Smart vs. Pretty

Most people including the siblings would agree that thirty-three year old Francesca "Frank" Greenfield was the smart one and twenty-nine year old Amanda was the pretty one. The two sisters went their separate ways until last year when they inherited the family café, Barney Greenfield's, in Brooklyn Heights. However, instead of the success they expected, the business is in deep trouble from the opening of Moonburst, a franchised coffee shop, just up the block form the sisters' establishment. Twenty-three year old marketing major Clarissa O'MacFlanahagan enters the café She talks with the sister about them needing a pull, a marketing strategy that would bring repeat customers to Barney Greenfield's. Desperate for any help, Frank and Amanda agree to allow Clarissa to develop and implement a marketing plan. If they knew when they started how many things were going to spin out of control, both the smart one and the pretty one probably would have chosen to shut the doors to Barney Greenfield's coffeehouse permanently. Though an extremely humorous romantic romp, SMART AND PRETTY also contains a serious undertone as the Pygmalion Affect caused by their family over the years not only stereotypes Frank and Amanda, but has them living up to those expectations. The story line is entertaining and the craziness adds to the overall fun. The three lead female charcaters are all different yet feel genuine, especially together. The support cast adds romance, competition, and a feel for Brooklyn Heights. Valerie Frankel shows a deft touch that provides much pleasure to sub-genre fans.Harriet Klausner

this is one funny, funny book. The two sisters have to battle the evil coffee bar next door, deal with their old sibling issues, and still manage to find time to solve a murder and get dates. Great read, couldn't put it down.

i loved this book from the first page to the last. I couldn't stop reading, even when I wanted to. i stayed up all night, was a zombie all day at work, but it was worth it. i can see this as a movie, easily. a must buy

This is a high octane, caffiene-overdose exciting page turner! It really speaks to our generation. I loved the developing relationship between the sisters. They were very 'alive' and reminded me of my family.

Pick it up, and you won't put it down (unless you get a craving for a cup o' coffee) until you've seen these 2 sisters through their business, love life-- and even wardrobe issues. A great read, with Frankel providing witty dialog and creating 2 sisters that although different in many ways, end up grabbing your interest and attention equally in their own way--she even throws a mystery in there to boot! It all comes together better than any Breakfast Blend Starbucks can serve up!