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Love and Laughs #1
Love & Other Chaos
When hot teachers and internet trends collide, love soon follows.
Brody’s my friend - just a friend. He’s also my autistic son’s favorite teacher.
He’s as off limits as they come, no matter how drop dead gorgeous he is.
Falling for him would be wrong. Resisting him though, is becoming pure torture.
After being burned by men who can’t handle dating a single-mom of a special-needs child, I refuse to date anymore. Not until my son is grown.
My plan is working fine until my trouble-making bestie presents me with a dare that I can’t resist. I’m a sucker for a good dare - especially when margaritas have been consumed. And she’s just dared me to plant a surprise kiss on Brody’s sexy lips, while she records it for a trending TikTok challenge video.
But if I do this, it could change everything. My life is already pure chaos and maybe now is not the best time to shake things up even more.
Is it worth risking our friendship and his important role in my son’s life for one kiss? What if he wants more? What if I do?
Love & Other Chaos is a hilarious, steamy, friends-to-lovers romantic comedy featuring a drop dead gorgeous and seriously buff teacher with the hots for a single-mom of an autistic pre-teen son... who happens to be one of his students. This story also includes wise-cracking grandparents with zero respect for personal boundaries, swoon-worthy beach scenes, a jerky boss with no concept of personal space, nosey siblings and a foul-mouthed best friend who loves to instigate trouble. If you don't like sarcasm, steam, sexy-times, heroines who drink copious amounts of margaritas and laugh-a-minute dialogue, then this might not be the book for you. It’s a stand-alone novel with a happy ending, because cliffhangers will kill your margarita buzz.
Brody’s my friend - just a friend. He’s also my autistic son’s favorite teacher.
He’s as off limits as they come, no matter how drop dead gorgeous he is.
Falling for him would be wrong. Resisting him though, is becoming pure torture.
After being burned by men who can’t handle dating a single-mom of a special-needs child, I refuse to date anymore. Not until my son is grown.
My plan is working fine until my trouble-making bestie presents me with a dare that I can’t resist. I’m a sucker for a good dare - especially when margaritas have been consumed. And she’s just dared me to plant a surprise kiss on Brody’s sexy lips, while she records it for a trending TikTok challenge video.
But if I do this, it could change everything. My life is already pure chaos and maybe now is not the best time to shake things up even more.
Is it worth risking our friendship and his important role in my son’s life for one kiss? What if he wants more? What if I do?
Love & Other Chaos is a hilarious, steamy, friends-to-lovers romantic comedy featuring a drop dead gorgeous and seriously buff teacher with the hots for a single-mom of an autistic pre-teen son... who happens to be one of his students. This story also includes wise-cracking grandparents with zero respect for personal boundaries, swoon-worthy beach scenes, a jerky boss with no concept of personal space, nosey siblings and a foul-mouthed best friend who loves to instigate trouble. If you don't like sarcasm, steam, sexy-times, heroines who drink copious amounts of margaritas and laugh-a-minute dialogue, then this might not be the book for you. It’s a stand-alone novel with a happy ending, because cliffhangers will kill your margarita buzz.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 17, 2020
386 people are currently reading
1048 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Walker
17 books448 followersBe sure to follow me on BookBub so you don't miss out on news about my sales or releases: https://tinyurl.com/JackieWalkerBookBub
You can also sign-up for my newsletter or follow me on my socials by viewing my link tree: https://linktr.ee/authorjackiewalker
***
Jackie brings you stories featuring her signature blend of comedy, spice, suspense, multi-faceted characters, and romantic, heartwarming moments. A voracious romance reader herself, Jackie writes stories featuring the four
Ss: Suspense, Swoons, Steam, and Sarcasm.
Her heroines are badass, and her heroes are easy on the eyes and heavy on the charm. She loves writing characters with real emotions, flaws, and mental health issues and is known to send them to therapy where they belong. Let’s normalize that shit.
When she is not writing stories about swoony heroes and the women who get to play with them, she is avoiding life with an audiobook in her ears or taking care of her army of cats and peacocks or hanging with her teenage son (who also speaks fluent sarcasm).
You can also sign-up for my newsletter or follow me on my socials by viewing my link tree: https://linktr.ee/authorjackiewalker
***
Jackie brings you stories featuring her signature blend of comedy, spice, suspense, multi-faceted characters, and romantic, heartwarming moments. A voracious romance reader herself, Jackie writes stories featuring the four
Ss: Suspense, Swoons, Steam, and Sarcasm.
Her heroines are badass, and her heroes are easy on the eyes and heavy on the charm. She loves writing characters with real emotions, flaws, and mental health issues and is known to send them to therapy where they belong. Let’s normalize that shit.
When she is not writing stories about swoony heroes and the women who get to play with them, she is avoiding life with an audiobook in her ears or taking care of her army of cats and peacocks or hanging with her teenage son (who also speaks fluent sarcasm).
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April 26, 2022You’ve seen that chick walking into a bar wearing too much makeup, perfume, jewelry, and hairspray while too few clothes? Well, that’s this book…. Trying too hard in all the wrong places.
By page two, it’s obvious that this is a male character written by a middle-aged female writer. The writing voice oozes female… not dorky male, alpha male, or any other kind of male. Example… a parent walks in and gawks at how hot he is, and this is his internal response…
As much as this happens nowadays, I don’t think I’ll ever quite get used to the feeling of being desired strictly on sight alone. It’s not as great as you would think to be ogled like a piece of meat. Excuse me, ladies, but my eyes are up here!
🫥🙄
^ The writing voice is far from sexy. Zero testosterone. Fake. Flat.
Plus, the writing style is very proper, heavy, and winded. Too many words to convey a thought. Word choices give an essay, not novel, vibe. Writing is thrown at the reader verses from across the street verses being a tether to pull the reader along the journey alongside the characters.
Moving on….
The FMC voice is hardly any better.
Mr. Hale is officially to be known as ‘Mr. Hottie’ from here on out. I can’t wait to talk to my friend Helen about him. And I especially can’t wait to get her reaction to the pic of him I snapped on the sly, cause yeah — I’m that girl. I just couldn’t resist. It’s not every day you come across this level of fine male specimen. I was documenting it for posterity on behalf of the entire female species. You’re welcome, ladies. ….
I might have to break my current man-fast rule. It’s like a carb-fast or sugar-fast, but with men. ….
I guess it is good that I’m used to taking a lookie-no-touchy approach to the opposite gender, because that man is a very big temptation with all his bulging muscles,
^^ This shit reads like a pubescent diary entry. Her voice comes off like a smitten 12yo, not a woman in her mid-thirties.
The prologue was enough for me to determine this just isn’t for me, but I kept on to chapter one since the prologue said it was “three years ago.” Basically, the prologue is the day the MCs met. Chapter one is a fast forward of THREE YEARS. Yet, another thing that doesn’t work for me because I’m not going to buy a love story that I know was unimpressive enough to merit it taking at least THREE YEARs to develop into anything worth writing about.
DNF before sample was over.
By page two, it’s obvious that this is a male character written by a middle-aged female writer. The writing voice oozes female… not dorky male, alpha male, or any other kind of male. Example… a parent walks in and gawks at how hot he is, and this is his internal response…
As much as this happens nowadays, I don’t think I’ll ever quite get used to the feeling of being desired strictly on sight alone. It’s not as great as you would think to be ogled like a piece of meat. Excuse me, ladies, but my eyes are up here!
🫥🙄
^ The writing voice is far from sexy. Zero testosterone. Fake. Flat.
Plus, the writing style is very proper, heavy, and winded. Too many words to convey a thought. Word choices give an essay, not novel, vibe. Writing is thrown at the reader verses from across the street verses being a tether to pull the reader along the journey alongside the characters.
Moving on….
The FMC voice is hardly any better.
Mr. Hale is officially to be known as ‘Mr. Hottie’ from here on out. I can’t wait to talk to my friend Helen about him. And I especially can’t wait to get her reaction to the pic of him I snapped on the sly, cause yeah — I’m that girl. I just couldn’t resist. It’s not every day you come across this level of fine male specimen. I was documenting it for posterity on behalf of the entire female species. You’re welcome, ladies. ….
I might have to break my current man-fast rule. It’s like a carb-fast or sugar-fast, but with men. ….
I guess it is good that I’m used to taking a lookie-no-touchy approach to the opposite gender, because that man is a very big temptation with all his bulging muscles,
^^ This shit reads like a pubescent diary entry. Her voice comes off like a smitten 12yo, not a woman in her mid-thirties.
The prologue was enough for me to determine this just isn’t for me, but I kept on to chapter one since the prologue said it was “three years ago.” Basically, the prologue is the day the MCs met. Chapter one is a fast forward of THREE YEARS. Yet, another thing that doesn’t work for me because I’m not going to buy a love story that I know was unimpressive enough to merit it taking at least THREE YEARs to develop into anything worth writing about.
DNF before sample was over.
May 29, 2021
I think this is the first book where the grandparents nearly stole the show 😂 I want a novella of their love story, please.
Ah Cara & Brody are the definition of friends to lovers excellence with very high stakes. Brody is an excellent teacher, he has a great bond with Cara’s son who is autistic.
On a drunken dare Cara kisses Brody and sparks fly, you can’t put that lightning back in a bottle.
Ah Cara & Brody are the definition of friends to lovers excellence with very high stakes. Brody is an excellent teacher, he has a great bond with Cara’s son who is autistic.
On a drunken dare Cara kisses Brody and sparks fly, you can’t put that lightning back in a bottle.
January 9, 2021
I dont think I have ever read an authors first book when it is just out and now I am wandering why! This book is amazing and can see BIG things comming from Jackie in the future. Brody & Cara's story is hilarious,touching and just down right amazing! So glad I read this and really can't wait to read more from the Amos family.
April 16, 2025
Not Perfect, But Perfectly Enjoyable
I really enjoyed this book! I didn’t even realize it was the author’s debut novel until the end, and for a debut? Seriously impressive.
The cast of characters was fantastic, especially the secondary ones—so much personality and humor. It was a joy to read. The story also touched on some deeper topics, and while it didn’t get overly heavy, it offered a thoughtful and refreshing take. I think readers who’ve faced similar challenges might appreciate the different perspectives it offers, even if it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
My main critique is the first-person narration. The character occasionally breaks the fourth wall and speaks directly to the reader, which pulled me out of the story at times. It was usually done with humor, so it wasn’t awful—but I could’ve done without it. There was also quite a bit of internal dialogue that sometimes slowed the pacing and made things feel a little muddy.
Still, overall, I really liked it and definitely plan to read the rest of the series.
I really enjoyed this book! I didn’t even realize it was the author’s debut novel until the end, and for a debut? Seriously impressive.
The cast of characters was fantastic, especially the secondary ones—so much personality and humor. It was a joy to read. The story also touched on some deeper topics, and while it didn’t get overly heavy, it offered a thoughtful and refreshing take. I think readers who’ve faced similar challenges might appreciate the different perspectives it offers, even if it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
My main critique is the first-person narration. The character occasionally breaks the fourth wall and speaks directly to the reader, which pulled me out of the story at times. It was usually done with humor, so it wasn’t awful—but I could’ve done without it. There was also quite a bit of internal dialogue that sometimes slowed the pacing and made things feel a little muddy.
Still, overall, I really liked it and definitely plan to read the rest of the series.
January 1, 2024
A hot teacher and a single mom
Brody and Cara were fun to read. Their chemistry and attraction is very entertaining.
I enjoy this author and her numerous other creative works. She is recommended reading.
Brody and Cara were fun to read. Their chemistry and attraction is very entertaining.
I enjoy this author and her numerous other creative works. She is recommended reading.
Want to read
July 17, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (7/17/2021)! 🎁
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December 10, 2022No.
January 24, 2021
I picked up this novel in KU after it was mentioned in an author newsletter. I love to read debut novels and encourage talented new romance authors. Sometimes the debut novel is disappointing and sometimes they are ok with a lot of potential for growth. Other times, like with this one, I know I have found gold and that I will be reading every book this author puts out. Love & Other Chaos is written in first person from a dual POV.
This friends-to-lovers novel tracks the relationship of Cara (a sarcastic, funny, and sharp-witted single mom of a pre-teen boy on the spectrum) and Brody (a fourth grade teacher). When they first meet, they have an instant attraction to each other that cannot go anywhere because Brody is the teacher for Cara's son, Miles. Over the course of the school year and the diagnosis of Miles of being high functioning autistic and ADHD, they develop a friendship filled with snark, sarcasm, and humor. When a dare leads Cara to kiss Brody after three years of friendship, the only option is to move forward to their HEA and embrace the feelings they have been denying.
Cara has her hands full. Not only are she and Miles adjusting to handling things in a different way than most children, but Cara is also the primary caregiver for her two elderly grandparents and about a dozen cats. There is A LOT of humor that comes from the situations with Cara and her family. She is hilarious and her self talk is outrageously funny. I should mention that she also has a collection of margarita inspired t-shirts that forced me to laugh out loud on multiple occasions throughout the book. Brody is caring, buff, and an all around good guy that I adored. I loved how much he loves his teaching career while still laughing at some things that teachers definitely laugh at. I love how accepting he is of Cara and Miles and the way he supports them. I love the heat between the two of them as they pursue a physical relationship (see me fanning myself here). I love the quirky family members and friends that surround them and encourage them.
This book also cleverly covers sexual harassment in the workplace as Cara takes on her slimy and pervy boss. The family and friend group pulls together to make the near-impossible happen and I loved it. (Here, I will also mention that Cara's best friend Helen is a character I just want to hang out with. That girl speaks every thought that comes through her head and I loved it!)
On a serious note, I will say I was immeasurably touched by Cara and Miles and the story of his diagnosis. It is apparent that the author knows this subject well. As I was reading about Miles and his behaviors I could not help but think of my son, who is now 25. No one ever offered to test him for the spectrum. It never occurred to me either. I am thankful that this is much more talked about now and that there are more resources available. However, reading this book, I am convinced that my son may very well be high functioning autistic. Though this fills me with some understanding, it also fills me with a large amount of guilt. I now know that there were things I could have done or done differently that might have made his life a little easier. Thought he has now successfully graduated college, he still struggles in so many social situations. I will be following up on some research to see of there are things I can do at this point to help him. One of the marks of an excellent book for me is this: does it make me think, dig deeper, research, or expand my knowledge? This book has done that for me.
I felt like the writing was on-point and funny. The black moment did not overwhelm me, which I appreciate in a rom-com. The pacing and the character development were both very good. There are a handful of errors (usage and spelling) that should have been caught in editing, but they were not prolific and did not pull me out of the story. (Honestly, it is a curse that I often catch these as most would not.) I appreciated the deeper sub-plots in addition to the love story, and I adored both Cara and Brody. I look forward to reading more by this new and promising author in the indie romance community. I definitely recommend that you pick up this book and allow yourself a laugh (or several) and a swoon or two.
This friends-to-lovers novel tracks the relationship of Cara (a sarcastic, funny, and sharp-witted single mom of a pre-teen boy on the spectrum) and Brody (a fourth grade teacher). When they first meet, they have an instant attraction to each other that cannot go anywhere because Brody is the teacher for Cara's son, Miles. Over the course of the school year and the diagnosis of Miles of being high functioning autistic and ADHD, they develop a friendship filled with snark, sarcasm, and humor. When a dare leads Cara to kiss Brody after three years of friendship, the only option is to move forward to their HEA and embrace the feelings they have been denying.
Cara has her hands full. Not only are she and Miles adjusting to handling things in a different way than most children, but Cara is also the primary caregiver for her two elderly grandparents and about a dozen cats. There is A LOT of humor that comes from the situations with Cara and her family. She is hilarious and her self talk is outrageously funny. I should mention that she also has a collection of margarita inspired t-shirts that forced me to laugh out loud on multiple occasions throughout the book. Brody is caring, buff, and an all around good guy that I adored. I loved how much he loves his teaching career while still laughing at some things that teachers definitely laugh at. I love how accepting he is of Cara and Miles and the way he supports them. I love the heat between the two of them as they pursue a physical relationship (see me fanning myself here). I love the quirky family members and friends that surround them and encourage them.
This book also cleverly covers sexual harassment in the workplace as Cara takes on her slimy and pervy boss. The family and friend group pulls together to make the near-impossible happen and I loved it. (Here, I will also mention that Cara's best friend Helen is a character I just want to hang out with. That girl speaks every thought that comes through her head and I loved it!)
On a serious note, I will say I was immeasurably touched by Cara and Miles and the story of his diagnosis. It is apparent that the author knows this subject well. As I was reading about Miles and his behaviors I could not help but think of my son, who is now 25. No one ever offered to test him for the spectrum. It never occurred to me either. I am thankful that this is much more talked about now and that there are more resources available. However, reading this book, I am convinced that my son may very well be high functioning autistic. Though this fills me with some understanding, it also fills me with a large amount of guilt. I now know that there were things I could have done or done differently that might have made his life a little easier. Thought he has now successfully graduated college, he still struggles in so many social situations. I will be following up on some research to see of there are things I can do at this point to help him. One of the marks of an excellent book for me is this: does it make me think, dig deeper, research, or expand my knowledge? This book has done that for me.
I felt like the writing was on-point and funny. The black moment did not overwhelm me, which I appreciate in a rom-com. The pacing and the character development were both very good. There are a handful of errors (usage and spelling) that should have been caught in editing, but they were not prolific and did not pull me out of the story. (Honestly, it is a curse that I often catch these as most would not.) I appreciated the deeper sub-plots in addition to the love story, and I adored both Cara and Brody. I look forward to reading more by this new and promising author in the indie romance community. I definitely recommend that you pick up this book and allow yourself a laugh (or several) and a swoon or two.
April 25, 2021
Holy schnikes!!! I am blown away! This is a debut book? Dumbfounded and speechless... Give me a moment...
Okay. Let's get down to business. This book is PRECIOUS! Like, seriously precious! Amos-Holes aren't the only ones with gif game!
Crap... I strayed again didn't I? Back to the book. This beautiful, hilarious, sweet book with a gooey, sticky, delicious cinnamon roll of a hero, and a margherita loving, boisterous family havin', force of nature heroine!
Brody Hale is a fourth grade teacher, once who has remained firmly in the friend zone of a beautiful mom who captured his attention from day one. But he's professional and wouldn't cross that line. Now her son is a few grades out of his class and opportunity knocks.
It knocks his fricking socks off that is! Cara Amos's best friend is diabolical. She can't refuse a dare! Especially one that's also a viral Tiktok challenge. Kiss your best friend and see what he does.
I think we all know where this is going... And dagnabbit does is go there well! The dialogue is punchy and fun, group family texts will leave your sides splitting, and there's even a healthy dose of feels. I've never read an author who strikes this well on her first book! And I can't wait to read what the rest of the Amos-Holes are up to!
Okay. Let's get down to business. This book is PRECIOUS! Like, seriously precious! Amos-Holes aren't the only ones with gif game!
Crap... I strayed again didn't I? Back to the book. This beautiful, hilarious, sweet book with a gooey, sticky, delicious cinnamon roll of a hero, and a margherita loving, boisterous family havin', force of nature heroine!
Brody Hale is a fourth grade teacher, once who has remained firmly in the friend zone of a beautiful mom who captured his attention from day one. But he's professional and wouldn't cross that line. Now her son is a few grades out of his class and opportunity knocks.
It knocks his fricking socks off that is! Cara Amos's best friend is diabolical. She can't refuse a dare! Especially one that's also a viral Tiktok challenge. Kiss your best friend and see what he does.
I think we all know where this is going... And dagnabbit does is go there well! The dialogue is punchy and fun, group family texts will leave your sides splitting, and there's even a healthy dose of feels. I've never read an author who strikes this well on her first book! And I can't wait to read what the rest of the Amos-Holes are up to!
April 9, 2023
This was a fun read if you’re looking for a bit of forbidden romance mixed with the single mom trope! When cara meets her son’s new teacher, Brody, she know that she’s immediately attracted to him and same with Brody. But Brody has a rule that he never sleeps with parents. Fast forward to three years later, and now they are the best of friends. I really liked how Brody knew Cara so well. I also loved how he was always there to help her. Cara is a single mom whose son is autistic. Not only she is single mom, but she’s also taking care of her elderly grandparents. Having been burned before, she has worn off men. But when her best friend dares her to kiss Brody, Brody and Cara cannot fight their chemistry anymore. My heart melted every time Brody would interact with Cara’s so. He was so patient with him. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was a little bit of Cara. Sometimes her dialogue or the inner thought she would think would sound like someone younger and definitely not a mom. Also her sarcastic humor got on my nerves a bit lol.
I am really excited though to read the following books as they feature Cara’s siblings!
Read if you like:
Dual POVs
Single Mom x Teacher
Swoony hero
Autistic son
Open door romance
Forbidden romance
Friends to lovers
I am really excited though to read the following books as they feature Cara’s siblings!
Read if you like:
Dual POVs
Single Mom x Teacher
Swoony hero
Autistic son
Open door romance
Forbidden romance
Friends to lovers
May 23, 2023
Love & other Chaos is book 1 in the Love & Laughs series.
This book lives up to both its title and the series name!
This is a laugh out loud, light-hearted, slow burn, friends to lovers, parent teacher, romantic comedy that delivers at every turn. I devoured this book in 1 day because I could not stop reading. It's a fun, easy, quick read while not lacking in plot or detail.
Cara and Brody have hilarious banter and quirky encounters while both trying to decide how to proceed with the feelings they are fighting.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🔥🔥🔥
This book features an FMC who is a single parent to an autistic son. The care with which the autism was represented is exceptional. As a mom to a child on the spectrum, it resonated so deeply with me how the FMC has to learn to navigate a world surrounding her son who doesn't quite fit into what everyone expects from him. The acknowledgment that autism looks different for every child and that different isn't wrong or bad without pushing a strict 'awareness agenda' was refreshing and beautifully done! Huge props Ms. Walker!!
As seems to be a trend with this author, I MUST, once again, comment on the writing structure and editing. Superb!
This book lives up to both its title and the series name!
This is a laugh out loud, light-hearted, slow burn, friends to lovers, parent teacher, romantic comedy that delivers at every turn. I devoured this book in 1 day because I could not stop reading. It's a fun, easy, quick read while not lacking in plot or detail.
Cara and Brody have hilarious banter and quirky encounters while both trying to decide how to proceed with the feelings they are fighting.
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🔥🔥🔥
This book features an FMC who is a single parent to an autistic son. The care with which the autism was represented is exceptional. As a mom to a child on the spectrum, it resonated so deeply with me how the FMC has to learn to navigate a world surrounding her son who doesn't quite fit into what everyone expects from him. The acknowledgment that autism looks different for every child and that different isn't wrong or bad without pushing a strict 'awareness agenda' was refreshing and beautifully done! Huge props Ms. Walker!!
As seems to be a trend with this author, I MUST, once again, comment on the writing structure and editing. Superb!
April 27, 2021
When I mentioned to the author that I normally like dark and dreary (ones that push the envelope sometimes a bit too far) but I was wanting to read something more light and fluffy she suggest this book. I am thoroughly happy I gave this book a chance and even this genre!
Brody & Cara's relationship is funny, emotional, light and fluffy, serious, down to earth and all the other words you want to describe. They seemed like a REAL couple and sometimes that's hard to do with books because we get swooped up into a fantasy land and sometimes the characters don't act like normal people but I'm so happy the author portrayed them as normal.
I loved all the side characters and the interactions, I actually found myself laughing quite a bit through this book and it was just what I needed as an escape from my dark fantasy romances.
I may not venture too much into this genre but I will in the future be seeking out more books by the author even if it is to escape how heavy the dark books I read are. Thank you to the author for choosing this one!
Brody & Cara's relationship is funny, emotional, light and fluffy, serious, down to earth and all the other words you want to describe. They seemed like a REAL couple and sometimes that's hard to do with books because we get swooped up into a fantasy land and sometimes the characters don't act like normal people but I'm so happy the author portrayed them as normal.
I loved all the side characters and the interactions, I actually found myself laughing quite a bit through this book and it was just what I needed as an escape from my dark fantasy romances.
I may not venture too much into this genre but I will in the future be seeking out more books by the author even if it is to escape how heavy the dark books I read are. Thank you to the author for choosing this one!
May 24, 2021
This book was absolutely fantastic. I loved it from page 1, maybe even the first paragraph. Jackie is officially one of my favorite authors. I laughed so hard at times and almost choked on my coffee a few times. Most definitely 5 stars. The book is based right near where I live so that was a huge bonus for me. The sarcasm and jokes were very entertaining. The characters pulled you in fast and never let you go. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Cara is a sarcastic, lovable single mom. She is sooo relatable for me. She isn’t perfect and lets you know from the get go that she isn’t. She has her hands full like most single moms but with a little extra. She is so patient with her family. Cara and her best friend Helen are great with their banter.
Brody is 4th grade teacher with some issues in his past. He has a great heart and its so easy to see how much he cares. His best friend Hudson is his opposite in so many ways but its funny when they start talking.
Cara is a sarcastic, lovable single mom. She is sooo relatable for me. She isn’t perfect and lets you know from the get go that she isn’t. She has her hands full like most single moms but with a little extra. She is so patient with her family. Cara and her best friend Helen are great with their banter.
Brody is 4th grade teacher with some issues in his past. He has a great heart and its so easy to see how much he cares. His best friend Hudson is his opposite in so many ways but its funny when they start talking.
October 21, 2025
Parts of the book are funny, enjoyable even, but overall, it's way over the top - beyond chaos.
The sarcasm is relentless and over explained. Done right, it is hilarious, as a personality, it's not as much fun.
The perviness of her and her brother in the training room is just gross and just takes away from the issues she is fighting there. She's really not much better than her brother, even though she chastises him. She had so many opportunities to separate herself from the ick by I don't know, refusing to spontaneously ovulate over the baseball player because she's no pedophile or declaring how much more fulfilling it is to work on a man's body when she's helping Brody, and not making comments about the athletes to the intern.
All the characters, main and side, act more like middle schoolers than people in their late 30s and 40s.
In spite of the ick and immaturity of these nearly middle-aged MCs, there were some sweet and genuinely funny moments.
The sarcasm is relentless and over explained. Done right, it is hilarious, as a personality, it's not as much fun.
The perviness of her and her brother in the training room is just gross and just takes away from the issues she is fighting there. She's really not much better than her brother, even though she chastises him. She had so many opportunities to separate herself from the ick by I don't know, refusing to spontaneously ovulate over the baseball player because she's no pedophile or declaring how much more fulfilling it is to work on a man's body when she's helping Brody, and not making comments about the athletes to the intern.
All the characters, main and side, act more like middle schoolers than people in their late 30s and 40s.
In spite of the ick and immaturity of these nearly middle-aged MCs, there were some sweet and genuinely funny moments.
January 4, 2021
Best first novel I've ever read
This book was suggested to me as a fit for a "Hero is a Teacher" category on a reading challenge, and never in a million years would I have guessed this was the authors first full length novel. I LOVED it! Rom-Com is my jam, and I've head hundreds of them, so you can trust my opinion when I say that this is a great romantic comedy, and you should definitely read it. Cara is a quirky, funny heroine with a HILARIOUS inner monologue (seriously, I laughed out loud often!), and the most awesome collection of margarita-inspired t-shirts that I must find. Brody is an honest, dedicated teacher with the biggest, best heart that made me want to hug him so hard, even though he's fictional. I cheered so much for this book, and I think you would too. Thanks for the story, Jackie. I loved it.
This book was suggested to me as a fit for a "Hero is a Teacher" category on a reading challenge, and never in a million years would I have guessed this was the authors first full length novel. I LOVED it! Rom-Com is my jam, and I've head hundreds of them, so you can trust my opinion when I say that this is a great romantic comedy, and you should definitely read it. Cara is a quirky, funny heroine with a HILARIOUS inner monologue (seriously, I laughed out loud often!), and the most awesome collection of margarita-inspired t-shirts that I must find. Brody is an honest, dedicated teacher with the biggest, best heart that made me want to hug him so hard, even though he's fictional. I cheered so much for this book, and I think you would too. Thanks for the story, Jackie. I loved it.
January 14, 2021
Super fun story, start to finish
I fell a little in love with Brody and I totally want to be Cara when I grow up. She is definitely Wonder Woman! I know 100% where she's coming from and the road she's walking. It's not even a little easy to be a single parent to a special needs child, but most of the time the awesome outweighs the suck. Jackie Walker did a truly wonderful job of showing the hard times as well as the unique personality and outlook of a special needs child. She also totally nailed the fear of single moms all over the world when it comes to dating. And parenting. I feel like she heard every thought I've had over the last 13 years and put them all in this book. Every mom like me is just hoping and praying for their own Brody.
That said, can't wait to see what the next book has in store for us.
I fell a little in love with Brody and I totally want to be Cara when I grow up. She is definitely Wonder Woman! I know 100% where she's coming from and the road she's walking. It's not even a little easy to be a single parent to a special needs child, but most of the time the awesome outweighs the suck. Jackie Walker did a truly wonderful job of showing the hard times as well as the unique personality and outlook of a special needs child. She also totally nailed the fear of single moms all over the world when it comes to dating. And parenting. I feel like she heard every thought I've had over the last 13 years and put them all in this book. Every mom like me is just hoping and praying for their own Brody.
That said, can't wait to see what the next book has in store for us.
August 20, 2023
Such a perfect steamy rom com!! I absolutely loved this book!! There are so many funny moments and lots of touching, heartfelt moments too! The “forbidden romance” aspect of this book is done so well and kept me wanting more! I definitely had a major book boyfriend crush on Brody! He is the total package and I loved reading from his point of view. He’s such a hottie with a heart of gold. The way he cared for Miles was so incredibly sweet! Cara is a feisty red head with so much passion and is totally rocking it as a single mom. She deals with some pretty traumatizing things and is so resilient and inspiring. And I have to say her inner dialogue is absolutely hilarious. Her sense of humor is top notch! I loved seeing the sparks fly between her and Brody! The spicy scenes are so delicious! Their romance had me swooning and gave me chills.
Thank you so much Jackie for the gifted copy!
Thank you so much Jackie for the gifted copy!
January 13, 2021
Cara & Brody
This is a very enjoyable read from an up and coming author who is definitely one to follow. I loved this cast of characters and felt the author's personality shined through in the humor and banter. The author was also able to catch me by surprise in a couple plot points, which is not an easy task in the romance genre. And I have to point out how gracefully this book addresses life with a special needs child and the care of elderly family members--blending the humor, frustration, and blessings in a way that avoided any melodrama. Given the heroine is only one of five single siblings, I suspect there is more to come from the Amos clan--and I'm looking forward to it.
This is a very enjoyable read from an up and coming author who is definitely one to follow. I loved this cast of characters and felt the author's personality shined through in the humor and banter. The author was also able to catch me by surprise in a couple plot points, which is not an easy task in the romance genre. And I have to point out how gracefully this book addresses life with a special needs child and the care of elderly family members--blending the humor, frustration, and blessings in a way that avoided any melodrama. Given the heroine is only one of five single siblings, I suspect there is more to come from the Amos clan--and I'm looking forward to it.
September 12, 2021
I have never laughed so hard in a very long time while reading. Cara is probably one of the funniest female characters I’ve read. Her sarcasm is refreshing, and I may relate a little too well to her. I mean, I’ve been known to use sarcasm more than once when I’m stressed to the max.
Brody fits into her chaos almost effortlessly. An only child who finds her much larger and loud family refreshing. He accepts her autistic child, doesn’t think him odd or run when the road isn’t always perfect. Protective of Cara, even when someone thinks they can intimidate her.
If you are looking for a light read, with a touch on a few sensitive subjects, and some hot sexy moments, then I recommend this book. I will read more of her books, so I can find out what happens to all Cara’s siblings.
Brody fits into her chaos almost effortlessly. An only child who finds her much larger and loud family refreshing. He accepts her autistic child, doesn’t think him odd or run when the road isn’t always perfect. Protective of Cara, even when someone thinks they can intimidate her.
If you are looking for a light read, with a touch on a few sensitive subjects, and some hot sexy moments, then I recommend this book. I will read more of her books, so I can find out what happens to all Cara’s siblings.
June 26, 2024
.....
After being burned by men, Cara has swore off men till her ASD son is grown that is until lines get crossed with her best friend & her sons favourite teacher. Will Cara finally find what she's been waiting for or will her world burn to the ground yet again.
Love the easy chemistry & banter between Cara & Brody but by far my favourite character has to be Miles.
Jackie has managed yet again to write on point characteristics of another side of ASD. The complex nature and difficulties of children like Miles are extremely hard to put into words but Jackie brought Miles to life & pulled it off perfectly.
I loved how Brody didn't go all macho but stuck to his true nature & fought with his brains.
After being burned by men, Cara has swore off men till her ASD son is grown that is until lines get crossed with her best friend & her sons favourite teacher. Will Cara finally find what she's been waiting for or will her world burn to the ground yet again.
Love the easy chemistry & banter between Cara & Brody but by far my favourite character has to be Miles.
Jackie has managed yet again to write on point characteristics of another side of ASD. The complex nature and difficulties of children like Miles are extremely hard to put into words but Jackie brought Miles to life & pulled it off perfectly.
I loved how Brody didn't go all macho but stuck to his true nature & fought with his brains.
December 31, 2020
This was adorable. I normally don’t review the first book by an author, since they are getting into the groove, but Ms. Walker aced this novel. The characters were realistic and hilarious. Brody is a strong and serious teacher who puts the kids first and Carina (Cara) is a frazzled but well loving single mother of a sweet boy. I was in constant giggles over the near miss brooding and loved the slow burn build up.
The side characters are hilarious, and grandpa Dickie may be my favorite. (Who doesn’t enjoy an octogenarian hitting on Alexa?)
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a hilarious comedy with a fantastic happily ever after.
The side characters are hilarious, and grandpa Dickie may be my favorite. (Who doesn’t enjoy an octogenarian hitting on Alexa?)
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a hilarious comedy with a fantastic happily ever after.
January 31, 2021
So much fun and warm fuzzies!
As Jackie's first book, this is a winner to say the least. I enjoyed every moment and can't wait for her to publish more. Brody is a gorgeous hunk of man meat fourth-grade teacher as hunky on the inside as out. Her autistic son is new to his class. When the beautiful storm of a mom blows into his classroom like a hurricane, his heart gets caught up in the whirlwind.
You can read the blurb anywhere, so I'm just going to tell you to read the book. If you like down-to-earth warmth, laughter, a few tears, and some sexy times; you won't be disappointed in the least. My only criticism would be the need for a teensy bit more proofreading.
As Jackie's first book, this is a winner to say the least. I enjoyed every moment and can't wait for her to publish more. Brody is a gorgeous hunk of man meat fourth-grade teacher as hunky on the inside as out. Her autistic son is new to his class. When the beautiful storm of a mom blows into his classroom like a hurricane, his heart gets caught up in the whirlwind.
You can read the blurb anywhere, so I'm just going to tell you to read the book. If you like down-to-earth warmth, laughter, a few tears, and some sexy times; you won't be disappointed in the least. My only criticism would be the need for a teensy bit more proofreading.
December 20, 2021
This book should come with a Life Alert bracelet
Warning: You will laugh so much throughout this book at the fantastic and witty writing. If you read this book with an upper respiratory infection you *MUST* have your inhaler nearby and a Life Alert bracelet handy.
Here are a few of the things that had me laughing out loud (and gasping for breath):
- Drinking puns
- Harry Potter reference
- Dad jokes
- Crazy grandparents
- A dozen cats
- Surely/Shirley Airplane references
I loved every sentance that Jackie Walker wrote and I’m not sure if I’ve ever highlighted so many funny parts in a book before.
Warning: You will laugh so much throughout this book at the fantastic and witty writing. If you read this book with an upper respiratory infection you *MUST* have your inhaler nearby and a Life Alert bracelet handy.
Here are a few of the things that had me laughing out loud (and gasping for breath):
- Drinking puns
- Harry Potter reference
- Dad jokes
- Crazy grandparents
- A dozen cats
- Surely/Shirley Airplane references
I loved every sentance that Jackie Walker wrote and I’m not sure if I’ve ever highlighted so many funny parts in a book before.
November 14, 2022
This book started off well, but just took too long to get to point - which was the tik tok video.
And then there were hints of good fun and spice (visions of dress ups and spanking) but when it came to the real deal... Meh.
I found bith mc's a bit wishy washy, and the side characters too distracting for no reason at all. Hudsun was an old surfer basically - the way he spoke was off putting.
And the sexual harassment was... Not odd, because that should never be equated, but, I don't know, I just felt like the way cara dealt with it was very ott. But I do get that you need more because he said she said Is far too prevalent.
But, ja, basically from 70% I skimmed to see how it ended.
And then there were hints of good fun and spice (visions of dress ups and spanking) but when it came to the real deal... Meh.
I found bith mc's a bit wishy washy, and the side characters too distracting for no reason at all. Hudsun was an old surfer basically - the way he spoke was off putting.
And the sexual harassment was... Not odd, because that should never be equated, but, I don't know, I just felt like the way cara dealt with it was very ott. But I do get that you need more because he said she said Is far too prevalent.
But, ja, basically from 70% I skimmed to see how it ended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2022
This is a very off putting family. The brother Cort sexualizes his patients who are college girls and it’s super inappropriate. It’s not funny it’s gross that he thinks inappropriately about these girls who could be 18 come to him for help but he just wants to touch their bodies. Then Cara also loves when hot young college guys come in so she can touch their bodies. Then the grandpa touches the flight attendants butt but it’s funny and okay because he’s old. Cara complains about her slimy boss but honestly she and her brother don’t have much room to talk. Going to try to read Corts story and hopefully there’s some explanation for the way he talks.
Brody’s great so there’s that.
Brody’s great so there’s that.
February 18, 2023
I am 28% through… This author is trying too hard to be like Lauren Ashley… Trying too hard to be funny and nothing is funny… Cara is so goddamn annoying and sarcastic… she is the mother of a high functioning autistic son, she doesn’t want to put him in any special-needs classes because she wants him to be somewhat normal, but says he doesn’t have any friends in school, hasn’t had a good day since the 4th grade and eats lunch by himself, is she a fucking idiot? Why is her teacher friend of 3 years in a group text with her family? Her and her brother are almost 40 and work at a college and are hot for the college students.. I don’t know what everyone else is reading but I can’t go on — DNF
October 14, 2025
so hilarious.
Loved this story. I actually got started with a book in a spin off of this family and then had to start from the beginning. Love Brody and Cara, they are legit so complementary to one another and bring out the best in each other. There were too many laugh out loud moments to count. Cara’s inner monologue is hysterical, and she pretty much says whatever pops into her head so it’s always a riot. Loved how Brody supported her in her quest for justice and trusted her judgment but then helped to seal the deal. Great ending.
Loved this story. I actually got started with a book in a spin off of this family and then had to start from the beginning. Love Brody and Cara, they are legit so complementary to one another and bring out the best in each other. There were too many laugh out loud moments to count. Cara’s inner monologue is hysterical, and she pretty much says whatever pops into her head so it’s always a riot. Loved how Brody supported her in her quest for justice and trusted her judgment but then helped to seal the deal. Great ending.
February 6, 2021
Laugh out loud, fun, romantic comedy
I enjoyed reading this rom-com. There was so many moments I was laughing out loud. You can actually connect with single mom Cara who juggles working, raising a special needs son, and caring for aging grandparents. The chemistry between Cara and Brody goes from flirt to flaming hot after a surprise attack kiss. The book was fun to read and I can’t wait for more books.
I enjoyed reading this rom-com. There was so many moments I was laughing out loud. You can actually connect with single mom Cara who juggles working, raising a special needs son, and caring for aging grandparents. The chemistry between Cara and Brody goes from flirt to flaming hot after a surprise attack kiss. The book was fun to read and I can’t wait for more books.
October 25, 2021
Fantastic friend to lovers story
I love Brody, Cara and Miles!
I love a good slow burn with epic levels of angst, passion and built up and Love & Other Chaos had it all! I loved that the story took years to come to fruition and that it felt so realistic and not rushed at all.
Once Brody and Cara finally got together the heat was cracked up a notch or two and had my blushing.
Amazing job as always
I love Brody, Cara and Miles!
I love a good slow burn with epic levels of angst, passion and built up and Love & Other Chaos had it all! I loved that the story took years to come to fruition and that it felt so realistic and not rushed at all.
Once Brody and Cara finally got together the heat was cracked up a notch or two and had my blushing.
Amazing job as always
April 23, 2022
Difficult to finish
This book had a great story line. I just had such a hard time connecting with Cara. She was so far beyond sarcastic it’s not even funny. I love a leading lady who has a great sense of humor, but this was just too much. I pushed through to the end because I hate leaving books unfinished, but I wanted to give it up multiple times. Some people may love her character, but this just wasn’t the book for me.
This book had a great story line. I just had such a hard time connecting with Cara. She was so far beyond sarcastic it’s not even funny. I love a leading lady who has a great sense of humor, but this was just too much. I pushed through to the end because I hate leaving books unfinished, but I wanted to give it up multiple times. Some people may love her character, but this just wasn’t the book for me.
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