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The God of Good Looks
FOR FANS Ghosts by Dolly Alderton, You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi and The Devil Wears Prada
371 pages, Paperback
First published May 16, 2023
About the author
Breanne Mc Ivor
2 books172 followersBreanne Mc Ivor is an award-winning writer. Her short story collection, Where There Are Monsters, was published in 2019. Mc Ivor holds degrees in English from the universities of Cambridge and Edinburgh and has a certificate in Advanced Professional Makeup Artistry. She lives in her home country of Trinidad and Tobago. The God of Good Looks, her debut novel, was published by William Morrow/ HarperCollins (North America) and Fig Tree/ Penguin Random House (UK & Commonwealth) in summer 2023.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 346 reviews
June 6, 2023
**Many thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow, and Breanne Mc Ivor for an ARC of this book! Now available as of 5.16!**
"In the end, you will not see the physical beauty in others that caught your eye, but the fire that burned within them."- Shannon L. Alder
Bianca Bridge is just that sort of firecracker. Blessed with both brains AND stunning physical looks, she has been modeling just to get by...but writing is her true MO. After graduating from college, she was full of vim, vigor and that It Factor that could propel her to fame. And she IS famous, in a sense. Her face is known all around Trinidad and Tobago. However, what she's known for is far from literary: she had an affair with a married man....a married man who just HAPPENED to be the Minister of Planning, a government official.
Desperate for a fresh start, Bianca plugs away at the book she is determined to publish in her mother's memory and is willing to pursue just about any opportunity in the meantime...and that's how she ends up meeting make-up artist and "God of Good Looks" Obadiah Cortland. Their initial interview is a bit rocky (to put it gently) and Bianca is instantly put off by Obadiah's holier-than-thou air. After some reflection, however, she figures that a job working for Obadiah's beauty magazine is better than the alternative and after all...pain is beauty, right?
When Bianca's ugly past with her famous ex resurfaces in an unexpected way, and time spent with Obadiah reveals that he might not be part of the Haughty Elite, however, Bianca's worlds collide and she's forced to make a potentially life-changing decision. Does she have the courage to speak her mind and amplify her voice...no matter what the ultimate cost? Or is the price she must pay for a good reputation simply too steep?
This is Mc Ivor's debut, and in many ways, it's an impressive first look (so to speak). As a Trinidadian and make-up artist herself, she is perhaps the perfect voice to inform Bianca's sensibilities. The opening of this one isn't for the weak: Bianca first tells us about a time she was modeling that involved Hershey's chocolate syrup. 😳 Needless to say, if that doesn't catch your attention, it's probably time for a cup of coffee (or maybe a quick piece of chocolate!) We learn most of Bianca's story through some diary entries and interviews she conducts...with herself. The colorful flavor of her humor reminded me of a coming of age story I truly adored, Maame, and I was hopeful this would be a similarly engaging read throughout.
However, once the character of Obadiah was introduced...the book slowly tried to become ALL about him. We went from a multilayered mix of fun narration and emotional storytelling from Bianca to hearing more and more about Obadiah and the 'juxtaposition' of his elitist persona and his humble background coming from a particularly poor family. This all would have been more interesting if I felt like the character went through a transformation...at all. Basically, Obadiah is painted as a jerk in his FIRST meeting with Bianca, but as soon as he hires her, we quickly learn that this isn't his true personality at all...so I guess I didn't find it surprising that they were able to work towards the same goal. I also just found Obadiah's personality a bit boring (especially compared to Bianca) and therefore wasn't that interested in his backstory.
The author almost (and I mean ALMOST) went down a road plot-wise that would have made the aforementioned situation even more unpleasant...without giving anything away, luckily the future of this pair after the latest iteration of the magazine comes out is left very much to the imagination. I sadly had to bump my rating down from a 4 just because I felt like there was too much of this 'vibe' going on throughout the book in general. This truly should have been a story about Bianca, through and through, just as this GORGEOUS cover implies...the character simply deserved more. Her relationship with her parents could have easily gone another 50 pages...and I would have happily taken 50 less pages about Obadiah in exchange.
The funny thing is that Mc Ivor somewhat acknowledged this problem about Obadiah in her author's note: apparently some other early readers didn't like the character AT ALL. I think somewhere along the way during the editing and rewriting process, however, that he went from overtly unlikable to 'unlikable and then almost INSTANTLY likable, which sadly didn't seem to work either. This book had all the potential of a strong and impactful bildungsroman but sort of got lost in uncharted territory.
Despite the unfulfilled potential, Mc Ivor's voice rang clear throughout and Bianca is a heroine worth getting to know...and hers is a flame that, despite the flickering winds of change, will NEVER go out. 🔥
3.5 stars, rounded down from 4
"In the end, you will not see the physical beauty in others that caught your eye, but the fire that burned within them."- Shannon L. Alder
Bianca Bridge is just that sort of firecracker. Blessed with both brains AND stunning physical looks, she has been modeling just to get by...but writing is her true MO. After graduating from college, she was full of vim, vigor and that It Factor that could propel her to fame. And she IS famous, in a sense. Her face is known all around Trinidad and Tobago. However, what she's known for is far from literary: she had an affair with a married man....a married man who just HAPPENED to be the Minister of Planning, a government official.
Desperate for a fresh start, Bianca plugs away at the book she is determined to publish in her mother's memory and is willing to pursue just about any opportunity in the meantime...and that's how she ends up meeting make-up artist and "God of Good Looks" Obadiah Cortland. Their initial interview is a bit rocky (to put it gently) and Bianca is instantly put off by Obadiah's holier-than-thou air. After some reflection, however, she figures that a job working for Obadiah's beauty magazine is better than the alternative and after all...pain is beauty, right?
When Bianca's ugly past with her famous ex resurfaces in an unexpected way, and time spent with Obadiah reveals that he might not be part of the Haughty Elite, however, Bianca's worlds collide and she's forced to make a potentially life-changing decision. Does she have the courage to speak her mind and amplify her voice...no matter what the ultimate cost? Or is the price she must pay for a good reputation simply too steep?
This is Mc Ivor's debut, and in many ways, it's an impressive first look (so to speak). As a Trinidadian and make-up artist herself, she is perhaps the perfect voice to inform Bianca's sensibilities. The opening of this one isn't for the weak: Bianca first tells us about a time she was modeling that involved Hershey's chocolate syrup. 😳 Needless to say, if that doesn't catch your attention, it's probably time for a cup of coffee (or maybe a quick piece of chocolate!) We learn most of Bianca's story through some diary entries and interviews she conducts...with herself. The colorful flavor of her humor reminded me of a coming of age story I truly adored, Maame, and I was hopeful this would be a similarly engaging read throughout.
However, once the character of Obadiah was introduced...the book slowly tried to become ALL about him. We went from a multilayered mix of fun narration and emotional storytelling from Bianca to hearing more and more about Obadiah and the 'juxtaposition' of his elitist persona and his humble background coming from a particularly poor family. This all would have been more interesting if I felt like the character went through a transformation...at all. Basically, Obadiah is painted as a jerk in his FIRST meeting with Bianca, but as soon as he hires her, we quickly learn that this isn't his true personality at all...so I guess I didn't find it surprising that they were able to work towards the same goal. I also just found Obadiah's personality a bit boring (especially compared to Bianca) and therefore wasn't that interested in his backstory.
