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Paint Me Beautiful
A Tale of Anorexia, a Love Story, and the Rebirth of Claire Simone
“I'm dying to be beautiful.”
My story isn't unique. You've heard it before. I'm just a girl who doesn't eat as much as she should. See, I have goals, big ones, and nobody is going to stop me, not even a boy named Emmett. He has good intentions and he's hot as hell, but he doesn't understand what it's like to want something so bad that you'll do anything for it. I'm going to become a model, even if it kills me. Dream big or go home, that's what they always say, right?
Paint Me Beautiful, a New Adult/Contemporary Romance Novel Recommended for Ages 18 and Up.
From the Bestselling Author of the Never say Never Trilogy (Tasting Never, Finding Never, & Keeping Never)
“I'm dying to be beautiful.”
My story isn't unique. You've heard it before. I'm just a girl who doesn't eat as much as she should. See, I have goals, big ones, and nobody is going to stop me, not even a boy named Emmett. He has good intentions and he's hot as hell, but he doesn't understand what it's like to want something so bad that you'll do anything for it. I'm going to become a model, even if it kills me. Dream big or go home, that's what they always say, right?
Paint Me Beautiful, a New Adult/Contemporary Romance Novel Recommended for Ages 18 and Up.
From the Bestselling Author of the Never say Never Trilogy (Tasting Never, Finding Never, & Keeping Never)
464 pages, Paperback
First published March 21, 2013
69 people are currently reading
1853 people want to read
About the author
C.M. Stunich
160 books14.3k followersC.M. Stunich is a self-admitted bibliophile with a love for exotic teas and a whole host of characters who live full time inside the strange, swirling vortex of her thoughts. Some folks might call this crazy, but Caitlin Morgan doesn't mind - especially considering she has to write biographies in the third person. Oh, and half the host of characters in her head are searing hot bad boys with dirty mouths and skillful hands (among other things). If being crazy means hanging out with them everyday, C.M. has decided to have herself committed.
She hates tapioca pudding, loves to binge on cheesy horror movies, and is a slave to many cats. When she's not vacuuming fur off of her couch, C.M. can be found with her nose buried in a book or her eyes glued to a computer screen. She's the author of over thirty novels - romance, new adult, fantasy, and young adult included. Please, come and join her inside her crazy. There's a heck of a lot to do there.
Oh, and Caitlin loves to chat (incessantly), so feel free to e-mail her, send her a Facebook message, or put up smoke signals. She's already looking forward to it.
Stalk me, please!
www.cmstunich.com
www.facebook.com/cmstunichauthor
www.twitter.com/CMStunich
I'm also on Goodreads, Spotify, Google +, Instagram, and Pinterest.
She hates tapioca pudding, loves to binge on cheesy horror movies, and is a slave to many cats. When she's not vacuuming fur off of her couch, C.M. can be found with her nose buried in a book or her eyes glued to a computer screen. She's the author of over thirty novels - romance, new adult, fantasy, and young adult included. Please, come and join her inside her crazy. There's a heck of a lot to do there.
Oh, and Caitlin loves to chat (incessantly), so feel free to e-mail her, send her a Facebook message, or put up smoke signals. She's already looking forward to it.
Stalk me, please!
www.cmstunich.com
www.facebook.com/cmstunichauthor
www.twitter.com/CMStunich
I'm also on Goodreads, Spotify, Google +, Instagram, and Pinterest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
March 24, 2013
Claire Simone is 18 years old and has just graduated high school. She is following her dream to become a model and will do anything to make that happen.
That means dying her beautiful red hair blonde, because blondes are more likely to be hired. Spending her parents hard earned money on designer clothes for casting calls. Doing anything she can to look the part. Fasting. Exercising. She does it all. Deep down, Claire thinks
One day, while waiting in line for a agency, Claire meets Emmett Sinclair. Emmett likes Claire right away, but she is hesitant to go out with him. Nothing can pull her away from her plan. But he talks her into a date.
Oh Emmett... you will fall in love with Emmett Sinclair! This guy is just perfect! He obviously knows not all is right with Claire, but instead of trying to force feed her, constantly badger her, etc, he just is there for her. He talks to her, hangs out with her, keeps an eye one her. He knows that
And in Claire’s eyes, she isn’t thin enough for the modeling industry.
Emmett is a wise guy, he has a lot of words of wisdom...
And he says the sweetest things...
It is impossible not to love Emmett. And Emmett loves Claire. Even though she isn’t getting ‘better’ he is making baby steps to get her more comfortable around food and actually gets her to eat a little. She feels better around Emmett.
But Claire is still really sick. And getting sicker and sicker. She is literally ‘Starving to Death.’ And she can’t even see it. Even after a designer tells her she can’t hire her because she is ‘too skinny’ Claire just doesn’t get it.
Her family is worried, they want her admitted somewhere to seek help. Emmett wants her with him, he is worried if they force treatment on her, it will only make things worse. By the end of the book, Claire makes her own choice. One that will leave you with your mouth hanging open saying ‘I can’t believe it ended that way!’ Thank god there is a second book and it comes out in April!!!
This story was a story of a girl with anorexia and body dysmorphia. I know its not an easy topic to read, but its something that is very relevant in the world today- especially with teenage girls, and people in the modeling/acting business. There is a ton of pressure to have the ‘perfect’ body and be the ‘perfect’ size. I really felt bad for Claire, she put all this pressure on herself when she was pretty perfect to begin with. If you’ve ever known any one with an ED, the story was pretty spot on. I can’t wait to read the second book and see what happens with Claire and Emmett. I have high hopes that she can heal and recover.
That means dying her beautiful red hair blonde, because blondes are more likely to be hired. Spending her parents hard earned money on designer clothes for casting calls. Doing anything she can to look the part. Fasting. Exercising. She does it all. Deep down, Claire thinks
One day, while waiting in line for a agency, Claire meets Emmett Sinclair. Emmett likes Claire right away, but she is hesitant to go out with him. Nothing can pull her away from her plan. But he talks her into a date.
Oh Emmett... you will fall in love with Emmett Sinclair! This guy is just perfect! He obviously knows not all is right with Claire, but instead of trying to force feed her, constantly badger her, etc, he just is there for her. He talks to her, hangs out with her, keeps an eye one her. He knows that
“I mean that they can’t try to fix something that you don’t think is broken.”
And in Claire’s eyes, she isn’t thin enough for the modeling industry.
Emmett is a wise guy, he has a lot of words of wisdom...
“Even when you think there’s only one road to your destination, you can always find a scenic detour.”
“You don’t have to change over night. If you’re worried about something, you can tell me. If you don’t want to do something, you can tell me. I’ll be proud of you, no matter what, and I think, as long as you stay honest with yourself, you will be, too.”
And he says the sweetest things...
“I think you are the prettiest damn model I have ever seen. Scratch that, the prettiest damn girl. Prettiest damn human being.”
It is impossible not to love Emmett. And Emmett loves Claire. Even though she isn’t getting ‘better’ he is making baby steps to get her more comfortable around food and actually gets her to eat a little. She feels better around Emmett.
I am broken in my own eyes. I am sick in my family s. I am not good enough in the fashion world’s. In Emmett’s, I am whole.
But Claire is still really sick. And getting sicker and sicker. She is literally ‘Starving to Death.’ And she can’t even see it. Even after a designer tells her she can’t hire her because she is ‘too skinny’ Claire just doesn’t get it.
Her family is worried, they want her admitted somewhere to seek help. Emmett wants her with him, he is worried if they force treatment on her, it will only make things worse. By the end of the book, Claire makes her own choice. One that will leave you with your mouth hanging open saying ‘I can’t believe it ended that way!’ Thank god there is a second book and it comes out in April!!!
This story was a story of a girl with anorexia and body dysmorphia. I know its not an easy topic to read, but its something that is very relevant in the world today- especially with teenage girls, and people in the modeling/acting business. There is a ton of pressure to have the ‘perfect’ body and be the ‘perfect’ size. I really felt bad for Claire, she put all this pressure on herself when she was pretty perfect to begin with. If you’ve ever known any one with an ED, the story was pretty spot on. I can’t wait to read the second book and see what happens with Claire and Emmett. I have high hopes that she can heal and recover.
March 24, 2013
Whaaaaaaaaaaaaat?!
Gah! Going in to this I had no idea that it was going to be part of a series or that it was going to end in a freaking cliffy! Oh my. It was such a good book but DAMN, I wish I knew. That was the biggest shock, ever.
Once again, C.M. Stunich has blown me away. I am a huge fan of her Never Say Never series as well as a few stand alones so as soon as I saw she was releasing a new book I knew I had to go for it. Paint Me Beautiful is basically a story centered around a girl, Claire Simone, battling anorexia, although she just doesn't know it yet.
