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Taking Charge by Mandy Baggot
Chick Lit Review

Taking Charge by Mandy Baggot

Taking Charge by Mandy Baggot follows Robyn Matthers as she goes back home to Michigan when she learns that her father is ill. With him in the hospital, the world he has created is falling to pieces. With his roadhouse in ruins and the hockey team in the dumps, things haven’t looked worse. So, Robyn takes the helm and takes charge and unexpectedly falls into the arms of Cole Ryan, hunky hockey player. With everything going down in flames around her, does Robyn have it in her to take on a relationship on top of everything else on her plate? Will she survive all of the new responsibilities? Will she be able to revive the life that she left behind?

Taking Charge is a very cute novel about going back to the place you grew up in. In a way, I was slightly reminded of the movie Sweet Home Alabama in all of its hick-glory and painful memories from the past. Robyn obviously escaped this place once already, and I can only imagine how difficult it was for her to return. But, with her dad in the hospital and things looking grim, she had no choice. I really enjoyed this novel and thought it was great fun. Plus- I thought Cole was the perfect guy to come in and rock her world…and that is exactly what he did.

Overall, a fun, light read.

[Rating: 4/5]

May 17, 2012
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Stiletto Safari by Kate Metz
Chick Lit Review

Stiletto Safari by Kate Metz

Stiletto Safari by Kate Metz follows glamorous and gorgeous, Zara Hamilton. Zara has it all: a sexy boyfriend, a gorgeous apartment, two fabulous girlfriends, and a job with a prestigious law firm in New York city. But one day, that all comes crashing to a stop when she gets a call in to see her boss, where he informs her that she must take a leave of absence because Nick (the love of her life) is being accused of insider trading. Lost and confused, she turns to the aid of her girlfriends, and somewhere along the way, they convince her to take advantage and do some “good” with her situation and suggest she volunteer in Africa. Soon enough, she finds herself in Namibia, which couldn’t be further from home. Tempted to flee and return home, Zara decides to give it a real shot and try her hand as a volunteer. Soon enough, she makes friends and meets the British Hunk Hamish and begins to fall for him.

I found Stiletto Safari absolutely delightful. Kate Metz creates an endearing character in Zara and you can’t help but to root for her as the book goes along. I was a little disappointed that things didn’t work out with Nick in the beginning (he actually sounded like he really loved her and just got caught in a bad situation), but I was glad to watch her grow and give into her heart again with Hamish. Overall, this book was so much fun that I had a hard time putting it down. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun, light read with a sassy, quick-witted main character.

May 16, 2012
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Charming Tuesday: A Beauty Favorite
Chick Lit Plus

Charming Tuesday: A Beauty Favorite

I just recently started using a new shampoo – Aveeno for dry or damaged hair. This was my first time using Aveeno in general, but I had been seeing some pretty great reviews for it online and from friends, so I figured I would give it a whirl. And I’m glad! I think this is my favorite shampoo I’ve used – ever. It smells fabulous, it makes my hair look and feel good, and it really looks like more life is coming back to my very damaged mane. I love how soft it feels and dare I say – shiny? My hair never looks shiny! Really happy with my latest choice, and will be trying the conditioner as well.

Sara’s Must-Have:

Over the years, I’ve gone through periods in my life where I have spent a lot of money on hair products- one of them being shampoo. My hair is very fine and often times limp, and I’ve found that a lot of products weigh it down, even though they’re not supposed to. There are two shampoo’s that I purchase on a pretty regular basis. The first one is a generic “cleansing” shampoo that really strips any extra buildup out of my hair, the second one is TRESemme Healthy Volume. I’ve found that this one gives my hair an extra ounce of “oomph” as far as body and volume are concerned, and really helps lock in the moisture.

WHAT IS YOUR MUST-HAVE SHAMPOO? LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW.

May 15, 2012
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Flipping by Mary Ellenton
Chick Lit Review

Flipping by Mary Ellenton

Flipping by Mary Ellenton is the scandalous story of young mortgage broker, Fay Famaghetti, as she becomes an unstoppable real-estate agent by capitalizing on needy individuals. Lured by money, Fay steps into the sub-prime lending culture moments before the real estate bubble bursts, and in doing so, she makes a lot of money at the misfortune of others, loses her husband in the process due to an steamy affair with a co-worker, and puts her fate (and freedom) at risk. She faces ethical and moral dilemmas left and right and we watch first hand as they impact her life. Was it worth it? You will have to read to find out.

As many Americans know by now, anything dealing with the “housing crisis” or the “financial crisis” is no joke. We all know someone greatly impacted and have curiously thought about those selfish individuals behind the catastrophe. In Flipping, we meet Fay and watch as she (and her co-workers) cleverly try to beat the system. At first, I was appalled by Fay and her behavior, whether it be because of her role in the housing crisis or because of her outrageous affair, I’m not sure … but I was quite surprised as I watched her actively attempt to change her life and get out before things got even more out of hand.

Overall, Ellenton provides very realistic details about the creative financial “loopholes” and about the lending market. And oddly, does so with a woman at the helm (instead of the stereotypical older male). I was quite surprised that I enjoyed this book so much.

[Rating: 4/5]

May 15, 2012
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In My Mailbox: Week of May 13
Chick Lit Plus

In My Mailbox: Week of May 13

In Samantha’s Mailbox:

Title: Fatty Patty

Author: Kathleen Paterka

Received: Via CLP Blog Tours

Synopsis: Small towns, long memories. Everyone in the exclusive summer resort of James Bay, Michigan remembers FATTY PATTY, the chubby little girl with the round face and wild red curls. All grown up now, Patty Perreault teaches at the same elementary school where the painful playground memories still taunt her. She has not forgotten the cruel nickname; plus she still has not lost those extra pounds. Convinced her weight is the biggest reason why she is a four time loser in the semi-finals for Teacher of the Year, Patty resolves to make some changes in her body and her life.

Sam Curtis, an overweight accountant she meets at the community pool, swims into Patty’s life with romance on his mind. But as their friendship grows, Patty finds it hard to see beyond his extra pounds. She is torn as Sam refuses to deal with his own overweight issues. Her heart tells her one thing, but her eyes see another. She is not interested in an overweight boyfriend. When it comes to winning the Grand Prize in life and love, Patty has some hard lessons to learn. Will she be able to confront her fears about the kind of woman she yearns to be? Will she be able to put down the fork and give her heart a try?

Title: Kat Fight

Author: Dina Silver

Received: Via CLP Blog Tours

Synopsis: The seriously funny, fabulously flawed Kat Porter has arrived, and she may just steal your heart—not to mention your boyfriend. Readers everywhere will revel in this sharp-witted, well-meaning whirlwind in author Dina Silver’s hilarious new novel, Kat Fight. In her quest for love, Kat makes every wrong turn, juggling two men, one best friend, and her own deeply confused heart’s desires.

Kat Porter is a consummate romantic, eager for her chance to find love and commitment. But after her boyfriend of four years, Marc, begins to grow apathetic and sends her calls straight to voicemail one too many times, Kat finally musters the courage to confront her so-called sweetheart, who seems more interested in dodging her than courting her. Though she’s no fan of ultimatums, Kat is at the end of her considerable wits, and lobs a massive one his way, completely confident that he’ll make the right decision when faced with losing her. He doesn’t.

With radio silence from Marc, Kat’s lifelong dream of finding a husband and forging a family is decidedly on the skids. That’s when her childhood friend Julie steps in, forcing Kat on a blind date to help her move beyond the break-up. Not only does Kat botch the setup, she instead finds herself in hot pursuit of Julie’s love interest, Ryan Sullivan. A man who, in addition to literally taking her breath away, is the living, breathing personification of everything Kat wants in a husband.

Can Kat connect with the man of her dreams without hurting two of the people she cares most about? At the same time, she must also contend with the quips of her beloved catty coworker Adam, her bi-polar boss Brooke, and a string of comic, unpredictable plot twists. All the while, Kat’s cheeky perspective and generous heart will leave readers adoring every moment of her journey while chuckling and cheering for the ever cute, razor-sharp Kat as she fights to land the love of a lifetime.

Title: Viewer Discretion Advised

Author: Cindy Roesel

Received: Via CLP Blog Tours

Synopsis: LIVE FROM MIAMI! The sensationalism shown on television can only be topped by the drama that happens behind the camera! After being fired from her job in Los Angeles, Charlene “Charley” Thomas moves to sizzling Miami and begins working as news director at a local television station. While getting used to her new gig, Charley wakes up to the fact that her station manager, Jonathan Lefton, is the boss from hell who will do anything for a story no matter who gets hurt in the process. When nude pictures of noon anchor, Miranda Andrews, are discovered in the men’s room of a Key West bar, all hell breaks loose. They end up on Lefton’s desk and he promotes her over the main anchor, sparking off a firestorm. Miranda’s quickly thrown into the mix and assigned special reports. Charley finds herself overseeing an investigation that could shine light on the guilt of a dirty cop. Real life begins to mimic the drama of broadcast news when station personalities face life and death all for rating and Emmys! VIEWER DISCRETION ADVISED is a modern day “Sex and the City” meets “Broadcast News.”
In Sara’s Mailbox:

Title: Between You and Me

Author: Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Kraus

Received: Angela @Engelman & Co.

Synopsis: What happens when you are followed by millions . . . and loved by none?

Twenty-seven-year-old Logan Wade is trying to build a life for herself far from her unhappy childhood in Oklahoma. Until she gets the call that her famous cousin needs a new assistant— an offer she can’t refuse.

Logan hasn’t seen Kelsey in person since their parents separated them as kids; in the meantime, Kelsey Wade has grown into Fortune Magazine’s most powerful celebrity. But their reunion is quickly overshadowed by the toxic dynamic between Kelsey and her parents as Logan discovers that, beneath the glossy façade, the wounds that caused them to be wrenched apart so many years ago have insidiously warped into a show-stopping family business.

As Kelsey tries desperately to break away and grasp at a “real” life, beyond the influence of her parents and managers, she makes one catastrophic misstep after another, and Logan must question if their childhood has left them both too broken to succeed. Logan risks everything to hold on, but when Kelsey unravels in the most horribly public way, Logan finds that she will ultimately have to choose between rescuing the girl she has always protected . . . and saving herself.

May 13, 2012
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Interview with Malena Lott
Chick Lit Authors

Interview with Malena Lott

1. Did your own personal experiences with motherhood inspire you to write this story?

Absolutely. First, I wasn’t raised by my biological mother (was raised by my paternal grandparents) so I could relate to the “motherless mother” anxiety Taylor feels in the book. Like most moms, every topic covered in the book was something I had to make a decision on – from daycare to working to breastfeeding to the nursery to how it changed every waking minute of my day. I used personal experiences from all three pregnancies, including hypnobirthing.

2. Do you have any advice for first time mothers? Or any fun/interesting stories?

I know it’s hard, but try to relax and enjoy the journey. The “annoyances” like rhinitis and heartburn and physical discomfort are quickly usurped by the annoyances of having no sleep and feeling like a zombie. Wait. That wasn’t very reassuring was it? Okay, try again. All the discomforts are worth it to share your life with your little bundle of joy. (Is that better?) 🙂

3. When did you know writing was for you?
In sixth grade I knew for sure, but it wasn’t until my mid-twenties that I decided I’d really try to finish a novel, join writers’ groups and try to find an agent and all that scary stuff.

4. How would you describe your books?
I’d describe them as mojo lit. My hope is that the reader finishes my books and then believes they can tackle whatever dreams and hurdles they may have in their own life, whether that be personal or professional. I’m also writing young adult under the pen name Lena Brown and my goal there is similar – you are stronger than you think you are and you have the answers within you. I’m also trying a time-traveling fantasy, so that one is completely different and fun and probably my favorite character to date. So check back in with me.

5. What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
Somewhere between the first and second draft is likely the hardest because the story changes so much and you have to make decisions that truly shape the novel. I enjoy revising, but it’s definitely the most crucial part.

6. What are your favorite genres to read?
I’m a voracious reader. I read women’s fiction and non-fiction the most. I’m a complete neuroscience and psychology geek, so I tend to read a lot of books about how we think and human relations. I also enjoy some Young Adult and the occasional literary novel. Now that I’m also an executive editor, I get to try new genres I may not have picked up myself, such as the historical non-fictional account of operation pied piper in 1939 London by one of our new Buzz Books clients, Michael Burns.

7. What do you want readers to take away from your story?
I’d love readers of The Stork Reality to come away with the confidence to trust in your intuition as a mother. It’s a tough job – the toughest! – but by paying attention and staying in the present moment it’s amazing how much more we know than we think we do. And love really does rule.

8. What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you as an author?
That I love and cherish my readers. Truly. Thank you for reading!

9. How important do you think social media is for authors these days?

It depends. Jonathon Franzen says Twitter is irritating and that serious readers and authors don’t like to “yak about themselves.” But for most of us (as a reader and as an author) I think it’s about tapping into a conversation and finding news, entertainment and connection in a way that’s fun and easy. I like it. Twitter/Facebook/Pinterest/Instagram/blogging is a way for people to find you and connect, not a way for you to talk about yourself all the time. I enjoy building community (as I’ve done with Book End Babes.com and Stork Reality Book.com so that’s why it matters to me. I’ve met amazing people and learned amazing things with social media, so I’m a fan.

10. What would be your advice to aspiring writers?

Write a lot. Revise a lot. Get constructive feedback. Don’t give up.

May 12, 2012
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The Stork Reality by Malena Lott
Chick Lit Review

The Stork Reality by Malena Lott

The Stork Reality by Malena Lott is the perfect cross between traditional chick lit and mom lit. Taylor Montgomery has the perfect life- she is happily married and a thriving creative director for an advertising firm. She seems to have it all figured out … that is, until she finds out that she is unexpectedly pregnant. Oops! Taylor and her husband never wanted to start a family together, but now she must figure out what to do. The Stork Reality follows Taylor as she navigates through the new world of pregnancy and motherhood, and the effects it has on her marriage, friendships, work and sanity. She must also face her best friend Hilarie, who has always wanted to be a mother, yet can’t conceive.

I found this book to be smart, humorous, and heartfelt. The journey that Taylor goes through is nothing short of heroic and it really makes you appreciate what all a pregnant woman (especially one who finds herself in that position unexpectedly) goes through. I laughed, I cried … but mostly, I cheered for Taylor as she tackled her fears and fought for what she wanted. I found the descriptions of her pregnancy journey to be spot on and often times hilarious.

Malena Lott is a phenomenal writer and she really shines with this one! I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a witty page turner, pregnant or not. Overall, I give it 5/5 stars. Such a wonderful read. Finally a funny and heartfelt book about pregnancy!

May 10, 2012
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Leftovers by Arthur Wooten
Chick Lit Review

Leftovers by Arthur Wooten

The cleverly crafted Leftovers by Arthur Wooten begins with Vivian Lawson, the picturesque American housewife of the 1950’s and the envy of women everywhere. An unexpected event changes her life as she knows it and robs her of her husband, leaving her alone to fend for herself in a time when independent women was not common place. Struggling to find her footing, she takes the advice of her friend Babs and starts selling Tupperware. Little does she know that she is on her way to living a very satisfied and happy life, while also finding a sense of womanhood and a higher self-esteem along the way.

I absolutely loved, and devoured, every minute of Leftovers by Arthur Wooten. I found the writing and the imagery fabulous and felt as though I had been transported back into the 1950’s along with Vivian, during such an important time in history for women and I love that she was presented with many of those obstacles first hand. The setting and the historical tidbits here and there are very realistic and the characters are witty and charming….honestly a perfect combination. I loved watching Vivian make her way from the bottom to the top and loved watching her truly embrace her womanhood. This book is an absolute gem. Well done Arthur!

[Rating: 5/5]

May 9, 2012
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Charming Tuesday: A Beauty Favorite
Chick Lit Plus

Charming Tuesday: A Beauty Favorite

Just recently I started really getting into perfume. I was never a big in past years, I just would spray some body spray and call it good. I’m not sure how it changed, but now I have seven perfume bottles lining my vanity! My favorite lately has been Bombshell from Victoria Secret. I love the bottle, and the smell is delicious. I always pick this one for a good night out scent – it’s sexy, feminine, and even a bit glamorous.

A runner up is a new favorite I received in a Birchbox – Harvey Prince Yogini. The description says it is supposed to keep you calm, like you’re in a yoga class, and I’ll be – I really am call immediately after I put this on! I love the scent, and I use this on days when I am relaxing at home. It’s not one for a night out, but for a chill night at home, this is my new go-to.

Sara’s Must-Have:

I used to be a perfume person, but I’ve noticed that I can’t handle the strong smells as easily now as I used to when I was much younger. So now, I usually reach for a body spray of some type because they still get the job done, yet not to where they overpower my senses. My favorite by far is Japanese Cherry Blossom from Bath and Body Works. This scent has it all: it is slightly seductive with its floral scent, yet there are touches of fruit and other types of petals mixed in. This has been my go-to fragrance for a few years now.

May 8, 2012
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