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Mascara and Mascato

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Nina is strong and independent in all aspects of her life. She prides herself on being there for everyone but she often forgets about the one that matters the most: her husband Travis. When Travis is finally fed up with coming second to her friends, will Nina act right or get left? Allie has been with her kid's father Spade for nine years. Through the good, the bad, and the ugly, she has stuck by his side. But when he loses his job and starts drinking excessively, Allie is fed up. Tired of waiting for a ring and under pressure to finish school, Allie vulnerably falls into the arms of another man although all she wants is Spade. Will Allie fight for the love she's known her whole life or will she leave him and his empty promises alone? Take an emotional ride with these ladies as they deal with the men that drive to them drink Moscato through the tears and the friends that give them mascara to hide the pain.

490 pages, Paperback

First published September 21, 2015

75 people are currently reading
125 people want to read

About the author

Shakela James

22 books75 followers

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5 stars
144 (72%)
4 stars
38 (19%)
3 stars
11 (5%)
2 stars
3 (1%)
1 star
2 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
Profile Image for Shakeria Sharie.
669 reviews31 followers
October 13, 2015
This book had me up and down. I laughed, I cried, and I screamed a little lol. I loved this book. It had such a great amount of drama. Nina was a bad wife but I had still felt bad for her. She should have just talked to her husband a long time ago. Channel came a long way. When Eric's wife dropped that bomb, my mouth was hanging open. I was glad she became a better person tho. Allie & Spade, gotta love them. Allie was a great person all around. She made her mistake and learned from it. Spade worked hard to became a better man for his family. Poor Sweetie. Noah was a horrible man and I was glad about his fate. I'm glad I wasn't wearing mascara lol. Great read!
Profile Image for Kendell That'sMe.
167 reviews14 followers
November 12, 2015
I just finished reading Mascara and Moscato I am the type of reader who Judge a book by its cover and when i 1st seen the cover i knew i wanted to read it.From the very 1st page it drew me in.The main characters Was all going through so much i wanted to Hate Nina But couldn't Some don't know how to love.Sweetie i felt sorry for,Chanel was a piece of work.But Allie was my favorite Character.Dont want to give to much of the story away.Its a must read.My favorite part of the book was it's only one Part "STANDALONE" so for me to sum it all up
Book Cover-Loved it
Story-Excellent it's a page Turner
Standalone Book -No more parts to wait on
loved it!!
Profile Image for Destiny “ Dee” .
209 reviews97 followers
May 19, 2021
Good Read

Good book. Kept my attention. Enjoyed the weaving of stories and characters. My first time reading a book by this author. It won’t be my last.
Profile Image for Tina.
121 reviews14 followers
August 26, 2017
What can I say about this book?  In the beginning I was a little hesitant because I felt like there were too many characters . Once I became involved in the story and got to know the characters I was fine. The story centers around friends who congregate to have Mascara and Moscato night. We find out that the friends who seemed to have the perfect lives were not that perfect.This novel reminds us that although we may be close to our friends they probably have skeletons in their closet that they're not sharing. I laughed, cried,and shook my head at times. At 2:00 in the morning I wanted to call the author and give her a piece of my mind. She toyed with my emotions. That's not the ending that I wanted but nevertheless I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I enjoyed it so much that I chose it as my book club selection.   There were editing issues but they did not take away from the heart of the story. I look forward to reading more from Shakela James.
EyeCU Reading Approved and Recommended
86 reviews1 follower
August 26, 2017
I enjoyed the book although the author needs to have it re-edited. The book was about four long time friends who find themselves in trying situations. The story reinforced how true friends will always be there and can overcome anything no matter what. I really liked their relationships and how they'd have Mascara and Moscato night where they would let their hair down and and catch up with each other. I also liked the concept of taking it to the sandbox, which was discussing issues and closing the topic of discussion once out of the sandbox. I would recommend this book.

EyeCU Approved  
Profile Image for Rhena Deshaun.
113 reviews1 follower
August 23, 2017
Once I started reading this book I had to see how it ended. This book was intriguing from beginning to end. I even put myself in the book and wanted to interact with the characters on a personaI level. If you are looking for a good to the end girlfriend book, then this is for you!😍
Profile Image for Kaylynn.
Author 34 books84 followers
August 19, 2017
I hate secrets

Every family (that's what these set of friends are) had their share of drama. This lot was in abundance. There were plenty life lessons scattered throughout. There were times when I find myself saying "that makes no sense" then I reminded myself that people often don't. I was so drawn in I wad moved to tears.

EyeCU Reading Approved
Profile Image for Kitani.
1,573 reviews
October 11, 2015
Mascara and Moscato

Damn I loved this book! They were experiencing one situation after the other. Nina was too head strong and she pissed me off a lot throughout this read. The one thing Travis wanted more than anything she was determined not to give it to him. Finding out about her secret only made me look at her sideways but how she handled Gabi took the cake for me. She should've known eventually everything would come out and she'd have to accept the role she played. Chanel was something else. She may have had her issues but she was as real as they come. I just hated she kept allowing Eric to treat her the way he did. I was feeling bad for Jah for a second but that all changed once learning what he was truly about. Poor Sweetie. It's never easy dealing with what she was going through but I agree one has to be willing to help themself in order to appreciate the help offered by loved ones. I was hoping she'd kill Noah once and for all. Noah was a true coward and sickening. I didn't agree with how Wendy went about things but learning how Noah did her shows that when you're trying to trick one person, someone may try doing the same to you. I applauded Wendy at the end though because she helped a lot. I so loved Allie and Spade. Yeah they fell on hard times but they bounced back and got their relationship on track. Spade took the necessary steps to help himself but also prove he wanted his family and would do whatever was necessary to get them at a better place. I thought Allie would lose focus and fall for Heem's bs but I'm glad she realized his real agenda. Man why Travis though? I swear if it was possible to choke Nina I would. I got to give it to you Shakela cause you sure broke me down! I didn't know what to expect but job well done!
Profile Image for Tierra.
399 reviews4 followers
December 6, 2015
Such a well written story. The story line was just so real and thoughtful. I'm very proud that Chanel was able to overcome the lust for Eric, but after hearing about him anyone would. Allied was strong minded event hough she may not have thought so sometime, but she knew he man and she know how deep their love was...Kick rocks Jah. I wanted to reach through the pages and shake Nina, just so selfish. What's that saying, "Your Never Know What You have Until Its Gone." You definitely had a bunch of surprises. This group had a lot to overcome and its some many woman out here who go through the very thing. The book has a lot teaching and learning points that any man or woman could use. One great thing I like that you stressed is the issue of Domestic Violence, sadly so many believe that that's true love and it not. I've seen issue like this first hand but thankfully the individual was able to walk away, some are not as fortunate. Your a very good writer and I hope to enjoy more of your books.
Profile Image for Itatshia.
266 reviews9 followers
January 23, 2016
Wowwwwww!!!!!

All I can say is YOU DID THAT! This book definitely threw me for a loop. Idk what I was expecting but it was not this. I was captivated from the beginning and I couldn't stop reading. I will say there was some emotional parts but the main thing that happened tore me up. I cried and cried and then cried a little more. I didn't think I would be able to finish the book after that. There are so many Allies, chanel's, Nina's and Sweetie's in the world and half the time we never even know. I love when a author can bring real life issues into a book and make it positive. This is someone's reality right now. Somebody out there was definitely saved after reading this. Definitely worth more than 5 stars !!!
Profile Image for ChloeShondra Robertson.
173 reviews3 followers
February 19, 2022
I couldn't put the book down. A group of 4 friends meet up for their usually gathering to be vent and have fun together.

Nina the successful independent woman whose husband worship the ground she walks on but she didn't appreciate him until he was gone.

