Review Detail

Carrie Lockett has a problem. Her twin sister, Camille, has always been prettier and more popular than Carrie. Throughout the years Camille has effortlessly stolen all of Carries boyfriends and friends, leaving her sister in her social shadow. Desperate to get some sort of attention, Carrie has developed a knack for painting. So when she needs a new model for her next portrait, who better than her sister Camille?

The painting, now dubbed No Competition, makes a huge splash at the local San Francisco gallery, and Carrie is hopeful that she has finally started on her way to the big time. When she meets gorgeous Shane Reynolds, the local architect who bought the painting, she cant help feeling attracted to him. Now that Shane has bought the painting of her sister, Carrie is sure that Shane wont even notice her. But Shane continues to pursue her, and Carrie is falling deeply in love. Can she keep Camille out of the picture and away from her new romance? Or is this relationship destined to be another steal on Camilles record?

No Competition marks the first of Harlequins new Ginger Blossom Manga series. With so many manga books flooding the market, it is so refreshing to see a series with a new take. Harlequin has masterfully adapted several of their adult romances into these new teen manga adaptations. Its a perfect blend of Western writing and Japanese art, especially since each book is preserved in the traditional right-to-left manga format.

Im normally not big on romance of any kind, but I have to admit that I thoroughly enjoyed No Competition. Although the art style wasnt my favorite, I loved the story and its charming characters, especially Carrie. And the best part of all is that this is a romance that even younger readers will enjoy. Suitable for many ages, especially 12 and up, this is sure to be a hit in your romance collection. And the fact that its printed in pink ink doesnt hurt either&