Sunday Surprise — Lorelei’s Life December Wrap-up part 2 – AND A CONTEST!!!

January 3, 2021

!!!!!HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Yeah, I know it’s Sunday Surprise instead of Saturday, but I have an excuse for not getting my work done yesterday: We’re in Denver with this little cutie 🙂

Last week I shared the things I’d cooked throughout the month. One thing I forgot to share was this pic of marzipan. This recipe (coconut, sweetened condensed milk and Jello powder) is from my aunt and I love it, probably because it doesn’t taste like traditional marzipan.

SO I AM 100% AN AUDIOBOOK CONVERT!!! 

Listening to books allowed me to work on my Christmas gift crafts (none of which I can share this month because one hasn’t reached the recipient yet and the others are about done!) And it’ll give you an idea of just how large the craft projects were when I tell you that I listened to SIXTEEN audiobooks in December. Yes, one of them was short, but a couple of them were 23+ hours long.

I also decided to share where I’ve gotten the audiobooks — whether I’ve used an audible credit, purchased the audiobook, or listened to it from the audible plus catalog. Hey, we’re all on a budget, right? Also, I tried to capture the images so the narrators are listed ..So here goes:

AUDIOBOOKS I LISTENED TO IN DECEMBER

 

The Worst Best Man, by Lucy Score — purchased at Audible — I loved the last book I listened to by this author, so I bought this one. It is sort of a love/hate thing between the maid of honor and best man at a destination wedding. It had some funny parts and I’ll definitely keep this author on my to-buy list.

Snow Day, by Julie Lipson–included in Audible plus — A meet-cute story with all the sound effects and various voices of a full blown audio production. The story was super short but it had some depth. Definitely worth the listen.

Truth or Beard, by Penny Reid — included in Audible Plus — The narration on this was great, Joy Nash did a great southern accent. Since this isn’t a new series, I’m sure a lot of people have read it, but it was new to me. On the fence whether I’ll continue with the series, mostly because I’m trying NOT to listen to the same narrators in a row, or binge listen to a series because I want the variety in this brave new world of audiobooks I’ve stumbled upon, if that makes sense…

Tales of the Otherworld, Kelley Armstrong — included in Audible Plus — I’d forgotten how much I ADORE Kelley Armstrong’s writing, and I loved getting a sneak peek into the backstory of some of the stories. I love a good novella/short story and this author delivers every time. I liked the narrators too (MUCH better than the guy they’d chosen to play Clay in the TV show, you all know what I mean)

Next Year in Havana, by Chanel Cleeton — included in Audible Plus — an absolute MASTERPIECE of a story. Holy crap, it had Cuban history and family lies, and star-crossed lovers, and a new love story and modern day struggles in Cuba, and just….Everything. Do yourself a favor and listen to this or read it! Highest recommendation of the month from me!

Dangerously, M. Never, purchased at Audible, — the story was great, but the real pull of this for me was the dual narration: not the female narrator reading both male and female parts in the female POV, then the next chapter the male narrator read both parts from the male POV, but a true dual narration. It was fantastic and hearing Jacob Morgan (Zachary Webber) doing an Irish accent? TOTAL SWOON.

A Court of Wings and Ruin, by Sarah J Maas, purchased on sale at Audible — I LOVE this series, I’ve read it multiple times and wanted to see if it was a different experience listening than reading. Yes, I still love this book the most out of the four in this series.

A Court of Mist and Fury, by Sarah J Maas — Audible purchase on sale — this was the only exception I made for listening to back-to-back books because the narrator changed for book 3. I liked Jennifer Ikeda’s narration better to be honest and it’ll be interesting to hear book 4, which is on my wish list 🙂 as I prep for Nesta’s book releasing in February!

The Savior, JR Ward, bought during Audible sale — LOVED this one. Of course Jim Frangione is an all-star narrator and he did a great job even with the sexy times 🙂

The Lady and the Highwayman, by Sarah M Eden — included in Audible Plus — the premise intrigued me: a school mistress having huge success as a penny page pulp fiction writer in the 1800’s, and meeting the male writer who was trying to uncover the identity of the author behind the pseudonym. Probably geared more toward those who like sweeter books, but it did go back and forth between POVs as well as the different stories they were each writing.

The A.I. Who Loved Me, by Alyssa Cole — Audible sale purchase — cute story, a short listen I needed after 23 hours for the Sarah J Maas book. Narration was great in this one.

The Unwilling, by Kelly Braffet — Chirp audiobook purchase — YA Fantasy about a girl’s health tied to that of a future king and them trying to figure out a way to break the curse. I liked it, but it was a little long even when I sped it up.

 

See Also Murder, by Larry D Sweazy — Chirp audiobook purchase — I got this one for 3 reasons:

1) it was .99

2) it was set in North Dakota

3) it was narrated by a full cast

I skipped a good chunk of it because it was boring, to be honest. The full dramatization actually annoyed me.

The Memory Painter, by Gwendolyn Womack — Chirp audiobook purchase — this one was kind of weird, it’s about past lives and soul mates and reconnection as a science-based result. I did like the story because it was unlike anything I’d expected.

Writers & Lovers, by Lily King — Chirp audiobook purchase — UGH. This book is a literary darling and has been on the “best of 2020” lists. The main whiny-assed character is a writer…who is paralyzed by the idea of writing and finishing anything. So she is broke, waiting tables and absolutely miserable. This book pissed me off from a professional standpoint because writing is an art, but as an author, you don’t fucking WHINE about it instead of putting your ass in the damn chair and writing. Seriously annoyed by this portrayal of “serious” writers. Genre writers don’t even get a damn mention. HARD FUCKING PASS on this one unless you want to be depressed and angry.

Boyfriend Material, by Alexis Hall — Chirp audiobook purchase — I read this book and reviewed it on the blog last summer. This was on sale and I’d heard the narrator was great so I bought it. To be honest, I enjoyed this narrated edition much more than when I’d read the book previously.

