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Love, Life, and Lucille

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Judy Gaman was so busy making a name for herself that she barely took the time to meet a stranger, enjoy life, or simply stop to breathe. Immersed in her job as the director of business development for a high-profile medical practice—a job that required her to write health and wellness books and host a nationally syndicated radio show—she spent every day going full speed ahead with no looking back. That is, until the day she met Lucille Fleming.

While writing a book on longevity, Judy interviewed Lucille, an elegant and spirited woman who had just recently turned 100. Lucille had the fashion and style of old Hollywood, but it was all hidden behind the doors of her assisted living center. What began as a quick meeting became a lasting friendship that transformed into an inseparable bond. Lucille brought incredible wisdom and great stories to the table, while Judy provided an avenue for excitement and new opportunities. Together, the two began living life to the fullest, and meeting the most interesting people along the way (including Suzanne Somers). But then Lucille’s life came to an end through unexpected and unfortunate circumstances—and the very first lesson she ever taught Judy proved to be the most important one of all.

390 pages, Paperback

Published April 14, 2020

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About the author

Judith K. Gaman

3 books10 followers
Judy Gaman is an award winning author, public speaker, and CEO of Executive Medicine of Texas. She’s spent nearly a decade offering advice on longevity and vitality as a voice of The Staying Young Radio Show, which was nationally syndicated on 58 stations.

When not working on Stay Young America! the podcast, she serves as a healthy living expert for Fox News and other media outlets. Judy is a five-time author and has appeared on Fox News Radio, Good Morning Texas and San Diego Living, among numerous other outlets.

Judy also tours as a public speaker, and has been entertaining audiences of all sizes for years. She crafts her presentations around engaging and easy-to-understand concepts including longevity, vitality, and healthy living.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Larry H.
2,526 reviews29.5k followers
November 3, 2020
Love, Life, and Lucille is a heartwarming story of an extraordinary friendship that feels like a hug in book form.

We never know when our life is going to change. For Judy Gaman, one of those times was when she met Lucille. Judy was looking to talk with centenarians for a book she was writing about aging gracefully, and while she worried what to expect from a 100-year-old woman, Lucille blew every expectation out of the water.

That meeting sparked an incredible relationship. Buoyed by Lucille’s infectious spirit, her unflagging energy, and an enormous capacity for love, the two would at least see each other every Friday, where they would share a love of food at some of Texas’ most notable restaurants, a love of family and faith, and mutual stories of overcoming adversity and heartache.

But while you would think that Lucille would benefit from the attention being paid her by a woman in her 40s, Judy benefited equally, if not more. Lucille held her up in moments of professional and personal vulnerability, sharing advice, humor, and most importantly, love.

For nearly four years, the two had an immense adventure together, taking them from wig shopping and television interviews to Texas Rangers’ stadium. Reading about this friendship was so inspiring, and definitely made me think about how we connect with others in our lives, the things we should say and don’t.

This was such a wonderful, poignant book, and we are so lucky that Judy was willing to share her memories of such an amazing woman. It honestly reminded me of some lyrics from the song "No Time At All," from the musical Pippin :

Here is a secret I never have told
Maybe you'll understand why
I believe if I refuse to grow old
I can stay young 'til I die

I was fortunate to be part of the blog tour for this book. Kate Rock Book Tours and Judy Gaman provided me a complimentary (and signed!) copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making it available!!

May we all find a Lucille in our lives, and be for them what Judy was for her.

Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.

Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.

See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.

Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Profile Image for Nursebookie.
2,314 reviews360 followers
July 11, 2020
LOVE LIFE AND LUCILLE is an incredibly unique book that was such a delight to read. It is a story of Judy Gaman and Lucille a centenarian. This is a memoir and a tribute to her life and their friendship.

Judy Gaman is a brilliant woman who has done it all - she is an award-winning author, speaker, and radio/podcast host, a CEO of Executive Medicine of Texas, a luxury medical practice in the Dallas. She is a gifted and master storyteller that brings to life within these pages stories about Lucille Fleming that inspire, motivate and warms the heart.

The writing is so heartfelt, truly a joy - right from how Judy and Lucille fostered their lasting friendship to the stories of their adventures together as they live their lives to the fullest!

This is a must read for those of us whose lives are just passing as by. I loved being part of Judy and Lucille’s world. It made me look at my own relationships with my mother and children.

