Cece In The City

Tag: book lover

  • Happy World Book Day!

    Y’all already know—I couldn’t let World Book Day slide by without saying something! Books are my peace, my escape, my everyday adventure. I usually dive into at least two books a week, and each one takes me somewhere new—whether it’s a love novel or the heart of an inspiring memoir.

    So, what are you reading right now?
    Are you on Goodreads? I love connecting with fellow readers and finding new gems to add to my list.

    Authors—this one’s for you!
    If you’ve written a book and want me to review it or feature it on my blog, I got you! I support authors heavy, and I love sharing stories with my community. Book your spot now by filling out the form, and let’s put your work in the spotlight!

    Also, if you’re a book lover like me, come join the Cece Book Club on Facebook! We read, we vibe, we discuss, and we support each other’s literary journeys. It’s nothing but good reads and good energy.

    Alright, fam—I’m off to squeeze in my 30 minutes to an hour of reading before bed. I hope you found time to relax today… and maybe even crack open a good book. Happy reading!

  • Book Rec: Armed with Good Intentions by Wallo – A Must-Read with a Message

    If you know me, you know I love a good book—and last night I finished one that truly left an imprint on me: Armed with Good Intentions by Wallo.

    I’ve been following Wallo on IG for a while now. His videos? Pure gold. They’re raw, real, inspiring, and sometimes hilarious—but always packed with wisdom. What I love most is how genuine he is. After spending half his life behind bars, Wallo could’ve let his past define him—but instead, he turned it all around.

    This book dives even deeper into his story. The pain, the lessons, the setbacks, and ultimately, the redemption. He’s seen a lot, been through a lot, but he chose to come home and elevate. He didn’t just change his life—he made it his mission to motivate others to do the same.

    People doubted him, tried to silence his voice, but Wallo kept going. He kept showing up, posting his videos, dropping gems, and being unapologetically him. And you know what? That consistency and passion is contagious.

    As someone who shares my voice through blogs, Wallo inspired me to start using my voice on video too. So if you’re reading this, Wallo—thank you. Keep being a blessing. Keep pushing forward. You’re touching more lives than you know.

    Y’all, do yourself a favor and grab his book. Whether you’re a fan already or just love a good comeback story, Armed with Good Intentions is worth the read.

    Grab your copy here: Armed with Good Intentions on Amazon

  • First Book of the Year with Cece Book Club: Maame by Jessica George

    The first Cece Book Club pick for January is Maame by Jessica George! Now, while this isn’t my first read of the year (I’m already six or seven books in), it is the first one I’m diving into with the book club—and what a great choice to start with!

    Maame tells the story of a young woman in her 20s who has spent most of her life taking care of her father, never truly having the chance to live for herself. When her mother returns home for a year, she finally moves out to explore life on her own. However, just as she starts to embrace her independence, she experiences a deep loss that pushes her into depression.

    I won’t spoil the entire book, but Maame beautifully highlights the struggles many young people face when dealing with family responsibilities, self-discovery, and mental health. It was heartbreaking yet powerful to see her journey—her strength in always showing up for her family, but also the moment when she finally decided enough was enough and began to express her own needs.

    This book was emotional, relatable, and an important reminder that many people battle depression at a young age and need support. I can’t wait to discuss it with the book club this Sunday!

    Have you read Maame? What did you think of it? Let’s talk!

    Get book here:

    https://amzn.to/42Ka2wb

    If you enjoy my book club picks and want to support, you can buy me a coffee here:

    buymeacoffee.com/ceceinthecity

  • My First 5 Reads of 2025: What I Thought

    As we kick off a new year, I’ve already dived into some incredible reads! Here are the first five books I’ve enjoyed in 2025, along with my thoughts on each.

    • The Traveler’s Gift by Andy Andrews
      This book was truly inspiring and motivating. Andy Andrews weaves a story filled with life lessons and decisions that challenge you to think deeply about your purpose. A great way to start the year! 
    • The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood
      If you love a good romance with a unique twist, this book is for you. It’s a beautiful love story that had me hooked from beginning to end.
    • The Spell Shop by Sarah Beth Durst
      Another captivating love story! This one is filled with magical elements that made it a delightful read. It’s light, fun, and perfect for escaping into a whimsical world.
    • A Very Bad Thing by J.T. Ellison
      This book had me on the edge of my seat! Suspenseful, thrilling, and impossible to put down—I definitely recommend this one for anyone who loves a good mystery.
    • The Christmas Tree Farm by Laurie Gilmore
      Although I read this series out of order, this installment was a charming and cozy read. Now I can’t wait to go back and read the rest of the series!

    If you’ve read any of these, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Also, don’t forget to join Cece Book Club on Facebook to dive deeper into our monthly picks, share your own recommendations, and connect with other book lovers. Happy reading!

  • Let Love Have the Last Word book by Common

    This month, I’m thrilled to spotlight and support some incredible authors I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, along with their inspiring books. As a self-proclaimed bookworm, I find immense joy in diving into their stories and sharing their journeys with you.

    One unforgettable experience was attending Common’s book tour. The rapper, actor, and activist introduced his deeply personal memoir, Let Love Have the Last Word. In this book, Common opens up about his journey to find love, self-love, and his relationships with his daughter and mother. It’s a powerful narrative about growth, connection, and understanding.

    Common’s story is a testament to the transformative power of love, and his insights are both moving and enlightening. If you haven’t already, make sure to check out Let Love Have the Last Word and embark on this heartfelt journey with Common.

  • Book Blog: For the Love of Summer by Susan Mallery

    Blog Written by Cece Hymes

    Hello readers,

    I’m excited to share my thoughts on For the Love of Summer by Susan Mallery. This book captivated me with its powerful message about friendship, love, and resilience.

    The story revolves around two women who come together through their shared experiences with a man who wronged them both. I was particularly drawn to Erica, a strong and outspoken character with a heart of gold. Despite her fears of love due to past hurts, she learns valuable lessons about trust and friendship. Allison, on the other hand, struggles but bravely opens up to seek help and becomes less judgmental as the story progresses.

    One of the most touching aspects of the book is the character Summer. She exemplifies strength and maturity, wanting to do right by her brother and stepmother. Her actions bring everyone together, proving that even a teenager can make a significant impact on the lives of adults.

    For the Love of Summer teaches us about the power of friendship and the importance of making our own judgments rather than listening to others. It’s a reminder that we should be open to help when needed and that true friendship can come in unexpected ways.

    As women, we must support and empower each other instead of tearing each other down. This book beautifully illustrates how women can stand together and form strong bonds despite their differences. It also emphasizes the importance of independence and having your own resources, ensuring you have something to fall back on in challenging times.

    Overall, For the Love of Summer is a great read filled with lessons about love, friendship, and personal growth. I can’t wait to dive into more books by Susan Mallery.

    Happy reading!

  • Book Blog: A Thousand Boy Kisses by Tillie Cole

    Blog Written by Cece Hymes

    Hey book lovers,

    Today, I want to share my thoughts on a book that truly touched my heart: A Thousand Boy Kisses by Tillie Cole. This story is beautifully written, bittersweet, and incredibly inspiring.

    From the moment I started reading, I was captivated by the sweet and profound love story of Poppy and Rune. Their journey together is a testament to the power of love and resilience. Poppy, though young, embodies strength and courage in the face of adversity. Rune, with his unwavering devotion, brings out the beauty of finding a soulmate who can make the darkest days a little brighter.

    This book opened my eyes to the importance of living life with positivity, freedom, and happiness. Life is too short to be consumed by anger and sadness. Through Poppy and Rune’s adventures, I was reminded that true love and peace are attainable, even amidst life’s challenges.

    Reading A Thousand Boy Kisses made me reflect on my own life. It encouraged me to embrace my own adventures and learn from every experience. Despite the tears and moments of sadness, this book left me feeling uplifted and inspired.

    If you haven’t read A Thousand Boy Kisses yet, I highly recommend it. It’s a story that will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.

    Happy reading, and may you all find your own adventures filled with love and joy!

  • From Page to Paradise: Planning Your Five-Star Getaway with ‘The Five-Star Weekend

    At long last, I delved into the pages of “The Five-Star Weekend” by Elin Hilderbrand, and let me tell you, the anticipation was absolutely worth it! This literary gem swept me off my feet and left me yearning for more. So much so, that it ignited a spark of inspiration within me – what better way to celebrate friendship and adventure than with a getaway to the sun-kissed shores of Destin, FL, alongside five fabulous friends?

    I won’t spoil the magic of the book, but trust me when I say, it deserves every one of those five stars I bestowed upon it. With its gripping plot and captivating characters, it’s a true page-turner that you won’t want to put down. If you’re on the hunt for your next literary escape, look no further – “The Five-Star Weekend” is the perfect choice.

    And hey, while you’re at it, why not join CeCe’s Book Club? It’s a fantastic way to connect with fellow book lovers and discover even more amazing reads. So, grab a copy of “The Five-Star Weekend” and dive into a world of friendship, adventure, and five-star fun! 📚✨ #BookClubAdventures #DestinDreaming

  • Join Cece’s Book Club: A Year of Literary Adventures!

    Dive into my world of literary adventures, where each book is a portal to excitement and intrigue! 📚 This year, I’ve uncovered some absolute gems that I can’t wait to share with you.

    First up, we have “The Housemaid” by Freida McFadden – a thrilling tale with a twist that had me on the edge of my seat! 🏠💼 And let’s not forget “Code Name Butterfly” by Embassie Susberry, whisking us back to the days of World War intrigue and espionage. Talk about a page-turner! 🕵️‍♀️💥

    Now, onto Kennedy Ryan’s “This Could Be Us” – a captivating read that never fails to deliver. Seriously, Ryan’s books are like literary comfort food – always satisfying! 🌟 And who could forget “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig? It’s a thought-provoking journey that’ll have you pondering the paths not taken and the what-ifs of life. 🌌✨

    Last but not least, “One Day in December” by Josie Silver – a heartwarming love story that reminds us that sometimes, love finds us when we least expect it. 💖

    With my voracious reading habit (at least one book a week!), I’m aiming to reach the heights of Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club or Oprah’s Book Club – and I’d love for you to join me on this literary adventure! 🌟✨ If you’re up for it, come be a part of Cece’s Book Club, where we dive into a new read every month and discuss it virtually. Here’s the link – let’s get lost in the pages together! 📖💬 Join https://bookclubs.com/clubs/8151/join/0cfb43/

    Get ready to embark on a journey through the pages – trust me, it’s going to be one heck of a ride! 🎉📚 #BookwormAdventures #CeceBookClub

  • Journey with Cece Book Club in 2024!

    Diving into the literary wonders of 2024, my reading journey has been nothing short of enchanting. With each page turned, I’ve explored diverse worlds, from the whimsical “Again But Better” by Christine Riccio to the gripping “Never Never” by Colleen Hoover. Pinky Cole’s “I Hope You Fail” and Hannah Brencher’s “If You Find This Letter” stirred my soul, while KJ Miccich’s “Book Proposal” and John Kralik’s “365 Thank Yous” left me inspired and motivated.

    These exceptional reads sparked a creative fire within me, leading to a personal project inspired by the profound messages found in these pages. But the literary adventure doesn’t stop there – I’ve also embarked on a fascinating journey with my book club, Cece Book Club. Every month, we select a book and delve into virtual discussions that transcend the boundaries of pages.

    Our current endeavor is the Alphabet Reading Challenge, a quest to explore literature across various genres, authors, and themes. The anticipation of what each letter will bring adds an extra layer of excitement to our reading escapades. Curious to see how this challenge unfolds? Join us on this literary exploration!

    Now, I’m curious about your reading goals for the year. Are there any particular books or challenges you’ve set your sights on? Perhaps you’d like to join our Alphabet Reading Challenge and share in the joy of discovering new stories.

    For fellow book enthusiasts and those seeking a vibrant community of literary minds, don’t forget to connect with Cece Book Club on Facebook and Instagram. Let’s turn the pages together and make 2024 a year filled with literary adventures! 📚✨