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Good Morning Beautiful
Good for them. But when will things be good for me?
Cynthia Thomas has spent a lifetime on the sidelines, watching everyone else's lives blossom with marriage and babies. All she's ever wanted was to experience those joys for herself.
But, when she realizes she's invested too many years in one toxic relationship after another, she fears she may not deserve the true love she craves.
Now, months before her 40th birthday, with a string of failed relationships in her past and a habit of submitting to her own inner demons, she's reached a crossroads.
She'll have to dig deep to find the strength for discernment and self-love. Until now, nothing else has worked, time is ticking, and her chance at real love and motherhood depend on it.
If you love Terry McMillan, Tayari Jones, and Jasmine Guillory, then Good Morning Beautiful will leave you laughing, crying, and rooting for a happily-ever-after.
Don't miss this heartfelt, honest, and introspective sequel to Daines L. Reed's novel, Trust.
Cynthia Thomas has spent a lifetime on the sidelines, watching everyone else's lives blossom with marriage and babies. All she's ever wanted was to experience those joys for herself.
But, when she realizes she's invested too many years in one toxic relationship after another, she fears she may not deserve the true love she craves.
Now, months before her 40th birthday, with a string of failed relationships in her past and a habit of submitting to her own inner demons, she's reached a crossroads.
She'll have to dig deep to find the strength for discernment and self-love. Until now, nothing else has worked, time is ticking, and her chance at real love and motherhood depend on it.
If you love Terry McMillan, Tayari Jones, and Jasmine Guillory, then Good Morning Beautiful will leave you laughing, crying, and rooting for a happily-ever-after.
Don't miss this heartfelt, honest, and introspective sequel to Daines L. Reed's novel, Trust.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 1, 2020
580 people are currently reading
436 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
July 12, 2020
Loved book 2!
Wasn't sure about reading this one after Trust, but so glad I did. This book was really good. Loved Cynthia's story. Can't wait to read Julene's story.
Wasn't sure about reading this one after Trust, but so glad I did. This book was really good. Loved Cynthia's story. Can't wait to read Julene's story.
August 9, 2020
Never Give Up
Since I read and enjoyed part one, I immediately downloaded this sequel without reading the synopsis. I was conflicted in the beginning because this didn't pick up where part one ended. I was expecting the continuation of the trust and more about the book club. I must admit I was frustrated with Cynthia's woes with Victor - her failure to let him go, how he treated her. It was definitely a one-sided relationship that was going nowhere. But then I began to understand the storyline and could relate, second hand, to Cynthia's plight and what got her to that point.
The ending was upbeat, but I'd still like to know how things turned out. I felt like the book belabored the 'bad' part and rushed the 'good' part which Cynthia deserved and had been struggling to get to.
I almost rated 3 stars but I realized I was in my feelings; it wasn't what I expected, but the author did a good job, nonetheless.
I'm confused about what to expect in the future; the description indicated a 2 part series but it appears only because 2 parts are completed. Will future installments deal more with the individual characters like this one did, or go back to the club and how they interact? I feel like the author left the reader hanging, taking the liberty to go either way and not revealing exactly how many installments are in this series. I still recommend this series though. It is well written, well thought out and relatable.
Since I read and enjoyed part one, I immediately downloaded this sequel without reading the synopsis. I was conflicted in the beginning because this didn't pick up where part one ended. I was expecting the continuation of the trust and more about the book club. I must admit I was frustrated with Cynthia's woes with Victor - her failure to let him go, how he treated her. It was definitely a one-sided relationship that was going nowhere. But then I began to understand the storyline and could relate, second hand, to Cynthia's plight and what got her to that point.
The ending was upbeat, but I'd still like to know how things turned out. I felt like the book belabored the 'bad' part and rushed the 'good' part which Cynthia deserved and had been struggling to get to.
I almost rated 3 stars but I realized I was in my feelings; it wasn't what I expected, but the author did a good job, nonetheless.
I'm confused about what to expect in the future; the description indicated a 2 part series but it appears only because 2 parts are completed. Will future installments deal more with the individual characters like this one did, or go back to the club and how they interact? I feel like the author left the reader hanging, taking the liberty to go either way and not revealing exactly how many installments are in this series. I still recommend this series though. It is well written, well thought out and relatable.
July 21, 2023
This book was absolutely amazing 🤩 this author truly has a gift of adding her spirit into her writing. This is part 2 of the book “Trust” that I read a month or so ago. This story is after Ruth passing and continues the story from Cynthia point of view and her story of navigating relationships, career, and aspirations. To be honest I wasn’t a huge fan of Cynthia’s character in Trust but seeing her point of view in this story had me rooting for her all the way through. This book depicts what so many women go through when it comes to seeking love and marriage and a family. The book ends with a huge cliffhanger (but a good one) 😉 I truly wish there was just 1 or 2 more chapters to finish off her story but overall I enjoyed this read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2020
Good Reading
This was a very enjoyable book to read. It was good to Cynthia have her dreams come true and she didn't even realize what was happening before her eyes.
This was a very enjoyable book to read. It was good to Cynthia have her dreams come true and she didn't even realize what was happening before her eyes.
December 6, 2025
Trust Gods process not yours. This book did my heart well.
August 30, 2023
"But one thing I've learned in my life is this: just because something doesn't go according
to your plan doesn't mean it's not part of THE plan." ✨
Good Morning Beautiful reminded me of all the Reasons I love to Read because this novel
does have a True Purpose. With this second installment of the Trust Series, Daines L. Reed
as Blessed readers with an Inspiring, Motivational work of fiction which exceeds Book #1.
This time, We take a deeper look into the life of Cynthia Thomas, the hospital administrator.
In Book #1, Trust, she seemed to have everything together. However, the author reveals her
This sequel is Everything that a Novel should be! Daines L. Reed has penned a novel that will
briefly talk on sensitives Topics of insecurities; leading to addictions. This narrative genuinely
touch the Hearts, Minds, and Spirits from both Male and Female Perspectives. This author's outlook through her characters is just one portion of this Spiritual Walk of Faith. With Cynthia,
realistic issues come to surface such as 'Text-dating.' Cynthia becomes involved with Victor who is the 'Texter'. Cynthia also meets up with long-time friend, Derrick. Even between the little humorous moments, at times. There is such engrossing conversations that happen within these
characters that are needed for such a Time as now. Just prepare Yourself! for the Quotes as well. "The only way to get a man to move closer to the altar is to stop walking in the spirit of a wife if you are a girlfriend!" 💜✨
This author addresses health issues such as PCOS, eating disorders, and hoarding. This Novel is overflowing with information on a multitude of various levels including financially. Highly recommended because of the Memorial Tribute to Ruth: How fear can prevent us from
attaining our goals and how fear shows up in our lives wearing Disguises. And, the Fear-ectomy. Beautiful! This is another great choice for a Book Discussion with the First Question: "What Is your Purpose in Reading?"
"Stop looking for Happiness in the same place you lost it." ✨
to your plan doesn't mean it's not part of THE plan." ✨
Good Morning Beautiful reminded me of all the Reasons I love to Read because this novel
does have a True Purpose. With this second installment of the Trust Series, Daines L. Reed
as Blessed readers with an Inspiring, Motivational work of fiction which exceeds Book #1.
This time, We take a deeper look into the life of Cynthia Thomas, the hospital administrator.
In Book #1, Trust, she seemed to have everything together. However, the author reveals her
This sequel is Everything that a Novel should be! Daines L. Reed has penned a novel that will
briefly talk on sensitives Topics of insecurities; leading to addictions. This narrative genuinely
touch the Hearts, Minds, and Spirits from both Male and Female Perspectives. This author's outlook through her characters is just one portion of this Spiritual Walk of Faith. With Cynthia,
realistic issues come to surface such as 'Text-dating.' Cynthia becomes involved with Victor who is the 'Texter'. Cynthia also meets up with long-time friend, Derrick. Even between the little humorous moments, at times. There is such engrossing conversations that happen within these
characters that are needed for such a Time as now. Just prepare Yourself! for the Quotes as well. "The only way to get a man to move closer to the altar is to stop walking in the spirit of a wife if you are a girlfriend!" 💜✨
This author addresses health issues such as PCOS, eating disorders, and hoarding. This Novel is overflowing with information on a multitude of various levels including financially. Highly recommended because of the Memorial Tribute to Ruth: How fear can prevent us from
attaining our goals and how fear shows up in our lives wearing Disguises. And, the Fear-ectomy. Beautiful! This is another great choice for a Book Discussion with the First Question: "What Is your Purpose in Reading?"
"Stop looking for Happiness in the same place you lost it." ✨
November 24, 2024
The second book of three “Good Morning Beautiful” follows Cynthia two years after the death of Ruth. Cynthia is a woman who is unmarried and childless and desires a family of her own. This desire for marriage and motherhood has enabled her to engage in a meaningless “situation-ship” with Victor Randall hoping that it will turn into more and give her the marriage and child she desperately wants. She gets served a gut punch when she learns that her “cut friend” Victor is also sleeping with other women (a fellow church member) and subsequently has gotten the women pregnant (allegedly lol). This coupled with the fact that her doctor has advised her that she needs to make provisions for infertility treatments sends her over the edge. She makes drastic life changes, looses weight, and ultimately meets a good man (with a complicated situation), and then becomes pregnant.
I felt Cynthia was vain, shallow, controlling, delusional, and insecure. However even with those faults she was loving, caring, thoughtful, and a good daughter, friend, and potential partner. She was a good representation of a complete person. She like most women saw the “potential” in a man that the man did see in himself 😒 which left her dissatisfied and disappointed. She also placed expectations on a man that had clearly told her the opposite 🙄 so in that regard she played herself. It all worked out in the end, I guess. She isn’t married at the end of the book but she has found what seems to be a good baby daddy and situation for her to be a mother. A good read for sure.
I felt Cynthia was vain, shallow, controlling, delusional, and insecure. However even with those faults she was loving, caring, thoughtful, and a good daughter, friend, and potential partner. She was a good representation of a complete person. She like most women saw the “potential” in a man that the man did see in himself 😒 which left her dissatisfied and disappointed. She also placed expectations on a man that had clearly told her the opposite 🙄 so in that regard she played herself. It all worked out in the end, I guess. She isn’t married at the end of the book but she has found what seems to be a good baby daddy and situation for her to be a mother. A good read for sure.
January 29, 2021
I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5 because even though I really liked this story I did not like the childish banter between Cynthia and Glen. Also, I think that Julene story at the end was unfinished. i guess maybe book 3 will be her story.
I really liked Cynthia’s character in this story. I thought she had a level head and made good enough decisions. I was sooooooo happy that she handled Victor with good sense. I’m glad she saw him for who he really was. Victor was a user not to mention a big cry baby plus he acted like a girl.
That scene with Derrick was too funny. I can really see that happening to someone for real.
I really thought the author would have incorporated Ruth’s daughter and granddaughter into this story. I am still baffled at the fact that Ruth didn’t leave her children nothing and left everything to the cause.
I did like this book way better than I did book one(Trust).
I would suggest this book and you really don’t have to read book one. You won’t be missing nothing.
Signed: Beauty is as beauty does.
I really liked Cynthia’s character in this story. I thought she had a level head and made good enough decisions. I was sooooooo happy that she handled Victor with good sense. I’m glad she saw him for who he really was. Victor was a user not to mention a big cry baby plus he acted like a girl.
That scene with Derrick was too funny. I can really see that happening to someone for real.
I really thought the author would have incorporated Ruth’s daughter and granddaughter into this story. I am still baffled at the fact that Ruth didn’t leave her children nothing and left everything to the cause.
I did like this book way better than I did book one(Trust).
I would suggest this book and you really don’t have to read book one. You won’t be missing nothing.
Signed: Beauty is as beauty does.
July 13, 2021
Good Morning Beautiful
This is the continuation of Trust but feature Cynthia,s story. Cynthia is almost 40 years old not married and no children, and trying to find Me Right. She dated Victor who goes to her same church. Victor was a womanizer. Anyways long story short Glen move across the street from Cynthia they started walking around the block together. But it so happen one day Cynthia saw Glen with a pregnant woman, she ask no question only assume. But it was Glen sister. Cynthia,a mom did investigate , Cynthia help Glen with the baby and her dream come through she got pregnant. Good read awaiting Jolene story.
This is the continuation of Trust but feature Cynthia,s story. Cynthia is almost 40 years old not married and no children, and trying to find Me Right. She dated Victor who goes to her same church. Victor was a womanizer. Anyways long story short Glen move across the street from Cynthia they started walking around the block together. But it so happen one day Cynthia saw Glen with a pregnant woman, she ask no question only assume. But it was Glen sister. Cynthia,a mom did investigate , Cynthia help Glen with the baby and her dream come through she got pregnant. Good read awaiting Jolene story.
June 6, 2023
Finally...
It took the entire book for Cynthia to finally get her head on straight. But I really enjoyed reading everything that happened before she realized she could do better. I was so happy when she realized Victor was just playing her even though it took her church member throwing it in her face for her to get it. And then it still took forever for her to block him on her phone. She was a glutton for punishment. I'll be waiting for the next book in this series by Daines Reed. This collection will be my next book club recommendation.
It took the entire book for Cynthia to finally get her head on straight. But I really enjoyed reading everything that happened before she realized she could do better. I was so happy when she realized Victor was just playing her even though it took her church member throwing it in her face for her to get it. And then it still took forever for her to block him on her phone. She was a glutton for punishment. I'll be waiting for the next book in this series by Daines Reed. This collection will be my next book club recommendation.
November 20, 2023
I read part one of this book in 2020 and said I couldn’t bring myself to read book two because I didn’t like it. This book kept coming up in my kindle feed and I finally decided to read the reviews that said this one was better than the first, so I threw in the towel and took my chances.
This book is better than the first book. Cynthia’s mother was annoying and funny at the same time. Having to take care of elderly parents you have to laugh to not scream at the craziness that comes out of their mouth…(sometimes). On the other hand I could not get past Cynthia behavior, dealing with a man with these childish ways at her age, it drove me mad.
This book is better than the first book. Cynthia’s mother was annoying and funny at the same time. Having to take care of elderly parents you have to laugh to not scream at the craziness that comes out of their mouth…(sometimes). On the other hand I could not get past Cynthia behavior, dealing with a man with these childish ways at her age, it drove me mad.
July 10, 2020
FINALLY, A Story for Women Like Me!
Thank you SO much for writing this story. At times, it was a little scary because the parallels between my life and Cynthia’s.....Whoo Chile. This was truly a story of hope. I feel like all books should have a happy ending because real life often doesn’t. Again, thank you. It was a pleasurable read and I’m looking forward to your future works.
Thank you SO much for writing this story. At times, it was a little scary because the parallels between my life and Cynthia’s.....Whoo Chile. This was truly a story of hope. I feel like all books should have a happy ending because real life often doesn’t. Again, thank you. It was a pleasurable read and I’m looking forward to your future works.
November 7, 2020
Excellent read
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Glen and Cynthia are a great match. Cynthia’s battles with obesity, insecurities and worries about her hopes for the future. This has been a source of stress, and kept her in relationship with the wrong man. Cynthia is so fearful, she doesn’t recognize her future in front of her face. Eventually, she gets her happiness I recommend this book.
Excellent read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Glen and Cynthia are a great match. Cynthia’s battles with obesity, insecurities and worries about her hopes for the future. This has been a source of stress, and kept her in relationship with the wrong man. Cynthia is so fearful, she doesn’t recognize her future in front of her face. Eventually, she gets her happiness I recommend this book.
