Happy Fab Five Friday! (I am loving this Fab header image in honor of Wimbledon. It’s giving.) We are coming off of such an amazing high from last week’s nationals competition. Rylee and her team competed at Nexstar nationals at the Swan and Dolphin hotel all week, and we could not be prouder. It was amazing to see all the girls dance their hearts out to this season’s routines one last time. Saying goodbye to our favorite routines was bittersweet, but everyone’s so stoked to learn their routines for next season so the energy has just been non-stop since last week. Everyone is pumped up and their love for dance makes it all so worth it.

That brings me to my very first Fab Five for this week!

1. Rylee’s a National Champion

Rylee and her team’s large production number won first place at Nexstar, and they got to take home some serious hardware. It’s taller than she is! She also did such an amazing job with her contemporary routine, Runaway, it got invited to perform again at the Big Show and won 6th place overall. It was such a great week (exhausting, but great!) and she’s gearing up already for this upcoming season. Go Rylee!

2. My New Favorite Water Bottle – The Hudrojug

I am obsessed with this new water bottle! My old Stanley was so beat up and I wanted a 40oz one, so I was ready for an upgrade. When I got to Dick’s, I had every intention to pick out my new Stanley (I wanted the new model with the pop up straw) and even knew what color I wanted. As I walked up to the miraculous, colorful wall of Stanleys, I passed by an aisle filled with Hydrojugs. I hadn’t seen them before but a few things caught my eye immediately. 1) The straw mouthpiece was more straw-shaped, like I was used to, versus the new Stanley versions which are a bit wider, and hard to open. 2) The BEST part of the hydrojug is it has a rubber bottom—so no more clanking around every time I put it down. It hands down sold me on their brand. And it was $5 cheaper!

3. Crest Whitening Toothpaste Results

Ok, I posted about this a couple weeks ago, and I swear I’ve noticed such a huge difference. When I compared some photos, I was shocked! So I wanted to for sure come back to share that I am loving the toothpaste. It stays on the Fab Five Friday list!

4. Frownies

While I am at it, I wanted to bring back an oldie Fab Five Friday find, Frownies! I’ve been using these for a while and they always worked well, but I noticed incredible results when I put them on clean, dry skin, without any products. The results wowed me after wearing them consistently every night this week. I definitely have some insecurities (40 is right around the corner) and whether others can see them or not, I am so distracted by the 11’s on my forehead. I know aging is a privilege and I am so grateful, but it still nags at me. Anyways, the photo on the left is one where I had on full makeup, and you can still definitely see them. The one on the right was taken this morning without any makeup at all. I think it looks pretty good!

5. Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

The current book I am reading, and almost finished with. It’s the second novel I’ve read from this author, and it seems like she has a theme to her writing. Both books take place in a fictional world where the environmental issues we are all aware of have progressed so much that the common theme is extinction across all species, including humans. And mixed in there are characters, emotions and stories of love and survival strung throughout. The writing is beautiful and it’s really starting to pull at my heartstrings.

We’re on our way to Clearwater for the weekend and I’m about to plug in my headphones now to listen to it, I can’t wait to hear how the story ends.

Thank you all for stopping by this Fab Five Friday! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and have something Fab that you are excited about this week and into the weekend.

The post Fab Five Friday #90 appeared first on Jane Erica.

Ok, folks! Buckle up because I’ve got a list of books I’ve read this past year, rated in order with reviews that’s coming at ya! This year I was shooting for 24 books in my goodreads reading challenge, which is the most I’ve read in a year, so I’m feeling very accomplished. But I’ve narrowed down the list to my top 10 books of 2024. Check out the list below and get ready to add some goodies to your reading list this year.

10. The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley

Mystery / Thriller

First up is this mystery/thriller by Lucy Foley. Set in an apartment building in Paris and told through different points of view, the story keeps you guessing as you read. And I love a good ending that closes all the loops.

9. The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young

Fantasy | Magical Realism

Number 9 on the list is Adrienne Young’s novel, The Unmaking of June Farrow. I am a huge fan of Adrienne Young and have loved all of her books. While I still enjoyed this one very much, it wasn’t one of my favorites of hers. The main theme is time travel, which for me isn’t always that exciting, but she did have a very interesting spin on it. One that, as she always does, makes you fall in love with her characters.

8. Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

Autobiography

I really wasn’t sure about this one when I first picked it up. But it has stuck with me. The audiobook version of this, which I highly recommend, is read by Matthew McConaughey himself and it’s amazing. It’s a really fun read about his life, but also his philosophy about life—Greenlights. When there’s a greenlight, that means go… and that’s a sign for what’s up the road ahead.

7. The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell

Historical Fiction

Making it to number 7 on my top books of 2024 list is The Marriage Portrait. The writing was beautifully done and I found myself so intrigued on where the story was going. Set in the Italian Renaissance, it follows the story of a young woman as she makes her way in a troubled court.

6. No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister

Contemporary Fiction / Short Stories

No two persons is such a great book club pick. The conversations we had around this one were probably the best we had all year. It’s about how one book can affect people differently. A collection of short stories from 9 people who all read the same book and how it affected their lives. Some stories stuck with us more than others, but all were worth talking about. And finding the connections between them.

5. First List Wins by Ashley Elston

Mystery / Thriller

If you are a fan of secret agents and going undercover, you’ll enjoy this pick, First Lie Wins. Always something around the corner and with such a clever female lead running the show.

4. The Women by Kristin Hannah

Historical Fiction

Kristin Hannah has a way of taking you with her through all the pain and suffering of her protagonists, and this one was no different. I love reading her books, not only because they feature the women’s side of the story, but because of the rich history that is shared. Her books always stick with me for several days after and this one was no different, featuring what it was like as a nurse in the Vietnam War.

3. The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré

Contemporary Fiction

Such an inspiring story about a young girl growing up in a rural Nigerian village and her dreams for more for herself. An education. She’s so smart, but unfortunately isn’t valued for her mind, instead as a possession. It’s a story of her strength and perseverance, and how kindness of others can change everything.

2. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

Historical Fiction

I absolutely love the character, Elizabeth Zott, that Bonnie Garmus wrote. She’s brilliant and dry and an absolute badass. Shocking turns and of course, a feminist vibe—kinda sensing a theme with my top books here. No need to go on with this one, it’s a must read.

1. Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez

Contemporary Romance

This was my absolute favorite book of 2024. I loved everything about it. The characters, the way they met, the hilarious situations, the trauma, and of course the ending. It took me up and down, made me cry and laugh, and I just couldn’t get enough of Abby Jimenez after that. (I also had just a tiny crush on Justin, shh, our little secret.)

Thanks so much for stopping by to read my top 10 books of 2024. If you have a favorite I would LOVE to hear what it was in the comments below.

The post My Top 10 Books of 2024 appeared first on Jane Erica.

It’s Friday! Am I am so excited to be posting today. To be completely honest, I’ve been spending every second of my free time focusing on studying for the PMP exam so I can get certified in project management. It’s been a professional goal of mine for years now so early this year I committed to achieving it. And as you know, it’s September, and I’m in crunch time now to get it done. (And little nervous, so wish me luck!). Between work and the kids’ hectic activity schedule, there’s been no time for anything. But today I am so excited to be posting a Fab Five Friday. So let’s get it started!

1. Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez

I finished this book in between book club picks, and I am in love with Abby Jimenez. Amazing story from start to finish. I was laughing and crying and falling in love with the characters. I didn’t realize that this is the third book in a series until I listened to the artist’s note at the end of the audio book and I immediately added the other two books to my library wait list. This is for sure my favorite book so far of 2024. Highly recommend.

2. Sailing Away for a 40th Birthday Cruise Weekend

Today we head out for a cruise weekend for a good friend’s 40th birthday! This trip could not have come at a better time and I am so excited to celebrate, sans kiddos. I will miss them of course, but this will be such a fun experience to fully explore the Utopia of the Seas, a new boat that we’ve never been on before.

3. We Signed our Pool Contract!

This week we signed the contract on our new pool build! We couldn’t be more excited to see our backyard transform into our dream backyard! We did a DIY backyard makeover during covid, and it made the space feel so welcoming and nice. It definitely served its purpose over the years, but we are ready to start utilizing our yard and making the most of our outdoor space. We are so excited!

4. Rylee’s Orthodontist Appointment

I was just going through my pics from this week and I randomly snapped one from her appointment this week. She was all matchy and I thought she looked so cute. We’re about half way through her first phase of braces, and this girl has been a trooper! It hasn’t been the easiest road, but she’s been so tough and we breezed through our appointment this week. So I’d say that definitely deserves a shout out on the Fab Five post!

5. Reece found his 32 Chain

Another picture from this week, also deserving of a Fab Five shout out! I proved to Reece what cleaning your room can do for you when you are trying to find something. He thought he had lost his 32 soccer chain (his team number) but with a little clean up and organization, he found it! He was excited about it so he asked me to take a photo and send it to Brett.

I hope you have a Fab Friday and a fabulous weekend. Thank you so much for stopping by! Let me know what was Fab about your week in the comments below!

The post Fab Five Friday #67 appeared first on Jane Erica.

It’s Friday, baby! And the Friday before Spring Break. The kids have already started their break, but mom and dad are still cranking through this week to make it to the finish line. I hope you all have had a great week and are planning to have some time to relax for the break. There’s been so much going on, but here’s a look into our weekly highlights in today’s Fab Five Friday!

1. Travel Wallet

I love this handy travel wallet for travelling with the family, especially internationally. There’s always paperwork and passports you need to have handy when traveling and this makes it so easy to keep it all together. Plus, it’s really cute.

2. Upgraded Selfie Stick

I decided to upgrade my tripod and selfie stick before our vacay in hopes to get some family pictures on the beach and throughout the trip. After unboxing and playing around with I’m very impressed so far. It’s a huge upgrade from my last one, which didn’t get tall enough and wasn’t sturdy at the base. Plus my old one’s trigger broke so it was time for a new one. This one folds up really nice and compact which is great for travel. It extends to 6 feet and the base is much more sturdy. It also wasn’t much more expensive than my original one. I’m excited to use it!

3. The Best Hat Ever

I’ve blogged about this hat before and I’m doing it again. It’s coming with me on this trip and is the best hat on Earth. It goes with everything, it’s waterproof and you can even pack it in your suitcase without it getting destroyed. I absolutely love it.

4. Vacation Reads

A good book on a vacation is a must. And this is what happens when you use the library to get your books and they all come at the same time. I have no clue which ones to bring with me, and if I’ll even have the space to pack physical books. I mean, look at these things. It’s a real dilemma! (Thinking I might need to invest in a Kindle!) I have a few on the reading list, maybe you can help me decide which one(s) to bring! Help!

• March’s Book Club Pick – Lessons in Chemistry
• Iron Flame – The Fourth Wing sequel
• Britney Spears Autobiography – The Woman in Me
• All the Light We Cannot See
• The Grapes of Wrath (wanted to add a classic to my reading list this year)
• The Maker’s Guide to Magic

5. Weekly Planning Pages

Do you ever need to just get your brain organized? I had a million notebooks going on my desk at one point and I had enough. So, I decided to try a new approach to to-do lists and love this weekly to do list planner, helping me organize my todos throughout the week. I really like it so far and feel so accomplished! Especially getting through my tasks this week. How else could I be so ready for this trip without it?

Thanks for stopping by this week’s Fab Five Friday! I’d love to hear from you in the comments below about your vacation plans, any books your planning to read, and any advice you have for me on what books to bring on my trip.

The post Fab Five Friday #58 appeared first on Jane Erica.

And if you are planning to join in virtually, post your thoughts on these monthly reads in the comments below. Happy reading!

July ’25 – Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez

An instant #1 New York Times bestseller and perfect summer beach read. Abby Jimenez’s new book brings another set of lovable characters to fruition. There’s no such thing as a perfect guy, but Xavier Rush comes disastrously close. A gorgeous veterinarian giving Greek god vibes—all while cuddling a tiny kitten? Immediate yes. That is until Xavier opens his mouth and proves that even sculpted gods can say the absolute wrong thing. Like, really wrong. Of course, there’s nothing Samantha loves more than proving an asshole wrong . . . unless, of course, he can admit he made a mistake.

June ’25 – Watermoon by Samantha Sotto Yambao

In this national bestselling fantasy novel, a woman inherits a pawnshop located on a backstreet in Tokyo. But it’s not meant for everyone to find. Most will see a cozy ramen restaurant. Only the chosen ones—those who are lost—will find a place to pawn their life choices and deepest regrets. When Hana Ishikawa wakes on her first morning as the pawn shop’s new owner, she finds it ransacked, the shop’s most precious acquisition stolen, and her father missing. And then into the shop stumbles a charming stranger, quite unlike its other customers, for he offers help instead of seeking it.

Together, they must journey through a mystical world to find Hana’s father and the stolen choice. But as they get closer to the truth, Hana must reveal a secret of her own—and risk making a choice that she will never be able to take back.

May ’25 The Starling House by Alix E. Harrow

The Starling House is a modern gothic fantasy that follows Opal, an orphan, high school dropout, full-time cynic and part-time cashier. But above all, she’s determined to find a better life for her younger brother Jasper. One that gets them out of Eden, Kentucky, a town remarkable for only two things: bad luck and E. Starling, the reclusive nineteenth century author of The Underland, who disappeared over a hundred years ago. All she left behind were dark rumors―and her home. The Starling House. Everyone agrees that it’s best to ignore the uncanny mansion and its misanthropic heir, Arthur. Almost everyone, anyway.

April ’25 Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins

April’s book club pick is the newly released, Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins, and is another prequel to my beloved Hunger Games. This time following Haymitch Abernathy’s story as he’s selected for the fiftieth annual Hunger Games, where in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes are taken from their homes.

March ’25 – Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros

March’s book club pick is the very much anticipated third book in the Empyrean series (Fourth Wing). It takes place after nearly eighteen months at Basgiath War College. Violet Sorrengail and the rest of the quadrant are preparing for battle and the enemies are closing in from all sides. Violet must journey beyond the failing Aretian wards to seek allies from unfamiliar lands to stand with Navarre. The trip will test every bit of her wit, luck, and strength, but she will do anything to save what she loves―her dragons, her family, her home, and him. Even if it means keeping a secret so big, it could destroy everything.

February ’25 – Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson

This #1 New York Times bestseller is full of twists and turns you’d never expect. A murder mystery about a girl named Pip, who investigates the infamous case of Andy Bell, a local girl who was murdered, as part of her senior project. Now, five years later, Pip sees how the tragedy still haunts her town and can’t shake the feeling that there was more to the story. As she digs to uncover the truth, her own life might be in danger.

January ’25 – Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez

The first book of 2025 is Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez. Start the year with this contemporary romance pick, which is part of a series, but it can be read as a standalone novel. First impressions are everything. And when Dr. Briana Ortiz meets Dr. Jacob Maddox, the newly hired and very attractive new doc in line for her promotion, it’s a perfect example of absolutely terrible. Briana’s life is already flatlining—her divorce is just about finalized, her brother’s running out of time to find a kidney donor, and now this? Things can’t get any worse, and then she receives a letter. From Jacob. And it’s a really good letter.

December ‘ 24 – First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston

You’ve gotta get this one on your reading list. It’s already made a lot of headlines and I’ve heard it’s coming to Hulu as a series or movie. A Reese’s Book Club pick, this fast-paced thriller follows Evie Porter, a seemingly nice Southern girl who has everything. The only catch: Evie Porter doesn’t exist. The identity, the mark and then the job. It’s how she’s been living her life, working for the mysterious Mr. Smith. But the last mark, Ryan, has got her envisioning a different life for herself. Until she realizes this job isn’t like the others, and she must stay one step ahead if she’s going to make it out alive. The stakes are higher than before and there’s no room for mistakes. Not this time.

November ‘ 24 – No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister

One book. Nine readers. Ten changed lives. New York Times bestselling author Erica Bauermeister’s No Two Persons is “a gloriously original celebration of fiction, and the ways it deepens our lives.” After Alice creates a stunning debut novel, her words, in turn, find their way to readers, from a teenager hiding her homelessness, to a free diver pushing himself beyond endurance, an artist furious at the world around her, a bookseller in search of love, a widower rent by grief. Each one is drawn into Alice’s novel; each one discovers something different that alters their perspective, and presents new pathways forward for their lives.

If this doesn’t say book club written all over it, I don’t know what does!

October ’24 – The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

A New York Times Bestseller and named one of the Best Books of the Year by NPR, The Washington Post and O: The Oprah Magazine, the Dutch House is a richly moving story that explores the indelible bond between two siblings, the house of their childhood, and a past that will not let them go. It’s a story of a paradise lost, a tour de force that digs deeply into questions of inheritance, love and forgiveness. And of how we want to see ourselves and who we really are. Ann Patchett delivers her most powerful novel to date. Read by Tom Hanks in the audio version, which is definitely a reason to listen to this one.

September ’24 – The Women by Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah has a way of bringing women’s stories to life in her novels, and The Women clearly makes a statement. I love reading her historical fictions because I learn so much about those periods of time, and it’s very empowering to hear the women’s side of it and how brave and hard working they are. This novel takes place during the Vietnam War. A side of the story rarely told, from the perspective of Francis “Frankie” McGrath. A twenty-year-old nurse who joins the Army Nurse Corps to serve in the war. Her experiences during the war are devastating, but her real battles come when she returns home. It’s a page turner with unexpected twists, loves found and lost, and a spectacular story of heroism that should be remembered.

August ’24 – Delilah Green Doesn’t Care by Ashley Herring Blake

August’s pick is a twist on your typical romance novel. Delilah Green is a photographer living in New York city on the brink of making it. She left her small hometown of Bright Falls, filled with memories of loneliness and loss, and and never looked back. Claire Sutherland had a baby young with her unreliable ex and runs a bookstore in Bright Falls. When Delilah comes home to Bright Falls to photograph the wedding of her estranged stepsister, Astrid, for a five-figure check, she sees Claire Sutherland, one of Astrid’s stuck-up besties, and decides that maybe there’s some fun (and a little retribution) to be had in Bright Falls, after all.

July ’24 – Spells for Forgetting by Adrienne Young

We loved Adrienne’s latest book (May’s pick below) we decided to add her first ever adult novel to the list for July. This book takes place on the mysterious and remote shores of Saoirse Island. It’s about Emery Blackwood, whose life was changed forever the night her best friend, Lily, was found dead and the love of her life, August Salt, was accused of murdering her. Fourteen years after the unsolved murder, August is back on the island to bury his mother’s ashes. He must confront the people who turned their backs on him and face the one wound from his past that has never healed—Emery. But there’s more to the story of Lily’s death and why the small town wants to keep it a secret.

June ’24 – The Perfect Marriage by Jeneva Rose

The Perfect Marriage is a psychological thriller about a successful defense attorney, Sarah Morgan, who’s husband is accused of murder. Of his mistress. Sarah has worked hard at her job and she’s the best at it. Named partner at only 33, work is her priority. Her husband, Adam, on the other hand is a struggling writer and in his loneliest state with his wife constantly working, has a passionate affair with his mistress, Kelly. She’s found stabbed to death in their second home. Things are not looking good for Abam and Sarah is faced with an unthinkable question. Would you defend your husband if he was accused of killing his mistress?

May ’24 – The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young

One of my personal favorite authors, Adrienne Young’s latest novel, The Unmaking of June Farrow is May’s pick. Adrienne has a way of creating worlds that are so vivid and writing characters that you can’t help but love. This one takes us to the small town of Jasper, North Carolina, where June Farrow tends her family’s flower farm and awaits her inevitable fate. It’s only a matter of time before her family’s centuries-old curse is upon her. Unless she can break it. A story full of mystery, romance and a touch of the impossible is one you won’t forget.

April ’24 – The Three-Body Problem Paperback – by Cixin Liu

Sci-fi lovers unite! This novel will open your mind and take you to another galaxy. Literally. The inspiration for the Netflix series 3 Body Problem, this book is about a secret military project that begins during China’s Cultural Revolution and sends signals into space to establish contact with aliens, in hopes to save the Human civilization from self destruction.

March ’24 – Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

One of New York Times Notable Books of the Year by Bonnie Garmus, Lessons in Chemistry is set in the 1960s about a woman named Elizabeth Zott who challenges the status quo daily at her job at the Hastings Research Institute. Recently turned into a series on Apple TV it’s said to be “Clever and sharp… A rollicking feminist tale full of humor and hope” by the Minneapolis Star Tribune.

February ’24 – The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré

A New York Times Bestseller and Read with Jenna Today Show book club pick, this story is about a young girl growing up in a Nigerian village who longs more than anything to follow her dreams of getting an education and paving her own way.

“A celebration of girls who dare to dream.”—Imbolo Mbue, author of Behold the Dreamers (Oprah’s Book Club pick)

January ’24 – Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

Up first, is one of the most talked about books in 2023. A 500 page fantasy about deadly dragon riders.

The post Latest Book Club Picks to Add to Your Reading List appeared first on Jane Erica.

Our Book Club

The thing that I love most about our book club, is that each person gets to pick a book that the club will read for the month in a rotation. So we get to read things we may not have chosen for ourselves, and it’s such a wonderful adventure to read new genres or learn something new. We meet once a month to discuss our book, and the conversations have been so amazing. Often times I finish reading a book and can’t stop thinking about it, so it’s great to have a group of friends to talk to about it.

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah

This month’s book was The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. It’s a historical fiction novel about two sisters living through the German occupation of France during World War II. While the men, and Vianne’s husband, are off fighting in the war, she and her little sister, Isabelle, are faced with challenges of their own. Although sisters, they both react very differently to their circumstances and showcase their bravery in their own ways. Isabelle is a young girl desperate for love and has an even more fierce desire to fight back. And Vianne is a mother and wife who’s quiet strength protects her family no matter the cost. It’s a beautifully written and heart-wrenching story that depicts another side of WWII.

We met for coffee at Prairie House Coffee Co. which is a cute little restored house in Oakland, Florida attached to a floral and gift shop.

It has a great outdoor seating area. We opted for sitting indoors, though, since it’s so hot out.

After we got our coffees, I handed out the questions. I like to provide print-outs so that anyone can start a conversation or ask a question and it’s a great resource for us to recall different parts of the book.

The conversations are my favorite part! Everyone has different insights and opinions to share. And some of the parts of the book that I was unsettled about or stuck with me, we got to hash out and share our thoughts, and I felt like I got some closure. I love these ladies!

I found some great questions for this book club, but there was so much to talk about and say that our conversation really flowed so naturally. As we started getting into the convo, I chose to read the last question first. And that just spiraled all of us to talk about all the emotional parts of the novel that hit us at our core. I posted our questions below.

The Nightingale Questions:

1. The Nightingale opens with an intriguing statement that lays out one of the major themes of the book: “If I have learned anything in this long life of mine, it is this: In love we find out who we want to be; in war we find out who we are.” What do you think the narrator means by this? Is love the ideal and war the reality? How does war change the way these characters love?
2. Though sisters, Isabelle and Vianne react to conflict and war in very different ways. Do you identify more with Isabelle’s impetuous yet brave approach or Vianne’s quiet strength? Do you think you could have acted as heroically as Isabelle under such horrifying circumstances? Who is more heroic in your mind—Isabelle or Vianne?
3. Take a moment to talk about Beck. Did you find yourself feeling more sympathetic towards Beck as the novel progressed? Was he a good man? Did he deserve his fate?  
4. Perhaps one of the most chilling moments in the book is when Vianne provides Captain Beck with a list: Jews. Communists. Homosexuals. Freemasons. We know now how wrong it was to provide this list, but can you understand why Vianne did it? What do you think you would have done?
5. After her friend and neighbor, Rachel, is taken away, Vianne takes in Rachel’s young son, Ari, giving him a new identity as Daniel Mauriac, and forcing him to forget his old life. Is this unfair or justified given the danger he would face otherwise?
6. Each of the sisters experiences love in a different way. Vianne’s love is that of a mature woman, a wife and a mother; Isabelle’s love is youthful and impulsive, more of a girlish dream than a reality. How did Isabelle’s feelings of abandonment shape her personality and her life? How did Vianne’s maternal love lead to acts of heroism, saving the lives of Jewish children? How did love—and war—bring these two sisters closer together?
7. Isabelle’s father sacrifices his own life to save her. She realizes that he is “trying to make it up to her, asking for forgiveness and seeking redemption all at once.” In your opinion, did this act accomplish that?
8. Discuss the scene in which Ari is taken away. What do you believe is the right answer in this situation—if there is one? What would you have done in Vianne’s position? Do you think this is what Rachel would have wanted?
9. Vianne recalls her husband, Antoine, telling her that “we choose to see miracles.” What does he mean by this? Is it his way of telling his wife he knows the truth about their son’s biological father? Or is it his way of looking at life, of coping with the terrible events they’ve lived through? Is seeing the beauty in the world an active choice? Is it possible to find miracles in our lives, if we look for them?
10. Do you think Julien had a right to know who his real father was? Would you have made the same decision Vianne did?
11. What was your reaction to the final scene between the two sisters, and to finally discovering the identity of the story’s narrator? Was it in line with your expectations, or were you taken by surprise? Were you satisfied when you discovered who was narrating the novel?
12. Finally, a show of hands: Who cried—or at least got a little choked up—while reading this book? Which scenes moved you the most? Which character’s fate would you say was the most tragic? The most poignant? Did the book give you a better understanding of life under Nazi occupation during World War II? Did it move you, inspire you, haunt you? And finally, what will you remember most about The Nightingale?

Click Download for a printable version of these questions

Upcoming Book Club Picks

Our next few months of books have been selected and those picks are below. So get excited for our upcoming book club picks, and join in if you want!

• September Book Club: The Sanatorium by Sarah Pearse
• October Book Club: The Last Flight by Julie Clark

The post August Book Club Pick – The Nightingale appeared first on Jane Erica.

One of my big goals this year was to start reading books again. More specifically I wanted to read 10 books. And I crushed my goal! Here’s my book reviews of 2022, with a rating for each. Maybe this will help you start working on your must read list for next year, because you know I am!

These are in the order I read them this year. I made my list ahead of time so it was easy for me to jump into the next book. And you can see where I start falling in love with an author and start reading all her books basically. Check it out, and have fun!

Own your morning by Liz Baker Plosser

Genre: Non-fiction/Self-help | My Rating: C+

Fun pages to read with pretty illustrations about how Liz Baker Plosser, Editor-in-Chief of Women’s Health, owns her morning and inspires you to do the same. It was a super quick read, but I didn’t feel like I learned anything new. Many of the tips were things I try to practice already, and it didn’t help me make a plan for positive change, just encouraging words to keep going. It was a short one to kick off the year of reading with a bit of inspiration, so I liked that part.

Outlawed by Anna North

Genre: Fiction/Western | My Rating: B

I really enjoyed this one as my first real novel of the year. I’ve always been fascinated by Western films and stories and what it must have been like to be an outlaw. This book definitely had some of that, but it had bits and pieces that I definitely didn’t expect.

It’s about a fictional, dystopian world with a western setting where women are accused of witchcraft if they are barren and unable to have children. It follows the story of 17 year old, Ada, who after a year of marriage still has not gotten pregnant. She must leave everything she knows behind in order to survive, and crosses paths with the Hole in the Wall Gang, a band of outlaws with a surprising twist and story. It has a bit of Handmaid’s Tale vibes, which I admittedly loved, and is definitely a feminist focused story.

Untamed by Glennon Doyle

Genre: Non-fiction/Autobiography | My Rating: B

I picked this one mostly because it was on Reece’s book club list and I liked the cover. I totally forgot that it was a non-fiction book, which isn’t typically my top choice. But I couldn’t stop reading it.

Glennon’s memoir was fascinating and I kept wanting to walk in her shoes, which opened my eyes to some people’s situations and perspectives. This books tells the intimate story of a woman who realizes that she isn’t happy, even though from the outside it looks like she has everything she could ever want. A restored marriage, children, a successful book tour. When she finally has her wake-up call and realizes that she’s not happy and that’s not healthy for herself or her family, she makes a hard decision that changes her life and her families for the better. And she realizes it’s the only way to see and be who she truly is, not only for her sake but for all those around her.

Fable by Adrienne Young

Genre: Fantasy/Adventure | My Rating: A+

I absolutely loved this book. It took me to a-whole-nother world and I couldn’t have asked for a better adventure. Every chapter ends on a cliffhanger and I had to know what happened next.

It’s about a girl named Fable, who was left on an island by her father, the most powerful trader in the Narrow Sea, after her mother drowns in a terrible storm. She has to fend for herself for four years on the island, fighting thieves and struggling for food. The thing that drives her to survive is finding her father again to demand answers and regain her rightful place at sea as part of his crew. She’s a strong heroine with special skills she learned from her mother. And that’s what helps her get off the island and start her quest to find her father. When she meets a trader visiting the island, he agrees to let her aboard his ship and her adventure begins.

Namesake by Adrienne Young

Genre: Fantasy/Adventure | My Rating: A+

This is the second part to Adrienne Young’s book Fable. After I read the first one, I ignored my list of books and bumped this one to the top so I could find out what happened! It starts where Fable left off and she’s finally able to start over. But in order to do so, she’s got one more mission to complete to finally be free. It’s another adventure that’s as exciting as the first. I could not put it down!

American Royals by Katharine McGee

Genre: Fiction/Romance | My Rating: C

I thought the cover of this book was so cute, but the storyline was not for me. I felt like the rich teens and love drama was a little over done. It reminded me of Gossip Girl but with royalty. The book is set in a fictional society, two and a half centuries after America won the Revolutionary War and its people offered General George Washington a crown. The House of Washington still sits on the throne and the oldest daughter is preparing to take over. Mix in a jealous little sister, love triangles and a handsome prince in love with a commoner, and there you go. I thought the premise sounded really interesting, but I couldn’t fall in love with any of the characters.

Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young

Genre: Fantasy | My Rating: A

After reading two of her other books, I got on an Adrienne Young kick and started reading another one of hers, Sky in the Deep. Once again, she nailed the strong, female heroine, lots of adventure and twists, and a love story to be reckoned with.

Seventeen-year-old Eelyn was raised to be a warrior. She’s been fighting the war of her ancestors for years, and one year she sees her brother on the battlefield. Her brother who died fighting this same fight 5 years ago. But he’s fighting with the enemy. In her stupor, she’s captured and taken prisoner at the word of her brother and held at their village, until it’s raided by another ruthless clan, who’s existence until then was only told in stories. Eelyn questions everything she knows, and with the help of her brother’s friend, Fiske, they work to bond the two clans together to face a common enemy.

The Girl the Sea Gave Back by Adrienne Young

Genre: Fantasy/Adventure | My Rating: A

The second part of Sky in the Deep follows a completely different set of characters, but in the same world she created. She always finds a way to bring strong characters together with a love twist and it’s amazing. Not sappy or uncomfortable but it makes you fall in love with the characters instantly!

Tova was found ashore of the Svell as a small child and raised by the people who found her. But she knows she doesn’t belong, and they only use her for her powers to see into the future. And the future she sees is dividing her clan. Do they go to war against the allied clans to the east, or maintain peace? Everything lies on Tova’s shoulders and she sets into action a chain of events that will give her something she never thought she would have again. A home.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Genre: Fiction/Romance | My Rating: A

Interesting, emotional, and a surprising twist. I mean you can’t ask for more in a book! I loved reading the story of Evelyn Hugo. She’s a fictional character, but there was something so real about this story and it hit at my heart strings for sure.

It’s about an aging Hollywood movie star who is finally ready to tell the real story behind all her marriages and media scandals. She specifically requests Monique to tell her story, at a bit of surprise to her. She’s not the high profile writer you’d expect and is dealing with a divorce and stagnant career. She listens to Evelyn’s story in fascination as she recounts the relationships, movies, and friendships she’s made over the years. But as her story comes to a close, it becomes clear that there is a reason Evelyn called Monique to tell her story.

Verity by Colleen Hoover

Genre: Thriller/Mystery | My Rating: A+

I could not put this book down. It was so interesting and creepy that I had to find out what was going on. I read it in two days and it was exhilarating! It truly left me contemplating the whole story for days afterwards.

It’s about a writer named Lowen Ashleigh who is struggling to write her next book, when she gets the opportunity of a lifetime. The husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, who was injured in a car crash, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series she can’t finish herself. As Lowen sorts through Verity’s office and years of notes to help her get started, she finds an unfinished autobiography that was not intended for anyone to read. Lowen starts reading it and is horrified by what she learns. Each day she struggles to continue the work she was hired to do, and instead is continually captured by Verity’s story. It’s a creepy story as Lowen is learning more about Verity’s confessions, while living in the house with her upstairs and unconscious, and falling for her husband.

The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

Genre: Mystery | My Rating: B

This book was good enough to finish, but I didn’t think that the storyline or mystery was that exciting. I was surprised honestly that Reece was making this a movie, because I wasn’t captured by the main character and thought she made some terrible decisions. That being said, it might make a better movie than book.

The book is about a women named Hannah who’s husband Owen disappears. But not before he writes a note to her to protect his daughter, Bailey. She is desperate for answers and starts trying to figure things out on her own. She questions Owen’s past and realizes something terrible happened to him and his wife, Bailey’s mom, who died when she was little. Hannah and Bailey search to uncover the truth and learn that their future will never be the same.

The Guest List by Lucy Foley

Genre: Thriller/Mystery | My Rating: A

I need more thriller/mystery books on my list! This was another quick one, with amazing cliffhangers. It’s about an exclusive and elaborate wedding of two very successful and high profile people, on a private island off the coast of Ireland. The wedding planners and owners of the island have planned everything perfectly down to the tiniest detail. But as the champagne starts flowing, and the guests begin to mingle, tensions begin to rise and someone ends up dead. But I won’t say anymore than that!

The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides

Genre: Thriller/Mystery | My Rating: B

This one was recommended by a friend after reading the Guest List and it was definitely an interesting story. I was really enjoying it and waiting for the twist to happen, but when it did, I had already sensed it, which kinda ruined the thrill of it. And when looking back, I was trying to make sense of it because it didn’t add up. All and all, it was entertaining and I ended up giving it a B.

It’s about a famous artist, Alicia Berenson who’s success and happiness made her life from the outside look perfect. But she ends up in a mental hospital after she shoots her husband five times in the face, and then never utters another word. Theo, a criminal psychotherapist, is determined to treat her and get her talking again, so he takes up a job working at the Grove where she is currently living.

Book Reviews of 2022

I had so much fun with this year’s book selection! Next year I think I am going to look into more genres. I love this routine I’ve started again and starting with a goal that I can achieve makes it so much fun and rewarding!

If you have any book recommendations please leave me a comment below! Would love to get started on my list for 2022!

The post Book Reviews of 2022 appeared first on Jane Erica.

Happy Friday! I hope you all had a great week! It’s the end of the quarter and this week flew by! The kids are off from school today, as is Brett since he’s been working overtime due to the flooding Hurricane Ian brought. We’ve also been getting super excited for our trip out to Vegas for the When We Were Young Festival! It’s basically all the bands we used to listen to “back in the day” in college when Brett and I met. And if you know the story, Brett was a drummer in a band that I used to go see perform. So it’s perfect that this is how we are celebrating our 11th wedding anniversary! Although our actual anniversary is this Sunday, we’re calling this our celebratory trip. (Which is NOT a make up trip for last year’s unexpected trip to Mexico. That will be planned next year.)

Now let’s get into the Fab Five for this Friday!

I Survived Books

I am so impressed with these I Survived books! Rylee started reading one on her own, and then Reece got one at the book fair that I started reading with him. And it’s so good! It’s really well written, and I love that the stories are about real events that people have been through. A little bit scary maybe for a 6 year old, but we are still really enjoying them.

Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm

It’s getting dryer and chillier here (yes an 84-degree high is a “chillier” day!) and my lips are feeling more chapped! I love my Burt’s Bees overnight lip treatment, but I’ve been using this Burt’s Bees tinted lip balm during the day and I love the light color it adds.

Dollar Store Decor Idea

I just raided the Dollar Store for Halloween Decor and it was a lot of fun! I really want to decorate the Golf Cart this year because we use it when we go around trick-or-treating. Plus, going around town on the daily with skeletons in the back seat is pretty normal around here. It’s a lot of fun to see people in the Halloween Spirit! More pictures to come when I figure out how to make it look good!

MotionConnected

My work started a fitness challenge called MotionConnected, and I am loving it so far! My competitive spirit has been unleashed and I love seeing the leaderboard updating every day as people add more steps and workouts. It’s so much fun and I love that my work started this which shows that they really care about our health.

Sudo First Watch Breakfast

I have been so inspired by this breakfast I had at First Watch one time and decided to make my own breakfast inspired by it. It’s an over easy egg on top of a bed of spinach and arugula dressed with lemon juice, half an avocado topped with their homemade super seed crunch, and some left over roasted chicken. It’s so delicious, healthy and filling!

Things I am shopping for right now:

I am not sure if it is ‘Tis the Season, or the change in the weather that is putting me in the shopping mood, but I have been eyeing a few things lately, trying to decide on what the right options are. Here are a few things I am shopping around for currently:

Joggers

I have yet to jump on the joggers train, but they are looking more and more like something I need to add to my wardrobe. There are so many styles out there though, so I’ve purchased a few to try on and see what I like best:

• BALEAF Women’s Lightweight Hiking Jogger From Amazon – Try before you buy
• Libin Women’s Joggers Pants Lightweight Running From Amazon – Try before you buy (In maroon and black)
• Headlands Hybrid Jogger from Athleta

Fitness Tracker

I’ve been thinking about getting a fitness tracker for a while, ever since Brett got his Oura Ring. I don’t necessarily want a full on smart watch, because I’m already way too connected to my phone. But am trying to decide between the Fitbit Luxe or the Apple Watch SE. I feel like it’s a big decision! If anyone has any suggestions please let me know!

Halloween Pajamas

Halloween Pajamas like this skeleton set from Gap or these bats carrying pizza from Old Navy. I might be late on the train for this one, but these are on sale and super cute so I’m thinking I’ll hit the buy button on these this week. Plus I showed the kids already and they are excited!

I hope you have a wonderful weekend! If you loved this post and want to check out some past Fab Fives, stick around and check them out here.

The post Fab Five Friday #21 appeared first on Jane Erica.