All Claire sees when she looks in a mirror is a fat, ugly, disgusting pig. And looking like that isn't going to help her become a model. At the age of 18 all her life consists of is casting calls, counting calories and exercising. She doesn't have friends and her family sure as hell don't understand. The only person who shows an amount of understanding is Emmett Sinclair. Claire meets Emmett at one of her casting calls and no matter what she says or does, he won't leave her alone. "He thinks I like him, but I'm using him. I'm using Emmett to escape, to hide a part of my life from the people I love the most." They agree on a date and although all Claire wants to focus on is her modelling and weight loss, she can't deny that there is something there between her and Emmett. He makes her feel when nothing else does.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Emmett and Claire. He could see inside of her, see what she wasn't willing to face, yet he never once pushed her to do anything drastic. You can't help someone if they aren't willing to help themselves. He was a friend more than anything and that was exactly what Claire needed in her journey to self destruction.
I can't even begin to understand how tough a journey it is going through something like anorexia, yet I think C.M. Stunich has done a perfect job of portraying it. Ultimately, this book is a painful journey of a girls struggle with the could be deadly disease. The whole way through the book I found myself questionning what outcome I wanted to have. Did I want her to succeed in her modelling dreams, or more importantly overcome her illness? I know, it sounds like an easy choice, but whilst reading I couldn't decide what would make her the happiest, fastest.
Overall this was a brilliant book and I can't wait for the sequel.
Gah! Going in to this I had no idea that it was going to be part of a series or that it was going to end in a freaking cliffy! Oh my. It was such a good book but DAMN, I wish I knew. That was the biggest shock, ever.
"Skinny is beautiful. Skinny is pretty. Skinny is perfect."
Once again, C.M. Stunich has blown me away. I am a huge fan of her Never Say Never series as well as a few stand alones so as soon as I saw she was releasing a new book I knew I had to go for it. Paint Me Beautiful is basically a story centered around a girl, Claire Simone, battling anorexia, although she just doesn't know it yet.
All Claire sees when she looks in a mirror is a fat, ugly, disgusting pig. And looking like that isn't going to help her become a model. At the age of 18 all her life consists of is casting calls, counting calories and exercising. She doesn't have friends and her family sure as hell don't understand. The only person who shows an amount of understanding is Emmett Sinclair. Claire meets Emmett at one of her casting calls and no matter what she says or does, he won't leave her alone. "He thinks I like him, but I'm using him. I'm using Emmett to escape, to hide a part of my life from the people I love the most." They agree on a date and although all Claire wants to focus on is her modelling and weight loss, she can't deny that there is something there between her and Emmett. He makes her feel when nothing else does.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Emmett and Claire. He could see inside of her, see what she wasn't willing to face, yet he never once pushed her to do anything drastic. You can't help someone if they aren't willing to help themselves. He was a friend more than anything and that was exactly what Claire needed in her journey to self destruction.
"Emmett Sinclaire will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good."
I can't even begin to understand how tough a journey it is going through something like anorexia, yet I think C.M. Stunich has done a perfect job of portraying it. Ultimately, this book is a painful journey of a girls struggle with the could be deadly disease. The whole way through the book I found myself questionning what outcome I wanted to have. Did I want her to succeed in her modelling dreams, or more importantly overcome her illness? I know, it sounds like an easy choice, but whilst reading I couldn't decide what would make her the happiest, fastest.
Overall this was a brilliant book and I can't wait for the sequel.
"I am anorexic.
I self-harm.
I'm bulimic.
I'm depressed.
I don't survive,
I die that day.
I die and then I'm reborn."
June 22, 2013
4.5stars. Really well written and thought provoking book. It certainly brought back some emotional times for me.... I knew it was a cliffhanger but I'm glad I read it. Just waiting patiently for book 2 in the hope that there is a happy ending.... X
August 9, 2016
"I'm starving to death.
Literally.
I'm dying to be beautiful and I don't even know it."
Clarie wants to be a model and is willing to do anything to succeed. After graduating from high school, Clarie decides to make her dream of becoming a model come true. She will fit the mold, designer clothes, casting calls, excessive diet and exercise. She will do anything to prove to herself and her family that she can reach her dreams.
Then Clarie meets Emmett, who even though she tries to resist him becomes an essential part of her life. He wants to help her, giving her the support she needs without judgment.
"Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams."
As their relationship grows as Clarie's health deteriorates. And Emmett begins to realize how sick Claire truly is as she continues to spiral out of control. Will her dreams ultimately lead to her demise?
"I swear to you, it's the loudest sound in the world: the sound of my own death ringing in my ears."
"I am like a hamster, trapped on a wheel of pain. No matter how far or how fast I run, I am not going anywhere."
Literally.
I'm dying to be beautiful and I don't even know it."
Clarie wants to be a model and is willing to do anything to succeed. After graduating from high school, Clarie decides to make her dream of becoming a model come true. She will fit the mold, designer clothes, casting calls, excessive diet and exercise. She will do anything to prove to herself and her family that she can reach her dreams.
Then Clarie meets Emmett, who even though she tries to resist him becomes an essential part of her life. He wants to help her, giving her the support she needs without judgment.
"Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams."
As their relationship grows as Clarie's health deteriorates. And Emmett begins to realize how sick Claire truly is as she continues to spiral out of control. Will her dreams ultimately lead to her demise?
"I swear to you, it's the loudest sound in the world: the sound of my own death ringing in my ears."
"I am like a hamster, trapped on a wheel of pain. No matter how far or how fast I run, I am not going anywhere."
March 27, 2013
This was a heart breaking book...I seriously sobbed reading this that I cannot really write a proper review...all I can say is that it is a cliff hanger and not a good one...Is she or isn't she...that is what I want answered and all I need to know...I need book 2 NOW!!! This has left me an emotional wreck...fabulous book...so thought provoking.
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April 23, 2013
Review:
4.5 Stars **** Powerful, Emotional Read!
Claire is an 18 year, high school graduate. She is a natural red-head who bleaches her hair blonde to fit into the fashion industries’ standards. This isn’t the only thing she does to obtain her vision of “perfection.” Claire suffers from anorexia. She obsessively counts her calories and even does calf raises while waiting in line for a casting call. Claire is painfully obsessive.
I found it painful at times, to be inside of the main character’s head. C.M. Stunich writes so powerfully! She writes in a way that makes you feel Claire’s every insecurity and critique of her already skinny, beautiful body. I found it uncomfortable to hear how she takes in the world and how she perceives others viewing/judging her. Claire is a size 2 and finds herself getting angry at a girl who is a size double zero.
Then there is Emmett Sinclair.
Emmett Sinclair is extremely sexy, but honestly doesn’t have a clue. Which only makes him even more attractive!!!
Full lips, piercing brown eyes, chestnut hair, tight body, broad shoulders, tapered waist, rounded biceps…. Need I say more?
Emmett is just so adorable and sweet. He is perfect for Claire. Emmett is everything for her
He doesn’t push. He doesn’t judge. He just loves her.
Emmett loves Claire for Claire. He wants to rescue her. He wants to guide her towards the right path of seeing herself for who she truly is. Someone who is beautiful, who doesn’t need to lose weight, and who is worthy of being loved.
“Have you ever kissed someone and seriously felt like you were touching their soul with your mouth?”
Claire is so afraid to open herself up to someone like Emmett Sinclair. He’s so sweet, trustworthy, considerate, caring, and very perceptive. Emmett Sinclair is a one-of-a-kind. He is the type of guy girls would kill to have in their lives. Emmett witnesses Claire shoving food inside a water bottle at her parents’ house, but he doesn’t say anything. And it is obvious then, that he already cares about her. I think this was a big turning point for these two, because Claire could sense that Emmett understands and cares about her.
Throughout the book you will see Claire deteriorate and her illness get worse. She begins to fall deeper and deeper into that dark abyss. At one point, Claire drops her caloric intake to a staggering 200 calories a day. Her body is screaming for nourishment. Claire knows the exact calorie of every single food item known to man! She obsessively calculates in her head until she quite literally drives herself away from food. She is in absolulte denial of her anorexia.
”I’m not anorexic; I’m just making a conscious decision to meet a goal, that’s all”
Although, this is a very emotional read, there are also some very smexy scenes. The scene that starts as Claire & Emmett’s third kiss, ends in something that is so much more…it is AMAZING. The way C.M. Stunich wrote that scene is nothing short of spectacular.
Claire’s journey to rock bottom is a painful one. This journey that Claire Simone takes you own is heart-wrenching. It will claw it’s way to your soul. Her self-loathing and disgust for herself brought me to tears several times. And when you see how Emmett loves her through all of this, it will push you over the edge and those tears will be streaming down your cheeks. Watching Claire hover dangerously to the point of death is intense. Painful. Gut-wrenching. Emotionally draining.
And the ending…wow….Just WOW.
A cliffhanger? Sort of.
