Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 13

Saturday Sips: 3 Star Disappointments

 

Welcome to Saturday Sips, where I pair my weekend coffee with a stack of recent reads and not all of them go down smoothly. This week I’m talking about the books that landed right in the middle, not bad enough to DNF but not quite what I hoped for either. These 3 star reads had potential, but something, whether it was pacing, character connection, or just a mismatch in expectations, left me a little underwhelmed. Let’s dive into the almosts and maybes.

There's Always Next YearGeorge M. Johnson, Leah Johnson
There’s Always Next Year had all the ingredients for an emotional and engaging read, but unfortunately, it didn’t quite land for me. While I appreciated the themes and the unique dual-author perspective, I found myself struggling to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The story had moments of potential, but the emotional impact I was hoping for just didn’t hit. It’s a heartfelt book that may resonate more strongly with other readers, but for me, it ended up being just an okay experience.
Paper Doll: Notes from a Late BloomerDylan Mulvaney

Paper Doll: Notes from a Late Bloomer starts off with a tone that’s hard to connect with—more focused on name-dropping and image than insight. The first half felt self-centered and carried a strong “look at me” energy that made it difficult to settle into the narrative. Thankfully, the second half finally brings some emotional depth and vulnerability, offering glimpses of the personal growth and honesty I had hoped for from the start. While there are meaningful moments, they arrive a bit too late to fully redeem the reading experience. A mixed read that might resonate more with readers already familiar with Mulvaney’s public persona.
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.
Fear the FlamesOlivia Rose Darling

Fear the Flames brings readers into a world of magic, rebellion, and slow-burning romance, with plenty of tension and high stakes. Olivia Rose Darling sets up an intriguing premise and a fiery heroine, but the execution didn’t fully live up to the potential. While the world-building had promise, it sometimes felt underdeveloped, and I found myself wishing for deeper character dynamics and more emotional payoff. There are flashes of strong writing and some compelling moments, but overall, it didn’t quite ignite the spark I was hoping for. A decent read for fans of fantasy romance, but not a standout for me.
Voyage of the DamnedFrances White

With a title as intense and dramatic as Voyage of the Damned I expected a thrilling high stakes ride but unfortunately the story did not quite deliver. While the premise held promise the pacing felt sluggish and the plot lacked the urgency I was hoping for. Frances White’s writing has potential and there are moments of intrigue scattered throughout but overall I found the book surprisingly dull. It is not a bad read just not as gripping or memorable as the title suggests.

Thriller Thursday: The Tenant by Freida McFadden

 

Welcome back to Thriller Thursday. Where we chase down gripping plots, spine-tingling twists, and stories that keep us flipping pages well past bedtime. This week’s read had my heart racing and my mind spinning, exactly what I crave from a good thriller. Whether you’re here for dark secrets, unreliable narrators, or shocking reveals, today’s book brings the suspense in all the right ways.

Title: The Tenant

By: Freida McFadden

Genre: Thriller

Pages: 368

Release Date: May 6th, 2025 

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:There’s no place like home…
Blake Porter is riding high, until he's not. Fired abruptly from his job as a VP of marketing and unable to make the mortgage payments on the new brownstone that he shares with his fiancee, he's desperate to make ends meet.
Enter Whitney. Beautiful, charming, down-to-earth, and looking for a room to rent. She's exactly what Blake's looking for. Or is she?
Because something isn't quite right. The neighbors start treating Blake differently. The smell of decay permeates his home, no matter how hard he scrubs. Strange noises jar him awake in the middle of the night. And soon Blake fears someone knows his darkest secrets...
Danger lives right at home, and by the time Blake realizes it, it'll be far too late. The trap is already set.

 

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Review:The Tenant by Freida McFadden is a fast paced, addictive thriller that kept me guessing from start to finish. With her signature blend of sharp twists, unreliable characters, and perfectly timed reveals, McFadden delivers another gripping read that is impossible to put down. The suspense builds with every chapter, and just when you think you have it figured out, the story takes another shocking turn. Taut, clever, and wildly entertaining, this is a 5 star thriller that fans of psychological suspense will not want to miss.

Book Review: The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore

 

Another month, another unforgettable read to talk about! I just finished a book that left me thinking long after I turned the final page. Whether it was the characters, the twists, the writing, or simply the emotional ride, this one deserves a spotlight. Let’s dive into what worked, what didn’t, and why this book might be worth a spot on your TBR.

Title: The Cinnamon Bun Book Stone

By: Laurie Gilmore

Genre: Romance

Pages: 384

Release Date: August 29th, 2024 

Rating: ★★★★☆

 
Summary from Goodreads:From the author of the Sunday Times bestseller and viral TikTok phenomenon, The Pumpkin Spice Café, comes a brand new spicy romance set in Dream Harbor!
When a secret message turns up hidden in a book in the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore, Hazel can't understand it. As more secret codes appear between the pages, she decides to follow the trail of clues… she just need someone to help her out.
Gorgeous and outgoing fisherman, Noah, is always up for an adventure. And a scavenger hunt sounds like a lot of fun. Even better that the cute bookseller he's been crushing on for months is the one who wants his help!
Hazel didn’t go looking for romance, but as the treasure hunt leads her and Noah around Dream Harbor, their undeniable chemistry might be just as hot as the fresh-out-of-the-oven cinnamon buns the bookstore sells…

 

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Review:If you’re in the mood for a cozy romance wrapped in the scent of cinnamon and stacked with bookish charm, The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore by Laurie Gilmore delivers just that. This sweet and heartwarming story brings together small-town vibes, a charming bookstore café, and a slow burn romance that feels like a warm hug. Gilmore’s characters are easy to root for, and the setting is delightfully atmospheric, complete with baked goods that practically leap off the page. While some of the plot points felt a bit predictable, the overall comfort and feel-good energy made this an enjoyable escape. A solid 4 stars for this deliciously cozy read.

June 2024 Wrap Up

 

June flew by in a whirlwind of stories, magic, and memorable characters, and now it's time to look back at everything I read this month. From heartwarming romances to edge of your seat thrillers and immersive fantasy worlds, my June wrap up is packed with pages that made me laugh, gasp, and stay up way too late. Let’s dive into the books that made this month one to remember!

208/100 2025 Reading Challenge~103/217 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~16/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

June brought a vibrant mix of genres, and while not every book was a perfect fit, each one added something unique to my reading journey. From unexpected favorites to stories that challenged me in new ways, this month reminded me why I love getting lost in a good book. Here's to even more magical reads in July!

ARC Review: Forever Gone by R.S. Hampton

 

There’s something special about diving into a story before it hits the shelves, and I was lucky enough to receive an advance reader copy of this upcoming release. As always, I’ll be sharing my honest thoughts—what worked, what didn’t, and whether this book should be on your radar. If you love discovering new reads early, you’ll want to stick around for this one!

Title: Forever Gone

By: R'S' Hampton

Genre: Thriller

Pages: 366

Release Date: July 1st, 2025 

Rating: ★★★☆☆

 
Summary from Goodreads:A pulse-pounding suspense thriller about buried secrets, dangerous truths, and the price of justice.
Charleston real estate lawyer Lee Danforth has no interest in investigating the mismanagement of a local children’s ranch—until she hears the horrifying allegations of abuse and the South Carolina solicitor’s refusal to prosecute. Reluctantly drawn in, she soon realizes this case is far darker than financial fraud.
Lee has spent years burying the truth about her own seduction by Jack Marshall, the ranch’s late founder. But with an anonymous tipster feeding her damning evidence, she discovers Jack’s wife and son have embroiled the ranch in massive corruption and subjected the children to various trafficking schemes—and Jack’s death was no accident. The police do nothing as local girls disappear and another group of children is scheduled to be sold.
Pushing the solicitor for action risks exposing Lee’s past, threatening both her career and reputation. But staying silent means condemning more victims to an unthinkable fate. As the walls close in, she must protect herself or risk everything to bring down a powerful family.
Because some truths don’t just set you free—they can destroy you

 

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Review:Forever Gone is a dark and twisty suspense novel that tackles disturbing and timely topics with intensity. The premise is gripping. Buried abuse, corrupt power, and one woman’s personal reckoning as she risks everything to uncover the truth. R.S. Hampton crafts a layered mystery with high stakes and a chilling sense of urgency, especially surrounding the children’s ranch and its sinister secrets.
However, despite the strong concept, I personally struggled to connect with the characters. Lee Danforth’s emotional journey, while central to the story, felt somewhat distant at times, and the writing leaned dry in spots, particularly in the descriptive passages. While the plot kept me curious, it didn’t quite deliver the emotional impact I was hoping for. A solid read with an important message, but one that didn’t fully land for me.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.

