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Chronicles of Moxie #1
The Chronicles of Moxie
Moxie Summers is a curvy, twenty-six year-old teacher who has not had the best track record with relationships. In a drunken stupor at a bar, she meets Miles who turns out to be her sparing equal, until she vomits all over his shoes. Just when she thinks things couldn’t get worse, her dream man turns out to be the single father of the newest student in her class.
While fighting an attraction for Miles, Moxie’s conniving stepmother tries to advise Moxie she needs to get in shape if she’s ever going to catch the man of her dreams. To make matters worse a Girl Scout plans Moxie’s demise, a surprise party makes everyone blush, and then there was the skunk…
Can Moxie overcome all the Girl Scout cookies, food poisoning and a showdown at Costco to get to Miles?
Due to the hot, steamy scenes and Moxie's filthy mouth this book is intended for 18+
While fighting an attraction for Miles, Moxie’s conniving stepmother tries to advise Moxie she needs to get in shape if she’s ever going to catch the man of her dreams. To make matters worse a Girl Scout plans Moxie’s demise, a surprise party makes everyone blush, and then there was the skunk…
Can Moxie overcome all the Girl Scout cookies, food poisoning and a showdown at Costco to get to Miles?
Due to the hot, steamy scenes and Moxie's filthy mouth this book is intended for 18+
277 pages, Unknown Binding
First published May 17, 2014
53 people are currently reading
1363 people want to read
About the author
Z.B. Heller
13 books355 followersAs a little girl it was always a dream for Z.B. Heller to become She-Ra Princess of Power. Since this dream was unobtainable, she spent what was probably way to long in college trying to "find herself". Becoming an artist scratched the creative itch until the stories in her head were getting to be to loud for her to get anything else accomplished. She lives in St. Louis with her husband, son and Flemish Giant rabbit Chloe. In her spare time she likes to read, stalk celebrities on Twitter and create the type of art that people scratch their heads about.
The Chronicles of Moxie is Z.B. Heller's debut novel.
The Chronicles of Moxie is Z.B. Heller's debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
August 22, 2014
3.5 Made Me Laugh Stars
Overall this was an entertaining and funny read. Curvaceous and beautiful but full of self esteem issues Moxie meets smokin' hot single dad Miles. Due to Moxie' s talent for getting drunk and being mouthy in public places, these two have a unique first meeting. Than she pukes on his shoes. Good times. Fast forward a few days and Moxie meets the father of her new kindergarten student...Miles. What are the odds!?!
This was a funny book and it touched on some heartfelt issues that definitely got to me. My only real complaint is that at times the humor felt forced and not entirely authentic, or as I'm fond of saying, it reeked of effort. I enjoyed it but at times felt like this was a humorous book that got bogged down by the humor. That being said, I enjoyed myself and will most definitely check out future offerings by this author.
Overall this was an entertaining and funny read. Curvaceous and beautiful but full of self esteem issues Moxie meets smokin' hot single dad Miles. Due to Moxie' s talent for getting drunk and being mouthy in public places, these two have a unique first meeting. Than she pukes on his shoes. Good times. Fast forward a few days and Moxie meets the father of her new kindergarten student...Miles. What are the odds!?!
This was a funny book and it touched on some heartfelt issues that definitely got to me. My only real complaint is that at times the humor felt forced and not entirely authentic, or as I'm fond of saying, it reeked of effort. I enjoyed it but at times felt like this was a humorous book that got bogged down by the humor. That being said, I enjoyed myself and will most definitely check out future offerings by this author.
March 29, 2014
After reading Chronicles of Moxie all I can say is
" I WANT MORE MOXIE!!" Moxie the gorgeous, voluptuous, spit fire that always says what we are thinking. I was laughing out loud on the first page and all I kept thinking was I want to be her
friend. Reading this story you get to live in Moxie's world where Girl Scout cookies, smart ass students, over bearing Jewish mothers live to torment on a daily basis. Moxie handles everything with the help of alcohol, sexy friends and humor. But behind all of that you get to see Moxie's vulnerable side and her anxieties that we all face everyday. Don't let me forget the sexy(reminds me of a porn star) love interest and all of Moxie's dirty thoughts. If you love laugh out loud funny, sexy books than put this on your must read list!
" I WANT MORE MOXIE!!" Moxie the gorgeous, voluptuous, spit fire that always says what we are thinking. I was laughing out loud on the first page and all I kept thinking was I want to be her
friend. Reading this story you get to live in Moxie's world where Girl Scout cookies, smart ass students, over bearing Jewish mothers live to torment on a daily basis. Moxie handles everything with the help of alcohol, sexy friends and humor. But behind all of that you get to see Moxie's vulnerable side and her anxieties that we all face everyday. Don't let me forget the sexy(reminds me of a porn star) love interest and all of Moxie's dirty thoughts. If you love laugh out loud funny, sexy books than put this on your must read list!
September 30, 2015
Moxie is 26 and single. While at a bar with her best friend, raging drunk and complaining about her latest poorly performing hook-up, Miles walks in the door and after asking him if he has hairy balls she proceeds to throw up on his feet.
Luckily for her she'll never see him again. Then on Monday a new student is brought into her class and as luck would have it, Miles is the dad. For his part, Miles loves Moxie's honesty and perhaps just a little her potty mouth.
There is an attraction but the evil 1st Grade teacher is both beautiful and has her eyes on Miles, Moxie's stepmother is trying to set her up with a guy, and signals are getting crossed all over the place.
Be warned. There is a lot of bad language in this book, particularly in the first 30%. After that it settles down into a fairly typical cute quirky romance. The language still makes an appearance but if you can get through that initial onslaught you'll be good for the rest of the book.
I loved it. It's funny even if it's occasionally forced and the story is quite sweet despite the language.
Luckily for her she'll never see him again. Then on Monday a new student is brought into her class and as luck would have it, Miles is the dad. For his part, Miles loves Moxie's honesty and perhaps just a little her potty mouth.
There is an attraction but the evil 1st Grade teacher is both beautiful and has her eyes on Miles, Moxie's stepmother is trying to set her up with a guy, and signals are getting crossed all over the place.
Be warned. There is a lot of bad language in this book, particularly in the first 30%. After that it settles down into a fairly typical cute quirky romance. The language still makes an appearance but if you can get through that initial onslaught you'll be good for the rest of the book.
I loved it. It's funny even if it's occasionally forced and the story is quite sweet despite the language.
October 17, 2014
The Chronicles of Moxie is one of the best books I have read this year. It's definitely the funniest book I have read this year. I had tears rolling from laughing so hard at two percent in. A book has never done that to me before. I was fortunate enough to be a beta reader of the book for Z.B. Heller. The plot kept me interested the whole way through. I loved the book so much that I ended up finishing it in about 24 hours. There was never a point where I got bored.
The characters were fantastic. Moxie reminded me a lot of myself with her "I don't care what anyone else thinks" attitude. I found myself identifying a lot with her. She's very sarcastic. Her mom reminds me a lot of my mom. Whatever Moxie does is not good enough for her mother. She's always wanting her to lose more weight and eat healthier, and constantly making jabs at her. I also enjoyed Renee. I wish I had a best friend like her. She's always there for Moxie, and is willing to do crazy/fun things with her. Dillion, Miles's son, has to be my favorite character. He was adorable, yet wise beyond his years. You would think that he was a teenager instead of a Kindergartner.
If you were to read this book and not know anything about Z.B. Heller, you would have no idea that Moxie is her first book. She writes like she's had a lot of experience. I truly believe that she could be the next Tara Sivec or Alice Clayton. I am eagerly anticipating the sequel. I just can't get enough of Moxie.
The characters were fantastic. Moxie reminded me a lot of myself with her "I don't care what anyone else thinks" attitude. I found myself identifying a lot with her. She's very sarcastic. Her mom reminds me a lot of my mom. Whatever Moxie does is not good enough for her mother. She's always wanting her to lose more weight and eat healthier, and constantly making jabs at her. I also enjoyed Renee. I wish I had a best friend like her. She's always there for Moxie, and is willing to do crazy/fun things with her. Dillion, Miles's son, has to be my favorite character. He was adorable, yet wise beyond his years. You would think that he was a teenager instead of a Kindergartner.
If you were to read this book and not know anything about Z.B. Heller, you would have no idea that Moxie is her first book. She writes like she's had a lot of experience. I truly believe that she could be the next Tara Sivec or Alice Clayton. I am eagerly anticipating the sequel. I just can't get enough of Moxie.
May 22, 2014
Well judging from the reviews I thought that this would be a really fun flirty funny book. But from the very first pages it just never happened for me. The one review I read that made me very interested said they laughed hysterically all the way through this book, I found nothing funny. As a matter fact, it all seemed very contrived and forced. I realize that this is a work of fiction, but I've worked with preschoolers and kindergartners for a lot of years now and I've never had my kindergartners or preschoolers talk the way hers did. It felt as if the author went "ooh, what could I have the kindergartner say this time?"
And I didn't mind Moxie's vulgar mouth, I can break out my inner sailor with the best of them, but it really was too much and so what could've been really funny quips just lost their appeal.
I'm very disheartened because the plot, the premise really peaked my interest but this book just did not deliver.
And I didn't mind Moxie's vulgar mouth, I can break out my inner sailor with the best of them, but it really was too much and so what could've been really funny quips just lost their appeal.
I'm very disheartened because the plot, the premise really peaked my interest but this book just did not deliver.
March 27, 2014
Let me start my review by saying that I had the pleasure of getting to know the author Z.B. Heller through FB. I also had the opportunity to read little bits and parts of The Chronicles of Moxie (TCOM) so when the opportunity for Beta Readers came up I jumped at the chance as I was already a Moxie fan. TCOM is not the typical book about a skinny model with perfectly manicured nails and sweet and proper mouth but just the opposite. Moxie is a full body woman with a smart sassy mouth who just sends you into an uncontrollable laughing session while reading this book. The way Heller has Moxie interacting with the other characters in the book is just brilliant. Moxie has two best friends Renee and Ryan who are just as witty and dish it out as good as Moxie gives it and will have you laughing hysterically. As I mentioned Moxie is a typical woman who has the same issues that normal women go through like confidence and self-esteem issue. She also has what I call the evil stepmom who is constantly reminding Moxie how losing a little weight will make her a better person and she would find the man of dreams if she would just shed a few pounds. (I will admit I had several screaming matches with my kindle when parts like that came up in the book.) This is also a romantic comedy and Moxie has not one but two men she has to choose from. All I will tell you is that their names are David and Miles you will have to read the book to see how things play out. So if you looking for an amazing hilarious book that keeps you laughing so hard you cry then this is the book for you. I am a very emotional book reader so there are a few times that the author surprised me and the next thing I know I am crying. Well done Z.B. Heller on an amazing book and I hope that there will be more to the Moxie series.
May 4, 2015
5 star read and I HIGHLY recommend to anyone looking for a humorous, chick-lit romance read->**warning, this book will make you snort**
I had the joy of being a part of the beta read for the Chronicles of Moxie. I was gifted a copy of the book after publication in exchange for an honest review.
The story centers on one Moxie Summers and her life as an everyday hero. Why, you ask? Well she is a kindergarten teacher in Chicago,'nuff said. Moxie is single twenty-something year old with a stepmother Martha, who is bound and determined to get her daughter married off. She is also determined to “help” Moxie lose weight and is constantly harping on her to get a better job. Moxie survives this through her wonderfully supportive friends, Renee and Ryan. These two also who provide Moxie with her with much needed comedic relief and yet keep her grounded so that she doesn’t get away with too much nonsense. See, Moxie is cool, but like most of us, she has her sensitivities and people wanting to tear her down are able to sway her emotions.
