Ain't Misbehaving

by Marji Laine

Annalee Chambers: Poised, wealthy, socially elite.
Convict.

True, Annalee’s crime amounted to very little, but not in terms of community service hours. Her probation officer encouraged her with a promise of an easy job in an air-conditioned downtown environment. She didn’t expect her role to be little better than a janitor at an after-school daycare in the worst area of town. What can a bunch of downtown kids teach an uptown, Texas princess? Through laughter and a few tears, Annalee finds out that some lessons are learned the hard way, and some seep into the soul unnoticed.

Carlton Whelen hides behind the nickname of CJ so people won’t treat him like the wealthy son of the Whelen Foundation director. Working at the foundation’s after-school program delights him and annoys his business-oriented father. When a gorgeous prima donna is assigned to his team, he not only cringes at her mistakes but also has to avoid the attraction that builds from the first time he sees her.

AIN’T MISBEHAVING encourages acceptance:
• Of things that can’t be changed.
• Of people who are different.
• Of lessons learned.
• Of oneself.

340 pages, Paperback

Published January 16, 2018

About the author

Marji is a "graduated" homeschooling mom who's thrilled to avoid the empty nest for a while longer. She lives in the Dallas area with her hubby of 35 years, her twin daughters, and a rescue pup named Rosie (or Madam Barksalot, depending on the day).

When Marji isn't editing or formatting for her authors or writing on her own projects, she leads a ladies' Bible study, works with the women's ministry at her church, and sings alto in the adult choir. As often as possible, she's playing strategy games and card games with friends and family.

She prefers mountains to beaches, dogs to cats, Tex-Mex, white roses, and the Pumpkin Pecan Waffle candle from Bath & Body Works. Her watching preferences include Hallmark mysteries, NASCAR, NFL games, and Perry Mason reruns.

You can find her here on Goodreads or at her website MarjiLaine.com

Reviews

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite of Marji Laine's books. It's a Christian romance but one of those that could stand as an excellent story if the Christian elements weren't there. Not that I'd want them removed! But someone who is not Christian could thoroughly enjoy this novel. The characters, primary and secondary, are well developed, and the prose is a smooth read. LOVE IT. I received a copy of this book from the publisher but was not required to give a review.

[Suzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn’t sure what to expect from Annalee Chambers when I started this book. A wealthy family, a questionable hand in an accident, and a lawyer ready to do what it took to get her out of trouble, there was potential to not like this character.
But Annalee proved a heroine worth the read when she uttered a single word. As she struggles to not only complete her service but to do it well, she grew on me (rather quickly). Yes, she’s sheltered, a bit naïve, and doesn’t think much of her abilities, but she has a heart of gold.
The kids who come to the center each holds a special place for both Annalee and CJ. Their warmth, faith, and joy in the midst of their circumstances is something more adults could benefit from being around.
Annalee’s personal journey of discovering herself, CJ’s secret, family tensions, and plenty of mishaps—including one person’s determination to watch Annalee fail—made this a pleasurable and heartwarming read.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Crystal Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ain't Misbehaving is the first book in the Dallas Duets series by Marji Laine. It is a Contemporary Inspirational Fiction. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, a sweet read, and it touches on how life is for some today. 

Annalee has done some things in her life that she isn't proud of, that doesn't make her a bad person. She is ready to change the path she was on and will her new job be the answer? 

Carlton Whelen goes by CJ to hide who he really is, the son of the Whelen Foundation director. He works at the after school program that the foundation offers him. When Annalee is assigned to Carlton's team, he has to avoid the attraction between them.

Marji Lane has done an amazing job on this book,  it is written from her heart. I highly recommend to everyone. 

“I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone." 

[Deana Dick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I haven’t read a book from this author before and I found her writing style to be sassy, straight forward and exceptional character development. Right away I knew this book would help me look at people differently. Can I see a show of hands of those who have judged someone before because of the way they dressed? How about those who think rich people are all stuck up? Yes I can say that ugly little thing called jealousy and deception has played a part in how I perceive people. This is the perfect book to have your eyes and heart open as the author takes a seemingly weathly young woman and places her in a place she has never been before.

