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Corrigan Sisters #2
Ain't Misbehavin'
In Jazz Age Chicago, Dot Rodgers sells hats at Marshall Field while struggling to get her singing career off the ground. Independent and feisty, she’s the life of the party. But underneath the glitter, she doesn’t believe she’s worth the love of a good man. Why would a strong, upstanding man want to build a future with a shallow, good-time girl like her?
Small-town businessman Charlie Corrigan carries scars from the Great War. After all he’s been through, he wants nothing more than to marry and start a family. But the woman he loves is a flamboyant flapper with no intention of settling down. She’s used to a more glamorous life than he can offer. As his fortunes climb with the stock market, it seems he’s finally going to win her love. But what happens when it all comes crashing down?
Small-town businessman Charlie Corrigan carries scars from the Great War. After all he’s been through, he wants nothing more than to marry and start a family. But the woman he loves is a flamboyant flapper with no intention of settling down. She’s used to a more glamorous life than he can offer. As his fortunes climb with the stock market, it seems he’s finally going to win her love. But what happens when it all comes crashing down?
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2022
78 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Lamont Leo
19 books221 followers**THANK YOU, dear readers, for all the great reviews, and for choosing Moondrop Miracle, You're the Cream in My Coffee and Ain't Misbehavin for your book clubs. You're the bee's knees!** Author of Moondrop Miracle, You're the Cream in My Coffee and Ain't Misbehavin'. With a passion for all things historical, Jennifer Lamont Leo captures readers' hearts through stories set in times gone by. She is also a copywriter, editor, and journalist. An Illinois native, she holds a deep affection for Chicago and its rich history. Today she writes from the mountains of northern Idaho, where she shares her home with her husband, two cats, and abundant wildlife. Visit her at A Sparkling Vintage Life (http://www.JenniferLamontLeo.com/blog), as well as on Facebook, Bookbub, Twitter, and Pinterest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 22, 2018
Delightful!
I have heard several wonderful things about Ms. Leo's debut novel, so I quickly agreed to read her newest novel. I was not disappointed. Leo instantly transports her reader to the Jazz Age in Chicago, a time of speakeasies, flappers and gangsters. It is a time filled with high spirits and optimism just before the Stock Market crash of 1929. I found Dot to be an endearing heroine, who is trying to extricate herself from a tarnished past. Will she be able to find peace with God, forgiveness for those who have hurt her and most of all, consider herself good enough for Charlie Corrigan?
The plot is entertaining and charming, but also filled with a thoughtful message of the loyalty, peace and forgiveness found within family and God.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
I have heard several wonderful things about Ms. Leo's debut novel, so I quickly agreed to read her newest novel. I was not disappointed. Leo instantly transports her reader to the Jazz Age in Chicago, a time of speakeasies, flappers and gangsters. It is a time filled with high spirits and optimism just before the Stock Market crash of 1929. I found Dot to be an endearing heroine, who is trying to extricate herself from a tarnished past. Will she be able to find peace with God, forgiveness for those who have hurt her and most of all, consider herself good enough for Charlie Corrigan?
The plot is entertaining and charming, but also filled with a thoughtful message of the loyalty, peace and forgiveness found within family and God.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
May 15, 2018
Ain't Misbehavin’ by Jennifer Lamont Leo is the bee’s knees! I just had so much fun reading this book about the Jazz Age and the Roaring Twenties. The cover is what first attracted me and the story is just as good!
Ain't Misbehavin’ is the second book in the Roaring Twenties series but can definitely be read as a standalone. The writing is superb. Ms. Leo immediately transports the reader to the Jazz Age. I love the phrases and words she uses that are reminiscent of the period (dapper, spiffy, the bee’s knees). Don’t those words just put a smile on your face? The author has such a grasp of the period and it’s evident in her writing.
The characters in the story are swell! We have our former good time girl, Dot, who used to hang out with the wrong crowd at the wrong places. Charlie, our hero, is a sweet man from a small town. The two are as different as can be. At first, I felt Dot was rather shallow and I didn’t want Charlie to be with Dot, especially since they weren’t both Christians. But I love how the author employs a great character arc with Dot and I really grew to like her. I was even cheering her on by the end. Dot has had bad experiences with Christians and believes they are all hypocrites. I appreciate how Dot comes to realize that is not true through the love of some real Christians. Dot has to learn what real faith is.