November 4, 2021
I needed this
The sequel was better than the original verse. Trust opened up a new life for me gave me strength to face my own fears and then accepting the I deserve so much more than I’d been allowing myself to receive. Good Morning Beautiful was the icing on the cake. I read it, highlighting all the best parts and feeling the parts I could no longer avoid. Thanks for the activities that were included and I know I’ll be reading it again for the clarity I need sometimes ❤️
The sequel was better than the original verse. Trust opened up a new life for me gave me strength to face my own fears and then accepting the I deserve so much more than I’d been allowing myself to receive. Good Morning Beautiful was the icing on the cake. I read it, highlighting all the best parts and feeling the parts I could no longer avoid. Thanks for the activities that were included and I know I’ll be reading it again for the clarity I need sometimes ❤️
January 8, 2022
Is there going to be a book 3?
I enjoyed this book so much that I read it in a day! I spent most of the book screaming at Cynthia, frustrated with her choices and that's why I had to finish it quickly because I had to know if she got it together finally! Funny thing is, she reminded me a lot of myself and I think that's why the book drew me in so much!
Hoping there's a book 3 because I'm curious to know Julene's story! Great read!
I enjoyed this book so much that I read it in a day! I spent most of the book screaming at Cynthia, frustrated with her choices and that's why I had to finish it quickly because I had to know if she got it together finally! Funny thing is, she reminded me a lot of myself and I think that's why the book drew me in so much!
Hoping there's a book 3 because I'm curious to know Julene's story! Great read!
January 4, 2023
A gentle nudge
This is my first time reading a book by Daines Reed. I wasn’t sure what to expect especially since I usually don’t enjoy books written in the 1st person.
I was rooting for the main character as she underwent a full metamorphosis to become who she was meant to be and in the process I leaned a few uncomfortable things about myself as I related with her. This book should be considered therapy for women. I loved it!
This is my first time reading a book by Daines Reed. I wasn’t sure what to expect especially since I usually don’t enjoy books written in the 1st person.
I was rooting for the main character as she underwent a full metamorphosis to become who she was meant to be and in the process I leaned a few uncomfortable things about myself as I related with her. This book should be considered therapy for women. I loved it!
August 6, 2023
She Deserves
Book 2 did not disappoint. I love Cynthia's story. She deserves everything good in life . I'm glad she focused on herself and became healthier. Glad she still had Julene as a friend, everyone needs a rider . Her mom know she knew how to care of herself especially when the right man came along for her child . I'm glad a tragedy and her mom's curiosity bought her and Glen together. Can't wait for book 3 to learn more about her journey.
Book 2 did not disappoint. I love Cynthia's story. She deserves everything good in life . I'm glad she focused on herself and became healthier. Glad she still had Julene as a friend, everyone needs a rider . Her mom know she knew how to care of herself especially when the right man came along for her child . I'm glad a tragedy and her mom's curiosity bought her and Glen together. Can't wait for book 3 to learn more about her journey.
December 21, 2023
It was a good story, nice build up, wish I would have seen more of an appreciation of the character with her family... I thought it wasn't going to be spicy but it does have 2 chilli spices out of 4, some cussing and the ending kind of felt very rushed and confused how the ending got there so fast. Didn't get much closure of they did the act or not so I was surprised at how she ended up pregnant I thought they just fell asleep I guess not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2025
Ok, in the beginning I felt like she was so desperate looking for love in the wrong person. Which is Victor. He showed obvious signs of not “feeling” her like that and using her but she was so delusional to come to terms with that reality. Reminds me of Nikki Parker and professor from the show The Parkers. Towards the end it looked real good for her but I also felt like it was rushed at the end wish there was a sequel.
August 20, 2025
This book felt like spending time with a dear friend. Sometimes it felt like reading my own journal. Daines Reed opens up the intimate thoughts, pains and hopes of an amazing woman in this book. Cynthia's story is so inspiring. I missed Ruth for her and for myself too while reading Cynthia's battles. I loved reading this story. Great follow up to Trust. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
September 21, 2020
Good Morning Beautiful ( Trust Book 2)
This was was an excellent book about friendships and finding yourself! It was a great read. I enjoyed the characters and their love for God, family and each other. Truly grateful that Cynthia and her mother living together worked out. Even from above, Ms. Ruth's words reached Cynthia.
This was was an excellent book about friendships and finding yourself! It was a great read. I enjoyed the characters and their love for God, family and each other. Truly grateful that Cynthia and her mother living together worked out. Even from above, Ms. Ruth's words reached Cynthia.
June 7, 2021
Excellent!
This was my first time reading a book by this author. The story and characters were very realistic. I enjoyed Cynthia's flaws and growth. I related to this story a little too much. I'm 38 with a ticking clock too! I loved Julene, Mama, and Glen; hated Victor. I highly recommend and look forward to enjoying other works by this author.
This was my first time reading a book by this author. The story and characters were very realistic. I enjoyed Cynthia's flaws and growth. I related to this story a little too much. I'm 38 with a ticking clock too! I loved Julene, Mama, and Glen; hated Victor. I highly recommend and look forward to enjoying other works by this author.
October 31, 2021
Another awesome read
I really enjoyed reading this book. The Characters seemed so real to me. Everyone reminds me of someone In real life. I love how the ladies are still actively involved in their book club. Happy to see how things work out for Cynthia. I'm looking forward to the next book!
I really enjoyed reading this book. The Characters seemed so real to me. Everyone reminds me of someone In real life. I love how the ladies are still actively involved in their book club. Happy to see how things work out for Cynthia. I'm looking forward to the next book!
August 11, 2023
I truly love stories where women of God are genuinely there for one another....
Supportive, faithful, God fearing women are Precious Pearls.....compassion, commitment, and generous hearts maintain the flow of His Anointing. ... This book touched my heart and taught me the true purpose of why I needed to read this book. We're not here for ourselves.... We're here for one another.
Supportive, faithful, God fearing women are Precious Pearls.....compassion, commitment, and generous hearts maintain the flow of His Anointing. ... This book touched my heart and taught me the true purpose of why I needed to read this book. We're not here for ourselves.... We're here for one another.
September 26, 2023
Wow, what a Beautifully written book. This book is what many women of have a certain go through, (myself including). It’s difficult being a certain age and not knowing if you will have the things that you have always wanted and dreamed of having one day. This book is an inspiration for women to kept going because God knows, and Everything that’s for you will fall into place at the right time!!!!
😊😊😊😊💜💜💜💜
😊😊😊😊💜💜💜💜
February 19, 2024
Thoroughly Enjoyed
While I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I will say the beginning was way too long and drawn out! It wasn't until midway through the book that I felt like we were actually getting into the story. Once I got to the end, I was sad because I wanted more. Overall, though, I enjoyed the story.
While I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, I will say the beginning was way too long and drawn out! It wasn't until midway through the book that I felt like we were actually getting into the story. Once I got to the end, I was sad because I wanted more. Overall, though, I enjoyed the story.
June 13, 2024
Trust series book 2
I didn't find this book very good. I didn't care much for the cursing. I like reading Christian fiction but I did not think this was like other books I have read in that genre. I know that things like this happen in churches but it just wasn't what I like to read about.
I didn't find this book very good. I didn't care much for the cursing. I like reading Christian fiction but I did not think this was like other books I have read in that genre. I know that things like this happen in churches but it just wasn't what I like to read about.
November 12, 2020
Good morning
Definitely worthy of reading. Strong in faith this sequel.My heart soared for Cynthia. Sometimes we settle and end up with garbage thinking we have the cream of the crop.
Definitely worthy of reading. Strong in faith this sequel.My heart soared for Cynthia. Sometimes we settle and end up with garbage thinking we have the cream of the crop.
November 23, 2020
Love the Story
I love this story. I like the way the author developed the characters. I can identify with the plot of the story.
I'm waiting for book 3 . I love the author. She's an excellent storyteller.
I love this story. I like the way the author developed the characters. I can identify with the plot of the story.
I'm waiting for book 3 . I love the author. She's an excellent storyteller.
January 31, 2021
I loved this book! Read Trust too!
Easy read and enjoyable! It really hit home for me regarding relationships with friends, men and life. Sometimes you miss good when it's in your face. I recommend this book to everyone! Waiting for #3!
Easy read and enjoyable! It really hit home for me regarding relationships with friends, men and life. Sometimes you miss good when it's in your face. I recommend this book to everyone! Waiting for #3!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews