This was a very nice, chic lit book.

It took a while to get into the flow of it, but once I did, it was easy to lose myself in it and it was an easy read. Not too thrilling, but I have other books that I can read for that.

Overall, 3 stars ( )

Loved it! ( )

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Yes, it may have been predictable, but I wasn't reading it as a thriller. As a feel-good chick lit book, this hit the spot. As a stepmother myself, I identified with many if the events in the book. A great, fun read, with some heart-touching moments. I would like to read more by this author. ( )

Eve has fallen in love with widower Ian, but his three children aren't as smitten as their father is. Navigating the hazards of stepparenting is an uncomfortable experience for Eve, particularly the outright hostility of 12 year old Hannah. Needing advice, Eve's best friend Clare suggests she meet with her younger sister Lily who's a part time stepmother to a three year old. Melanie has yet to meet her potential 10 year old stepdaughter but lonely and hoping for friendship, she joins the informal group, followed by Mandy who seems to have been successful in creating her blended family. The five women bond over their shared heartbreak, fears and joy.By bringing together Eve, Clare, Lily, Melanie and Mandy, Baker explores the modern minefield of relationships, parenthood and friendship and is able to provide multiple perspectives to the issues the characters face. Baker skilfully navigates the complex themes by creating a realistic cast.Eve and Clare are the dominant protagonists in the book, both facing very different challenges. Eve is the less sympathetic character, I felt she was quite self absorbed and there is a bitter edge to her that I never understood. I was more firmly on Hannah's side than hers, despite recognising that Eve was perhaps doing the best she could.I found Clare more likeable, I can empathise with her financial struggle and the difficulties of negotiating life with a teenage girl. I also find it much easier to understand Clare's fear of Will coming back into her daughters life. I think I might have been even less rational than Clare in the same situation.Despite my honest admiration for Baker's ability to develop sophisticated, multi faceted characters I just wasn't drawn in to the story the way I wanted to be. Partly I think because of my indifference towards Eve, and also because the issues don't relate to my experience. I think perhaps the story would be more appealing to someone who has been on either side of the stepparenting situation. ( )

This book took me a while to get into. It just didn’t grab my attention. I felt the beginning was slow, moving back and forth between characters, not really going anywhere. But I decided to stick with it and I’m glad I did. Baker gave a great point of view of each of the main characters, step moms, who form a support group. My favorite character I think was Eve, and I really wanted things to work out for her in the end. ( )