What do you think?
Rate this book
Hard Hats and Doormats
Lexi Burke has always been a stickler for following rules and procedures. As a human resources manager for a leading Gulf Coast chemical company, it’s her job to make sure everyone else falls in line, too.
But after losing out on a big promotion–-because her boss sees her as too much of a yes-woman––Lexi adopts a new policy of following her heart instead of the fine print. And her heart knows what it wants: Jason Beaumont, a workplace crush who is off limits based on her previous protocol.
While navigating a new romance and interoffice politics, Lexi must find the confidence to stand on her own or face a lifetime of following someone else’s orders.
Who says nice girls have to finish last?
But after losing out on a big promotion–-because her boss sees her as too much of a yes-woman––Lexi adopts a new policy of following her heart instead of the fine print. And her heart knows what it wants: Jason Beaumont, a workplace crush who is off limits based on her previous protocol.
While navigating a new romance and interoffice politics, Lexi must find the confidence to stand on her own or face a lifetime of following someone else’s orders.
Who says nice girls have to finish last?
284 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2013
2 people are currently reading
335 people want to read
About the author
Laura Chapman
26 books134 followersLaura Chapman is the author of sweet and sexy romantic comedies, including Playing House, The Marrying Type, the Queen of the League series, and other stories. A native Nebraskan, she loves football, Netflix marathons, and her cats, Jane and Bingley.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
January 8, 2014
****Review for Chick Lit Central http://www.chicklitcentral.com/****
When you’re in love, it’s hard to play by the rules. A definite conundrum for Lexi Burke, human resources manager for a leading Gulf Coast chemical company. In her line of work, you follow procedures and proper protocol. When it comes to matters of the heart, however, procedures and proper protocol don’t apply.
In Hard Hats and Doormats, Laura Chapman takes us on a journey of self-discovery through Lexi’s point of view. After being passed over for a promotion (it’s a man’s world, baby, and Lexi is too much of a pushover, or so says her hard-headed, chauvinist boss) Lexi decides to stop playing by the rules. Where has that gotten her, anyway? She’s had a secret crush on Jason Beumont for quite some time, and he’s someone she considered off-limits due to office politics. But she’s done with office politics. It’s time to throw caution to the wind, and let her heart make all the decisions.
This is a love story, with a twist. Lexi pursues the man of her dreams, but she also takes charge of her life, and won’t be anyone’s pushover. Not anymore. It’s empowering, and the characters are so cleverly written, it’s impossible not to identify with a woman who wants and deserves to have what she’s worked so hard for. You can really feel the internal struggle Lexi has when it comes to doing what is “right”, even though her heart tells an entirely different story.
If you are looking for a book that will give you the motivation to pursue your own dreams in life, and give you the kick in the pants needed to follow through on those New Year’s resolutions, give "Hard Hats" a read. It’s time you embarked on your own journey of self-discovery.
When you’re in love, it’s hard to play by the rules. A definite conundrum for Lexi Burke, human resources manager for a leading Gulf Coast chemical company. In her line of work, you follow procedures and proper protocol. When it comes to matters of the heart, however, procedures and proper protocol don’t apply.
In Hard Hats and Doormats, Laura Chapman takes us on a journey of self-discovery through Lexi’s point of view. After being passed over for a promotion (it’s a man’s world, baby, and Lexi is too much of a pushover, or so says her hard-headed, chauvinist boss) Lexi decides to stop playing by the rules. Where has that gotten her, anyway? She’s had a secret crush on Jason Beumont for quite some time, and he’s someone she considered off-limits due to office politics. But she’s done with office politics. It’s time to throw caution to the wind, and let her heart make all the decisions.
This is a love story, with a twist. Lexi pursues the man of her dreams, but she also takes charge of her life, and won’t be anyone’s pushover. Not anymore. It’s empowering, and the characters are so cleverly written, it’s impossible not to identify with a woman who wants and deserves to have what she’s worked so hard for. You can really feel the internal struggle Lexi has when it comes to doing what is “right”, even though her heart tells an entirely different story.
If you are looking for a book that will give you the motivation to pursue your own dreams in life, and give you the kick in the pants needed to follow through on those New Year’s resolutions, give "Hard Hats" a read. It’s time you embarked on your own journey of self-discovery.
February 1, 2014
There’s a lot to love about Laura Chapman’s debut novel, Hard Hats and Doormats, starting with the title, which is really clever and memorable. Secondly, the book’s likable heroine, Lexi Burke is a breath of fresh air as far as Chick Lit/Women’s Fic protagonists go. Although she’s young (mid-twenties), she avoids the clichés of being self-involved and aimless. She’s got a good head on her shoulders, is mature and stable, and manages to do well in a male-dominated business, which regularly requires her to do her job in testosterone-laden places like refineries and oil rigs. Of course, she does have her problems, both professionally (a d-bag boss who doesn’t appreciate her efforts, catty co-workers who are dying to see her fail) and personally (She feels like life might be passing her by because she’s on the road, living out of hotel rooms most of the time, and she’s lonely.) Things begin to look up on both fronts when she realizes her long-simmering crush on co-worker, Jason Beaumont, is reciprocated.
Ah, Jason . . . an old-fashioned southern gentleman with a twinkle in his eye who knows how to treat a lady right. SIGH I’ll admit that I’m a sucker for romance, and that element of this book did not disappoint. The Jason/Lexi chemistry is there from the first time they appear on the page together; and their relationship is developed in a really organic and entertaining way. My fave scene in Hard Hats was the one where Jason teaches Lexi how to Texas two-step (hot!) It made me have flashbacks to Urban Cowboy (great movie!) I really enjoyed seeing these two connect and fall in love. Kudos to the author for injecting the perfect amount of steam into the book’s sex scenes. When this fledgling couple did hit some roadblocks, I was rooting hard for them and impatiently racing through the pages to see how (or if) they would work things out.
I think this fun, romantic, sometimes angsty tale about a young woman’s growing pains will please fans of many genres (Chick Lit, Women’s Fic, Contemporary Romance, New Adult) and I encourage those readers to give this novel a try. You’ll be glad you did!
I received a copy of Hard Hats and Doormats in exchange for an honest review.
Ah, Jason . . . an old-fashioned southern gentleman with a twinkle in his eye who knows how to treat a lady right. SIGH I’ll admit that I’m a sucker for romance, and that element of this book did not disappoint. The Jason/Lexi chemistry is there from the first time they appear on the page together; and their relationship is developed in a really organic and entertaining way. My fave scene in Hard Hats was the one where Jason teaches Lexi how to Texas two-step (hot!) It made me have flashbacks to Urban Cowboy (great movie!) I really enjoyed seeing these two connect and fall in love. Kudos to the author for injecting the perfect amount of steam into the book’s sex scenes. When this fledgling couple did hit some roadblocks, I was rooting hard for them and impatiently racing through the pages to see how (or if) they would work things out.
I think this fun, romantic, sometimes angsty tale about a young woman’s growing pains will please fans of many genres (Chick Lit, Women’s Fic, Contemporary Romance, New Adult) and I encourage those readers to give this novel a try. You’ll be glad you did!
