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VBB Weekly – 10.14.13

Welcome to the new incarnation of the Sunday Snapshot… introducing the VBB Weekly! Starting today, my newsletter will be posted every Monday morning, with all the info you need to kick of your week, all the valuable content in one place. Use the newsletter to review the past week, to look ahead and see what’s coming or get up-to-speed on community and book news. I hope you like the new website too! I’ve worked really hard to make it easy-to-navigate with a focus on recommendations and reviews. Make sure to check out some helpful features including book recommendations, reading orders, new releases, pre-orders, reviews from A to Z.

Currently Reading

(Click images to buy or for more info)

Reading This Week

simple perfection cover

Must Read of the Week

Making Faces is a beautifully written, introspective and emotionally charged. This is a beautiful, quiet story built with multiple layers of meaning. It tells a heartfelt story of friendship, loss, heroism, beauty and love. Release date is October 20th, pre-order here.

New Releases

Convicted (#3, Consequences) by Aleatha Romig
Beyond Fate (#1.5, Fate) by Heather Lyons
Pulling Me Under by Rebecca Berto

Upcoming Releases

10/14: Finding Cinderella by Colleen Hoover (available now for free!)
10/15: Bold Tricks (#3, The Artist’s Trilogy) by Karina Halle
10/15: The Scribe (#1, Irin Chronicles) by Elizabeth Hunter
10/15: Finding It (#3, Losing It) by Cora Carmack
10/20: Making Faces by Amy Harmon

Pre-Orders

10/14: Finding Cinderella by Colleen Hoover
10/15: Bold Tricks (#3, The Artist’s Trilogy) by Karina Halle
10/15: The Scribe (#1, Irin Chronicles) by Elizabeth Hunter
10/15: Finding It (#3, Losing It) by Cora Carmack
10/20: Making Faces by Amy Harmon
10/22: The Temptation of Lila and Ethan (#3, The Secret) by Jessica Sorensen
10/22: Theirs to Keep (#1, Tangled Hearts) by Maya Banks
10/29: Forgiving Lies by Molly McAdams

New Reviews

Wild Child (#1.5, The Wild Ones) by M. Leighton
Convicted (#3, Consequences) by Aleatha Romig
Beyond Fate (#1.5, Fate) by Heather Lyons

Community News

Article: Charlie Hunnam exits role as Christian Grey in 50 Shades movie
Article: Jennifer Ehle cast as Anastasia Steele’s mom in 50 Shades movie
Author News: Ryan Winfield signs 3-book deal with Atria books
Book News: Forget Me Not by Jessica Sorensen coming in 2014!
Book News: The title of the fourth book in the Ten Tiny Breaths series by K.A. Tucker is…
Teaser: Undertow by Amber Lynn Natush. This new contemporary romance is coming out October 30th and it is such an original, 5-star read! Can’t wait for you guys to get your hands on this one!
Teaser: Take A Chance by Abbi Glines. For reading order on all Abbi Glines series, click here.
Teaser: Sentinel by Jennifer L. Armentrout. For reading order on all JLA paranormal series, click here.
New to paperback: The Unidentified Redhead by Alice Clayton will be available on paperback on October 15th! I absolutely LOVE this hilarious series! #1 The Unidentified Redhead (my review), #2 The Redhead Revealed (my review) and #3, The Redhead Plays Her Hand will be out this December; pre-order here.

Cover Reveals

Release date: January 2014
2nd book of Minaldi Legacy series
Add to GR
Buy: Of Blood and Bone (#1)

Release date: April 29, 2014
3rd book of The Sweet Trilogy
Pre-order here
Buy: Sweet Evil (#1) | Sweet Peril (#2)
Reviews: Sweet Peril (#2)

Giveaways

Austin Author Event – Whether you are attending the event or not, you have a chance to win! Enter to win a signed book from EACH attending author plus a VBB tote bag! U.S. Only. Enter here.
Signed Giveaway – Enter to win a copy of Convicted signed by Aleatha Romig. U.S. Only. Enter here.
Branded 1-Day Giveaway – Enter to win rack cards signed by Matt Hansen (Cole) when you buy a copy of Branded for $.99! Enter here.

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One Comment:

October 14, 2013 at 5:26 pm
terrie61 said:

First I would like to congratulate you on your new look. It is light and airy and it is easy to use. I found some of your recommendations helpful. I bought “Branded” . I put “Carter Need” and the full series that includes “Caged” on my wish list. I also picked up “Finding Cinderella” for free. I went and entered the giveaways you have linked. Thank you for those. This has been one of my favorite blogs to visit. Thank you for all the wonderful things you post and offer. <3

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On Instagram

New stairway light ✨ It was technically a 2020

New stairway light ✨

It was technically a 2020 project, but it was one of those things where I could not make up my mind—until this! {link in bio}

Psssh: I may have just posted my @sephora faves po

Psssh: I may have just posted my @sephora faves post #ontheblog! The Spring Sale kicks off tomorrow for Rouge, and I’m sharing some tried-and-trues + some recent faves! Getting my cart ready! 😬🛍 🤷🏻‍♀️ What are you shopping for? Need a beauty rec? Comment below & check out my list via link in bio or vilmairis.com.

Happy release week to YOU LOVE ME by @carolinekepn

Happy release week to YOU LOVE ME by @carolinekepnes!!! I’m listening to this book right now and what fun it is to be with back with Joe Goldberg and his shenanigans. Who else is reading it? 🙋🏻‍♀️

Thanks to @randomhouse for sending me this book! #prhpartner

𝗡𝗘𝗪 📚 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪 — 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗢𝗡𝗚𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞 𝗢𝗙 𝗕𝗘𝗡𝗡𝗬 𝗟𝗔𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 🎹
I loved this book so much. @amy.harmon2’s writing is poetic, immersive, vibrant and emotive. I was swept away from the very beginning, captivated by Benny Lament and Esther Mine. Their story is extraordinary, thoughtfully penned and inspiring, brimming with grit and grace alike. In short, the novel imparts how a man’s life changes when he meets a woman with a stunning voice, a woman he can’t seem to walk away from. It's a story about love, music and fighting for what—and whom—you love.

Get the spoiler-free scoop on the blog {vilmairis.com or link in bio}

Swimsuit season is a little terrifying post pandem

Swimsuit season is a little terrifying post pandemic tbh, but this week I am rounding up my favorite one pieces. This year, I’m digging floral, animal print and of course black black black—especially with a little embellishment. 🖤 It’s a good time to start looking... plus, we all know the cute ones always sell out early in the season too! 💦 {link in bio or vilmairis.com}

http://liketk.it/3b6IL #liketkit @liketoknow.it

What’s everyone reading right now? 📚 I’ve

What’s everyone reading right now? 📚
I’ve been so distracted lately and have had a hard time reading/finishing the books I have planned every week. It doesn’t stress me out too much, I go through these phases when things are especially busy, and slowly get back into my rhythm. I did finish #ACourtofSilverFlames recently and loved it. Nesta is a fascinating character—she was complicated and there was so much emotion and depth there we didn’t yet see or understand in previous books. Her growth/arc was a beautiful thing to experience, and she and Cassian were just perfect together. Have you read it? What did you think?

A man seeks the truth behind his family’s suspic

A man seeks the truth behind his family’s suspicious deaths in this superb debut by @alexfinlayauthor. I loved it. (Thank you @minotaur_books for sending it to me!) Have any of you guys read it?

We meet NYU student Matt Pine, who learns his mother, father, brother and sister have all died from an apparent gas leak while vacationing in Mexico. The deaths make headlines, especially because it’s not the first time the Pine family has been in the news. His older brother, Danny, was the subject of a viral documentary after being convicted for murder. When Matt journeys to Mexico to claim the bodies of those he loved, however, things happen that raise serious suspicions. Before too long, the case begins to spiral into something appearing far more sinister—something that may have to do with his brother’s case.

It’s so good. Think big-time drama, secrets and layers aplenty, masterfully woven together to develop a propulsive thriller that’s emotional, compelling and full of surprises. #EveryLastFear is out now and I highly recommend it 👉🏻 vilmairis.com/every-last-fear

20 years ago today I married the love of my life a

20 years ago today I married the love of my life and we’ve built a beautiful family, beautiful life together. We may not be in Paris for this milestone like we originally planned so long ago, but we are happy, healthy and together, and really couldn’t ask for more ♥️

#20yearsmarried #27yearstogether

Has anyone else struggled with finding the “perf

Has anyone else struggled with finding the “perfect” rug?! 🙋🏻‍♀️ I’ve been looking for a new living room rug for over a year and could not decide for the life of me. I knew I wanted something fairly neutral, tonal and low pile, but didn’t know if I wanted a layered look, a vintage patterned rug or a natural fiber rug. Couldn’t be too yellow or too orangey, too loopy it would come apart, or too busy with it’s pattern that it would feel overpowering. And of course, couldn’t be too expensive bc the vintage rugs I was falling in love with were 💰💰💰😩. I mean I was driving myself nuts tbh. After hourrrsss of searches and about a half dozen rug samples, I finally found this one—a sisal with just the right contrast and texture I needed without being too yellow—it’s a beautiful neutral tan. It finally came in yesterday and I couldn’t be happier. Best part, it didn’t break the bank! 🙌🏻 Now I can start saving for that gorg vintage rug I want to layer over 🤪 {source link in bio}

http://liketk.it/39y4g #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKhome #StayHomeWithLTK

How are you guys doing this week? Tell me all the

How are you guys doing this week? Tell me all the things. I’ve been buried in work, listening to A Court of Silver Flames, and trying to get in some walking for moments of calm and mindfulness. Anyway, this week on the blog I’m sharing my 𝗳𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝘃𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆—everything from my favorite floral pillow, to the Zoom meeting game-changer light you seriously have to check out! Head to the link in bio to get the scoop or vilmairis.com ♥️

http://liketk.it/397Sl #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKhome

Quiet, sunny Sunday morning. Thankful for heat and

Quiet, sunny Sunday morning. Thankful for heat and water, friends, family & neighbors. Despite how tough this week was for so many, it’s been beautiful to see our community come together to help each other out. You guys doing okay? Sharing info and ways to help via link in bio—@all.sorts.of put together a wonderful page of resources and links.

http://liketk.it/38Rg9 #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKhome #ad #StayHomeWithLTK #texas

Have you read CONCRETE ROSE by @angiethomas? I'm s

Have you read CONCRETE ROSE by @angiethomas? I'm such a big fan of her books and her latest is just as compelling and poignant. In this prequel to THE HATE U GIVE, we learn more about Maverick, Lisa, King and others with a story about belonging, dreams amidst struggle, and paving your own path even when it feels uncertain. Through a raw and unflinching exploration of masculinity, violence, and identity, this is an exceptional coming-of-age story I can't recommend enough.

Also hope my fellow Texans are doing okay. Our last night of freezing temps is behind us thankfully, although I know many of you are dealing with the aftermath of this week. We’re hoping our water comes back soon, but for now, just enjoying some weekend reading in a warm house ❤️

#sponsored NYT bestselling author @lexiblakeauthor

#sponsored NYT bestselling author @lexiblakeauthor has a new book out this week—𝗦𝗨𝗕𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗜𝗠𝗣𝗢𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗕𝗟𝗘—a riveting romantic suspense brought to life by new and beloved characters alike. With themes of betrayal, power, money, murder and love, the story promises to keep you rapt beginning to end. Check out the link in bio to start reading and get the scoop on Greg and Noelle's story 👇🏻⁣
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𝐻𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑡 𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑒⁣
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Greg Hutchins is reluctantly adulting these days. He’s settled in his job, recently bought his first house, and has a network of friends he can call family. But there’s something missing in his life, and he can’t quite put his finger on it. When he’s assigned to a case that involves investigating a biochemical company, he meets a woman who’s sweeter than any candy. Maybe she’s just the thing to make him feel complete.⁣
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⁣𝑆ℎ𝑒’𝑠 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑦 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑓𝑢𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒⁣

Noelle LaVigne has faced plenty of tragedy in her life, but she’s on the right path now. Between her new job and settling into a new city, she’s got no time for dating or relationships. She’s worked hard to get where she is, and no man is going to push her off track. Except the minute Hutch crosses her path she can’t seem to think about anything but the handsome security expert. He’s there to find a corporate spy, but late-night work sessions make her think they’ve both found something much more meaningful.⁣
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𝐴 𝑡𝑤𝑖𝑠𝑡 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑦 𝑛𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑠𝑎𝑤 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑔⁣
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When the case becomes dangerous, both of their futures are on the line. And when the bullets start flying, they will have to learn to trust in each other if they hope to survive.

We are not prepared for this kind of winter storm

We are not prepared for this kind of winter storm in Texas! 🥶 Woke up to 5 degree temps and our power has been down since 2 am. Measured snowfall this morning and we seem to be at 7 to 10 inches. It’s freezing indoors, but we are super layered, mittens and all, trying to keep warm. This kind of view, though, is something else. ❄️🌫 How are my other fellow Texans faring???

𝘼𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙣

𝘼𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙠𝙚𝙣𝙙? 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙖 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙫𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙?

Right now I’m reading 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝗿 by @kerriganbyrne (so good!) but earlier in the week I finished this book—𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗹𝗮𝘆 𝗗𝗼𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝗻 𝗜𝘀 𝗞𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝘁 by @ellecosimano—and loved it!

The premise is so fun: frazzled single mom and struggling writer gets mistaken for a contract killer and inadvertently accepts an offer to rid a desperate wife of her husband. What ensues is a fast-paced, funny, suspenseful and surprising romp I couldn’t put down! Give this one a go—I listened to it on @audible and loved it!

Happy Friday and welcome everyone who’s new here

It is a cold, wintery, rainy day in Austin, and ou

It is a cold, wintery, rainy day in Austin, and outside this window, my view is part hot mess of ditches and dirt, part our in-progress pool. With the gunite curing and the weather wintery for the next several days, we're losing about two weeks, which is a bummer, but looking forward to the masonry phase next. The low on Monday is 10°F — can you believe it?! In Texas?! Crazy. How is the weather where you are? ❄️🌧

http://liketk.it/3883x #liketkit @liketoknow.it #StayHomeWithLTK #LTKhome

Have you read The Four Winds by @kristinhannahauth

Have you read The Four Winds by @kristinhannahauthor ? I finished last week and it just blew me away—affected me deeply. I should have known, as Kristin’s novels tend to do that to me. Her latest is beautiful and brutal all at once, about a woman’s struggle in the harrowing 1930s Dust Bowl years. #TheFourWinds underscores a people’s unrelenting spirit to survive, recounting years of struggle and a mother’s indomitable spirit to carry her family through. This story, like so many others untold, is about courage, resilience, determination, friendship and love. You guys, I loved it so so much. 6 stars—it’s brilliant. ⁣
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My spoiler-free review on vilmairis.com or link in bio.

Set a reminder ‼️ I’ll be chatting with the

Set a reminder ‼️ I’ll be chatting with the fabulous NYT bestselling author @kristenashleybooks this Thursday, on Instagram Live here on this page! I hope you’ll join us to talk about all things #StillStanding—get your (spoiler-free) questions ready! Who is reading today? 🙋🏻‍♀️ 🏍

So many wonderful books out today (see link in bio

So many wonderful books out today (see link in bio), including this one I read and loved by @authorsamanthayoung! In #MuchAdoAboutYou, after recent heartbreak, a woman journeys abroad in hopes of finding herself and unexpectedly finds love along the way too. It's the kind of book you devour in a single sitting—immersive, cozy with a feel-good warmth that lingers long after you’re done. You can read more about the book 👇🏻 or check out the link/blog for my spoiler-free review. 📚 Thank you @berkleyromance @berkleypub for sending me this ARC.
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The cozy comforts of an English village bookstore open up a world of new possibilities for Evie Starling in this charming new romantic comedy from New York Times bestselling author Samantha Young.⁣
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At thirty-three-years old Evangeline Starling’s life in Chicago is missing that special something. And when she’s passed over for promotion at work, Evie realizes she needs to make a change. Some time away to regain perspective might be just the thing. In a burst of impulsivity, she plans a holiday in a quaint English village. The holiday package comes with a temporary position at Much Ado About Books, the bookstore located beneath her rental apartment. There’s no better dream vacation for the bookish Evie, a life-long Shakespeare lover.⁣
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Not only is Evie swept up in running the delightful store as soon as she arrives, she’s drawn into the lives, loves and drama of the friendly villagers. Including Roane Robson, the charismatic and sexy farmer who tempts Evie every day with his friendly flirtations. Evie is determined to keep him at bay because a holiday romance can only end in heartbreak, right? But Evie can’t deny their connection and longs to trust in her handsome farmer that their whirlwind romance could turn in to the forever kind of love.

Happy Monday, you guys! Double tap this post if yo

Happy Monday, you guys! Double tap this post if you're like me and needing all the coffee this morning! ☕️ But new week, new blog posts and today #ontheblog I'm sharing my 5 #favoritethings from January including the super flattering jeans I'm obsessed with, my favorite tie-dye sweatshirt and these new, go-to pearl earrings from @mejuri that are both bold and timeless. Click the link in bio or head to vilmairis.com to get the scoop! 🖤

Hi!!! 🙋🏻‍♀️ I know I wasn’t around m

Hi!!! 🙋🏻‍♀️ I know I wasn’t around much this week—it was a busy, whirlwind heads-down kinda week. But the good news is I’ve been doing lots of reading, including this book right here—Fable by @adrienneyoungbooks! I loved Sky In The Deep so much and had this one of my #TBR for awhile. Have you read it?! ⁣
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I loved it! Lyrical writing. A lush, suspenseful maritime fantasy with a strong female heroine I can’t wait to see more of. Namesake, the next book, is coming in March, and I cannot wait to read it!!! Read all about Fable 👇🏻 or link in bio.⁣
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Welcome to a world made dangerous by the sea and by those who wish to profit from it. Where a young girl must find her place and her family while trying to survive in a world built for men.⁣
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As the daughter of the most powerful trader in the Narrows, the sea is the only home seventeen-year-old Fable has ever known. It’s been four years since the night she watched her mother drown during an unforgiving storm. The next day her father abandoned her on a legendary island filled with thieves and little food. To survive she must keep to herself, learn to trust no one and rely on the unique skills her mother taught her. The only thing that keeps her going is the goal of getting off the island, finding her father and demanding her rightful place beside him and his crew. To do so Fable enlists the help of a young trader named West to get her off the island and across the Narrows to her father.⁣
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But her father’s rivalries and the dangers of his trading enterprise have only multiplied since she last saw him and Fable soon finds that West isn't who he seems. Together, they will have to survive more than the treacherous storms that haunt the Narrows if they're going to stay alive.

Do you use a duvet? I have gone back and forth bet

Do you use a duvet? I have gone back and forth between a duvet and a comforter for years because inevitably it drives me mad that the duvet shifts so much and that it doesn’t retain its fluff. After some research (see 👇🏻 for what I learned) I finally invested in a really nice down duvet from @thecompanystore with high fill power for maximum fluff and baffled-box construction to prevent shifting. It’s still un-fluffing from the package, but hope we super love it. We’ve frankly never spent a lot on the inserts we’ve had, so hoping this one is worth it. Do you have any of the same duvet issues? Any tips?! And by the way, The Company Store is having their Semi-Annual Sale, so it’s a good time to check them out. Linked what we got in bio—Legends Luxury Royal Down Duvet—and some others we had been looking at.

What I learned: European down tends to have higher fill power, with Hungarian Goose Down being considered the best of all (super soft and super fine). 600 to 650 fill power is considered good/better than most with 700 to 750 being the best. Baffle box creates pockets for down so is technically the best for avoiding shifting. Different warmth levels available. Light is ideal for those who have the thermostat 69 to 74 at night and Medium for 65 to 69.

http://liketk.it/36EE5 #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKhome

I am sooo happy I have found my reading groove aga

I am sooo happy I have found my reading groove again 💃🏻 Seven books read this month and I’ve loved them all. The latest was 𝗕𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 by one of my faves @lisagardnerbks and I loved it! It’s a standalone or maybe the start of a series (I hope) with a new character I loved (for avid LG readers, she’s got a bit of a Flora quality to her IMO). Frankie Elkin travels from place to place, finding those who’ve vanished and who’ve been forgotten by police. This time, she heads to Boston, to find a Haitian teenager who disappeared from school. She uncovers sinister truths that put her in the path of peril too. ⁣
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It’s soooo good. Compelling characters. Fascinating sleuthing. A taut propulsive thriller that’s exceptional in every way. My spoiler-free review is on the blog, or head to {link in bio}.

This week we’ve been discussing 2021 projects we

This week we’ve been discussing 2021 projects we want to tackle, and while our backyard will be our biggest focus (we for sure break ground on pool Monday 🙌🏻), I also want to wallpaper the top of our moody powder bathroom. Have been saving some wallpaper photos to my phone for awhile, but really feeling something dark and floral. Can’t wait and hope it works with all the crazy ceiling angles we have in that space. Need to plan and prioritize all the things 🖤 You guys planning home projects too?

Pattern play, richer wood tones, earthy colors, co

Pattern play, richer wood tones, earthy colors, cottage-inspired spaces, mixed metals--these are just some of the home decor trends for 2021 I'm sharing on the blog this week! I find the convo around trends super inspiring, because although I don't always follow (or love) them, they spark my creativity to think about spaces in different ways. I'm constantly moving things around, changing things up, and some of these 2021 shifts have already inspired me in ways I can't wait to try (like this kitchen from @landedinteriors). Head to vilmairis.com or link in bio to start reading. Let me know which trend you're loving below too!

Loving this little corner window nook with our new

Loving this little corner window nook with our new art pieces, both vintage finds. First is a late 1800s piece from @frenchartshop, and I loved that it had a little bit of whimsy and added some warmth with its shades of russet. It had a bright gold frame that pulled the yellow from the art a bit too much, so used some Ebony Rub n’Buff to ground it a bit more and make it feel more organic to the moodier vibes around it. The bottom piece is a 1970s find from @onekingslane—Misty Woods at Dawn—and I loved that it was different from the other art we have, love that it has some Misty Mountain Hobbit vibes (so nerdy I know lol), loved the forrest greens, grays and reds, and thought it paired beautifully with the smaller French piece above. 🖼 Waited a long time to find the art that talked to me for this space... sometimes it’s so worth it to wait for the right pieces, even if it means a space looks unfinished temporarily ✨ Happy Sunday ✨ #howivintage

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗼𝗳 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟭?
Mine is #Lore by @alexbracken, which released this week! I’m loving it so far, and can’t wait for the weekend already, to slow down again and lose myself in this sweeping fantasy. I also set a goal to try and keep up with @goodreads this year, so I can keep better track of my reads! I’m @vilmairisblog on there if you use GR too! Anyway, more on #Lore below and look forward to hearing what you guys are reading in the comments 👇🏻⁣
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Every seven years, the Agon begins. As punishment for a past rebellion, nine Greek gods are forced to walk the earth as mortals. They are hunted by the descendants of ancient bloodlines, all eager to kill a god and seize their divine power and immortality.
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Long ago, Lore Perseous fled that brutal world, turning her back on the hunt’s promises of eternal glory after her family was murdered by a rival line. For years she's pushed away any thought of revenge against the man—now a god—responsible for their deaths.⁣
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Yet as the next hunt dawns over New York City, two participants seek her out: Castor, a childhood friend Lore believed to be dead, and Athena, one of the last of the original gods, now gravely wounded.⁣
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The goddess offers an alliance against their mutual enemy and a way to leave the Agon behind forever. But Lore's decision to rejoin the hunt, binding her fate to Athena's, will come at a deadly cost—and it may not be enough to stop the rise of a new god with the power to bring humanity to its knees.

Forever love a dramatic light & shadow play ✨ Ch

Forever love a dramatic light & shadow play ✨ Christmas tree is down, everything put away in its proper place and ready for a refresh in 2021!

Goodbye 👋 2020! Despite it being such a trying,

Goodbye 👋 2020! Despite it being such a trying, tough year, I’m grateful for the time with my family, the self reflection, the quiet moments, the long walks, and the recalibration of priorities to focus on what’s most important. We tackled a ton of home projects, I read lots of fabulous books (2020 faves in bio), worked with great people, and had some wonderful conversations with many of you. Hope 2021 ushers in a new, healthier and happier normal full of inspiration, dinner outs, happy hours with friends, and holidays with family members I miss so much. Much love to you now & always, and thank you once again for your continued love and support ♥️✨🥂
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Note: Photo/design of green kitchen by @jeanstofferdesign

What have been some of your favorite home splurges

What have been some of your favorite home splurges this year? For us, it’s been a combination of furniture, art, a few badly needed lighting upgrades, and some other smaller things. Sharing some of our faves in Stories today 🏠🤍

Out today & currently reading: THE WRONG FAMILY by

Out today & currently reading: THE WRONG FAMILY by @tarrynfisher! This is a taut psychological thriller brimming with secrets and twists to keep you rapt. I plan on doing lots of reading today because I’m dying to see what happens! Read more👇🏻 {link in bio}⁣⁣
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𝐇𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞? ⁣⁣
⁣⁣
Juno was wrong about Winnie Crouch. ⁣⁣
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Before moving in with the Crouch family, Juno thought Winnie and her husband, Nigel, had the perfect marriage, the perfect son—the perfect life. Only now that she’s living in their beautiful house, she sees the cracks in the crumbling facade are too deep to ignore. ⁣⁣
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Still, she isn’t one to judge. After her grim diagnosis, the retired therapist simply wants a place to live out the rest of her days in peace. But that peace is shattered the day Juno overhears a chilling conversation between Winnie and Nigel… ⁣⁣
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She shouldn’t get involved. ⁣⁣
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She really shouldn’t. ⁣⁣
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But this could be her chance to make a few things right. ⁣⁣
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Because if you thought Juno didn’t have a secret of her own, then you were wrong about her, too.

Everything was put away the morning of the 26th (o

Everything was put away the morning of the 26th (obsessive about that every year), but my husband convinced me to leave the tree up until the 1st. I’m simultaneously loving that it’s still up while holding back the urge to dismantle everything. What do you guys do? Meanwhile, still waiting for our new Morrison sofa from @mcgeeandco to arrive—hoping it will be on it’s way imminently 🤞🏻

Merry Christmas Eve ✨

Merry Christmas Eve ✨

Mulling spices, cranberries and pine on the stove

Mulling spices, cranberries and pine on the stove making our home smell like Christmas, balsam fir candles lit everywhere, our tree lights sparkling against the morning shadows—enjoying my favorite time of year and cherishing our many blessings. Hope you and yours are too ✨🎄 #howivintage

Have been having so much fun making some holiday c

Have been having so much fun making some holiday cocktails this year: White Christmas Margaritas, Frosted Mistletoe Margaritas, and what’s now become our version of a holiday bubbly cocktail. So delicious! Do you have any recs to try?! Head to stories for the recipes to these & cheers!!!!

Scrolling through my phone and found this old pict

Scrolling through my phone and found this old picture of my son’s room—not exactly the same angle, but still a striking before and after. His room didn't have the best lighting and the windows were foggier than we realized then. Brightened walls, new windows, no yellow light bulbs and multiple types of lighting sources made a big difference. And editing—donated so many things he just wasn’t using. ✨ #beforeandafter {sources in bio}

Happy Monday, friends! In full holiday swing, coun

Happy Monday, friends! In full holiday swing, counting down the days until vacay, but already feeling sad that Christmas is almost here & gone! 😫 Love this time of year so much, and I know you guys do too—have received lots and lots of messages asking about holiday romance recs. Finally this weekend I updated my recommendation page, and you can check it out on the blog 👉🏻 vilmairis.com or link in bio. 𝑫𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒂 𝒇𝒂𝒗𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒅𝒂𝒚 𝒓𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆?!! Comment 👇🏻

Cannot believe we are so close to Christmas!!! We

Cannot believe we are so close to Christmas!!! We started to plan our Christmas Eve dinner menu this morning, and the big question seems to always be what veggie(s) we make. I found a brussel sprouts recipe from @halfbakedharvest (as you know, since I got her cookbooks have been making a ton of her recipes) — roasted brussels with bacon, pomegranate arils, goat cheese — and that is sort of sounding divine. What veggie sides do you all make???⁣
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By the way, these metal cabinets you guys ask about all the time are finally finally back in stock. Link in bio.
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http://liketk.it/33K9h #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKgiftspo #LTKhome #austinblogger #vilmairishome #christmasdecor #christmasdecorations🎄

Happy book birthday to @colleenhoover! LAYLA is ou

Happy book birthday to @colleenhoover! LAYLA is out today!!! This is her new paranormal romance and I can’t wait to dig in. Get the scoop 👇🏻 and link in bio ❥⁣
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When Leeds meets Layla, he’s convinced he’ll spend the rest of his life with her—until an unexpected attack leaves Layla fighting for her life. After weeks in the hospital, Layla recovers physically, but the emotional and mental scarring has altered the woman Leeds fell in love with. In order to put their relationship back on track, Leeds whisks Layla away to the bed-and-breakfast where they first met. Once they arrive, Layla’s behavior takes a bizarre turn. And that’s just one of many inexplicable occurrences.⁣
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Feeling distant from Layla, Leeds soon finds solace in Willow—another guest of the B&B with whom he forms a connection through their shared concerns. As his curiosity for Willow grows, his decision to help her find answers puts him in direct conflict with Layla’s well-being. Leeds soon realizes he has to make a choice because he can’t help both of them. But if he makes the wrong choice, it could be detrimental for all of them.

Happy Monday, friends! This week on the blog I’m

Happy Monday, friends! This week on the blog I’m sharing 8 𝑫𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒈𝒏 𝑴𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒌𝒆𝒔 𝑻𝒐 𝑨𝒗𝒐𝒊𝒅 in your home, especially if you are space constrained. Sharing some tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way to solve for these challenges. Comment below if you have any questions, and head to vilmairis.com or link in bio to read ❥

Morning light ✨

Morning light ✨

I know it’s been a bit since I posted about beau

I know it’s been a bit since I posted about beauty, but wanted to share some of my current favorite things:⁣
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▫️@victoriabeckhambeauty Posh💄 in Pose & Play⁣
▫️@guccibeauty mascara & bronzer⁣
▫️@chanel Venise Eau de Toilette (for everyday)⁣
▫️@chanel.beauty Coromandel Eau de Parfum⁣
▫️@chanel.beauty Coco Flash in Coco Club⁣
▫️@mejuri Duo Ring & Croissant Dome hoops⁣
▫️@targetstyle beaded clips ⁣
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{sources to most in bio} http://liketk.it/33bcC #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKgiftspo #LTKbeauty

So many fantastic books out today, including A SKY

So many fantastic books out today, including A SKY BEYOND THE STORM from @sabaatahir, which I am soooo excited to read! This has been such a fantastic fantasy series and can’t wait to dive into the much-anticipated finale. Anyone else reading?! 🙋🏻‍♀️

Back to work today (which means the countdown to C

Back to work today (which means the countdown to Christmas vacation is on now lol). So excited to share that I’ll be doing an 𝑰𝑵𝑺𝑻𝑨𝑮𝑹𝑨𝑴 𝑳𝑰𝑽𝑬 𝑨𝑻 6 𝑷𝑴 𝑪𝑺𝑻 𝑻𝑶𝑴𝑶𝑹𝑹𝑶𝑾 with @alessandratorre4 to talk about her new domestic suspense out this week— 𝑬𝑽𝑬𝑹𝒀 𝑳𝑨𝑺𝑻 𝑺𝑬𝑪𝑹𝑬𝑻! You guys it was soooo good! I couldn’t put it down because I wanted to see how far these two women would go in the story (read below). So much wicked craziness! I hope you will join us! Set a reminder on your phone 📱 Blurb 👇🏻
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Welcome to the neighborhood. Watch your husband, watch your friends, and watch your back.⁣
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Cat Winthorpe has worked hard to get what she has: a gorgeous home; social standing; and William, her successful, handsome husband. Then a friendly new couple moves into the estate next door. While cautious, a good neighbor like Cat greets them with open arms and warm hospitality.⁣
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Neena Ryder isn’t a fellow lady of leisure. A life coach with off-the-rack dresses, personal issues, and a husband who hasn’t delivered, she’s anxious to move up in the world. This beautiful new town is a step in the right direction. It’s also making Neena aware of what she doesn’t have. Namely, William. When Neena’s infatuation escalates into obsession, it’s just a matter of eliminating a few obstacles to get the life she wants. The life next door.⁣
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As Neena’s secret fixation grows, so does her friendship with Cat. But beneath their cordial interactions is a wealth of temptations, secrets, and toxic jealousy. For both women, the desire for a perfect life can turn perfectly dangerous.

So in love with our new cane-back chairs from @rej

So in love with our new cane-back chairs from @rejuvenation! We are so happy with them. Love the texture and contrast they add—they couldn’t be more perfect. The other chairs which recently arrived too, go with our “formal” table, which we put away every Christmas to make room for our 🎄 tree. Now, we’re saving for a new formal dining table, also from Rejuvenation (linked it in bio). I’ve been looking for a new dining table for more than a year, but there was always something or other that wasn’t right, or the tables I wanted were insanely expensive. I tell ya—dining tables and rugs are so hard to find/settle on. For me, at least. Anyone else? 🙋🏻‍♀️ Btw, in other news, check out my stories for the most delicious Christmas Chex Mix from @whatsgabycookin — so easy and so good!
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http://liketk.it/32E3a #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKhome

Chilly, rainy Saturday vibes ✨

Chilly, rainy Saturday vibes ✨

Wishing you a happy and safe Thanksgiving! I’m s

Wishing you a happy and safe Thanksgiving! I’m so grateful for your support all these years! Much love to you and yours ♥️🦃🥘✨
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http://liketk.it/32gyP #liketkit @liketoknow.it #StayHomeWithLTK #LTKhome #thanksgiving

I wish you guys could be here because the house sm

I wish you guys could be here because the house smells ahhhhmazing!!!! Like a warm, cozy Christmas morning with scents of pine, cinnamon, clove, cranberries and orange. So good. This morning I decided to try @halfbakedharvest recipe and it’s divine. Check out my stories or link in bio.
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http://liketk.it/328HD #liketkit @liketoknow.it #StayHomeWithLTK #LTKhome

Any @norarobertsauthor fans here??? 🙋🏻‍♀

New gift guides are up #ontheblog! This week, it's

New gift guides are up #ontheblog! This week, it's FOR HIM and FOR TEEN GIRLS! My husband legit picked out his gift from my FOR HIM gift guide, which cracked me up (the Star Wars decanter set — he's obsessed lol). Also working on a couple more guides for you including some of my favorite small businesses. Drop your favorite small shop in the comments below! 👇🏻 {vilmairis.com}
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http://liketk.it/31Vgx #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKgiftspo #giftinspo #giftguide #giftsforhim #giftsforteens #giftsforteengirls #vilmairisblog #austinblogger #atxblogger

Loving this simple, olive wreath with a creamy lon

Loving this simple, olive wreath with a creamy long satin ribbon against our black shiplap wall. Holiday details ✨

http://liketk.it/31K1R #liketkit @liketoknow.it #StayHomeWithLTK #LTKhome #christmasdecor #christmasinspo #austinblogger #atxblogger #vilmairishome #homestyle #homedecor #smmakelifebeautiful #sodomino

4:55 pm and just shut down my computer—I am offi

4:55 pm and just shut down my computer—I am officially on vacation! 💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻 My first real one this year with multiple days off. SO EXCITED. Are you guys taking some time off?! Happy Friday! 🦃🥘🎄
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http://liketk.it/31Hz8 #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKgiftspo #LTKhome #christmasinspo #christmastree

Holiday details ✨ Love these bells hanging on ou

Holiday details ✨ Love these bells hanging on our dining room cabinets 🔔
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{sources in bio} http://liketk.it/31xbu #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKhome

What dessert are you planning on for Thanksgiving?

What dessert are you planning on for Thanksgiving?! I've been trying to figure out what to make, and let me tell you, I found a recipe that is so fantastic and ridiculously easy. This Key Lime Cream Pie is from DREAM BITES: COOKING WITH THE COMMANDOS—a new cookbook out today from @kristenashleybooks and @southernbitsand_bites! I love that the recipes are super unfussy, quick and easy, and you've got everything from appetizers to dinners to desserts. So good! Head to my Stories and check out how I made it, plus you can swipe up at the end and get the recipe, the cookbook, plus an excerpt from one of the short stories.

My first two #giftguides are on the blog! 🎁 Thi

My first two #giftguides are on the blog! 🎁 This week, I have FOR HER and the much-requested FOR TEEN BOYS!!! I spent a lot of time, especially on the latter, and with help from my own two teens and husband, feel like we came up with a great list of ideas. Next week I’ll have FOR HIM, FOR TEEN GIRLS and GIFTS UNDER $50. Hope you’re able to cross some gifts off your list. Have a great week! 😘 {vilmairis.com} @liketoknow.it http://liketk.it/31hRY #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKgiftspo

What was your @bookofthemonth pick this month?! I

What was your @bookofthemonth pick this month?! I chose THESE VIOLENT DELIGHTS by @thechloegong {linked in bio}. Have you read it?! Tell me all the things....
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The year is 1926, and Shanghai hums to the tune of debauchery.

A blood feud between two gangs runs the streets red, leaving the city helpless in the grip of chaos. At the heart of it all is eighteen-year-old Juliette Cai, a former flapper who has returned to assume her role as the proud heir of the Scarlet Gang—a network of criminals far above the law. Their only rivals in power are the White Flowers, who have fought the Scarlets for generations. And behind every move is their heir, Roma Montagov, Juliette’s first love…and first betrayal.

But when gangsters on both sides show signs of instability culminating in clawing their own throats out, the people start to whisper. Of a contagion, a madness. Of a monster in the shadows. As the deaths stack up, Juliette and Roma must set their guns—and grudges—aside and work together, for if they can’t stop this mayhem, then there will be no city left for either to rule.

Have you started Christmas shopping? 🎁 Inevitab

Have you started Christmas shopping? 🎁 Inevitably, I start getting nervous mid October and start putting together my annual excel list (for those who know me well, this is no surprise lol). I try and spread out the gifts and be as thoughtful as possible, although let me tell you, shopping for teen boys is harrrrrd. Anyway, working on gift guides for you all—the first coming next Monday. Let me know what you need or want to see! 🎄{sources in bio}
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http://liketk.it/30VfH #liketkit @liketoknow.it #LTKgiftspo #LTKhome

Happy book birthday to THE KINGDOM by Jo Nesbo, it

Happy book birthday to THE KINGDOM by Jo Nesbo, it’s out today! If you love reading Nordic Noir with its dour, ominous settings, dark themes, and nuanced character studies, this is one to pick up. ⁣
⁣
Nesbo explores the ties that bind two brothers together. Roy and Carl Opgard are no strangers to violence. Time and time again, they’ve survived those who’ve wronged them in the small Norwegian mountain town in which they grew up. Now, as unexplained deaths resurface, unwanted scrutiny follows, threatening to reveal long-buried secrets.⁣
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#TheKingdom was very different than the Harry Hole novels (which I love). Its pace was somewhat slower, gradually ratcheting towards a disturbing series of culminating events. But even so, you can’t look away as Nesbo, with a gradual and deliberate mastery, reveals sinister truths about Roy and Carl. Thank you to @crimebythebook and @aaknopf for gifting me an early copy! More on the blog—vilmairis.com 🖤

Happy Monday! Who has their 🎄 up now? 🙋🏻‍♀️ This week on the blog I'm sharing some of my favorite #Christmas items for your tree and for your home. This year, I continued with wintery white decor, but added shades of warm brown, vintage rose, and deep burgundy to our tree. Lots of texture around the house to make this time of year feel extra cozy at home. Head to vilmairis.com or link in bio to see some of our faves 🤍
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#sharetheeverygirl #homesweethome #makelifebeautiful http://liketk.it/30LaP #liketkit @liketoknow.it #StayHomeWithLTK #LTKhome @liketoknow.it.home

Love this little nook in our dining room. Vintage

Love this little nook in our dining room. Vintage art from the late 18th century and a slat-back chair from the 40s that used to sit in my grandfather-in-law’s pharmacy. Plus, a little holiday cheer, of course ✨ #showusyourvintageart

How are you guys this morning? Think we could all

How are you guys this morning? Think we could all use a little holiday cheer right now 🎄 Sending peaceful and positive vibes as we #waitforit ✨ #counteveryvote
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http://liketk.it/30jr6 #liketkit @liketoknow.it #StayHomeWithLTK #LTKhome {sources in bio}

Vote! Make your voice heard and bring the change y

Vote! Make your voice heard and bring the change you want to see ✨ 🇺🇸
#voteforchange

Happy Halloween! . What are you planning for toda

Happy Halloween!
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What are you planning for today? We plan to hang together at home & we made individual bags of candy in case kiddos come by. Other than that, will be prepping for a seasonal decor changeover tomorrow 🎃 ➡️ 🎄

Happy Monday, friends! Today on the blog I’m sha

Happy Monday, friends! Today on the blog I’m sharing some of my #favoritethings from October—for you and for the home. Some fabulous new cardis and embellished sweaters I am loving, the best, softest leather jacket ever, some home items to usher in the holiday season & more. Head to the link in bio {or vilmairis.com} and hope you love some of my faves too!

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