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Synchronized Breathing
Scarlett Spencer's life is a mess. Her lemon of a marriage has just imploded and she is headed to Beverly Hills, toddler in tow, to move in with her highly over-sexed mother, CeCe.
Having to move in with her mother at the ripe old age of thirty-five seems to loudly announce her failure as an adult. Scarlett is keenly aware that she is paying the price for her history of poor choices in men - and so is her young son, Oliver.
Living in cramped quarters with one's mother is not without its challenges - even in Beverly Hills. Living amongst the rich and beautiful can really highlight your own perceived shortcomings and Scarlett has never felt more of a failure. Finding employment again after being a stay-at-home mother isn't easy, as she struggles to put together pieces of a puzzle that never quite fit before.
Scarlett's mother CeCe is wildly successful in the men department and has more dates than any woman half her age. CeCe has been married three times, so leaving husbands is a subject she knows something about. She counsel Scarlett that "Husbands are left by putting one foot in front of the other, and never looking back." Of course, the difference is that CeCe usually has the next man waiting in the wings...
After much prodding from CeCe, Scarlett wades back into the Hollywood dating pool - this time as a single mom- and finds that all the rules have changed.
Having to move in with her mother at the ripe old age of thirty-five seems to loudly announce her failure as an adult. Scarlett is keenly aware that she is paying the price for her history of poor choices in men - and so is her young son, Oliver.
Living in cramped quarters with one's mother is not without its challenges - even in Beverly Hills. Living amongst the rich and beautiful can really highlight your own perceived shortcomings and Scarlett has never felt more of a failure. Finding employment again after being a stay-at-home mother isn't easy, as she struggles to put together pieces of a puzzle that never quite fit before.
Scarlett's mother CeCe is wildly successful in the men department and has more dates than any woman half her age. CeCe has been married three times, so leaving husbands is a subject she knows something about. She counsel Scarlett that "Husbands are left by putting one foot in front of the other, and never looking back." Of course, the difference is that CeCe usually has the next man waiting in the wings...
After much prodding from CeCe, Scarlett wades back into the Hollywood dating pool - this time as a single mom- and finds that all the rules have changed.
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First published November 12, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
October 6, 2013
****4 Self-Journey Stars****
ARC provided by The Writer's Coffee Shop Publishing House via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Publication Date - November 14, 2013
This is a heart felt story of self discovery in which the main character, Scarlett, has always relied on men to lead her in life. Men to make decisions on how she dresses, who are her friends, and how she should act around others. She knows she is being manipulated, but because they have a child together, Scarlett tried so hard to make things work....until enough was enough and she left.
It was a bit difficult in the beginning of the book to get interested - but after about 20% - I was connecting with the characters and got caught up in Scarlett's life.
Scarlett's personality and self-esteem comes directly from her mother, Ce-Ce. Ce-Ce jumps from man to man after being married a few times. She doesn't believe in showing any type of affection and publically announces how to have the BEST sex ever. It just seems that Scarlett is always in the background of men and her mother.
After leaving her husband and moving back in with her mother, Scarlett decides to go back to being a make-up artist and actress for commercials. She continually meets up with obstacles along with having to listen to her mother consistently badgering her to "get back on the horse" and date.
What a big mistake this was for Scarlett...she keeps making the same mistakes and choosing the "WRONG" type of men. Men she knows subconsciously that she would never have a future with....just for example....Dominick will never marry - he floats from woman to woman to have sex.....then there is Jeremy who she really fell in love with but then after a few months found out that he would never settle with her because of Oliver, her son....then there was Paul - well I can't give away too much information.
So, Scarlett is in a scarce dead-end jobs along with loser boyfriends....so what would any sane woman do?
Yup....go to a psychic! She is informed that she needs a "man diet" and everything will fall into place.
The rest is up to you to find out what happens!!
Cheers to Tara Ellison on her debut book.
August 5, 2013
Ok, I got this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
this book was really good women's fiction. I honestly could relate to a lot of this book except that i am not in my 30's, but dealt with the same issues!
Scarlet is 36 and found herself in bad times. she is married to a man who doesn't work, and is a naturalist. They have a 2 year old son named oliver who keeps her sane. One day while her mother was visiting she went on the computer to show her mother something and found a whole file of penis's. she was shocked and realized that is what her husband does on his free time.
Scarlet does what any women would do. She leaves him. he was controlling and didn't believe that she was doing what she was doing. She left with Oliver and went to Beverly hills to live with her mom. CeCe is her mother's name. She doesn't like to be called mom or grandmother. CeCe even taught Oliver to call her CeCE. you see, CeCe is a man-eater. She dates a lot of men and is already going on her 4th marriage. She tells Scarlet that she never liked her ex and that she needs to get back in the game and start dating lots of men.
Scarlet found out the hard way what it is like to start dating again. She started with one of her ex boyfriends and found out that he only wanted a fling and wasn't interested in anyone with children. Now, scarlet hasn't worked in a very long time. She started to do make up and found herself hard to keep a job because that department wasn't hurting for a job. While working with an old actor friend of hers she met a man. His name is Jeramey. She was in love. he said and did all the right things. Asked about her child and seemed very interested. That was until things started to get really serious. She was flying down and seeing him when her ex had her child. They spent all their free time together, until one night she wanted to bring Oliver with her to the airport to drop him off and he told her he wasn't ready to deal with a child.
Scarlet then left him and was still trying to find work. She started to do commercials because her best friend got her a publicist. She was starting to do well, was playing off the huge legal fees that started with the divorce. She was in a depressed slump. She started dating again and was seeing a guy who was a son to her mother's ex husband. Things were going great. Nice and slow. One day he called and asked her to buy him a book since she was in the area. she said fine. He stated that the book was called how men cheat. it was a guide to show when a man is cheating. She started to get red flags. He called her and stated the first 2 phrases that were in the book. When headed to a birthday party with him she realized that he slept with all of his sisters friends.
Scarlet was so mad she started to go on a man diet. she didn't date any man for 6 months. started hanging out with Oliver more and then the 2 of them wrote some children's books for fun. She then realized that she could make money off of them. She bought over 1000 of them and went to flea markets and started selling them. That is when everything changed!
this book was really good women's fiction. I honestly could relate to a lot of this book except that i am not in my 30's, but dealt with the same issues!
Scarlet is 36 and found herself in bad times. she is married to a man who doesn't work, and is a naturalist. They have a 2 year old son named oliver who keeps her sane. One day while her mother was visiting she went on the computer to show her mother something and found a whole file of penis's. she was shocked and realized that is what her husband does on his free time.
Scarlet does what any women would do. She leaves him. he was controlling and didn't believe that she was doing what she was doing. She left with Oliver and went to Beverly hills to live with her mom. CeCe is her mother's name. She doesn't like to be called mom or grandmother. CeCe even taught Oliver to call her CeCE. you see, CeCe is a man-eater. She dates a lot of men and is already going on her 4th marriage. She tells Scarlet that she never liked her ex and that she needs to get back in the game and start dating lots of men.
Scarlet found out the hard way what it is like to start dating again. She started with one of her ex boyfriends and found out that he only wanted a fling and wasn't interested in anyone with children. Now, scarlet hasn't worked in a very long time. She started to do make up and found herself hard to keep a job because that department wasn't hurting for a job. While working with an old actor friend of hers she met a man. His name is Jeramey. She was in love. he said and did all the right things. Asked about her child and seemed very interested. That was until things started to get really serious. She was flying down and seeing him when her ex had her child. They spent all their free time together, until one night she wanted to bring Oliver with her to the airport to drop him off and he told her he wasn't ready to deal with a child.
Scarlet then left him and was still trying to find work. She started to do commercials because her best friend got her a publicist. She was starting to do well, was playing off the huge legal fees that started with the divorce. She was in a depressed slump. She started dating again and was seeing a guy who was a son to her mother's ex husband. Things were going great. Nice and slow. One day he called and asked her to buy him a book since she was in the area. she said fine. He stated that the book was called how men cheat. it was a guide to show when a man is cheating. She started to get red flags. He called her and stated the first 2 phrases that were in the book. When headed to a birthday party with him she realized that he slept with all of his sisters friends.
Scarlet was so mad she started to go on a man diet. she didn't date any man for 6 months. started hanging out with Oliver more and then the 2 of them wrote some children's books for fun. She then realized that she could make money off of them. She bought over 1000 of them and went to flea markets and started selling them. That is when everything changed!
July 20, 2014
Originally reviewed at Novel Escapes
There were so many good things about Synchronized Breathing that I have those warm and fuzzy feelings when I think back on the book. I was enchanted with the various characters and was most impressed with the variety of personalities created by Ellison. From hilarious Cece to darling Oliver I was completely smitten with Scarlett’s family -and they were quite an eclectic bunch.
I related entirely to Scarlett’s hesitation about moving back in with her mother and teenage brother at this stage in her life. She’d been living away from them for years and had become accustomed to enjoying their company in smaller doses- particularly in the case of her mum. Cece is not your typical maternal mama. Far from maternal in fact, she was constantly giving unsolicited advice about Scarlett’s sex life and dating plans. Cece was sometimes even graphic and unapologetic about it- but you could still feel her warmth and love for her kids and especially little Oliver. She just wasn’t going to change who she was because of their new situation. Another sweet touch was Scarlett’s brother and his girlfriend- they spent time with Oliver and obviously didn’t mind caring for him when they were around. It made my heart warm to witness the generational support of each other, despite the out-there conversations!
