Cece In The City

Tag: reading

  • 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

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  • 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!

  • Cece Book Club

    This month, I want to spotlight one of the special ways I’ve connected with my community: through my Cece Book Club, which I started a few years ago. As someone who reads at least one book a week, books are more than just stories to me—they’re adventures that take me on new journeys. This passion for reading is what inspired me to create a space where fellow book lovers could come together, share opinions, and dive into discussions about the stories we’re all so passionate about.

    In the Cece Book Club, we meet once a month on Zoom to discuss our latest read. This year, we’ve added a fun twist: we’re working our way through the alphabet, selecting books that start with each letter. It’s been a fantastic way to discover new titles and genres we might not have explored otherwise.

    Running this book club has been a joy, and I’m excited about its growth. We used to have authors join us for discussions, and I’m looking forward to bringing that element back soon. The thought of opening my own bookstore one day is a dream I hold close—imagine a cozy spot filled with all our favorite reads, a place where bookworms like us can gather and get lost in stories together.

    If you’re as passionate about reading as I am, I’d love for you to join us. Let’s continue to build this wonderful community of readers, sharing not just books, but the experiences and emotions they evoke in us. Here’s to more adventures, more discussions, and hopefully, more exciting plans for Cece Book Club!

    Join

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

  • A Little Boy’s Blues by Stacy Lamar King

    This month, I’m shining a spotlight on some incredible authors I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and the books they’ve written that I’ve dived into. As a self-proclaimed bookworm, there’s nothing I love more than getting lost in a great story and supporting the talented people behind them.

    One book that caught my attention is A Little Boy’s Blues by Stacy Lamar King. This is just the beginning of a series, and while I haven’t finished the other two books yet, they’re definitely on my reading list for this year. Meeting Stacy was a real pleasure, and learning about his journey as an author added so much depth to the reading experience. Plus, there’s something special about holding an autographed copy in your hands, knowing you’ve connected with the mind behind the words.

    I’m so proud of Stacy and can’t wait to finish the series. If you’re into heartfelt stories with depth and emotion, make sure to check out A Little Boy’s Blues and stay tuned for the rest of the series. Supporting authors like Stacy is a joy, and I’m thrilled to share his work with you!

  • 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.

  • Love & Positive Vibes

    Greetings, amazing community members!

    Happy February, the month of love and self-discovery! As we dive into the second month of the year, let’s take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences we shared in January.

    Our New Year kicked off with a bang as we embarked on a journey of self-reflection with Vision Jars. Each jar held the potential for personal growth and exciting adventures. I’m thrilled to share a glimpse into my own jar revelations. For my self-love goal, I set my sights on enhancing my blogging skills – a journey that promises exciting discoveries and creative expression.

    Speaking of adventures, I treated myself to a cinematic delight by fulfilling my jar’s directive to take myself to the movies. “The Color Purple” musical was an absolute gem, and if you’re a fan of musicals and the classic movie, you’re in for a treat! The stellar performances left me in awe, and I’m sure you’d love it too.

    Another jar revelation led me to engage in meaningful outreach. I spent time at a local senior home, contributing to their community and making lasting connections. Bingo with the residents brought joy and laughter, creating memories that warm my heart.

    As we step into this new month, the anticipation builds for fresh goals and self-love adventures. If you’re feeling inspired, we invite you to join us on this exciting journey! Share your aspirations and let’s support each other in making February extraordinary.

    On a different note, I’ve been relishing my time at Crunch in Tucker – a fantastic gym where I’ve been breaking a sweat and enjoying invigorating Zumba classes. Trust me; it’s a fitness haven worth exploring!

    Last but certainly not least, our book club delved into the captivating world of “All the Light We Cannot See” in January. If you haven’t joined CeCe’s Book Club yet, you’re missing out on thought-provoking reads and engaging discussions. Find us on Facebook and Instagram for more details!

    Let’s make February a month filled with love, positivity, and exciting endeavors. Join us on this journey, and together we’ll make it extraordinary!

  • 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! 📚✨

  • A Not So Meet Cute” – Unveiling the Beautiful Complexity of Relationships

    Book Review: “A Not So Meet Cute” – Unveiling the Beautiful Complexity of Relationships

    Introduction: “A Not So Meet Cute” is a captivating novel that explores the intricate nature of relationships, delving into the complexities, challenges, and unexpected connections that unfold between its diverse and relatable characters. This book takes a refreshing twist on the traditional “meet cute” trope, offering readers a heartfelt and honest portrayal of love, friendship, and personal growth. In this review, we will explore the compelling aspects of the story, its engaging characters, and the author’s ability to capture the essence of human connection.

    1. A Unique Perspective on Relationships: Unlike conventional romance novels that often depict idealized meet-cute scenarios, “A Not So Meet Cute” presents a more realistic and nuanced view of relationships. The author skillfully portrays the messiness and imperfections that come with human connections, highlighting that love is not always a straightforward journey. This refreshing perspective brings depth and authenticity to the story, making it relatable to readers who appreciate the complexities of real-life relationships.
    1. Multidimensional Characters: The characters in “A Not So Meet Cute” are richly developed and multi-layered, making them truly come alive on the pages. From their quirks to their vulnerabilities, each character feels authentic and relatable. The author skillfully explores their personal histories, fears, and desires, enabling readers to empathize with their struggles and triumphs. Through their interactions and personal growth, the characters reveal the complexities and intricacies of relationships, adding depth to the narrative.
    1. Themes of Growth and Self-Discovery: The novel beautifully captures the journey of personal growth and self-discovery that the characters embark upon. It explores how relationships can serve as catalysts for change and transformation, allowing individuals to confront their fears, confront their past, and ultimately find their true selves. The exploration of these themes adds depth to the storyline, making it not just a tale of romance but also a reflection of the human experience.
    1. Emotional Depth and Authenticity: One of the standout features of “A Not So Meet Cute” is its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions within readers. The story touches on joy, heartbreak, vulnerability, and resilience, eliciting a genuine emotional response. The author’s writing style beautifully captures the nuances of human emotions, creating an immersive reading experience that resonates long after the book is finished.
    1. Balancing Humor and Seriousness: Despite its exploration of complex emotions and personal growth, “A Not So Meet Cute” maintains a delightful balance of humor and seriousness. The author weaves moments of lightheartedness and witty banter into the narrative, offering readers moments of laughter and levity. This skillful combination ensures that the story remains engaging and enjoyable throughout, even as it delves into deeper themes.

    Conclusion: “A Not So Meet Cute” is a captivating novel that breaks away from traditional romance tropes, offering readers a refreshing and authentic portrayal of relationships. With its multidimensional characters, themes of personal growth, and exploration of the complexities of love and connection, this book takes readers on an emotional journey that is both relatable and thought-provoking. The author’s ability to balance humor and seriousness adds depth to the storyline, making it a truly enjoyable and compelling read. “A Not So Meet Cute” is a testament to the beautiful messiness of relationships and a reminder that real love is not always found in picture-perfect moments but in the imperfect and unexpected connections we form along the way.

  • The Attic Child (Book)

    Book: The Attic Child

    Author: Lola Jaye

    By: Cece Hymes

    Looking for an exciting and engaging read that will keep you on the edge of your seat? Look no further than Lola Jaye’s latest novel, The Attic Child.

    This heart-wrenching and inspiring story follows the journey of a young girl named Ruby, who is sent away to live with her strict and abusive grandmother in Nigeria. Despite the challenges she faces, Ruby remains determined to find her way back home to London and the family she left behind.

    The Attic Child is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that tackles themes of family, identity, and resilience. Jaye’s prose is both lyrical and poignant, drawing the reader in with every turn of the page. You’ll find yourself rooting for Ruby and her quest for freedom and self-discovery.

    One of the things that makes The Attic Child such a standout novel is the way it seamlessly weaves together elements of historical fiction and magical realism. Jaye expertly blends the real and the imagined, taking readers on a journey that is at once both familiar and fantastical.

    Overall, The Attic Child is a powerful and inspiring novel that is sure to resonate with readers of all ages. If you’re looking for a book that will transport you to another world and leave you feeling both uplifted and moved, look no further than Lola Jaye’s latest masterpiece.

  • Before I let Go (Book)

    Book: Before I Let Go

    Author: Kennedy Ryan

    By: Cece Hymes

    This book was awesome. I loved it. I like a good love story. This book was about a couple Yasmen and Josiah who had been together for years. They were married with three kids. They loved and always had a great attraction to each other. Then they had a couple of deaths in the family and lost themselves. Yasmen went into a depression and had a dark place. She got out of her Marriage and got a divorce.

    It’s been two years since they were separated but the two are still co-parenting and love their kids no matter what. They share a business together and still do all that together while being separated. They learn to get along. Yasmen has therapy and is getting back to her normal self and even getting better with her feelings and communication.

    Josiah decides it’s time to date and move on, so he starts seeing a lady that works at the job. No matter what Yasmen and Josiah still are in love with each other and fight the feelings they have for each other. They really can’t see each other with other people. They try to work through their feelings while trying to move on. They both realize that they are just not ready to date anyone else.

    I don’t want to give away the book but what I really like about the book is the love they have for one another and how they put their kids first in everything that they do. They talk things out together. That’s how real Co-Parenting works. I also love that therapy can be a blessing to people and it’s never too early to get help.

    I loved this book if you love a love story and seeing real-life struggles in it. This is the book for you. It has some sad and humorous parts in it.

    Let me know what you think of the book. Also, follow me @Cece.Atl and @Cecebookclub.