Ain't Misbehavin’ is a fun book that will transport you to a time of flappers and speakeasies. Sit back and enjoy a well written book with some great faith themes.
Content: This is a clean read with a PG rating for some minor content. Some examples of the content are: mentions of speakeasies and booze; a dress is said to be low cut; people smoke: characters are at a party where there’s drinking and smoking; a woman is wearing a skin tight outfit; a man is smoking something stronger than tobacco; it’s said that a character curses but the word isn’t written.
Rating: I give this book 4 stars!
Genre: Christian fiction; Historical; Romance
I want to thank Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours, Jennifer Lamont Leo and Smitten Historical Romance for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
Ain't Misbehavin’ is the second book in the Roaring Twenties series but can definitely be read as a standalone. The writing is superb. Ms. Leo immediately transports the reader to the Jazz Age. I love the phrases and words she uses that are reminiscent of the period (dapper, spiffy, the bee’s knees). Don’t those words just put a smile on your face? The author has such a grasp of the period and it’s evident in her writing.
The characters in the story are swell! We have our former good time girl, Dot, who used to hang out with the wrong crowd at the wrong places. Charlie, our hero, is a sweet man from a small town. The two are as different as can be. At first, I felt Dot was rather shallow and I didn’t want Charlie to be with Dot, especially since they weren’t both Christians. But I love how the author employs a great character arc with Dot and I really grew to like her. I was even cheering her on by the end. Dot has had bad experiences with Christians and believes they are all hypocrites. I appreciate how Dot comes to realize that is not true through the love of some real Christians. Dot has to learn what real faith is.
Ain't Misbehavin’ is a fun book that will transport you to a time of flappers and speakeasies. Sit back and enjoy a well written book with some great faith themes.
Content: This is a clean read with a PG rating for some minor content. Some examples of the content are: mentions of speakeasies and booze; a dress is said to be low cut; people smoke: characters are at a party where there’s drinking and smoking; a woman is wearing a skin tight outfit; a man is smoking something stronger than tobacco; it’s said that a character curses but the word isn’t written.
Rating: I give this book 4 stars!
Genre: Christian fiction; Historical; Romance
I want to thank Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours, Jennifer Lamont Leo and Smitten Historical Romance for the complimentary copy of this book for review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I express in this review are my own. This is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s CFR 16, Part 255.
March 13, 2018
This captivating, fast-paced Christian historical romance takes us to a time that seems fun and exciting. Speakeasies are very popular, and only certain people can get into these rooms with booze and entertainment. Nice ladies don’t hang out in speakeasies, gangs are everywhere in Chicago, and the stock market is booming. It is New Year’s Eve, 1928, with likable characters, strong dialog, and faith struggles.
Dot is the daughter of Reverend Oliver Barker, a faith healer who was more of a charlatan, bringing in dishonest money with his family paying the price. Whether it was living the lie or abandoning their faith, he didn’t see himself as the cause of anyone’s dis-ease. When he kicked Dot out of the house, she went to Chicago to find a place to work, sing, live. Singing something she loved to do. She was mentored by Louie, a gangster who had a cabaret where Dot sang and dreamed that he loved her. When he went to jail, she spent less time with the gang and more time with roommate Marjorie. She met Charlie, Marjorie’s brother, and they have been going out. Charlie’s family live in Kerryville, owning and running Corrigan’s Dry Goods. He was safe, and a Christian, but definitely without glamor or excitement.
Charlie plans to propose to Dot on New Year’s Eve, has reservations at a quiet place for dinner. She has other plans, wanting to go to a party at one of her friend’s. They compromise by stopping by the party, intending only a quick stop. Until they asked her to sing. Dot lost all track of time. Charlie sees he can’t fit in with the gang, and didn’t really want to. They had a disagreement, he walked out, and she could see that what her father said was true. She was selfish and no decent man would ever want her. She had to cut ties now. She was doing well until going to Kerryville for Marjorie’s wedding.
Charlie and Dot appeal to this reader, as I have empathy for each. Charlie is introverted, preferring small groups of people, and has injuries sustained in the Great War while Dot, an extrovert, is energized by singing and being in a crowd of her friends, even if there is booze or smoke in the room. Charlie is a Christian who knows God’s love and mercy. Dot has a warped view of the Lord because of her father’s schemes. They have many good qualities, and each has a heart for the other, but people in their lives try to convince them that they don’t belong together. Especially the critical voice of the Reverend in Dot’s head. The characters drive this novel, vibrant, appealing, and very well-defined.
Plot twists come out of the blue in this well-written novel. The author expertly captures the music, hairstyles and clothing, and differences between small town and big city life. The question is raised many times over, whether one can change from being a “speakeasy floozy” to someone suitable for Charlie. Whether religion is just what a mean-spirited preacher says, or what the Bible says. Even though she has long worked a respectable job at Marshall Fields, Dot still sees herself as the leopard who can’t change her spots. This is an amazing novel of discovery, pain, faith, and hope for a future different than the past – even when the past drags one to the DA’s office. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written, faith-filled novels of the late 1920’s era of American history.
From a grateful heart: I received a copy of this ebook from the publisher and was not required to provide a review.
Dot is the daughter of Reverend Oliver Barker, a faith healer who was more of a charlatan, bringing in dishonest money with his family paying the price. Whether it was living the lie or abandoning their faith, he didn’t see himself as the cause of anyone’s dis-ease. When he kicked Dot out of the house, she went to Chicago to find a place to work, sing, live. Singing something she loved to do. She was mentored by Louie, a gangster who had a cabaret where Dot sang and dreamed that he loved her. When he went to jail, she spent less time with the gang and more time with roommate Marjorie. She met Charlie, Marjorie’s brother, and they have been going out. Charlie’s family live in Kerryville, owning and running Corrigan’s Dry Goods. He was safe, and a Christian, but definitely without glamor or excitement.
Charlie plans to propose to Dot on New Year’s Eve, has reservations at a quiet place for dinner. She has other plans, wanting to go to a party at one of her friend’s. They compromise by stopping by the party, intending only a quick stop. Until they asked her to sing. Dot lost all track of time. Charlie sees he can’t fit in with the gang, and didn’t really want to. They had a disagreement, he walked out, and she could see that what her father said was true. She was selfish and no decent man would ever want her. She had to cut ties now. She was doing well until going to Kerryville for Marjorie’s wedding.
Charlie and Dot appeal to this reader, as I have empathy for each. Charlie is introverted, preferring small groups of people, and has injuries sustained in the Great War while Dot, an extrovert, is energized by singing and being in a crowd of her friends, even if there is booze or smoke in the room. Charlie is a Christian who knows God’s love and mercy. Dot has a warped view of the Lord because of her father’s schemes. They have many good qualities, and each has a heart for the other, but people in their lives try to convince them that they don’t belong together. Especially the critical voice of the Reverend in Dot’s head. The characters drive this novel, vibrant, appealing, and very well-defined.
Plot twists come out of the blue in this well-written novel. The author expertly captures the music, hairstyles and clothing, and differences between small town and big city life. The question is raised many times over, whether one can change from being a “speakeasy floozy” to someone suitable for Charlie. Whether religion is just what a mean-spirited preacher says, or what the Bible says. Even though she has long worked a respectable job at Marshall Fields, Dot still sees herself as the leopard who can’t change her spots. This is an amazing novel of discovery, pain, faith, and hope for a future different than the past – even when the past drags one to the DA’s office. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-written, faith-filled novels of the late 1920’s era of American history.
From a grateful heart: I received a copy of this ebook from the publisher and was not required to provide a review.
February 27, 2018
Engaging!!!
Ain’t Misbehavin’ is the sequel to You’re the Cream in My Coffee. Sequels are not always easy to write, and they need to be every bit as good as the first one. I found Ain’t Misbehavin’ as engaging as the first book. I loved looking back to a by gone era. Jennifer Lemont Leo has sprinkled tidbits of culture, inventions and history throughout the story of Charlie Corrigan and Dot Rogers. We were introduced to them in You’re the Cream in My Coffee.
The characters struggle with their own versions of low self-esteem. Charlie was injured in World War I feeling unworthy of any woman’s love. Dot had a father who verbal abused her and she’s made some bad decisions leaving her convinced she is unworthy of true love. Many of the characters from the first book help frame Charlie and Dot’s story. Some giving great advice, others causing trouble. At one point I found myself saying “Oh no, Dot don’t do it.” When I’m talking to the characters then I’m totally hooked on the story. The setting may be 1929 but the heart of the story is timeless.
I was given an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my honest opinion. I can honestly say this well-written, well-researched novel is well-worth the reader’s time.
Ain’t Misbehavin’ is the sequel to You’re the Cream in My Coffee. Sequels are not always easy to write, and they need to be every bit as good as the first one. I found Ain’t Misbehavin’ as engaging as the first book. I loved looking back to a by gone era. Jennifer Lemont Leo has sprinkled tidbits of culture, inventions and history throughout the story of Charlie Corrigan and Dot Rogers. We were introduced to them in You’re the Cream in My Coffee.
The characters struggle with their own versions of low self-esteem. Charlie was injured in World War I feeling unworthy of any woman’s love. Dot had a father who verbal abused her and she’s made some bad decisions leaving her convinced she is unworthy of true love. Many of the characters from the first book help frame Charlie and Dot’s story. Some giving great advice, others causing trouble. At one point I found myself saying “Oh no, Dot don’t do it.” When I’m talking to the characters then I’m totally hooked on the story. The setting may be 1929 but the heart of the story is timeless.
I was given an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for my honest opinion. I can honestly say this well-written, well-researched novel is well-worth the reader’s time.
May 6, 2018
I really enjoyed the first book, so when I saw the second one had come out by this author, I had to check it out right away.
Set in the 1920's, I was totally pulled into the story and didn't want to put it down. Through the ups and the downs, I felt for Dot, especially with her relationship with her father. This was a true tale of finding the love of our Father in heaven.
I loved how the author didn't preach, spend long times with characters spouting bible verses, but throughout you found the love of the Lord. It did make me want to read some of Dorothy Sayers books!
Set in the 1920's, I was totally pulled into the story and didn't want to put it down. Through the ups and the downs, I felt for Dot, especially with her relationship with her father. This was a true tale of finding the love of our Father in heaven.
I loved how the author didn't preach, spend long times with characters spouting bible verses, but throughout you found the love of the Lord. It did make me want to read some of Dorothy Sayers books!
March 8, 2018
While looking for a way to get her singing career up and humming, Dot Rodgers is right in the thick of the sparkling Jazz Age in late 1920s Chicago. But she may be in a little thicker than she wants to be. Meanwhile, the small-town, Great War veteran who loves her, Charlie, is hoping his family's business--as well as his investments in the stock market--will make him the man of means a woman like Dot would go for in Ain't Misbehavin', a novel by author Jennifer Lamont Leo.
This novel has a nice take-off point, following the novel before it, You're the Cream in My Coffee. Given all that's evident or revealed about that previous story in this book, I'd highly recommend reading that novel before this one.
The covers and Roaring Twenties settings of both these novels just get me. Jazzy tunes, women's bobbed hair, "the cat's meow," and newfangled gizmos like heaters and radios built into automobiles, no less. Yowza! Besides that, some of my favorite moments in the story are away from the city's "roar," in a cozy farmhouse setting. Call me sentimental.
I came to like Dot more than I thought I would. She's flawed and makes mistakes, and she doubts herself, but she's also competent and capable when she puts her mind to things, and she's a real sweetheart without being too syrupy.
I did, however, find it hard to follow the course of her thoughts and feelings sometimes, as well as Charlie's. The two of them can go up and down pretty fast, or they jump to conclusions. While Charlie expresses some early concern for Dot's spiritual state, his actions don't really show that he considers it to be a priority. And his behavior toward the end of the book left me feeling iffy about him for other reasons, which is an unfortunate feeling at the end of a romance novel.
There's also a thread of suspense that seems to be left open-ended...
Anyhow, I could say more about what I liked in the novel, so if the Roaring Twenties series continues, or if a spin-off carries into the thirties or something, I plan to be there.
_________
I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
This novel has a nice take-off point, following the novel before it, You're the Cream in My Coffee. Given all that's evident or revealed about that previous story in this book, I'd highly recommend reading that novel before this one.
