More Than A Young Wife & Mom: book review

Here Lies All The Boys Who Broke My Heart: A Review

by Tiffany - Tuesday, February 03, 2026

This next audiobook review is a good one! I'm not typically a romance girly, but the title and description hooked me.

"Every time a guy breaks my heart, I write him a eulogy in my journal. It’s kind of my thing—closure through creative mourning. They don't actually die... or, at least, they didn't.

Now? These guys aren’t just dead to me, they’re dead to everyone. And I’m the prime suspect.

With my senior year at Pembroke College—and my entire future—on the line, I’ve got no choice but to play detective. Unfortunately, that means teaming up with my long-standing frenemy, Asher, who is insufferable and somehow always there when I need him the least. We bicker, we banter, we occasionally almost hook up, but with the body count rising and my name all over the suspect board, there’s no time to get distracted.

Between college parties, messy exes, suspicious deaths, and a murder investigation I never asked to be a part of—one thing’s for sure: this is not how I thought my last year would go.

Here’s to hoping I can find out who the real killer is... before someone ends up writing my eulogy."

Narration ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Andi Arndt and Aaron Shedlock narrate our story. They gave a great performance, really bringing the story to life.

Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The story follows Sloane, a senior at Pembroke College who's journal goes missing. Ironically, all her former lovers that she's written about start to end up dead. Did I mention that what she writes about them are eulogies?

Flow ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The book flows well from beginning to end. Never a dull moment. Hooked from the first few moments and taken on a ride through the end.

Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I found this to be a very entertaining listen. Romance isn't my typical genre. The mystery/thriller element gives added dimension. The characters are fleshed out well, with real and raw emotions. There's multiple plot twists and each one gets better. It reminded me of Pretty Little Liars, which is my favorite series. I would definitely read this one again to see what clues I missed and would recommend to others.

Disclosure: Thank you Harper Audio Adult/ Avon a, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. As always, all opinions are my own. Links to purchase this book include my affiliate information where I may receive small monetary payment for purchases made via these links. All profits go to support my page.

If you'd like to purchase this in any format, it is available on Amazon here as well as other stores online.

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The Leaving Room by Amber McBride

by Tiffany - Tuesday, January 06, 2026

The Leaving Room by Amber McBride, audiobook version

Hey y'all! Happy 2026! New year, new books. Here's my first review of the new year thanks to NetGalley.

"Gospel is the Keeper of the Leaving Room—a place all young people must phase through when they die. The young are never ready to leave; they need a moment to remember and a Keeper to help their wispy souls along.

When a random door opens and a Keeper named Melodee arrives, their souls become entangled. Gospel's seriousness melts and Melodee’s fear of connection fades, but still—are Keepers allowed to fall in love? Now they must find a way out of the Leaving Room and be unafraid of their love. In a novel that takes place over four minutes, National Book Award finalist Amber McBride explores connection, memory, and hope in ways that are unforgettable and poignant."

Narration ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narrated by Amber McBride, the story really comes to life. I loved that the author narrated her own story and the reader was able to really hear her poetic story as it was meant to be heard.

Story ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story follows Gospel, a Keeper who helps those who've passed on, move to the other side. She's been alone for all that she can remember until she meets another Keeper. There's a very, slow build to an unexpected plot twist. Almost too slow but necessary to the story.

Flow ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The book flows well in its poetic style. It's consistent in how each chapter opens and lets the listener know without reciting the chapter number. It's a very slow, but necessary, flow for the first half of the book but then picks up and carries you in a current

Uniqueness ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Included with the narration, unique sound effects are added to give an ethereal impression. Usually between chapters along with Melody’s alliteration. Truly a unique experience.

Overall ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I found this to be a great listen. I believe I received more of an understanding listening to the story and poetic flow directly from the author than if I had only read the ebook, or hardcopy. The plot twist was unexpected. I personally would have liked a different or more explained twist but did tie in to the foreshadowed elements along the way well though. I would recommend especially if you like poetic styles of writing.

Disclosure: Thank you Macmillan Audio/Macmillan Young Listeners, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. As always, all opinions are my own. Links to purchase this book include my affiliate information where I may receive small monetary payment for purchases made via these links. All profits go to support my page.

If you'd like to purchase this in any format, it is available on Amazon here as well as other stores online. }

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"Needy Little Things" Review

by Tiffany - Monday, February 03, 2025

It's been a hot minute since I've reviewed a book. I'm not saying this is anything New Year's Resolution related at all BUT just coincidentally, I've been reading more. I also listened to my FIRST fiction audiobook y'all, and I am hooked!

Needy Little Things, the debut young adult novel by Channelle Desamours is not to be missed! Mystery, suspense, real life topics - it's all here!

In this Young Adult mystery, we meet high school senior, "Sariyah Lee Bryant [who] can hear what people need—tangible things, like a pencil, a hair tie, a phone charger—an ability only her family and her best friend, Malcolm, know the truth about. But when she fulfills a need for her friend Deja who vanishes shortly after, Sariyah is left wondering if her ability is more curse than gift. This isn’t the first time one of her friends has landed on the missing persons list, and she’s determined not to let her become yet another forgotten Black girl.

Not trusting the police and media to do enough on their own, Sariyah and her friends work together to figure out what led to Deja’s disappearance. When Sariyah’s mother loses her job and her little brother faces complications with his sickle cell disease, managing her time, money, and emotions seems impossible. Desperate, Sariyah decides to hustle her need-sensing ability for cash—a choice that may not only lead her to Deja, but put her in the same danger Deja found herself in."

Narrated by Alaska Jackson, the characters comes to life, each with a distinct voice and personality. We follow Sariyah's point of view and hear how the she views her friends' voices and mannerisms. Very entertaining and kept me hooked from the first few lines. The writing and narration felt seamless. The pace and flow were on point. The narrator clearly provides chapter breaks for the listener, which were the only times I paused because the story was so addicting.

As a multicultural woman in her 30's from Atlanta, the places, phrases, and mannerisms are very familiar to me. It may be a little harder to follow for older readers and those unfamiliar with Black culture. This is definitely something I will be re-listening to/reading and recommend. I'm even going to buy a print copy for my daughter. Looking forward to reading more from Channelle Desamours in the future (and looking up other books narrated by Alaska Jackson in the meantime).

Needly Little Things (audio and print) comes out tomorrow, February 4, 2025!!
Click here to visit the author's webpage with all retailer links.

About the Author:

"Channelle Desamours lives and writes just outside of Atlanta, Georgia where she currently teaches high school science at a STEM academy. Her students motivate, challenge, and inspire her daily (and they’re always good for a laugh). She spent many years coaching lacrosse and even enjoyed a brief stint at Zoo Atlanta where she taught children about wildlife conservation and handled all sorts of critters from opossums to juvenile American alligators. Channelle has a BA in biology from Agnes Scott College and an MS in biological sciences from Clemson University. Beyond nerding out about life science in front of large groups of teenagers, Channelle enjoys listening to audiobooks, caring for her house plants, and plotting twisty novels with a touch of magic."

Disclaimer: Thanks to Macmillan Audio for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own, as always.

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Review: Feels Like Home by Marian Parsons

by Tiffany - Tuesday, October 12, 2021

I personally love a home that looks lived in. When it comes to decorating our home, you'll find a mix of a few new items, DIYs, clearance deals and thrift finds. Over the past year since we moved into our home, decorating has been a process - a fun one. I find myself adding more in one room, taking away in another and even stumped on how to make a few bare spaces more homey. I'm always looking for inspiration, whether browsing displays at a store, scrolling through Pinterest, or between the pages of a design book. I was so excited to receive a review copy of Feels Like Home: Transforming Your Space from Uninspiring to Uniquely Yours by Marian Parsons.

Description:

Most of us don’t live in a dream home that was custom built to suit our tastes. We have to work with a house that brings its own style, quirks, and personality to the table. But imagine walking into this house, but it’s perfectly designed and decorated with your style in mind—a home that fits you like a well-tailored outfit and yet is as comfy as your favorite pair of pajamas.

What would that home look like exactly? How would it feel to live in a home styled specifically for you?

The truth is, every home should feel like a custom home and not have to break the bank. In Feels Like Home, DIY makeover queen Marian Parsons (a.k.a. Miss Mustard Seed) teaches you what she’s learned over the years, sharing budget-friendly practical tips that will inspire you to change your space from “blah” to beautiful, from a builder-grade to character-rich home. Each chapter will guide you through detailed, easy-to-implement tutorials for projects, makeovers, decorating ideas, and tips for handling common challenges. Special note-taking spaces are also included for recording your own design ideas. Room by room, you will be empowered to transform your house into the home of your dreams!"

My Thoughts:
I appreciate a design book that doesn't make you feel bad for not having a magazine worthy home. At a recent hospitality event, the speaker reminded us that its not about having the perfect home but how you make your guests feel in it. When I read the same sentiment shared by the author in the introduction, I knew this was gonna be a great read. The author gives a few suggestions on different ways to use her book: as Instruction, Inspiration, Motivation and/or Encouragement. It's easy-to-read with easy-to-implement tips, tutorials and ideas. Depending on what you are looking for, there's something for everyone in these pages. I will be rereading this one often and would make a great gift for a friend.

Available TODAY online and in-store at most book retailers.

Bonus: You can receive a free download of Chapter 7: Creative and Work Spaces by entering your name and email here.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book for review. No other compensation was, nor will be, received. All opinions are mine.

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Joanna Gaines' New Children's Book Review #WeAreTheGardeners

by Tiffany - Tuesday, March 26, 2019

We fell in love with the Gaines family a few years ago watching their show on HGTV, "Fixer Upper." I had always been a fan of more modern decor until Joanna sold me on the beauty of rustic decor. As a southern transplant, and Texas resident it seems appropriate that it grew on me. I'd like to think I'm a mix of both now, having added rustic touches here and there in my home. I've made the trip to Magnolia twice now (from Houston), and even indulging in some cupcakes at their bakery around the corner.

I was so excited when I was asked to review her new children's book! I knew I had to review it with my kiddos. My daughter loves the idea of gardening, while I have never had a green thumb like my mom. I grew up with hanging ferns and other live plants included in our decor, as well as a garden out back with flowers, multiple tomato plants, cantaloupes, and other fruits and veggies. It seemed so easy to her. Everything I plant seems to not make it, though last year we had some success with my daughter's sunflowers.

About the book:
"We are the Gardeners" will be the Gaines family’s fifth book. Their previous books include:

The Magnolia Story
Capital Gaines: Smart Things I Learned Doing Stupid Stuff
Magnolia Table: A Collection of Recipes for Gathering; and
Homebody: A Guide to Creating Spaces You Never Want to Leave

In We Are the Gardeners, Joanna, and the kids chronicle the adventures of starting their own family garden. (Don't worry, Chip is in there too!) From their failed endeavors, obstacles to overcome (bunnies that eat everything!), and all the knowledge they've gained along the way, the Gaines family shares how they learned to grow a happy, successful garden. As it turns out, trying something new isn't always easy, but the hardest work often yields the greatest reward. There are always new lessons to be learned in the garden!

“The garden has always been a place that inspires me. There’s something about digging deep into fresh soil or watching new life burst from what was not long ago just a tiny seed that reinforces what a gift life is,” said Joanna. “I think that’s part of why my kids have come to love spending time in the garden just as much as I do. It can be a great teacher if we pause long enough to notice all there is to learn. Where every day can be a lesson in hard work, and sometimes even in failure, but where there’s also growth worth celebrating. This book is our way of sharing what the garden means to us, and the many adventures we’ve had along the way!"

You and your children can learn all about the Gaines family's story of becoming gardeners in Joanna's first children’s book—starting with the first little fern Chip bought for Jo. Over the years, the family's love for gardening blossomed into what is now a beautiful, bustling garden.

Julianna Swaney’s illustrations bring the Gaines family garden to life with colorful, whimsical watercolors and invite you to enjoy the beauty of a thriving garden.

My Thoughts:
This story is so cute!! Narrated by the kids, they tell the story of how they became "The Gardeners". From their first plant that died to the garden that was eaten and onto the beautiful garden they have today, "We are the gardeners" shows kids many powerful lessons and covers many themes:

Hope
Perseverance
Growth
Love
Learning
Hard Work
Delayed Gratification

Easy to read and follow. Hardcover. Great length at 40 pages. This is one we will be rereading often. Highly recommend for all the little ones in your life and might make a nice teacher's gift.

Looking for other great books for you and your family? Check out our list of recommended reads this year at amazon.com/shop/youngwifemom.

Disclosure: We received a complimentary copy of this book in order to review. No other compensation was given or received. All opinions are ours. While this book is available at many outlets, we would love if you purchase through our links as we will receive a small compensation in return.

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What's Giving Me Life 3.22.19

by Tiffany - Friday, March 22, 2019

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Christmas 2018: What Worked & What Didn't

by Tiffany - Monday, January 07, 2019

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Do you feel Uninvited?

by Tiffany - Monday, April 17, 2017

Did you know that even when you’re overlooked by others, you are handpicked by God. In her new book, Uninvited, New York Times bestselling author Lysa TerKeurst will help you live like you really believe that truth! I am delighted to be reviewing it today.

The enemy wants us to feel rejected . . . left out, lonely, and less than. When we allow him to speak lies through our rejection, he pickpockets our purpose. Cripples our courage. Dismantles our dreams. And blinds us to the beauty of Christ’s powerful love.

In Uninvited, Lysa shares her own deeply personal experiences with rejection—from the incredibly painful childhood abandonment by her father to the perceived judgment of the perfectly toned woman one elliptical over.

I feel like as women this is something most of us struggle with, especially introverts like myself. I didn't realize how much my past rejections have affected my relationships today. Through reading this book readers will become more aware of these feelings and

Release the desire to fall apart or control the actions of others by embracing God-honoring ways to process their hurt.
Know exactly what to pray for the next ten days to steady their soul and restore their confidence.
Overcome the two core fears that feed our insecurities by understanding the secret of belonging.
Stop feeling left out and start believing that "set apart" does not mean "set aside."
End the cycle of perceived rejection by refusing to turn a small incident into a full blown issue

The book is easy to read, filled with bibcal truths and Lysa's wonderful sense of humor. This is a book that I'd give to any of my girl friends (and probably read with my daughter when she's a bit older.)

Free book resources:
5-Day Challenge uninvitedbook.com/challenges
Assessment uninvitedbook.com/assessment
More on www.uninvitedbook.com

Lysa TerKeurst is the New York Times bestselling author of 19 books including The Best Yes. She is president of Proverbs 31 Ministries and writes from her sticky farm table in North Carolina. She still has a crush on her husband Art who she’s been married to for 24 years. They deeply treasure every minute they can get with their 4 married kids and one teenager who keeps the whole family very entertained! Connect with her at www.LysaTerKeurst.com.

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”