Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 21

Novella Review: The Lover by Silvia Moreno-Garcia

 

Welcome to my latest novella review! Today, I'm diving into a captivating short read that combines gripping storytelling with memorable characters. Novellas offer a unique literary experience, packing a punch in a shorter amount of time, and this one is no exception. Whether you're a fan of fast-paced narratives or seeking a quick literary escape, this novella is sure to leave an impression. Keep reading for my full review, where I'll break down the plot, character development, and overall appeal of this delightful read!

Title: The Lover

By: Silvia Moreno-Garcia

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 43

Release Date: November 1st, 2023 

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:

During a brutal winter, a young woman longing for love finds more than she expected in the woods, in this wickedly sensuous short story by Silvia Moreno-Garcia, the New York Times bestselling author of Mexican Gothic.
Judith knows her sister, Alice, is the pretty one—but that doesn’t stop her from wishing for love. When a handsome and gentlemanly hunter appears in their village, seeking lodging from the cold, she believes her lover has finally arrived. He does, indeed, choose to stay—but as Alice’s husband, not her own. When another stranger comes out of the woods, looking every bit a vagrant, he offers Judith something mysterious and enticingly strange. Against reason and decency, she welcomes both men into her life, in different ways. As forbidden longings ensnare each of them, an unrelenting winter storm and an evasive wolf on the prowl have everyone on edge…and ravenous. By spring thaw, will any of their hungers be satisfied?

 

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Review:During a Brutal Winter by Silvia Moreno-Garcia is a wickedly sensuous short story that weaves themes of longing, jealousy, and forbidden desire against the backdrop of a harsh winter. Judith, overshadowed by her more beautiful sister, Alice, dreams of love but finds herself thwarted when a handsome hunter chooses Alice as his bride. The story takes a dark turn when a mysterious vagrant offers Judith an enticing and inexplicable proposition, leading her into a complicated, dangerous relationship with both men. Moreno-Garcia’s atmospheric writing creates a gripping, slow-burn tension that builds toward a thrilling and ambiguous conclusion. With its captivating setting and complex characters, this tale offers a tantalizing exploration of human desire, earning a solid 4 stars for its seductive and haunting storytelling.

Three Things I Loved About Rebel Witch by Kristin Ciccarelli

 

There’s something special about reflecting on the books that leave a lasting impression, and An Academy of Liars by Alexis Henderson is one that lingers long after the final page. From its eerie, gothic atmosphere to the morally complex characters and intricate web of secrets, this dark academia novel had plenty to love. In this post, I’m sharing three things that made An Academy of Liars such a binge-worthy read!

Title: Rebel Witch

By: Kristen Ciccarelli

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 464

Release Date: February 18th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:The stakes are even higher in this epic, romantic conclusion to the New York Times bestselling Crimson Moth duology.
A WITCH...Rune Winters is on the run. Ever since the boy she loved, Gideon Sharpe, revealed who she was and delivered her into enemy hands, everyone wants her dead. If Rune hopes to survive, she must ally herself with the cruel and dangerous Cressida Roseblood, who’s planning to take back the Republic and reinstate a Reign of Witches—something Cressida needs Rune to accomplish.
A WITCH HUNTER...Apparently it wasn’t enough for Rune to deceive Gideon; she’s now betrayed him by allying herself with the witch who made his life a living hell. Gideon won’t allow the Republic to fall to the witches and be plunged back into the nightmares of the past. In order to protect this new world he fought for, every last witch must die—especially Rune Winters.
AN IMPOSSIBLE CHOICE...When Rune makes Gideon an offer he can’t refuse, the two must pair up to accomplish dangerous goals. The more they’re forced into each other’s company, the more Gideon realizes the feelings he had for Rune aren’t as dead and buried as he thought. Now he’s faced with a terrible choice: sacrifice the girl he loves to stop a monster taking back power, or let Rune live and watch the world he fought so hard for burn.
In Kristen Ciccarelli's Rebel Witch, the exciting conclusion to The Crimson Moth duology, love has never been so deadly.

 

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Three Things I Loved
Vivid World-Building: Ciccarelli has a knack for creating immersive worlds, and Rebel Witch is no exception. The rich, atmospheric setting pulls readers into a world filled with magic, danger, and political intrigue, making it a captivating environment for the story to unfold.

