Hi Reader, For the final time during this campaign, I'm celebrating today's sponsor, a brand that loves a good story by talking about stories that shaped me. Sponsored by: The Story Grid Learn how to write stories readers will love so much, they’ll tell their friends about it. Based on 30+ years experience as a writer and editor. Join the Story Grid email list and we'll immediately send you a free 5-part video series on using our tools to level up your writing. Over the last two weeks, I...
6 days ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, I hope you had a relaxing spring break/holiday weekend, if you were celebrating. We just went to brunch and watched baseball outdoors. The weather has been great in Philly, and spring is in full bloom. Let's catch up with 3 new and exciting bookish things! 1 - A 5-Star Debut, Out Today! Today is a big "pub day" in the book industry, with many buzzy books. The Bright Years is my personal favorite debut novel of the year so far. An epic family saga about the effects of addiction, it...
7 days ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, Today's sponsor is a brand that loves a good story, so that's what we'll be talking about today. Sponsored by: The Story Grid Learn how to write stories readers will love so much, they’ll tell their friends about it. Based on 30+ years experience as a writer and editor. Join the Story Grid email list and we'll immediately send you a free 5-part video series on using our tools to level up your writing. Last week, I shared with you 5 fiction stories that shaped me. It was a...
13 days ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, Did you know that several stores sell merchandise inspired by Beatrix Potter's classic children's book about Peter Rabbit?! Every spring, I swoon over it, especially the dinner table decor! It's cute and festive without feeling over the top. So, heading into Easter week, I rounded the best Peter Rabbit books, candy, and merch up for you from these retailers: Amazon: books and all. the. things. Anthropologie: chocolate bunnies Baby Gap: sweet little clothing Barnes & Noble: extra...
16 days ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, Let's have some literary fun this weekend! Here, I share the top 10 deep thoughts and fun facts I know about the popular 2005 movie adaptation of Pride and Prejudice by none other than Jane Austen. It's the perfect timing. This month celebrates the 20th anniversary of the film. It's available on Netflix, and it's back in theaters on April 20. It also feels like spring, AND it's included in this month's theme for my Rory Gilmore Book Club to read a classic from the Gilmore Girls...
17 days ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, Every book tells a story, but not every story stays with you. Even when you love a book, sometimes the details get fuzzy shortly thereafter. You may even tell someone you loved it but totally forget why. That's why, today, I wanted to celebrate 5 powerful fiction stories that shaped me. Do we have any in common? East of Eden by John Steinbeck: This was my favorite required reading in high school, and when I browse Reddit threads, I repeatedly see it recommended more than any other...
18 days ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, I have an extra SPRAYED EDGE copy of Jennifer Weiner's new book, The Griffin Sisters’ Greatest Hits, out this week, so let’s do a giveaway! This book is set in the early aughts with lots of pop culture references and family drama, so I knew it would be perfect for readers of my Rory Gilmore Book Club to explore further. I especially recommend it to fans of Lane from Gilmore Girls due to the time period, music references, and family dynamics. Enter the Giveaway on Instagram...
20 days ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, It's not often I read a 5-star romance book. My biggest complaint? They're usually too unrealistic. I know many readers crave this escape, but I'm a literal literary gal. So, I'm here to scream from the rooftops that Abby Jimenez's new book, Say You'll Remember Me, is one of the most realistic romance books I've read. Our leading couple, a veterinarian who resembles Rhysand from ACOTAR and a witty social media manager who's coping with her mother's advanced dementia, must manage so...
21 days ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, Have you checked out The Literary Lifestyle's new membership community yet? I recently made a cute sales page for it that I wanted to show you. Want more clarification and details on the "why" behind paid memberships? First, please know that all the content on my 600+ blog posts, regular email newsletters, and 10+ social media platforms is and remains free to readers. I love providing as much free content as possible because it makes books more accessible to readers. This work is...
24 days ago • 2 min read