Chanel was the homegirl who say whatever and ready for whatever. She couldn't leave her married baby daddy along but realize what's more important after a small scare.

Allie she's going to school,working,dealing with kids, and trying to deal with her depressing boyfriend all at one time, but get mixed in with a trainer at the gym.

Sweetie is dealing with a abusive husband and scare to leave because she in way too deep.
All the characters have more in common with each other more than they will ever know.
Profile Image for Barbara.
799 reviews132 followers
October 12, 2015
Nina,Allie,Sweetie and Chanel are friends and each one is different than the other
Each one has drama going on
Their time to get together and forget their troubles soon turns to bring the worst out of them


This book was so good.
The storyline is great, issues that people deal with everyday.
The story had a very good message in book

The characters were great.
If you are looking for a entertaining book
This book is for you.


. Their friendship is what holds the together through good times and bad. When these ladies lives start taking a turn for the worst they hope moscato will help them through the pain but will it be to late?
Profile Image for Dana McLeod.
108 reviews11 followers
October 3, 2015
This book gave me life

Wow. Im lost for words. This book was so emotional!!!! Domestic violence is real and I hope no woman his to ever go thru it. I loved Travis. He was the perfect gentleman. Allie and Spade were just awesome. Loved the realness of Chanel. Nina I wanna punch in the face and Sweetie, may God bless this child. Shakela for this to be your first book you did an amazing job. Very few errors. I really felt like I was reading a book from a veteran author. I cant wait to read more from you. You have gained a forever fan!!!!
Profile Image for joan brooks.
312 reviews13 followers
October 2, 2015
Like A Breath of fresh air

This book was excellent. The Author really held your attention from start to fi nish. Nina finally got the revelation much too late. Allie and Spade had a special kind of Love. I felt so sorry for Sweetie cause Noah was a Dog. This book will have you laughing and crying. Cannot wait to read more from this Author
Profile Image for Alisha Benjamin.
289 reviews22 followers
January 24, 2016
Salute

I heard great things about this book. These ladies were off the chain. Everyone learned a lesson. Life's too short and no relationship is perfect
Profile Image for Tonia.
498 reviews5 followers
June 23, 2018
Something Stronger!!

Something stronger than Moscato is needed for this drama!! I was told to read this book a few years ago and never did. I think I started it by reading just a few pages and put it down and I'm not sure why. Anyway, I'm glad I picked it back up because it's truly a great book with a lot of messages to learn from or just be made aware of. These characters were off the chain but the love, strength, forgiveness, compassion, obsessives, abuse, lies, secrets, insecurities, pride,manipulation, fear, self hate, protective, etc they each displayed, was so very real. You will experience a lot of emotions while reading this book. It will have you wondering if you're built to endure or forgive some of the behaviors that went on. I'm almost certain some of it not even I can say I'm ready for!! Each character will certainly leave you "feeling some type of way"!! Don't sleep on this one!! Excellent read....and as with most books, editing issues are there but not bad enough to take away from the bigger picture.
Profile Image for Natasha.
468 reviews
November 25, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! The characters were unique and interesting in their own right. They all had their issues but also good points as well. It was nice to see a strong group of friends with flaws but lots of love and support. If I had to choose a favorite character it would be Allie, most hated would be Noah by far. The storyline pulled me in and had me anxious for what was to come. The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 was the errors throughout the book, too many for my liking but not enough to take away from the story and strong message it delivered. I will definitely read more work by Shakela James in the future, she definitely knows how to get and hold the readers attention.
Profile Image for Tamara D..
57 reviews4 followers
December 11, 2017
Great Read!