My hesitation about the full five star rating came solely down to the pace of the novel- I felt at times as if we could have skipped some of the details as it became a bit “much of the same”. Scarlett’s dating escapades would possibly have benefited from one less interlude here and there with each man. It was a touch dragged out. Also I wished at times that we knew a little bit more about Scarlett and her ex before their demise- the little we knew about them gave us virtually no idea about their good times- I never understood why they were together in the first place.
I enjoyed Synchronized Breathing particularly for the characters and the interactions between them all.
Thank you to Etch Communications for our review copy. All opinions are our own.
There were so many good things about Synchronized Breathing that I have those warm and fuzzy feelings when I think back on the book. I was enchanted with the various characters and was most impressed with the variety of personalities created by Ellison. From hilarious Cece to darling Oliver I was completely smitten with Scarlett’s family -and they were quite an eclectic bunch.
I related entirely to Scarlett’s hesitation about moving back in with her mother and teenage brother at this stage in her life. She’d been living away from them for years and had become accustomed to enjoying their company in smaller doses- particularly in the case of her mum. Cece is not your typical maternal mama. Far from maternal in fact, she was constantly giving unsolicited advice about Scarlett’s sex life and dating plans. Cece was sometimes even graphic and unapologetic about it- but you could still feel her warmth and love for her kids and especially little Oliver. She just wasn’t going to change who she was because of their new situation. Another sweet touch was Scarlett’s brother and his girlfriend- they spent time with Oliver and obviously didn’t mind caring for him when they were around. It made my heart warm to witness the generational support of each other, despite the out-there conversations!
My hesitation about the full five star rating came solely down to the pace of the novel- I felt at times as if we could have skipped some of the details as it became a bit “much of the same”. Scarlett’s dating escapades would possibly have benefited from one less interlude here and there with each man. It was a touch dragged out. Also I wished at times that we knew a little bit more about Scarlett and her ex before their demise- the little we knew about them gave us virtually no idea about their good times- I never understood why they were together in the first place.
I enjoyed Synchronized Breathing particularly for the characters and the interactions between them all.
Thank you to Etch Communications for our review copy. All opinions are our own.
May 6, 2014
Original review is posted on This Chick Reads Book Blog
http://thischickreads.wordpress.com/2...
Scarlett thinks that she has everything, a gorgeous husband, a lovely little son, a job. That’s until she finds out her husband’s little secret, and decides to leave him. Under her mother’s roof again, with a little boy in the package, Scarlett has to start all over again. But being a single mum is not an easy job at all. Finding a flexible job (bills have to be paid), looking for the One, starting all over again, takes a lot of efforts. Her mother CeCe is not a role model for a mother. She moves a lot, jumps from one man to another all the time. Even if she is little crazy, she loves her family very much and always has a good advice in store (well, sort of).
Scarlett is a strong person as a MC, most of the time. She longs for that everlasting love, for the life she never had, for the place called home she never had. But you have to kiss many frogs until you find the prince. She longs for that moment when you lay with your man together and breathe as one, being one. But she has a son, a cute little boy named Oliver, and not all men want commitments. Scarlett is a good mother, her son always comes first.She wants to be a better mother than CeCe. So when Scarlett has to choose between the man she loves and her boy, she does what every mother would do, chooses her son. Even if I doubted her from time to time, I really respect her for that.
Overall, Synchronized Breathing is a lovable emotional read about starting anew, about coping with issues being a single mother. You have to take every chance to rebuild your life again. I had some doubts while reading some parts, but overall, it’s a great debut.
My rating: 3.5/5
http://thischickreads.wordpress.com/2...
Scarlett thinks that she has everything, a gorgeous husband, a lovely little son, a job. That’s until she finds out her husband’s little secret, and decides to leave him. Under her mother’s roof again, with a little boy in the package, Scarlett has to start all over again. But being a single mum is not an easy job at all. Finding a flexible job (bills have to be paid), looking for the One, starting all over again, takes a lot of efforts. Her mother CeCe is not a role model for a mother. She moves a lot, jumps from one man to another all the time. Even if she is little crazy, she loves her family very much and always has a good advice in store (well, sort of).
Scarlett is a strong person as a MC, most of the time. She longs for that everlasting love, for the life she never had, for the place called home she never had. But you have to kiss many frogs until you find the prince. She longs for that moment when you lay with your man together and breathe as one, being one. But she has a son, a cute little boy named Oliver, and not all men want commitments. Scarlett is a good mother, her son always comes first.She wants to be a better mother than CeCe. So when Scarlett has to choose between the man she loves and her boy, she does what every mother would do, chooses her son. Even if I doubted her from time to time, I really respect her for that.
Overall, Synchronized Breathing is a lovable emotional read about starting anew, about coping with issues being a single mother. You have to take every chance to rebuild your life again. I had some doubts while reading some parts, but overall, it’s a great debut.
My rating: 3.5/5
November 20, 2013
JENNY'S REVIEW
3.5 ON THE MASQ SCALE
It's hard for me to describe my feelings about this book, they're very mixed. On one side I really liked this book. It sends out a good message (eventually) and the story is very entertaining. My favorite character was Oliver. For some reason, when I find out the book I'm going to read has a main character with a small child, I always think twice about my decision to read it, but I usually end up loving it. Cece was great too. Not a very good parent but a crazy and eccentric woman.
The thing is, after about 75% of the book, I started to get bored. Nothing new happened and Scarlett just had the same problems over and over. I didn't feel like the writer was working up to something, normally a book has that and that's why you want to keep reading. The ending kind of satisfied me, I just wish it came sooner. "What annoyed me a bit about this book is that all of the men Scarlett dated (except for the last one) seemed the same to me. They were supposed to be sexy and masculine, I guess, but to me they all seemed kind of feminine. The way the talked, the way they acted.. That was kind of a letdown for me.
So as I said, I've got some mixed feelings about this book. I enjoyed it, but it was simply too long.
3.5 ON THE MASQ SCALE
It's hard for me to describe my feelings about this book, they're very mixed. On one side I really liked this book. It sends out a good message (eventually) and the story is very entertaining. My favorite character was Oliver. For some reason, when I find out the book I'm going to read has a main character with a small child, I always think twice about my decision to read it, but I usually end up loving it. Cece was great too. Not a very good parent but a crazy and eccentric woman.
The thing is, after about 75% of the book, I started to get bored. Nothing new happened and Scarlett just had the same problems over and over. I didn't feel like the writer was working up to something, normally a book has that and that's why you want to keep reading. The ending kind of satisfied me, I just wish it came sooner. "What annoyed me a bit about this book is that all of the men Scarlett dated (except for the last one) seemed the same to me. They were supposed to be sexy and masculine, I guess, but to me they all seemed kind of feminine. The way the talked, the way they acted.. That was kind of a letdown for me.
So as I said, I've got some mixed feelings about this book. I enjoyed it, but it was simply too long.
November 12, 2013
Chick lit for grown ups. I think if there ever were to be a 'mature'/less flighty Bridget Jones, Scarlett from this book would be it.
I loved this story. It read like a breeze and there were numerous laughs throughout. Seriously, CeCe? She was a hoot, and even the secondary characters made an impact (Dominick reminded me of Daniel Cleaver from the Bridget books, and every time he had a line in the story, I teared up with laughter!). Can I admit I hated Jeremy? And X sounds like such a piece of work?
You wonder how Scarlett could've gotten tangled with these kinds of blokes, but then, that's just it. In real life, you have to meet a lot of frogs (and yes, kiss them, too. Yuck) before you can find the right man aka the Prince.
And life is also made up of all these little moments with the people in our entourage, and half the time, these folks are not even halfway sane.
A brilliant little slice of life post-divorce, whereby many of today's women will find themselves in, whether they are married, single mums, or even single. It's a jungle out there, but hope exists, as Tara Ellison shows us in Synchronized Breathing.
I loved this story. It read like a breeze and there were numerous laughs throughout. Seriously, CeCe? She was a hoot, and even the secondary characters made an impact (Dominick reminded me of Daniel Cleaver from the Bridget books, and every time he had a line in the story, I teared up with laughter!). Can I admit I hated Jeremy? And X sounds like such a piece of work?
You wonder how Scarlett could've gotten tangled with these kinds of blokes, but then, that's just it. In real life, you have to meet a lot of frogs (and yes, kiss them, too. Yuck) before you can find the right man aka the Prince.
And life is also made up of all these little moments with the people in our entourage, and half the time, these folks are not even halfway sane.
A brilliant little slice of life post-divorce, whereby many of today's women will find themselves in, whether they are married, single mums, or even single. It's a jungle out there, but hope exists, as Tara Ellison shows us in Synchronized Breathing.
March 7, 2014
Synchronized Breathing by Tara Ellison is a fabulous debut. I was surprised that this was first novel, as the author seemed comfortable and created very solid characters.
This was a book that I could relate to personally in many ways and I enjoyed getting to know the main character and the supporting cast. I liked that you could see how the main character adopted her behaviours from her mum, and the author showed how their relationship transitioned over time.
