Binding Arbitration

Dec 15, 2012 Jennifer Kyle rated it 5 of 5 stars

Do you believe in love, ghosts, glitter love hand cuffs, and forgiveness?

This is one profoundly powerful, touching, tear-jerker of a story.

A box of tissues should be kept within reach!

*Please read the short prequel Cutters & Jocks before starting this novel.

Where to begin? Elizabeth ‘Libby’ Tucker is a high profile Chicago attorney who is forced to contact her old college boyfriend, Banford Aidan Palowski, who is now a professional baseball player. He is to be tested as a possible bone marr...more

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Sep 05, 2012 Faz rated it 5 of 5 stars

This story is so awesome it gets a 25 out of 10 because its one of a kind love story!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is one of the books on my kindle shelf and I thought 'Binding Arbitration' sounds more like a drawn out legal drama (and i like legal dramas and series bt i just didnt feel it) and I kept looking at the cover and bypassing it for something else.

Then one day I just opened it and WOW its like on my best seller and never lose this excellent book list.

This story was confusing with the whole 'ump' a...more

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Jan 12, 2013 Ilene rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I would give it a few more stars if I could. This was a wonderfully bittersweet story. I can't do it just justice other than GO READ it! The first chapter or two made me stop and look to see if this was a part 2. I did stop to read Cutter's and Jock's then resumed Binding Arb., it made more sense. I still thought the glitter commercial scene was kind of out there but it did make a lot of sense at the end. The goofy ump makes sense at the end too. This book was really well written and thought out...more

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Oct 23, 2012 Novareylin rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012

Binding Arbitration started slow for me, the umpire’s voice in Aidan’s head and the chapters jump from character to character kept throwing me off. The character you’re with is the perception that you’ll view the story from. Once I got used to those two things I really got into this. It is a really great story, a bit slow for me, but totally worth every minute. It didn’t feel like the actual plot dragged though, which I thought was interesting. There was always something happening to one of the...more Binding Arbitration started slow for me, the umpire’s voice in Aidan’s head and the chapters jump from character to character kept throwing me off. The character you’re with is the perception that you’ll view the story from. Once I got used to those two things I really got into this. It is a really great story, a bit slow for me, but totally worth every minute. It didn’t feel like the actual plot dragged though, which I thought was interesting. There was always something happening to one of the characters that kept that plot moving along. Not like way in your face plot moving catastrophes, but stuff that made sense to the relationships that build throughout this story.

The two main characters, Aidan and Libby, just made me want to throttle them both!! This is the kind of romance that isn’t all flowers and hearts and angels poking people with sticks, this is the real stuff. This is what happens to every day people. They are both stubborn and smart and because of that they both think WAY too much about the situation instead of about their feelings. This drove me crazy, quite literally until the end.

Their son Cass is what is the real catalyst. That boy is smart! Most kids are but he had a presence and an intensity that went way beyond his age. He was definitely my favorite character. And he names Aidan’s new Hummer, Tank, which I just love. I name everything from my cars down to my Kindle. I just fell in love with Cass from the first word he spoke!

As I was reading, I was at the 80% mark or so and I was curious when the character arc was going to happen. Oh my… Be careful what you ask for. From that point on tears were streaming down my face (I’m not ashamed to admit it!) and I was crying so hard at one point that my hubby asked if I was going to be ok and if I needed to put the book down. Of course my response was to SHUSH him immediately and dive right back in to find out what else was going to happen. And boy was there more. These two people created so many dreadful scenarios for themselves, and so many scenarios were thrust upon them that they were literally damning God close to the end of the book.

Actually there’s a moral to this story that you don’t even see until the end. It all comes together beautifully, it just took Aidan and Libby a heck of a long time to figure it all out! Drove me insane!

On a side note, there is a bit about God in this book. It’s kind of an underlying theme. Not in your face, preaching down your throat, but enough that you understand that God has a presence in quite a few of the lives. It wasn’t a bad thing, just a thing. I wouldn’t recommend if that would throw you off too much, but really I was able to read it without feeling like Elizabeth Marx was preaching. It was very well done. Very good plot, great characters, good ending. But boy oh boy does she take you on an emotional roller coaster. Get ready! (less)

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Apr 25, 2013 Mkep rated it 5 of 5 stars

Prepare yourselves. This book is one of those that stays with you forever. Like FOREVER, forever. Completely gut wrenching, full of depth and passion, pro athlete, second chances, drug cartels, loss, death, joy, action, romance, laughter, tears. This story has it all. One of my top 5 favorite books of all time ( with Pride and Prejudice of course, and the Sweet Gum Tree, ...)

