Cece In The City

Tag: book recommendation

  • Midweek Reflections, Reviews & Celebrations

    Happy Wednesday, friends — we’ve officially made it to the halfway point of the week! 🎉

    January has already been full of celebrations — I don’t know about you, but it feels like Capricorn season came in strong this year. Capricorns have always been known as the “builders” of the zodiac — grounded, determined, and hardworking — so maybe that’s why the month already feels busy and full of momentum.

    And since Wednesdays are often called “hump day,” let’s add a little mid-week joy with books, movies, food, and a few birthday shout-outs from Cece in the City.

    📚 Cece’s Book Corner

    I Found You — Lisa Jewell

    Let me tell you — this one pulled me in fast.

    I finished I Found You in just two days because every chapter felt like another twist I had to uncover. Lisa Jewell has a way of peeling back layers slowly, reminding us that one choice can ripple through many lives and change everything.

    It’s suspenseful, emotional, and full of “wait… WHAT just happened?” moments.
    If you love stories with mystery, secrets, and characters you keep thinking about afterward — add this one to your reading list 👀

    Check it out here: https://amzn.to/4psyhqi

    Fun fact: psychological suspense as a genre really took off in the late 20th century — and authors like Lisa Jewell have carried that legacy by blending mystery with deep emotional storytelling. That’s probably why her books feel real… even when they’re chilling.

    🎬 Cece On The Scenes

    Finding Joy — A Tyler Perry Film

    Sometimes “finding joy” isn’t about laughter… it’s about facing what hurt you and choosing peace anyway.

    This film has those classic Tyler Perry layers — faith, family, healing, and personal growth. It’s reflective, emotional, and definitely one of those movies that makes you think about your own journey.

    Streaming now on Prime Video.

    My rating? 3 out of 5 —
    There were a few moments where I was like… “Okay now, really?” 🤦🏽‍♀️😂

    But it still delivers a meaningful message, so check it out if you’re in a reflective mood.

    A little history note: Tyler Perry built his film legacy right here in Georgia — turning an old military base into one of the largest film studios in the country. Atlanta really became a powerhouse in entertainment because of creators like him.

    🎉 Birthday Love & Gratitude

    This week was full of special birthdays, and I want to send some love:

    💙 Happy Birthday to my Uncle — he’s been going through a lot lately, so please keep him in your prayers as he continues to heal and grow stronger.

    🤍 Happy Heavenly Birthday to my Aunt — forever loved, forever missed.

    🎂 Happy Birthday to Ms. Juicy (Baby) — my long-time friend, my talking-trash buddy, and someone who can always make me laugh.

    🌄 And Happy Birthday to Anika — from mountains to trails to unforgettable adventures, thank you for all the memories we’ve shared.

    Each of them holds a special place in my heart — and I hope their birthdays were the best one yet.

    Birthdays have always been more than just another year — in many cultures, they’re seen as milestones of wisdom, growth, and celebration of life’s journey… and I love honoring that.

    🍽️ Cece Eats — Foodie Stop of the Week

    This week I stopped by Trend Urban Café in Stone Mountain — and listen… that Salmon Special with rice was EVERYTHING. 😋

    Big portions, great flavor, and the best part — they offer both vegan and non-vegan options, so everyone can enjoy something.

    If you’ve never been, add it to your must-try list — definitely a local gem worth visiting.

    That’s my mid-week update ✨
    I’ll be back on Sunday with more adventures, food finds, books, and Cece on the Scenes moments.

    Stay tuned — and thanks for rolling through life with me here at Cece in the City 💛

  • Trying New Things — Old Favorites, New Adventures

    Hey everyone — hope you’re having an amazing day! I’m loving that the weather is creeping back into the 60s and 70s this week. It feels like the perfect time to step into something new… even if the “new” is something that’s been around forever for everyone else but me 😄

    This year is all about trying new things, revisiting classics, and exploring places I’ve somehow skipped over — and whew, I finally checked one off the list…

    🟠 My First Trip to Hooters — with a Little History

    So after all these years, I finally went to Hooters.

    For the longest time, my thoughts were pretty simple: “It’s a sports bar… with women… and hooters.” 😂

    But I decided to give it a try — and honestly, it wasn’t bad at all. Lots of TVs, lively energy, and yes… the ladies didn’t really have “big hooters,” it’s more about the iconic uniform and brand style. My waitress even wrote her name on a napkin — old-school Hooters touch!

    I ordered tater tots and shrimp (which were just okay), and my daughter got a steak-and-cheese sub that she said was really good.

    ✨ A little Hooters history:
    Hooters first opened in the early 1980s and grew into one of the most recognizable sports-bar brands in the U.S. It became known for its wings, game-day atmosphere, and its signature “Hooters Girl” concept — which has been part of American pop-culture debates, nostalgia, and sports dining culture for decades.

    I’ve heard a lot of locations have been closing recently, so I’m actually glad I got to experience it at least once.

    🍕 Italian Pie — Big Slices & Throwback Vibes

    Next adventure this week: Italian Pie.

    I’d heard about the big pizza slices — so of course I had to try one. I went with sausage, and while the sausage looked a little funny 😂 it actually wasn’t bad at all. I also grabbed BBQ wings to go with

    it.

    ✨ A little history note:
    Italian Pie has roots in casual neighborhood-style pizza culture — places built around family recipes, oversized slices, and that classic “grab a slice and relax” feel that’s been part of American pizza dining since the mid-20th century.

    Have you tried either of these spots? I know a lot of you probably have — but hey, they’re new to me… and that’s what this year is all about!

    🎬 Cece On The Scenes — Watch of the Week: Eden

    This week’s watch was Eden — based on a true story.

    A couple leaves German society in 1929 and escapes to an uninhabited island, looking for paradise… but things begin to fall apart once others arrive.

    • Genre: Thriller / Based on Real Life
    • Year: 2025
    • Duration: 2hr 9m
    • Director: Ron Howard
    • Cast includes Jude Law, Ana de Armas, Vanessa Kirby & more

    I give it 3 out of 5 — very interesting perspective, but I personally could never imagine living on an island like that back then. Today’s islands? Totally different story 😅

    📚 **Book of the Week — South of the Buttonwood Tree

    by Heather Webber**

    First book I finished in 2026 — and the second book I’ve read by Heather Webber — and I’m loving her writing so far. Definitely a 4 out of 5 from me.

    ✨ A touch of story history + themes:
    The book blends Southern folklore, magical realism, and family secrets that stretch across generations. It reminds you how some secrets can cause pain — but also have a way of pulling people closer and helping them heal.

    Check it out here:
    https://amzn.to/3LplDKK

    💌 This Year’s Thank-You Tributes

    This year, I’m sending thank-you messages to women who inspire and motivate me.

    This week’s shout-outs went to:

    🌟 Michelle Obama
    Reading her books reminded me of her authenticity, strength, and ability to speak truth with grace — especially Becoming.

    🎉 My good friend DJ Ms. Eclectic — Happy Birthday!
    She’s been an incredible friend — inspiring, hardworking, supportive, and full of positive vibes and good energy.

    Grateful for women who pour into others without even realizing how impactful they are.

    Well — that’s it for now. This year I’ve got a long bucket list, lots of hidden gems to explore, and plenty of “new to me” experiences coming your way.

    Stay tuned — and keep traveling, tasting, learning, and living with Cece in The City 💛

  • New Year, New Chapters — Join the Journey With Cece

    Happy New Year, everyone! 🎉 Here’s to 2026 being your BEST and brightest year yet. Thank you so much for following my journey — I truly appreciate every one of you. Remember… you are amazing, capable, and deserving of all the good things coming your way. Now let’s jump into it!

    ✨ Cece On The Scenes

    🎬 Watch of the Week: In Your Dreams on Netflix
    It’s a fun, light-hearted kid-style movie — but honestly still a great watch! I’d give it a 4 out of 5. I really enjoyed it — check it out and tell me what you think!

    📚 Book of the Week: Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe by Heather Webber
    This one gets a 5 out of 5 from me — such a beautiful story about community, healing, and finding connection through life’s trials and past experiences. Definitely worth the read! Grab it here:
    https://amzn.to/49zyX8C — and let me know your thoughts!

    🕯️ Need a little uplifting + inspiration?
    Follow Candlelight Conversations with Cece on YouTube & Spotify:

    YouTube 👉 https://youtube.com/@candlelightconversation?si=Z_kAUxAmAVVTaxcS
    Spotify 👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/5xRvifqSumeBJUbPwbqdro

    ✍🏽 My Poetry Book
    Never thought I’d be an author — but I did it and I’m SO proud of this one!
    If you’d like to support or check it out, here it is:
    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M 💕

    📖 Where It Begins — New Issue Coming Soon!
    We have a very special woman gracing the upcoming cover — releasing at the end of the month and I cannot WAIT to share it!

    If you missed the last issue, catch up here:
    https://issuu.com/cecewibnet/docs/november_2025_issue

    Here’s to more adventures, hidden gems, great reads, fun finds, and new experiences in 2026 🥂

    Stay tuned — Cece In The City is just getting started! 💛

  • End-of-Year Energy: Action Movies, Manifesting & Atlanta Nights

    Hey hey everyone ✨

    I hope you’re having a beautiful December. With only a couple of weeks left before the new year, it’s that reflective, exciting space where we start thinking about goals, ideas, bucket lists, and what we want to carry (or leave) behind. So let me catch you up on a little of everything — movies, books, city vibes, and giving back — Cece style.

    🎬 Cece on the Scenes: Movie Night Catch-Up

    I finally watched The Marksman, an older movie but brand new to me — and honestly, it surprised me in the best way. Starring Liam Neeson, the film follows a quiet rancher who suddenly finds himself protecting a young boy from cartel assassins. What starts as a simple act of kindness turns into a gritty, high-stakes road trip across the Southwest.

    The action is steady, the tension is real, and it has that neo-Western feel that blends heart with hard choices. Since I’m always here for a movie with action, I’m giving this one a solid 3 out of 5 stars ⭐️.

    Even though it originally dropped in 2021, The Marksman recently found new life on streaming and hit #1 on Netflix, proving that some stories just need the right moment to shine. Definitely worth adding to your watch list.

    📖 Cece Book Club: Manifesting with Intention

    Next up — Cece Book Club ✨📚

    I finally finished How to Manifest: Make Your Dreams a Reality in 40 Days by Laura Chung. This one took me a little while to complete, but that was part of the process. The goal is one chapter a day for 40 days, and it really encourages you to slow down, reflect, and be intentional.

    Journaling and manifesting have truly become a part of my life, so this book showed up right on time. It’s not about rushing — it’s about alignment. If you’re focused on growth, clarity, and calling in the life you desire, this is definitely a great read to add to your list.

    🏙️ Cece in the City: Dancing, Downtown, & Me Time

    Now let’s talk Cece in the City 💃🏽✨

    I had the chance to step out for Old School Saturday, and while I hadn’t been in a while, it reminded me why those nights are always a vibe. Good music, good energy, and even better company. I love being around friends who actually dance, laugh, and enjoy the moment — not just sit around people-watching.

    The event was hosted at the Hyatt Regency in Atlanta, which is such a beautiful hotel and always adds to the experience.

    This weekend also gave me something just as important — me time. I took a day to relax, think, and journal. No rush, no noise — just space to reflect. Time is flying, and with 2026 on the horizon, it was exactly what my spirit needed.

    ❤️ Giving Back: The 6th Annual Giveback

    As we head into the holidays, giving back remains close to my heart.

    It’s that time of year again — The 6th Annual Giveback for the Unhoused Community, led by DJ Ms. Eclectic, who shows up every single year with love and purpose.

    On Christmas Day, essential bags will be distributed, including:

    • Wet wipes
    • Tissue
    • Hand warmers (Hot Hands)
    • Water
    • Socks
    • Feminine hygiene products
    • And so much more

    If you’d like to donate items or contribute financially, you can do so here: Cash App: $EclecticMusicEnt

    Thank you for being a blessing and helping spread love during the season that matters most.

    ✨ Stay tuned for more Cece in the City — more stories, more gems, and more moments worth sharing. And tell me… what are your goals or bucket-list ideas as we head into the new year?

  • 📚 Books, Candles & Birthday Vibes: Cece in the City

    Hey fam! Wheweeee… can we talk about how long August was? 😅 So much going on, and I don’t know about y’all, but I am definitely hoping September brings in brighter vibes — especially since it’s my birthday month! 🥳💖 You already know I love celebrating September big.

    Now, I know I haven’t been posting much about books lately (life has been lifing), but y’all know I’m a true bookworm. 📚 I just wrapped up Till Summer Do Us Part by Meghan Quinn, and listen — this one gets a solid 4/5 stars from me! ⭐⭐⭐⭐ It had everything: hilarious moments, romance, and even a touch of therapy vibes. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for your next good read. 👉 Grab the book here.

    Speaking of therapy vibes, have you been tuning into Candlelight Conversations with Cece? ✨ If not, what are you waiting for? We’re spreading love, light, and uplifting energy — and we could all use a little more of that right now. 💕

    Catch me here:
    🎧 Spotify
    📺 YouTube

    And y’all know, no Candlelight Conversation is complete without the perfect candle glow. 🕯️ So, let me put you on to a few gems I’ve been loving lately:

    ✨ MELONY Massage Candle Oil – Smells like heaven (Bamboo Orchid 😍) and doubles as a moisturizing body oil when it melts. Perfect for self-care nights or couples’ massages. Get yours here.

    💕 Debossed Pink Bow Pillar Candle – This one is giving all the coquette vibes! So cute for home décor, journaling nights, or setting the mood without heavy scents. Check it out here.

    ♎️ Libra Gift Candle with Crystals – My September/October babies, this one’s for you! Beautiful, relaxing, and makes the perfect birthday gift (or treat for yourself). Grab it here.

    Let’s set the vibes, y’all — candles, good reads, and a whole lot of positive energy. 🌙✨

    Oh, and before I forget — if you’re looking to get your business promoted on the blog or even want to be featured on the cover of Where It Begins magazine, I’m still running specials:
    📝 Blogs: $100
    📸 Covers: $500

    Stay tuned, because September is about to be full of blessings, books, and birthday vibes. 💃🏽

    Until next time,
    💖 Cece in the City

  • 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

  • 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