Chick Lit Goddess

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Book Reviews

Binding Arbitration

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Book review for “Binding Arbitration”

“Binding Arbitration” by Elizabeth Marx

Libby Tucker’s son, Cass, is terminally sick.  As a single mother the only choice she might have to possibly save his life is to contact the boy’s father, baseball player – sexy, alluring, and passionate, “Band-Aid” Aidan Palowski.  (He even left me even swooning for him).  When she reaches out for his help, he does so willingly.  The instant connection between Cass and “Mr. Pole-ow-ski” is what begins to make these three the family that they should’ve been all along.

After reading the storyline, I knew that I would love this book.  When I finally did started it, I was instantly in love with “Binding Arbitration.”  From the beginning I was hooked, especially having Chapter 1 start in Aidan’s POV.  (I thought that was a really cleaver thing that the talented author, Elizabeth Marx, did).  In the first chapter, we see Aidan shooting a commercial with little girl fairies.  In a cute way, it was comical to see how Aidan behaves around them.  He’s not mean, just the typical baseball player who isn’t a fan of sparkles and screaming kids.

Chapter 2 was in Libby’s POV.  I liked her character because with all that she has going for her, she doesn’t back down and shows no sign of weakness whatsoever.  She’s a woman who gives 100% to her job as a highly acclaimed attorney, and as a mother who would do anything for her child.

After the Libby confronts Aidan and at the end of the 3rd chapter, it was obvious that there are still some very strong feelings between these two, no matter who or what stood in their way.  I was cheering for them the whole way through, especially at the end when a tragedy strikes, which turned out to be a heartwarming conclusion to this sweet book.

I read “Binding Arbitration” in about a week, and it was everything I thought and hoped it would be.  There weren’t any slow parts that left me feeling that I was being strung along.  I think that Ms. Marx did a phenomenal job of creating such wonderful book that deals with such a sad situation for such a sweet little boy like Cass.  I admired the way Cass’s character was written as a child – he didn’t seem to care much about what was happening to himself, but only wished the best for his parents.  That was just one more sign of what a great mother Libby was to her little man.

If you’re the mood for a quick read about love, forgiveness and family, I think you enjoy it as much as I did.

“Binding Arbitration” will definitely be on my list of my Top Reads of 2012.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

**GIVEAWAY**

Win “BINDING ARBITRATION” by leaving a comment telling me why you love reading Chick Lit books, along with your email address!  Two winners will be randomly selected.  This giveaway ends on April 2nd at midnight EST!  (I WILL ONLY INCLUDE YOU IN THE DRAWING IF YOU LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS)  Good luck!

About the author:

Windy City writer Elizabeth Marx brings cosmopolitan flair to her fiction, which is a blend of romance and fast-paced Chicago living with a sprinkle of magical realism. In her past incarnation she was an interior designer–not a decorator–which basically means she has a piece of paper to prove that she knows how to match and measure things and can miraculously make mundane pieces of furniture appear to be masterpieces. Elizabeth says being an interior designer is one part shrink, one part marriage counselor and one part artist, skills eerily similar to those employed in writing.

Elizabeth grew up in Illinois and has also lived in Texas and Florida. If she’s not pounding her head against the wall trying to get the words just right, you can find her at a softball field out in the boonies or sitting in the bleachers by a basketball court. Elizabeth resides with her husband, girls, and two cats who’ve spelled everyone into believing they’re really dogs.

Elizabeth has traveled extensively, but still says there’s no town like Chi-Town.

Contact Elizabeth:

Blog

Facebook

Twitter

Website

Email: elizabethmarxbooks@gmail.com

Buy “Binding Arbitration!”

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Get the prequel!  “Cutters vs. Jocks” is still available — and FREE!

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

An Exciting Day: March 12th, 2012

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Many of you know that the number “12” is a very lucky number for me!  This brings me to Monday, March 12th, 2012, which is tomorrow!  As I sit here drinking my white wine, I’m finding it difficult to contain myself.  THIS might help explain why!  Yes, it’s only a book tour, but it’s my first time to be a part of something like this – GO ME!  I have a feeling that this is only a the beginning of what will be a great Monday for me!

How do you plan on spending your Monday?

To end, I’m leaving you with a quote that inspires me — especially on Monday’s!

It’s Fun Friday

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Friday’s are the days where I try to write about something other than writing, editing, or publishing, but today I really wanted to share something very exciting with you:

Earlier this week I added the TOURS tab to my website.  This was the next step on my website, and I’m thrilled to be taking part of Samantha’s Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.  Having this opportunity has introduced me to some wonderful writers, along with their books filled with many memorable characters.

If you look at my new tab, you will see that on Monday will be my very first time for a tour!  I highly encourage you to come back on Monday to see what it’s all about.

**(There will be a giveaway of the book “Binding Arbitration” by Elizabeth Marx, and I know you won’t want to miss it!)

I hope y’all have a wonderful weekend — I know I will!

Writers and Their Cats

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Almost every writer I know has a pet to keep them company as they go through the steps of the writing process, from start to finish.   Some days we will complain about the neediness of the pet and how they distract us from our work, but on those hard days where we stare at the computer and nothing comes to us, we’re glad they’re there.  I know I’m thankful for the way my little man (Thorndike) paws and meows (constantly) at me when I’m the one who needs the attention — and I believe he knows that.

On the days where I’m feeling very productive, my 12-year-old little man loves to be the center of attention.  He practically begs to be played with, cuddled (which most times during this process he falls asleep and begins to snore loudly), and of course, he loves to be pet – a lot, and doesn’t want me to stop.  Wait, let me rephrase that – he doesn’t want me to stop until his daddy gets home.

Then there are times when I’m reading for a book review or tour, and I get up to get more tea or take care of the buzzing washing machine, that he plops himself down on the book.  I can’t resist taking a picture of him because he’s just too cute!  (Notice how the book title “Good In Bed” goes as a perfect caption for him?)  Does your cat do this too?

The Writer’s Workspace cartoon is something that I think we as writers can relate to.  (However, if you’re on The Dream, then I envy you!  Can you share how you do it?)

Simon’s Cat is a little comic strip of what most of my writing and editing days are like with my little man!

Do you have any pets that keep you company?  How does he/she keep you motivated?  Do you have a funny or sweet story you’d like to share about you and your pet(s) during your writing process?

Gone, But Not Forgotten

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Hi, y’all!  It’s been about two weeks since I’ve blogged and I’m so happy to be back!

During my hiatus there’s not been a second where I’ve not been thinking about my books (editing my first, and thinking about what to do with my second – self publishing?), reading book for my reviews, my upcoming guests, and of course my fantastic followers!

In the next few weeks I’ll be busy with a few book tours, featuring some wonderful writers (Elizabeth Marx who wrote “Binding Arbitration,” Kathleen Kole who wrote “Favorable Conditions,” Toni Aleo who wrote “Taking Shots,” and Liz Matis who wrote “Love By Design!“)  I also have a few guest posts/interviews that I’m excited about hosting!  And in the midst of it all, I’ll be dedicating the rest of my time to the books I’ve written!

Once again, I’d like to thank my fans, followers, friends, and family for sticking by me.  Your support has meant so much to me!

Why I Love Blog Tours

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I love being a Chick Lit writer in the making, and I love being a blogger!

I love reading books so when I was asked to be a part of a blog tour from Chick Lit Plus, I was thrilled, (my first one will be coming in March!)  I’ve had a very high respect for blog tour hosts, and Samantha was just one of them.  Since then, I’ve joined three others and I am so excited!

Reading the author’s books are my favorite part because I love to type up the reader.  I’ve also learned that book reviews are very important – thanks to high statuses when I post a review.

While I’m new at touring authors and books, I love being apart of them because I love promoting, encouraging, and giving respect to the authors much deserved attention.

Authors deserve attention, and why shouldn’t they?  Whether your self-published or you’ve been picked up by a highly known publishing company, I think that sharing the news of your books. no matter how much you’re in the biz,” to keep on, and share it with bloggers like me.  I will help you spread the word on you book.

**Contact me by email if you’re interested at ila@chicklitgoddess.com**

Finding Time To Read

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Very early this morning I finished my second book of the year  After I finished it, I eagerly opened my next book to read for a blog tour I’m taking part in (CLP Blog Tours: Binding Arbitration by Elizabeth Marx).  I considered reading the first chapter, but at two in the morning, I was exhausted, and I wanted time to reflect on finishing “150 Pounds” by Kate Rockland.  I closed my eyes and tried to think of a topic (or topics) for today’s blog post, and that’s when I began to think about the books that are still on my “shelf” to read for reviews and interviews.

Don’t we all wish we were somewhere peaceful reading?  Perhaps at the beach?

Now, like many of you, you’re either an avid reader and reviewer like myself, so how do you finish books so fast?  Is it because of technology?  You can be standing in line at the grocery store and pull out your Kindle (for example), and begin reading.  Are you a fast reader where you skim what you read?  I’d like to think that I’m a fast reader, but by slowing down, it helps me enjoy the book more.  The more and more I get requests for reviews, the more excited I get that I’m being asked to read this book (YAY!), but at the same time, I get a little stressed because finding the time to read and finish the book.  If I do accept a book to be reviewed, I want the person who asks me to read the book to understand that if I say yes, their book will not be forgot about, no matter how much time passes by.

So, I’ve decided to start schedule reading time.  “Schedule reading time?” you might ask.  “Yes!”  I will try to read at least a total amount of two hours a day.  Whether it’s 30 minutes here, and 30 minutes there, it still counts, right?

As a reader and/or a reviewer, how do you find time to read books?  Your comments, ideas, and thoughts are very much appreciated!

150 Pounds

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Book review for “150 Pounds”

“150 Pounds,” by Kate Rockland

Weight is one of the most controversial topics to write about, which can be a turnoff to some readers.  However, the storyline and intriguing cover piqued my interest, which is why I accepted the book for review.  Once I started reading, I didn’t want to stop – from the first page to the last.

Meet Alexis Albright, who is a calorie counter addict, and blog owner of Skinny Chick!  Her mission in life is to be skinny, and doesn’t understand why some fat people are content in their own skin.

Meet fun-loving blog owner of Fat and Fabulous, Shoshana Weiner, who is complete opposite.  She’s a fat woman who eats whatever she wants, who’s confortable in her own skin, and encourages others to the same.

When these two women meet one another on Oprah, both sharing their viewpoints, both are disgusted with what the other has to say.  While it’s clear that these two have very different ways of thinking about weight, it takes going through unexpected and powerful events that happen in each of their lives to finally understand where the other is coming from.

Kate Rockland has written what I think is the most real and heartwarming book about weight.  It’s the first book I’ve read about weight where the reader doesn’t feel judged, no matter what her size is.  Both Alexis and Shoshana’s characters made me laugh out loud!  I loved how Alexis’ character transformed into another person by the end – though, I loved her personality throughout.  Shoshana’s love for herself made me adore her!  She is the true example of why every woman should love herself at any weight!

150 Pounds is definitely a “worth the weight” kind of book.

I give this book 4 out of 5 stars!

**Click HERE to read my Guest Interview with Kate

Jennifer Coburn

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I’m honored to have Jennifer Coburn as a guest on Chick Lit Goddess!  After reading “Tales From The Crib” and loving it, she is my new favorite author!  As I am a Chick Lit Writer in the making, this talented and kind woman is a true inspiration.  Once anyone reads just one of her books, you will want to continue on with the others — I know I do!

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?   I’m a native New Yorker living in San Diego with my husband and 14-year-old daughter.  I love nothing more than a good story – whether it is told at a dinner party, in a book, on stage or on screen.  I also love traveling with my daughter, which is always like experiencing a good story in real-time.

Did you always know you wanted to be a writer?   I’ve always loved writing, but never really though it was something I could do as a career, so I went the sensible route and got a “real” job.  Even there, I found ways to incorporate writing, but it was always about politics or social issues.  I enjoyed that immensely, but really found my own voice while I was on my (12-year!) maternity leave.   It was then when I let myself start writing from the heart instead of just the head.

What’s it like in a day of Jennifer Coburn?   Crazy.  Two years ago I returned to work as the director of communications at the non-profit agency I left when my daughter was born.  I leave at three o’clock to drive a carpool, shuttle Katie to activities and then write articles and novels from 7 PM to midnight.  Some days I get to the gym, but no often enough.

How long does it take you to write a book?   The fastest one was Tales From the Crib, which took four months to complete.  Reinventing Mona took nearly a year.

Which do you prefer, Kindle or paper books?   As a reader, I really like the feeling of a book in my hands.  I tried the kindle once and it was fine, but I’m a very late adopter of technology.  (I just learned how to program contacts into my cell phone.)  As a writer, I prefer ebooks.  Kindle and nook have provided a place for readers to access some of my older books that are no longer in print, so for that, I am eternally grateful.

What do you love and hate about the writing process?   I love seeing how a story unfolds.  I always think I know the story I’m going to tell, but it inevitably changes along the way and I really enjoy that experience.  In my first novel, The Wife of Reilly, I realized three chapters before the end that if I finished the book the way I’d outlined, my character would have learned nothing.  I really enjoy getting to know characters and figuring out what they need to become a fuller, more self-actualized person.

Do you have any advice for new writers?   Have a rejection ritual – something you do every time you get bad news from an agent or an editor (or a bad review).   I used to set a stopwatch for 15 minutes of hard-core grieving, then I’d drive to the Hotel Del Coronado and sip a cup of tea in the lobby.  Something about being in this luxurious setting made me feel successful.  It was the emotional boost I needed to return to writing.

How do you come up with the titles of your book?   Authors actually do not have final say on their titles; it is the publisher.  I was very lucky that my publisher let me name three out of four of my books.  The Wife of Reilly and Tales From the Crib just came to me before I’d even started writing them.  Calling my second book Reinventing Mona occurred to me after I’d finished it.  And The Queen Gene was a compromise title.  I wanted to call it Tales From the New Crib because it is a sequel to Tales, but my publisher did not go for it.  I suggested Family Haunts because there’s a comical paranormal element, but my publisher wanted the title to focus on the mother-daughter relationship.  They suggested a title I did not care for at all, so I put out an emergency email asking friends for suggestions.  My friend, Vince Hall came up with The Queen Gene, which my publisher (thankfully) accepted.

Are any of your characters based on any people you know?   Yes, quite a few, especially in Tales From the Crib and The Queen Gene.  I gave my eighty something Aunt Bernice the manuscript to review before it was published and she insisted that I call the characters based on her and her sister by their real names.  (I had originally changed Bernice and Rita to Beatrice and Rena.  Slick, huh?)  I told her that I was working on a sequel and the characters would be doing things neither she nor Rita would ever consider, such as going to a strip club and getting a bikini wax.  She insisted on the change, and was a great sport when I wrote about her character giving weekly “Snatch Reports.”

Who or what inspires you?   People who have been through the shitter, never gave up.  I love hearing about an actor who couldn’t get an audition last year, and twelve months later is winning an Oscar.  Those stories always bring tears to my eyes.

Do you ever suffer from writer’s block?  If so, how do you handle it?   I convince myself that the story is already written, and that I am just the person charged with getting it on paper.  So if I’m blocked, I tell myself that the next part of the story is out there waiting for me to find it.  (I realize this sounds a bit airy fairy, but it helps take the pressure off me, so what the heck.)  I go for a walk or grab a bite to eat and inevitably, while I’m out of my house, I see or hear something that fills in the story gap.

Can you tell us anything about any upcoming projects you’re working on right now?   I just finished a book called Brownie Points, which is a comedy told from the POV the mother of a 13-year-old boy who wants to join the Girl Scouts.  When the organization refuses, the boy sues for gender discrimination, setting off a firestorm of national media coverage.   I had a lot of fun writing about this.

**Jennifer loves to hear from her readers:

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**Click HERE to read my review for Tales From The Crib!