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Chronically Fabulous: Finding Wholeness and Hope Living with Chronic Illness
Winner of the 2022 Goody Business Book Award for Health-Wellness.
When Marisa Zeppieri was 22-years-old she found herself face-to-face with a raven-haired elderly woman who had emerged from a crowd and gently taken her ""God will use these hands to change people's lives.""
Years later Marisa's once-spirited demeanor was shrouded in anger and bitterness. Triggered first by a near-fatal car accident that sent her 100-lb body flying from a crosswalk and later by a painful Lupus diagnosis, she became stuck in a season of brokenness.
But in the seasons that followed, an insatiable emotional, spiritual, and physical hunger took She learned how to nourish her broken body with the help of food, herbs, and a gastronomically-gifted Italian grandmother, while also nourishing her broken heart and crushed spirit through a deeper relationship with God.
With Chronically Fabulous, Marisa fulfills the old woman's prophecy by offering pure nourishment to those of us living with chronic illness, helping us create wholeness and well-being through a love of food. Here, the founder of LupusChick, a nonprofit supporting those with autoimmune diseases, offers guiding principles, personal stories, and recipes that support whole-life thriving. With the depth, smarts, and spiritual advice beloved by her dedicated followers, Marisa shows us how faith, passion, and persistence can radically change our lives.
When Marisa Zeppieri was 22-years-old she found herself face-to-face with a raven-haired elderly woman who had emerged from a crowd and gently taken her ""God will use these hands to change people's lives.""
Years later Marisa's once-spirited demeanor was shrouded in anger and bitterness. Triggered first by a near-fatal car accident that sent her 100-lb body flying from a crosswalk and later by a painful Lupus diagnosis, she became stuck in a season of brokenness.
But in the seasons that followed, an insatiable emotional, spiritual, and physical hunger took She learned how to nourish her broken body with the help of food, herbs, and a gastronomically-gifted Italian grandmother, while also nourishing her broken heart and crushed spirit through a deeper relationship with God.
With Chronically Fabulous, Marisa fulfills the old woman's prophecy by offering pure nourishment to those of us living with chronic illness, helping us create wholeness and well-being through a love of food. Here, the founder of LupusChick, a nonprofit supporting those with autoimmune diseases, offers guiding principles, personal stories, and recipes that support whole-life thriving. With the depth, smarts, and spiritual advice beloved by her dedicated followers, Marisa shows us how faith, passion, and persistence can radically change our lives.
- GenresNonfiction
208 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 4, 2021
15 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
April 30, 2021
I started following Marisa (Lupus Chick) after being diagnosed 4yrs ago. Her new book came to me at the right time. I just lost my best friend , my sister a week prior to getting my book. One thing I’ve learned, grief & chronic illness does not go together. This book has been inspiring throughout my journey & has been such a light for me. This book has given me such, Hope & Guidance in this most challenging season I’m fighting through with Lupus & Grief. I felt as was in invited into the kitchen, helping cook a Sunday dinner, eating dinner & getting knowledge, how to be, Chronically Fabulous💜
Never give up, no matter what you are going through.
Thank you Marisa, for sharing your amazing journey with us all. You are touching so many people.
This book isn’t just for people with Lupus or a Chronic Illness. it’s a book for everyone.
Never give up, no matter what you are going through.
Thank you Marisa, for sharing your amazing journey with us all. You are touching so many people.
This book isn’t just for people with Lupus or a Chronic Illness. it’s a book for everyone.
April 4, 2021
If you have Lupus or know someone who does, this is a MUST read. It’s as if Marisa and her grandmother sit you down at their table and hand you a cup of tea as you learn things you need to know about the serious illness. Marisa is not only incredibly knowledgeable, open, and helpful, but writes in a way that makes even Lupus enjoyable to read about. Well done!
April 14, 2021
Wow, Wow, Wow!!! I just finished “Chronically Fabulous” and it was amazing!!!! At first glance I thought this would be a great book if you have a chronic illness or know someone who suffers from a chronic illness. After reading this amazingly written and raw book, I realized I was very wrong! I do not suffer from a chronic illness and I thoroughly enjoyed every page! This book will benefit everyone and anyone who has struggled and is struggling with various illness, cancer, a tragic accident, a loss of a loved one, depression and the list goes on!
This book was inspirational from the start and continued full speed through-out the book! I can not wait to try many of the recipes the author shares throughout the book, all of the quotes and scripture she included were absolutely amazing!!! Truly motivational from start to finish and I feel like I was cooking along side her and her grandma in the avocado green kitchen! This is a book on perseverance amongst huge obstacles that life throws your way!!!
This book was so raw and filled with such emotion you felt like you were walking along side author Marisa throughout her battle of being a pedestrian hit by a truck and then while in the hospital being diagnosed with Lupus! She never gave up ever and is such an inspiration!!!
This book was inspirational from the start and continued full speed through-out the book! I can not wait to try many of the recipes the author shares throughout the book, all of the quotes and scripture she included were absolutely amazing!!! Truly motivational from start to finish and I feel like I was cooking along side her and her grandma in the avocado green kitchen! This is a book on perseverance amongst huge obstacles that life throws your way!!!
This book was so raw and filled with such emotion you felt like you were walking along side author Marisa throughout her battle of being a pedestrian hit by a truck and then while in the hospital being diagnosed with Lupus! She never gave up ever and is such an inspiration!!!
May 2, 2021
It's ok to ask the "Whys".
From the beginning Marisa takes you by the hand as she shares her emotional vulnerability with the reader. From the story of nearly losing her life to a speeding vehicle, and her on going struggle with Lupus, she speaks from a place of hope and understanding. Chronic illness is a lonely and isolating life that few can reach out and say "I get it"
With Marisa it's not just another self righteous 'you just need to pray more' circle jerk. It's a sit down on the floor, come to Jesus, friend who'll meet you where your at with a coffee and fuzzy blanket and tell you it's okay to have the questions and anger, but let me show you there's another way to look at things.
I was blindsided by pneumatic sepsis that robbed my body of its mobility, and left me with both heart and lung weakness when it sent me into full cardiac arrest at only 30. I was still swimming in resentment and anger until I took a chance on Marisas words. All I can say after reading this, is that im reading it again to go back and really digest it. It's that good. If you need help looking up to find the rainbow above the storm clouds, pick up this book.
Bonus points: She includes some solid feel good Italian recipes that make you feel like you get a peek into her grandmothers kitchen. Warm, loving, and filled with a community so many of us are sorely lacking.
*I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review*
From the beginning Marisa takes you by the hand as she shares her emotional vulnerability with the reader. From the story of nearly losing her life to a speeding vehicle, and her on going struggle with Lupus, she speaks from a place of hope and understanding. Chronic illness is a lonely and isolating life that few can reach out and say "I get it"
With Marisa it's not just another self righteous 'you just need to pray more' circle jerk. It's a sit down on the floor, come to Jesus, friend who'll meet you where your at with a coffee and fuzzy blanket and tell you it's okay to have the questions and anger, but let me show you there's another way to look at things.
I was blindsided by pneumatic sepsis that robbed my body of its mobility, and left me with both heart and lung weakness when it sent me into full cardiac arrest at only 30. I was still swimming in resentment and anger until I took a chance on Marisas words. All I can say after reading this, is that im reading it again to go back and really digest it. It's that good. If you need help looking up to find the rainbow above the storm clouds, pick up this book.
Bonus points: She includes some solid feel good Italian recipes that make you feel like you get a peek into her grandmothers kitchen. Warm, loving, and filled with a community so many of us are sorely lacking.
*I received this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review*
April 7, 2021
I’m officially writing a review on the book yet;however, I would like to say a few words about the Author. Because I have interacted with Marisa through social media, I can only imagine how helpful this book will be for your soul. If you are someone blessed(notice how I said blessed) with a chronic illness, then this book will help you find your blessings. You won’t be asking yourself, “why me?” If you know someone that is lost with his/her chronic illness, this book will help you help them. Marisa Erie’s from the heart. There is no doubt she will be successful even fighting her own battles.
April 30, 2021
Marisa is a gifted writer. The imagery from the stories she shared were warm and inspiring. I have read many books about chronic illness. This is the first that resonated in my soul. Although Marisa and I have very different diseases, she made me feel understood, seen, valued. Chronically Fabulous is more than a memoir. It is a combination of confession, devotion, meditation, and ultimately a story that encourages. There are chapters that I will return to again and again, especially on the hard days. In fact, I starting reading it...felt compelled to start reading it... on a very hard day. I’m so glad I did. I have already recommended this book to several people and am sure I will be recommending it in the days and months to come.
April 30, 2021
Reading this book has been eye opening heart healing and meaningful in everyway. I was dx with Lupus at age 26.so for over half my life I've lived with autoimmune diseases. If I had had Marissa's. Book to help me it would have helped me in the those early yrs live the well and not in the fear I lived in the first 5 years. Now at 54 I will have a resource to direct. New people to. Whether you or someone you know has a chronic illness, or has suffered a loss, or you are just looking for a good book to read this one should be at the top of ypur short list.
May 1, 2021
I have almost no words to describe how I am feeling about this book. Reading Marisa's story felt so much like I was reading my own. "Because I need to hear about someone that would really understand what I am going through". Through Marisa's story I am finding wholeness and Hope, I am touched and know I am not alone. This book has inspired me to share my story and given me the courage to work on improving my health.
May 7, 2021
This book resonated greatly to me. Marisa’s story is courageous and beautiful and the way she shares her story with incredible recipes and stories about how her Grandmother contributed to her well-being gives such a unique perspective to the book. The connection I feel to Marisa after reading this gives me motivation and the recipes are icing on the cake! As someone who has lived with chronic illness and is now a Board Certified Patient Advocate, I will definitely be recommending and gifting copies of this book to others who can relate and be inspired as well. I am honored to have received an advanced copy as part of Marisa’s book launch team and can’t wait for others to get the opportunity to read this.
May 1, 2021
For anyone facing struggles, whether you have a chronic illness, have a loved one with a chronic illness or are facing any other struggles, this book is truly inspiring. What a beautiful story of overcoming obstacles. At a truly dark time in my own autoimmune journey and personal life, this book is a beacon of light giving me hope. So thankful to have found this book. 💜
April 30, 2021
Outstanding book! So many people can relate to this book, not just those with a chronic illness. That being said, I do have chronic illnesses and can relate to much to this book. Knowing you’re not alone in this journey makes it easier to manage. I would highly recommend this book to any of my family and friends.
May 2, 2021
I highly recommend "Chronically Fabulous" not only for the chronic illness community but for anyone looking for hope and inspiration during these trying times.
Marisa's strength and perseverance shine through in each chapter as she shares her journey with us. She has come so far and has a tremendous gift for helping others.
Check out the book today. You won't be disappointed. It is packed full of heartwarming scenarios, delicious and nutritional family recipes, hope and inspiration for better days to come.
Thank you Marisa, you've helped me more than you will ever know.
Marisa's strength and perseverance shine through in each chapter as she shares her journey with us. She has come so far and has a tremendous gift for helping others.
Check out the book today. You won't be disappointed. It is packed full of heartwarming scenarios, delicious and nutritional family recipes, hope and inspiration for better days to come.
Thank you Marisa, you've helped me more than you will ever know.
April 30, 2021
This is a great book. This is a very uplifting book. If you suffer from any type of chronic illness get this book!
October 15, 2021
"In every trauma, there is a shattering and an opportunity for rebirth."
I've worked myself into a funk over the past year and a half and neglected some basic self-care for far too long. and with my own recent transition to being active again and eating cleaner, I was looking for new ideas and inspiration to be a better example for my son. There are some really great recipes in here, my favorite (so far) is probably a toss-up between the Easy Energy Bitesvand the Strawberry Cacao Oat Smoothie. Also, if you're lucky, you can catch Zeppieri cooking live on IG sometime.
Beyond the recipes, Zeppieri's journey is inspiring. She's not only a survivor but surviving & thriving. Her faith inspires. She is truly blessed.
I've worked myself into a funk over the past year and a half and neglected some basic self-care for far too long. and with my own recent transition to being active again and eating cleaner, I was looking for new ideas and inspiration to be a better example for my son. There are some really great recipes in here, my favorite (so far) is probably a toss-up between the Easy Energy Bitesvand the Strawberry Cacao Oat Smoothie. Also, if you're lucky, you can catch Zeppieri cooking live on IG sometime.