The writing is easy to read and flows nicely and the dialogue was written very well. I was impressed with the emotional connection I made with the characters in this story. By the end I was sad to see this book go.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a solid book with a bit of humour thrown into the mix. I had a lot of fun reading this book and encourage everyone to check it out.
This was a book that I could relate to personally in many ways and I enjoyed getting to know the main character and the supporting cast. I liked that you could see how the main character adopted her behaviours from her mum, and the author showed how their relationship transitioned over time.
The writing is easy to read and flows nicely and the dialogue was written very well. I was impressed with the emotional connection I made with the characters in this story. By the end I was sad to see this book go.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a solid book with a bit of humour thrown into the mix. I had a lot of fun reading this book and encourage everyone to check it out.
November 20, 2013
Braine's Talk Supe review
Starting SYNCHRONIZED BREATHING I was expecting a romantic chick-lit and instead I got a story that's all encompassing and something a lot of female readers can relate to. Though this is a story about love, I wouldn't call it strictly contemporary romance because TEllison gave us so much more than gorgeous men and hot 'n steamy romantic interludes. TEllison gave us a great life story about falling down and getting back up with heaping servings of positivity it's nothing short of inspiring.
Starting SYNCHRONIZED BREATHING I was expecting a romantic chick-lit and instead I got a story that's all encompassing and something a lot of female readers can relate to. Though this is a story about love, I wouldn't call it strictly contemporary romance because TEllison gave us so much more than gorgeous men and hot 'n steamy romantic interludes. TEllison gave us a great life story about falling down and getting back up with heaping servings of positivity it's nothing short of inspiring.
December 31, 2015
IF THIS IS WHAT LIFE IN LA-LA LAND IS REALLY LIKE I NEVER WANT TO VISIT AND NO ONE SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO ESCAPE AND TRY TO LIVE ANYWHERE ELSE. SCARLETT IS A WOMAN WHO HAS NEVER REALLY GROWN UP EVEN THOUGH SHE HAS A TWO YR. OLD SON, FAILED IN A COUPLE CAREERS, SOON TO BE DIVORCED AND MOVING BACK IN WITH HER MOM & BROTHER. THIS ISNT A BAD BOOK BUT I JUST COULDN’T GET INTO IT I DIDN’T LIKE MOST OF THE CHARACTERS EXCEPT LITTLE OLIVER. IT WAS A LITTLE TOO TALKY FOR ME AND I COULDN’T GET IN SYNC WITH THE STORYLINE. ;[
December 3, 2015
Ive got to be honest, after about 3-4 chapters I was considering giving up with this book, but decided to give it another chance, im so glad that I did as I really enjoyed it. Tara does seem to repeat phrases throughout which does get a little annoying, but other than that, it was a good read :)
November 29, 2015
Wonderful
I loved how real and flawed the characters were, but they were also endearing and easy to root for. The author has a great writing style, painting a clear picture without going overboard. Excellent book.
I loved how real and flawed the characters were, but they were also endearing and easy to root for. The author has a great writing style, painting a clear picture without going overboard. Excellent book.
December 16, 2015
Engaging story
It didn't seem like all that much happened but it was an engaging story that I found myself anxious to continue to see where it would go. I liked that there were several men and not just one easy to follow romance
It didn't seem like all that much happened but it was an engaging story that I found myself anxious to continue to see where it would go. I liked that there were several men and not just one easy to follow romance
July 16, 2017
It was ok
So long winded. It was a good story line but so long winded. I kept waiting for the good to start for her, and Oliver, but it really didn't until the last few pages. Would I read another one, no. But I suffered through this one. But that, my friends, is just my opinion.
So long winded. It was a good story line but so long winded. I kept waiting for the good to start for her, and Oliver, but it really didn't until the last few pages. Would I read another one, no. But I suffered through this one. But that, my friends, is just my opinion.
March 20, 2019
Breathing
The book was an easy read! It was not a complicated story line but enjoyable. The ending sort of left me hanging!
The book was an easy read! It was not a complicated story line but enjoyable. The ending sort of left me hanging!
November 16, 2013
I reviewed this at MustReadBooksOrDie with my friend Shelley!
Shel: Don't let the slow start to this novel deter you from reading it. I promise that before you know it you will be flying through it wondering how it ended so quickly! Court: The crazier thing though, is that I had forgotten or hadn't realized that it is also Tara's debut novel. What!? That is crazy, because the writing is damn good, so I really am surprised by this!
Shel: At the very beginning we meet a post-divorce Scarlett living in a depressed haze. It's not so much that she wants to be married to 'X', it's just that she's so lost--how did she end up back in her mother's apartment with a toddler and her brother and no husband?!! The first part of this novel has us muddling through this with her and I remember at one point thinking that Scarlett's life would be my worst nightmare--at least the one she was bogged down in. She has no job prospects, no idea how or where to go, and a slew of douche bags eager to bed her but not wed her. JERKS.
Court: Total JERKS! I have discovered that if this is truly the way that things are in the world of dating, I am so glad that I am not part of it. Holy crap. She just wants to be loved, and with the shining examples of that that she has with her mother and her friends, it is no wonder that she sometimes can't get her head above water with it all. It isn't all doom and gloom and loneliness though! There are some seriously awkward and funny situations she finds herself in that I can totally appreciate (awkward lover, right here!) But...with X making things miserable with their divorce and custody fight...holy shizz...she has to find ways to unwind somehow!
Shel: Luckily Scarlett has a fantastic and quirky support system: Cece and Sam (her mom and brother), some great friends, and her son. All of these contribute to her making some unfortunate mistakes and also some smart choices and by the end we see Scarlett taking risks that could end up making her happy and successful.
Court: I loved the secondary characters a lot. While a lot of their advice was sound...albeit, unconventional...especially from Cece...it is obvious they love her and just want her to be happy with her life choices. Like some of my favorite novels, the best thing about this book is that it shapes up to be a tale of the journey of a woman finding her way and starting over in her 30's. And really just that we need to find ways to enjoy the ride more. That was thee message I received anyways!
Shel: There were some great moments in this novel--some laugh out loud hysterically funny moments...as well as some honest and raw ones too. This read may take you a little longer to get through, but it's well worth the wait. Court: Yep! It was really fun, although I wanted to pummel a couple of the guys that she dated! But it is a enjoyably fun ride through this debut, and I won't hesitate at all to see what this author comes out with next!
Shelley: 4 Stars Courtney: 4 Stars
Shel: Don't let the slow start to this novel deter you from reading it. I promise that before you know it you will be flying through it wondering how it ended so quickly! Court: The crazier thing though, is that I had forgotten or hadn't realized that it is also Tara's debut novel. What!? That is crazy, because the writing is damn good, so I really am surprised by this!
Shel: At the very beginning we meet a post-divorce Scarlett living in a depressed haze. It's not so much that she wants to be married to 'X', it's just that she's so lost--how did she end up back in her mother's apartment with a toddler and her brother and no husband?!! The first part of this novel has us muddling through this with her and I remember at one point thinking that Scarlett's life would be my worst nightmare--at least the one she was bogged down in. She has no job prospects, no idea how or where to go, and a slew of douche bags eager to bed her but not wed her. JERKS.
Court: Total JERKS! I have discovered that if this is truly the way that things are in the world of dating, I am so glad that I am not part of it. Holy crap. She just wants to be loved, and with the shining examples of that that she has with her mother and her friends, it is no wonder that she sometimes can't get her head above water with it all. It isn't all doom and gloom and loneliness though! There are some seriously awkward and funny situations she finds herself in that I can totally appreciate (awkward lover, right here!) But...with X making things miserable with their divorce and custody fight...holy shizz...she has to find ways to unwind somehow!
Shel: Luckily Scarlett has a fantastic and quirky support system: Cece and Sam (her mom and brother), some great friends, and her son. All of these contribute to her making some unfortunate mistakes and also some smart choices and by the end we see Scarlett taking risks that could end up making her happy and successful.
Court: I loved the secondary characters a lot. While a lot of their advice was sound...albeit, unconventional...especially from Cece...it is obvious they love her and just want her to be happy with her life choices. Like some of my favorite novels, the best thing about this book is that it shapes up to be a tale of the journey of a woman finding her way and starting over in her 30's. And really just that we need to find ways to enjoy the ride more. That was thee message I received anyways!
Shel: There were some great moments in this novel--some laugh out loud hysterically funny moments...as well as some honest and raw ones too. This read may take you a little longer to get through, but it's well worth the wait. Court: Yep! It was really fun, although I wanted to pummel a couple of the guys that she dated! But it is a enjoyably fun ride through this debut, and I won't hesitate at all to see what this author comes out with next!
Shelley: 4 Stars Courtney: 4 Stars
February 2, 2014
It was such a long time since I've read this book and to be honest, I'm still trying to find out what words to say. I feel like a newbie in reviewing books as of the moment but I will do try my very best to share my thoughts about this book. Cover-wise, I think it was really pretty. It obviously shows it's a women fiction or chick literature. I don't know but I feel like I often see books in that genre with such artful and cartoony covers which, don't get me wrong, also attracts me to read it. I've already mentioned before that I am a sucker for lovely covers.
The main point of this story, in my opinion, was on how a woman will assert herself in this world after being too dependent on men for years. Scarlett just got divorced and she's been in a dating cycle of jerks that she forgot how to stand on her own. Personally and I don't want to sound arrogant or overconfident, but my personality is very opposite to Scarlett's. I believe that I can be happy, independent and live a life that I wanted without men. It's not that I am not open to the idea but I am not desperate to pick guys that I know are off my standards. Bottom line is I don't let my world revolve on them. But with Scarlett, I think her way of thinking was mainly influenced by her mother whether she admits it or not. But their only difference is that her mother was in control. She was an alpha-female in her own way, alright. She reminds me of Samantha of Sex and the City actually.
I like how Synchronized Breathing had a potential of going to the women empowerment route. It was clear that Scarlett could overcome her marital and emotional issues. Oh and somewhat she did towards the end. I definitely did enjoy reading when I reached the middle part and when Scarlett had balls to teach those guys she dated before a lesson. But somehow, it got dull when she show some unstable tendencies with her decisions. I wish the ending came sooner and I wish that chapter was longer to elaborate the happy ending.
Overall, Synchronized Breathing is for female adults who enjoy contemporary reading, romance, and chick literature in general.
The main point of this story, in my opinion, was on how a woman will assert herself in this world after being too dependent on men for years. Scarlett just got divorced and she's been in a dating cycle of jerks that she forgot how to stand on her own. Personally and I don't want to sound arrogant or overconfident, but my personality is very opposite to Scarlett's. I believe that I can be happy, independent and live a life that I wanted without men. It's not that I am not open to the idea but I am not desperate to pick guys that I know are off my standards. Bottom line is I don't let my world revolve on them. But with Scarlett, I think her way of thinking was mainly influenced by her mother whether she admits it or not. But their only difference is that her mother was in control. She was an alpha-female in her own way, alright. She reminds me of Samantha of Sex and the City actually.
I like how Synchronized Breathing had a potential of going to the women empowerment route. It was clear that Scarlett could overcome her marital and emotional issues. Oh and somewhat she did towards the end. I definitely did enjoy reading when I reached the middle part and when Scarlett had balls to teach those guys she dated before a lesson. But somehow, it got dull when she show some unstable tendencies with her decisions. I wish the ending came sooner and I wish that chapter was longer to elaborate the happy ending.
Overall, Synchronized Breathing is for female adults who enjoy contemporary reading, romance, and chick literature in general.
January 29, 2014
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
Oh the whoa’s of being not only a divorce in your 30’s, but trying to date and find a real connection in the dating world all while struggling to raise a child. Scarlett’s got some stories to tell on both fronts! Scarlett is a newly divorced mom of an adorable little man in California and finds herself just a little lost. Not only does she find herself trying to jump start her career, but she is also finding the world of dating just a little harder then she recalled from her younger days.
This is a not only funny story about the whoa’s of dating, raising a busy toddler, but also dealing with a control freak ex, and one should never forget the blunt sexually active mother she finds herself living with; but it is also a story of how Scarlett finds herself amid all this chaos.
This is a great read and not a boring typical romance, it is a story anyone that has been through a divorce and been thrown back into the crazy single world can truly relate too. Granted Scarlett mingles with movie stars and producers. Scarlett’s story will both amuse you and make you think.
This is actually a story I will be passing on to friend's that often find themselves in similar situations much like Scarlett's....dating the wrong guy over and over, for all the wrong reasons.
Oh the whoa’s of being not only a divorce in your 30’s, but trying to date and find a real connection in the dating world all while struggling to raise a child. Scarlett’s got some stories to tell on both fronts! Scarlett is a newly divorced mom of an adorable little man in California and finds herself just a little lost. Not only does she find herself trying to jump start her career, but she is also finding the world of dating just a little harder then she recalled from her younger days.
This is a not only funny story about the whoa’s of dating, raising a busy toddler, but also dealing with a control freak ex, and one should never forget the blunt sexually active mother she finds herself living with; but it is also a story of how Scarlett finds herself amid all this chaos.
This is a great read and not a boring typical romance, it is a story anyone that has been through a divorce and been thrown back into the crazy single world can truly relate too. Granted Scarlett mingles with movie stars and producers. Scarlett’s story will both amuse you and make you think.
This is actually a story I will be passing on to friend's that often find themselves in similar situations much like Scarlett's....dating the wrong guy over and over, for all the wrong reasons.
November 25, 2013
Synchronized Breathing is like the casual relationship that blossoms into true love. I started reading it assuming it was an easy, fun romp. But it turned out to be so complex and personal, deliciously wicked and laugh-out-loud funny, and at the same time managed to make me want to go throw on a wrap dress and killer heels and go out on the town.
Scarlett leaves a total #@&^%$ husband, only to find that being alone - while better - can be just as painful. What kept me enchanted through all the low points is her incredible sense of humor and her vibrant cast of friends and family. Seriously, I know everyone has said it, but CeCe is one of the most entertaining characters I've "met" in a long time. PLEASE may this become a series, because I need weekly dose of that woman!
What also astounded me was the fact that this is Ellison's first novel. Again, it's already been mentioned... but how she managed to weave such a story - the tiny details, the well-chosen wording - she was born to this world. I also really appreciate how much I loved Oliver. He just balanced everything and made it very grounded and real for me.
I'm just sorry I'm done reading it1
Scarlett leaves a total #@&^%$ husband, only to find that being alone - while better - can be just as painful. What kept me enchanted through all the low points is her incredible sense of humor and her vibrant cast of friends and family. Seriously, I know everyone has said it, but CeCe is one of the most entertaining characters I've "met" in a long time. PLEASE may this become a series, because I need weekly dose of that woman!
What also astounded me was the fact that this is Ellison's first novel. Again, it's already been mentioned... but how she managed to weave such a story - the tiny details, the well-chosen wording - she was born to this world. I also really appreciate how much I loved Oliver. He just balanced everything and made it very grounded and real for me.
I'm just sorry I'm done reading it1
December 21, 2013
received a copy of Synchronized Breathing by Tara Ellison in exchange for an honest review.
After a failed marriage, Scarlett decides to move in with her mom at the age of thirty-five, which is not “old” at all, unless you have a mom like CeCe. Scarlett is trying to navigate her way back into the real world and her mom’s choices may not be the best ones for her, since it has not really worked for her mom so far ….
I can’t help but feel some, sad to say, pity for Scarlett having to deal with her mom, who doesn’t seem to be operating with all her pistons, shall we say?? Scarlett, has to however, in spite of that, find a way to make a life for her and her young son, Oliver. This story is so funny and more of us, than we would like to admit, could relate to Scarlett’s story of finding the happiness they hope that’s out there waiting for them, in spite of the past they are trying to forget.
It was a great read for sure!
After a failed marriage, Scarlett decides to move in with her mom at the age of thirty-five, which is not “old” at all, unless you have a mom like CeCe. Scarlett is trying to navigate her way back into the real world and her mom’s choices may not be the best ones for her, since it has not really worked for her mom so far ….
I can’t help but feel some, sad to say, pity for Scarlett having to deal with her mom, who doesn’t seem to be operating with all her pistons, shall we say?? Scarlett, has to however, in spite of that, find a way to make a life for her and her young son, Oliver. This story is so funny and more of us, than we would like to admit, could relate to Scarlett’s story of finding the happiness they hope that’s out there waiting for them, in spite of the past they are trying to forget.
It was a great read for sure!
June 27, 2016
I was giving this book by the author in exchange for a fair review. I must admit it is a touching story, and I found the main character Scarlet a lovely, down to earth woman who struggles to come to terms with the break-up of her marriage (because of her husband's peculiar hobby). I also loved the bond between Scarlet and her two-year-old toddler( and I can certainly relate to that!). The author cleverly touches on some of the difficult subjects of post break up- navigating the waters of singledom again but this time with a little one in tow and how to explain the most complicating things that shifted the familiar home dynamics to her little Oliver. I would have like some more twists/ surprises and perhaps more layers to the storyline, but I really like Scarlet and her determination to make her life better after a truly heartbreaking event!
I will definitely be keeping an eye for Tara's next book.
I will definitely be keeping an eye for Tara's next book.
May 16, 2016
This book is about a single mother and how she fared in life with her child in tow.A struggle to find the right person post divorce and finding the right one in the process.The book also touches upon the difficulties the child go through because of such break ups between parents.The creative side of Scarlett and her love for little Oliver established the fact that,no matter what a mother will always be there for her son or daughter as a matter of fact. The story always went at the same speed devoid of any twist.Some twists in the tale could have made the reading more exciting.Cece was very much adventurous in nature and was very lively .Henry the eighth was very sweet.Overall the book was good but few more twists could have made the reading much more exciting.
April 10, 2014
Synchronized Breathing is a refreshingly relatable book. I could completely empathize with the main character Scarlett. She was strong the whole time but she just didn't know it. The boyfriend relationships were completely entertaining. I found myself not wanting to put the book down. I thought it had a great ending too. I will definitely read the author's next novel.
March 25, 2017
The book started off pretty good, but around the 2/3rds mark it just kind of started to circle the drain. It wasn't terrible, it was just that her dating whoas became a little tedious, especially when there were so many huge red flags so early on in her relationships that I couldn't understand why she even continued to pursue them.
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