Weekly Menu #614 And The Book Of The Week

 

This week, we’re heading to Boston for a menu inspired by the flavors and comfort food of one of America’s oldest cities. Without the seafood, of course. From baked beans and brown bread to hearty roast dinners and Irish-American classics, this week’s meals are full of warmth, history, and just the right amount of New England charm.
Fittingly, my current read is The Gray Man by Mark Greaney, a fast-paced thriller that, like Boston itself, doesn’t let up. It’s sharp, intense, and full of strategic moves that would make even Paul Revere break a sweat. Between bites of Boston brown bread and chapters of covert chaos, I’d say this week is shaping up to be one of bold flavors and even bolder fiction.
Let's get to this week's menu. Enjoy!
WEEKLY MENU

Monday

New England Corn Chowder

Kids - Veggie Plate with Soft Bread

 

Tuesday

Fenway Franks and Boston Baked Beans

Kids - Plane Hotdogs and Applesauce

 

Wednesday

Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits

Kids - Deconstructed Chicken Pot Pie Plate

 

Thursday

Yankee Pot Roast

Kids - Yogurt and Mashed Potatoes

 

Friday

Cornmeal Crusted Chicken and Salad

Kids - Chicken Nuggets and Carrots

 

Saturday

Baked Mac and Cheese with Apple Cider Salad

Kids - Mac and Cheese

 

Sunday

Leftovers Night

Sunday Confessions #311

 

Welcome to Sunday Book Confessions, where I spill the bookish tea and share all the highs, lows, and guilty pleasures from my reading week. Whether I stayed up too late chasing plot twists, finally admitted I’m not finishing that book, or fell head over heels for a fictional villain, this is the space for all my unfiltered reader moments. Grab a cozy drink and let’s dive into this week’s literary confessions.

Sunday Confessions #310~Weekly Menu #613 And The Book Of The Week~Trope Tuesday: Historical Whodunit with Kelli Gardiner~Binge-Worthy Wednesday: Specials by Scott Westerfield~Throwback Thursday: An Ember in Ashes by Sabaa Tahir~5 Star Friday: Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig~Saturday Sips: Recent Fantasy Reads

Weekly Menu #614 And The Book Of The Week~June 2024 Wrap Up~Book Review: The Cinnamon Bun Book Store by Laurie Gilmore~Thriller Thursday: The Tenant by Freida McFadden~ARC Review: Forever Gone by R.S. Hampton~Saturday Sips: 3 Star Disappointments~Sunday Confessions #312








The Last Question by Isaac Asimov is a fascinating short story that explores profound questions about technology and the future of humanity. While the pacing felt a bit slow and the style definitely leans toward classic, old-school sci-fi, the ideas presented are thought-provoking and timeless. A compelling read for anyone interested in speculative fiction, even if the narrative style isn’t quite my usual preference.

201/100 2025 Reading Challenge~103/217 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~15/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

Thanks for stopping by and indulging in my Sunday confessions. Whether it’s books, life, or the little quirks that make us who we are, I love sharing these moments with you. Here’s to another week of honest thoughts, unexpected insights, and maybe a few more confessions along the way. See you next Sunday!

Saturday Sips: Recent Fantasy Reads

 

Welcome to Saturday Sips, where we pair a cozy cup of something warm with the books that have recently filled my fantasy-loving heart. This week, I’ve been diving into magical realms, dark curses, and epic journeys. Stories that are perfect for savoring slowly or devouring in a single sitting. Whether you’re in the mood for brooding anti-heroes, enchanted forests, or courtly intrigue, these recent fantasy reads have a little something for every reader looking to escape into the extraordinary.

Book of NightHolly Black
★★★★☆
On this second read of Book of Night, I found myself appreciating Holly Black’s dark, gritty world even more. The magic system rooted in shadow manipulation is still one of the most intriguing elements, and Charlie Hall remains a complex, rough-around-the-edges protagonist worth following. Some pacing issues and dense world-building moments still held me back from a full five stars, but overall, it’s a haunting and imaginative story that holds up well on reread. A solid four stars—again.
ExtrasScott Westerfeld

★★★☆☆
Extras takes a bold turn from the original trilogy, introducing a new protagonist and a fame-obsessed society that mirrors our own social media culture. While the concept is interesting, the execution didn’t quite land for me. I struggled to connect with the new characters, and even more disappointing was how Westerfeld brought back some of my favorites from earlier books, only to make them sound like jerks. The sharp commentary on popularity and influence was clever, but overall, it felt like a step down from the emotionally rich and thrilling earlier installments.
ConfessorTerry Goodkind