I received a copy of Hard Hats and Doormats in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2014
I've been a fan of Laura Chapman ever since I discovered her blog... so I expected her debut novel to have tons of humor and heart. I was not disappointed. While I liked Lexi at the beginning of the novel, I absolutely loved her when she decided to break the rules and go after what she really wants... which happens to be the very swoon-worthy Jason Beaumont. In addition to the love story, I enjoyed Lexi's journey to find happiness in her professional life. She's a fun character and her interior monologue had me laughing out loud. I loved spending time with these characters and I'm definitely looking forward to more from Laura Chapman!
January 29, 2014
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
First I have to admit this book was unique for me as it is centered around the life of Oilfield workers. As a wife of a rigger it was interesting to read a different view of our world. Of course the corporate side and the out in the field side are by far two different worlds. Lexi the main character is an HR rep for a big oil company. A position that literally keeps her running nonstop and due to the corporate side of it eventually makes her a little tainted to life. Lexi spends most of her career at the company crushing on a fellow employee of the company, and for the longest time she does so from afar. Eventually her and Jason start spending time with each other and find they have mutual feelings. As an HR rep she finds herself in a position that she felt was taboo, dating a fellow employee.
Watching Lexi and Jason’s relationship blossom was fun, before it began they both seemed kindof sad and lonely, merely existing and not living to their full potential. Their relationship helps both of them be all that they really want to be and they seem to find reasons to live the life they really want.
This was a fun enjoyable book to read, the characters are well developed and the book was very well written.
First I have to admit this book was unique for me as it is centered around the life of Oilfield workers. As a wife of a rigger it was interesting to read a different view of our world. Of course the corporate side and the out in the field side are by far two different worlds. Lexi the main character is an HR rep for a big oil company. A position that literally keeps her running nonstop and due to the corporate side of it eventually makes her a little tainted to life. Lexi spends most of her career at the company crushing on a fellow employee of the company, and for the longest time she does so from afar. Eventually her and Jason start spending time with each other and find they have mutual feelings. As an HR rep she finds herself in a position that she felt was taboo, dating a fellow employee.
Watching Lexi and Jason’s relationship blossom was fun, before it began they both seemed kindof sad and lonely, merely existing and not living to their full potential. Their relationship helps both of them be all that they really want to be and they seem to find reasons to live the life they really want.
This was a fun enjoyable book to read, the characters are well developed and the book was very well written.
January 28, 2014
Fans of Laura’s blog, Change the Word, are going to be so happy with almost 300 pages of her fiction. While this is Chapman’s début novel, she writes like a seasoned professional delivering tight dialogue and spunky interior monologues.
Her main character, Lexi Burke, is a strong woman in a male-dominated profession (Gulf Coast chemical company). In fact, the sturdy reliance on workplace politics and angst is what gives this book its strength. I really enjoyed the storyline being firmly rooted in the workplace as events unfolded and a relationship with a co-worker blossomed. Some work scenes were dramatic while others were comic (often at the main character’s expense), but all felt balanced. The main character is dedicated to her job but has a crummy boss that will frustrate readers throughout the book and perhaps remind them of their own frustrations at work. This gave the novel a very realistic feel and I kept thinking as I read it that it would be great for readers frustrated with their jobs and/or in a workplace romance because the setting and circumstances were so nicely anchored in a workplace setting.
Lexi is a young, refreshing career woman in need of some confidence but with a character transformation over the course of the novel that was both rewarding and realistic. I’m a bit older than the main character and there were times when I wanted to coach her on how to handle things and people differently, but if I were to be honest with myself, I was exactly like her at that age (mid-twenties), so she reads true to her youth and level and depth of life experience. She has a relationship with her phone, of all things, who she calls Harriet. (I loved this – so true of all of us these days.) The tweets and texts throughout the narrative varies the storytelling in a way that is refreshing to read. Lexi is a good girl that (almost always) follows the rules.
Love interest Jason Beaumont (great name) does not disappoint – he even teaches Lexi how to Texas two-step. So sweet. They hit their bumps like most lovers do in fiction, but theirs is a romance readers will want to see work out. There’s a tender scene for her first kiss – which doesn’t happen the way Lexi had imagined, but happens in such a way and while Lexi is in a drunken stupor that makes you think, “Aw, what a nice guy!” Jason is endearing throughout the book. A wonderful guy, a great “hero” character. I also enjoyed reading developments in Garret’s storyline – especially during a conversation at the end of chapter nine that ends in a much needed hug for Garret.
Laura Chapman is a writer with a promising career and a strong support network. Hardhats and Doormats is a book for fans of many genres: women’s fiction, romance, and chick lit . . . but especially the emerging new adult genre – where I believe Laura will develop her following. Bravo, writer Laura Chapman, Bravo.
Disclaimer: I received and ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. More of my reviews on my book blog: "Julie Valerie's Book Blog" at www.julievalerie.com
Her main character, Lexi Burke, is a strong woman in a male-dominated profession (Gulf Coast chemical company). In fact, the sturdy reliance on workplace politics and angst is what gives this book its strength. I really enjoyed the storyline being firmly rooted in the workplace as events unfolded and a relationship with a co-worker blossomed. Some work scenes were dramatic while others were comic (often at the main character’s expense), but all felt balanced. The main character is dedicated to her job but has a crummy boss that will frustrate readers throughout the book and perhaps remind them of their own frustrations at work. This gave the novel a very realistic feel and I kept thinking as I read it that it would be great for readers frustrated with their jobs and/or in a workplace romance because the setting and circumstances were so nicely anchored in a workplace setting.
Lexi is a young, refreshing career woman in need of some confidence but with a character transformation over the course of the novel that was both rewarding and realistic. I’m a bit older than the main character and there were times when I wanted to coach her on how to handle things and people differently, but if I were to be honest with myself, I was exactly like her at that age (mid-twenties), so she reads true to her youth and level and depth of life experience. She has a relationship with her phone, of all things, who she calls Harriet. (I loved this – so true of all of us these days.) The tweets and texts throughout the narrative varies the storytelling in a way that is refreshing to read. Lexi is a good girl that (almost always) follows the rules.
Love interest Jason Beaumont (great name) does not disappoint – he even teaches Lexi how to Texas two-step. So sweet. They hit their bumps like most lovers do in fiction, but theirs is a romance readers will want to see work out. There’s a tender scene for her first kiss – which doesn’t happen the way Lexi had imagined, but happens in such a way and while Lexi is in a drunken stupor that makes you think, “Aw, what a nice guy!” Jason is endearing throughout the book. A wonderful guy, a great “hero” character. I also enjoyed reading developments in Garret’s storyline – especially during a conversation at the end of chapter nine that ends in a much needed hug for Garret.
Laura Chapman is a writer with a promising career and a strong support network. Hardhats and Doormats is a book for fans of many genres: women’s fiction, romance, and chick lit . . . but especially the emerging new adult genre – where I believe Laura will develop her following. Bravo, writer Laura Chapman, Bravo.
Disclaimer: I received and ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. More of my reviews on my book blog: "Julie Valerie's Book Blog" at www.julievalerie.com
December 22, 2014
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I was intrigued by the blurb and interested to read about a woman's career snd sentimental journey in a world dominated by men, such as oil industry snd the book does not disappoint. Miss Chapman does an excellent description of the corporste world with all the good and the bad in a witty manner, without falling in the cliché.
