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Rom-Com on the Edge #4
The Juggling Act (Rom-Com on the Edge ) (Volume 3) by Carol Maloney Scott
Now that her dating days are finally behind her, Claire is enjoying a blissful life with her new husband and baby boy. Gone are the drunken nights in impractical shoes, and Internet dates with men who lose their hair…and their pants. Unfortunately, she’s discovering that life as a married, working mom isn’t turning out to be the perfect happily ever after she dreamed about. She adores her little boy, but her husband’s behavior is about to make him eligible for the Most Disappointing Spouse of the Year Award. His unwillingness to help around the house and his slacker work ethic are frustrating enough, but the constant parade of beautiful, single women in his life has Claire in a constant state of distress. Didn’t she realize that the cute front man of a popular cover band would attract hot, young women with perfect cellulite-free legs? And whose idea was it to hire the curvy nanny with the sexy accent? When an unexpected business trip pops up – with a super-hot, much-too-young former love interest, Claire’s own loyalty is put to the test. A publishing conference in Key West may be the ideal escape from her troubles, but will she be tempted by the forbidden in a town full of swingers and breakfast alcohol consumption? And why does everyone they meet think the business colleagues are on their honeymoon? Scrambling to cover up innocent, but suspicious circumstances, the couple struggles with honesty, loyalty and what to share with each other. As they sink deeper into their marital gloom, will they find their way back to wedded bliss, or finally succumb to the enticement of new…and uncomplicated romance?
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About the author
Carol Maloney Scott
26 books117 followersCarol Maloney Scott is a frazzled wife, mom, and wiener dog fanatic. She is a lover of donuts, and a hater of mornings. Now that she has unearthed a childhood passion for writing, she can once again be seen carrying around a notebook and staring into space. Her stories are witty, fresh and real, just like life.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 19, 2017
:: 4.5 Enjoyable Stars ::
I have not read a good chick lit book / romantic comedy in a long time! Prior to getting into romances these types of books were my go-t0. Gah, what have I been missing? I totally adored this book. It is light, fun, entertaining, and quite “real” as I am sure we have all been in the character’s shoes once or twice in our lives. What really got me hooked to this book though is how chaotic everything was! Normally this could be confusing to readers but with this one it’s what gets us readers laughing in the first place. Who knew that Claire’s mother had such a mouth on her? And how is it possible that Claire mistook Excedrin for Ambien. Ha ha, I haven’t laughed so hard at a book in a long time! This is such a fun and entertaining read, so if you’re looking for a good laugh than this is definitely your book.
On top of all the funny stuff happening in this book it should also be mentioned that it has a serious side as well. For instance, the book discusses adoption as both Claire and Brandon are not able to have a child of their own. The author was successfully able to make the concept of adoption relatable for us readers and we were able to gain an understanding as to Claire’s feelings on being a part of an open adoption. Of course, doing this can be very difficult for all parties but the way the characters manage is it quite heartfelt and real. I enjoyed seeing a sensitive side to this book on top of all the hijinks!
Overall, this is an awesome story that I would highly recommend to fans of romantic comedies (rom-com) and chick lit. This definitely will not be the last book I read by the author as she has brought me back into the chick lit world with this book! Well done. Highly recommended!
** I received a copy of this novel as part of a blog tour with CLP blog tours. Thank you! **
I have not read a good chick lit book / romantic comedy in a long time! Prior to getting into romances these types of books were my go-t0. Gah, what have I been missing? I totally adored this book. It is light, fun, entertaining, and quite “real” as I am sure we have all been in the character’s shoes once or twice in our lives. What really got me hooked to this book though is how chaotic everything was! Normally this could be confusing to readers but with this one it’s what gets us readers laughing in the first place. Who knew that Claire’s mother had such a mouth on her? And how is it possible that Claire mistook Excedrin for Ambien. Ha ha, I haven’t laughed so hard at a book in a long time! This is such a fun and entertaining read, so if you’re looking for a good laugh than this is definitely your book.
On top of all the funny stuff happening in this book it should also be mentioned that it has a serious side as well. For instance, the book discusses adoption as both Claire and Brandon are not able to have a child of their own. The author was successfully able to make the concept of adoption relatable for us readers and we were able to gain an understanding as to Claire’s feelings on being a part of an open adoption. Of course, doing this can be very difficult for all parties but the way the characters manage is it quite heartfelt and real. I enjoyed seeing a sensitive side to this book on top of all the hijinks!
