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Dirty Laundry #1
Tabloid
1 gossip writer + 1 A-list movie star = 1 fake relationship…or does it?
After breaking a story that rocks Hollywood, Talia is the top gossip writer around. One night will put all of that into question. The writer becomes the story when she gets caught doing the walk of shame from A-lister Zee Jaxon’s home.
To save both of their reputations he suggests a fake relationship. Pretending should be easy. It shouldn’t mean the fake feelings become real. Accepting the real feelings means the lies they’ve told are even harder to hide.
When the truth comes out can their love survive or will everything just fade to black.
After breaking a story that rocks Hollywood, Talia is the top gossip writer around. One night will put all of that into question. The writer becomes the story when she gets caught doing the walk of shame from A-lister Zee Jaxon’s home.
To save both of their reputations he suggests a fake relationship. Pretending should be easy. It shouldn’t mean the fake feelings become real. Accepting the real feelings means the lies they’ve told are even harder to hide.
When the truth comes out can their love survive or will everything just fade to black.
267 pages, Paperback
Published May 25, 2019
42 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Paxson
21 books475 followersI am the author of the Dirty Laundry series, a romantic comedy series featuring sexy movie stars and the feisty women who put up with them. When I'm not writing, I'm busy with my husband, three kids and two fur babies, Cady and Oberon. In those moment between family, writing and my day job, I am busy posting sarcastic/too honest posts on instagram. Then finally in that sweet spot between utter exhaustion and an over active brain I get to enjoy reading until my kindle slaps me in the face.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
June 30, 2019
***ARC provided by the Author***
2.5 Stars
I loved the blurb of this title, and I was really interested in watching a gossip columnist try to navigate the world she has reported on.
Talia seemed a little one dimensional to me, and the main thing about her personality seemed to be her weight, and the comments that people make about it. I had a tough time with this, or finding it funny as it really felt cruel.
Zee was well-developed and interesting. I felt like I got to know him, and that there was some character development with him that really made me feel there was depth to the character and that there was a real person behind the character.
Unfortunately, I struggled with this title. I thought the dialogue was choppy and the transitions from scenes and conversations were oddly abrupt. I struggled with the conversations, and I didn't think they felt very authentic. As for the transitions, there were quite a few times where I felt like a step was skipped and the story went from A to C without a stop anywhere near B. I found it hard to engage with the story as I was pulled out trying to figure out how they got to where they were in the story...sometimes literally.
I am not able to recommend this title. I will definitely give this author another shot at some point, as there were parts I enjoyed, but overall, this title did not work for me.
2.5 Stars
I loved the blurb of this title, and I was really interested in watching a gossip columnist try to navigate the world she has reported on.
Talia seemed a little one dimensional to me, and the main thing about her personality seemed to be her weight, and the comments that people make about it. I had a tough time with this, or finding it funny as it really felt cruel.
Zee was well-developed and interesting. I felt like I got to know him, and that there was some character development with him that really made me feel there was depth to the character and that there was a real person behind the character.
Unfortunately, I struggled with this title. I thought the dialogue was choppy and the transitions from scenes and conversations were oddly abrupt. I struggled with the conversations, and I didn't think they felt very authentic. As for the transitions, there were quite a few times where I felt like a step was skipped and the story went from A to C without a stop anywhere near B. I found it hard to engage with the story as I was pulled out trying to figure out how they got to where they were in the story...sometimes literally.
I am not able to recommend this title. I will definitely give this author another shot at some point, as there were parts I enjoyed, but overall, this title did not work for me.
January 25, 2020
a tale of an action hero and a tabloid webspinner
This was a fun read, it started as a lighthearted society column style jaunt, and morphed into deeper and more difficult issues. Some good humor, nice heat, good character development.
This was a fun read, it started as a lighthearted society column style jaunt, and morphed into deeper and more difficult issues. Some good humor, nice heat, good character development.