Loves-
Aidan- Pro baseball player, totally in love and willing to fight for his woman, great dad... I can't say how much I...more Prepare yourselves. This book is one of those that stays with you forever. Like FOREVER, forever. Completely gut wrenching, full of depth and passion, pro athlete, second chances, drug cartels, loss, death, joy, action, romance, laughter, tears. This story has it all. One of my top 5 favorite books of all time ( with Pride and Prejudice of course, and the Sweet Gum Tree, ...)

Loves-
Aidan- Pro baseball player, totally in love and willing to fight for his woman, great dad... I can't say how much I love Aidan. The best book boyfriend ever. He made some DUMB decisions...like REALLY dumb. But the sign of a great author is one who can redeem her flawed characters in the eyes of her readers. Elizabeth definitely did that. Aidan is a man's man, and while he says he isn't able to express his love in words to Libby, those love letters are absolutely heart stopping. They make you cringe at the intimacy of them, and feel Aidan's highs of love, but then also the depths of his despair. Yet, at the same time they make you wish they were written for you. I can't say how much I enjoyed his character. Yup, he made some s*** choices, but once he decided that he wanted Libby, and Cass, nothing was standing in his way. He was a man who fought for his love (the kind every girl wishes she could be on the receiving end of such a victory).

Libby- I love a heroine with a backbone!! And man, Libby's was made of steal. While I'll wish she would have told Aidan how much she loved him (in Cutters vs Jocks- before the making of little Cass), I appreciate the fact that she was willing to stand up for herself. No matter how much she loved Aidan, she had pride to know that he should have been making the first steps to declaring his love- he should have given up his girlfriend, he should have told Libby he loved her, he should have put her before baseball. She wasn't willing to settle for anything less than what she deserved- even if that meant leaving Aidan and raising their child on her own, while going through law school. She has some cajhones. BIG ones too. Life was not easy on Libby, put she looked it in the eye, and said "Bring it on." I wish more women were like her. The world would be a better place for sure.

Cass- Oh Cass, Cass, Cass. He is the glue not only for Libby and Aidan, but the whole story as well. His creation was the catalyst for the breakup in his parents but his (view spoiler)Cass packed a powerful emotional punch, that no matter how many times I read this story (which let's be honest, is in the double digits...) it gets me EVERY time. I end up balling, but also somewhat joyful because Elizabeth brings you peace through the events following (view spoiler).

I can't say enough about this book. Everyone should read it- It's that stinkin good!

Can I just say though, I want to see an Ollie and Avery story and a Tony and Evita story!!! Pretty Please Elizabeth, with sugar on top?

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Apr 16, 2013 Candice rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: kindle

First off I want to say that I didn't know this book was going to be so religious. I am an atheist and for once reading about "god's plan" didn't make me want to stop reading. It was done in a way that it wasn't shoved down my throat and actions were believable. I wasn't turned off and would recommend it for anyone.

With that said, for me this book was about love, forgiveness, and redemption.

I loved Libby with her smart mouth. She was quick with the come backs and wasn't afraid to use her words....more

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Sep 26, 2012 Anna's Herding Cats! rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: marx-elizabeth, for-review, ebook, career-sports, athlete, lawyer, children, known-each-other-forever, lost-years, christmas, kidnapped, hospital, cemetery, funeral, single-parents, knocked-up, light-paranormal, california, illinois, 2012, need-review

Originally Posted for Herding Cats & Burning Soup

Binding Arbitration was one of those books that did a total number on me. Oh man, it was not a pretty sight. I spent most of my Sunday afternoon an absolute blubbering mess. Marx did a fantastic job of getting this reader to really feel everything her hero and heroine were going through. I was angry, and frustrated, had my heart broken and mended right along with Aiden and Libby as they struggled to deal with a painful past and going through a...more Originally Posted for Herding Cats & Burning Soup

Binding Arbitration was one of those books that did a total number on me. Oh man, it was not a pretty sight. I spent most of my Sunday afternoon an absolute blubbering mess. Marx did a fantastic job of getting this reader to really feel everything her hero and heroine were going through. I was angry, and frustrated, had my heart broken and mended right along with Aiden and Libby as they struggled to deal with a painful past and going through any parent's greatest fear. Their journey was gut wrenching and heart warming all at the same time and will no doubt have you reaching for the tissues.

