Cece In The City

Tag: Books

  • Celebrating Fathers, Freedom & Favorites – A June to Remember

    Hey everyone! I hope all the amazing fathers out there had a wonderful Father’s Day — you truly deserve to be celebrated. 💙Even though my dad lives 10–12 hours away, I still found a way to send him some love. I gifted him a neck fan (you know the kind that wraps around your neck and blows cool air) — perfect for someone who’s always walking or out in the yard during these hot summer days. He told me, “This is just what I needed,” and that warmed my heart. Sometimes it’s the simple, thoughtful gifts that make the biggest difference.

    Click here to purchase

    https://amzn.to/3HPU2jS

    Speaking of meaningful days… today is Juneteenth — a powerful reminder of freedom, resilience, and how far we’ve come. On June 19, 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved African Americans in Texas were finally informed of their freedom. It’s a day to reflect, educate, and celebrate. So tell me — how are you honoring Juneteenth today?

    While you’re soaking in the summer vibes, I’ve been busy doing a little bit of everything:
    📚 Book Review: I just finished A Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (yes, I adore her books!). This story follows two writers battling for the same book deal — and while they’re supposed to be competitors, sparks begin to fly. Of course, there’s a twist! If you love romantic tension and creative journeys, you’ll want to grab this one.

    🎬 Movie Review: I watched The Last Bullet recently — and as an action lover, I gave it a solid 4 out of 5. It kept me on the edge of my seat!

    Purchase Here

    https://amzn.to/4ldNHwY

    🌮 Foodie Find: Finally tried Rreal Tacos in Lawrenceville, GA — it’s a new location and super cute inside. They also have a patio space if you like dining outdoors. The tacos were flavorful, though my daughter was a bit bummed they didn’t have lettuce. Minor gnat situation aside, the customer service was great and the 30-minute wait was expected with it being a new location. If you’ve eaten there, let me know your thoughts!

    Also, don’t forget — I offer product reviews, book reviews, movie reviews, and business shoutouts. I’m currently running special rates this month, so if you’re interested, email me at cecewibnet@gmail.com and let’s work together.

    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    📖 And last but not least — if you haven’t already, grab a copy of my poetry book on Amazon. Your support means the world. 💕

    Purchase Here

    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    Thanks for reading and remember — support businesses, read a good book, and celebrate your freedom, people, and your passions.

    Until next time,
    Cece in the City

  • Goodbye May, Hello June: Halfway Through the Year Already?!

    Time is truly flying—can you believe we’re already halfway through the year? As we wave goodbye to May and welcome June with open arms, I’m feeling reflective, inspired, and ready to keep the momentum going.

    We wrapped up our May Cece Book Club discussion today, diving into Questions I Want to Ask You by Michelle Falkoff. It was a short read, but packed with emotion and thought-provoking moments. I gave it a solid 4 out of 5 stars—a great pick to close out the month!

    https://amzn.to/3FB36Z6

    Kicking off June, I watched The Wild Robot, an Oscar-nominated animated gem featuring the voice of Lupita Nyong’o as Roz, a robot who finds herself becoming a surrogate mother to a little gosling. It’s a beautiful story about connection, growth, and love in the most unexpected forms. If you haven’t seen it yet, definitely add it to your watchlist!

    Love poetry? I’ve got something for you. Show some love and grab a copy of “Poems of Passion & Purpose“—a moving collection that deserves a spot on your shelf. Available now on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    In exciting news, I’ve partnered with the amazing DJ Ms. Eclectic, and we’re now doing exclusive interviews together! Artists, authors, entrepreneurs—if you have a story to share, we want to help you tell it.

    Want to spotlight your business, product, or book? We’re currently running special rates for blog shoutouts and ad space in Where It Begins magazine. Let’s get you the exposure you deserve!

    Thank you so much for supporting, reading, sharing, and following this journey. Stay tuned—there’s so much more on the way. From blog posts to interviews, books to travel adventures… this is only the beginning.

    Let’s make June unforgettable.

  • Honoring the Legacy: A Memorial Day Reflection + A Visit to Charis Books

    Happy Memorial Day! As we honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country, I hope everyone found a moment of peace and gratitude this weekend. Whether you spent time with loved ones, reflected in solitude, or simply enjoyed the sunshine, may the meaning behind the day remain close to heart.

    Last Monday, I had the chance to visit a place that holds its own kind of powerful history — Charis Books & More in Decatur, Georgia. If you’re not familiar, Charis is one of the oldest independent feminist bookstores in the South, and it’s been creating space for progressive voices since 1974.

    Stepping inside felt like walking into a sanctuary of stories, strength, and empowerment. I finally picked up a new book (you know how much I love my reads!) and even got to chat with one of the co-owners, Angela. She was so warm and welcoming, and her passion for the space was evident.

    If you’re ever in the Decatur area and love books that challenge, uplift, and inspire — or if you simply want to support a bookstore with deep roots and a beautiful mission — make sure to stop by Charis. It’s more than just a bookstore; it’s a piece of history.

    Until next time — keep reading, keep remembering, and keep supporting spaces that matter.

  • 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

  • Hello, May! Let’s Make It Magical

    Welcome to the beautiful month of May—may it bring peace, happiness, and joy into your life! There’s something about May that feels like a fresh start, filled with blooming flowers, warmer days, and meaningful celebrations.

    We kicked off the month with our latest Cece Book Club discussion on Pretty Baby by Mary Kubica. I gave it a 3 out of 5 stars—definitely a slower burn compared to some of her other works, which I enjoyed more. But that’s the fun of book club—everyone has different takes! If you love psychological thrillers and want to join in on our monthly Zoom chats, come read with us!

    We also tried something new: Guayaki Organic Yerba Mate. The flavors we tested were Revel Berry and Bluephoria. A lot of folks enjoyed it for the energy boost, but I’ll be honest—it wasn’t my cup of tea (maybe because it’s organic?). Still, it might be your thing! I always say: you’ll never know until you try it.

    As for adventure, last week I hit the trails to Arabia Mountain—and this time, I made it to the top! The view was totally worth the climb. If you’re looking for a scenic hike and a peaceful moment with nature, add it to your list.

    This week is full of celebrations! Today is Cinco de Mayo, so if you’re into tacos and tequila, go all in! Mother’s Day is just around the corner—let’s honor all the amazing moms out there. And don’t forget Memorial Day at the end of the month, a time to remember and reflect.

    Oh—and I’m running specials this month! If you’re looking to promote your business, product, or blog, reach out to me. Let’s shine a spotlight on your brand!

    Here’s to making May marvelous!

  • Celebrating National Independent Bookstore Day: A Shoutout to Birdsong Books

    If you know me, you know I absolutely love books. There’s something magical about getting lost in a good story, flipping through fresh pages, and discovering new favorites.

    Today, in honor of National Independent Bookstore Day, I wanted to highlight a special place: Birdsong Books. I’ve had the chance to visit this charming bookstore before, and let me tell you—it’s a true gem. I didn’t get to meet the owner in person, but I did chat with the friendly cashier who was just as welcoming. Even without meeting her, I can honestly say I’m so proud of what the owner has created. The setup, the cozy vibe, the curated selections—everything about Birdsong Books feels like a book lover’s dream.

    And since you already know I do book reviews (yes, definitely hit me up if you have a book you want to spotlight!), I can’t help but get excited about spaces like this that keep the love of reading alive.

    Now I’m curious: what’s your favorite independent bookstore?
    Drop it in the comments or send me a message—I’d love to add some new places to my must-visit list!

    Wishing everyone a Happy National Independent Bookstore Day! Let’s continue to support these beautiful spaces that bring stories—and people—together.

  • 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

  • Get Featured: Blog, Reels & Magazine Exposure for Your Brand

    Looking for a fresh way to promote your book, brand, or business?

    Let us spotlight you across Cece in the City and Where It Begins Magazine—two powerful platforms built to share stories, elevate brands, and reach thousands of engaged followers.

    Why Collaborate With Us?

    We’ve built an authentic community and strong reach to help YOU shine:

    • 10K+ Instagram followers (@cece.atl + @where_it_begin)
    • 5K+ Facebook audience
    • 120K+ total media reach across blogs, reels, social content & email blasts
    • Monthly email newsletters, magazine issues & blog features

    What We Offer

     Blog & Website Reviews
    Book or Product write-up on Cece in the City or Where It Begins blog

     Reels & Social Media Content
    IG Reels, TikToks, story shoutouts + tagged content

     Magazine Features
    Editorial spread or spotlight in Where It Begins Magazine – print + digital

    Our Packages

     Starter Feature – $150

    • Blog Post Review
    • 1 IG or FB Post
    • Story Shoutout

     Boost Bundle – $300

    • Blog Feature (SEO-optimized)
    • 1 Reel or TikTok
    • 1 IG Story
    • “Cece’s Monthly Picks” Feature
    • Optional Amazon/Goodreads Review

     Ultimate Exposure – $500

    • Full Blog Review + Reels & Stories
    • Magazine Feature in Where It Begins
    • Newsletter Inclusion
    • All-Platform Social Tagging

    Book Your Spot Now
    Complete the Booking Form

    Connect with Us

    Website: www.ceceinthecity.com
    Linktree: linktr.ee/whereitbegins
    Instagram: @cece.atl | @where_it_begin

    Let’s get your story seen and heard!

    With love & spotlight,
    Cece
    Blogger | Publisher | Creative Connector

  • 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