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The GEG #4

Showing Up

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***I highly recommend reading in order***


Julie McEvoy has been mourning the loss of her mother most of her life. Only . . . her mother isn’t dead. She’s not missing. She’s not even far away. She’s just not there the way a mother should be.

Having enough of the passive-aggressive loop their relationship has been on, Julie cuts ties completely with Cynthia. It shouldn’t matter; Cynthia’s never really there for her anyhow. She doesn’t need her mother anymore.

Except—she does.

Cynthia McEvoy has been keeping secrets for over thirty years. She’s not proud of it, but it has helped her to become the strong, independent woman she is today. The same strong woman who is now trying to pick up and glue back the pieces of the relationships she’s either destroyed along the way or never allowed any nourishment for.
Hopefully, it’s not too late.

Sometimes you have to go back to the beginning to understand how behaviors start, why they continue for so long, and where to begin the healing process.

321 pages, ebook

Published February 26, 2018

4 people are currently reading
77 people want to read

About the author

Jacquelyn Ayres

12 books275 followers
I am a Domestic Engineer (born and raised in NJ) whose sole responsibility is to guide three young impressionable kids into becoming phenomenal adults. This challenging, yet rewarding work requires a lot of love (coffee), patience (wine) and determination (periodic exorcisms). I work all of this magic in the beautiful state of New Hampshire.

Before becoming a Domestic Goddess (not really), I spent over a decade working in the medical field where I wore more hats than the Queen.

I have had a love for the written word and the great escape it provides since I was a little girl. When I wasn't reading about people and the places they lived, I was creating my own characters and adventures. Finally, I have been putting a pen to paper allowing my characters to come to life. When I don't have a pen and paper in hand, you can often find me laughing at the conversations my characters are having in my head.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,274 reviews1,777 followers
April 18, 2018
Favorite Quotes:

Nothing puts your ass in check quicker than realizing you’re turning into your mother.

I’m Australian, yet no one is ever sure if I am or if I’m English, so I’m intriguing. My man-card is platinum, dude.

I know. I’m really proud of you . . . learning English like that. Has it been harder to understand with Dumbass being your native tongue?

Believe me, darling, when I tell you that man needs absolutely no help in that department. I’m half surprised his willy hasn’t fallen off yet.

Everyone has a spirit animal, ours is the sloth,

I’m at an age in my life where I’d rather start off with a promising ‘hello’ kiss than worrying about a ‘goodnight’ kiss for the entire date.


My Review:

I smirked and giggle-snorted my way through this irreverently humorous and cheeky tale that was overflowing with quirky and sassy characters, f-bombs, family drama, and heart-squeezing and swoon-worthy romance. Sigh. I adore Jacquelyn Ayres naughty wit and imagine she would be a top shelf friend and good fun to be around, rain or shine. Deftly written from multiple points of view, the snark was well-honed, the banter was spicy, the nursery rhymes were naughty, the quips were cleverly pitched, and the inner musings were insightfully observant and tugged at the heart. I was highly impatient and needled with curiosity to uncover the treasure trove of Cynthia’s thirty-year-old secrets the wily author periodically taunted me with… I had a feeling her history was going to be a heart ripper, and the creative and ingenious Ms. Ayres did not disappoint. Don’t you dare tell me we’ve run out of GEGs, so who is next Ms. Ayres? Dare I suggest a clever cougar addition to Maddie’s practice who just happens to be named DJ? Hmm?
Profile Image for Angela.
7,657 reviews111 followers
March 18, 2018
4 Stars

Showing Up is the fourth book in the GEG’s Series by Jacquelyn Ayres. I love this series so much. The bond of sisterhood between the GEG’s is so strong, their love, loyalty and support for one another is wonderful to behold. I love the banter, quips and sarcasm that abounds when they are all together. The girls are there through thick and thin, laughter and pain, good times and bad- I so want to be a part of their group, be their friend and hang out with them all. The first book focused on Charlotte and Mitch (Under Contract book #1), the second book was CiCi and Kyle (In the Mix book #2), the third book was Madelyn and Declan (Crossing the Line book #3)- and now this book is Julies turn, and this story is a little different from what I was expecting- but in a good way. Her relationship (or lack of) with her mother has always caused her an enormous amount of heartache- her mother was never there, and was never the mother Julie wanted or need her to be. She came to a point where she decided that enough was enough, but now it appears that Cynthia wants to make amends- but because of her past experiences Julie doesn’t trust her intent. There is a lot of baggage that has built up over many years that Julie will need to acknowledge in order to release the past and move forward. There is a lot more to this story that had me reading avidly to discover all the details, surprises and complexities…. And I love the journey Ms. Ayres took me on.
Even though you could read this book as a standalone, I really recommend reading the series, in sequence, as there are certain story threads that continue from book to book. The series is written where each story focuses on one particular couple, but the other characters stories also play a part in the bigger picture and I really feel that you need all that information to fully appreciate the fantastic characters and all their background stories- which will give you a bigger picture, and will make this reading experience even more enjoyable.
This story, again, showcases Ms. Ayres superb mastery over her storytelling. She writes so beautifully, infusing each story with its very own heart and soul. The characters are crafted with complex, fully developed personalities- they are believable, relatable and extremely endearing. Her stories will capture your heart and mind, drawing you in and captivating you from start to finish. I can’t wait to see what she does next!

Thank you, Ms. Ayres!
Profile Image for Shelby.
584 reviews8 followers
March 15, 2018
*I received a free copy to read & review for Wicked Reads*

Showing Up is the 4th book in the GEG (Green Eyed Girls) Series. Each installment follows a different girl, but they are all connected - please read these in order.

I have loved each book for different reasons, but each are humorous and quirky. This particular story is about Julie and Blake, or so I thought. Yes, they are featured but this is a story about the strained relationship between Julie and her mother, Cynthia.

While we do get to see the GEG's in their glory, I felt this book took on a totally different tone. This was more introspective. This was a different love story, don't get me wrong - there is romance and a touch of erotica, but this is the story of loving oneself. Finding ones self, and healing the wrongs done to others.

Personally, this wasn't my favorite book in this series. Julie and Cynthia's relationship has been difficult from day 1, but I just wasn't invested in Cynthia's story. I did like how Cynthia was tied to Julie/Blake, and there were cute parts. Overall I felt like much of this book was forced, it didn't flow like the others. I am interested in finding out what's going on with other characters, specifically Ava and Trent. I actually have many questions that were brought up in Showing Up, that weren't answered. Even though this book wasn't my favorite, I'll definitely continue with the series.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Ruthie Taylor.
3,723 reviews39 followers
March 16, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is the fourth book in this series, and I really would recommend that you read them all in order. Ideally all together - I’ve read them as they came out, and four years on from the first, it took me a few chapters to get fully re-immersed in the madness that is this group of friends. But after that I flew through it, so happy to get to catch up with them all, and finally get everyone back on an even (for them) keel.

We reunite with all the couples, and see how they are moving forward with their lives. Julie, her mother, and her Brit, Blake may be the headliners, but all of the gang, and their parents are essential to the story.

There are some truly poignant moments - although often dealt with in a raucous fashion - which are a pointer to what really is important, and what really isn’t. We also understand much more by the end, of how someone for all the best reasons does the most terrible things. I didn’t cry, except with laughter - Ms Ayres has an amazing talent with the outrageous and absurd; I think I may be a little in love with that part of her.

I fear that if you read this cold you will miss a huge chunk of why it is so brilliant, so please, don’t short change yourself and read them all. I have them all in my Re-read collection, waiting for a time when I need to laugh and smile, and remember that life is in many ways absurd!

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Sara Oxton.
3,757 reviews16 followers
March 4, 2018
Showing Up by Jacquelyn Ayres a fitting four-star read. This is the forth book in the GEG series I would definitely recommend reading all of the books in order as there are flashbacks to this story. I honestly found this book to be harder to get into that the rest, but honestly once it gripped me I couldn’t put it down. So, if you find it doesn’t grip you at first do keep going, the writers talent comes out the more you read and you will be sucked into the story. This has been one of the greatest series I have read, the passion and dram leap of the page at you. Julies story is one that will captivate you, she has faced loss and come out the other side but can you ever truly recover when you feel sorry for yourself? The secondary characters of this story really do make the story, they each have their own story to tell and it’s a great one.
Profile Image for WycEd Reader.
2,384 reviews38 followers
March 22, 2018
Check out our Showing Up Blog Tour post on Wicked Reads.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Shelby – ☆☆☆
Showing Up is the fourth book in the GEG (Green Eyed Girls) series. Each installment follows a different girl, but they are all connected – please read these in order.