I loved how Annalee found herself doing community service at an after school program for children. She has lived a very pampered and sheltered life. Will the time she spends at the after school program change her attitude? Can she open her heart to these children and show them love and acceptance? I really like Annalee and her determination to stick it out even though some volunteers didn’t quite like her. The story is well written and I fell in love with the children. There are some tender moments that brought tears to my eyes. CJ has his hands full keeping an eye on Annalee. He wants her to be able to do her community service so she doesn’t have to do jail time. CJ is very humble and doesn’t want Annalee to find out who he really is. What will happen when the truth comes out? Will Annalee feel betrayed?

The dynamics between Annalee and her parents are very intriguing. Why does Annalee feel so inadequate around her mother? Annalee is slowly learning how to accept God’s love, but it is hard since her mother seems to always criticize her. I loved how the author focuses on Annalee’s relationship with God. The story also focuses on the threat of the after school program shutting down. Can Annalee and CJ find a way to save it? It’s clear that Annalee loves being with the children. Will her plans help safe the place, or will someone close it down? Don’t miss this wonderful book that deals with jealousy, acceptance, secrets, and finding God’s plan for your life.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Ain’t Misbehaving” (Dallas Duets Book 1) by Marji Laine

What a truly wonderful novel. It captured me from the very beginning. I read through the night and into early morning because I never wanted to put it down. It was definitely worth it.

At no time did the story line drag or not completely hold my attention. It is a realistic and relatable story line that is continually engaging. The author covers several different topics from relationships of all kinds, legal issue, the power of money (both the wealthy and the poor), faith, friendship, family, personal growth, and many others. She weaves so many ideas throughout the novel so seamlessly the reader is unaware that the author has done so until once they are done reading and are reflecting on the book. Something they will find they do throughout the novel and at the end: reflection.

The characters are all so human. They are full of flaws, prejudices, faith, lack of faith, strength, preconceived notions, stereotypes, and many other issues individual to one or several or all. They are so well written that the reader has no trouble configuring them in their mind nor feeling as if they are with the character or even in the characters shoes. They are everyday people that will fit the mold they are given; step out of the mold and as that fits them better; or just the “everyday” person you are friends with or meet on the street. All of them teach the reader a lesson (or lessons); ones the reader may not recognize immediately until an “aha” moment hits them very soon after. And there are many “aha” moments.

Not only was the book engaging and one I read straight through, but it was a true joy to read. It was well paced, well written, had wonderful characters and storylines. It was relatable and realistic and one that taught so much without the reader be preached to or even recognizing that this was done so until it happened.

This is the first book I have read by this author, but I can guarantee you I will be reading her six others very soon.

Rating: 4.75
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

** I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this novel. All thoughts, opinions, and ratings are my own.

[Iola · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ll get the less-good aspect of Aint Misbehaving out of the way first. Annalee Chambers was not an easy character to like in the early chapters. We’re first introduced to her as she is on trial for a hit-and-run accident, to which she pleads guilty (her only saving grace). As the story progresses it soon becomes apparent that Annalee is somewhat naieve, but not nearly as shallow, self-absorbed, or selfish as her mother. In fact, given her mother’s personality defect, it’s a wonder Annalee has turned into a decent person.

And she is—she’s had an extraordinarily privileged upbringing, living a charmed life until a car accident shows her exactly how privileged she is. She is sentenced to community service at a community centre providing free after school care for children from a lower socio-economic area. Annalee is enthusiastic, but finds the other workers are less than keen to have her there, to the point of obstruction.

Annalee also has a problem that she’s attracted to the janitor … someone who would be at the top of her mother’s list of inappropriate men. And CJ is hiding his own secrets: he’s not actually the janitor. He’s the manager, and he’s rich—rich enough to keep Mother happy.

I’ve read several of Marji Laine’s romantic suspense novels, but Aint Misbehaving (as far as I know) is her first straight romance novel. It’s a good read—partly frustrating (thanks to Mother), partly amusing (thanks to CJ and his secret), and another part frustrating (the social worker). It all provides lots of conflict, and made for a good read.

I also liked the faith aspect. Annalee has the typical upper class view of church and religion—it’s something for Christmas and Easter. Working with CJ and the children shows her another side of church and religion, faith and belief in Jesus. It was well done, and ensured Aint Misbehaving was more than an average romance.

Thanks to the author for providing a free ebook for review.

[Jeanette Fallon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ain't Misbehaving - Dallas Duets 1 by Marji Laine


Annalee did the right thing when she pled guilty.  But she sure paid the price!  She was assigned to community service at an after-school daycare.  What did she know about Kids?  What she didn't know was her life was about to change!!!!

CJ Whelen loved running the daycare.  He was a vital part of the community.  He forgot to mention to Annalee that he was the wealthy son of a prominent business man.  A big mistake!

 I was intrigued seeing that there was a probation officer in the story.  I am a retired Probation Officer. But my goodness......how unethical Laurel Stewart was.  I literally could have wrung her  neck.  She sure was nasty.

I enjoyed the story.  It was a treat being with Annalee on her spiritual journey.

I received this free to review.

About the Author

Marji Laine has completed seventeen years of homeschooling with the surreal notion that

she’ll now have time on her hands. But that’s unlikely. Her publishing company, Write Integrity Press, keeps her extremely busy. In her spare time, she teaches a high school and college Bible Study, leads a Sunday morning high school fellowship group, directs a children’s choir, and sings in her church’s adult choir.

She enjoys road trips with her family and friends, photography, scrapbooking, and participating in musical theater. Her favorite past time is game night with her family and her kids’ extended collection of friends.



Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Marji is giving away a grand prize of Dallas chocolates, Texas snack box, and a packet of Bluebonnet seeds!!

Click below to enter. Be sure to comment on this post before you enter to claim 9 extra entries! https://promosimple.com/ps/c516

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredibly captivating contemporary romance! This is my first novel by Marji Laine and I’m so glad that her book found me. The story is well-written, the plot is intricately planned, the dialogue is so real and engaging, the characters are wonderful, the faith component of the storyline is seamlessly integrated, and the book moves at a great pace with lots of twists and turns.

Annalee is such a beautiful heroine, inside and out. Granted, she’s the baby daughter of a rich attorney running for the mayor seat in Dallas but she’s different from the high-society women. Annalee is sweet, compassionate, loving, down-to-earth, selfless, artistic, creative and so in need of approval and belonging. Yet she has trouble trusting men because of her past experience. CJ is the sole heir to the Whelan empire who has rejected all of his father’s demands to serve as the director for a children’s after-school center in a low income area of the city. He is devoted, loyal, kind, compassionate, hard-working, but he himself has trouble trusting women. Circumstances bring them together but so many incidents and accidents try to keep them apart, especially a particular secret CJ keeps from Annalee. Their slowly blooming friendship and romance is achingly sweet and often tear-filled.
CJ’s faith is amazingly solid and yet he still makes plenty of mistakes, clearly showcasing his need for the Savior and grace. Annalee’s receptive heart and sincere prayers are touching and quite inspirational.

Anyone who enjoys a well-written contemporary inspirational romance novel would absolutely love this book. I was given a copy of the book by author/publisher via Celebrate Lit Tour. I was not required to write a favorable review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Ain’t Misbehaving" by Marji Laine is a fun read about people with money and how Annalee and CJ meet each other. I really enjoyed this story. This story shows how some people judge others with money wrongly and need to realize that money isn't necessarily evil, but of course there are characters in "Ain’t Misbehaving"that show that money does make some people thank more highly of themselves than they ought to.

This book has politicians and lawyers and judges. It is a story about betrayal. It is also about learning to trust and when to take a stand against wrong done to another person. This book shows that sometimes a secret is something that needs tor be shared before it gets shared the wrong way and at the wrong time.

