Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 25
March 2, 2025
Sunday Confessions #294
Welcome to Sunday Confessions, where I share my latest bookish thoughts, reading struggles, and whatever else is on my mind this week. Whether it’s an unexpected book hangover, a new obsession, or a reading slump I’m trying to shake, this is my space to spill it all. If you’ve ever had strong opinions about books, bookish habits you’re too afraid to admit, or a TBR pile that’s spiraling out of control, you’re in good company. Grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s chat about all things reading!
Sunday Confessions #293~
Weekly Menu #596 And The Book Of The Week~~Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland~Three Things I Loved About The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah~ARC Review: The Haunting in Room 904 by Erika T. Wurth~Saturday Sips: The Best of the Week
Weekly Menu #597 And The Book Of The Week~Triple Take Tuesday - Zahn, Kliewer and Cooke~ARC review: Where Shadows Meet by Patrice Caldwell~Book Review: A Song to Drown Rivers by Ann Liang~February 2025 Wrap Up~Saturday Sips: Missed The Mark~Sunday Confessions #295
The Maid’s Secret by Nita Prose is a charming and cleverly plotted cozy mystery that brings back the delightful Molly Gray, whose unique perspective once again proves invaluable in solving a high-profile murder. The novel balances humor, heart, and intrigue as Molly navigates the elite world of the luxury hotel, where secrets lurk behind every pristine surface. While the mystery itself is engaging, the real strength of the book lies in Molly’s character development and the way she grapples with her past. At times, the pacing slows due to introspective moments, but overall, it’s a satisfying follow-up that delivers both warmth and suspense. Fans of The Maid will enjoy stepping back into Molly’s world.
63/100 2025 Reading Challenge~92/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~6/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge
It’s been a long, exhausting week, but reading was my escape—my way to stay grounded and focused through the chaos. Flying through 13 books might seem like a lot, but each one helped me reset, recharge, and push through the busy days. Sometimes, getting lost in a story is exactly what I need to make it through. Here’s hoping for a little more balance next week—but let’s be honest, I’ll probably still be reading just as much!
March 1, 2025
Saturday Sips: The Best of the Week
Welcome to Saturday Sips, where I share the best books I read this past week! Whether it was a gripping thriller, an emotional historical fiction, or a fantasy that swept me away, these are the standout reads that kept me turning pages. If you're looking for your next great book, this week's picks might just be the perfect addition to your TBR. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s dive into the best books of the week!
My Big Fat Fake MarriageCharlotte SteinMy Big Fat Fake Marriage by Charlotte Stein is an absolute delight—fun, flirty, and filled with sizzling chemistry. The fake marriage trope is executed to perfection, with plenty of banter, emotional depth, and just the right amount of chaos to keep things interesting. The spice level is off the charts, making every interaction between the leads electric, yet the story never loses its heart. Stein balances humor and heat effortlessly, delivering a romance that’s as swoon-worthy as it is steamy. A must-read for anyone who loves their rom-coms extra spicy!
A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian PatriarchyTia LevingsTia Levings’ A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy is a powerful and unflinching memoir that lays bare the harsh realities of religious extremism and the courage it takes to break free. Levings’ storytelling is raw, honest, and deeply personal, making her journey of survival and self-liberation both gripping and heartbreaking. Her experiences shed light on the dangers of patriarchal control while offering hope to those seeking their own freedom. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in women’s rights, religious trauma, or stories of resilience, and it left a profound impact on me.
The HousemaidFreida McFaddenFreida McFadden’s The Housemaid is a masterfully crafted psychological thriller that kept me on edge from start to finish. With its gripping twists, unsettling atmosphere, and an unreliable narrator who makes you question everything, this book is impossible to put down. The tension builds brilliantly as secrets unravel, leading to jaw-dropping reveals that completely shift the story’s direction. McFadden’s fast-paced writing and clever plot twists make this a must-read for thriller lovers. If you enjoy dark, suspenseful reads with shocking endings, The Housemaid is a five-star knockout!
I Who Have Never Known MenJacqueline HarpmanJacqueline Harpman’s I Who Have Never Known Men is a haunting, thought-provoking novel that lingers long after the final page. This dystopian tale, following a nameless woman raised in captivity and thrust into a desolate, unknowable world, is both unsettling and deeply philosophical. Harpman’s sparse yet evocative prose creates an eerie, almost dreamlike atmosphere, making the reader question identity, isolation, and the nature of humanity. I found this book to be a unique and mesmerizing read—unlike anything I’ve read before—and I absolutely loved it. A five-star masterpiece for those who enjoy introspective, existential fiction.
Bury Your GaysChuck TingleChuck Tingle’s Bury Your Gays is a brilliant, genre-bending horror novel that flips the infamous trope on its head with heart, humor, and razor-sharp social commentary. Blending slasher thrills with deep emotional resonance, Tingle crafts a story that is both terrifying and empowering, celebrating queer survival in a world that often seeks to erase it. The characters are compelling, the tension is masterfully built, and the twists keep you hooked until the very end. I absolutely loved this book—it’s bold, subversive, and an absolute must-read for horror fans and anyone who loves a story that fights back. Five stars!
February 28, 2025
ARC Review: The Haunting in Room 904 by Erika T. Wurth
Erika T. Wurth’s The Haunting in Room 904 is a chilling and atmospheric horror novel that blends supernatural suspense with deep psychological tension. As an advanced reader copy (ARC), this was one of my most anticipated horror reads, promising eerie hauntings, unsettling mysteries, and a hauntingly immersive setting. With Wurth’s sharp storytelling and compelling characters, this novel delivers plenty of eerie moments and unexpected twists. In this review, I’ll break down what worked, what didn’t, and whether The Haunting in Room 904 is a must-read for horror fans.
Title: The Haunting of Room 904
By: Erika T. Wurth
Genre: Horror
Pages: 320
Release Date: March 18th, 2025
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:From the author of White Horse (“Twisty and electric.” —The New York Times Book Review) comes a terrifying and resonant novel about a woman who uses her unique gift to learn the truth about her sister’s death.
Olivia Becente was never supposed to have the gift. The ability to commune with the dead was the specialty of her sister, Naiche. But when Naiche dies unexpectedly and under strange circumstances, somehow Olivia suddenly can’t stop seeing and hearing from spirits.
A few years later, she’s the most in-demand paranormal investigator in Denver. She’s good at her job, but the loss of Naiche haunts her. That’s when she hears from the Brown Palace, a landmark Denver hotel. The owner can’t explain it, but every few years, a girl is found dead in room 904, no matter what room she checked into the night before. As Olivia tries to understand these disturbing deaths, the past and the present collide as Olivia’s investigation forces her to confront a mysterious and possibly dangerous cult, a vindictive journalist, betrayal by her friends, and shocking revelations about her sister’s secret life.
The Haunting of Room 904 is a paranormal thriller that is as edgy as it is heartfelt and simmers with intensity and longing. Erika T. Wurth lives up to her reputation as “a gritty new punkish outsider voice in American horror.”

February 27, 2025
Three Things I Loved About The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale is a powerful historical fiction novel that captures the resilience, sacrifice, and strength of women during World War II. With its deeply emotional storytelling, unforgettable characters, and gripping narrative, it’s no surprise that this book has become a favorite among historical fiction fans. In this post, I’m sharing three things I loved about The Nightingale—from its compelling sisterly bond to its heart-wrenching depiction of war and survival. If you’re wondering whether this novel is worth the read, keep scrolling to discover why it left such a lasting impact.
Title: The Nightingale
By: Kristin Hannah
Genre: Historical
Pages: 564
Release Date: January 29th, 2015
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:In love we find out who we want to be.In war we find out who we are.
FRANCE, 1939
In the quiet village of Carriveau, Vianne Mauriac says good-bye to her husband, Antoine, as he heads for the Front. She doesn’t believe that the Nazis will invade France…but invade they do, in droves of marching soldiers, in caravans of trucks and tanks, in planes that fill the skies and drop bombs upon the innocent. When a German captain requisitions Vianne’s home, she and her daughter must live with the enemy or lose everything. Without food or money or hope, as danger escalates all around them, she is forced to make one impossible choice after another to keep her family alive.
Vianne’s sister, Isabelle, is a rebellious eighteen-year-old, searching for purpose with all the reckless passion of youth. While thousands of Parisians march into the unknown terrors of war, she meets Gaëtan, a partisan who believes the French can fight the Nazis from within France, and she falls in love as only the young can…completely. But when he betrays her, Isabelle joins the Resistance and never looks back, risking her life time and again to save others.
1. The Powerful Sisterly Bond – The relationship between Vianne and Isabelle is at the heart of The Nightingale, and their contrasting personalities make their journey even more compelling. Vianne, the cautious and protective older sister, and Isabelle, the fiery and rebellious younger one, navigate the horrors of war in different but equally courageous ways. Their love, tension, and growth throughout the novel made their bond feel heartbreakingly real.
2. The Emotional Depth and Beautiful Writing – Kristin Hannah’s prose is immersive, evoking deep emotions with every chapter. From moments of quiet heartbreak to gut-wrenching loss, the novel doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of war. The characters’ struggles, sacrifices, and resilience felt incredibly raw, making this a book that lingers in your heart long after you turn the last page.
3. A Stunning Tribute to Unsung Heroes – The Nightingale shines a light on the often-overlooked role of women in wartime, particularly in the French Resistance. Isabelle’s fearless missions and Vianne’s quiet acts of defiance showcase the many ways women fought and survived. Their bravery and determination made for an inspiring and deeply moving read.
The Nightingale is an unforgettable novel that beautifully captures the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of women during World War II. With its deeply emotional storytelling, complex characters, and heart-wrenching historical detail, it’s a book that stays with you long after you’ve finished. Whether you love historical fiction or simply a story that tugs at your heart, this one is well worth the read. Kristin Hannah delivers a powerful tribute to unsung heroes, making The Nightingale a must-read for anyone looking for a story of courage, love, and survival.
February 26, 2025
Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland
Mai Corland’s Five Broken Blades is a thrilling fantasy novel packed with betrayal, revenge, and unlikely alliances, perfect for fans of heist stories and morally gray characters. This fast-paced read follows five assassins forced to work together on an impossible mission, each with their own secrets and agendas. With its intricate world-building, high-stakes tension, and engaging character dynamics, Five Broken Blades delivers an action-filled adventure that will keep readers turning pages. In this review, I’ll dive into the book’s strengths, its twists and turns, and whether it lives up to the hype for fantasy lovers.
Title: Five Broken Blades
By: Mai Corland
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 474
Release Date: May 7th, 2024
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:It’s the seasonfor treason…
The king of Yusan must die.
The five most dangerous liars in the land have been mysteriously summoned to work together for a single objective: to kill the God King Joon.
He has it coming. Under his merciless immortal hand, the nobles flourish, while the poor and innocent are imprisoned, ruined…or sold.
And now each of the five blades will come for him. Each has tasted bitterness―from the hired hitman seeking atonement, a lovely assassin who seeks freedom, or even the prince banished for his cruel crimes. None can resist the sweet, icy lure of vengeance.
They can agree on murder.
They can agree on treachery.
But for these five killers―each versed in deception, lies, and betrayal―it’s not enough to forge an alliance. To survive, they’ll have to find a way to trust each other…but only one can take the crown.
Let the best liar win.

February 25, 2025
ARC Review: My Name is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende
Isabel Allende’s My Name is Emilia del Valle is a captivating new novel that blends history, love, and resilience with her signature lyrical storytelling. This highly anticipated release follows Emilia’s journey through political upheaval, personal loss, and self-discovery, delivering a powerful narrative that fans of historical fiction won’t want to miss. As an advanced reader copy (ARC), I was eager to dive into Allende’s latest work, and while it had many strengths, it also left me with plenty to reflect on. In this review, I’ll break down the novel’s key themes, emotional depth, and whether it lives up to the hype.
Title: My Name is Emilia Del Valle
By: Isabel Allende
Genre: Historical Fiction
Pages: 304
Release Date: May 6th, 2025
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:In this spellbinding historical novel from the New York Times bestselling author of A Long Petal of the Sea and The Wind Knows My Name, a young writer journeys to South America to uncover the truth about her father—and herself.
In San Francisco 1866, an Irish nun, left pregnant and abandoned following a torrid relationship with a Chilean aristocrat, gives birth to a daughter named Emilia Del Valle. Raised by a loving stepfather, Emilia grows into an independent thinker and a self-sufficient young woman.
To pursue her passion for writing, she is willing to defy societal norms. At the age of sixteen, she begins to publish pulp fiction under a man’s pen name. When these fictional worlds can't contain her sense of adventure any longer, she turns to journalism, convincing an editor at the San Francisco Examiner to hire her. There she is paired with another talented reporter, Eric Whelan.
As she proves herself, her restlessness returns, until an opportunity arises to cover a brewing civil war in Chile. She seizes it, along with Eric, and while there, begins to uncover the truth about her father and the country that represents her roots. But as the war escalates, Emilia finds herself in danger and at a crossroads, questioning both her identity and her destiny.
A riveting tale of self-discovery and love from one of the most masterful storytellers of our time, My Name is Emilia del Valle introduces a character who will never let hold of your heart.

Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
February 24, 2025
Weekly Menu #596 And The Book Of The Week
This week has been a whirlwind of stress, deadlines, and long hours, but now that it’s finally over, I’m turning to the comfort of good food to unwind. For this week’s Finland-inspired menu, I’m embracing the warmth of Nordic flavors with cozy dishes like creamy salmon soup (lohikeitto), hearty rye bread, and traditional Karelian pasties. Finnish cuisine is all about simplicity, fresh ingredients, and a touch of indulgence—exactly what I need after a hectic week. Whether you’re looking for a taste of Finland or just craving wholesome, satisfying meals, this menu has something for everyone!To go along with this week’s Finland-inspired menu, I’m diving into Sunbringer by Hannah Kaner, a gripping fantasy that perfectly balances myth, power, and the weight of destiny. As the sequel to Godkiller, this book is packed with high-stakes adventure, divine conflicts, and morally complex characters, making it the ideal read for curling up with a warm bowl of lohikeitto on a cold evening. Just like Finnish cuisine, Sunbringer delivers a rich, immersive experience—one that lingers long after the final page. If you love gods, heroes, and a story that refuses to hold back, this one belongs on your TBR!
Lets get to this weeks menu. Enjoy!
WEEKLY MENU
Monday
(Finnish-Inspired Comfort Food)
Lohikeitto (Finnish Salmon Soup)
Kids - Chicken Soup
Tuesday
(Korean Twist)
Kids - Cheese Quesadillas
Wednesday
(Mediterranean Flavors)
Greek Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Kids - Chicken and Rice
Thursday
(Cozy Nordic Comfort)
Finnish Meatballs (Lihapullat)
Kids - Chicken Nuggets and Jelly Toast
Friday
(Comfort Food Night)
Homemade Finnish-Style Burgers
Kids - Chicken Burgers and Fries
Saturday
(Asian Fusion)
Kids - Beef Ramen
Sunday
(Family Dinner)
White Rice
Fruit
February 23, 2025
Sunday Confessions #293
Welcome to this week’s Sunday Confessions, where I share my unfiltered thoughts on books, reading habits, and all things literary! From bookish pet peeves to surprising new favorites, this is my space to spill the tea on what’s been on my mind. Whether you’re here for hot takes, book recommendations, or just some fun reader musings, grab a cup of coffee and dive in! Read more on below!
Sunday Confessions #292~Weekly Menu #595 And The Book Of The Week~ARC Review: The Bones Beneath My Skin By T.J. Klune~
Book Review: Dance of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson~
Novella Review: The Fall Risk by Abby Jimenez~
ARC Review: I'll Have What She's Having by Chelsea Handler~Saturday Sips: 4 Star Reads
Weekly Menu #596 And The Book Of The Week~ARC Review: My Name is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende~ Book Review: Five Broken Blades by Mai Corland~Three Things I Loved About The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah~ARC Review: The Haunting in Room 904 by Erika T. Wurth~Saturday Sips: The Best of the Week~Sunday Confessions #294
50/100 2025 Reading Challenge~91/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~6/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge
That wraps up this week’s Sunday Confessions! Whether you agree, disagree, or have your own bookish thoughts to share, I’d love to hear from you in the comments. Let’s chat about all things reading! Don’t forget to subscribe to Book Confessions for more book reviews, recommendations, and literary discussions every week.
February 22, 2025
Saturday Sips: 4 Star Reads
Welcome to this week’s 4-Star Saturday Sips, where I share quick, spoiler-free reviews of books that hit the sweet spot—engaging, well-written, and totally worth the read! Whether you love fantasy, romance, thrillers, or contemporary fiction, these books delivered solid storytelling and memorable characters. Grab your favorite drink and check out my reviews of this week’s 4-star reads below.
The Queens of CrimeMarie BenedictMarie Benedict’s The Queens of Crime is an intriguing and cleverly crafted novel that weaves real-life mystery into a fictionalized narrative. Featuring Agatha Christie as a character, the story is both a tribute to her legacy and a gripping tale in its own right. Benedict skillfully brings Christie to life, blending her iconic brilliance with a touch of vulnerability, making her feel authentic and compelling. The plot, layered with twists and historical intrigue, kept me hooked from start to finish. While some moments felt slightly rushed, the overall pacing and rich characterization made it a satisfying read. Fans of historical fiction and mysteries will find this a delightful homage to the queen of crime herself.
SwordheartT. KingfisherSwordheart by T. Kingfisher is a delightful mix of fantasy, humor, and romance, featuring an unconventional heroine, a grumpy yet endearing cursed swordsman, and a refreshingly pragmatic approach to adventure. Halla’s journey from sheltered widow to determined traveler is filled with sharp wit and unexpected heart, while Sarkis, the warrior bound to a magical sword, provides both dry humor and reluctant devotion. The story leans more on character dynamics than fast-paced action, which may slow the plot at times, but Kingfisher’s signature blend of warmth and sarcasm keeps it engaging. With charming banter, a slow-burn romance, and a touch of the absurd, Swordheart is a thoroughly entertaining read that balances whimsy with depth.
HeirSabaa TahirHeir by Sabaa Tahir is a gripping read with her signature blend of tension, rich world-building, and deeply emotional character arcs. The story unfolds with high stakes and compelling conflicts, keeping the reader invested from start to finish. Tahir’s prose is immersive, and the themes of duty, sacrifice, and power are explored with nuance. While the pacing occasionally lags and some plot points feel predictable, the character dynamics and emotional depth more than make up for it. A strong addition to Tahir’s work, Heir is a must-read for fans of intense, character-driven fantasy.
Spells, Strings, and Forgotten ThingsBreanne RandallSpells, Strings, and Forgotten Things by Breanne Randall is a beautifully atmospheric tale blending magic, mystery, and self-discovery. The novel follows a woman returning to her hometown, only to unravel long-buried family secrets and a past she can't quite remember. The lyrical writing and rich world-building create an immersive experience, while the slow-burn tension keeps the pages turning. However, some plot points feel predictable, and the pacing lags in places. Still, the story’s enchanting magic system and emotional depth make it a compelling read for fans of witchy, folklore-infused fiction.
Jade CityFonda LeeJade City by Fonda Lee is a thrilling blend of gangster drama and fantasy, set in a richly detailed world where jade grants enhanced abilities and power comes at a cost. The political intrigue, family rivalries, and martial-arts-inspired action make for a gripping read, and Lee’s writing immerses you in the gritty, tension-filled streets of Janloon. The character dynamics are complex and compelling, though the pacing in the first half is a bit slow as the world-building takes center stage. However, once the story picks up, it delivers intense action and emotional stakes that make it well worth the read. A must for fans of epic, character-driven fantasy with a modern twist!
February 21, 2025
ARC Review: I'll Have What She's Having by Chelsea Handler
Chelsea Handler is back with her signature wit and unfiltered humor in I'll Have What She's Having, a hilarious and insightful memoir about personal growth, relationships, and embracing change. Fans of comedic nonfiction, celebrity memoirs, and sharp social commentary will love Handler’s candid storytelling and laugh-out-loud moments. If you enjoy books by Samantha Irby or Ali Wong, this one is a must-read! Check out my full review on below to see if this book is right for you!
Title: I'll Have What She's Having
By: Chelsea Handler
Genre: Memoir
Pages: 320
Release Date: February 25th, 2025
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:In hilarious and tender essays, #1 New York Times bestselling author Chelsea Handler shares her unforgettable story of becoming the woman she always wanted to be.
There’s a woman I want to become, Chelsea Handler thought as a child. She’ll be strong and confident. She’ll light up a room and spread that light to make others feel better. She’ll make a living being herself. She’ll be a survivor.
At ten years old, Chelsea opened a lemonade stand and realized she’d make more money if the drinks were spiked. So she added vodka to her recipe and used her earnings to upgrade herself to first-class on a family vacation—leaving her parents and siblings in coach. She moved to Los Angeles and got fired from her temp job when she admitted she didn’t know how to transfer calls. She’s played pickleball with the scions of an American dynasty. She’s sexted a governor. She shared psychedelics with strangers in Spain. When she accidentally ended up at dinner with Woody Allen, she was not going to leave the table without asking him a very personal pointed question. She went on national television and talked about having threesomes. She's never been one to hold back.
But this life of adventure and absurdity is only part of her story. Chelsea knows what it is to truly show up for her family—canine and human, biological and chosen. She’s discovered how to spend time with herself, how to meditate, how to be open to love, and how to end a relationship with dignity. She is a sister to the many women who rely on her.
Surprisingly vulnerable and always outrageous, Chelsea Handler captures the antic-filled, exhilarating, and joyful life she’s built—a life that makes the rest of us think, I’ll have what she’s having.

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