For a while there at the start I really wasn't sure I was going to fall for either of the main characters. Libby's a defense lawyer (yikes) and Aiden, well, I agreed with Libby completely that he was "a conceited, spoiled, spineless bastard." But somewhere along the way these two both wormed their way into my heart and completely won me over. I really liked was neither of them were perfect. They screw up, they get defensive and bristle up to hide what they're feeling and are just real people you can relate to and understand. My heart really went out to Libby. And Aiden? He pulled himself together like I would never believe and turned into an incredible man willing to do anything to fix the wrongs in his past.

There were a couple things that did give me some trouble. I had a hard time keeping all of the secondary characters straight and really wish I'd kept a list of who they all were. And then there's an imaginary umpire that chats with/mocks Aiden. He just didn't work for me but thankfully as the book goes on it threw me less whenever he'd pop in.

Overall, I'm so glad I had the chance to read Binding Arbitration and that I pushed through the first couple chapters that had me feeling pretty confused. The incredible emotional response Marx created and the moving storyline with it's twists and surprises vastly overshadowed any troubles I had along the way. I'm really hoping that since there were a couple unfinished storylines that means we'll be getting another book at some point. No doubt it will be a wonderful experience as well.
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Oct 17, 2012 Jamie rated it 5 of 5 stars

I was surprised at how much I liked this book. Cutters vs Jocks didn't really grab my attention until the end, so I wasn't sure how this was going to go. It was amazing, though. I'm not typically a fan of love-at-first sight books, but for Libby and Aidan, it worked (probably since they both denied it for so long). I hope there is a 3rd book coming to tie up the loose ends, especially Tony, Evita, and Manny. Can't just leave us hanging.

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Dec 26, 2012 Sarah Camargo rated it 5 of 5 stars

I didn't know what to expect going into this but I am so happy I discovered Aiden and Libby's story. I went from feeling happy and in love right along with Libby to feeling betrayed and frusturated. I loved then hated then loved Aiden throughout the story. I cried the ugly cry and had the hubby worried for a little while but kept the Kleenex's coming and read on. I really hope there is another book to this story because I have to know how it ends for the other characters in the book. The author...more

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Jan 22, 2013 Zizz rated it 5 of 5 stars

Only a handful of books have made me cry, this is now part of that very very small list. A few people had this as their favorite read in 2012 and I'm glad I took time away from muddling through mostly mediocre new releases to pick up this one.

Aidan, with his major league baseball dream, abandoned Libby when she was pregnant in college. Six years later, the son has leukemia and needed Aidan as a donor. Aidan, who has been lost for years seeking the next high to rid himself of his guilt, finally...more Only a handful of books have made me cry, this is now part of that very very small list. A few people had this as their favorite read in 2012 and I'm glad I took time away from muddling through mostly mediocre new releases to pick up this one.

Aidan, with his major league baseball dream, abandoned Libby when she was pregnant in college. Six years later, the son has leukemia and needed Aidan as a donor. Aidan, who has been lost for years seeking the next high to rid himself of his guilt, finally seeks redemption.

The story is not new but the author's take on the story was fresh. The general tone wasn't melancholy like most books with this storyline. It was the right mixture of emotional and amusing. There was plenty of wit and the dialogue was certainly engaging. The umpire as somewhat as Aidan's conscience was unique. The baseball into and the quotes from Dr. Seuss to prominent baseball figures to Antoine De Saint-Exupery were right on target.

But despite plenty of witty moments, this was not by any means shallow. It is deep and tugs at your emotional heart strings and took a gut-wrenching turn in the end.

There were a few things that seemed unreal like Cass' philosophical words but in the grand scheme of things, these all make sense. Sometimes an author is so good that he/she makes us believe in 'fate' - that things do really happen for a reason. I believed it here.

There were plenty of insights and introspection from both h/h. They were beautiful, moving and inspiring and are all testament to Elizabeth Marx's mad literary skills. I'd rather be reading works like this and take an entire month as opposed to trudging through 20 so-so books at the same time frame.

I was happy it hadn't taken me ninety-five years to realize the importance of legacy, when I was young enough to change what I had thought mine was. It wasn't statistics crunched into a book somewhere, but memories created by those I loved stamped indelibly across every cell of my consciousness."

"Life isn't about the high notes or the low tides. It's about the day-to-day living and loving. And I know you're surrounded by people who love you, but maybe they love you too much to be straight with you."

This was a painful journey but it was so good that I did not want it to end.

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Jan 09, 2013 Purple rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: all

This book has also a short prequel story "Cutters&Joks". I read it before "Binding Arbitration" and for me it made a lot of difference. You'll definitely get the idea from the longer story but in the short one Libby and Band-Aid meet and fall in love. You wouldn't want to miss out on such an insight :P

Sometimes it happens to find a book that leaves me speechless, drained, thoughtful, enthralled and so on...
This story has everything: characters you'll fall in love with, emotions that flow l...more This book has also a short prequel story "Cutters&Joks". I read it before "Binding Arbitration" and for me it made a lot of difference. You'll definitely get the idea from the longer story but in the short one Libby and Band-Aid meet and fall in love. You wouldn't want to miss out on such an insight :P

Sometimes it happens to find a book that leaves me speechless, drained, thoughtful, enthralled and so on...
This story has everything: characters you'll fall in love with, emotions that flow like a superb waterfall - they hit stones and they are dangerous, they take their course and run with a vengeance from a very high point into the depth of an already battered ground...
And to think that around chapter 3 I wouldn't even let myself to imagine that things might develop in such an intricate complex manner by laying on paper THE ALL of a (well lived)life. And those many surprising events captivated and glued me to one place till I finished the entire story.
Band-Aid is quite annoying in the beginning of B.A. He's a selfish, all-knowing superstar with a very dumb fiance. It made me think that his self-esteem was blown away by a random baseball to his head. But Vanessa turned out a very entertaining character.
As I had hoped, Band-Aid (who also has a dimple ;}don't they all?!) goes through a fascinating transformation. No more a jock. Life, circumstances, love propelled him to grow up, to learn to live as an adult. Although, the fact that even after 6 years he wouldn't have the courage to go looking for Libby --(the love of his live) and for his child (regardless if he were to be around or not - all would've been cleared up once he had gotten in touch with Libby)-- made him a very big coward. With all things that he had to face he redeemed himself.
I liked that Libby was strong and stood for herself. There is much to say about all the characters but in this case is better to read the book to witness yourself everyone's evolution.
Cass, Aidan&Libby's child was a one wonder kid. Loved him from the first nanosecond. He brought me a lot of sorrow. Not his fault. He was an ANGEL!

!!! What is going to happen with Tony-Evita(-Manny) and that evil Espinoza? Will things remain unfinished for these guys??? I would love to read about them, SOON!!!

!!! AVERY!!!> needs some healing too - in a future book maybe? (really HOPE so)And Ollie seems/is his perfect (love-)medication.

I'll keep my fingers crossed for these two couples.

Binding Arbitration = an exciting experience. Go and read it while living it!

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*** There are a few mistakes: the names: Judge Marston - Judge Carston, the journalist's name Winslow O'Leary - Winslow Davis; punctuation; clarity. So, I guess the story needs a more attentive editing!

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Dec 26, 2012 Musing rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: one-of-the-best

Binding Arbitration by Elizabeth Marx was a contemporary romance that took a little effort on my part to keep reading to start with, however, by the time it ended, I was ready to go right back to the beginning and start again, if only to stay with the characters i had grown to love, for a little bit longer.

You had your two classic Hero and Heroine characters - the bull-headed and cocky sports star Aiden, and the underestimated but brilliant attorney Elizabeth (Libby). In some ways, it was also...more

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Nov 03, 2012 Liz rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

5 ++++

How is it possible to review a book that left you feeling speechless. In a good way, of course. After reading the prequel to this one I really didn't know what to expect. I knew I would love it, but I had no idea how much. I was left so emotionally connected to Libby and Aiden...and Cass. I have never in my life cried, and FELT, With so much emotion over a book. As a mother, I think I felt even more...if that's possible, for them.

This is so much more than a simple romance book you can rea...more

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Oct 10, 2012 Suzie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, blog-tour-book

I fell in love with the cover of this book. It just captures a person’s attention and says ‘Read Me’. I had to read it. I admit that starting out that I had a hard time keeping focused on this book. However, after the 3rd or 4th chapter I was completely hooked. I was in the process of doing some work on my computer and while waiting I picked up the book to read some more. I read for 2 hours before I realized how much time had passed.

Yes, I am one of those people that I could be sitting next in a...more

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Sep 17, 2012 Tee loves Kyle Jacobson rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-must-reads, arc-books, fmb-blog-tours, sep-2012

I want to give FMB Tours a huge Thank you for allowing me to read an ARC copy of Binding Arbitration and being one of the blog tour stops. I have to say this author is totally brilliant and I am grateful to have read this book. As a mother you will do whatever it takes to make your child feel better. You will walk to the ends of the earth for your child and right now Libby Tucker will do anything to save her son from a disease that threatens to destroy him.

Abby Tucker is a single mother working...more

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Aug 07, 2012 Brandie rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

I read the prequel to this book first and it had me so ready to dive into this one and see what was going to happen. I was not disappointed. While at times I found myself annoyed with Libby(I did in the last book too), she seemed selfish to me in her refusal to consider or see Aidan's feeling, I still liked her. Aidan, swoon, loved him! I was mad at him at the end of the last book but more so at Libby for some reason. I got why he did what he did but she just seemed to take things too far, in my...more

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Apr 05, 2012 Sonya rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

When I started this book, I didn't think I was going to like it. The first chapter just didn't draw me in, and for a second I found it a little hard to follow. I think the pixies dancing around and the umpire talking in Aiden's head had me a little confused for a second. With the first interaction between Aiden and Libby, I got sucked in.

I have to tell you, that if I knew what was coming by the end of the book (even though you get plenty of hints all through out it what is going to happen), I p...more

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Mar 13, 2012 Melissa rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Where to begin with this stunningly amazing love story? As a mother I wept, I raged. As a woman, I hurt and yet felt moved by the words of wisdom. And mainly, as a reader, I was enthralled.

Binding Arbitration is the love story of Libby and Aidan, with enough paranormal/fantasy to make it fanciful, and enough depth to make it REAL! Some might find the truth and hardships in this book to deep to call it an amazing book, but not I. I find the realism, the reality, the pain and even the suffering...more

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Dec 10, 2011 Lynn Evans rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Elizabeth Marx has written a “woman’s novel” that challenges the unwritten conventions of the genre and puts one in the win column. The novel starts off with two strong willed, successful, but emotionally damaged individuals who must first learn to make peace before they can be willing to admit their feelings for each other. Ms. Marx provides plenty of flesh for her flawed, funny, touching, and sometimes even evil characters. There is a real sense that you know the people in this story. There is...more

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Nov 21, 2011 Jennifer Lafferty rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Binding Arbitration centers on high profile Chicago attorney, Elizabeth Tucker, who is forced to reach out to her old college boyfriend, Banford Aidan Palowski, now a pro baseball player, because their love child, whom Aidan has never met, needs a bone marrow transplant. I found this to be a very powerful book, emotionally charged, with a gripping storyline. The main characters are vivid and well fleshed out; although, I wish the supporting characters had been a little more developed. One of the...more

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Mar 30, 2012 Kathleen rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

What would you do if your only child had a life threatening disease? Would you contact the man who fathered your child for help, even though he doesn't know the child even exists? What if contacting the man stirs up old feelings that really never went away, could you deal with it? On the other hand, what if you are the man who has no idea that his child exists? Would you finally be able to face the demons that have haunted you for seven years, the shame and regret that you left the woman you lov...more What would you do if your only child had a life threatening disease? Would you contact the man who fathered your child for help, even though he doesn't know the child even exists? What if contacting the man stirs up old feelings that really never went away, could you deal with it? On the other hand, what if you are the man who has no idea that his child exists? Would you finally be able to face the demons that have haunted you for seven years, the shame and regret that you left the woman you love to pursue a career in major league baseball? Would you be able to set things right and make amends with the woman and your child? Could a spark that never really was extinguished and the love of a child bring together two people who were always meant to be together? These are the questions that needed to be answered by Libby Tucker and Aidan Palowski in Binding Arbitration.

Elizabeth "Libby" Tucker is a successful Chicago defense attorney and single mom to her six year old son, Cass. Cass has been diagnosed with Leukemia, and is in need of a bone marrow transplant, in order to save his life. Libby had to do the one thing that she didn't want to do, she had to contact Cass' biological father, Banford Aidan Palowski, a successful major league baseball player, and tell him that he has a son who needs him. Libby needs Aidan to agree to submit a blood sample, to test his DNA to see if he would be a viable bone marrow donor. Sparks fly when Libby and Aidan aka "Band-Aid" meet again, but old wounds and unrequited love won't stop Aidan from stepping up to the plate and helping his son. This is a story of Libby and Aidan's journey through pain, anger and hurt to arrive at forgiveness, redemption and a second chance at love and family.

Binding Arbitration is an amazing story that will pull at your heartstrings. The storyline is well written, emotional, powerful and very compelling. This intriguing story is told in a two person perspective by Libby and Aidan, with each perspective brilliantly told in alternating chapters. The story captivates the reader from the beginning and encourages them to come along on the emotional roller coaster ride that is Libby and Aidan's story. This is not a lighthearted easy story to read, it is one that deals with deep emotional issues of illness and affairs of the heart that will have you grabbing for some tissues along the way. The characters are realistic and complex, their engaging personalities and interactions make the story that much more compelling. I couldn't help but love Libby and Aidan, their spark and interactions with each other had my emotions ranging from one end of the spectrum to the other. I think the hardest part of the story to digest was reading about poor little Cass' illness, your heart just can't help but break for him and what he was going through. The author does an incredible job of describing the Chicago setting, I was so intrigued that now I want to visit Chi Town and walk down the magical mile! I also loved how the author intertwined two of my favorite interests: the law and baseball! The references to both the law and baseball throughout the book made me one happy camper, they were informative and fascinating, what more could I ask for?

There are not many books that I have read that pull at my heartstrings and leave my emotions spent, but Binding Arbitration did just that. This amazing story is so much more than just your typical chick lit or contemporary romance novel. It offers a lesson and message about love, forgiveness, redemption and second chances that will warm your heart, and remind you to count your blessings and cherish your relationships.

Disclaimer: At the request of the author and Chick Lit Plus, a Kindle edition of the book was sent, at no cost to me, for my honest review and participation in the virtual book tour event.

Virtual Book Tour Event: On Friday, March 30, 2012, in association with Chick Lit Plus, author Elizabeth Marx participated in a virtual book tour event with an Author Guest Post on Jersey Girl Book Reviews.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...

http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...(less)

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Nov 28, 2012 Mahiba rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorites

“My love is like that glitter. It may fade away, but its smallest speckle will reflect our love.’”

Okay so now I understand the purpose of the first book(which I didn't like ) it was just an introduction for this marvelous book . I never expected to find something so beautiful and so deep in this book. I don't even remember how is that I got this book in my hands, but I'm really grateful to whomever made me read it.
I found this book just PURE it's just so true and so real....

I quiet don't know ho...more

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Dec 15, 2012 Judi rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: dec, e-book, 2012, contemporary-romance, kobo

*Sniffle, Sniffle*

What an emotional, heart-felt story. I experienced such a wide range of emotions while reading Binding Arbitration. And used up a box of Kleenex in the process.

It’s been six years but when Elizabeth “Libby” Tucker contacted Aidan “Band-Aid” Palowski and demanded a face-time meeting it was the beginning of a fabulous, unforgettable journey. A story of love, redemption, heartbreak, joy and second chances. Buckle in and enjoy the ride.

The more things change, the more they stay th...more *Sniffle, Sniffle*

What an emotional, heart-felt story. I experienced such a wide range of emotions while reading Binding Arbitration. And used up a box of Kleenex in the process.

It’s been six years but when Elizabeth “Libby” Tucker contacted Aidan “Band-Aid” Palowski and demanded a face-time meeting it was the beginning of a fabulous, unforgettable journey. A story of love, redemption, heartbreak, joy and second chances. Buckle in and enjoy the ride.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Libby’s now a top notch criminal lawyer at a prestigious Chicago law firm and Aidan’s achieved his dream of becoming a MBL pitcher and is the top closer for the Chicago Cubs but there is no denying that these two still have a powerful, undeniable connection to one another. There's a lot of water under the Libby/Band-Aid bridge but she‘s still busting his chops at every opportunity and he‘s still trying to flirt and charm his way into her heart. Life should have been perfect for these two old friends and lovers but it wasn't.

And then there’s Cass. Adorable, precocious, charming, wise beyond his years, loving Cass. He’s the product of Libby and Aidan’s one night together during their final year at university and if he doesn’t steal your heart than nothing will. But he’s a sick little boy who has Leukemia and needs a bone marrow transplant and the best chance he has is a father he has no idea about and a father who has no idea about him. Oy Vey!

Cass and Mr. Pole-ow-ski have an instant emotional connection. I loved watching Aidan interact with his son. Yes he missed the first 6 years but you can’t really blame him since he had no idea Cass existed. Yes he is to be blamed for his somewhat selfish decision 6 years ago, but Libby has to hold some responsibility for her own decisions as well. In Binding Arbitration Aidan MORE than made up for all the time he missed with Cass. Watching them together was a hi-light for me, so heart warming and smile inducing. I loved every minute of it.

As Libby and Aidan try to reconnect and deal with Cass’s illness real life intrudes including Aidan’s crazy ex-fiancée who’s determined to ruin his reputation and make him pay for dumping her, the paparazzi trying to get the scoop at every turn and surprisingly Libby‘s work environment and a couple of the cases she’s working on provide major bumps along the way.

By the end I was a crying, sobbing, blubbering mess. Make sure you’ve got plenty of Kleenex handy.

I do recommend reading the short prequel Cutters vs. Jocks before Binding Arbitration since it sets up the back story for Band-Aid and Libby’s love story beautifully. (less)

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Oct 15, 2012 Sarah Fitz rated it 5 of 5 stars

If there was a rating for more than 5 stars this book would get it!!! I can not say enough great things about this book. I don't know why I put off reading it, I've come across it a handful of times over the past several months and never bit the bullet. I am kicking myself now. This book needs to be read, again and again. First off, you must read the little 60 pageish prequel "Cutters & Jocks" this book will set the stage for the wonderfulness that is "Binding Arbitration." The emotional jou...more

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Sep 07, 2012 Gaele rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: fmb-tour, review-reads

I received an eBook from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.

This is the second book in a series about Elizabeth (Libby) Tucker and Banford Aiden Palowski: their brief relationship in college, her removal of Aiden from her life when she decided to keep their child, and the ultimate challenges they faced in rediscovering each other again after their son is diagnosed with leukemia.

I didn’t realize there was...more I received an eBook from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review, and all conclusions are my own responsibility.

This is the second book in a series about Elizabeth (Libby) Tucker and Banford Aiden Palowski: their brief relationship in college, her removal of Aiden from her life when she decided to keep their child, and the ultimate challenges they faced in rediscovering each other again after their son is diagnosed with leukemia.

I didn’t realize there was a prequel/short to this book before I read this one. The prequel is titled “Cutters vs. Jocks” – and I have read it. I’m glad that I didn’t read the stories in order, however, because the predisposition to want to slap both characters into adulthood and reasonable behaviour would have overridden my ability to give this book a fair shake.

What has been created by the author is a treatise on selfishness: while both parties wholeheartedly believe they have valid reasons for their behaviour, neither is wholly innocent in the result. Libby was pregnant after one night with Aiden. She allows her own self-doubt and fear to deny the night, and the possibility that Aiden finds her worthy. Aiden is a big man on campus, with a list of conquests, and a promising baseball career. He finds Libby fascinating and attractive – but is unable or unwilling to pursue her in a way she finds believable and solid.

The two are brought together 7 years later when their son, Cass, is diagnosed with leukemia, and Libby feels it necessary to contact Aiden to see if he will be tested as a marrow donor. What follows is the slow but steady realization by both parties that they were wrong, and selfish in their choices. While Aiden is thrust into the role of repentance for all mistakes, without seeing much of the same for Libby – we are treated to the development of the characters, their understanding of their own bad behaviours, and their acceptance of their love for each other: even as it begins with a sense of wonder and love for their son, Cass.

The story is told, quite deftly, in two voices: Libby’s is often angry and hurt, with an underlying self-doubt not erased from her accomplishments in the here and now. Aiden’s voice is also riddled with self-doubt and punishment, while attempting to ‘prove’ himself to Libby and working within her often unreasonable expectations. After penning the initial thoughts of this review – I read other impressions on the story. While many people hated Aiden, and found him not receiving enough punishment for abandoning Libby and Cass, they seem to not account for his losses or pain. What I think was more important in it all is that love, combined with a real and honest assessment of where wrongs were committed, can overcome the hurt and doubt.

This story is thrust into the genres of Chick Lit and Romance, but it is far more than those narrowed confines. As I said, it is a catalog of where things go wrong, and the stupid decisions we make when hurt and afraid; and just what consequences those decisions can have far into the future. It alternates with wonder at the proclamations that Cass makes, to anger with his parents for their behavior, to tears and tension.

This is not a book to be taken as a “light read” because no matter where you stand in liking or disliking the characters, you will be thrust into a story crafted to make you feel. While there was some ‘outside’ action that seemed rather gratuitous and unnecessary to the plot, the minor characters and their needs were also integrated into the story in a way that highlighted the many good qualities and character traits of both Libby and Aiden. This story was a daunting task, and the author created a novel that was both memorable and touching. I would suggest that you read this book first, and then see what sort of people both Libby and Aiden were in their college years: by then reading the prequel.
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Oct 27, 2012 Sheri rated it 5 of 5 stars

Binding Arbitration (Elizabeth Marx)

Elizabeth "Libby" Tucker , a prominent defense attorney in Chicago is determined to save her six year old sons (Cass) life. He has leukemia, and the only way for him to live is a bone marrow transplant.

Banford "Aidan" Palowski is her college love interest, he left her when he found out she was pregnant. Now a major league baseball player he may be the only person to save Cass' life.

When Libby asks Aiden for some DNA to see if he is a match , her whole world is...more

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Feb 14, 2013 Tessa rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013, favorites

Awwww! Loved this book. Left me speechless.. So heart wrenching but yet heart warming.

