Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 22
April 1, 2025
ARC Review: The Wind Weaver by Julie Johnson
The Wind Weaver by Julie Johnson is the first book in the Reign of Remnants series, blending fantasy, romance, and adventure in a war-torn world where magic is both feared and forbidden. When Rhya Fleetwood, a halfling with hidden powers, is saved from execution by the ruthless Commander Scythe, she’s thrust into a dangerous journey across the Northlands. As she uncovers her true identity as a Remnant—one of four destined to restore balance to magic—she must navigate treacherous alliances, growing powers, and an irresistible enemies-to-lovers romance. Perfect for fans of Fourth Wing and Avatar: The Last Airbender, this spellbinding fantasy is set to release on April 8, 2025.
Title: The Wind Weaver
By: Julie Johnson
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 544
Release Date: April 8th, 2025
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:Magic and adventure swirl through this spellbinding romantasy where a young woman reignites the embers of an ancient prophecy, unleashing a storm that could save her realm or doom them all.
Fear of maegic plagues war-torn Anwyvn. Halflings like Rhya Fleetwood are killed on sight. But Rhya’s execution is interrupted by an unexpected savior—one far more terrifying than her would-be killers. The mysterious and mercenary Commander Scythe. In the clutches of this new enemy, Rhya finds herself fighting for her life in the barren reaches of the Northlands. Yet the farther she gets from home, the more she learns that nothing is as it seems—not her fearsome captor, not the blight that ravages her dying realm, not even herself.
For Rhya is no ordinary halfling. The strange birthmark on her chest and the wind she instinctively calls forth means she is a Remnant, one of four souls scattered across Anwyvn, fated to restore the balance of maegic…or die trying.
But mastering the power inside her is only the beginning. Desire for the Commander—a man she can never trust, a man with plans of his own—burns just as fiercely as the tempests beating against her rib cage for release. Rhya must choose: smother the flames…or let them consume her.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
March 31, 2025
Weekly Menu #601 And The Book Of The Week
This week, we’re taking a culinary journey to the stunning shores of Croatia, where rich traditions and bold Mediterranean flavors come together in every dish. From the smoky goodness of Ćevapi to the comforting warmth of Sarma, this menu is filled with hearty meals that celebrate Croatia’s diverse regional influences. Whether it’s a slow-simmered Pašticada or a seafood-infused Crni Rižot, each dish brings a taste of the Adriatic right to your table. Get ready to explore the flavors of Croatia, one delicious meal at a time!This week, I’m diving into My Friends, the latest novel from Fredrik Backman, an author known for his heartfelt storytelling and deeply human characters. Backman has a gift for capturing the quiet struggles and unspoken bonds that shape our lives, and I’m eager to see how he weaves those themes into this book. If it’s anything like his previous works, I’m expecting a mix of laughter, tears, and moments that stay with me long after I turn the last page. Let’s see where this one takes me!
WEEKLY MENU
Monday
(Grilled minced meat sausages served with flatbread and roasted red pepper relish)
Kids - Flatbread and Chicken Tenders
Tuesday
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Turkey & Rice
Kids - Cheese Quesadillas
Wednesday
(Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)
Kids - Mozzarella Sticks
Thursday
Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles
Kids - Beef Ramen
Friday
Roast Chicken with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Kids - Chicken and Potatoes
Saturday
Classic Margherita Pizza with a Side Salad
Kids - Cheese Pizza
Sunday
Leftovers Night
March 30, 2025
Sunday Confessions #298
Welcome to Sunday Book Confessions, where I spill all my bookish thoughts from the past week—the good, the bad, and the unexpected! Whether it’s a new favorite, a disappointing read, or a book that completely took me by surprise, this is my space to share it all. Sometimes I fly through pages, other times I struggle to connect, but every book leaves its mark in some way. So, grab a cozy drink, settle in, and let’s talk about this week’s reading highs and lows!
Sunday Confessions #297~Weekly Menu #600 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: The Unworthy by Augustina Bazterrica~Midweek Book Break~Book Review: The Road of Bones by Demi Winters~Five Star Friday: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid~Saturday Sips: Allice Hoffman Books
Weekly Menu #601 And The Book Of The Week~Book 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~Sunday Confessions #299
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.
100/100 2025 Reading Challenge~96/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~8/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge
No matter how my reading week unfolds—whether I find a new favorite, struggle through a slow read, or abandon a book altogether—every story adds something to my journey as a reader. Some books leave a lasting impact, while others fade quickly, but that’s all part of the adventure. What books have surprised, disappointed, or completely enchanted you this week? Let’s chat in the comments—because every bookish confession deserves to be shared!
March 29, 2025
Saturday Sips: Allice Hoffman Books
Looking for a little literary magic to break up your week? In this Midweek Book Break, we’re diving into the enchanting short stories of Alice Hoffman, a master of lyrical prose and spellbinding storytelling. Whether you're a longtime fan of Practical Magic or discovering her work for the first time, Hoffman’s short fiction delivers the same mix of heartfelt emotion, mystical realism, and unforgettable characters—all in bite-sized doses perfect for a midweek escape. Let’s explore the wonder she weaves in just a few pages!
The Bookstore Sisters by Alice Hoffman is a beautifully written, emotionally resonant short story that blends nostalgia, forgiveness, and the quiet magic of second chances. Set on a windswept Maine island, the tale follows estranged sisters reuniting under bittersweet circumstances, with Hoffman’s signature lyrical prose bringing both the setting and characters to life. While the story’s brevity leaves a few threads lightly sketched, its heart and atmosphere linger long after the final page. A poignant, four-star read perfect for a reflective afternoon.
The Bookstore Wedding by Alice Hoffman is a delightful, whimsical tale that showcases her signature blend of romance and magic. Set in a charming bookstore, the story weaves themes of fate, love, and the quiet magic found in everyday moments. Hoffman's lyrical prose brings warmth and charm to the narrative, making it a cozy and uplifting read. While brief, the story leaves a lasting impression, proving that even the shortest tales can hold a touch of enchantment. A heartfelt four-star read for fans of literary magic.
The Bookstore Keepers by Alice Hoffman is a poignant and beautifully crafted short story that captures the quiet resilience of its characters and the transformative power of books. Hoffman's lyrical prose brings depth to the tale, weaving themes of love, loss, and renewal with her signature touch of magic. While the brevity of the story leaves some aspects lightly explored, the emotional weight and atmospheric setting make it a memorable read. A touching and evocative four-star story that lingers long after the final page.As a huge fan of Practical Magic and Alice Hoffman's storytelling, I can’t help but wish these short stories were expanded into a full-length novel, allowing for deeper character development and a more immersive experience. Hoffman's lyrical prose and enchanting themes always leave me wanting more, and while these stories offer a glimpse of her magic, they feel like just the beginning of something greater. Here’s hoping she revisits these worlds in a way that gives them the depth and richness they deserve.
March 28, 2025
Five Star Friday: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Welcome to 5 Star Friday, where I highlight a book that completely captivated me this week! There’s nothing better than discovering a story that pulls you in, delivers unforgettable characters, and leaves you thinking about it long after you’ve turned the last page. This week’s five-star read is one that checked all the boxes—exceptional writing, immersive world-building, and a plot that kept me hooked. Let’s dive into what made this book an absolute standout!
Title: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
By: Taylor Jenkins Reid
Genre: Fiction
Pages: 389
Release Date: June 13th, 2017
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now?
Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career.
Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the ‘80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story nears its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.
March 27, 2025
Book Review: The Road of Bones by Demi Winters
If you love eerie atmospheres, chilling folklore, and heart-pounding suspense, The Road of Bones by Demi Winters is a must-read. This haunting novel takes readers on a harrowing journey through a frozen, desolate landscape steeped in mystery and danger. Blending supernatural horror with historical inspiration, Winters crafts a gripping tale that lingers long after the final page. Whether you're a fan of ghost stories, survival thrillers, or folklore-driven horror, this book delivers an unforgettable reading experience. Let’s dive into what makes The Road of Bones so compelling.
Title: The Road of Bones
By: Demi Winter
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 500
Release Date: June 27th, 2023
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:A woman on the run. A crew of Viking mercenaries. A forbidden romance. And the secret which threatens them all.
Silla Nordvig is running for her life.
The queen of Íseldur has sent warriors to bring Silla to Sunnavík, where death awaits her. When her father is killed, his last words set Silla on a perilous quest: travel the treacherous Road of Bones–a thousand-mile stretch haunted by warbands, creatures of darkness, and a mysterious murderer–and go to Kopa, where a shield-house awaits her.
After barely surviving the first stretch of road, a desperate Silla sneaks into a supply wagon belonging to the notorious Bloodaxe Crew. To make it to Kopa, she must win over Axe Eyes, the brooding leader of the Crew, while avoiding the Wolf, his distractingly handsome right-hand man. But the queen’s ruthless assassin has other plans and hunts Silla obsessively.
Will Silla make it safely to Kopa? Or will she fall prey to the perils of the Road of Bones?
Featuring an immersive world blending fairy tale with Vikings, The Road of Bones leads you on an adrenaline-fueled chase with fun banter and a slow-building enemies to lovers romance. The first book in the Ashen Series, you are one click away from reading it!
March 26, 2025
Midweek Book Break
Welcome to this week’s Midweek Book Break, where I share a quick check-in on my reading journey! There’s always a book that just left its mark, one I’m currently immersed in, and another waiting eagerly on my TBR. This week, my recent read had me completely hooked, my current read is keeping me on the edge of my seat, and my next read promises to be just as exciting. Let’s dive into what’s been filling my reading hours!
The Crimson Moth #2Rebel WitchKristen Ciccarelli
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.
The Floating World #1The Floating WorldAxie Oh
From Axie Oh, the New York Times-bestselling author of The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, Final Fantasy meets Shadow and Bone in this romantic fantasy reimagining the Korean legend of Celestial Maidens.
Sunho lives in the Under World, a land of perpetual darkness. An ex-soldier, he can remember little of his life from before two years ago, when he woke up alone with only his name and his sword. Now he does odd-jobs to scrape by, until he comes across the score of a lifetime—a chest of coins for any mercenary who can hunt down a girl who wields silver light.
Meanwhile, far to the east, Ren is a cheerful and spirited acrobat traveling with her adoptive family and performing at villages. But everything changes during one of their festival performances when the village is attacked by a horrific humanlike demon. In a moment of fear and rage, Ren releases a blast of silver light—a power she has kept hidden since childhood—and kills the monster. But her efforts are not in time to prevent her adoptive family from suffering a devastating loss, or to save her beloved uncle from being grievously wounded.
Determined to save him from succumbing to the poisoned wound, Ren sets off over the mountains, where the creature came from—and from where Ren herself fled ten years ago. Her path sets her on a collision course with Sunho, but he doesn't realize she's the girl that he—and a hundred other swords-for-hire—is looking for. As the two grow closer through their travels, they come to realize that their pasts—and destinies—are far more entwined than either of them could have imagined...
Cerulean Chronicles #2Somewhere Beyond the SeaT.J. Klune
Somewhere Beyond the Sea is the hugely anticipated sequel to TJ Klune’s The House in the Cerulean Sea, one of the best-loved and best-selling fantasy novels of the past decade. Featuring gorgeous orange sprayed edges!
A magical house. A secret past. A summons that could change everything.
Arthur Parnassus lives a good life built on the ashes of a bad one.
He’s the master of a strange orphanage on a distant and peculiar island, and he hopes to soon be the adoptive father to the six dangerous and magical children who live there.
Arthur works hard and loves with his whole heart so none of the children ever feel the neglect and pain that he once felt as an orphan on that very same island so long ago. He is not alone: joining him is the love of his life, Linus Baker, a former caseworker in the Department In Charge of Magical Youth. And there’s the island’s sprite, Zoe Chapelwhite, and her girlfriend, Mayor Helen Webb. Together, they will do anything to protect the children.
But when Arthur is summoned to make a public statement about his dark past, he finds himself at the helm of a fight for the future that his family, and all magical people, deserve.
And when a new magical child hopes to join them on their island home—one who finds power in calling himself monster, a name that Arthur worked so hard to protect his children from—Arthur knows they’re at a breaking point: their family will either grow stronger than ever or fall apart.
Welcome back to Marsyas Island. This is Arthur’s story.
Somewhere Beyond the Sea is a story of resistance, lovingly told, about the daunting experience of fighting for the life you want to live and doing the work to keep it.
March 25, 2025
Book Review: The Unworthy by Augustina Bazterrica
Agustina Bazterrica, acclaimed author of Tender is the Flesh, returns with another chilling and thought-provoking novel in The Unworthy. This gripping psychological thriller delves into themes of trauma, violence, and survival, immersing readers in a haunting exploration of human nature. With Bazterrica’s signature sharp prose and unsettling atmosphere, The Unworthy is a must-read for fans of dark, literary fiction. Keep reading to discover why this novel will leave you questioning everything.
Title: The Unworthy
By: Augustina Bazterrica
Genre: Dystipian
Pages: 192
Release Date: September 1st, 2023
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:The long-awaited new novel from the author of global sensation Tender Is the Flesh: a thrilling work of literary horror about a woman cloistered in a secretive, violent religious order, while outside the world has fallen into chaos.
From her cell in a mysterious convent, a woman writes the story of her life in whatever she can find—discarded ink, dirt, and even her own blood. A lower member of the Sacred Sisterhood, deemed an unworthy, she dreams of ascending to the ranks of the Enlightened at the center of the convent and of pleasing the foreboding Superior Sister. Outside, the world is plagued by catastrophe—cities are submerged underwater, electricity and the internet are nonexistent, and bands of survivors fight and forage in a cruel, barren landscape. Inside, the narrator is controlled, punished, but safe.
But when a stranger makes her way past the convent walls, joining the ranks of the unworthy, she forces the narrator to consider her long-buried past—and what she may be overlooking about the Enlightened. As the two women grow closer, the narrator is increasingly haunted by questions about her own past, the environmental future, and her present life inside the convent. How did she get to the Sacred Sisterhood? Why can’t she remember her life before? And what really happens when a woman is chosen as one of the Enlightened?
A searing, dystopian tale about climate crisis, ideological extremism, and the tidal pull of our most violent, exploitative instincts, this is another unforgettable novel from a master of feminist horror.
March 24, 2025
Weekly Menu #600 And The Book Of The Week
Family meals are more than just food on the table—they’re moments of connection, laughter, and shared stories. This week’s menu is all about bringing everyone together with comforting dishes that celebrate tradition, togetherness, and a little bit of fun. Whether it’s a favorite childhood recipe, a new twist on a classic, or a meal designed to get the kids involved in the kitchen, these dishes are meant to create memories as much as they satisfy hunger. Let’s dive into a week of flavors that feel like home!As we turn the final pages of An Academy for Liars by Alexis Henderson, it’s time to reflect on the journey this book has taken us on. From its mysterious setting to the tangled web of secrets, the story kept us guessing until the very end. The atmospheric writing and morally complex characters made for an engrossing read, and now that we’ve reached the conclusion, there’s plenty to unpack. Did the twists live up to the buildup? Were the characters as cunning as they seemed? One thing’s for sure—this academy held plenty of surprises, and we’re ready to dive into all the final thoughts!
Lets get to the menu. Enjoy!
WEEKLY MENU
Monday
Farmhouse Feast
Roast Chicken with Buttered Egg Noodles & Pickled Beets
Kids - Alphabet Noodles
Tuesday
Philly Classics
Roast Pork Sandwich with Broccoli Rabe & Provolone
Kids - Grilled Cheese
Wednesday
Snack & Sweets Day
Fried Fish Sandwich with Coleslaw and Pickles
Kids - Chicken Sandwiches
Thursday
Classic Comfort
Homemade Spaghetti & Meatballs with Garlic Bread & a Green Salad
Kids - Beef Ramen
Friday
Taco Night Fun
Kids - Cheese Quesadillas
Saturday
Kid-Friendly Favorite
Kids - English Muffin Pizzas
Sunday
Family Dinner
Baked Chicken Thighs
Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Roasted Vegetables
Dinner Rolls
March 23, 2025
Sunday Confessions #297
Sundays are for reflection, and this week, I have a few bookish confessions to share. Whether it’s an unpopular opinion, a reading habit I can’t shake, or a book I just couldn’t finish, sometimes it feels good to get it all out there. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s talk about the reading struggles, surprises, and guilty pleasures that made up my week!
Sunday Confessions #296~Weekly Menu #599 And The Book Of The Week~
Triple Take Tuesday - Garmus, Carmon and Slaughter~Book Review: Our Infinite Fates by Laura Steven~Page Break: My Recent DNFs~Novella Review: The Turn of the Screw by James Henry~
Saturday Sips: 3 Star Reads
Weekly Menu #600 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: The Unworthy by Augustina Bazterrica~Midweek Book Break~Book Review: The Road of Bones by Demi Winters~Five Star Friday: The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid~Saturday Sips: Allice Hoffman Books~Sunday Confessions #298
★★★★☆
Julie Chan Is Dead by Liann Zhang is a sharp, compelling thriller that blends dark humor with biting social commentary. The mystery kept me engaged, and the exploration of media, identity, and internet culture added depth beyond the central whodunit. Zhang’s writing is fast-paced and immersive, making it easy to get swept up in the twists. While the ending didn’t fully land for me, the journey was gripping and thought-provoking. A solid 4-star read that fans of twisty, modern thrillers will enjoy!
89/100 2025 Reading Challenge~95/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~7/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge
At the end of the day, reading is a personal journey, and sometimes that means embracing unpopular opinions, DNFing books that don’t work for you, or questioning your own reading habits. Whether you agree with my confessions or not, I love the conversations that books spark. So tell me—what are your latest bookish confessions? Let’s chat in the comments!