June 1, 2019
OMG! What an amazing read. This is a new to me author and I just loved this book. Talia the tabloid queen broke a hot story that involved her brothers best friend Zeke, the man she's despised almost her whole life and when the tables got turned on her and she becomes the gossip Zeke has a proposition for her to save them both. Talia is a beautiful woman, she's curvy and voluptuous and little does she know that Zeke has harbored feelings for her for quite a while and he's fighting to keep his hands off her. Talia has been pushed around and bullied most her life and can't trust anything that Zeke is saying to her. It's a push/pull relationship, the banter is amazing, the chemistry is off the charts and holy crap did I love her parents and grandpa, god that man needs to keep his pants on. I laughed and felt for Talia and what she's gone through, her insecurities get the best of her at times, but will she see what's standing in front her is the best thing that could ever happen to her? No spoilers here, loved their story, I'm hoping for Max and Chrissy soon, but I have a feeling that all the boys will get one. Highly recommend this book! I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
February 17, 2020
A good story but the hero could have been developed and fleshed out. He was left to be two dimensional with no more feelings other than questionable love for the heroine. His own family drama was brushed under the carpet and brought back to her treatment.
Grammar was an issue for me in this book. Commas were scattered around like confetti, in that they landed in the most unlikely places and not where they were required.
I think this author as a lot of potential and will keep an eye out in the future for more stories.
Grammar was an issue for me in this book. Commas were scattered around like confetti, in that they landed in the most unlikely places and not where they were required.
I think this author as a lot of potential and will keep an eye out in the future for more stories.
June 3, 2019
Great debut book from new author Jackie Paxson!
I wasn't sure what to expect going in but I was left wanting more! I didn't want to put this book down. There was many unexpected moments throughout. Overall a great read! I can't wait for more in this series!!
I wasn't sure what to expect going in but I was left wanting more! I didn't want to put this book down. There was many unexpected moments throughout. Overall a great read! I can't wait for more in this series!!
July 8, 2019
3.5 Stars
Movie star and gossip writer is a match made in tabloid heaven. This was a fun at times sweet story to read. Talia and Zeke have known each other for years and it shows in their dialogue with each other. They have an antagonistic relationship with each other. I really like the back and forth banter between them, it helps the reader understand them a bit better and it made me laugh. Zeke is the typical Hollywood star. He's the life and soul of any party whereas Talia shuns the spotlight. I was happy that we didn't go quickly from hate to happy sunshine and rainbows too quickly.
There were times the writing style through me off but it's a good debut novel so I'm sure with more experience the author will deliver a more polished book.
Movie star and gossip writer is a match made in tabloid heaven. This was a fun at times sweet story to read. Talia and Zeke have known each other for years and it shows in their dialogue with each other. They have an antagonistic relationship with each other. I really like the back and forth banter between them, it helps the reader understand them a bit better and it made me laugh. Zeke is the typical Hollywood star. He's the life and soul of any party whereas Talia shuns the spotlight. I was happy that we didn't go quickly from hate to happy sunshine and rainbows too quickly.
There were times the writing style through me off but it's a good debut novel so I'm sure with more experience the author will deliver a more polished book.
July 13, 2019
“‘No one notices me. That’s what has made me good at my job.’
Zeke stared at her. ‘I’ve always noticed you, Lia.’”
The premise of this story really drew my attention. A gossip columnist, an A-list movie star, and a fake relationship. Bring it on! When I started reading I was surprised to find the story also included the enemies-to-lovers trope and I’m a sucker for those.
I enjoyed both of the main characters. Talia Walker and Zeke Rogers (Zee Jaxon for all the movie star fans) have known each other for ages and hated each other for the same length of time.
Talia is headstrong, says what is always on her mind and a fighter. She’s also pretty insecure about her body, as she’s never been a super skinny model type. Being invisible is her specialty and writing is her outlet, however, she wants to write more than just plain old gossip columns and I feel that Zeke helps her realize the potential she has.
Zeke was most likely my favorite character in the book. He’s the super hot actor with many secrets, family history, unrequited love. He was super swoon-worthy and I loved how honest he was with his feelings towards Talia.
I enjoyed how their relationship played out. One simple incident brings Talia closer than ever to Zeke and when he proposes they have a fake relationship to “save face”, Talia reluctantly agrees. Little does she know where Zeke’s intentions really lie and finding them out will leave her having to make a choice.
“I have wanted you since we were in first grade. I didn’t know what that meant back then, but I definitely do now.”
I struggled a bit with the writing style in this book. At times it felt choppy and I had a hard time focusing on the story due to this, but all in all the story had me wanting to know what happened next.
*A huge thanks to Wildfire Marketing Solutions for providing me with an eARC for review. All thoughts are my own.*
Zeke stared at her. ‘I’ve always noticed you, Lia.’”
The premise of this story really drew my attention. A gossip columnist, an A-list movie star, and a fake relationship. Bring it on! When I started reading I was surprised to find the story also included the enemies-to-lovers trope and I’m a sucker for those.
I enjoyed both of the main characters. Talia Walker and Zeke Rogers (Zee Jaxon for all the movie star fans) have known each other for ages and hated each other for the same length of time.
Talia is headstrong, says what is always on her mind and a fighter. She’s also pretty insecure about her body, as she’s never been a super skinny model type. Being invisible is her specialty and writing is her outlet, however, she wants to write more than just plain old gossip columns and I feel that Zeke helps her realize the potential she has.
Zeke was most likely my favorite character in the book. He’s the super hot actor with many secrets, family history, unrequited love. He was super swoon-worthy and I loved how honest he was with his feelings towards Talia.
I enjoyed how their relationship played out. One simple incident brings Talia closer than ever to Zeke and when he proposes they have a fake relationship to “save face”, Talia reluctantly agrees. Little does she know where Zeke’s intentions really lie and finding them out will leave her having to make a choice.
“I have wanted you since we were in first grade. I didn’t know what that meant back then, but I definitely do now.”
I struggled a bit with the writing style in this book. At times it felt choppy and I had a hard time focusing on the story due to this, but all in all the story had me wanting to know what happened next.
*A huge thanks to Wildfire Marketing Solutions for providing me with an eARC for review. All thoughts are my own.*
September 5, 2020
Recommended read- sass and whole lot fun
This is an enemies-to- lovers fun read. The dialogue is clever and snarky humor. I loved Zeke and Talia’s story. They have a complicated relationship knowing each other for so long ‘oil and water with the right ingredients make brownies’.
This is an enemies-to- lovers fun read. The dialogue is clever and snarky humor. I loved Zeke and Talia’s story. They have a complicated relationship knowing each other for so long ‘oil and water with the right ingredients make brownies’.
June 5, 2019
Tabloid by Jackie Paxson a five-star read that will make you see lights. This is the first novel in the Dirty Laundry series and I cant wait for the next story, I didn’t know what to think of this story as I hadn’t seen anything by the author before, but I am a luddite and I love the cover so I figured what the heck give it a go and I am so glad I did. It blew me away, I was sobbing like a crazy person at times and my heart broke for Talia, she really was put through the ringer. I wanted to shake Zee but I loved Zeke so much, their story was sublime and the secondary characters were so good, they just made me eager with anticipation for who’s story we will find next.
July 26, 2020
I really enjoyed this book!!! I loved Talia and Zeke so much. As much as I loved them all the side characters (well except a few) were great as well. I was laughing so much during this read!! As much as I laughed I also caught the feels too. Talia is a very relatable character. I could very much identify with some of her insecurities. The only thing that I had a hard time with is that it is written In third person. I probably would of finished it faster if it was in first. I personally find books written in third person harder to stay focused while reading and tend to get distracted easily. With that said I would definitely recommend this book!
Received an arc for a honest review.
Received an arc for a honest review.
July 5, 2020
What sets off a fake relationship is the walk of shame. I found both Talia and Zee’s characters to be likable from the start. The storyline flowed smoothly from beginning to the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 15, 2020
I can't say how much I loved this book!
You know it's a great book when you get so caught up in the characters that you laugh, then cry, and then your laughing again! I so loved how well the author developed the characters! It's not like I've ever met any Hollywood star, but Jackie Paxson made it so that you feel you know her characters in and out. You love them, or love to hate them, and you just can't possibly stop turning the pages. The Gossip Queen and the Hunk of Hollywood make such a wonderful, humorous couple that you are so with them in the ins, and outs of their romance, and I challenge anyone to read this book and not think her descriptions of High School and all it's wonderful(and hateful) characters aren't so real it takes you back! I honestly wish I had my very own roommate and best friend there to support me every step of the way like Taliya has! I highly recommend this book to everyone! It honestly was a joy to read, that kept me wildly turning pages from start to finish!