Overall, this is an awesome story that I would highly recommend to fans of romantic comedies (rom-com) and chick lit. This definitely will not be the last book I read by the author as she has brought me back into the chick lit world with this book! Well done. Highly recommended!
** I received a copy of this novel as part of a blog tour with CLP blog tours. Thank you! **
January 24, 2016
WOW, where do I begin? At the beginning I really thought I needed a notebook to understand all the different directions this book was going in. The characters are so in depth and so vivid - you will feel like you know each and every one to the depths of their beings.
Claire seems to have everything that she could ever want. The handsome, young, talented husband, the perfect son and (many) cute little doggy children.
But marital bliss isn't quite what it's cracked up to be. Brandon seems to be at odds with her and they seem to be mad at each other more than happy these days.
Claire works out of the home full-time for a publishing company while Brandon stays home with their son, writes a book and is the front man in a local band. (I personally got the feeling that he was somewhat of a freeloader most of the day - sleeping in, has a nanny to take care of his son and seems to be flirting more than working.)
The the next piece in the ticking time bomb that is their life - Claire is going on a work trip - with her ex-boyfriend, Oh boy, this is so not going to end well is it?
Justin is hot, younger than Brandon, kid free and in the same industry that Claire is and clearly in love with her (or at least was), what does Brandon really have to worry about? (Yea, right)
Don't get me started on the tenant across the street (always wanting to get in Brandon's pants) or the nanny from your worst nightmares? (why would they hire her in the first place?)
The story will have you wondering what will happen next - from hot tub nights in paradise, to karaoke singing, neighbors always dropping by and half-naked nannies, you will not know what hits you until your saying, did that REALLY happen?
Will Claire cheat with her ex-boyfriend? Will Brandon cheat with the girl across the street or heck the one working in his own house? Will their marriage stand the test of time or go down like Ben and Jennifer?
Grab a bottle of wine or two (you'll need it) and sit back and take it all in!
Claire seems to have everything that she could ever want. The handsome, young, talented husband, the perfect son and (many) cute little doggy children.
But marital bliss isn't quite what it's cracked up to be. Brandon seems to be at odds with her and they seem to be mad at each other more than happy these days.
Claire works out of the home full-time for a publishing company while Brandon stays home with their son, writes a book and is the front man in a local band. (I personally got the feeling that he was somewhat of a freeloader most of the day - sleeping in, has a nanny to take care of his son and seems to be flirting more than working.)
The the next piece in the ticking time bomb that is their life - Claire is going on a work trip - with her ex-boyfriend, Oh boy, this is so not going to end well is it?
Justin is hot, younger than Brandon, kid free and in the same industry that Claire is and clearly in love with her (or at least was), what does Brandon really have to worry about? (Yea, right)
Don't get me started on the tenant across the street (always wanting to get in Brandon's pants) or the nanny from your worst nightmares? (why would they hire her in the first place?)
The story will have you wondering what will happen next - from hot tub nights in paradise, to karaoke singing, neighbors always dropping by and half-naked nannies, you will not know what hits you until your saying, did that REALLY happen?
Will Claire cheat with her ex-boyfriend? Will Brandon cheat with the girl across the street or heck the one working in his own house? Will their marriage stand the test of time or go down like Ben and Jennifer?
Grab a bottle of wine or two (you'll need it) and sit back and take it all in!
January 6, 2016
This is the third book in the Rom-Com on the Edge series and of course as soon as I got that email from Carol to review this I jumped on it straight away even though I had a million and one things to do before the end of the year. What can I say though? I love the world that Carol has created and it gets better and better after every book.
In this book, we are back to Claire and Brandon: they have now been married a year and they have adopted a cute baby boy but Claire is not feeling the marital bliss that she had envisioned. Brandon is failing at being helpful around the house; there is a revolving door of hot, single women that are starting to make Claire feel insecure; add the curvy nanny with the foreign accent and she is about to lose her mind.
This book did not disappoint; it was as chaotic and funny as the previous two and I am happy to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. In this one, we also got to hear from Brandon, Justin (remember him?!) and Claire’s mum and this adds empathy to all these characters and basically turns this book into a soap opera that I was reading really fast just to get to the climax, it was that intense.
