Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 10

July 2025 Wrap Up

 

July was an absolute whirlwind of stories! I wrapped up the month with 37 books under my belt. Yes, thirty-seven. And I’m still not entirely sure how I pulled that off. From heart pounding thrillers to swoony romances and immersive fantasies, this month delivered a little bit of everything. Audiobooks definitely helped me power through, but more than anything, July reminded me why I love getting lost in a good book (or three). Let’s dive into the highlights, surprises, and a few titles that didn’t quite hit the mark.

249/100 2025 Reading Challenge~108/217 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~18/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

And that’s a wrap on July! With 37 books behind me, I’m heading into August with a towering TBR, a fresh set of library holds, and zero regrets. Whether you’re reading one book a month or thirty, I hope you found something that made you fall in love with stories all over again. Let me know what your favorite July read was, or what I should add to my list for August. Happy reading, friends!

ARC Review: The Ever King by L.J. Andrews

 

Title: The Ever King

By: L.J. Andrews

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 480

Release Date: July 19th, 2023

Rating: ★★★☆☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:They stole his crown, so he stole their daughter…
For years Erik, the scarred king of the Ever Kingdom, has thought of nothing but vengeance against the man who killed his father and trapped him beneath the waves, making Erik a prisoner in his own realm.
But on a dare gone wrong, his enemy’s daughter recklessly breaks the chains on the Ever. She soon becomes the unwitting pawn in Erik's vicious game of revenge.
She’s innocent. He’s vicious. But he will take back what he lost, no matter the price.
Unless she steals his heart first.
Welcome to the passionate world of the Ever Kingdom where pirates, sirens, and fae collide with Vikings in a spicy, dark fantasy romance between a made villain and the innocent princess who holds his heart.

 

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Review:Andrews had all the elements I usually love: a broody fae king, an enemies-to-lovers arc, and a lush fantasy setting. But while the concept was strong, the pacing felt uneven and I struggled to fully connect with the characters. There were glimpses of emotional depth and intrigue, but the execution didn’t quite deliver the epic tension I hoped for. Still, fans of romantic fantasy with court politics and magic might find this worth a read!

Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review. 

Weekly Menu #619 And The Book Of The Week

 

This week, we’re taking a flavorful detour to the heart of Central America with a Guatemalan inspired weekly menu! From protein packed dishes like pepian de pollo to hearty frijoles volteados and vibrant vegetable sides, these dinners are all about bold spices, comforting textures, and satisfying nutrition. Whether you're familiar with Guatemalan cuisine or just dipping your toes into it for the first time, I’ve built this menu to be as delicious as it is doable. Perfect for busy weeknights and curious tastebuds alike.
Alongside this culinary journey, I’m diving into Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Known for her emotionally layered storytelling, Reid delivers another introspective look at love, loss, and identity. So far, it’s giving moody, slow burn tension with characters who feel real enough to reach out and touch. I’m only a few chapters in, but I can already tell this one’s going to stir up some feelings. Just like a good Guatemalan stew.
WEEKLY MENU

Monday

One Pan Chicken and Quinoa

Kids - Chicken & Rice Plate

 

Tuesday

Jocon-Inspired Turkey Meatballs and Black Beans

Kids - Pasta with Turkey Meatballs

 

Wednesday

Guatemalan Enchiladas

Kids - Taco Bowl (Deconstructed)

 

Thursday

Kak’ik-Inspired Chicken Soup

Kids - Chicken Tenders & Veggie Tray

 

Friday

Pollo Asado with Guatemalan Slaw

Kids - DIY Pizza Night

 

Saturday

Turkey Enchilada Skillet

Kids - Snack Plate Dinner

 

Sunday

Leftovers Night

Sunday Confessions #316

 

Welcome to this week’s Sunday Book Confessions, where I spill the tea on my latest reading highs, unexpected bookish thoughts, and the stories I can’t stop thinking about. Whether I’m falling for a new character, abandoning a hyped up title, or admitting I judged a book by its cover (again), this is where I lay it all out, no filters, just honest reader to reader talk. Let’s get into it.

Sunday Confessions #315~Weekly Menu #618 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy~Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 19~ARC Review: Zomromcom by Olivia Dade~Book Review: Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper~Saturday Sips: 4 Star Reads

Weekly Menu #619 And The Book Of The Week~ARC Review: The Ever King by L.J. Andrews~July 2025 Wrap Up~Book Review: The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins~Fantasy Friday: The Never List by Jade Presley~Sunday Confessions #317





This book offers a gritty dive into the criminal underworld of the Star Wars galaxy, centered around the mysterious and legendary Boba Fett. While the concept is compelling and the tone leans darker than most Expanded Universe novels, the execution felt uneven. The plot jumps around quite a bit, and the pacing often drags under layers of dense exposition. Fett is as ruthless and calculating as ever, but his character remains frustratingly distant. There are some exciting moments and cool lore connections, but overall, it didn't quite deliver the punch I was hoping for.

241/100 2025 Reading Challenge~105/217 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~18/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

Thanks for joining me for another round of Sunday Book Confessions. Whether you’re nodding along in agreement or side-eyeing my hot takes, I’m always glad to have fellow book lovers along for the ride. Here’s to another week of unexpected reads, literary obsessions, and maybe even a guilty pleasure or two. Until next time, keep reading, keep confessing.

Saturday Sips: 4 Star Reads

 

Welcome to this week’s Saturday Sips where I pour myself something cozy and revisit the five standout reads that earned a solid four stars. These books each brought something special to the table, whether it was gripping storytelling, memorable characters, or unique world building, but just missed that final spark of perfection. Still, they’re absolutely worth savoring and I’m excited to share what made each one such an enjoyable sip. Let’s dive in!

The House of Frost and FeathersLauren Wiesebron
The House of Frost and Feathers by Lauren Wiesebron is a beautifully atmospheric read that immediately transported me into a world steeped in folklore, snow, and secrets. The writing is lyrical and immersive, and the haunting, wintry setting gave me major The Bear and the Nightingale vibes. The story unravels slowly, with just the right amount of tension and magic to keep me turning pages. While some plot points could have used a touch more clarity, the rich tone and mythic undercurrent made this a standout read. Perfect for those who love fairytale-inspired fantasy with a chilling edge.
The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and VirtueMackenzi Lee

This was a fun and fast paced adventure packed with heart, humor, and just the right amount of chaos. Monty is a delightfully reckless narrator, and his journey across Europe, complete with pirates, secret societies, and swoon worthy tension with his best friend Percy, kept me turning the pages. I really enjoyed exploring this world, where historical fiction meets queer romance and unexpected magic. It’s witty, bold, and full of charm, even if a few plot points felt a bit over the top. A thoroughly entertaining read.
Of Flame and FuryMikayla Bridge

Fourth Wing meets Iron Widow in Of Flame and Fury by debut author Mikayla Bridge, and yes, it’s just as intense and addictive as it sounds. Set on a fiery island where phoenix racing is deadly sport and rebellion simmers under the surface, this YA romantasy is packed with high stakes drama, volatile magic, and slow burn enemies to lovers tension.
I was immediately drawn into Kel Varra’s gritty world and her fierce loyalty to the Crimson Howlers. Add in a cocky rival named Coup (who totally grew on me), a shady tech mogul, and a phoenix named Savita, and you’ve got a blazing story that had me flipping pages fast. Intriguing, steamy, and full of twists.
Because of Miss BridgertonJulia Quinn
This book wasn’t as spicy as the original Bridgerton series we’ve all come to love, but it had its own charm and sense of adventure. Billie and George’s enemies to lovers dynamic was full of wit, banter, and genuine affection, making their slow burn romance a delight to watch unfold. The story leaned more on emotional development and character growth than steam, but the chemistry was still palpable. It’s a lighthearted, feel good historical romance with all the trademark Julia Quinn humor and heart, just with a softer spark.
The Liar's CrownAbigail Owen

This was an intriguing read with a strong premise and a compelling fantasy world. I especially loved the twin sisters concept and the tension it brought to the plot. It added depth and emotional stakes that pulled me in right away. However, at times that thread felt a bit lost in the larger story, overshadowed by the fast pacing and shifting alliances. Still, the romance, action, and magic kept things exciting, and I’m definitely interested in seeing where the series goes next.

Book Review: Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper

 

Title: Out of My Mind

By: Sharon M. Draper

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 295

Release Date: March 9th, 2010

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:Melody is not like most people. She cannot walk or talk, but she has a photographic memory; she can remember every detail of everything she has ever experienced. She is smarter than most of the adults who try to diagnose her and smarter than her classmates in her integrated classroom—the very same classmates who dismiss her as mentally challenged because she cannot tell them otherwise. But Melody refuses to be defined by cerebral palsy. And she's determined to let everyone know it—somehow.

 

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Review:Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper left me speechless in the best way. Melody's voice is unforgettable, raw, brilliant, and so deeply human. This book challenged me, moved me, and reminded me how powerful words (even unspoken ones) can be. A must read for anyone who wants to see the world through a different lens.

ARC Review: Zomromcom by Olivia Dade

 

Title: Zomromcom

By: Olivia Dade

Genre: Dystopian/Paranormal

Pages: 411

Release Date: August 5tth, 2025

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:Teaming up with your neighbor during a zombie outbreak is a no-brainer, but if it turns out he’s a vampire . . . the stakes couldn’t be higher, in this infectious new paranormal romance from the USA Today bestselling author of Spoiler Alert.
When Edie Brandstrup attempts to save her sweet, seemingly harmless human neighbor from the first major zombie breach in two decades, she’s stunned to be saved by him—and his ridiculously large sword—instead. As it turns out, he's actually a super-old, super-surly vampire. But for all her neighbor's newly revealed cynicism and lethality, Gaston "Max" Boucher (yes, Gaston) is unexpectedly protective. He wants her to stay in his safety bunker until the breach is resolved. Edie can’t risk more innocent people getting killed, though—and Max won’t let her save them alone.
As they unravel a sinister conspiracy to set zombies loose on the world (again), the duo meet a host of lovable allies and discover they're not the only ones willing to fight for the future of humanity. Despite the awful timing, Edie finds herself falling for the vampire who’s helping her save the world . . . but all their dangerous plans could end their future before it even begins. As she and Max battle side by side, Edie must decide whether having a love worth living for also means having a love you'd die for—and, in a world that grows deadlier by the minute, whether that’s a risk she’s willing to take.

 

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Review:ZomRomCom by Olivia Dade is exactly what it promises to be, delightfully unhinged, laugh out loud ridiculous, and surprisingly sweet. This is not a book to take seriously, and honestly, that’s where all the fun lies. The plot is absurd (in the best way), the romance is both steamy and silly, and the zombie antics had me grinning the whole way through. If you're looking for a book that leans all the way into its chaos and makes no apologies for the ride, this one’s for you. I had a blast.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review. 

Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 19

 

 know Star Wars isn’t everyone’s cup of caf, but this galaxy far, far away has always held a special place in my heart. From the epic battles and complex characters to the quieter, more emotional moments tucked between the stars, I find myself endlessly drawn into its orbit. So even if you're not a fellow Jedi (or Sith), bear with me, because I’ve got thoughts, favorites, and a few surprises to share from my latest reading adventures in the Star Wars universe.

From a Certain Point of View: The Empire Strikes BackFrom a Certain Point of View: The Empire Strikes Back is an absolute delight, offering a fresh and imaginative look at the iconic Star Wars movie through the eyes of characters often relegated to the background. I loved this book—it was so much fun to read about all the other characters from the film, from the random troopers to the creatures and droids we barely noticed. Each story added depth, humor, and heart to the familiar narrative, and the diverse perspectives made the galaxy far, far away feel even richer. Five stars for this inventive, entertaining, and wholly immersive collection!
Star Wars: Tales of the Bounty HuntersStar Wars: Tales of the Bounty Hunters is a gritty, action-packed collection that dives deep into the lives of the galaxy’s most notorious trackers. Each story offers a unique perspective on familiar faces like Boba Fett, Bossk, and IG-88, fleshing out their motivations and moral gray areas. While a few stories stood out more than others, the anthology as a whole is a thrilling ride for any Star Wars fan. With its blend of lore, character development, and classic expanded universe flair, it’s a strong four-star addition to the Star Wars Legends lineup.


Star Wars: Shadows of the EmpireSteve Perry

Shadows of the Empire by Steve Perry is a fast-paced, entertaining addition to the Star Wars universe that fills the gap between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi with plenty of action, intrigue, and familiar faces. With a compelling new villain in Prince Xizor and a gritty, behind-the-scenes look at the Rebellion and the underworld, the story adds rich layers to the saga. While some dialogue and pacing feel a bit dated, the nostalgia and clever integration into the original trilogy make this a rewarding read. A solid four stars for any Star Wars fan looking to explore the Legends timeline.
From a Certain Point of View: Return of the JediFrom a Certain Point of View: Return of the Jedi offers a unique lens on a beloved film, with 40 stories told from the perspectives of background characters and lesser-known figures in the Star Wars universe. As with the other entries in this anthology series, it’s a mixed bag. Some stories are brilliant and deeply moving, while others fall flat or feel unnecessary. The concept is clever and die-hard fans will likely appreciate the expanded lore, but the uneven pacing and shifting tones made it hard to stay fully engaged throughout. A fun companion for Star Wars enthusiasts but not quite a standout in the series.
Star Wars: Tales from Jabba's PalaceKevin J. Anderson

Star Wars: Tales from Jabba’s Palace is a gritty, imaginative dive into the shadows of the galaxy, offering a fascinating look at the scoundrels, slaves, and survivors who orbited Jabba the Hutt’s slimy throne room. Edited by Kevin J. Anderson, this anthology stitches together short stories from a variety of authors, each focusing on a different background character seen in Return of the Jedi. While some stories shine brighter than others, the overall collection is rich in world-building and character depth, transforming minor screen presences into fully fleshed-out players in the Star Wars mythos. It's a fun, layered read for fans who love the underbelly of the galaxy and who’ve always wondered what really went on behind Jabba’s curtains.

Book Review: Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

Title: Wild Dark Shore

By: Charlotte McConaghy 

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 307

Release Date: March 4th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:From the beloved, New York Times bestselling author of Migrations and Once There Were Wolves, a novel about a family living alone on a remote island, when a mysterious woman washes up on shore
A family on a remote island. A mysterious woman washed ashore. A rising storm on the horizon.
Dominic Salt and his three children are caretakers of Shearwater, a tiny island not far from Antarctica. Home to the world’s largest seed bank, Shearwater was once full of researchers. But with sea levels rising, the Salts are now its final inhabitants, packing up the seeds before they are transported to safer ground. Despite the wild beauty, isolation has taken its toll on the Salts. Raff, eighteen and suffering his first heartbreak, can only find relief at his punching bag; Fen, seventeen, has started spending her nights on the beach among the seals; nine-year-old Orly, obsessed with botany, fears the loss of his beloved natural world; and Dominic can’t stop turning back toward the past, and the loss that drove the family to Shearwater in the first place.
Then, during the worst storm the island has ever seen, a woman washes up on shore. As the Salts nurse the woman, Rowan, back to life, their suspicion gives way to affection, and they finally begin to feel like a family again. Rowan, long accustomed to protecting her heart, begins to fall for the Salts, too. But Rowan isn’t telling the whole truth about why she set out for Shearwater. And when she discovers the sabotaged radios and a freshly dug grave, she realizes Dominic is keeping his own dark secrets. As the storms on Shearwater gather force, can they trust each other enough to protect one another—and the precious seeds in their care? And can they finally put the tragedies of the past behind them to create something new, together?
A novel of heart-stopping twists, dizzying beauty, and ferocious love, Wild Dark Shore is about the impossible choices we make to protect the people we love, even as the world around us is ending.

 

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Review:Charlotte McConaghy does it again. Wild Dark Shore is a haunting, lyrical masterpiece, raw, visceral, and deeply emotional. With her signature blend of environmental urgency and human vulnerability, McConaghy delivers a story that pulses with longing, grief, and quiet resilience. The writing is stunning, almost poetic, and the characters burrow under your skin in the best way. This book left me breathless in the still moments and gutted in the chaos. It’s a wild, aching, unforgettable journey into the heart of loss and the hope of redemption. I’m still reeling.

Weekly Menu #618 And The Book Of The Week

 

This week, we’re heading to the Philippines for a culinary adventure bursting with bold flavors, comforting textures, and rich cultural history. From savory classics like adobo and sinigang to sweet treats like bibingka and halo-halo, Filipino cuisine offers a delicious blend of influences from Spain, China, and Southeast Asia. I’ve curated a menu that highlights some of the most beloved dishes, with easy adaptations for the home cook, perfect for warming up your kitchen and exploring something new.
Alongside all the cooking, I’ve been diving into We Were Liars by E. Lockhart, a hauntingly lyrical YA mystery that’s equal parts gripping and emotionally raw. Set against the backdrop of a privileged but crumbling family estate, the story unravels through the eyes of an unreliable narrator trying to piece together the truth of a summer gone wrong. It’s the kind of book that lingers after the last page, leaving you questioning memory, guilt, and the stories we tell ourselves. Perfect for late night reading with a bowl of champorado.

WEEKLY MENU

Monday

Adobo Night

Chicken Adobo

Kids - Chicken and Rice

 

Tuesday

Street Food Vibes

Pork BBQ skewers

Kids - Pork Skewers with Cucumber

 

Wednesday

Palengke (Market) Day

Sinigang na Manok

Kids - Chicken Noodle Soup with Crackers

 

Thursday

Ulam Combo

Bistek Tagalog

Kids - Cheese and Fries

 

Friday

Fiesta Friday

Pancit Canton

Kids - Pizza Pockets

 

Saturday

Island Grill Night

Inasal na Manok

Soup or Salad

Kids - Chicken Skewers and Crackers

 

Sunday

Leftovers Night