You know it's a great book when you get so caught up in the characters that you laugh, then cry, and then your laughing again! I so loved how well the author developed the characters! It's not like I've ever met any Hollywood star, but Jackie Paxson made it so that you feel you know her characters in and out. You love them, or love to hate them, and you just can't possibly stop turning the pages. The Gossip Queen and the Hunk of Hollywood make such a wonderful, humorous couple that you are so with them in the ins, and outs of their romance, and I challenge anyone to read this book and not think her descriptions of High School and all it's wonderful(and hateful) characters aren't so real it takes you back! I honestly wish I had my very own roommate and best friend there to support me every step of the way like Taliya has! I highly recommend this book to everyone! It honestly was a joy to read, that kept me wildly turning pages from start to finish!
July 28, 2019
Hooked
Talia a curvy, outspoken gossip journalist leaks that Zee Jaxon an A-List celebrity's fiance may have something going on with Zee's publicist. It can only go down hill from here right?
Zee or Zeke as Talia calls him have known each other a long time, Zeke is best friends with Talia's brother Rex. Zeke stages Talia walking out of his house in a compromising manner to get Talia to see being on the front line of tablois isn't all fun and games.
Zeke propositions Talia to be his fake girlfriend. Talia has always believed they hated each other but when they visit the ranch Talia's eyes start opening to see a different side to Zeke. A beautiful sexy relationship truly starts to form, but will everything work out for them in the end? Does Zeke truly feel anything for Talia or is it all a sham?
Talia a curvy, outspoken gossip journalist leaks that Zee Jaxon an A-List celebrity's fiance may have something going on with Zee's publicist. It can only go down hill from here right?
Zee or Zeke as Talia calls him have known each other a long time, Zeke is best friends with Talia's brother Rex. Zeke stages Talia walking out of his house in a compromising manner to get Talia to see being on the front line of tablois isn't all fun and games.
Zeke propositions Talia to be his fake girlfriend. Talia has always believed they hated each other but when they visit the ranch Talia's eyes start opening to see a different side to Zeke. A beautiful sexy relationship truly starts to form, but will everything work out for them in the end? Does Zeke truly feel anything for Talia or is it all a sham?
June 3, 2019
For a debut novel this is an amazing story which is well written and flawless, and this is certainly an author to look out for in the future. Talia is a gossip writer, and she scoops the dirt on her brothers’ best friend A-Lister Zeke. When the tables are turned on Talia taking the walk of shame, Zeke comes up with a fake relationship to protect both of their reputations. This story is filled with witty banter, explosive chemistry, and is an all round entertaining read. I was totally captivated throughout this addictive page turner, and I cannot wait to read more in this exciting series.
July 15, 2019
I really enjoyed this debut story. The banter is great and the storyline kept me coming back for more. I thought the characters were great and I loved how Zeke knew what he wanted and went for it. I felt the writing style was a little short, but it did not keep me from enjoying it. I did have some trouble with the body shaming, but that was partly because it was real and relatable and definitely hit home. I am so looking forward to reading more from this author.
May 10, 2021
Jackie Paxson has outdone herself!! I was cursing up a storm at Zee and how he treated Talia, wanted to put him in front of the firing squad. My emotions were like a roller coaster, hate, love and heartbreak and I couldn’t put this book down. I loved the LOL moments throughout the book which made me chuckle and especially loved the ending. Fantastic work Jackie, you have a new fan!!
January 16, 2020
Amazing book
I enjoyed the book got straight to the point. It was a cute fun read!!! I’d highly recommend this book.
I enjoyed the book got straight to the point. It was a cute fun read!!! I’d highly recommend this book.
February 15, 2020
I loved this story. Its a little like a roller coaster. You laugh and you cry, but when you get to the end you're happy.
March 24, 2020
DNF
Urgent need of editing. Weird inexplicable gap between chapters.
Stupid acts from side characters.
Nope! Not for me !
Urgent need of editing. Weird inexplicable gap between chapters.
Stupid acts from side characters.
Nope! Not for me !
March 23, 2020
Solid 3.5 stars for this debut novel. I truly enjoyed the array of characters that Paxon is able to bring to life, and it had a solid plot and story the whole way through. It was a cute read from start to finish and I was pleasantly happy to find that our heroine wasn't the typical Hollywood A-lister. I loved the witty Chapter headings, though I'm still not sure what the "Thinkin' Stick" is... (really, a super cringe-worthy euphemism!) and the banter back and forth between the characters was great. Gracie was a favorite character of mine, (especially at the end) but I wish that Talia would have been a bit more... muchier, to quote the Mad Hatter. I felt as though at times, she was a bit flat, and with the title of "Gossip Queen," would have expected her to be a bit more ruthless and determined. Instead of seeing her go for the next big scoop, or even pursue her serious writing career more, her conflict centered on her weight. While I relate to Talia, having been bullied in high school myself, I would have liked to have seen her stand up for herself a bit sooner, not running away every time things got tough. But... oh well. While I would have given this a 4 star review normally, there was one thing I just couldn't overlook: Editing.