I could not help but be a little mad at Brandon a little; yes I get it, he is stressed with everything that he has going on in his life with the band, his book as well as being a house husband but he wasn’t sharing anything with his wife! At all and that just caused her to worry even more because us ladies are weird like that. It’s extremely obvious that he loves his wife but it is so easy to fall into a routine and forget the important things.
I felt sorry for Claire; she was extremely frazzled what with work and all this fear that her husband is not interested in her any more. I felt Justin made everything worse as well by being so sweet to her and trying so hard to make her smile etc. that she realises how much she fights with Brandon and how unhappy she is with everything going on in their lives.
We get glimpses of Rebecca and Gina which makes me happy because I feel like I know them so well. I am still waiting for a book with Gina as the MC though (hint hint).
I love this series, and I really hope Carol continues writing them as they really are a breath of fresh air :).
In this book, we are back to Claire and Brandon: they have now been married a year and they have adopted a cute baby boy but Claire is not feeling the marital bliss that she had envisioned. Brandon is failing at being helpful around the house; there is a revolving door of hot, single women that are starting to make Claire feel insecure; add the curvy nanny with the foreign accent and she is about to lose her mind.
This book did not disappoint; it was as chaotic and funny as the previous two and I am happy to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. In this one, we also got to hear from Brandon, Justin (remember him?!) and Claire’s mum and this adds empathy to all these characters and basically turns this book into a soap opera that I was reading really fast just to get to the climax, it was that intense.
I could not help but be a little mad at Brandon a little; yes I get it, he is stressed with everything that he has going on in his life with the band, his book as well as being a house husband but he wasn’t sharing anything with his wife! At all and that just caused her to worry even more because us ladies are weird like that. It’s extremely obvious that he loves his wife but it is so easy to fall into a routine and forget the important things.
I felt sorry for Claire; she was extremely frazzled what with work and all this fear that her husband is not interested in her any more. I felt Justin made everything worse as well by being so sweet to her and trying so hard to make her smile etc. that she realises how much she fights with Brandon and how unhappy she is with everything going on in their lives.
We get glimpses of Rebecca and Gina which makes me happy because I feel like I know them so well. I am still waiting for a book with Gina as the MC though (hint hint).
I love this series, and I really hope Carol continues writing them as they really are a breath of fresh air :).
March 8, 2016
I received this ARC for a review.
Real life can be hard to portray in books, most chick lit/ rom coms are written in the dream world where everything is perfect. This is not the case with 'the Juggling Act'. Anybody who's been married or had kids and worked can relate to this book. The every day struggles of life are not easy.
So when Claire is told she is to go on a business trip with a younger more handsome young man, who has a thing for Claire you can imagine how the husband felt. The friction does not end there, the live in Russian nanny, and the tenant across the road who both have a thing for Brandon, will both be there to aid Brandon whilst his wife goes off on this trip. What could possibly go wrong?
Well a couple of sleeping tablets, a pregnancy test, a stray pair of knickers and the mother of Claire, that's what can go wrong.
This book is an easy read, with lots of laughs and many OMG moments. It's real, and the characters are real. It touches on open adoption, and how emotions can fly. This is the first book I have read by this author, I m sure this will not be the last. A great read.
Real life can be hard to portray in books, most chick lit/ rom coms are written in the dream world where everything is perfect. This is not the case with 'the Juggling Act'. Anybody who's been married or had kids and worked can relate to this book. The every day struggles of life are not easy.
So when Claire is told she is to go on a business trip with a younger more handsome young man, who has a thing for Claire you can imagine how the husband felt. The friction does not end there, the live in Russian nanny, and the tenant across the road who both have a thing for Brandon, will both be there to aid Brandon whilst his wife goes off on this trip. What could possibly go wrong?
Well a couple of sleeping tablets, a pregnancy test, a stray pair of knickers and the mother of Claire, that's what can go wrong.
This book is an easy read, with lots of laughs and many OMG moments. It's real, and the characters are real. It touches on open adoption, and how emotions can fly. This is the first book I have read by this author, I m sure this will not be the last. A great read.
June 19, 2016
I received a copy of The Juggling Act in exchange of my honest review and I hope you enjoy it.
Carol Maloney Scott tells us the story of the married couple Claire and Brandon.
Claire: 38 years old, work in a publishing house, she has a sister, she is not able to have babies
Brandon: 30 years old, musician and writer, he was adopted and has a sister, he wanted to adopt with Claire
Brandon fell in love with Claire really quickly and he made a rush move when he promised her a family. Claire has the desire of becoming a mom and after a short period being together they get married and adopt a baby boy, Aiden.
Brandon works from home but he is not a househusband and he is always surrounded by women: their hot single mum tenant who brings her daughter Ruby to play with Aidan, the hot Russian nanny and the female singer of his band; Diamond, Tatianna and Zoe respectively.
Claire is super jealous of the two first women and how they go around his husband. Although there is sexual tension between Diamond and Brandon, he does not succumb to her.
Claire also has his “moons” gravitating around her, well just one but a powerful one, Justin. His work colleague who is very into her. To make things worse: he is super cute and super gentleman-like, obviously Brandon does not like it. (there is a lot more story before this trip that you need to know to understand better this triangle)
Turning point: Claire has a work trip to a lovely and romantic place with Justin.
Justin behaves, in spite his desires. Claire overcomes some fears but what she still knows what happens at home and it is burning her.
The problem with Brandon is that he tries to avoid conflict and if that means to wait ages to tell something to Claire, he will. It does not matter if it is something as important as an meeting with Aidan’s biological mum, or big changes with his band, or what is his book about, etc.
After the trip, Claire tries to overcome her jealousy and after a really good night and a deserved rest, she founds in her bed and bedroom: feminine underwear and a pregnancy test.
I will not tell you more but what happens during the trip and what happens after these discoveries is very interesting.
I have enjoyed the book and I will recommend to read it.
Carol Maloney Scott tells us the story of the married couple Claire and Brandon.
Claire: 38 years old, work in a publishing house, she has a sister, she is not able to have babies
Brandon: 30 years old, musician and writer, he was adopted and has a sister, he wanted to adopt with Claire
Brandon fell in love with Claire really quickly and he made a rush move when he promised her a family. Claire has the desire of becoming a mom and after a short period being together they get married and adopt a baby boy, Aiden.
Brandon works from home but he is not a househusband and he is always surrounded by women: their hot single mum tenant who brings her daughter Ruby to play with Aidan, the hot Russian nanny and the female singer of his band; Diamond, Tatianna and Zoe respectively.
Claire is super jealous of the two first women and how they go around his husband. Although there is sexual tension between Diamond and Brandon, he does not succumb to her.
Claire also has his “moons” gravitating around her, well just one but a powerful one, Justin. His work colleague who is very into her. To make things worse: he is super cute and super gentleman-like, obviously Brandon does not like it. (there is a lot more story before this trip that you need to know to understand better this triangle)
Turning point: Claire has a work trip to a lovely and romantic place with Justin.
Justin behaves, in spite his desires. Claire overcomes some fears but what she still knows what happens at home and it is burning her.
The problem with Brandon is that he tries to avoid conflict and if that means to wait ages to tell something to Claire, he will. It does not matter if it is something as important as an meeting with Aidan’s biological mum, or big changes with his band, or what is his book about, etc.
After the trip, Claire tries to overcome her jealousy and after a really good night and a deserved rest, she founds in her bed and bedroom: feminine underwear and a pregnancy test.
I will not tell you more but what happens during the trip and what happens after these discoveries is very interesting.
I have enjoyed the book and I will recommend to read it.
January 24, 2016
I received a review copy
This series is such a hoot! I was so happy to be able to read the third book, and it definitely was one I struggled to put down. Claire and Brandon; oh are they in a bit of a mess. Claire is constantly paranoid that her husband could be cheating because of their floozy neighbor and sexy nanny, and not to mention his young age and that he is in a band. They are struggling to keep their marriage afloat and when Claire gets offered to go to Key West for a work event, things get even worse. She is going on the trip with her ex Justin, and the time apart seems to do more harm than good for their floundering marriage. This book really showed how hard things can become when open lines of communication are no longer there, and when you hide secrets from your spouse, even if you have good intentions for doing it. There were some pretty funny moments in here too – especially Claire’s little Ambien episode in Key West, and that really helped bring balance to the other drama that happened in the book. Very solid read, I finished the book in under two days, and one I truly enjoyed.
