Fly Away by Kristin Hannah (Firefly Lane #2) - A Review

Continuing the story after Firefly Lane felt heavy right from the beginning, and that feeling never really let up.

Tully’s journey stayed with me the most. Her grief, guilt, and struggle to move forward felt incredibly raw. There were moments where I felt frustrated with her, but I also understood that kind of pain and how it can affect every choice. It made her feel real in a way that wasn’t always easy to read.

Kate’s absence is felt in everything. The way her family tries to keep going while still holding onto her created such a strong emotional pull. It really highlighted how loss reshapes relationships and how everyone carries it differently.

This story connected with me on a very personal level. I am also a breast cancer survivor, and I was diagnosed while pregnant with my fifth child at 38. That added an entirely different layer to my reading experience. Some parts hit especially close to home, and I found myself feeling the emotions more deeply because of that shared reality.

The pacing slowed a bit in the middle for me, but I stayed invested because of the emotional weight and wanting to see how everything would unfold. The themes of grief, healing, and finding your way back from broken places felt honest and impactful.

This ended up being a four-star read for me because of how deeply it resonated and stayed with me after I finished.

★★★★

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Follow the Money by Alaina Trivax - Now Released

Now Released 

This was such a fun and genuinely helpful way to introduce financial literacy to kids, and it absolutely feels like a 5-star read to me.

I love how interactive it is, because it does not just talk about money in a broad way, it actually walks readers through real life concepts like earning, taxes, budgeting, saving, credit, and investing in a way that feels clear and manageable.

The workbook style format makes it really engaging, and I thought the activities were a great way to help kids connect the lessons to everyday life instead of just memorizing terms. I also really appreciated how much is covered here, including topics that a lot of adults wish they had learned earlier.

This would be such a useful resource for kids, homeschool families, classrooms, and even adults who want a simple starting point for understanding personal finance. I even found myself learning a few things along the way.

★★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

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The Chosen Presents: Taste and See by Dallas Jenkins, Amanda Jenkins, and Tara Reeves - Now Released

This gorgeous book that beautifully captures the heart of The Chosen and carries it straight into everyday life. I truly adore The Chosen. It has been such a meaningful outreach and such a gentle yet powerful way to remember what the Lord did for us. Watching it helps me hold tight to Jesus in a very real and personal way, and Taste and See reflects that same spirit right off the screen and into the kitchen and home.

Visually, this book is absolutely stunning. The photography and foodscaping are absolutely gorgeous, carefully styled, and deeply inviting. It is the kind of book you want to leave out on a coffee table or keep open on the kitchen counter, not just to admire but to return to often. Every image feels thoughtful and warm, reinforcing the themes of hospitality and shared life.

The structure of the book blends short devotionals, Scripture, personal stories, and recipes in a way that feels welcoming rather than overwhelming. Each section connects back to moments and themes from The Chosen, encouraging reflection on who Jesus is and how He met people exactly where they were. The devotionals feel conversational, like sitting at a table with friends and talking about faith naturally and honestly.

The recipes themselves are simple and doable, yet full of meaning. They invite you to slow down, gather, and make space for connection whether with family, friends, or quietly with the Lord. Food becomes more than just a meal. It becomes a reminder of how often Jesus taught, loved, and connected with people over the table.

What makes Taste and See especially powerful is its emphasis on hospitality and shared faith. It gently reminds us that faith is not meant to be lived out alone. It is meant to be shared, tasted, and experienced together. This book is a beautiful reminder that God meets us in the ordinary rhythms of life and turns them into holy moments. Taste and See is a heartfelt and meaningful tool that helps bring the story of Jesus to life in us.

★★★★★

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Wonders of the Austin Gardens - 1

One of my favorite things about Austin is that there’s always something new to notice when you slow down and look around.

 

A Marriage at Sea: A True Story of Love, Obsession, and Shipwreck - A Review

I was looking forward to this one because it came very highly recommended. A true story involving love, obsession, and a shipwreck seemed like it would be difficult to put down. Unfortunately, it never fully held my attention.

The story contains interesting real-life events, but the pacing felt very slow. I kept waiting for it to pick up, and much of the book felt drawn out. While there were moments that caught my interest, they were separated by long stretches that were difficult for me to stay engaged with.

I also had trouble connecting with the people at the center of the story. Their decisions and relationships should have created more tension, but I often found myself wanting the narrative to move forward.

I did finish the book because I was curious about the outcome, and I appreciate the research that went into telling this true story. It simply wasn't as compelling as I had hoped it would be.

For readers who enjoy detailed nonfiction and don't mind a slower pace, this may be a better fit. For me, it was an okay read, but not one I would be likely to revisit.

★★

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The Getaway by Emily March - A Review

Emily March has a way of pulling you into her characters' lives and making you feel like you're right there with them, sharing their worries, hopes, and messy moments. The Getaway blends romance, family complications, and personal growth into a story that feels both comforting and engaging.

The relationships felt real. Nobody was perfect, and that made the emotional moments hit harder. The chemistry between the main characters developed naturally, and I found myself rooting for them even when they made frustrating decisions. The family dynamics added another layer to the story, giving it more depth than a straightforward romance.

The setting was also a big part of the charm. It created the perfect backdrop for the characters to slow down, reflect on their lives, and figure out what they truly wanted. There were plenty of heartfelt scenes, but there were also lighter moments that kept the story from feeling too heavy.

I have this at four stars instead of five is that a few parts moved a little predictably, and I could see some developments coming before they happened. Even so, I was never bored and happily kept turning the pages to see how everything would work out.

The Getaway is a warm, satisfying story about love, healing, family, and finding the courage to take a chance on happiness. If you're looking for an emotional but comforting read with characters you can easily connect with, this one is worth picking up.

★★★★

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Cooking with Fruit by Rose Miles - Now Released

Now Released

This bright and engaging book is a delightful blend of education and hands on creativity. Cooking with Fruit stands out immediately for its vibrant, colorful pages that draw readers in and make the learning experience feel fun and inviting from the very beginning.

Rose Miles does a wonderful job connecting simple, approachable recipes with educational themes, making this more than just a cookbook. Each recipe feels thoughtfully paired with learning opportunities, helping readers understand not only how to prepare the food, but also why it matters. It is especially effective for younger readers or families who want to bring learning into everyday activities in a natural, enjoyable way.

The recipes themselves are practical and easy to follow, making them accessible for beginners while still being interesting enough to hold attention. The focus on fruit adds a fresh, healthy element, and the variety keeps things from feeling repetitive. It is easy to imagine using this book in a homeschool setting, classroom, or even just for fun weekend cooking with kids.

What truly makes this book shine is the balance between education and enjoyment. It never feels overly instructional or dry. Instead, it encourages curiosity, creativity, and confidence in the kitchen while reinforcing useful knowledge.

Overall, Cooking with Fruit is a cheerful, well-designed resource that successfully blends learning and cooking into one enjoyable experience. It is a wonderful addition for anyone looking to make education more interactive and delicious.

★★★★★

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

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The Unlikely Yarn of the Dragon Lady by Sharon Mondragón - A Review

This book came highly recommended by my mother and sister, and after reading it, I can understand why it touched them so deeply. In fact, they were so moved by the story that they started their own prayer shawl ministry. Knowing how much it impacted them made reading it even more meaningful for me.

Aura, known around town as the "Dragon Lady," isn't someone people easily warm up to at first. She has built walls around herself and keeps others at a distance. As her story unfolds, little by little, the reasons behind her behavior become clearer, and I found myself looking at her very differently.

The friendships that develop throughout the book felt genuine. The knitting group brings together people from different backgrounds who support one another through life's challenges, joys, losses, and new beginnings. The sense of community was one of the things I enjoyed most about the story.

There were several moments that tugged at my heart. The book reminds us that kindness matters, that people often carry burdens we cannot see, and that friendship can appear when we least expect it.

The pacing was a little slow in places, but the characters made up for it. By the end, I was glad I had spent time with them and could easily see why this story inspired my mother and sister to take action in their own community.

This is a touching story about friendship, compassion, healing, and finding purpose. I would happily recommend it to anyone who enjoys books centered on relationships and community.

★★★★

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Who Is Maud Dixon? by Alexandra Andrews - A Review

This was an entertaining read, even though I figured out some of the surprises before they were revealed.

Florence is desperate to become a successful writer and lands a job working for the famous, reclusive author known as Maud Dixon. What starts as an exciting opportunity quickly turns into something much more complicated as secrets begin to surface.

Florence is not always easy to like, but she kept me curious. Her ambition often got her into trouble, and I wanted to see how far she would go to get the life she believed she deserved. The tension builds steadily, and there were enough twists to keep me reading.

The setting and the mystery surrounding Maud Dixon added intrigue, but parts of the story felt predictable. A few developments were easy to see coming, which took away some of the suspense for me. It was still quite entertaining.

Even with that, the book held my attention and was an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon. If you like stories about ambition, secrets, identity, and complicated characters, this one is worth picking up.

★★★

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Sharing with the Flock

The chickens are no longer here but the memories are. One of my favorite little routines was tossing extras to the chickens and watching the madness unfold. Just another small, good moment in backyard life.

 

Pumpkin Smash! by Michelle Schaub - Now Released

Now Released

I loved the concept right away—taking leftover Halloween pumpkins and turning them into a hands-on lesson about composting and caring for the environment. As a gardener, this really clicked with me and made the subject matter even more enjoyable. It’s creative, approachable, and makes sustainability feel exciting and doable for kids instead of something overly instructional.

The rhyming text is lively and playful, with a bouncy rhythm that makes it perfect for reading out loud. It has that natural Storytime appeal where kids can easily get pulled in, and I can definitely see this being a hit in classrooms and group reads.

That said, while the illustrations are bright and colorful, they are not as crisp and clear as I would have liked. At times, the slightly fuzzy, busy look made it harder to fully follow what was happening, especially for younger readers who depend on visuals to guide the story. The style has a lot of personality, but I kept wishing for a bit more clarity and simplicity in certain scenes.

This is a strong and meaningful picture book with a great message about reducing waste and thinking about where things go after we’re done with them. It’s fun, educational, and perfect for the season—I just think sharper illustrations would have taken it to the next level.

★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.

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Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood - A Review

This one pulled me in almost immediately. There’s a natural tension between the characters right from the start, and I found myself completely invested in seeing how their story would unfold.

Neither character felt perfect. They’re both carrying their own baggage, keeping parts of themselves guarded, and making mistakes along the way. Watching them slowly lower those walls and let each other in, little by little, was what kept me turning the pages. It wasn’t an instant transformation, and I appreciated that their connection developed over time.

Their dynamic was probably my favorite part of the book. There’s plenty of back-and-forth between them, but it never felt overdone. The tension kept things interesting, and I loved that their conversations often hinted at deeper feelings beneath the surface. Every interaction felt like it mattered, and I found myself looking forward to every scene they shared.

The pacing also worked really well for me. The story kept moving without feeling rushed, and I never hit a point where I felt bored or tempted to put it down. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to read just one more chapter and suddenly realize you've stayed up way later than planned.

Overall, this ended up being a strong four-star read for me. It kept me engaged from beginning to end, gave me characters I could connect with, and delivered a romance that felt layered, complicated, and believable. While it wasn't quite a five-star favorite, it was definitely a story that stayed with me after I finished.

★★★★

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How to Kiss Your Best Friend by Jenny Proctor - A Review

Friends-to-lovers is one of my favorite tropes, and honestly, the idea of two best friends slowly realizing they're meant to be something more always gets me. There's already so much history, trust, and comfort built into that kind of relationship, so I went into this one really hoping it would be a new favorite.

What I enjoy most was the natural friendship between the main characters. They genuinely felt comfortable with each other, and I liked seeing those little moments where their relationship started to shift. The teasing, the growing awareness, and the realization that there might be something more than friendship were some of my favorite parts of the story. Jenny Proctor does a great job creating a sweet, wholesome romance that is easy to settle into.

That said, I never fully connected with the romance on a deeper emotional level. I wanted a little more tension, more vulnerability, and more of those heart-tugging moments that make me completely invest in a couple. While I could see their feelings developing, I kept waiting for that big emotional moment that would make everything click for me, and it never quite got there.

The pacing is quick, the story is light and easy to read, and it's the kind of book you can finish in a day without much effort. I enjoyed my time with it, but once I turned the last page, it wasn't a story that stayed with me for very long.

Overall, this was a sweet, clean friends-to-lovers romance with likable characters and plenty of charm. If you love wholesome romances and best-friend love stories, it's definitely worth picking up. For me, though, I just wanted a little more depth and emotional payoff to make it truly memorable.

★★★

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My Catholic Mass Reflections by Thomas Nelson - A Review

Pub Date: Feb 16, 2027

This is a wonderful resource for anyone who wants to be more engaged during Mass and spend time reflecting on God's message throughout the week. While I am not Catholic, I attended a Catholic school in sixth grade and participated in weekly Mass. Those experiences gave me an appreciation for the beauty and structure of the liturgy that has stayed with me over the years.

Lately, I have become extremely interested in Catholicism and regularly watch several Catholic services and faith-based programs on YouTube. Because of that growing interest, I found this book to be especially helpful and encouraging. It offers a simple and thoughtful way to prepare for Mass, reflect on the readings, and consider how the messages apply to everyday life.

This book does a great job of helping readers become more intentional and active participants in the liturgy without feeling overwhelming. It encourages deeper thought, personal reflection, and a stronger connection to Scripture.

I reviewed this as an eBook, but I enjoyed it enough that I fully intend to purchase a copy when it becomes available. It is the kind of resource I can see myself returning to week after week as I continue learning more about the Catholic faith and growing spiritually.

I highly recommend this book for beginners, those curious about Catholicism, and anyone looking for a meaningful way to engage more deeply with the Mass experience.

★★★★★

I received an advance digital copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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My cat is cooler than your cat

Wanda the Warthog Who Worried by Frances Stickley - Now Released

Now Released

This one was an easy five stars for me. I’m always looking for picture books that open the door to real conversations without feeling heavy-handed, and Wanda the Warthog Who Worried does that beautifully. The writing has a gentle, reassuring tone (with a few genuinely funny moments), and the message about comparison and self-acceptance comes through in a way that feels kind—not preachy. The illustrations are bold and expressive, and they add so much personality.

This great read-aloud will connect, comfort, and spark a conversation. I’d happily recommend this to families, classrooms, and anyone who wants a warm story that helps kids feel good about being themselves.

I received an advance review copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

★★★★★

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The Campervan Detectives by Maeve Haran - Now Released

Now Released

This was such a fun, comforting cozy mystery that pulled me in right away and honestly felt like a little escape while I was reading. Sadie Sutton’s life completely unravels when she catches her husband with her best friend, and I really felt for her in those opening chapters. I loved how she didn’t overthink it though, she just grabbed her dog and left London behind for a fresh start in a bright orange campervan. It felt messy, brave, and exactly what she needed.

The coastal town of Winching added so much to the story for me. It has that classic seaside charm with a slightly faded feel, full of quirky locals, community spaces like the gardens, and that sense that everyone knows more than they say. I could really picture the salty air, the quieter pace, and the contrast between Sadie’s new, slightly chaotic van life and this close-knit town with deep roots and buried secrets. It made the mystery feel both cozy and a little tense underneath.

Of course, Sadie’s fresh start does not stay quiet for long. Before she even settles in, she finds a dead body and spots someone running from the scene. When the police quickly settle on an obvious suspect, I found myself just as frustrated as Sadie and completely on board with her decision to start digging deeper.

The Vanettes were easily one of my favorite parts. Their friendship felt genuine and uplifting, and I loved how each of them brought something different to the group. Watching Sadie slowly open up, gain confidence, and start figuring out who she is on her own was just as satisfying as the mystery. It gave the whole story a really warm, hopeful feel.

The mystery itself follows a familiar cozy pattern, and while I did find parts a bit predictable, I was still second-guessing things enough to stay engaged. The added twists and rising stakes kept it interesting without losing that light, easy tone that makes this genre so enjoyable.

Overall, this felt like the kind of book you curl up with when you want something cozy but still engaging. It is a great mix of mystery, friendship, and fresh starts, and I would happily continue on with this series.

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC.

★★★★

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Graceful Warrior by Gary Sinise - A Review

Publish Date November 10, 2026

This was a difficult book to read at times, not because of the writing, but because of the reality behind it. Gary Sinise shares his family's journey through his son Mac's battle with a rare cancer, while also celebrating the life, talent, faith, and strength that defined him. The book centers on family, love, and the determination to keep moving forward during unimaginable circumstances.

As a mother of five children, this story affected me on a very personal level. I found myself thinking often about what Gary and his family experienced and trying to imagine facing that kind of loss. It is hard to even comprehend. The love he has for his son is evident on every page and knowing this is a true story made many moments especially emotional.

The way the family carried one another through the hardest days through grief, fear, and heartbreak was amazing.  There was also faith, courage, and an incredible amount of love. Mac came across as a remarkable young man whose impact on those around him continues long after his passing. 

I appreciated that the book never felt self-pitying. It honestly acknowledged the pain while also focusing on gratitude, family bonds, and the memories that remain. Those moments gave the story warmth and hope even when the subject matter was heartbreaking.

A few sections felt repetitive as similar emotions and experiences were revisited throughout the memoir. Even so, the sincerity of the story kept me engaged from beginning to end.

This is a touching tribute from a father to his son and a reminder of how precious time with loved ones truly is. While every reader may take something different from it, I finished the book feeling grateful for my own family and holding my children a little closer.

★★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley, Nelson Books, and Gary Sinise for providing me with an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Something Wilder by Christina Lauren - A Review

The story follows Lily and Leo, and I felt the tension between them right away. Their past felt present in every interaction, and I found myself paying attention to even the smallest reactions because everything tied back to what they had been through together.

I really connected with Lily. She’s strong and capable, but also guarded in a way that adds quiet emotional weight. Watching those small moments where her walls started to shift kept me invested in her journey.

Leo brought in a different layer with the regret he carries. It felt sincere, not rushed, and I could see him trying to make sense of who he used to be versus who he is now. That made his growth and his moments with Lily feel more meaningful.

Their relationship leaned more emotional than physical, which I really appreciated. The chemistry builds through shared moments and what goes unsaid, and I found myself drawn to that tension more than anything else.

The desert setting and treasure hunt added energy and suspense, though there were times I missed being more in the emotional side of the story.

The focus on forgiveness and second chances gave everything more weight, and the ending felt earned in a way that left me satisfied.

★★★★

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How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis - A Review

This one really leans into a compassion first approach, and I liked that right away. The idea that a messy house isn’t a moral failure is honestly refreshing, and the tone is super gentle and understanding. I can definitely see this being really validating for people who need that reminder.

That said, it started to feel a bit repetitive for me. The core message is solid, but once I got it, there wasn’t a lot of new ground being covered. It felt more like encouragement than actual how to, and I found myself wanting more concrete, practical strategies instead of mostly reassurance.

Overall, it’s a kind, affirming read that’s easy to get through. It just didn’t have enough depth or actionable takeaways to fully stick with me. Helpful in parts and comforting in tone, just not a standout for my needs.

★★★

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The Perfect Marriage (Perfect, #1) by Jeneva Rose - A Review

This one definitely kept my attention, even if it didn’t fully live up to the hype for me. It’s fast paced, super easy to read, and honestly hard to put down. The short chapters and constant tension make it really bingeable, and I flew through it wanting to see how everything would unravel.

That said, a lot of the twists felt more shocking than clever. I guessed quite a few things ahead of time, and some of the character choices felt more like plot moves than real decisions. The drama is definitely there, but the emotional depth doesn’t always match it, which made it harder for me to fully buy in.

Overall, this is a classic popcorn thriller. Messy, dramatic, and entertaining while you’re reading, but not something that stuck with me afterward. A solid pick if you want something quick and twisty.

★★★

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Simple Moments, Sweet Memories

These are the little moments I'll always cherish. Our flock is no longer here, but the memories remain. 

 

One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle - A Review

This one is all about the vibe. The Italian setting is beautiful, and the whole story has this soft, dreamy feel that makes it more about the experience than the plot. It really does feel like wandering through grief instead of moving toward a clear destination.

I liked the focus on the mother daughter relationship and how it handles loss. There are some really tender, reflective moments that capture that weird space where memories feel more real than what’s happening in front of you. Those parts worked well for me.

At the same time, it felt slow and a bit repetitive. I kept waiting for something deeper to click into place, and it never quite got there for me. It’s emotional, but in a quiet way that didn’t fully land.

Overall, this was a gentle, atmospheric read that I’m glad I tried, but it didn’t leave a big impact. I can see it really working for the right reader, it just stayed kind of middle of the road for me.

★★★

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The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang - A Review

This was a refreshing, feel good romance that still had emotional depth. I went into The Kiss Quotient expecting something light and a little steamy, but I ended up getting way more heart and character growth than I anticipated, which made me love it even more.

Stella was a unique and relatable main character. I like how her analytical mindset and struggles with relationships were portrayed with honesty and respect. Her journey didn’t feel forced or dramatized. It felt, especially the way she approached love almost like a problem to solve. Watching her slowly open up and realize that connection isn’t something you can “perfect” was one of my favorite parts of the book.

Michael completely stole my heart. He’s charming and his patience and emotional intelligence made him incredibly easy to root for. I liked that he had his own struggles and responsibilities, which made him feel like a fully developed character instead of just a love interest. The dynamic between him and Stella felt natural and balanced, which made their relationship growth believable.

The romance itself was definitely on the steamy side, but it never felt excessive or out of place. It actually added to the emotional connection between them instead of taking away from it. I do think at times the pacing leaned a little repetitive, especially in the middle where the push and pull dragged just a bit longer than necessary.

The story blended vulnerability, humor, and romance. It wasn’t just about falling in love; it was about learning to accept yourself and letting someone see you fully. That emotional layer is what pushed it into a solid four star read for me.

This was a sweet, engaging, and slightly unconventional romance that left me smiling. It’s perfect if you want something heartfelt with strong characters and a meaningful love story that still delivers on the swoony moments.

★★★★

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10% Happier by Dan Harris - A Review

I liked the honesty in this, especially around anxiety, burnout, and trying to make sense of mindfulness without fully buying into it at first. That angle felt real and relatable, and I appreciated how it tries to make meditation feel less intimidating.

It lost me was in the follow through. It starts strong, but it was repetitive, and the pacing dragged. The meditation parts were interesting at first, but they never really went deep enough to feel super helpful or practical. The name dropping and media references also pulled me out of it and made it feel more like a personal story than something I could actually apply.

Overall, I can see why this works as an introduction to mindfulness, especially if you’re new to it. For me, though, it didn’t have enough depth or fresh insight to really stick. Interesting in parts, but not very impactful.

★★

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