The author almost (and I mean ALMOST) went down a road plot-wise that would have made the aforementioned situation even more unpleasant...without giving anything away, luckily the future of this pair after the latest iteration of the magazine comes out is left very much to the imagination. I sadly had to bump my rating down from a 4 just because I felt like there was too much of this 'vibe' going on throughout the book in general. This truly should have been a story about Bianca, through and through, just as this GORGEOUS cover implies...the character simply deserved more. Her relationship with her parents could have easily gone another 50 pages...and I would have happily taken 50 less pages about Obadiah in exchange.
The funny thing is that Mc Ivor somewhat acknowledged this problem about Obadiah in her author's note: apparently some other early readers didn't like the character AT ALL. I think somewhere along the way during the editing and rewriting process, however, that he went from overtly unlikable to 'unlikable and then almost INSTANTLY likable, which sadly didn't seem to work either. This book had all the potential of a strong and impactful bildungsroman but sort of got lost in uncharted territory.
Despite the unfulfilled potential, Mc Ivor's voice rang clear throughout and Bianca is a heroine worth getting to know...and hers is a flame that, despite the flickering winds of change, will NEVER go out. 🔥
3.5 stars, rounded down from 4
July 28, 2023
The God of Good Looks steps on our necks and doesn’t let up until the very end! A satisfying, bold page turner with a heroine you can’t help but cheer for!
In Breanne McIvor’s sizzling debut we are taken to Trinidad and Tobago where we meet Bianca Bridge, a budding writer who is starting over after a major scandal. Bianca recently graduated from a University in London where she headed back to her home country to persue her dream of becoming a writer. Things are looking up for her, she’s got a remote job, an apartment, a car and while she is a bit lonely- her mother died and her father remarried so he is hardly around- she makes the best of her situation. All is going well, until Bianca meets and falls in love with a government minister, their affair ends up on the country’s front page and Bianca is blacklisted. She is social pariah, blacklisted, fired from her job, barely making ends meet, and the only thing she has going for her is her one off photoshoot jobs.
With little to no job option Bianca says yes to being a lowly assistant to larger-than-life Make-up Artist Obadiah Cortland. Obadiah Cortland is known in the industry as very hard to work for- worse than “a devil wears Prada” but with no option she takes the job planning her exit even as she does so. Surprisingly Bianca doesn’t end up disliking her time in her new role, she ends up working on her writing craft, making friends, giving herself some grace, finding out Obadiah is not as much as of a devil as he is known to be. With her role as assistant she gets to put her degree to use, work on her writing craft and finally tell her side of the affair story. What happens when the truth is out?
The God of Good Looks is filled with characters you cannot help but cheer for. The entire cast all are fresh, entertaining and engaging. McIvor takes us to Trinidad and Tobago we learn so much about the culture, history and the make-up industry. What I loved is that we journey with Bianca as she comes into her truth. I love how realistic her character was, you truly feel for her as someone who has little friends, is a social pariah and not sure where her path is in life, added to that, she’s got no family support or her mother to take care of her. I love that it was set in Trinidad, and YES, I will admit, it took awhile for me to wrap my head around a story set in a high fashion make up house being in Trinidad but once I got use to it I really enjoyed it.
I did think the book dragged a little and it could have been 50 pages shorter but overall I loved how entertaining the read was. The main characters Bianca and Obadiah were very endearing and I want everyone to meet them.
If you enjoyed reading If I Had Your Face you will enjoy this one!
Follow for more here:
https://kdnc.club/bookofcinz
In Breanne McIvor’s sizzling debut we are taken to Trinidad and Tobago where we meet Bianca Bridge, a budding writer who is starting over after a major scandal. Bianca recently graduated from a University in London where she headed back to her home country to persue her dream of becoming a writer. Things are looking up for her, she’s got a remote job, an apartment, a car and while she is a bit lonely- her mother died and her father remarried so he is hardly around- she makes the best of her situation. All is going well, until Bianca meets and falls in love with a government minister, their affair ends up on the country’s front page and Bianca is blacklisted. She is social pariah, blacklisted, fired from her job, barely making ends meet, and the only thing she has going for her is her one off photoshoot jobs.
With little to no job option Bianca says yes to being a lowly assistant to larger-than-life Make-up Artist Obadiah Cortland. Obadiah Cortland is known in the industry as very hard to work for- worse than “a devil wears Prada” but with no option she takes the job planning her exit even as she does so. Surprisingly Bianca doesn’t end up disliking her time in her new role, she ends up working on her writing craft, making friends, giving herself some grace, finding out Obadiah is not as much as of a devil as he is known to be. With her role as assistant she gets to put her degree to use, work on her writing craft and finally tell her side of the affair story. What happens when the truth is out?
The God of Good Looks is filled with characters you cannot help but cheer for. The entire cast all are fresh, entertaining and engaging. McIvor takes us to Trinidad and Tobago we learn so much about the culture, history and the make-up industry. What I loved is that we journey with Bianca as she comes into her truth. I love how realistic her character was, you truly feel for her as someone who has little friends, is a social pariah and not sure where her path is in life, added to that, she’s got no family support or her mother to take care of her. I love that it was set in Trinidad, and YES, I will admit, it took awhile for me to wrap my head around a story set in a high fashion make up house being in Trinidad but once I got use to it I really enjoyed it.
I did think the book dragged a little and it could have been 50 pages shorter but overall I loved how entertaining the read was. The main characters Bianca and Obadiah were very endearing and I want everyone to meet them.
If you enjoyed reading If I Had Your Face you will enjoy this one!
Follow for more here:
https://kdnc.club/bookofcinz
September 15, 2023
This was a pleasant surprise! I've been seeing a few of my mutuals pick this one up and I decided to dive into this and was not disappointed. With great storytelling and interesting, dynamic characters, I had a great time this book. CW: misogyny, disordered eating, slut shaming, descriptions of violence, character who uses position of power to entice younger women.
The God of Good Looks follows main character Bianca who meets an untimely social downfall after her affair with a married government minister goes public. In an attempt to get her career back on track, Bianca makes the decision to work with Obadiah Courtland on his small magazine. What she gains in return is unexpected relationships as well as a fresh new sense of self and confidence that benefits her in more way than one.
What Worked: The writing was STUNNING. Out of all the books that I've read, I can honestly state that there aren't many that instantaneously grab my attention through the author's writing. McIvor beautifully captures the double standard that is often passed off on women who are involved in affairs. Bianca takes all of the responsibility for the affair and is both shamed and shunned by most of the community. However, the minister is able to maintain his relationships, standing in society, as well as his career even though he is well known for using his political power and influence to enter into relationships with younger woman. McIvor gave power to Bianca, a power that she acknowledges comes with association with wealth and privilege. It was a joy and honor reading the journey that Bianca embarks on after becoming employed by Obadiah. There is a new beauty and confidence that she gains after being torn down by society and those around her. And let me tell you, that final stand off between her and the minister was freaking ICONIC. She read that man for filth and played every card to her favor. And let's talk about Obadiah! I absolutely adored him. He was rash and quick at the mouth, but honest in a way that reminded me of my Caribbean family. I was blown away by the chemistry that he shared with Bianca. I honestly wasn't expecting that to happen and it felt so natural, so organic. The utilization of a dual narrative worked perfectly with both characters allowing readers to see them change and grow layer by layer.
What Didn't Work: Not a thing. This was a truly beautiful book.
Overall, this was a great read. A beautiful and monumental debut. I'm looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.