What a beautiful memoir and I am so grateful to have had the chance to experience this captivating book.
Profile Image for Jypsy .
1,524 reviews57 followers
November 1, 2020
Thank you Kate Rock Book Tours for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Love, Life, and Lucille
By: Judith K. Gaman


REVIEW ☆☆☆☆

TmLove, Life, and Lucille is a beautiful story, and for me, it was like opening a Pandora's Box of memories.

Judy and Lucille serendipitously meet, and to their surprise and delight, form an actual friendship. Not the friends you text-a real face to face relationship. That is not easy to find. Lucille is a remarkable woman, aged 100 years, still vivacious, and she brought new, positive, energy into Judy's life. Obviously, these two were destined to meet for reasons beyond our understanding. But, I knew there would be sadness, too, and I can't abide the heaviness of it.

Eleven years ago, the man who was like a second father to my husband died. He was 75 years old. Five months prior to this, he was placed in the hospital full time. Plus, hospice care. I felt "obligated" to visit, even though I didn't know him as well as my husband. For the first month, we sat in relative silence. For the second month, random conversations about nothing. Then, he started to talk to me, I halfway listened, until, one day, I actually listened. Real conversations about meaningful things happened. I no longer dreaded each visit. He told me about Vietnam, his career as a newspaper editor, two crazy ex-wives, really bad jokes, his amazing chili recipe and named me power of attorney. I could feel time running out, until a Sunday morning phone call shattered the hourglass. I knew too little much too late.

Don't dismiss and ignore the elderly in your life because you will regret it. Take what they offer you with grace and compassion. Become true friends, like Lucille and Judy. This book will inspire you and break your heart at the same time. I mean that in a good way.
Profile Image for Linda Zagon.
1,436 reviews165 followers
June 23, 2020
Linda's Book Obsession Reviews "Love, Life and Lucille" by @Judy Gaman, She Writes Press, April 14, 2020, for Suzy Approved Book Tours

Judy Gaman, author of "Love, Life, and Lucille" has written a memorable, delightful, entertaining biography and memoir that tug at your heartstrings. Judy is a workaholic, and has a wonderful second marriage with a family similar to "The Brady Bunch", Yours, Mine, and Ours".  Judy is the head of a business aspect of medical practice, has a radio program and writes,

 This book is a dedication of love to a special friend, that was a centenarian, Lucille. Lucille was a vibrant, colorful, cheerful, and dramatic influence on many people, especially Judy. Judy learned many lessons in dealing with life from her senior friend. There was no age discrimination, and for a few years, there were some wonderful memories that were made.

 In this book, Judy mentions the ups and downs of life, good and bad, and good health and illness.  Together, no matter what setbacks, the two set out to live life. They shared their outings in restaurants and on television, and radio. I love when the author vividly describes the food, waffles with ice-cream, or blueberries and whipped cream. 

I would highly recommend this intriguing and thought-provoking novel for readers to enjoy.
Profile Image for A.L. Goulden.
Author 12 books333 followers
September 30, 2020
First, Lucille is impossible not to fall in love with. Her flowing skirts and red lips with the philosophy of eating well, taking long walks, and being with friends. Sage advice for anyone. Unfortunately, what I expected in terms of deeper wisdom and Lucille's past never developed. The book focused mostly on Judy who is quite conservative and a bit judgy towards things like tattoos while holding herself in the highest regard as a workaholic. This book never goes deep. It lives on the surface, moving through the lunch dates Judy kept with Lucille until the days when she took her in. I loved hearing about her effervescent energy and the TV interview that she was born to do but I wanted nuggets of her history. That's what a memoir is. What real lessons of Lucille's life did Judy receive?

There were a few darker insinuations about nursing homes and their questionable care techniques sprinkled in but again... we never go into this as a moment of learning. Instead, Judy whisked her into her own home, which she mentions people thought was odd and I have to agree simply on the fact that Lucille's children (at least one son) weren't far away. The move to care for her was noble and understandable in terms of friendship but it also seemed to fill a mother-daughter void or some savior syndrome that too many workaholics lean on. I found myself asking even more questions about Lucille's children and her past, knowing I'd never get answers.

The book was more religious than I expected which conjured flashbacks of my own Oklahoma upbringing (this story is in Texas) where white women rule the roosts behind "good" men. I understand and accept that many people rely on faith, especially as they age, to ease their fears or use as an excuse for sad things but it pulled me out of the book repeatedly because it again hovered on the surface and felt like justification for actions.

Overall, Lucille's life is still a mystery. I wish I knew about her childhood or life when her babies were young. What were her parents like and where did she travel? Or did she never leave? This charming woman got to shine for a moment in the end, with Judy's help, and be memorialized in this book that reflects who she was in the end, vivacious and warm and caring, but those are like the wig and flowy dresses she donned... the pretty outside that covered the true human frailty and scars and lessons underneath. Any woman who lived through most of the twentieth century had to experience discrimination, struggles, broken dreams, loss... something that made her stronger, that got her beyond 100. What memories did she hold dearest? What loves did she feel deepest? And really, what was Lucille like during the late 60s when women liberated? Was she conservative and
hesitant or did she ever use her voice to speak out?

This book is worth your time. Please don't misread my review and dismiss this. What you will learn from Lucille is enough to spark your imagination and really hammer home that there are thousands out there who are not invisible just because they are older. During COVID some have treated the elderly as if they are expendable, they've lived long enough and they survive or they don't. Well, I think we need a book like this to remind us that they are people with experiences and dreams and humor that deserve respect and dignity. Pick up this book and give Lucille that. She deserves it.
Profile Image for Kim.
270 reviews6 followers
March 29, 2020
The story of Judy and Lucille is, as the author put it, symbiotic. Quite frankly, Lucille made Judy a better person. And I think Judy helped Lucille flourish. Before Judy met Lucille, she spoke about “workaholism”; she seemed very quick to judge someone from a glance (although I don’t necessarily think that changed, just her willingness to try to look past something like tattoos); and as we were to discover, she had some unresolved feelings about her own childhood. Because of Judy, Lucille was able to be interviewed on TV, travel a bit, and to shine her light.

It’s hard not to fall in love with Lucille. She has a joi de vivre for life that I think those of us in our prime of life want to forget old people in nursing homes can have. As she said (and I paraphrase), she was too old for the worries, so she just put the worries on God.

Which is a nice segue to mention this book is more religious than I expected from a non-religious publisher. Both Judy and Lucille had strong ties to their faith (Mormonism and Catholicism respectively). It was at times, a bit much; but as this is a memoir, and faith was and is a part of their life, not to be unexpected. There were some moments of brow-raising when, while talking about a long ago night with Lucille’s husband before they were married sharing an unexpected night together – though, like in many 90s sitcoms, the problem of 1 bed and two unmarried people was solved with a wall of towels to separate the two – there was a follow-up remark that they wished other young women had that same . . . what? Sense of dignity? Seemed a bit unnecessary, and shamey, and distanced me as a reader.

Something else that stood out in these life lessons is the way facilities where our loved seniors are placed are managed. It’s strongly implied that Lucille died due to the lack of care from such a facility. It raises concerns. Are such instances the norm, or the outlier? Sadly, I think it’s the former.

Judy took Lucille into her home after a fall, though at least one of her sons lived close by. Both Judy and Lucille called each other “best friends”, but I think Lucille was an adoptive mother – the mother Judy wished she had; maybe the ideal mother all daughters wished they had, if they didn’t already have that relationship with their own mother. When Judy struggled with Lyme disease, she mentions that her mother took days longer to be with her when Judy’s husband was away, and it was Lucille she turned to for support.

I wished I had heard more about Lucille’s past. What we got were mere teasers. Who was this “Honourable John A McDonald” who’s son Lucille dated? As a Canadian, I was intrigued, but there was no follow-up. It’s almost as if we got to peak through a barely-opened door right before it closed on us again.

It is a good book to remind us of something we often forget. People do not stop existing at a certain age. They don’t stop experiencing life, or needing companionship of all forms. Lucille’s story is one of thousands that still need to be told.

I received this free advanced copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Permanently_Booked.
923 reviews59 followers
November 4, 2020
"Any day that starts with waffles is going to be a good one."

I think the powers that be knew I needed this book right now. With everything going on in my life, what I've put first and neglected or just outright have been too busy to appreciate. It was the eye opener... no... the reality check that I needed. Who better to deliver that than a centurian! I can only hope to live that long with such zest in my soul.

Gaman caught the beautiful spirit of Lucille and presented their friendship in a way that read more like women's contemporary fiction instead of a memoir. I absolutely loved it. Living vicariously through Gaman, I felt my own reader connection growing with the vivacious Lucille and her excitement for life. An excitement I think the majority of our world has lost.

