Finishing Touches

Deanna Kizis
Warner Books (2006)
ISBN 044657808
Reviewed by Kelli Glesige for Reader Views (5/06)

“Finishing Touches” is the story of three young women and the friendship they share with each other. Cecile has always appeared to have it all; a tall and perfect body, movie star good looks, perfect clothes and plenty of money, plus she is engaged to marry Zach in just a few short weeks. Bryn is the complete opposite of Cecile and might be described as a pop star with her petite build, pale complexion and red lipstick, and she is married to David. Jesse is the narrator of the story and thinks of herself as the cheerleader of the group; always encouraging but feeling just a bit inferior to her friends. Jesse describes herself as the most overweight of the group and has no boyfriend to speak of. However, she did almost date Zach, Cecile’s fiancé, in college.

Relationships change when Cecile is killed in a car accident and Jesse must deal with the loss of her friend. Letting go is difficult. Zach, Jesse and Bryn comfort each other through this trying time, but what develops soon becomes even more confusing to Jesse. And what is more, Jesse no longer can talk things out with her remaining friend, Bryn. Jesse begins the difficult journey of trying to sort out her entangled feelings.

Along her soul searching path, Jesse is stunned to discover some information about Cecile. Could it be that Cecile was not as perfect as her friends were led to believe? Jesse comes to realize she has spent her entire life living in Cecile’s shadow. Jesse decides she must change to make Cecile proud of the confident woman she is becoming. By trade, Jesse is a decorator, so she takes a daring leap and uses an inheritance to purchase a furniture store. Through the twist of fate, Cecile’s death has taught Jesse to have confidence in herself.

“Finishing Touches” will show you that things may not always be as they appear to be. Jesse’s realizations are inspiring. We all grow and change, but change can be good. Jesse ultimately reunites with her best friend, Bryn, especially now when Bryn has some surprises of her own!

Deanna Kizis writes an entertaining novel for those who favor chick lit. The book is easy to read and understand, and it may help females to learn a thing or two about themselves! “Finishing Touches” would be an ideal book to have on hand to read while sitting around the pool this summer!

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