The covers and Roaring Twenties settings of both these novels just get me. Jazzy tunes, women's bobbed hair, "the cat's meow," and newfangled gizmos like heaters and radios built into automobiles, no less. Yowza! Besides that, some of my favorite moments in the story are away from the city's "roar," in a cozy farmhouse setting. Call me sentimental.
I came to like Dot more than I thought I would. She's flawed and makes mistakes, and she doubts herself, but she's also competent and capable when she puts her mind to things, and she's a real sweetheart without being too syrupy.
I did, however, find it hard to follow the course of her thoughts and feelings sometimes, as well as Charlie's. The two of them can go up and down pretty fast, or they jump to conclusions. While Charlie expresses some early concern for Dot's spiritual state, his actions don't really show that he considers it to be a priority. And his behavior toward the end of the book left me feeling iffy about him for other reasons, which is an unfortunate feeling at the end of a romance novel.
There's also a thread of suspense that seems to be left open-ended...
Anyhow, I could say more about what I liked in the novel, so if the Roaring Twenties series continues, or if a spin-off carries into the thirties or something, I plan to be there.
_________
I received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
April 5, 2018
This book was very heart warming, but a lot of the book was about them falling for each other, getting together, but splitting up because they can’t communicate. And obviously there wouldn’t be a story if it hadn’t been for that, but that cliche is one that I dislike greatly.
Other than that, this book was very beautifully written, and I loved reading it! I love that the Gospel is put in there in such a way that isn’t forced upon you, and I loved to see certain biblical subjects come up and were dealt with by the characters that could really help people dealing with that in real life, and that was amazing to read!
Other than that, this book was very beautifully written, and I loved reading it! I love that the Gospel is put in there in such a way that isn’t forced upon you, and I loved to see certain biblical subjects come up and were dealt with by the characters that could really help people dealing with that in real life, and that was amazing to read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2018
A’int Misbehavin’ is the second installment from the Roaring Twenties series. It is, also, my first introduction to Jennifer Lamont Leo’s writing. I thought it was a fun, delightful and short read. It was good to read a good and clean historical fiction. I enjoyed the characters and the message at the end.
I give A’int Misbehavin’ four stars and I am adding the first of the series, You’re the Cream in My Coffee, to my wish list.
I received this book from the author. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I give A’int Misbehavin’ four stars and I am adding the first of the series, You’re the Cream in My Coffee, to my wish list.
I received this book from the author. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
September 14, 2018
Chicago, 1928-29. Jennifer Leo presents characters who make decisions that have consequences in an uncertain time. Moral and lifestyle choices bring questions of forgiveness and recovery.
January 27, 2023
Another amazing story. Lots of surprises that keep you wonder what will happen next. I loved e very minute of the story and hated to see it end.
August 18, 2018
I fell in love with Dot Rodgers and Charlie Corrigan in You’re the Cream in My Coffee, and although Ain’t Misbehavin’ can be read as a stand-alone, I highly recommend starting with You’re the Cream in My Coffee so that you know where Charlie and Dot have come from to get to the opening of this story. If nothing else, you’ll have a better understanding of just how different they are in personality, background, and aspirations when they first meet. They’re a recipe for heartache, which initially made me a little hesitant to pick this book up, but despite the ups and downs in their relationship, this wasn’t an angst-ridden story. Rather, it was the engaging story of two young people who slowly but surely mature as they gain more experience in the world and learn from their mistakes.
Dot’s transformation was particularly satisfying. Having grown up with a charlatan preacher for a father, she has a warped understanding of Christianity—in fact, she’s rejected it completely since being thrown out of home and called a disgrace for her love of singing and performing. Her maturation happened so subtly and organically that I didn’t even notice it happening until I looked back and thought, “Look how far you’ve come, girl!”
As for Charlie, my heart went out to him. A veteran of the Great War, he’s already been rejected once. He’s such a gentle, steadfast soul, and he adores Dot, but they both have a bit of growing to do before their relationship will work. And that means more pain for him in the interim. *sigh*
Best of all, Jennifer Lamont Leo captures the essence of this era perfectly in the settings, the characters, and her writing. I’m looking forward to whatever comes next from this author.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Dot’s transformation was particularly satisfying. Having grown up with a charlatan preacher for a father, she has a warped understanding of Christianity—in fact, she’s rejected it completely since being thrown out of home and called a disgrace for her love of singing and performing. Her maturation happened so subtly and organically that I didn’t even notice it happening until I looked back and thought, “Look how far you’ve come, girl!”
As for Charlie, my heart went out to him. A veteran of the Great War, he’s already been rejected once. He’s such a gentle, steadfast soul, and he adores Dot, but they both have a bit of growing to do before their relationship will work. And that means more pain for him in the interim. *sigh*
Best of all, Jennifer Lamont Leo captures the essence of this era perfectly in the settings, the characters, and her writing. I’m looking forward to whatever comes next from this author.
I received a copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not influenced the content of my review, which is my honest and unbiased opinion.
May 4, 2018
Ain't Misbehavin' is a fun historical romance set in the twenties, which is one of my favorite time periods. Its the sequel to You Are The Cream In My Coffee, which I read last year.
When I started this book I had a hard time liking Dot. I'm not used to the bad-ish girl, good guy trope. And speaking of tropes this book also sees Charlie as a flawed hero, crippled from a war injury. Dot doesn't feel she's worthy of him, but Charlie has issues because of his injury.
As the story progresses I came to really love both characters. Dot who was really a party girl starts to see that there is more to life than a good time, especially when some of her friends were not so nice types. (Like mob types). She also has issues with her faith, thanks to a father that is a bit of a crooked minister.
Ms. Leo weaved some good historical points into the story, from the St. Valentine's Day Massacre in Chicago to the stock market crash that ushered in the depression. Each event plays a part in the way the story moves along.
The relationship between Dot and Charlie is rocky to say the least. I have to say, at times I agreed with Dot that they really wouldn't work out together, as they seemed to have very little in common. As things went on and Dot's personality changed they became a much better fit, and they both cared deeply for each other, both as friends and as something more though not without some missteps along the way, ok a lot of missteps along the way.
This is also a work of Christian fiction, and what I found refreshing was that it didn't come across as preachy. Everything felt, well, it felt real.
This was a wonderful book and a quick read.
When I started this book I had a hard time liking Dot. I'm not used to the bad-ish girl, good guy trope. And speaking of tropes this book also sees Charlie as a flawed hero, crippled from a war injury. Dot doesn't feel she's worthy of him, but Charlie has issues because of his injury.
As the story progresses I came to really love both characters. Dot who was really a party girl starts to see that there is more to life than a good time, especially when some of her friends were not so nice types. (Like mob types). She also has issues with her faith, thanks to a father that is a bit of a crooked minister.
Ms. Leo weaved some good historical points into the story, from the St. Valentine's Day Massacre in Chicago to the stock market crash that ushered in the depression. Each event plays a part in the way the story moves along.
The relationship between Dot and Charlie is rocky to say the least. I have to say, at times I agreed with Dot that they really wouldn't work out together, as they seemed to have very little in common. As things went on and Dot's personality changed they became a much better fit, and they both cared deeply for each other, both as friends and as something more though not without some missteps along the way, ok a lot of missteps along the way.
This is also a work of Christian fiction, and what I found refreshing was that it didn't come across as preachy. Everything felt, well, it felt real.
This was a wonderful book and a quick read.
March 16, 2018
Ain’t Misbehavin’ transports you back to the 1920’s from the first page. It is here that you meet Dot Rodgers, a former speakeasy singer who currently works in the millinery department at Marshall Fields. She is getting ready to attend a New Year’s Eve party with her straight-as-an-arrow boyfriend, Charlie Corrigan. Charlie lives with his parents and helps run the family dry goods store.
Their relationship goes through some rocky times as the story progresses. We meet many friends and family who impact the romance in surprising ways.
Is it possible for Dot to reclaim the faith she lost knowing that her preacher father is scamming believers into helping fund his ministry? Charlie certainly does his best to encourage her to try.
Ms. Leo stays true to the era by using popular slang of the day and tying the story to the financial times. Business is great until the stock market crash in 1929. How do Charlie and Dot weather this era?
We are, of course, looking at a romance and anticipate a “happily ever after.” This does happen, but I felt it came about a little too quickly – as if the story needed to be finished to make a deadline. However, it did not keep me from my overall enjoyment of the book.
I received an advance copy of Ain’t Misbehavin’ from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. My review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
Their relationship goes through some rocky times as the story progresses. We meet many friends and family who impact the romance in surprising ways.
Is it possible for Dot to reclaim the faith she lost knowing that her preacher father is scamming believers into helping fund his ministry? Charlie certainly does his best to encourage her to try.
Ms. Leo stays true to the era by using popular slang of the day and tying the story to the financial times. Business is great until the stock market crash in 1929. How do Charlie and Dot weather this era?
We are, of course, looking at a romance and anticipate a “happily ever after.” This does happen, but I felt it came about a little too quickly – as if the story needed to be finished to make a deadline. However, it did not keep me from my overall enjoyment of the book.
I received an advance copy of Ain’t Misbehavin’ from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. My review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
March 14, 2018
1929 was an eventful year. This story follows Dot and Charlie as they have an on/off relationship.
Dot does not believe she is good enough for Charlie. Charlie does not think he is high class enough for Dot. I was rooting for them to overcome the misunderstandings that kept coming up between them.
Charlie at times was infuriating, quick to think the worst and distance himself from Dot. Other times he was very sweet. I loved when he promises to give Dot a driving lesson.
I adored Dot! She's the bee's knees! I loved seeing her personal growth, learning that no matter what her father said, “she was worth the love of a good man.”
I think my favorite person was Pop Corrigan. He was the voice of reason and gave Charlie very good advice. Of course, Charlie didn't always see things Pop's way, he needed to learn some things the hard way.
Good story, lots of emotion. Satisfying conclusion.
*Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited
Dot does not believe she is good enough for Charlie. Charlie does not think he is high class enough for Dot. I was rooting for them to overcome the misunderstandings that kept coming up between them.
Charlie at times was infuriating, quick to think the worst and distance himself from Dot. Other times he was very sweet. I loved when he promises to give Dot a driving lesson.
I adored Dot! She's the bee's knees! I loved seeing her personal growth, learning that no matter what her father said, “she was worth the love of a good man.”
I think my favorite person was Pop Corrigan. He was the voice of reason and gave Charlie very good advice. Of course, Charlie didn't always see things Pop's way, he needed to learn some things the hard way.
Good story, lots of emotion. Satisfying conclusion.
*Borrowed from Kindle Unlimited
March 17, 2018
Cozy book set in the 1920s. Charlie wants to be his "own man" instead of working in his family store. Dot loves singing and was a speakeasy singer. Dot's father is a preacher and calls his daughter shameful and disowns her. When these two meet, there is a connection there, but the wall each has put around their heart that they feel "not good enough" for the other. Will they ever get together? Will Dot ever see there is a loving God, not the stern power that her father preached? When Charlie presents his idea of expanding the store to his father, the reaction is not a good one at first.
Will his father ever agree? The most touching scene in the book was Dot's visit with her father while he was in prison. What happened? You'll have to read the book to find out and to see if they get together. Awesome read, true to attitudes and life in the 20s
Will his father ever agree? The most touching scene in the book was Dot's visit with her father while he was in prison. What happened? You'll have to read the book to find out and to see if they get together. Awesome read, true to attitudes and life in the 20s
August 27, 2019
What a great way to experience the Roarin' Twenties! Leo does a bang-up job of setting the reader into the thick of gangster-ridden Chicago at a very volatile time in U.S. history. It's a roller coaster of ups and downs that will keep the reader turning the pages.
Dot Rodgers hasn't been a poster girl for propriety since she fled her family and moved to Chicago, but she's not apologizing for it ... exactly. Charlie Corrigan may have been scarred by the Great War, but he's still got ambitions. Recapturing the interest of the flapper who holds his heart is chief among them. So he opens a new business near Chicago ... and then things get really interesting.
Dot Rodgers hasn't been a poster girl for propriety since she fled her family and moved to Chicago, but she's not apologizing for it ... exactly. Charlie Corrigan may have been scarred by the Great War, but he's still got ambitions. Recapturing the interest of the flapper who holds his heart is chief among them. So he opens a new business near Chicago ... and then things get really interesting.
March 19, 2018
Ain't Misbehavin' book two in the Roaring Twenties series is a fun read! I enjoyed this book and getting a glimpse into the 1920s. Dot works at Marshall Field selling hats and is the life of the party. But inside she doesn't feel worthy of a good man. Charlie works in his families store with some issues of his own. Charlie is trying to impress her with his ability to make money. Then things go bad. Can they each overcome their pasts and make a life together? Looking forward to more by Jennifer Lamont Leo!
I received this book from the publisher and all opinions are my own.
I received this book from the publisher and all opinions are my own.
March 19, 2018
This is a serious subject lighten with humor. I fell in love with Dot and Charlie took me a little longer. Until you understand Charlie's values and his position, he comes off as a jerk at the New Year's Eve party. Once Dot comes to a realization of who she is and who she wants to be. Dot changes her life and works toward having a relationship with Charlie. Dot challenged my anger and her stupidity of what is right and her thought process is kind of twisted. Even through all of this Charlie loves her unconditionally, and this Dot has an even harder time understanding.
March 4, 2018
I don't read too many stories from the 1920's. I enjoyed this one. I like Dot and Charlie. They are both quietly struggling with self-esteem issues. Charlie was injured in the war and his fiancée broke their engagement when he came home injured. Dot doesn't think she is good enough for Charlie. She works hard and is trying to get away from her former friends. I will have to go back and read the first book in this series.
April 26, 2018
AIN’t MISBEHAVING by Jennifer Leo March 13
Dot has a boyfriend who she thinks will love the glamor and excitement of the city like she does.The dream of audition to sing and quit selling hats. Typical twenties, the Model T cars, the bands, boot leg liquor. Dreams are big, trouble making a living comes into this plot, and realizing what is important. Well, done with a good detail to the times of the twenties. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
Dot has a boyfriend who she thinks will love the glamor and excitement of the city like she does.The dream of audition to sing and quit selling hats. Typical twenties, the Model T cars, the bands, boot leg liquor. Dreams are big, trouble making a living comes into this plot, and realizing what is important. Well, done with a good detail to the times of the twenties. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion.
March 8, 2018
This was a fun story taking place in Chicago during the roaring twenties. Gangsters, speakeasy, the Valentine's day massacre and the stock market crash. I enjoyed getting to know Dot and her struggles with her family relationships, her faith, Charlie and her determination to make it in the big city.
March 17, 2018
This is a wonderfully uplifting series that I hope will continue. This time around the story focuses on Dot and Charlie, but all the main characters from the first book show up too. I like that when there is a sequel, can get to know better some of the other characters. A very good story with a great message.
April 23, 2018
This is a delightful trip back to the Roaring Twenties when Speakeasies and Flappers were all the rage. This book doesn't sugar coat anything. It reveals "in fiction" how life back then was. It's an interesting read and many references are real events. Take a trip back in history an enjoy this delightful book.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
February 23, 2018
What a wonderful book about the roaring twenties in Chicago. I received a free copy but never realized how delightful this book would be. The characters are so well suited that you feel as if you are there, especially Dot. Don’t miss out once it’s released.
March 11, 2018
A fantastic story, entertaining and charming set up in the past.
The characters are strong, funny, loyal.
You will love it.
I recommend this book to all that love Jazz age.
I received a free book and this is my voluntary review.
The characters are strong, funny, loyal.
You will love it.
I recommend this book to all that love Jazz age.
I received a free book and this is my voluntary review.
March 19, 2018
I really liked this story. I kept cheering for Dot, but fearing what she might do next. There were so many facets to this book which included extended families of several of the characters, with very complicated interactions between them. Can’t wait to see what comes next from this author.
April 21, 2018
This is the second in a series. I'm sure that reading the books in order would make the experience richer, but this book is enjoyable even without reading the first book. This historical fiction has believable characters and a satisfying conclusion.
March 30, 2018
Another great one by Jennifer! She's clearly done her research and brings the Roaring '20s to life. Charlie and Dot are wonderful. I laughed and cried and cheered right alongside them.
April 20, 2018
I really enjoyed this story of two flawed people who turned out to be surprisingly strong in a crisis. Life in Chicago of the 1920's is well described. The characters were well written.
May 6, 2018
Great historical love story set during one of America's best and worst times. I loved it, I definitely will read more of Ms. Leo's books.
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