Beyond the recipes, Zeppieri's journey is inspiring. She's not only a survivor but surviving & thriving. Her faith inspires. She is truly blessed.
October 18, 2021
Fighting the same demons as the author and being in a flare for almost this entire year, THIS book has helped through the darkest of my hours, it was as if I was not in this alone and plus, although the hour gap between the US and Romania is huge, I sometimes could witness Maria's live streams on Facebook which were a huge relief from all the struggles and aches within myself. A wonderful book to read, a journey of a lifetime! ❤️♥️❣️ Love you to bits, Marisa Sweetheart! ❤️♥️❣️
May 4, 2021
I was delightfully surprised with this book - it's so much more than a memoir. Not only was I drawn in by Marisa's story, but woven within each chapter I found nuggets of wisdom about different ways to view *any* challenge that I (we) may face.
Marisa's heartfelt transparency as she walks us through her challenges made me feel like she was confiding in me. And then to read her thoughts as she was processing the events and then read her outcome really helped me picture myself facing and overcoming some of the challenges in my own life. It gave me hope and courage to navigate new waters when I face a wilderness season.
Throughout the entire book, I felt like Marisa was my cheerleader - wanting nothing but the best for me, encouraging me to push through any challenges, and use my voice to share the story God placed on my heart. If the encouragement and words of wisdom weren't enough, there are the "Fabulous Finds" sections that gave me some action items to help me apply some of the gems that work for her. Plus, she takes us into her kitchen and shares some great recipes with us from her Italian grandmother and some of her own.
In true cheerleader fashion, Marisa ends her book with a prayer of us - a prayer that encourages and reminds us that we are "the Divine's incredible gift to this world." Thank you, Marisa for giving us a glimpse into your life - and how we apply your lessons learned to our own lives.
Marisa's heartfelt transparency as she walks us through her challenges made me feel like she was confiding in me. And then to read her thoughts as she was processing the events and then read her outcome really helped me picture myself facing and overcoming some of the challenges in my own life. It gave me hope and courage to navigate new waters when I face a wilderness season.
Throughout the entire book, I felt like Marisa was my cheerleader - wanting nothing but the best for me, encouraging me to push through any challenges, and use my voice to share the story God placed on my heart. If the encouragement and words of wisdom weren't enough, there are the "Fabulous Finds" sections that gave me some action items to help me apply some of the gems that work for her. Plus, she takes us into her kitchen and shares some great recipes with us from her Italian grandmother and some of her own.
In true cheerleader fashion, Marisa ends her book with a prayer of us - a prayer that encourages and reminds us that we are "the Divine's incredible gift to this world." Thank you, Marisa for giving us a glimpse into your life - and how we apply your lessons learned to our own lives.
May 4, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed reading “Chronically Fabulous” it inspired me hope. Marisa “Lupus Chick” Zeppieri tells her heart wrenching and heart warming story of her struggles and achievements during her lifelong battle with lupus. This book is a great example of a woman’s story tackling and overcoming the challenges of living with a chronic illness.
Marisa adds flavor to her journeying in a beautiful way that empowers the reader to enjoy and taste a flavor from her life. She shares traditional family recipes that are tasty morsels of how we can truly make own our with the help of the one and only “Lupus Chick” - this book is even better now that I am savoring chapters and cooking the recipes to celebrate Lupus Awareness Month.
This book is a fun unique read that I have enjoyed over again and again- though I just received it a few weeks ago. Get your copy today and gift one to your favorite woman who is on her own “Chronically Fabulous” journey, I think Marisa will inspire everyone who reads her story.
Marisa adds flavor to her journeying in a beautiful way that empowers the reader to enjoy and taste a flavor from her life. She shares traditional family recipes that are tasty morsels of how we can truly make own our with the help of the one and only “Lupus Chick” - this book is even better now that I am savoring chapters and cooking the recipes to celebrate Lupus Awareness Month.
This book is a fun unique read that I have enjoyed over again and again- though I just received it a few weeks ago. Get your copy today and gift one to your favorite woman who is on her own “Chronically Fabulous” journey, I think Marisa will inspire everyone who reads her story.
May 4, 2021
Chronically Fabulous is truly an amazing journey of a read! From tragedy, illness and anguish to finding peace and healing through healthy eating, spiritual nourishment and healthy habits the narrative takes you beyond the pages and into your own journey and how one relates to the story being told. I found it to be very eye opening and helpful in my battle with clinical depression and PTSD although it was geared towards someone with a chronic illness the deep pain is similar in ways and can be very relatable.
Some of my favorite parts to read involved Marisa’s Grandmother! Such a sweet soul!
The recipes in the book sound delicious and I plan on making a few real soon!
I cannot recommend Chronically Fabulous highly enough! I normally stick to reading fiction but this was a refreshing change and I learned so much from it! Marisa’s prayer to us at the end made me cry. She is truly an amazing person and I’m glad her story is being told while helping others.
Some of my favorite parts to read involved Marisa’s Grandmother! Such a sweet soul!
The recipes in the book sound delicious and I plan on making a few real soon!
I cannot recommend Chronically Fabulous highly enough! I normally stick to reading fiction but this was a refreshing change and I learned so much from it! Marisa’s prayer to us at the end made me cry. She is truly an amazing person and I’m glad her story is being told while helping others.
May 3, 2021
While I do not have a chronic auto-immune disease, this book was still for me. It's for anyone that wants to be inspired to new heights of success, fulfillment, and appreciation for their lives, or just for anyone that wants to be entertained with a good read. I don't often get lost in a book, but I have no idea what happened to the evening I started this book. The next thing I knew it was 2 AM, and I was caught up in the story of someone who had every reason to give up but didn't.
There are several sewn-in life-changing principles found subtly woven throughout this work - and whether one has been through a catastrophic accident, hospitalization and diagnosis like Marisa or whether they've been laid off, fired, gone through a crippling financial emergency, or a divorce: this book is for you. Her emotional and spiritual guidance through the catacombs of dark depression will lead anyone away from self-destructive thoughts. Even the usual psychological self-medication of food abuse is covered with practical recipes of healthy comfort food that feeds both the belly and soul.
Marisa finds a magical balance in her writing style of practical wisdom without the pretentious platitudes one expects to find in this type of overcoming the odds auto-biography. You don't need to be sick with a chronic disease to feel fabulous after finishing this incredibly inspiring book.
There are several sewn-in life-changing principles found subtly woven throughout this work - and whether one has been through a catastrophic accident, hospitalization and diagnosis like Marisa or whether they've been laid off, fired, gone through a crippling financial emergency, or a divorce: this book is for you. Her emotional and spiritual guidance through the catacombs of dark depression will lead anyone away from self-destructive thoughts. Even the usual psychological self-medication of food abuse is covered with practical recipes of healthy comfort food that feeds both the belly and soul.
Marisa finds a magical balance in her writing style of practical wisdom without the pretentious platitudes one expects to find in this type of overcoming the odds auto-biography. You don't need to be sick with a chronic disease to feel fabulous after finishing this incredibly inspiring book.
May 3, 2021
As an author, and a person living with lupus, an autoimmune illness for 31 years,I have come to realize the complexities of communicating with others that have endured chronicity. Marisa Zeppieri had done a superior job mastering it. She writes as though she is talking directly to you. The book has warm fuzzies, it has spirituality, it relates the interactions of food and family that we seek for loving. She speaks of trauma which she endured and ways to overcome it in a gentle but necessary way. She does not only tell her own story, she explains constructively ways to adapt and adjust to a life different than before but still good and rewarding. This book covers a huge audience that would enhance their life by reading it.
May 3, 2021
Can’t wait to share this book with others. This world who is fighting chronic illness by the masses needs stories and hope and inspiration. Some fantastic quotes to really soak in. Amazing recipes of love. Amazing recipes of health. Memories. Struggles. Love. Faith. This book has it all and is written in such a compassionate way yet realistic for people to accept and deal with all at hand and begin to move forward. I am very proud and honored to have been able to read in advance copy snd plan to blessing others by handing this amazing read off to them as well. Thank you for this opportunity.
May 4, 2021
I just finished reading this book and all I have to say is, “Wow.” I so needed to read this. If you or someone you know suffers from a chronic illness (or really has gone through any kind of trauma) then this book is a must have. The author did a fantastic job of telling a story, as well as being a wealth of knowledge, wisdom, and comfort. The delicious recipes were a huge bonus. This was my Chicken Soup for the chronic illnesses soul. I’m sending a copy to my sister who’s recently gone through a trying time. I’m so glad that I found this gem and I hope that it touches your heart in the same way that it did mine.
May 5, 2021
A sweet little story of how family, food, and faith helped the author come to terms with a car accident and a chronic illness.
While the author's religious beliefs may be off-putting for some readers, she still puts forth some good common-sense ideas about dealing with chronic illness. Two examples:
"No longer do I subscribe to the belief that there is one all-encompassing diet that will work for everyone... Now I only want to surround myself with things that speak life into my body and my mind."
"We weren't put on the earth... for only our health."
While the author's religious beliefs may be off-putting for some readers, she still puts forth some good common-sense ideas about dealing with chronic illness. Two examples:
"No longer do I subscribe to the belief that there is one all-encompassing diet that will work for everyone... Now I only want to surround myself with things that speak life into my body and my mind."
"We weren't put on the earth... for only our health."
May 10, 2021
An inspirational "Must Read" for anyone who has, knows or cares for people with a chronic illness.
This book not only explains to the layperson just what having a chronic illness is like, so they can better understand and be a more empathetic support system for those with a chronic illness, but Marissa also manages to give each and every reader, especially those coping with a chronic illness of their own, a big, warm, comforting hug with the eloquence of her writing. One that says, 'You are NOT alone. I SEE YOU and we are all in this together.'
This book not only explains to the layperson just what having a chronic illness is like, so they can better understand and be a more empathetic support system for those with a chronic illness, but Marissa also manages to give each and every reader, especially those coping with a chronic illness of their own, a big, warm, comforting hug with the eloquence of her writing. One that says, 'You are NOT alone. I SEE YOU and we are all in this together.'
April 17, 2021
💜 This book, is an inspiring story full of uplifting quotes, recipes, “Fabulous Finds” helpful tips and reminders to connect to your own healing memories for comforting and caring no matter what you may be going through in life. Marisa Zeppieri is Blessed in many ways-among which is the ability to touch lives with her writing style! Truly a great read that will change your perspective on how you face challenges good or bad!!
May 2, 2021
I loved this book! I have lupus and my husband has Multiple Sclerosis. This book was very relatable! This book does have quite a few religious references- while I myself am not religious- I really liked reading a different perspective of how someone else deals with having a chronic illness. I took quite a bit away from reading this book that I plan to implement in my life, living with a chronic illness.
May 2, 2021
I highly recommend this book for anyone living with a chronic illness or anyone that has a loved one coping with a chronic illness. My journey has been one full of ups and downs and living with multiple chronic conditions can be very daunting at times. Reading Marisa’s story is very relatable and inspiring. This is a book that I’ll continue to come back to. I’ll always suggest others read it and I’ll read it over and over. It gives me so much hope!
May 5, 2021
Chronically Fabulous was an easy read but don't think that makes it less valuable. Marisa found hope and healing through faith and food. That's always fun and valuable. I also liked that the book was sprinkled with little encouragements like this one, "What You Always Keep." And yes, I will be trying some of the family recipes shared in each chapter. This book would be good for anyone struggling with chronic illness, not just lupus, AND anyone who just loves good food.
May 5, 2021
This is a must read! It is definitely not meant just for someone living with a chronic illness. Marisa opens her heart and soul about being thrust into chronic illness and how hard she worked to get where she is now. Having overlapping “invisible” chronic illnesses I can relate.
Also, if you enjoy new recipes Marisa shares some of her grandmother’s recipes through out and I look forward to trying some of them especially Healthy Cranberry Orange Breakfast Bread.
Also, if you enjoy new recipes Marisa shares some of her grandmother’s recipes through out and I look forward to trying some of them especially Healthy Cranberry Orange Breakfast Bread.
May 10, 2024
This is a wonderful book for anyone diagnosed with an illness or struggling after a traumatic life experience. There are great threads of faith, nutrition, science and psychology weaved throughout it. I have given several copies away so far to friends who are living with different illnesses, and they all have given it rave reviews. Marisa is very inspirational and you can tell has a heart for helping others. I recommend this book. Also, it is an easy read and I wrapped it up in a few days.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews