fiction. Too much talk about counterfeit goods or counterfeiting in general, too many explanations about Marcus’ job, too much information about bombs, among other stuff. While I appreciate the fact that the authors did their research, they should have used that information for their benefit, not include it in the plot. The readers do not need a lecture on terrorist cells, or how a certain agency works, or what are counterfeit products and how big that problem is and how dangerous those fake products are.
Finally, I didn’t like the fact that, although it is a Christian fiction novel, there is no mention of Juliette’s faith in the beginning (or anyone else’s for that matter), and, all of a sudden, starting in the middle, it is mentioned constantly. And not only is Juliette a Christian, but also this other guy and another girl. As a Christian, I enjoy Christian characters, but as a reader, I expect consistency. If the characters are Christian, why hide it in the beginning only to talk about it nonstop later on?
The story is mostly good, but there are so many things that get in the way, making it long and sometimes tedious, making it advance almost in slow motion, that it disappoints. However, when it starts to round up nicely (around page 200), the action moves well, the pace moves quicker, the book gets a whole more enjoyable, the mystery gets more interesting and the time spent reading feels more validated. An ok start, a disappointing middle, and a very good ending.
2 3/4 stars.
*I received a copy of this book from B&H Publishing Group through NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
However, as well written as Marcus’ character was, Juliette’s was not. Although we got to know Marcus, his feelings, his emotions, and his thoughts, we mostly see Juliette as a business woman. Yes, we get to see her afraid, feel threatened, be in love, but not to the same extent as Marcus. And that is a shame because Juliette is the lead, the heroin, but by the end of the book you still cannot feel connected to her, at least not in the same way as with Marcus.
Also, I really didn’t like how dumb the lead characters were. In the beginning, Raven threatens Juliette and says something that baffles her. The reader, however, will know right away what Raven is referring to and seeing the leads racking their brains trying to figure it out is very irritating. Also, there are a few times that the secondary characters had to explain their conclusions to the leads as if they were children because they couldn’t understand. Again, the reader gets it instantly and it’s very easy to lose your patience with the main characters.
The story takes too long to advance; too much time is spent with information that, while valuable, was unnecessary in a book of fiction. Too much talk about counterfeit goods or counterfeiting in general, too many explanations about Marcus’ job, too much information about bombs, among other stuff. While I appreciate the fact that the authors did their research, they should have used that information for their benefit, not include it in the plot. The readers do not need a lecture on terrorist cells, or how a certain agency works, or what are counterfeit products and how big that problem is and how dangerous those fake products are.
Finally, I didn’t like the fact that, although it is a Christian fiction novel, there is no mention of Juliette’s faith in the beginning (or anyone else’s for that matter), and, all of a sudden, starting in the middle, it is mentioned constantly. And not only is Juliette a Christian, but also this other guy and another girl. As a Christian, I enjoy Christian characters, but as a reader, I expect consistency. If the characters are Christian, why hide it in the beginning only to talk about it nonstop later on?
The story is mostly good, but there are so many things that get in the way, making it long and sometimes tedious, making it advance almost in slow motion, that it disappoints. However, when it starts to round up nicely (around page 200), the action moves well, the pace moves quicker, the book gets a whole more enjoyable, the mystery gets more interesting and the time spent reading feels more validated. An ok start, a disappointing middle, and a very good ending.
2 3/4 stars.
*I received a copy of this book from B&H Publishing Group through NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
August 5, 2013
Summary: Juliette Taylor, former 80's supermodel and now beauty supply mogul is on her way to a spa retreat at the Palm Grotto Spa with her best friend and business partner, Didi when she runs into a former colleague and supermodel Raven. Famous for her red hair, Raven is infamous for her fantastic tips and vicious personality. When Raven and Juliette end up at the same spa, Juliette fears that Raven is trying to steal her business, but soon discovers that isn't the case when Raven ends up dead. Faced with counterfeiters selling a potentially dangerous version of her product, as well as being a suspect in the murder of her former frenemie, Juliette must figure out who is behind the counterfeiting, the murder, and keep the retreat going all at the same time. Just when she thought things couldn't get more complicated, her TOTGA (the one that got away), Marcus Stone, shows up and is ready to rekindle their relationship - or is that just a cover to protect her from the trouble she seems to find herself in?
What I Liked: I love that Juliette and Marcus' candy was a Peppermint Pattie (and all the cute jokes that went with that). They happen to be my favorite candy as well, and I went and got a few to munch on while I was reading. :) Marcus and Juliette were also sweet. They were able to find each other after so long. Their stories really shows the impact that a single meeting can have on a person. You never know what your words and actions will do in a person's life. I also loved the importance Juliette placed on inner beauty and taking time out for yourself, not in a selfish way, but in a balanced way in order that every part of your life is maintained. Sometimes we get so caught up in ourselves, or in helping others, that we forget that we need to keep Christ at the center of everything and maintain a balance of the two. Helping others is great, but not at the neglect of ourselves. Similarly, taking time out for ourselves is great, but not at the expense of helping others and being selfless. (Conviction alert! ;) )
I also loved the mystery and the government investigation side of things. That made the story more interesting for sure. The side characters were mostly all good too. I loved Marcus' mother. She was a hoot!
What I didn't like: How predictable and naive Crystal was. Overall she was ok, but I could see some of her plot points coming a mile away, and it was aggravating. I also got a bit lost in some of the beauty treatments, but hey, it was at a spa, so I suppose I can't really complain.
Overall, a fun read and I learned quite a bit about spa treatments. I had to laugh when the police couldn't figure out which fridge was for food and which was for products because they were so similar! heehee!
If you enjoy chick lit, or cozy mysteries, you'll enjoy this book!
Happy Reading!
Sarah
*Although I received this book from B&H publishers via NetGalley in exchange for a review, this review was not influenced by either group in any way, and is made up entirely of my own thoughts and opinions.
http://sarahksbookreviews.blogspot.co...
July 27, 2012
Beauty to Die For: A Spa Mystery by Kim Alexis and Mindy Starns Clark is a novel that combines romance, mystery/suspense and christian fiction. it is scheduled for release on August 1, 2012. Juliette Taylor was once a super model, but after a long talk in an airport with a stranger she was able to walk away from a life that was slowly killing her. Since then, she has partnered with a good friend and started a company that is now very successful, but facing so serious issues that could put everything at risk. when an old friend/enemy is killed in the spa Juliette is hosting a spiritual retreat, she wants to find the truth. The stranger that made such a difference in Juliette's life was equally changed. he was inspired to leave the power and money hungry engineering industry in search of helping those facing disaster. Now, as a FBI consultant Marcus Stone is on a personal mission to protect Juliette and reconnect with her after too many years have past.Together they search for the truth behind the murder, and how counterfeit products might be connected.
Beauty to Die For is a good combination of genres. The mystery and suspense elements played a major role in the story, while the romance portion was important but not distracting. The romance between Juliette and Marcus is mature and realistic, although readers looking for steam will be disappointed, but remember this is Christian fiction as well. the suspense and mystery aspects of the story are my favorite. I had my suspicions through out the book, and while some proved at least partially correct i was not completely accurate on much. That was a nice change of pace for me; who spent a childhood surrounded with detective novels and mysteries (and later television shows) because those were my mother's favorites, so find myself working on the mystery pretty hard in everything I read.
I am not normally a big fan of Christian fiction, even though I am a practicing Christian. I find that many books read like the religious element is tacked on as an afterthought, or simply overwhelms all other aspects of the story. Neither of these things are true in Beauty to Die For. The religious elements and prayer included in the story are consistent with the characters and ring true. While there were a couple moments where the religion did rise a little stronger, and gives a brief moment that read a little too conversion seeking for my tastes, it still fit perfectly in with the character's personality and the story.
I recommend Beauty to Die For for readers that like romance that is mature and rather hands off (there is a little kissing), readers that enjoy well done Christian fiction, and readers that like to be surprised with how a mystery is resolved. Judging by the title, and the room left in the story in regards to the counterfeit materials and FBI connections, I am betting that a sequel will not be far behind. If I run across a sequel I will certainly read it, but I do not think it is one I will be hunting for when released.
Beauty to Die For is a good combination of genres. The mystery and suspense elements played a major role in the story, while the romance portion was important but not distracting. The romance between Juliette and Marcus is mature and realistic, although readers looking for steam will be disappointed, but remember this is Christian fiction as well. the suspense and mystery aspects of the story are my favorite. I had my suspicions through out the book, and while some proved at least partially correct i was not completely accurate on much. That was a nice change of pace for me; who spent a childhood surrounded with detective novels and mysteries (and later television shows) because those were my mother's favorites, so find myself working on the mystery pretty hard in everything I read.
I am not normally a big fan of Christian fiction, even though I am a practicing Christian. I find that many books read like the religious element is tacked on as an afterthought, or simply overwhelms all other aspects of the story. Neither of these things are true in Beauty to Die For. The religious elements and prayer included in the story are consistent with the characters and ring true. While there were a couple moments where the religion did rise a little stronger, and gives a brief moment that read a little too conversion seeking for my tastes, it still fit perfectly in with the character's personality and the story.
I recommend Beauty to Die For for readers that like romance that is mature and rather hands off (there is a little kissing), readers that enjoy well done Christian fiction, and readers that like to be surprised with how a mystery is resolved. Judging by the title, and the room left in the story in regards to the counterfeit materials and FBI connections, I am betting that a sequel will not be far behind. If I run across a sequel I will certainly read it, but I do not think it is one I will be hunting for when released.
June 16, 2013
Beauty to Die For
Kim Alexis and Mindy Starns Clark
Book Summary: Juliette Taylor walked away from her career as a supermodel twenty-five years ago. Now approaching fifty - an emotionally complex milestone -- she co-owns a beauty supply company that makes skincare products for salons and spas. Her niche is pampering Christian women who usually spend more time caring for others than for themselves under the slogan: Isn't it time someone took care of YOU for a change? When Juliette arrives at the Palm Grotto Spa to host a spiritual retreat, she runs into an old modeling colleague, Raven, who had always been disliked in the industry for many reasons. She isn't there for the retreat; in fact, her presence at the spa is somewhat mysterious. Not long after Raven makes a cryptic threat to Juliette, the unsympathetic back-then beauty is found dead, poisoned by something in the green clay of a chai soy wrap. The following morning, a banner for the retreat has been unceremoniously altered: It's your turn to be nurtured, to be restored . . . to be murdered. Suspicion is directed at Juliette who has history with Raven and certainly knows how to use beauty products. But for murder?! Now she must find the real killer before the police really take care of her.
Review: I found some the beginning to be slow. There was much background that merged with the present. That was nicely done overall. I found the mystery to be small in comparison to the romance. The mystery was actually well woven into the story. I thought that the suspense of the mystery could have been increased to make it a page turner. The ending was great and made reading the entire book fantastic. I found Marcus to be a little too good to be true. Didi, Crystal and the Stone family were great. They helped move the story along and were extremely believable. I am looking forward to the next book in the series with great anticipation of how the characters will continue in their relationships with each other, especially Didi and Marcus. While I would like more suspense I do think the way it was written is the way real mysteries unfold with little suspense and a lot of timing. I did guess who did it but more out of pure guessing than sleuthing. The ending brought me to tears and totally changed how I viewed the entire book.
I would like to thank Net Galley and B & H Publishing Group for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
Kim Alexis and Mindy Starns Clark
Book Summary: Juliette Taylor walked away from her career as a supermodel twenty-five years ago. Now approaching fifty - an emotionally complex milestone -- she co-owns a beauty supply company that makes skincare products for salons and spas. Her niche is pampering Christian women who usually spend more time caring for others than for themselves under the slogan: Isn't it time someone took care of YOU for a change? When Juliette arrives at the Palm Grotto Spa to host a spiritual retreat, she runs into an old modeling colleague, Raven, who had always been disliked in the industry for many reasons. She isn't there for the retreat; in fact, her presence at the spa is somewhat mysterious. Not long after Raven makes a cryptic threat to Juliette, the unsympathetic back-then beauty is found dead, poisoned by something in the green clay of a chai soy wrap. The following morning, a banner for the retreat has been unceremoniously altered: It's your turn to be nurtured, to be restored . . . to be murdered. Suspicion is directed at Juliette who has history with Raven and certainly knows how to use beauty products. But for murder?! Now she must find the real killer before the police really take care of her.
Review: I found some the beginning to be slow. There was much background that merged with the present. That was nicely done overall. I found the mystery to be small in comparison to the romance. The mystery was actually well woven into the story. I thought that the suspense of the mystery could have been increased to make it a page turner. The ending was great and made reading the entire book fantastic. I found Marcus to be a little too good to be true. Didi, Crystal and the Stone family were great. They helped move the story along and were extremely believable. I am looking forward to the next book in the series with great anticipation of how the characters will continue in their relationships with each other, especially Didi and Marcus. While I would like more suspense I do think the way it was written is the way real mysteries unfold with little suspense and a lot of timing. I did guess who did it but more out of pure guessing than sleuthing. The ending brought me to tears and totally changed how I viewed the entire book.
I would like to thank Net Galley and B & H Publishing Group for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
August 7, 2012
The book is a Christian romantic suspense about a former supermodel and the one who got away.
Juliette Taylor has transferred from being a supermodel in her twenties to a successful
business woman in her forties. Juliette left modeling at the peak of success and started a
cosmetics business. Her company supplies products to high end spas around America. Juliette's
company also runs retreats for women at the same high end spas.
When arriving for a Juliette Taylor Event" at Palm Grotto in Arizona, Juliette spots a former rival
supermodel, Raven, at the airport. Raven has always been hard to get along with, and Juliette
would rather avoid her than risk experiencing Raven's wrath, but they do encounter each other and
Raven threatens to kill Juliette. Shortly after, it is Raven who is dead, and Juliette is a suspect.
Marcus Stone is a disaster prevention expert who has been helping the FBI on a terrorist investigation.
One way the terrorists have been raising money is by conterfeiting cosmetics. Over the past few months
Juliette has discovered that there have been counterfeit JT Lady products on the market, and has launched
an internal investigation. When Marcus sees Juliette's name on a terrorist's list of people who could be
targetted, he decides to warn her of the danger she's in. His contact with the FBI lets him go to Palm Grotto
to meet with Juliette.
Marcus has an ulterior motive for seeking out Juliette. Twenty-five years before,they met while stranded at an
airport. They hit it off immediately, and agreed that he would come back for her when he had established himself.
She would make changes in her life too so she would be ready when Marcus found her.
When they do meet, Raven has been murdered and they agree to investigate together.
The main characters are very mature Christians, and the romance, once Marcus and Juliette are reunited, moves along
smoothly. While a romance, the usual misunderstandings and conflict are not present. Yes, there are misunderstandings,
but they are dealt with quickly and maturely.
I enjoyed the book that allows the female main character be strong and courageous, just as her male counterpart is. It was
refreshing to read a book that was more realistic in its presentation of "older" people in love. There are a few
threads that are left dangling, but that's my only criticism.
Juliette Taylor has transferred from being a supermodel in her twenties to a successful
business woman in her forties. Juliette left modeling at the peak of success and started a
cosmetics business. Her company supplies products to high end spas around America. Juliette's
company also runs retreats for women at the same high end spas.
When arriving for a Juliette Taylor Event" at Palm Grotto in Arizona, Juliette spots a former rival
supermodel, Raven, at the airport. Raven has always been hard to get along with, and Juliette
would rather avoid her than risk experiencing Raven's wrath, but they do encounter each other and
Raven threatens to kill Juliette. Shortly after, it is Raven who is dead, and Juliette is a suspect.
Marcus Stone is a disaster prevention expert who has been helping the FBI on a terrorist investigation.
One way the terrorists have been raising money is by conterfeiting cosmetics. Over the past few months
Juliette has discovered that there have been counterfeit JT Lady products on the market, and has launched
an internal investigation. When Marcus sees Juliette's name on a terrorist's list of people who could be
targetted, he decides to warn her of the danger she's in. His contact with the FBI lets him go to Palm Grotto
to meet with Juliette.
Marcus has an ulterior motive for seeking out Juliette. Twenty-five years before,they met while stranded at an
airport. They hit it off immediately, and agreed that he would come back for her when he had established himself.
She would make changes in her life too so she would be ready when Marcus found her.
When they do meet, Raven has been murdered and they agree to investigate together.
The main characters are very mature Christians, and the romance, once Marcus and Juliette are reunited, moves along
smoothly. While a romance, the usual misunderstandings and conflict are not present. Yes, there are misunderstandings,
but they are dealt with quickly and maturely.
I enjoyed the book that allows the female main character be strong and courageous, just as her male counterpart is. It was
refreshing to read a book that was more realistic in its presentation of "older" people in love. There are a few
threads that are left dangling, but that's my only criticism.
January 17, 2016
Author: Kim Alexis & Mindy Starns Clark
Published By: B & H Books
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Blog For GMTA
Rating: 5
Review:
"Beauty to Die For" by Kim Alexis and Mindy Starns Clark was a good read. We got some drama, mystery, little romance, murder and lots of crimes going on...all that had a way of keeping you wondering just what, who....guessing till the very end. Be ready for a novel that will have some much going on you will have to pay close attention because of all of its twist and many turns.
Juliette was once a top supermodel now she owned a skin care company...was now hosting a spiritual retreat at the Palm Grotto Resort. Then there is Raven who Juliette had once been friendly with ...but now it seemed like things had changed as Raven had yelled she will murder her(Juliette) if she thinks she can take it (skin care) from her upon seeing her at the airport. This had been a natural for Raven to rant at people... only later to be found dead during a treamtnet with one of Juliette's products. Now this is the part where I will say you must pick up this good novel to see what is in store from all of this? It could be anyone.. why...because Raven wasn't liked by anyone....except? Something else was up...the FBI had found Juliettes's name on a terrorist list? Who will come to her rescue? Now, who is Marcus and how does he fit into this big picture? What will Juliette find in all of this process of what is going on in her life? Would Juliette and Marcus get together? Again, you will have to pick up "Beauty to Die for" to find out!
"Beauty to Die For" will present a smooth glimpse into the modeling field and just what one is willing to do...even kill to get just what they want. There were a great many characters that really made this novel so readable. I was surprised who was behind what had been going on and you may be too.
In the end after all the drama, mystery, romance, murder, and many twist and turns you will get a great finale. With that being said, I would recommend to you..."Beauty to Die For" as a excellent read.
Published By: B & H Books
Age Recommended: Adult
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Blog For GMTA
Rating: 5
Review:
"Beauty to Die For" by Kim Alexis and Mindy Starns Clark was a good read. We got some drama, mystery, little romance, murder and lots of crimes going on...all that had a way of keeping you wondering just what, who....guessing till the very end. Be ready for a novel that will have some much going on you will have to pay close attention because of all of its twist and many turns.
Juliette was once a top supermodel now she owned a skin care company...was now hosting a spiritual retreat at the Palm Grotto Resort. Then there is Raven who Juliette had once been friendly with ...but now it seemed like things had changed as Raven had yelled she will murder her(Juliette) if she thinks she can take it (skin care) from her upon seeing her at the airport. This had been a natural for Raven to rant at people... only later to be found dead during a treamtnet with one of Juliette's products. Now this is the part where I will say you must pick up this good novel to see what is in store from all of this? It could be anyone.. why...because Raven wasn't liked by anyone....except? Something else was up...the FBI had found Juliettes's name on a terrorist list? Who will come to her rescue? Now, who is Marcus and how does he fit into this big picture? What will Juliette find in all of this process of what is going on in her life? Would Juliette and Marcus get together? Again, you will have to pick up "Beauty to Die for" to find out!
"Beauty to Die For" will present a smooth glimpse into the modeling field and just what one is willing to do...even kill to get just what they want. There were a great many characters that really made this novel so readable. I was surprised who was behind what had been going on and you may be too.
In the end after all the drama, mystery, romance, murder, and many twist and turns you will get a great finale. With that being said, I would recommend to you..."Beauty to Die For" as a excellent read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews