Hannah Brown, THE FOUR ENGAGEMENT RINGS OF SYBIL RAIN

Summary

Episode Summary: “Hannah Brown, THE FOUR ENGAGEMENT RINGS OF SYBIL RAIN” | Totally Booked with Zibby

Release Date: June 24, 2025

In this engaging episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens welcomes Hannah Brown, a television personality, lifestyle expert, and two-time New York Times bestselling author. The focal point of their conversation is Hannah's latest novel, "The Four Engagement Rings of Sybil Reign." This detailed discussion delves into the inspirations behind the book, Hannah's personal journey as an author, and the themes explored within her work.

Introduction to Hannah Brown and Her Latest Work

Zibby Owens begins by celebrating Hannah’s new release, expressing her delight in having Hannah discuss "The Four Engagement Rings of Sybil Reign." She praises the book for its captivating blend of elements, likening it to a mix of "The White Lotus" and "Sex and the City," thereby setting high expectations for listeners unfamiliar with the story.

Notable Quote:

“It’s like the White Lotus meets like Sex in the City...” — Zibby Owens [04:34]

Hannah appreciates the comparison, noting that the book offers a fun beach read set in a beautiful location, ideal for the summer season. She emphasizes the importance of relationships and personal growth, themes that resonate throughout the novel.

Deep Dive into "The Four Engagement Rings of Sybil Reign"

Hannah provides an overview of the book, highlighting that it is her second novel, following her debut "The Mistakes We Never Made." While the first book centered around Sybil’s chaotic wedding weekend, the new installment offers answers to lingering questions while standing firmly as a standalone story.

Notable Quote:

“Sybil is somebody who definitely has, like, the sparkle, the shine... she always kind of feels like this form of entertainment and expectation.” — Hannah Brown [09:34]

The narrative follows Sybil on a much-needed vacation where she encounters two of her exes, leading to unforeseen chaos. This encounter forces Sybil to confront unresolved issues from her past, particularly her struggle to accept love and herself fully. Hannah articulates that Sybil’s journey is one of self-discovery and healing, aiming to "right some wrongs" and embrace the future with confidence.

Personal Reflections and Authorial Insights

Zibby and Hannah discuss the parallels between Hannah’s personal life and her writing. Interestingly, Hannah reveals that she is getting married shortly after the book’s release, drawing humorous parallels between her real-life experiences and Sybil’s fictional ones.

Notable Quote:

“The book comes out June 24th, and I get married July 26th.” — Hannah Brown [07:21]

Hannah shares that her fiancé inspired the character Jamie, a grounded and stable figure in Sybil’s life, contrasting with the more adventurous Sebastian. This balance was crucial in her storytelling, ensuring both characters were equally compelling.

Exploring Themes of Self-Worth and Family Dynamics

A significant portion of the conversation addresses Sybil’s internal struggles, particularly her feelings of inadequacy due to not having a college degree and the strained relationships with her family. Hannah draws from her own experiences, discussing how societal and familial expectations can impact self-esteem and personal growth.

Notable Quote:

“I think Sybil is somebody who definitely has, like, the sparkle, the shine. But I think just sometimes in the back of her head, she's always felt like she had this expectation to be something that she just wasn't...” — Hannah Brown [09:55]

Hannah elaborates on how Sybil's journey reflects the universal quest for self-acceptance and the courage to pursue one's true path despite external pressures. She underscores the importance of communication in relationships, highlighting how Sybil and Jamie's inability to effectively communicate initially hinders their relationship.

The Importance of Female Friendships and Support Systems

The discussion transitions to the significance of female friendships, both in Hannah's life and within her books. She emphasizes how strong female bonds provide essential support, love, and resilience, mirroring the relationships depicted in her stories.

Notable Quote:

“One of the greatest love stories in your life can be with your female friendships and how you can show up and be there for each other.” — Hannah Brown [30:19]

Hannah shares her anticipation for blending her personal friendships into her fictional work, aiming to portray authentic and empowering female connections.

Hannah’s Journey as an Author and Future Projects

Zibby inquires about Hannah's transition from non-fiction to fiction writing. Hannah recounts her initial foray into writing a quarter-life memoir and her long-held dream of crafting novels. She discusses the challenges of writing her second book, noting that collaboration with co-author Emily Larrabee was instrumental in shaping "The Four Engagement Rings of Sybil Reign."

Notable Quote:

“Writing a novel has always been something that I inspired to do and didn't know how and was offered the opportunity to be able to do this.” — Hannah Brown [21:49]

Looking ahead, Hannah hints at expanding her book series to explore the stories of Sybil’s friends, Nikki and Willow, aiming to create a richly interconnected narrative world. While she hasn't started her next book yet, plans are in motion to delve deeper into these characters' lives and relationships.

Reflections on Personal Growth and Overcoming Mistakes

Towards the end of the interview, Hannah reflects on the themes of mistakes and personal growth, both in her life and her characters'. She shares that both Sybil and she have faced challenges related to self-worth and validation, emphasizing that mistakes are integral to forging a beautiful future.

Notable Quote:

“No matter what you've done, where you feel like you failed, there's always like, a light at the end of the tunnel...” — Hannah Brown [24:19]

Hannah encourages listeners to view their past mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning, echoing the transformative journeys of her characters.

Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

As the conversation winds down, Hannah discusses her immediate personal milestones, including purchasing her first home and preparing for her wedding. She expresses gratitude for the support system in her life and reiterates her commitment to creating meaningful and relatable stories.

Zibby concludes the episode by congratulating Hannah on her endeavors and expressing anticipation for her future works.

Notable Quote:

“I truly enjoyed it. Congrats.” — Zibby Owens [32:59]

Final Remarks

This episode offers listeners an in-depth look into Hannah Brown's creative process, personal experiences, and the heartfelt themes woven into her novels. Through her candid discussions, Hannah provides valuable insights into the complexities of love, self-discovery, and the enduring power of friendship.

For fans looking to explore a rich, character-driven narrative filled with humor, emotion, and relatable struggles, "The Four Engagement Rings of Sybil Reign" emerges as a compelling addition to contemporary rom-com literature.

---

Connect with Zibby Owens:

• Website: zibbymedia.com
• Instagram: @zibbyowens

Follow Hannah Brown:

• Author's Website: www.hannahbrown.com (Assumed URL for illustrative purposes)

Transcript

[A]

Hi listeners of Totally Booked with Zibby this June we have one episode coming out every single day and to celebrate that I've started the June Listening Club. You can sign up on zibbedia.com or you can just keep listening and every day there'll be a little quiz on Instagram. We're giving prizes away every single day this month you're gonna get amazing stuff. You would all be invited to a party and a zoom at the end of the month to celebrate with a special certificate. So sign up on Zibbe Media today. Make sure following Totally Booked with Zibby on Instagram and get ready to listen. Make it a challenge. June is crazy. Find some airtime for yourself. Put it on in the background. Get ready to listen, learn, laugh and enjoy life. If you love to travel, Capital One has a rewards credit card that's perfect for you.

[B]

With the Capital One Venture X card, you earn unlimited double miles on everything you buy.

[A]

Plus you get premium benefits at a collection of luxury hotels when you book on Capital One Travel.

[B]

And with Venture X you get access.

[A]

To over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide. Open up a world of travel possibilities with a Capital One Venture X card. What's in your wallet?

[B]

Terms apply. Lounge access is subject to change. See capitalone.com for details. This summer, Instacart is bringing back your.

[A]

Favorites from 1999 with prices from 1999.

[B]

That means 90s prices on juice pouches that ought to be respected, 90s prices on box Mac and cheese and 90s.

[A]

Prices on ham, cheese and cracker lunches.

[B]

Enjoy all those throwbacks and more at throwback prices only through Instacart.

[A]

$4.72 maximum discount per $10 of eligible items.

[B]

Limit one offer per order. Expire September 5th while supplies last discount based on CPI comparison.

[A]

Today's episode is sponsored by gab. The youth mental health crisis is all over the news and we know driving it. This shocked me. The US Surgeon General warns that kids who spend more than three hours a day online are twice as likely to have depression and anxiety. With four kids of my own, we are constantly debating when is the right age to give some of our kids a phone? How do we monitor the phone usage? For others it is non stop. But now there's a solution. Here's the good news. A company called GAB has solved the problem by doing something no one else is doing. Their approach is tech in Steps. Tech in Steps works by providing kids safe phones and watches tailored to every age. Offering the right device at the right time from GPS tracking enabled watches for young kids to increased features and parent enabled apps on the phones for tweens and teens. Each device grows with your child. Bottom line, you don't have to give your kid a device that was made for an adult. Get them Gab which keeps them socially connected safely. I can't recommend Gab enough. Use our code to get the best deal on something that will make parenting easier and give you peace of mind. Visit gab.com that's G-A B B.com TotallyBooked and use code TotallyBooked for a very special offer. Hi, this is Zibby Owens and you're listening to Totally Booked with Zibby formerly Moms don't have Time to Read Books in my daily show, I interview today's latest best selling buzz underrated authors and story creators whose work I think is worth your time. As a bookstore owner, publisher, author and obviously podcaster, I get a comprehensive look at everything that's coming out and spend my time curating the best books so you don't have to stay in the know. Get insider insights and connect with guests like I do every single day. For more information, go to zibbemedia.com and follow me on Instagram ibbyoens. Hannah Brown is a television personality, lifestyle expert, and two time New York Times bestselling author. Brown's authenticity and charismatic personality have captivated her millions of followers and she continues to inspire and empower others. Born and raised in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Brown currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee. Welcome Hannah. Thank you so much for coming on to talk about the four engagement rings of Civil Reign. This book was and I really, really enjoyed it. Congratulations.

[B]

Thank you so much for having me. No, I'm, I'm excited. I love to hear that you enjoyed it. I can't wait for other people to read it.

[A]

It's awesome. It's like the White Lotus meets like Sex in the City meets. I don't know. I had a better description before.

[B]

No, actually somebody the other day said those two descriptions. It feels like Sex in the City in White Lotus and I love that because I love both of those shows. Yeah, it's definitely fun. I think anything that's based on like a in a resort, especially with summer coming up, it makes for a really good beach read. Summer read to be set in a beautiful location and then I love anything that has to do with like your girlfriend supporting you and being there there for you. So I will accept. Even if that's you had a better explanation, I will accept those.

[A]

Thank you. Thank you for settling on my. My backup. On my backup description. Okay. Why don't you tell everybody what your. What your book. That.

[B]

Yeah. So the Four Engagement Rings, the Civil Reign is actually my second novel. My first novel. The mistakes we never made really centered around this wedding weekend that was actually my main character of the Four Engagement Rings, Sybil's wedding, everything kind of blows up and she is left at the altar after she kind of goes missing during her wedding weekend. And so this book kind of starts out answering some questions for people who read the first book, but it's definitely still a standalone book. And it starts out with Sybil having a much needed me time vacation where she's doing a little bit of work, but really it's just for her to have some time to herself after a very chaotic year. It's been a year since she kind of left her wedding in shambles and everything's going great until she runs into not one, but two of her ex Beyonce's. And so of course, chaos entails. And it is a really fun read. But also this trip really makes Sybil have to continue to work on dealing with some things in her past that have really made it hard for her to really accept a future and accept love for herself and from other people. And we kind of go on a journey with Sybil to really right some wrongs, to understand, like, what it is that keeps pushing her from not being able to accept what is hers and what she. What life has to offer her and continue to learn to fall in love in the process.

[A]

Oh, I love that. And you're getting married. I saw on your Instagram, like, no, she couldn't possibly. I'm like, was she trying on these wedding gowns for the book?

[B]

No, I actually, the book comes out June 24th, and I get married July 26th.

[A]

Oh my gosh.

[B]

It's a crazy time. But, you know, I'm looking at it in a really positive light that I get to share this book with other people who love rom coms and have supported me. And it's like my. The book tour that I'll be doing is like a mini bachelorette party for me because it's cutting it close to the big day, but it's going to be really fun.

[A]

That's amazing. Oh, my gosh. Well, I have to say, I have such a crush on Jamie, even though I obviously have not met him.

[B]

I love that.

[A]

Yeah, you made it. I was like, who is this guy? I love when people in fiction can create people who I'm like, not Sebastian. But I'll take Jamie. Do you know what I mean?

[B]

Anyway, yeah, no, he's. I definitely like a Darcy type guy, which I love. And he has a lot of characteristics that I feel like my fiance has as well. So I definitely got some inspiration from my fiance and kind of how he treat. I mean, all the good parts of the ways that Jamie treats her. Just that type of man I'm obviously really attracted to. So I also agree. I think he's very swoon worthy.

[A]

Basically, I have a crush on your fiance, which is so inappropriate. So it's a.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

And I'm. I'm very happily married, FYI. You don't have to worry about me.

[B]

No, but it was so fun because, you know, writing this book was definitely a labor of love, trying to balance Sebastian and Jamie and these two ex fiances and both being very different, but making sure, like, one doesn't overpower the other. Like, how do we make sure both men are like, you understand why she was with them. But it was kind of hard because at first I felt like Sebastian was like. When I was writing, I'm like, okay. Like, he's so fun and adventurous and sexy, and Jamie is more of, like, this stable, grounded man. So I had to, like, figure out how to, I don't know, juggle the different personalities. But I feel like they're both, like, irresistible in their own ways.

[A]

Yes. The third comp, by the way, was Mamma Mia. It had some Mamma Mia. With all the different.

[B]

Oh, I love that.

[A]

Okay. Anyway, just thought I'd throw that out there. So this one thing that Sybil is sort of ashamed about is her lack of a diploma, like a degree. How did you come up with that? Why does she feel so much shame? I know that Jamie's more cerebral and everything, but tell me a little bit about that plotline.

[B]

Yeah. I think Sybil is somebody who definitely has, like, the sparkle, the shine. But I think just sometimes in the back of her head, she's always felt like she had this expectation to be something that she just wasn't like. I think for some. For some people, like, school is. Is not all going to get your higher education. It's not for everyone. But feeling that expectation that it had to be. She's also, like an only child, so I feel like her relationship with her parents, like, her not being exactly what they wanted her to be, like, that's where that kind of started. And really feeling like she had. Because she had this sparkle, shine, this something that people are gravit. Gravitate towards. She's had a hard time in her life really staying fully true to herself because she always kind of feels like this form of entertainment and expectation. And so I think, especially when it came to, like, her not finishing school and having that shame around that she is a little bit mystical and all over the place and hard to commit to really anything in her life, even schooling. And now when she is with, like, this incredible, incredible man, Jamie, who has obviously, like, been really successful, and that has been his path towards success, like, she feels uncomfortable and has a little shame about, like, her past and wanting to be the sparkle and shine in his life. And what does that mean? And how can she kind of, like, mold into that to be something that he's pleased with? So she, you know, leaves some details out of her life, and one of those being, you know, being not as open about her schooling and her life choices that led to her and Jamie being together.

[A]

Interesting. And then you also have this not so perfect relationship with her future potential in laws and her particularly Amelia. What do you do? Like, has this happened to you? And, like, what do you do in these situations? Or, like, how do we all find a way to handle the people who might not be rooting for us, which is something that so many people can relate to.

[B]

Yeah, you know, I haven't had that. I've had my family not root for relationships that I've been in, but I haven't had, like, in my experience, like, another guy that I was dating, his family not approving, but there have been differences and maybe still feeling like not being what, you know, different people have expected me to be or who I would be with, or vice versa. Like, I'm not the person that my partner's family or friends expected me to be. That's always hard. I think that's a lot of Sybil's, like, part of her journey is sometimes you are not going to be for everyone, do not have to be entertainment and of value to everyone to still have value for yourself. And I think it's just really important that, like, core relationship, like, if you find yourself in that situation, like, that your partner is encouraging you and validating you and seeing you, because that's what really matters. Like, if you are a core solid pair, you're going to be able to withstand that. But that comes with a lot of communication. And for Sybil and Jamie, they did not know how to communicate with each other, and. And in ways like that is what hindered them from being able to weather that storm in the first place. So she felt really lost and unseen. And I think sometimes we have found like men have a hard time standing up to their mother and their family. And like when you get married like you are, you are starting a new family and knowing that your partner is going to stand up for you and to see you and value you, I don't think Sybil fully felt that. And so that's like part of what Jamie has to, you know, go on a journey for is like how is he going to balance like his parents expectations but also his love for Sybil and find a way forward in that.

[A]

Wow. Well, good luck. It's hard. That is a hard situation. Oh my God. Today's episode is sponsored by Wayfair. There's just something about a beautiful outdoor space that is so satisfying. Having your own backyard oasis is like a dream come true. And Wayfair has everything that you need to level up your outdoor space and make it really yours. They have patio sets, lounge chairs, outdoor bars, hot tubs, fire pits, gazebos, and of course, string lights. It is so easy to have a one stop shop where you can make over your entire outdoor space with a resort feel or whatever you love without a resort price tag. I, as you know, am obsessed with Wayfair and have decorated my home and office using Wayfair. I recently loved the new outdoor rugs that they have. I love the Waikiki blue indoor outdoor rug which will look great in my new temporary place in Santa Monica. I want my outdoor space to feel like me. I want it to welcome people and make them feel comfortable and right at home. And Wayfair has everything. Plus shipping is so fast and the prices are fabulous. And it's convenient that Wayfair has everything your home needs, especially for this warm weather season. Wayfair's huge selection of outdoor items makes it easy to find exactly what's right for you. There's something for every style and every home. No matter your space or budget. Wayfair makes it easy to tackle your summer home goals with endless inspiration for every space and budget, including the outdoors. So don't wait. Make your outdoor space your dream oasis today with Wayfair and enjoy it all summer long. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop a huge outdoor selection. That's W A Y F A I R.com Wayfair Every style, every home.

[B]

Ready to order?

[A]

Yes. We're earning unlimited 3% cash back on dining and entertainment with a Capital One Saver card. So let's just get one of everything.

[B]

Everything. Fire everything.

[A]

The Capital One Saver card is at table 27, and they're earning unlimited 3% cash back. Yes, Chef. This is so nice. Had a feeling you'd want 3% cash back on dessert.

[B]

Ooh, tiramisu.

[A]

Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining and entertainment with the Capital One saver card.

[B]

Capital One.

[A]

What's in your wallet?

[B]

Terms apply. See capitalone.com for details.

[A]

Does it ever feel like you're a marketing professional just speaking into the void? Well, with LinkedIn ads, you can know you're reaching the right decision makers.

[B]

You can even target buyers by job title, industry, company seniority, skills. Wait, did I say job title yet? Get started today and see how you.

[A]

Can avoid the void and reach the.

[B]

Right buyers with LinkedIn ads.

[A]

We'll even give you a $100 credit.

[B]

On your next campaign. Get started at LinkedIn.com results. Terms and conditions apply.

[A]

Runaway Bride is, like, one of my favorite movies. I love it so much. I don't know if you see. Do you follow this guy? I think he goes by Heartthrob Rob on social media. He does all these, like, reinterpretations in a super funny way of 90s movies. And he recently did one on Runaway Bride and being like, what, can we not all eat eggs differently on different days? He's like, what is up with that? She has to, like, commit to, like, having her ordering eggs one way. Who wants to commit to anyway? He's so funny about it. But I think about that, and for those who don't know what I'm even talking about, like, in Runaway Bride, Julia Roberts is trying to figure out who she is, and she doesn't even know what kind of eggs she wants. And by the end, she kind of figures it out. So I'm joking with the whole thing, but I felt like there was obviously a parallel to this storyline, of course. And I'm wondering what. What your version is of. Of the eggs. And do you, like, just tell me about the parallels there? Are you also a fan?

[B]

I love that movie so, so much. I. I had always said, which I'm not doing this, but I just love that end scene. Like, her in that beautiful, like, green field and they're on the horses. I was like, oh, wouldn't that be, like, a dream way to get married? So, like, that's, like, etched in my brain.

[A]

Are you gonna get married on horseback?

[B]

I am not gonna get married.

[A]

Okay, all right, all right. You never know.

[B]

It sounds like a good idea, but considering the fact that I've only been on a horse, like, three times, in my entire life. Probably not. What I want to do does actually.

[A]

Does not actually sound like a good idea, by the way, too. Too much room for error.

[B]

But in the movie, it's beautiful.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

But, yeah, I think for Sybil, it's the four engagement rings of Reigns. There's definitely a story there. And she's had different relationships where she's shown up as herself, but parts of herself that feel like they mesh with that relationship at that time. And I think if. If anything could be the eggs. There's. I think maybe even like, it looks like the engagement rings that she had, like, all very different, just like her relationships and always just kind of missing that sense of, like, self love and worth in these different relationships that she. She doesn't really know how to, like, say what she wants. She knows how to be what other people want and bold in those ways until it becomes too much. And there's too many things that she's hidden from herself and from other people to. To where it. It makes her just like Julia Roberts, like, run away and not be able to fully commit because person doesn't even know you fully. You know, they know the parts that she wanted them to see. So I think you could see that symbolized by. Even by like, the rings that she has in this. In this story.

[A]

I mean, in a way, it's just such a crapshoot to get married when you're really young, when you're figuring out who you are anyway. It's almost like this Wheel of Fortune thing is going around and it just stops right there. And it's like, okay, well, maybe I was actually gonna land somewhere else. But this is where. That was a bad analogy too.

[B]

But no, it's not. I think getting married. I'm 30 now. I think you could look at it in different ways. Like, now I've been able to establish, like, my own life and. And that way it gives you, like, a lot of confidence and like, I can do this on my own, but do I want to? That can be hard because you're like, okay, I've already said I've settled in this, but now I'm bringing somebody else in. So that has its own sometimes challenges and ways to move around it. But also to your point, like, I am so different than I was six years ago, you know, 10 years ago. And when you are finding yourselves in. In this, like, these really, like, strong connections and romances, like, in that moment, you could say yes to that person. But you're. I think just in general relationships, you have to be with somebody that you can grow and change and find a person that's also okay with you growing and changing. And. Yeah, it's. It's funny to look back at Sybil's relationships because her first relationship with Liam that we. That you get to discover in the. This book is very different than her relationship with Jamie and Sebastian. There's a different little, you know, wheels of little spokes on the wheels of her fortune. And we get to get. We get the opportunity to kind of dive into those and learn more about her as a character and who she was at different moments of her life. And also like, things that happened in her life in years past, how that is still coming up, you know, years and years later. So I think it was a good analogy to say, yeah, and how did.

[A]

You become an author?

[B]

Yeah, so I actually started off in non fiction. I had the opportunity to write, I call it like a quarter life memoir because I was on. I was. Was pretty young at the time. It's kind of crazy. It's been like five years since I wrote that. But there's a lot of interesting parts in my life and I was given the opportunity to do that. That was never something that I really dreamt of, but I had always had the opportunity. I mean, always wanted the opportunity and the ability to write a novel. I remember being on my mom's, like, kitchen counter one day and being. And telling her, like, I know this is crazy. Like, one of my dreams is to, like one day write a novel. I really just want to be able to do that and say I've done it, but also, like, have a story worth sharing. And I had an idea, I still have it in my back pocket. It's not one of these, but yeah, this is what I say is like my first dream come true. Because all the other things that I've been able to do have been so amazing, but nothing that I could have dreamt up. But writing a novel has always been something that I inspired to do and didn't know how and was offered the opportunity to be able to do this. And it's just been incredible. It's truly been a gift for me. But also to be able to share like, these creative stories that I'm coming, I've come up with, with other people and people liking them has been really, really cool. So it's, like I said, it's been a dream for. Since I was in high school. And so that it's come to fruition this past year when my first novel was amazing. And then to have the Opportunity to do it again.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

Has been great, but also, like, I don't know if you hear this from other people, but the second book was a lot harder in a way because it's like, you've done it when. I don't know, I think for some people, maybe it's like, you do it once. You're like, oh, I can do it again. But I'm like, oh, no, I've done it once. Like. But I had an amazing co author, Emily Larrabee, that really helped with me for structure and, like, understanding. How do I have this idea, I have these characters. How do I make this a reality? Like a book that somebody will be able to hold in their hands and not in 12 years. And that was just really wonderful. Like, that helped me so much to have, like, a team and support. So, yeah, that's kind of how it all started, but it's been a long time coming, at least in my mind's eye.

[A]

Oh, my gosh. So your last, like, mistakes were never made. What is a mistake that you made?

[B]

Oh, we don't have time to go into all of them. I think a mistake that I have made, but it's been part of my story, is not truly kind of a similar thing. That Sybil has held her back, is not fully embracing who I am for fear of not being enough, not believing in myself being enough as is seeking validation for how I make other feel, other people feel versus how I really feel myself. I think that can really hold a lot of people back. I don't think I'm alone in that and not knowing my value and worth sooner. I think as women, we all can sometimes struggle with that because of the stereotypes and the ways that we're, like, supposed to be and I mean as well. But I have really had to go on the journey of being able to, like, love and value myself as is and not always having to win or do it right, make mistakes and it be okay and have nothing to do with my value as a human being. But there's been a lot of years in my life that I did not believe that. And so, you know, that I don't live with, like, full regret. But there's always those what ifs of what if I knew this sooner, what else could I have done? What else would I have gone after? So, yeah, I think when I'm writing these books, a lot of these characters are very similar to me because they're a part of me. I don't know how to write about anything that I don't fully know the feeling of I might have not ran into two of my exes on a beach getaway and having to, like, confront them and maneuver around that. But I know what it feels like to be scared and have doubt and have my past catch up with me and allow me not to really be able to accept what's in front of me. So, yeah, I think some of the mistakes that I've made have been things that in this book, Sybil also has to go through. But also the mistakes that I've made can be a path for a beautiful future once you've, like, faced them head on and open up other doors. So that's what I feel like has happened in my life. A lot of the things that I'm like most like, oh, my gosh, why did I do that? There has been a way made forward in that. And I would say that for anybody that. That there's always, no matter what you've done, where you feel like you failed, there's always like, a light at the end of the tunnel that maybe it was a hard run around that you maybe didn't have to go through, but there's always, like, something on the other side that. Whether that's a life lesson or a gift, I think either one is worth it.

[A]

I love that. Amazing. So in addition to getting married and releasing this book and all the rest, are you already writing your next book or how are you feeling about that?

[B]

I have ideas. I have not started another book. I also just bought my first house. We have, like, a lot going on at one time, but I have a few ideas. So in Mistakes We Never Made and the four engagement readings of Civil Rain, there is a core four group of girls kind of getting sex in the city vibe. The first book kind of revolved around Emma's love story. And obviously the four engagement rings in Civil Reign is about Sybil. But I have ideas to be able to really create a world in where Nikki has her own story and Willow has her own story and how this relationship of these women like, how they're there for each other and love and loss and learning more about themselves. And so I have ideas, but they're fully on paper. Well, the idea is on paper, but I've not fully written out a book. But I would love the opportunity to do that soon when things calm down just a little bit.

[A]

Well, I love the idea. I don't even know. What do you call it when it's for. It's not a trilogy. It's like a quadrilogy or Something. I don't know. I just made it up.

[B]

I don't know.

[A]

I don't know. I don't know either.

[B]

That's why standalone books, like, just for people who are interested, like, you could start with the four engagement reigns of Civil Reign. I want them to be able to be standalone. But also, it was so fun to be able. Like, how I decided to write Sybil's book next is because people were so invested in her story in the first book and wanting to know more about her. So I hope that continues to happen so that I can give Nikki and Willow their chance to shine and share their love stories.

[A]

Well, I did not read the first one, sorry to say. And I was not the least bit. I didn't even. You wouldn't even have known that there was another book.

[B]

Oh, good, good.

[A]

It was totally free, you know, stood on its own 100%, so that was great. Is there adaptation news coming or anything?

[B]

That would be such a dream. Obviously, like, for me, I come from television, and so to be able to bring these stories into that scope of work would be a dream come true. So it's definitely something that I. I think about when I'm writing, but I'm really just excited for people to get their hands on it and read it first and, you know, if it. If it becomes something more like. That is the goal. But as you know, those things are really hard to come by and take a long time. So it's a dream and we'll see. But I always like to put it out there that. Yeah, that would be amazing to be able to see this hit a screen of some sort, whether that's TV or film. That would be huge.

[A]

Amazing. And do you have a core four? Are you part of a group of girls that are.

[B]

Yes, yes. I mean, I have. I'm so grateful for the women that I have in my life that support me, who check me, who encourage me, who are able to talk sense into me when I need it. They all come from different areas of my life. Kind of the same with Sybil, too. Like, I'm obviously getting married, so I'm having my bachelorette trip soon as everybody's starting to get to know each other. And it's just so amazing to be able to have, like, the people in your life from different seasons be able to come together and who knows, maybe we'll have a core eight. Because I have eight bridesmaids. But, yeah, I have. I value my female friendship so much and how they have really been integral in. In my relationship now, like, Just supporting my relationship, being there for, for me and, and my fiance Adam. Like in times when, like I was off, I was wrong. When we were maybe in a fight or upset with each other, like them continuing to support me and see me and. Yeah, I think it's super important. I think one of the greatest love stories in your life can be with your female friendships and how you can show up and, and be there for each other. So, yeah, very, very blessed to have some great women in my life.

[A]

So I have a totally superficial question. I've been staring at your wallpaper this whole time and I love wallpaper so much. Do you have any idea, like, where you got that or what kind it is or.

[B]

Okay, I'm pretty sure it's William Morris. Is that William Morris? I'm not sure. I cannot take credit for it because I just bought this house recently. It's like in 1905. Craftsmen in Nashville, Tennessee and like this adorable little neighborhood. And the people who we bought the house from did some really great work. And so this is theirs. But I'm pretty sure I looked it up and it's William Morris wallpaper.

[A]

Amazing.

[B]

But yeah, there's wallpaper in like five of the rooms.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

But it's done so well. I think eventually I'll make it my own. But it's too good to change it right now. I'm going to enjoy it for a little bit.

[A]

Yeah. Oh, my gosh. I'm just going to move right in.

[B]

I want to move into your house.

[A]

Well, we could just trade. That could be our next book.

[B]

We'll do like the holiday vibe.

[A]

We'll do the holiday trade.

[B]

Spouses or anything.

[A]

Nashville to New York City. Why not?

[B]

Perfect.

[A]

Okay, great. I'm in. Well, good luck with your wedding. Congratulations. I truly enjoyed the book. It was a really escapist and fun and yet there was meat on it. So, yeah, I really enjoyed it. Congrats.

[B]

I appreciate it.

[A]

Okay, best of luck.

[B]

Dog is so calm, well behaved. Mine was going crazy.

[A]

Oh, she's almost 11.

[B]

Oh my gosh. So I have a baby. Like a three year old. Doodle. So they're wild.

[A]

Yeah, no, but yeah, she's very chill.

[B]

Anyway, well, thank you so much for having me.

[A]

All right, thank you so much.

[B]

Good luck. Okay, bye. Bye.

[A]

Thank you for listening to Totally Booked with Zibby, formerly Moms don't have Time to read Books. If you loved the show, tell a friend, leave a review, Follow me on Instagram, ibbeowens and spread the word. Thanks so much. Oh, and buy the books.

[B]

Ready to order?

[A]

Yes. We're earning unlimited 3% cash back on dining and entertainment with a Capital One Saver Card. So let's just get one of everything.

[B]

Everything. Fire everything.

[A]

The Capital One Saver card is at table 27, and they're earning unlimited 3% cash back. Yes, Chef. This is so nice. Had a feeling you'd want 3% cash back on dessert.

[B]

Oh, tiramisu.

[A]

Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining and entertainment with the Capital One Saver Card. Capital One what's in your wallet?

[B]

Terms apply. See capitalone.com for details.

[A]

If you're anything like us, you love attention. And my favorite way to get all eyes on me is with next level shiny, glossy hair. Which is why we're excited to tell y' all about the new Lamellar Gloss collection from the girlies at Tresemme. And Gigglers, we've got you too, because Tresemme partnered with us to bring you 1-800-gloss, a special bonus episode of Giggly Squad, where Hannah and I give advice on all things hair and giving gloss. Check out the episode and grab the Lamellar gloss collection today because I'm officially declaring this spring gloss season. If you work as a manufacturing facilities engineer, installing a new piece of equipment.

[B]

Can be as complex as the machinery itself. From prep work to alignment and testing.

[A]

It'S your team's job to put it all together. That's why it's good to have Grainger on your side.

[B]

With industrial grade products and next day.

[A]

Delivery, Grainger helps ensure you have everything.

[B]

You need close at hand through every step of the installation.

[A]

Call 1-800-GRAINGER clickgrainger.com or just stop by.

[B]

Grainger for the ones who get it done.