Julie
Happy Tuesday everyone. I've read some good books lately that I'd love to share with you.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Book Description:
Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?
Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.
Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the ‘80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story near its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.
Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.
Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the ‘80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story near its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.
My Thoughts on the Book:
I like reading books by this author and I've read Daisy Jones & The Six and Malibu Rising. I couldn't wait to read her next book The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. I loved this book about Hollywood star Evelyn Hugo and all of her seven husbands and her rise to fame. It's a good summer read which I'm sure you'll enjoy. Taylor Jenkins Reid has a new book coming out soon which I can't wait to read called Carrie Soto is Back.
The Newcomer by Mary Kay Andrews
Book Description:
In trouble and on the run...
After she discovers her sister Tanya dead on the floor of her fashionable New York City townhouse, Letty Carnahan is certain she knows who did it: Tanya’s ex; sleazy real estate entrepreneur Evan Wingfield. Even in the grip of grief and panic Letty heeds her late sister’s warnings: “If anything bad happens to me—it’s Evan. Promise me you’ll take Maya and run. Promise me.”
With a trunkful of emotional baggage...
So Letty grabs her sister’s Mercedes and hits the road with her wailing four-year-old niece Maya. Letty is determined to out-run Evan and the law, but run to where? Tanya, a woman with a past shrouded in secrets, left behind a “go-bag” of cash and a big honking diamond ring—but only one clue: a faded magazine story about a sleepy mom-and-pop motel in a Florida beach town with the improbable name of Treasure Island. She sheds her old life and checks into an uncertain future at The Murmuring Surf Motel.
The No Vacancy sign is flashing & the sharks are circling...
And that’s the good news. Because The Surf, as the regulars call it, is the winter home of a close-knit flock of retirees and snowbirds who regard this odd-duck newcomer with suspicion and down-right hostility. As Letty settles into the motel’s former storage room, she tries to heal Maya’s heartache and unravel the key to her sister’s shady past, all while dodging the attention of the owner’s dangerously attractive son Joe, who just happens to be a local police detective. Can Letty find romance as well as a room at the inn—or will Joe betray her secrets and put her behind bars? With danger closing in, it’s a race to find the truth and right the wrongs of the past.
After she discovers her sister Tanya dead on the floor of her fashionable New York City townhouse, Letty Carnahan is certain she knows who did it: Tanya’s ex; sleazy real estate entrepreneur Evan Wingfield. Even in the grip of grief and panic Letty heeds her late sister’s warnings: “If anything bad happens to me—it’s Evan. Promise me you’ll take Maya and run. Promise me.”
With a trunkful of emotional baggage...
So Letty grabs her sister’s Mercedes and hits the road with her wailing four-year-old niece Maya. Letty is determined to out-run Evan and the law, but run to where? Tanya, a woman with a past shrouded in secrets, left behind a “go-bag” of cash and a big honking diamond ring—but only one clue: a faded magazine story about a sleepy mom-and-pop motel in a Florida beach town with the improbable name of Treasure Island. She sheds her old life and checks into an uncertain future at The Murmuring Surf Motel.
The No Vacancy sign is flashing & the sharks are circling...
And that’s the good news. Because The Surf, as the regulars call it, is the winter home of a close-knit flock of retirees and snowbirds who regard this odd-duck newcomer with suspicion and down-right hostility. As Letty settles into the motel’s former storage room, she tries to heal Maya’s heartache and unravel the key to her sister’s shady past, all while dodging the attention of the owner’s dangerously attractive son Joe, who just happens to be a local police detective. Can Letty find romance as well as a room at the inn—or will Joe betray her secrets and put her behind bars? With danger closing in, it’s a race to find the truth and right the wrongs of the past.
This is the first book I've read by this author. The book is a mixture of humor, romance, and mystery. I found myself laughing at times and I enjoyed reading this book.