This ending leaves you scared, but also hopeful. Hopeful that Claire Simone is going to be okay. That Claire Simone will love herself. Actually, truly love herself. I highly recommend this very emotional, intense read!
Playlist:
Only by NIN
Hurt by NIN
Fade to Black by Metallica
Scars by Papa Roach
Yellow by Coldplay
Romeo & Juliet by Dire Straits
Calling All Angels by Train
4.5 Stars **** Powerful, Emotional Read!
Claire is an 18 year, high school graduate. She is a natural red-head who bleaches her hair blonde to fit into the fashion industries’ standards. This isn’t the only thing she does to obtain her vision of “perfection.” Claire suffers from anorexia. She obsessively counts her calories and even does calf raises while waiting in line for a casting call. Claire is painfully obsessive.
I found it painful at times, to be inside of the main character’s head. C.M. Stunich writes so powerfully! She writes in a way that makes you feel Claire’s every insecurity and critique of her already skinny, beautiful body. I found it uncomfortable to hear how she takes in the world and how she perceives others viewing/judging her. Claire is a size 2 and finds herself getting angry at a girl who is a size double zero.
Then there is Emmett Sinclair.
Emmett Sinclair is extremely sexy, but honestly doesn’t have a clue. Which only makes him even more attractive!!!
Full lips, piercing brown eyes, chestnut hair, tight body, broad shoulders, tapered waist, rounded biceps…. Need I say more?
Emmett is just so adorable and sweet. He is perfect for Claire. Emmett is everything for her
He doesn’t push. He doesn’t judge. He just loves her.
Emmett loves Claire for Claire. He wants to rescue her. He wants to guide her towards the right path of seeing herself for who she truly is. Someone who is beautiful, who doesn’t need to lose weight, and who is worthy of being loved.
“Have you ever kissed someone and seriously felt like you were touching their soul with your mouth?”
Claire is so afraid to open herself up to someone like Emmett Sinclair. He’s so sweet, trustworthy, considerate, caring, and very perceptive. Emmett Sinclair is a one-of-a-kind. He is the type of guy girls would kill to have in their lives. Emmett witnesses Claire shoving food inside a water bottle at her parents’ house, but he doesn’t say anything. And it is obvious then, that he already cares about her. I think this was a big turning point for these two, because Claire could sense that Emmett understands and cares about her.
Throughout the book you will see Claire deteriorate and her illness get worse. She begins to fall deeper and deeper into that dark abyss. At one point, Claire drops her caloric intake to a staggering 200 calories a day. Her body is screaming for nourishment. Claire knows the exact calorie of every single food item known to man! She obsessively calculates in her head until she quite literally drives herself away from food. She is in absolulte denial of her anorexia.
”I’m not anorexic; I’m just making a conscious decision to meet a goal, that’s all”
Although, this is a very emotional read, there are also some very smexy scenes. The scene that starts as Claire & Emmett’s third kiss, ends in something that is so much more…it is AMAZING. The way C.M. Stunich wrote that scene is nothing short of spectacular.
Claire’s journey to rock bottom is a painful one. This journey that Claire Simone takes you own is heart-wrenching. It will claw it’s way to your soul. Her self-loathing and disgust for herself brought me to tears several times. And when you see how Emmett loves her through all of this, it will push you over the edge and those tears will be streaming down your cheeks. Watching Claire hover dangerously to the point of death is intense. Painful. Gut-wrenching. Emotionally draining.
And the ending…wow….Just WOW.
A cliffhanger? Sort of.
This ending leaves you scared, but also hopeful. Hopeful that Claire Simone is going to be okay. That Claire Simone will love herself. Actually, truly love herself. I highly recommend this very emotional, intense read!
Playlist:
Only by NIN
Hurt by NIN
Fade to Black by Metallica
Scars by Papa Roach
Yellow by Coldplay
Romeo & Juliet by Dire Straits
Calling All Angels by Train
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2013
I am writing this as a guest review for Sugar and Spice Book Reviews
Four very powerful stars. This book evoked a lot of emotions from me. I personally went through my own eating disorder in high school and connected with a lot of Claire's thoughts. I think anorexia and eating disorders in general are a much bigger issue than most of us realize. Especially, among teenage girls. It starts off somewhat "innocently" and can spiral out of control before you realize it. This is what happens to Claire.
"I think there are a lot of people like me, people who want to be happy but can't, who can't figure out why their life isn't good, who can't point to any one reason..."
Claire has recently graduated high school and is pursuing a modeling career. She spends her days going to casting calls and constantly being let down.
"Think tall, think pretty, think perfect."- This is Claire's mantra.
Her family is supportive at first, but eventually try to push her to get a job and set new more "realistic" career goals for herself.
Most of this book is spent in Claire's head. She is always judging herself, her peers, her family members, or random strangers on the street. A lot of her thoughts come off as offensive and make you want to hate her.
Claire is convinced that she is fat. Any time she does not get a job, she believes that this is the reason. Her goal is to be a size zero like all of her idols. She is obsessed with being skinny, which she associates with beauty.
"I have nice hair; I've always had nice hair. Unfortunately, with extensions and weaves and all that, it doesn't matter. Hair is fixable. Fat is not-not on a runway."
Claire starts off by limiting her calories and when she is still not "skinny" she limits them further and further until she starts to "fast." She is convinced that she is not anorexic and only doing what she needs to do in order to reach her goal. Her family begins to get concerned, but she dismisses their comments and insists that she is fine. As they watch her deteriorate before their eyes things get really rough at home. Claire becomes bitter and angry. Her moods are affected by her lack of nutrition and she is all over the place.
"In my head, its only been days since I stopped eating, but in reality, it's been months since I gave my body enough fuel to run properly. I am shutting down and fast. Starvation is not something that takes years to kill; it hits quickly and it hits hard. It has no remorse for its victims, especially not those who willingly take it on in the name of vanity."
Claire does not have time for anything but her career. She definitely does not have time for boys. Then, she meets Emmett at a casting call and can't help but be attracted to him. She tries to keep him at a distance but eventually realizes that she both wants and needs him in her life. He becomes her go to person. She relies on him and he doesn't make her feel bad about herself.
"Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams."
When it finally seems that she might actually start to get better; Claire is pushed over the edge. The end of this book is crushing and left me feeling ill. This book ends with a gut-wrenching cliffhanger. Thankfully book two is already released. Claire's story is continued in Color Me Pretty.
Four very powerful stars. This book evoked a lot of emotions from me. I personally went through my own eating disorder in high school and connected with a lot of Claire's thoughts. I think anorexia and eating disorders in general are a much bigger issue than most of us realize. Especially, among teenage girls. It starts off somewhat "innocently" and can spiral out of control before you realize it. This is what happens to Claire.
"I think there are a lot of people like me, people who want to be happy but can't, who can't figure out why their life isn't good, who can't point to any one reason..."
Claire has recently graduated high school and is pursuing a modeling career. She spends her days going to casting calls and constantly being let down.
"Think tall, think pretty, think perfect."- This is Claire's mantra.
Her family is supportive at first, but eventually try to push her to get a job and set new more "realistic" career goals for herself.
Most of this book is spent in Claire's head. She is always judging herself, her peers, her family members, or random strangers on the street. A lot of her thoughts come off as offensive and make you want to hate her.
Claire is convinced that she is fat. Any time she does not get a job, she believes that this is the reason. Her goal is to be a size zero like all of her idols. She is obsessed with being skinny, which she associates with beauty.
"I have nice hair; I've always had nice hair. Unfortunately, with extensions and weaves and all that, it doesn't matter. Hair is fixable. Fat is not-not on a runway."
Claire starts off by limiting her calories and when she is still not "skinny" she limits them further and further until she starts to "fast." She is convinced that she is not anorexic and only doing what she needs to do in order to reach her goal. Her family begins to get concerned, but she dismisses their comments and insists that she is fine. As they watch her deteriorate before their eyes things get really rough at home. Claire becomes bitter and angry. Her moods are affected by her lack of nutrition and she is all over the place.
"In my head, its only been days since I stopped eating, but in reality, it's been months since I gave my body enough fuel to run properly. I am shutting down and fast. Starvation is not something that takes years to kill; it hits quickly and it hits hard. It has no remorse for its victims, especially not those who willingly take it on in the name of vanity."
Claire does not have time for anything but her career. She definitely does not have time for boys. Then, she meets Emmett at a casting call and can't help but be attracted to him. She tries to keep him at a distance but eventually realizes that she both wants and needs him in her life. He becomes her go to person. She relies on him and he doesn't make her feel bad about herself.
"Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams."
When it finally seems that she might actually start to get better; Claire is pushed over the edge. The end of this book is crushing and left me feeling ill. This book ends with a gut-wrenching cliffhanger. Thankfully book two is already released. Claire's story is continued in Color Me Pretty.
April 11, 2013
Awhile back I was introduced to this fabulous author. She wrote this series .. There was a boy and girl. You might know them, TY and Never. I sorta had a girl crush, stalked a bit. Turned info a groupie and joined a street team. So what I am saying here. I am a fan. However if I had just been given this book, the process would be the same. I am amazed! This story is beyond good, it's beautiful and scary.
"Skinny is beautiful. Skinny is pretty. Skinny is perfect."
The story takes something that is real and riddled with horrific truths & gives us a heartbreaking story. A story of love, acceptance and healing. Claire Simone broke my heart. She made me mad. Then she broke my heart again. She was beautiful and tragic - wrapped inside a person who had lost herself. Her struggles are real. Claire takes ahold and you. She makes you want to shake sense into her, make her see what you see.
Emmett Sinclair sees Claire like nobody else. He sees the beauty and pain. He loves her in spite of all it. He does not try to change her. He knows she needs to want to change. He wants to heal her. Claire sees fat, Emmett sees beautiful.
Anorexia she is a character in this book too. She begs to be seen, heard and take notice of her. She wants to win. Her winning will kill you.
"Emmett Sinclaire will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good."
I enjoyed the relationship of Emmett and Claire. It developed fast but it was perfect. The feeling .. Actually you know right away they are more. You want them together. I needed their story. I don't even know how she did it but that comes out on the pages. You know that your in the middle of a great love.
"I am broken in my own eyes. I am sick in my family's. I am not good enough in the fashion world's. in Emmett's, I am whole."
The book took anorexia and put it out there. No pretty glamorized story line. I enjoyed the real, honest, richness of the words. How she told you what she was thinking and yet what was really happening.. You have to read this book. Take in the words and let them touch your heart!
"I'm afraid I'm never going to really know you," he admits and I know what's implied there.
I'm afraid that I'm never really going to know myself," I reply."
Once again.. Perfect story. Nothing but brilliant characters.. Even the over protection of her family was spot on. Brilliant!
Now...All righty Ms. Stunich... Explain? What is with the cliffy.. Wow! I'm really just.. What? When does book two come out?
"I am anorexic.
I self-harm.
I'm bulimic.
I'm depressed.
I don't survive,
I die that day.
I die and then I'm reborn."
September 28, 2014
1.5
Obviamente , la protagonista y su cabecita enferma fueron casi insoportables pero eso es más que nada porque la historia se cuenta desde la primera persona de una anoréxica , así que no podía ser de otra manera .
Me pasé la novela entera asintiendo con todo lo que decía la familia de Claire
Espero que en el segundo libro la piba esté internada y le metan un poco de inteligencia adentro de esa cabecita minúscula .
Obviamente , la protagonista y su cabecita enferma fueron casi insoportables pero eso es más que nada porque la historia se cuenta desde la primera persona de una anoréxica , así que no podía ser de otra manera .
Me pasé la novela entera asintiendo con todo lo que decía la familia de Claire
Espero que en el segundo libro la piba esté internada y le metan un poco de inteligencia adentro de esa cabecita minúscula .
March 28, 2013
All I can say is WOW that was a cliffhanger for sure!!!
April 22, 2013
Read it in one sitting. Loved it!
April 22, 2013
♥ Find my reviews here: Literary Meanderings
- - -
18-year-old Claire Simone just graduated high school. She is now in the process of pursuing her dream of becoming a model. Claire attends casting call after casting call, yet never receives a call back. Claire's image of her body is distorted, so she believes it's because she is too overweight to be what they want; to be noticed in a good way.
Claire has already been counting calories and eating only the merest of meals. After one particularly difficult casting call, Claire makes the decision to fast. She won't eat anything until she is skinny enough to get the modeling job she so disparately covets.
But those around her see what she does not—she's slowly killing herself.
Claire's family tries to get through to her, but their overbearing ways only succeed in making her angry and even more determined.
The only person who seems to understand Claire is Emmett.
“No matter what I do, no matter how I look or how low I stoop, Emmett doesn't judge me.”Emmett and Claire meet by chance at the mall during one of Claire's many castings. The two become close very quickly and intensely. Claire can't make up her mind—is Emmett a threat to her future, or the one person who can help her save herself?
“Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams.”Paint Me Beautiful is the story of Claire's struggle with anorexia.
- - -
As per usual, I will start with what I didn't like.
All of my problems seem to revolve around Emmett. One of them is that I think he could've used a bit more character development. We see that he is kind, patient, flirty, and absolutely amazing... but we don't learn much of his background. I want to know who he is. I'm hoping for a better look at his past in the sequel.
Another issue I had (and this is more of a personal opinion, I suppose) was how often Claire and Emmett fooled around or had sex. I am all for a tumble in the bed, but when the dashing Emmett is having sex and being aroused by what is described as a “ghastly, walking skeleton” and a “zombie with flaky flash and hair that's falling out in clumps,” I seriously have to question his, I don't know, mental stability? Morals? The same feeling I had was expressed in the book by Claire's sister Marlena, but it was unclear if this view was being portrayed as close-minded, ignorant, or something else. Either way, I couldn't wrap my head around it.
This is not to say that the romance wasn't spectacularly done, because it was. Claire and Emmett are two people who seem to be made for each other. They begin to fall for one another pretty quickly, but the connection they have makes it seem like that have known each other for years, not weeks.
This book was easy to compare to Laurie Halse Anderson's Wintergirls. Wintergirls is a book I am not fond of. I think it was an author trying too hard to be poetic about something that is sad and tragic. I see Paint Me Beautiful as a more realistic portrayal of anorexia and the things that often go along with it, such as alienation and self-mutilation. Where Anderson seemed to glorify self-harm into something beautiful, I feel that Stunich wrote about it in a more respectful, and again, realistic manner. This is something that is close to my heart because of a dear friend of mine, and I applaud this author for handling the subject with such care and tact. Same with the topic of anorexia.
Now let me talk about cliffhangers for a moment. If you hate 'em, beware. LOL C.M. Stunich throws the mother of all cliffhangers at you with this book. Once I picked my jaw up off the floor, I wasn't sure whether to applaud or throw my Kindle across the room. It's just evil! EVIL CLIFFHANGER OF EVILNESS! I wouldn't have it any other way, though. The ending fit the story perfectly, and definitely leaves a strong impression on the reader. It's also great for making them anxious for the next book (I certainly am!).
All in all, Paint Me Beautiful was a fantastic story. I feel that it is an honest, accurate portrayal of what it's like to struggle with an eating disorder and distorted body image. Claire's journey is heartbreaking and difficult to watch, but it's all done with a pinprick of hope in the days and weeks to come. Claire has to hit rock-bottom before she can begin to pick herself up and put the pieces of her life back together. Emmett is the perfect confidant during this struggle. He speaks what he feels, but respects the simple fact that you can't force someone to want help. They have to get to that point all on their own. Emmett puts himself into a position that I consider guardian angel-esque. He watches over Claire, tries to engage her in eating healthy and cooking for fun, but never pushes her. It's an inspiring story all around. If you can look past the ugly—the anorexia, the self-mutilation, the massive amounts of denial—you will be able to see that overcoming something so awful and dangerous, so all-consuming, is an impressive feat and something to be proud of, not ashamed.
This book covers some hot-button issues, but the author handles them with grace and respect. I really enjoyed this book and I think it's very relevant to the world today—especially in teens.
It's an emotional roller coaster of a story—one that ends in a massive cliffhanger! But it's beautiful and inspirational. I definitely recommend it, and I can't wait for the next book.
- - -
Book source: From the author for the blog tour
Publisher: Sarian Royal
March 16, 2021
Powerful read
I’m not typically a fan of Stunich, but this read right here? It’s powerful. It’s Consuming. It’s a beautifully written story about one woman’s struggles with herself while trying to find her place within the world of modeling and finding her low instead. After that ending, I cannot wait to find out what happens next
I’m not typically a fan of Stunich, but this read right here? It’s powerful. It’s Consuming. It’s a beautifully written story about one woman’s struggles with herself while trying to find her place within the world of modeling and finding her low instead. After that ending, I cannot wait to find out what happens next
October 20, 2024
PAIN
This is about pain and suffering in your grief and goals. The characters in this book are the average family woth issues and not really out of the bix thinking. The one person who tries and kinda get it, does it in a bit of a weird way. This does end in a cliffhanger.
This is about pain and suffering in your grief and goals. The characters in this book are the average family woth issues and not really out of the bix thinking. The one person who tries and kinda get it, does it in a bit of a weird way. This does end in a cliffhanger.
June 18, 2021
This book is very emotional and covers such a heavy topic. It was very well written and I could not put it down
April 13, 2020
This book was written so well. I could literally feel Claire's internal battle. Anorexia is such a sad thing. Claire can only see herself as far and having no worth. Emmett is so sweet and stands by her every step of the way, can't wait to read the second book.
June 26, 2013
This is a powerful book! Obviously, from the title, I knew this book was about a girl struggling with anorexia, but I had no idea how intense the book would be.
It focuses on eighteen-year-old Claire Simone who is "dying to be beautiful." Her only dream is to be a model. She knows she has to be skinny and perfect in order to have her dream come true. She is constantly going to casting calls and being turned away. All of that rejection leads her to believe she is not good enough. She has convinced herself that she is too fat and that is why none of the casting agencies hire her.
Claire's struggle with her self-image create a great deal of internal struggles for her. She decides she needs to fast in order to make her dreams come true. The problem with that is she still lives at home with her parents and older sister, so she has a hard time hiding the fact that she is not eating. Because of that, her relationship with her family becomes very strained. She also becomes irritable ALL the time. Part of her irritability is from hiding things from her family and her desperate desire to be skinny, but some of it arises from having no energy or nutrition because of the lack of food.
While at a casting call one day, Claire meets Emmett Sinclaire. He is immediately attracted to her, and Claire also thinks he is cute, but tells herself she has no time for a relationship. EVERY minute of her life is spent focusing on how to make her modeling dream come true. Emmett does not give up easily. It is almost as if he can see through Claire and into her head. He can sense the struggles she has within herself.
The two begin to form a relationship because even though Claire has an end goal in mind, the only time she feels even a little bit OK is when she is with Emmett. Emmett is the only person who doesn't seem to judge Claire. He just wants to support her and try to help her, but he also knows she is going to have to want help in order for her to get better.
The description given of Claire and what is happening inside her body is horrifying.
"What I don't know is that my body is shutting down, eating itself from the inside out, changing me not only physically but also mentally. I'm always cold, always dizzy; my fingernails are blue and there's a fine growth of downy hair on my arms and legs that was never there before. Oxygen is not making its way up to my brain the way it should and I'm becoming someone different, someone who is cranky and irritable and emotional, who isn't in full control of herself. My cycle, the one I think is causing my mood swings, is gone, stopped. Don't you know the body can't perform its reproductive cycle if you have nothing to feed it with? My search for beauty, for control, for something inside of myself to hold onto and cherish, is turning into a slow, withering death. Emmett knows it; I don't."
As I said, the description is horrifying, but it is also too much of a reality for too many girls in the world.
There were times that I really disliked Claire because she is so very critical of everyone she meets. She always points out each person's negatives whether it is a bad fashion sense or being overweight. Then, I realized that she is so misconstrued. Do I think it is OK for her to be so critical of everyone else? No, I don't. But, she is also just as critical of herself. I could get a visualization in my mind of just how skinny Claire had become, yet she still couldn't handle looking in the mirror. She could still feel the fat around her stomach and her thighs even though there was NOTHING there. It is just so sad to know that this is a reality for so many people.
The ending of the book is VERY intense. It does end in a cliffhanger, but thankfully part two is already out. I immediately downloaded the second book (Color Me Pretty) because I HAVE to know what happens to Claire.
This book is something totally different than what I normally read. There is the love story between Emmett and Claire, but that is in no way the focus of this book. The focus is on Claire and her distorted image of herself and how that affects EVERY other aspect of her life, including Emmett.
This is a 5-STAR read.
For all of my reviews, go to www.marilynbookblogger.blogspot.com
It focuses on eighteen-year-old Claire Simone who is "dying to be beautiful." Her only dream is to be a model. She knows she has to be skinny and perfect in order to have her dream come true. She is constantly going to casting calls and being turned away. All of that rejection leads her to believe she is not good enough. She has convinced herself that she is too fat and that is why none of the casting agencies hire her.
Claire's struggle with her self-image create a great deal of internal struggles for her. She decides she needs to fast in order to make her dreams come true. The problem with that is she still lives at home with her parents and older sister, so she has a hard time hiding the fact that she is not eating. Because of that, her relationship with her family becomes very strained. She also becomes irritable ALL the time. Part of her irritability is from hiding things from her family and her desperate desire to be skinny, but some of it arises from having no energy or nutrition because of the lack of food.
While at a casting call one day, Claire meets Emmett Sinclaire. He is immediately attracted to her, and Claire also thinks he is cute, but tells herself she has no time for a relationship. EVERY minute of her life is spent focusing on how to make her modeling dream come true. Emmett does not give up easily. It is almost as if he can see through Claire and into her head. He can sense the struggles she has within herself.
The two begin to form a relationship because even though Claire has an end goal in mind, the only time she feels even a little bit OK is when she is with Emmett. Emmett is the only person who doesn't seem to judge Claire. He just wants to support her and try to help her, but he also knows she is going to have to want help in order for her to get better.
The description given of Claire and what is happening inside her body is horrifying.
"What I don't know is that my body is shutting down, eating itself from the inside out, changing me not only physically but also mentally. I'm always cold, always dizzy; my fingernails are blue and there's a fine growth of downy hair on my arms and legs that was never there before. Oxygen is not making its way up to my brain the way it should and I'm becoming someone different, someone who is cranky and irritable and emotional, who isn't in full control of herself. My cycle, the one I think is causing my mood swings, is gone, stopped. Don't you know the body can't perform its reproductive cycle if you have nothing to feed it with? My search for beauty, for control, for something inside of myself to hold onto and cherish, is turning into a slow, withering death. Emmett knows it; I don't."
As I said, the description is horrifying, but it is also too much of a reality for too many girls in the world.
There were times that I really disliked Claire because she is so very critical of everyone she meets. She always points out each person's negatives whether it is a bad fashion sense or being overweight. Then, I realized that she is so misconstrued. Do I think it is OK for her to be so critical of everyone else? No, I don't. But, she is also just as critical of herself. I could get a visualization in my mind of just how skinny Claire had become, yet she still couldn't handle looking in the mirror. She could still feel the fat around her stomach and her thighs even though there was NOTHING there. It is just so sad to know that this is a reality for so many people.
The ending of the book is VERY intense. It does end in a cliffhanger, but thankfully part two is already out. I immediately downloaded the second book (Color Me Pretty) because I HAVE to know what happens to Claire.
This book is something totally different than what I normally read. There is the love story between Emmett and Claire, but that is in no way the focus of this book. The focus is on Claire and her distorted image of herself and how that affects EVERY other aspect of her life, including Emmett.
This is a 5-STAR read.
For all of my reviews, go to www.marilynbookblogger.blogspot.com
July 3, 2013
*This review is done by Heather, one of Sugar and Spice's Reviewers and it will also be listed under her Goodreads account*
Four very powerful stars. This book evoked a lot of emotions from me. I personally went through my own eating disorder in high school and connected with a lot of Claire's thoughts. I think anorexia and eating disorders in general are a much bigger issue than most of us realize. Especially, among teenage girls. It starts off somewhat "innocently" and can spiral out of control before you realize it. This is what happens to Claire.
"I think there are a lot of people like me, people who want to be happy but can't, who can't figure out why their life isn't good, who can't point to any one reason..."
Claire has recently graduated high school and is pursuing a modeling career. She spends her days going to casting calls and constantly being let down.
"Think tall, think pretty, think perfect."- This is Claire's mantra.
Her family is supportive at first, but eventually try to push her to get a job and set new more "realistic" career goals for herself.
Most of this book is spent in Claire's head. She is always judging herself, her peers, her family members, or random strangers on the street. A lot of her thoughts come off as offensive and make you want to hate her.
Claire is convinced that she is fat. Any time she does not get a job, she believes that this is the reason. Her goal is to be a size zero like all of her idols. She is obsessed with being skinny, which she associates with beauty.
"I have nice hair; I've always had nice hair. Unfortunately, with extensions and weaves and all that, it doesn't matter. Hair is fixable. Fat is not-not on a runway."
Claire starts off by limiting her calories and when she is still not "skinny" she limits them further and further until she starts to "fast." She is convinced that she is not anorexic and only doing what she needs to do in order to reach her goal. Her family begins to get concerned, but she dismisses their comments and insists that she is fine. As they watch her deteriorate before their eyes things get really rough at home. Claire becomes bitter and angry. Her moods are affected by her lack of nutrition and she is all over the place.
"In my head, its only been days since I stopped eating, but in reality, it's been months since I gave my body enough fuel to run properly. I am shutting down and fast. Starvation is not something that takes years to kill; it hits quickly and it hits hard. It has no remorse for its victims, especially not those who willingly take it on in the name of vanity."
Claire does not have time for anything but her career. She definitely does not have time for boys. Then, she meets Emmett at a casting call and can't help but be attracted to him. She tries to keep him at a distance but eventually realizes that she both wants and needs him in her life. He becomes her go to person. She relies on him and he doesn't make her feel bad about herself.
"Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams."
When it finally seems that she might actually start to get better; Claire is pushed over the edge. The end of this book is crushing and left me feeling ill. This book ends with a gut-wrenching cliffhanger. Thankfully book two is already released. Claire's story is continued in Color Me Pretty.
Four very powerful stars. This book evoked a lot of emotions from me. I personally went through my own eating disorder in high school and connected with a lot of Claire's thoughts. I think anorexia and eating disorders in general are a much bigger issue than most of us realize. Especially, among teenage girls. It starts off somewhat "innocently" and can spiral out of control before you realize it. This is what happens to Claire.
"I think there are a lot of people like me, people who want to be happy but can't, who can't figure out why their life isn't good, who can't point to any one reason..."
Claire has recently graduated high school and is pursuing a modeling career. She spends her days going to casting calls and constantly being let down.
"Think tall, think pretty, think perfect."- This is Claire's mantra.
Her family is supportive at first, but eventually try to push her to get a job and set new more "realistic" career goals for herself.
Most of this book is spent in Claire's head. She is always judging herself, her peers, her family members, or random strangers on the street. A lot of her thoughts come off as offensive and make you want to hate her.
Claire is convinced that she is fat. Any time she does not get a job, she believes that this is the reason. Her goal is to be a size zero like all of her idols. She is obsessed with being skinny, which she associates with beauty.
"I have nice hair; I've always had nice hair. Unfortunately, with extensions and weaves and all that, it doesn't matter. Hair is fixable. Fat is not-not on a runway."
Claire starts off by limiting her calories and when she is still not "skinny" she limits them further and further until she starts to "fast." She is convinced that she is not anorexic and only doing what she needs to do in order to reach her goal. Her family begins to get concerned, but she dismisses their comments and insists that she is fine. As they watch her deteriorate before their eyes things get really rough at home. Claire becomes bitter and angry. Her moods are affected by her lack of nutrition and she is all over the place.
"In my head, its only been days since I stopped eating, but in reality, it's been months since I gave my body enough fuel to run properly. I am shutting down and fast. Starvation is not something that takes years to kill; it hits quickly and it hits hard. It has no remorse for its victims, especially not those who willingly take it on in the name of vanity."
Claire does not have time for anything but her career. She definitely does not have time for boys. Then, she meets Emmett at a casting call and can't help but be attracted to him. She tries to keep him at a distance but eventually realizes that she both wants and needs him in her life. He becomes her go to person. She relies on him and he doesn't make her feel bad about herself.
"Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams."
When it finally seems that she might actually start to get better; Claire is pushed over the edge. The end of this book is crushing and left me feeling ill. This book ends with a gut-wrenching cliffhanger. Thankfully book two is already released. Claire's story is continued in Color Me Pretty.
August 19, 2013
Reviewed by Heather as a guest review for Sugar and Spice Book Reviews
Four very powerful stars. This book evoked a lot of emotions from me. I personally went through my own eating disorder in high school and connected with a lot of Claire's thoughts. I think anorexia and eating disorders in general are a much bigger issue than most of us realize. Especially, among teenage girls. It starts off somewhat "innocently" and can spiral out of control before you realize it. This is what happens to Claire.
I think there are a lot of people like me, people who want to be happy but can't, who can't figure out why their life isn't good, who can't point to any one reason...
Claire has recently graduated high school and is pursuing a modeling career. She spends her days going to casting calls and constantly being let down.
Think tall, think pretty, think perfect.- This is Claire's mantra.
Her family is supportive at first, but eventually try to push her to get a job and set new more "realistic" career goals for herself.
Most of this book is spent in Claire's head. She is always judging herself, her peers, her family members, or random strangers on the street. A lot of her thoughts come off as offensive and make you want to hate her.
Claire is convinced that she is fat. Any time she does not get a job, she believes that this is the reason. Her goal is to be a size zero like all of her idols. She is obsessed with being skinny, which she associates with beauty.
I have nice hair; I've always had nice hair. Unfortunately, with extensions and weaves and all that, it doesn't matter. Hair is fixable. Fat is not-not on a runway.
Claire starts off by limiting her calories and when she is still not "skinny" she limits them further and further until she starts to "fast." She is convinced that she is not anorexic and only doing what she needs to do in order to reach her goal. Her family begins to get concerned, but she dismisses their comments and insists that she is fine. As they watch her deteriorate before their eyes things get really rough at home. Claire becomes bitter and angry. Her moods are affected by her lack of nutrition and she is all over the place.
In my head, its only been days since I stopped eating, but in reality, it's been months since I gave my body enough fuel to run properly. I am shutting down and fast. Starvation is not something that takes years to kill; it hits quickly and it hits hard. It has no remorse for its victims, especially not those who willingly take it on in the name of vanity.
Claire does not have time for anything but her career. She definitely does not have time for boys. Then, she meets Emmett at a casting call and can't help but be attracted to him. She tries to keep him at a distance but eventually realizes that she both wants and needs him in her life. He becomes her go to person. She relies on him and he doesn't make her feel bad about herself.
Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams.
When it finally seems that she might actually start to get better; Claire is pushed over the edge. The end of this book is crushing and left me feeling ill. This book ends with a gut-wrenching cliffhanger. Thankfully book two is already released. Claire's story is continued in Color Me Pretty.
Four very powerful stars. This book evoked a lot of emotions from me. I personally went through my own eating disorder in high school and connected with a lot of Claire's thoughts. I think anorexia and eating disorders in general are a much bigger issue than most of us realize. Especially, among teenage girls. It starts off somewhat "innocently" and can spiral out of control before you realize it. This is what happens to Claire.
I think there are a lot of people like me, people who want to be happy but can't, who can't figure out why their life isn't good, who can't point to any one reason...
Claire has recently graduated high school and is pursuing a modeling career. She spends her days going to casting calls and constantly being let down.
Think tall, think pretty, think perfect.- This is Claire's mantra.
Her family is supportive at first, but eventually try to push her to get a job and set new more "realistic" career goals for herself.
Most of this book is spent in Claire's head. She is always judging herself, her peers, her family members, or random strangers on the street. A lot of her thoughts come off as offensive and make you want to hate her.
Claire is convinced that she is fat. Any time she does not get a job, she believes that this is the reason. Her goal is to be a size zero like all of her idols. She is obsessed with being skinny, which she associates with beauty.
I have nice hair; I've always had nice hair. Unfortunately, with extensions and weaves and all that, it doesn't matter. Hair is fixable. Fat is not-not on a runway.
Claire starts off by limiting her calories and when she is still not "skinny" she limits them further and further until she starts to "fast." She is convinced that she is not anorexic and only doing what she needs to do in order to reach her goal. Her family begins to get concerned, but she dismisses their comments and insists that she is fine. As they watch her deteriorate before their eyes things get really rough at home. Claire becomes bitter and angry. Her moods are affected by her lack of nutrition and she is all over the place.
In my head, its only been days since I stopped eating, but in reality, it's been months since I gave my body enough fuel to run properly. I am shutting down and fast. Starvation is not something that takes years to kill; it hits quickly and it hits hard. It has no remorse for its victims, especially not those who willingly take it on in the name of vanity.
Claire does not have time for anything but her career. She definitely does not have time for boys. Then, she meets Emmett at a casting call and can't help but be attracted to him. She tries to keep him at a distance but eventually realizes that she both wants and needs him in her life. He becomes her go to person. She relies on him and he doesn't make her feel bad about herself.
Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams.
When it finally seems that she might actually start to get better; Claire is pushed over the edge. The end of this book is crushing and left me feeling ill. This book ends with a gut-wrenching cliffhanger. Thankfully book two is already released. Claire's story is continued in Color Me Pretty.
July 26, 2013
This story is bound to piss a LOT of people off. It will piss off a lot of the Claire's and Marlena's of the world... But... It should still be read. So both sides can understand and learn.
Throughout the story, Claire gives glimpses of how she ends up, she doesn't want to end up that way, but she's spiraled so far it's inevitable. I honestly think if it wasn't for Emmett, she'd have been lost months before.
There are a few minor errors that I spotted, they are nothing drastic.
The story will put a whole array in emotions, questions, and doubts in the reader's head which is absolutely why this story needs to reach as far it can.
I honestly believe this book would do wonders in clinics and hospitals around the world. I know the next print copy I purchase will be donate somewhere where it can help someone.
I encourage you, even if this type of book isn't your cup of tea, read it anyway, what you learn from it may end up helping you save a loved one's life someday.
Thank you to all the Emmett Sinclairs of the world, and thank you to CM Stunich for telling the story of millions of people in the world that need people to know that are beautiful just the way they are.
I give this book 5 of 5 paws
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Throughout the story, Claire gives glimpses of how she ends up, she doesn't want to end up that way, but she's spiraled so far it's inevitable. I honestly think if it wasn't for Emmett, she'd have been lost months before.
There are a few minor errors that I spotted, they are nothing drastic.
The story will put a whole array in emotions, questions, and doubts in the reader's head which is absolutely why this story needs to reach as far it can.
I honestly believe this book would do wonders in clinics and hospitals around the world. I know the next print copy I purchase will be donate somewhere where it can help someone.
I encourage you, even if this type of book isn't your cup of tea, read it anyway, what you learn from it may end up helping you save a loved one's life someday.
Thank you to all the Emmett Sinclairs of the world, and thank you to CM Stunich for telling the story of millions of people in the world that need people to know that are beautiful just the way they are.
I give this book 5 of 5 paws
Freaky Fiction Writing Author/PR/Promoter
Cu's Ebook Giveaways Founder
Fae Books Tour Host/Reviewer
Girls <3 Books Tours Host
LadyAmber's Book Tours Host
B3 Book Tours Host
I Am A Reader Not A Writer Blog Tour Host
Shades of Rose Marketing Tour Host
GWR Tour Host
As You Wish Tour Host
Mrs. Potter's Book Publicity Services
August 7, 2013
In reality, I'm starving to death. Literally. I'm dying to be beautiful, and I don't even know it.
I'm almost at a loss for words after that and that speaks volumes for me. A highly emotional and disturbing read -take the title seriously. As someone who has had her fair share of self-hatred, of being her own worst critic, and tried her hand at purging more than I'm willing to admit, this book hit a nerve.
Claire was complete mess, most of the thoughts running through that girls head terrified me, you couldn't help but be scared for her. Anorexia is a sickness and CM Stunich is not afraid to dive into the depths of it and drag you through all the dark emotions involved. Believe it or not, there is a love story in there buried under all the blackness. When Claire meets Emmett Sinclair, she doesn't realize that is the moment everything starts to change.
Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams.
As someone with a broken past of his own, he recognizes someone in need of help when he sees it, but he doesn't want to push too hard too fast for fear he will do more damage than good. The more he gets to know her, the deeper his feelings get, the more desperate and scared he becomes. Claire does eventually start to realize there is a problem, but it may be too late, she's too far into the obsession. She has to hit rock bottom before she can start the long climb back up and boy does she ever. After the devastating ending of this book I'm a little nervous about moving forward onto B2, but I feel I have to see this through. That is the effect CM Stunich's words have. She pulls you in so deep you're left stunned at the end of it. She is the queen of the book-hangover & I LOVE IT.
My storm is coming, getting ready to cover up the sun and rain on my parade. Emmett's love isn't enough; my family's love isn't enough. The only thing that would be enough is my love for me, and that, that is the one thing I am still searching for.
I'm almost at a loss for words after that and that speaks volumes for me. A highly emotional and disturbing read -take the title seriously. As someone who has had her fair share of self-hatred, of being her own worst critic, and tried her hand at purging more than I'm willing to admit, this book hit a nerve.
Claire was complete mess, most of the thoughts running through that girls head terrified me, you couldn't help but be scared for her. Anorexia is a sickness and CM Stunich is not afraid to dive into the depths of it and drag you through all the dark emotions involved. Believe it or not, there is a love story in there buried under all the blackness. When Claire meets Emmett Sinclair, she doesn't realize that is the moment everything starts to change.
Emmett Sinclair will save me in more ways than one, and I'll hate him for it. I'll curse his name and even wish for brief seconds in time that he was dead, or at the very least out of my life for good. Later though, later I'll understand that he saved my life and breathed beauty into my dreams.
As someone with a broken past of his own, he recognizes someone in need of help when he sees it, but he doesn't want to push too hard too fast for fear he will do more damage than good. The more he gets to know her, the deeper his feelings get, the more desperate and scared he becomes. Claire does eventually start to realize there is a problem, but it may be too late, she's too far into the obsession. She has to hit rock bottom before she can start the long climb back up and boy does she ever. After the devastating ending of this book I'm a little nervous about moving forward onto B2, but I feel I have to see this through. That is the effect CM Stunich's words have. She pulls you in so deep you're left stunned at the end of it. She is the queen of the book-hangover & I LOVE IT.
My storm is coming, getting ready to cover up the sun and rain on my parade. Emmett's love isn't enough; my family's love isn't enough. The only thing that would be enough is my love for me, and that, that is the one thing I am still searching for.
June 23, 2013
When I first heard of this book being released, I didn't think that it was going to be something that I was going to be interested in reading. Eating disorders aren't that interesting to me, even though I'm super into psychology. When I won a book from CM Stunich, I realized this was one of the few books of hers that I didn't already have since I'm a huge fan, and I figured, "What the hell, I'll give it a shot." THANK GOD I DID THAT!
I can't even begin to explain the terrible and fantastic book hangover this book caused for me. I wasn't able to read for a full day, which is a HUGE thing for me. This book was completely beautiful and heartbreaking, although a little different from what I've normally read from CM.
The author definitely did her homework with this book. I've done a lot of studies on anorexia nervosa, and she did a fantastic job integrating the symptoms and general mental state of someone with this disorder in her novel. I couldn't help crying for Claire whenever she saw herself as fat and ugly. It was truly the most emotional book I've ever read - and I've read the Notebook. Click Me!
The book ends on such a terrifying note that I'm totally upset that there's been problems with the release of the next book in this series.
Basically, even if you're like me and think you have no interest in reading a book dealing with anorexia, don't let that deter you because if you do, you're missing out on one of the most beautiful and painful books I've ever read.
I definitely recommend this book and not only to folks that would like the romance aspect, but really to anyone. Not only is this a fantastic story, but it can also show you the dangers of this heartbreaking disorder and help you catch it in people that you love.
Note: I received this book from the author for an honest review.
I can't even begin to explain the terrible and fantastic book hangover this book caused for me. I wasn't able to read for a full day, which is a HUGE thing for me. This book was completely beautiful and heartbreaking, although a little different from what I've normally read from CM.
The author definitely did her homework with this book. I've done a lot of studies on anorexia nervosa, and she did a fantastic job integrating the symptoms and general mental state of someone with this disorder in her novel. I couldn't help crying for Claire whenever she saw herself as fat and ugly. It was truly the most emotional book I've ever read - and I've read the Notebook. Click Me!
The book ends on such a terrifying note that I'm totally upset that there's been problems with the release of the next book in this series.
Basically, even if you're like me and think you have no interest in reading a book dealing with anorexia, don't let that deter you because if you do, you're missing out on one of the most beautiful and painful books I've ever read.
I definitely recommend this book and not only to folks that would like the romance aspect, but really to anyone. Not only is this a fantastic story, but it can also show you the dangers of this heartbreaking disorder and help you catch it in people that you love.
Note: I received this book from the author for an honest review.
September 2, 2013
let me start off first of all by saying that this book was not for a light hearted individaul. it took me a bit longer to read than normal, not because I didn't like the story, but because the whole topic and situation was a hard one for me. when reading books and you find one with a "taboo" topic or a sensitive topic you tend to feel a whirlwind of emotions, unsure of what to do with such feelings. I can tell you that dispite the many books I have read that leave me with emotions roaring, this one did something to me that I have never felt before. I am scared, terrified really, that knowing there really are people (yes I said people, not just ladies and not just men but both) who struggle with eating disorders, cutting, depression and emotional carnage. I have read many of Ms. Stunich's other books and everyone that I have read instantly becomes my new favorite, but this one will stay with me forever. for and author to write about such topics and actually have the true emtoions and horror become a realtiy is amazing.
Claire is like every woman trying to make something of herself, shes determined and very stubborn. she is depressed not sure what she wants at some points and finds no comfort in her family...not one of them understands her and the things she feels she needs to do to become what she dreams of becoming...she fights herself on a constant basis along with those in her family. until she meets Emmett....such a caring, non judging, simple yet "perfect" man. Claire cant find anything imperfect about him, she lets her guard down when shes with him and he doesn't push her. he lets her be her and only subltly hints to her about her problem. I will be buying Color Me Pretty as soon as I finish this review! I give this story 5+ extremely heartbreaking, yet hopeful stars!
Claire is like every woman trying to make something of herself, shes determined and very stubborn. she is depressed not sure what she wants at some points and finds no comfort in her family...not one of them understands her and the things she feels she needs to do to become what she dreams of becoming...she fights herself on a constant basis along with those in her family. until she meets Emmett....such a caring, non judging, simple yet "perfect" man. Claire cant find anything imperfect about him, she lets her guard down when shes with him and he doesn't push her. he lets her be her and only subltly hints to her about her problem. I will be buying Color Me Pretty as soon as I finish this review! I give this story 5+ extremely heartbreaking, yet hopeful stars!
April 26, 2013
Everyone reads about so and so having an eating disorder, that we all know, that she’s way too skinny. But, I have never had as much of an insight into anorexia as I got while reading this book. Written in Claire’s point of view, we get to see and feel a lot of the emotions, the thought process, and the hopelessness of her issue.
