#xoxperts Review: Nuts by Alice Clayton

Nuts by Alice Clayton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Who knew that butter could ruin a career? That's exactly what happens to private chef Roxie Callahan when she errs in the eyes of a L.A. diva. When her mom calls, needing help at the family diner in sleepy Bailey Falls, she grudgingly agrees. But after a literal run-in with the most drool-worthy farmer she's ever seen, Leo Maxwell, will she change her mind about love--and where she calls home?

Alice Clayton, author of the delightful novel Nuts, is not new to fans, but new to me. Her writing is sweet, spicey, and dotted with a bit of cheese. I found myself chuckling and lol, staying up into the wee hours of the morning to finish it. Chapter 12 have me goosebumps. That's good reading right there. I may have had to fan myself.

This is the first in Clayton's new Hudson Valley series. If the romps of Richie and Leo are any prediction, I'm going to savor this series.

A solid four stars, this could only have been better had it included some of Roxie's amazing-sounding recipes. That's not nice to tease your readers who are also foodies! ;) I'd give it a PG-13 rating since the romance is definitely there but not explicitly phrased. There are plenty of F-bombs--this didn't bother me, but some readers may feel differently.

**Disclaimer--I was sent this book as a member of the Xoxperts Street Team. This is my honest and unbiased review. Check out xoxoafterdark.com and Simonandschuster.com.

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XoXperts Review: Sustained by Emma Chase

Sustained by Emma Chase
My rating: 4 1/2 of 5 stars

When Defense attorney Jake Becker nabs his juvie pickpocket, he has no clue how his life is about to change again. Once a juvenile offender himself, he finds himself falling hard for the boy's legal guardian--Chelsea McQuaid. This playboy handles criminals; how hard can it be to deal with her five other nieces and nephews?

Maybe a big clue would be when he had to Google how to change a diaper.

....I lift his kicking legs and slide a fresh diaper underneath him.
And then--without warning--a hot stream...arches in the air, coating
my shirt with expert aim.
I glare down at the baby. "Seriously, man?"
He just smiles around the hand he's chewing on.
...Google didn't mention this.


Sustained is book two of the Legal Briefs series by Emma Chase. I didn't get a chance to read the first book, so these can be read out of order.

I really enjoyed this book. Jake is quite the rogue but you can't help but fall for him. Chelsea is thrust into being a supermom, and I loved her sweet, trusting nature. The kids are a hoot; my only gripe is all their names start with R, creating a bit of confusion keeping them apart.

I give this 4 1/2 stars and can't wait to read Books 1, already out, and 3, due out next January. I'd give it a Rated R for language and graphic sex.

**Disclaimer--I was sent this book as a member of the Xoxperts Street Team. This is my honest and unbiased review. Check out xoxoafterdark.com and Simonandschuster.com.

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Review: Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

GONE Too Soon

It's well known in my family that I will not read a book until I've seen the movie. As much as I liked the film version of Gone Girl, the book was fantastic. I actually hollered out loud when the book was over, I just needed more.

Gillian Flynn is a brilliant author who could pull off alternating voices of Nick and Amy (and Amy...that is not a typo). It's chilling, brilliant, and makes me glad I have Flynn's other books to read (my copy of the ebook included sneak peaks of both).

I'd love a sequel to Gone Girl, the character of Amy is just to big for only one novel.

Five stars well earned.

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XoXperts Review: The Coincidence of Coconut Cake

The Coincidence of Coconut Cake by Amy E. Reichert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

"It doesn't need sugar 'cause it's already sweet
It doesn't need an oven 'cause it's got a lot of heat
Just add a dash of kisses to make it all complete
And that's the recipe for making love"
--Recipe for Love, Harry Connick, Jr.

When Lou walks in on her fiance with another woman, her terrible day becomes a disaster when infamous food critic A.W.Wodyski visits that night, leaving a scathing review.

Juggling a failing restaurant and giving freelance writer Al from England a foodie taste of Milwaukee keeps her busy. But can she stand the heat--or will she have to get out of the kitchen?

I absolutely LOVED this book. There are not enough words to aptly describe this yummy romance. It reminds me of a mashup of the classic Meg Ryan movies, particularly You've Got Mail. I think this should BE a movie. Just make sure you have food on hand, as the descriptions of the dishes will make your mouth water.

Lucky for us, author Amy E.Reichert includes the recipes for the famous coconut cake featured on the cover. I had planned on making it in time for my review. I will add to this review when I do so.

The Coincidence of Coconut Cake is sweet, but not cloying, romantic, but not too steamy, and is going down as one of my favorite reads for 2015. I can't wait to see what Reichert cooks up for us next! Perhaps a cookbook?

**Disclaimer--I was sent this book as a member of the Xoxperts Street Team. This is my honest and unbiased review. Check out xoxoafterdark.com and Simonandschuster.com.

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Xoxperts Review: The Canterbury Sisters

The Canterbury Sisters by Kim Wright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Canterbury Sisters begins with two losses: Che's mother has passed away, and her long distance boyfriend has left her. A note with her mother's urn urges her to go to Canterbury. So, like Chaucer's pilgrims, she leaves her world behind for the sixty mile trek. The nine women tell stories, much like in The Canterbury Tales, on their way. Will they find truth, lies, healing, and second chances?

Although it's been ages since I read Chaucer, I enjoyed this group of women, strangers becoming sisters. I was enchanted by the cover (forget that oft-used phrase), but it didn't really fit the theme. My only reason for giving it 4 1/2 stars was trying to keep track of all the characters. I loved the twists and turns of the tale, much like the roads they took. I definitely look forward to reading more of Wright's work.



**Disclaimer--I was sent this book as a member of the Xoxperts Street Team. This is my honest and unbiased review. Check out xoxoafterdark.com and Simonandschuster.com.

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Searching for Beautiful Social Media Blitz!!!

Hello and welcome to my first Social Media BLITZ for

This is the third book in Jennifer Probst's Searching for...Series.

Here's my artwork for the blitz...look around on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram to find them!

You can find out more about Jennifer Probst at www.JenniferProbst.com

www.xoxoafterdark.com
#xoxperts #xoxoafterdark
Note:I was sent this as a member of the Official Street Team, an Xoxpert, for xoxoafterdark.com.This is my honest and unbiased review.

Review: Walking on Trampolines

Walking on Trampolines by Frances Whiting

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This incredibly lyrical saga of love won and lost, coming off age, mental illness and betrayal stays with me still. It is beautiful and heart breaking, a snapshot from everyday life, yet it captivated me for the entire book. Though set in Australia, there is a worldliness that embraces us all. Time passes, rewinds, but binds us all in the end, perhaps not a perfect HEA, but enough that we feel deliciously sated.


Annabelle, strong willed and determined, takes introvert Tallulah under her wing, and begin a friendship where the lines of their respective households--and friends and lovers--become blurred. Can they survive through betrayals?

I absolutely was smitten by this novel. The characters were as real as you and I. I can only hope author Frances Writing continues to share her brilliance with the world.

Note:I was sent this as a member of the Official Street Team, an Xoxpert, for xoxoafterdark.com.This is my honest and unbiased review.

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Review: Flirting with Fire

Flirting with Fire by Kate Meader

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



As a fan of tv's Chicago Fire, I was more than ready to dig into the first of Kate Meader's new Hot in Chicago series, Flirting with Fire. Chicago Mayor's PR genius Kensey Taylor must put out a media fire by wrangling hot-headed CFD Firefighter Luke Almeida, sparks fly. Both recovering from being burned by love, can they work together so he won't lose his job over a bar room brawl--with a member of the CPD?

At first, the book starts out a bit slow--like a hot match still glowing. I found it a bit hard to keep track of all the key players. But I quickly got into the book and understood why one of my favorite writers in this genre, Jude Deveraux loved it. Pretty soon, this book becomes a raging inferno of hot hot really adult-only romance!

I truly appreciated the banter between Kensey and Luke, and loved the passionate sex scenes. There's also a sweetness you don't expect from a tough firefighter.

I'd give this 4 1/2 stars if I could, and can't WAIT for book two, Playing with Fire to be released. It continues the story of the Dempsey clan, Luke's family.

This is a must read for fans of romance--just make sure your smoke alarm is nowhere near the book ;)

Note: I was sent this book as a part of the Official Street Team, as an XOXpert, for xoxoafterdark.com. this is my honest and unbiased review.

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Review: The Girl in 6E

The Girl in 6E by Alessandra Torre

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



MUST Read that will chill you to your bones!

I have one word to describe A.R. Torre--brilliant.

The Girl in 6E is a thrilling combination of Basic Instinct, 50Shades, and Silence of the Lambs. And I freaking LOVED IT.

It is not for the faint of heart, and definitely for adults only. But the story is powerfully unique, the writing perfect (as well as the research), and best of all-- two sequels coming out this year. I can't wait.

This is absolutely one of the best books I've read this year, and maybe will wind up being one of my favorite series ever.



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Review: The Lady Vanishes

The Lady Vanishes by Nicole Camden

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



When Pediatric Oncologist Dr.Regina Burke meets Shaw the Magician, who entertains her patients, she's wary of getting to know him better. Milton Shaw--magician, tech guru, and billionaire--will use every trick up his sleeve to win her heart.

While not quite 50 Shades, I really enjoyed this book--the characters, their smoking hot chemistry, and the intricate plot line. I only wish it had been longer! I definitely would love more of their continuing romance!

While this is book one of the Billionaire Magicians series, each is a standalone novel. I think it would help reading them in order, but I don't know if there is any more to Regina's and Milton's story.

Note: I received this as a member of the Official Xoxperts street team for www.xoxoafterdark.com. This is my honest and unbiased review.

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Review: Never Sleep Alone

Never Sleep Alone by Alex Schiller

My rating: 1 of 5 stars



An open letter to "Not really a doctor" Alex Schiller:

I should preface this by saying I'm married to My One for over 22 years, and have two amazing children, 19 and 13, and I'm definitely not a prude. My eldest is studying to be a real scientist, not a delusional woman who practices pseudo-science. I find it surprising you haven't found your One.

Actually I don't.

Anyone who thinks the young women of today are more interested in landing a perpetual cycle of sex partners is sad, pathetic, and needy.

You're welcome.

For your information, the ability to have sex when you want to doesn't even come close to making you exceptional. I don't need anyone who could pass for a female dog in heat to tell me I'm exceptional. Me, mediocre? You sad delusional woman. And I use that term loosely, for any woman who deigns to categorize women as mediocre instead of seeing the amazing woman for who she is, is a disgrace to our gender.

Further, anyone who would pretend to be deaf, or any other disability, to have sex is outright insulting. Believe me, should our paths ever cross,I won't hesitate to get out of my wheelchair and kick you in your overused (allegedly) ladyparts.

But the final straw, the reason I could not get past the first few pages was proof of why you are to be despised and not admired. You advise any person who finds your psychbabble tasks too difficult, and I'm quoting word for word, "You can always move to a Third World country and bring clean water to poor people who will sleep with you".

A whole host of descriptive words come to mind, but Hitler keeps floating in there for some reason. I won't repost my initial reaction out of respect for my readers.

For that reason alone I hope you don't procreate, so that your elitist venom dies along with your dusty genitals.

I won't pass this on to anyone because I know there is more to life than sex. Too bad you're missing out on a genuine, happy life.

Some may say you can't review a book you've barely read; I see this as an opportunity to read a real book, and not an insulting time-sucking vampire.

Note: I was sent this book as a part of the Official XOXPERTS Street Team, www.xoxoFterdark.com. This is my honest and unbiased review.




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Review: Her Unexpected Hero

Her Unexpected Hero by Melody Anne

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



A random meeting in an airport in Paris leads to a one night stand for Jackson and Alyssa, both licking their wounds from those who hurt them in the past. Who would have guessed they'd meet again in the middle of nowhere Montana?

This romantic chick lit has all the cliché parts that make this an easy, light read. That's NOT a bad thing--everyone needs some brain candy to relieve the stresses in our lives.

This is the first in the Unexpected Heroes series. While the second book hasn't been released yet, I don't believe you have to read them in order--they involve the same families in Montana but it's not a continuation of the lives of Jackson and Alyssa.

Note: I received this book as an XOXpert, the street team for www.xoxoafterdark.com. This is my honest and unbiased review.

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Review: The Julian Chapter: A Wonder Story

The Julian Chapter: A Wonder Story by R.J. Palacio

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



A bully's tale...

Even though I'm grown, I absolutely loved Wonder. So when I saw The Julian Chapter, I was intrigued. Could anything in this novella help me understand why Julian was so ugly to Auggie? Let alone like Julian?

R. J. Palacio is a literary genius with a soul and heart of gold. I'm so happy she wrote this gem of a story. If you're a fan of Wonder, you can't miss this.

I'm looking forward to reading Pluto!



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Review: Feeding Eden: The Trials and Triumphs of a Food Allergy Family

Feeding Eden: The Trials and Triumphs of a Food Allergy Family by Susan Weissman

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



A MUST for those who parent a child with food allergies!!!

I cannot thank Susan Weissman enough for sharing her son, Eden, and his life threatening food allergies. So many times it was like reading what our family has gone through for the past thirteen years. I've wept, gained insight, and would love to bear hug this amazing woman. Because we have nearly shared parallel lives, I know the pain, the fear, guilt, frustration and doubts.

My son is currently anaphylactic to all nuts, eggs, dairy and shellfish. He has had eczema since he was two weeks old, asthma by two and a half, and had his first anaphylactic reaction to a tiny bite of his pbj at age three. He's developed other health issues.

And it's HARD. But I've connected with the author and others online so we are not alone. We have a dream team of doctors who work with us when a new curveball is thrown.

Whether your child is newly diagnosed or is a pro at reading labels, thus book is a valuable tool that reminds you--you can do this, you are not alone.





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Review: Younger

Younger by Pamela Redmond Satran

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Younger is a one year journey of Alice's life as she tries to live out a wish - - what would life be like if she were younger? With the help of her best friend and a makeover, this 44-year-old newly divorced stay-at-home mom begins to pass for a 20 something version of the woman she wishes she could be.

There were lots of bright spots in this romantic comedy. She applies for a job she used to work for, and picks up a very hot younger man, someone who is young enough to be her son.

However I feel that the book ended far too quickly leaving many storylines unfinished. It's interesting enough that I'd like to check out the TV show that is based on the novel.

Note: I received this book as an XOXpert, thanks to XOXOAfterDark.com, with Simon & Schuster books. This is my honest and unbiased review.

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Review: The Eclective: The Pride Collection

The Eclective: The Pride Collection by The Eclective

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Great LGBT anthology

This is my first introduction to The Eclective, and it was a good one. While a few stories missed the mark, most were fantastic--I've taken notes of the authors, and put their solo works on my wish list. Most of the collections are very inexpensive or free on Amazon, so it's well worth the cost and then some!

Due to the explicit (though hysterical!) nature of one story, I'd recommend this for adults only.



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Review: The Life Intended

The Life Intended by Kristin Harmel

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



I am so grateful this beautiful, lyrical tale of love lost and found came to me. You know those books that keep you up all night, make you smile, make you tear up so much you can't see the page? The Life Intended is all that and more.

I loved this book so much; author Kristin Harmel, a Floridian like me, writes with intelligence, compassion, and has obviously done her research to make her characters so very real. Whether it's protagonist's Kate's job as a Music Therapist (something I have an interest in), describing various aspects of ASL, American sign language, or educating the reader about those with hard of hearing, it never feels pedantic, but rich with so many layers.

I look forward to reading more by this author. This Five Star romance did not disappoint in any way, and was worth staying up all night to finish.

Note: I was sent this book as an XOXPERT, a member of XOXOAFTERDARK. My opinions and review are my own.

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Review: Empower: Fight Like A Girl

Empower: Fight Like A Girl by Amy Berg

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



Great anthology for a fantastic cause

If you want to get your bad ass chick on, look no further than this awesome anthology of stories for women, by women. Proceeds go to help The Lupus Foundation of America Inc.

While not every story was five star worthy, the incredible talent gathered here for a good cause made for a pleasant read. I would typically read one story between books to make it last.

Totally worth every penny!



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Review: Wonder

Wonder by R.J. Palacio

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



A must read for all students!

Sometimes I learn the most, feel the most, when reading a children's/Young adult book. Wonder is no exception. This extraordinary book about a young boy, August, made me laugh, made me cry until my heart hurt. Though it's never completely named, August has a form of Treachers-Collins, which causes facial deformities at birth.

His amazing bravery at starting school, making friends, as well as enemies, made me love him even more. Each section is told by a character; future books feature other characters, friends and foes. We learn from each the struggles they go thru. Though they don't have a visible disability (except for Justin who briefly talks about his tics), each faces hardships at home and school that shape their character.

I absolutely love this book. The lessons of Kindness, tolerance, and overcoming fear is a good message that would serve all schools, and even adults. I cannot recommend this enough, and hope author R. J. Palacio will continue to write more of August's life.



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Review: The Rosie Project

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Though this year has just begun, I've found one of my favorite books for 2015 in this delightful, charming, and loveable read, The Rosie Project. Don bears a striking resemblance to The Big Bang Theory character Sheldon (actor Jim Parsons, who should absolutely play him in the movie version). If you're wondering, I think Emma Stone would make a fantastic Rosie.

There was nothing I didn't love about this book. My son has mild Asperger Syndrome, so I had more than a few chuckles in some of the traits they share. I hesitate to label it chick lit, since Don narrates this witty tale and we see it all through his eyes.

I have a feeling I'll read this again, as it has won a place in my heart. A sequel is out now!!!! Guess who just bought it? :)





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Review: Daddy Doin' Work

Daddy Doin' Work by Doyin Richards

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



I believe Doyin Richards has a huge heart and passion for making sure kids have the dads they deserve. I love his blog and think his family is blessed to have him, just as I know he must feel equally blessed.

As a wife for 22 years, mom of two, 19 and 13, I'm equally blessed to have a husband that qualifies as a Daddy Doin Work. That being said, I feel Richards' book puts the weight square on the woman's shoulders. If he's not helping and won't change, leave. If he's fantastic, make sure you don't drive him away.

I think it's a bit naive for a father with less than four years experience to throw out such statements. Just because one stay at home mom left doesn't mean this is a viable option for every woman. This is just one part of the book that had me shaking my head.

I do agree with ideas like increasing paid family leave, and respecting every parent who works in or out of the home, no matter the gender.

I feel a better book would have been how to raise boys and girls to be better parents, and how to wisely choose a parenting partner. Stories from Doyin's childhood would have been great examples on how to raise future Daddies Doing Work.

I'd love to read a book by Richards after his girls have hit the teen years. Experience has taught me that even the best marriages don't split every chore 50/50, and the best intentioned daddy will screw up, and even let his family down. No one is perfect; and until every kid comes with a handbook at birth, parenting is a learning experience.

I wish Richards' the very best--in his family and writing career, as well as his mission to increase Daddies Doin Work. This book is an earnest first work. I'm quite sure future works will only improve and further this mission.



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Review: Beyond Blue: Surviving Depression & Anxiety and Making the Most of Bad Genes

Beyond Blue: Surviving Depression & Anxiety and Making the Most of Bad Genes by Therese J. Borchard

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



A literal life-saver

Beyond Blue is part memoir, and part guide to living with a mental illness. I was drawn to Borchard's writing through an e newsletter, and quickly joined Group Beyond Blue on Facebook. Naturally I had to get this book, and it's a worthwhile addition to my sanity toolkit.

While our illnesses may be different--currently I'm battling anxiety, but have dealt with depression in the past--her story helps me feel I'm not alone. In addition, every chapter contains a sanity break--tips and tricks you can do to help your healing process.

If you suffer from a mental illness, or care for someone who does, this book is a must read and a literal life line.



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Review: Panic Attacks And Anxiety Attacks : Stop Panic Attacks For A Stress Free Life

Panic Attacks And Anxiety Attacks : Stop Panic Attacks For A Stress Free Life by Mike C. Adams

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



A decent self help book

Considering I got this for free, it was a helpful book, broken up in small sections, to help you if you suffer from panic and/or anxiety attacks. The tips are short and easy to try out. My favorite is COW...it really does work!

This is no substitute for professional care, as the author notes. If you are suffering from either or both, please contact your health care practitioner. There is hope and you can get better!



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Review: No Quest For The Wicked

No Quest For The Wicked by Shanna Swendson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Swendon's Enchanted series, is by far one of my favorite series ever. Book 6 did not disappoint. My only regret is there is only one book left in the series. I would love to see the adventures of Katie and Owen play out in a series of films. Though it may appeal more to women, this series is appropriate for most ages and all fans of fantasy. Younger readers may not enjoy the romance angle, but there is nothing inappropriate. I can't say enough about how fun this series has been and it will be bittersweet reaching the end.



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Review: The Actor and the Housewife

The Actor and the Housewife by Shannon Hale

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Sweet, charming, not your average RomCom

Pregnant Mormon mom sells screenplay, runs into her favorite movie heart throb; hilarity ensues.

While Hale's Austenland has become her best known work, you will be missing a darling treat of a book if you pass this by. I laughed, I cried, and was surprised by the twists and turns that gave me an unexpected, yet faithful to the characters, ending.

While the Amazon ebook has many typos, they were easy to overlook, even for an English major. The heart of this work kept it at a solid five stars for me--a hopeless romantic.

I'd love to see this as a film, and would beg for a sequel. This is the perfect read for the shivery rest of winter, sure to warm your heart. Hopefully you'll love it as much as I did.

Appropriate for teens on up; satisfyingly romantic while remaining clean for teens. Classified under Romance, chick lit, spiritual fiction, humor. It's definitely going down as a favorite for 2015 for me. Pinky swear!



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