This series is such a hoot! I was so happy to be able to read the third book, and it definitely was one I struggled to put down. Claire and Brandon; oh are they in a bit of a mess. Claire is constantly paranoid that her husband could be cheating because of their floozy neighbor and sexy nanny, and not to mention his young age and that he is in a band. They are struggling to keep their marriage afloat and when Claire gets offered to go to Key West for a work event, things get even worse. She is going on the trip with her ex Justin, and the time apart seems to do more harm than good for their floundering marriage. This book really showed how hard things can become when open lines of communication are no longer there, and when you hide secrets from your spouse, even if you have good intentions for doing it. There were some pretty funny moments in here too – especially Claire’s little Ambien episode in Key West, and that really helped bring balance to the other drama that happened in the book. Very solid read, I finished the book in under two days, and one I truly enjoyed.
October 17, 2019
Quick, Quirky Read
Very close to 4 stars 😃
I have to say I enjoyed this novel and yes, even I (absent of humor or so I am told) laughed out loud in a few places. The book is fast paced and well written for the most part.
Cons- The story seemed rushed at the end In my opinion, especially as Clare’s marriage was in crises. I would’ve loved some more backstory on Clare since her neuroses were put on display as well as how her relationship with her husband developed so quickly. I’m not sure how a writer/ cover band band member was able to get the inside track on adopting a healthy baby so quickly.
All in all fun read if a bit far fetched!
Very close to 4 stars 😃
I have to say I enjoyed this novel and yes, even I (absent of humor or so I am told) laughed out loud in a few places. The book is fast paced and well written for the most part.
Cons- The story seemed rushed at the end In my opinion, especially as Clare’s marriage was in crises. I would’ve loved some more backstory on Clare since her neuroses were put on display as well as how her relationship with her husband developed so quickly. I’m not sure how a writer/ cover band band member was able to get the inside track on adopting a healthy baby so quickly.
All in all fun read if a bit far fetched!
August 23, 2019
Cute, quick read. Fourth in a series. I actually read this as an ebook and part of a "box set" of books 2-4. I left a more detailed review on the box set. You don't HAVE to read the previous ones first but it would be very helpful as they use a rotation of the same characters in all the books. If you like books 1-3 in the series, definitely read this one. Character development is good, it uses various points of view but not enough to be confusing or annoying.
I recommend if you like romantic comedies, cozy, quick reads. Just spend a day or two reading it, it's a fun read.
I recommend if you like romantic comedies, cozy, quick reads. Just spend a day or two reading it, it's a fun read.
July 5, 2022
I wasn't impressed with this book at all. It is supposed to be funny, but nothing in the story was funny to me. Also crude language, man takes woman's clothes off who is passed out and covers her with a blanket-I get that her swimsuit was wet but the weather was warm so it wouldn't have hurt her to just keep it on. Babysitter and lady renting the wife's first house keep coming on to the husband, even when the wife is home. Seems like a bunch of whiny brats, the baby is better behaved than the adults.
July 11, 2019
I almost never review books. But I felt I had to warn people about this book. It's advertised as a romantic comedy but I literally didn't laugh once. I was very disappointed with this book. Don't waste your time. It's just a bunch of whiny, two-dimensional characters. No one was funny, interesting, or had any depth to it. The book was incredibly predictable as well as boring. Don't waste your time. Seriously.
January 5, 2024
Loved this book
I'm glad I read some of the reviews before choosing this book. It kept me wondering how it would end. The story isn't super exciting but hooked me in from the beginning. It was just a good story about characters with their own personalities interacting with each other. It flowed smoothly and I couldn't put it down. I had to give up at 4 a.m. but picked it up again after a little sleep. Definitely a "must read" book.
I'm glad I read some of the reviews before choosing this book. It kept me wondering how it would end. The story isn't super exciting but hooked me in from the beginning. It was just a good story about characters with their own personalities interacting with each other. It flowed smoothly and I couldn't put it down. I had to give up at 4 a.m. but picked it up again after a little sleep. Definitely a "must read" book.
June 30, 2025
“Why is it when a woman mentions her boobs your eyes immediately go there?”
“Face bellies?” I hate lunch meetings. Let me eat in my office in peace. “Yes, so many Americans have the fat hanging from the neck. Very unpleasant.”
“‘Bouche’ is mouth in French.”
“It’s easy to be logical and see the big picture when you remove all emotion.”
“It’s always the mothers who fuck us up. Isn’t that what the therapists say?”
“Face bellies?” I hate lunch meetings. Let me eat in my office in peace. “Yes, so many Americans have the fat hanging from the neck. Very unpleasant.”
“‘Bouche’ is mouth in French.”
“It’s easy to be logical and see the big picture when you remove all emotion.”
“It’s always the mothers who fuck us up. Isn’t that what the therapists say?”
June 23, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! This is the third book I've read by this author and each book gets better. It kept my interest and I couldn't wait to get to the end to find out what was going to happen. I liked how the point of view changed throughout. The characters were interesting, fun and believable. This is a good book for a quick, fun read. A good beach read!
May 31, 2017
Loved the book. It was like watching a train crash. I didn’t know what was going to happen next, but I knew I had to “watch”. Some of the characters made things worse and I could only watch it happen.
July 19, 2020
Another free book on my kindle....
Claire is sent on a work trip with handsome and young Justin. Her marriage to younger than her husband Brandon is already rocky and the antics that occur while she is gone, for both of them, may be too much for her marriage to make it through.
Claire is sent on a work trip with handsome and young Justin. Her marriage to younger than her husband Brandon is already rocky and the antics that occur while she is gone, for both of them, may be too much for her marriage to make it through.
May 18, 2021
I want to know what will happen with Justin. It's the character I like the most and want to know what his true love story is!!.. It's all I0ve got to say. Claire and Brandon got on my nerves... though not as much as Rebecca and Steve in "afraid of her shadow".
April 2, 2020
Real life
A very interesting reading that a lot of marriages could fit into. Also contains a lot of good humor that will keep you laughing.
A very interesting reading that a lot of marriages could fit into. Also contains a lot of good humor that will keep you laughing.
May 21, 2020
A lesson in post-honeymoon period
A bit chaotic at times with all of the character viewpoints and bouncing around. However, a sweet story with a very valuable point about marriage.
A bit chaotic at times with all of the character viewpoints and bouncing around. However, a sweet story with a very valuable point about marriage.
September 7, 2021
* Not a standalone *
I may not know Claire's backstory since I didn't read the previous books, but this was so beautiful!
I may not know Claire's backstory since I didn't read the previous books, but this was so beautiful!
February 1, 2016
If you are looking to read an entertaining Rom-Com tale that will keep you in stitches, then The Juggling Act is the book for you!
In The Juggling Act, book three of Rom-Com On The Edge Series, the reader follows thirty-eight year old Claire Harmon, an acquisitions editor for Bella Donna Publishing Company in Richmond, VA, as she struggles to juggle everything in her life, while trying to reclaim her marital bliss with her younger thirty year old author/musician husband Brandon.
Author Carol Maloney Scott weaves a fast-paced tale that follows Claire's trials and tribulations as she deals with the craziness of her everyday day: working full time, being a mommy and wife, dealing with the skanky antics of a young Russian nanny and a single mom/neighbor who both have a thing for Brandon, and a birth mama/stripper named Chastity who suddenly wants to visit with their adoptive son Aidan! But that's not all, especially when you add into the mix a business trip to Key West, Florida with Justin Scott, her sexy younger (twenty-eight years old) co-worker and former love interest, what you get is a sassy but confused lady who has one heck of a complicated life!
Written in the first person alternating narrative, the reader will find it easy to follow Claire and Brandon's he said-she said story as they try to deal with the communication issues in their marriage, along with Claire's fears and insecurities, in order to get back their marital bliss. I certainly could relate to Claire as she tries to juggle everything in her life, especially when you have a spouse who is less than helpful around the house, preach it sister! From the crazy antics of the sexy young nanny Tatiana and single mom/neighbor Diamond; to the appearance of characters from past books in the series, especially Claire's two lovable mini wiener dogs Dixie and Duncan; to Claire's dilemma when it comes to Justin, while trying to deal with her fears and insecurities, the misunderstandings, secrets, lack of communication, and the adoption issue that plagues her floundering marriage to Brandon, leaving it in shambles, The Juggling Act will definitely keep the reader entertained and laughing out loud as they turn the pages.
The Juggling Act is a lighthearted and enjoyable tale that has quirky characters, witty banter, and a crazy good storyline with enough romance, drama, and humor that is true chick lit rom-com at its finest!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
In The Juggling Act, book three of Rom-Com On The Edge Series, the reader follows thirty-eight year old Claire Harmon, an acquisitions editor for Bella Donna Publishing Company in Richmond, VA, as she struggles to juggle everything in her life, while trying to reclaim her marital bliss with her younger thirty year old author/musician husband Brandon.