★★★★☆
Confessor is a wild ride of a finale, ambitious, emotional, and occasionally a little bizarre. The first 70% reads like an unexpected detour into sports fiction, with Richard leading a strange football-style tournament. He even convinces the team to paint their faces and pull a move reminiscent of the "Flying V" from The Mighty Ducks. It’s quirky and oddly compelling, though definitely long-winded. Meanwhile, Kahlan, still without her memories, spends most of the book unsure of who she is, but very sure that Richard is attractive. It’s all a bit chaotic, but the payoff comes in Richard’s powerful end monologue, which echoes loudly in light of current events. A strange but memorable conclusion to the Sword of Truth series.
Emily Wilde’s Map of the OtherlandsHeather Fawcett
★★★☆☆
I picked up this sequel as part of my 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees challenge, despite not loving the first book, and unfortunately, the second didn’t change my mind. The world remains whimsical and full of faerie lore, but the pacing felt slow and the characters never fully pulled me in. While Fawcett’s writing has charm, I found it hard to stay invested in the plot or emotionally connect with the story. It’s not a bad book by any means, just not the right fit for me.
The Mercy MakersTessa Gratton

★★★★★
The Mercy Makers is a breathtaking tapestry of magic, power, and sacrifice that gripped me from the first page. Tessa Gratton’s prose is lyrical and razor-sharp, weaving a story that feels both mythic and deeply human. The worldbuilding is rich and immersive, filled with gods, queens, and rebels, but it’s the emotional depth of the characters that truly stands out. Every choice carries weight, and the tension between vengeance and compassion pulses through every chapter. Bold, haunting, and beautifully told, this is the kind of fantasy that lingers long after the final page.

5 Star Friday: Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig

 

Welcome to 5 Star Friday, where I share the books that absolutely swept me off my feet, and this week’s pick is Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig. This dark and lyrical sequel is everything I want in a fantasy: lush prose, haunting atmosphere, and characters who unravel you as much as they unravel themselves. Gillig takes everything that worked in One Dark Window and elevates it, delivering a story that is both achingly romantic and deliciously eerie.

Title: Two Twisted Crowns

By: Rachel Gillig

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 437

Release Date: October 17th, 2023

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:In the luscious, dark sequel to One Dark Window, Elspeth must face the consequences of what she's wrought - perfect for readers of Hannah Whitten's For the Wolf and Alexis Henderson's The Year of the Witching.
Elspeth and Ravyn have gathered most of the twelve Providence Cards, but the last, and most important one remains to be found: The Twin Alders.
If they are going to find it before the Solstice and cure the kingdom of the dark magic infecting it, they will need to journey beyond the dangerous mist-cloaked forest that surrounds their kingdom.
And the only one who can lead them there is the monster that shares Elspeth's head. The Nightmare. And he's not eager to share any longer.

 

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Review:Two Twisted Crowns by Rachel Gillig is a stunning sequel that delivers on every level. The prose is lyrical, the worldbuilding is immersive, and the tension between the characters crackles with intensity. This story dives deeper into the dark, enchanted world of Blunder while unraveling complex themes of power, memory, and love. The character development is rich and satisfying, with emotional arcs that hit just right. I was completely swept away from the first page to the last. A beautifully written and unforgettable fantasy that earns every bit of its 5 stars.

Throwback Thursday: An Ember in Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

 

Welcome to Throwback Thursday, where we revisit books that may have slipped off your radar but are still worth a read! This week, we're turning the clock back to 2015 to review a standout title that captured readers’ imaginations a decade ago. Whether you're rediscovering an old favorite or picking it up for the first time, this throwback is a reminder that some stories never lose their spark.

Title: An Ember in the Ashes

By: Sabaa Tahir

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 480

Release Date: April 28th, 2015

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:Laia is a slave. Elias is a soldier. Neither is free.
Under the Martial Empire, defiance is met with death. Those who do not vow their blood and bodies to the Emperor risk the execution of their loved ones and the destruction of all they hold dear.
It is in this brutal world, inspired by ancient Rome, that Laia lives with her grandparents and older brother. The family ekes out an existence in the Empire’s impoverished backstreets. They do not challenge the Empire. They’ve seen what happens to those who do.
But when Laia’s brother is arrested for treason, Laia is forced to make a decision. In exchange for help from rebels who promise to rescue her brother, she will risk her life to spy for them from within the Empire’s greatest military academy.
There, Laia meets Elias, the school’s finest soldier—and secretly, its most unwilling. Elias wants only to be free of the tyranny he’s being trained to enforce. He and Laia will soon realize that their destinies are intertwined—and that their choices will change the fate of the Empire itself.

 

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Review:An Ember in the Ashes is a gripping and emotionally intense start to Sabaa Tahir’s dark and richly imagined fantasy series. With dual perspectives from Laia, a scholar fighting for her family, and Elias, a soldier questioning his brutal training, the novel explores themes of oppression, resistance, and identity. Tahir’s world-building is vivid and haunting, and the plot moves at a breathless pace. While some elements felt familiar within the dystopian fantasy genre, the depth of the characters and the moral complexity of their choices elevate the story. A powerful beginning that promises even more to come.