Strong Female Protagonist: The main character, with her fierce determination and complexity, is a standout. She’s relatable, layered with internal conflict, and her growth throughout the novel is both inspiring and empowering.

Magical System: The magic in Rebel Witch feels fresh and unique. The intricate system of powers, its limitations, and the way it is woven into the plot adds depth and excitement, enhancing the stakes as the story progresses.

Binge-Worthy Wednesday: An Academy of Liars by Alexis Henderson

 

If you love dark academia with a twist of mystery and gothic allure, An Academy of Liars by Alexis Henderson is the perfect binge-worthy read. Set in a prestigious yet sinister boarding school, this novel weaves an intoxicating tale of secrets, ambition, and deception. With Henderson’s lush prose and a plot brimming with tension, intrigue, and morally complex characters, this book is impossible to put down. Keep reading to find out why An Academy of Liars is a must-read for fans of atmospheric thrillers and dark academia!

Title: An Academy For Liars

By: Alexis Henderson

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 464

Release Date: September 7th, 2024

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:A student will find that the hardest lessons sometimes come outside the classroom in this stunning dark academia novel from the acclaimed author of The Year of the Witching and House of Hunger.
Lennon Carter’s life is falling apart.
Then she gets a mysterious phone call inviting her to take the entrance exam for Drayton College, a school of magic hidden in a secret pocket of Savannah. Lennon has been chosen because—like everyone else at the school—she has the innate gift of persuasion, the ability to wield her will like a weapon, using it to control others and, in rare cases, matter itself.
After passing the test, Lennon begins to learn how to master her devastating and unsettling power. But despite persuasion’s heavy toll on her body and mind, she is wholly captivated by her studies, by Drayton’s lush, moss-draped campus, and by her brilliant classmates. But even more captivating is her charismatic adviser, Dante, who both intimidates and enthralls her.
As Lennon continues in her studies her control grows, and she starts to uncover more about the secret world she has entered into, including the disquieting history of Drayton College, and the way her mentor’s tragic and violent past intertwines with it. She is increasingly disturbed by what she learns. For it seems that the ultimate test is to embrace absolute power without succumbing to corruption . . . and it's a test she's terrified she is going to fail.

 

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Review:Alexis Henderson’s An Academy of Liars is a gripping dark academia novel brimming with secrets, ambition, and deception. The atmospheric setting and gothic undertones create an immersive world that pulls you in from the very first page. Henderson’s prose is lush and haunting, perfectly complementing the morally complex characters and the web of intrigue that unfolds. While the pacing lagged in a few places, the twists and psychological tension kept me hooked until the end. A compelling read for fans of dark academia—4 stars!

Book Review: The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune

 

T.J. Klune’s The House in the Cerulean Sea is a heartwarming fantasy novel that blends found family, self-discovery, and a touch of magic into an unforgettable story. With its whimsical charm and profound emotional depth, this book follows Linus Baker, a by-the-book caseworker who is sent to evaluate an orphanage for magical children—only to find himself questioning everything he thought he knew. Perfect for fans of uplifting, character-driven stories, The House in the Cerulean Sea is a must-read for those who love cozy fantasy with a meaningful message. Keep reading for my full review, including what I loved and what stood out most about this enchanting novel!

Title: The House in the Cerulean Sea

By: TJ Klune

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 394

Release Date: March 16th, 2020 

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:A magical island. A dangerous task. A burning secret.
Linus Baker leads a quiet, solitary life. At forty, he lives in a tiny house with a devious cat and his old records. As a Case Worker at the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth, he spends his days overseeing the well-being of children in government-sanctioned orphanages.
When Linus is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management he's given a curious and highly classified assignment: travel to Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous children reside: a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, an unidentifiable green blob, a were-Pomeranian, and the Antichrist. Linus must set aside his fears and determine whether or not they’re likely to bring about the end of days.
But the children aren’t the only secret the island keeps. Their caretaker is the charming and enigmatic Arthur Parnassus, who will do anything to keep his wards safe. As Arthur and Linus grow closer, long-held secrets are exposed, and Linus must make a choice: destroy a home or watch the world burn.
An enchanting story, masterfully told, The House in the Cerulean Sea is about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place—and realizing that family is yours.

