Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 17
May 23, 2025
Fantasy Friday: What If... Loki Was Worthy? by Madaline Roux
Happy Fantasy Friday, friends! It’s that magical time of the week where we dive into worlds filled with epic quests, fierce heroines, mythical creatures, and just the right touch of danger. Whether you’re here for sweeping sagas or character-driven tales with a dash of the fantastical, this space is all about celebrating the stories that whisk us away from the ordinary. Let’s see where the genre has taken me this week!
Title: What If... Loki Was Worthy?
By: Madeline Roux
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 320
Release Date: April 2nd, 2024
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:Loki and Valkyrie seek redemption in the first adventure of an epic new multiversal series that reimagines the origins of iconic Marvel heroes.
So many worlds, so little time. Infinite possibilities, creating infinite realities. Long have I watched the trickster god sow chaos. But . . . what if Loki saved Asgard from Tony Stark’s revenge?
Thor—Son of Odin, God of Thunder, wielder of the hammer Mjolnir—is dead. And Loki is responsible.
It was only meant to be a joke—tampering with the Destroyer, changing Thor’s course to Midgard—a bit of mischief with a chance of maiming. But Loki’s harmless prank spiraled out of control, unleashing death and destruction on New York City and the heroes sworn to protect it. The city was saved, but at the cost of Thor’s life.
Furious and heartbroken, the All-Father banishes Loki to Earth for his crime. Loki finds himself in a realm of boxed wine, instant noodles, and some sort of regional performance troupe known as the “Buffalo Bills.” It’s a meager existence, far from Asgard’s grand courts, but he finds his new friend, Brian the Gecko, a much more engaging companion than the sycophants back home. A true meeting of the minds. Loki is the God of Mischief—but he knows, deep down, that he never truly deserved to stand next to their father’s golden child Thor, as two true sons of Odin.
Yet, he cannot even endure his exile in peaceful isolation. A Valkyrie—Hel-bent on carrying out her oath to Thor—barges into his trailer-home with his brother’s final words from the beyond: a plea to find a certain Dr. Jane Foster and pass on Mjolnir to its rightful heir.
While Loki struggles to fulfil his brother’s last request, the far-reaching consequences of his fatal prank return to haunt him. Blinded by grief from those he lost in the chaos wrought by Asgard, Iron Man vows revenge on those who consider themselves gods. Determined to protect the Earth from the might of this unpredictable alien power, he forges Asgard’s own weaponry into a lethal suit of armor, set on eradicating any tether between their worlds. Consequences be damned. When Asgard looks to Loki for salvation, he must answer the question: Am I truly worthy?
May 22, 2025
Book Review: A Sweet Sting of Salt by Rose Sutherland
It’s time for another bookish deep dive! In today’s review, I’m unpacking my latest read—sharing what worked, what didn’t, and everything in between. Whether it made me stay up past midnight flipping pages or left me scratching my head, you’ll get the honest scoop right here. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s talk books!
Title: A Sweet Sting of Salt
By: Rose Sutherland
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 352
Release Date: April 9th, 2024
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:Once a young woman uncovers a dark secret about her neighbor and his mysterious new wife, she’ll have to fight to keep herself—and the woman she loves—safe in this stunning queer reimagining of the classic folktale The Selkie Wife.
When a sharp cry wakes Jean in the middle of the night during a terrible tempest, she’s convinced it must have been a dream. But when the cry comes again, Jean ventures outside and is shocked by what she discovers—a young woman in labor, already drenched to the bone in the freezing cold and barely able to speak a word of English.
Although Jean is the only midwife in the village and for miles around, she’s at a loss as to who this woman is or where she’s from; Jean can only assume she must be the new wife of the neighbor up the road, Tobias. And when Tobias does indeed arrive at her cabin in search of his wife, Muirin, Jean’s questions continue to grow. Why has he kept his wife’s pregnancy a secret? And why does Muirin’s open demeanor change completely the moment she’s in his presence?
Though Jean learned long ago that she should stay out of other people’s business, her growing concern—and growing feelings—for Muirin mean she can’t simply set her worries aside. But when the answers she finds are more harrowing than she ever could have imagined, she fears she may have endangered herself, Muirin, and the baby. Will she be able to put things right and save the woman she loves before it’s too late, or will someone have to pay for Jean’s actions with their life?
May 21, 2025
Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 18
Welcome back to Reading through the Star Wars Universe! We’ve officially reached Part 18, and the Force is strong with this leg of the journey. I’ve made it to The Empire Strikes Back in the timeline—a pivotal moment in the galaxy far, far away—and I’m recapping the next five books that bridge classic characters, new insights, and that ever-expanding lore. Whether you’re reading along, catching up, or just here for the highlights, this post has you covered. Let’s dive into the drama, danger, and depth of the Rebellion era!
Star Wars: Honor Among ThievesJames S.A. Corey★★★☆☆
Star Wars: Honor Among Thieves by James S.A. Corey had its moments, but overall, it was a bit slow for my taste. While the characterization of Han Solo was enjoyable, the pacing dragged, making it hard to stay fully engaged. The adventure had potential, but it never quite reached the excitement I was hoping for. It’s a decent read for die-hard Star Wars fans, but not the most thrilling entry in the franchise.
Star Wars Galaxies: The Ruins of DantooineVoronica Whitney-Robinson★★☆☆☆
Star Wars Galaxies: The Ruins of Dantooine had the potential to be an exciting addition to the Star Wars universe, but unfortunately, it fell flat. The story lacked the depth and intrigue expected from a Star Wars adventure, dragging through a dull plot with forgettable characters. The writing felt uninspired, failing to capture the epic scale and excitement of the franchise. To make matters worse, the cover looked like something pulled from a late-’90s video game, doing little to entice readers. While die-hard fans of Star Wars Galaxies might appreciate the attempt at expanding the lore, this book ultimately felt like a missed opportunity. A disappointing two-star read.
Twilight CompanyAlexander Freed★★★☆☆
Twilight Company by Alexander Freed offers an intriguing glimpse into the gritty, tactical side of the Star Wars universe, but it ultimately left me wanting more. The novel’s focus on a ragtag group of soldiers in the Rebel Alliance is a refreshing change from the usual Jedi-centered tales, and Freed does a great job highlighting the personal stakes and camaraderie of war. However, the pacing occasionally drags, and some character development feels a bit underdone, making it hard to fully invest in the story. While it’s a solid read for Star Wars fans who enjoy military narratives, it doesn’t quite reach the emotional depth or excitement I’d hoped for.
Star Wars: Splinter of the Mind's EyeAlan Dean Foster★★★☆☆
Star Wars: Splinter of the Mind’s Eye by Alan Dean Foster is a fascinating relic from the early days of the franchise, offering a glimpse into what might have been had the original film not become a cultural juggernaut. The story follows Luke and Leia on a dark, misty planet in search of a mysterious Force-amplifying crystal, but its pacing is uneven, the tone darker and more limited than fans might expect, and the absence of Han Solo is keenly felt. While the novel captures some of the adventurous spirit of A New Hope, its character dynamics and world-building feel underdeveloped by today’s standards. It’s an interesting curiosity for die-hard fans, but not essential reading for the broader galaxy.
Razor's EdgeMartha Wells★★★★☆
Razor’s Edge by Martha Wells is a fast-paced, character-driven Star Wars adventure that captures Leia Organa’s strength, determination, and leadership in the early days of the Rebellion. Set between A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back, the novel blends high-stakes action with political tension, offering a deeper look at Leia’s moral compass and her willingness to make tough decisions. Wells excels at balancing space battles, snappy dialogue, and emotional weight, making this a satisfying addition to the Star Wars canon. While not groundbreaking, it’s a solid, engaging read that adds meaningful depth to a beloved character.
May 20, 2025
Book Review: Empire of the Vampire by Jay Kristoff
Welcome back, book lovers! Today I’m diving into another title that left a strong impression—whether for better or worse. As always, I’ll be sharing my thoughts, favorite elements, and any critiques that stood out along the way. If you're searching for your next read or just want to chat about books, you're in the right place. Let’s turn the page and get into it!
Title: Empire of the Vampire
By: Jay Kristoff
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 739
Release Date: September 7th, 2021
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Summary from Goodreads:From holy cup comes holy light;The faithful hand sets world aright. And in the Seven Martyrs’ sight, Mere man shall end this endless night.
It has been twenty-seven long years since the last sunrise. For nearly three decades, vampires have waged war against humanity; building their eternal empire even as they tear down our own. Now, only a few tiny sparks of light endure in a sea of darkness.
Gabriel de León is a silversaint: a member of a holy brotherhood dedicated to defending realm and church from the creatures of the night. But even the Silver Order could not stem the tide once daylight failed us, and now, only Gabriel remains.
Imprisoned by the very monsters he vowed to destroy, the last silversaint is forced to tell his story. A story of legendary battles and forbidden love, of faith lost and friendships won, of the Wars of the Blood and the Forever King and the quest for humanity’s last remaining hope:
The Holy Grail.
Review:
Empire of the Vampire by Jay Kristoff is an ambitious and richly imagined fantasy, but its sheer length and slow pacing made it a challenging read. While the world-building is intricate and the dark, gothic atmosphere compelling, the story often gets bogged down in dense prose and drawn-out scenes that sap momentum. There are flashes of brilliance in the character work and lore, but overall, it felt like the narrative took too long to get where it was going. A decent read for fans of brooding, epic fantasy—just be prepared to commit.
May 18, 2025
Weekly Menu #608 And The Book Of The Week
This week, we’re venturing to the land of fire and ice with an Iceland-inspired menu that brings the rugged beauty and comforting flavors of the North straight to your kitchen. From hearty stews to simple, fresh seafood dishes and a touch of Nordic sweetness, each recipe reflects the rustic charm and deep-rooted traditions of Icelandic cuisine. Whether you're drawn in by volcanic landscapes or just craving something cozy, this week’s meals promise a taste of Iceland’s magic—no passport required.Alongside this week’s culinary journey, I’m diving into Hidden Bodies by Caroline Kepnes, the chilling sequel to You. Joe Goldberg is back, and this time he's headed to Los Angeles in search of a fresh start—and maybe a new obsession or two. Kepnes delivers her signature blend of dark humor, psychological suspense, and uncomfortable intimacy as we follow Joe deeper into his twisted world. It’s the perfect unsettling companion to balance out the comfort food on this week’s menu.
Let's get to this week's menu. Enjoy!
WEEKLY MENU
Monday
Herb-Rubbed Pork Chops with Hazelnut Butter Carrots
Kids - Chicken Tenders and Carrots
Tuesday
Kjötsúpa Icelandic Lamb SoupKids - Beef Ramen
Wednesday
Kids - Noodle Soup
Thursday
Kids - Chicken and Mac and Cheese
Friday
Kids - Hotdogs/Birddogs
Saturday
Kids - Grilled Cheese
Sunday
Family Dinner
Sunday Confessions #305
Welcome to this week’s Book Confessions, where I spill the tea on my latest reads, bookish obsessions, unexpected disappointments, and all the moments that made me gasp, cry, or fling a book across the room (gently, of course). Whether it's a five-star favorite I can't stop thinking about or a DNF that just didn’t click, this is where I lay it all out—no filters, just honest reader-to-reader talk. Let’s dive into the bookish chaos together!
Sunday Confessions #304~
Weekly Menu #607 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: Splinter of the Mind's Eye by Alan Dean Foster~Midweek Book Break~Book Review: Quicksilver by Callie Hart~Fantasy Friday: The Wren in the Holly Library by K.A. Linde
Weekly Menu #608 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: Empire of the Vampire by Jay Kristoff~Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 18~Book Review: A Sweet Sting of Salt by Rose Sutherland~Friday Fantasy: What If... Loki Was Worthy? by Madaline Roux~Sunday Confessions #306
Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami is a melancholic, introspective novel that captures the emotional turbulence of young adulthood with lyrical precision. The writing is beautifully atmospheric, evoking a strong sense of time and place, and the themes of love, loss, and mental health are thoughtfully explored. However, the emotional detachment of the narrator and the repetitive pacing made it difficult to fully connect with the story or its characters. While undeniably poignant in moments, it left me more reflective than emotionally moved—an intriguing but ultimately distant reading experience.
153/100 2025 Reading Challenge~99/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~13/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge
As I close out this week’s Book Confessions, I’m reminded of how every reading experience—whether thrilling, frustrating, or quietly profound—adds another layer to my love of books. Some stories stayed with me long after the final page, while others left me shrugging and moving on. But that’s the joy of reading: the constant discovery, the unexpected reactions, and the ever-growing TBR pile. Until next time, may your next read surprise you in the best way.
May 16, 2025
Fantasy Friday: The Wren in the Holly Library by K.A. Linde
Welcome to another Fantasy Friday, where we escape the ordinary and dive headfirst into the extraordinary! Whether it's magical kingdoms, mythical creatures, or epic quests, there's nothing like a good fantasy read to spark the imagination. Today, I’m recapping my latest fantastical read, sharing thoughts on my current adventure, and hinting at the next realm I plan to explore. Let’s turn the page and step into the magic.
Title: The Wren in the Holly Library
By: K.A. Linde
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 400
Release Date: June 4th, 2024
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:Can you love the dark when you know what it hides?
Some things aren’t supposed to exist outside of our imagination.
Thirteen years ago, monsters emerged from the shadows and plunged Kierse’s world into a cataclysmic war of near-total destruction. The New York City she knew so well collapsed practically overnight.
In the wake of that carnage, the Monster Treaty was created. A truce...of sorts.
But tonight, Kierse―a gifted and fearless thief―will break that treaty. She’ll enter the Holly Library...not knowing it’s the home of a monster.
He’s charming. Quietly alluring. Terrifying. But he knows talent when he sees it; it’s just a matter of finding her price.
Now she’s locked into a dangerous bargain with a creature unlike any other. She’ll sacrifice her freedom. She’ll offer her skills. Together, they’ll put their own futures at risk.
But he’s been playing a game across centuries―and once she joins in, there will be no escape...
May 15, 2025
Book Review: Quicksilver by Callie Hart
Every book leaves a mark—some are bold and unforgettable, others subtle but lingering. In this review, I’m diving into Quicksilver by Callie Hart, a story that fell a little short for me. From plot twists to character arcs, I’m unpacking what worked, what didn’t, and whether this one’s worth a spot on your shelf.
Title: Quicksilver
By: Callie Hart
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 624
Release Date: June 4th, 2024
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Summary from Goodreads:Do not touch the sword. Do not turn the key. Do not open the gate.
In the land of the unforgiving desert, there isn't much a girl wouldn't do for a glass of water.
Twenty-four-year-old Saeris Fane is good at keeping secrets. No one knows about the strange powers she possesses, or the fact that she has been picking pockets and stealing from the Undying Queen's reservoirs for as long as she can remember.
But a secret is like a knot. Sooner or later, it is bound to come undone.
When Saeris comes face-to-face with Death himself, she inadvertently re-opens a gateway between realms and is transported to a land of ice and snow. The Fae have always been the stuff of myth, of legend, of nightmares... but it turns out they're real, and Saeris has landed herself in the middle of a centuries-long conflict that might just get her killed.
The first of her kind to tread the frozen mountains of Yvelia in over a thousand years, Saeris mistakenly binds herself to Kingfisher, a handsome Fae warrior, who has secrets and nefarious agendas of his own. He will use her Alchemist's magic to protect his people, no matter what it costs him . . . or her.
Death has a name. It is Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate. His past is murky. His attitude stinks. And he's the only way Saeris is going to make it home.
May 14, 2025
Midweek Book Break
Welcome to this week’s Midweek Bookbreak—a little literary pause to reflect, reset, and recharge. In today’s post, I’m recapping my reading journey with a quick look at the book I just finished, what I’m currently immersed in, and what’s waiting for me next. Whether you're here for recommendations, reactions, or just a moment of bookish calm, grab your beverage of choice and let’s talk stories.
The Book of LifeDeborah HarknessThe #1 New York Times bestselling series finale and sequel to A Discovery of Witches and Shadow of Night
Bringing the magic and suspense of the All Souls Trilogy to a deeply satisfying conclusion, this highly anticipated finale went straight to #1 on the New York Times bestseller list. In The Book of Life, Diana and Matthew time-travel back from Elizabethan London to make a dramatic return to the present—facing new crises and old enemies. At Matthew’s ancestral home, Sept-Tours, they reunite with the beloved cast of characters from A Discovery of Witches—with one significant exception. But the real threat to their future has yet to be revealed, and when it is, the search for Ashmole 782 and its missing pages takes on even more urgency.
From a Certain Point of View: The Empire Strikes BackFrom a Certain Point of View strikes back! Celebrate the legacy of the groundbreaking Star Wars sequel with this exciting reimagining of the timeless film.On May 21, 1980, Star Wars became a true saga with the release of The Empire Strikes Back. In honor of the fortieth anniversary, forty storytellers recreate an iconic scene from The Empire Strikes Back, through the eyes of a supporting character, from heroes and villains to droids and creatures. From a Certain Point of View features contributions by bestselling authors and trendsetting artists.
The Crown of Gilded BonesJennifer L. ArmentroutShe's been the victim and the survivor…
Poppy never dreamed she would find the love she’s found with Prince Casteel. She wants to revel in her happiness but first they must free his brother and find hers. It’s a dangerous mission and one with far-reaching consequences neither dreamed of. Because Poppy is the Chosen, the Blessed. The true ruler of Atlantia. She carries the blood of the King of Gods within her. By right the crown and the kingdom are hers.
The enemy and the warrior…
Poppy has only ever wanted to control her own life, not the lives of others, but now she must choose to either forsake her birthright or seize the gilded crown and become the Queen of Flesh and Fire. But as the kingdoms’ dark sins and blood-drenched secrets finally unravel, a long-forgotten power rises to pose a genuine threat. And they will stop at nothing to ensure that the crown never sits upon Poppy’s head.
A lover and heartmate…
But the greatest threat to them and to Atlantia is what awaits in the far west, where the Queen of Blood and Ash has her own plans, ones she has waited hundreds of years to carry out. Poppy and Casteel must consider the impossible—travel to the Lands of the Gods and wake the King himself. And as shocking secrets and the harshest betrayals come to light, and enemies emerge to threaten everything Poppy and Casteel have fought for, they will discover just how far they are willing to go for their people—and each other.
And now she will become Queen.
May 12, 2025
Book Review: Splinter of the Mind's Eye by Alan Dean Foster
There’s nothing quite like getting lost in a good book—the kind that lingers in your thoughts long after you’ve turned the last page. In today’s review, I’m diving into a story that stirred my imagination, challenged my expectations, and delivered more than I bargained for. Whether you're looking for your next great read or just want to hear my take, let’s explore what made this book stand out—and where it might have missed the mark.
Title: Splinter in the Mind's Eye
By: Alan Dean Foster
Genre: Scifi
Pages: 306
Release Date: February 1978
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Summary from Goodreads:Luke Skywalker expected trouble when he volunteered to follow Princess Leia on her mission to the planet Circarpous. But he discovered that hidden on the planet was the Kaiburr crystal, a mysterious gem that would give the one who possessed it such powers over the Force that he would be all but invincible. In the wrong hands, the crystal could be deadly. So Luke had to find this treasure and find it fast....Features a bonus section following the novel that includes a primer on the Star Wars expanded universe, and over half a dozen excerpts from some of the most popular Star Wars books of the last thirty years!