The God of Good Looks follows main character Bianca who meets an untimely social downfall after her affair with a married government minister goes public. In an attempt to get her career back on track, Bianca makes the decision to work with Obadiah Courtland on his small magazine. What she gains in return is unexpected relationships as well as a fresh new sense of self and confidence that benefits her in more way than one.
What Worked: The writing was STUNNING. Out of all the books that I've read, I can honestly state that there aren't many that instantaneously grab my attention through the author's writing. McIvor beautifully captures the double standard that is often passed off on women who are involved in affairs. Bianca takes all of the responsibility for the affair and is both shamed and shunned by most of the community. However, the minister is able to maintain his relationships, standing in society, as well as his career even though he is well known for using his political power and influence to enter into relationships with younger woman. McIvor gave power to Bianca, a power that she acknowledges comes with association with wealth and privilege. It was a joy and honor reading the journey that Bianca embarks on after becoming employed by Obadiah. There is a new beauty and confidence that she gains after being torn down by society and those around her. And let me tell you, that final stand off between her and the minister was freaking ICONIC. She read that man for filth and played every card to her favor. And let's talk about Obadiah! I absolutely adored him. He was rash and quick at the mouth, but honest in a way that reminded me of my Caribbean family. I was blown away by the chemistry that he shared with Bianca. I honestly wasn't expecting that to happen and it felt so natural, so organic. The utilization of a dual narrative worked perfectly with both characters allowing readers to see them change and grow layer by layer.
What Didn't Work: Not a thing. This was a truly beautiful book.
Overall, this was a great read. A beautiful and monumental debut. I'm looking forward to reading more by this author in the future.
Shelved as 'dnf'
March 22, 2023so many 🚩 🚩 🚩. the love interest demands to know our mc's weight (context: she is a model, he is a make-up artist), she doesn't tell him and he indignant. later on, he is somehow able to discover her weight so he tracks her down when she is out with a friend and gets a courier to deliver her a letter with her weight on it. the two meet up and he proceeds to humiliate her, telling her that has no future as a high fashion model given that she doesn't weigh "below one-twenty five" and equates modelling to stripping. am I meant to find him, a stranger who has just been obscenely rude to her, telling her that she is a "remarkable combination of tiny tits and a wide waist" charming? this is the type of book that makes me wary of f/m pairings. i hate when in romance books you get male love interests who are utter dicks to the main girls be compared to Mr. Darcy...as if that makes all of their nasty behavior acceptable, charming even when the guy is in question is just a fucking stronzo in bad need of therapy.
if you want to read this you should check out reviews from readers who have actually read it or even liked it. ymmv.
if you want to read this you should check out reviews from readers who have actually read it or even liked it. ymmv.
May 16, 2023
Bianca is a woman who comes from a wealthy family but has been ostracized for her affair with the Minster of Planning being exposed. Since she needs a job to be able to live she reluctantly takes a job with Obadiah Courtland, a makeup artist notoriously known for his sharp tongue despite them having a nasty first encounter.
This is a delightful debut that kept me entertained from the first page to the last. One of the things I appreciated in here was how distinct Bianca and Obadiah's voices were something I thought the audiobook narrators did a great job emphasizing. Especially the narrator for Obadiah he knew just went to stress certain words.
In our society blame usually goes on the woman but no one takes the time to think about why these women are with these men in the first place and this book asks both the readers and men like Obadiah to take a step back and ask that question.
Full review
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
This is a delightful debut that kept me entertained from the first page to the last. One of the things I appreciated in here was how distinct Bianca and Obadiah's voices were something I thought the audiobook narrators did a great job emphasizing. Especially the narrator for Obadiah he knew just went to stress certain words.
In our society blame usually goes on the woman but no one takes the time to think about why these women are with these men in the first place and this book asks both the readers and men like Obadiah to take a step back and ask that question.
Full review
https://womenofcolorreadtoo.blogspot....
May 4, 2024
There were a couple of things I liked about this book, a couple I didn’t like, and one BIG, GLARING issue that kept it from getting three stars.
What I liked:
-It was cool to learn a bit about life in Trinidad. I definitely plan on reading more books set in the Caribbean!
-Some of the side characters were really interesting. Dante has my heart ❤️
-I liked watching the main character’s relationship with her father evolve.
-There were some good messages in here about the injustice of slut-shaming.
What I didn’t like:
-This book should NOT have been a romance. Leaving aside the gigantic red flag (which we’ll get to), the characters had zero chemistry. It was like they hated each other, then started to respect each other and also he notices she’s hot, but there was no flirtation or tension whatsoever. Enemies to lovers is my favourite trope but it just didn’t work in this case. The book would have been 100% better if they’d just become friends.
-I found both of the main characters kind of irritating and unlikeable.
HUGE, GLARING RED FLAG:
-The book starts with the male love interest fat shaming the main character, and then she develops an eating disorder that she doesn’t seem to be completely rid of by the end of the book. Not only does this make him an irredeemable asshole in my eyes, but it’s such a weird message to send in a romance. On top of that, the author keeps including details about everyone checking out the female main character once she gets unhealthily skinny, because she’s so hot now. At the end, the guy apologizes for the fat shaming, but at no point does he explain that it came from his own insecurity and she was lovely before and should not starve herself.
I recommend skipping this one!
What I liked:
-It was cool to learn a bit about life in Trinidad. I definitely plan on reading more books set in the Caribbean!
-Some of the side characters were really interesting. Dante has my heart ❤️
-I liked watching the main character’s relationship with her father evolve.
-There were some good messages in here about the injustice of slut-shaming.
What I didn’t like:
-This book should NOT have been a romance. Leaving aside the gigantic red flag (which we’ll get to), the characters had zero chemistry. It was like they hated each other, then started to respect each other and also he notices she’s hot, but there was no flirtation or tension whatsoever. Enemies to lovers is my favourite trope but it just didn’t work in this case. The book would have been 100% better if they’d just become friends.
-I found both of the main characters kind of irritating and unlikeable.
HUGE, GLARING RED FLAG:
-The book starts with the male love interest fat shaming the main character, and then she develops an eating disorder that she doesn’t seem to be completely rid of by the end of the book. Not only does this make him an irredeemable asshole in my eyes, but it’s such a weird message to send in a romance. On top of that, the author keeps including details about everyone checking out the female main character once she gets unhealthily skinny, because she’s so hot now. At the end, the guy apologizes for the fat shaming, but at no point does he explain that it came from his own insecurity and she was lovely before and should not starve herself.
I recommend skipping this one!
Want to read
May 6, 2023Bianca Bridge has always dreamt of becoming a writer. But Trinidadian society can be unforgiving, and having an affair with a married government official is a sure-fire way to ruin your prospects. So when Obadiah Cortland, a notoriously tyrannical entrepreneur in the island’s beauty scene, offers her a job, Bianca accepts, realizing that working on his magazine is the closest to her dreams she’ll get.
McIvor brings true Island vibes to this incredible work of art. I truly could not put this book down until I had finished it, then all I wanted was more.
Obadiahs character was splendid!! Even before I knew his back story I loved him. He just oozed sophistication and Bianca fell for him hook, line and sinker.
Bianca and Obadiahs chemistry was spot on, it didn't come off as cheesy or either of them too desperate.
Bianca's wealth and back story worked into the script perfectly.
I was thoroughly impressed with McIvor's storyline and cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
Job superbly done!!