 

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Review:T.J. Klune’s The House in the Cerulean Sea is a beautifully heartwarming tale about love, acceptance, and the power of found family. From the very first page, I was captivated by its whimsical yet profound storytelling. Linus Baker’s journey from a rule-following caseworker to someone who finds a true home among magical misfits is both touching and inspiring. The characters—especially Arthur and the children—are unforgettable, each bringing warmth, humor, and depth to the story. With its gentle yet powerful themes of kindness and embracing differences, this book left me feeling uplifted. A truly magical read—five stars!

Weekly Menu #602 And The Book Of The Week

Nothing says comfort food like a week of Texas-inspired meals! From smoky barbecue and hearty chili to crispy chicken-fried steak and zesty Tex-Mex, this menu is packed with bold flavors and Southern charm. Whether you're craving a plate of slow-cooked brisket or a slice of pecan pie, each dish brings a taste of the Lone Star State to your table. Get ready for a delicious week of down-home cooking—Texas style!

This week, I’m diving into Rebel in the Deep by Katee Robert, a story that promises adventure, romance, and a touch of danger beneath the waves. Known for her bold storytelling and compelling characters, Robert weaves a tale that’s sure to keep me hooked. As I settle in with this captivating read, I can’t wait to see how the story unfolds—whether it’s filled with high-stakes action, irresistible chemistry, or both. Stay tuned for my thoughts!
Lets get to this weeks menu. Enjoy!

WEEKLY MENU

Monday

Texas Chili Night

Classic Texas Chili (no beans!) with cornbread

Kids - Fritos with Ketchup and Cheese

 

Tuesday

Tex-Mex Tuesday

Beef fajitas with grilled onions and peppers

Kids - Cheese Quesadillas

 

Wednesday

Southern Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak with country gravy

Kids - Chicken Tenders and Mashed Potatoes

 

Thursday

BBQ Brisket Plate

Slow-cooked beef brisket with homemade BBQ sauce

Kids - Popcorn Chicken Skewers with BBQ Sauce

 

Friday

Texan Comfort Food

Juicy half-pound cheeseburgers with jalapeño ranch

Kids - Cheese Burgers and Fries

 

Saturday

Cowboy Casserole Night

Cowboy tater tot casserole

Kids - Tater tots and cheese

 

Sunday

Family Dinner

Hot Dog Bar

Sunday Confessions #299

 

Welcome to Book Confessions Sunday, where I get real about my reading journey—sharing the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Whether it's a book I couldn't put down or one that just didn’t live up to the hype, this is the place where I confess all the honest thoughts about my latest reads. Grab your favorite cup of coffee (or tea!) and join me as I dive into the books that had me hooked—and the ones that left me wanting more. Let’s chat about the literary confessions I’ve been dying to share!

Sunday Confessions #298~Weekly Menu #601 And The Book Of The Week~ARC Review: The Wind Weaver by Julie Johnson~March 2025 Wrap Up~Book Review: Wool by Hugh Howey~5 Star Friday: The Only One Left by Riley Sager~Saturday Sips: 3 Star Reads

Weekly Menu #602 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune~Binge-Worthy Wednesday: An Academy of Liars by Alexis Henderson~Three Things I Loved About Rebel Witch by Kristin Ciccarelli~Novella Review: The Lover by Silvia Moreno-Garcia~Saturday Sips: 5 Star Reads!~Sunday Confessions #300





★★★★☆
Battle Royale by Koushun Takami is a chilling and intense read that explores the dark side of human nature in a dystopian setting. Set in a future where a totalitarian government forces a class of high school students to fight to the death in a televised event, the novel takes the reader on a brutal journey of survival, betrayal, and moral conflict. The pacing is relentless, with the tension building up from the very first page. Takami's portrayal of the students’ varying responses to the situation—ranging from fear and loyalty to violence and manipulation—adds depth to the story. While the violence is graphic and may be difficult for some readers, it serves to emphasize the novel's themes of power, control, and the loss of innocence. The character development, while strong in parts, can feel uneven at times, as some characters are given more depth than others. However, overall, Battle Royale is a thought-provoking and action-packed thriller that leaves a lasting impression, making it a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction.







108/100 2025 Reading Challenge~96/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~8/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

As I wrap up this week’s Sunday Confessions, it’s been a time of reflection and a reminder that not every book or experience will meet our expectations, but they all have something to teach us. Whether it’s a plot twist that didn’t land or a character that left me frustrated, I’ve learned that sometimes it’s okay to have mixed feelings. It’s all part of the reading journey, and I’m grateful for the stories that keep me thinking long after I’ve turned the last page. Here’s to another week of discovering new books, embracing the good and the bad, and sharing those honest moments with all of you. Until next time, happy reading!

Saturday Sips: 3 Star Reads

 

Welcome to this week’s Saturday Sips, where I’m diving into a few books that landed in the 3-star territory. Not bad, but not quite the standouts I was hoping for either. Each of these reads had their moments—whether it was an interesting premise, compelling characters, or an intriguing setting—but ultimately, they didn’t quite hit the mark for a higher rating. Grab a cup of your favorite drink and let’s talk about these books that had some good elements, but left me wanting a bit more.

A Harvest of HeartsAndrea Eames
A Harvest of Hearts by Andrea Aemes is a charming and whimsical fantasy with an engaging premise, but it didn’t fully connect with me on a character level. The story offers a delightful mix of magic, adventure, and an unconventional heroine, drawing clear inspiration from Howl’s Moving Castle. The worldbuilding is creative, and Foss’s journey from an ordinary village girl to someone entangled in powerful magic is compelling. However, while the plot kept me intrigued, I found it difficult to form a strong emotional bond with the characters, which left some of the story’s more heartfelt moments feeling distant. Overall, it’s an enjoyable read with a unique magical atmosphere, but it didn’t leave a deep impression.


Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of FaeriesHeather Fawcett

Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett is a charming tale with plenty of imaginative world-building, but unfortunately, it didn't quite resonate with me. The premise of a scholar who embarks on a journey to document the fae world sounded intriguing, and Fawcett's magical setting has a lot of potential. However, I found it hard to connect with the writing style, which felt a bit too distant and didn't fully draw me into the story. The characters, especially Emily, lacked the depth I was hoping for, leaving me feeling detached from the plot. While the fae lore was interesting and the book certainly had its whimsical moments, overall, it didn’t quite captivate me the way I expected. It’s a solid read for fans of magical adventures, but I was hoping for a bit more connection to both the characters and the narrative.

Reluctant WitchMelissa Marr

Reluctant Witch by Melissa Marr is a fun but ultimately just okay read. The story moves quickly and has some entertaining moments, but the characters and world-building feel underdeveloped, making it hard to fully invest in the stakes. While the mix of magic and romance has its charm, nothing stands out as particularly fresh or memorable. It’s an easy, light read for fans of witchy fiction, but it doesn’t leave a lasting impression.







The Floating WorldAxie Oh

The Floating World by Axie Oh offers a captivating premise full of potential, blending a dark, mysterious world with themes of memory, destiny, and hidden power. The story of Sunho, an ex-soldier living in the Under World, and Ren, a spirited acrobat wielding a dangerous silver light, is rich with intrigue. The setting is atmospheric, and the narrative is filled with moments of tension and discovery. However, I struggled to connect with the writing style, which felt a bit too distant for my taste. While I appreciated the world-building and the slow unfolding of the characters’ pasts, I found it difficult to engage with them on an emotional level. The romance and character dynamics, though present, didn’t quite resonate with me, and the pacing sometimes faltered. Overall, The Floating World has a lot of promise but didn't quite hit the mark for me. It’s a solid read for fans of epic fantasy, but I was hoping for a bit more emotional depth and connection to the characters.

5 Star Friday: The Only One Left by Riley Sager

 

Welcome to this week's 5-Star Friday where I’m sharing my glowing review of The Only One Left by Riley Sager. A master of suspense and chilling twists, Sager delivers yet another captivating thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Set in a secluded mansion, the story follows Kit McDeere, a caretaker assigned to look after Lenora Hope, a mute and elderly woman who has been accused of murder. As Kit uncovers Lenora's dark past, the tension builds, and nothing is quite as it seems. With a blend of psychological thrills and gothic atmosphere, The Only One Left is a must-read for fans of Sager’s signature style. Read on to discover why this book earned a well-deserved 5-star rating!

Title: The Only One Left

By: Riley Sager

Genre: Thriller

Pages: 383

Release Date: June 20th, 2023

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:At seventeen, Lenora HopeHung her sister with a rope
Now reduced to a schoolyard chant, the Hope family murders shocked the Maine coast one bloody night in 1929. While most people assume seventeen-year-old Lenora was responsible, the police were never able to prove it. Other than her denial after the killings, she has never spoken publicly about that night, nor has she set foot outside Hope’s End, the cliffside mansion where the massacre occurred.
Stabbed her father with a knife Took her mother’s happy life
It’s now 1983, and home-health aide Kit McDeere arrives at a decaying Hope’s End to care for Lenora after her previous nurse fled in the middle of the night. In her seventies and confined to a wheelchair, Lenora was rendered mute by a series of strokes and can only communicate with Kit by tapping out sentences on an old typewriter. One night, Lenora uses it to make a tantalizing offer—I want to tell you everything.
“It wasn’t me,” Lenora said But she’s the only one not dead
As Kit helps Lenora write about the events leading to the Hope family massacre, it becomes clear there’s more to the tale than people know. But when new details about her predecessor’s departure come to light, Kit starts to suspect Lenora might not be telling the complete truth—and that the seemingly harmless woman in her care could be far more dangerous than she first thought.

 

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Review:The Only One Left by Riley Sager is a masterclass in suspense, mystery, and psychological thrills. Set in a decaying mansion on a cliff, the story follows Kit McDeere, a young woman assigned to care for Lenora Hope, an elderly, mute woman suspected of murdering her family decades ago. Sager expertly weaves a dark, atmospheric tale as Kit becomes entangled in Lenora’s haunting past. The slow burn of tension keeps you guessing, with each page turn revealing new twists and secrets. The gothic setting, combined with Sager’s signature plot twists, makes for an unputdownable read. The unexpected, jaw-dropping conclusion seals the deal, cementing The Only One Left as one of the best thrillers of the year. This is a must-read for fans of psychological mysteries and those who crave a chilling, unpredictable story.

Book Review: Wool by Hugh Howey

 

Hugh Howey’s Wool is a gripping dystopian thriller that plunges readers into a post-apocalyptic world where humanity survives in a massive underground silo—but not everything is as it seems. With its intense world-building, slow-burning suspense, and thought-provoking themes of control and survival, Wool is a must-read for fans of The Hunger Games and The Road. In this review, I’ll break down what makes this novel so compelling and whether it’s worth adding to your TBR.

Title: Wool

By: Hugh Howey

Genre: Dystopian

Pages: 594

Release Date: January 27th, 2012

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:The first book in the acclaimed, New York Times best-selling trilogy, Wool is the story of mankind clawing for survival. The world outside has grown toxic, the view of it limited, talk of it forbidden. The remnants of humanity live underground in a single silo.
But there are always those who hope, who dream. These are the dangerous people, the residents who infect others with their optimism. Their punishment is simple. They are given the very thing they want: They are allowed to go outside.
After the previous sheriff leaves the silo in a terrifying ritual, Juliette, a mechanic from the down deep, is suddenly and inexplicably promoted to the head of law enforcement. With newfound power and with little regard for the customs she is supposed to abide, Juliette uncovers hints of a sinister conspiracy. Tugging this thread may uncover the truth . . . or it could kill every last human alive.

 

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Review:Wool by Hugh Howey is a gripping dystopian novel that masterfully explores themes of survival, power, and the human condition within an enclosed society. The story unfolds in a massive underground silo where people are forced to live after Earth becomes uninhabitable. The strong world-building and compelling mystery draw readers in, while the layers of political intrigue and personal struggle make it a thoughtful read. Though the pacing occasionally slows due to exposition, the complex characters and unexpected twists keep the story engaging. Overall, Wool is a fascinating and thought-provoking read, though it might have benefitted from a little more depth in certain areas.

March 2025 Wrap Up

 

March was a fantastic reading month—I finished 38 books, diving into a mix of fantasy, romance, thrillers, and more! From new releases to long-awaited reads, this month was packed with unforgettable stories and surprising twists. Whether you’re looking for your next must-read or curious about my top picks, check out my full March wrap-up below!

108/100 2025 Reading Challenge~96/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~8/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

March was an incredible month of reading, with 38 books added to my list! From unforgettable characters to captivating worlds, this month had a little bit of everything. Some books became instant favorites, while others missed the mark—but every story left its own impression. I can't wait to see what April brings! What was your favorite read this month?