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Dec 16, 2012 AnneOK rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reads

Amazing! This is not your normal romance. Every emotion is exposed and there is no way your eyes won't fill with tears. This is definitely one of the best books I've read this year. I'm so thankful that a Goodreads friend brought my attention to the prequel "Cutters vs. Jocks" because I was hooked and couldn't wait to download the rest of Libby and Aiden's story. "Binding Arbitration" picks up 7 years after Aiden and Libby leave college and go their separate ways.

I had some doubts and issues on...more

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Mar 12, 2012 _yay_ rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: contemporary-romance, attorney, baseball, family, second-chance, 3-stars

This copy was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Kindle Edition, published November 5th, 2011
Elizabeth Marx

Being a criminal defense attorney demands a great deal of Libby Tucker, but she’s good at it. A force to be reckoned with in the courtroom! Caring for her six-year-old, who’s suffering from Leukemia, takes heart, soul, and fierce determination. She’s willing to go to hell and back for her child – contacting the one person that abandoned her all those years ago to pla...more

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Sep 02, 2012 Kelly the Kindlesessed rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, awe-inspiring

Those who know me, have long accepted the fact that I tend to have a knack for talking the hind off a donkey and it’s a novelty when, in those rare moments, anything renders me speechless. Well that novelty reared its little head today by the time I finished reading Binding Arbitration by Elizabeth Marx.

I have been sitting here looking at a blank screen for ten minutes, trying to decipher words that can give any credit at all to the myriad of emotions this book invoked in me, and recognition to...more Those who know me, have long accepted the fact that I tend to have a knack for talking the hind off a donkey and it’s a novelty when, in those rare moments, anything renders me speechless. Well that novelty reared its little head today by the time I finished reading Binding Arbitration by Elizabeth Marx.

I have been sitting here looking at a blank screen for ten minutes, trying to decipher words that can give any credit at all to the myriad of emotions this book invoked in me, and recognition to an author who has been my friend on facebook for over two months, and yet I had no idea how amazingly talented she is.

This full length novel continues on from the prequel, Cutters vs. Jocks, however it is now six years later. Libby is now a very successful criminal defence lawyer working for a respectable firm, and Aidan is an A-list Baseball Player, renowned for playing the field with the fairer sex, as well as pitching his game.

While filming a commercial he receives a phone call from the one woman he never expected to hear from again, the Mother of his child, Libby Tucker. The love of his life, whom he walked away from after Graduation and never looked back.

After an uncomfortable reunion, tainted with anger and a lot of swallowed pride, Libby has the painful task of telling Aidan, the biological Father of her beloved Son, Cass, that he is suffering with Leukaemia and his only hope of continued survival is a bone marrow transplant.

Aidan believed Libby had given their child up for adoption, and is angered that she had lied, until that anger turns to regret, guilt and despair at the reality of the situation. After a couple of days to digest the information, he knows what must be done, however, explaining to Libby that he wants the chance to help put things right and get to know his son, was a completely different ball-game…

Libby is a tough cookie, and her defiance at times as a reader could be a little grating. However, I love a feisty female and even though at times I wanted to push her in the other direction to where she was headed, I knew Aidan had to work hard to put right his past undoings, and so it was only fair that he had his work cut out.

Cass, their six year old son on the other hand will remain in my heart forever, his wise little words and his angelic charm welded its way into my heart and made this book not only good, but undeniably great!

The sub plot scenarios were enough to keep this book gripping and give it a good pace. The case of the Colombian single mother running from a drug baron with her son was a nice derivation to the rest of the story, and Aidan’s ex-fiancé’ was so ditsy and pathetic, I couldn’t wait to see what karma plans would come into effect, I wasn’t disappointed. ;)

However, I wasn’t prepared for the last 20% of this book; it hit me like a sledgehammer, train wreck and a volcanic eruption all thrown into one. I felt my own face drain of blood at one point, and immediately regretted that I didn’t invest in shares at Kleenex.

Libby and Aidan both shared their own voice within the pages, which made me understand the characters and helped with the reading experience when it came to their own emotions, thoughts, fears and concerns, which gave this story substance and full believability.

The best way to describe this novel is that it is a journey, it’s a comfortably long read that takes you on a voyage you will never forget. An emotional journey that will steer the reader through momentous insights of anger, regret, jealousy, despair, grief and an overwhelming sense of peace, forgiveness and unconditional love. There are not many books out there that can incorporate so many of these things and still make for a gripping read, so I can only attribute that to the incredible talent that is Elizabeth Marx. Her ability to write a book that covers, at times, upsetting subject matters and to be able to deliver it with honest angst with a poetic thrall is something that many writers lack. This book will remain one of my favourites of all time.
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