Summer Island by Kristin Hannah
Book Description:
Years ago, Nora Bridge walked out on her marriage and left her daughters behind. She has since become a famous radio talk-show host and newspaper columnist beloved for her moral advice. Her youngest daughter, Ruby, is a struggling comedienne who uses her famous mother as fuel for her bitter, cynical humor. When the tabloids unearth a scandalous secret from Nora's past, their estrangement suddenly becomes dramatic: Nora is injured in an accident and a glossy magazine offers Ruby a fortune to write a tell-all about her mother. Under false pretenses, Ruby returns home to take care of the woman she hasn't spoken to for almost a decade.
Nora insists they retreat to Summer Island in the San Juans, to the lovely old house on the water where Ruby grew up, a place filled with childhood memories of love and joy and belonging. There Ruby is also reunited with her first love and his brother. Once, the three of them had been best friends, inseparable. Until the summer that Nora had left and everyone's hearts had been broken. . . .
What began as an expose evolves, as Ruby writes, into an exploration of her family's past. Nora is not the woman Ruby has hated all these years. Witty, wise, and vulnerable, she is desperate to reconcile with her daughter. As the magazine deadline draws near and Ruby finishes what has begun to seem to her an act of brutal betrayal, she is forced to grow up and at last to look at her mother--and herself--through the eyes of a woman. And she must, finally, allow herself to love.
Nora insists they retreat to Summer Island in the San Juans, to the lovely old house on the water where Ruby grew up, a place filled with childhood memories of love and joy and belonging. There Ruby is also reunited with her first love and his brother. Once, the three of them had been best friends, inseparable. Until the summer that Nora had left and everyone's hearts had been broken. . . .
What began as an expose evolves, as Ruby writes, into an exploration of her family's past. Nora is not the woman Ruby has hated all these years. Witty, wise, and vulnerable, she is desperate to reconcile with her daughter. As the magazine deadline draws near and Ruby finishes what has begun to seem to her an act of brutal betrayal, she is forced to grow up and at last to look at her mother--and herself--through the eyes of a woman. And she must, finally, allow herself to love.
My Thoughts on the Book:
I love reading books by the author Kristen Hannah. I enjoyed reading The Nightingale and The Four Winds by this author. I found this book to be just ok and it's about family, love, and forgiveness.
What book are you reading now? Do you have any book recommendations?
Julie
Hi Friends! I'm joining Joanne from My Slices of Life for their monthly link up. The theme this month is Binge Watching TV Shows.
Stranger Things-Season 4. I've enjoyed watching Stranger Things each season since it first started. This show seems to get better and better each time I watch each season. It takes place during the 1980s in Indiana where a group of kids witness mysteries, the supernatural, and secret government experiments. There is a lot of action and some violence throughout the show. I felt scared and on edge but I couldn't wait to see what would happen to each character in the show. We had to watch this season in two volumes. If you like sci-fi horror shows than you will love this one.
Ted Lasso - Season 1 and 2
This is about an American football coach who is hired to manage a British soccer team. Ted lacks knowledge in soccer but he makes up for it in his determination and optimism. I really enjoyed this show and I'm looking forward to watching the next season.
Only Murders in the Building - Season 1 and 2
It's about three upper west side neighbors starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selina Gomez who all share an obsession of true crime. When a neighbor dies in the building they are all determined to solve the mystery. I love this show and I look forward to watching it each week.
Loot - Season 1
We've seen a few episodes of this series on Apple TV and we like it so far. Maya Rudolph plays Molly who is a divorced billionaire who must figure out what to do with her $87 billion settlement. Maya Rudolph's character is great and you get a glimpse into how the rich live.
Better Call Saul - Season 6
This is the prequel to Breaking Bad which follows a small time attorney Jimmy McGill as he transforms into morally challenged Saul Goodman. I like this show but it's violent and I usually feel on edge when I'm watching this show. We have only a few more episodes left of this show before it ends.
I'm still in the middle of watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 4. I love watching this show and it is filmed in New York City.
What shows are you watching and do you have any recommendations?
If you would like to join in next month, below is the topics.
Click HERE to see the blog parties I will be linking up to.
Julie
Happy August friends!
We like eating zucchini during the summer months and I found this recipe to make Keto Zucchini Bread & Muffins. These muffins are low carb and I hope you enjoy these muffins as much as we did.
In a large bowl, I mixed all of the ingredients.
I added the batter into a muffin tin with cooking spray.
What You'll Need:
KETO ZUCCHINI MUFFINS
Recipe can be found at Low Carb with Jennifer
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups almond flour
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup granular sweetener - I used Swerve
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 large eggs, beaten
1/4 cup melted butter
1 1/2 cups grated zucchini with peel
EQUIPMENT:
9 x 5 inch loaf pan or 12 cup muffin tin
DIRECTIONS:
Preheat the oven to 350F. Grease a 9 x 5 loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, salt, cinnamon, swerve, and baking soda. Wrap the grated zucchini in a kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as you can. Discard the liquid and add zucchini to the dry ingredients followed by the eggs and melted butter. Stir batter until combined. (Refer to Jennifer's Tips) Pour batter into greased loaf pan and bake in the 350F oven for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool before serving. Slice into 12 slices. See notes for freezing, making muffins, and for a savory bread.
MUFFINS:
Divide batter evenly into a 12-cup muffin tin. Bake in the 350F oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Click HERE to see the blog parties I will be linking up to.
Julie
I can't believe it's already the last week of July. I feel like August is going to fly by fast. I love summertime and I'll enjoy it by going to the beach, gardening, summer reading, and BBQs.
I thought it would be fun to do a This or That Coffee or Tea?
I am a coffee lover through and through!
I LOVE COFFEE!
I love coffee art.
I love hot coffee with cream, no sugar.
I love making hot espresso in our Nespresso coffee machine.
I sometimes order a single hot espresso after we have dinner out at a restaurant.
I enjoy making at home iced coffee during the summer months. I make a large pot of hot coffee and when it cools off I pour the coffee into a large mason jar. I add oat milk with no sugar. I like having this for an afternoon pick-me-up.
If I want to change things up I enjoy making my own Iced Shaken Espresso.
I tried making coffee art.
Coffee or Tea? Which do you choose? Leave your answer in the comments section.
Julie
Happy Tuesday! I'm joining Jana Says and Life According to Steph for their monthly book club. Everyone shares the books they have read for the month.
The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner
Book Description:
Just after the Second World War, in the small English village of Chawton, an unusual but like-minded group of people band together to attempt something remarkable.
One hundred and fifty years ago, Chawton was the final home of Jane Austen, one of England's finest novelists. Now it's home to a few distant relatives and their diminishing estate. With the last bit of Austen's legacy threatened, a group of disparate individuals come together to preserve both Jane Austen's home and her legacy. These people―a laborer, a young widow, the local doctor, and a movie star, among others―could not be more different and yet they are united in their love for the works and words of Austen. As each of them endures their own quiet struggle with loss and trauma, some from the recent war, others from more distant tragedies, they rally together to create the Jane Austen Society.
A powerful and moving novel that explores the tragedies and triumphs of life, both large and small, and the universal humanity in us all, Natalie Jenner's The Jane Austen Society is destined to resonate with readers for years to come.
One hundred and fifty years ago, Chawton was the final home of Jane Austen, one of England's finest novelists. Now it's home to a few distant relatives and their diminishing estate. With the last bit of Austen's legacy threatened, a group of disparate individuals come together to preserve both Jane Austen's home and her legacy. These people―a laborer, a young widow, the local doctor, and a movie star, among others―could not be more different and yet they are united in their love for the works and words of Austen. As each of them endures their own quiet struggle with loss and trauma, some from the recent war, others from more distant tragedies, they rally together to create the Jane Austen Society.
A powerful and moving novel that explores the tragedies and triumphs of life, both large and small, and the universal humanity in us all, Natalie Jenner's The Jane Austen Society is destined to resonate with readers for years to come.
My Thoughts On The Book:
This was a delightful read about a group of people who form a society in honor of the author Jane Austen. I'm excited to read a few classics written by Jane Austen.
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte
Book Description:
Charlotte Brontë's most beloved novel describes the passionate love between the courageous orphan Jane Eyre and the brilliant, brooding, and domineering Rochester. The loneliness and cruelty of Jane's childhood strengthens her natural independence and spirit, which prove invaluable when she takes a position as a governess at Thornfield Hall. But after she falls in love with her sardonic employer, her discovery of his terrible secret forces her to make a heart-wrenching choice. Ever since its publication in 1847, Jane Eyre has enthralled every kind of reader, from the most critical and cultivated to the youngest and most unabashedly romantic. It lives as one of the great triumphs of storytelling and as a moving and unforgettable portrayal of a woman's quest for self-respect.
My Thoughts on the Book:
I was recommended this book to read by my daughter. I am glad I read this book as it's one of the best books I've read in a long time. I liked how strong-willed Jane is in the book and how she is a survivor that overcomes a lot of obstacles in her life. I would recommend you read this classic.
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Book Description:
August,1983, it is the day of Nina Riva's annual end-of-summer party, and anticipation is at a fever pitch. Everyone who is anyone wants to be around the famous Rivas: surfer and supermodel Nina, brothers Jay and Hud, and their adored baby sister Kit. Together, the siblings are a source of fascination in Malibu and the world over - especially as the children of the legendary singer Mick Riva.
By midnight the party will be completely out of control.
By morning, the Riva mansion will have gone up in flames.
But before that first spark in the early hours of dawn, the alcohol will flow, the music will play, and the loves and secrets that shaped this family will all come bubbling to the surface.
By midnight the party will be completely out of control.
By morning, the Riva mansion will have gone up in flames.
But before that first spark in the early hours of dawn, the alcohol will flow, the music will play, and the loves and secrets that shaped this family will all come bubbling to the surface.
My Thoughts on the Book:
This is another book that was recommended by my daughter for me to read. This book has mixed reviews on Amazon. I loved this book and I thought it was a good summer read. It's the story of the Riva family and it starts in the 1950s and flashes to the 1980s in Malibu, California. It's about the survival of four famous siblings and how they deal with family, love, and loss. I'm looking forward to reading Taylor Jenkins Reid's next book The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.
Have you read any of these books? What book are you reading now?
Click HERE to see the blog parties I will be linking up to.
Julie
I'm joining Joanne from My Slices of Life for the theme this month - Family Food Traditions.
Meatballs
I used to make meatballs all the time when I was first married almost 30 years ago. I've used this meatball recipe from Joanne at My Slices of Life that we all loved. I hope to get back to making homemade meatballs again. We like them with tomato sauce and pasta.
Broccoli Rabe and Pasta
I make Broccoli Rabe and Pasta for our family quite often. It's one of our favorite meals I make for dinner. I was taught how to make this meal almost 30 years ago by my father-in-law.
Spaghetti Pie
It is a tradition in my husband's family to have spaghetti pie and a meat pie for Easter. I learned how to make spaghetti pie from my husband's Aunt. It's delicious tasting and it goes great with a salad.
Stuffed Mushrooms
I usually make stuffed mushrooms that I learned how to make from my husband's aunt. I make them for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Pesto Pasta
I always grow basil every summer to make my pesto sauce. I don't use pine nuts for this recipe. It tastes delicious with pasta.
Lentil Soup
I always make lentil soup during the fall and winter months. I usually will make it in the crock pot or instant pot.
Irish Soda Bread
I love making Irish Soda Bread for St. Patrick's Day. Our friend gave me this recipe that was his mom's, who was from Ireland. I've been making this Irish Soda Bread recipe for many years now.
What are some of your family food traditions?
Here is the list of topics if you would like to join.
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