Life Lessons 10 Valuable Life Lessons My Husband Taught Me 11:03 AM Just celebrated another milestone in our marriage. This life chapter has brought a lot of changes - not just in my last name. 😏 There are lessons we've learned together as a couple and as individuals. And the valuable life lessons my husband taught me? I believe every marriage needs them.1. My husband taught me that self-worth is non-negotiable. I don't have to tolerate people who are shortchanging me. He showed me that accepting negativity is a disservice to myself. That I need to take care of my health. That I deserve to be pampered. That I can demand higher pay because I'm good at what I do.Tenor2. My husband taught me how to communicate my feelings.Here's the thing. If a child is crying and you tell them to stop, they grow up thinking they're not allowed to be upset, scared, angry, or show their feelings. In their young minds, they believe those feelings are wrong, invalid, or unacceptable. They get the impression that expressing their emotions is wrong, so they suppress them. Even when they reach adulthood and they know better.My husband showed me that all my emotions are valid. I don't have to hide or dismiss them. He created a safe space where I could express them without judgment, and that's been a game-changer for my emotional health.I still have a hard time sharing or expressing them, but he's a patient teacher (whose patience I always test in that regard 😅).Parks and Recreation3. My husband taught me to trust. Past hurts had me guarding my heart like a dragon guarding its treasure. But my husband's unwavering honesty and genuine actions chipped away at those walls, building trust along the way. He proved that not everyone's out to hurt, humiliate, or use me. I don't always agree with what he tells me, but he's repeatedly proven to me that he's right, so I've learned to trust his judgment.Tenor4. My husband taught me that it's okay to set boundaries.He showed me that I can walk away from people regardless of who they are or their role in my life. If they're sucking out my time and energy or disrespecting me, they're out. Self-love should always be a priority.GifDB5. My husband taught me to celebrate my individuality.I'm an introvert, and all my life, I've been made to believe that how I behave is boring and, well, not normal. Because I prefer quiet and solitude at a time when my peers love to party and be out there. So I forced myself to be where the crowd was, mingle, and be as loud as the others. It drained me. It also made me doubt myself and dislike myself for who I am because I thought I wasn't cool or good enough to be accepted. My husband is the most extroverted person I've met. He respects my need for solitude and doesn't force me into uncomfortable situations. The Odyssey Online6. My husband taught me to redefine stereotypes.Growing up in our culture, I was bombarded with outdated gender roles. My husband, a modern-day man, shattered those expectations. He treats me as a wife AND someone with feelings, needs, and opinions. My husband and I are one, but I still get to keep my identity and make choices for my body. I don't have to conform to what society or tradition dictates, and he's there to support me on that.Tenor7. My husband taught me how to be a partner.Maybe it's because I'm a middle child in a large brood. I've not been a leader. I'm not someone people turn to for opinions. So, I had no idea how to run a ship, so to speak. Marriage, as my husband taught me, is all about teamwork. Healthy relationships require two people working together, not against each other through rough waters.You can't just take orders or take over. We navigate challenges together, celebrate victories as a unit, and share responsibilities with open communication.Giphy8. My husband taught me that the 'mundane' matters.The simple, everyday little things matter, like taking the trash out without being asked or preparing my breakfast while he lets me sleep in. An elaborate bouquet of flowers is lovely, but the flowers he picked from the road on his way home are just as meaningful. Tenor9. My husband taught me the real meaning of intimacy.Speaking your partner's love language is intimacy. Whether you're sitting silently together doing separate things, wrapped up in each other's arms, or hundreds of miles apart, you can get intimate. Because intimacy with someone is a choice that goes beyond the bedroom walls.Leightum10. My husband taught me to be more patient.Because are you really a husband if you're not annoying your wife? 😄 My husband is far from perfect, just like me. He makes mistakes, gets grumpy sometimes, and we don't always see eye-to-eye. We came from very different backgrounds and cultures and had opposing opinions. I've learned to be more patient because I can see him trying to be better. And I know what he does is for the best.[I admit I need to work on this more - especially when I'm being hormonal because that's when I'm not in the mood to cut him some slack. 🤷]TenorValuable Life Lessons My Husband Taught MeMarriage isn't just about fancy rings and cake-cutting ceremonies. Those moments are magical, but the real magic unfolds in everyday, quiet moments and unexpected life lessons learned. And my amazing husband has been a great teacher on this journey.Happy anniversary to my better half. I'm blessed to do life with you. Cheers to more years of love, sunsets, dirty jokes, and flirty pickup lines! 🥂Question for YouWhat life lessons has your partner or relationships taught you? Or do you have any marriage advice?
Books 14 Surprising Benefits of Reading Romance Novels 4:56 PM I used to scoff at romance novels. Predictable plots, unrealistic characters, and cheesy dialogue? No thanks. At least, that's what I assumed they were all about. But then I decided to explore and not judge the book by its half-naked godlike man on the cover. Fast forward to today, I am a proud romance reader (I read 180 books last year). While they may not be your cup of tea, romance books offer unexpected benefits beyond the happily-ever-afters. I'll help you ditch the stigma of books about gooey-eyed couples with these 14 surprising benefits of reading romance novels I discovered in my bookish era.1. Escape and RelaxationReality could be overrated. To read romance is to escape from daily routines and a chance to unwind and de-stress. It provides a safe haven to experience various emotions alongside the characters, forgetting your worries and concerns. Live vicariously through reading.Tumblr2. Emotional Intelligence and EmpathyRomance novels have diverse characters. Reading romance can help you understand people's emotions better. It's like trying on different shoes and walking around in them. This can make you more empathetic and emotionally intelligent, improving your relationships at work and in your personal life.Book Banter3. Confidence and InspirationI love romance books that feature strong, relatable characters. I'm especially partial to stories with feisty female leads overcoming their fears and trauma and pursuing their dreams. Fictional as they may be, they can inspire you to embrace your vulnerabilities, set goals, and chase your own happily ever after, whether in love, career, or personal fulfillment.Wiffle Gif4. Boosts Creativity and ImaginationI seldom read romantasy because I struggle with world-building. But romance books also allow you to dive into imaginative worlds with vibrant descriptions. Romance novels can push the boundaries of storytelling, helping you create a world of your own version in your head.GIFdb5. Better Communication and RelationshipsOne of my bookish pet peeves is the misunderstanding trope. It made me value the importance of communication in relationships more. Reading romance can equip you with tools to express yourself effectively, nurture stronger connections, and navigate the complexities of relationships.Pinterest6. Appreciation for Diverse Cultures and IdentitiesFictional characters in romance books provide cultural and social contexts. They help expand your understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives and experiences. I like Ana Huang's books for this reason. She has characters from different cultures and backgrounds.Get Underlined7. Stress Reduction and Improved MoodThis may depend on the story, but I choose Happily Ever After or HEA-guaranteed books. They have uplifting stories with favorable resolutions. The witty banter, the fun family dynamics, the amusingly meddling residents in the small town, and the hilarious friends. Romance novels can provide a much-needed emotional boost.The Scarlet Reader8. Vocabulary Expansion and Language SkillsRomance novels often employ rich descriptions and engaging dialogue, exposing you to diverse vocabulary and writing styles. Some characters even speak a different language. Reading these stories can help you improve your vocabulary and communication skills.Pinterest9. Memory Boost and Cognitive StimulationFollowing intricate plotlines, remembering character details, and deciphering emotional complexities in romance novels provide a workout for your cognitive muscles. This mental stimulation can contribute to improving your memory and overall cognitive function.LinkedIn10. Problem-solving and Decision-making SkillsWitnessing characters encounter and tackle various challenges throughout their romantic journeys can indirectly enhance your own problem-solving skills. Observing their approaches to difficult situations and the consequences of their choices can lead to more thoughtful and informed decision-making in your own life. You also learn from their mistakes.The Writing Gym11. Sleep ImprovementReading before bed, especially a calming romance novel, can promote relaxation and prepare your mind for sleep. Just avoid reading suspense thrillers and resist the urge to succumb to cliffhangers at the end of a chapter to prevent losing sleep.GifDB12. Personal Growth and ReflectionRomance novels often explore self-discovery, personal growth, and overcoming obstacles. Engaging with these themes can inspire you to reflect on your life, values, and aspirations, potentially leading to personal growth and development.Giphy13. Appreciation for Different Genres Romance has various subgenres, each with distinct storytelling techniques and flavors. Exploring these variations can broaden your literary horizons and help you appreciate different writing styles.PopSugar14. Community and ConnectionOne of the many things I gained from reading romance is the bookstagram community. I may not join a book club because I like to read at my own pace, but I've met online acquaintances who share the same passion. It's tough when you're really into a book but have nobody to share your excitement with. The bookish community has been an excellent place for that.Hey, you wanna be book buddies? I share short book reviews, recommendations, funny memes, and relatable reels on my Instagram account @booksandblogs_lux. Follow me there! I also post my reviews on Goodreads.GetYarnWhat are some romance novels to read?I have a long list of my recommended romance novels. There are small-town romances, billionaires, cowboys, morally grey characters, romantic suspense, historical fiction, enemies to lovers, single-parent romance, and more. Surprising Benefits of Reading Romance Novels TakeawayRomance fiction has become a cherished part of my life. If you're still hesitant to pick up a romance book, I invite you to relinquish the stigma and dive without expectations. That's what I did. I never regretted this genre because the benefits of reading romance novels are just incredible.Question for YouWhat's your favorite romance book or movie? What do you like about it?
Life Lessons How To Face 2024 Like A Champ With 3 Simple Questions 12:34 PM How To Face 2024 Like A Champ With 3 Simple Questions Spoiler alert: You are already a champion. How else are you still standing today? 2023 wasn’t an easy, friendly year for me either. So, how do we make this year better? I’ve got this idea from Bo Sanchez, one of my favorite motivational authors. Here’s how to face 2024 like a champ with three simple questions.3 Questions to Help You Face 2024 Like a ChampWhat worked? What didn’t? What will you do differently tomorrow?1. What worked?Did you lose weight and feel healthier after you tried a new diet or fitness plan? Do you feel more confident now after trying that workout? Or you started journaling and are now more organized in managing your day. Kudos to you and your hard work! Whatever worked, keep doing it.2. What didn’t work?Different things work for different people. While some readers are really good at planning their reading, I’m a mood reader. My goal to cook a new recipe every month failed. If you tried something that didn't work out, it’s time to rethink strategies and find another way. 3. What will you do differently tomorrow?Tomorrow’s a blank canvas. What small, exciting change will paint your day masterpiece? It could be anything, from trying a new route for your morning walk to finally tackling that creative project. Plan your year better with this FREE Every Day’s a Masterpiece 2024 Planner.Cut the fluff, punch up the power.Celebrate what habits brought you victory laps. Hold onto those like gold.Learn from your failures. Adapt, experiment, and find the path that works for you.Define your goals and plan your strategy.Changing HabitsEverything can be learned, including winning habits. Here's a helpful video from Dr Jud about Hacking Your Brain’s “Reward System” to Change Habits.Be a 2024 Champ2024 is your arena. Remember, champions thrive on actions. So keep moving and trying. Let these three simple questions guide you as you face and make 2024 your greatest victory yet, champ! Question for YouWhat are you hoping to make happen this year?
Lux Thinking Aloud Top 10 Ranking Blog Posts In 2023 2:37 PM I looked back at my blog performance this past year and was surprised that some of my top 10 ranking blog posts in 2023 were from as far back as eight years ago. If you missed any of these, here they are! 1. 20 Things Women Do More and Better Than MenI wrote this to celebrate International Women’s Day 2015. The purpose is to highlight what women can do more or better based on studies and statistics at that time. Not to compete and say women are superior beings, which some of the comments and messages I received claim. 😅 We’re all unique and have something to bring to the table at the end of the day. Enjoy reading!2. Korean Citron Tea Health Benefits: Why I Love ItIt was serendipitous when I discovered the beautiful benefits of citron tea in 2020. I drink it for when I’m about to go down with something. It helps. A LOT. Have you tried it?3. How Would You Rate YourselfWhen I wrote this in 2016, this post was about how you perceive yourself and how to celebrate who you are. I rewrote it in 2022 to include how to answer the question during a job interview since it’s commonly asked.4. Human Nature Sunflower Oil ReviewI’ve advocated for this brand because they’re pro-Philippines, pro-poor, and pro-environment. Not only are they sustainable and supportive of farmers and small businesses, but they’re also internationally recognized and awarded. The quality is globally competitive, but they’re cheaper compared to international brands.5. I Choose to Be Happy and 7 Beautiful Choosing Happiness QuotesWritten after a breakup, this is just me rambling about choosing to be happy over being miserable. It has garnered 189k impressions since then. Just shows you how a painful experience can pave the way to something better. I’ve got my ex to thank for that, I guess. 😄 DOWNLOAD FREE 31-Day Challenge for Happiness Happens Month6. A Letter from My Future SelfThis is another desperate attempt to console myself while in the middle of mending my broken heart. When things aren’t going well in the present, it helps to look forward to what you hope for.7. My Birthday Gratitude ListFrom a heart bursting with gratitude, realizing how blessed I still am despite what I was going through that year. DOWNLOAD FREE Gratitude Affirmations8. Life Lessons from MaleficentI was pleasantly surprised that a cartoon character I was curious about from childhood had an enticing, heartbreaking story. This has reminded me that no one is inherently evil. This is still one of my favorite villain origin stories.9. 10 Signs Your Partner is a ManchildI thank my guest blogger, Tracey Clayton, for this entertaining and insightful article. Maybe it’s time to accept guest posts again. 🤔 What do you think?10. The Power of an IntrovertThe moment I discovered I am an introvert was a light bulb and an angel singing in the background moment. I finally understood why loud music and the crowd make me tired and sleepy. I embraced who I am and stopped trying to prove to people that I am not boring. 😅 Just because I love solitude and quiet doesn’t mean I’m not having fun. Top 10 Ranking Blog Posts in 2023Thank you for being part of my 2023 blogging life. These blog posts ranked because of your kind comments and quick visits. Which of these were you able to read before? I created a 2024 planner for you as my end-of-year Thank You gift. Hope you use it to create your masterpiece of life next year.GET MY FREE 2024 PLANNER
Lux Thinking Aloud Birthday Realizations 1:38 PM Another year older, another opportunity for new perspectives.My actual birthday was much like any other day, with a dash of well wishes. I received warm greetings, had lunch with my sister and her family, and treated myself to a well-deserved day off.Oh, and guess what?It was also the release date for two books I had read in advance (It Should Have Been Us and Where We Fall). How incredible is that? Talk about feeling special! Now, here's a question: as you age, do you ever find your mind taking unexpected trips down memory lane, revisiting past birthdays? It happens to me, and let me tell you, it's quite the ride. It's a chance for reflection, a time to ponder what truly matters.Here's my birthday speech 😅 about a few birthday realizations this year:Celebration is a personal affair. What brings you happiness? If it's a wild party with 200 people, music blasting so loud you can barely hear yourself think, go ahead and boogie on. I've got no qualms about that. It's just not my cup of tea, not even when I was a teenager. I prefer the quiet and tranquil kind of celebration.If my sister hadn't texted me, I would have happily stayed home, tidying up and losing myself in the pages of my books. Some might consider that pathetic or sad, but trust me, it would have brought me pure bliss. A whole day free from work and the outside world, just reading? It's heaven in my book.And the joy of scrubbing away the grime and organizing my pantry and closet. It may sound strange, but it genuinely brings me peace. Picture a house so clean that you don't just see it. You can practically smell the freshness in the air. Just the thought brings me a serotonin boost.And let me tell you, my love for romance novels knows no bounds. I can happily spend an entire day lost in their pages, my heart soaring with each turn. Simple pleasures, right?TumblrJoy in simplicity.As I grow older, simplicity becomes more appealing. The need to prove my happiness to the world diminishes. I no longer seek validation from those who don't know me - and even those who are supposed to give me one.Knowing that I am loved by my Creator and cherished by the few people I hold dear truly matters.And as long as our dogs think I'm amazing, I'm good.I'd choose 10 genuine, caring individuals who support and love me over a thousand empty followers any day. It's about quality, not quantity.GiphyBest gifts are free.Material presents are lovely but don't hold a candle to the intangible treasures that fill my heart.I am truly blessed. Gratitude fills every corner of my being, reminding me of the abundance surrounding me. It's a gift in itself to recognize and appreciate the countless blessings in my life.My incredible husband, who loves me even when I'm not at my most lovable (bless his patient soul). Having someone who accepts and cherishes me for who I am is a gift.The handful of family members and friends. Their love and thoughtfulness brightened my day.Of course, my trusty books played a starring role in my birthday happiness. They whisked me away to far-off lands, introduced me to captivating characters, and filled my mind with wonder. They, indeed, are a source of endless entertainment and joy.Last but certainly not least, I have you right here, dear blogging friends. Your presence, trust, and support mean the world to me. It's a gift I cherish and never take for granted. Thank you for being here and sharing this journey with me.GiphyI can sincerely say that my birthday was a truly happy one. It may not have been filled with grand gestures or extravagant parties, but it was a day of genuine appreciation. And a break from adult responsibilities. Lol!That, my friend, is pure happiness.Thank you for being a part of it. 😘
Lux Thinking Aloud Thank You For Being Here: Thanksgiving Message 3:38 PM Thank You For Being Here Thanksgiving Message It's been a while since I wrote something personal here. Not a life hack, love advice, or raving over my current book obsession. Not thinking about SEO or engagement. Just a raw, straight-from-the-heart message. Since it's time to express gratitude, let me give you my Thanksgiving message: thank you for being here. Especially if you've been around before I even took blogging seriously.To my OG readers, thank you for staying.I started writing because I'm too much of an introvert to talk about my feelings and thoughts. So, if you've been here since 2011, you've seen me pour my broken heart out over breakups, friendships that drifted apart, or generally over how messed up the world has become. But you didn't leave. As I evolved into a more mindful writer (yeah, I don't rant so much about life online anymore 😄), you stayed. My shift in interests and topics of choice might have given you a whiplash over the years, but you stayed. I'm eternally grateful for that. You're the real MVP. I consider you my friend, albeit online, so know that you're more than welcome to message me if you want to talk about life. To my new visitors, thank you for being here.You could've been doing something else with your time, but you chose to spend it reading my thoughts and sharing my experiences with me. Time is one of the most incredible things you could give someone, and I thank you for giving me a little bit of yours. I hope you stay!To my clients, thank you for your trust.Thank you for making this girl's dream come true: getting paid by doing what I love. Writing for your brand gives me purpose and pleasure. Your business has supported my passion, allowing me to maintain this website...and buy as many books as my storage can hold. To my favorite authors, thank you for sharing your world with me.I've been to many places. And lived multiple exciting lives thanks to the beautiful books you've written. Your mind is a treasure trove. Thank you for introducing me to those unforgettable characters and allowing me to visit those charming places that could only exist in your imagination. They could've stayed in your brilliant minds, but you chose to share them with the world. Thank you for being so generous.To my naysayers, thank you for inspiring me.Thank you for telling me, "You're not a writer, and you'll never be one." Your comments surely have fueled me to learn more and be better at what I do. I am truly, sincerely, genuinely touched by the amount of time and energy you spend thinking and talking about me. You're one of the reasons I keep going. Thanks for keeping me grounded.To my amazing husband, thank you for being the best.I knew you were the one from when you told me you read my blog to get to know me more. 😅Marriage may be a roller coaster ride, but I'm beyond grateful you're the one I'm riding this crazy life with. I couldn't ask for a better partner. You never made me doubt or second-guess our marriage. I sleep better knowing that you always have my back. Thank you for showing me how to be unequivocally loved, accepted, appreciated, and celebrated by simply being myself.To myself, thank you for not giving up!Don't get weirded out if I address myself here. Because I give myself a pep talk and hype myself up all the time (studies show that it's actually healthy). So, allow me to write this Thanksgiving message:Dear Self,Oh, the battles we've been through the past few years! But look at you still standing. Still fighting. Still finding joy and beauty in your every day.Thank you for being strong and kind and for not losing your humor and sense of wonder. You are magnificent. You got this!Thanksgiving MessageMy life is not perfect, but my heart is filled with gratitude. Who or what are you thankful for the most this year?
For Moms You Don't Have To Celebrate Mother's Day And That's Okay 4:40 PM You Don't Have To Celebrate Mother's Day And That's Okay Mother's Day is a special holiday honoring mothers and mother figures. But not everyone feels comfortable celebrating this day. Maybe you prefer not to celebrate this occasion. Or you're a "mother" who doesn't fit the traditional mold. Know that you don't have to celebrate Mother's Day, and that's okay.You may have had a complicated relationship with your mother or experienced the loss of one. You may not identify as a conventional mother but as a single parent, a non-binary parent, or a same-sex parent. You may be someone who has chosen not to have children or is struggling with infertility.Or maybe you've chosen to be a foster mom or mother of stray animals, providing them with a loving home.Whatever your situation, it's essential to recognize that motherhood comes in many forms, and all should be honored and recognized. Here's a heartwarming video from BBDO Asia featuring unconventional moms and the beautiful love they share with their kids. Prepare some tissues. You don't have to celebrate Mother's Day, and that's okay.Mother's Day should be a day of inclusivity and empowerment, not exclusion.If you don't like celebrating Mother's Day, know you are not alone. Your feelings are valid. It's okay to acknowledge and honor them. Take this day to focus on self-care and do something that brings you joy. Spend time with loved ones who support you and respect your feelings.If you're an unconventional mother, know that you are still amazing, just as you are. Your unique experiences and perspectives bring diversity and richness to motherhood. So celebrate your journey and the love you give to your children, regardless of how society may define motherhood.Let's celebrate everyone who gives their love unconditionally, regardless of their title or label. Celebrate Mother's Day. Or don't. No pressure. 😉
Books 2022 Reading Challenge With Bookstagram Questions 4:39 PM I read 45 books in 2022. So instead of doing a short review for each book like I did in 2021, I'll answer some questions about the books I completed in my 2022 Reading Challenge with bookstagram questions. First book of the year:Lost Wife's Tale by Marion McGilvaryLast read of the year:Reminders of Him Colleen HooverFavorite book characters:Lady Johanna in Saving Grace by Julie GarwoodChristina Bennet in Lion's Lady by Julie GarwoodJade in Guardian AngelSpenser in Bad Business by Robert B ParkerAva Knight in Tempt Me, Your Grace by Tamara GillRavenna Caulfield in I Adored a Lord by Katharine AsheCampbell Barker in You Dropped a Blonde on Me by Dakota CassidyJason Curtis in Nothing Lasts Forever by Sidney SheldonFavorite author/s?Julia QuinnRobert FulghumRobert B. ParkerGenres you read this year:RomanceYoung AdultRegency Drama Fantasy FictionCrime Mystery Detective ThrillerMemoirSelf-help Christian LiteratureFavorite genre so far:Regency Drama RomanceCrime Mystery Detective ThrillerFavorite romance trope:Different Worlds / BackgroundsBooks that you finish in one day:The Quickie by James PattersonReminders of Him by Colleen HooverNothing Lasts Forever by Sidney SheldonUnputdownable books:The Quickie by James PattersonReminders of Him by Colleen HooverNothing Lasts Forever by Sidney SheldonGlass Sword by Victoria AveyardBooks that made you cry:King's Cage by Victoria AveyardReminders of Him by Colleen HooverBooks that made you laugh:Bad Business by Robert B ParkerAll I Really Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Robert FulghumBooks that upset you:The Quickie by James PattersonNothing Lasts Forever by Sidney SheldonKing's Cage by Victoria AveyardWar Storm by Victoria AveyardBook you think has a frustrating plot or ending:The Blue Bistro by Elin HilderbrandEternity by Jude DeverauxThe Gift by Julie GarwoodBooks with covers you love: Book series you read:The Red Queen Series (complete)Hunger Games (complete)Crown's Spies Series (books 1-3 only)Books with steamy scenes:All Julie Garwood booksAll Julia Quinn booksIf You Give a Girl a Viscount by Kieran KramerBooks that made you want to fall in love again for the first time:A Night Like This by Julia QuinnThe Girl with a Make-Believe Husband by Julia QuinnSaving Grace by Julie GarwoodThe most remarkable book:Reminders of Him by Colleen HooverNothing Lasts Forever by Sidney SheldonEasiest read:Bad Business by Robert B ParkerNovel that took you a long time to finish:Unbecoming by Jenny DownhamThe longest time it took you to finish a book:2 weeksAn author whose work you want to read more of:Robert B ParkerColleen HooverJulia QuinnKate WhiteCheapest book you bought:Robert B Parker ($0.63 second-hand bookstore)Books that disappointed you:War Storm (Victoria Aveyard)The Blue Bistro (Elin Hildenbrand)Books that you will recommend:Bad Business by Robert B ParkerThe Girl with a Make-Believe Husband by Julia QuinnNothing Lasts Forever by Sidney SheldonBooks that you are less likely to recommend:Eternity (Jude Deveraux)Books that made you want to reach out to the author:Lost Wife's TaleBooks that you wish to have an epilogue or sequel:Lost Wife's TaleBook character you want to swap lives with for a day:Lady Johanna (Saving Grace)Princess Christina (The Lion's Lady)Book character you hated:Lorna on Foursome by Jane FallonBook character you wish you were friends with:Paige Turner (Nothing Lasts Forever)Ravenna Caulfield (I Adored a Lord)Princess Christina (The Lion's Lady)Jade (Guardian Angel)Book boyfriend/husband:Ledger Ward (Reminders of Him)Daniel Smythe-Smith (A Night Like This)Major Edward Rokesby (The Girl with a Make-Believe Husband)Laird Gabriel McBain (Saving Grace)Campbell Barker (You Dropped a Blonde on Me) Book setting you wish you could see in real life:Julie Garwood's in the Scottish HighlandsThe Blue Bistro The Christmas Village in How the Grump Saved Christmas (Claire Kingsley)What book color do you have the most of?Shades of BlueBooks you wish will be made into a movie or series:Julie Garwood's and Julia Quinn'sAppointment with Death by Agatha ChristieHow do you rate your books?I base the rating on entertainment or emotions, storytelling, readability, and plot. Emotions. I laughed, cried, got confused, got upset and frustrated, got scared, got angry, and got giddy. I felt all the emotions the author wanted me to feel. Or if it made me feel better after closing the book.Storytelling. I like stories that are easy to read. Or storytelling style makes me feel like I'm talking to someone sharing a fascinating story that I can't wait to hear the rest of it.Readability. Is reading it like pulling teeth, or do I find myself breezing through the pages?Plot. What happened to the story? Is there character development? Did it surprise me or keep me guessing? Did the whole point of the story make sense? Did I learn something from it or at least left thankful I picked up the book? All the Books on My 2022 Reading Challenge⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐All I Really Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarten Appointment with Death Saving GraceSlow BurnThe BrideBad BusinessLethally BlondeGuardian AngelThe Lion's LadyThe Glass SwordHeartbreakerThe QuickieRattled!Heaven Changes EverythingThe SecretA Night Like ThisNothing Lasts ForeverCatching FireThe Girl with a Made-Believe HusbandHow the Grump Saved Christmas ⭐⭐⭐⭐FoursomeShoe Addicts AnonymousThe WeddingThe Debutant DivorceeAnna and the French KissYou Dropped a Blonde on MeKilljoyI Adored a Lord Ali's Pretty Little LiesMockingjayTempt Me Your Grace ⭐⭐⭐A Lost Wife's TaleIf You Give a Girl a ViscountWar Storm Honor's SplendorUnbecoming⭐-⭐⭐Mr. & Miss AnonymousThe Blue BistroThe GiftEternityWant to earn a commission by promoting books online? Be my sub-affiliate on Blackwell's.This post contains affiliate links, so I'd get a commission if you purchase through my links at no additional cost to you. This helps me maintain my site. 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