Lexi Burke is a young HR mansger working for a big oil corporation in Houston. It is not the dream career, but in a tough economy and with student loans to pay, she can't afford waiting for something more suitable, so she does her best and hangs in to it with the hope of a promotion that will allow her a less nomadic and harassing life while still searching for some other job on the side. Unfortunately, she doesn't get the do much hoped promotion, despite all her efforts, her male coworker gets it, with the explanation that "she is not a team leader" from the boss who heavily takes advantage of Lexi's professional and personal skills. I think Lexi's trouble aggravated to pain in going and doing her everyday work is very well depicted. We tend to forget how much time we spend at work and what a tremendous toll working in a stressful environment and doing something we don't believe in takes on us. Not getting the hoped promotion aggravates her life multiplying her trips in the field and breaks Lexi's confidence in herself and especially in following the rigid rules in place in the company. First fall out is deciding to take a chance on dating Jason Beaumont, manager in a rafinery she supervises as HR, to whom she is attracted, but whom she avoided because of work's dating policy. Both Lexi and Jason are complex characters, once they decide to shunt the rules, their casual and awkward friendship blooms to love and all seems good and easy going. Well, it isn't, as small secrets on both sides undermine their relationship and put under a big question mark their future together, with the end result of putting Lexi in the situation of making a life important decision about her future.
The secondary characters are excellent, giving life and completing the picture, starting with the devoted friends, Kara and Brenna, the fun oncle and the D-list, as well as Jason's friends Cameron, Tyler and Garrett. It would be fun to see how they do, in a future book, as their lives ( Kara and Brenna's) are at crossroads with no easy solutions in view.
I very much liked the book and would recommend it wholeheartedly to those interested in a contemporary romance with a fresh and original take on the corporate world.
I was intrigued by the blurb and interested to read about a woman's career snd sentimental journey in a world dominated by men, such as oil industry snd the book does not disappoint. Miss Chapman does an excellent description of the corporste world with all the good and the bad in a witty manner, without falling in the cliché.
Lexi Burke is a young HR mansger working for a big oil corporation in Houston. It is not the dream career, but in a tough economy and with student loans to pay, she can't afford waiting for something more suitable, so she does her best and hangs in to it with the hope of a promotion that will allow her a less nomadic and harassing life while still searching for some other job on the side. Unfortunately, she doesn't get the do much hoped promotion, despite all her efforts, her male coworker gets it, with the explanation that "she is not a team leader" from the boss who heavily takes advantage of Lexi's professional and personal skills. I think Lexi's trouble aggravated to pain in going and doing her everyday work is very well depicted. We tend to forget how much time we spend at work and what a tremendous toll working in a stressful environment and doing something we don't believe in takes on us. Not getting the hoped promotion aggravates her life multiplying her trips in the field and breaks Lexi's confidence in herself and especially in following the rigid rules in place in the company. First fall out is deciding to take a chance on dating Jason Beaumont, manager in a rafinery she supervises as HR, to whom she is attracted, but whom she avoided because of work's dating policy. Both Lexi and Jason are complex characters, once they decide to shunt the rules, their casual and awkward friendship blooms to love and all seems good and easy going. Well, it isn't, as small secrets on both sides undermine their relationship and put under a big question mark their future together, with the end result of putting Lexi in the situation of making a life important decision about her future.
The secondary characters are excellent, giving life and completing the picture, starting with the devoted friends, Kara and Brenna, the fun oncle and the D-list, as well as Jason's friends Cameron, Tyler and Garrett. It would be fun to see how they do, in a future book, as their lives ( Kara and Brenna's) are at crossroads with no easy solutions in view.
I very much liked the book and would recommend it wholeheartedly to those interested in a contemporary romance with a fresh and original take on the corporate world.
July 15, 2014
I just loved this story. Having worked in the corporate world, it was easy to identify with Lexi and the predicament she finds herself in – the one where she wakes up one day to find out all the hard work she has done has not gotten her the promotion she deserves, and, as a matter of fact, all that hard work has done for her is it has kept her chained to her office and limited her ability to live life.
When Lexi finally realizes that all of her rule-following and hard work come with a price she is no longer willing to pay, she commits to herself to start having fun and living…starting with figuring out a way to land her the man she has been crushing on since she started working for the company…Jason Beaumont.
Jason Beaumont has worked his way up the company, and has had his eye on Lexi since the first time he met her, but has held back since her role in HR and her rule-following has made her seem off-limits. When he can no longer help himself, he starts to spend more time with Lexi…and when a night mixed with too many margaritas for Lexi has him confessing his feeling, there is no turning back!
This was a fun read and I enjoyed watching Lexi’s take charge of her professional and personal life. It was refreshing watching someone as young as Lexi understand the value of hard work, but also recognize when she was being treated like a “doormat”. It was interesting watching her struggle with trying to find the balance between being a push-over at work and going the extra mile because it truly added value. On the relationship front, it was easy to believe she would just submit to Jason since she had been crushing on him for two years, so it was also wonderful to see her take a stand with him when issues came up in their relationship.
I loved the supporting characters in this book as well. From Jason’s uncle Bo and his mother, to Lexi’s two best friends, as well as all the work friends that are featured during many karaoke nights – which I loved – they all add additional depth and color to this story. And I really enjoyed the role technology and social media played in the story, from the tweets at the start of each chapter, to watching the love affair that Lexi had with her phone…yep, seriously, she loved her phone so much she even named it “Harriet” and had conversations with it – LOL!
All in all, this was a great read – not your traditional love story, but more of a coming of age story in the workplace that happens to include a romance!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
When Lexi finally realizes that all of her rule-following and hard work come with a price she is no longer willing to pay, she commits to herself to start having fun and living…starting with figuring out a way to land her the man she has been crushing on since she started working for the company…Jason Beaumont.
Jason Beaumont has worked his way up the company, and has had his eye on Lexi since the first time he met her, but has held back since her role in HR and her rule-following has made her seem off-limits. When he can no longer help himself, he starts to spend more time with Lexi…and when a night mixed with too many margaritas for Lexi has him confessing his feeling, there is no turning back!
This was a fun read and I enjoyed watching Lexi’s take charge of her professional and personal life. It was refreshing watching someone as young as Lexi understand the value of hard work, but also recognize when she was being treated like a “doormat”. It was interesting watching her struggle with trying to find the balance between being a push-over at work and going the extra mile because it truly added value. On the relationship front, it was easy to believe she would just submit to Jason since she had been crushing on him for two years, so it was also wonderful to see her take a stand with him when issues came up in their relationship.
I loved the supporting characters in this book as well. From Jason’s uncle Bo and his mother, to Lexi’s two best friends, as well as all the work friends that are featured during many karaoke nights – which I loved – they all add additional depth and color to this story. And I really enjoyed the role technology and social media played in the story, from the tweets at the start of each chapter, to watching the love affair that Lexi had with her phone…yep, seriously, she loved her phone so much she even named it “Harriet” and had conversations with it – LOL!
