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How to Be Perfect
The bestselling author of The Mummy Bloggers is back with another page-turning, rip-roaring story about mums, phones and the cult of self-improvement.
In the rolling green hills of Australia's hippest hinterland, a new guru is blogging about her breakfast.
ELLE CAMPBELL is back, holed up in an exclusive retreat where women pay thousands to mimic her extreme lifestyle, or die trying. But who's bankrolling Elle's new empire? And why are her two tiny sons suddenly absent from her glossy public image?
ABI BLACK just wants to marry her true love under a tree in the garden on New Year's Eve. But her ex-husband is building a financial cult in the shed, Elle is looming and her teenage daughter's YouTube channel is gaining followers for all the wrong reasons. The wedding might have to wait.
FRANCES GRAHAM has a colicky newborn, an absent husband and a WhatsApp mothers' group that's giving her anxiety. But she's certain that if she can just be more like those fitmums on Instagram, things can only get better. And surely, if she can scrape enough money together to make it to Elle's retreat, everything in her life will be just . . . perfect.
Through a world of fake gurus, green smoothies and bad influencers, How to Be Perfect follows Elle, Abi and Frankie into the cult of self-improvement that's taking over your phone . . . and your breakfast.
In the rolling green hills of Australia's hippest hinterland, a new guru is blogging about her breakfast.
ELLE CAMPBELL is back, holed up in an exclusive retreat where women pay thousands to mimic her extreme lifestyle, or die trying. But who's bankrolling Elle's new empire? And why are her two tiny sons suddenly absent from her glossy public image?
ABI BLACK just wants to marry her true love under a tree in the garden on New Year's Eve. But her ex-husband is building a financial cult in the shed, Elle is looming and her teenage daughter's YouTube channel is gaining followers for all the wrong reasons. The wedding might have to wait.
FRANCES GRAHAM has a colicky newborn, an absent husband and a WhatsApp mothers' group that's giving her anxiety. But she's certain that if she can just be more like those fitmums on Instagram, things can only get better. And surely, if she can scrape enough money together to make it to Elle's retreat, everything in her life will be just . . . perfect.
Through a world of fake gurus, green smoothies and bad influencers, How to Be Perfect follows Elle, Abi and Frankie into the cult of self-improvement that's taking over your phone . . . and your breakfast.
352 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2018
71 people are currently reading
852 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
November 15, 2019
I was delighted to see that Holly Wainwright had produced a follow-up to one of my favourite books of the year. I really enjoyed the previous book and this second one continues to feature key characters. Following a similar style, we get glimpses of the blog posts, Twitter posts, and the chapters from different character perspectives.
Elle, our villainess who we openly hate but secretly admire, is back again. She takes more of a central role as the story is set eighteen months later. I loved discovering how things have changed for Elle, and the other bloggers, and it felt like I was revisiting familiar friends. Elle continues to surprise and stun; I could not help but admire her calculating actions and wonder what she was going to do next?!
The idea of always striving to be perfect is intended to reflect today’s social trends. The idea of always following the image of perfection, leading to low self-esteem and doubt, shows how all of the women in this novel have their own vulnerabilities. They may appear strong, confident women, but each have insecurities that are gradually revealed. For instance, everything seems ok for Abi � even if she has accepted her ex-husband is living with her on her farm � yet, it is shown to be balancing precariously between happiness and worry. I loved how Wainwright highlighted that women need a support network and should feel happy within themselves, rather than striving to for the mythical perfection that they believe exists. Indeed, those attending Elle’s retreat were caricatures of today’s society, showing readers just how ridiculous this perfection can become.
I enjoyed how this story continued to switch narrative perspectives. Indeed, we are not just presented with three female protagonists, but are also offered an insight into the supporting cast. This added variety to the novel, especially as the story began to reach its climax. It was interesting to see different perspectives and to see characters take control of the situation.
Whilst this is a sequel, I think this book could easily be read on its own. I don’t think this is as good as the first novel; I don’t think the plot has the same intensity and pace. However, at the end of the story I could not help but sigh with satisfaction whilst simultaneously worrying. Is this the end for Abi and Elle? Are we going to see another glimpse into their crazy world? Feeling like friends, I hope the writer is able to continue this story, especially because I love watching Elle’s outrageous behaviour. Yet, at the same time, I wonder if this ending is all that is needed for a satisfying conclusion?
A light-hearted read that addresses more serious, sensitive issues, I think Wainwright has created the perfect balance. It is a jolly good read, an escapism into the Australian outback, and featuring characters that you cannot help but want to know more about. It was interesting to observe the plot development and I hope these women are able to return again in the future.
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. With thanks to everyone at Legend Press and Holly Wainwright for allowing me to participate in this blog tour.
Elle, our villainess who we openly hate but secretly admire, is back again. She takes more of a central role as the story is set eighteen months later. I loved discovering how things have changed for Elle, and the other bloggers, and it felt like I was revisiting familiar friends. Elle continues to surprise and stun; I could not help but admire her calculating actions and wonder what she was going to do next?!
The idea of always striving to be perfect is intended to reflect today’s social trends. The idea of always following the image of perfection, leading to low self-esteem and doubt, shows how all of the women in this novel have their own vulnerabilities. They may appear strong, confident women, but each have insecurities that are gradually revealed. For instance, everything seems ok for Abi � even if she has accepted her ex-husband is living with her on her farm � yet, it is shown to be balancing precariously between happiness and worry. I loved how Wainwright highlighted that women need a support network and should feel happy within themselves, rather than striving to for the mythical perfection that they believe exists. Indeed, those attending Elle’s retreat were caricatures of today’s society, showing readers just how ridiculous this perfection can become.
I enjoyed how this story continued to switch narrative perspectives. Indeed, we are not just presented with three female protagonists, but are also offered an insight into the supporting cast. This added variety to the novel, especially as the story began to reach its climax. It was interesting to see different perspectives and to see characters take control of the situation.
Whilst this is a sequel, I think this book could easily be read on its own. I don’t think this is as good as the first novel; I don’t think the plot has the same intensity and pace. However, at the end of the story I could not help but sigh with satisfaction whilst simultaneously worrying. Is this the end for Abi and Elle? Are we going to see another glimpse into their crazy world? Feeling like friends, I hope the writer is able to continue this story, especially because I love watching Elle’s outrageous behaviour. Yet, at the same time, I wonder if this ending is all that is needed for a satisfying conclusion?
A light-hearted read that addresses more serious, sensitive issues, I think Wainwright has created the perfect balance. It is a jolly good read, an escapism into the Australian outback, and featuring characters that you cannot help but want to know more about. It was interesting to observe the plot development and I hope these women are able to return again in the future.
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. With thanks to everyone at Legend Press and Holly Wainwright for allowing me to participate in this blog tour.
December 28, 2019
Gosh there are some spoilt women in this book! I struggled reading this as I really did not like the main characters at all. It was not the book that I was expecting. I know that it is meant to show this and the real life behind the social media persona, but in Elle’s case she really believed that she was more than it was.
I have not read The Mummy Bloggers which is the first book in this series. There is probably more background in this book that I have missed but the general gist is explained in How To Be Perfect.
This is about Elle after the events of the previous book. She is in hiding, has met a new man and had a baby. She is now running another online blog and a wellness farm in Byron Bay. She has abandoned her sons and husband and started again. It is about the women who idolise Elle and the women that hate her. Behind the photos and well planned posts, life is not perfect. But online you can be anything you want to be.
My thanks to TBC on Facebook for my copy of this book to read.
I have not read The Mummy Bloggers which is the first book in this series. There is probably more background in this book that I have missed but the general gist is explained in How To Be Perfect.
This is about Elle after the events of the previous book. She is in hiding, has met a new man and had a baby. She is now running another online blog and a wellness farm in Byron Bay. She has abandoned her sons and husband and started again. It is about the women who idolise Elle and the women that hate her. Behind the photos and well planned posts, life is not perfect. But online you can be anything you want to be.
My thanks to TBC on Facebook for my copy of this book to read.
September 26, 2018
The mummy bloggers have returned and they are in true form.
In "How to Be Perfect" Holly Wainwrights follow up to "The Mummy Bloggers" our favourite bloggers seem not to have learnt from the lessons of the past.
Elle is still faking an on-trend lifestyle - this time having reinvented herself as a "wellness" or rather Elle-ness, guru. And the lure of even more money and fame have kicked her antics into high gear. And Abi is still pretending not to care what her ex-husband's ex-wife is up to - but of course, really does, to the point where she fails to see what is happening in her own family. And we have a new character Frankie, who is totally convinced that if she could just follow everything Elle does in her perfect life than it would make everything right in her own life.
While the book is immensely funny and Elle provides even more - "OMG She did NOT do that" moments, it does address raise some of the real issues brought about by social media and namely that's the influence social media "stars" have among their readers. What responsibility or duty of care do these influencers have?
The book takes a satirical and witty look at both the blogging industry and the wellness industry. It challenges us to question the glossy veneer of social media accounts and the insecurities they cause their followers who believe they aren't good enough
Wainwright once again brings to light some serious subjects in a way that that's easy and entertaining to read, and it's only when you look back afterwards you are hit with the actual seriousness and the lessons of this cautionary tale.
In "How to Be Perfect" Holly Wainwrights follow up to "The Mummy Bloggers" our favourite bloggers seem not to have learnt from the lessons of the past.
Elle is still faking an on-trend lifestyle - this time having reinvented herself as a "wellness" or rather Elle-ness, guru. And the lure of even more money and fame have kicked her antics into high gear. And Abi is still pretending not to care what her ex-husband's ex-wife is up to - but of course, really does, to the point where she fails to see what is happening in her own family. And we have a new character Frankie, who is totally convinced that if she could just follow everything Elle does in her perfect life than it would make everything right in her own life.
While the book is immensely funny and Elle provides even more - "OMG She did NOT do that" moments, it does address raise some of the real issues brought about by social media and namely that's the influence social media "stars" have among their readers. What responsibility or duty of care do these influencers have?
The book takes a satirical and witty look at both the blogging industry and the wellness industry. It challenges us to question the glossy veneer of social media accounts and the insecurities they cause their followers who believe they aren't good enough
Wainwright once again brings to light some serious subjects in a way that that's easy and entertaining to read, and it's only when you look back afterwards you are hit with the actual seriousness and the lessons of this cautionary tale.
October 5, 2018
I loved the Mummy Bloggers & I love Holly Wainwright’s podcasts a lot, she smart, funny & really fun to listen to but this novel fell short for me. I feel like Wainwright was just trying to cram every issue that’s facing woman today into the story & it didn’t feel as realistic as the first one. And the name changes- Fifty Minutes. Gurva. Nutrimullet. - not great. I’m pretty sure there’ll be a third book, & I’ll still read it, I just wish this had lived up to the first one.
December 8, 2019
Actually, I have no idea how to be perfect. I am pure imperfection and quite proud of it. Hence the title quite enamored me as I wanted to know how the characters tried to beget perfection.
Elle, Abi and Frances were our three main characters. Elle had a new life and everyone wanted to ape her lifestyle. Abi had an ex-husband and wanted to marry the love of her life. Frances wanted to join Elle's retreat to attain perfection.
My first book by this author, I took time to get into her style of writing. Also being book 2, I didn't know Elle well. Social media played havoc on all their lives. This was the author's way to highlight that and the expectations that it led these women to.
The story was humorous in parts and quite significant in others. Few social points were highlighted which I liked. How to be perfect was a different read.
Elle, Abi and Frances were our three main characters. Elle had a new life and everyone wanted to ape her lifestyle. Abi had an ex-husband and wanted to marry the love of her life. Frances wanted to join Elle's retreat to attain perfection.
My first book by this author, I took time to get into her style of writing. Also being book 2, I didn't know Elle well. Social media played havoc on all their lives. This was the author's way to highlight that and the expectations that it led these women to.
The story was humorous in parts and quite significant in others. Few social points were highlighted which I liked. How to be perfect was a different read.
April 20, 2025
The mummy bloggers, including Elle Campbell are back, in this sharp, sassy and satirical take on the absurdity of social media, motherhood and ‘wellness culture�.
May 12, 2020
What a bunch of unlikable characters?! Rarely have I read a book with such privileged women that I definitely don't want to get to know in real life, but whose story I couldn't put down. I needed to find out what they'd do next.
June 9, 2020
Easy read but there is nothing of substance to this book. Characters, situations, revelations and insights are all borrowed from any one of a thousand other books/tv shows/magazine pages. You know when you are watching tv and you can predict what will happen next because you’ve seen it 100s of times before? That.
The only characters I felt any emotion for were the 2 little boys abandoned by their mother. I loved that they found happiness in the dirt and the mud.
The only characters I felt any emotion for were the 2 little boys abandoned by their mother. I loved that they found happiness in the dirt and the mud.
November 15, 2019
I quite liked this one. A look at how we only show what we want you to see on social media and that not everything is as perfect and shiny as you may think. I think this will be quite relatable to many with the comparisons to those in the limelight via social media.
The chapters were short and snappy, which I loved. And I enjoyed reading from the perspective of all three women via alternating chapters. It was a fun read, although it did cover some serious points too.
The writing flowed well from start to finish, and the twist towards the end was enjoyable to read.
The chapters were short and snappy, which I loved. And I enjoyed reading from the perspective of all three women via alternating chapters. It was a fun read, although it did cover some serious points too.
The writing flowed well from start to finish, and the twist towards the end was enjoyable to read.
August 28, 2018
So good. So, SO good! I really enjoyed The Mummy Bloggers, but How to Be Perfect is the next level up. If you thought it didn’t get much worse than Elle’s shenanigans in The Mummy Bloggers, wait until you find out what she’s up to now!
“‘It’s this shit right here � I had to subscribe to this, with actual money. And people do. They hand over hard-earned cash, and for what? For her to show me naked pictures, share ridiculous recipes no one can follow without taking out a bank loan, and spout a lot of psycho-babble about being your best self. I mean…� Abi put her head on the table. ‘It makes me…want to hit someone.’�
Elle has reinvented herself as an ‘Elle-ness Guru�, has a new empire, a new man and…yep, a new little family to blog about. Holly Wainwright has successfully created one the most contemptible women in contemporary fiction. But along with all of the unbelievable antics and moments of ‘she really wouldn’t sink that low�, is a valuable lesson in self-respect that packs a punch.
Along with Elle, Abi and the rest of the blended family return, all living ‘happily� together on the farm. With a million things going on, and at least half of them going wrong, Abi is as intense as ever, but I loved her even more this time around. Parenting is a big focus for Abi, juggling it alongside her commitment to Grace, which is increasingly taking a back burner. I enjoyed how Holly offered many perspectives throughout; it kept the story ticking over at a nice pace with plenty of intrigue and ‘they just did what?!� moments to keep you reading ‘just one more chapter�. Abi’s wisdom never fails to hit the right mark for me, but this pearler, really nailed it:
“So much of parenting, Abi thought, was the particular pain of resisting the urge to slap your children. It starts when they’re little, and they are insisting that shoes do, in fact, go on their hands, not their feet, and there are two minutes until you need to leave the house, and it’s raining. And it evolves through the teenage years to a place like this � where your teenage daughter has been psychoanalysing you with her teenage boyfriend, and she presents you with a list of your shortcomings.�
A new character that features in this story is Elle fan, Francis, feeling at a low point in her life as a new mum, newly exhausted, and newly disillusioned. She has fallen victim to Elle’s fake lifestyle and is convinced that ‘Elle-ness� will lead to wellness and fix all of the many problems she perceives exists within her life. Frances is a wonderfully authentic character, who I was filled with frustration and empathy for, in equal measure. While I do remember clearly those unhinged days with a new baby, Frances� WhatsApp mothers� group had me counting my blessings that my baby days are long over. This was helicopter parenting taken to a whole new level! These women were just inventing stuff to be anxious over, no wonder Frances couldn’t cope! Throw in the needless comparison with the lies told on social media by Elle, and those like her, it’s little wonder these women constantly feel as though they just can’t get it together enough.
“All those hours of thinking about that birth. About what could possibly be wrong with her, with Frances, that she couldn’t have done that, too � just got herself in the zone and pushed out her baby like a real woman. And all those women out there who felt the same way…�
All in all, I found this novel highly entertaining. I am pretty much the most uninterested in wellness person you could ever meet, so poking fun at this industry really suited me to a tee! The only time I ever go into the wellness aisle of the supermarket is to buy my processed sugared breakfast cereal which just happens to sit across from it. I am suspicious of tea that isn’t black and enhanced by milk. Fad foods are not my thing and unless a smoothie has recognisable fruit in it, and preferably ice cream, it’s unlikely I will drink it. Each to their own, but for the most part, I think the wellness industry is a con and the example of Elle, while to a certain degree is extremist (and ever so possibly offensive to those who embrace the current trend of wellness consumerism), is also probably fairly spot on. Damaging to your bank balance and damaging to your soul when you don’t get the life your guru seems to have so effortlessly. Well done Holly Wainwright for hitting the proverbial nail squarely on the head. An absolutely excellent book club choice in my opinion and an absolute riot.
Thanks is extended to Allen & Unwin for providing me with a copy of How to Be Perfect for review.
“‘It’s this shit right here � I had to subscribe to this, with actual money. And people do. They hand over hard-earned cash, and for what? For her to show me naked pictures, share ridiculous recipes no one can follow without taking out a bank loan, and spout a lot of psycho-babble about being your best self. I mean…� Abi put her head on the table. ‘It makes me…want to hit someone.’�
Elle has reinvented herself as an ‘Elle-ness Guru�, has a new empire, a new man and…yep, a new little family to blog about. Holly Wainwright has successfully created one the most contemptible women in contemporary fiction. But along with all of the unbelievable antics and moments of ‘she really wouldn’t sink that low�, is a valuable lesson in self-respect that packs a punch.
Along with Elle, Abi and the rest of the blended family return, all living ‘happily� together on the farm. With a million things going on, and at least half of them going wrong, Abi is as intense as ever, but I loved her even more this time around. Parenting is a big focus for Abi, juggling it alongside her commitment to Grace, which is increasingly taking a back burner. I enjoyed how Holly offered many perspectives throughout; it kept the story ticking over at a nice pace with plenty of intrigue and ‘they just did what?!� moments to keep you reading ‘just one more chapter�. Abi’s wisdom never fails to hit the right mark for me, but this pearler, really nailed it:
“So much of parenting, Abi thought, was the particular pain of resisting the urge to slap your children. It starts when they’re little, and they are insisting that shoes do, in fact, go on their hands, not their feet, and there are two minutes until you need to leave the house, and it’s raining. And it evolves through the teenage years to a place like this � where your teenage daughter has been psychoanalysing you with her teenage boyfriend, and she presents you with a list of your shortcomings.�
A new character that features in this story is Elle fan, Francis, feeling at a low point in her life as a new mum, newly exhausted, and newly disillusioned. She has fallen victim to Elle’s fake lifestyle and is convinced that ‘Elle-ness� will lead to wellness and fix all of the many problems she perceives exists within her life. Frances is a wonderfully authentic character, who I was filled with frustration and empathy for, in equal measure. While I do remember clearly those unhinged days with a new baby, Frances� WhatsApp mothers� group had me counting my blessings that my baby days are long over. This was helicopter parenting taken to a whole new level! These women were just inventing stuff to be anxious over, no wonder Frances couldn’t cope! Throw in the needless comparison with the lies told on social media by Elle, and those like her, it’s little wonder these women constantly feel as though they just can’t get it together enough.
“All those hours of thinking about that birth. About what could possibly be wrong with her, with Frances, that she couldn’t have done that, too � just got herself in the zone and pushed out her baby like a real woman. And all those women out there who felt the same way…�
All in all, I found this novel highly entertaining. I am pretty much the most uninterested in wellness person you could ever meet, so poking fun at this industry really suited me to a tee! The only time I ever go into the wellness aisle of the supermarket is to buy my processed sugared breakfast cereal which just happens to sit across from it. I am suspicious of tea that isn’t black and enhanced by milk. Fad foods are not my thing and unless a smoothie has recognisable fruit in it, and preferably ice cream, it’s unlikely I will drink it. Each to their own, but for the most part, I think the wellness industry is a con and the example of Elle, while to a certain degree is extremist (and ever so possibly offensive to those who embrace the current trend of wellness consumerism), is also probably fairly spot on. Damaging to your bank balance and damaging to your soul when you don’t get the life your guru seems to have so effortlessly. Well done Holly Wainwright for hitting the proverbial nail squarely on the head. An absolutely excellent book club choice in my opinion and an absolute riot.
Thanks is extended to Allen & Unwin for providing me with a copy of How to Be Perfect for review.
December 30, 2018
This was an enjoyable read. It was quick-witted, light and had a fun story line. Loved how it poked fun at Instagram/ social media and the culture surrounding it. The reason why I am rating it down is that the author brought up several important women’s issues and discussed them quite lightly. Because of this, I felt like the book lacked depth and the attention that some of these issues deserve. I still very much enjoyed it and would 100% read the next instalment if there is one.
January 24, 2019
How To Be Perfect is the follow up to Holly Wainwright's The Mummy Bloggers. The story picks up after the final of the blogger awards with the return of Elle, who has re-established herself as a lifestyle blogger at a luxurious retreat in Byron Bay with a focus on wellness (or “Elle-ness�). Her return to social media is shrouded in mystery � where has she been? Who is her mysterious new benefactor and the father of her new baby? Also back is Abi, who is trying to deal with an ex-husband who may or may not be starting a cult in her garden shed, a teenage daughter going viral for all the wrong reasons and a fiancée who seems to have had enough. We also meet Frances, a new mother with a colicky newborn and an anxiety-inducing mothers� group. All Frances wants is a life as perfect as Elle’s, even if it means taking out a bank loan to pay for the ingredients that Elle insists on including in your daily green smoothie.
This book was even more ridiculous than the first, but I enjoyed every page. I loved reading about Elle again - she’s totally over the top and completely awful, but damn she knows how to get what she wants. Wainwright turns her satirical eye this time to the “wellness� industry, with a comment on the lengths that some people will go to to increase their following. Frances� storyline in particular questions the motivations of public figures in this industry� in promoting a lifestyle that is not attainable to the average person, what responsibility do they have to their followers? I thought the way that Wainwright commented on a real life social issue in a lighthearted way was clever, engaging and insightful. While clearly exaggerated, the characters still feel real, and the events in the book are completely believable. This book will make you laugh, question how addicted to social media you are, and probably make you want to eat a doughnut.
I recommend this one if you’re looking for an enjoyable, entertaining summer read, or if you’ve ever questioned how real those seemingly perfect online accounts actually are!
This book was even more ridiculous than the first, but I enjoyed every page. I loved reading about Elle again - she’s totally over the top and completely awful, but damn she knows how to get what she wants. Wainwright turns her satirical eye this time to the “wellness� industry, with a comment on the lengths that some people will go to to increase their following. Frances� storyline in particular questions the motivations of public figures in this industry� in promoting a lifestyle that is not attainable to the average person, what responsibility do they have to their followers? I thought the way that Wainwright commented on a real life social issue in a lighthearted way was clever, engaging and insightful. While clearly exaggerated, the characters still feel real, and the events in the book are completely believable. This book will make you laugh, question how addicted to social media you are, and probably make you want to eat a doughnut.
I recommend this one if you’re looking for an enjoyable, entertaining summer read, or if you’ve ever questioned how real those seemingly perfect online accounts actually are!
December 31, 2019
4,5 Stars
I loved being back amongst some of my favourite dysfunctional families, for even more chaos, blogging shenanigans and the return of Elle.
If you haven't read The Mummy Bloggers then some of the backstory in this one may not make as much sense, especially with the feelings towards Elle, but it could potentially be read as a standalone, depending on how much that sort of thing bothers you.
Set 18 months after the end of the previous book, Elle has re-imagined herself completely, and although she is still someone who is incredibly hard to like, I did start to feel sorry for her in places.
We also have the return of Abi's family, and she is due to get married very soon, if only her ex-husband, and his kids weren't living in their barn!
And the final main focal character we have this time is Frances, who is a devoted follower of Elle, has signed up to the exclusive site and believes pretty much every blog post and piece of advice Elle produces.
I must say that I rolled my eyes at most of the stuff Elle was spouting and felt sorry for anyone who was vulnerable enough to believe her. And the people she is surrounding herself with now aren't much better.
Filled with humour, more on the theme of not believing everything you read online or on social media, and all manner of great interactions between assorted characters makes this a really amusing and fun book to read.
I really hope this isn't the last we have seen of these characters, I'm pretty sure they could get up to all manner more misadventures in the future!
Thank you to Legend Press and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
I loved being back amongst some of my favourite dysfunctional families, for even more chaos, blogging shenanigans and the return of Elle.
If you haven't read The Mummy Bloggers then some of the backstory in this one may not make as much sense, especially with the feelings towards Elle, but it could potentially be read as a standalone, depending on how much that sort of thing bothers you.
Set 18 months after the end of the previous book, Elle has re-imagined herself completely, and although she is still someone who is incredibly hard to like, I did start to feel sorry for her in places.
We also have the return of Abi's family, and she is due to get married very soon, if only her ex-husband, and his kids weren't living in their barn!
And the final main focal character we have this time is Frances, who is a devoted follower of Elle, has signed up to the exclusive site and believes pretty much every blog post and piece of advice Elle produces.
I must say that I rolled my eyes at most of the stuff Elle was spouting and felt sorry for anyone who was vulnerable enough to believe her. And the people she is surrounding herself with now aren't much better.
Filled with humour, more on the theme of not believing everything you read online or on social media, and all manner of great interactions between assorted characters makes this a really amusing and fun book to read.
I really hope this isn't the last we have seen of these characters, I'm pretty sure they could get up to all manner more misadventures in the future!
Thank you to Legend Press and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
January 22, 2019
Having recently joined my local library I was excited to have access to audiobooks FOR FREE. So whilst I'm going to supplement my one credit from audible a month with books I figured I better check out what's on offer at the local library.
How to be perfect was in the recently added list and whilst I haven't read the first book, I figured I could get the gist of this one without too much drama.
And I'm really glad I decided to push ahead as this was an enthralling book that I listened to in about 4 days. The salacious gossip and dramatic overtures in How to be perfect was precisely what I wanted to listen to. I found myself saying 'ooooh girl' quite a bit as Elle is, to put it mildly, quite terrible.
So I was pleased to come across some chick lit that is standing out from the crowd. It's modern and so elegantly written that its so easy to become engrossed in what is happening.
I do have to say that in the #metoo spirit of women empowerment I did have a slight concern about Elle and her stuggles with fiance Ben, and I wanted her to be more conniving, more cunning and just overall, much stronger than she was in these moments of the book. However I can understand the need for vulnerability in a character such as Elle, but I think a different approach would have been more impactful to get this message across.
But really, that's my only criticism of the book, it was truly wonderful.
How to be perfect was in the recently added list and whilst I haven't read the first book, I figured I could get the gist of this one without too much drama.
And I'm really glad I decided to push ahead as this was an enthralling book that I listened to in about 4 days. The salacious gossip and dramatic overtures in How to be perfect was precisely what I wanted to listen to. I found myself saying 'ooooh girl' quite a bit as Elle is, to put it mildly, quite terrible.
So I was pleased to come across some chick lit that is standing out from the crowd. It's modern and so elegantly written that its so easy to become engrossed in what is happening.
I do have to say that in the #metoo spirit of women empowerment I did have a slight concern about Elle and her stuggles with fiance Ben, and I wanted her to be more conniving, more cunning and just overall, much stronger than she was in these moments of the book. However I can understand the need for vulnerability in a character such as Elle, but I think a different approach would have been more impactful to get this message across.
But really, that's my only criticism of the book, it was truly wonderful.
May 6, 2020
How To Be Perfect is a follow up to The Mummy Bloggers. It's a light-hearted, easy read which I generally enjoyed. It follows Elle a blogger/wellness guru who pretends to have the most perfect life to all her followers, luring them to spend money on her products and her wellness retreat. It also follows Abi whose ex-husband is also Elle's ex-husband, and a character called Frankie who is one of Elle's devoted followers.
I had not read The Mummy Bloggers and so I was slightly confused with who was who at the start, and how all the relationships intertwined, but I got there after a while and in my opinion you don't really need to have read the first book. As well as being a light-hearted read, I think the book addresses some important issues surrounding social media and influencers. Even those who portray the most perfect lives online have insecurities and their own issues going on.
Would recommend for a quick and easy read, especially if you want something fairly light and humorous. Thanks to Legend Press for a free copy of the book in exchange for a review.
I had not read The Mummy Bloggers and so I was slightly confused with who was who at the start, and how all the relationships intertwined, but I got there after a while and in my opinion you don't really need to have read the first book. As well as being a light-hearted read, I think the book addresses some important issues surrounding social media and influencers. Even those who portray the most perfect lives online have insecurities and their own issues going on.
Would recommend for a quick and easy read, especially if you want something fairly light and humorous. Thanks to Legend Press for a free copy of the book in exchange for a review.
October 8, 2018
4.5 stars. I loved The Mummy Bloggers and How To Be Perfect was even better. I really enjoyed hearing what became of Elle Campbell. Abi is still a bit too sweary for my liking so not quite 5 stars! Thanks to Allen & Unwin for my ARC copy.
November 27, 2019
How To Be Perfect is the follow up story to The Mummy Bloggers. Now, I didn't realise there was a book before this, but as I started reading it became pretty obvious that I had missed out on a book as I was pretty confused who was who? And who's kids belonged to who? Also, I had missed out on some action and drama that had occured in the Blog Aaahs Awards. Saying this, it didn't take me long to piece together everyone's connections and offspring and I settled in for a nice easy contemporary fiction of a read.
We live in the day and age of modern technology and a huge social media influence. You can't switch on the TV or read a paper without there being a mention of some Instagram influencer or famous YouTuber. It's got to the stage now that even when you ask children what they want to be when they grow up, there isn't the usual answers of teachers, astronauts or firemen. Oh no, these days you'll get told they want to be an influencer or a world famous Vlogger. Everyone seems to be "doing it for the clicks and likes"
So, Holly Wainwright has delved into this world and brought to us some fascinating characters for us to be entertained by. Elle Campbell is a huge hit with a legion of obsessed fans that will bow to anything she says. Which brings us to new mum Frances Graham, she idolises Elle and sees her life as being something that she wants for herself. She is striving for that perfect life.
This is a tale that we see and hear about daily, ordinary folk trying desperately to emulate the stars that they follow, wanting perfection at all costs. When the reality is the stars themselves aren't perfect or happy. Wainwright has grasped this idea and conveyed it well with the character of Frances. I do have to admit though I wanted to shake Frances and give her a slap round the face for being so fickle, Yes, I totally understand how people do fall under their idols spells. But, the lengths Frances and some people go to is just ridiculous.
But, this is what this story is all about. The fact that there are people out there who believe the pictures they see, and can't see through the staged photos and layers of filters. They are blinkered and duped into a false sense of perfection.
Wainwright has handled this story well, despite the underlying message she is trying to give across. She brings light and humour to the table making it a sure fire hit of a story.
Let me leave you with my nugget of wisdom. The Moral of this story is that nobody is perfect so let's not try to be. Embrace our differences. How To Be Perfect? By being different!
We live in the day and age of modern technology and a huge social media influence. You can't switch on the TV or read a paper without there being a mention of some Instagram influencer or famous YouTuber. It's got to the stage now that even when you ask children what they want to be when they grow up, there isn't the usual answers of teachers, astronauts or firemen. Oh no, these days you'll get told they want to be an influencer or a world famous Vlogger. Everyone seems to be "doing it for the clicks and likes"
So, Holly Wainwright has delved into this world and brought to us some fascinating characters for us to be entertained by. Elle Campbell is a huge hit with a legion of obsessed fans that will bow to anything she says. Which brings us to new mum Frances Graham, she idolises Elle and sees her life as being something that she wants for herself. She is striving for that perfect life.
This is a tale that we see and hear about daily, ordinary folk trying desperately to emulate the stars that they follow, wanting perfection at all costs. When the reality is the stars themselves aren't perfect or happy. Wainwright has grasped this idea and conveyed it well with the character of Frances. I do have to admit though I wanted to shake Frances and give her a slap round the face for being so fickle, Yes, I totally understand how people do fall under their idols spells. But, the lengths Frances and some people go to is just ridiculous.
But, this is what this story is all about. The fact that there are people out there who believe the pictures they see, and can't see through the staged photos and layers of filters. They are blinkered and duped into a false sense of perfection.
Wainwright has handled this story well, despite the underlying message she is trying to give across. She brings light and humour to the table making it a sure fire hit of a story.
Let me leave you with my nugget of wisdom. The Moral of this story is that nobody is perfect so let's not try to be. Embrace our differences. How To Be Perfect? By being different!
November 24, 2019
Blog tour stop 😀😀😀😀👇
This is a book that will remind you of how social media rules our lives! Or can do anyhow. It opens up some questions about what we do, and what we say we do. Within the story we meet 3 main characters, all women, who struggle to keep up with lifes daily pressures.
Elle seems to have it all, despite an incident that she is known for at the blog awards, she's still got her hardcore fans on her side.
Francis can't get enough of Elle and her blogs. She's desperate to change herself and become the perfect double of Elle.
Abi detests Elle... but she has good reason! Shes been bringing up her two young boys for the last 18months and has had no acknowledgement for it!
We see relationships crumble within the story and the contrast between what is real life and social media.
I liked how we saw different view points from all characters, and How some difficult topics were tackled with a light airy dimension.
What some people will do for a big following is actually pretty scary! A great story for fans of modern lit. Told through blogs, groups whattsapp messages and individual narrative.
Thank you @legendpress for my gifted copy
This is a book that will remind you of how social media rules our lives! Or can do anyhow. It opens up some questions about what we do, and what we say we do. Within the story we meet 3 main characters, all women, who struggle to keep up with lifes daily pressures.
Elle seems to have it all, despite an incident that she is known for at the blog awards, she's still got her hardcore fans on her side.
Francis can't get enough of Elle and her blogs. She's desperate to change herself and become the perfect double of Elle.
Abi detests Elle... but she has good reason! Shes been bringing up her two young boys for the last 18months and has had no acknowledgement for it!
We see relationships crumble within the story and the contrast between what is real life and social media.
I liked how we saw different view points from all characters, and How some difficult topics were tackled with a light airy dimension.
What some people will do for a big following is actually pretty scary! A great story for fans of modern lit. Told through blogs, groups whattsapp messages and individual narrative.
Thank you @legendpress for my gifted copy
February 15, 2021
This was a great sequel. Though I missed Liesel and her tamer-blogging and working mom life, I think Frances was a fun addition to the trio and I loved seeing how consistent Adrian, Abi, Grace, and Elle’s characters remained. Abi is still a chaos magnet and ethically conscious mamma-bear, and Elle is the same opportunist not looking at the means to meet her ends. Yet I loved getting to know her on a deeper level. I think book 1 shows a very superficial character who is only interested in herself and in making money and while I think that’s still true in book 2, we actually get to understand how she operates and what makes her tick. It’s almost as if we move past the instagram posts and dive into her little fake bubble to discover someone who’s extremely driven and headstrong and who will move heaven and earth for her goals. I can’t say I liked her more or even felt like I could relate to her, but it was really interesting to get her.
I did feel like that ending was maybe leading to book 3? 🤞🏼
I did feel like that ending was maybe leading to book 3? 🤞🏼
March 23, 2019
Holly Wainright has crafted another entertaining story in "How to be Perfect," the sequel to "The Mummy Bloggers." Wainright's books, whilst being wildly humorous and captivating, do give the audience something to think about. Wainright warns the reader about how easy it is to fall into the trap of believing and admiring every single post/product that bloggers and influencers make and endorse. She reminds us that it is important to challenge these ideas and endorsements, and not to think that by buying certain items, that it will improve our lives.
January 9, 2019
How to be Perfect is Holly Wainwright's sequel to The Mummy Bloggers, and continues to follow the lives of two of the mummy bloggers, while introducing us to a new mum - not a blogger, but a very enthusiastic follower.
It took me a little while to get into this book, but while not as captivating as the first novel, the climatic ending the author has created was just as exciting and dramatic!
It took me a little while to get into this book, but while not as captivating as the first novel, the climatic ending the author has created was just as exciting and dramatic!
April 16, 2019
It was slow going to start with but I was hooked once again in no time! Loved the addition of Frances. I enjoyed the male and teenage view/voices in this novel. So worried about my kids on the internet being now though!
November 13, 2019
If you loved "The Mommy Bloggers" you will love this book as well! It was a fast read, funny at some placed and overall enjoyable. I found it especially fun since I'm a blogger myself and often nodding in agreement!
January 5, 2019
3.5. Not a book I’d pick up but my son gave it to me for Christmas. Nice bit of a twist but at times just silly.
September 27, 2020
3.5 Stars
January 18, 2025
Easy, simple read. I liked that it was Australian & the message of ‘you are enough�. The book was just a little too try hard for me.
October 23, 2018
I loved this book! Funny, addictive and lighthearted. I need to find out what happens to Elle next!
August 28, 2018
In this clever, cutting and comedic follow-up toThe Mummy Bloggers, Wainwright explores the heart of families, the trials of parenting and the ills of social media in a down-to-earth, entirely entertaining way. Alternating between three women’s perspectives, including disgraced blogger Elle Campbell,How to Be Perfectdigs under the filters and exposes the truth behind the posts, revealing the way false, curated perfection can be toxic for vulnerable women in particular. With a brilliant feminist slant, this rollicking tale is the perfect poolside read with heart (note: domestic violence and sexual harassment triggers, plus strong adult language).
Read my in depth review at:
I received an advanced copy of How to Be Perfect from Allen & Unwin in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
Read my in depth review at:
I received an advanced copy of How to Be Perfect from Allen & Unwin in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own
December 11, 2020
One to read in one sitting
A look at the world of bloggers,health gurus and influencers
Elle entices the vulnerable including Frances to her all too Instagram worthy health farm near Byron Bay
She also draws Abi’s teenage daughter into her web
Written with humour and darkness
A look at the world of bloggers,health gurus and influencers
Elle entices the vulnerable including Frances to her all too Instagram worthy health farm near Byron Bay
She also draws Abi’s teenage daughter into her web
Written with humour and darkness
March 17, 2019
Another enjoyable read by Holly Wainwright. Easy reading and thought provoking.
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