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Please Post Bail, Love Mom: A laugh-out-loud Mom Com
Wetherbee Academy is the Harvard of preschools, and Nikki Anderson will sell her soul to get her triplets in.
Only one problem. Her soul might not be worth enough.
Now remarried and raising teens and toddlers, Nikki becomes consumed with a prestigious preschool program. She worries she failed her older children during her first marriage and is convinced enrolling the triplets in Wetherbee will resurrect her as a mother. Unfortunately, she has a nasty habit of breaking rules and bungling tasks.
Then, when a life-altering event steals her time, she ends up cutting corners, muddying motherhood, and hopping into hot water with the law.
Will a trip (or two) to jail ruin her kids’ chances of getting into Wetherbee and her second chance at perfecting parenthood?
Please Post Bail, Love Mom is a hilarious, laugh-out-loud, stand-alone book in Zahner's witty Awkward Mothers You Hate Loving series.
If you like amusing, slapstick, lighthearted comedy, you'll love Nikki and her antics.
Only one problem. Her soul might not be worth enough.
Now remarried and raising teens and toddlers, Nikki becomes consumed with a prestigious preschool program. She worries she failed her older children during her first marriage and is convinced enrolling the triplets in Wetherbee will resurrect her as a mother. Unfortunately, she has a nasty habit of breaking rules and bungling tasks.
Then, when a life-altering event steals her time, she ends up cutting corners, muddying motherhood, and hopping into hot water with the law.
Will a trip (or two) to jail ruin her kids’ chances of getting into Wetherbee and her second chance at perfecting parenthood?
Please Post Bail, Love Mom is a hilarious, laugh-out-loud, stand-alone book in Zahner's witty Awkward Mothers You Hate Loving series.
If you like amusing, slapstick, lighthearted comedy, you'll love Nikki and her antics.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2024
10 people are currently reading
16 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Zahner
10 books676 followersCyndie "CJ" Zahner is a digital-book hoarder, lover of can't-put-down books, wife, mother, grandmother, runner, and author of seven novels.
On April 1, 2025, her memoir, The House That Loved, was released. The story is about a drug prescribed to millions of pregnant women, including her mother. Uniquely, the novel's POV is a house, signifying the millions of homes, worldwide, that shelter DES children. Zahner is a DES daughter.
Her other books include four thrillers, The Suicide Gene, Dream Wide Awake, Project Dream, The Dream Diaries, and three chick lit novels in her Awkward Mothers You Hate Loving series, Friends Who Move Couches, Don't Mind Me, I Came with the House, and PLease Post Bail, Love Mom.
Her novels were inspired during long runs on Presque Isle State Park in the town where she grew up, Erie, Pennsylvania, and others on the trails surrounding her new home near Raleigh, NC.
Before becoming a novelist, CJ worked as a grant and freelance writer. Her articles varied from business to women’s health to the paranormal.
In 2015, she began looking at life differently when her brother and his wife were diagnosed with dementia and early-onset Alzheimer’s. At that time, her husband pulled her aside and said, “Quit your job. You’re a writer.” After twenty years of service, CJ picked up her purse at work one day and quietly walked away.
Now, she rises before dawn, writes, runs, and smiles much.
A hard worker and story lover, CJ Zahner is determined to read, write, and run happily ever after.
On April 1, 2025, her memoir, The House That Loved, was released. The story is about a drug prescribed to millions of pregnant women, including her mother. Uniquely, the novel's POV is a house, signifying the millions of homes, worldwide, that shelter DES children. Zahner is a DES daughter.
Her other books include four thrillers, The Suicide Gene, Dream Wide Awake, Project Dream, The Dream Diaries, and three chick lit novels in her Awkward Mothers You Hate Loving series, Friends Who Move Couches, Don't Mind Me, I Came with the House, and PLease Post Bail, Love Mom.
Her novels were inspired during long runs on Presque Isle State Park in the town where she grew up, Erie, Pennsylvania, and others on the trails surrounding her new home near Raleigh, NC.
Before becoming a novelist, CJ worked as a grant and freelance writer. Her articles varied from business to women’s health to the paranormal.
In 2015, she began looking at life differently when her brother and his wife were diagnosed with dementia and early-onset Alzheimer’s. At that time, her husband pulled her aside and said, “Quit your job. You’re a writer.” After twenty years of service, CJ picked up her purse at work one day and quietly walked away.
Now, she rises before dawn, writes, runs, and smiles much.
A hard worker and story lover, CJ Zahner is determined to read, write, and run happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 22, 2024
This was one of those books that really come alive from the moment you start reading. The main character, Nikki, has all of the quirks and imperfections that make for a truly likeable and relatable character. The two main story lines (getting the triplets into a prestigious preschool, and coping with a close friend's cancer) are an interesting juxtaposition of the frivolous and deeply meaningful, and a demonstration of how life involves both. Beyond those threads, each chapter takes the reader through a series of hilarious events and mishaps. Nikki is truly incapable of staying out of trouble, and her knack for landing in the most absurd situations adds a layer of comedy that keeps the narrative engaging and refreshing. As she navigates the complexities of parenting, her efforts to balance her friendship and family responsibilities are both admirable and heartwarming. The way the author intertwines Nikki's personal growth with the slapstick comedy of her daily life is skillfully done, making for a book that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
The secondary characters are well-drawn and contribute significantly to the story’s depth and humor. From Nikki’s supportive husband to her eclectic group of friends, each character adds a unique flavor to the tale, making the world of the book feel rich and real. The author does an excellent job of showcasing the importance of community and friendship, especially in times of hardship, through these interactions.
The book doesn't shy away from exploring the emotional weight of dealing with illness and the fear of loss. It handles these themes with sensitivity and grace, offering a raw and honest look at the struggles faced by those watching a loved one fight cancer. This aspect of the story provides a poignant counterbalance to the lighter, more humorous escapades of Nikki, making the book a well-rounded and compelling read.
Overall, this book is a delightful mix of humor, heartache, and the messy beauty of life. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys contemporary fiction with well-rounded characters, a dose of humor, and a touch of real-life drama.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"My first marriage swishes behind me like the sweep of a broom, dust particles flying everywhere. I can’t gather up the mistakes we made and the dirt we created, whisk it into a dustpan, and throw it in the trash. Cleaning up after a long day isn’t that easy. Some unrelenting grime always remains, but I’m determined to rid my house of what I can."
"Life is unpredictable in every sense of the word except one. There’s always a mother to blame."
"Accolades aren’t thrown our way often, so when one whirls toward us, it’s hard to catch. We duck and let it soar on by. For the life of me, I’m not sure why we do that."
"If you’re a mother, nervous breakdowns are highly overrated. You fall off your rocker, sew your soul back together with a few days’ rest, and then realize no one has done a darn thing while you were gone and twice as much work needs to be finished."
The secondary characters are well-drawn and contribute significantly to the story’s depth and humor. From Nikki’s supportive husband to her eclectic group of friends, each character adds a unique flavor to the tale, making the world of the book feel rich and real. The author does an excellent job of showcasing the importance of community and friendship, especially in times of hardship, through these interactions.
The book doesn't shy away from exploring the emotional weight of dealing with illness and the fear of loss. It handles these themes with sensitivity and grace, offering a raw and honest look at the struggles faced by those watching a loved one fight cancer. This aspect of the story provides a poignant counterbalance to the lighter, more humorous escapades of Nikki, making the book a well-rounded and compelling read.
Overall, this book is a delightful mix of humor, heartache, and the messy beauty of life. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys contemporary fiction with well-rounded characters, a dose of humor, and a touch of real-life drama.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"My first marriage swishes behind me like the sweep of a broom, dust particles flying everywhere. I can’t gather up the mistakes we made and the dirt we created, whisk it into a dustpan, and throw it in the trash. Cleaning up after a long day isn’t that easy. Some unrelenting grime always remains, but I’m determined to rid my house of what I can."
"Life is unpredictable in every sense of the word except one. There’s always a mother to blame."
"Accolades aren’t thrown our way often, so when one whirls toward us, it’s hard to catch. We duck and let it soar on by. For the life of me, I’m not sure why we do that."
"If you’re a mother, nervous breakdowns are highly overrated. You fall off your rocker, sew your soul back together with a few days’ rest, and then realize no one has done a darn thing while you were gone and twice as much work needs to be finished."
October 30, 2024
This book is a hilarious and heartwarming story about a chaotic mother, Nikki, who navigates the ups and downs of life with her three toddlers, stepchildren, aging grandmother, and a group of supportive friends. The story follows Nikki as she juggles her family life, volunteer work, and a job search while dealing with a series of mishaps and misadventures.
Nikki is relatable and funny. Readers will connect with her struggles with motherhood, her desire to be a good wife, and her unwavering loyalty to her friends. The supporting characters are well-developed and add depth to the story. The book is full of humor and heartwarming moments. Readers will laugh out loud at Nikki's antics and be touched by her compassion and loyalty. The story is fast-paced and engaging. Readers will be hooked from the first page. The book highlights the importance of friendship and family. The characters' unique personalities add an extra layer of depth and humor to the story. This book is a great read for anyone who enjoys humorous and heartwarming stories about family and friendship.
Overall, Please Post Bail, Love Mom is a fun, lighthearted, and enjoyable read. It is a story about the importance of friendship and family, and the power of laughter in overcoming life's challenges.
ARC for unbiased review
Nikki is relatable and funny. Readers will connect with her struggles with motherhood, her desire to be a good wife, and her unwavering loyalty to her friends. The supporting characters are well-developed and add depth to the story. The book is full of humor and heartwarming moments. Readers will laugh out loud at Nikki's antics and be touched by her compassion and loyalty. The story is fast-paced and engaging. Readers will be hooked from the first page. The book highlights the importance of friendship and family. The characters' unique personalities add an extra layer of depth and humor to the story. This book is a great read for anyone who enjoys humorous and heartwarming stories about family and friendship.
Overall, Please Post Bail, Love Mom is a fun, lighthearted, and enjoyable read. It is a story about the importance of friendship and family, and the power of laughter in overcoming life's challenges.
ARC for unbiased review
July 19, 2024
I meant to write my review sooner but like the character in the book life gets in the way. I know this is a fictional book but I think sometimes it needs to be aligned with real life. The first part of the book had chapter after chapter having unbelievable things happening to Nikki. I get that was the funny part, I guess I wasn’t catching it as funny, mostly unbelievable. Then we got into the serious stuff with Nikki’s friend getting cancer, I wasn’t prepared to go through it with her. I am dealing with cancer similar to the character in the story and just didn’t want to hear about another’s journey. (hate the words fighting and battling because we are tough ladies and we would knock it out of the ballpark if we could) So my frame of mind when reading this book wasn’t in the best place.
Sorry I couldn’t give it a better rating. I think those going through the real stuff might agree. Nikki had a great sport staff and her group was a great support to her friend. It isn’t always like that for folks. I am finding that out as I attend the Erie Cancer Wellness Center, which offers the support so no one has to go it alone. I would be curious to see how those going through a journey with cancer react to this book. Maybe I am being too serious, but it is real for me.
Sorry I couldn’t give it a better rating. I think those going through the real stuff might agree. Nikki had a great sport staff and her group was a great support to her friend. It isn’t always like that for folks. I am finding that out as I attend the Erie Cancer Wellness Center, which offers the support so no one has to go it alone. I would be curious to see how those going through a journey with cancer react to this book. Maybe I am being too serious, but it is real for me.
February 5, 2025
From its very first page, "Please Post Bail, Love Mom" by CJ Zahner immediately captures the reader's attention with non-stop sarcasm and fast-paced humor.
Relentless joking takes are told by a world-weary, wisecracking narrator, who finds herself in implausible predicaments, creating a whirlwind of comedic chaos. For those who enjoy such a style, this book will be highly enjoyable.
Nikki Anderson is resolute in a quest to secure admission for her triplets into Wetherbee Academy, a prestigious institution regarded as the Ivy League of area preschools. Now remarried and juggling the responsibilities of raising teenagers as well as her grandchild toddlers, Nikki becomes fixated on that esteemed preschool program, perhaps harboring regrets over failures with her older children during her first marriage, and therefore seeking redemption through Wetherbee Academy for the grandkids. Along her tumultuous journey, the irreverent Nikki frequently flouts societal norms and mishandles tasks, thereby complicating her mission.
"Please Post Bail, Love Mom" provides many moments of uproarious laughter. For readers looking for a blend of sarcasm and slapstick, this humorous novel may be just the thing.
Relentless joking takes are told by a world-weary, wisecracking narrator, who finds herself in implausible predicaments, creating a whirlwind of comedic chaos. For those who enjoy such a style, this book will be highly enjoyable.
Nikki Anderson is resolute in a quest to secure admission for her triplets into Wetherbee Academy, a prestigious institution regarded as the Ivy League of area preschools. Now remarried and juggling the responsibilities of raising teenagers as well as her grandchild toddlers, Nikki becomes fixated on that esteemed preschool program, perhaps harboring regrets over failures with her older children during her first marriage, and therefore seeking redemption through Wetherbee Academy for the grandkids. Along her tumultuous journey, the irreverent Nikki frequently flouts societal norms and mishandles tasks, thereby complicating her mission.
"Please Post Bail, Love Mom" provides many moments of uproarious laughter. For readers looking for a blend of sarcasm and slapstick, this humorous novel may be just the thing.
April 26, 2024
Please Post Bail, Love Mom is both an extremely entertaining story that had me laughing out-loud at the outlandish behaviors, mishaps, and interactions that are a constant for Nikki; and a story with depth about serious illness, friendship, and what is truly important in life. Her quest to be the “perfect” mom for her young triplets, and make up for past mistakes Nikki believes she made with her older children, land her in hot water time and time again.
This runs parallel to other life circumstances that arise, especially Ellie, a good friend, getting a diagnosis of cancer. Nikki and her eclectic group of close-knit friends are there for Ellie, and each other, through thick and thin. The dynamics between her friends is heartwarming, as they banter and argue, and yet all have each others best interest at heart. Added to the mix is Nikki’s patient-beyond-belief, golf-pro husband, who is there for Nikki regardless of her latest embarrassing antic.
CJ Zahner nailed it in providing an exceptionally humorous, fun read that also touches on navigating some of life’s challenges.
This runs parallel to other life circumstances that arise, especially Ellie, a good friend, getting a diagnosis of cancer. Nikki and her eclectic group of close-knit friends are there for Ellie, and each other, through thick and thin. The dynamics between her friends is heartwarming, as they banter and argue, and yet all have each others best interest at heart. Added to the mix is Nikki’s patient-beyond-belief, golf-pro husband, who is there for Nikki regardless of her latest embarrassing antic.
CJ Zahner nailed it in providing an exceptionally humorous, fun read that also touches on navigating some of life’s challenges.
April 13, 2024
This is a fun read! Nikki’s antics with her family and friends will make you laugh out loud throughout the book. I loved the characters in this book, first and foremost Nikki, but also her motley group of diverse friends. There is a serious situation that comes up that brings a real life issue to the forefront. Zahner covers it with emotional wisdom and sensitivity, all while keeping the mood light while Nikki has to address it. But time away from her goal of getting her triplets into a first class preschool means she has to cut some corners to make it happen. Hilarity ensues! I recommend this book for all who need a laugh and a fun read.
April 23, 2024
This book is an easy and fun read that you’ll find yourself laughing out loud! The main character, Nikki, is very likable and outrageously funny. Be warned, she lives a chaotic life surrounded by a very large family, including toddler triplets. Nikki’s mission is to get the triplets into a prestigious preschool but this has her trying crazy antics to achieve that goal. To complicate Nikki’s very hectic life, she is faced with the scare of possibly losing a friend to cancer. She puts her heart and soul into supporting her very dear friend. Love the tenderness between friends.
I highly recommend this book. Well done CJ Zahner!
I highly recommend this book. Well done CJ Zahner!
May 15, 2024
This is one of those books that you can escape from your own life and forget all that ails you and enjoy a few blissful moments of someone else's struggles. The main character Nikki is quirky making her likeable and relatable. The two main focus storylines are real every day happenings Nikki is determined to get her triplets into a prestigious Preschool and there is also a friend who has been diagnosed with a horrible illness. The author has a talent for making the story lighthearted and I was giggling quite a lot while also being poignant. It's a raw and honest tale of motherhood and being in the moment. Nikki is a character that I won't forget!
October 20, 2024
She felt she failed her older children so she wants to make sure she does a better job with her triplets. She is also about to get into trouble with the law which could affect her chance to getting them into the best pre-school school. Her journey is going to become more complicated as she tries to sort it all out for them all
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it was funny to see just how she got on in her new plans
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it was funny to see just how she got on in her new plans
November 6, 2024
Please Post Bail, Love Mom by CJ Zahner was a fun book to read. There were moments in the book that I was laughing so hard at Nikki and her friends. There are some serious moments, including her friend's cancer diagnosis. It was great to read how her friends all rallied around Ellie. I enjoyed reading the book and look forward to reading more from the author.
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2025
Well written. I like the way Zhaner writes about life. The hard stuff, loss, frustration, friendship even sadness. This is not a romance. This is a story of a mom trying to do her best, and constantly second guessing herself. This reads like an honest look about a woman’s life and what it takes to keep the wheels spinning.
To me there were so many characters! If you put the book down you forget which ones are their kids, friends, or folks in the shadows.
To me there were so many characters! If you put the book down you forget which ones are their kids, friends, or folks in the shadows.
April 24, 2024
Like the previous Nikki books, this one includes laugh-out-loud situations alongside ones that tug at the heartstrings, reminding us that life is a series of changes. There are instances that the reader can see Nikki heading for trouble and wanting to say, "Stop right there! Just walk away!" This is the book to pick up when you want to retreat from the world for a while.
October 29, 2024
Good story about friendships, relationships, and parenting. It's nice to hear stories, fiction or not, of supportive friend groups. Whether it's about health, marriage, or parenting, we all need that support. This book was exactly that. Great book and will definitely be looking for other books by CJ Zahner.
November 1, 2024
OMG!!! This is an amazing book. It's a hilarious, emotional and heartfelt must read. I laughed so hard it hurt... I cried cause it touched me in so many ways. As a survivor of breast cancer this book hit home. I enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it. I want to read more from the author and look forward to it.
May 26, 2024
Every mother can identify with something in this romp through the daily life of Nikki and her multiples of kids. She wants the best for her progeny and will go to hilarious lengths to ensure their brilliant futures.
Read
October 6, 2024Some of the chapters were so hilarious ANF others sad.
Me living in Erie I can relate to all the landmarks.
Such a great book!! 💕
Me living in Erie I can relate to all the landmarks.
Such a great book!! 💕
November 8, 2024
Nikki’s story is full of hilarious moments, heartache, great friendships. It is an inspiring read.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
May 5, 2024
CJ Zahner takes us along for the next chapter in main character, Nikki Anderson’s life in her new book, Please Post Bail, Love Mom. As if life wasn’t demanding enough, parenting teens and triplets, Nikki is hyper focused on getting the “trips” into the Harvard of preschools. Well intentioned Nikki suffers misunderstandings and mishaps in almost every situation she’s in. Another part of her life is shown to us as one of her best friends receives devastating news. Nikki along with their friend group provides tremendous support. Although everything doesn’t work out according to Nikki’s desires, Zahner brings a satisfying wrap up to all the different threads that make up Nikki’s life. If you’re looking for a book that makes you laugh, cry, and scratch your head, this is a good choice.
I was provided a free ebook to review Please Post Bail, Love Mom. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are honest.
I was provided a free ebook to review Please Post Bail, Love Mom. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are honest.
February 27, 2025
Funny book - had me worried for a little bit, but it all came together in the end.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews