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When it comes to country music stars, Lainey Wilson is undeniably on top of her game. Between touring, brand collaborations, and hosting award shows, there’s no stopping her. Heck, she even has a song out called “Can’t Sit Still,” which reflects her on-the-go personality. 

But while the Baskin, Louisiana, native, 33, appears to be enjoying every minute of her success, even she admits that the pressures of being an in-demand artist who’s always ready for the next moment have taken a toll on her. So much so that she acknowledges experiencing mental health challenges, including having once gone through a serious panic attack, which led her to seek help from three therapists. 

A Message to Others

Wilson is sharing her story so others won’t feel afraid to open up about their own mental health. 

"Speak up when you're not feeling great, because there most likely will be people around you who can help you through it or get you the help you need," the Grammy Award-winning superstar told People as part of the publication’s cover story. "If you're not telling the people around you how you're feeling, then nobody's going to know.” 

The “Somewhere Over Laredo” singer, who spent years in Nashville performing as an unsigned artist before becoming famous, opened up about her terrifying panic attack episode as well as her struggles with depression and anxiety in her brand new documentary, Lainey Wilson: Keepin’ Country Cool, which arrived on Netflix on Wednesday, April 22. 

Her Hectic Schedule

Recalling a moment from 2019, during an ambitious radio tour at a pivotal point in her career, she said, "I was going around meeting every radio station in America. You go into a conference room, and you play your song, and sometimes they're into it, sometimes they're on their phone, sometimes you're singing to the carpet."

"After four months solid visiting all these different radio stations, I was just exhausted, and I was burned out from having to constantly be on," she added. "I wanted to curl up in a little ball and shut the world out completely.”

Further explaining her feelings in her documentary, Wilson acknowledged that her career dreams had come to fruition, but pointed out how every opportunity came at the same time. 

“A couple of years ago was wild,” she shared in the special, according to iHeartCountry.com. “When opportunities come at you, and you didn’t have any for so long, you want to just take them all. And I guess a little bit of that was probably fear that they weren’t always going to be there. And I think, too, I was probably finding my self-worth in what I was doing. The performer, the artist, the songwriter, the girl who’s going and shaking everybody’s hands and kissing everybody’s babies. Instead of who I truly am. I had reached a point where I was just like, I don’t know if I’ll ever be the same.”

“I was extremely anxious, and anxiousness caused depression. And it’s like the depression caused more anxiety because I was like, ‘why in the world am I depressed during this time of my life?” she continued. “This is everything I’ve ever wanted.’ …I had several breakdowns, I guess you could say. I was just losing it. I was like, I don’t know if I can go any further.”

Calling her panic attack a “terrifying chemical imbalance” that was happening, she revealed, “I was spiraling out of control. And then it’s like the fear of thinking that you’re always going to be in that mindset causes more anxiety. It’s just like a vicious cycle.”

Unforgettable Advice

Luckily, Wilson is on the other side of those feelings and part of what had helped her — aside from therapy — was some guidance from her hero, Reba McEntire. 

“'When I feel like I can’t do it anymore, I do it for somebody else,’” Wilson remembered what McEntire told her. “It was like a light bulb went off.”

Related: Jelly Roll Discovers Heartbreaking ‘Reality’ During Ongoing Transformation Journey: ‘Lost My Way’

Season 2 showed Kaylee Needham and Summit Wallace hoping to leave Temptation Island with a better relationship. Kaylee, 24, was ready to settle down, and Summit still enjoyed a spontaneous life. The reunion revealed how the couple is doing after the Netflix reality series.

Are Kaylee and Summit of ‘Temptation Island’ Still Together? Kaylee Needham on 'Temptation Island' Season 2

Netflix

Part one of the reunion was released on The Viall Files on April 22. They revealed that they're still in a relationship. It's been nine months since filming, but they haven't moved in together or gotten a dog.

"It's just kind of the realities of life that can [...] prolong that process," Summit told Natalie Joy and Nick Viall. Kaylee already knows she wants a "weiner dog" or a Dachshund. "She brainwashed me into wanting one," he said.

Related: Why a ‘Temptation Island’ Tempter Left Season 2 Early

Kaylee talked about how Summit's comments about her body hurt her. She also wanted to be a priority in his life. Summit told her he was shocked by her calling him a "sociopath." Kaylee said Summit hasn't said any hurtful things to her since the show. Summit chalked up his past to thinking he could talk to a woman like "a guy" instead of being gentle.

The couple decided to leave together at the final bonfire. Summit said Kaylee is enough and shouldn't change. Kaylee was happy to see Summit wanted to change for himself and show more empathy. He claimed he wanted to commit to her by moving in together and getting a dog. Summit had multiple dates with JulianneHerring, but denied that there was a physical connection.

Part two of the dating show's reunion will be released on The Viall Files on Friday, April 24.

Related: A ‘Temptation Island’ Star Was on Another Netflix Reality Show

Movies with an unusual premise and without big studio backing don't tend to get audiences into theater seats. However, occasionally these types of films do become unexpected box-office hits.

Colliderrecently published a list of 10 films that had unforeseen box office wins. The ranking featured movies like 2022'sEverything Everywhere All at Once, Saw from 2004, 2008's Mamma Mia!, the 2014 animated film, The Lego Movie, and Get Out, released in 2017.

The supernatural romance Ghost, starring Patrick Swayze,Demi Moore, and Whoopi Goldberg, secured the list's top spot. According to Collider, the 1990 film, focusing on the ghost of Sam Wheat (Swayze), didn't have that big of a budget. However, it managed to gross a total of $505,703,557 worldwide, per Box Office Mojo.

The Director and Writer of 'Ghost' Shared Why They Believed the Film Ended up Being So Successful in a 1990 Interview

In a 1990 interview with Clive Barker, the film's director, Jerry Zucker, and its screenwriter, Bruce Joel Rubin, shared their thoughts about Ghost's being an unanticipated box office win. Zucker said that he believed audiences flocked to the movie because "it triggers a lot of emotions."

"It's a movie that makes people laugh and cry and scares them a little bit and makes them think. I think if you can do that and leave people feeling good at the end, which the movie does, you have a chance of a big hit. Other than that i've never been one to predict the box office," said Zucker in the 1990 interview.

Rubin, who won the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for Ghost in 1991, also said the film welcomes the audience to think about the afterlife.

"It postulates a universe in which life does not just start at birth and ends at death. But one has a spirit that somehow precedes your life and goes on beyond your life," said Rubin.

Storage Wars star Brandi Passante just spoke out about Darrell Sheets' unexpected death 67 with an emotional tribute and an important PSA.

On Wednesday, April 22, TMZ broke the shocking news just before noon ET of the A&E Network star's death. Lake Havasu Police told the outlet that the reality star died of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

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Later that evening, Passante took to Instagram with a heartfelt message. "I’m at a loss for words!" she began the update. "I’ve known Darrel Sheets for many years. I’m just so very sorry to hear the circumstances of his passing. My heart hurts for Brandon, Zoe, and Kimber."

Passante continued, "I unfortunately lost a parent and a brother to similar situations. I would like to say to everyone, if you are struggling, if you feel hopeless, or like no one cares. I assure you they do!! You are not alone. Please reach out for help."

To conclude the tribute, she wrote to her followers, "You are not taking your pain away, you are transferring it to someone else. The grief from suicide is endless. There is always help… You can dial 988 on your phone to connect with a counselor and resources. Never suffer in silence! 💜💜💜."

View this post on Instagram

Related: DWTS Judge Carrie Ann Inaba Speaks Out After Medical Emergency on Plane (Exclusive)

In the comments, fans reacted to the sad news while showering Passante—and Sheets' family—with prayers. One Instagram user wrote, "Oh no ! My sincere condolences 🙏 ❤️."

Another shared, "RIP, Darrell Sheets. I am sending my condolences and prayers to his family."

Someone else commented, "Wow, sad news to hear. Condolences to his family and friends. 🙏 Grew up watching you guys on Storage Wars."

A different follower echoed, "My prayers and condolences."

Meanwhile, yet another Instagram user wrote, "Condolences. He will be missed by thousands across America and beyond. Sorry, Brandi, for your loss."

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24 hours a day through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Next: Marie Osmond Breaks Silence on Brother Alan’s Death in Emotional Tribute

When it comes to popular dance crazes, the '60s definitely produced some of the most memorable moves. From the Twist to the Pony to the Watusi, it seems like teens back then were always trying out some new step...decades before their modern-day counterparts would upload countless dance clips to TikTok.

One trendy '60s dance you might not have heard of, though, started with a highly energetic (not to mention quirky) British group called Freddie and The Dreamers, who were at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 this week in 1965 with their hit single, "I'm Telling You Now."

Led by one-of-a-kind frontman Freddie Garrity, a former milkman and skiffle singer from Manchester, Freddie and The Dreamers rode the British invasion wave to success with "I'm Telling You Now," their first and only chart-topping single in America.

The song itself is catchy enough, but it was Garrity's onstage antics that really put the group on the map. Garrity was known for his high jumps and kicks, as well as his trademark laugh and penchant for pretending to shave with his microphone. Meanwhile, the rest of the Dreamers would perform synchronized kicks as they played their instruments.

As Stereogum's Tom Breihan pointed out, "I'm Telling You Now" wasn't necessarily "good music," but it was fun, with a "nice little shuffle to the beat."

"The song's hook is a mockingly simplistic whine, but it will absolutely lodge itself into your head and stay there," Breihan wrote. "But this was an era of pop miracles, and "I'm Telling You Now" was nothing more than an amiable goof — a song that would've gone nowhere if that dance hadn't been so much fun to watch."

It's a fair enough assessment. Unfortunately, the appeal of Garrity's dance wasn't strong enough to send the band's single "Do the Freddie" to the top of the charts, though it did manage to peak at #18.

Freddie Garrity became a popular children's TV performer

Unfortunately, interest in Freddie and The Dreamers started to fade around 1966, according to Classic Rock History, and by 1971, the band fell apart. But the members kept performing: From 1968 to 1973, Garrity and Peter Birell appeared in episodes of the U.K. children’s series Little Big Time, a gig that seemed suited to Garrity's wacky performance style.

And while no one could ever call Freddie and The Dreamers critical darlings, even Rolling Stone's legendary Lester Bangs gave the band a mention in The Rolling Stone Illustrated History of Rock & Roll.

"Freddie and the Dreamers [had] no masterpiece but a plenitude of talentless idiocy and enough persistence to get four albums and one film soundtrack released," Bangs wrote, going on to point out that though "the Dreamers looked as thuggish as Freddie looked dippy...Freddie and the Dreamers represented a triumph of rock as cretinous swill, and as such should be not only respected, but given their place in history."

Related: 1969 Timeless Love Anthem Recorded 57 Years Ago Today Was Banned Before Becoming a Classic

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If warm weather always makes you want to reach for lighter, flowier clothes, Walmart has a flash deal worth grabbing while it lasts. The Fantaslook High-Waisted Midi Skirt is currently on sale for as low as $14, down from $29. It comes in sizes small to 2XL and is available in several colors and prints, including army green, black floral, green-yellow floral, navy, orange, and pink leaf. 

It has a high-waisted fit, an elastic waistband with an adjustable drawstring, side pockets, and an A-line silhouette that gives it that floaty midi look. The fabric is lightweight, soft, and  designed to resist wrinkling, which makes it even more appealing for everyday wear, especially if you’re packing for a trip or just want something you can throw on. Depending on the size, the length ranges from about 27 to 30 inches, so it’s not too short or too long.

Fantaslook High-Waisted Midi Skirt, From $14 (was $29) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

You could wear it with a tank top and flat sandals for a laid-back daytime outfit, then switch into a blouse or a more fitted top later if you’re heading out to dinner. It also works with sneakers, heels, or even a blazer, so it doesn’t have to be limited to one kind of look. It’s a great versatile piece to keep in rotation during the warmer months, especially when you want something that feels cooler than jeans but still looks put-together.

One shopper said that they “love the fabric,” noting that it’s “great for summer.” Another reviewer described the skirt as “beautiful” and “comfy,” adding that it “flows well,” which is definitely ideal for a budget-friendly summer essential.

Related: Walmart’s 'Cute' and 'Comfortable' $19 Wedge Sandals Are Made for Long Summer Days

The pockets and adjustable waist make it especially wearable for everyday activities. You could easily throw it on for errands, brunch, vacation, casual office days, or any time you want to feel cute without dealing with something clingy or restrictive, which is particularly important in the heat.

Shop More Deals

• A.Jesdani Ruffle Maxi Skirt, $18 (was $36) at Walmart
• Fantaslook High-Waisted Maxi Skirt, $13 (was $25) at Walmart
• Edvintorg Maxi Skirt, $12 (was $23) at Walmart

At just $14, this is a must-have summer staple. If you’ve been wanting a breezy skirt you can wear on repeat all season, now’s a great time to pick up the Fantaslook High-Waisted Midi Skirt at Walmart before the price goes back up.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales twice a week.

As Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie's mother, Nancy Guthrie, remains missing after her Feb. 1 abduction in Tucson, Ariz., an FBI profiler weighed in on what the perpetrator is likely thinking and doing now.

During the Wednesday, April 22 episode of Brian Entin Investigates, NewsNation Senior National Correspondent Brian Entin spoke with Jim Clemente, a retired FBI supervisory special agent and profiler.

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The duo discussed the blood splatter found on the 84-year-old's porch at length before Entin asked Clemente, of the perpetrator, "What do you think is going through his mind now?"

"What is going through his mind is likely, 'Did I actually get away with this?'" the retired FBI profiler replied. "'Was I able to permanently conceal her body? And will there be any way that they won't be able to tie it to me?'"

Clemente continued, "I think knowing, and I would say absolutely watching, every bit of coverage that there is on this case. Perhaps even talking to people about it to try to find out more information, or been setting up an alibi with other people. In other words, that he was somewhere else and could not have been involved."

Related: Savannah Guthrie’s Return Boosted Today Ratings, Though Not as Much as Some Expected

Additionally, Clemente speculated that Nancy's kidnapper is likely "doing what he can to change his appearance, to change the appearance of his car." He suggested that the perpetrator might have even gotten rid of the vehicle or sold it, like Long Island serial killer Rex Huermann did.

The person is also likely attempting to "get as much distance between himself and this crime scene as possible" and "as much distance between himself and the victim as possible," he noted.

Clemente concluded, "I firmly believe that the mistakes that this offender made during the course of committing this crime and afterwards—and even before actually committing the crime in the pre-attack surveillance that appears to have happened—that he will be caught."

Nancy was last seen on the evening of Jan. 31 at her Tucson home, with the Pima County Sheriff's Department (with the FBI later joining) launching its search on Feb. 1. As of writing, no suspect has been named.

Next: Nancy Guthrie Update: Lab in Serial Killer Conviction Reportedly Involved in Savannah’s Mom’s Case

TLC’s Unexpected is facing another wave of controversy after legal trouble involving one of its recurring cast members collided with growing backlash over the show itself.

Falen Vaughn, the mother of cast member Bella Vaughn, is speaking out after her recent arrest in Arkansas. According to TMZ, Vaughn was taken into custody Monday, April 20 on misdemeanor charges of disorderly conduct and disrupting governmental operations.

Her attorney, Kevin Hickey, told the outlet on Wednesday, April 22, that Falen denies wrongdoing and intends to fight the case. He stated that she plans to plead not guilty and maintains she was at the scene to help her daughter and grandson during the incident.

Police allegations cited in published reports claim Falen became aggressive and failed to comply with officers’ commands after they responded to a dispute. Her legal team disputes that version of events.

The timing has only intensified scrutiny around the series, which follows teen pregnancies and young families. The show was already under fire after a preview clip from an episode went viral online a few weeks prior.

READ MORE: Fans Call for ‘Unexpected’ To Be Canceled After ‘Super Disturbing’ Clip of Teen Parents Goes Viral

In the footage, Bella discussed with her mother that she and boyfriendHunter Johnson resumed sex four days after the birth of their son and were reportedly relying on condoms as birth control. The conversation, involving minors, quickly sparked outrage across social media.

Many viewers said the scene crossed a line, with some calling on TLC to cancel the program altogether.

“4 days? Sadly? Literally cancel the show,” one commenter wrote.

Another added, “This is super disturbing.”

For now, it seem's Unexpected shows now signs of cancelling soon, as a recent casting call was shared on Instagram looking for young teen parents to join the eighth season.

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As we transition seasons, you might find yourself staring at your closet, wondering where you can make some changes. From light, breathable linens to classic plain white tees and all the chino shorts, activewear and accessories in between, there's a lot of inspiration to be had when breathing new life into your collection.

That's why Uniqlo is winning over fans, with a rotating selection of versatile, trending styles fit for every occasion. Take the Linen Blend Relaxed Pants, for example, currently retailing for $59.90; these summer-ready styles are guaranteed to be your new favorite pair. Sporting an airy, relaxed fit, this is a welcome change from traditional straight-leg pants, with a baggier construction that doesn't bunch and moves with you throughout the day.

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Linen Blend Relaxed Pants, $59.90 at Uniqlo

Uniqlo

Shop It!

Uniqlo's Linen Blend Relaxed Pants take the comfort and wearability of your favorite pants and pair them with a relaxed fit and a lightweight linen blend. Made from 63 percent cotton, 35 percent linen and 2 percent spandex, each pair has a softer drape and less stiffness than most 100 percent linen pants, making them perfect for all-day wear even on hotter days.

Available both in-store and online, with sizes already selling fast, shoppers can expect to find easy-to-style colors like Dark Brown, Black, Natural, Beige, Olive and Navy to choose from, along with sizes XS–XXXL in each. With regular and tall fits available, plus in-store alterations if you need a shorter inseam, finding the perfect fit should be a non-issue.

As for fit, while this is a roomier design, the silhouette still tapers at the ankle, helping avoid your pants getting stuck under your shoes. Plus, its relaxed fit provides extra room through the hips and legs without adding excess volume, while the waist gathers at the side for a cleaner, smarter look. With a drawstring waist for extra style and function points, this suddenly becomes a clean, minimal design that pairs beautifully with casual tops, woven shirts and light outer layers alike.

Related: Old Navy's 'Stylish' and 'Classy' $18 Spring Layer Is So Comfortable, Shoppers Say It's an 'Unsuspecting Gem'

Why Shoppers Are Raving About These Pants

Uniqlo

"The GOAT of pants," one fan declared in a review, calling them "almost adventurous to wear" and praising them as a solid "year-round item."

Another fan chimed in, calling the pants both "comfortable for every day wear" and ideal for "warmer climates," while others described them as the "perfect pair of trousers for a night out."

"I love the design of these pants," another said. "The waist is flexible and has drawstrings, but they don't look like sweatpants. I looked long and hard to find a linen blend in men's pants and was happy to find these."

Although sizes are already moving quickly online, your local store might still have your size in stock if it appears sold out there. But don't sleep on adding this classic pair of linen pants to your wardrobe. It's a surefire way to elevate your collection and one you'll reach for all summer long. While you're at it, don't miss out on Uniqlo's classic denim trucker jacket and summer-ready deck shoes for even more seasonal must-haves.

Related: Shoppers Say Uniqlo's 'Timeless' Outer Layer Is the Perfect Spring Staple

Before a night out with friends, family or a date, you might make a reservation or pick out a fun outfit to wear. But are you someone who always checks the menu before arriving at a restaurant, no matter what?

If you or a friend or loved one reliably checks the menu before arriving, you’re far from alone. In 2023, US Foods surveyed over 1,000 Americans on their menu preferences and ordering habits, and they found that a whopping 83% of Americans look at a menu before eating at a restaurant, and 50% decide what they’re ordering before arriving. 

There are many reasons why someone might check a menu before heading to a restaurant. For instance—and this is a big one—they might have dietary restrictions, and they want to make sure that the restaurant has vegetarian or vegan offerings, or has a gluten-free kitchen if they have celiac disease. 

It can also denote that someone has specific personality traits that are showcased through their menu meticulousness. 

“Pre-checking menus can indicate strong executive functioning or planning ability, anxiety or curiosity,” says Dr. Deborah Vinall, PsyD, LMFT, Chief Psychological Officer at Recovered, an organization that provides information and resources for mental health and addiction treatment. “Such people are likely conscientious and careful rather than spontaneous, and may trend toward neuroticism and worry.” 

If you’re a perpetual menu-checker, or know someone who always does this, read on to discover the traits associated with this habit.

Related: People Who Are Considered ‘Type A’ Often Share These 9 Traits, Psychologists Say

Maskot/Getty Images

8 Common Traits of People Who Check the Menu Before Going to a Restaurant, a Psychologist Says1. They're conscientious 

“Pre-checking menus can indicate a careful, conscientious personality,” Dr. Vinall says. “Someone might have specific dietary needs or ethical concerns regarding food preparation and want to know in advance if they will run into problems at the restaurant, or be concerned about the dietary restrictions of others in the dining party. Such people are doing due diligence to avoid problems later.”

2. They're anxiety-prone

If you regularly have anxiety, that anxiety might translate to your menu checking.

Dr. Vinall says, “People who pre-check menus may worry about details and feel more settled in unknown scenarios when they can plan and visualize more aspects of their night out.”

Related: If You Can Relate to These 9 Phrases, You Might Have High-Functioning Anxiety, According to a Psychologist

3. They're socially-focused

Dr. Vinall observes, “Checking a menu in advance reduces distraction when you are sitting with your dinner date, allowing you to minimize time spent reading the menu and focus your whole attention on the person in front of you.”

4. They're "planners"

You may be well-known for your stellar planning abilities, which carry over to reviewing a restaurant’s menu. 

“People who pre-check menus may be natural planners, organized and accustomed to thinking several steps ahead,” Dr. Vinall says. “They are less spontaneous, but also less likely to be caught in unfavorable scenarios.”

Related: Psychologist Says if You Have These 8 Habits, You Are Highly Emotionally Mature

5. They're budget-conscious

“Pre-checking menus allows people to remain within their budgets without over-extending themselves or facing awkward situations,” Dr. Vinall says. 

6. They're controlling

You might lean a bit into trying to control various aspects of your life, and while that’s not always a bad trait, it can be displayed through pre-checking a menu. 

“Needing to know the options in advance could possibly suggest a controlling personality,” Dr. Vinall tells Parade. “The extreme opposite of spontaneity and flexibility is control and rigidity. Depending on other motivating factors, this behavior might be a small red flag.”

7. They're distractible 

“Some people know they are prone to distraction in busy places, novel environments and while conversing with others,” Dr. Vinall says. “They minimize this limitation by reducing the friction and separating the menu decision-making from the distracting environment.”

8. They're curious

You may simply be curious, and that’s why you’re checking out the menu ahead of time. 

Dr. Vinall shares, “Curiosity is a wonderful trait seen often in creative and intelligent people. Pre-checking a menu may simply indicate excitement and wonder. When we allow ourselves to anticipate a positive experience, it extends the positive feelings beyond the event's timeframe.”

Related: Psychologist Says if You Need To Read To Shut Your Brain off at Night, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

Is It a Good Idea To Check the Menu Ahead of Time?

Although it may sound a bit inflexible, according to Dr. Vinall, there are many positive reasons for pre-checking a restaurant’s menu, adding that “it’s good to balance this with spontaneity.” 

“For example, you might pick out a dish you want to try and a back-up in case it is unavailable, but still ask about and consider the chef's specials,” she says. “This approach offers the benefits of planning for preferences and dietary needs, allowing focus on your dining partner and positive anticipation, while balanced with a less rigid flexibility.”

Related: Psychologist Reveals That People Who Write Out To-Do Lists by Hand Share These 7 Unique Traits

Final Takeaways

Keep in mind that while these potential traits are interesting and noteworthy, none of them are set in stone. 

“There are no fixed descriptors of people who engage in this practice, as there are various reasons for the behavior,” Dr. Vinall says. “Just as curiosity about menus and new dishes is a positive, so too is a stance of open curiosity about your dinner dates' choices and behaviors.”

Up Next:

Related: Psychologist Says if You Clean While You Cook, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

Sources:

• Deborah Vinall, PsyD, LMFT, Chief Psychological Officer at Recovered.
• US Foods: “Decoding Americans' Menu Preferences and Ordering Habits”

A one-hit wonder is kind of like the music biz equivalent of lightning in a bottle...except sometimes, lightning strikes twice. A perfect example? "Brandy (You're a Fine Girl)" by Looking Glass, of course. Not only did the iconic yacht rock song shoot all the way to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 when it was released in 1972, it also made a major comeback decades later, thanks to one of the biggest box office hits in recent years.

Looking Glass lead singer Elliot Lurie wrote "Brandy" about his high school girlfriend, as he explained in a 2016 interview with The Tennessean...but her name wasn't actually Brandy.

“Brandy is a made-up individual,” he said. “The name was derived from a high school girlfriend I had whose name was Randy with an ‘R.’"

"Usually when I write — I still do it the same way I did back then — I strum some guitar and kind of sing along with the first things that come to mind," Lurie continued. "Her name came up. Then I started writing the rest of the song, and it was about a barmaid. I I thought Randy was an unusual name for a girl, it could go either way, and (the song was about) a barmaid, so I changed it to Brandy.”

His choice turned out to be a very influential one: "Brandy" the song was such an enormous hit that Brandy the name actually skyrocketed in popularity in 1973, according to Oh! Baby Names.

'Brandy' made a huge comeback over 40 years after it was released

Unfortunately for Looking Glass, "Brandy" was their first and last major hit; though they had some success the next year with "Jimmy Loves Mary-Anne," Lurie soon left the group to start a solo career. That wasn't the end of the story for "Brandy," though, which went on to be featured very prominently in the blockbuster 2017 Marvel movie Guardians of the Galaxy 2.

As Lurie explained in a New York Post interview, it was director James Gunn who wanted the song in Guardians 2. (As fans will remember, "Brandy" was a major plot point in the movie, in which Star-Lord's father, Ego, uses its lyrics to explain why he left his mother behind.)

“When he explained how he planned to use it, I was thrilled,” Lurie said. “I loved the first movie so much — I was actually a little disappointed about 'Brandy' not being on that soundtrack.”

As for Ego declaring "Brandy" to be "Earth's finest composition," Lurie had to disagree.

“Far from it,” he said. “I would say that is probably ‘Desperado’ by the Eagles!”

Whether or not it's the world's finest, "Brandy" enjoyed a huge boost in popularity when the Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 soundtrack shot up the charts. As Billboardreported, in the week following the film's premiere, cumulative sales and on-demand U.S. streams for the 14 songs on the album increased by 388 and 231 percent, respectively. Almost another full decade later, Ultimate Classic Rock ranked "Brandy" #20 on its list of Top 40 Soft Rock Songs of all time.

Related: 1972 Yacht Rock Hit Ranked Among ‘Best Summer Songs of All Time’ Hit the Charts Twice

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If you're looking for a throw-on-and-go outfit that you can wear while lounging, going on coffee runs, or hopping on a flight, a cozy matching set is an easy answer that won't break the bank. The Ofeefan Lounge Set at Amazon makes a versatile everyday outfit for spring and summer, and it's currently on sale for as low as $26, down from $34, in select styles. 

Available in sizes small to 3XL, the set comes with a slouchy short-sleeved T-shirt and a matching pair of cropped wide-leg sweatpants. Choose from over 15 color options, including a mix of classic neutrals, bright hues, and rich jewel tones. 

Ofeefan Lounge Set, $26 (was $34) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Made from a polyester, rayon, and spandex blend, the cute lounge set is designed to feel soft against the skin and has a gentle stretch that moves with you, so you don't feel constricted throughout your day. The crewneck T-shirt features a relaxed cut with a front accent pocket and side slits for enhanced flexibility. The flowy pants have an adjustable drawstring waistband and two side pockets that come in handy for holding cash, keys, or your phone. 

Thanks to its versatile design, the lounge set can be both worn on its own or mixed and matched with other pieces in your closet. Its sleek, simple look makes it easy to style in a variety of ways. Wear it with sneakers and a baseball cap while running errands, or dress it up with heels and a cardigan. 

Related: Amazon Has a 'Super Soft' $27 Seersucker Duvet Cover Set That 'Feels Like a Cloud'

The "absolutely adorable" lounge set has earned over 800 five-star ratings from Amazon shoppers. Multiple reviewers praised the "stretchy" and "buttery soft" fabric. Another highlighted the versatile design, calling it "perfect for travel or running errands."

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With its ultra-flattering fit and wide range of gorgeous colors to choose from, this stylish lounge set is an excellent upgrade to any spring and summer wardrobe. Grab it while it's still on sale for as low as $26 at Amazon. 

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Jimi Hendrix wasn’t just a rock star. He was a full-blown experience.

A self-taught guitarist who learned by listening to legends like Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf, Hendrix — widely ranked the world’s greatest guitarist (Rolling Stone) — started his career backing bigs including Little Richard, King Curtis, and the Isley Brothers. It wasn’t long before the six-string innovator was redefining rock guitar, playing with his teeth, and creating riffs that would shape rock history.

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His defining moment may still be “Purple Haze.” The hit has been repeatedly ranked among the greatest rock songs and guitar riffs of all time, with outlets Fender and Ultimate Classic Rock praising its lasting influence. A psychedelic blast reportedly inspired by a dream, the track “and its sonically stunning riff” helped change the sound of rock music. 

Released in March 1967 on the North American edition of Are You Experienced, the opening track fuses blues roots with bold experimentation. Hendrix pushed the electric guitar into new territory using heaving distortion, controlled feedback, a Fuzz Face pedal, the so-called “devil’s interval,” and the now-iconic "Hendrix chord.” The result was a sound-scape that felt raw, unpredictable, and entirely new.

A breakthrough, the song peaked at No. 3 in the U.K., introducing The Jimi Hendrix Experience to a global audience. Even better, it reset expectations by rewriting what rock guitar could sould like and influencing generations of musicians. 

Hendrix once told NPR,  "When I die, I want people to just play my music, go wild and freak out, do anything they want to do.”

More than 50 years later, that’s exactly what happened. “Purple Haze” remains one of the most influential songs in rock history, reinterpreted across genres from classical to bluegrass, with an opening riff that isn't just iconic; it's the moment guitar music changed forever.

Related: 1975 Anthem Became the Most Misunderstood Classic Rock Song

While not all thrillers have supernatural elements, some of the best ones, especially from the last few years, focus on the paranormal. For instance, Collider recently ranked the "10 greatest supernatural thrillers" released after 2001.

The list, published on April 20, featured spooky thrillers like 2001's The Others, The Babadook from 2014, A Tale of Two Sisters from 2003, 2018's Hereditary, and 2008's Let the Right One In.

The Wailing from 2016 was named the best supernatural thriller since 2001. Collider reported that the film, directed by Na Hong-jin, deserved the list's top spot as its quiet sense of urgency and terror is palpable.

The Wailing holds a score of 99 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

Na Hong-jin Revealed What Inspired Him to Make 'The Wailing'

In a behind-the-scenes interview, Hong-jin explained why he wrote The Wailing, which focuses on a police officer, Jong-goo (Kwak Do-won), looking into a community's violent, zombie-like transformation.

"I wanted to make a movie that reflects my feelings on the current climate of our society. That was the root of my motivation and what inspired the film," said Hong-jin in the interview.

In addition, the director said he purposefully didn't rush the film's action.

"I wanted to make a movie stylized to unfold slowly and allow the thrills to build on each other slowly, but surely," explained Hong-jin.

Hong-jin also shared that he wanted Do-won to star as Jong-goo after working together on his 2010 film, The Yellow Sea.

"While I was filming The Yellow Sea, I was impressed more by him than any other actor. Kwak is like a gun with perfectly zeroed sights. Whatever you aim it at, it hits the target with no exception," said the director.

In a separate behind-the-scenes interview, Do-won said it wasn't exactly easy to film action sequences as Jong-goo desperately tries to "save [his] daughter."

"It was a really tough role to play. Running around on a mountain, crossing through streams, and facing the cold weather on a cliff," recalled Do-won.

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Gardening season is here, which means it’s time to get your space ready for planting. Whether you’re working with a backyard, patio, or even a small balcony, a raised garden bed can make the process easier and more organized. It gives you better control over your soil while keeping everything contained and accessible.

If you’re looking for a sturdy and affordable option, the Costway 24-Inch Raised Metal Garden Bed is worth checking out. Right now, it’s on sale for 58% off, bringing the price down from $130 to just $55. For something built to last through multiple seasons, that’s a strong value.

Costway 24-Inch Raised Metal Garden Bed, $55 (was $130) at Target

Courtesy of Target

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This planter offers a compact but practical planting area. It measures 24 inches long, 10.5 inches wide, and 18.0 inches tall, with an interior space designed to comfortably support a variety of plants. You can grow herbs, vegetables, flowers, or even small fruits, all in one neat and contained setup.

The design is especially useful for smaller spaces. Its elevated structure helps create a clean, polished look while also making it easier to incorporate into patios, balconies, or indoor gardening setups. Assembly is required, but most shoppers said it’s simple to put together.

Durability is a major highlight. The planter is made with a heavy-duty powder-coated metal frame that resists rust and corrosion. Compared to wood options that can wear down over time, this metal design is built to hold up in different weather conditions and maintain its structure.

Related: Walmart's 'Sturdy' $34 Wooden Raised Garden Bed Is a 'Beautiful Addition' to Any Space

It also features a smart drainage system. A built-in hole at the bottom allows excess water to drain out, which helps prevent root rot and overwatering. The design promotes better airflow and even moisture distribution, giving your plants a healthier growing environment.

The raised height adds another layer of convenience. You won’t have to bend down as much while tending to your plants, which can be especially helpful if you have mobility concerns. Anti-slip footpads provide stability, and the smooth edges help reduce the risk of bumps or scrapes.

One shopper called it the “perfect solution to grow herbs,” writing, “This is sturdy and narrow enough to fit on my back stoop. I think it looks gorgeous and it was very easy to assemble.” 

Another said it’s “spacious” and the “perfect size” to grow all the plants they want in one place, adding, “It has two holes on the bottom that will help with draining and letting the plant breathe freely. It is portable as well so I can move it around as per sunlight direction.”

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If you’re ready to start planting this season, the Costway 24-Inch Raised Metal Garden Bed is a practical and reliable choice. With Target’s current 58% discount, you can save $75 while upgrading your gardening setup.

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In Brazil, beef is king—but steak isn't built around marinades or complicated seasoning. Instead, the focus is on the cut itself, specifically picanha, a prized section of the top sirloin cap known for its thick layer of fat and rich, beefy flavor.

Picanha plays a central role in Brazilian churrasco, a traditional style of cooking often compared to barbecue but fundamentally quite different. Instead of low and slow, churrasco meat is skewered and roasted over an open flame using high heat and minimal seasoning. The preparation requires little more than coarse salt before getting cooked in a way that allows the fat to render, basting the meat as it develops a crust.

That combination—high heat, simple seasoning and controlled slicing—creates a result that feels far more complex than the method suggests. It's a technique that prioritizes texture and flavor over excess, and one that has made picanha a staple in Brazilian steakhouses around the world.

At home, you can recreate that experience on a grill or a heavy cast-iron skillet. With the right approach, you can get surprisingly close to the kind of steak served at a Brazilian churrascaria.

I've cooked a lot of steak over the years, but picanha changed how I think about it. The first time I tried making it this way, what stood out wasn't just the flavor—it was how little effort it took to get there.

Related: 55 Mouthwatering Steak Recipes to Bring the Steakhouse to Your Dinner Table

What Is the Brazilian Way To Make Steak 10x Better?

Jim Hoffman

At its core, the Brazilian approach to steak is about restraint. Instead of layering on spices, the focus is on the cut of meat, and maximizing its flavor by letting the cooking technique—and the fat cap—do the work.

Picanha is the clearest example of that philosophy. The fat cap isn't trimmed; it's left intact and often lightly scored before cooking. As the steak hits high heat, the fat renders, creating a natural basting effect that helps build flavor while keeping the meat juicy.

Another key difference is how the steak is cut. Picanha is typically sliced with the grain before cooking, resulting in roughly a two-inch steak. After cooking, the meat is sliced against the grain when served. That extra step helps preserve tenderness while still allowing for a proper sear to seal in the flavor.

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Ingredients Needed for Picanha Steak

Jim Hoffman

One of the reasons this method works so well is how little it actually requires: picanha steaks—either the whole roast or cut into steaks, and coarse salt. Since picanha is not a common cut in the U.S., I had to ask the butcher to slice one for me from a top sirloin cap. It took a little extra planning (I had to come back the next day to pick it up), but it was easy enough to get hold of.

From there, everything else is optional. For these steaks, I used a cast-iron skillet, so I added a spoonful of beef tallow to the pan to help build a deeper crust and bring out the meat's natural richness. Overall, the technique itself doesn't rely on much beyond the meat and the heat. That simplicity is part of what makes the final result stand out.

Related: The Brazilian Way To Make Bread Rolls 10x Better

How To Cook Picanha Steak

Jim Hoffman

The first step is to lightly score the fat cap, creating a crosshatch pattern without cutting into the meat. This helps the fat render more evenly and prevents it from tightening as it cooks.

Related: My Husband Cracked the Code to the Best-Ever Grilled Steak

Jim Hoffman

Next, season the steaks generously with coarse salt on all sides, then heat a cast-iron pan until very hot. Just before adding the meat, add a spoonful of beef tallow to the pan to help build a deep, even sear.

Jim Hoffman

Place the steaks in the pan, fat side down first. This allows the fat to begin rendering and developing flavor. Once the fat starts to brown and crisp, flip the steaks and continue cooking until they reach your preferred doneness.

I let the fat cap sear for five minutes before flipping it over and turning it on its side. Each side is cooked for four minutes to develop a crust before being removed from the skillet. The result was a perfect medium rare.

Related: How To Make the Best-Ever Grilled Steak, According to Ina Garten

Jim Hoffman

After cooking, I let the steaks rest for about eight to 10 minutes to allow the juices to settle back into the meat. This is a crucial step for keeping the meat perfectly juicy.

Related: 30 Skirt Steak Recipes That Prove This Is the Most Versatile Cut of Meat

Jim Hoffman

The final step is to slice the picanha against the grain to create a perfectly tender bite.

Related: The Super Simple Recipe That Makes Cube Steaks 10x Better

Picanha Steak Recipe Tips and Tricks

Jim Hoffman

A few small details can make a noticeable difference with this method.

• Start by leaving the fat cap intact. It's essential to the final result's flavor and texture.
• Keep the seasoning simple. Coarse salt is enough; adding more can distract from the meat's natural richness.
• If you're using a skillet, make sure it's fully heated before adding the steak. High heat is key to developing a proper crust, and beef tallow helps maintain that temperature while adding depth.
• Finally, focus on how you slice the steak at the end. Cutting against the grain is what gives picanha its signature tenderness, even after cooking over high heat.

It's a straightforward process, but the result is a steak that feels far more complex than the ingredient list suggests—and one that's hard to go back from once you've tried it.

It also may be the best bang-for-your-buck in the meat category. At my local grocery store, I paid $14.99 a pound for pre-cut, prime picanha steaks. By comparison, prime rib eye was selling for $22.99 and choice filet mignon was priced at $36.99 per pound. It turns out picanha may be one of Brazil's best-kept secrets.

Up Next:

Related: The Brazilian Way To Make Coffee 10x Better

Snooki is stressing the importance of preventative care following her cervical cancer diagnosis.

The Jersey Shore star spoke with Lara Spencer for Good Morning America about navigating her diagnosis. The interview will air on Thursday, April 23.

It's scary," she told Spencer. "But, knowing that this is actually preventative, just go to your appointments and you won't have to deal with this."

Spencer asked Snooki if she has any regrets to which she responded, "I do. Like, why were you so scared? It's literally a 10-minute appointment. You get it done, you figure it out, and then that's it."

She added that she now has to "get a hysterectomy because I'm stage 1 now."

The reality star first shared her diagnosis publicly back in February on social media.

"My results came back from my cone biopsy, you guys, and it came back stage 1 cervical cancer called adenocarcinoma," she said on TikTok. "Obviously not the news that I was hoping for, but also not the worst news, just because they caught it so early. Thank freaking God!"

In the video, she thanked her fans for their support and said "everything's going to be fine," and "I'm going to tackle this and get it done. Get your appointments done, b****es!"

The final season of Jersey Shore: Family Vacation will premiere on May 7 with Snooki set to return.

Good Morning Americaairs Monday-Friday from 7-9 a.m. ET.

Darrell Sheets, the late star of A&E's Storage Wars, was bullied online before his death at age 67.

"Unfortunately, Darrell Sheets took his own life," former co-star Rene Nezhoda said in a video shared with TMZ on Wednesday, April 22.

"He had a guy really tormenting him lately on cyber-bullying," Nezhoda explained, hoping the loss of Sheets will bring a positive impact. "Just because you watch us on television doesn't mean you know us. It doesn't mean you know what we're about. Also, it doesn't entitle you to bully somebody."

One month before his death, posts made on Sheets' public Facebook page explained that he was being bullied online.

"Well people here is my cyber bully stalker," he wrote in a March 11 Facebook post. He explained that the man had been "going after other small businesses in town and harassing them using my name."

Sheets claimed to have been hacked, adding, "I’m extremely sorry and sick over this ,these people have ruined me and he said he would."

The beloved reality star tragically took his own life on Wednesday, April 22, at his home in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide or struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24 hours a day through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

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If you're familiar with Sarah J. Maas's wildly popular A Court of Thorns and Roses series (called ACOTAR for short), then we probably don't need to explain why this series has flown off the shelves over the last few years. As an avid romantasy reader, I'm personally a huge fan of this series, but I was excited to learn that it's not just a fan-favorite—professional librarians love it too. It's truly got something for everyone—mythical creatures, high fantasy world-building, romance, plot twists and more.

Parade spoke with two librarians who were excited to share 27 books likeACOTAR, so if you're a fan and you're looking for something similar to tide you over until the sixth book is released in October of this year (and the seventh comes out a few months later in January 2027), we have you covered.

If you haven't read the series yet and you like the romantasy genre, librarian Jessica P. Pryde says that there are so many elements that you'll fall in love with.

"The writing is easy to read and the story is compelling," she tells Parade. "Even though each book gets thicker and thicker, readers who are invested will happily keep going. People love a good long series to sink their teeth into, and if there's one thing Sarah J. Maas knows how to do, it's make you keep coming back for more."

For a full list of librarian-recommended favorites for ACOTAR readers and a bit about what to look for if you're on the hunt for something similar, keep reading ahead.

Related: 21 Books Like ‘Fourth Wing,’ According to Librarians

What Is 'ACOTAR' by Sarah J. Maas?

For those who might not be familiar with this pop culture phenomenon just yet, Pryde shares a little taste of what it's all about.

"A Court of Thorns and Roses and the subsequent books... (lovingly called ACOTAR) are an adult high fantasy series centering around Feyre, a young human woman who finds herself in a magical world very different from her own," she explains. "[She] deals with high stakes, political intrigue and, of course, romantic drama."

At the start of Feyre's journey, she happens to kill a wolf in the forest without thinking of the consequences until an angry Fae beast barges into her home and demands payment for the life. She then ends up living in Prythian, a Fae realm, because of it.

"It's there that she gets to know the handsome Tamlin, deals with a curse, meets the mysterious Rhysand and ends up having to avoid being a pawn to too many Fae aristocrats," Pryde continues.

Librarian Alexa Carrilloalso adds that Feyre is a complex and interesting heroine whose arc centers around healing the trauma of having to save her family from starvation and immense poverty. When she meets Tamlin, her entire life changes overnight.

"[Tamilin] intrigues her and a palpable romance begins," she adds. "This series is so popular because of its bingibility and the romance is written in such an addictive way."

Related: 29 ‘Must-Read’ Magical Realism Books, According to Librarians

What Kind of Books Feel Like 'ACOTAR'?

For a book or series to align with the vibes of ACOTAR, Carrillo says that it must have a bingeable quality to it. Basically, you won't want to put it down. Pryde also shares that the series brings a niche style of fantasy romance to the table, and if you're looking for similar books, it should emulate that.

"Single point of view is probably going to be involved (in which the main female character is the only narrator), but not required," she explains. "The love interests are either obviously morally gray or hiding their true intentions, which may or may not lead to further complications of the political intrigue plot. There is definitely going to be some spice, though not always super high on the Scoville scale (though there is definitely room for growth from ACOTAR levels to some of the veterans of erotic fantasy romance)."

The "Scoville scale" is how spicy something like hot sauce is. But in this context, it's how hot or "spicy" intimate (ie, sex) scenes are in books, with TikTok popularizing the term in relation to books, thanks to BookTok.

Pryde also adds that the writing has to be accessible and compelling, with enough world-building to keep readers interested, but not so much that the romantic plot is lost within the external drama. If you're looking for this type of romantasy series, she also says not to forget about historical romance books.

"A lot of people think historical romance is all Bridgerton, all the time, but the high plot, high stakes, dramatic style of historical romance has all the same features as ACOTAR, just without the magic (and not always with the same amount of murder)," she explains. "Authors like Sophie Jordan, Sarah MacLean, Lisa Rayne, Nicola Davidson and Beverly Jenkins draw you in with the pretty dresses on the cover, and then you're dropped into all the same kind of smoke and daggers that you get in romantasies like ACOTAR. And sometimes, you can get both, with authors like Isabel Cooper and her Highland Dragon series or India Holton's particularly bonkers method of historical fantasy storytelling."

For Pryde and Carrillo's list of recommended reads if you're an ACOTAR fan, take a look below.

Related: The 101 Best Young Adult Books of All Time

27 Books Like ‘ACOTAR,’ According to Librarians1. 'From Blood and Ash' by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Amazon

This is one of my favorite romantasy series. I read it to get over the book hangover of finishing the ACOTAR series, so I can confirm the vibes are similar. Luckily, Carrillo agrees that it's perfect if you need more after you finish.

"This is a book series that gets recommended a lot to ACOTAR [fans]," she says. "It features a sheltered heroine, forbidden romance and lots of twists. It has a very similar tone and intensity."

2. 'The Serpent & the Wings of Night' by Carissa Broadbent

Amazon

Carrillo also loves this series for ACOTAR readers because it features an equally intricate level of world-building.

"[It also has] vampire court politics, a deadly competition and strong enemies-to-lovers romance," she adds. "This is another recommendation comparable to ACOTAR's romance."

3. 'Fourth Wing' by Rebecca Yarros

Amazon

Fourth Wing is another wildly popular romantasy series that shares a lot of similar themes to A Court of Thorns and Roses. If you're a fan of this series and haven't given Fourth Wing a go yet, Carrillo says it's worth the ride.

"Dragon riders, a war college, enemies-to-lovers tension—it immediately hooked me," she shares. "The save-the-world female protagonist coming to terms with new powers and the romance all remind me of ACOTAR."

4. 'The Cruel Prince' by Holly Black

Amazon

Carrillo says that it's a great recommendation for ACOTAR readers if you're looking for more stories about the Fae.

"More scheming and morally gray characters in a Fae court setting," she shares. "This is a YA novel, so if you're looking for a genuine build-up romance (closed door), this is for you."

5. 'Daughter of Smoke & Bone' by Laini Taylor

Amazon

Carrillo says there's so much to love about this series. The fantasy, romance, and mystery elements are top tier and a shoo-in for ACOTAR Fans.

"It features forbidden love between enemies and lush world-building and mythology," she states. "A unique fantasy story with amazing prose."

6. 'Shadow and Bone' by Leigh Bardugo

Amazon

If you like strong female heroines, Carrillo says the Shadow and Bone series is for you.

"This has magic, dark forces and a chosen-one heroine," she explains. "This is another YA novel where the romance has a yearning to it and the politics of the magical world stand out most. You may even fall for the villain."

7. 'Words of Radiance' by Brandon Sanderson

Amazon

While this is the second book in Sanderson's The Stormlight Archive series, Carrillo says it's a great one for ACOTAR readers to dive into.

"Massive world-building and character growth in this book," she notes. "Romance isn't the key takeaway, but the powerful female heroine takes the cake in this."

8. 'One Dark Window' by Rachel Gillig

Amazon

Carrillo loves the gothic vibes, eerie magic and unique world-building in this book. It's the first in the Shepherd King series.

"The romance is intense (not comparable to the electricity of ACOTAR), but you enjoy reading how the male lead and female lead grow to love one another, and it's beautiful once the cliff hanger hits," she adds.

9. 'Quicksilver' by Callie Hart

Amazon

If I were to personally recommend a book or series to A Court of Thorns and Roses readers, this would be it. I've found it the most similar in vibes because it features a strong female lead, a burning enemies-to-lovers romance, spice, political intrigue and lots of twists and turns. Luckily, Carrillo agrees and loves this series too.

"Known by others for the romance and romantic scenes," she says. "Similar to ACOTAR, you just cannot put it down."

Related: 11 Books Like ‘Margo’s Got Money Troubles,’ According to Librarians

10. 'The Bridge Kingdom' by Danielle L. Jensen

Amazon

Carrillo loves the added cloak and dagger elements of this series.

"A spy heroine is sent to seduce a king she's meant to destroy," she explains. "A great story with political intrigue and romance plot. I recommend this for beginners into the romantasy genre, just like ACOTAR."

11. 'An Enchantment of Ravens' by Margaret Rogerson

Amazon

If the Fae are a theme you love in a romantasy, Carrillo says this should be your next read.

"A human artist is entangled with a dangerous Fae prince in this," she explains. "This story is whimsical and the romance is beautiful to read. Perfect if you want to continue reading something in the Fae world."

12. 'The Iron King' by Julie Kagawa

Amazon

Another option that centers around the Fae includes The Iron King, the first novel in the Iron Fey series.

"This is a classic Fae adventure with romance and hidden identity," Carrillo states. "Again, if you are itching to be stuck in the world of the Fae, this is another one that has a bit of mystery to it."

13. 'Throne of Glass' by Sarah J. Maas

Amazon

I'm a huge fan of Maas's other books besides ACOTAR, and the Throne of Glass series is one of my all-time favorites. While it isn't as heavy on the romance as A Court of Thorns and Roses, don't worry, it's still there! The character development in this series is also incredibly special, so much so that I found myself in tears over many character arcs throughout.

Carrillo says if you're a fan of the ACOTAR series, this one is a must-read next.

"This is a YA fantasy about an assassin heroine, epic growth and romance," she shares. "The romance is a lot more tame, but the political intrigue and all the characters you grow to love—incredible."

14. 'Furyborn' by Claire Legrand

Amazon

This unique story is the first in The Empirium series. Carrillo explains a bit more.

"This is about two powerful women across timelines," she shares. "It may not have the same fantasy creatures as ACOTAR, but [it] carries the bingeability of it with a prophecy and fate-driven romance."

15. 'The Queen's Rising' by Rebecca Ross

Amazon

While Carrillo says this isn't as heavy on romance, it has a strong female lead similar to Feyre.

"This is about a girl discovering her identity and power," the librarian says. "It's similar to that of ACOTAR's characters, but is known to be a bit more emotional and character-driven rather than romance-driven like ACOTAR."

16. 'A Vow in Vengeance' by Jaclyn Rodriguez

Amazon

This is the first book in the Immortal Desires duology, and Pryde describes it as full of secrets and rage.

"This book is a perfect next step for someone looking to explore more romantasy, with a great balance of world-building, character-building and romance," she says.

17. 'Son of the Morning' by Akwaeke Emezi

Amazon

Pryde loves this unique standalone story by Akwaeke Emezi for A Court of Thorns and Roses fans.

"If you want a ruler of the underworld with wings and an attitude, well…*gestures at Lucifer Morningstar,*" she gushes.

18. 'A Lesson in Deceit' by Allie Shante

Amazon

Similar to ACOTAR, Pryde says this series is hefty but accessible. A Lesson in Deceit is the first in the Mystic Riegan duet series.

"It features an outsider who has to figure out how to live in a world where everyone knows something she doesn't," she shares (similar to Feyre).

Related: 50 Books Every Woman Over 50 Should Have on Her Bookshelf, According to Librarians

19. 'Silver and Blood' by Jessie Mihalik

Amazon

Pryde says this romantasy is a must-read for ACOTAR fans due to its mythical creature elements and heavy romantic plot points.

"A woman wanders into the forest and gets taken to a castle owned by a Fae ruler," she shares. "We continue to love a Beauty and the Beast-inspired story, where the main character learns more about herself and the world around her while also developing into a bad*ss!"

20. 'Consort of Fire' by Kit Rocha

Amazon

This book and the subsequent books in the Bound to Fire and Steel series are perfect for fans of both ACOTAR and Fourth Wing.

"Kit Rocha [the pseudonym for co-writing team Donna Herren and Bree Bridges] are masters of the speculative romance scene, and Consort of Fire introduces us to a super sexy, cutthroat story of secrets and dragons," Pryde says. "Oh yeah, did I mention the immortal king the main character is betrothed to is a dragon?"

21. 'A Heart of Blood and Ashes' by Milla Vane

Amazon

Similar to A Court of Thorns and Roses, this book is the first book in a series, the A Gathering of Dragons series, which features themes of war and vengeance. And, don't worry: a hefty dose of romance, too!

"You want a doorstopper [a hefty book] that you end up wanting to throw at people to read, Milla Vane is your girl," Pryde says. "This book takes enemies to lovers to a whole other level, complete with plenty of blood, sweat and tears."

22. 'An Ember in the Ashes' by Sabaa Tahir

Amazon

Pryde says this is a top-tier romance read for fans of ACOTAR.

"While this book—like many of Sarah J. Maas’s [other] books—was published as Young Adult, the story, the writing and the character development definitely create a great deal of crossover appeal," she shares. "This is definitely on the low end of the spice scale, but the romance itself? Top notch. (Please check ALL of the content warnings, especially if harm to children is a trigger)."

23. 'An Arcane Inheritance' by Kamilah Cole

Amazon

If you're into a darker type of romantasy, Pryde says this book is your ticket.

"Kamilah Cole has made a space for herself in YA fantasy, and her entrance into Adult romance with this dark academia fantasy hits like a brick," she gushes. "It's a great example of something very plot-heavy but romance-forward, much like ACOTAR."

24. 'The Isle in the Silver Sea' by Tasha Suri

Amazon

This is another unique story that Pryde says is a solid read for ACOTAR fans.

"While this one leans into the concept of reincarnation, the romantic elements of two people kept apart by the structures of their environment run similarly to those of ACOTAR," she explains. "And you get beautiful, lush storytelling like only Tasha Suri can do."

25. 'The Book of Azrael' by Amber Nicole

Amazon

The first in the Gods & Monsters series, Pryde says that this book features plenty of high fantasy elements that A Court of Thorns and Roses readers will be hooked on.

"Questionable choices and inescapable dealings lead to an enemies-to-lovers pair up that pushes and pushes until nobody can take it anymore," the librarian shares. "This is another one of those series with a good amount of volumes, and readers can eat up the banter with a spoon."

26. 'Lore of the Wilds' by Analeigh Sbrana

Amazon

Another Fae-heavy pick from Pryde.

"You want Fae and a library? Boom! You got two handsome Fae and a secret library that no Fae can enter, but you might be able to get inside and discover its secrets and magic," she shares. "Lore is a delightful character, and she would definitely draw folks in the same way Feyre does."

27. 'Our Vicious Oaths' by N.E. Davenport

Amazon

According to Pryde, this dark romantasy is quite the page-turner.

"The rage, the anger, the violence, the sexy times! This book has all the best things about a dark fantasy romance that you could dream of," the librarian gushes. "You've got two bad*ss Fae rulers who end up in a 'the enemy of my enemy is my friend' situation, and boy, do they hate it. But the chemistry? Off. The. Charts."

Up Next:

Related: 17 Books Like 'Harry Potter,' According to Librarians

Sources:

• Alexa Carrillo is a librarian in California and the face behind the #BookTok account, @lexasmilesss.
• Jessica P. Pryde is a librarian and the founder of Why Choose: A Romance Bookstore.

Today co-anchor Savannah Guthrie's return to the NBC morning show after her mother Nancy Guthrie's abduction had less of an impact on ratings than expected, according to a report.

According to Nielsen’s national live+same-day big data plus program ratings, per Ad Week, Today led its competitors in total viewers during the week of April 6.

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The good news for Today is Savannah's return boosted the program 3.139 million total viewers and 630,000 viewers in the 25–54 demographic that week. This easily bested Good Morning America's 2.898 million total viewers and 493,000 viewers ages 25 to 54, and CBS Mornings' 1.74 million total viewers and 251,000 viewers ages 25–54.

For the week of April 6, Today saw a 6% increase in total viewers and a 2% increase in the 25–54 demographic when compared to the week before. And when compared to the same week in 2025, the show saw a 21% jump in total viewers and 2% increase in the 25–54 group.

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Related: Today Co-anchor Craig Melvin Reveals Bold Hair Transformation

On April 20, Megyn Kelly spoke with entertainment journalist Rob Shuter about Today's ratings during Savannah's first week back on The Megyn Kelly Show, who claimed they weren't as impactful as expected.

"The show really thought it was going to be a massive moment. Everybody at NBC thought there were going to be hundreds of people, if not thousands of people, in the plaza," Shuter claimed. Additionally, he claimed that Today had "hired extra security" and expected a crowd of people at the plaza, like at “a pop concert, like Justin Bieber."

He continued, "A decent-sized crowd showed up, but not overwhelming. And then the ratings for Savannah's return, they were up. But they were not up like the show thought it would be."

During her first moments on camera on April 6, Savannah told viewers, "Good morning. Welcome to Today on this Monday morning. We are so glad you started your week with us. And it is good to be home.”

Her co-anchor, Craig Melvin, replied, “Yes, it is good to have you back at home.”

“Well, here we go, ready or not. Let’s do the news,” she declared.

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On Feb. 1, Nancy's family reported the 84-year-old missing after she was last seen at her Tucson, Ariz., home on the evening of Jan. 31. No suspect has been named in the case after more than 11 weeks—despite Savannah offering a $1 million reward.

Next: Nancy Guthrie Update: Lab in Serial Killer Conviction Reportedly Involved in Savannah’s Mom’s Case