TCoM includes a great cast of characters all the way around. A personable heroine and stud-muffin hero, adorable and not so adorable children, kick-ass best friends, wicked stepmothers and archenemies. The character development really shines through in the descriptions, interactions, and dialogue. It takes all those components put together in the right manner allow us to get the right feel for all the characters and Ms. Heller pulls it off seamlessly.
Moxie meets her “Adonis”, Miles Dane, right after she has tossed back a few drinks, and a bit of mayhem ensues. What follows is a bittersweet love story, but only because Miles has the worst time getting to her. It is crazy, she is right there, but Moxie just will not stop setting herself up to fall down. She has a little voice in her head that gets in her way and if it’s not steering her down the wrong path, towards the wrong guy, it’s telling her the right guy couldn’t possibly really want her. It takes the whole of the book for Moxie to get her head on straight. It’s next to impossible to write a review without giving away the story, and I just want you to read it. The writing is so smooth and confident – there is great banter between all the characters, but especially between Moxie and Miles, and I think that comes from this book centering on Moxie. She such a great character and I have gotta wonder if Moxie’s personality is at all like the author in real life.
I HIGHLY recommend it as it is just so well done. I’ve already said the “banter” between our main charters is of the charts, but I have to say the development of the storyline is very smooth and makes this one easy read. The writing is conversational making the reading experience a quick one. The entire time I read this I could truly picture the places, the activities and exactly how everything was happening. I felt like I had a movie set in my head-->that’s the sign of a great read. There is just enough detail so you get it, but you will not be bored and brought down to the minutia. However, the decisive factor for me is the humor and the dialogue writing. There are some killer slang terms in the book that I have never heard, ones that will surely spark a smile and a laugh, and who can’t use a good laugh? 5 Stars and a definite recommendation. Book 2 is in the works and I for one cannot wait to hear what Moxie is up to now.
I had the joy of being a part of the beta read for the Chronicles of Moxie. I was gifted a copy of the book after publication in exchange for an honest review.
The story centers on one Moxie Summers and her life as an everyday hero. Why, you ask? Well she is a kindergarten teacher in Chicago,'nuff said. Moxie is single twenty-something year old with a stepmother Martha, who is bound and determined to get her daughter married off. She is also determined to “help” Moxie lose weight and is constantly harping on her to get a better job. Moxie survives this through her wonderfully supportive friends, Renee and Ryan. These two also who provide Moxie with her with much needed comedic relief and yet keep her grounded so that she doesn’t get away with too much nonsense. See, Moxie is cool, but like most of us, she has her sensitivities and people wanting to tear her down are able to sway her emotions.
TCoM includes a great cast of characters all the way around. A personable heroine and stud-muffin hero, adorable and not so adorable children, kick-ass best friends, wicked stepmothers and archenemies. The character development really shines through in the descriptions, interactions, and dialogue. It takes all those components put together in the right manner allow us to get the right feel for all the characters and Ms. Heller pulls it off seamlessly.
Moxie meets her “Adonis”, Miles Dane, right after she has tossed back a few drinks, and a bit of mayhem ensues. What follows is a bittersweet love story, but only because Miles has the worst time getting to her. It is crazy, she is right there, but Moxie just will not stop setting herself up to fall down. She has a little voice in her head that gets in her way and if it’s not steering her down the wrong path, towards the wrong guy, it’s telling her the right guy couldn’t possibly really want her. It takes the whole of the book for Moxie to get her head on straight. It’s next to impossible to write a review without giving away the story, and I just want you to read it. The writing is so smooth and confident – there is great banter between all the characters, but especially between Moxie and Miles, and I think that comes from this book centering on Moxie. She such a great character and I have gotta wonder if Moxie’s personality is at all like the author in real life.
I HIGHLY recommend it as it is just so well done. I’ve already said the “banter” between our main charters is of the charts, but I have to say the development of the storyline is very smooth and makes this one easy read. The writing is conversational making the reading experience a quick one. The entire time I read this I could truly picture the places, the activities and exactly how everything was happening. I felt like I had a movie set in my head-->that’s the sign of a great read. There is just enough detail so you get it, but you will not be bored and brought down to the minutia. However, the decisive factor for me is the humor and the dialogue writing. There are some killer slang terms in the book that I have never heard, ones that will surely spark a smile and a laugh, and who can’t use a good laugh? 5 Stars and a definite recommendation. Book 2 is in the works and I for one cannot wait to hear what Moxie is up to now.
March 24, 2014
Chronicles of moxie
I was given the pleasure by the author to read this book.
I found the the characters to be very relatable, funny, and loved her honesty. I loved that Moxie is not the typical "skinny" girl. I think, for me, that is what made me relate most to the character.
I liked the interaction between Moxie and Dillion and Dillion with Miles.
The books was extremely funny and witty and did not want it to end ..
I was given the pleasure by the author to read this book.
I found the the characters to be very relatable, funny, and loved her honesty. I loved that Moxie is not the typical "skinny" girl. I think, for me, that is what made me relate most to the character.
I liked the interaction between Moxie and Dillion and Dillion with Miles.
The books was extremely funny and witty and did not want it to end ..
April 1, 2014
I was so honored to BETA read this book!!
Moxie Summers. She is a curvy, larger than life, hilarious, loud, blunt and all around amazing chic!!
Moxie is a 26 yr old kindergarten teacher that loves her job but sometimes wonders how she manages to get through the day. Especially when she has to deal with Katie, the Girl Scout psycho!
"They say it takes a special person to work with kindergarteners. I, however, think I'm mentally ill."
Working along beside her every day is her best friend, Renee. She's a firecracker herself!
"She is the Bonnie to my Clyde, the apple to my sauce and the chocolate to...well, everything!"
One drunken night at the local bar, Moxie finds herself staring into the face of a Adonis. His name is Miles Dane. She makes a fool out of herself in front of him, but she doesn't really care too much because, hey, she won't see him again right?!
Fate has quite a sense of humor. They keep getting thrown together is some interesting situations.
Not only is Moxie trying to deal with this whole Miles thing, she is also having to put up with a stepmother from hell!! Seriously, I wanted to strangle the woman!! Using Jewish guilt, among other things, she tries to change the person the Moxie is. By that, I mean, her weight, personality and marital status. I'm telling you...I wanted to throw the woman!
Moxie is a strong woman, but insecurities are always there. There seems to be one person that can see past everything and see the person she really is and wants to be. Can she truly let him in? Can she open her mind and heart?
"Well, it sounds like you have a specific woman in mind."~Moxie
"I do."~ Miles
This was such a great book!! Funny from start to finish with some serious in between. I can't wait for everyone to meet Moxie!!
I want more:)
Moxie Summers. She is a curvy, larger than life, hilarious, loud, blunt and all around amazing chic!!
Moxie is a 26 yr old kindergarten teacher that loves her job but sometimes wonders how she manages to get through the day. Especially when she has to deal with Katie, the Girl Scout psycho!
"They say it takes a special person to work with kindergarteners. I, however, think I'm mentally ill."
Working along beside her every day is her best friend, Renee. She's a firecracker herself!
"She is the Bonnie to my Clyde, the apple to my sauce and the chocolate to...well, everything!"
One drunken night at the local bar, Moxie finds herself staring into the face of a Adonis. His name is Miles Dane. She makes a fool out of herself in front of him, but she doesn't really care too much because, hey, she won't see him again right?!
Fate has quite a sense of humor. They keep getting thrown together is some interesting situations.
Not only is Moxie trying to deal with this whole Miles thing, she is also having to put up with a stepmother from hell!! Seriously, I wanted to strangle the woman!! Using Jewish guilt, among other things, she tries to change the person the Moxie is. By that, I mean, her weight, personality and marital status. I'm telling you...I wanted to throw the woman!
Moxie is a strong woman, but insecurities are always there. There seems to be one person that can see past everything and see the person she really is and wants to be. Can she truly let him in? Can she open her mind and heart?
"Well, it sounds like you have a specific woman in mind."~Moxie
"I do."~ Miles
This was such a great book!! Funny from start to finish with some serious in between. I can't wait for everyone to meet Moxie!!
I want more:)
March 30, 2014
Z. B Heller has a hit on her hands!!! I was hooked from the Intro: My name is Moxie and I'm being punished. Thump, thump, thump..
Moxie is a hilariously independent, kindergarten teacher. Did I mention that she is Jewish? So you might know where this is going. At 5'7: a full body women (size 16). Which for me was refreshing. I was laughing from the first page and it kept going!!!
Between and overbearing Jewish step-mother who keeps trying to set up her with "good Jewish men" and trying to keep her sanity as a teacher. Moxie has wonderful internal conversations with herself (as well all know we have)!!!
Moxie's life is about to change with a chance meeting with an "adonis" at her favorite watering hole "Dickies" when she asks him to help in a survey she is conducting about balls…hairy or smooth. Oh yeah, she's pretty lit at this point.
Again, I laughed so hard and so much. Go do yourself a favor and go get this awesome book!! Can't wait for Moxie!!!
Moxie is a hilariously independent, kindergarten teacher. Did I mention that she is Jewish? So you might know where this is going. At 5'7: a full body women (size 16). Which for me was refreshing. I was laughing from the first page and it kept going!!!
Between and overbearing Jewish step-mother who keeps trying to set up her with "good Jewish men" and trying to keep her sanity as a teacher. Moxie has wonderful internal conversations with herself (as well all know we have)!!!
Moxie's life is about to change with a chance meeting with an "adonis" at her favorite watering hole "Dickies" when she asks him to help in a survey she is conducting about balls…hairy or smooth. Oh yeah, she's pretty lit at this point.
Again, I laughed so hard and so much. Go do yourself a favor and go get this awesome book!! Can't wait for Moxie!!!
April 4, 2014
TCOM Beta reader
I loved the book. Moxie is hysterical and all her friends compliment her character. Z.B. Heller has written a brilliantly funny book and I would definitely recommend it for someone wanting a lot of laughs, strong sarcastic women, delicious men, and mouth watering food choices. Moxie is a beautiful plus sized, loud, foul mouthed vixen and I want to be just like her when I grow up.
I loved the book. Moxie is hysterical and all her friends compliment her character. Z.B. Heller has written a brilliantly funny book and I would definitely recommend it for someone wanting a lot of laughs, strong sarcastic women, delicious men, and mouth watering food choices. Moxie is a beautiful plus sized, loud, foul mouthed vixen and I want to be just like her when I grow up.
March 27, 2014
I was asked to read this book as a Beta reader. All I can Say is "Thank You!" I laughed so hard there were tears. Can't wait for this to be out so I can shout from the roof tops that this book is so worth the read.
Read
October 19, 2014There were some definite red flags when I first started reading this book but I ignored them because I kept reading amazing reviews for it. I should have just stopped while I was ahead. There were a lot of things that I really liked about this book but it just did not out rank the number of things I do not like.
The first flag:
Faking orgasms. I cannot stand the idea that women fake orgasms and then make excuses when their bed partners want to go again all while thinking about how awful the sex was. If your partner is not doing it for you, you tell them!!!! Tell them what gets you off, how you like to be touched, etc or just stop them entirely. Do not act like sex is happening to you and not with you. Be an active partner and take ownership of your sexuality and speak up for yourself instead of lying. And if it's too uncomfortable to be open with your partner then maybe you should not be having sex.
The second flag:
Using her "wit" to sidetrack conversation. Say what you have to say and things would be so much easier for you. Don't say random shit and then complain about misunderstandings and miscommunications. If you would have just been direct then nothing would have gotten mixed up! And why the fuck did Moxie let her stepmother stomp all over her?!?! Fuck that bullshit and eat those thin mints.
The third flag:
flirting/making out/hooking up/etc. with a man that you think is in a relationship. What the fuck? For a large portion of time Moxie thinks that Miles has a girlfriend but during that time she does nothing to call him out on it or anything. The whole time she will flirt or start hooking up with him all the while thinking about the fact that he has a chick back home. I do not condone adultery or cheating and the fact that the heroine who I am supposed to identify with just doesn't give a fuck about it makes it hard for me to want to care about them as characters.
I just could not force myself to read anymore, I think I got to 70 something percent and just had no fucks to give and had to stop.
In no way am I saying that it wasn't a funny read because it was hilarious in a lot of parts. I laughed out loud several times because it was just so fucking funny. But even it being funny couldn't mask all of the shit in it.
The first flag:
Faking orgasms. I cannot stand the idea that women fake orgasms and then make excuses when their bed partners want to go again all while thinking about how awful the sex was. If your partner is not doing it for you, you tell them!!!! Tell them what gets you off, how you like to be touched, etc or just stop them entirely. Do not act like sex is happening to you and not with you. Be an active partner and take ownership of your sexuality and speak up for yourself instead of lying. And if it's too uncomfortable to be open with your partner then maybe you should not be having sex.
The second flag:
Using her "wit" to sidetrack conversation. Say what you have to say and things would be so much easier for you. Don't say random shit and then complain about misunderstandings and miscommunications. If you would have just been direct then nothing would have gotten mixed up! And why the fuck did Moxie let her stepmother stomp all over her?!?! Fuck that bullshit and eat those thin mints.
The third flag:
flirting/making out/hooking up/etc. with a man that you think is in a relationship. What the fuck? For a large portion of time Moxie thinks that Miles has a girlfriend but during that time she does nothing to call him out on it or anything. The whole time she will flirt or start hooking up with him all the while thinking about the fact that he has a chick back home. I do not condone adultery or cheating and the fact that the heroine who I am supposed to identify with just doesn't give a fuck about it makes it hard for me to want to care about them as characters.
I just could not force myself to read anymore, I think I got to 70 something percent and just had no fucks to give and had to stop.
In no way am I saying that it wasn't a funny read because it was hilarious in a lot of parts. I laughed out loud several times because it was just so fucking funny. But even it being funny couldn't mask all of the shit in it.
March 29, 2014
Let me start by saying, no, shouting, "I LOVE THIS BOOK"! Fast pace, snarky, witty humour, huggable and engaging characters, it has it all.
Moxie (best Heroine name ever) is a Big Beautiful Woman who for the most part fully embraces her curves. I say for the most part, as underneath all her bravado, she does have insecurities. She is a kindergarten teacher by day, and a wise-cracking, life-loving, party the rest of the time. Moxie surrounds herself with amazing friends such as Rachel, a fellow teacher, and Ryan, her gay BFF. Her nemesis' in the book are just as engaging. The bitchy co-worker, the evil kindergartener, and her plotting step-mother. Moxie's step-mother is a huge source of any insecurities she may have by making it her mission in life to slim Moxie down and marry her off.
Into Moxie's life walks Miles, a widower and father of her new student Dillon. I say walks, but their first meeting is the stuff of legends. I can't give it away and spoil it. Miles and Moxie navigate their relationship through misunderstandings, plotting co-workers, and their own deep-rooted self-doubts.
I did become annoyed a few times by Moxie and Miles as many problems they had could have been solved with a bit of open communication. As well, Moxie allowed her self doubts to overcome her natural fabulousness. But it would not be a romance novels without a bit of angst.
I also enjoyed the ending - although not a cliff hanger, it has been left open for more Moxie. It is a HFN rather than a bow-on-top HEA. Please, more Moxie!
Moxie (best Heroine name ever) is a Big Beautiful Woman who for the most part fully embraces her curves. I say for the most part, as underneath all her bravado, she does have insecurities. She is a kindergarten teacher by day, and a wise-cracking, life-loving, party the rest of the time. Moxie surrounds herself with amazing friends such as Rachel, a fellow teacher, and Ryan, her gay BFF. Her nemesis' in the book are just as engaging. The bitchy co-worker, the evil kindergartener, and her plotting step-mother. Moxie's step-mother is a huge source of any insecurities she may have by making it her mission in life to slim Moxie down and marry her off.
Into Moxie's life walks Miles, a widower and father of her new student Dillon. I say walks, but their first meeting is the stuff of legends. I can't give it away and spoil it. Miles and Moxie navigate their relationship through misunderstandings, plotting co-workers, and their own deep-rooted self-doubts.
I did become annoyed a few times by Moxie and Miles as many problems they had could have been solved with a bit of open communication. As well, Moxie allowed her self doubts to overcome her natural fabulousness. But it would not be a romance novels without a bit of angst.
I also enjoyed the ending - although not a cliff hanger, it has been left open for more Moxie. It is a HFN rather than a bow-on-top HEA. Please, more Moxie!
August 4, 2014
Three Stars
**Possible spoilers below**
Ok. This had so much potential. So much potential. While reading this, it reminded me a lot of Tara Sivec's Chocolate Series. I laughed a lot. I was having a grand ole time reading this, but the more the story went on, the more annoying the heroine became. Yes, I love sassy and smart mouthed heroines, and Moxie was no exception. I loved her, but it felt over-the-top at times. Sometimes I actually wanted her just to be normal, or something. As for the Hero, Miles, he was awesome. He was sweet and definitely sexy. The only thing I didn't understand about him was how nonchalant he was in regards to his wife's death. I know he loved her, and he loves his son, but I didn't really see him grieve or talk about her. I don't know, it just bugged me. Plus that ending/epilogue was a bit disappointing. I honestly wished this was better, but I did get some chuckles out of it so it wasn't a total wash.
**Possible spoilers below**
Ok. This had so much potential. So much potential. While reading this, it reminded me a lot of Tara Sivec's Chocolate Series. I laughed a lot. I was having a grand ole time reading this, but the more the story went on, the more annoying the heroine became. Yes, I love sassy and smart mouthed heroines, and Moxie was no exception. I loved her, but it felt over-the-top at times. Sometimes I actually wanted her just to be normal, or something. As for the Hero, Miles, he was awesome. He was sweet and definitely sexy. The only thing I didn't understand about him was how nonchalant he was in regards to his wife's death. I know he loved her, and he loves his son, but I didn't really see him grieve or talk about her. I don't know, it just bugged me. Plus that ending/epilogue was a bit disappointing. I honestly wished this was better, but I did get some chuckles out of it so it wasn't a total wash.
March 2, 2015
hilarious dialogue and nice paced plot
I laughed my ass off many times throughout this read. It was witty and fast paced. Well worth its .99 price. The ending left a bit to be desired but if you are looking for a funny romantic comedy read then this book will certainly do the trick.
I laughed my ass off many times throughout this read. It was witty and fast paced. Well worth its .99 price. The ending left a bit to be desired but if you are looking for a funny romantic comedy read then this book will certainly do the trick.
January 13, 2015
I consider myself so lucky that I was given the opportunity to beta read The Chronicles of Moxie by Z.B. Heller. Even though I've gotten to know Z.B. Heller through Facebook, and already adored her, my adoration has had only grown by reading this book. Let's start with the fact that Moxie is one of the most relatable characters I have ever come across. Moxie could be my best friend. Actually, Moxie could be me. This book is also hilarious. I found myself laughing throughout most of the book. The evolution of the characters and their relationships is fantastic. This is such a great story. I couldn't put my Kindle down. Miles and Moxie are forever in my heart!
March 2, 2017
3.5 stars. This was a funny, quirky little book. I did have a few gripes with it, mainly that it needed editing and some of the conflicts felt contrived, but all in all an enjoyable read with a hilarious and kickass heroine that I could really identify with.
March 30, 2014
I loved it. I laughed through out the book.
September 7, 2015
Overall Rating- 5
Cover- 4
Character Development- 5
Character Likability- 5
Story- 5
Ending- 5
Sex- 4
Cover- 4
Character Development- 5
Character Likability- 5
Story- 5
Ending- 5
Sex- 4
April 18, 2020
I really don't know if I should rate this book because I didn't finish it. And for those of you who know me, you know I almost NEVER abandon books! I read the first few chapters and decided that there are too many good books for me to waste time on this one. Maybe I am too old, but I don't know any teachers who behave like Moxie. This reminded me of the TV show "Teachers" that I just found to be so obnoxious I gave up after a couple of episodes. But based on the reviews, I am definitely in the minority here!
August 8, 2024
Moxie is added to my list of favorite characters. Her sense of humor is so much like mine and I laughed throughout this book.
January 3, 2015
I'm not really sure how I came across this book, but I will say that I am certainly glad I did. Now, There are several other titles from Ms. Heller, including a soon to be follow up to this book, that I cannot wait to read. I just hope that she adds much more to her resumè, because this book is brilliant.
This book is exactly what the title says: The Chronicles of Moxie and is told through the POV of Moxie Summers. Moxie is a kindergarten teacher in the city of Chicago and has no filter when it comes to speaking her mind. I'm going to be honest and tell you that what I love about this book is that our heroine Moxie, is a curvaceous size 16 and has caught the eye of Mr. Hotness. Now, I'm sure that there are some individuals who would believe that this set-up is unrealistic. Well to those individuals, I say "F" you.
Here is the situation. Moxie is the step-daughter to Martha (who really thinks that she is Moxie's mother) and Martha is consistently setting Moxie up on dates so she can find "the one". After another disaster, Moxie and her BFF Renee decide to hit the bar. Once Moxie is is good and wasted, she decides the topic she would like to discuss the most is hairy balls vs. non-hairy balls. And with this discussion comes an impromptu bar survey and while conducting this survey with a super hot guy she proceeds to vomit all over his shoes. Not a problem right? It is a complete stranger after all. But this complete stranger happens to be the father to Dillon, the new student in Moxie's class.
Dillon, who is so adorable and super smart to boot, and his dad, Miles are new to the Chicago area. Tragedy hit their family hard and they are making a change for the better. From the very beginning you know that Miles is attracted to Moxie, not just the curves but the whole package. While Moxie can read the innuendos that he is sending out, she's not too sure on how to take them. He is the father of a student and her fellow teacher/sworn enemy, Amber continues to insinuate that her and Miles have something going on and once you put some self-doubt into the head of a women, insecure thoughts will not slow down.
The sex scenes in this book were written really well. It takes some real "moxie" to sneak into a tent at a school wide camp-out and proceed to deliver an earth shattering orgasm. But for me, it was Miles and his wonderfully dirty mouth. He was always quick with some sort of sexual speak that had even Moxie wide-eyed. Overall, the sex (real or talk) was written very, very, well. Maybe not sheets on fire hot, but fan worthy.
This book has a lot of stuff happening. There's the step-mother, a gay BFF, an arch nemesis in the form of a kindergarten Girl Scout. There's Amber (her adult nemesis), a sex toy party and even more vomiting. It is really funny and told so fantastically. The supporting characters are very well written and developed. Here's really the love behind this book. I think that when you can take a character like Moxie and develop her against everything that society says a leading woman should be and do it exceptionally well, you are truly gifted. I also think that it can't be an easy decision to make your leading lady someone like Moxie. And to also develop her where she is so free-spirited and so sure in who she is for the most part. That really does a positive number on a readers self-esteem. So, applause to you Ms. Heller.
When I read a book, I always try to imagine the book being "live" whether on T.V. or a movie version. This is one of those books that I can certainly see come to life in a T.V. series (cable, of course). This is definitely worth the read and even a re-read. I don't think you will be disappointed.
This book is exactly what the title says: The Chronicles of Moxie and is told through the POV of Moxie Summers. Moxie is a kindergarten teacher in the city of Chicago and has no filter when it comes to speaking her mind. I'm going to be honest and tell you that what I love about this book is that our heroine Moxie, is a curvaceous size 16 and has caught the eye of Mr. Hotness. Now, I'm sure that there are some individuals who would believe that this set-up is unrealistic. Well to those individuals, I say "F" you.
Here is the situation. Moxie is the step-daughter to Martha (who really thinks that she is Moxie's mother) and Martha is consistently setting Moxie up on dates so she can find "the one". After another disaster, Moxie and her BFF Renee decide to hit the bar. Once Moxie is is good and wasted, she decides the topic she would like to discuss the most is hairy balls vs. non-hairy balls. And with this discussion comes an impromptu bar survey and while conducting this survey with a super hot guy she proceeds to vomit all over his shoes. Not a problem right? It is a complete stranger after all. But this complete stranger happens to be the father to Dillon, the new student in Moxie's class.
Dillon, who is so adorable and super smart to boot, and his dad, Miles are new to the Chicago area. Tragedy hit their family hard and they are making a change for the better. From the very beginning you know that Miles is attracted to Moxie, not just the curves but the whole package. While Moxie can read the innuendos that he is sending out, she's not too sure on how to take them. He is the father of a student and her fellow teacher/sworn enemy, Amber continues to insinuate that her and Miles have something going on and once you put some self-doubt into the head of a women, insecure thoughts will not slow down.
The sex scenes in this book were written really well. It takes some real "moxie" to sneak into a tent at a school wide camp-out and proceed to deliver an earth shattering orgasm. But for me, it was Miles and his wonderfully dirty mouth. He was always quick with some sort of sexual speak that had even Moxie wide-eyed. Overall, the sex (real or talk) was written very, very, well. Maybe not sheets on fire hot, but fan worthy.
This book has a lot of stuff happening. There's the step-mother, a gay BFF, an arch nemesis in the form of a kindergarten Girl Scout. There's Amber (her adult nemesis), a sex toy party and even more vomiting. It is really funny and told so fantastically. The supporting characters are very well written and developed. Here's really the love behind this book. I think that when you can take a character like Moxie and develop her against everything that society says a leading woman should be and do it exceptionally well, you are truly gifted. I also think that it can't be an easy decision to make your leading lady someone like Moxie. And to also develop her where she is so free-spirited and so sure in who she is for the most part. That really does a positive number on a readers self-esteem. So, applause to you Ms. Heller.
When I read a book, I always try to imagine the book being "live" whether on T.V. or a movie version. This is one of those books that I can certainly see come to life in a T.V. series (cable, of course). This is definitely worth the read and even a re-read. I don't think you will be disappointed.
July 23, 2016
Oh Moxie, Moxie.....I have never laughed so hard!!
If you are looking for a witty, funny, sexy, foul-mouthed heroine, you've got her in Moxie Summers.
"'Moxie, I love your skirt! Did you pick it up at Goodwill?' she snarled.
'Actually, I picked it up off your boyfriend's floor after the great blow-job I gave him. That's probably why it looks familiar', I retorted."
Moxie Summers is a Kindergarten teacher, heading down the road of deadbeat dates. She and her BFF Renee, another teacher, are on the hunt for the ultimate male species. They troll bars and parties hunting for the treasure. Until one evening, Moxie decides to ask a very inquisitive question to the *hottie* walking through the door. Instead of getting an answer, she covers his shoes with the contents of her stomach. As if this wasn't embarrassing enough, she is in for an even big surprise the following morning. During Moxie's adventures, she encounters a few more deadbeat guys and one that might actually capture her heart.
ZB Heller has created a real life person in Moxie Summers. It is refreshing to see a modern woman - a teacher nonetheless- who has an independent sprit, loves her curves and knows how to take charge. Moxie and Renee are the epitome of best friends living life to the fullest.
As the first in a series, Moxie's life and upcoming romance happened in a very realistic setting and believable timeframe. As a teacher myself, Moxie's interactions with students, parents and other teachers was realistic.
I'm looking forward to reading more about Moxie and her adventures!
**I was provided with an ARC by the author for a honest review**
If you are looking for a witty, funny, sexy, foul-mouthed heroine, you've got her in Moxie Summers.
"'Moxie, I love your skirt! Did you pick it up at Goodwill?' she snarled.
'Actually, I picked it up off your boyfriend's floor after the great blow-job I gave him. That's probably why it looks familiar', I retorted."
Moxie Summers is a Kindergarten teacher, heading down the road of deadbeat dates. She and her BFF Renee, another teacher, are on the hunt for the ultimate male species. They troll bars and parties hunting for the treasure. Until one evening, Moxie decides to ask a very inquisitive question to the *hottie* walking through the door. Instead of getting an answer, she covers his shoes with the contents of her stomach. As if this wasn't embarrassing enough, she is in for an even big surprise the following morning. During Moxie's adventures, she encounters a few more deadbeat guys and one that might actually capture her heart.
ZB Heller has created a real life person in Moxie Summers. It is refreshing to see a modern woman - a teacher nonetheless- who has an independent sprit, loves her curves and knows how to take charge. Moxie and Renee are the epitome of best friends living life to the fullest.
As the first in a series, Moxie's life and upcoming romance happened in a very realistic setting and believable timeframe. As a teacher myself, Moxie's interactions with students, parents and other teachers was realistic.
I'm looking forward to reading more about Moxie and her adventures!
**I was provided with an ARC by the author for a honest review**
May 29, 2015
2.5 stars of crassness
I thought I was going to like this book. But one chapter in, I started to get irritated. I have no issues with cursing, but Moxie was crass, childish and it was impossible to imagine her as a kindergarten teacher. The dialogues between her and her best friend, Renee , another teacher, and her gay friend, Ryan, (how cliche is that?) are contrived and very crass. Moxie's exchange of insults with her arch nemesis, another teacher, in the teachers' lounge and other public places is just over the top. No teacher talks like that! Actually, no white, educated, middle class woman talks, thinks like that - how's that for generalisation? Her love interest, Miles, finds her irresistible, although their first encounter Speaking of Miles, he's a bore! Apparently he looks perfect, perfectly defined muscles and all - because that's how artists look like . Right, that's not important, I guess there could be arty guys out there who looked like that. But I found the way he was talking to her so unappealing. Another thing that bugged me was that she kept telling people she loved to be a kindergarten teacher, but throughout the novel she complains about the kids. Not to mention, that no 6 year olds talk/act like two of her students, one of them being Dillon, Mile's son. I could point out other things that didn't make sense or add up, but I won't bother. The ending was rushed and very unfulfilling. But I guess it's impossible to have a great ending to a very average book.
I thought I was going to like this book. But one chapter in, I started to get irritated. I have no issues with cursing, but Moxie was crass, childish and it was impossible to imagine her as a kindergarten teacher. The dialogues between her and her best friend, Renee , another teacher, and her gay friend, Ryan, (how cliche is that?) are contrived and very crass. Moxie's exchange of insults with her arch nemesis, another teacher, in the teachers' lounge and other public places is just over the top. No teacher talks like that! Actually, no white, educated, middle class woman talks, thinks like that - how's that for generalisation? Her love interest, Miles, finds her irresistible, although their first encounter Speaking of Miles, he's a bore! Apparently he looks perfect, perfectly defined muscles and all - because that's how artists look like . Right, that's not important, I guess there could be arty guys out there who looked like that. But I found the way he was talking to her so unappealing. Another thing that bugged me was that she kept telling people she loved to be a kindergarten teacher, but throughout the novel she complains about the kids. Not to mention, that no 6 year olds talk/act like two of her students, one of them being Dillon, Mile's son. I could point out other things that didn't make sense or add up, but I won't bother. The ending was rushed and very unfulfilling. But I guess it's impossible to have a great ending to a very average book.
February 15, 2015
I was debating between 4 and 5 stars, but ultimately, I really loved this book. It was refreshing and original. I love real books about real people, and this isn't about a size 2 virginal innocent falling in love with a billionaire. It was about a woman who looks the way a lot of us look, feels the way a lot of us feel, and says the things a lot of us only wish we could say. She's crass and dirty-minded. In real-life, I'd probably be terrified of her, but all the while totally admiring her for flipping the middle finger to the world. And, OMG... The sex was H-O-T (well, the Miles sex was hot...the not so hot sex made half of me giggle and the other half sorta go 'fuck...IKR?'). I fell head over heels for Miles, and Dillion was adorable! It truly made me laugh my ass off and I kept waiting for Moxie to shout "goat fucker!" (although 99.9% of the people in the world will never in a million years get that reference).
April 12, 2014
I can sum up my review in three words - I love Moxie! - but, I suppose I should expand at least a little. From the first page I was laughing out loud. If you want to know how funny this book really is, you should know it got my HUSBAND to laugh when I was reading passages out loud. Z.B. Heller brings to life a character who is funny, snarky, sarcastic, and real. Moxie the best friend everyone has who says exactly what they're thinking and everyone loves her for it. But in the midst of all the attitude Moxie brings is a woman who is more than just her sense of humor and that's what really made the book for me. I can't wait to read more!!!
May 8, 2014
WOW! what an awesome debut! Fans of Tara Sivec's seduction and snacks/chocoholics will absolutely love Moxie.
I didn't even know Moxie was a term for anything but I was glad for the definition right from the get go. I was glad Moxie was a more curvaceous then your everyday novel heroine thats mostly a stick figure. we need more curves! with her being a kindergarten teacher I loved her inner dialogue about dealing with the kids.
I was laughing constantly throughout this one which was a nice change up from the other genres I was reading.
Moxie and Miles and Dillion were so cute together and damn I love it when a man like miles loves women for their personality and curves.
well done Z!
I didn't even know Moxie was a term for anything but I was glad for the definition right from the get go. I was glad Moxie was a more curvaceous then your everyday novel heroine thats mostly a stick figure. we need more curves! with her being a kindergarten teacher I loved her inner dialogue about dealing with the kids.
I was laughing constantly throughout this one which was a nice change up from the other genres I was reading.
Moxie and Miles and Dillion were so cute together and damn I love it when a man like miles loves women for their personality and curves.
well done Z!
May 21, 2014
I would give this book 6 stars if I could. This was one of the funniest books I have ever read. I adore Moxie! I laughed out loud throughout most of this and didn't want it to end. Moxie is a curvy kindergarten teacher who tells it like it is. I loved the supporting characters - especially Ryan, her gay best friend. The banter between Moxie and her friends was really hilarious. I loved Miles dirty talk - hot!!! I really hope this is going to be a series because I need more Moxie! Highly recommend to anyone who loves to laugh!!
April 17, 2014
Z.B. wrote an incredibly funny, sexy and entertaining book! From the minute you pick it up you are sucked into Moxie's life and then you realize that's where you want to be. Moxie is funny and sexy in the way that only a woman that is confident can be. The other characters in the book are a perfect combination for her and really brings the characters together. I would highly recommend this book to everyone I know! I can't wait to read more of what is playing out in Z.B.'s mind.
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