Books: First Lines Fridays 21st February 2025

First Lines Fridays is a weekly feature for book lovers hosted by Wandering Words. What if instead of judging a book by its cover, its author or its prestige, we judged it by its opening lines? 

• Pick a book off your shelf (it could be your current read or on your TBR) and open to the first page 
• Copy the first few lines, but don’t give anything else about the book away just yet – you need to hook the reader first 
• Finally… reveal the book!

My Pick For This Week

The first lines of the book:

If I had my way, I would stay in bed today. All day. I would’ve left a fresh supply of adult diapers on my nightstand so I wouldn’t even have to get out of bed to pee. Seriously. But even though it’s Friday the thirteenth, the unluckiest of all unlucky days in the history of mankind, I can’t hide out under the covers until the stroke of midnight. I have a job to do.

And the book is...

• 
  
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0B2KY22S1
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ July 8, 2022
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 316 pages
• 
  

Book synopsis for The Little Black Dress by Piper James

Never underestimate the power of a little black dress. Especially one as lucky as mine.

Every time I’ve worn my favorite black dress, something good has happened. I’ve talked my way out of speeding tickets––and into a date with the cute cop––and I’ve found money on the ground, won cool prizes on the Las Vegas strip, and even got a cushy job with an even cushier paycheck.

It’s my lucky dress, and in it, I can’t lose.

Until I did.

Thanks to an enthusiastic bidder at an art auction, the dress failed me when I needed it most. I disappointed my boss and got fired, even though it wasn’t my fault. It was his. The man who writes thirty-five million dollar checks for ugly, ridiculous paintings.

Now, I’m unemployed, broke, and incredibly close to losing the life I’ve built for myself. When I score a job as an assistant to a billionaire casino owner, I’m over-the-moon happy. Hoping there’s still some luck left in my little black dress, I wear it on my first day to meet my new boss…

Jared Hart. Owner and operator of The Black Hart Casino.

And the insufferable, grumpy, gorgeous jerk who got me fired in the first place.

I want to tell him to take his job and shove it, but I need the money. Plus, being his assistant might give me an opportunity to exact a little payback.

Game on, sir.

Oh, and I’m setting that dress on fire the first chance I get. Its luck has obviously run out.

The Little Black Dress is a steamy romantic comedy with enemies who turn into lovers, lots of laughs, stellar friendships, and it brings all the heat. You might want to keep a fan nearby while you're reading.

Where to find The Little Black Dress by Piper James online: 

 

The Little Black Dress Amazon affiliate link

The Little Black Dress on Goodreads

Rome and the Jubilee 2025

What Tourists Need to Know

What is the Rome Jubilee?

What happens during the Jubilee in Rome?

The major Jubilee events:

The downside of the Jubilee

Works in Progress: What’s Changing in Rome?

Accommodation: Where to Stay During the Jubilee

Accommodation in Rome during the Jubilee year will be in high demand, so it’s essential to book early. The closer you are to St. Peter's Square and other religious landmarks, the more likely you are to be caught in the crowds. However, staying in the central areas will put you in close proximity to the main events and sites.

1. Vatican Area: Hotels near the Vatican, such as Vatican View or Hotel Sant'Anna, will give you the advantage of being close to religious events, but keep in mind these areas will be extremely busy. Be prepared for higher prices during the Jubilee.

2. Trastevere: If you prefer a quieter, more authentic Roman experience, Trastevere is a charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets and picturesque piazzas. It’s not too far from the Vatican and offers a more peaceful stay, though you'll still be relatively close to the action.

3. Monti and Centro Storico: For those who want to stay close to historical landmarks like the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and Piazza Venezia, Monti and Centro Storico are great choices. You’ll be in the heart of Rome’s cultural scene and within walking distance of many famous sites.

4. Airbnb and Rentals: Many tourists opt for Airbnb or short-term apartment rentals in quieter neighborhoods. While these may offer more space and flexibility, they too will be in high demand, so it’s essential to book as early as possible.

Places to visit during your trip

Museums and historical sites in Rome:

Looking for something different?

The Health Benefits of Reading Every Day

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the simple joys in life, and reading often falls to the bottom of the to-do list for many people. Yet, carving out time to read daily can provide numerous health benefits; mental, emotional, and even physical. Whether it's diving into fiction, exploring non-fiction, or even reading articles, the act of reading every day offers a wealth of advantages. Plus it's fun!

Let's explore the ways in which daily reading can improve your health.

Disclosure: The FTC Disclosure Provision is a law that requires influencers to disclose when they are being paid to promote a product or service. So please know that if I'm not making money through affiliate links/sponsored content on the post you're currently reading, it's an oversight on my part and will be corrected soon. Read the full disclosure about all the legal stuff here.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The information provided on www.JoLinsdell.com does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.

You might also like: Monthly Goal Ideas for Better Health

1. Boosts Mental Stimulation and Cognitive Function

Reading every day helps keep your brain sharp. Just like physical exercise strengthens muscles, reading stimulates the brain, improving cognitive function. Regularly challenging your mind with new information, stories, and ideas helps to improve your memory, comprehension, and overall mental agility. Studies show that people who read regularly are less likely to develop cognitive decline as they age. By reading every day, you actively engage your brain, keeping it healthy and sharp.

2. Reduces Stress and Enhances Relaxation

In a world full of distractions, it can be hard to find time to unwind. However, reading can be a powerful tool for relaxation. A good book can provide an escape from daily stresses, helping you to focus on the narrative rather than your worries. Research has shown that reading for just six minutes can reduce stress by more than two-thirds, making it a far more effective stress reliever than other activities, such as listening to music or taking a walk. Whether you prefer a gripping novel or an inspiring biography, reading offers an opportunity for your mind to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of life.

3. Improves Mental Health and Well-being

Reading can also play a significant role in improving your mental health. For example, reading self-help books or psychological guides can provide helpful insights and coping strategies for dealing with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Moreover, reading fiction has been linked to increased empathy. By connecting with characters in books, you gain a better understanding of different perspectives, which can help foster a more compassionate and balanced outlook on life. Engaging with stories, especially ones with positive or hopeful themes, can uplift your mood and promote mental well-being.

4. Enhances Sleep Quality

Many people struggle with falling asleep, often due to the constant exposure to screens. The blue light emitted by phones, tablets, and laptops can interfere with the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. Reading a physical book before bed can serve as a healthy alternative. The act of reading helps to calm the mind and prepares your body for sleep. Just be sure to choose a book that isn’t too stimulating, as an exciting thriller might have the opposite effect! A calming read helps to establish a pre-sleep routine that signals your body it's time to unwind and relax.

5. Increases Knowledge and Expands Vocabulary

Reading regularly exposes you to new words, ideas, and information. Over time, this boosts your vocabulary and enhances your ability to communicate. A broader vocabulary improves your writing, speaking, and comprehension skills, which can benefit both your professional and personal life. The more you read, the more knowledge you gain, making it easier to engage in conversations on a wide variety of topics. With each book you read, you expand your intellectual horizons.

6. Strengthens Focus and Concentration

In today’s world of constant notifications and distractions, it’s difficult to maintain focus for extended periods. Reading requires full attention, as it demands that you concentrate on the words and the story or information at hand. By making reading a daily habit, you train your brain to focus for longer. This improved concentration can carry over into other aspects of your life, helping you stay focused at work, in meetings, or during personal tasks.

7. Improves Emotional Health

Certain types of reading, particularly books that delve into human emotions or relationships, can help you develop a deeper emotional awareness. Reading about characters' experiences and struggles fosters emotional intelligence, allowing you to relate to your own feelings and the feelings of others. Additionally, some research has suggested that reading about different cultures, experiences, and viewpoints can help you understand and manage your own emotions more effectively.

Conclusion

The health benefits of reading every day are undeniable. By incorporating this simple habit into your daily routine, you can improve mental stimulation, reduce stress, enhance sleep quality, boost knowledge, and much more. Reading not only provides an escape but also offers an opportunity to grow and evolve as an individual. So, next time you find yourself with a free moment, why not pick up a book and start reaping the many rewards? Your mind, body, and soul will thank you.

You might also like: 8 Reasons Why Books Are Important

Easy Walking Workouts: A Simple and Effective Way to Stay Fit

Walking is one of the most accessible forms of exercise, and it’s often underestimated as a powerful workout. Whether you're just starting out on your fitness journey or looking to add a low-impact option to your routine, easy walking workouts can do wonders for your health. From improving cardiovascular health to boosting your mood, walking is a simple yet effective way to stay fit. Plus, you can do it almost anywhere!

Disclosure: The FTC Disclosure Provision is a law that requires influencers to disclose when they are being paid to promote a product or service. So please know that if I'm not making money through affiliate links/sponsored content on the post you're currently reading, it's an oversight on my part and will be corrected soon. Read the full disclosure about all the legal stuff here.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The information provided on www.JoLinsdell.com does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.

Check out these Fitness Tips for Beginners

I recently introduced going for a walk with my dog after lunch and dinner to help with digestion (I have a variety of issues with my digestive system and have found it helps). Plus it gets me extra steps towards my daily count. My current goal is to reach 7-10k steps each day. 

Why Walking?

Walking is a fantastic exercise because it’s gentle on the joints, suitable for all fitness levels, and doesn’t require any special equipment. You don’t need to sign up for a gym membership or buy fancy gear—just put on a comfortable pair of shoes and you’re good to go.

Here are just a few reasons why walking is an excellent workout:

1. Low-Impact and Easy on Joints: Walking puts minimal stress on your body compared to other exercises like running, making it great for beginners, seniors, or anyone with joint concerns.
2. Improves Cardiovascular Health: Regular walking strengthens the heart, helping to reduce the risk of heart disease and improve circulation.
3. Mental Health Boost: Walking helps clear the mind, reduces stress, and releases endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones. A daily stroll can help fight anxiety and depression.
4. Burns Calories: Walking at a brisk pace can help you burn calories and improve your overall fitness without feeling like you're doing a strenuous workout.
5. Convenience: You can walk almost anywhere. Whether it's a stroll around your neighbourhood, a walk through the park, or even walking while shopping, it’s easy to fit into your daily life.

Easy Walking Workouts to Try

Now that we know the benefits of walking, let’s explore some easy walking workouts that can help you stay active while keeping things fun and interesting. Here's a few quick walking videos I found on YouTube that are perfect for getting those steps in when you can't get outside for a walk:

1. 10 minute Fat Burn Walk by Get Fit With Rick

2. 10 Minute Indoor Walk for Beginners by Caroline Jordan

3. 10 Minute Walk at Home by Lucy Wyndham-Read

4. 10 Minute Walking Workout at Home by Jessica Valant

5. 1 Mile Brisk Walk | 15 Minute Walking Workout by Walk at Home

6. FAST walking in 15 Minutes | Lunch Break Workout by Grow with Jo

Conclusion

Walking is an easy and versatile workout that can be tailored to suit any fitness level. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll to relax or a more intense interval walk to challenge yourself, walking can help you stay active, improve your health, and boost your mental well-being. So, lace up your shoes and enjoy the benefits of this simple yet powerful exercise!

If you're looking for great fitness challenges for beginners you might want to try the 30 Day Squat Challenge or the 30 Day Crunch Challenge.