I applaud Gaman for including her personal struggles and hard life choices. That took strength to mention things like lyme disease, strokes and nursing misshapes. It all connected to Lucille's most important key to living a long and happy life but you'll have to read to find out what that is.

This was such a well written and emotional tribute that I would recommend it to everyone. No matter your genre preference. Sometimes you need a Lucille to make you reevaluate what matters most.

Special thank you to Judy Gaman for providing a book I will cherish for a very long time in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Angela Thompson.
421 reviews12 followers
April 16, 2020
The author's stories share wisdom, humor, and faith. I immediately fell in love with Lucille. The author portrayed her friend in quite vivid fashion, and the stories she chose brought the best of Lucille to light. The friendship they shared--the stories and the memories that they both shared and made--flowed from page to page. As their friendship grew, both women became more robust and more fulfilled through their bond. Lucille shared her wisdom, stories, and lessons learned through life, and Judy opened her heart (and even home) to her friend. Their friendship shows us that we never know who or what may be missing from our lives until we find it!

Gaman's storytelling (and Lucille's) caught me from the first few pages. This novel was one of those books that I was sad to finish. I loved being a part of the author's life and sharing Lucille's world. I enjoyed the author's writing style. She immediately brought the story to me, and her words brought Lucille to life from the very first few pages and kept me entertained and engaged through to the end.

Would I recommend Love, Life, and Lucille by Judy Gaman? My mother passed away earlier this year. Our relationship was not a strong one. I would have loved to have had a friend like Lucille--but, I guess it's never too late, right? If you enjoy memoirs with strong female characters filled with life lessons and faith--this is the perfect book to share with the women in your life. From young adults to older readers--I think anyone who enjoys life stories will love this book!

I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher for use in a blog review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Angela Sanford.
249 reviews12 followers
July 21, 2020
Love, Life, & Lucille by Judy Gaman is a beautifully written memoir and tribute that brought a smile to my face and to my heart. Judy Gaman had a full plate as an author of health and wellness books and the host of a nationally syndicated radio show but she never could slow down to enjoy life until she met Lucille. When Judy interviewed Lucille, for a book on longevity, the bright and charismatic centenarian was a store of amazing stories and undeniable wisdom. A beautiful and lasting friendship was forged that day and both Judy and Lucille began to live life to the fullest. I absolutely loved this beautiful memoir. I felt as if I were transported through the pages, enjoying life with Judy and Lucille. I had a lot of laughter and a few tears as I was reading the escapades of these two inseparable friends. I could imagine Lucille in her beautiful red gown and batting her false eyelashes as she was set to meet Suzanne Somers. The joy and laughter that Judy and Lucille shared had me reflecting on my own life and what I needed to do in order to have that much peace and happiness. I highly recommend this book to everyone who is seeking to live life to the fullest instead of just existing.
Profile Image for Miss W Book Reviews.
1,382 reviews116 followers
July 4, 2020
Love, Life, and Lucille was such an interesting and captivating book. I really enjoyed it.
I have very little family and having lost my parents when they were in their 50's, I was enthralled by Lucille and the fact that she was 100 years old. But make no mistake about it , she was really 100 years young. I loved her stories and I envisioned my ancestors living through those times.

Part of the story is Judith (Judy) story. Judy meant to get Lucille's story and write a book about it. She found so much more , family and a close relationship. .

This book is well written and absolutely a beautiful read. I highly recommend it.

Profile Image for Lisa Albright.
890 reviews28 followers
November 20, 2020
This is a lovely memoir of a deep friendship between Lucille, a centenarian, and Judy, the author. I could feel the joy they had in each other's company and the genuine delight in their Friday lunches and other excursions. Lucille's charm and zest for life made me smile and the stories of their unique bond were heartwarming.

I was my father's caregiver for 3 years after he had a massive stroke following a procedure to insert a deep brain stimulator to help with Parkinson's disease. There was so much in this story that brought back memories of our wonderful adventures together. He taught me so much and was my buddy till the very end of his life on earth. It was truly a blessing to be able to celebrate his final years and honor him and the way he always cared for me.

I believe that there are moments in this story that will touch everyone's heart and quite possibly take you on your own emotional journey alongside of theirs. I hope that this book inspires everyone to be kind to their elders and appreciate life. Hopefully someday we will be elders and possibly centenarians too.

Thank you to Kate Rock Book Tours for my complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for David Morgan.
824 reviews17 followers
July 1, 2020
I loved this memoir! The stories shared and life lessons learned are irreplaceable and to be cherished. What started as an interview in the writing of one book turned into a deep respectful relationship that I don't think either woman was expecting and led to this wonderful shared experience.
While reading this book I was made to remember some of the little, sometimes overlooked things in life that make life pleasurable and restorative. It also made me miss my recently deceased ninety-one-year-old mother all the more...
Profile Image for Whitney Arnett.
240 reviews4 followers
November 4, 2020
Delightful is a word that best describes Love, Life & Lucille to me. Upon finishing this, it made me stop and really think about what’s important and I how I want to be remembered. Lucille’s life was a life well lived and I am so thankful to get a glimpse into it and learn the secret of life according to Lucille.
Profile Image for Bethany Clark.
516 reviews
July 10, 2020
I totally get the constant crazy going on in life. Being a single mom, working, teaching my son, getting errands done that constantly pop up. Life is always go go go at my house. I never really take the time to slow down and enjoy the small things.

What a sweet lady, Miss Lucille Fleming. What a magical birthday, 100 years young! I can’t even imagine having another 59+ years to go. And Lucille makes it all look elegant, easy and just plain magical.

The bond that these two have made, the stories that they share and each is really making the other’s life that much more fulfilling.

You will need some tissues for this journey but they will be well worth it. Such a sweet story and such an hour to Lucille that Judy came into her life and documented it in such an amazing way.
Profile Image for Kathleen Garber.
613 reviews36 followers
June 16, 2020
I’ve never met anyone who made it to age 100 and so the concept of this book sounded very interesting. I wanted to know what the secret to longevity is but also just to hear stories from someone who lived way before I was born.

Lucille is such a character. She is the farthest thing from the stereotypical “boring old person” that some people think the elderly are. Lucille reminds you that the seniors in your life have stories to tell and they have lived through things you’ve only read in history books. She will inspire you to ask the seniors in your life for THEIR stories.

Judy and Lucille’s bond is like no other. What started out as an interview for a book turned out to be so much more. They end up as close as family and Judy learns a great deal along the way.

This is a BEAUTIFUL book and would make a great read, especially if you don’t have any seniors in your life or they live far away or have dementia and you can’t sit around and listen to their stories. But just make sure not to abandon any seniors in your life, even if they aren’t as lively as Lucille.
If you want to know the secret to longevity, I’m not telling. You’ll have to read the book, and you WILL enjoy it.

I received a copy of the book to review
Profile Image for ReadingGirlReviews (Gina).
359 reviews28 followers
November 2, 2020
I have a delightful read for you today. If you follow me and read my posts you know that one of my favorite things is reading book centered around Centenarians. I adore reading about our elderly, learning about life, love, mistakes made and successes achieved.  The older population is truly a gold mine, we can learn so much from them. When I had the opportunity to read LOVE, LIFE, & LUCILLE by Judy Gaman, you know I jumped at the chance.

With a busy life as a writer and radio show host, Judy Gaman didn’t really have the chance to savor her own life. When she took on the task of writing a book on longevity, Judy met and interviewed Lucille, a wonderful woman who had just turned 100. The two ladies became fast friends, both benefiting from the friendship, one with wisdom and the other with motivation, both thriving and living life in the moment. When Lucille unexpectedly passes away, Judy learns how remarkably important the lessons Lucille taught her are so essential to flourish in life.

Such a beautiful memoir. From making you reminisce about your own relationships, to questioning your own decisions, and receiving some inspiring advice, Judy Gaman has captured a life and friendship on paper like no other. I almost feel like Lucille was my own friend, and the prose was written so well I felt as if I was experiencing these memories with Judy.  This book demonstrates the power of friendship and how necessary it is to connect with others, and truly highlights the importance of the elderly in our life. Such treasures, we need to cherish our aging community, learn from them, and celebrate their lives and all they have worked for and have given us. Judy Gaman shared a delightful memoir, heartwarming and funny yet heartbreaking at the same time, truly worth the read. I highly recommend this book.

Thank you to Judy Gaman, She Writes Press and Kate Rock from Kate Rock Book Tours for my gifted copy of this book for my honest and unbiased opinion for review.
874 reviews27 followers
July 24, 2020
This book was like a warm blanket wrapped around my soul. I sat down to read it and couldn’t get up, I wanted more and more. Author Judy Gaman has written a beautiful book about her friendship with Lucille who is a Centenarian. (One who is 100 years old or older) What started as an interview for Judys new project on longevity turned into so much more. For Judy this forced her to slow down and enjoy the little things, to take time to smell the roses so to speak. Everything in her life was rushed and planned out, and time with Lucille filled her with everything she needed even though she didn’t realize it was missing. Even at 100 Lucille took time to dress nice, but a ribbon in her hair, have her nails done, and enjoy everyday like it’s her last! Of course she has some tips on living a long life, but the wisdom she bestows if far greater than a healthy diet and exercise. I’m not surprised these two woman became fast friends because when I was reading the book I wanted to be their friend too! How special to look beyond age and see a woman who has a life full of stories to share. Maturity,Insight,love, courage, and a whole lot of spunk wrapped in a pretty bow, that’s what Lucille was!
I loved everything about Lucille and I know this story will stay with me for a very long time. People come in and out of our lives for a reason, maybe a season, and some leave permanent marks on our hearts. It made me so happy that Judy made the last years of Lucilles life the very best. She was never alone and always felt cared for. In return Judy was given the gift of unconditional love, a mother figure, a best friend, a partner in crime, and a beautiful story that she shares with us the reader. I lift my tea cup and cheers to friendship. May we all be lucky enough to one day be a Judy and Lucille!
Profile Image for Becki .
349 reviews11 followers
April 18, 2020
When Judy Gaman first interviewed Lucille Fleming to include her in a book, Age to Perfection: How to Thrive to 100, Happy, Healthy, and Wise, she had no idea they would become so close, so fast, for the rest of Lucille’s life.

What started out as one interview ran much longer than expected. After a couple hours talking about the secrets to a long, healthy life, Judy Gaman was still reluctant to leave. When she and Lucille connected again through a phone call later that week, they ended up setting up a lunch, that would turn into weekly lunches and other adventures. In Love, Life, & Lucille, Judy shares the ups and downs of her life, and the highlights of her relationship with Lucille.

Lucille shows that sometimes all you have to do to put your dreams in motion is to ask. She’s an incredibly charismatic old woman who isn’t done living an active life yet. When she sees something she wants to do, she says so. And frequently, Judy knows someone who can make it happen. Watching their friendship grow was heartwarming. Everyone they met along the way was taken in with Lucille’s charm.

After several years of Judy and Lucille experiencing life together, time begins running out for Lucille. While she lives each moment to its fullest, no one can live forever. Overall, I’d give this book 3 out of 5 stars. The beginning was wonderful and inspirational, but having it all come to an end was hard to witness.

http://booksithinkyoushouldread.blogs...
77 reviews3 followers
November 7, 2020
❤️A chronically old woman yet full of energy with a sparkling and twinkling eyes. She is the center of attraction and have a unique charisma.
She is full of life and at the same time want to enjoy life to the fullest. She do not want to age with medication, she want to enjoy each and every moment of her life. That’s the character of Lucille.

❤️This book is like a peek-a- boo in a extraordinary person’s life, a ride to the life of Lucille. It’s all about her positive vibes and energy. She is an inspiration, philosopher, prophet and a storyteller. Author Judy uncovers her life in these thirty eight chapters. That's what Author Judy wants to convey to its readers to live their life full of energy like Lucille through her book.

❤️This is a wonderful book about the life of someone who had such a positive attitude even after crossing the 100 years of her life. I loved how Judy portrayed Lucille's love for life and her attitude. This book portrays a journey of friendship between the two ladies with so much of age gap, Its beautiful and will give you butterflies. There are moments which will make you laugh and some moments will make you cry. After reading this book, you will have a different approach to live life. There are lessons to be learnt and the author tried to convey some positive messages to everyone.
Its a great book and if you are feeling low, this book will take you to heaven with lots of emotions.
I wish to have a friend like Lucille and i would be the most luckiest girl in the world.
Profile Image for Shelly.
Author 1 book31 followers
April 13, 2020
What initially attracted me to this book was the fact that I worked with an older woman who taught me a lot about life. In part, she reminds me of Lucille. What I didn’t realize was that I share a lot of Judy’s traits. I was a workaholic (until a life-altering event). Sadly, I didn’t take a lot to heart of what I learned from my own Lucille.

I’m usually not too fond of memoir-style stories as I feel they are full of things to fluff the story without adding to it. This one was fun and entertaining. I’m sure there could be an entire series on lessons from Lucille. When I finished, I was left wanting to learn more of this wonderful woman’s lessons.

The time frames in which the two women were raised and lived are completely different from my own life experience. I was able to take my own lessons away and am currently developing ways to implement them. 100 years seems like a long time; but, honestly, it flies by as long as your having fun!

My greatest takeaway is that we all need a Lucille in our lives. We need someone to remind us that worry is for the birds and that working our lives away isn’t where it’s at!

I received a complimentary copy of the book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own!
Profile Image for Erin.
843 reviews32 followers
November 1, 2020
Thank you so much to Kate Rock Book Tours for introducing me to the author Judy Gaman and the heartfelt note and photo of her and Lucille. I absolutely loved this memoir and seeing the friendship between the two of them blossom into something so much more.

I laughed, I went online and watched videos of Lucille throwing a first pitch at her beloved Texas Rangers game, I felt the lessons related in the book, the ideas of living life to the fullest, cherishing time together and I cried at the end. There was something powerful in reading this and I highly recommend reading this beautiful book.

Book Synopsis: While writing a book on longevity, Judy interviewed Lucille, an elegant and spirited woman who had just recently turned 100. Lucille had the fashion and style of old Hollywood, but it was all hidden behind the doors of her assisted living center. What began as a quick meeting became a lasting friendship that transformed into an inseparable bond. Lucille brought incredible wisdom and great stories to the table, while Judy provided an avenue for excitement and new opportunities. Together, the two began living life to the fullest, and meeting the most interesting people along the way.
Profile Image for Cassie’s Reviews.
1,127 reviews30 followers
October 22, 2020
This book centers around the amazing friendship of Judy Gaman and Lucille Fleming. With so much negativity in the world, this book was like a breath of fresh air. One interview with Lucille for Judy , turns into so much more. Lucille is a woman who is one hundred years old who still takes the time to get her nails done, dress nice and she spends every day like it’s her last. The wisdom she tells is so much more than the reminder to eat healthy and exercise. One lunch turns into weekly lunches and soon many new adventures. Before meeting Lucille, Judy was a workaholic and soon we discover some of her childhood plays a role in this. A big takeaway from this book is to remember, people don’t stop living or existing when they get older or are in a nursing homes.With Lucille’s friendship Judy learns to slow down to soak up life experiences and just enjoy life. What an amazing uplifting memoir with little reminders that I need to put into my own life. As a mom I feel like I’m on the go or being pulled in every direction and sometimes I need to slow down and just live life and let chores take a back seat! Four stars
October 22, 2020
My heart is definitely still heavy after finishing this read. Lucille is someone we all need in our lives. I never had the opportunity to meet her, but I feel that Judy captured her spunk and personality perfectly. I feel as if I know her and have spent years developing a friendship with her. I’ve buried the lead here, because the subtitle of this book is Lessons Learned from a Centenarian. Yes, you read that correctly, Lucille is a stylish, full of life, centenarian. We experience this book through Judy’s eyes of being Lucille’s best friend through the end of her life. You will laugh, you will cry, you will ponder your own life and legacy. I love a memoir because I feel like you really get into someone’s life, and this did not disappoint. I spent the whole book loving Lucille and her adventures, and I was rooting for both Judy and Lucille as they went through their own trials. I so enjoyed that throughout it all, they were able to lean on their faith, and I felt that made it even more relatable to me. Thank you so so much to Kate Rock Book Tours for my copy of this book and for letting me be a part of this book tour!
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Profile Image for Elaine's .
717 reviews51 followers
July 20, 2020
This was a fabulous book the first for me by this author it's a memoir part tribute... and I absolutely fell in love with Lucille and Judy it's like I was there during their life in the story...



Definitely would recommend this book to all because it's such a warm heart touching story..



Judi Garman, parents being divorced she never really had that close relation with her mom because her mom was always working and never had time...


Not the lifestyle she wanted to have she wanted a life for her children to have stories to tell their children. in this story she meets Lucille who is 102 they develop a friendship like I've never heard before it is wonderful each Friday they do something completely different.... they talk about things from the past when Lucille was just a child how she came to live in the United States... they went on many trips the things they did together are just absolutely amazing this was a wonderful book and I truly loved it.
The Friday get-togethers was my
Favorite... what a wonderful tribute memoir book..
Profile Image for Stephanie (Littlebookpage).
134 reviews13 followers
July 14, 2020
Love, Life, & Lucille by Judy Gamen is a book that could not have come at a more appropriate time. When there is so much negativity, it was very refreshing to read about Lucille, a lovely woman 100+ years young! Her relationship with Judy was so uplifting, memorable, and positive! I just couldn’t put it down! We can each only hope to live such a long and fulfilling life as Lucille and this beautifully written novel is a wonderful tribute to the friendship that developed between Judy and Lucille. Full of wisdom and lessons only gained by a long full life, the story of this amazing centenarian will leave you hopeful and inspired.
Thank you Judy Gamen and Suzy Approved Book Tours for inviting me into Lucille’s world and reminding us all that it is never too late to truly enjoy all the joys and blessings life has to offer!
#lovelifeandlucille
147 reviews2 followers
July 21, 2020
Love, Life, and Lucille centers around the friendship of Judy Garman and Lucille Fleming, a centennial. I liked the structure of the book and enjoyed the heartfelt stories and lessons that Garman shares. The most important lesson is one that I need to do a better job of implementing! Although it is a memoir, it read like a fiction book with short chapters and descriptive writing. Reading this book reminded me of the strong female role models in my life. It also made me miss my grandmothers and great-grandmother and all of the special times we shared. I wish I had the chance to meet Lucille! She sounds like a remarkable woman.

As a chronic over-thinker and over-analyzer, this moving story reminded about the importance of stoping to focus on the present and enjoying the moment while also being able to move on.

I received a complimentary copy of this book.
Profile Image for bookhoarder_neha ( Neha Modi ).
362 reviews10 followers
November 10, 2020
This is not a book, it's a journey through the life of Lucille and Judy Gaman. It is not just about reminiscing life but also about learning new lessons from past events, empathising with what happened and why it happened and embracing life completely.
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Lucille is a centanarian and Judy meets her while researching for a book she is writing. The impact Lucille has on Judy is a life-changing experience for her. Together they both share incidents from their lives over numerous meetings and become best of friends.
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The book encompasses so many beautiful lessons within itself. The writing style is absolutely lucid and interesting. The book can definitely make the readers think about their life gone by. What happened and Why it happened and coming to terms with people and events in one's life.
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Reading this book was a beautiful experience and I loved it immensely !!
Profile Image for Ginny Velazquez.
71 reviews6 followers
November 21, 2020
📚Book Review📚
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⭐️4.5/5⭐️
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When I signed up for the #LoveLifeAndLucille #booktour with @katerockbooktours , I somehow missed that this was a work of nonfiction. I probably wouldn’t have signed up to be part of the tour if I had realized this, as I definitely prefer to read fiction. However, I thoroughly enjoyed this uplifting memoir.
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Written by @judygaman, Love, Life, & Lucille details the unlikely friendship that blossomed between herself and Lucille Fletcher, a centenarian who was living life to the fullest. While researching aging, Judy looks to Lucille for advice, friendship, and to fill a hole she hadn’t previously realized she had in her heart.
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Despite being nearly 400 pages long, this is an easy read. It is light-hearted, uplifting, and leaves you wanting a Lucille of your own to go out with on Fridays.
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#bookstagram #bookreview #books #katerockbooktours #judygaman #bookish #checkoutherbooks #thatswhatsheread
Profile Image for WeLoveBigBooksAndWeCannotLie.
411 reviews24 followers
September 23, 2020
Have you ever met anyone over 100 years old?
I haven’t, but I have always valued people with history and wisdom. Historical fiction and nonfiction are my favorite genres and I am amazed by people who have lived through some of the times that I read about.❤️
Love, Life and Lucille is a true story about an unexpected friendship of two ladies who were at two very different stages in their lives.
After Judy met the vibrant Lucille she realized very quickly she needed to write a book about this amazing woman who is living her best life over the age of 100.
I highly value friendships with women of all ages and some of my best friends are in their 20s and some are old enough for social security. I loved learning about both of these women’s lives and could easily have read more!🧜🏼‍♀️
Profile Image for Donna Wyland.
5 reviews70 followers
February 1, 2021
I would give this book a 5-star rating if it wasn't for my rabid reader friends who tell me they ignore 5-star ratings on books because they don't often trust that a book can be that good. Well, THIS book is THAT good. I am nearing the end and wish it were not so. I have laughed and cried and been exponentially inspired to "live my legacy" until the Lord takes me home. Life is a blessing, and it goes too fast. This excellent book will remind you how precious people are and how invaluable the relationships we make during our time here on earth. As a writer myself, I only hope to inspire people as much as Judy Gaman has through the telling of this remarkable woman's life.
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