This book was full of imperfect people who made perfect friends. Surely there was a love there unlike none other for these ladies to cause each other such pain, but still be able to love each other through it. This book definitely made me question my friendships, because if I was experiencing these types of issues, i seriously, doubt i could ever trust these chicks again. I was truly disgusted (in a good way, if that's even possible) by the behavior of the women AND MEN of this book. That disgust however kept me from putting this book down. Definitely worth reading, but be warned: YOU MAY END UP WITH TRUST ISSUES AFTER READING THIS. lol
EyeCU Reading Approved
Profile Image for Kailah Lathan.
335 reviews1 follower
May 24, 2023
Unexpectedly, this was a really good book. The writing was easy to follow. The storyline was very entertaining. There were plenty of twists, turns, and reveals throughout.
The story was filled with so many themes throughout. Some prominent ones are love, forgiveness, friendships, and relationships. There were also a lot of characters present throughout which was overwhelming at first, but it came together.
Allie had the best storyline to me. Chanel’s storyline was very realistic. Sweetie’s storyline was the most problematic. Nina’s storyline was the most tragic of all. Overall, all their storylines made the book come together cohesively. I will definitely check out more by this author.
Profile Image for Gretchen Lewis.
44 reviews
July 3, 2017
Great job

I liked Travis and Spade the most. I thought Travis was sweet and forgiving. I like Spade for seeking the help he needed to keep his family. Chanel is something else but honest with other's and herself. I'm sad for Nina but we have to show people love in the moment. We don't have the time we think we do. I liked all the characters. I feel like I know them all. I want to like Allie but I don't appreciate her doin Spade like that.😑😑😑😑
Profile Image for Tosha Clingman.
42 reviews
September 7, 2017
Omg

Coulda Woulda Shouda is all I can say. Life is so full of choices. We all have said I wish I would have done something different. One thing for sure the past is the past. Nina had so many choices but pride took control of her everytime. Friendships are great when you find the right friends. I loved every second of this novel, at times I was so made at the decsions these young people made. Thumb up!
Profile Image for Chantia Jefferson.
10 reviews
May 17, 2018
Good

First off the story line was excellent. I love it, I felt so bad for Sweetie but all the girls had there own issue. For some reason I wanted Sweetie to killed Noah just because he put her through so much. Now the reason why I gave two stars is because this book had hella errors. It's the editors fault for not catching them every time she sent this book back to him/her to edit. But overall good book.
103 reviews
May 19, 2018
Outstanding!

First, let me say if I could give this book more than 5 stars , I would. I applaud Ms. James because this book was all that. Loved the storyline and the characters. I felt as though, I knew them all. This book had me all in my feelings. Each character's storyline was on point. Each character had closure. I look forward to reading more books by this author. Kudos to you!
44 reviews8 followers
January 3, 2018
Yesss

First off, let me say THANK YOU! There were so many messages in this book, from getting over humps in life, to self love and appreciation. Just EVERYTHING! I enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I loved and hated everyone but Allie lol she was the only one I liked at all times. Good job and I look forward to reading more of your work
9 reviews
April 30, 2022
Rollercoaster of emotions

Wow, I don’t even know where to begin ! I’ll start off by saying that this book took me through it! I don’t think I’ve ever read a book that took me on as much of an emotional roller coaster as this one did. There were a lot of twists and turns, and lessons to be learned . All in all, it was a good read .
Profile Image for Daniella Hubbard.
33 reviews1 follower
June 8, 2017
This book will evoke ALL emotions

I truly appreciate the many messages given throughout this book and further confirms how important love, trust, and honesty are in intimate relationships and friendships. This is one for the books, a potential of being a classic!!
Profile Image for Felicia Burnette.
160 reviews1 follower
September 3, 2017
Strong group of ladies

These ladies went through so much. They definitely had to be strong because if they were weak they would've went their separate ways permanently. Noah, ugh I couldn't stand him. I think my favorite character was Chanel. Good standalone and I recommend it!
Profile Image for Vanetia Singleton.
128 reviews5 followers
March 10, 2018
WOW!! This book was something else (Kevin Hart voice). The bond of these women were strong, yet they had their own personal struggles to deal with. Through it all they preserved and they became stronger and more confident women because of it.

Awesome read...full of twists
Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews

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