This book mentions a couple of cases of child abuse but it is just mentioned in the story line a couple of times and one of those times is just explaining a child's handicap, and the other time it is handled immediately.

I really recommend this book if you want a clean love story and like stories where the heroes help children have a better life.

"Ain’t Misbehaving"is a complex story that has a lot of issues throughout the storyline but it all fits perfectly together and makes the reader think about why certain characters act the way they do. I think the reason this book is so enjoyable is because the characters are "true to life" . These characters could be our neighbors and this story could happened just like it does in the pages of this book. Ans of course the story does place in a real place in Dallas.

I can't wait to read book two in the series " Dallas Duets"

I was given a complimentary copy by the author and Celebrate Lit. These opinions are my own.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know the old saying, you can’t judge a book by its cover? That can easily be applied to the characters in this story. This was a refreshing reminder that just because a person may be high society, doesn’t mean they are a bad person. Quite often we are quick to judge someone based on their social position, much like Margo did. And shame on us. Annalee and CJ are both prime examples of why we shouldn’t do that.

Annalee was the total opposite of what I was expecting from her character. She did not want to use her family’s position to get her out of trouble. Instead she wanted to work, and be held accountable for her actions. I found her to be very endearing and selfless. Sure, she and a few lessons to learn throughout the story, but she tried her best, which is all we can really do.

While I liked the slow growing relationship between her and CJ, I almost wished it could have been a little bit more. I expected to see more of a dynamic love triangle between Annalee, CJ and Laurel. But I did enjoy the court scene near the end. It seems that justice does come to those who are deserving.

Overall this was a good book to read that gives you hope. Hope that there are still people in the world who want to make a difference. I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Bree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review by Bree Herron

Contemporary fans will love reading this novel! I really loved the status and society points that drove our Annalee to see her sins and become better. This book was all about love, faith, and working to be truly one with God.
Characters

Annalee is one of those girls, now before you say “that sounds sassy” hear me out. She truly has a heart but it has been wrapped up in glitz of high society. She has to learn to be a person of God, not money. I liked her, she starts off with a horrible mistake in life but truly she blooms into a character that you can enjoy.

CJ was an instant hit for me, I mean he was able to look beyond status to see need. He had compassion and love to give, which melted my heart. I loved his first moment with Annalee.
Enjoyable Moments

I loved reading the changes Annalee was making. These moments made the story stand out to me, as they were changes that even us that find faith to be easier than non-believers had to go through at one point. I really loved how the author wrote these moments and expressed her characters.
Synoptic

I really enjoyed this book, it was a great story that read fast and has made me eager to read the next in the series. I love that this book gives hope that people can change their colors if they want to and with the Lord’s help.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Because her father was a prominent businessman running for political office, Annalee’s case generated wide-spread attention and those responsible for her punishment were careful not to show her any favor. Annalee was assigned a penalty of a number of community service hours but was surprised not only by how difficult the assignment would be but the sheer animosity shown her by some of the people she would be working with and even her own probation officer.

This story was so heart-warming as Annalee found true purpose in her life as she spent more time with the underprivileged children in the center and saw something different in the lives of the people around her. Secrets and misunderstandings were common and it was fun to watch a sweet romance develop between Annalee and C.J. despite multiple complications.

The book was well written and I found myself absorbed by Annalee and C.J.’s story. It was the perfect blend of drama, romance, and faith with memorable characters and and encouraging plot. I would definitely recommend “Ain’t Misbehaving” to any who enjoy a good contemporary romance.

I voluntarily reviewed a digital copy of this book provided by Celebrate Lit. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.

[Jennifer J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ain’t Misbehaving is a comfortable read with believable characters and an amazingly plausible storyline. Marji Laine has portrayed well the realities, myriad challenges and often unrecognized emotional fallout faced by members of wealthy, powerful and influential families; as well as their staffs, co-workers and friends. With a Christian faith message gently woven throughout, this is a story of hope, reconciliation, redemption and compassion.

Although it took me a few pages to get fully engaged, the story developed deftly and continued confidently. I was particularly moved by the author’s careful and credible crafting of CJ’s confession and salvation story. The reader is provided with much food for thought and an opportunity to be reminded that when you point a finger at someone else three fingers are pointing right back at you!

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book. A favorable review was not required, no compensation was received, and all views expressed are my own.

[Abigail Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: 4 and a half stars.
Recommendation: Fifteen and up; I was okay with this book as it does not too much romance for me.
My favorite character/s: Annalee Chambers is trying to do the right thing, but is just getting rebuked for it. She is determined not to fail at what she has been told to do by a person who at first hates her. She is kind, nervous, and humble. I liked her a whole lot, but even more so at the end of the book. She comes to care for the kids she has to work with, as well as the man she thinks is a handyman. She is kind of a magnet for trouble, even if it’s unintentional.

My Verse for Annalee is Deuteronomy 4:29
But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul. King James Version (KJV).
Warning Minor Violence, a man tries to attack Annalee, but CJ stops them. A girl’s arm is broken by her mom’s boyfriend, but it is not shown.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ain’t Misbehaving

Loved Annalee, her attitude was so positive and so caring. She gets community service at a center for unprivileged children. She comes from a rich family and never worked but she wanted to do the best she could at her community service. She meets CJ there who also comes from a rich family but she she doesn’t know it. I really loved the children in the book. Her probation officer wasn’t very nice who also already knew CJ. This is my first book that I have read by Marji Laine and will be reading more of her books. It is important to read authors have not read before because you never know what you are missing. The book was very interesting and I was able to visualize the characters. This is first in the series and will look forward to the next book. I received advanced copy of the book from the publisher.

[Alicia Beck · Rating 5 out of 5]

My Review
Ain't Misbehaving is the first book in a new series. This is a series that I want to read the next book. I really enjoyed this book. Annalee finds herself in court after trying to help a friend out. She goes against what others want her to do and chooses honesty in a difficult situation. CJ loves running an after school program in a not so safe community. Both Annalee and CJ come from wealthy families that want to help them in ways they don't want help. Wealth doesn't mean everything. Really enjoyed all the characters in this story. You will find romance in this book. This is a long read too. Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story contains a number of antagonists determined to ruin the lives and romance of the hero and heroine, either for their own self-interest or the good of the main characters. It also contains its share of humor, insecurities, bold moves, applaudable secondary characters, and spiritual insight.

Ain't Misbehaving is an enjoyable start to this new series and a sweet Valentine's treat. I give it 4.5 stars for its romantic escapism as well as the author's ability to make us care for and want the best for the main characters.

I received my copy of this book from the author. My opinions are my own.

[Charlene · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars!

Overall Ain’t Misbehaving was a
enjoyable contemporary Christian fiction romance.

This is a story about discovering the true you and learning to be you regardless of the cost. The topics of being judgemental, being critical and finding freedom are all explored.

For me I was a little bit disappointed. I think I had high expectations and the lack of depth to the characters and there individual storylines was a disappointment. In my opinion there was room to explore these characters stories in more detail.

This was my first book by Marji Laine. I will read more by this author in the future as I don’t think you should judge an author by one book.

[Virginia Winfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful contemporary fiction story. I did not want to put this book down. I really liked Annalee though she did seem a bit spoiled at first and I loved CJ. They are great. I look forward to reading many more books by this author. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Annalee Chambers is a Dallas princess who happens to meet her prince CJ in the unlikeliest of places.

This captivating novel, the first in the Dallas Duets series is a fast-paced, clean read by author Marji Lane. It's too good to put down, and I can't wait for the next book in the series by this talented author.

[Linda Rainey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved This Book

I loved this book with its well crafted plot,the vivid characters,especially the children amidst the backdrop of Dallas.
This book is recommended for Christian fiction lovers.