Cece In The City

Tag: Book lovers

  • 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

  • Goodbye June, Hello July  Happy 4th of July!

    Waving goodbye to rainy June and welcoming in sizzling July with open arms—and a neck fan on standby (yes, I ordered mine and I’m not ashamed!). Here is the link if you want to get one from amazon https://amzn.to/3I9t333 Can you believe we’re already halfway through the year?

    Today is Independence Day, a time to celebrate freedom, fun, and fireworks! The 4th of July marks the day in 1776 when the Declaration of Independence was adopted, officially breaking away from British rule. While I do have to work today (duty calls!), I’ll be clocking out in time to catch some fireworks—hooray for balance!

    June Recap: Books, Movies & More

    Our Cece Book Club pick for June was Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney, and whew—what a read! Twisty, suspenseful, and definitely discussion-worthy. We’ll be diving into it this Sunday, and if you’ve been thinking about joining our monthly chats, here’s your invite!https://bookclubz.com/clubs/8151/join/0cfb43/  or head over to our Facebook group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1033867936640433/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT

    For my Cece on the Scenes movie spotlight, June’s pick was K.O—a solid 4 out of 5 stars in my book. If you love action with a punch (literally), this one’s worth the watch.

    What’s New in July: Fire Up the Community Love

    This month, I’m proud to launch the Fuel for Their Fire campaign—my special thank-you initiative for our amazing firefighters. From handwritten letters to care packages, every bit of appreciation counts. If you’d like to get involved and support our heroes, please email me at cecewibnet@gmail.com by July 26.

    Still Running: Blog & Magazine Feature Specials

    If you’re a business owner, author, or entrepreneur looking for exposure—don’t miss these deals:

    • 🌟 Blog + Newsletter + Social Feature: $100
    • 🌟 Cover feature in Where It Begins Magazine: $500

    Let’s get your story out there in a bold and beautiful way!

    So here’s to July—a month of heat, fireworks, reflection, and community love. Take time to love on yourself, breathe in some peace, and light up your world in the best way.

    Happy 4th, and happy July!
    — Cece 💥💙

  • 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

  • Highlighting Anna Black

    This month, I’m thrilled to highlight and support some incredible authors I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, along with their captivating books that have become some of my favorites. As a dedicated bookworm, there’s nothing quite like the joy of discovering a new story and the person behind it, especially when you get to connect with the authors and learn about their unique journeys.

    One book that truly resonated with me was The Perfect Love Storm by the talented Anna Black. This novel swept me off my feet with its compelling characters and the way it navigates the complexities of love and relationships. Every chapter was a delightful mix of emotions, making it impossible to put down. But what made this experience even more special was the opportunity to feature Anna in our Cece Book Club. During our discussion, we delved into the inspiration behind the story, the challenges she faced while writing it, and the messages she hopes readers take away.

    Supporting authors is something I’m deeply passionate about, and getting to know them on a personal level through interviews and book club discussions is such a rewarding experience. Anna’s interview was one for the books—pun intended! Her insights into the writing process and the themes of her novel were not only inspiring but also a reminder of why I love supporting authors through platforms like Cece Book Club.

    If you haven’t already, I highly encourage you to check out The Perfect Love Storm and our interview with Anna Black. Whether you’re a fellow book lover or just looking for your next great read, this one is sure to leave a lasting impression. Let’s continue to celebrate and support these incredible voices in literature!

    Check out the interview

    https://youtu.be/XqDFLTlSKYU?si=7h3Lgo-cX0zxrSk1

  • One True Loves Book

    Book: One True Loves

    Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid

    Taylor Jenkins Reid’s novel “One True Loves” is a captivating and heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery. The story follows the journey of Emma Blair, who finds herself torn between two loves – her high school sweetheart, Jesse, and her husband, Sam, who was presumed dead in a helicopter crash.

    Reid’s writing is beautifully emotive, drawing readers into Emma’s world and her internal struggles as she navigates the complexities of her heart. The novel delves into the concept of soulmates, exploring the idea of whether there can be more than one true love in a person’s life. The exploration of grief and loss is also poignant, as Emma grapples with the devastating impact of losing her husband and the conflicting emotions that arise when he unexpectedly returns.

    The character development in “One True Loves” is exceptional, with each character feeling authentic and relatable. Readers will find themselves invested in Emma’s journey as she grapples with her past and present, and the choices she must make to find her true happiness.

    The novel also delves into the themes of self-discovery and empowerment, as Emma navigates her own desires and needs in the face of societal expectations and familial pressure. Reid’s exploration of the complexities of love, loss, and personal identity is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

    Overall, “One True Loves” is a beautifully written and compelling novel that will tug at the heartstrings of readers. It is a captivating exploration of love in its various forms, and the choices we make in the pursuit of our own happiness. Reid’s masterful storytelling will leave readers deeply moved and contemplating the nature of love long after the final page.

  • The Simple Wild Book

    Book: The Simple Wild

    Author: K.A. Tucker

    By: Cece Hymes

    Got a chance to read this book. This was definitely a page turner. I enjoyed it and can’t wait to read the next one, it is a series. The Simple Wild is a powerful love story, and it had its funny parts. It was about a girl named Calla who is from Alaska. Her mom moved her from there to Toronto when she was 2. She would talk to her dad on the phone a lot but never see him. After her 8th grade graduation her dad disappointed her again and didn’t show up, so she decided to distance herself and her dad did also.

    Calla is 26 now and still lives with her mom and stepdad. She gets  this estranged call that her father is dying of lung cancer. She had mixed feelings about going there to see him because she barely knew him and also he wasn’t the one to call. She flies back to Alaska to see how her father is and to get to know him. Calla and the pilot seem to not get along. It seems he thinks she is an uptight kind of girl.

    Calla and the pilot have to spend more time together since it’s a small town and he is the neighbor. In the process of staying there she learns more about the town and her father. Toronto where she lives is so much different than Alaska. It takes time to get used to it but she sees new things every day she is there.

    The more time she spends with the pilot the more they seem to bring the best out of each other. However, this is a story about transformation, both personal and intellectual. I like that Jonah (the pilot) put his guard down for Calla. I also liked that Calla was time enough for Jonah. It’s like they are the complete opposite, but their chemistry is scorching. It’s always two sides of the story. I am glad that Calla went to Alaska to see what her dad is like before it’s too late.

    The way the story is told made me feel like I could picture everything, the scenery and how things look. I also love a good love story. I love it when you can talk trash to each other and still smile and have fun with it. If you haven’t read it, I would recommend it.

    I loved this book and again can’t wait to read the series. If you read, let me know your thoughts.

    Make sure to follow me @Cece.Atl 

  • Book Lovers book by Emily Henry

    Book: Book Lovers

    Author:  Emily Henry

    By: Cece Hymes

    This book was about a lady named Nora who is complex, deep, funny and more. She is a literary agent who identifies more with the villains in romance movies than the heroines. She has a sister named Libby who swayed her to go on vacation to a small town. They make a to-do list to do before their trip ends. Her sister Libby is married with 2 kids and one on the way. Nora missed hanging out with her sister and thinks this trip is going to bring them closer together.

    When they arrive in this small town she didn’t expect to run into Charlie, the surly editor she’s avoided ever since their disastrous meeting. They email each other about books. Being in this small town they have gotten to get to know each other and see that they are alike in so many ways. They turn each other on in their own way.

    Charlie and Nora have been through a lot growing up in their lives. They seem to always put everyone first before their own happiness. They always want to make sure that everyone else is good even if they have to give up their own dreams and happiness. It’s a lot that Nora still deals with from the passing of her mom but doesn’t share with anyone until she meets Charlie.

    I like how Nora has standards and that when she sees what she wants she opens up and tells Charlie instead of playing the little game of keeping it to herself. It can be scary taking chances, but the saying goes, closed mouths don’t get fed. Libby, who is Nora’s sister, has her own agenda that Nora does not know about. Nora just thinks Libby is going through problems in her relationship. What her sister is really doing will shock you. Sometimes a small town has hidden places that can make you fall in love with it.

    I love that Nora and Charlie can talk about any and everything and feel like they can be themselves with each other. Charlie sees that Nora is everything he ever wanted and more. They have to make a decision once her vacation is over and she has to go back home to New York. Can you really have everything you really wanted? The job, the man, the city life and more. It all goes back to taking chances and not settling. You have to read the book to see what happens. I love “Love” I believe when you find it don’t let it go. True love is hard to find these days. I love to read books and I hope to find a partner that is into books like I am. It would be awesome to chat about books and other things.

    Make sure to Join Cece Book Club and if you read this book let me know your thoughts.

     

  • Sweeter than honey by Joy Avery

    Book: Sweeter Than Honey

    Author: Joy Avery

    By: Cece Hymes

     

    You know I love a good love book. This book was very interesting to me and seems like a lot of books that I have read always start off with pretending to be in a relationship and then really fall in love with the person. I just love books like this. They all just have a different way and story that each one falls in love with the other person.

    This book was about Rylee and Canten. Rylee owned her own shop and she loved to cook. Canten, he was the sheriff of the town that everyone loved. He really did a lot for his community. Canten’s wife had passed away and so did Rylee; they both just been living life not really trying to date anyone. They have both been friends for a long time and have attraction for one another. They just don’t want to react to it.

    When they faked their relationship, I think they both really wanted to be with each other anyway but didn’t want to let the other one know. I am glad that they were friends first. My motto is always your soulmate is your best friend. They both needed to get things off their chest and out in the open. It was secrets that they never shared with anyone that they found sharing with each other. There were also times when others tried to come and win the other person’s interest, but they didn’t let it happen.

    They both actually know a lot about each other, and they are neighbors, so they watch out for each other already. One thing I love about this book is Rylee’s parents now that love is the kind of love I want. Growing older together and years later and still having that spark for each other is definitely what I want.  I loved their characters in this book.

    Everyone wants love but when you have someone that makes you happy that’s a different kind of love. When you have not just a lover but a best friend that you can communicate with about anything and they don’t judge you but push you to be stronger than those types of people you don’t want to let go.

    Rylee and Canten grew together as a fake couple but were there each step of the way. They included each other in events and couple things. They both felt a love they had never felt before. When you know what you want you go after it. They made each other feel like a queen and king.

     

    Make sure to check out the book and let me know what you think. Also join Cece Book Club

  • Interview with Brittney Holman

    Did you miss this article???

    Check out the article we did on @brittney_l_holman
    As she talks her book and project

    Download on

  • The Hookup Plan by Farrah Rochon

    Book: The HookUp Plan

    Author: Farrah Rochon

    By: Cece Hymes

     

    This book was good. I love a good love story or should I say a happy ending. I have read a couple of books by this author. It is about three friends that met when a guy was dating all three of them. They became friends and decided to meet up on Fridays to talk, vent and catch up.

    London was a hard-working lady. She worked at a hospital that she loves. She could have been in a higher position, but she loved her patients. She spoke her mind for sure. She didn’t really have a life outside of work besides meeting up with her mom and her friends. She tried to find a hobby. Her life was work, nothing really fun. She set up this class reunion and ran into her competition from high school. It’s been 15 or more years since they last saw each other.  

    Drew has done good for himself, he makes millions, looks good, and single. He always had a crush on London from High School but now that they are grown, he runs into his high school competition or should I say his crush. So, what supposed to turn from a one night stand turns into an agreement to just hookup. Drew always wanted more; he just really hopes London opens her eyes and really looks past the past and looks at something that can be real between them.

    Come to find out the same place London works Drew has to do some work there meaning they will see each other more than expected. They both have other things going on in their life but as they spend time together, they open up to each other which is much needed. I think every relationship should start off with friends. When you are friends first a lot of things fall into place. When you can talk to your partner about everything and feel protected it goes a long way. When you have an understanding, it makes it better.

    Another thing I love about this book is how real they are, how they don’t let money affect who they are. I love the London character in how she speaks her mind might sound raw sometimes but she says what she feels to her friends, boss, associates and mate. She doesn’t run from the problems she thinks about and tries to see what’s best. She may love competition, but she will tell you. Also love Drew character he knows what he wants he goes after it and doesn’t give up. He has an opportunity of love with his crush and is going to make it work even if it’s her way to start off.

    It’s more to the book than just what they love, but you have to read it to see. Know that you can get some advice and tips here and there. I want to be as Bold as London, that’s for sure. Life is about chances to ask for what you want and go after it. I am all for that. Even I like how they not all in the social media world they work and are successful. They deal with real family problems. They both have a great heart and I loved the position they have and what they do for the people.

     

    Make sure to Join Cece Book Club on Facebook and Instagram.