This book needed an editor. In a bad way. The prose was choppy, sometimes making it difficult to follow which character was speaking. In addition, incorrect usages were abundant at times (for example: you steer a horse with reins, not reigns, and "Your lucky I love you" should have been, "You're lucky I love you." There were various typos (form instead of from, and he when it should have been the or her) and it detracted a bit from the story for me. Whether it was my college editor persona rearing it's poisoned pen again, or just that I take notice of those sorts of things, I don't know, but some of them had me wincing. (PLEASE LET ME BETA READ FOR YOU!!!)
With all of that said, I made it to the end, and found myself smiling. Again, keeping in mind this is a debut novel, and one that was published as an Indie, I think it was swell! I would recommend to readers should they want a cute, love story (minus the old man balls because, gross) and would certainly give a second novel a try. Please take my criticism as constructive. I love seeing the hard work and am amazed by authors that are able to strike out and tackle getting published. The writing has so much potential!
This book needed an editor. In a bad way. The prose was choppy, sometimes making it difficult to follow which character was speaking. In addition, incorrect usages were abundant at times (for example: you steer a horse with reins, not reigns, and "Your lucky I love you" should have been, "You're lucky I love you." There were various typos (form instead of from, and he when it should have been the or her) and it detracted a bit from the story for me. Whether it was my college editor persona rearing it's poisoned pen again, or just that I take notice of those sorts of things, I don't know, but some of them had me wincing. (PLEASE LET ME BETA READ FOR YOU!!!)
With all of that said, I made it to the end, and found myself smiling. Again, keeping in mind this is a debut novel, and one that was published as an Indie, I think it was swell! I would recommend to readers should they want a cute, love story (minus the old man balls because, gross) and would certainly give a second novel a try. Please take my criticism as constructive. I love seeing the hard work and am amazed by authors that are able to strike out and tackle getting published. The writing has so much potential!
July 17, 2019
I love Hollywood stories, especially when a gorgeous actor falls for a plain woman. In this case, Talia was not only plain but also overweight. She was a brilliant writer who was wasting her talent in a gossip magazine. Zeke Rogers, famous for his Defender hero movies, was also her twin brother’s best friend and they all grew up together in Georgia.
One night Talia was waiting for her date and she happened to see Zeke’s fiancé in a romantic date with Zeke’s agent. She reported it in her gossip magazine and brought havoc into Zeke’s life. For reasons we won’t know until later, Talia hates Zeke, so she wasn’t fazed by this. However, the situation backfired for her and she was forced to fake a romance with Zeke to fix both her reputation and Zeke’s. Then they embark on a trip to Georgia to visit the parents and to get away from the gossip for a while. And that’s when things get hot and Zeke pulls a 180 turn into the works.
The plot was good, the story was entertaining, but the execution left something to be desired. I sense that the author is still developing her voice and that accounts for the writing to lack finesse. One thing I did like was that the author had a great balance of dialogue, action and character musings, so it didn’t lag nor got boring anywhere.
I found Talia to be very smart aleck some times, and very insecure other times. The issue with the body image was too frequent, too harsh. Talia was frequently obnoxious with her brother and Zeke, and yet when she met her old school nemesis who shamed her for being fat, she crumbled down like a cracker. Zeke wasn’t any kind of exemplary gentleman. I didn’t feel a strong moral fiber, many times when Talia was being shamed he didn’t defend her or acted late. I wasn’t impressed. Eventually, both the author and the characters got their stuff together and the book improved a lot towards the end.
There was a cute Southern feel to the story, with both mothers involved and Talia’s twin brother as a sort of comic relief. The parts about the naked grandfather didn’t appeal to me, I didn’t find them all that funny, and actually a bit gross. In future, it would be good if there wasn’t all that slapping and hitting between characters. It wasn’t violence but it was a bit too much slapstick. Over all, it was entertaining, even if it wasn’t completely well structured.
One night Talia was waiting for her date and she happened to see Zeke’s fiancé in a romantic date with Zeke’s agent. She reported it in her gossip magazine and brought havoc into Zeke’s life. For reasons we won’t know until later, Talia hates Zeke, so she wasn’t fazed by this. However, the situation backfired for her and she was forced to fake a romance with Zeke to fix both her reputation and Zeke’s. Then they embark on a trip to Georgia to visit the parents and to get away from the gossip for a while. And that’s when things get hot and Zeke pulls a 180 turn into the works.
The plot was good, the story was entertaining, but the execution left something to be desired. I sense that the author is still developing her voice and that accounts for the writing to lack finesse. One thing I did like was that the author had a great balance of dialogue, action and character musings, so it didn’t lag nor got boring anywhere.
I found Talia to be very smart aleck some times, and very insecure other times. The issue with the body image was too frequent, too harsh. Talia was frequently obnoxious with her brother and Zeke, and yet when she met her old school nemesis who shamed her for being fat, she crumbled down like a cracker. Zeke wasn’t any kind of exemplary gentleman. I didn’t feel a strong moral fiber, many times when Talia was being shamed he didn’t defend her or acted late. I wasn’t impressed. Eventually, both the author and the characters got their stuff together and the book improved a lot towards the end.
There was a cute Southern feel to the story, with both mothers involved and Talia’s twin brother as a sort of comic relief. The parts about the naked grandfather didn’t appeal to me, I didn’t find them all that funny, and actually a bit gross. In future, it would be good if there wasn’t all that slapping and hitting between characters. It wasn’t violence but it was a bit too much slapstick. Over all, it was entertaining, even if it wasn’t completely well structured.
July 12, 2019
Talia is a top gossip writer around because as she puts it, she blends in around the Hollywood scene. Zee Jaxon is a Hollywood A-Lister, and frankly, kind of an a-hole in my opinion, but they grew up together, so when she breaks a story that messes with him, she can't blend in at his party, and he makes sure that when she's doing a "walk of shame" from his place that everyone knows about it, so it affects her career. Now, she needs him to play pretend relationship with, so she moves in with him temporarily to save both of their reputations. Now this is where I got conflicted quite a bit. See, no one was supposed to catch feelings, and while they were playing pretend, since they have history of growing up together, it didn't take long for things to heat up, but I felt like he didn't stick up for her enough. There was so much body shaming her since she wasn't the size 0 that a movie star would date, and in the story, it was over the top which pissed me off so much. Yeah, he got better, but the push & pull of him having to apologize for her crying got to be too much frustration for me, so I wanted her to literally junk punch and/or knee him in the junk like she did to others (her twin brother) when she went home. It got better until a HUGE twist came out of nowhere to level me, so I dropped a TON of f-bombs like nobodies business, so kudos to Jackie Paxson for that. Anyway, this is a solid debut story, and I'm intrigued to see future works of this author since even with my emotions, I couldn't stop turning the pages. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
June 24, 2019
Jackie Paxson reeled me in with her synopsis of a Hollywood movie star and a gossip rag writer falling in love with Tabloid, her new release. Tabloid is set to be the first in Paxson’s Dirty Laundry series. In this book, Paxson features a false, make-believe relationship that turns into something unexpectedly more.
Talia and Zeke couldn’t be more opposite. He’s hot, flirty and famous. She’s behind the scenes, voluptuous, but an ordinary girl who happens to have a knack for exposing celebrities deepest darkest secrets. What could possibly go wrong?
A fake relationship. These two childhood frenemies hash a plan to “fake date” but all that changes as enemies turn lovers and feelings happen.
Paxson had me just by describing the book and while her synopsis does hold true to the story there was just something missing for me. Maybe it was the point of view it was written in? Something kept me from being sucked in completely by one of my favorite tropes. However, I will say as a debut novel, Paxson kept it interesting with her fun, comedic moments and witty banter between characters. Although this one didn’t exactly get my engine running it did however spike my curiosity making me excited to see what Paxson will do next!
Talia and Zeke couldn’t be more opposite. He’s hot, flirty and famous. She’s behind the scenes, voluptuous, but an ordinary girl who happens to have a knack for exposing celebrities deepest darkest secrets. What could possibly go wrong?
A fake relationship. These two childhood frenemies hash a plan to “fake date” but all that changes as enemies turn lovers and feelings happen.
Paxson had me just by describing the book and while her synopsis does hold true to the story there was just something missing for me. Maybe it was the point of view it was written in? Something kept me from being sucked in completely by one of my favorite tropes. However, I will say as a debut novel, Paxson kept it interesting with her fun, comedic moments and witty banter between characters. Although this one didn’t exactly get my engine running it did however spike my curiosity making me excited to see what Paxson will do next!
July 2, 2019
I will start by saying that I enjoyed this book and liked the overall plot of girl met boy years ago because he is girl's brother's best friend and they all grew up together. Girl has been put through the ringer because she is not a size zero and has really taken hits on it. Boy grows up to be super famous and a bit of a jerk. There were just a few moments where it was a lot to take in.
The writing style was extremely humorous and I liked a lot of the situations that the characters were in, but there were a couple that I did not like either. I can also say that the plot twist was freaking epic and I really liked that I had no freaking clue that it was going down!
All in all, I do recommend reading this book because the overall meaning is extremely sweet and the humor, y'all this book had some freaking hilarious moments in it! If you like a good brother's best friend read then you will enjoy this!
PS: Thank you to the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for providing an ARC so that I can read the book and post my honest review!
The writing style was extremely humorous and I liked a lot of the situations that the characters were in, but there were a couple that I did not like either. I can also say that the plot twist was freaking epic and I really liked that I had no freaking clue that it was going down!
All in all, I do recommend reading this book because the overall meaning is extremely sweet and the humor, y'all this book had some freaking hilarious moments in it! If you like a good brother's best friend read then you will enjoy this!
PS: Thank you to the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for providing an ARC so that I can read the book and post my honest review!
September 16, 2019
Going on a date that never shows up, Talia sees the opportunity for a story, she works for The Dirty Laundry and always had a way of being in the right place at the right time. It didn’t matter that the story was about Zeke Jaxon’s fiancé and Zee was her brothers’ best friend, she hated him.
After attending a party, she never thought she would be the gossip everyone was talking about, having no idea what happened, then seeing the news and Zee saying it’s serious but complicated between them.
She knew Zeke was going to say she needs him now, she said no when he suggesting helping her, but she knew it was the only way to save her job, but she has to move in with him, they can convince everyone they’re in love.
Talia can’t work out why Zee is pretending to be with someone like her, it can’t be helping him in anyway. The problem is see’s seeing different sides of him and she can see why women fall all over him. She keeps reminding herself they can’t fall in love they hate each other. The lines keep blurring, not knowing what is real and what’s for show, but she reminds herself he’s only acting, and he wouldn’t want someone chubby like her, but is he acting with all the mixed signals she’s getting.
After attending a party, she never thought she would be the gossip everyone was talking about, having no idea what happened, then seeing the news and Zee saying it’s serious but complicated between them.
She knew Zeke was going to say she needs him now, she said no when he suggesting helping her, but she knew it was the only way to save her job, but she has to move in with him, they can convince everyone they’re in love.
Talia can’t work out why Zee is pretending to be with someone like her, it can’t be helping him in anyway. The problem is see’s seeing different sides of him and she can see why women fall all over him. She keeps reminding herself they can’t fall in love they hate each other. The lines keep blurring, not knowing what is real and what’s for show, but she reminds herself he’s only acting, and he wouldn’t want someone chubby like her, but is he acting with all the mixed signals she’s getting.
June 14, 2019
Tabloid is a fabulous read. I love Talie's tell it how it is attitude. She will have giggling and full on laughing out loud throughout the read. You also feel for her in many ways to but I will leave it to you to discover that. As for Zee aka Zeke, one version of him I really liked the other not so much. This Hollywood actor is more then he seems. Even his friends I loved but hated. There are a few swoonworthy moments when it comes to Zeke. Being old friends Zeke and Talie have a lot of chemistry and it's fun to watch Talie fight it as much as she can. You can understand why as you read on. This fake relationship puts them in this situation where you just hope as friends they don't screw it up. Be on the look out for grandpa and the rest of Talie's family. I'm looking foward to more of the Dirty Laundry sereis. As a first time read of Jackie Paxson all I have to say is I want to one click more to come.
January 4, 2020
Audible.
This was my first book by Jackie Paxson and I enjoyed it. An interesting mix of several tropes: frenemies-to-lovers, celebrity, and best friend’s sister told entirely from Talia’s POV. The was some sex, but this was heavy on the actual relationship. Excellent world building and we got to know many secondary characters I hope we’ll see in future books.
