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#Toots #1
#Toots: A hilarious romantic comedy built on white lies, pink elephants and grey areas
EDITORIAL "Fresh and funny" The Prairies Book Review.
2019 National Excellence Indie Awards Finalist.
"Funny and feisty" Awarded 5 STARS by Readers' Favorite.
A British romantic comedy.
Four sisters in London swipe left, one cocktail at a one time.
Louise meets the perfect man. She’ll stop at nothing to seduce him. She’ll fake it till she makes it, all the way to the ka-ching bling ring. But the little white lies soon snowball into a mountain her Louboutins can’t climb.
Jess juggles babies, a cheating husband and nannies from hell.
Carla goes on a bender and wakes up next to her young assistant.
Emily is getting over her ex by stumbling on the dating scene.
Fortunately, when everything goes wrong, there’s nothing prosecco and friendship can’t fix.
#TOOTS… HILARIOUS. ROMANTIC. SEXY
2019 National Excellence Indie Awards Finalist.
"Funny and feisty" Awarded 5 STARS by Readers' Favorite.
A British romantic comedy.
Four sisters in London swipe left, one cocktail at a one time.
Louise meets the perfect man. She’ll stop at nothing to seduce him. She’ll fake it till she makes it, all the way to the ka-ching bling ring. But the little white lies soon snowball into a mountain her Louboutins can’t climb.
Jess juggles babies, a cheating husband and nannies from hell.
Carla goes on a bender and wakes up next to her young assistant.
Emily is getting over her ex by stumbling on the dating scene.
Fortunately, when everything goes wrong, there’s nothing prosecco and friendship can’t fix.
#TOOTS… HILARIOUS. ROMANTIC. SEXY
483 pages, Paperback
First published January 18, 2019
73 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 27, 2019
OH this book! I think I'm still laughing about some of these scenes! And a book that gives you cocktail recipes for each chapter - um, yes please and thank you.
I may not have blood sisters but my best friends and I pretty much fit the bill with these crazy ladies. It's all a part of life right? Bad dates, bad decisions, hanging on to something that should've been let go ages ago, going after the wrong guy, passing up the right one... etc.
Listen, there were definite moments where I wanted to throttle these women and the writing took a little bit of getting used to as it seems everyone likes to talk and talk ALOT and the while never giving the other person room to breathe or answer. However, these women felt absolutely REAL to me! But I'm left with so many questions!! That ending - what the hell James!! Hahaha
You guys, there are some definite laugh out loud moments that made me snort laugh and get strange looks from the people around me and I do not care! For these moments along you should definitely pick this up.
I may not have blood sisters but my best friends and I pretty much fit the bill with these crazy ladies. It's all a part of life right? Bad dates, bad decisions, hanging on to something that should've been let go ages ago, going after the wrong guy, passing up the right one... etc.
Listen, there were definite moments where I wanted to throttle these women and the writing took a little bit of getting used to as it seems everyone likes to talk and talk ALOT and the while never giving the other person room to breathe or answer. However, these women felt absolutely REAL to me! But I'm left with so many questions!! That ending - what the hell James!! Hahaha
You guys, there are some definite laugh out loud moments that made me snort laugh and get strange looks from the people around me and I do not care! For these moments along you should definitely pick this up.
February 26, 2019
Oh, my goodness. What a fun read! To me, #Toots is like a season of FRIENDS... but instead of six friends in New York, it's four sisters in London.
This book follows all four of them as they struggle to navigate dating, relationships, love, marriage, scandal, and everything in between. Ms. James has a delightful sense of humor and a knack for writing characters that come to life. I would happily read more books about Louise, Jess, Carla, and Emily. And more fiction from Ms. James!
This book follows all four of them as they struggle to navigate dating, relationships, love, marriage, scandal, and everything in between. Ms. James has a delightful sense of humor and a knack for writing characters that come to life. I would happily read more books about Louise, Jess, Carla, and Emily. And more fiction from Ms. James!
June 5, 2019
Four sisters swipe left on everything they hate in their life and uplift each other one luscious cocktail at a time. Louise dreams of getting out of Hackney and will lies her way to the glamourous lifestyle she craves. But when her “harmless” little white lies catch up to her, she can feel her dream sailing away. Jess is supermom, juggling a career, two babies and a cheating dirtbag of a husband. She longs to get away, too. Carla parties a little too hard one night and wakes up next to her very young assistant. Calgon has no help for her. Emily is back in the dating pool and struggling to keep her head above water. Who knew life could be so un-fun? But through it all, these four sisters have each other and that’s all you need. Except maybe a few top-shelf cocktails.
#Toots is a hilarious British romantic comedy akin to Cadence Bushnell and Helen Fielding. Every chapter starts with a fab cocktail recipe and really ladies, what else do you need? I can’t tell you how much I laughed while reading this book but about halfway through, I had to force myself to stop drinking while reading because I was tired of wiping down my e-reader. Yes, it’s that funny. Women all over the world will relate to the four sisters and connect with at least one of them. A fast-moving plot kept me turning the pages and I can’t wait for book 2.
If you’re looking for a laugh-so-hard-my-side-aches women’s fiction, pick up #Toots today. Highly recommend, especially for fans of SATC and Shopaholic series.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...
#Toots is a hilarious British romantic comedy akin to Cadence Bushnell and Helen Fielding. Every chapter starts with a fab cocktail recipe and really ladies, what else do you need? I can’t tell you how much I laughed while reading this book but about halfway through, I had to force myself to stop drinking while reading because I was tired of wiping down my e-reader. Yes, it’s that funny. Women all over the world will relate to the four sisters and connect with at least one of them. A fast-moving plot kept me turning the pages and I can’t wait for book 2.
If you’re looking for a laugh-so-hard-my-side-aches women’s fiction, pick up #Toots today. Highly recommend, especially for fans of SATC and Shopaholic series.
My Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/si...
March 28, 2019
DNF: 2.5 STARS
I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review! all opinions are my own
this book was entirely not what I'd expected. I say that in a bad way. it's been on my e-reader app and my conscience for weeks now, but I literally cannot bring myself to pick it up and read another word. I don't like dnf-inf books but this had to be done. #toots did make me laugh in some places but it wasn't truly funny. nothing about #toots is positive or feel-good or happy. all the characters are messed up in numerous ways and that didn't fuel my motivation to read more at all. all the main female characters are woman-hating in different ways. aside from the sisters, there's no true women solidarity (aside from lola, who is batshit insane).
I was perhaps expecting something along the lines of bridget jones' diary: funny, irreverent, full of shenanigans. instead I just felt weary and worn out by these characters and their daily lives. the writing style is choppy and confusing, jumping about the timeline. it would have been much better to have one single narrator, or two narrators at most. four muddied the waters too much and made in almost incomprehensible.
the love lives of these characters are abysmal. jess is obsessive about her husband possibly cheating on her, her husband who has little to no interest in her or his children's lives and leaves the majority of childrearing to her. carla is desperate for her longtime boyfriend to marry her but he's also disinterested in her as a person. as a result, she falls into bed with a junior colleague (!!) who is also sort of a creepo stalker a la christian grey (makes grand gestures of 'love' by stealing her car keys, etc). loiuse is a faker to the highest degree - I could admire her ambition if she wasn't putting down her sisters every other moment (and also if she wasn't such a dumb, vapid bitch). and emily is naive and utterly annoying with her constant refrain of 'i will be the khaleesi!! I will conquer men!!' like... that's not what daenerys is about? you do you, sis.
also... the Islamophobia. oh god, the Islamophobia. I know it was only for a brief moment but god in heaven was it the shittiest moment. I had to look away for a moment and stare into space, thinking 'is this bitch serious???' I don't care if jess is a paranoid headcase, there's other ways to express that. on that same note, the racism. take a look at this scene below:
'Molly love chocolate. She eat very messy. Szia, Mia! Szia, Molly!’
was it really necessary to depict the 'foreign', non-english speaking nanny as lazy and stupid? no. it is a shambolic MESS. the smut was also very perfunctory and not arousing at all. it was very methodical with very little actual feeling? the author needs to read fic for some smut writing advice. here, i even have recommendations.
and not also was there bad smut, slut shaming, and Islamophobia but to complete the unholy alliance is: homophobia! there's one bit where she makes up a pretend scenario where to quote, her 'gay dad' has been kicked out of the home and now needs to live in a 'squalid' and 'unsafe' gay hostel. he also apparently spends a lot of money at 'gay casinos' in 'gay las vegas' (aka san francisco). what the actual FUCK?
the author did try. there's a few really good sections about motherhood and the burden out on women to confirm to this ideal of womanhood and dedicate their lives entirely to their children and husband. I did feel for jess, truly. for like, .3 seconds before she went back to being an utter weirdo.
I seriously can't believe there's going to be a second book. as if one wasn't enough??? this saga could have been neatly tied up with a bow in one book because truly, what more tension can there be? what more conflict to interest us?
I received a copy of this from the author in exchange for an honest review! all opinions are my own
this book was entirely not what I'd expected. I say that in a bad way. it's been on my e-reader app and my conscience for weeks now, but I literally cannot bring myself to pick it up and read another word. I don't like dnf-inf books but this had to be done. #toots did make me laugh in some places but it wasn't truly funny. nothing about #toots is positive or feel-good or happy. all the characters are messed up in numerous ways and that didn't fuel my motivation to read more at all. all the main female characters are woman-hating in different ways. aside from the sisters, there's no true women solidarity (aside from lola, who is batshit insane).
I was perhaps expecting something along the lines of bridget jones' diary: funny, irreverent, full of shenanigans. instead I just felt weary and worn out by these characters and their daily lives. the writing style is choppy and confusing, jumping about the timeline. it would have been much better to have one single narrator, or two narrators at most. four muddied the waters too much and made in almost incomprehensible.
the love lives of these characters are abysmal. jess is obsessive about her husband possibly cheating on her, her husband who has little to no interest in her or his children's lives and leaves the majority of childrearing to her. carla is desperate for her longtime boyfriend to marry her but he's also disinterested in her as a person. as a result, she falls into bed with a junior colleague (!!) who is also sort of a creepo stalker a la christian grey (makes grand gestures of 'love' by stealing her car keys, etc). loiuse is a faker to the highest degree - I could admire her ambition if she wasn't putting down her sisters every other moment (and also if she wasn't such a dumb, vapid bitch). and emily is naive and utterly annoying with her constant refrain of 'i will be the khaleesi!! I will conquer men!!' like... that's not what daenerys is about? you do you, sis.
also... the Islamophobia. oh god, the Islamophobia. I know it was only for a brief moment but god in heaven was it the shittiest moment. I had to look away for a moment and stare into space, thinking 'is this bitch serious???' I don't care if jess is a paranoid headcase, there's other ways to express that. on that same note, the racism. take a look at this scene below:
'Molly love chocolate. She eat very messy. Szia, Mia! Szia, Molly!’
was it really necessary to depict the 'foreign', non-english speaking nanny as lazy and stupid? no. it is a shambolic MESS. the smut was also very perfunctory and not arousing at all. it was very methodical with very little actual feeling? the author needs to read fic for some smut writing advice. here, i even have recommendations.
and not also was there bad smut, slut shaming, and Islamophobia but to complete the unholy alliance is: homophobia! there's one bit where she makes up a pretend scenario where to quote, her 'gay dad' has been kicked out of the home and now needs to live in a 'squalid' and 'unsafe' gay hostel. he also apparently spends a lot of money at 'gay casinos' in 'gay las vegas' (aka san francisco). what the actual FUCK?
the author did try. there's a few really good sections about motherhood and the burden out on women to confirm to this ideal of womanhood and dedicate their lives entirely to their children and husband. I did feel for jess, truly. for like, .3 seconds before she went back to being an utter weirdo.
I seriously can't believe there's going to be a second book. as if one wasn't enough??? this saga could have been neatly tied up with a bow in one book because truly, what more tension can there be? what more conflict to interest us?
January 16, 2019
I loved this book! I rarely write reviews on the books I buy as I don’t always finish them but this kept me reading to the end. From the first few pages, I was already hooked, wanting to know what happens - and who is going through this fiasco that’s playing out in the first chapter?? I had to continue reading to find out... laughing out loud as I’m reading a book doesn’t happen often either but this book kept me turning pages, taking deep breaths in in shock, holding my breath and stifling laughs while reading on busy trains :)
May 26, 2019
Set in London, and told mainly in the first person from the perspective of each of the sisters, #toots is an enjoyable present-day story about friendships and relationships. I have to say that the cover with its hand-me-down shell-suit led me to think that the story was about children rather than adults, and was probably set in the late 1980s. Fortunately, the accompanying blurb suggested otherwise. It sounded interesting and chaotic enough to suit my taste, and convinced me to choose this one.
#toots is a well-written, funny and engaging story about the lives and loves of four sisters. The sisters are in different stages of their lives, one is married with children, one hopes to be married, one is looking for a husband who will improve her social status, and the youngest is studying at university, and just looking for love.
Jess's story is one which will resonate with a lot of mothers. While Dad seems to have all the freedoms of a single man, contributing little to the upbringing of offspring, Mum picks up the lion's share of the work, and feels overlooked and neglected. Jess suspects her husband is cheating on her, and and sets about gathering evidence. The way she goes about it, makes her sisters think that she is the one having the affair.
Carla has wasted years on Ben, a man who will not marry her. She finally wakes up to this fact and leaves him for good. At this point Freddie, a much younger man and intern in her office, makes his interest in her known. She is loving how he makes her feel, yet feels guilty about the age difference.
Louise is now calling herself Louisa. She thinks it's a more powerful name, and will help her snag her Prince Charming. She has set her heart on marrying a wealthy young man called Nick, and in order to make herself more appealing to him, is pretending to be a vegetarian, non-smoking, recently tee-total, spa manager. The reality is that she smokes, has not given up alcohol, eats meat, and is a therapist at the spa, not a manager. I don't feel that she even loves him. He just seems to be a means to an end. How he does not see her for what she is, fails me, but he does seem a bit otherwise preoccupied. The web of lies she is spinning must surely be her downfall in #toots2.
Emily is getting over her cheating ex-boyfriend with the help of flatmate Lola, who has encouraged Emily to rejoin the dating scene, and filled her phone with online dating apps. While Lola is wild, carefree, and dangerous to have as an enemy, Emily is more reserved, unsure of herself, and a tad clumsy. She meets Max, an outgoing sports enthusiast who she believes has started ghosting her. He's not, and when that issue is resolved, there is another one that Emily thinks will definitely ruin her chances of happiness with Max.
The four sisters have a strong bond with each other, and also with Lola, although she's a more extreme character than the rest. She's the one you want in your corner when the chips are down, and you are looking for payback; she's the one with the best ideas. She is described as 'Crazy Lola' - in my opinion an that's an understatement, when your see how she springs into revenge-mode after Carla leaves Ben.
There are several laugh out loud moments in this entertaining story. My favourite being Emily phoning Louise's work, pretending to be Louise, and calling in sick. Emily is then unintentionally steered into giving the reason for absence as 'syphilis'! Of the four sisters, Louise is the one I like least. To me, it felt like divine justice, as she had gone off to do her own thing, and only as an afterthought, had put the responsibility of lying to her employer on Emily.
I found the main characters to be realistic and likeable, each with their own issues to overcome. The secondary characters add the necessary intrigue and colour to the story. I had nothing against Rosie the Ginger Dinner until Jess confronted her. That's when we see Rosie's true nature, and it got my hackles up! I particularly liked Pat, Jess's work-colleague. She would drive me nuts too. However, when Jess snaps, and I thought Pat was going to get a piece of Jess's mind, what actually is said, provided constructive criticism rather than the expected tongue-lashing.
As an added bonus, there is a cocktail recipe at the beginning of each chapter, named after the chapter title.
I enjoyed reading #toots, and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a humorous observation of modern relationships.
#toots is a well-written, funny and engaging story about the lives and loves of four sisters. The sisters are in different stages of their lives, one is married with children, one hopes to be married, one is looking for a husband who will improve her social status, and the youngest is studying at university, and just looking for love.
Jess's story is one which will resonate with a lot of mothers. While Dad seems to have all the freedoms of a single man, contributing little to the upbringing of offspring, Mum picks up the lion's share of the work, and feels overlooked and neglected. Jess suspects her husband is cheating on her, and and sets about gathering evidence. The way she goes about it, makes her sisters think that she is the one having the affair.
Carla has wasted years on Ben, a man who will not marry her. She finally wakes up to this fact and leaves him for good. At this point Freddie, a much younger man and intern in her office, makes his interest in her known. She is loving how he makes her feel, yet feels guilty about the age difference.
Louise is now calling herself Louisa. She thinks it's a more powerful name, and will help her snag her Prince Charming. She has set her heart on marrying a wealthy young man called Nick, and in order to make herself more appealing to him, is pretending to be a vegetarian, non-smoking, recently tee-total, spa manager. The reality is that she smokes, has not given up alcohol, eats meat, and is a therapist at the spa, not a manager. I don't feel that she even loves him. He just seems to be a means to an end. How he does not see her for what she is, fails me, but he does seem a bit otherwise preoccupied. The web of lies she is spinning must surely be her downfall in #toots2.
Emily is getting over her cheating ex-boyfriend with the help of flatmate Lola, who has encouraged Emily to rejoin the dating scene, and filled her phone with online dating apps. While Lola is wild, carefree, and dangerous to have as an enemy, Emily is more reserved, unsure of herself, and a tad clumsy. She meets Max, an outgoing sports enthusiast who she believes has started ghosting her. He's not, and when that issue is resolved, there is another one that Emily thinks will definitely ruin her chances of happiness with Max.
The four sisters have a strong bond with each other, and also with Lola, although she's a more extreme character than the rest. She's the one you want in your corner when the chips are down, and you are looking for payback; she's the one with the best ideas. She is described as 'Crazy Lola' - in my opinion an that's an understatement, when your see how she springs into revenge-mode after Carla leaves Ben.
There are several laugh out loud moments in this entertaining story. My favourite being Emily phoning Louise's work, pretending to be Louise, and calling in sick. Emily is then unintentionally steered into giving the reason for absence as 'syphilis'! Of the four sisters, Louise is the one I like least. To me, it felt like divine justice, as she had gone off to do her own thing, and only as an afterthought, had put the responsibility of lying to her employer on Emily.
I found the main characters to be realistic and likeable, each with their own issues to overcome. The secondary characters add the necessary intrigue and colour to the story. I had nothing against Rosie the Ginger Dinner until Jess confronted her. That's when we see Rosie's true nature, and it got my hackles up! I particularly liked Pat, Jess's work-colleague. She would drive me nuts too. However, when Jess snaps, and I thought Pat was going to get a piece of Jess's mind, what actually is said, provided constructive criticism rather than the expected tongue-lashing.
As an added bonus, there is a cocktail recipe at the beginning of each chapter, named after the chapter title.
I enjoyed reading #toots, and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a humorous observation of modern relationships.
March 1, 2019
When work, dating and proposals all go wrong, the only thing these four sisters can count on is each other. Louise will stop at nothing to convince Nick, the multimillionaire philanthropist, that she’s the holistic vegan goddess of his dream, even if it means sneaking burgers and shots behind his back for the rest of her life. Jess juggles her work, two babies, and (possibly) cheating husband while trying to rediscover the kickass woman she used to be. After finally chucking her commitment-phobic beau, Carla goes on a bender, waking up next to her PA, Freddie (oops). Emily throws herself into the dating scene in an attempt to forget her cheating ex but gets more than she bargained when Max ends up having surprising ties to her past.
I absolutely adored the relationship between the four sisters, and Lola. (Please tell me Lola is getting her own series!) They’re interactions were so realistic, right to down to the subgroups/mini-cliques within the group. Emily and Carla’s bond worked best for me. I loved the switch-up where it was the youngest sister, Emily, who felt pressure to take care of everyone else. She definitely comes across as a bit of a pushover and a doormat sometimes, especially with men, but it made sense when you saw how much her family (OMG the mother) demanded and expected of her.
I loved the humor! James has a wonderful way of just tossing her characters together and letting them run wild, usually with disastrous (but highly amusing) results. (The Ed Sheeran impersonator scene, I WAS DYING.) The scenes between the sisters and Lola were so strong it makes me more inclined to forgive the parts that didn’t work for me.
Unfortunately, I had a hard time rooting or even tolerating any of the male characters (with the exception of Nick who, bless his heart, was a gloriously oblivious sweetheart). I took me a while to warm up to Freddie (I’m not a huge fan of the “dating co-workers” trope, especially when one of the characters is in a position of power), and I found some of his behavior to be controlling and not very romantic. He pulls it back in the end, but I never quite trusted him as a love interest for Carla. I was always expecting her to discover something horrible about him. And Max gives off a few red flags in his possessive behavior towards Emily. (Granted this is possibly a setup for the second novel, which I will definitely be reading).
My final issue with this novel is a personal one, a pet peeve of mine that other readers may not share. I found some of the sisters’ comments and treatment of other women to be a little cruel and judgmental. Jess’ behavior towards Pat was particularly difficult to read, especially the “dating advice” Jess had for her. Personally, I would have preferred to seen her soften towards Pat, especially since Pat’s behavior never comes across as malicious or spiteful, she was just awkward or annoying. Plus, I’d really love romance and chick-lit to reach a point where two women can have conflicts without it being about a man or their sexual choices. The sisters had such a great, supportive dynamic, it would have been interesting to see that aspect of their personalities applied to other female characters.
Overall, though, #Toots was an entertaining read and I would recommend it for anyone who enjoys strong female friends and hilarious romantic mishaps.
I absolutely adored the relationship between the four sisters, and Lola. (Please tell me Lola is getting her own series!) They’re interactions were so realistic, right to down to the subgroups/mini-cliques within the group. Emily and Carla’s bond worked best for me. I loved the switch-up where it was the youngest sister, Emily, who felt pressure to take care of everyone else. She definitely comes across as a bit of a pushover and a doormat sometimes, especially with men, but it made sense when you saw how much her family (OMG the mother) demanded and expected of her.
I loved the humor! James has a wonderful way of just tossing her characters together and letting them run wild, usually with disastrous (but highly amusing) results. (The Ed Sheeran impersonator scene, I WAS DYING.) The scenes between the sisters and Lola were so strong it makes me more inclined to forgive the parts that didn’t work for me.
