ABOUT THE BOOK
Overweight in Beverly Hills? That’s a misdemeanor. Overweight in show business? Ahh, that’s practically a felony, and JOANNA LEIGHTON, an interior designer on a local television show, semi-famous and fat, jokingly expects to be arrested at any time.
She’s thrilled to hear that the show is going national and crushed when told that she either loses a great deal of weight quickly or loses her job.
Depressed, she spies an extraordinary ring in an antique store, makes a wish, and asks to be skinny. Miraculously, her wish comes true, her body shrinks in a matter of weeks, and the pounds vaporize like ice cream left out in the sun. At first, it feels like champagne pouring through her heart.
Certain that everyone will be thrilled for her, she’s stunned that her friends and family believe she has an eating disorder. Her marriage changes from relaxed and happy to emotionally charged, the television hostess wants her fired, and Joanna’s world-famous movie star client decides she’s now worthy of his extreme private attention.
Joanna’s world has tumbled out of it’s orbit, and all she wants is the life she used to have, but the antique store has disappeared, and she can’t find her way back to her husband and friends. Once Upon a Time is the True story of what happens when If Only comes true.
What people are saying about Once Upon A time in Beverly Hills
"The story fluctuates between Joanna’s struggles with the inevitable "careful what you wish for” fall-out from her choice, and her two friends’ more conventional efforts to find Mr. Right to make their happiness complete. Along the way, lessons are learned, expectations managed, honesty rewarded and true love discovered. With nods to the camaraderie of “First Wives Club” and the magical realism of “BIG,” Elaine Franklin's “Once Upon a Time in Beverly Hills” is a charmingly enjoyable read and could easily lend itself to an equally fun evening at the movies!"
-Charles Shaughnessy, "The Nanny"
"Perfect for a book club, we can all relate"
- Linda K
"For fans of Housewives or Million Dollar Listing TV, this fun story is a wonderful diversion. Fun and realistic!"
- Alan K
“Elaine Franklin writes with so much heart and so much hilarity! I fell in love with these characters,”
- Barbarra
“You know the mark of a great book? You're sad when it ends. I'm going to miss my new friends.”
- Susan
“Thanks for helping me choose the best holiday gift for my girlfriends and family.”
- Marlyn
“I could definitely relate to Joanna’s struggles and desires. Great ‘feel good’ gift for anyone who loves to laugh!”
- Jolene