Book Review + Free Book Give-Away: A Career Girl's Guide to Becoming a Stepmom

Have you ever read a book that changed the way you look at things? Right now, I'm reading Jacquelyn B. Fletcher's A Career Girl's Guide to Becoming a Stepmom and I feel like a changed woman.

I had been in contact with Jacquelyn by way of another project and mentioned that I'd love to do a book giveaway on my blog. Wonderful woman that Jacquelyn is, she sent me a copy to review and a signed copy to give away.

More on the give-away in a sec. I have to tell you all about this book.

Whether you're new to being a stepmom or have been at it for years, this book offers valuable insight into the minds of stepmothers throughout America.

From finances and wills to biological babies and exes, she writes about these topics in a tone that makes you feel like you're having a intimate conversation over coffee rather than reading a book. I was so engaged in the research and anecdotes, that I finished the book in less than 24 hours.

My favorite paragraph from the book reads:

"When I'm feeling sorry for myself, I sometimes think negative thoughts, such as 'Well I didn't choose to run out and have kids. I wasn't the one who decided to get married so young and have children. So why do I have to deal with someone else's decision? It's not fair!"

How many stepmoms have thought or said that very same sentiment?

It's amazing to me to see how many women have shared so many similar experiences. In addition to making you feel like you're not alone, you finish the book with a handful of strategies for how to better cope with typical stepmom stressors. Even better, Jacquelyn has a blog, www.becomingastepmom.com that picks up where the book left off.

I give this book five steps (out of five) the Erin Experiment scale.

And, because it's the holidays and I want to spread good cheer, I'm giving away a copy of Jacquelyn's book. But, there are a few "rules":

1. Subscribe to this blog post (1 point) if you already subscribe (yey!) give yourself the point.
2. Visit Becomingastepmom.com (1 point)/ Bonus point if you leave a comment
3. Post on your blog about the give-away, pointing people to this blog post. (1 points)
4. Leave a comment on this blog post with your total points and your blog's URL.

The lovely lady with the most points by December 15 wins. I will mail you the book so that you have it by the time the kids are out of school for the holiday break.

I know a few of you may not have blogs. For those ladies, swap in joining Stepchicks (http://stepchicks.ning.com/) as the posting on your own blog and email me your total points.

In the event of a tie-breaker, I will post an announcement on Twitter and Facebook. The first person who responds to the announcement is the recipient

Any questions about the contest, the book, life in general? e-mail me