Author Carol Maloney Scott weaves a fast-paced tale that follows Claire's trials and tribulations as she deals with the craziness of her everyday day: working full time, being a mommy and wife, dealing with the skanky antics of a young Russian nanny and a single mom/neighbor who both have a thing for Brandon, and a birth mama/stripper named Chastity who suddenly wants to visit with their adoptive son Aidan! But that's not all, especially when you add into the mix a business trip to Key West, Florida with Justin Scott, her sexy younger (twenty-eight years old) co-worker and former love interest, what you get is a sassy but confused lady who has one heck of a complicated life!
Written in the first person alternating narrative, the reader will find it easy to follow Claire and Brandon's he said-she said story as they try to deal with the communication issues in their marriage, along with Claire's fears and insecurities, in order to get back their marital bliss. I certainly could relate to Claire as she tries to juggle everything in her life, especially when you have a spouse who is less than helpful around the house, preach it sister! From the crazy antics of the sexy young nanny Tatiana and single mom/neighbor Diamond; to the appearance of characters from past books in the series, especially Claire's two lovable mini wiener dogs Dixie and Duncan; to Claire's dilemma when it comes to Justin, while trying to deal with her fears and insecurities, the misunderstandings, secrets, lack of communication, and the adoption issue that plagues her floundering marriage to Brandon, leaving it in shambles, The Juggling Act will definitely keep the reader entertained and laughing out loud as they turn the pages.
The Juggling Act is a lighthearted and enjoyable tale that has quirky characters, witty banter, and a crazy good storyline with enough romance, drama, and humor that is true chick lit rom-com at its finest!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
February 5, 2016
I absolutely LOVED this book. With each instalment of the the Rom-Com on the Edge series, we are given loads of real-life issues and they are blended with a comedic outtake, to make the perfect read.
I liked that this book went back to focus on our main characters, from book 1. We picked up a little bit after the our last details from book two, with Claire finally getting the child she always wanted. However, we are now hit with everything a woman feels, especially as she ages and kids take over the family life. Anger, Jealousy, Fear, Insecurities, Worry and the feeling you will lose your partner to a younger version of yourself.
As Claire approaches the next stage of womanhood, they are looking to adopt again (yes, already). However, with a blend of young, flirtatious women, the inability to keep up and a growing gap between the two, we see the relationship start to fray. We have to read along as both funny and sad things happen to them and their friends, which furthers the problem. Just when you think things couldn’t get worse, an old fling of Claire’s comes back to town and they deal with working together, only on friendly terms of course…
I liked the further development of the characters, in the book. Yes, sometimes I was furious with both of them, for how they were thinking and acting, but mostly I loved them and just how real they were. None of us want to admit we are either of them, but we all have a bit of them personalities in us.
The humour in the book was perfect. Once again, Carol has given us an excellent match of giggles with a more serious side. I also liked that, just like the previous books, the humorous moments we a great mix of ‘what the, WHAT?!’ moments and things that we have all truly seen happen. It was easy to go from laughing to crying my eyes out, as I saw where their lives went, and I loved every moment of it.
I also thought the pace was very good. We were given ample time to get to know the new characters, reintroduce ourselves to the characters that weren’t in book two and see how the mains moved forward. Carol also gave us the opportunity to feel swept up in it all, with slightly faster paced moments, giving you the feeling you were actually in the story.
Overall, this is a brilliant book. I have loved every book in this series and the writing style of the author. I highly recommend this book!
* I was given this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
I liked that this book went back to focus on our main characters, from book 1. We picked up a little bit after the our last details from book two, with Claire finally getting the child she always wanted. However, we are now hit with everything a woman feels, especially as she ages and kids take over the family life. Anger, Jealousy, Fear, Insecurities, Worry and the feeling you will lose your partner to a younger version of yourself.
As Claire approaches the next stage of womanhood, they are looking to adopt again (yes, already). However, with a blend of young, flirtatious women, the inability to keep up and a growing gap between the two, we see the relationship start to fray. We have to read along as both funny and sad things happen to them and their friends, which furthers the problem. Just when you think things couldn’t get worse, an old fling of Claire’s comes back to town and they deal with working together, only on friendly terms of course…
I liked the further development of the characters, in the book. Yes, sometimes I was furious with both of them, for how they were thinking and acting, but mostly I loved them and just how real they were. None of us want to admit we are either of them, but we all have a bit of them personalities in us.
The humour in the book was perfect. Once again, Carol has given us an excellent match of giggles with a more serious side. I also liked that, just like the previous books, the humorous moments we a great mix of ‘what the, WHAT?!’ moments and things that we have all truly seen happen. It was easy to go from laughing to crying my eyes out, as I saw where their lives went, and I loved every moment of it.
I also thought the pace was very good. We were given ample time to get to know the new characters, reintroduce ourselves to the characters that weren’t in book two and see how the mains moved forward. Carol also gave us the opportunity to feel swept up in it all, with slightly faster paced moments, giving you the feeling you were actually in the story.
Overall, this is a brilliant book. I have loved every book in this series and the writing style of the author. I highly recommend this book!
* I was given this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
June 3, 2016
I truly wanted to be able to give this book five stars, but just couldn’t quite get there. There were many things that I liked about this book – it was pretty light, fun and overall an enjoyable read. What kept me from giving it that fifth star was Brandon. I am not sure how Claire would have seen fit to marry him in the first place with his lack of maturity and cluelessness about how a relationship should work. I need to go back and read the first book in the series so that I can see how they met and fell in love.
On the plus side, there were many funny moments that remind us that chaos doesn’t just happen in our own lives and that complications are normal. This also dealt fairly well with adoption and the various issues that can happen.
This is the first book that I have read by this author, and with her humorous writing style, it definitely won’t be the last.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
On the plus side, there were many funny moments that remind us that chaos doesn’t just happen in our own lives and that complications are normal. This also dealt fairly well with adoption and the various issues that can happen.
This is the first book that I have read by this author, and with her humorous writing style, it definitely won’t be the last.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2016
Always an Adventure with Claire
I have been reading Carol Maloney Scott's books from the beginning. The first being about Claire's search for love. At the end, I wanted more... What happened to them? The Juggling Act answers those questions. We meet up with Claire and her now husband, Brandon. The craziness ensues as usual, but now with a child in tow. I love how Carol revisited the characters and brought closure to their story (not that I wouldn't love more of their story in the future.). She also brought in a lot of past characters we met and see how they are still in Claire's life. I cannot wait to see how their stories develop further. Carol's books are written in a way that you feel the characters are part of your life or family. I will continue to purchase whatever she writes. Loved it!
I have been reading Carol Maloney Scott's books from the beginning. The first being about Claire's search for love. At the end, I wanted more... What happened to them? The Juggling Act answers those questions. We meet up with Claire and her now husband, Brandon. The craziness ensues as usual, but now with a child in tow. I love how Carol revisited the characters and brought closure to their story (not that I wouldn't love more of their story in the future.). She also brought in a lot of past characters we met and see how they are still in Claire's life. I cannot wait to see how their stories develop further. Carol's books are written in a way that you feel the characters are part of your life or family. I will continue to purchase whatever she writes. Loved it!
January 6, 2016
This is the third book in Carol Maloney Scott's Rom-Com on the Edge series and it does not disappoint! It was enjoyable to read Claire's story again to find out what she got herself into this time! Cute and enjoyable story line that you wouldn't be was fiction because you seemed to be right in the middle of the marriage drama. Let's just say - we have all been in Claire's situation!
I was given an advance copy of the book for review.
I was given an advance copy of the book for review.
June 28, 2016
I really enjoy reading this series. I felt bad for Claire in this book. I hope everything works out for her better in book #4. This book wasn't as funny as the other two before it. Though there was still some humor in it. I guess that it just makes it more real life. I received a copy of this book to read and review with my own honest opinions.
March 8, 2018
The Juggling Act
This is the story of Claire and Brandon's marriage. The angst of being an older wife to a great looking younger man. Who happens to be involved with music. And the groupies that are attracted to it. This is Claire s second chance at love, marriage and family. But will she be enough for him, with all the younger and eager women out there?
This is the story of Claire and Brandon's marriage. The angst of being an older wife to a great looking younger man. Who happens to be involved with music. And the groupies that are attracted to it. This is Claire s second chance at love, marriage and family. But will she be enough for him, with all the younger and eager women out there?
February 2, 2023
My favorite scene was when Claire took the ambien in her hotel room! There were lots of other funny moments that made me smile 💖
April 8, 2017
Mixed
As with Carol's other books in this series, I had mixed feelings. Brandon was being stupid but I didn't want them to split. Made me wish Claire & Justin had gotten together.
The ending was so sweet
As with Carol's other books in this series, I had mixed feelings. Brandon was being stupid but I didn't want them to split. Made me wish Claire & Justin had gotten together.
The ending was so sweet
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