Unfortunately, I had a hard time rooting or even tolerating any of the male characters (with the exception of Nick who, bless his heart, was a gloriously oblivious sweetheart). I took me a while to warm up to Freddie (I’m not a huge fan of the “dating co-workers” trope, especially when one of the characters is in a position of power), and I found some of his behavior to be controlling and not very romantic. He pulls it back in the end, but I never quite trusted him as a love interest for Carla. I was always expecting her to discover something horrible about him. And Max gives off a few red flags in his possessive behavior towards Emily. (Granted this is possibly a setup for the second novel, which I will definitely be reading).
My final issue with this novel is a personal one, a pet peeve of mine that other readers may not share. I found some of the sisters’ comments and treatment of other women to be a little cruel and judgmental. Jess’ behavior towards Pat was particularly difficult to read, especially the “dating advice” Jess had for her. Personally, I would have preferred to seen her soften towards Pat, especially since Pat’s behavior never comes across as malicious or spiteful, she was just awkward or annoying. Plus, I’d really love romance and chick-lit to reach a point where two women can have conflicts without it being about a man or their sexual choices. The sisters had such a great, supportive dynamic, it would have been interesting to see that aspect of their personalities applied to other female characters.
Overall, though, #Toots was an entertaining read and I would recommend it for anyone who enjoys strong female friends and hilarious romantic mishaps.
May 23, 2019
What a quirky, fun, and amusing book! #Toots by Linh Le James is a wonderful story about four sisters, different in many ways, but all searching for a acceptance and love. They may not always agree, but they never fail to be there for each other.
The oldest sister, Jess, struggles with balancing work, motherhood, and a husband who’s sadly cheating on her. Louise (Lou), materialistic and superficial, lies and does everything she can to seduce Nick, a handsome and super wealthy man. Carla, tired of waiting for a proposal from her long-time boyfriend, Ben, breaks up with him only to find herself waking up next to her young assistant, Freddie. Emily, the youngest sister, is trying to get over her cheating ex-boyfriend by dating again. The sisters have problems with their romantic relationships and rely on each other to get through it all. Although I don’t quite feel the same about each of the sisters with Lou being my least favorite, I found myself really caring about them. Through broken hearts, awful boyfriends, not so smart decisions, and pretty much everything else in between, I was really rooting for the sisters and hoping they all get a well-deserved happy ending.
This book was so chaotic, but in a funny and charming way. Yes, I felt frustrated with the sisters quite a few times and just wanted to slap them for the way they were acting. They’re flawed and such a bloody mess, but in such a wonderfully realistic and beautiful way. I ached with them, laughed with them, cheered them on, and really enjoyed getting to know them. The sisters felt very real to me and I think even with all their imperfections and shortcomings, they’re quite relatable and likable in their own unique ways.
I had a little difficulty with the pacing and some parts dragged a bit, but overall I thought the story was satisfyingly engaging and fun. There are definitely some moments that had me cringing and just shaking my head, but there are also those heartfelt and hilairous scenes that truly made me feel joy. I loved the bond between the sisters and it was absolutely delightfully watching them together. There’s definitely plenty more drama and unresolved issues so I’m really looking forward for the next book.
#Toots is a lighthearted, funny, sweet, and heartwarming story about family, sisterhood, friendship, and love. I really enjoyed the humor in this book and even laughed out loud a few times. It’s delightfully charming, amazingly unique, and wildly captivating. I can’t wait to catch up with the sisters and see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The oldest sister, Jess, struggles with balancing work, motherhood, and a husband who’s sadly cheating on her. Louise (Lou), materialistic and superficial, lies and does everything she can to seduce Nick, a handsome and super wealthy man. Carla, tired of waiting for a proposal from her long-time boyfriend, Ben, breaks up with him only to find herself waking up next to her young assistant, Freddie. Emily, the youngest sister, is trying to get over her cheating ex-boyfriend by dating again. The sisters have problems with their romantic relationships and rely on each other to get through it all. Although I don’t quite feel the same about each of the sisters with Lou being my least favorite, I found myself really caring about them. Through broken hearts, awful boyfriends, not so smart decisions, and pretty much everything else in between, I was really rooting for the sisters and hoping they all get a well-deserved happy ending.
This book was so chaotic, but in a funny and charming way. Yes, I felt frustrated with the sisters quite a few times and just wanted to slap them for the way they were acting. They’re flawed and such a bloody mess, but in such a wonderfully realistic and beautiful way. I ached with them, laughed with them, cheered them on, and really enjoyed getting to know them. The sisters felt very real to me and I think even with all their imperfections and shortcomings, they’re quite relatable and likable in their own unique ways.
I had a little difficulty with the pacing and some parts dragged a bit, but overall I thought the story was satisfyingly engaging and fun. There are definitely some moments that had me cringing and just shaking my head, but there are also those heartfelt and hilairous scenes that truly made me feel joy. I loved the bond between the sisters and it was absolutely delightfully watching them together. There’s definitely plenty more drama and unresolved issues so I’m really looking forward for the next book.
#Toots is a lighthearted, funny, sweet, and heartwarming story about family, sisterhood, friendship, and love. I really enjoyed the humor in this book and even laughed out loud a few times. It’s delightfully charming, amazingly unique, and wildly captivating. I can’t wait to catch up with the sisters and see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 23, 2019
The first thing I'll say about this book is don't judge it by its cover. Thankfully, I never judge a book by its cover or I might not have discovered this fabulous book by Linh Le James. Perhaps it's because I remember the shell suit era that the cover of #Toots makes me shudder but when I figuratively peeled back the hideous nylon layer I discovered an absolutely brilliant book.
Anyone who follows me on Goodreads would have missed my updates for #Toots because I started it and finished it in one sitting. I simply couldn't put it down as my eyes were glued to my kindle following the lives of these four crazy sisters. As each sister inevitably raced towards the latest car crash drama in their life it was like I could see it happening in slow motion but couldn't, and didn't want to, slow my reading pace.
We've all been there and done crazy things (or is that just me?) so as crazily hilarious as the story is, it actually feels very true to life. Where relationships are concerned, it's like every daft thing you've ever done, or thought about doing, is in this book. With so much drama crammed into this book, Linh Le James has still managed to create characters that are so well developed that I felt like I got to know them, almost like a fifth sister. Not since Little Women have I felt so connected to a group of siblings but #Toots is like the March sisters putting their gladrags on and going on a bender!
I was literally crying with laughter at times and when I turned the final page, I was already crying out for more so I'm absolutely thrilled that there is a sequel planned. I can't wait to meet up with my literary sisters again!
If my blog had an award for most surprising book of the year, #Toots would definitely walk away with first prize. I've never read anything like #Toots before; it's unique, funny and completely addictive. An easy five stars from me for this exceptional debut by Linh Le James; romcom fans, you don't want to miss this one!
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Anyone who follows me on Goodreads would have missed my updates for #Toots because I started it and finished it in one sitting. I simply couldn't put it down as my eyes were glued to my kindle following the lives of these four crazy sisters. As each sister inevitably raced towards the latest car crash drama in their life it was like I could see it happening in slow motion but couldn't, and didn't want to, slow my reading pace.
We've all been there and done crazy things (or is that just me?) so as crazily hilarious as the story is, it actually feels very true to life. Where relationships are concerned, it's like every daft thing you've ever done, or thought about doing, is in this book. With so much drama crammed into this book, Linh Le James has still managed to create characters that are so well developed that I felt like I got to know them, almost like a fifth sister. Not since Little Women have I felt so connected to a group of siblings but #Toots is like the March sisters putting their gladrags on and going on a bender!
I was literally crying with laughter at times and when I turned the final page, I was already crying out for more so I'm absolutely thrilled that there is a sequel planned. I can't wait to meet up with my literary sisters again!
If my blog had an award for most surprising book of the year, #Toots would definitely walk away with first prize. I've never read anything like #Toots before; it's unique, funny and completely addictive. An easy five stars from me for this exceptional debut by Linh Le James; romcom fans, you don't want to miss this one!
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 7, 2019
To view my full review at mariesbookboutique.wordpress.com/2019...
Before I get started on my review I would very much like to thank Linh Le James for getting in contact with me, and for kindly sending me an Ebook to give my honest thought's and feeling on my reading experience of #Toots. As soon as I read the blurb to this book I kinder knew this story would be just up my street!
#Toot's front cover is very simple and probably if I saw this in the shop I'm not sure I would have picked it up. A shell-suite jacket in pink, purple and turquoise can be seen with four names obviously sisters and the said jacket has been handed down as the top three names have been crossed out. The backing is a similar colour to a bit on the jacket, and would have liked to seen a different colour perhaps. The title is above the jacket and is in a bold white font, Linh's name is at the bottom of the cover in white and in a thinner font.
#Toot's by Linh Le James is a story about Jessica, Louise, Carla and Emily four sisters at very different stages of their life's and each wanting different things. But they all come together through the trials and tribulations and support when they need it.
Emily is the youngest of the sisters and has just had her heart-broken by her cheating boyfriend. Her crazy wild room-mate Lola eggs Emily on to start online dating to get over that cheating love rat and to find her Mr Right. Emily is a pleaser always wanting to make people happy and don't her family just knows this!
Carla; is single and work very hard all the time. After going on a night out Carla finds herself waking up to her much younger assistant Freddie.
Louise; is also single and now likes to be called Louisa. She is looking for a lavish life style and is defiantly on the hunt. So when famous, gorgeous looking and rich Nick comes along and she will stop at nothing to get her mitts all over him!!!!!
Jessica's world is more than chaotic. She's a working mother, married, dealing with a multitude of unhelpful nanny's and two young babies. To top it off she think's her husband is having an affair.
Will Emily find her Mr Right amongst a sea of single men? Or will she find one unsuitable man after another? Will Louise get her claws into famously rich Nick? If she does will the feelings be mutual? How will Carla deal with her wild drunken night with Freddie? Is it going to strain their work relationship? Can Jess keep the nannies in check? Will the agency send a capable nanny? How far will Jess go to find out what her husband is up too?
#Toots is the absolutely hilarious British chick lit story that on finishing it I felt like I had just watched a girly movie. Linh has written such a believable story that have many twist's and turns really keeping the reader entertained with a few steamy moments to boot! I really enjoyed the pace #Toot's took; which was perfect for this story as it unfolds. The four sister's were very funny but I loved how what ever was going on in their life's they still make time for each other to support their fellow sister. They all had some very different problem's from each other making the story very real to life it's self.
I really couldn't put my kindle down and never wanted this story to end. But I have no fear because #Toot2 is due to be published later this year. I will be eagerly awaiting this!!!!! #Toot's is defiantly a must read!
Before I get started on my review I would very much like to thank Linh Le James for getting in contact with me, and for kindly sending me an Ebook to give my honest thought's and feeling on my reading experience of #Toots. As soon as I read the blurb to this book I kinder knew this story would be just up my street!
#Toot's front cover is very simple and probably if I saw this in the shop I'm not sure I would have picked it up. A shell-suite jacket in pink, purple and turquoise can be seen with four names obviously sisters and the said jacket has been handed down as the top three names have been crossed out. The backing is a similar colour to a bit on the jacket, and would have liked to seen a different colour perhaps. The title is above the jacket and is in a bold white font, Linh's name is at the bottom of the cover in white and in a thinner font.
#Toot's by Linh Le James is a story about Jessica, Louise, Carla and Emily four sisters at very different stages of their life's and each wanting different things. But they all come together through the trials and tribulations and support when they need it.
Emily is the youngest of the sisters and has just had her heart-broken by her cheating boyfriend. Her crazy wild room-mate Lola eggs Emily on to start online dating to get over that cheating love rat and to find her Mr Right. Emily is a pleaser always wanting to make people happy and don't her family just knows this!
Carla; is single and work very hard all the time. After going on a night out Carla finds herself waking up to her much younger assistant Freddie.
Louise; is also single and now likes to be called Louisa. She is looking for a lavish life style and is defiantly on the hunt. So when famous, gorgeous looking and rich Nick comes along and she will stop at nothing to get her mitts all over him!!!!!
Jessica's world is more than chaotic. She's a working mother, married, dealing with a multitude of unhelpful nanny's and two young babies. To top it off she think's her husband is having an affair.
Will Emily find her Mr Right amongst a sea of single men? Or will she find one unsuitable man after another? Will Louise get her claws into famously rich Nick? If she does will the feelings be mutual? How will Carla deal with her wild drunken night with Freddie? Is it going to strain their work relationship? Can Jess keep the nannies in check? Will the agency send a capable nanny? How far will Jess go to find out what her husband is up too?
#Toots is the absolutely hilarious British chick lit story that on finishing it I felt like I had just watched a girly movie. Linh has written such a believable story that have many twist's and turns really keeping the reader entertained with a few steamy moments to boot! I really enjoyed the pace #Toot's took; which was perfect for this story as it unfolds. The four sister's were very funny but I loved how what ever was going on in their life's they still make time for each other to support their fellow sister. They all had some very different problem's from each other making the story very real to life it's self.
I really couldn't put my kindle down and never wanted this story to end. But I have no fear because #Toot2 is due to be published later this year. I will be eagerly awaiting this!!!!! #Toot's is defiantly a must read!
May 13, 2019
The Blurb :
LONDON: Four sisters swipe left on everything they hate in their life, one cocktail at a time.
Louise dreams of an exotic lifestyle, miles away from Hackney.
Nick comes along. Famous, fit, funny and filthy rich.
Louise will stop at nothing to seduce him.
Louise will fake it till she makes it. All the way to the ka-ching bling ring.
But the little white lies soon snowball into a mountain Louise’s Louboutins can’t climb.
Jess juggles work, two babies, a cheating husband and nannies from hell.
Carla goes on a bender, and wakes up next to her young assistant. Freddie.
Emily is getting over her cheating ex by throwing herself into the dating scene.
When work, dating and proposals…all go wrong, the four sisters’ friendship is their only lifeline.
My Thoughts :
Set in London Toots which the Author is using to describe sisters/friends follows four sisters, Louise, Jess, carla and Emily, all living very different lives but are there when they need each other.
First up is Carla, who is fed up with being led on by boyfriend Ben that she dumps him only to have a fling with Freddie, her work colleague.
Next is Louise, who wants glamour and glitz, and will stop at nothing to make handsome, rich, millionaire Nick hers.
Youngest sister Emily has recently been dumped and is heartbroken. Lola her flat mate thinks its time she got over him and try’s to encourage her to get back on the scene by online dating.
Lastly we have Jess, she is married and has children but is obsessed that her husband is cheating on her as he no longer has time for her or the children. jess finds it a hard struggle especially as she is working aswell.
This story will have you laughing out loud in places and also shouting at them on certain storylines. They are all very likeable in their own way and I really enjoyed getting to know them as the story developed. This is a book that jumps around abit and you have to remember which storyline is about which sister. Love the idea Linh Le James had of including cocktail recipes to each chapter aswell.
There is a sequel, so I am happy to read more about the adventures of the sisters to come.
** This has been reviewed for Whispering Stories blog, thank you for the copy **
LONDON: Four sisters swipe left on everything they hate in their life, one cocktail at a time.
Louise dreams of an exotic lifestyle, miles away from Hackney.
Nick comes along. Famous, fit, funny and filthy rich.
Louise will stop at nothing to seduce him.
Louise will fake it till she makes it. All the way to the ka-ching bling ring.
But the little white lies soon snowball into a mountain Louise’s Louboutins can’t climb.
Jess juggles work, two babies, a cheating husband and nannies from hell.
Carla goes on a bender, and wakes up next to her young assistant. Freddie.
Emily is getting over her cheating ex by throwing herself into the dating scene.
When work, dating and proposals…all go wrong, the four sisters’ friendship is their only lifeline.
My Thoughts :
Set in London Toots which the Author is using to describe sisters/friends follows four sisters, Louise, Jess, carla and Emily, all living very different lives but are there when they need each other.
First up is Carla, who is fed up with being led on by boyfriend Ben that she dumps him only to have a fling with Freddie, her work colleague.
Next is Louise, who wants glamour and glitz, and will stop at nothing to make handsome, rich, millionaire Nick hers.
Youngest sister Emily has recently been dumped and is heartbroken. Lola her flat mate thinks its time she got over him and try’s to encourage her to get back on the scene by online dating.
Lastly we have Jess, she is married and has children but is obsessed that her husband is cheating on her as he no longer has time for her or the children. jess finds it a hard struggle especially as she is working aswell.
This story will have you laughing out loud in places and also shouting at them on certain storylines. They are all very likeable in their own way and I really enjoyed getting to know them as the story developed. This is a book that jumps around abit and you have to remember which storyline is about which sister. Love the idea Linh Le James had of including cocktail recipes to each chapter aswell.
There is a sequel, so I am happy to read more about the adventures of the sisters to come.
** This has been reviewed for Whispering Stories blog, thank you for the copy **
February 22, 2019
A smashing British romcom. Four sisters, Emily, Louisa, Jessica and Carla just can't get it right when it comes to men. Emily falls for a loser who cheats on her. Louisa is looking for Prince Charming and finds nothing but frogs. Jess is married, but fears her husband is cheating on her. Carla has been waiting ten years for her one and only to propose--he doesn't. All girls have heartaches galore with their chosen men. They are a close knit crew though and work to help each other see their mistakes. Some find better choices. Some not so much. But all in all the girls are sweet and charming and deserve their happily ever afters. Will they find them?
The author did a really good job making this a light, cute read with engaging characters and a dash of humor. This is definitely a British read, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think anyone who enjoys romcoms would be well served to delve into this little jewel.
The author did a really good job making this a light, cute read with engaging characters and a dash of humor. This is definitely a British read, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think anyone who enjoys romcoms would be well served to delve into this little jewel.
March 5, 2019
A light beach read for fans of romantic comedies.
'Toots' is the name given to sisters and friends - not one I've come across before. The story is about four sisters and their relationships with various attractive but oblivious men, their manipulation and scheming methods to attract and keep them.
Each chapter begins with a cocktail recipe, suggesting that this is what binds or motivates the sisters. This is an original idea, which I like. The story is told via each of the sisters' first person point of view with a couple of general third person chapters. This can be a little confusing at times, trying to decipher which character's story we're reading and remember who the two dimensional male is. The only revelation is exposed at the very beginning of the book, which is also the end, thus completing the cycle.
The writing style is very contemporary using modern British expressions and references to current culture, television programmes, designer labels and trends. With most of the story delivered in the first person, the many cliches and stereotypes are acceptable as modes of speech. This keeps the story jogging along nicely.
The humorous element is typical of romantic comedies with quite a bit of feigned elegance and falling over contrasts, baby vomit, ignorance and shallowness sometimes bordering on farce. Great for young women who are going through the challenges of dating.
'Toots' is the name given to sisters and friends - not one I've come across before. The story is about four sisters and their relationships with various attractive but oblivious men, their manipulation and scheming methods to attract and keep them.
Each chapter begins with a cocktail recipe, suggesting that this is what binds or motivates the sisters. This is an original idea, which I like. The story is told via each of the sisters' first person point of view with a couple of general third person chapters. This can be a little confusing at times, trying to decipher which character's story we're reading and remember who the two dimensional male is. The only revelation is exposed at the very beginning of the book, which is also the end, thus completing the cycle.
The writing style is very contemporary using modern British expressions and references to current culture, television programmes, designer labels and trends. With most of the story delivered in the first person, the many cliches and stereotypes are acceptable as modes of speech. This keeps the story jogging along nicely.
The humorous element is typical of romantic comedies with quite a bit of feigned elegance and falling over contrasts, baby vomit, ignorance and shallowness sometimes bordering on farce. Great for young women who are going through the challenges of dating.
March 10, 2019
Toots is laugh out loud funny, and a definite must read. The sisters, Carla, Jess, Louise and Emily, each have their own issues but are fierce in their support each other. I loved the way the chapters gave a deep understanding of each woman, and I found myself wanting to be part of their lives. I even googled the word Toots, since it’s not part of the US vernacular, and I want to be one, that’s how much I got into this book.
If you love RomCom, and enjoy getting to know characters, you won’t regret reading Toots. The best part is that Toots 2 releases this year, and I can’t wait! Will Jess and Scott be able to save their marriage? Will Emily and Max find their forever? Will....oh heck! Read for yourself. You won’t be sorry.
And be sure to bring your cocktail shaker...you’re going to need it!😉
If you love RomCom, and enjoy getting to know characters, you won’t regret reading Toots. The best part is that Toots 2 releases this year, and I can’t wait! Will Jess and Scott be able to save their marriage? Will Emily and Max find their forever? Will....oh heck! Read for yourself. You won’t be sorry.
And be sure to bring your cocktail shaker...you’re going to need it!😉
February 25, 2019
This was a great read with plenty of laughter and a few tears! I must admit that I’ve never heard the word ‘toots’ used in relation to friends or sisters, only as a term of endearment. Maybe it’s my age…!
The story follows four sisters or ‘toots’ – Jess, Lou, Carla, and Emily – and their love lives. I had difficulty putting it down in order to sleep, and it left me looking forward to book 2.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
The story follows four sisters or ‘toots’ – Jess, Lou, Carla, and Emily – and their love lives. I had difficulty putting it down in order to sleep, and it left me looking forward to book 2.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
March 9, 2019
Highly Recommended
Relatable and funny, Toots encapsulates the trials that women face, on or within the journey of finding (and keeping) true love.
The story follows four sisters, and their unique perspectives of their search for 'Mr. Right', whilst having also previously fallen into the traps of the 'Mr. Wrongs'.
At various stages within each of their own lives, the main characters journeys are filled with wit, sarcasm, and laugh-out-loud moments, yet safe in the knowledge that they'll always have each other.
Get ready to sit back, relax, laugh, and nod your head in relatable agreement, as the author of Toots manages to eloquenty express the ups and downs of the modern woman's search for 'the one'.
Highly recommended, and I look forward to book two!
Relatable and funny, Toots encapsulates the trials that women face, on or within the journey of finding (and keeping) true love.
The story follows four sisters, and their unique perspectives of their search for 'Mr. Right', whilst having also previously fallen into the traps of the 'Mr. Wrongs'.
At various stages within each of their own lives, the main characters journeys are filled with wit, sarcasm, and laugh-out-loud moments, yet safe in the knowledge that they'll always have each other.
Get ready to sit back, relax, laugh, and nod your head in relatable agreement, as the author of Toots manages to eloquenty express the ups and downs of the modern woman's search for 'the one'.
Highly recommended, and I look forward to book two!
February 22, 2019
Great Read
Fast read, characters personalities are all over the place, in a good way. Funny and hilarious as well as sad and angry, makes this book so satisfying . I Love Freddie and his need for Carla is real, if only she can stop acting like she is too old for him. Can't wait for book 2.
Fast read, characters personalities are all over the place, in a good way. Funny and hilarious as well as sad and angry, makes this book so satisfying . I Love Freddie and his need for Carla is real, if only she can stop acting like she is too old for him. Can't wait for book 2.
January 31, 2019
Toots is definitely an entertaining read. The story is about a group of sisters going through their relationship woes. Whether it's looking for a man, in all the wrong places, trying to figure out what's going on with their husband, in all the wrong ways, or trying to force someone into a relationship with you, in the batshit crazy stalker way. The book is highly entertaining and should tell women all the things not to do. I could not believe how the book turned out. Definitely some psychotic tendencies in this book. I guess what they say is true it runs in the family.
March 26, 2019
A chick lit story of sisters and their love lives. I enjoyed the dialogue and the story, it did take me a bit time to get into the story and get to know who was who but once I did I enjoyed the light heartedness of it all. there are some funny lines in it a good chick lit type book.
May 10, 2019
Jess was a character that seemed to have it the toughest, though she appears to keep it somewhat together. I found Carla's life and job quite fascinating - she was another character that I REALLY enjoyed. I got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2019
#Toots made me laugh from the first page until the last. I love stories based on complex relationships, and #Toots is just that. A romantic comedy, #Toots is a book I would recommend to anyone, and specifically to fans of Helen Fielding ("Bridget Jones's Diary") or Sophie Kinsella. A book that dives deeply into the lives of a group of four sisters, it highlights the importance of fun and family. I'll be keeping my eye out for #Toots2!!!
May 14, 2019
With tantalizing humor, Linh Le James explores men and relationships, dating life, and sisterly bonds in the first installment of this chick lit series. Things are not going as planned in the lives of four sisters: Jess, Carla, Lou, and Emily, but their bond is rock solid which keeps them sane. James shifts perspectives from chapter to chapter to give voice to all four sisters.
The characters are charming, but it is Lola who steals the show with her hilarious thou-shalt-agendas and dry humor. Her brutal payback techniques bring a good dose of madcap fun in the story. James’ vibrant narrative makes this an entertaining tale.
The cocktail recipes with every chapter are a bonus.
The characters are charming, but it is Lola who steals the show with her hilarious thou-shalt-agendas and dry humor. Her brutal payback techniques bring a good dose of madcap fun in the story. James’ vibrant narrative makes this an entertaining tale.
The cocktail recipes with every chapter are a bonus.
February 27, 2019
What a wonderful read. I absolutely loved this book. The author put together a magnificent story of four sisters, Emily, Carla, Jess and Louise, who although very different go through life with their own problems that every woman could related to. Even though the author switched back back forth between the four main characters, I found them to be well developed, having no problem following along. The book is written with an English/UK dialect, but it doesn't take away from the story. This was a fun read and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a little humor.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
May 9, 2019
This book is hilarious! I was entertained with everything that's happening to the four sisters. With having my own three sisters, too bad, our lives aren't these eventful like the girls on the book. Haha! Also, how nice that the author includes cocktail recipes in every chapter. If you like romantic comedies, this is perfect for you.
March 13, 2019
From my review at motherbookerblog.com:
According to the opening of Linh le James' novel, the term 'toots' refers to a person's best friends or sisters. Her novel is concerned with four sisters: Jess, Louisa, Carla, and Emily. Emily is the youngest and finds herself juggling time between work, university, and dating. Carla has just been promoted in her marketing job but finds herself stuck in a rut with her long-time boyfriend, Ben. Louisa has dreams of rich and handsome man who can take her away from her life as a beautician. Finally, Jess is a working mother of two daughters and worries that her marriage is struggling. After a cliffhanger opening, the novel follows each of the sisters as their lives are all thrown into turmoil. Thankfully, they are able to turn to each other to help them.
This is a novel all about young women having fun: a fact that is highlighted by the fact that each chapter opens with a cocktail recipe. I'd have to say this is the kind of romance literature that has come out in the wake of Sex and the City. We have four women who are uninhibited in their actions and deeds in an attempt to ride the feminist wave. Yet, at the same time, none of the women have many positive aspects to them. I get that the author is trying to present a non-stereotypical view of women but something about it feels disingenuous. As if she's pushing it a bit too far to make a point that doesn't actually come through.
I do have to say that each of the women have a distinctive voice and, when the point of view switches, it is easy to keep up. My only issue is the chapters that are taken from the point of view of an omnscient narrator. Those chapters feel jarring and don't seem to add anything to the narrative. I'm not a fan of first-person narration for the most part but, here at least, it seemed to make sense. The need to switch third-person. It stuck out for all the wrong reasons. But, thankfully, it didn't happen very often.
In terms of the story, #Toots is a quick and easy read. It only took a matter of hours to get all the way through. Normally, I'd say that was a good thing but I think in this instance is showcases a lack of depth. It is an incredibly simple story. Not very much happens and the narrative rushes along at breakneck speed that everything besides the characters is a blur. There is very little time to get to know everyone and each of the characters feels a bit like a sitcom cliche now. We have the 20-something with the DJ ex who takes to Tinder to find love. Then we have her newly single sister who jumps into bed with her very young assistant. The desperate and greedy sister who tricks a nice, rich guy into a relationship. And, finally, the sad sack mother who imagines her husband is sleeping with his female colleague based on no proof. There is no real attempt to modify anything. It all feels very familiar and by-the-book.
That's the real reason this was such a simple read. It's all very familiar and doesn't require anything from it's reader. The dialogue doesn't seem like the language of real 20-40 year old British women and I think I'm okay to say that as a 31 year old British woman. Listening to these women is at times excruciating. It's supposed to be a funny sitcom style book but very little, if any, of the humour really lands. #Toots is a novel that think it's something other than it is. It uses sex, alcohol, and bad language to make it seem like it's more outrageous than it really is. Kind of like how Sandy dresses up in leather at the end of Grease. We're supposed to believe she's super sexy now but, really, she's just the same girl she always was just with a slightly racier aesthetic. It's all set dressing. #Toots isn't a bad read but it isn't a great read either. It didn't get me excited to read the next in the series.
According to the opening of Linh le James' novel, the term 'toots' refers to a person's best friends or sisters. Her novel is concerned with four sisters: Jess, Louisa, Carla, and Emily. Emily is the youngest and finds herself juggling time between work, university, and dating. Carla has just been promoted in her marketing job but finds herself stuck in a rut with her long-time boyfriend, Ben. Louisa has dreams of rich and handsome man who can take her away from her life as a beautician. Finally, Jess is a working mother of two daughters and worries that her marriage is struggling. After a cliffhanger opening, the novel follows each of the sisters as their lives are all thrown into turmoil. Thankfully, they are able to turn to each other to help them.
This is a novel all about young women having fun: a fact that is highlighted by the fact that each chapter opens with a cocktail recipe. I'd have to say this is the kind of romance literature that has come out in the wake of Sex and the City. We have four women who are uninhibited in their actions and deeds in an attempt to ride the feminist wave. Yet, at the same time, none of the women have many positive aspects to them. I get that the author is trying to present a non-stereotypical view of women but something about it feels disingenuous. As if she's pushing it a bit too far to make a point that doesn't actually come through.
I do have to say that each of the women have a distinctive voice and, when the point of view switches, it is easy to keep up. My only issue is the chapters that are taken from the point of view of an omnscient narrator. Those chapters feel jarring and don't seem to add anything to the narrative. I'm not a fan of first-person narration for the most part but, here at least, it seemed to make sense. The need to switch third-person. It stuck out for all the wrong reasons. But, thankfully, it didn't happen very often.
In terms of the story, #Toots is a quick and easy read. It only took a matter of hours to get all the way through. Normally, I'd say that was a good thing but I think in this instance is showcases a lack of depth. It is an incredibly simple story. Not very much happens and the narrative rushes along at breakneck speed that everything besides the characters is a blur. There is very little time to get to know everyone and each of the characters feels a bit like a sitcom cliche now. We have the 20-something with the DJ ex who takes to Tinder to find love. Then we have her newly single sister who jumps into bed with her very young assistant. The desperate and greedy sister who tricks a nice, rich guy into a relationship. And, finally, the sad sack mother who imagines her husband is sleeping with his female colleague based on no proof. There is no real attempt to modify anything. It all feels very familiar and by-the-book.
That's the real reason this was such a simple read. It's all very familiar and doesn't require anything from it's reader. The dialogue doesn't seem like the language of real 20-40 year old British women and I think I'm okay to say that as a 31 year old British woman. Listening to these women is at times excruciating. It's supposed to be a funny sitcom style book but very little, if any, of the humour really lands. #Toots is a novel that think it's something other than it is. It uses sex, alcohol, and bad language to make it seem like it's more outrageous than it really is. Kind of like how Sandy dresses up in leather at the end of Grease. We're supposed to believe she's super sexy now but, really, she's just the same girl she always was just with a slightly racier aesthetic. It's all set dressing. #Toots isn't a bad read but it isn't a great read either. It didn't get me excited to read the next in the series.
July 3, 2019
I was a bit torn as to how to write this review. I guess the only way to do it is to break it down by what jived with me and what didn't (goodness, I sound like a hipster...I'm SO NOT). The story is set up like vignettes following each sister with their distinct twisted brand of humor and coping. Almost like a British version of Sex and the City; bad dates, meeting up with your girls for drinks (in this case, sisters), more bad dates, relationship woes...you name it. So I have to ask myself (lol...a little Carrie Bradshaw there for you), which sister was Carrie, Miranda, Samantha, and Charlotte? I guess you'll have to read the story to find out. Since the story is set up like vignettes, it does jump frequently from sister to sister. We get to watch them figure out life and their relationships with each out. There are lots of hilarious moments care of bad dates, but also some sweet, tender ones, as well.
What made the book a bit difficult for me to follow is the setup. Since it was not a traditional tale, I sometimes found it hard to continuously jump from one character and her storyline to the next. It felt like glimpses in their lives rather than the telling of a cohesive tale. But these glimpses were pretty hilarious. But be warned, this is written with a heavy hand of British slang. If you're not a native Brit, you'll need to use context or an urban dictionary to decipher some phrases in order to appreciate the full hilarity of the writing.
Overall, I'll say that I liked it but because I struggled at times to decipher some British terms, it took me out of the reading groove. Good effort by the author and a fun summer read.
What made the book a bit difficult for me to follow is the setup. Since it was not a traditional tale, I sometimes found it hard to continuously jump from one character and her storyline to the next. It felt like glimpses in their lives rather than the telling of a cohesive tale. But these glimpses were pretty hilarious. But be warned, this is written with a heavy hand of British slang. If you're not a native Brit, you'll need to use context or an urban dictionary to decipher some phrases in order to appreciate the full hilarity of the writing.
Overall, I'll say that I liked it but because I struggled at times to decipher some British terms, it took me out of the reading groove. Good effort by the author and a fun summer read.
March 30, 2019
#Toots tells the story of four sisters struggling with relationships (and borderline alcoholism) against the bustle of London.
I found each of the sisters engaging in their own unique way. Jess, the mommy, struggling to balance two young children, a career, and a husband who may be losing interest. Carla, with her non-committal long-term boyfriend and office scandal. Louise, the vapid gold digger on the prowl for a rich, handsome man. And Emily, the youngest, a pushover recovering from a bad relationship. All four of them seemed like individuals, but with underlying similarity. That is to say their family bonds seemed true and realistic.
Although my favorite (or should I say "favourite") thing about this book is how unrelentingly British it is. If I was intentionally trying to write a parody of British English I couldn't pack in more local flavour. Every page is like, "After 'Eastenders' me and my toots had a cuppa and popped down to Waitrose for some scrummy sarnies and Wotsits. Some nutter was whingeing on about bin bags on his mobile. The cheeky sod made me fancy some paracetamol."
If you want to have a British af romp with some fun characters (and free cocktail recipes), quit faffing about, grab a Costa coffee, and settle down for an evening with your #Toots.
I found each of the sisters engaging in their own unique way. Jess, the mommy, struggling to balance two young children, a career, and a husband who may be losing interest. Carla, with her non-committal long-term boyfriend and office scandal. Louise, the vapid gold digger on the prowl for a rich, handsome man. And Emily, the youngest, a pushover recovering from a bad relationship. All four of them seemed like individuals, but with underlying similarity. That is to say their family bonds seemed true and realistic.
Although my favorite (or should I say "favourite") thing about this book is how unrelentingly British it is. If I was intentionally trying to write a parody of British English I couldn't pack in more local flavour. Every page is like, "After 'Eastenders' me and my toots had a cuppa and popped down to Waitrose for some scrummy sarnies and Wotsits. Some nutter was whingeing on about bin bags on his mobile. The cheeky sod made me fancy some paracetamol."
If you want to have a British af romp with some fun characters (and free cocktail recipes), quit faffing about, grab a Costa coffee, and settle down for an evening with your #Toots.
August 29, 2019
LONDON: Four sisters swipe left on everything they hate in their life, one cocktail at a time...
In #Toots we meet Louise - dreaming of an exotic lifestyle a million miles from Hackney, Jess - juggling work and two babies... Carla - who goes ona bender and wakes up next to her young assistant...and Emily - getting over her cheating ex... This book explores sisterhood amongst a chaotic world for all four siblings - and does so with humour, emotion and finesse.
It's not often you can find a book that gives you a cocktail recipe in each chapter... amazing! This is more than just sisterhood - this book covers the bond of best friendship as well. A hilarious, stunning read.
In #Toots we meet Louise - dreaming of an exotic lifestyle a million miles from Hackney, Jess - juggling work and two babies... Carla - who goes ona bender and wakes up next to her young assistant...and Emily - getting over her cheating ex... This book explores sisterhood amongst a chaotic world for all four siblings - and does so with humour, emotion and finesse.
It's not often you can find a book that gives you a cocktail recipe in each chapter... amazing! This is more than just sisterhood - this book covers the bond of best friendship as well. A hilarious, stunning read.
March 7, 2019
I received this book as an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. I was underwhelmed by this book. These four sisters and their lives seemed like a mess. I didn’t connect with it very much like any of the characters. The beginning of the book did well to set me up to read the whole book to figure out what happens in the end, then I was disappointed that the ending didn’t even wrap everything up. While I was personally disappointed in the book, some readers might really enjoy seeing what is in store for these toots.
March 9, 2019
If you're into the mishaps of the dating life, this book is for you!
Toots follows four sisters as they deal with the men in their lives - both the ones they already in it and the ones just arriving.
My favorite part about this book was how different the sisters are and how chaotic their interactions were!
Toots follows four sisters as they deal with the men in their lives - both the ones they already in it and the ones just arriving.
My favorite part about this book was how different the sisters are and how chaotic their interactions were!
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