Honestly, what probably held this back from being 5 stars was the need for a beta reader or editor. There were several times where things were clunky or awkwardly phrased, the same adjectives were used multiple times in a row for various objects, or a sentence was repeated but rephrased.
It was still an enjoyable story though.
Holly Holt has a pleasant voice and I enjoy her narrations. I did feel like some of the male voices were a bit stilted but it won’t keep me from seeking out her work in the future.
I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was my first book by Jackie Paxson and I enjoyed it. An interesting mix of several tropes: frenemies-to-lovers, celebrity, and best friend’s sister told entirely from Talia’s POV. The was some sex, but this was heavy on the actual relationship. Excellent world building and we got to know many secondary characters I hope we’ll see in future books.
Honestly, what probably held this back from being 5 stars was the need for a beta reader or editor. There were several times where things were clunky or awkwardly phrased, the same adjectives were used multiple times in a row for various objects, or a sentence was repeated but rephrased.
It was still an enjoyable story though.
Holly Holt has a pleasant voice and I enjoy her narrations. I did feel like some of the male voices were a bit stilted but it won’t keep me from seeking out her work in the future.
I received a free copy of this audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2019
This was such a good read. It was a fast and easy read from start to finish. The story was amazing and unique. Talia is a writer for a gossip column and Zeke an actor. A fake relationship, what could go wrong? I don’t know why but it’s a guilty pleasure of mine when it comes to the stories with fake relationships. It’s like a hallmark movie, you know what’s going to happen but you still love it. The bumps in the road in this story work with everything and it flows really well. I loved the characters especially Talia, she doesn’t have a model’s body but is still beautiful to the leading man which makes you feel like it could be you in the story, if you identify with the average woman. Zeke is the best leading man in a book like this, he doesn’t let his career choice dictate his love life, he follows his heart. I enjoyed this book and will look for more from this author in the future.
June 22, 2019
I love something different from the ordinary and that's exactly what Jackie Paxson did with her latest, Tabloid.
Talia is one of those characters you can't get enough of. Known as the queen of gossip, I fell into this story line and didn't want to stop until the end. I needed to know what was going to happen with her and Zeke and their "fake relationship." Zeke was one of those guys you either loved or hated him and I kind of went back and forth. Don't get me wrong, his character made for a perfect story line alongside Talia's , but he didn't have me swooning over him.
There were lots of fun moments, but it was an overall enjoyable read. I like the author's writing style and she's definitely got me curious with what's to come in her Dirty Laundry series.
Talia is one of those characters you can't get enough of. Known as the queen of gossip, I fell into this story line and didn't want to stop until the end. I needed to know what was going to happen with her and Zeke and their "fake relationship." Zeke was one of those guys you either loved or hated him and I kind of went back and forth. Don't get me wrong, his character made for a perfect story line alongside Talia's , but he didn't have me swooning over him.
There were lots of fun moments, but it was an overall enjoyable read. I like the author's writing style and she's definitely got me curious with what's to come in her Dirty Laundry series.
January 10, 2022
I liked this well enough. I feel like it’s a bit of a shame that maybe a beta read wasn’t done to unclunk some of the storyline maybe? I feel like there was a few repeats and stilted sentences.
Narration wise this was ok. I wasn’t the biggest fan of some of the adapted male voices but that’s just my personal opinion.
Fmc obviously has severe body issues because of past/current bullying which is awful. I am very glad as she grew up she managed to find a best friend who has her back and a twin who is fiercely loyal.
This is a I’ve loved you since we were kids troupe, it’s quite a clean romance, I wouldn’t say there’s smut. Sex scenes are not overly detailed.
This is my first time reading this author. I was gifted this audio and I’m providing my honest review.
Narration wise this was ok. I wasn’t the biggest fan of some of the adapted male voices but that’s just my personal opinion.
Fmc obviously has severe body issues because of past/current bullying which is awful. I am very glad as she grew up she managed to find a best friend who has her back and a twin who is fiercely loyal.
This is a I’ve loved you since we were kids troupe, it’s quite a clean romance, I wouldn’t say there’s smut. Sex scenes are not overly detailed.
This is my first time reading this author. I was gifted this audio and I’m providing my honest review.
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