Nuff Respect!!❤️
Praying for a book II 🙏🙏
Thank you,NetGalley\BreanneMcIvor\William Morrow\ For this AMAZING eARC in advance for my honest review. My opinions are of my own volition.
McIvor brings true Island vibes to this incredible work of art. I truly could not put this book down until I had finished it, then all I wanted was more.
Obadiahs character was splendid!! Even before I knew his back story I loved him. He just oozed sophistication and Bianca fell for him hook, line and sinker.
Bianca and Obadiahs chemistry was spot on, it didn't come off as cheesy or either of them too desperate.
Bianca's wealth and back story worked into the script perfectly.
I was thoroughly impressed with McIvor's storyline and cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
Job superbly done!!
Nuff Respect!!❤️
Praying for a book II 🙏🙏
Thank you,NetGalley\BreanneMcIvor\William Morrow\ For this AMAZING eARC in advance for my honest review. My opinions are of my own volition.
May 27, 2023
This was a pleasant surprise! The dual pov was a bit of a shock and it took a while for it and some characters to grow on me but overall I enjoyed this quite a lot. May every Bianca Bridge rise and Eric Hugo fall. Shoutout to Libro.fm for bringing this one to my attention.
I recommend the audiobook. I thought the narrators did pretty great and the accents bring the reading experience to another level.
TW: slut shaming, predatory relationships/power imbalance, eating disorder, descriptions of illness and death, mentions of violent crime
I recommend the audiobook. I thought the narrators did pretty great and the accents bring the reading experience to another level.
TW: slut shaming, predatory relationships/power imbalance, eating disorder, descriptions of illness and death, mentions of violent crime
August 29, 2023
Thanks to libro fm and harper audio for my alc
One word I’d use to summarise my feelings about this story “wholesome “
I loved the story telling. There was nothing pretentious about any of the characters or the setting; right from the main ones to the side ones. Everything was real and relatable and not over the top
Bianca was the epitome of relatable lol with her inner monologues and regrets and a drive to be better. I liked that she wanted so much to be her mother’s daughter and I’d love to read that novel she had going on for her mom; cute!
The queer rep too was heartwarming for me ; even though it wasn’t so much a part or focus of the story I loved it
This also portrayed how the ordinary citizen can feel helpless with the kind of leadership they’re dealt with and their attempts to make things better. Friendship and mutual support makes citizens brave enough to speak up and stand up for their rights against corruption and fight to right the wrongs in their country
I liked Obadiah ‘s character and even though he was looking at the benefit of having a rich man’s daughter in his circle, I was glad that he gave Bianca a chance and space to grow and be relevant despite the negative press she has.
Mrs Hugo was a pain but it’s totally expected from her husband’s behaviour and even her character was not so unlikeable
Everything tied up nicely and I was fulfilled ; the book delivered exactly what the synopsis promised
I’d have loved more romance though 🙈🙈
One word I’d use to summarise my feelings about this story “wholesome “
I loved the story telling. There was nothing pretentious about any of the characters or the setting; right from the main ones to the side ones. Everything was real and relatable and not over the top
Bianca was the epitome of relatable lol with her inner monologues and regrets and a drive to be better. I liked that she wanted so much to be her mother’s daughter and I’d love to read that novel she had going on for her mom; cute!
The queer rep too was heartwarming for me ; even though it wasn’t so much a part or focus of the story I loved it
This also portrayed how the ordinary citizen can feel helpless with the kind of leadership they’re dealt with and their attempts to make things better. Friendship and mutual support makes citizens brave enough to speak up and stand up for their rights against corruption and fight to right the wrongs in their country
I liked Obadiah ‘s character and even though he was looking at the benefit of having a rich man’s daughter in his circle, I was glad that he gave Bianca a chance and space to grow and be relevant despite the negative press she has.
Mrs Hugo was a pain but it’s totally expected from her husband’s behaviour and even her character was not so unlikeable
Everything tied up nicely and I was fulfilled ; the book delivered exactly what the synopsis promised
I’d have loved more romance though 🙈🙈
June 25, 2023
Boss read from beginning to end.
May 19, 2023
If you grew up in Trinidad and Tobago in the 90s, there was a local show on TV called "Westwood Park." The show depicted the twin island in a more glamourous way and it was in my opinion quite different to what you would expect a local show on TV to be like. This book The God of Good Looks gave me that "Westwood Park" vibes in 2023 (if that makes sense). Actually, I think this book should be a series because I want to know Obadiah's story. So Ms. Mc Ivor if you are reading this, I want a sequel.
I really connected with the book's main character Bianca Bridge in a way that is strange (because of course my experience is so far from what she went through). Something about her though connected with me. I think this author is one to watch because she really put a lot of thought into every character that draws you in from the very beginning. Eric Hugo was brilliantly written because I could not stand him. (I admit I was trying to look at our current ministers of government to figure out which one he could be lol).
I need some people to discuss this book with because I would like to know what they thought about OBADIAH.
The literary talent coming out of the Caribbean is exciting to me. This was well done. Highly recommend
I really connected with the book's main character Bianca Bridge in a way that is strange (because of course my experience is so far from what she went through). Something about her though connected with me. I think this author is one to watch because she really put a lot of thought into every character that draws you in from the very beginning. Eric Hugo was brilliantly written because I could not stand him. (I admit I was trying to look at our current ministers of government to figure out which one he could be lol).
I need some people to discuss this book with because I would like to know what they thought about OBADIAH.
The literary talent coming out of the Caribbean is exciting to me. This was well done. Highly recommend
August 13, 2023
In The God of Good Looks, Author Breanne McIvor really hones in on the well of isolation that is possible when living in a small place where it seems everyone should know and love you but instead everyone knows your faults and you can’t drop a bad reputation.
Narrator Bianca Bridge is a young woman who hasn’t had a great relationship with her father since her mother’s death, but after a stint overseas to study, on her return to Trinidad, she filled his absence with a relationship with an older, married man. The revelation of this affair unleashes far-reaching consequences for Bianca but also opens new pathways for self reflection and growth.
I really enjoyed reading from Bianca’s perspective, admired how she tried to write her mother’s story down as a way to reconcile her past. McIvor uses Bianca to bring the reader on a journey of understanding the effect that men have on women - fathers on their daughters; romantic partners on the women who submit to them, undeservedly or otherwise; and even how other men seen as authority figures can make an impact. In this book, we see how Bianca processes these comments from men long after the speaker has moved on. Mercifully, she grows in her own strength and the transition is optimistic.
Interspersed in Bianca’s narrative is some insight into Obadiah’s character - his background and motives - and it is interesting to see how McIvor urges the reader to seek to understand the man who might be a villain if we didn’t know his full story.
I really enjoyed reading this one - loved the immersion in the world of makeup artistry and magazine publishing and, of course, the experience of Caribbean life.
Thanks Netgalley and Harper Collins Publishers for giving me an opportunity to review this in galley form.
Narrator Bianca Bridge is a young woman who hasn’t had a great relationship with her father since her mother’s death, but after a stint overseas to study, on her return to Trinidad, she filled his absence with a relationship with an older, married man. The revelation of this affair unleashes far-reaching consequences for Bianca but also opens new pathways for self reflection and growth.
I really enjoyed reading from Bianca’s perspective, admired how she tried to write her mother’s story down as a way to reconcile her past. McIvor uses Bianca to bring the reader on a journey of understanding the effect that men have on women - fathers on their daughters; romantic partners on the women who submit to them, undeservedly or otherwise; and even how other men seen as authority figures can make an impact. In this book, we see how Bianca processes these comments from men long after the speaker has moved on. Mercifully, she grows in her own strength and the transition is optimistic.
Interspersed in Bianca’s narrative is some insight into Obadiah’s character - his background and motives - and it is interesting to see how McIvor urges the reader to seek to understand the man who might be a villain if we didn’t know his full story.
I really enjoyed reading this one - loved the immersion in the world of makeup artistry and magazine publishing and, of course, the experience of Caribbean life.
Thanks Netgalley and Harper Collins Publishers for giving me an opportunity to review this in galley form.
July 20, 2023
I enjoyed this story about Bianca and Obadiah. Based in Trinidad and Tobago, the story gives great insight into Caribbean life. Well written, great characters. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC
January 31, 2023
If you want to see Trinidad as you've never seen it before, this book is exactly the delectable literary treat you've been needing in your life. THE GOD OF GOOD LOOKS is a page-turning coming-of-age story that follows a brilliantly relatable protag, Bianca, as she navigates her way through the aftermath of a sexual scandal that has left her personally and professionally burned.
McIvor immerses us in Trinidad's ultra-glam beauty and Carnival scene, showing us a whole new aspect of T&T-dwellers' lived experiences, while giving a true-to-life portrayal of the modern Caribbean, in all its blistering beauty and unavoidable ugliness.
The characters are exquisitely drawn, the settings rich and vibrant, and the plot whizzes along as you root for Bianca and her will-they-won't-they love interest and co-narrator, the ever-fascinating Obadiah Cortland.
One of the strengths of this book that I hope readers will also notice is its ability to examine themes of beauty, sexuality, race, and class while remaining thoroughly readable, written in a smooth, well-crafted prose.
I can't gush about this book enough.
McIvor immerses us in Trinidad's ultra-glam beauty and Carnival scene, showing us a whole new aspect of T&T-dwellers' lived experiences, while giving a true-to-life portrayal of the modern Caribbean, in all its blistering beauty and unavoidable ugliness.
The characters are exquisitely drawn, the settings rich and vibrant, and the plot whizzes along as you root for Bianca and her will-they-won't-they love interest and co-narrator, the ever-fascinating Obadiah Cortland.
One of the strengths of this book that I hope readers will also notice is its ability to examine themes of beauty, sexuality, race, and class while remaining thoroughly readable, written in a smooth, well-crafted prose.
I can't gush about this book enough.
November 27, 2023
this book only works if the reader can forgive Obadiah, but I didn’t see enough character development from him to warrant it. unfortunately, I found Obadiah unlikeable and thought his pov detracted from Bianca’s story. I would have loved to hear Bianca’s social commentary on Trinidad from the beginning continued throughout the book. instead, you watch Bianca fall for a man whose comments (about her body) directly contributed to her eating disorder. if that wasn’t bad enough, Obadiah openly admits to using Bianca to better his magazine.
after addressing the harm caused by abusive power imbalance in the open letter about her affair with Eric, I was incredibly disappointed that her next romantic relationship is with her boss…her boss! although Bianca appears to be more confident in herself by the end of the book, I was unconvinced by her growth - probably because its missing some mention of her eating disorder recovery as that was a big part of Bianca’s character.
I did however enjoy the writing enough to give this author another chance in the future.
after addressing the harm caused by abusive power imbalance in the open letter about her affair with Eric, I was incredibly disappointed that her next romantic relationship is with her boss…her boss! although Bianca appears to be more confident in herself by the end of the book, I was unconvinced by her growth - probably because its missing some mention of her eating disorder recovery as that was a big part of Bianca’s character.
I did however enjoy the writing enough to give this author another chance in the future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2023
TW: discussion/memories of mother who has passed away
How to describe this amazing book? From the first line til the last i was riveted, hooked, never bored for a second of reading this. My word! The author has created characters that are so realistically flawed and yet the growth at the end?? perfect.
When an author can make me actually be like welllll ok maybe he's not so baad to a character who was most definitely an asshole at the beginning then they had done an excellent job. Yes, Obadiah this is about you my guy >.>
But anyhoo, the raw portrayals of the beauty industry, our current crime situation, class structures...Ms McIvor has done this without sugarcoating and I loved that. We get to delve deeply into this issues via Bianca's journalling and then seeing things from Obadiah's POV. Just so well done.
There's a romance here too but for me it was more about these two people (Bianca and Obadiah) having to hold up one of those horrifying lol magnifying mirrors to themselves and reallyyyy taking a good long look, reallyyy seeing who they truly are and exposing some hard truths about themselves. I think they were great foils for each other. Bianca's who's father is this wealthy business man but who had this scandal about an affair with a married politician and people obviously have their opinions about who she is verses Obadiah, who still lives in the Beetham and has crafted this larger than life persona as the take no shit God of Good Looks who people also have opinions about as well.
I feel like i can write so much about how terribly in a mess they both are in vastly different ways. But they each help the other to see their flaws and work towards growing as people.
Also the author worked in the beauty industry herself and it's so reflected here in the makeup techniques and the vivdly described photoshoots. I need a movie made of this book like NOW! I can just picture that very specific Midnight robber shoot, how gawjus it would be!
Anyhoo if you're looking to read Caribbean I highly recommend this one
How to describe this amazing book? From the first line til the last i was riveted, hooked, never bored for a second of reading this. My word! The author has created characters that are so realistically flawed and yet the growth at the end?? perfect.
When an author can make me actually be like welllll ok maybe he's not so baad to a character who was most definitely an asshole at the beginning then they had done an excellent job. Yes, Obadiah this is about you my guy >.>
But anyhoo, the raw portrayals of the beauty industry, our current crime situation, class structures...Ms McIvor has done this without sugarcoating and I loved that. We get to delve deeply into this issues via Bianca's journalling and then seeing things from Obadiah's POV. Just so well done.
There's a romance here too but for me it was more about these two people (Bianca and Obadiah) having to hold up one of those horrifying lol magnifying mirrors to themselves and reallyyyy taking a good long look, reallyyy seeing who they truly are and exposing some hard truths about themselves. I think they were great foils for each other. Bianca's who's father is this wealthy business man but who had this scandal about an affair with a married politician and people obviously have their opinions about who she is verses Obadiah, who still lives in the Beetham and has crafted this larger than life persona as the take no shit God of Good Looks who people also have opinions about as well.
I feel like i can write so much about how terribly in a mess they both are in vastly different ways. But they each help the other to see their flaws and work towards growing as people.
Also the author worked in the beauty industry herself and it's so reflected here in the makeup techniques and the vivdly described photoshoots. I need a movie made of this book like NOW! I can just picture that very specific Midnight robber shoot, how gawjus it would be!
Anyhoo if you're looking to read Caribbean I highly recommend this one
March 28, 2024
I listened to the audio version as an advance listening copy via Libro.fm and absolutely adored the narration. I'm completely baffled, however, on the choice of cover design for the audiobook ~ https://libro.fm/audiobooks/978006327... . The original cover is absolutely gorgeous and is such a perfect fit for the story, and this new one is just bad. Anyway, I loved the Trinidad setting and getting to learn more about life there, and really appreciated a main character who is a male makeup artist ~ there really aren't enough of those in the fiction I read!
Ultimately this is a strong story of the oppressed fighting back against political corruption and a male preying on young vulnerable women, and I loved how Mc Ivor uses the beauty industry as the vehicle for the win.
Source: Libro.fm audio review copy
Ultimately this is a strong story of the oppressed fighting back against political corruption and a male preying on young vulnerable women, and I loved how Mc Ivor uses the beauty industry as the vehicle for the win.
Source: Libro.fm audio review copy
May 4, 2023
Yes!!!! I'm glad we got this story dealing with issues that many think exist only in the nations of the "first world."
Mc Ivor has made a statement with this novel. Her characters are layered, vulnerable, engaging, and wholly Caribbean. I wanted to hug them as much as I wanted to slap and shake them.
Mc Ivor has made a statement with this novel. Her characters are layered, vulnerable, engaging, and wholly Caribbean. I wanted to hug them as much as I wanted to slap and shake them.
July 25, 2023
There was so much I loved about this book! The characters, the themes, the plot.
One of the main characters is Bianca. I really enjoyed seeing how she dealt with everything in her life. She worked through the death of her mother, a rift between her and her father, being the heart of a national scandal, and learning how to trust enough to allow friendship into her life. Throughout all of this we were also able to see Bianca’s journey through disordered eating as a result of the modeling industry, and how the perception someone has of you can be wildly incorrect.
Obadiah is the other main character, and he has just as much emotional depth as Bianca. A well-known makeup artist, he gives Bianca a chance to work as a content editor for his makeup magazine (this job aligns with Bianca’s passion for writing). He seems so cold and ruthless to her when they first meet, but they become an unlikely team. Bianca pushes him to be more risky with the magazine, which leads to him being more vulnerable with her, and we understand the reason for his actions the more we read. He also begins to mend his relationship with his sister, which is a huge step for them both.
This book was set in Trinidad, and the sense of place was very strong. There was political commentary woven throughout, particularly pertaining to crime and government corruption. In addition to the political themes this book explored so many other issues that are universal, like unhealthy relationships with food, unrealistic expectations of beauty, toxic romantic relationships, and complicated family ties.
I loved the structure and the writing style. The structure was engaging from page one, and kept my attention all the way through even when the POV shifted. The writing style was so descriptive, I just loved the way the author described certain scenes. “I was draped over the chair like a piece of pricey cloth, wearing a dress drenched in Swarovski crystals,” “I was positioned in a shard of dry season sunlight that pierced the window. . . The capital city was washed in end-of-day golds and oranges,” and “A weeping willow sobbed near the building, its leaves sweeping the surface of a small pond” are a few of my favorites.
The last thing I want to say is that I really loved the side characters in this book! Dante and Radhika were great supporting characters for Bianca and Obadiah.
Highly recommend!
One of the main characters is Bianca. I really enjoyed seeing how she dealt with everything in her life. She worked through the death of her mother, a rift between her and her father, being the heart of a national scandal, and learning how to trust enough to allow friendship into her life. Throughout all of this we were also able to see Bianca’s journey through disordered eating as a result of the modeling industry, and how the perception someone has of you can be wildly incorrect.
Obadiah is the other main character, and he has just as much emotional depth as Bianca. A well-known makeup artist, he gives Bianca a chance to work as a content editor for his makeup magazine (this job aligns with Bianca’s passion for writing). He seems so cold and ruthless to her when they first meet, but they become an unlikely team. Bianca pushes him to be more risky with the magazine, which leads to him being more vulnerable with her, and we understand the reason for his actions the more we read. He also begins to mend his relationship with his sister, which is a huge step for them both.
This book was set in Trinidad, and the sense of place was very strong. There was political commentary woven throughout, particularly pertaining to crime and government corruption. In addition to the political themes this book explored so many other issues that are universal, like unhealthy relationships with food, unrealistic expectations of beauty, toxic romantic relationships, and complicated family ties.
I loved the structure and the writing style. The structure was engaging from page one, and kept my attention all the way through even when the POV shifted. The writing style was so descriptive, I just loved the way the author described certain scenes. “I was draped over the chair like a piece of pricey cloth, wearing a dress drenched in Swarovski crystals,” “I was positioned in a shard of dry season sunlight that pierced the window. . . The capital city was washed in end-of-day golds and oranges,” and “A weeping willow sobbed near the building, its leaves sweeping the surface of a small pond” are a few of my favorites.
The last thing I want to say is that I really loved the side characters in this book! Dante and Radhika were great supporting characters for Bianca and Obadiah.
Highly recommend!
July 6, 2023
3.75 ⭐️
1. This is one of the most gorgeous covers I’ve seen this year!
2. The narration!!! Oh em gee! The Caribbean accents were so delightful to my ears. I wish I could have the narrators call me up and say a few words every day!!
God of Good Looks was the one book I was able to get to for #readcaribbean month! And it was a good choice!
I love how the author gave a realistic view of Trinidad- the good (food, culture) and the bad (crime, politics). I loved hearing about the fashions and the daily operation of running a magazine. There she meets Obadiah, “the God of good looks” a.k.a. a MUA who has a keen eye and the right touch to give a stunning look!
What I didn’t like - and I’m fully aware I’m gonna get so much hate for this - was the victimizing stance that Bianca took. She began a relationship with a married man, and continued said relationship, but once he left suddenly he’s a bad guy and she has 18382 excuses to justify her actions. There’s this one word people keep forgetting, it’s called accountability. So, no I don’t pity her, but I enjoyed seeing her come into her own - smarter and so much better!
The story touches on the beauty industry in a big way from dieting, not being skinny enough. (I’m so glad the beauty industry is starting to accept all body types, shapes, colors) Anyway, I did like seeing Bianca’s confidence in her abilities- not just her looks - soar and catapult her into a new level and mindset.
I have to admit I didn’t give this book my FULL attention because I read it during my testing week. I would’ve been more in tune if Obadiah’s sections were reduced. But, I still found it to be enjoyable and dripping with Caribbean flavor!!
1. This is one of the most gorgeous covers I’ve seen this year!
2. The narration!!! Oh em gee! The Caribbean accents were so delightful to my ears. I wish I could have the narrators call me up and say a few words every day!!
God of Good Looks was the one book I was able to get to for #readcaribbean month! And it was a good choice!
I love how the author gave a realistic view of Trinidad- the good (food, culture) and the bad (crime, politics). I loved hearing about the fashions and the daily operation of running a magazine. There she meets Obadiah, “the God of good looks” a.k.a. a MUA who has a keen eye and the right touch to give a stunning look!
What I didn’t like - and I’m fully aware I’m gonna get so much hate for this - was the victimizing stance that Bianca took. She began a relationship with a married man, and continued said relationship, but once he left suddenly he’s a bad guy and she has 18382 excuses to justify her actions. There’s this one word people keep forgetting, it’s called accountability. So, no I don’t pity her, but I enjoyed seeing her come into her own - smarter and so much better!
The story touches on the beauty industry in a big way from dieting, not being skinny enough. (I’m so glad the beauty industry is starting to accept all body types, shapes, colors) Anyway, I did like seeing Bianca’s confidence in her abilities- not just her looks - soar and catapult her into a new level and mindset.
I have to admit I didn’t give this book my FULL attention because I read it during my testing week. I would’ve been more in tune if Obadiah’s sections were reduced. But, I still found it to be enjoyable and dripping with Caribbean flavor!!
October 10, 2023
⚠️ Spoiler Alert ⚠️ This was almost a 5 star read for me. In order to explain why it wasn't, I have to give away a little bit of the ending. If you don't want to know, skip my notes on "What I didn't love"
The God Of Good Lucks takes us into the lives of Bianca Bridge and Obadiah Cortland. Bianca is an aspiring writer who seemingly has a lot going for her... a wealthy father and a privileged upbringing. But daddy doesn't believe in handouts so Bianca is left to struggle through life on her own. Throw in a public, salacious affair with a politician and she finds herself career-wise and socially as an outcast. Obadiah is an egotistical self-made entrepreneur who offers Bianca a job when nobody else would come close. As they learn more about the secrets each one holds, they are forced to fight back to preserve everything they've built.
What I loved...
📚 Mc Ivor's collection of short stories "Where There Are Monsters" was one of the first modern-day #ReadCaribbean books I indulged in and I loved it! This book delivers the same wonderful Caribbean flavour without ever being overwhelming. I love how this took me on a Trini road trip without ever having to leave my couch. As a Trinidadian, I relate to these characters. They're the people you already know as your boss, next door neighbour, your bestie or even in traces of yourself.
📚 This book was lightning fast. Once I started, I didn't want to put it down!
What I didn't love... ⚠️ Spoiler Alert ⚠️
.
.
.
.
.
📚 I was very conflicted with the references to crime and corruption. As a Trini, I sometimes don't want those things put out for the world to see because I think it overrides so much of the beauty and humanity that also exists. But as I kept reading, I started to embrace the authenticity that these references brought and ultimately I think a balance was struck. That authenticity was lost in the ending for me. Getting a perfect happy ending, all neatly packaged with a pretty bow on top wasn't real. This book had the potential to be a heart-breaking tearjerker instead of a princess-style happy ending.
If you liked this review and like Bookstagram accounts, I would love it if you choose to follow me on Instagram @breatheinbookstt
www.instagram.com/breatheinbookstt
The God Of Good Lucks takes us into the lives of Bianca Bridge and Obadiah Cortland. Bianca is an aspiring writer who seemingly has a lot going for her... a wealthy father and a privileged upbringing. But daddy doesn't believe in handouts so Bianca is left to struggle through life on her own. Throw in a public, salacious affair with a politician and she finds herself career-wise and socially as an outcast. Obadiah is an egotistical self-made entrepreneur who offers Bianca a job when nobody else would come close. As they learn more about the secrets each one holds, they are forced to fight back to preserve everything they've built.
What I loved...
📚 Mc Ivor's collection of short stories "Where There Are Monsters" was one of the first modern-day #ReadCaribbean books I indulged in and I loved it! This book delivers the same wonderful Caribbean flavour without ever being overwhelming. I love how this took me on a Trini road trip without ever having to leave my couch. As a Trinidadian, I relate to these characters. They're the people you already know as your boss, next door neighbour, your bestie or even in traces of yourself.
📚 This book was lightning fast. Once I started, I didn't want to put it down!
What I didn't love... ⚠️ Spoiler Alert ⚠️
.
.
.
.
.
📚 I was very conflicted with the references to crime and corruption. As a Trini, I sometimes don't want those things put out for the world to see because I think it overrides so much of the beauty and humanity that also exists. But as I kept reading, I started to embrace the authenticity that these references brought and ultimately I think a balance was struck. That authenticity was lost in the ending for me. Getting a perfect happy ending, all neatly packaged with a pretty bow on top wasn't real. This book had the potential to be a heart-breaking tearjerker instead of a princess-style happy ending.
If you liked this review and like Bookstagram accounts, I would love it if you choose to follow me on Instagram @breatheinbookstt
www.instagram.com/breatheinbookstt
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 9, 2024
It took a little while to get into the book, but once I was invested, it got good. I love a woman who comes out on top!
August 20, 2024
4.25/5 stars, listened as an audiobook. I absolutely LOVED the character arcs in this book. I also knew very little about Trinidad and Tobago before reading this, and I found this to be insightful into some of the politics/socio-economical state of the country.
May 17, 2023
Fun read!! Longer review at Satchel Notes newsletter
May 14, 2023
Short Review: The Devil Wears Prada meets Bridget Jones with a strong dash of raw humor and sobering reality. I think we all have a little bit of Bianca Bridge inside all of us ready to stand tall and shine.
"Sometimes you've got to let people see you. Even if it fucks things up."
Long Review: Trinidad model Bianca Bridge is a bit of a hot mess. After she's caught in an affair with a high ranking government official her fellow Trinidad neighbors don't look too kindly on her. She is slung through the mud by the press and blamed for the entire affair, but Bianca isn't ready to give up her dreams of becoming a writer just yet. In a ironic twist of fate (and some tea throwing) she takes a magazine editing job with the notoriously unforgiving and ruthlessly opinionated Obadiah Cortland. Obadiah and Bianca don't know it yet, but they have more in common than they think. Together they may just overcome their pride, overcome adversity, and dare to take off their own masks and shine. This book is a gem. Get it on your must read list.
"Sometimes you've got to let people see you. Even if it fucks things up."
Long Review: Trinidad model Bianca Bridge is a bit of a hot mess. After she's caught in an affair with a high ranking government official her fellow Trinidad neighbors don't look too kindly on her. She is slung through the mud by the press and blamed for the entire affair, but Bianca isn't ready to give up her dreams of becoming a writer just yet. In a ironic twist of fate (and some tea throwing) she takes a magazine editing job with the notoriously unforgiving and ruthlessly opinionated Obadiah Cortland. Obadiah and Bianca don't know it yet, but they have more in common than they think. Together they may just overcome their pride, overcome adversity, and dare to take off their own masks and shine. This book is a gem. Get it on your must read list.
May 8, 2023
Thank you to William Morrow Books (publisher) for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review
3.5. Content warning for disordered eating, food restriction and body image issues.
THE GOD OF GOOD LOOKS follows the story of Bianca Bridge, a Trinidadian woman who has become somewhat of a social pariah due to her affair with a prominent government minister. Bianca models to pay bills until she meets Obadiah Cortland, well-known makeup guru and she begins working for him.
What this novel does INCREDIBLY well if portray contemporary Trinidadian society. It captures the current socio-political climate in a way I have not seen before. The ugly parts are front and center and the entire story feels like it actually did happen. This is what the author does really well! I think the book really does a good job of illuminating various issues of Trinidad and Tobago, and nothing feels forced.
What didn't work for me so much was the romance in the book. I would have preferred that less, given how terrible Obadiah was to Bianca at the very start, especially his part of play in his body image issues?? I did resonate a little with our deep dive into why Obadiah had become so hardened and the bits on classism and discrimination based on neighbourhood were well-done, but overall I'm bored with women in literature who end up with the mean guy, idk.
Overall, a good debut and I would definitely read more of this author's books.
3.5. Content warning for disordered eating, food restriction and body image issues.
THE GOD OF GOOD LOOKS follows the story of Bianca Bridge, a Trinidadian woman who has become somewhat of a social pariah due to her affair with a prominent government minister. Bianca models to pay bills until she meets Obadiah Cortland, well-known makeup guru and she begins working for him.
What this novel does INCREDIBLY well if portray contemporary Trinidadian society. It captures the current socio-political climate in a way I have not seen before. The ugly parts are front and center and the entire story feels like it actually did happen. This is what the author does really well! I think the book really does a good job of illuminating various issues of Trinidad and Tobago, and nothing feels forced.
What didn't work for me so much was the romance in the book. I would have preferred that less, given how terrible Obadiah was to Bianca at the very start, especially his part of play in his body image issues?? I did resonate a little with our deep dive into why Obadiah had become so hardened and the bits on classism and discrimination based on neighbourhood were well-done, but overall I'm bored with women in literature who end up with the mean guy, idk.
Overall, a good debut and I would definitely read more of this author's books.
September 14, 2024
The God of Good Looks feels like life in the Caribbean and maybe even the world. A talented young lady - Bianca Bridge, with an amazing future comes upon a powerful man, in this case a minister, and before you know it, her life is ruined and de whole country is talking about her. Bianca has to figure out how to get out of this so when Obadiah Cortland, MUA (make up artist) offers her a chance to do what she loves, she takes it. What Bianca doesn’t know is that sometimes not everyone has your best interest at heart.
Obadiah has had to fight all his life for what he wants and when he sees “Daddy’s girl” Bianca struggling, he figured he’d make use of her talent and remind Bianca of how the country sees her. As these two work together they are both surprised at the life lived by the other person and what is possible for their future.
This one is living rent free in mind foreverrrrrr!!! I am so glad I listened to the audiobook and I would like to pause and recognise the amazing work of narrators Varia Willams and Alexis Rodney 👏🏾👏🏾
McIvor gave us an unforgettable story while packing it just right and full of issues faced by Caribbean people daily:
🥥 A minister doing little to nothing
🥥 A beautiful young lady with issues with her father
🥥 Loss of a mother
🥥 Horning/cheating
🥥 Hard times/poverty
🥥 Gossip/talk of the town
🥥 Insecurities
🥥 Scars from life
🥥 Life goals
I recommend you listen/read The God of Good Looks - it’s a story you will enjoy.
Obadiah has had to fight all his life for what he wants and when he sees “Daddy’s girl” Bianca struggling, he figured he’d make use of her talent and remind Bianca of how the country sees her. As these two work together they are both surprised at the life lived by the other person and what is possible for their future.
This one is living rent free in mind foreverrrrrr!!! I am so glad I listened to the audiobook and I would like to pause and recognise the amazing work of narrators Varia Willams and Alexis Rodney 👏🏾👏🏾
McIvor gave us an unforgettable story while packing it just right and full of issues faced by Caribbean people daily:
🥥 A minister doing little to nothing
🥥 A beautiful young lady with issues with her father
🥥 Loss of a mother
🥥 Horning/cheating
🥥 Hard times/poverty
🥥 Gossip/talk of the town
🥥 Insecurities
🥥 Scars from life
🥥 Life goals
I recommend you listen/read The God of Good Looks - it’s a story you will enjoy.
April 5, 2023
I grabbed an ARC of this book from Netgalley mostly based on two things, the stunning cover and the fact that it is set in Trinidad and Tobago, which I needed to complete a challenge prompt.
Coincidentally that ended up being allegorical to the story itself, which is a compelling narrative that explores public persecution, personal perception and the pursuit of perfection against a backdrop of poverty, politics and predatory patriarchal behaviors.
I've seen some people struggling to like the characters in this book because they're deeply flawed and even aggressively guarded, but for me that just further exemplifies the divide that the constant accessibility of social media and unrealistic societal standards has created.
I could definitely see this book landing on a lot of favorites lists for 2023. That said there are some potential triggers to consider before reading which I will list below.
TW: Disordered eating, bullying, body shaming, sl*t shaming, predatory relationships, depression, grief, parental loss, suggested violence
Coincidentally that ended up being allegorical to the story itself, which is a compelling narrative that explores public persecution, personal perception and the pursuit of perfection against a backdrop of poverty, politics and predatory patriarchal behaviors.
I've seen some people struggling to like the characters in this book because they're deeply flawed and even aggressively guarded, but for me that just further exemplifies the divide that the constant accessibility of social media and unrealistic societal standards has created.
I could definitely see this book landing on a lot of favorites lists for 2023. That said there are some potential triggers to consider before reading which I will list below.
TW: Disordered eating, bullying, body shaming, sl*t shaming, predatory relationships, depression, grief, parental loss, suggested violence
July 7, 2023
This week on anorexia, a cheating scandal and makeup.
We meet Bianca Bridge. The well known daughter of Dominic Chan Kit whose life is upended when she is caught in a cheating scandal with Government Minister Eric Hugo. It costs her, her career, her freelance gigs and her reputation as she knows it. But when she meets Obadiah Courtland, the owner of OC Beauty, makeup artist and legend in the beauty scene, her life takes a turn.
I can’t stop thinking about how refreshing this book was to read. I kept smiling as I turned each page, the banter between Obadiah and Bianca. Their povs and the realities of their lives had me engrossed in each character.
Breanne did a wonderful job when telling this story, especially with the different writing style when it came to Obadiah and Bianca’s thoughts. I loved that Bianca’s povs were journal entries and Obadiah’s were first person point of view. It really honed it on who the characters were as individuals.
Even her exploration of social class, anorexia, along with loneliness and wearing a mask made the book all the more interesting. Bianca mentions them all wearing a mask to please others and that stuck with me.
The authenticity of showing up as who you really are. Or the facade of showing up as who others expect you to be.
I devoured this book in some days and I’m utterly pleased with all of it.
We meet Bianca Bridge. The well known daughter of Dominic Chan Kit whose life is upended when she is caught in a cheating scandal with Government Minister Eric Hugo. It costs her, her career, her freelance gigs and her reputation as she knows it. But when she meets Obadiah Courtland, the owner of OC Beauty, makeup artist and legend in the beauty scene, her life takes a turn.
I can’t stop thinking about how refreshing this book was to read. I kept smiling as I turned each page, the banter between Obadiah and Bianca. Their povs and the realities of their lives had me engrossed in each character.
Breanne did a wonderful job when telling this story, especially with the different writing style when it came to Obadiah and Bianca’s thoughts. I loved that Bianca’s povs were journal entries and Obadiah’s were first person point of view. It really honed it on who the characters were as individuals.
Even her exploration of social class, anorexia, along with loneliness and wearing a mask made the book all the more interesting. Bianca mentions them all wearing a mask to please others and that stuck with me.
The authenticity of showing up as who you really are. Or the facade of showing up as who others expect you to be.
I devoured this book in some days and I’m utterly pleased with all of it.
June 13, 2023
After a huge scandal about her affair with a powerful man, Bianca Bridge seemingly loses everything - her job, her sense of self, her reputation. A series of events lead to her working for Obadiah Cortland at his beauty business, OC. In addition to make up artist services and classes and beauty products, OC publishes a not so impressive magazine, Extempo. Bianca is hired to produce the content for the magazine - and her skill is impressive. While working for Obadiah might not be an ideal experience, Bianca is very good at what she does and her success at OC and with Extempo changes the trajectory of her story. McIvor does an excellent job of blending some romance, some revenge, and some family drama with a healthy amount of social critique that gets you thinking. There is a lot in here about ideas of beauty as well as ideas about how we create the image we put out to the world. While I enjoyed the enemies to lovers trope for the romance side of things, it was the substance around how we perceive beauty and worth along with the discussion about how power impacts relationships that really stood out to me. I was cheering for Bianca from the beginning of the book, by the end I was cheering for Obadiah too.
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