For the first time, Nicole Curtis, the star of the megahit HGTV and DIY Network show Rehab Addict, reveals her private struggles, her personal victories, and the inspiring lessons we can all learn from them. Nicole Curtis is the tough, soulful, charismatic dynamo who for the past twenty years has worked tirelessly to restore historical houses, often revitalizing neighborhoods in the process. And … in the process. And also, in the process, drawing millions of fans to her television show, Rehab Addict, where they follow each step of the hard work and singular vision that transform the seemingly lost cause of a run-down building into a beautifully restored home. But there is so much more to this self-taught expert and working mom. With hersignature irresistible honesty and energy, Curtis writes about a project that every reader will find compelling: how she rehabbed herself. Better Than New reveals what’s not seen on TV—Curtis’s personal battles and her personal triumphs, her complicated relationships, her life as a single mother, the story of how she got started remodeling houses, and the consuming ins and outs of producing a megahit television show while keeping up with two kids, two rescue dogs, and countless tasks on her home renovation punch lists. Followers of the show will get an inside look at some of her most famous restorations, including the Dollar house, the Minnehaha house, the Campbell Street project, and the Ransom Gillis mansion.
Part inspirational memoir and part self-help guide, Better Than New is a journey ineight chapters—each pinned to the story of a house that Curtis has remodeled, each delivering a hard-fought lesson about life—that takes readers to the place we all want to be: home.
A New York Times and USA Today Bestseller
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I have enjoyed watching her show and wondered how she came to be in the business. Her story is interesting. She is an amazing woman who overcame a number of obstacles to live life her way.
I really liked it.
I love Nicole. She is a hard-working woman who brings her can do personality to her cause of rebuilding and preserving historical homes. She is passionate about what she does and can laugh at herself and some of her mistakes
Long time fan of Nicole, my daughter and I both enjoyed this book. Nice to hear more of her back story.
Intersting to read the “back story” of a gutsy woman you have seen on television.
I like Nicole Curtis’s show, and appreciate what she does to save old houses. But her personal life is a mess, and her man-picker is Broken with a capital B! While it’s good to hear her side of her story, I think she’s not 100% honest with her readers or lacks insight into relationships. …when you keep making the same mistakes over and over…. time to get some therapy. I admire her work ethic, she’s a great bubbly person and generous as they come. That being said, if she admitted some of her struggles, funding for home for example, and admitted to some of her vulnerabilities – this would add more depth. I do wish her the best and admire her devotion to her sons. But I want to Big Sister slap her when she picks another dud of a dude. Get some therapy please. Hugs.
It’s an easy read but not a great book.
Got to know her more than the TV show allows. She’s a good story teller.
I am a Nicole Curtis fan and was happy to come across her book. I enjoyed reading her book and getting to know many “behind the scenes” happenings. Very frank, open and honest.
I enjoyed Nicole Curtis’ book very much. She writes like she talks. I have enjoyed her HGTV show very much. It taught me a lot of behind the scene things about HGTV. Her life was very interesting.
Always good to learn about a favorite DIYer
I love Nicole Curtis. It was nice to get her background and where her passion comes from
I was never able to get into this book
Love this gal! So honest and passionate.
I enjoy Nicole’s T.V. Show, so interested in reading her book. It is very inspiring that she has been able to accomplish so much in her life, with her many challenges. Great Book. Great T.V. Show
I’ve always loved watching Nicole’s rehab addict. Not until I read her book did I really understand what a fireball she really is. Like my grandfather used to say “There ain’t no quit in that girl”. I just wish that other reality TV personalities had as much emotional intelligence as Nicole does . Loved it, it’s a fun read that really drew me in.
It’s good to read a little of the back story about Nicole. I have followed her since the beginning and it’s good to see a strong woman on home improvement tv. I think there’s a lot she left out, but it’s her story to tell.
I enjoy the show, I enjoyed the book, now I will enjoy the reruns knowing what insight the book gave.
Interesting in how this young lady got into house rehabbing along with some personal information. I am aware she had a baby and wonder if she is still as involved in her house career.
Love Nichole and always looked forward to Rehab Addict. She is an inspiration, not only on her rehab talents but her love for her children and family. I am wishing her every success. She is beautiful inside and out, with a great heart. She has accomplished much and touched the lives of thousands in a very positive way. Love you, Nichole! Never give up.