Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 23

Saturday Sips: 3 Star Reads

 

Not every book is a five-star favorite, and that’s okay! In this Saturday Sips post, I’m sharing my latest three-star reads—books that had their moments but didn’t fully win me over. Whether it was the pacing, the characters, or just not the right fit, these reads fell somewhere in the middle. If you’ve ever finished a book feeling unsure how to rate it, you’re not alone! Let’s talk about those in-between reads that weren’t amazing but weren’t bad either.

Flirting LessonsJasmine Guillory

Flirting Lessons by Jasmine Guillory had a fun premise, but it didn’t quite deliver for me. Despite the title, there wasn’t enough actual flirting, and the chemistry between the characters felt lacking. I struggled to connect with the protagonists, which made it hard to get invested in their romance. While Guillory’s writing is always engaging, this one just didn’t have the charm and spark I was hoping for. A decent read, but not a standout.

GothikanaRuNyx
Gothikana by RuNyx had all the elements of a dark, atmospheric read, but it didn’t quite deliver in the way I expected. I went in hoping for something eerie and unsettling, but instead, it felt more like a cringy forbidden school romance with gothic aesthetics layered on top. The mystery had potential, but the execution leaned heavily into tropes that didn’t fully work for me. While I can see the appeal for fans of dark academia romance, it wasn’t as haunting or unique as I’d hoped. A decent read, but not what I was looking for.





My Best Friend's HoneymoonMeryl Wilsner
My Best Friend's Honeymoon by Meryl Wilsner started off strong with a fun premise, but it quickly lost the plot. What began as an engaging story turned into something messy and unfocused, making it hard to stay invested. The characters had potential, but their development felt inconsistent, and the romance didn’t fully land for me. While Wilsner’s writing is enjoyable, this one didn’t quite come together in a satisfying way. A decent read, but not as memorable as I’d hoped.





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.

Novella Review: The Turn of the Screw by James Henry

The Turn of the Screw by Henry James is a classic gothic horror novel, but does it live up to its reputation? With an eerie atmosphere, an unreliable narrator, and an ambiguous mystery at its core, this novella has intrigued and frustrated readers for over a century. While some find its psychological depth compelling, others struggle with its dense prose and slow pacing. In this post, I dive into my thoughts on this unsettling classic and whether it still holds up today.

Title: The Turn of the Screw

By: Henry James

Genre: Horror

Pages: 121

Release Date: 1898 

Rating: ★★★☆☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:The Turn of the Screw is an 1898 horror novella by Henry James that first appeared in serial format in Collier's Weekly magazine (January 27 - April 16, 1898). In October 1898 it appeared in The Two Magics, a book published by Macmillan in New York City and Heinemann in London.
A very young woman's first job: governess for two weirdly beautiful, strangely distant, oddly silent children, Miles and Flora, at a forlorn estate... An estate haunted by a beckoning evil. Half-seen figures who glare from dark towers and dusty windows- silent, foul phantoms who, day by day, night by night, come closer, ever closer. With growing horror, the helpless governess realizes the fiendish creatures want the children, seeking to corrupt their bodies, possess their minds, own their souls. But worse-much worse- the governess discovers that Miles and Flora have no terror of the lurking evil. For they want the walking dead as badly as the dead want them.

 

Add on Goodreads

 

Review:The Turn of the Screw by Henry James was an odd read for me. I expected a chilling ghost story, but instead, I found a slow, ambiguous tale that felt more confusing than scary. The dense writing and unreliable narration made it hard to stay engaged, and while the eerie atmosphere had potential, it never quite delivered on true horror. That said, I can appreciate its influence on the genre, especially considering it was written in 1898. It just didn’t have the impact I was hoping for. A classic, but not a favorite.

Page Break: My Recent DNFs

 

Sometimes, a book just doesn’t work for you—and that’s okay! In this Page Break post, I’m sharing my recent DNFs (Did Not Finish), the reasons they didn’t click, and whether I might give them another shot in the future. Whether it was pacing, characters, or just bad timing, these books didn’t make the cut for me. If you’ve ever struggled to put a book down, you’re not alone! Let’s talk about the tough choices every reader faces.

If We Were VillainsM.L. Rio
This book ended up being a DNF for me—not because it was bad, but because it wasn’t what I was expecting and didn’t fit my current reading mood. Sometimes, a book and a reader just don’t align at the right time, and that was the case here. I might give it another shot in the future, but for now, it’s going back on the shelf.


The Will of the ManyJames Islington
I know The Will of the Many by James Islington is a popular book, but I just couldn’t connect with the story or the characters, so I ultimately decided to DNF. While the premise was intriguing, something about the execution didn’t click for me, and I found myself struggling to stay engaged. It might be a case of wrong book, wrong time, but for now, I’m setting this one aside.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that DNFing a book you’re not connecting with is an important part of being a reader. Forcing yourself to push through a story that isn’t working can take the joy out of reading, and there are too many incredible books out there to spend time on one that isn’t the right fit. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of timing, and other times, a book simply isn’t for you—and that’s okay. Letting go of a book that isn’t clicking makes room for one that will!

Book Review: Our Infinite Fates by Laura Steven

 

Looking for a thrilling, thought-provoking read? Our Infinite Fates by Laura Steven delivers a gripping blend of mystery, fate, and psychological depth that will keep you hooked from start to finish. With its intricate storytelling and unforgettable characters, this novel is perfect for fans of speculative fiction and dark academia. Dive into my full review to explore what makes this book a must-read!

Title: Our Infinite Fates

By: Laura Steven

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 352

Release Date: February 27th, 2025 

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:The Invisible Life of Addie La Rue meets This is How You Lose The Time War in this fantastical love story that defies death as two souls reincarnate through the centuries.
They've loved each other in a thousand lifetimes. They've killed each other in every one.
Evelyn remembers all her past lives. She also remembers that in every single one, she’s been murdered before her eighteenth birthday by Arden, a supernatural being whose soul―and survival―is tethered to hers.
The problem is that she’s quite fond of the life she’s in now, and her little sister needs her for bone marrow transplants in order to stay alive. If Evelyn wants to save her sister, she’ll have to:
1. Find the centuries-old devil who hunts her through each life―before they find her first.2. Figure out why she’s being hunted and finally break their curse.3. Try not to fall in love.

 

Add on Goodreads

 

Review:Our Infinite Fates by Laura Steven completely stole my heart—I was utterly consumed by this love story, body and soul. The emotions are raw, the chemistry is electric, and every moment between the characters feels destined yet achingly fragile. Steven’s writing is beautifully immersive, pulling me into a whirlwind of longing, fate, and undeniable connection. I felt every glance, every touch, every heart-wrenching moment as if it were my own. This book isn’t just a read; it’s an experience, and I’m obsessed. Easily one of my top reads of the year—5 stars!

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

Triple Take Tuesday - Garmus, Carmon and Slaughter

 

Triple Take Tuesday is here, and this week’s lineup features three powerhouse authors delivering wildly different yet equally compelling reads. Bonnie Garmus brings wit and heart with her sharp storytelling, Irin Carmon offers a thought-provoking and insightful narrative, and Karin Slaughter delivers the kind of gritty, edge-of-your-seat thriller she’s known for. Whether you're in the mood for humor, sharp analysis, or high-stakes suspense, this trio has something to offer. Let’s dive into the highs, lows, and standout moments of each!

Lessons in ChemistryBonnie Garmus
★★★★★
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus is a brilliant and heartwarming gem that captured my heart from the very first page. With a perfect blend of humor, heartache, and science, Garmus crafts a unique and compelling story about Elizabeth Zott, a brilliant chemist whose journey through societal expectations and personal challenges is nothing short of inspiring. The sharp wit, memorable characters, and clever storytelling kept me hooked, while the deeper themes of resilience, identity, and breaking barriers resonated deeply. Elizabeth’s voice is unforgettable, and this book will stay with me for a long time. Truly a must-read!
Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader GinsburgIrin Carmon, Shana Knizhnik

★★★★★
Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg by Irin Carmon and Shana Knizhnik is an inspiring, engaging, and thoroughly entertaining tribute to one of the most influential figures in American history. Blending biography, legal analysis, and pop culture, this book paints a vivid picture of RBG’s groundbreaking career, relentless fight for justice, and iconic status. The mix of insightful commentary, personal anecdotes, and fun visuals makes it both informative and highly readable. Whether you're a longtime admirer or just discovering her legacy, this book is a powerful reminder of RBG’s brilliance, resilience, and unwavering dedication to equality. A must-read!
Pretty GirlsKarin Slaughter

★★★★★
Pretty Girls by Karin Slaughter is a dark, gripping thriller that had me on edge from start to finish. With masterful storytelling and unrelenting suspense, Slaughter weaves a chilling tale of two sisters, long haunted by their missing sibling, who uncover horrifying secrets buried in their past. The twists are brutal, the tension is relentless, and the emotional depth adds a powerful layer to the narrative. Slaughter doesn’t hold back, delivering a story that is as disturbing as it is compelling. If you’re looking for a thriller that will leave you breathless, this is it. Absolutely unforgettable!

Weekly Menu #599 And The Book Of The Week

 

This week, we're taking a culinary trip through Pennsylvania, exploring everything from hearty Pennsylvania Dutch recipes to classic Philly-inspired dishes. Our weekly menu is filled with comfort food that highlights the rich cultural heritage and flavors of the Keystone State. Whether you're craving traditional Pennsylvania Dutch cooking or famous Philadelphia favorites like cheesesteaks and soft pretzels, these Pennsylvania-inspired meals are sure to bring warmth and flavor to your table. So grab a plate and join me for a delicious journey through Pennsylvania cuisine!

And of course, no week is complete without the perfect book to pair with dinner. This week, I'm reading Wool by Hugh Howey — a gripping dystopian novel that's been on my must-read list. If you're looking for a tense and thought-provoking book, Wool delivers with its claustrophobic setting and layered mystery. It's the perfect reading companion for a week of comforting Pennsylvania food, and I can't wait to share my thoughts as I read!

WEEKLY MENU

Monday

Amish Comfort

PA Dutch Chicken Pot Pie

Kids - Chicken and Biscuits

 

Tuesday

Philly Classics

Roast Pork Sandwich with Broccoli Rabe & Provolone

Kids - Grilled Cheese

 

Wednesday

Dutch & Hearty

Haluski (Butter-fried cabbage & noodles) with Kielbasa

Kids - Sausage and Noodles

 

Thursday

Pittsburgh Favorites

Pierogies with Caramelized Onions & Sour Cream

Kids - Pizza Pockets

 

Friday

Snack & Sweets Day

Fried Fish Sandwich with Coleslaw and Pickles

Kids - Chicken Sandwiches

 

Saturday

Farmhouse Feast

Roast Chicken with Buttered Egg Noodles & Pickled Beets

Kids - Alphabet Noodles

 

Sunday

Leftovers Night

Sunday Confessions #296

 

Welcome to another Sunday Confessions, where I share a little peek behind the curtain of my reading life — the good, the bad, and the surprising! Whether it’s books I’m loving, ones I’ve abandoned, or random bookish thoughts I just need to get off my chest, this is my weekly space to spill it all. So grab a cozy drink, settle in, and let’s chat about what’s been on my mind (and my bookshelf) this week!

Sunday Confessions #295~Weekly Menu #598 And The Book Of The Week~Triple Take Tuesday - Moning, Gillig and Atwood~ARC Review: Blood on Her Tongue by Johanna Van Veen~Novella Review: The Worst Wingman Ever by Abby Jimenez~Book Review: Sunbringer by Hannah Kaner~Saturday Sips: 4 Stars!