Claire was going to be a model, come what may, she was determined to make it. She had the right clothes, worked the right angles, but didn’t see that she was thin enough already. She thought her size 10 sister was fat, her body disgusting, and she wasn’t going to be that way. She slowly stops eating altogether, fasting and wasting away. The only person that can actually get through to her was Emmett, who sees her just exactly how she is and she feels truly understands her. No one seems to know exactly what to do to help other than Emmett who makes her feel warm and loved.
This is not a book you can feel comfortable about no matter what size you are. This story is poignant and heart wrenching and you are constantly rooting for Claire. I give this book five stars, it is truly beautifully written, and shows you a side of life that is truly not understood. I think CM Stunich has taken a step in helping us understand a little bit more about what an eating disorder truly can be. Kudos Ms. Stunich you have hit a home run with this book, I can’t wait to see what the next book brings. Thanks for giving me this book to read and review, it has been an eye opener!
Claire was going to be a model, come what may, she was determined to make it. She had the right clothes, worked the right angles, but didn’t see that she was thin enough already. She thought her size 10 sister was fat, her body disgusting, and she wasn’t going to be that way. She slowly stops eating altogether, fasting and wasting away. The only person that can actually get through to her was Emmett, who sees her just exactly how she is and she feels truly understands her. No one seems to know exactly what to do to help other than Emmett who makes her feel warm and loved.
This is not a book you can feel comfortable about no matter what size you are. This story is poignant and heart wrenching and you are constantly rooting for Claire. I give this book five stars, it is truly beautifully written, and shows you a side of life that is truly not understood. I think CM Stunich has taken a step in helping us understand a little bit more about what an eating disorder truly can be. Kudos Ms. Stunich you have hit a home run with this book, I can’t wait to see what the next book brings. Thanks for giving me this book to read and review, it has been an eye opener!
July 13, 2024
This is the story of one girls broken perception of what makes someone beautiful, as a result she develops anorexia and depression. Claire Simon's life was normal. there wasn't a defining tragic moment that shaped her brokeness it was always there and it manifested from a little whisper in the dark dusty corners of her mind into a full blown monster intent on dragging her under the bed and swallowing her whole. Enter Emmett Sinclair. He knew that the only way for Claire to get better is for her to realize her problems and fight to fix them. He watches helplessly as she succumbs to her demons but he loves her enough to stay. Her family wants control understandable many people believe that if you really love someone you would do anything to help them.. but Emmett knows that the only way to truly love someone is to let them go and find a way to save themselves.
This was a powerfully emotional read. i loved Emmett and i loved Claire. I have never suffered from an eating disorder but I found i identified with the dark place in Claire the place that made her feel empty and unworthy. I think many people can and that is another reason why this book is powerful. In the end the most important thing is in order to love others you must love yourself otherwise how do you recognize the difference between love and control. This book ends in a brutal cliffhanger thank goodness i read it recently so i could jump immediately into the 2nd book.
This was a powerfully emotional read. i loved Emmett and i loved Claire. I have never suffered from an eating disorder but I found i identified with the dark place in Claire the place that made her feel empty and unworthy. I think many people can and that is another reason why this book is powerful. In the end the most important thing is in order to love others you must love yourself otherwise how do you recognize the difference between love and control. This book ends in a brutal cliffhanger thank goodness i read it recently so i could jump immediately into the 2nd book.
June 16, 2013
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review. I love C.M. Stunich so of course I had to read this book. Plus this cover is absolutely beautiful and draws the reader in. I really loved reading this book because I find mental disorders very intriguing. The brain is such a powerful thing. C.M. Stunich did an amazing job of getting inside a person suffering from anorexia. I could really feel the emotions that the characters were feeling, denial, lust, hate, anger, depression, feelings of worthlessness, and the list goes on. This book was also a tear jerker and I would have been bawling except I was at work when I was reading it.
I grew very attached to Claire because I could relate to her body issues. Realistically who hasn't wanted to be really skinny. I'm not going to lie, I have had thoughts of turning to anorexia but I love food too much. I would really like to know the big reason why Claire started to feel like she needed to lose weight, I don't believe it was just to be a model. I liked Everett too. I'm glad him and Claire found each other and that he was supporting her without forcing her to change. I also liked that he wasn't afraid to share his flaws with Claire.
This was a powerful novel and I can't wait to read book two. I would recommend this book to contemporary lovers. All I have to say is keep them coming C.M!
I grew very attached to Claire because I could relate to her body issues. Realistically who hasn't wanted to be really skinny. I'm not going to lie, I have had thoughts of turning to anorexia but I love food too much. I would really like to know the big reason why Claire started to feel like she needed to lose weight, I don't believe it was just to be a model. I liked Everett too. I'm glad him and Claire found each other and that he was supporting her without forcing her to change. I also liked that he wasn't afraid to share his flaws with Claire.
This was a powerful novel and I can't wait to read book two. I would recommend this book to contemporary lovers. All I have to say is keep them coming C.M!
September 27, 2013
Reading this book reminded me why C.M. Stunich is such an amazing author. Her characters always have so much depth and reality to them. I have read several of her other books; The Never Series, Triple M, and Hard Rock Roots. Every one of those series have their own unique voice to them, but they still have a quality that is found in all her books. Though they are all love stories--there is always a real life struggle going on in each of the characters. This book was difficult to read at times because of the content. But, also because of the content it was amazingly worth it.
Claire Simone is a heartbreaking character and the story is written from her POV. She is anorexic, but does not believe it. Reading from her POV regardless of what struggle one might have had in there life, they can relate. This book touches on the fact that as human beings the person we lie to the most is ourselves and our main need in life is to find our truth and to love ourselves for who we are.
Emmett Sinclair comes unexpectedly into Claire's life and without her knowing he becomes her salvation in a way. It isn't him that is saving her, but him showing her that she can in fact save herself.
I absolutely loved this book and I highly recommend it. It isn't your typical love story in that it isn't focused so much on them falling in love as it is Claire learning to love herself.
Claire Simone is a heartbreaking character and the story is written from her POV. She is anorexic, but does not believe it. Reading from her POV regardless of what struggle one might have had in there life, they can relate. This book touches on the fact that as human beings the person we lie to the most is ourselves and our main need in life is to find our truth and to love ourselves for who we are.
Emmett Sinclair comes unexpectedly into Claire's life and without her knowing he becomes her salvation in a way. It isn't him that is saving her, but him showing her that she can in fact save herself.
I absolutely loved this book and I highly recommend it. It isn't your typical love story in that it isn't focused so much on them falling in love as it is Claire learning to love herself.
January 8, 2014
Review posted at: http://bookcrushbookreviews.com/2014/...
Rating: 4 stars
This read is deep and heart breaking. I needed many chapter breaks because I was hurting for Claire and she so eloquently stated that her tunnel vision was keeping her from seeing how her choices were killing herself from the inside out. Emmett, bless his heart, knows where Claire is coming from and knows how to best approach this sensitive issue with Claire. My heart seriously ached for Claire and I just wanted to see her happy and I feel she only truly was when in the presence of Emmett. It's hard to not want to shake Claire and say WTF are you thinking but we know that is not welcomed with open arms. Agh, I'm so grateful I have Color me Pretty to see how this continues to play out. I love the relationship Claire and Emmett have built thus far and can see he's her balm to soothe her wounds. I love CM's writing in all of her books I've read so far. She digs deep, soul deep, making my connections with the characters powerful. Give this a try!!
Rating: 4 stars
This read is deep and heart breaking. I needed many chapter breaks because I was hurting for Claire and she so eloquently stated that her tunnel vision was keeping her from seeing how her choices were killing herself from the inside out. Emmett, bless his heart, knows where Claire is coming from and knows how to best approach this sensitive issue with Claire. My heart seriously ached for Claire and I just wanted to see her happy and I feel she only truly was when in the presence of Emmett. It's hard to not want to shake Claire and say WTF are you thinking but we know that is not welcomed with open arms. Agh, I'm so grateful I have Color me Pretty to see how this continues to play out. I love the relationship Claire and Emmett have built thus far and can see he's her balm to soothe her wounds. I love CM's writing in all of her books I've read so far. She digs deep, soul deep, making my connections with the characters powerful. Give this a try!!
June 3, 2013
I love C.M. and I love all her books this one hit me pretty hard though, it hits home (no I'm not anorexic, but I knew someone who was.) Her family reminds me so much of mine, "all my family ever does together is eat. We eat as an excuse to hang out, as a celebration, as an act of morning." Then there were some parts of Claire that reminded me of myself, "I don't like to eat in front of people." It always makes me feel like people are judging me by what I eat so I never eat in front of people only my family. Claire also has one mean temper, "then what is this, Emmett?" I ask him, lifting my chin from my chest to stare at his face. "If you're not here to shove food down my throat and ask me why I'm stuffing biscuits in a effing bottle, what is it you want?" Sometimes I think Emmett is good for Claire and other times I think he's not, I mean I know he wants what's best for her but at times he just needs to be slapped. I need to know what happens because that cliffhanger was BRUTAL!!!
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