Cece In The City

Tag: Book Blog

  • The Last 5 Books I Read: Romance, Twists & Real Talk 📚💫

    Hey book besties! You know I’m always knee-deep in a good book—whether I’m chilling at home, in between events, or even on a quick getaway. Reading is my reset. It keeps me inspired, lets me escape, and takes me on a new journey with every page.

    Every year, I do a reading challenge with a goal of hitting 65 books by December. Right now, I’m at 44 books, and I’m feeling confident I’ll reach (and maybe even surpass!) my goal. 🙌🏽

    So let’s talk about the last 5 books I read—some hits, a miss, and a whole lot of feelings.

    1. The Crash by Freida McFadden
    Y’all already know Freida McFadden is that girl when it comes to thrillers with wild plot twists. The Crash had me guessing, flipping pages, and side-eyeing characters the whole way through. If you love suspense, secrets, and surprises, you need this one in your life. I’ve read several of her books, and she never lets me down.

    https://amzn.to/3GTX5Yc

    2. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
    Now, let’s keep it real. I was excited about this one because I loved her book The 5 Second Rule. That one truly changed the way I approach hesitation. But The Let Them Theory just didn’t do it for me. I couldn’t fully connect. Maybe it just wasn’t the right season for this read. Still love Mel, but this one wasn’t my favorite.

    https://amzn.to/4ocelc6

    3. Just Our Luck by Denise Williams
    This book was everything I needed. A beautiful love story that gave me butterflies, smiles, and warm fuzzies. Denise Williams knows how to write romance that feels real and heartfelt. If you’re into second chances, chemistry, and charming characters, this one is a must-read.

    https://amzn.to/4eYou83

    4. All the Missing Pieces by Catherine Cowles
    First time reading Catherine Cowles—and I’m so glad I picked this up. It was suspenseful but still had depth, emotion, and a bit of that romantic pull I love. She kept me engaged, and now I’m looking into what to read next from her. Definitely a name to watch in the romantic suspense space.

    https://amzn.to/3TRj3Ot

    5. Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
    Emily Henry does it again! I absolutely adore her books, and this one gave me all the feels. Her signature blend of romance, humor, and heart is exactly what I needed. I laughed, I swooned, and I didn’t want it to end. If you’re a fan of love stories with charm and personality, this one’s for you.

    https://amzn.to/4eWqWf4

    I’m tracking all of my reads on Goodreads, and I love connecting with other readers doing their own challenges. If you’re looking for book ideas, reviews, or just want to see what I’m diving into next, come follow me!

    📚 Click here to follow me on Goodreads
    📚 2025 Reading Goal: 65 books
    📚 Current Progress: 44 down, 21 to go!

    So tell me…
    ✨ What’s your reading goal this year?
    ✨ Have you read any of these books?
    ✨ Are you on Goodreads too?

    Drop your thoughts and recommendations—I’m always adding to my TBR (it’s never-ending, I know!). Let’s keep the book vibes going. 💛

    Until the next page turn,

    Join Cece Book club

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/1033867936640433/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT

    Here is my Goodreads

    https://www.goodreads.com/friend/i?invite_token=NDhkOTFmZGUtNWQ5Yi00ZDE1LWFiODQtN2M3YmQ5NmUyOTIx

    Thanks

  • Book Review: P.S. I Hate You by Lauren Connolly — A Journey of Grief, Love, and Rediscovery

    I recently had the pleasure of diving into P.S. I Hate You by Lauren Connolly, and let me just say—this book took me on an emotional rollercoaster in the best possible way. It’s one of those stories that lingers with you long after the last page.

    At its heart, the novel follows a woman grieving the loss of her brother. But her healing begins with a heartfelt letter he left behind—a request for her and his best friend to embark on a road trip to the final eight states he dreamed of visiting. Along the way, they’re tasked with scattering his ashes and honoring his memory. What unfolds is a beautiful, bittersweet adventure of healing, exploration, and unexpected love.

    The travel element had me hooked. There’s something magical about stepping outside your comfort zone and discovering the world—and yourself—in the process. This book reminded me how life itself can feel like a scavenger hunt: full of hidden lessons, surprising turns, and moments that take your breath away.

    What truly pulled on my heartstrings was the emotional depth between the two main characters. Imagine being in love with someone for years but not being able to be with them—for reasons that life, timing, or circumstances created. And then, just when you’ve settled into the idea of “what could’ve been,” you reconnect. That kind of love—the soul-stirring, “meant-to-be” kind—we all deserve that.

    This book is a reminder of the power of love, communication, and facing your fears head-on. It made me think deeply about life, second chances, and how important it is to not run away from the hard stuff, but to embrace it.

    If you’re into emotional reads, heartfelt journeys, and stories that blend love with loss and adventure, I highly recommend you pick up P.S. I Hate You. It’s more than a romance—it’s a journey of the heart.

    Get book

    https://amzn.to/43o6UWF

  • The Treston Irby Story: Hiatus – Life in the 90s R&B Group Hi-Five.

    This month, I’m excited to shine a spotlight on some of the incredible people I’ve met and the books that have captured my heart. As a self-proclaimed bookworm, there’s nothing quite like diving into a story that not only entertains but also reveals the journey of its author. That’s why I’m thrilled to highlight The Treston Irby Story: Hiatus – Life in the 90s R&B Group Hi-Five.

    When I first picked up Treston’s book, I was immediately drawn into the world of 90s R&B—a time of smooth harmonies, soulful ballads, and iconic groups like Hi-Five. But this book is more than just a trip down memory lane; it’s an intimate look at Treston’s life, his path to joining Hi-Five, and the ups and downs he faced along the way. His story is one of passion, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, even when the road gets tough.

    Through his candid storytelling, Treston gives readers a backstage pass to the highs and lows of fame, the camaraderie within the group, and the personal challenges that shaped his journey. It’s a story that resonates on many levels, whether you’re a fan of R&B, someone navigating their own creative path, or simply looking for an inspiring read.

    I had the honor of interviewing Treston and learning more about his incredible story. Our conversation was not only enlightening but also a testament to the strength and determination it takes to succeed in the ever-changing world of music. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share his journey with the readers of Where It Begins magazine, where his feature truly brings his story to life.

    If you haven’t yet, I highly recommend getting your hands on The Treston Irby Story. It’s a compelling read that will transport you back to the golden era of 90s R&B while offering valuable insights into the life of an artist who has navigated the challenges of the music industry with grace and grit. And don’t forget to check out the interview we did with him in Where It Begins magazine—it’s an inspiring story you won’t want to miss.

    So, as I continue to support and celebrate the authors who’ve shared their journeys with me, I encourage you to explore their stories too. Let’s keep the love for reading alive and continue to uplift those who’ve opened up their lives through the written word.

    https://youtu.be/cAdJHDR5MqE?si=7xDUedwQXh_Dg3GU

    https://issuu.com/cecewibnet/docs/wib_sept_2022_updated_1

  • What I Wish I Knew by Josh Powell.

    This month, I’m thrilled to spotlight and support some of the amazing people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, along with the books they’ve poured their hearts into. As a self-proclaimed bookworm, there’s nothing quite like delving into a great story, especially when you know the journey behind it. That’s why I’m excited to share one book in particular that resonated deeply with me: What I Wish I Knew by Josh Powell.

    When I first heard about Josh’s book, I knew I had to get my hands on it. It’s not just because I’m a fan of his work on the court—although his time with the Lakers is certainly impressive—but because of the authentic and heartfelt way he shares his story. This book is more than just a recounting of his basketball career; it’s a window into the life experiences that shaped him into the person he is today.

    In What I Wish I Knew, Josh takes us on a journey through his upbringing, shedding light on the challenges he faced and the decisions that led him to pursue basketball at the highest level. He doesn’t hold back in discussing the obstacles and personal trials he encountered along the way, offering readers a raw and unfiltered look at the man behind the athlete. It’s a story of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of greatness, all while staying true to oneself.

    I’m particularly proud of Josh for not only writing this book but for having the courage to share his truth with the world. It’s one thing to be known for your talents on the court, but it’s another to open up about the struggles and lessons that come with that journey. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying grounded, no matter where life takes you.

    In addition to reading his book, I had the privilege of featuring Josh in Where It Begins magazine. It was an incredible experience to hear more about his journey firsthand and to share his story with our readers. If you’re looking for a book that offers inspiration, life lessons, and an inside look at the realities of professional sports, What I Wish I Knew is a must-read.

    I can’t recommend it enough, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to support Josh in his journey. So, whether you’re a basketball fan, someone who loves a good memoir, or just looking for a story that will uplift and inspire you, be sure to check out What I Wish I Knew by Josh Powell. And don’t forget to read his feature in Where It Begins magazine—it’s a story that truly embodies our mission of sharing personal testimonies and life journeys.

    https://issuu.com/cecewibnet/docs/wib_magz_november_2020-_final_

  • Fredia Gibbs Story: Meet the Most Dangerous Woman in the World

    This month, I’m thrilled to spotlight and support some of the incredible people I’ve met and the books they’ve authored. As a true bookworm with a passion for reading, I’m always eager to dive into these stories and share the journeys of these remarkable authors.

    One book that left a lasting impression on me is The Fredia Gibbs Story: Meet the Most Dangerous Woman in the World. This powerful read dives deep into the life of Fredia Gibbs, an extraordinary woman whose journey is as inspiring as it is compelling. Through this book, I got a chance to learn more about Fredia’s life, her challenges, and her triumphs. She’s a force to be reckoned with, and her story is nothing short of motivational.

    I was also honored to feature Fredia on the cover of Where It Begins magazine, and our interview was one for the books—pun intended! Her insights, strength, and determination shine through in every word, making the interview a memorable experience.

    If you haven’t already, I encourage you to check out Fredia’s book and learn more about this phenomenal woman. And don’t forget to read the interview we did with her in Where It Begins—it’s one you won’t want to miss!

    https://issuu.com/cecewibnet/docs/wib_may_2021-final-02

  • Highlighting Young Bleed

    This month, I’m excited to highlight some amazing people I’ve met and their incredible books. As a true bookworm, I love diving into new stories and sharing the journeys of talented authors.

    One standout is Young Bleed, a rapper from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, who I had the pleasure of interviewing. His book, The Making of Young Bleed’s Preserved, offers an inside look into the creation of his album Preserved. The gold recording artist shares exclusive behind-the-scenes anecdotes, revealing the hard work and inspiration behind his music.

    Don’t miss our interview where we delve into his journey and the stories that shaped his career. Make sure to check it out and discover the fascinating world of Young Bleed!

    https://youtu.be/bXav5La5fcE?si=HOoNrDObeDIcHdRM

    You can also get his book at Amazon at

    https://a.co/d/bSGiq7i and tell him Cece sent you😊

  • Book Blog: Bitter and Sweet by Rhonda McKnight

    Blog Written by Cece Hymes

    Hello, book lovers!

    I’m thrilled to share my thoughts on Bitter and Sweet by Rhonda McKnight. This is the second book I’ve read by this author, and I was so excited to dive into it, especially after attending her book signing. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint!

    The story centers around two sisters, Mariah and Sabrina, who seem to embody the title perfectly—one is bitter, and one is sweet. Despite their differences and the years they’ve spent apart, they find themselves back home, helping their grandparents with their restaurant. Through this, they discover their unique talents and begin to heal old wounds.

    Mariah is grappling with bitterness from past hurts and is finally seeking the help she needs. I appreciate how the book highlights the importance of therapy—something many people shy away from but can be incredibly beneficial. Mariah’s skills in business and marketing shine through as she helps with the restaurant’s success.

    On the other hand, Sabrina is dealing with her own life struggles, living in her van and ensuring her daughter is well taken care of. Her talents in baking and cooking bring a special touch to the restaurant. Despite their struggles, the sisters gradually open up to each other, rebuilding their bond and becoming close once again.

    A particularly beautiful aspect of the book is the discovery of their great-great-grandmother’s letters. These letters reveal the tragedies and struggles she endured, creating a connection between the past and present that both sisters can relate to. I loved how this historical element added depth to the story, blending seamlessly with the narrative.

    Attending the book signing was a fantastic experience, and I even got my own mason jar from the author! Reading the book beforehand made this little token even more meaningful.

    Rhonda McKnight has a unique talent for weaving history, food, and personal growth into her stories. The town’s history and the family’s legacy add richness to the plot, making it a truly engaging read.

    Bitter and Sweet is a heartwarming story about family, forgiveness, and finding one’s place in the world. I can’t wait to read more books by Rhonda McKnight. If you haven’t picked up this book yet, I highly recommend it!

    Happy reading!