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~Book Review: The Turn of the Screw by James Henry~Saturday Sips: 3 Star Reads~Sunday Confessions #297





★★★☆☆

Choices of One by Timothy Zahn is a solid addition to the Star Wars expanded universe, offering plenty of action, intrigue, and the strategic twists Zahn is known for. Set between A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back, the novel brings back beloved characters like Mara Jade and Thrawn, and it does a great job capturing their voices and motivations. However, while the plot is engaging, it can feel overly complicated at times, with multiple storylines that don't always flow smoothly together. The pacing also lags in parts, making it harder to stay fully invested. Still, for fans of Zahn’s Star Wars work, Choices of One is an enjoyable read that earns a respectable 3 stars.

81/100 2025 Reading Challenge~94/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~7/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

And that’s it for this week’s Sunday Confessions! Thanks for hanging out with me as I share my latest bookish thoughts, struggles, and little victories. Whether you’ve read any of these books, have some confessions of your own, or just want to chat about all things reading, I’d love to hear from you in the comments. Here’s to another week of good books, cozy reading spots, and maybe even a surprise favorite we didn’t see coming. Until next time, happy reading!

Saturday Sips: 4 Stars!

 

Welcome back to Saturday Sips, where I chat about the books I’ve been savoring — like a good cup of coffee! This week, I’m sharing a roundup of recent 4-star reads that hit all the right notes, even if they didn’t quite make it to 5-star perfection. These are the books that kept me turning pages, made me think, and left me wanting just a little more. So grab your favorite drink, get cozy, and let’s dive into some great stories worth sipping on!

Heir to the JediKevin Hearne
Heir to the Jedi by Kevin Hearne is a fun, action-packed addition to the Star Wars universe that offers a unique glimpse into Luke Skywalker’s early days as a Jedi. Written entirely from Luke’s first-person perspective, the novel gives readers a more personal look at his struggles, growth, and uncertainties as he navigates missions for the Rebel Alliance. Hearne captures Luke’s voice well, adding depth to his character while keeping the pacing brisk and full of classic Star Wars adventure. While the plot itself isn’t as epic as some other Star Wars novels, and a few moments feel a bit light, it’s an enjoyable read that earns a solid 4 stars for its fresh take on a beloved hero.


The Lost ApothecarySarah Penner

The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner is a captivating blend of historical fiction and mystery, weaving together two timelines in a tale of revenge, resilience, and hidden secrets. The story follows an 18th-century apothecary who aids women seeking justice and a modern-day historian uncovering her long-lost legacy. Penner’s rich descriptions and atmospheric writing bring both narratives to life, making for an immersive read. While the historical storyline is gripping and emotional, the present-day arc feels slightly less compelling in comparison. Still, the novel’s feminist themes, engaging mystery, and unique premise make it a worthy 4-star read for historical fiction lovers.



The Crescent Moon TearoomStacy Sivinski

The Crescent Moon Tea Room by Stacy Sivinski is a cozy, heartwarming novel that beautifully blends themes of friendship, healing, and a touch of magic. Set in a charming tea room that feels like a character in itself, the story follows women from different walks of life who come together over tea, finding comfort and connection in unexpected ways. Sivinski’s writing is gentle and atmospheric, creating a soothing reading experience perfect for fans of feel-good fiction. While some plot points wrap up a little too neatly, the overall message of hope and community shines through. A delightful 4-star read for anyone craving a cozy escape.




FaithbreakerHannah Kaner

Faithbreaker by Hannah Kaner is a dark and gripping continuation of her Godkiller series, filled with morally complex characters, rich world-building, and sharp prose. Kaner deepens the emotional stakes in this installment, exploring themes of faith, sacrifice, and loyalty while expanding the mythology that made the first book so compelling. The relationships between characters, especially Kissen and her companions, grow in intensity and nuance, adding layers to the story. Although some pacing issues and dense world-building moments slow the flow in places, Faithbreaker ultimately delivers a powerful and satisfying narrative. A strong 4-star read for fans of gritty, character-driven fantasy.

Book Review: Sunbringer by Hannah Kaner

 

If you’re searching for an epic fantasy sequel that delivers high-stakes action, rich world-building, and complex characters, Sunbringer by Hannah Kaner is a must-read. As the highly anticipated follow-up to Godkiller, Sunbringer takes readers deeper into a world of gods, magic, and moral dilemmas, all wrapped in Kaner’s lush and atmospheric writing. In this review of Sunbringer, I’ll share my thoughts on what makes this sequel stand out, how it builds on the first book, and why fantasy lovers should add it to their TBR.

Title: Sunbringer

By: Hannah Kaner

Genre: Fantasy 

Pages: 370

Release Date: March 12th, 2024

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:Return to the world of Godkiller in this thrilling sequel to the #1 internationally bestselling fantasy debut
When Middren falls to the gods, your kind will be the first to die.
Gods are forbidden in the kingdom of Middren—but now they are stirring, whispering of war. Godkiller Kissen sacrificed herself to vanquish the fire god Hseth, who murdered her family and endangered her friends. But gods cannot be destroyed so easily, and Hseth’s power threatens to reform with even greater strength and a thirst for vengeance. As tensions rise throughout the land, the kingdom needs its Godkiller more than ever.
Still reeling from the loss of Kissen, young noble Inara and her little god of white lies, Skedi, have set out to discover more about the true nature of their bond. As the divide between gods and humans widens, Inara and Skedi will uncover secrets that could determine the fate of the war to come.
Meanwhile, Elogast, no longer a loyal knight of King Arren, has been tasked with killing the man he once called friend. The king vowed to eradicate all gods throughout the land, but has now entered into an unholy pact with the most dangerous of them all. And where his heart once beat, a god now burns. . .

 

Add on Goodreads

 

Review:Sunbringer by Hannah Kaner is a gripping and atmospheric sequel that delivers on the high-stakes drama and intense character development set up in Godkiller. Kaner’s world-building continues to shine, with vivid descriptions and a dark, mythic tone that pulls you deeper into the story. The relationships, especially between Kissen and the other main characters, grow in complexity, adding emotional depth to the action-packed plot. While some pacing issues slowed the momentum in parts, the overall narrative was compelling and kept me invested. With its rich lore and morally gray characters, Sunbringer earns a solid 4 stars and proves Kaner is an exciting voice in fantasy.

Novella Review: The Worst Wingman Ever by Abby Jimenez

 

If you’re a fan of romantic comedies with heart and humor, The Worst Wingman Ever by Abby Jimenez is a must-read novella that delivers a sweet and swoony story in a small package. Perfect for readers who love quick reads with strong character chemistry, this novella is a fun addition to Jimenez’s beloved universe. In this review of The Worst Wingman Ever, I’ll share what makes this story shine, why romance lovers will enjoy it, and whether it’s worth picking up for a cozy afternoon read.

Title: Worst Wingman Ever

By: Abby Jimenez

Genre: Romance

Pages: 61

Release Date: January 23rd, 2024 

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:They’re falling in love, yet they’ve never met. Maybe fate can intervene in a heartwarming “what-if” short story about new beginnings by the New York Times bestselling author of Yours Truly.
Holly is dealing with the impending death of her grandmother and still reeling from a bad breakup. One bright spot: a Valentine’s Day card on Holly’s windshield—even if it wasn’t meant for her. An amusing mistake soon turns into a lovely exchange of anonymous notes, little acts of kindness, and a growing affection between two strangers. What happens when one of them has to say goodbye?

 

Add on Goodreads

 

Review:The Worst Wingman Ever by Abby Jimenez is a delightful, heartfelt novella that perfectly blends humor, charm, and swoony romance in just the right dose. Despite its shorter length, the story feels full and satisfying, with well-developed characters and witty banter that makes their chemistry leap off the page. Jimenez’s signature blend of warmth and laugh-out-loud moments shines through, making this a perfect read for anyone craving a feel-good romance that doesn’t skimp on emotional depth. Fans of her full-length novels will love this quick visit to her world, and for me, it’s an easy 5-star read!