All in all, this was a great read – not your traditional love story, but more of a coming of age story in the workplace that happens to include a romance!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
February 10, 2014
In her debut novel, Hard Hats and Doormats, author Laura Chapman introduces her readers to a smart professional woman who has sacrificed her personal life in order to follow the rules and climb the corporate ladder. But when she gets passed over for a promotion that she felt she deserved, she's tired of being a corporate doormat and playing by the rules, and adopts a new policy of going after her heart's desire!
Twenty-four year old Lexie Burke is a Human Resource Field Manager for Gulf America, a Gulf Coast chemical company based in Houston, Texas. She's a hard-working, dedicated professional, who has been a stickler for following the company rules and regulations. She's even sacrificed her personal life for her job, even while harboring a secret crush on hunky refinery plant manager Jason Beaumont. But all that's about to change when she gets passed over for a promotion, all bets are off, and Lexi is ready to follow a new set of policies, one that includes following her heart.
This was such a fun story to read, from the start you can't help but get drawn into Lexi's world. I loved following Lexi's journey of self-discovery and finding love. She's a realistic sassy woman that the reader can relate to, her transformation from strict rules follower to standing on her own two feet and finding a happy balance in her professional and personal life is well worth the read, especially when her heart's desire is a swoon worthy hunk of an oil man named Jason Beaumont.
With a quirky cast of characters who are fun to follow; humorous dialogue and interactions; a richly descriptive Texas and Gulf Coast setting; and a storyline that has a lot of laugh-out loud moments; Hard Hats and Doormats is a thoroughly entertaining and easy read that will leave you smiling.
Kudos to author Laura Chapman on her debut novel, I look forward to reading more of her novels in the future.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Twenty-four year old Lexie Burke is a Human Resource Field Manager for Gulf America, a Gulf Coast chemical company based in Houston, Texas. She's a hard-working, dedicated professional, who has been a stickler for following the company rules and regulations. She's even sacrificed her personal life for her job, even while harboring a secret crush on hunky refinery plant manager Jason Beaumont. But all that's about to change when she gets passed over for a promotion, all bets are off, and Lexi is ready to follow a new set of policies, one that includes following her heart.
This was such a fun story to read, from the start you can't help but get drawn into Lexi's world. I loved following Lexi's journey of self-discovery and finding love. She's a realistic sassy woman that the reader can relate to, her transformation from strict rules follower to standing on her own two feet and finding a happy balance in her professional and personal life is well worth the read, especially when her heart's desire is a swoon worthy hunk of an oil man named Jason Beaumont.
With a quirky cast of characters who are fun to follow; humorous dialogue and interactions; a richly descriptive Texas and Gulf Coast setting; and a storyline that has a lot of laugh-out loud moments; Hard Hats and Doormats is a thoroughly entertaining and easy read that will leave you smiling.
Kudos to author Laura Chapman on her debut novel, I look forward to reading more of her novels in the future.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
July 16, 2014
*Review Copy Provided by the Author*
When I read the description of Hard Hats and Doormats, I was intrigued – having worked in a male dominated capacity for a few years, it is an environment that I know and can appreciate (which also getting exceptional frustrated with). Although, I will admit that I know little about the oil business – so reading about that was introducing me to a whole new world. I sat down on Thursday night intending to only read a chapter or so on my kindle, but I was soon sucked in and before I knew it, I had read about 50% of the book (not complaining because it was the great way to start a holiday weekend). Ms Chapman has a very smooth writing style, that isn’t overly flowery, but just works well.
I will admit that I was kind of disappointed in the fact that while she worked in a male-dominated world, Lexi was still in what could be seen as a more female-centric position (human resources/training). I would have loved to have seen her more in the environment, or actually doing a job on one of the oil platforms. I was also kind of disappointed in how little she seemed to know about the company she worked for – yeah, she could spout all the various rules/regulations – but when it came to the actual functioning of the company – it seemed like she had never really bothered to learn (and I can kind of see where the Doormat label could be applied). I don’t know, maybe it is just me, but if I was working for a company where I was a complete newb, I’d be down on the deckplates, trying to learn as much as I could.
However, even with those issues, Hard Hats and Doormats was a solid read. It wasn’t overly romance/spicy, but rather toned down (at least to me – others may disagree). I know I’ll be looking forward to reading more by Ms Chapman in the future. Overall, I gave Hard Hats and Doormats 4 stars for a lite contemporary romance.
When I read the description of Hard Hats and Doormats, I was intrigued – having worked in a male dominated capacity for a few years, it is an environment that I know and can appreciate (which also getting exceptional frustrated with). Although, I will admit that I know little about the oil business – so reading about that was introducing me to a whole new world. I sat down on Thursday night intending to only read a chapter or so on my kindle, but I was soon sucked in and before I knew it, I had read about 50% of the book (not complaining because it was the great way to start a holiday weekend). Ms Chapman has a very smooth writing style, that isn’t overly flowery, but just works well.
I will admit that I was kind of disappointed in the fact that while she worked in a male-dominated world, Lexi was still in what could be seen as a more female-centric position (human resources/training). I would have loved to have seen her more in the environment, or actually doing a job on one of the oil platforms. I was also kind of disappointed in how little she seemed to know about the company she worked for – yeah, she could spout all the various rules/regulations – but when it came to the actual functioning of the company – it seemed like she had never really bothered to learn (and I can kind of see where the Doormat label could be applied). I don’t know, maybe it is just me, but if I was working for a company where I was a complete newb, I’d be down on the deckplates, trying to learn as much as I could.
However, even with those issues, Hard Hats and Doormats was a solid read. It wasn’t overly romance/spicy, but rather toned down (at least to me – others may disagree). I know I’ll be looking forward to reading more by Ms Chapman in the future. Overall, I gave Hard Hats and Doormats 4 stars for a lite contemporary romance.
July 29, 2014
Alexis Burke (Lexi) works in the Human Resources department for Gulf America (GA) and puts her best foot forward with anticipation to snag the position of Assistant Regional Director. When the position is given to Lexi’s co-worker she decides to break company policy against employee dating without disclosure by giving in Jason who is a longtime admirer for the past two years. Lexi and Jason become close too quickly and learn in the process that there are a few workplace romances besides theirs being kept secret from the company. The lovebirds soon have trouble brewing in the nest when a travel assignment for Lexi ends in a fight she kept from Jason that he finds out causing a turning point their relationship.
In addition to the strong opinions Lexi has regarding her employment since the new director’s previous workload is divided among the employees in human resources creating tension on her part between her and her demanding boss, she begins searching for employment outside of her current employer. As a human resource liaison, Lexi handles the worst case of her career for a woman who is blatantly harassed by a co-worker who is suing the company for assault by his victim. The change in attitude towards her position at Gulf America causes Lexi to examine what she truly desires in life and relationships and what her goals are regarding her career.
Laura Chapman expresses in writing a novel that shares a story of women dealing with men in a dominated oil refinery career and a company that has no clue to the meaning of sexual harassment in the workplace. Chapman is thoughtful in the situations presented and gives the reader an easy read and interesting character. I recommend to readers of romance and those who are familiar with workplace drama, which is probably everyone.
I received this book free from CLP Blog Tours in exchange for an unbiased opinion in accordance with the Federal Commission Trade guidelines.
