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That's What Frenemies Are For
A Manhattan socialite turns her spin instructor into a fitness superstar to impress her friends. But can she keep her little project under control? Or has she created a monster?
Julia Summers seems to have it all: a Fifth Avenue apartment, a successful husband, and two adorable children attending the best private school in the city. She relishes wielding influence over her well-heeled girlfriends . . . but her star appears to be fading. That's why, when stranded in Manhattan for the summer as the entire Upper East Side flees to the Hamptons, Julia is on the hunt for the next big thing--the hot, new fad that will put her back on top.
Enter Flame, the new elite fitness craze. Seductive and transformative, Flame is exactly what Julia needs--and demure, naïve instructor Tatum is her ticket in. Turning Tatum from giggly blonde to trendy guru proves hard work. Yet Julia's triumphant comeback at summer's end doesn't quite go as planned, and when things suddenly get ugly--and even deadly--she realizes she may have been in way over her head. And Tatum, waiting in the wings, begins to grasp just how much power her newfound stardom holds . . .
Then, with Julia's life already spiraling out of control, her husband is arrested for fraud and bribery. As her so-called friends turn their backs on her, and Tatum pursues her own agenda, Julia is forced to rethink everything she knew about her world to reclaim her perfect life.
But does she even want it back?
Julia Summers seems to have it all: a Fifth Avenue apartment, a successful husband, and two adorable children attending the best private school in the city. She relishes wielding influence over her well-heeled girlfriends . . . but her star appears to be fading. That's why, when stranded in Manhattan for the summer as the entire Upper East Side flees to the Hamptons, Julia is on the hunt for the next big thing--the hot, new fad that will put her back on top.
Enter Flame, the new elite fitness craze. Seductive and transformative, Flame is exactly what Julia needs--and demure, naïve instructor Tatum is her ticket in. Turning Tatum from giggly blonde to trendy guru proves hard work. Yet Julia's triumphant comeback at summer's end doesn't quite go as planned, and when things suddenly get ugly--and even deadly--she realizes she may have been in way over her head. And Tatum, waiting in the wings, begins to grasp just how much power her newfound stardom holds . . .
Then, with Julia's life already spiraling out of control, her husband is arrested for fraud and bribery. As her so-called friends turn their backs on her, and Tatum pursues her own agenda, Julia is forced to rethink everything she knew about her world to reclaim her perfect life.
But does she even want it back?
320 pages, Hardcover
First published July 30, 2019
254 people are currently reading
7,524 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Littlefield
41books795followersCalled a “writing machine� by the New York Times and a “master storyteller� by the Midwest Book Review, Sophie Littlefield has written dozens of novels for adults and teens. She has won Anthony and RT Book Awards and been shortlisted for Edgar, Barry, Crimespree, Macavity, and ŷ Choice Awards.
Sophie also writes under the pen name Sofia Grant.
Sophie also writes under the pen name Sofia Grant.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 416 reviews
July 30, 2019
That’s What Frenemies Are For is an escape and a delight! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Julia Summers is living the life. A Manhattan apartment, a doting, hard-working husband, and cute kids in tow. She’s also used to being top dog with her group of friends, but that may be in flux�
While all her friends are in the Hamptons for the summer, Julia is stuck in the city, and with that, she knows she has to take action.
Flame. It’s the biggest fitness craze to hit the social scene in NYC. Tatum is a shy instructor there, and Julia makes it her goal to transform Tatum into a superstar.
Things begin to fall apart fast for Julia. Her husband is arrested for white collar crimes, her friends have moved on, and Tatum is moving on, too.
That What Frenemies Are For is a clever romp of a read. I loved the snarky, witty banter, and hello, as a spin obsessed person, I loved that the fitness craze was spin-related!
Overall, That’s What Frenemies Are For is an entertaining book just perfect for those beach bags or your suitcase as you head on vacation. It’s well-written, sassy, fun, and completely absorbing!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog:
Julia Summers is living the life. A Manhattan apartment, a doting, hard-working husband, and cute kids in tow. She’s also used to being top dog with her group of friends, but that may be in flux�
While all her friends are in the Hamptons for the summer, Julia is stuck in the city, and with that, she knows she has to take action.
Flame. It’s the biggest fitness craze to hit the social scene in NYC. Tatum is a shy instructor there, and Julia makes it her goal to transform Tatum into a superstar.
Things begin to fall apart fast for Julia. Her husband is arrested for white collar crimes, her friends have moved on, and Tatum is moving on, too.
That What Frenemies Are For is a clever romp of a read. I loved the snarky, witty banter, and hello, as a spin obsessed person, I loved that the fitness craze was spin-related!
Overall, That’s What Frenemies Are For is an entertaining book just perfect for those beach bags or your suitcase as you head on vacation. It’s well-written, sassy, fun, and completely absorbing!
I received a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
My reviews can also be found on my blog:
May 23, 2020
Many thanks to Ballantine for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review
”In this crowd, it was as bad as suggesting I had joined a satanic cult of molested the captain of the varsity tennis team. Being broke was an unforgivable sin.�
One could describe this book as Where’d You Go Bernadette meets Crazy Rich Asians dunked in Big Little Lies but they’d be wrong. This book wholly and refreshingly original and though it does have many memorable and enjoyable aspects from the aforementioned novels, it is its own unique book.
So, what’s this book about?
Julia Summers, her husband James, and three kids all live comfortably in a large home. James works a high end job, the kids go to an expensive private school and Julia is able to splurge on almost anything she wants. But lately, Julia has been feeling like something is lacking. Her life just seems boring. Until Tatum, that is. Tatum is a new employee at a gym. She is good looking but doesn’t really know what to do with her looks or charm. Julia swoops in and takes Tatum under her wing to show her the way to be fabulous and successful. But Tatum rises much faster than Julia expected and suddenly she’s beyond Julia. Things get worse, though. After a dangerous experience with drugs at a bar, Julia starts to wonder if Tatum Jones was more than she bargained for.
I know that some people have this marked as humor/comedy and ŷ marked it as Chick Lit so I went into this expecting laughs and giggles. Ya’ll, this book ain’t funny. I mean there are funny parts but overall, this book was so serious and dark but in a thrilling and engaging way. If I had to group this book into only one genre, I would call this a thriller. That said, there were quite a few charming and funny scenes. Littlefield and Gershell expertly blended the darkness with drops of light, AKA humor and love.
Finally, I just want to talk about the redemptive themes but I have to start with the redemptive themes first. Let me just say that Julia is the perfect example of white privilege. At least she realizes it and (tries) to be grateful for it. I really loved the theme of family and the lengths one will go for love. This theme specifically reminded me a lot of Never Have I Ever.
Overall, this was kind of funny but mainly scary, ensnaring and exciting. I recommend this for thriller fans and humor fans alike!
Bottom Line:
4.5 Stars
Age Rating: [ R ]
Content Screening (Spoilers) - Educational Value (0/5) - [NONE] ~ Positive Messages (4/5) - [Family, love, endurance] ~ Violence (3/5) - [Vomiting, seizures, injury] ~ Language (4/5) - [F**k, sh*t, d*mn, b*tch] ~ Sex (3/5) - [Briefly described sex scene, Kissing] ~ Drinking/Drugs (5/5) - [Alcohol consumption (legal and illegal), child accidentally injest drugs, rape drugs, sex drugs]
Tigger and Content Warning - Rape, sexual abuse, child drug injestion, seizures, injury
Reps: [Absolutely NONE]
Cover: 5/5 ~ Plot: 4/5 ~ Characters: 4/5 ~ Audio: 4/5
Publication Date: July 30th, 2019
Publisher: Ballantine Book
Genre: Thriller/Humor
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this was so f**king brilliant
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this was literally one of the first ARCs I ever requested (requested back in May of 2018) and now i have it.... life is bananas 🍌
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May 9, 2019
All the laugh-out-loud, snarky, fun stars to That’s What Frenemies are For!
Being a self-professed SoulCycle freak (there’s just no other way to describe it), when I heard a book was coming out centered around New York City boutique fitness (namely, spin), I knew I had to get my hands on this! When Upper East Side mom Julia decides to make a “project� out of spin instructor Tatum, what could go wrong? Well, a lot.
Throw Frenemies in your beach bag this summer because it is the perfect summer read - if you loved When Life Gives You Lululemons, then Frenemies will be right up your alley! You do not need to be a spin fan yourself to enjoy this book, just a sense of humor and an appreciation for sharp writing!
Thank you Random House Ballantine for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Being a self-professed SoulCycle freak (there’s just no other way to describe it), when I heard a book was coming out centered around New York City boutique fitness (namely, spin), I knew I had to get my hands on this! When Upper East Side mom Julia decides to make a “project� out of spin instructor Tatum, what could go wrong? Well, a lot.
Throw Frenemies in your beach bag this summer because it is the perfect summer read - if you loved When Life Gives You Lululemons, then Frenemies will be right up your alley! You do not need to be a spin fan yourself to enjoy this book, just a sense of humor and an appreciation for sharp writing!
Thank you Random House Ballantine for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
August 8, 2019
This is the perfect title for this book! A story of women that know what they want. They wanted it all. Not only the physical possessions and the Manhattan lifestyle, with the summer in the Hamptons. They also wanted the power over their group of friends.
The main focus is on Julia Summers who is really hungry to be the center of attention with her Upper East Side mommy friends. I thought it was a fun, crazy read at the beginning. The author managed to capture the "mean girl" attitude, that let's face it, is more common than not for girls/women. It brought to question, do they (us) really outgrow it? Or if placed into the right environment, may it resurface?
I really enjoyed this book all the way until the end. I did rate it 3.5 stars due to the ending got a little heavy for me. I would hate to spoil it for anyone so I will leave it at that. I was looking for a little more of the witty, snarky writing that I enjoyed so much at the first half of the book. That being said, I am glad I read this entertaining book and would definitely grab up anything this author puts out next!
The main focus is on Julia Summers who is really hungry to be the center of attention with her Upper East Side mommy friends. I thought it was a fun, crazy read at the beginning. The author managed to capture the "mean girl" attitude, that let's face it, is more common than not for girls/women. It brought to question, do they (us) really outgrow it? Or if placed into the right environment, may it resurface?
I really enjoyed this book all the way until the end. I did rate it 3.5 stars due to the ending got a little heavy for me. I would hate to spoil it for anyone so I will leave it at that. I was looking for a little more of the witty, snarky writing that I enjoyed so much at the first half of the book. That being said, I am glad I read this entertaining book and would definitely grab up anything this author puts out next!
October 14, 2019
3.5 stars...rounded up!
If you need a LOL story then this one is for you!
Julia has a really nice and rich life, literally. She lives in super nice apartment on fifth avenue and her kids attend one of the best schools. She typically summers at her Hampton's house like the rest of the parents however this year her house won't be ready and she has to stay back in the city. She comes across this spin studio - Flame and her life is forever changed. She feels better than ever and even gains a friend, her instructor Tatum. She and Tatum team up so Julia can get credit and Tatum can get more clients.
Everything is going great until one day Julia realizes that Tatum may have taken advantage of Julia's wealth. Not only that but things in Julia's personal life start to unravel as well: her husband is doing some shady business and her friends turn their backs on her. How can she possibly get out of this mess?
This book was what I needed at the time that I read it. I needed something light that would make me laugh out loud. The true ridiculousness of some of the women in this story were over the top but it made the story that more entertaining. I think there were some times when I would get slightly annoyed by their exaggerated actions but since I knew it was a light rom-com I took it for what it is.
If you are looking for something fun then definitely read this. If you live in New York or any major city you may even get more of a kick out of this one.
If you need a LOL story then this one is for you!
Julia has a really nice and rich life, literally. She lives in super nice apartment on fifth avenue and her kids attend one of the best schools. She typically summers at her Hampton's house like the rest of the parents however this year her house won't be ready and she has to stay back in the city. She comes across this spin studio - Flame and her life is forever changed. She feels better than ever and even gains a friend, her instructor Tatum. She and Tatum team up so Julia can get credit and Tatum can get more clients.
Everything is going great until one day Julia realizes that Tatum may have taken advantage of Julia's wealth. Not only that but things in Julia's personal life start to unravel as well: her husband is doing some shady business and her friends turn their backs on her. How can she possibly get out of this mess?
This book was what I needed at the time that I read it. I needed something light that would make me laugh out loud. The true ridiculousness of some of the women in this story were over the top but it made the story that more entertaining. I think there were some times when I would get slightly annoyed by their exaggerated actions but since I knew it was a light rom-com I took it for what it is.
If you are looking for something fun then definitely read this. If you live in New York or any major city you may even get more of a kick out of this one.
August 19, 2019
This was the perfect break from reading all the heavy mystery/thriller novels that I needed! That's What Frenemies Are For is definitely the grown up version of "Mean Girls"... and I loved every minute of it!
Julia Summers has it all: a successful husband, 2 adorable kids who attend the best private school in the city, and a beautiful Fifth Avenue apartment. Julia is an influencer... but her star appears to be fading. Now Julia is on the hunt for the next big thing - the hot, new fad that will put her back on top.
Flame is the new elite fitness craze. Flame is what Julia needs - and Tatum, the naive instructor is her ticket in. But, Julia's big comeback doesn't quite go as planned, and things suddenly get ugly - and quite possibly deadly - Julia just may be in way over her head. Tatum is waiting in the wings for Julia's power to fold - just how much power will Tatum's newfound power hold? Will Julia be forced to rethink everything she knew about her world to reclaim her perfect life - or does she even want it back?
This is a solid well-written read that is "unputdownable". How could you go wrong with the Upper East Side drama. The perfect guilty pleasure read!
*Many thanks to NetGalley & Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
Julia Summers has it all: a successful husband, 2 adorable kids who attend the best private school in the city, and a beautiful Fifth Avenue apartment. Julia is an influencer... but her star appears to be fading. Now Julia is on the hunt for the next big thing - the hot, new fad that will put her back on top.
Flame is the new elite fitness craze. Flame is what Julia needs - and Tatum, the naive instructor is her ticket in. But, Julia's big comeback doesn't quite go as planned, and things suddenly get ugly - and quite possibly deadly - Julia just may be in way over her head. Tatum is waiting in the wings for Julia's power to fold - just how much power will Tatum's newfound power hold? Will Julia be forced to rethink everything she knew about her world to reclaim her perfect life - or does she even want it back?
This is a solid well-written read that is "unputdownable". How could you go wrong with the Upper East Side drama. The perfect guilty pleasure read!
*Many thanks to NetGalley & Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for the ARC, all opinions are my own.
March 30, 2019
I was lucky to blurb this hilarious read. Pitched as a mix of PRIMATES OF PARK AVENUE and WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LULULEMONS, this certainly delivered. Here's what I wrote:
Littlefield and Gershell have hatched a witty, wise romp through the lives of the status-seeking parents and would-be influencers of Manhattan’s upper echelons. With a delicious plot and a surprisingly winsome heroine, FRENEMIES is a smart, escapist read.
Littlefield and Gershell have hatched a witty, wise romp through the lives of the status-seeking parents and would-be influencers of Manhattan’s upper echelons. With a delicious plot and a surprisingly winsome heroine, FRENEMIES is a smart, escapist read.
May 7, 2019
I had so much fun reading this book, which follows Manhattan socialite Julia as she desperately tries to hold on to her status in the cutthroat world of private school moms and gala attendees. When Julia meets Tatum, a spin instructor at a burgeoning gym, she takes her under her wing as her new pet project, thinking that if she can turn Tatum into the Next Hottest Thing, she will impress her friends and continue to climb the social ladder as the one who discovered Tatum. But soon, this Pygmalion plan goes awry as Tatum reveals that she has plans of her own, which might just leave Julia in the dust. This was an addictive read. Even though I found myself feeling very annoyed at all the privileged, self-absorbed women with which Julia surrounds herself (and not to mention Julia herself!), it was SO FUN to indulge in that annoyance, to get to roll my eyes at their actions (and, yes, judge them a little), all while Lauren Gershell and Sophie Littlefield expertly and cleverly explore just how toxic the high society world can be. People often talk about unlikeable characters (and particularly unlikeable female characters) as a flaw in books, but I LOVED reading about these unlikeable characters, particularly because the authors do such a wonderful job humanizing our narrator and helping us see the pressure and expectations that can lead one down such a self-serving, manipulative path. Who is the real monster here—the woman who’s using another to gain social capital, or the society that taught her that social capital is the value by which a woman’s worth should be measured? With witty, smart, and engaging prose, and dialogue that sizzles with all that ISN’T said, THAT’S WHAT FRENEMIES ARE FOR is one of the most fun reads I’ve come across this year.
August 15, 2019
I'm between 3.5 and 4 stars, so I rounded up.
Julia Summers is struggling to stay at the apex of her social circle. Even with all of the trappings of luxury she has, from the exceptionally decorated apartment on the Upper East Side to the children in an exclusive private school, she often feels a tiny bit insecure about her social position, so she's always looking for an opportunity to stand out.
Through the years she's been successful, being on the cutting edge of trends she introduces to her friends, or maneuvering to get on certain committees or attend certain events. (Plus, she's not above a cutting insult or two to keep others down.)
This summer she's hit a bit of a rough patch. Their house in the Hamptons needs to be completely renovated so she's stranded in New York City, which means she won't get to attend the parties or be part of the gossip. Plus, her husband's business is in a bit of trouble, which makes them the object of gossip, not the instigators.
But when she meets Tatum, a spin instructor at an up-and-coming boutique gym in her neighborhood, Julia thinks she may have found her next project. Tatum is a small-town girl who moved to New York with big dreams that haven't been realized, and she's desperate to succeed.
Julia realizes that with a makeover, some self-confidence, and some tweaks to her brand, Tatum could reinvent herself and become the type of fitness guru Julia's friends would clamor to patronize. And Julia would get the credit for being the one to bring Tatum to everyone's attention, thus cementing her status as a trendsetter. Plus, Julia can get herself into top shape while everyone's away for the summer. Sounds like a win-win proposition.
Things don't quite go as planned, however. As Julia helps to transform Tatum, she doesn't realize just how rabidly ambitious Tatum is, and how much she desires the kind of life Julia has. She's also unprepared for just how much trouble her husband's business—and her husband himself—may be in, because he doesn't want to discuss it with her.
When Tatum starts shifting the balance of power between her and Julia, she realizes she has what it takes to go even further, and she doesn't care if she leaves Julia in the dust, and she's willing to put her there herself. And when Julia's husband is arrested for fraud and bribery, she suddenly finds herself on the outside looking in, with many of her so-called friends abandoning her.
As Julia tries to readjust her life and cope with her husband's problems and Tatum's agenda, she has to decide whether she wants everything to go back to the way it was, or whether it's time for a bit of a change. Whatever she decides, she's certainly not one to fade away!
That's What Frenemies Are For is a fun, light read, and provides some terrific social commentary. I felt as if Sophie Littlefield and Lauren Gershell did a great job capturing social dynamics of women in certain circles, how precarious your position can be, and how much it depends on what you can offer, whom you know, or what you have. Additionally, having been addicted to spin before I became allergic to the gym (kidding), they really described that culture so perfectly.
I was expecting this to be a little funnier than it was, but I still enjoyed this book. This is the perfect late-summer beach or vacation read—maybe you'll realize that your life is pretty great the way it is, or maybe you'll recognize your social circle in the book. (I don't judge.)
See all of my reviews at .
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2018 at .
You can follow me on Instagram at
Julia Summers is struggling to stay at the apex of her social circle. Even with all of the trappings of luxury she has, from the exceptionally decorated apartment on the Upper East Side to the children in an exclusive private school, she often feels a tiny bit insecure about her social position, so she's always looking for an opportunity to stand out.
Through the years she's been successful, being on the cutting edge of trends she introduces to her friends, or maneuvering to get on certain committees or attend certain events. (Plus, she's not above a cutting insult or two to keep others down.)
This summer she's hit a bit of a rough patch. Their house in the Hamptons needs to be completely renovated so she's stranded in New York City, which means she won't get to attend the parties or be part of the gossip. Plus, her husband's business is in a bit of trouble, which makes them the object of gossip, not the instigators.
But when she meets Tatum, a spin instructor at an up-and-coming boutique gym in her neighborhood, Julia thinks she may have found her next project. Tatum is a small-town girl who moved to New York with big dreams that haven't been realized, and she's desperate to succeed.
Julia realizes that with a makeover, some self-confidence, and some tweaks to her brand, Tatum could reinvent herself and become the type of fitness guru Julia's friends would clamor to patronize. And Julia would get the credit for being the one to bring Tatum to everyone's attention, thus cementing her status as a trendsetter. Plus, Julia can get herself into top shape while everyone's away for the summer. Sounds like a win-win proposition.
Things don't quite go as planned, however. As Julia helps to transform Tatum, she doesn't realize just how rabidly ambitious Tatum is, and how much she desires the kind of life Julia has. She's also unprepared for just how much trouble her husband's business—and her husband himself—may be in, because he doesn't want to discuss it with her.
When Tatum starts shifting the balance of power between her and Julia, she realizes she has what it takes to go even further, and she doesn't care if she leaves Julia in the dust, and she's willing to put her there herself. And when Julia's husband is arrested for fraud and bribery, she suddenly finds herself on the outside looking in, with many of her so-called friends abandoning her.
As Julia tries to readjust her life and cope with her husband's problems and Tatum's agenda, she has to decide whether she wants everything to go back to the way it was, or whether it's time for a bit of a change. Whatever she decides, she's certainly not one to fade away!
That's What Frenemies Are For is a fun, light read, and provides some terrific social commentary. I felt as if Sophie Littlefield and Lauren Gershell did a great job capturing social dynamics of women in certain circles, how precarious your position can be, and how much it depends on what you can offer, whom you know, or what you have. Additionally, having been addicted to spin before I became allergic to the gym (kidding), they really described that culture so perfectly.
I was expecting this to be a little funnier than it was, but I still enjoyed this book. This is the perfect late-summer beach or vacation read—maybe you'll realize that your life is pretty great the way it is, or maybe you'll recognize your social circle in the book. (I don't judge.)
See all of my reviews at .
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2018 at .
You can follow me on Instagram at
August 4, 2019
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I'm so glad I finished this book as the first half felt a bit slow and by the halfway mark, I didn't care for any of the characters, however, the pace of the story elevated in the second half and you quickly understood the intent of the author's storytelling.
Julia has a good life, she lives well, has important friends, and has a loving husband and family. She is envied in her social circle. However, she is sensing that her grip on her status is slipping due to some unexpected circumstances and she needs a plan......fast.....to regain her footing. She recognizes an opportunity that will propel her profile but later realizes that her own strategy has been used on her. Her life is upended and she comes to understand who her real friends are and while the truth is painful, she discovers a strength in herself that she did not know she had.
This story is a mash-up between The Housewives of New York and All About Eve. Towards the end of the story, I really appreciated the journey that Julia went through and how she succumbed to the challenges she had to face. You were rooting for her to get there and the Epilogue tied up the story with a nice bow.
I'm so glad I finished this book as the first half felt a bit slow and by the halfway mark, I didn't care for any of the characters, however, the pace of the story elevated in the second half and you quickly understood the intent of the author's storytelling.
Julia has a good life, she lives well, has important friends, and has a loving husband and family. She is envied in her social circle. However, she is sensing that her grip on her status is slipping due to some unexpected circumstances and she needs a plan......fast.....to regain her footing. She recognizes an opportunity that will propel her profile but later realizes that her own strategy has been used on her. Her life is upended and she comes to understand who her real friends are and while the truth is painful, she discovers a strength in herself that she did not know she had.
This story is a mash-up between The Housewives of New York and All About Eve. Towards the end of the story, I really appreciated the journey that Julia went through and how she succumbed to the challenges she had to face. You were rooting for her to get there and the Epilogue tied up the story with a nice bow.
May 8, 2019
I read this book in one night and I NEVER do that. With delicious twists and bendy turns, I enjoyed the shear fun of it. I happen to love satire on uppity people with status issues and this story slices pretense with surgical precision!
I am grateful to the publisher for receiving a copy of the ARC.
I am grateful to the publisher for receiving a copy of the ARC.
January 2, 2020
Fun, frothy, entertaining, and exhausting. This was an over the top Book about mean girls all grown up and there need to keep up with the Joneses. Julia’s life was seriously exhausting, can’t even imagine trying to keep up an appearance of living a perfect life at all times. When she is unable to summer in the Hamptons with everybody else she needs to come up with a new plan. She decides to hit up Flame the new fitness hotspot where she befriends a new spin instructor Tatum. I have worked in the fitness industry most of my life and I found this part hilarious. When her “friends� return home after the summer Julia is certain that she is now the top dog introducing her friends to this new fitness craze. But then the backstabbing and sh*t talking begins. A lot of this book made me cringe, I just cannot believe how cruel these women were to one another. The constant jockeying for position of power was draining and despicable! It is so unfortunate that there is so much truth in this, women should spend more time building each other up rather than trying to tear one another down. Although I have to think there were some lessons learned during the course of this book. What a wild ride with a somewhat satisfying ending.
This book in emojis 💳 🚴🏻♀� 💅🏻 🗡
*** Big thanks to Random House for my gifted copy of this book ***
This book in emojis 💳 🚴🏻♀� 💅🏻 🗡
*** Big thanks to Random House for my gifted copy of this book ***
May 24, 2019
I had a love/hate relationship with this book; which is to say I HATED that I LOVED it! My favorite line "if people gossip to you, they will gossip about you" we all know is true. That being said, it's ironic that I found myself judging protagonist Julia as she is a socialite in the "inner circle" whose life revolves around judging others. So when the new boutique gym, Flame opens and she meets Tatum, the young impressionable spin instructor, she sees an opportunity for herself: mold the girl in her own image and build the clientele. Of course her goal is selfish; SHE will gain the accolades as all of her friends will lavish praise on her for being the first to discover the newest thing in town. This is a little like Mean Girls on steroids; you will laugh, you will cringe, you will judge (for really none of these characters is likable). But that's the point and Littlefield and Gershell nailed it. For of course Julia's plan backfires and some very tragic and some humorous events ensue. You don't have to like the characters to like this book; just make sure you don't become them! A great summer read! Out the end of July.
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
Thanks to NetGalley for this ARC!
July 29, 2019
I. Am. Obsessed. With. This. Book!! I read this almost two weeks ago and have been struggling ever since to write a review because I loved it so much and I always struggle writing reviews when I adored a book. (Is that weird?) I really just wanna say read this one because it was a hilarious page turner and leave it at that. Buy the damn book y’all! But I’ll give you a little more than that.
Most of us are knee deep in looking for the next great summer read to take on vacation and while I’ve recommended quite a few already this summer, go ahead and put this one at the top of your list. It’s the ultimate beach read with bite, mainly because it’s full of razor sharp writing and cutting wit, you’ve never seen drama like Upper East Side drama and these women came to play. Admittedly I hated most of them because they’re awful and gossipy and incredibly catty but I could not stop reading about them either. Julia was the clear favorite for me and she underwent a surprising amount of growth by the end so despite the light and fluffy appearance, there is also some depth too.
If you’re a fan of books like When Life Gives You Lululemons or shows like Gossip Girl you will love this one! Highly recommended by me, it was so fun and even has some surprising twists and turns that I wasn’t expecting.
That’s What Frenemies Are For in three words: Snarky, Funny and Sharp
Most of us are knee deep in looking for the next great summer read to take on vacation and while I’ve recommended quite a few already this summer, go ahead and put this one at the top of your list. It’s the ultimate beach read with bite, mainly because it’s full of razor sharp writing and cutting wit, you’ve never seen drama like Upper East Side drama and these women came to play. Admittedly I hated most of them because they’re awful and gossipy and incredibly catty but I could not stop reading about them either. Julia was the clear favorite for me and she underwent a surprising amount of growth by the end so despite the light and fluffy appearance, there is also some depth too.
If you’re a fan of books like When Life Gives You Lululemons or shows like Gossip Girl you will love this one! Highly recommended by me, it was so fun and even has some surprising twists and turns that I wasn’t expecting.
That’s What Frenemies Are For in three words: Snarky, Funny and Sharp
April 25, 2019
This book is definitely a page turner. A Manhattan socialite takes a seemingly poor girl under her wing. She buys her clothes and helps her advance her career.
There were definitely twists to this story. I absolutely loved the characters and the development the plot took.
There were definitely twists to this story. I absolutely loved the characters and the development the plot took.
August 14, 2019
Julia Summers is a super wealthy mom of two who, with her gorgeous husband who adores her live on the Upper East Side where Julia's motto is the more it costs the better!
Her lifestyle and status make her the envy of the mom's who are beneath her at the very private school her children attend. She can choose to speak to you while other's look on enviously, or she can blow you off...her choice. She is A list and her friends at the school are all A list as well. She is invited to only the premiere events and fundraisers. She has a nanny/housekeeper for the family. Julia lives in a perfect bubble of a world.
But when their Hampton home floods just prior to the summer season and they have to stay in "the city", Julia decides to take on a project. Tatum, who is a mousy, shy spin instructor at Flame, an unknown small gym, intrigues her. She decides to remake her. Sort of as her protégé.
But the naïve protégé may not be exactly who she seems. Soon, Julia finds most of her "cool" friends fawning all over Tatum. Then they begin to distance themselves from her and she sees her status begin to go from A to B to... what is happening? Then Julia's husband is arrested and jailed. Julia is not only ostracized from her group, but she is being replaced by women who were much lower on her grade level. And now her husband is in the news...and not in a good way!
But as in most cases when you hit rock bottom, you begin to realize just who your real friends are, some who you never thought would ever give YOU the time of day. You also begin to see what is really important in your life and the lives of your family. Your priorities begin to change...but you still must watch out for your frenemies.
This was a funny hard to read novel. By that I mean as the reader, you see Julia's mistakes coming and all you want to do is tell her to stop! But you can't, and all you can do is let her make the mistakes...and she does! Then you hope she will learn...
Thank you #NetGalley #BallentineBooks #That'sWhatFrenemiesAreFor #SophieLittlefield #LaurenGershell for the advanced copy.
Her lifestyle and status make her the envy of the mom's who are beneath her at the very private school her children attend. She can choose to speak to you while other's look on enviously, or she can blow you off...her choice. She is A list and her friends at the school are all A list as well. She is invited to only the premiere events and fundraisers. She has a nanny/housekeeper for the family. Julia lives in a perfect bubble of a world.
But when their Hampton home floods just prior to the summer season and they have to stay in "the city", Julia decides to take on a project. Tatum, who is a mousy, shy spin instructor at Flame, an unknown small gym, intrigues her. She decides to remake her. Sort of as her protégé.
But the naïve protégé may not be exactly who she seems. Soon, Julia finds most of her "cool" friends fawning all over Tatum. Then they begin to distance themselves from her and she sees her status begin to go from A to B to... what is happening? Then Julia's husband is arrested and jailed. Julia is not only ostracized from her group, but she is being replaced by women who were much lower on her grade level. And now her husband is in the news...and not in a good way!
But as in most cases when you hit rock bottom, you begin to realize just who your real friends are, some who you never thought would ever give YOU the time of day. You also begin to see what is really important in your life and the lives of your family. Your priorities begin to change...but you still must watch out for your frenemies.
This was a funny hard to read novel. By that I mean as the reader, you see Julia's mistakes coming and all you want to do is tell her to stop! But you can't, and all you can do is let her make the mistakes...and she does! Then you hope she will learn...
Thank you #NetGalley #BallentineBooks #That'sWhatFrenemiesAreFor #SophieLittlefield #LaurenGershell for the advanced copy.
November 8, 2019
I enjoyed this novel written by two co-authors. I picked this book up because I love books about New York City and especially about denizens of the Upper East Side. This book gave another interesting glimpse into the lives of people for whom money isn't an issue, but battling family problems and maintaining social status are a constant struggle.
Julie, whose privileged life basically revolves around a mothers clique at an elite elementary school (kindergarten tuition costs as much as a year at Princeton), is worried about losing her position as one of the top ladies who lunch, drink wine and go to the gym because her house in the Hamptons was ruined in a plumbing disaster forcing her to "summer" in the city. She spends the summer figuring out a way to deal with all her First World problems and bolster her UES reputation.
She does this by conducting a Pygmalion/Eliza Doolittle transformation - trying to turn a midwestern spin class teacher with rough edges into someone who will be accepted by her clique, thus cementing her rep as an "influencer." That, and losing weight (even if she was never "fat")
Of course things go wrong - Julie deals with gossip, backstabbing and an embarrassing scandal involving her husband. And of course, there's a "happy-ever-after" ending.
This was an interesting read even if there were a lot of clichéd themes. But my friend says the UES of NYC is one big cliché anyway!
Julie, whose privileged life basically revolves around a mothers clique at an elite elementary school (kindergarten tuition costs as much as a year at Princeton), is worried about losing her position as one of the top ladies who lunch, drink wine and go to the gym because her house in the Hamptons was ruined in a plumbing disaster forcing her to "summer" in the city. She spends the summer figuring out a way to deal with all her First World problems and bolster her UES reputation.
She does this by conducting a Pygmalion/Eliza Doolittle transformation - trying to turn a midwestern spin class teacher with rough edges into someone who will be accepted by her clique, thus cementing her rep as an "influencer." That, and losing weight (even if she was never "fat")
Of course things go wrong - Julie deals with gossip, backstabbing and an embarrassing scandal involving her husband. And of course, there's a "happy-ever-after" ending.
This was an interesting read even if there were a lot of clichéd themes. But my friend says the UES of NYC is one big cliché anyway!
May 14, 2019
Once you start this book, be prepared to not want to put it down until the very last page. The pacing is quick, the twists and turns are plentiful, the road is unpredictable, and the drama is high. I have not been this invested in a book in a long time. While I initially disliked Julia, her character development was intense and I was really pushing for her by the end (and proud of the changes she made). There were moments I was close to tears, especially as they related to the way Julia was treated by her so-called friends. In truth as well as in fiction, women can be so catty and disloyal and it hurts no matter how old you are. This book is a reminder to be true to yourself and not let the mean girls get to you and to treat others as you'd want them to treat you! I highly recommend it to fans of Lauren Weisberger and Candace Bushnell.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my complimentary ARC.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my complimentary ARC.
July 30, 2019
I am such a mood reader and seasonal reader, and was craving a fun, sassy book that would make me laugh out loud. I had to look no further than That’s What Frenemies Are For, the perfect summer read!
I’m telling you this book was so funny, and I devoured it! I can see this being a favorite by the pool or the beach, really anywhere this summer! It had the gossip, the drama, and all the fun that I love in a good Women’s Fiction.
As a huge fan of When Life Gives You Lululemons, the blurb this novel was being compared to, I knew I needed to read this, and it delivered in a big, feel good way!
*Thank you to the publisher and a Netgalley for this ebook in exchange for an honest review
I’m telling you this book was so funny, and I devoured it! I can see this being a favorite by the pool or the beach, really anywhere this summer! It had the gossip, the drama, and all the fun that I love in a good Women’s Fiction.
As a huge fan of When Life Gives You Lululemons, the blurb this novel was being compared to, I knew I needed to read this, and it delivered in a big, feel good way!
*Thank you to the publisher and a Netgalley for this ebook in exchange for an honest review
June 1, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley, Sophie Littlefield, Lauren Gershell and Random House for this ARC.
I absolutely LOVED this novel. It's the perfect chick lit summer read! Everyone loves a good frenemie, and Julia and Tatum are the perfect frenemie duo. I love Julia's character arc throughout the story, and am now very interested in finding a spin class in my own town.
Overall, an excellent addition to the many fantastic novels written by Sophie Littlefield and a humorous, delightful first novel by Lauren Gershell. I can't wait to read more by this duo!
I absolutely LOVED this novel. It's the perfect chick lit summer read! Everyone loves a good frenemie, and Julia and Tatum are the perfect frenemie duo. I love Julia's character arc throughout the story, and am now very interested in finding a spin class in my own town.
Overall, an excellent addition to the many fantastic novels written by Sophie Littlefield and a humorous, delightful first novel by Lauren Gershell. I can't wait to read more by this duo!
June 24, 2019
When Manhattan socialite Julia Summers is forced to stay home from the family's Hampton home for the summer, she takes on a new project: turning her personal trainer into a superstar. Things do not go as planned, to put it mildly. This was such a fun summer read--fast moving, with lots of snark and unexpected twists and turns. Perfect beach read!
September 18, 2019
Fun, sassy with just the right amount of humour.
That's What Frenemies Are For was such an entertaining read!
That's What Frenemies Are For was such an entertaining read!
July 25, 2019
Oh my goodness all the love and snarky stars for this little gem!!
That's What Frenemies Are For is a sharp, witty, sassy, and fun look Into the world of privilege and up to date trends! I couldn't get enough of Julia and her group of friends.
This truly makes the perfect summer beach read to curl up to! All I have to say after reading this is to keep your friends close and your enemies closer ;).
This reminded me a little bit of Gossip Girlish... which made it extra fun to have drama, gossip, and lies galore! I would definitely recommend this one to see how Julia pans on in this world of gossip and drama. Can she really count on her friends in this world of privilege?
Loved it! 4 stars!!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Random House Ballantine for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: 7/30/19
Published to GR: 7/24/19
That's What Frenemies Are For is a sharp, witty, sassy, and fun look Into the world of privilege and up to date trends! I couldn't get enough of Julia and her group of friends.
This truly makes the perfect summer beach read to curl up to! All I have to say after reading this is to keep your friends close and your enemies closer ;).
This reminded me a little bit of Gossip Girlish... which made it extra fun to have drama, gossip, and lies galore! I would definitely recommend this one to see how Julia pans on in this world of gossip and drama. Can she really count on her friends in this world of privilege?
Loved it! 4 stars!!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Random House Ballantine for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Publication date: 7/30/19
Published to GR: 7/24/19
May 18, 2019
What a book! This is certainly one of those novels where the main characters (well, really, all of the characters) are people that you love to hate. Offering a glimpse into what it's like to live with money in NYC, Littlefield and Gershall have created the rare book that makes you cringe while not being able to put it down. Julia Summers'
works to raise her social status at the expense of her family through 'mentoring' Tatum, a girl she finds at a local spin studio. As Tatum's star rises, Julia learns what she is willing to do, and not do, for her so-called friends. This is the perfect book to read poolside this summer!
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
works to raise her social status at the expense of her family through 'mentoring' Tatum, a girl she finds at a local spin studio. As Tatum's star rises, Julia learns what she is willing to do, and not do, for her so-called friends. This is the perfect book to read poolside this summer!
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
June 26, 2019
This book was a whirlwind of humor and chaos and I loved every minute of it. Sometimes you just need a fun read, and this is it in spades!
May 17, 2019
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me read this fabulous ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When push comes to shove, you'll find out who your true friends are. This book put into perspective the true meaning of friendship in a more upper class world. Even though society separates so many into different classes, everyone comes from somewhere. It reminds me a little of the book Big Little Lies. Same little upper class town where everyone knows each others. They even influence their kids and groom the kids to be their future self. The story does speaks to the true outlook out today society. A little vain and superficial. There are little honesty or humbleness anymore. I truly enjoyed this book.
When push comes to shove, you'll find out who your true friends are. This book put into perspective the true meaning of friendship in a more upper class world. Even though society separates so many into different classes, everyone comes from somewhere. It reminds me a little of the book Big Little Lies. Same little upper class town where everyone knows each others. They even influence their kids and groom the kids to be their future self. The story does speaks to the true outlook out today society. A little vain and superficial. There are little honesty or humbleness anymore. I truly enjoyed this book.
June 24, 2019
Feeling like she’s lost her edge with the PTA moms at her kids� elite private school, Julia has gained a bit of weight from the pressure. With her Hamptons home out of commission for the summer, she fears she could lose all of her connections. Seeing an opportunity to fix her problems, at the school’s auction, she bids on a basket for a membership at a new gym with private spinning lessons. She decides to make the trainer her new project while elevating her NYC PTA mom status. Will she succeed? The relationship between the moms is catty, realistic, and humorous. The plot is entertaining and keeps you guessing how it will end. Fans of Sophie Kinsella will have a hard time putting this one down.
June 24, 2019
So fun! It was tough to put this one down, and I understand all of the reviewers who said they didn't -- that they read it in a day. So much to love about this drop-in to Manhattan society and status warfare, mixed with the dialed-up ridiculous 'religion' of Soul Cycle. It's a well-dressed animal kingdom, with 'if they'll gossip to you, they'll gossip about you' truth that hooks us. Genius plotting and page, and characters you will just love to be near, even if you hate the Mean Girls vibe (which I really, really do!). Such fabulous electricity in this one. Bring it to the beach!
Thank you, NetGalley for treating me to this much fun!
Thank you, NetGalley for treating me to this much fun!
May 23, 2019
I spent the last few nights immersed in the chic, social climbing, Upper East Side world of Julia. Julia’s life work is to stay relevant, as the consummate trend setter among her group of friends. When she meets spin instructor, Tatum, a new project is born: to take credit for transforming the small town girl into New York’s most fashionable fitness guru. When Julia suddenly finds herself in both social and personal crises, she must figure out what is most important in her formerly perfect world.
That’s What Frenemies Are For (out July 30, 2019) is a sharp, witty and fun peek into a world of privilege and cutting edge trends. Beyond that, it is a look at what matters most and a cautionary tale of who to trust and what is left when the Instagram likes and retweets dry up. I fully enjoyed this book, the satire and snark! This will make for a perfect summer beach read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Ballantine for the free eGalley of this fantastic novel.
That’s What Frenemies Are For (out July 30, 2019) is a sharp, witty and fun peek into a world of privilege and cutting edge trends. Beyond that, it is a look at what matters most and a cautionary tale of who to trust and what is left when the Instagram likes and retweets dry up. I fully enjoyed this book, the satire and snark! This will make for a perfect summer beach read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Ballantine for the free eGalley of this fantastic novel.
May 28, 2019
The authors artfully portray a cast of socialite, self-absorbed, vacuous, vicious, catty, pretentious, and superficial women. Julia is a wealthy mom who has the worst summer dilemma: she has to stay in NYC instead of retreating to the playgrounds of the wealthy. To amuse herself and enhance her social standing, she takes a young protege under her wing. Except the plan backfires as Julia's puppet actually turns out to be the puppeteer. Julia loses face and begins to realize what really matters in her luxurious lifestyle. Frankly, I didn't like any of the main characters, although the games they played with each other were rich bitch to the core. The two characters I thought were the most real were Janet and Benilda. Thanks to NetGalley for the advance read.
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