I have loved each book for different reasons, but each are humorous and quirky. This particular story is about Julie and Blake, or so I thought. Yes, they are featured, but this is a story about the strained relationship between Julie and her mother, Cynthia.

While we do get to see the GEGs in their glory, I felt this book took on a totally different tone. This was more introspective. This was a different love story; don't get me wrong – there is romance and a touch of erotica, but this is the story of loving oneself. Finding one’s self, and healing the wrongs done to others.

Personally, this wasn't my favorite book in this series. Julie and Cynthia's relationship has been difficult from day one, but I just wasn't invested in Cynthia's story. I did like how Cynthia was tied to Julie and Blake, and there were cute parts. Overall, I felt like much of this book was forced, it didn't flow like the others. I am interested in finding out what's going on with other characters, specifically Ava and Trent. I actually have many questions that were brought up in Showing Up that weren't answered. Even though this book wasn't my favorite, I'll definitely continue with the series.


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the fourth book in this series, and I really would recommend that you read them all in order. Ideally all together – I’ve read them as they came out, and four years on from the first, it took me a few chapters to get fully re-immersed in the madness that is this group of friends. But after that I flew through it, so happy to get to catch up with them all, and finally get everyone back on an even (for them) keel.

We reunite with all the couples and see how they are moving forward with their lives. Julie, her mother, and her Brit, Blake, may be the headliners, but all of the gang and their parents are essential to the story.

There are some truly poignant moments – although often dealt with in a raucous fashion – which are a pointer to what really is important, and what really isn’t. We also understand much more by the end, of how someone for all the best reasons does the most terrible things. I didn’t cry, except with laughter – Ms. Ayres has an amazing talent with the outrageous and absurd; I think I may be a little in love with that part of her.

I fear that if you read this cold, you will miss a huge chunk of why it is so brilliant, so please, don’t shortchange yourself and read them all. I have them all in my re-read collection, waiting for a time when I need to laugh and smile, and remember that life is in many ways absurd!

Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Tbird London.
558 reviews3 followers
March 25, 2018
In life we like to think we know when it is time to let go of the hope. That begging your parent to love you will do no good. We realize that they are not going to show up, no matter how hard you look for them in a crowd. This is where Julie thought she was. Her mother was gone, but not because of death or distance, but because of secrets and regrets.
Cynthia carried a burden that continued to haunt her for decades. She shoved everyone out of her life, thought she was teaching her daughter to depend on only herself. I think in the back of her mind she knew she was destroying her little girls heart, but she didn’t know what else to do.
Julie pretended to be indifferent, she had created a family with her friends, and the mothers of the GEG, she even stopped pushing men away and allowed Blake to find a center spot in her heart, but she couldn’t continue to pretend when her world came crashing down around her. She needed her mom, but she couldn’t bring herself to hope Cynthia would show up this time.
I love this authors books, the GEG is one of my favorite series. I laugh out loud, I cry, and I literally feel homesick for the ladies between books. Ms. Ayres has a way of talking to the reader as the characters tell their story, the message is like a salve to the wounded hearts of the readers. She brings you hope and inspiration and reminds you that hope is forever and sometimes it pays off.
Julie reminded me of myself in many ways, I could relate to her heart break, her longing to have what her friends had, a mom who would be there. Yet, as angry as I found myself to be for Julie, I couldn’t shake my sadness for Cynthia and how she too wished she could have her daughter in her life. The story encourages us to not throw people away, to consider that they are battling their own wars and could very well be fighting the demons to get back to you. There really is two sides to every story, and then you find the truth.
Showing Up is by far my favorite out of the series and trust me, this is really like picking which of my children is my favorite because I love them all, but Ms. Ayres brought something special to the table this time. She gifted her reader with a reason to keep hoping, the courage to understand, the willingness and knowledge to let go and the power to forgive. I will never forget this story. I will grasp hold of the emotions she delivered when I want to give up and let go of what no longer serves me well.
Jacquelyn Ayres is truly one of the most talented authors I have ever read, not only because of her brilliant plots and characters, but because she makes reality fun, yet keeps it raw and real. There is no sugar coating the most distressing topics, but she also reminds you to never forget to laugh, enjoy the life you are given for as long as you are blessed to have it. And for this reason I will always recommend her books as a must read.
Profile Image for Wall to Wall Bookshelves.
562 reviews3 followers
March 17, 2018
Showing Up by Jacquelyn Ayres is book 4 in the GEG series. Although the previous 3 books could be enjoyed as a standalone, I definitely say that the previous parts of the series need to be read before enjoying this one - I think I would be a little lost if I hadn't already read them.


This part of the series follows Julie and Blake in their relationship and also Cynthia.


Julie wanted nothing more than for her mother, Cynthia to show up for her her whole life. When she needed her most and even when she didn't need her, it would've been to have the chance. She has a mother figure in Shannon but nothing beats having your own man there.


Cynthia has been working on finding the key to her happiness by finding out where things started to go wrong. Starting at the beginning means fixing the relationship that she had with her best friend, Shannon.


Blake loves Julie and wants to be there for her, always. Will Julie let him? 


I highly recommend reading the GEG series from the start. This series has had me crying with laughter and just plain crying. Each part of the series brings out a whole load of different emotions. The friendship between the girls is one to be envious of. Even the men have got a GEG like quality about them now. I'm so happy that there will be another part to this series, I don't think I'm ready for it to end. 
Profile Image for Claire Griffiths .
178 reviews
March 17, 2018
I give 5 stars to Showing Up (The GEG Series book 4) written by Jacquelyn Ayres.

I highly recommend this book but also that this full series is read in order to get the full experience and understanding of each of the  characters as the books all interact and separate stories and answers are unveiled. Personally I think this book has been very well written in regards to a struggling relationship with your mother.

Julie is still missing her mother in all the ways a mother should be, not that she ever was a good mother but now Julie has cut all ties with her why should she expect anything more.  But deep down she does and wants it.

Cynthia McEvoy is a piece of work! Having kept all her dirty dark secrets hidden for so long going on nearly thirty years it has shaped the strong independent fierce women she is today, but now she stands to lose the one thing she never had time for, can she now let go of her darkness and make some light for her daughter.
Profile Image for Bobbi Wagner.
4,861 reviews56 followers
March 4, 2018
Showing Up (The GEG Series Book 4) by Jacquelyn Ayres is the fourth book in her The GEG series. This book can be read as a standalone but I highly suggest reading the three previous books in this series, they are just as enjoyable. I will say that this book didn't pull me in until later in chapter 2, after that it was hard to put down. I enjoy this author's books, they are easy flowing and engaging. Her attention to details made me feel as if I was right there with the characters. All of the characters are lovable, connectable and true to life. They took me on an emotional roller coaster ride that had me laughing one minute and feeling compassion the next. This book is about Julie. She has lost her mother years ago but not to death, she has an absent mother. Then one day, she has had enough of her mother and cuts ties with her permanently. She doesn't think she needs her mother except reality is telling her something different. Will she realize that she really does need her mother in her life? Julie's mother Cynthia is a strong, independent woman who has thirty years of secrets. She is now trying to pick up the pieces of her relationships to put back together. Is it too late for her? Will she go back to the past to deal with behaviors that have gotten her in her position today? It is time to heal but where does she start? Julie really is a character that seems to be so full of hate and maybe even some of the feeling sorry for herself syndrome. I felt bad for her that her mother wasn't there for her which is not okay but the mother does try to make amends but is it too late is the question. There are many characters in this book that we get to meet. They are supportive and are all related to some part of each of their lives. They add to the easy flowing story and it wouldn't be the same without them. Some will make you laugh, others could make you angry. Some of them made me ask, what was she thinking? I highly recommend this book. Find out if healing is possible for this mother and daughter. Is it to late for them? Is it to late for forgiveness and healing?
Profile Image for Katie Kearney .
1,116 reviews6 followers
March 24, 2018
Showing Up by Jacquelyn Ayres is the fourth book in the GEG series of novels. While I did read this story as a standalone, and thoroughly enjoyed it, I feel like there is a lot of backstory to be learned by reading this series in order. I am definitely looking forward to going back and reading the rest of this amazing series and getting a fuller picture of the world that Ms. Ayres has created.

This book focuses on Julie and her mother Cynthia and the fractured relationship between the two. Julie has learned to live without the love and support of her mother over the years and eventually decides to cut ties with her completely. However before she does her mother comes to her trying to repair a relationship that she allowed to wither away. Will Julie be able to deal with the distance between them? Can she let go of the anger and pain that her mother’s neglect has caused and move forward? Will Cynthia be able to convince Julie that her intentions are pure? You’ll have to read this fantastic novel to find out the answer to all these questions and more.

This book was amazing. The characters were written with such depth that they honestly leapt off the page and right into my heart. These characters are both flawed in very real ways and watching them rebuild their relationship was nothing short of inspiring. I couldn’t give this book anything less than a five star rating.
Profile Image for Ashleigh.
477 reviews22 followers
March 6, 2018
Showing Up by Jacquelyn Ayres is the fourth book in her The GEG Series which I was sitting on pins and needles waiting for this book, and it did not disappoint in the least. The GEG series follows a group of women who have been best friends either from childhood to additions through marriage, and each of the women have all come together through thick and thin for each other, making me laugh, cry, and love each and every one of their stories. Showing Up follows GEG girl Julie, and how the loss of her mother has shaped her into the woman that she has become. The only problem is mourning the loss of her mother isn't over the fact that she died, just that she isn't there in Julie's life, she was physically present but never emotionally available like Julie needed throughout the years. But when the time comes for Cynthia to come clean from the last 30 years will she lose everything in her life that means the most to her, including her daughter? I HIGHLY recommend that these books all be read in order, as the characters stories continue to develop throughout each new book. Be prepare to be sucked into this series, I couldn't put it down for the life of me, and I hope and pray that Ayres continues this series on for many more books.
Profile Image for Tara Bryant.
183 reviews3 followers
March 20, 2018
Showing Up
By Jacquelyn Ayres

“There are two different types of people you can find yourself depending on: those who should never be depended on and those who would dodge a bullet for you.”

A mothers affection is something everyone craves. Julie remembers having her mom in her life when she was little, but then that affection went away. Cynthia hid a secret from her daughter, a secret so big she ended up losing most of the important people in her life.

“And now, after a crisis, some due explanation, and the undying support of the people who love me, not only has the loneliness simmered down, I don’t feel it at all.”

Julie tried numerous times to reconcile with her mother, but each time she was pushed away. Moving on with her life, Julie decided not having her mother in her life was the way fate was taking her. After deciding that be alone is not how Cynthia wants to spend her remaining years, she seeks help to get back all the people she loves. There are many hurdles through this journey and a couple of unexpected surprises.

“When I think back on this past year, I realize how much I’ve grown as a person, a girlfriend, a friend, and maybe I’m ready to grow as a daughter. It just wasn’t possible until recently.”

Jacquelyn Ayres fills Showing Up with so much emotion. From the harsh reality of life, to humour, and to love, both old and new. The comradery between friends is a goal every friendship should strive for. From the dirty jokes to the colourful language, the GEG gang could bring you to your knees. I read this book as a stand alone, but I would recommend reading the previous books, as I felt a little lost at times.

Tara
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Katie.
2,260 reviews15 followers
March 4, 2018
Showing Up (The GEG book 4)
By Jacquelyn Ayers
4stars

If you haven’t read any of the other books in this series so far I highly recommend you do – they are all equally as enjoyable as this one and will aid in your knowledge about the characters and their stories.
Showing Up was so funny! I lost count of the times I actually laughed out loud (gaining quite a few strange looks from my husband) whilst reading. I love the dynamic between the characters in this book. Julie was hilarious! I think she had me laughing the most but on the other hand I really felt sorry for her and the strained relationship she had with her mother. I think it really helped in this book that we had chapter point of views for a variety of characters which help to bring the storyline together well.
I really admired Cynthia (Julie’s Mother) – I think it actually takes quite a strong person to admit the mistakes they have made and try and make amends with the people they have hurt. From reading her point of view’s you can kind of understand a little why she was the way she was with Julie.
Overall I thought that this was a really good story, well written and has some great characters. I definitely recommend it – especially if you have read other books in the series already.
Profile Image for Kaitlynn Taylor.
778 reviews6 followers
March 21, 2018
Showing Up- Jacquelyn Ayres

4-star review

Showing Up by Jacquelyn Ayres is the fourth book in The GEG series. I can honestly say that this story surprised me, while I did enjoy it in the beginning I became 100% invested as the story went on. This is the first book of the series that I read and having said that I would suggest reading the series in order. There is a lot going on in this story and at times I found it to be confusing with the many POV’s. However, this didn’t take away from my reading experience as I still connected with Julie and I ended up loving her story.

Reading Showing Up felt like reading a story about real friends dealing with real life problems. Their friendship seemed so genuine and I found myself laughing out loud when they all got together. They were so blunt and honest with each other, but they had their best interests at heart. While reading this story I was reminded that sometimes friends are the only family we need, which to me was a powerful message.

I look forward to reading the first three books of this series to learn more about this great group of friends.
161 reviews1 follower
March 4, 2018
Showing Up is the fourth book in The GEG Series by Jacquelyn Ayres. You can read Showing Up as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the three previous books in the series. Showing Up is the story of Julie. She grew up with a mother who was never around. Finally as she get older she felt like she dealt with enough and wanted to cut all ties with her mother Cynthia. Cynthia has been keeping secrets for so many years. But now she is trying to make amends and Julie does not trust her. Will Julie be able to forgive? Can she be able to heal from all the hurt her mother caused her?

Another great book in The GEG Series, I could not put Showing Up down. I enjoyed it and read it in one sitting. Jacquelyn Ayres writing in a flowing manner, easy to read and very descriptive. The characters were well developed and easy to understand and relate-able. I highly recommend Showing Up, you will not be disappointed.
2,038 reviews19 followers
March 19, 2018
5 Star
Showing Up (The GEG Series Book4)By Jacquelyn Ayres

Showing Up ( The GEG Series Book 4) By Jacquelyn Ayres is the fourth book in her GEG Series. Although this can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first three books in this series as well.I've read other books by this author and I found this one to be just as enjoyable as the others.This one did however take me a few chapters toget into but once I did I couldn't put it down.This is Julie's story.Get ready to be taken on an emotional rollercoaster ride..Julie lost her mom years backbut noit btecashe passed but because she was an absent mother.One day she's had enough and just cuts ties with her permanently. Julie doesn't think she needs her mom but reality has something different in mindCan Julie realize she does need her mother?Julie's mom is a strong women but she's been keeping thirty years of secrets.He mom is trying to pick uyp the pieces of her relationship to try and put it back to. Is it already to late?Can she go back and deal with the things that have gotten her in the position today? This story had me feeling for both of them really.I recommend you not only read this book bit the whole series. You won't be disappointed I dawn. I look for war to reading more from this author
Profile Image for Lyndsey.
1,060 reviews4 followers
March 5, 2018
Showing Up (GEG's book 4) by Jacquelyn Ayres

This is the fourth book in this series and I highly recommend reading these in order.
This book follows Julie and Blake but also has a different pov of Julie's mother Cynthia. I really loved this story, but so much happened I feel like I missed a lot so ill need to re-read to make sure I got it all.
Julie just wants her mom, to be a mom, not the one who always finds a flaw but one that she can count on and talk to. After not speaking for a year, Cynthia is trying to find herself to be a better person for herself and others around her.
Because of her past Julie doesn't feel kids and marriage are the next step for her and Blake, can he convince her otherwise?
Profile Image for CDBW.
1,617 reviews81 followers
March 19, 2018
5 Crazy Ass Must Read Stars!!!!!

This is the fourth book in the GEG series. If you haven't read the previous books in the series, I highly recommend you do before reading this book to have a better understanding of all characters involved and the underlying conflict between Julie and her mother Cynthia. It'a not necessary though as this can be read as a standalone.
I've been waiting eagerly for the GEGs to make a reappearance. I fell in love with these girls (and their respective men) back in 2014.
My favorite thing about this book is the 3 person POV. We get Julie's, Blake's, and Cynthia's thoughts and sides of their stories. I really enjoyed their journey. It was heart-wrenching, sweet, heart-breaking, a little angsty, all with Jacquelyn's signature humor thrown in to give your stomach muscles a workout.
I'm hoping there will be more to this series. I just love these girls (and their guys).
181 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2018
I love this series. The GEGs are hilarious and just refreshing. I felt like this book was an in between kinda book. We knew Cynthia was softening up at the end of the last book. We knew Julie was in love. I think this book just added more details without really giving us the whole answers. That being said... I cant wait for the next book.
34 reviews2 followers
March 19, 2018
I have never been to England. But my brother was married to a Brit. I pictured Julie and Blake walking through dark, empty streets with closed store fronts after taking in a late night show at the theater. Staying in dark, small, minimal lofts. Then when I put the sex and drugs into context, I pictured them in Amsterdam. Wearing rocker clothes and sporting edgy hair-cuts. Like something out of an eighties Madonna video. I found Ms. Ayer's use of accents in her writing helpful in character and setting build. The pregnancy banter in the sex scene was charming. The genealogical lineage of addiction and mental health was interesting. My favorite line was " Life is like the roadrunner and we are Wile E Coyote. we are running around in life getting the shit kicked out of us while chasing it."
Profile Image for Krista.
1,226 reviews6 followers
March 21, 2018
Showing Up is the continuation of the GEG girls. This is Julie's story of her relationship, or lack there of, with her mother. I absolutely love these girls! I want to be part of the GEG group!! Jacuelyn Ayres doesn't disappoint with this series. I'm such a fan of hers!
Profile Image for Laurie.
1,010 reviews51 followers
April 16, 2018
Loved. Loved. Loved. Loved this book. Which is really no surprise, because I freaking love the GEG series. If you have not read these books, get your hands on them NOW!! Jacquelyn Ayres so perfectly captures the razor-sharp personalities of not only her main characters, but the supporting cast. Which may be a misnomer – these characters have voices that demand to be heard and being in the middle of them all feels like a major holiday.

The GEG’s are an amazing set of women, who together rule their worlds with heavy doses of sarcasm and affection. They have challenges in their lives that they meet head on with all of them in formation at the ready. This is more than friendship, this is more than a sisterhood. This is a family not necessarily bonded by blood, but by a deep and abiding love.

This is Julie’s story and while her love life is settled-ish, it’s eclipsed by the original love – between mother and child. Showing Up is powered by this dynamic and we get to see it’s ripple effect in all of Julie McEvoy’s relationships and decisions. No matter how she tries, it all circles back to dear old-ish mom.

Through the series, it’s been so easy to see Cynthia as the villain but getting to know her as she really gets to know herself is an absolute revelation. It’s through Cynthia that my admiration for the author’s storytelling grows exponentially. She’s not easy to love, but through the eyes of others, redemption is possible.

Through it all is, Blake. The Brit who loves Julie thoroughly and unconditionally. I loved his wit and it speaks volumes that I could hear his accent as I read this book. But what I also loved was his interactions with the other HAB’s (Husbands and Boyfriends) – they are funny AF and we get to see over and over again why they are the perfect foils to these FAMAZING women.

Like I said, get your hands on these books and be prepared to laugh, cry and fall in love.
Happy Reading!!!

Laurie’s Rating: 5++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ STARS
Profile Image for Liz.
1,327 reviews19 followers
March 18, 2018
“I’m thirty-five now and… I’m still waiting for her to “show up”.”
In another amazing five star read we get to meet another part of the Green Eyed Girls up and close and personal. This time we get to unravel the complicated and damaged past that is now a ruined ruble of a relationship between Julie and her mother Cynthia. Julie is settling into her decisions to be happy in the relationship that she is in and move forward with her life. She has just decided that she can’t tolerate any more of her mother not being there for her100% so she has cut her out of her life 100%. This is when things really start to get really messy though, because it may be the wake-up call that Cynthia needed to get things in order. Or is it? Will it be too little too late for Julie?
“My mother showed me how to build a wall. The moment I let it begin to crumble, we stopped talking. I shut her out. We haven’t talked in months. All I have to do is pick up the phone, and it will be as if nothing ever happened... That’s the problem.”- Julie
“There are things I don’t tell anyone. Things I’m ashamed of. I put on quite the act. But, “woman who has it all together” has been the hardest role I’ve ever played- I’ve been playing it for years now.”- Cynthia
The story of these two and their history is lifted to a level beyond greatness with the rest of the supporting characters that we have previously met in the other novels. Which is I why I would highly recommend that the books are read in order for them to be fully understood. They all support each other and lead into the next novel as this one does. I can’t wait to see what adventures await us in book number five!
Profile Image for Aisling Cooper.
183 reviews25 followers
March 21, 2018
Reviewed on behalf of 3 Degrees of Fiction Book Blogs

Showing up is the 4th book in the GEG series’s. They can all be read as standalone but it is recommended that you read the other three books too. I found that it took a few chapters of the book to really get into the book but once I was hooked I couldn’t put the book down. The book flowed really well and kept my interest. The way that Jacquelyn writes is why I keep coming back for me I felt that I was right there with the characters and could feel every emotion they had. The book took me on a complete rollover coaster ride as i was crying one minute and laughing the next.

This book is about Julie. Julie’s mother was not there properly during her childhood and eventually she cuts ties with her altogether and for a while she believes she doesn’t need her mother but in reality she realises she needs her. Julie’s character is full of hate though and also at times felt like she was feeling sorry for herself and that did frustrate me alot throughout the book.

Cynthia is a strong woman that is independent but also has secrets that stem over the past 30 years. Cynthia realises that she needs to try and rebuild her relationship with Julie but is it too late.

The secondary characters in the book were also great and helped make the book flow. They each have their own impact in the book and story with some making you cry, others making you angry and then the rest making you laugh.
Profile Image for Stacey.
565 reviews2 followers
March 18, 2018
Showing up is the fourth novel of the GEG series even though each story follows a different girl i highly recommend reading the others first so you can get a better understanding of the characters. I was pulled in right from the first chapter wish is no surprise as i was pulled in just like this with the previous novels the author has a way of writing the is so engaging and you find yourself just pulled into there world able to visualise everything that is written. I found so many laugh out loud moments which got me questioned by my children to why i was laughing haha! Julie i feel for her so much and my heartbreaks for her having such a strained relationship with her mum but you have to give credit to her she does own up to her mistakea and has many regrets. The thing is even though julie is going through alot she still makes you laugh shes one hilarious character! I fell inlove with this novel but that shouldn't surprise me I've loved everything I've read from Jacquelyn absolutely brilliant!!
161 reviews
March 19, 2018
Showing Up (The GEG Series Book 4) by Jacquelyn Ayres is the fourth book in her The GEG series. This book can be read as a standalone but as always I say stay in order and don’t miss out on all character development. Showing Up was fairly funny which is surprising to me. I actually laughed out loud. I love the overall strained, sarcastic dynamic between the characters in this book. Julie was amazing as a character. I think she had me laughing a lot in general because not only did she sound like me she also literally was me. Absent mother and all. I really didn’t feel sorry for her because knowing what it’s like to grow up that way makes it easy to be like good girl when she’d snap at cynthia(my mothers name as well) and the strained relationship she had with her mother who doesn’t have that? I believe it helped to have the back and forth POV chapters and it definitely gave insight where it would normally get lost in the mix. I loved the variety of characters that helped build this into a great read! I look forward to more like it!!!
Profile Image for Michelle Mulvey.
1,132 reviews12 followers
March 19, 2018
Showing Up is Book 4 in The GEG Series by Jacquelyn Ayres. I have been hooked on this series since book 1 and have been waiting for this one. I would recommend reading this series in order. Every book can be read as a stand alone however it’s so much better to read them in order to see how everyone got to where they are.

This book focuses on Julie and her non existing relationship with her mother Cynthia. There comes a time in your life where you need your mother and Julie has needed her over and over. Unfortunately, Cynthia has told so many lies through out the last 30 years and Julie just gave up on her. Now Cynthia realizes just how much she has screwed her life up. Can Cynthia work her way back into Julie’s life or has to much damage already been done? Cynthia does have a shot because of a few people....Shannon, Rupert and maybe some others. The characters in the GEG series are amazing. We get to meet a few more in this book.

Cannot wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Krystal gaston.
959 reviews8 followers
March 19, 2018
Showing up is book 4 in the GEG Series written by Jacquelyn Ayers. I love this series I’ve read all of the books so far and they each have a little something special in them that makes you love it. Showing Up is no different. This story focuses on the mom relationship. If you’ve ever had hickups or issues with your mom you will relate to this story. All the girls are present and it alternates between characters (daughters and mother’s). The biggest question is can Julie’s mom (Cynthia) fix herself before it’s too late and she looses her daughter for good and with Maddie helping does that cross lines that maybe shouldn’t be crossed…. The GEG series is full of so many emotions depending on the character and story you chose and it’s suggested to read them in order to get the most out of the series.
Profile Image for Anastasia.
797 reviews22 followers
March 19, 2018
Showing Up
(The GEG #4)
By Jacquelyn Ayres
5 Stars

Showing up is the fourth book in The GEG series and can be read as a standalone. BUT I highly recommend this series in order, to get the full reading experience the author intended her readers to have. Just like the previous books, I was hooked from the start and I ended up loving this one!
This book focuses on Julie. She has been without her mother for years but what happens when she pops back into her life? Is it too late to mend the broken relationship between this two?
Go and read this series now! It is awesome!
I would absolutely recommend this to a friend!
Review by Anastasia D.
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