BOOKS I READ

I mostly read at night after I’d put the crafts away.

The Midnight Library, by Matt Haig — I started reading this book the end of OCTOBER so it obviously took me a very long time to get through it, which is super unusual for me. It honestly was a little depressing, the ending was predictable and I’m glad I got it on sale because it’s like $10.99 for the digital version.

A Warm Heart in Winter, JR Ward — LOVE Qhuinn and Blay, loved everything about this story. A MUST READ for Black Dagger Fans. HIGHLY recommended.

MOVIES I WATCHED

I can’t do 3 things at once, so I ended up listening to way more books than indulging in other types of entertainment, so a pretty slim month for movies.

WW84 — HBO Max — I HATED IT. Pedro Pascal’s character had more screen time than Wonder Woman. The story about wishes was stupid and the end was ridiculous. Gal Gadot deserved better than this piece of crap. SKIP IT

Rebecca — Netflix — One of the few times you’ll ever hear me say the movie was better than the book. In this case, they got the HEA and a few more things were explained. Still kinda meh about it, though. Mr. James fell asleep within like 5 minutes…

Klaus — Netflix — LOVED THIS!!! New mythology always makes me happy and this one hit all the right notes. Watch it if you get a chance!

Bee Gees Documentary — HBO — Growing up, I loved the Bee Gees and it was a fantastic look at how easily it is easy to get (mis) labeled, and then when that “it” moment is over for an artist, in this case disco, the backlash ruins or ends a career. This really struck home for me because I’ve been labeled a “cowboy/western author” so new-to-me readers don’t give me a chance because they think ALL I WRITE IS WESTERNS, the same as everyone thought the Bee Gees were just disco. Very thought provoking, but it could just have struck me because the career similarities are there…

TV SERIES I WATCHED

Bridgerton — Netflix — 8 episodes — I ABSOLUTELY ADORED THIS SO MUCH!!! I cannot wait to watch it again, and I think the man who plays the Duke might be the hottest man on the planet. Seriously. Fantastic storytelling. And I have to be honest, I’m THRILLED that all of Julia Quinn’s books are in the top 100 on Amazon right now. She’s been writing for a very long time, has a huge fan base and I love that so many people are discovering the beauty of romance!!!

The Mandolorian — Disney Plus — this is my popcorn type of show, meaning I enjoy it while I’m watching it, but then I am hard pressed to remember specifics from the previous season. The best episode (besides the last one!) was the episode with Timothy Olyphant playing a sheriff. Swoon.

ONE THING I CRAFTED THAT I CAN SHARE

Kind of a crappy picture but I wanted to show scale with the chalk. Here’s a close up.

I crafted these beaded/cross stitched ornaments for my daughters. The bigger instrument is the viola since D2 played the viola not the violin like D1 and D3 — each ornament took me 16 hours, so again, that’s why I got a lot of audiobook listening time in!

That’s it for me for the month of December. It went by pretty fast, as all holiday months do. Only our youngest and her husband came home, but since I hadn’t seen her since July, I was thrilled to get a few days with her 💗💗💗

What was your favorite part of December?

CONTEST INFO: leave a comment and you’ll be entered to win an Audible gift card! And if you’re picked as a winner, and you’re not an audiobook fan, I’ll gift you something else 🙂

Thanks for coming to the blog! And I’ve got fun stuff coming for all of you in 2021!!

XOXOXO

L~

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183 Comments:


  1. Linda McCoy said:

    Happy New Year’s. I’ve never tried audibles guess it time.


    1. Sonya said:

      I love audio books. Now that my eye sight isn’t as good as it used to be, I love them anymore. I think I have all of your books on audio now.


    2. Joanna Hancock said:

      I love audio books. It’s a great listen while taking a walk.


  2. Elena Simmons said:

    Spending Christmas with my parents and my kids. Normally we drive 18 hrs every other year to spend Christmas with my parents this past year we move back closer to my parents so now we can spend Christmas with them every year which is important cause my mom has Alzheimer’s and trying to cherish every moment with her.


  3. Joy Jenner said:

    The weather was great and I was able to spend time with family and friends.


  4. Deana Potter said:

    I’m an audiobook junkies. Great for crafting and reading.


    1. Jenny Black said:

      Happy New Years!
      I listen to audiobooks usually when working out at the gym (not an option at the moment) or walking the dog. I haven’t listened much for awhile.
      I made a new friend shortly before Thanksgiving, and so far so good. She hasn’t ghosted me yet or anything.
      We even started walking our dogs together on the beach.


  5. Sherry HALCOMB said:

    Agree totally about WW84. Terrible.
    Started out promising., buy within 30 minutes i was struggling. But my boys, ages 14 and 18 loved it. Go figure.


    1. kc said:

      teenage boys & Gal Godot in that costume, kicking a**. Kind of a natural on that one, I’m afraid. Sorry to hear it’s not good but I’m not paying HBOMax to watch it anyway. I’ll wait for it to be come more available, esp. with these reviews!


  6. Mary Clarkson said:

    I love Penny Reid! I’ve read or listened to almost all of the books in Bearded series. “Beard Science” is my favorite.


  7. Lois said:

    So I’m glad you loved the book by Lucy Score, I added her to my automatic buy list (as are yours, no matter the genre) awhile back. Pippa Grant is also fun.


  8. Deana Potter said:

    Audiobook junkie right here. Sometimes it the only way I can get reading in my day. A happy new year to you


  9. Dar said:

    I love your monthly wrap ups and your thoughts on books and movies


  10. Julie Mayer said:

    I highly recommend finishing Penny Reid’s Winston series! Beauty and the Mustache and Beard Science are some of my all time faves! Also, I agree that Bridgerton was FABULOUS! Thanks for the chance!


  11. Alina P said:

    Oh wow! I can’t wait to see what you worked on, the craft projects I mean. The audiobooks seem fun
    Also, I LOVED Bridgerton and I watched it 3 times already LOL Once with my sister, once alone, and I just finished it again with my mom a few hours ago. Rage is OUT OF THIS WORLD! I have no idea where they found these great actors and actresses, they were so good! I can’t wait for season 2 now 😀


  12. Amanda R said:

    I love that you share what books, moves and tv show you watch. Thank you


  13. AnnaMarie Melchiorre said:

    Thank you for sharing your favorites. I love when we both agree. My favorite part of December was my Christmas dinner with my family. We decided to wait for the warmest day of the week between Christmas and New Year and we set up 3 separate tables in my daughters back yard. We ate, we opened gifts and we shared our memories from Christmas past. I loved it.


  14. Pamela said:

    I loved all the books!! So many good ones! I can’t wait to watch The Bee Gees. Totally my timing. Have a fantastic January and looking forward to the Cowboy Bites!


  15. Pamela Gomes said:

    Besides watching our grandson hit 3 months on the 21st, I enjoyed taking some time off work, learning to make hot cocoa bombs, and having a small Christmas dinner at our house (usually we’re guests at other homes). I, too, have discovered the joy of audio books at home – I’ve been fan for the car commute – since my craft work space is in a room that is not visible to the television. Keep those stories coming!


  16. Stacy Baglio said:

    I tried an audiobook once & didn’t care for it. Maybe I’ll give it another try.


  17. bn100 said:

    cute crafts


    1. Maria said:

      I see everybody reading the Midnight Library and wasn’t hooked with an excerpt. Now I might just wait until the library has it. 😂
      Will look into your other recommandations. You sure listened to a lot. 😱
      Happy New Year!


      1. Sarah Amos said:

        My favorite part of this December was when my son and 5 year old grandson came to live with us,💖
        I also a big Audible fan and love audio books. 😊


  18. Aime Browder said:

    Love love loved Bridgerton!!! I can not wait for season 2! Thanks for the chance!!


  19. Aime said:

    Love love loved Bridgerton!!! I can not wait for season 2! Waiting patiently (kind of) on Cowboy Bites!!
    Thanks for the chance!!


  20. Jeanine Lesperance said:

    I am watching Bridgerton today. I like it very much. I love that you have become an audible convert. I love my audio books very much. It started with commuting, but since not much commuting gets done these days of working from home, I enjoy listening most of the time.


  21. B.J. Dworkin said:

    So much fun hearing what books are read/listened by my favorite authors. I haven’t gotten into t.v. series. Any free time is primarily for reading. 🎉CONGRATULATIONS on the little sweetie, adorable!


  22. Nicole said:

    I love audio books. When I drove into the city to work, I’d listen to them rather than the radio. Try Beyond the Highland Mist by Karen Marie Moning, narrated by Phil Gigante. The series is great and Phil’s voice? Swoon! I’d listen to almost anything he recorded (or at least give the author a try). Eva Kaminsky is another fabulous narrator. She is the voice for Bella Andre’s Sullivan series.


  23. Michelle Holden said:

    Happy New Year!

    I have never tried an audio book, I might have to look into this. However I did just buy a couple of the books you recommended and set my DVR up to record the Bee Gees show 😀

    It’s been a stressful couple of weeks having to adjust to working from home.

    Enjoy your time with your grand baby 😀


  24. Hope Hix said:

    Good to hear you are still working on a few holiday crafts. I still need to finish the Christmas cards!


  25. Diane Amato said:

    I wish I was crafty but I am not. I’ve always wanted to learn how to knit or crochet but never did. I guess for now I will stick with baking.


  26. Mary Preston said:

    KLAUS was amazing and I have BRIDGERTON on my list.


  27. Teri said:

    I love hearing about the books you read. I end up putting many of them on my To Read list! Thanks you!


  28. Kristie Galindo said:

    December was quiet for us…thank goodness. We are late to the game but we have been binge watching Schitt’s Creek and loving it. I love audiobooks for my daily walks. Thank you for the Chance and Happy New Year! Xoxo


    1. Tashia Jennings said:

      Happy New Year! Love audible! Thank you for this wonderful chance.


  29. Melissa Braden said:

    I love audiobooks! I’m happy you are enjoying them. I really enjoyed our Christmas even though it was different than normal. I was able to binge-watch Bridgerton and loved it. I normally would never have the time around the holidays to do something like that.


  30. Ginger said:

    I have said nothing about WW84 because I loved the first movie. Thank God…you said it first. It was awful. I fell asleep. Just bad.
    Happy New Year! G


  31. Nancy Jones said:

    I love listening to audiobooks especially when I am driving.
    Love the crafts.


  32. Elizabeth said:

    I’m so glad audiobooks worked for you! I absolutely love them.

    I never saw the first Wonder Woman movie, so that’s the one I’ve rented. Mandalorian is on my watch list, too! I’m on my second time through Bridgeton, it’s so much fun.

    But I mostly read ebooks or listen to them, rather than watch anything on a screen. You make a good point, the narrators make or break every single audiobook. If the narrator is good, I often end up getting both the kindle and Audible. I love being able to switch back and forth.


  33. Victoria K said:

    My favorite part of December was the holidays because I was off from work. It was sad not to see my family but at least I had a break with the kids.


  34. joanna biggs said:

    The beginning lol. My hubs got covid two weeks in and I caught it from him so we have been quarantined for the second half and we will be through a lot of January. But we didn’t have horrible cases and we have each other


  35. Lynne Lee said:

    I love your crafts. Thank you for sharing.


  36. Jenna said:

    Love your crafty side!


  37. Barb Kiser said:

    I’m not a fan of audible. Happy New Year


  38. Debbie said:

    I too love audio books, I tend to buy the BDB books on kindle and audio for double the enjoyment.
    Merry christmas and a prosperous new year to you and your family xx


  39. Beth Cotter said:

    Having 4 whole days off of work. We have been working so much more helping those that needed extra food during this time.


  40. Nancy said:

    Happy New Year…looks like you had a fun little partner!!


  41. Dawn said:

    Happy New Year. I will admit, I have never tried marzipan.


  42. Danielle said:

    i have never read and audiobook but i did save some of these authors thank you


  43. Melissa S Foremny said:

    Always looking for recommendations! Thanks for this list!


  44. Norrie said:

    I’ve been a fan of audiobooks for years! They’re great on a long commute or drive, and I’m partial to comedy or romance because I don’t mind laughing or swooning a bit, but prefer not sobbing, on public transportation (not that that’s an issue during the pandemic). Lately, audiobooks keep me entertained when I’m outside taking a walk and are good motivation to keep going if it means being able to listen to another chapter!

    BTW . . . Not sure I can even count how many of YOUR books I’ve listened to!


  45. Carrie said:

    Happy New Year! I hope this year brings you health, wealth, peace, love, and joy (not necessarily in that order!)


  46. Kim Chase said:

    Happy New Year!


  47. Tessie Tavares said:

    Happy new years!! Im not a fan of audible though I’ve tried it a few times.


  48. Theresa Karr said:

    I have been curious about audible books but I don’t like it when it’s only the female narrating. Hope you and your family have a safe and happy new year.


  49. Joy said:

    My favorite time in December was sitting on the porch watching my Christmas lights and spending time with the family.


  50. Caryn Bravos said:

    I LOVE audiobooks! Like you I craft while listening, quilting and hand sewing mostly. I can even read simple sewing directions while listening. I find that I sew for longer periods of time just to advance the story I’m listening to. I discovered you as an author from your Lund Family series (I live in MN). I love them, I Want You Back is my favorite, so heartfelt and real. Thank you for many hours of enjoyment


  51. Wendy Stewart said:

    My daughter felt the same way you did about Wonder Woman. She was very disappointed. I haven’t had a chance to watch Bridgerton or Rebecca yet, they are on my to do list. I had hoped to do that while on winter break from my second graders. I am hoping for a happy new year in 2021. I am also looking forward to your new releases especially Cowboy Bites. I am ready for some McKays and new receipes.


  52. Cassie said:

    I haven’t given audiobooks a chance but I might have to.


  53. Janice Dodgson said:

    Lorelei
    Thank you for sharing — your favorite books, TV shows, your crafts, goodies and of course the picture of that little cutie. So adorable,!

    I’ve just watched espisode 2 of the Bridgerton’s and I agree, that Duke has got to be the hottest man alive.

    I have tons of books, in print and on kindle, (probably even too many.) But I still go back and read your books over and over again, they’re just so good, and so well written. You’re definitely one of my favorite authors. I’m reading and loving Hillybilly Rockstar for the second time, and I might even read it again, maybe in another year or two, it’s just such a wonderful book.

    Best of the Season
    And lets hope 2021 will be way better than the year we’d all rather forget.

    Janice


  54. Nancy Brown said:

    I can’t wait to read some of the books you recommended! They look so good!


  55. Lisa Rounsley said:

    I love the music and decorations and the spirit of season!!


  56. Stephanie Erickson said:

    Loved you monthly/end of year wrap up. Thank you. Happy New Year to you and yours.


  57. Debra said:

    Love your posts. Makes my day


  58. Sherry said:

    Happy New Year!! I love audio books.


  59. Anne said:

    I love that we get 7 full working days off for the holidays. This has only been for the last 3-4 years (been there 19). I saw WW 1984 too. Our theaters are closed, so I’m glad I didn’t pay to see it (HBO Max). I didn’t hate it as much as you did, but I have no need to ever see it again.


  60. Mary L said:

    Love the wrap up! I wish I could do audible a lot, but with my hearing comprehension so bad, its not the easiest for me.


  61. Sarah C said:

    How lucky were you to spend time with a beautiful young one! Spent the Christmas holiday working a lot, and then used New Year’s to recover. I did get to make a great chicken soup from scratch, and hope to make more soup in the coming months. Love split pea soup! Will also be looking into your book recommendations! Love Lucy Score’s writing, so was happy to see you liked her work too. Happy New Year!


  62. Jennifer O'Connell said:

    So many audiobooks! I agree with your comment about WW84, I was not impressed. Happy New Year!


  63. Heather said:

    I haven’t personally tried audibles before (my kids have used it for books that they have had difficulty reading for class)…but many of my friends have suggested giving them a try.


  64. Judy Jacobson said:

    I love audio books! I’m never in the car without one. I get mine from the library or via the Libby app through Overdrive because I’m too cheap to pay for them and what if I don’t like it or the narrator then I’ve wasted my money. That’s happened before…too nasal or slow is so annoying! I’ve listened to your audio books also! Happy New Year to you and yours!


  65. Heidi Reynolds said:

    Really enjoyed your comments about different books and authors. Always liking for something new.


  66. Kathleen Bylsma said:

    NOT an audible person at all….primarily because my authors create the voices in my mind’s ear….I’m stunned people only know you for your Webster’s…I met you first in your romantic
    Love the crosstitch….couldn’t do that to save my soul!


  67. Andrea said:

    I love sitting watching the lights in the dark before anyone is awake . It is a white light bulbs but I adore any colour at Christmas. But the quiet and peaceful beauty gives your soul a much needed hug 🤗


  68. Mary C said:

    Connecting with family via Zoom


  69. LORENA KEECH said:

    Ordinarily, I love December for the chance to get together with friends and family. This year, I tried to remember that staying away from them was the best gift we could give them.


  70. Karen said:

    Happy New Year. Have a great time. Have not tried audible but want to try.


  71. Amanda Trim said:

    My favorite part of December is spending time with family and getting to gift others. Christmas is my favorite holiday because i like to buy for others. I have never tried audios. I think it is time, lol.


  72. Cassie Bullard said:

    I started to new job in December, after six months of being out of work. I’m loving this job and I’m starting to enjoy working from home.


  73. Michele said:

    I’m a fan of audiobooks & always have a hard time picking what to use my Audible credits on but the JR Ward BDB books are a must for me and I agree that Jim Frangione is a rock star!


  74. Laura DeSimone said:

    Happy New Year. I listen to audio books while driving, it make the time go by faster.


  75. Patrícia Simões said:

    I loveeeee the Bridgertons books and I’m love with the tv show. It’s a pity that it’s sooo short!! But absolutely love it!!
    And being a Brazilian it’s hard for me only to listen to the audiobooks (I read simultaneously while I listen to it), so for me it’s not an option yet but maybe I start to listen to it more this year, who knows…


  76. Tara S said:

    Love audible! It’s great for my commute and fiber crafting. I usually listen while hubs is playing xbox online.


  77. Judy Cohen said:

    My favorite part of December was New Year’s Eve. I hope everyone has a better 2021.


  78. Joy Avery said:

    Whenever I can afford to buy them, I am quickly falling in love. Thank you for the chance!


  79. Melinda Hennies said:

    Wow..that is alot of audio books..I am gonna start Bridgeton as I just binged Virgin River..OMG..LOVED
    That grand daughter is too damn cute!!
    Here’s to 2021!
    Cheers!


  80. Christine W said:

    I love audiobooks! I listed to a whopping 649 hours in 2020! So much crafting, excel spreadsheets, cleaning, folded laundry, and yard work happened as a result lol. Happy New Year!

    Also, I highly recommend the Girl with the Louding Voice narrated by Adjoa Andoh (Lady Danbury from the Bridgertons!)


  81. Jenn said:

    I love audiobooks! I mostly listen while driving, I don’t even listen to the radio anymore!


  82. Jennifer Flores said:

    The best part of December was finally getting to spend time with my whole family. Because of covid we canceled all the holidays and birthdays and anniversary celebrations. We were finally able to pend quality for together.


  83. Juli Hall said:

    The best part of December for me was I got to quit my job so I can watch my 2 year old great nephew for my niece. He’s such a cutie and I love watching him


  84. Pam Pettigrew Whorwell said:

    Loved the blog post! Especially loved your pictures of the ornaments! They are beautiful! I would love to try something like that next year. Are they very hard to make I’ve not done that type of craft before.


  85. Shirley Dawkins said:

    Never had audiobooks, but I love all of your books!


  86. Michelle said:

    I’m not a fan of audio I like to read the words 🥰I love all your books especially the Rough Riders 😁


  87. Jayme Maresh said:

    Enjoy your time in Colorado.


  88. Kathy said:

    I listen to audiobooks daily – have loved listening to several of your Rough Riders series.


  89. Karriane said:

    I also love listening to audiobooks while crafting. It is a great way to get my reading fix while still being able to enjoy working with my hands. Thanks for sharing.


  90. Jessica Katz said:

    Bridgerton was everything!! And the books are even more amazing. I wouldn’t mind seeing some McKays on the big or small screen! That would be a wish come true!


  91. Christy Godfrey said:

    I loved Klaus, as well! It was an interesting spin on the origins of Santa.


  92. Evelyn Hudson said:

    I don’t mind audio books, but I’d absolutely LOVE an Amazon gift card IF I were to win(please and thank you). Happy New Year to you and yours! Here’s to 2021 being better than last year.


  93. Lisa Kendall said:

    Thank you for the reviews. I loved reading The Worst Best Man because Frankie! So maybe I should try to listen. Happy New Year


  94. Lisa Rice said:

    I enjoy reading your blogs. I now have some books to read and tv series to watch. I love audibles too as I listen to books while working and as I cook etc. But I still like having my favorites in book form so I can always read them, especially when electricity is out. My next crafts for this year are wanting to make the old time stockings like my Grandma made us and I want to make a quilt out of some of my parents clothing and then another out of some vintage linens I have collected. Keep writing, love your books!


  95. Maha A. said:

    Not an audiobook fan! Sorry for that. I can’t mark the audio if I want, I can’t reread a sentence or a paragraph that I didn’t get then right the 1st time. It might be because English is a second language to me so audio will remain always a challenge.


  96. Lenna Hendershott said:

    I’m not an audio book fan because I have to see words to have any hope of remembering them… So if I win it’s gift card time ;-). I’ve been reading A LOT to keep sane during this lock down and husband is the only one healthy enough to go out to get groceries. We just signed up to NetFlix with our daughter and have been binging Lucifer and The Magicians (that’s a really weird show). I’m waiting a bit before we start Bridgertons when I can focus on it better.


  97. Jennifer Sweitzer said:

    Happy New Year!! I love audible use it on long car rides!!!


  98. Janet Rodman said:

    I agree with you about WW84. The best part was during the credits when they showed Linda Carter.


  99. Shelly Wegand said:

    Enjoy your family time. I have not gotten any audibles yet. At the time I looked they seemed a little pricey. Might have to look at them again would live to read while I walk or working out


    1. Karen Lauterwasser said:

      I do most of my audiobook listening via borrowing digital download of books from the local library. I don’t feel a need to own most audiobooks, so this works fir me. Just an idea you might want to look into.


  100. Nanjit said:

    Happy new year. I love all your book’s. I’m not a huge fan of Audible book’s as I tend to switch off when I’m listening to someone else read!


  101. Betty Lou said:

    Not an audiobook fan. For me, others read too slow and I find I can’t focus on a project with a book in the background; I either miss part of the book or make mistakes on the project.
    I appreciate your reviews and look forward to more
    Happy New Year 🥳


  102. Patricia Lyn Beard said:

    So happy you have shared what books you listen to, I am always ready to try a new audible book ! I’m also a huge fan of dual narration !!


  103. Haly said:

    Holy cow! Those ornaments are gorgeous. I have homemade ornaments from my great grandmother and they’re my favorite every year. I tell my husband stories of her when I come across them during decorating. It’s wonderful to share them with him as she was gone nearly 10 years before we started dating. It’s become one of my favorite traditions 🤍


  104. Tracy MacLeod said:

    Not a fan of audio books but I would love anything else you would like to share. Happy New Year!


  105. Dolores Wilson said:

    Hi sweet lady. This is your long lost friend Dolores from Jacksonville. The baby is adorable. Loved your book list you listened to. I want to listen to the Lady and the Highwayman. I LOVED Bridgerton. Of course, I love all of Julie’s books. Hope you are all doing well. I’ve been out of writing for health reason for several years now but am sending the final edits to my editor for the sequel to Flight to Freedom. It is called Broken Hope and should be out possibly by summer. Love to you all.


  106. Chelle said:

    I love your audible books. I had never listened to a book until I was in a accident and received a brain injury. And I am so thankful for your audible books. I do try to listen to them all at once (hints memory problems) I’m also enjoying your blog….


  107. Ali G said:

    I am already one my second rewatch of Bridgerton. The Duke is 🔥!


  108. Sandra Marlow said:

    Happy New Year, Lorelei!

    I’m a huge audiobook fan. A big country music fan – all of my stations in the car used to be tuned to all local ones I could find, but for years now I’ve been listening to audiobooks in the car and have no idea what’s going on in country music anymore! LOL

    Thanks so much for the giveaway.

    Sandy M


  109. Marianne B Westrich said:

    Happy New Year! During this pandemic, I’ve become a huge audiobook fan. It allows me to escape and enjoy “reading”, while still accomplishing the things that are so necessary. Thanks for your recap. There were several “new to me” authors that I will now give a try!


  110. Bookerina said:

    I loved just getting to hang with my family!


  111. Kaitlyn said:

    Happy New Year! I’ve read many, MANY of your books (more than once) throughout the year and I will continue doing so in 2021!!


  112. Latifa Morrisette said:

    The best part of December was watching all the Christmas movies and of course the food.


  113. Kelly McEntaffer said:

    Just discovered audiobooks last year and listen when I road trip from Kansas to Washington to see D1 or throughout the Midwest for cheer competitions with D2. I’ve been reading the old original Harlequin Temptations again, my oldest daughter has been hunting them down for me. They were the first romance books I started reading back in middle school. I would “borrow “ my moms books after she read them and looked forward to that brown box coming in the mail every month knowing 4 new books were inside. Good memories and seeing how what’s acceptable to describe female/male parts and sex is hilarious. So different now, almost anything is in print now.
    I have no patience for crafts, I wish I did, but have so many ideas. I just don’t have a crafty bone in my body yet. Maybe when D2 goes to college, only two more years.


  114. Jennifer Beyer said:

    I have figured out that I don’t need to ever turn on my TV unless I’m watching something with my family (which is rare since we’re so busy). It makes what we watch more special since it’s an event to make it happen! I’m looking forward to reading A Warm Heart In Winter. They are two of my favorite characters in that series. I don’t really listen to audiobooks. I used to have my Kindle read to me but it’s not a convenient feature on my “new” Kindle so I mostly read when I have a few quiet minutes.


  115. Karen Lauterwasser said:

    Hi! I am a big audiobook fan. I listened a lot at work (stocking shelves overnight at Target). I just retired last week so I’m not sure how I’ll get my listening in now.

    Love the ornaments. Pleased to hear that you have a violist in the family, since that is what I play myself.

    Thank you for sharing your wonderful writing – hope you have a great New Year!

    p.s. When I feel an audiobook is slogging along, I will raise the playing speed a bit. Usually just to 1.25X; the narration still sounds alright, and it gets things moving. If that doesn’t do it, then I will move on to another book.


  116. Patricia said:

    I also listen to a lot of audio books. I find it easier for me than actually reading them. I also do lots of crafting, mostly crochet and knitting. I do other crafting stuff but mostly crocheting and knitting at this time. Since I’m still working I mostly listen while commuting to work.


  117. Beverly Laude said:

    I love audiobooks! Makes exercising & housework so much more enjoyable. I love those ornaments btw!


  118. Jen said:

    I love your reviews on both books and movies/shows. Helps me choose what to get (or not-Lol). Happy New Year!


  119. Ann Lopez said:

    The best part of December is the Christmas lights and music. My husband makes his family recipe of Jamaican fruit cake made with ground fruits soaked in overproof rum and port wine for over 6 months. This Christmas was super special because our first grandchild was 6 months old. He enjoyed tearing the paper from his gifts. Happy New Year to you.


  120. Zoua said:

    I love audiobooks! My eyes need a break after being in front of the computer all day! I have some of your books on audio too!


  121. Victoria Jacques said:

    I love audiobooks for the same reasons, can multi-task. I’m also a big fan of Lucy Score’s so that’s cool you stumbled upon her. Audiobooks definitely have brought me to new authors since I have many favorite narrators.
    I also caught that Bee Gees documentary and it was quite eye opening for me. I grew up listening to them, so seeing what they went through was an education!

    That being said I for one can’t wait until you release another story.
    Happy New Year!


  122. Debra Riner Goldberg said:

    This was a very quiet Christmas for us. We are celebrating the holidays with the entire family when our Navy son returns home from Spain in mid-January. As he has been stationed overseas for three years and not been home, we will celebrate Thanksgiving one day, Christmas one day, New Years one day, and all the missed birthdays another. His leave will just be one big celebration! I would love to have your recipe for the think-outside-the-box marzipan…I’d love to try it out on my boys. Happy New Year!


  123. Sharon Sommer said:

    I love audio book! I can get things done while listening. Really like your blog.


  124. Serena Kenton said:

    I really enjoyed the time my husband had off, 12/23-1/3. We have 4 girls(22,8,6,&6) and spent all of our time together. We watched movies, played tons of Uno, took walks, just had a wonderful holiday vacation.
    My husband and I watched a bunch of murder/mystery/ thrillers. It was so nice. I’m home with my girls all the time so it was nice to have some adult time.


  125. Caroline said:

    I listen to audio books while quilting. It’s great while you’re doing mindless tasks that still require your eyes! (you know…when it’s hard to watch a TV show) I use hoopla from my library…it’s a great app, and it’s free! They have audio and ebooks, movies, music and TV shows


  126. Krista Barton said:

    I’m not a huge audible fan. I find them convenient yet too expensive so I guess I’m on the something else list lol. Happy New Years and thanks for the chance!


  127. Becky Lovell said:

    I used to listen to audiobooks on my commute but since being out of work since March (stupid covid) I have only been reading. The good news is that without a job I have read A LOT! Hopefully I’ll get a job soon but it will be a bummer to have to actually work again 🙂 Thanks for these suggestions, I’m going to keep this blog handy for future reading/listening!


  128. GB said:

    Since my kids are at college and we agreed as a family that we would not travel to each other this year, December was pretty quiet. It would have been lovely to do all of the normal holiday stuff together. However, with just my hubby and me at home, there were no expectations to meet. That means that we were able to try different recipes from the traditional family standards and our Christmas decorations and displays were more subtle than in the past. We still managed to have fun video chatting together online and were grateful for technology allowing us to do so.


  129. Lisa Spofford said:

    I love audiobooks and often read one a day while I go through my daily tasks. I listen through Scribd which is $8.99/ mo., Hoopla and Libby through my library, and audible escape now plus. I purchase very few with the exception of my monthly credits through Audible.


  130. Maggie said:

    I love listening to audiobooks. A good narrator would make the story more vivid.


  131. Dana said:

    My favorite part of December is putting up the tree and going through all the old ornaments. My husband has traveled for his job for years and we get an ornament from every town/city he works in. Also my boys get a Hallmark ornament every Christmas. It’s so fun to reminisce.


  132. Dawn Baisden said:

    I am right there with you on Bridgerton. Spent all day yesterday binge watching it and adored every minute!!


  133. Racheal Maricle said:

    Hi. I love all books and read 525 last year . I am hoping to read 600 this year. ❤❤


  134. Anne Fortunato said:

    Since my younger daughter and her family had to quarantine due to a possible Covid exposure and they were fine, I got to spend Christmas with them. My grandchildren are 5 and 9 and Christmas morning was a blast.


  135. Amy Perrault said:

    My favourite part of December was my birthday & Christmas with all our families. I even got my great nephew born this December. It was special this year.


  136. Sylvain Perrault said:

    My favourite part of December was no snow with nice weather & spending time with my family. I enjoyed Christmas with both sides of mine & my wife’s family.


  137. Kai Wong said:

    The best part I like about December is the Christmas songs played on the KOST 103.5. We really need the Christmas songs just to get through the COVID restrictions and the statistics of how many are infected and how many deaths.


  138. Sara Ryan said:

    I love audio books. Brings back being read to. I have all my favorites from you on audio as well as print copies.


  139. P Brown said:

    I spent Christmas Eve with 3 friends, laughed a lot and shared a gift exchange. That was my substitute for family since they all live far away. Happy New Year!


  140. Limecello said:

    Happy New Year!! 🎆🎊
    I’d actually forgotten about Rebecca 😅 a promo I saw for it looked good… I read the book a few times in HS. I still wish somewhere/somehow we’d know the main character’s name. (🙄 and yes I know that’s the point of the book as someone always has to say to me, but I wish DDM had written it down/to someone!)
    Those ornaments are so pretty!


  141. flchen1 said:

    That is SO cool, Lorelei! I haven’t gotten into audiobooks much myself, but as I was scrolling your list of listens, I was happily surprised to see my brother’s name as one of the narrators of Alyssa Cole’s selection! Love hearing about your reads and crafting, and that cutie distracting you is a beauty indeed!


  142. Tiss Johnson said:

    Thanks for sharing your month with us. And the picture of the cute granddaughter.
    What I liked about this December was the weather. NO SNOW! Or not much anyway.
    Happy New Year!!! Calving has started. 3 on the ground and first heifer calves tonight.


  143. Sandi Ramirez said:

    Your little one is precious!! Need that recipe please! Glad you had a great holiday. Wished I could hear to use audible or books on tape as I wanted to call them ( showing my age) but late life deaf. So I just read kindle as fast as I can.
    Sandi


  144. Melisha said:

    Honestly December was a horrible month for my family. 7 of us got COVID-19 and 3 of us are still dealing with the recovery of that due to getting pneumonia with it. I spent Christmas in an ambulance being transported from an emergency center to a hospital that had a bed available on their COVID floor. It’s been a scary month and even though I only have 2 days of antibiotics left it feels like the pneumonia is lingering.


  145. Marta Cox said:

    I’m not a huge audible fan although I’ve tried. I do admire the time you put into crafting gifts for your loved ones x


  146. Ash said:

    I agree, Wonder Woman was bad, but I want to give Bridgerton a look and Klaus. Happy New Year!


  147. LeonieT said:

    Spending time with my family over Christmas was the best.


  148. Moran said:

    Next Year in Havana was one of my fav books in 2019! It was sooo good
    I started listening to audiobooks about 6 months ago and I found some great books.
    Happy New Year 🙂


  149. Beverley Kahnt said:

    I have not used audiobooks. I do not have the equipment to listen to them. I would prefer an actual book. Thank you.


  150. Erin Dixon said:

    Lucy Score is awesome I have all her books. I highly recommend all of the. Thanks for the opportunity 📚❤️


  151. Lesley said:

    Totally agree with you on WW84. So boring and stupid. Unlike other superhero movies, no one questions who she is or how she is able to do what she does helping people.


  152. Stacy G said:

    Happy New Year! I spent the weekend knitting and listening to audio books. It’s so convenient. The narrators really are important though. Thanks for the honest opinions of the books. A couple of them I was curious about. Happy crafting!


  153. Debra Guyette said:

    I loved the ornaments. I should try that. I am a big audible fan. Thanks for the chance.


  154. Leesa said:

    The baby is adorable!
    I love all the books I have read of yours.. some multiple times 🤭
    Really missing the Mc Kats in the rough riders legacy series 😢 hopefully soon
    Happy new year 🎉


    1. Leesa said:

      Mc Kays** damn fat thumbs 🤦‍♀️


  155. Londa said:

    I was wondering about the Havana stories, will definitely check out now. I love audiobooks but this year I want to try and read more physical books. But the cheapest way I’ve found was to checkout both audiobooks and books from library. You did so much in December. I got through some books and worked.


  156. Kathleen O'Donnell said:

    So many books and movies… I see a few I must watch on Netflix.. I’m going to start Bridgerton soon.
    Happy New Year.


  157. Vicki Mikel said:

    Beautiful granddaughter! Appreciate your openness in sharing your opinion on books, movies and tv shows, you’ve introduced me to new authors and shows.
    Thank you!


  158. Michelle Doll said:

    Thank for the recommendations… I’m so disappointed in Wonder Woman, I’ve heard nothing but bad things and I was so looking forward to it as I loved the first one. Audio books is my friend during walks, driving home to see the folks and waiting in the pick-up line at school. Love when the voices take you away!


  159. Kim B said:

    Grandkids make the holidays especially when they’re little. I got to see 1 out of 5 and pictures of the newest whose only 7 months and so adorable. I’ve started to use Kindle unlimited and I may try audible now so I can ride by bike since we’ve now have winter weather. I love J.R. Ward dagger series I found them by accident.
    Hope for a New Year filled with family, friends and being able to be out and about.


  160. Becca G said:

    My favorite thing in December was my time off (I’m a teacher) to read and craft a d just relax.


  161. Elisa A said:

    Wow! You had a very productive month!

    I also listen to audiobooks while I’m crafting, cooking, cleaning, working out, driving to and from work (an hour), etc. I got through quite a few in December as well.

    I recently started Ruth Bader Ginsburg – A Life, by Jane Sherron De Hart. I have to say, it is a very interesting telling of her life’s work. But OMG is it dry! She includes a lot of details that I think could have been glossed over. The audiobook is just over 24 hours long. I made it to the 8 hour mark, and had to pause and move onto a fiction to break up the monotony. I’ll get back to it after listening to this chick-lit!


  162. Amy Rickman said:

    I love audiobooks and listen to them almost daily.


  163. Jana Leah said:

    I love audiobooks! I liked that Dec was less hectic than previous years. It allowed me to be able to enjoy more of the season.


  164. Dorothy said:

    Happy New Year! I haven’t had a chance to listen to audiobooks lately.


  165. Alina said:

    “100% an audiobook convert!” 😁😁 That’s what happened to me when I discovered your audiobooks: become a 100% Rebecca Estrella’s voice lover! She’s unbelievable amazing! 💙💙💙
    December’s best part: the one where I had a few days off and was able to watch the first two Harry Potter movies and a Romanian documentary on HBO GO that’s a candidate for Oscar – “Colectiv” by Alexander Nanau.
    Love your books! Love your work! And glad of your talent of writing! 💙😁


  166. Heather said:

    I love audible! My husband and I share it, we even got our kids into it. They are great when on long drives!


  167. Julie Sosebee said:

    I’m a fan of audible books too while I’m sewing or crafting. I have 1 left to listen to, so thanks for the recommendations. There’s a few I’ll go check out.
    Happy New Year!! 🎆


  168. JENNIFER Koon said:

    Christmas Day was my favorite with my family. So much food, fun and laughter. With times being as they are we went around the table saying what we were grateful for and what we felt we took for granted . We made some changes to stop and smell the flowers more..


  169. Cynthia Bishop said:

    I love Audible when I driving or doing house work. Thank you.


  170. Tara McConnachie said:

    I fell in love with audio books in 2015. I was travelling 45+ to work each way. Music quickly became boring. Because the job was so mentally exhausting, I didn’t have the brain capacity to read at night. I was missing books as I was always an avid reader. I have an English/History degree lol. Kind of got used to reading LOTS in university. Audio books SOLVED all my problems. I have listened to well over 700 books since 2015. There were some weeks I was listening to two or three, but then there were other weeks I would have one to get me through. I have listened to them through Audiable, OverDrive (Public Library site) and Scribd. I love Scribd as Audiable Plus isn’t avaiable in Canada yet. Scribd gives me books, magazines, articles, sheet music and audio books all under the monthly fee. With my referral link https://www.scribd.com/gae/7cxxim you’re able to try the app for 60 days FREE. I recommend it to everyone. A lot of my fav authors are not on Scribd – they are Audiable Exclusively. Those books I buy and usually preorder as soon as I know they are coming out.

    How I discovered you Lorelei was through audio books at my Public library. My co-worker who I shared an office with at the time was also a Lorelei, so I had to read anything and everything as it was such a unique name. My co-worker and I discussed many of your books in depth when no one was around lol. Not all (well most, let’s be honest) of the Rough Riders series were safe for work lol. But that’s what I love about it


  171. Jill Jarzemski said:

    Watching my grand daughter’s first Christmas!


  172. Nan D. said:

    I’ve never used audible but I would give it a go. Happy New Year. I’m really glad 2020 is behind us.


  173. shawnyve said:

    I’ve been thinking about getting more into audiobooks to raise my time spent crocheting since I hate sitting there doing nothing.


  174. Karen K Hrdlicka said:

    Those ornaments are awesome. My favorite part of December was getting out of quarantine but then no one wanted to do anything with me because I’d had COVID LOL

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