In addition to the strong opinions Lexi has regarding her employment since the new director’s previous workload is divided among the employees in human resources creating tension on her part between her and her demanding boss, she begins searching for employment outside of her current employer. As a human resource liaison, Lexi handles the worst case of her career for a woman who is blatantly harassed by a co-worker who is suing the company for assault by his victim. The change in attitude towards her position at Gulf America causes Lexi to examine what she truly desires in life and relationships and what her goals are regarding her career.
Laura Chapman expresses in writing a novel that shares a story of women dealing with men in a dominated oil refinery career and a company that has no clue to the meaning of sexual harassment in the workplace. Chapman is thoughtful in the situations presented and gives the reader an easy read and interesting character. I recommend to readers of romance and those who are familiar with workplace drama, which is probably everyone.
I received this book free from CLP Blog Tours in exchange for an unbiased opinion in accordance with the Federal Commission Trade guidelines.
January 24, 2014
Being an online friend of Laura Chapman’s, I’ve eagerly been waiting to read her much-anticipated debut novel, “Hard Hats and Doormats.” As some might remember, Chick Lit Goddess did a post sharing her cover reveal, (see that HERE). The cover had me highly intrigued!
From the beginning, I really liked Lexi’s character. She seemed like a fun girl, had good friends, a job she enjoyed and was good at, but the one thing she seemed to lack was having confidence. At times, I wish she would’ve stop thinking about her job so much or feel obligated to what her boss wanted her to do, but that’s what made Lexi’s transformation through the book a fun read. I did find it interesting that when Jason was around her, he always seemed to give her the confidence she needed, and helped push her in the right direction. As a reader, I felt the chemistry between them — even the night he helped her home after drinking. Jason’s character played the classic hero!
“Hard Hats and Doormats” was very entertaining. Being from Texas, and having family in Houston, I was familiar with some of the small towns along the way, and I loved the country music references, too. Like I said above, I liked Lexi and Jason, the storyline moved at a fast pace, and I especially enjoyed how it ended–thank goodness Lexi made a decision that made herself happy. While Lexi and Jason both traveled a lot, when they were home together, the only thing I wish I could’ve seen more of was more of them together, in their homes — the more day-to-day aspects of a relationship.
It is obvious that Laura Chapman is a very talented author, and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next!
I give this book 4 stars!
From the beginning, I really liked Lexi’s character. She seemed like a fun girl, had good friends, a job she enjoyed and was good at, but the one thing she seemed to lack was having confidence. At times, I wish she would’ve stop thinking about her job so much or feel obligated to what her boss wanted her to do, but that’s what made Lexi’s transformation through the book a fun read. I did find it interesting that when Jason was around her, he always seemed to give her the confidence she needed, and helped push her in the right direction. As a reader, I felt the chemistry between them — even the night he helped her home after drinking. Jason’s character played the classic hero!
“Hard Hats and Doormats” was very entertaining. Being from Texas, and having family in Houston, I was familiar with some of the small towns along the way, and I loved the country music references, too. Like I said above, I liked Lexi and Jason, the storyline moved at a fast pace, and I especially enjoyed how it ended–thank goodness Lexi made a decision that made herself happy. While Lexi and Jason both traveled a lot, when they were home together, the only thing I wish I could’ve seen more of was more of them together, in their homes — the more day-to-day aspects of a relationship.
It is obvious that Laura Chapman is a very talented author, and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next!
I give this book 4 stars!
January 1, 2015
I enjoyed this book immensely, so much in fact, that I stayed up way past my bedtime to finish it! I fell instantly in love with Lexi and Jason and rooted for them the entire way through the book. Ms. Chapman has a special gift for drawing the reader in to the story instantly and keeping their attention until the very last word. Truth be told, she kept my attention even longer, because I was still thinking about Lexi and Jason days after I finished reading their story!
Two things I really enjoyed about Lexi was that she was strong and had a great sense of humor. There were many times throughout the book when I literally "Laughed Out Loud" and I love when that happens. Lexi had goals, she had aspirations and while she allowed herself to be stepped on for a little while, you knew there was going to come a day when she stood up for herself and took back her life. It was very gratifying when it happened and I know I cheered her on.
Lexi's love affair with Jason was so fun to watch unfold. From their dates to their non-dates to meeting friends and parents, it was non-stop action, humor and love. Lexi's work life is as much a character in this book as the people. I had fun reading the antics on the oil rigs, the training sessions and her interactions with her boss. Every character was well-drawn out and believable and I truly felt I knew them so well that I could have been standing next to them, joining in the fun.
I don't want to give anything else away because I don't want to take away your excuse to read this fabulous debut by Laura Chapman!
Two things I really enjoyed about Lexi was that she was strong and had a great sense of humor. There were many times throughout the book when I literally "Laughed Out Loud" and I love when that happens. Lexi had goals, she had aspirations and while she allowed herself to be stepped on for a little while, you knew there was going to come a day when she stood up for herself and took back her life. It was very gratifying when it happened and I know I cheered her on.
Lexi's love affair with Jason was so fun to watch unfold. From their dates to their non-dates to meeting friends and parents, it was non-stop action, humor and love. Lexi's work life is as much a character in this book as the people. I had fun reading the antics on the oil rigs, the training sessions and her interactions with her boss. Every character was well-drawn out and believable and I truly felt I knew them so well that I could have been standing next to them, joining in the fun.
I don't want to give anything else away because I don't want to take away your excuse to read this fabulous debut by Laura Chapman!
July 7, 2014
Received this book from the Author in exchange for a honest review.
this is a sweet love story. A story of the shy gentleman jason who likes the girl Lexi but is afraid to ask her out because they work together. Lexi likes jason but like Jason since they work together does nothing about it. Couple that with her wee bit of insecurity and we have a cute mix.
Lexi is pushed aside for a promotion and this tips her over to the "dark side" so to speak. She begins to relax her rules and also begins to get bold. bold in terms of Jason. Jason is the shy guy who wants Lexi but doesn't go after her until he is sure. When the two come together we see some sweet moments like the Texas two step. They are a sweet couple but do have problems. One is the distance and all the traveling Lexi does for her job. Another is the secrets of trying to find a better career. lexi also holds back about a night with regrets. When things come to light things explode. Jason is hurt badly and Lexi overreacts and breaks things off. This is the catalyst for both of them though to take action with their lives.
Lexi finds a new way to be and Jason begins to find out what he wants. Lexi though feels that a man isn't part of the equation even though she loves Jason but jason doesn't see that as a option and I am glad for that.
A fun sweet romance that has a HEA and leaves you with smiles. A story of two people who love each other and their love helps give each other the strength they need to become who they want to be. A wonderful book.
March 6, 2014
On behalf of BestSellers & BestStellars of Romance
Hard Hats and Doormats
4.5 Diamonds
The title of Hard Hats and Doormats had me interested from the very beginning. The story kept my interest since I also work for Corporate America, and made me VERY grateful that I don’t have Lexi’s job as a HR rep. Lexi is a hard working independent woman that only knew how to live life by rules. A knack for problem solving, simmering tempers and having the best interest of the company and workers at heart, Lexi struggles with saying “No”. This story was so realistic that I can only imagine what my employer’s HR reps go through daily. At times I wanted to shake those that pushed her too far and stepped over the line. The nerve of some men!!!!
The love interest between Lexi and Jason was sweet. I’ve missed a good love story that’s on the realistic side. No messy love scenes you skim over because you’ve read the same love scene in so many other books. Jason is so sweet with her, and how he feels about Lexi is touching. Yet, he’s not afraid to tell her like it is in his own clever way.
I didn’t feel like I was left missing out on anything. However, I’m hoping there’s going to be more of Lexi and Jason. This story has a lot of potential for continuous stories with the other characters in the book. I don’t think Lexi and Jason’s story is finished, and I personally would like to know if there is a little somethin somethin going on between Jason’s mother & his uncle.
June 25, 2014
I really enjoyed Hard Hats & Doormats Lexi is a rule follower, a yes woman, she takes everything that flies at her. After being turned down for a promotion she decides that its time for a change, time to stop doing as she is told and do what she wants and she wants Jason Beaumont, She has been crushing on him ever since she laid eyes on him and now that she has a new outlook on life she may just get what she wants.
Lexi is a great leading lady, she really feels real to me, such a relatable character we all feel like we are overlooked, most of us don't like our jobs and a lot of us finish work on a friday and decide that karoke and alcohol is the way forward! this is what i loved about her she was real you connect to her and you feel yourself really becoming her friend willing her to succeed and get what she wants out of life.
Now Jason, he is just little bit fabulous, caring smart a real southern gentleman, and I love that he is a mama's boy, not the type of mama's boy you want to smack and tell to grow the hell up the type of mama's boy that loves and cares for his mother, the type that is a great son an even better man.
With internal battles, D-Listers and career paths Lexi & Jason have an entertaining and complicated relationship & when a lie by omission comes between them theres only one way to fix it all.
Put on your hard hat & stop being a doormat!
Laura Chapman has crafted a great read perfect read to keep your long journeys full of entertainment!
Lexi is a great leading lady, she really feels real to me, such a relatable character we all feel like we are overlooked, most of us don't like our jobs and a lot of us finish work on a friday and decide that karoke and alcohol is the way forward! this is what i loved about her she was real you connect to her and you feel yourself really becoming her friend willing her to succeed and get what she wants out of life.
Now Jason, he is just little bit fabulous, caring smart a real southern gentleman, and I love that he is a mama's boy, not the type of mama's boy you want to smack and tell to grow the hell up the type of mama's boy that loves and cares for his mother, the type that is a great son an even better man.
With internal battles, D-Listers and career paths Lexi & Jason have an entertaining and complicated relationship & when a lie by omission comes between them theres only one way to fix it all.
Put on your hard hat & stop being a doormat!
Laura Chapman has crafted a great read perfect read to keep your long journeys full of entertainment!
August 11, 2016
I immediately liked Lexi. She's a hard working, honest woman trying to make it in the corporate world. She's a 'good' girl.
Maybe she should find a support group for professional pushovers, like herself. They could crowd into a church basement and drink bad coffee while they outdid each other with war stories. "My name is Lexi, and I'm a doormat." "Hi Lexi."
But when she gets passed over for a promotion that she thought she had in the bag, she decides she's tired of playing by the rules.
I loved watching (reading, actually) Lexi change and grow, in her job, and in her personal life. She decides she might as well go after what she wants, no holds barred!
She promised not to obsess over this, but tonight meant something. For one, Jason liked her. Maybe not as much as she liked him, but he liked her. Also, Lexi no longer cared about following the rules. Jason Beaumont, she decided, was worth going rogue.
You go, girl!!
I thoroughly enjoyed my first taste of Laura's writing. It is very well written and was a pleasure to read. I am looking forward to see what comes next from her.
And then there is the Nebraska connection that Laura and I share. I was born and raised in NE and bleed Cornhusker Red. If you are from there, you know exactly what I am talking about. GBR!!
Maybe she should find a support group for professional pushovers, like herself. They could crowd into a church basement and drink bad coffee while they outdid each other with war stories. "My name is Lexi, and I'm a doormat." "Hi Lexi."
But when she gets passed over for a promotion that she thought she had in the bag, she decides she's tired of playing by the rules.
I loved watching (reading, actually) Lexi change and grow, in her job, and in her personal life. She decides she might as well go after what she wants, no holds barred!
She promised not to obsess over this, but tonight meant something. For one, Jason liked her. Maybe not as much as she liked him, but he liked her. Also, Lexi no longer cared about following the rules. Jason Beaumont, she decided, was worth going rogue.
You go, girl!!
I thoroughly enjoyed my first taste of Laura's writing. It is very well written and was a pleasure to read. I am looking forward to see what comes next from her.
And then there is the Nebraska connection that Laura and I share. I was born and raised in NE and bleed Cornhusker Red. If you are from there, you know exactly what I am talking about. GBR!!
June 21, 2014
I don’t usually read books where the lead character is in her early twenties, given that I’m more than a few years past that and prefer stories about people closer to my age. However, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I think the main reason for that is that Lexi, the main character, is just so together. She has her shortcomings, one of them being that she lets people (i.e., her boss) repeatedly take advantage of her. However, she’s a good example for young women. Although she does have a delightful love interest who adds charm to the story, the plot doesn’t center on her interest in him and nothing else. Much of it involves her dissatisfaction with her career, and what she plans to do about it. She’s a kind and reasonable young woman with common sense, (for the most part), but I will say that she gets herself into a situation later in the book that seems a bit out of character. But hey, we all have our lapses in judgment. I loved her relationship with Jason, who is heavenly. On top of all that, this book is very well-written. I’ve noticed a couple of reviewers on Amazon have mentioned poor editing, however, aside from the occasional typo, which occurs in practically any book, I’m not sure what they’re referring to. I was extremely impressed by this new author.
May 18, 2014
After reading Laura Chapman's blog, I knew that I HAD to read her debut novel. With her incredibly engaging and witty writing style, she always leaves you feeling good. And her book is no different! From the first few pages, I found myself engrossed in the world of Lexi Burke. As a former HR Manager, Lexi's work exploits made me downright cackle - and thank my lucky starts that I am not in that game anymore. Poor Lexi is bound and determined to prove her worth to her male dominated company by taking on every tough situation her boss throws at her. Enter the gorgeous and charming Southern gentleman, Jason Beaumont, and we find one giddy and slightly distracted Lexi. Her journey to finding happiness in both her career and personal life is long and bumpy, but she has a lovable and highly entertaining group of friends to help her along the way. Laura Chapman will make you laugh out loud, swoon in delight and well up with a just a few tears. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am hoping to see a sequel one day!
June 29, 2014
I received a copy of Hard Hats and Doormats in exchange for an honest review.
Lexi is a very determined young woman, very good at her job and is working hard to get a promotion. Working in a predominantly male environment, is responsible for human resources in a chemical company in the Gulf Coast, travels a lot and has a poor social life. When she discovers that her boss chooses a male colleague in her place for the promotion is still very hurt. What good is always follow the rules? It 's time that is very attracted to a colleague Jason Beaumont but has always retained because the rule says she has no relationships in the workplace. When she discovers that Jason is attracted to her decide to listen to her heart instead of business laws. It's very nice chemistry that you see right away between the two protagonists. Jason is wonderful, the ideal guy will help her to grow and find her way to serenity
It 's a novel funny, romantic and feminine, it is very well written: a really enjoyable read.
Lexi is a very determined young woman, very good at her job and is working hard to get a promotion. Working in a predominantly male environment, is responsible for human resources in a chemical company in the Gulf Coast, travels a lot and has a poor social life. When she discovers that her boss chooses a male colleague in her place for the promotion is still very hurt. What good is always follow the rules? It 's time that is very attracted to a colleague Jason Beaumont but has always retained because the rule says she has no relationships in the workplace. When she discovers that Jason is attracted to her decide to listen to her heart instead of business laws. It's very nice chemistry that you see right away between the two protagonists. Jason is wonderful, the ideal guy will help her to grow and find her way to serenity
It 's a novel funny, romantic and feminine, it is very well written: a really enjoyable read.
November 28, 2015
that's great ...I really like it when the love engaged in the story ..how work go on with a woman after graduation and cruel things happen to her by her boss but she tolerances all and be patience and peaceful with her boss..and if you know I love the final lines as it ends with love and romance,however I can't get much about abbreviations like BS or so on!but I really like it and evolved into the character as the story goes the diary and events happening and all of the conversations. lexie is so brave that sometimes I get jealous of her !and the chapter begins with @.. is like a net blogger written every story ..it's new and somehow strange but for ne English is a foreign language ,it's a beautiful novel I read and I love it ..I think it's can be a movie one day ...
good luck and see for more about you
your fan ,Fateme.k
good luck and see for more about you
your fan ,Fateme.k
January 28, 2014
Disclaimer: I am the publisher with Marching Ink LLC
When Laura first submitted Hard Hats and Doormats to me, I was immediately drawn into the title. I loved the story of watching Lexi grow from a doormat into a strong woman who knows what she wants and works to get it. The romance between her and Jason is a little shaky at first, hits the rocks along the way, but Laura gives us an ending to be happy about. New adult is a steadily emerging genre, and I think Hard Hats and Doormats fits in well with that category. I hope you will take the chance to read this, as I clearly loved it!
When Laura first submitted Hard Hats and Doormats to me, I was immediately drawn into the title. I loved the story of watching Lexi grow from a doormat into a strong woman who knows what she wants and works to get it. The romance between her and Jason is a little shaky at first, hits the rocks along the way, but Laura gives us an ending to be happy about. New adult is a steadily emerging genre, and I think Hard Hats and Doormats fits in well with that category. I hope you will take the chance to read this, as I clearly loved it!
February 12, 2014
This was a fun read with quirky and life like characters. I enjoyed reading about Lexi and everything she's gone through. Some of the people around her I wanted to shake! Lexi has to learn to go after what she wants. And she also has a few obstacles. Laura Chapman writes with zinging dialog. I loved the Twitter type things in the beginning of the chapters. Lexi cracks me up with her attitude and how she talks. All around a fun, easy read.
September 2, 2015
From the first page to the last I throughly enjoyed Hard Hats and Doormats. Great plot. Likable and relatable characters. A lot of action.. This book had it all. I also found the "tweets" at the start of each chapter entertaining and enjoyable. This was a great beach read!
May 6, 2014
Jason Beaumont is a swoon-worthy lead character in this very romantic novel. It's not all lovey-dovey stuff though, it's also littered with humour and has a refreshingly different setting.
May 10, 2014
Pure!!
Great read. I happen to live in southwest Louisiana an relate to the story very well . It was just a real down to earth story.
Great read. I happen to live in southwest Louisiana an relate to the story very well . It was just a real down to earth story.
June 8, 2014
Needing a bit of comedy to lighten the mood:
‘Hard hats and Doormats’ – Laura Chapman
Hard hats and Door mats – Laura Chapman
Lexi Burke has always been a stickler for following rules and procedures. As a human resources manager for a leading Gulf Coast chemical company, it’s her job to make sure everyone else falls in line, too.
But after losing out on a big promotion–-because her boss sees her as too much of a yes-woman––Lexi adopts a new policy of following her heart instead of the fine print. And her heart knows what it wants: Jason Beaumont, a workplace crush who is off limits based on her previous protocol.
While navigating a new romance and interoffice politics, Lexi must find the confidence to stand on her own or face a lifetime of following someone else’s orders.
Who says nice girls have to finish last?
When you have a character like Lexi who calls her phone “Harriet”, for me, I knew I was on to a winner. There are so many things that I could relate to in this book about Lexi’s character and, whilst the plot was a bit predictable, this didn’t put me off from enjoying a read that felt a bit Sophie Kinsella-esque, just without the humour.
So, poor Lexi is unlucky in love and life. She is passed over for promotion in a testosterone-heavy work environment and instead is expected to pick up the additional work without fuss or complaint. Her role in HR means she not only leads training for employees but also has to resolve disputes in the workplace. It was this I found most interesting, particularly the case with Tom, the nasty worker who is taking Gulf America (the company Lexi works for,) for a ride. The way the case is handled does not feature as prominently in the novel as I was expecting and this surprised me. The lack of humour in this story made me feel like Chapman was trying for a more serious romantic fiction and I would have really enjoyed seeing Lexi work her magic at fighting for justice in this tricky case.
Lexi’s acceptance towards her increased workload and resignation towards a life on the road made me want to scream at Lexi and force her to realise what she was doing to herself. But then, saying “no” is always more difficult and I admit that I have found myself in similar situations. Her “doormat” approach and willingness to take on more and more work responsibilities reminded me of Sophie Kinsella’s Samantha Sweeting’ from ‘The Undomestic Goddess‘ which I guess is not so surprising, considering I read this only recently. But, as I have already mentioned, I was anticipating there to be some humour in the plot just to show the Lexi can relax and have more of a positive outlook to her life. She comes across as so serious that I found this just a little one-dimensional for a character; it made me wonder if there were people out there who are so blind-sided by work?
The relationship Lexi has with Jason, a colleague at Gulf America, has its ups and downs. I was desperate for them to get together and find happiness and Chapman doesn’t indulge readers with this happy resolution until what felt like half way through the novel. It was a relief when the physical side of their relationship did not take centre stage in the story: readers of my blog will know that I can only take this in moderation before it ruins the read for me! It was cute to see Lexi and Jason finally admit their feelings towards one another and his desire to help Lexi stand up against her boss shows his commitment in a very early relationship. The twist that the author throws in about Jason’s own employment had me guessing what would happen and I enjoyed the resolution, even if it was a little cheesy.
Each chapter starts with Lexi’s Twitter posts. I wasn’t too sure how they fitted in to the story and did not find them memorable at all. Lexi’s love for her phone is quite endearing and one that I can definitely relate to, particularly when “Harriet” gets broken. In fact, at the earlier stages in the story I found myself getting a bit confused and thought Harriet was a person with how Lexi refers to it.
This was a pretty good romance read but one that I found lacking in well-needed humour. I would liked to have seen Lexi lighten up and humour herself a bit more and think this would have complemented the more serious nature of her work. ‘Hard hats and Door mats’ was easy to get into and I enjoyed this offering from Laura Chapman.
This book was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
‘Hard hats and Doormats’ – Laura Chapman
Hard hats and Door mats – Laura Chapman
Lexi Burke has always been a stickler for following rules and procedures. As a human resources manager for a leading Gulf Coast chemical company, it’s her job to make sure everyone else falls in line, too.
But after losing out on a big promotion–-because her boss sees her as too much of a yes-woman––Lexi adopts a new policy of following her heart instead of the fine print. And her heart knows what it wants: Jason Beaumont, a workplace crush who is off limits based on her previous protocol.
While navigating a new romance and interoffice politics, Lexi must find the confidence to stand on her own or face a lifetime of following someone else’s orders.
Who says nice girls have to finish last?
When you have a character like Lexi who calls her phone “Harriet”, for me, I knew I was on to a winner. There are so many things that I could relate to in this book about Lexi’s character and, whilst the plot was a bit predictable, this didn’t put me off from enjoying a read that felt a bit Sophie Kinsella-esque, just without the humour.
So, poor Lexi is unlucky in love and life. She is passed over for promotion in a testosterone-heavy work environment and instead is expected to pick up the additional work without fuss or complaint. Her role in HR means she not only leads training for employees but also has to resolve disputes in the workplace. It was this I found most interesting, particularly the case with Tom, the nasty worker who is taking Gulf America (the company Lexi works for,) for a ride. The way the case is handled does not feature as prominently in the novel as I was expecting and this surprised me. The lack of humour in this story made me feel like Chapman was trying for a more serious romantic fiction and I would have really enjoyed seeing Lexi work her magic at fighting for justice in this tricky case.
Lexi’s acceptance towards her increased workload and resignation towards a life on the road made me want to scream at Lexi and force her to realise what she was doing to herself. But then, saying “no” is always more difficult and I admit that I have found myself in similar situations. Her “doormat” approach and willingness to take on more and more work responsibilities reminded me of Sophie Kinsella’s Samantha Sweeting’ from ‘The Undomestic Goddess‘ which I guess is not so surprising, considering I read this only recently. But, as I have already mentioned, I was anticipating there to be some humour in the plot just to show the Lexi can relax and have more of a positive outlook to her life. She comes across as so serious that I found this just a little one-dimensional for a character; it made me wonder if there were people out there who are so blind-sided by work?
The relationship Lexi has with Jason, a colleague at Gulf America, has its ups and downs. I was desperate for them to get together and find happiness and Chapman doesn’t indulge readers with this happy resolution until what felt like half way through the novel. It was a relief when the physical side of their relationship did not take centre stage in the story: readers of my blog will know that I can only take this in moderation before it ruins the read for me! It was cute to see Lexi and Jason finally admit their feelings towards one another and his desire to help Lexi stand up against her boss shows his commitment in a very early relationship. The twist that the author throws in about Jason’s own employment had me guessing what would happen and I enjoyed the resolution, even if it was a little cheesy.
Each chapter starts with Lexi’s Twitter posts. I wasn’t too sure how they fitted in to the story and did not find them memorable at all. Lexi’s love for her phone is quite endearing and one that I can definitely relate to, particularly when “Harriet” gets broken. In fact, at the earlier stages in the story I found myself getting a bit confused and thought Harriet was a person with how Lexi refers to it.
This was a pretty good romance read but one that I found lacking in well-needed humour. I would liked to have seen Lexi lighten up and humour herself a bit more and think this would have complemented the more serious nature of her work. ‘Hard hats and Door mats’ was easy to get into and I enjoyed this offering from Laura Chapman.
This book was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 8, 2017
I’ve been a fan of Laura Chapman’s writing for a while now and realized that I never got around to reading her debut novel Hard Hats and Doormats.
It’s an entertaining read and I love the way Chapman created Lexi’s world and draws you into it. I felt like I was experiencing everything alongside Lexi and was rooting for everything to work out in the end. I loved the way she wrote about Lexi’s relationship with her smartphone Harriett, because in this day and age aren’t we all a bit cell-phone obsessed?
I adored the connection between Lexi and the man in her life and enjoyed the way different themes were touched upon throughout the novel. Great women’s fiction novel about life and love that I highly recommend.
Check out http://www.livinglifewithjoy.com for more reviews <3
It’s an entertaining read and I love the way Chapman created Lexi’s world and draws you into it. I felt like I was experiencing everything alongside Lexi and was rooting for everything to work out in the end. I loved the way she wrote about Lexi’s relationship with her smartphone Harriett, because in this day and age aren’t we all a bit cell-phone obsessed?
I adored the connection between Lexi and the man in her life and enjoyed the way different themes were touched upon throughout the novel. Great women’s fiction novel about life and love that I highly recommend.
Check out http://www.livinglifewithjoy.com for more reviews <3
July 17, 2015
I really enjoyed this fun chick lit novel. There was the perfect balance of romance and personal development. The romantic interludes were full of sexual tension without being overly explicit. I found Lexi likeable and relatable. I loved her strength and compassion. I was drawn into the story and hoped Lexi would find success in both her romantic and professional lives.
I could understand why Jason hadn't asked her out earlier, it would be very intimidating to ask out the woman who lectures on sexual harassment in the workplace.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. I read an epub version via a text to speech app on my phone, and the best thing about that was that when Jason was teaching Lexi the Texas Two step, he was teaching me too. I danced all over the house.
I could understand why Jason hadn't asked her out earlier, it would be very intimidating to ask out the woman who lectures on sexual harassment in the workplace.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review. I read an epub version via a text to speech app on my phone, and the best thing about that was that when Jason was teaching Lexi the Texas Two step, he was teaching me too. I danced all over the house.
July 20, 2014
I received this from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very fun light easy read. It was a super sweet love story that took time to build up. It was fun to see how the relationship developed between Lexi and Jason.
I really liked both the characters. Lexi cracked me up. I could really relate to her in how she worked. She couldn't tell people no and had to learn to finally stand up for herself.
So if your looking for a sweet and easy summer read definitely check this one out.
This was a very fun light easy read. It was a super sweet love story that took time to build up. It was fun to see how the relationship developed between Lexi and Jason.
I really liked both the characters. Lexi cracked me up. I could really relate to her in how she worked. She couldn't tell people no and had to learn to finally stand up for herself.
So if your looking for a sweet and easy summer read definitely check this one out.
March 23, 2015
A happy, romantic read for a weekend
I enjoyed this workplace-based romance. The main characters were very likeable and emotionally invested in each other. Additionally, the secondary characters - friends and work colleagues - add a great deal to the ongoing storyline.
Lexi and Jason were destined to be together, which was predictable from the very beginning. This made reading the book mainly for the how, not if, they worked things out.
I thought the last chapters seemed rushed and skipped a lot of potential storyline, which is why I only rated the book 4 stars.
I enjoyed this workplace-based romance. The main characters were very likeable and emotionally invested in each other. Additionally, the secondary characters - friends and work colleagues - add a great deal to the ongoing storyline.
Lexi and Jason were destined to be together, which was predictable from the very beginning. This made reading the book mainly for the how, not if, they worked things out.
I thought the last chapters seemed rushed and skipped a lot of potential storyline, which is why I only rated the book 4 stars.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews