Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 28

ARC Review: The Favorites by Lynn Fargo

 

My book review of The Favorites by Lynn Fargo.

Title: The Favorites

By: Lynn Fargo

Genre: Fiction

Pages: 448

Release Date: January 14th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:To the world, they were a scandal. To each other, an obsession.
An epic love story set in the sparkling, savage sphere of elite figure skating about a woman determined to carve her own path on and off the ice
She might not have a famous name, funding, or her family’s support, but Katarina Shaw has always known that she was destined to become an Olympic skater. When she meets Heath Rocha, a lonely kid stuck in the foster care system, their instant connection makes them a formidable duo on the ice. Clinging to skating—and each other—to escape their turbulent lives, Kat and Heath go from childhood sweethearts to champion ice dancers, captivating the world with their scorching chemistry, rebellious style, and rollercoaster relationship. Until a shocking incident at the Olympic Games brings their partnership to a sudden end.
As the ten-year anniversary of their final skate approaches, an unauthorized documentary reignites the public obsession with Shaw and Rocha, claiming to uncover the "real story" through interviews with their closest friends and fiercest rivals. Kat wants nothing to do with the documentary. But she can't stand the thought of someone else defining her legacy either. So, after a decade of silence, she's telling her story: from the childhood tragedies that created her all-consuming bond with Heath to the clash of desires that tore them apart. Sensational rumors have haunted their every step for years, but the truth may be even more shocking than the headlines.
Inspired by the powerful love and hate that fuel Emily Bronte’s classic, Wuthering Heights, The Favorites is an exhilarating dance between passion, ambition, and what it truly means to win.

 

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Review:Layne Fargo’s The Favorites dazzles with its intense exploration of passion, ambition, and the razor-thin edge between love and obsession. Through the volatile partnership of Katarina Shaw and Heath Rocha, the novel immerses readers in the high-stakes world of figure skating, where triumphs and betrayals skate hand-in-hand. Fargo masterfully balances the characters’ emotional depth with the glitz and grit of their sport, delivering a story that’s as electrifying as an Olympic performance. While the narrative’s twists echo the drama of its Wuthering Heights inspiration, some moments of exposition around the documentary framework feel slightly overdrawn, pulling focus from the central, fiery connection. Nevertheless, The Favorites is a breathtaking exploration of love’s ability to both save and destroy.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.

Book Review: Inferno Squad by Christie Golden

 

My book review of Inferno Squad by Christie Golden.

Title: Inferno Squad

By: Christie Golden    

Genre: Scifi

Pages: 307

Release Date: July 25th, 2017

Rating: ★★★☆☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:After the humiliating theft of the Death Star plans and the destruction of the battle station, the Empire is on the defensive. But not for long. In retaliation, the elite Imperial soldiers of Inferno Squad have been called in for the crucial mission of infiltrating and eliminating the Partisans—the rebel faction once led by notorious Republic freedom fighter Saw Gerrera.
Following the death of their leader, the Partisans have carried on his extremist legacy, determined to thwart the Empire—no matter the cost. Now Inferno Squad must prove its status as the best of the best and take down the Partisans from within. But the growing threat of being discovered in their enemy’s midst turns an already dangerous operation into a do-or-die acid test they dare not fail. To protect and preserve the Empire, to what lengths will Inferno Squad go . . . and how far beyond them?
The Rebellion may have heroes like Jyn Erso and Luke Skywalker. But the Empire has Inferno Squad.

 

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Review:Inferno Squad by Christie Golden is a solid addition to the Star Wars universe, delivering an action-packed story that delves into the morally complex world of Imperial loyalty. The book follows the elite Inferno Squad on a mission to infiltrate a rebel group, offering a fascinating perspective on the Empire’s operatives. While the premise is intriguing, the characters sometimes feel underdeveloped, making it hard to fully connect with their struggles. The pacing is uneven, with moments of thrilling tension interspersed with slower, less engaging sections. Despite these flaws, it’s an enjoyable read for fans eager to explore the grittier side of the Star Wars saga.

ARC Review: The Sirens by Emilia Hart

 

My book review of The Sirens by Emilia Hart.

Title: The Sirens

By: Emilia Hart

Genre: Magical Realism

Pages: 352

Release Date: February 13th, 2025 

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:A story of sisters separated by hundreds of years but bound together in more ways than they can imagine
2019: Lucy awakens in her ex-lover’s room in the middle of the night with her hands around his throat. Horrified, she flees to her sister’s house on the coast of New South Wales hoping Jess can help explain the vivid dreams that preceded the attack—but her sister is missing. As Lucy waits for her return, she starts to unearth strange rumours about Jess’s town—tales of numerous missing men, spread over decades. A baby abandoned in a sea-swept cave. Whispers of women’s voices on the waves. All the while, her dreams start to feel closer than ever.
1800: Mary and Eliza are torn from their loving home in Ireland and forced onto a convict ship heading for Australia. As the boat takes them farther and farther away from all they know, they begin to notice unexplainable changes in their bodies.
A breathtaking tale of female resilience, The Sirens is an extraordinary novel that captures the sheer power of sisterhood and the indefinable magic of the sea.

 

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Review:The Sirens by Emilia Hart is a mesmerizing blend of historical fiction and modern mystery, skillfully weaving together the stories of two sisters separated by centuries. The dual timelines—Lucy in 2019, grappling with haunting dreams and a missing sister, and Mary and Eliza in the 1800s, facing unimaginable challenges aboard a convict ship—are rich with tension and atmosphere. Hart’s evocative prose captures the raw power of the sea and the enduring strength of sisterhood, though the pacing occasionally lags as the two narratives unfold. With its hauntingly magical elements and deep exploration of female resilience, The Sirens is an engrossing and thought-provoking read. A solid 4-star novel that lingers in your thoughts like the whispers of the waves.

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

ARC Review Round-Up - 3 Star Reviews

 

ARC reviews are always a mixed bag, offering glimpses of brilliance alongside the occasional stumble. In this week’s Review Round-Up, I’m diving into five advanced reader copies that left me with plenty to think about. From the cosmic ambitions of Titan of the Stars to the magical intrigue of The Last Wizards' Ball, these books delivered moments of excitement, but not without their challenges. With themes ranging from sibling rivalry (Listen to Your Sister) to chaotic deities (Daughter of Chaos) and immortal beings (Immortal), this collection proved that even promising reads can sometimes fall short of their full potential.

Titan of the StarsE.K. Johnston
Titan of the Stars by E.K. Johnston falls short of the high expectations set by her previous works, earning a middling 3 stars. While the premise promised an exciting interstellar adventure, the execution lacked the depth needed to truly bring the story to life. The world-building felt sparse and underdeveloped, leaving too many questions unanswered and failing to immerse the reader in the universe. Similarly, the characters lacked the complexity and growth necessary to make them compelling, their motivations and relationships feeling superficial. The overall tone came across as overly simplistic and juvenile, a departure from the nuanced storytelling Johnston is known for. While the book had moments of promise, it ultimately didn’t deliver on its potential.

Daughter of ChaosA.S. Webb

Daughter of Chaos by A.S. Webb starts strong, drawing readers in with its intriguing premise of a mortal rebellion against the gods in ancient Greece and a heroine with mysterious powers tied to golden fruit. The early chapters brim with tension, as Danae is driven from her home and sets out on a journey of self-discovery and prophecy. However, the story quickly unravels, losing its focus amidst a whirlwind of underdeveloped characters, rushed events, and an overly complicated plot. While the mythology-inspired world has potential, it often feels underexplored, leaving readers craving more depth and cohesion. Despite its flaws, the book offers moments of excitement and creativity, making it an ambitious, if uneven, debut.



Listen to Your SisterNeena Viel

Listen to Your Sister by Neena Viel is an ambitious speculative horror novel that promises chills and emotional depth but falls short of delivering a cohesive story, earning a 3-star rating. The blend of speculative horror and sibling dynamics is intriguing, with Calla’s struggle as a reluctant guardian creating a strong emotional anchor. However, the narrative feels uneven, as the initial focus on family drama and protest-driven conflict gives way to a surreal and disjointed cabin-in-the-woods horror. While there are moments of humor, tension, and heartfelt connection, the abrupt tonal and thematic shifts make the story feel like two separate ideas awkwardly combined. Fans of speculative horror might still find its ambition and vivid imagery engaging, but the lack of narrative cohesion undermines its potential.

ImmortalSue Lynn Tan

Sue Lynn Tan’s Immortal is a beautifully written tale steeped in mythology, but it struggled to fully capture my attention. While the prose is undeniably lyrical, I found it difficult to connect with the characters on a deeper level, which made it hard to invest in their journey. The story unfolds at a slow pace, and while the rich descriptions create an immersive atmosphere, they occasionally overshadow the plot’s momentum. Though there are moments of brilliance and intriguing twists, the lack of emotional resonance left me feeling detached. Fans of lush world-building might enjoy this one, but it wasn’t quite the right fit for me.




The Last Wizards' BallCharlaine Harris

Charlaine Harris’s The Last Wizards' Ball delivers an intriguing premise with its mix of magic, political tension, and family loyalty, but the execution falls short. The story of Lizbeth Rose protecting her sister Felicia in a deadly game of wizardry and power has plenty of potential, especially with its high-stakes setting and Felicia’s captivating role as a death wizard. However, the writing feels uninspired and overly generic, lacking the vivid prose or emotional depth needed to fully bring the world and characters to life. While fans of the Gunnie Rose series may appreciate the closure this final installment provides, the lack of narrative flair makes it a middling conclusion to an otherwise inventive series.



While not every book in this round-up soared to new heights, each offered something unique to consider. From interstellar drama to magical misadventures, these stories explored fascinating themes, even if they didn’t always stick the landing. As always, reviewing ARCs is a journey of discovery, and I’m grateful for the chance to experience these worlds before they hit shelves. If any of these titles intrigue you, I’d love to hear your thoughts—sometimes a different perspective can transform how a story is seen!

Weekly Menu #592 And The Book Of The Week

 

This week on the blog, we’re trading our passports for cable cars as we dive into the vibrant culinary scene of San Francisco! Known for its eclectic mix of flavors and iconic dishes, San Francisco offers everything from classic sourdough bread to fresh seafood straight off the bay. Whether it’s a steaming bowl of clam chowder in a sourdough bowl or the unique fusion dishes the city is famous for, this week’s menu will bring a taste of the Bay Area right to your table.
This week's read is Swordheart by T. Kingfisher, a delightful blend of humor, heart, and adventure. With a sharp-witted heroine, a cursed warrior trapped in a sword, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, this book promises to be a unique and whimsical journey. I can't wait to dive in and see how this charmingly unconventional fantasy unfolds!
Let’s get cooking!

WEEKLY MENU

Monday

Mission Style Burritos

Kids - Cheese Quesadillas

 

Tuesday

Fish Tacos

Kids - Nachos

 

Wednesday

Clam Chowder

Kids - Grilled Cheese

 

Thursday

Grilled Chicken Poke Bowl

Kids - Chicken and Rice

 

Friday

Spicy Potsticker Soup

Kids - Mac and Cheese

 

Saturday

Chicken Cobb Salad

Kids - Beef Ramen

 

Sunday

Leftovers Night

Sunday Confessions #289

 

Welcome to this week’s Sunday Confessions, where I open up about the reading struggles, unexpected surprises, and guilty pleasures I’ve encountered over the past week. Sometimes, the books I expect to love end up being a letdown, or I find myself reaching for genres I never thought I’d enjoy. Whether it’s an unexpected DNF or a book that totally surprised me, this is my chance to share the unfiltered thoughts behind my reading journey. So grab your favorite beverage, and let’s dive into the confessions!

Sunday Confessions #288~Weekly Menu #591 And The Book Of The Week~Triple Take Tuesday - Jimenez, Henry and Kamali~Book Review: The Starlight Heir by Amalie Howard~Books My Mom Would Love - The Unmaking of June Furrow by Adrienne Young~Book Review: A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage by Asia Mackay~
Saturday Sips: Disappointing Adventures

Weekly Menu #592 And The Book Of The Week~ARC Review Round-Up - 3 Star Reviews~ARC Review: The Sirens by Emilia Hart~Book Review: Inferno Squad by Christie Golden~ARC Review: The Favorites by Lynn Fargo~Saturday Sips: 5 Star Reads of January~Sunday Confessions #290

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin ★★★★☆The Art of War by Sun Tzu ★★★☆☆Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo ★★★★★



21/100 2025 Reading Challenge~91/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~6/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

As I wrap up this week’s Book Confessions, I’m reminded that not every book is a perfect match, and that’s okay. The beauty of reading lies in the variety of experiences it offers—whether it’s discovering a new favorite or realizing a book isn’t quite right for me. These confessions aren’t just about the highs and lows of reading; they’re about embracing the journey, the unexpected twists, and the lessons learned along the way. Until next time, I’ll be turning the pages, one confession at a time. Happy reading, and may your week be filled with stories that resonate.

Saturday Sips: Disappointing Adventures

 

Not every book can be a winner, and this week’s Saturday Sips is dedicated to those reads that just didn’t live up to the hype. While I always try to find something to love in every story, sometimes the plot falls flat, the characters don’t connect, or the pacing drags. It’s all part of the reading journey, and even disappointing books can spark interesting conversations. Grab your coffee or tea, and let’s dive into a few titles that left me wanting more.

The Priory of the Orange TreeSamantha Shannon
DNF 59%
I really wanted to love The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon, but I just couldn’t connect with it. While the world-building is undeniably intricate and the concept ambitious, the story felt overwhelmingly long and painfully slow for my taste. The sprawling cast of characters made it hard to form a meaningful connection with any one of them, and the pacing dragged to the point where it felt like a chore to keep going. I know this book has a devoted fan base, but unfortunately, it just wasn’t for me. Sometimes, even the most beautiful dragons can’t carry a story across the finish line.

One for My EnemyOlivie Blake

★★☆☆☆

One for My Enemy by Olivie Blake was a highly recommended read from a podcast, but unfortunately, it didn’t work for me. While the premise of rival magical families had so much potential, I found the execution lacking. The characters felt distant, and I struggled to connect with their motivations and relationships. The narrative often felt overly complex without the emotional depth to balance it, making it difficult to stay invested in the story. While I can see how others might enjoy the lyrical prose and intricate world, it ultimately left me feeling detached and underwhelmed.

Not in LoveAli Hazelwood
★☆☆☆☆Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood was, unfortunately, a major disappointment for me. I listened to the audiobook, and while I usually enjoy Hazelwood’s witty banter and strong heroines, the main female character in this story was unbearably annoying. Her actions and dialogue felt over-the-top and grating, making it impossible to connect with her or root for her journey. The story lacked the charm and emotional depth I was hoping for, and I ultimately couldn’t bring myself to finish it. This one missed the mark entirely for me.


Blood of the Old KingsSung-Il Kim
★★☆☆☆Blood of the Old Kings by Sung Il Kim had an intriguing premise, but it ultimately fell short of its potential. While the concept of ancient bloodlines and epic battles sounded promising, the execution left much to be desired. The pacing was uneven, with long stretches of exposition that slowed the story down, and the characters lacked the depth needed to make their struggles compelling. While there were moments of rich description and interesting lore, they weren’t enough to carry the narrative. It’s clear the author had ambitious ideas, but unfortunately, this one didn’t quite resonate with me.



Although not every book can capture the magic I’m looking for, each one offers a unique perspective and a different kind of experience. Whether it’s a story that didn’t quite land or one that kept me turning pages late into the night, every book is part of the journey. I hope these reviews give you a bit of insight into the books I’ve been reading and perhaps help guide your next literary adventure. Until next time, happy reading and may your next book be a perfect fit!

Books My Mom Would Love - The Unmaking of June Furrow by Adrienne Young

 

When I think about books my mom would love, The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young immediately comes to mind. This beautifully woven tale of love, loss, and the threads that connect generations is as heartwarming as it is mysterious. With its hauntingly atmospheric setting and a story steeped in both family secrets and quiet resilience, it’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page. If your mom is anything like mine—someone who cherishes deeply emotional and beautifully written stories—this one is sure to be a hit.

Title: The Unmaking of June Farrow

By: Adrienne Young

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 320

Release Date: October 17th, 2023 

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:A woman risks everything to end her family’s centuries-old curse, solve her mother’s disappearance, and find love in this mesmerizing novel from the New York Times bestselling author of Spells for Forgetting.
In the small mountain town of Jasper, North Carolina, June Farrow is waiting for fate to find her. The Farrow women are known for their thriving flower farm—and the mysterious curse that has plagued their family line. The whole town remembers the madness that led to Susanna Farrow’s disappearance, leaving June to be raised by her grandmother and haunted by rumors.
It’s been a year since June started seeing and hearing things that weren’t there. Faint wind chimes, a voice calling her name, and a mysterious door appearing out of nowhere—the signs of what June always knew was coming. But June is determined to end the curse once and for all, even if she must sacrifice finding love and having a family of her own.
After her grandmother’s death, June discovers a series of cryptic clues regarding her mother’s decades-old disappearance, except they only lead to more questions. But could the door she once assumed was a hallucination be the answer she’s been searching for? The next time it appears, June realizes she can touch it and walk past the threshold. And when she does, she embarks on a journey that will not only change both the past and the future, but also uncover the lingering mysteries of her small town and entangle her heart in an epic star-crossed love.
With The Unmaking of June Farrow, Adrienne Young delivers a brilliant novel of romance, mystery, and a touch of the impossible—a story you will never forget.

 

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Review:The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young is an absolutely breathtaking novel that masterfully blends mystery, romance, and a touch of the supernatural. From the very first page, I was captivated by its atmospheric setting and the beautifully intricate tale of family secrets and generational love. Young's writing is lush and evocative, weaving a story that feels both timeless and deeply personal. June’s journey to uncover the truth about her past is as heart-wrenching as it is satisfying, and the twists left me reeling in the best possible way. This book is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the enduring power of family ties—an unforgettable read that I couldn’t put down.

Book Review: A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage by Asia Mackay

 

My book review of A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage by Asia Mackay.

Title: A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage

By: Asia Mackay

Genre: Thriller

Pages: 334

Release Date: January 14th, 2025 

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:Two former serial killers trying to keep their past buried realize that old habits die hard in this “wildly original, razor-sharp thriller” (Chris Whitaker, New York Times bestsellingauthor of All the Colors of the Dark).
I wasn't smashing the patriarchy; I was killing it. Literally.
Hazel and Fox are an ordinary married couple with a baby. Except for one small thing: they're murderers. Well, they used to be. They had it all. An enviable London lifestyle, five-star travels, and plenty of bad men to rid from the world. Then Hazel got pregnant.
Now, they’re just another mom-and-dad-and-baby. They gave up vigilante justice for life in the suburbs: arranged play dates instead of body disposals, diapers over daggers, mommy conversations instead of the sweet seduction right before a kill. Hazel finds her new life terribly dull. And the more she forces herself to play her monotonous, predictable role, the more she begins to feel that murderous itch again.
Meanwhile, Fox has really taken to being a father. Always the planner, he loves being five steps ahead of everyone and knowing exactly what’s coming around the bend. Plus, if anyone can understand Hazel needing one more kill, it’s Fox. But then Hazel kills someone without telling Fox. And when police show up at their door, Hazel realizes it will take everything she has to keep her family together.

 

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Review:Asia Mackay’s A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage is a sharp, compulsive, and darkly hilarious exploration of suburban monotony colliding with the deadly allure of old habits. Hazel and Fox’s struggle to balance baby bottles with buried bodies delivers an addictive blend of tension and humor, offering a fresh take on domestic thrillers. Mackay masterfully crafts the characters' inner conflicts—Hazel's restlessness and Fox's calculated devotion—making their marriage feel terrifyingly relatable and wildly entertaining. With its razor-sharp wit and shocking twists, this novel is a clever, compelling ride that will leave you questioning the skeletons in anyone’s closet.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.

Book Review: The Starlight Heir by Amalie Howard

 

My book review of The Starlight Heir by Amalie Howard.

Title: The Starlight Heir

By: Amalie Howard

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 368

Release Date: January 7th, 2025 

Rating: ★★★☆☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:A bladesmith blessed by the stars. A prince with a dangerous secret. A god bound in shadows. From USA Today bestselling author Amalie Howard comes a scorching new romantasy that will leave you spellbound.
“His Imperial Majesty King Zarek requests your presence as his esteemed guest.”
When the gold-dusted court invitation arrives at Suraya Saab’s forge, she believes it’s a joke. Nobles might seek her skills as a bladesmith—one of few who can imbue her work with precious jadu, the last source of magic in the realm—but she has no qualifications as a potential bride for the crown prince. Still, the invitation is the chance at adventure, and the means to finally visit the capital city her late mother loved.
But what awaits her in Kaldari is nothing she could have imagined—and fraught with danger. It’s not the crown prince, but his impossibly handsome, illegitimate half-brother, Roshan, who captures her interest…and her ire. The invitation isn’t a quest to find a suitable bride, but a veiled hunt for the Starkeeper—a girl rumored to hold the magic of the stars in her blood. And across the city, unrest is brewing between the noble houses and the rebel militia.
When the rebels attack, Suraya and Roshan find themselves on the run, trying to deny their simmering attraction and the knowledge that Suraya herself might be the Starkeeper. But Roshan is guarding secrets of his own. And with no control over the power stirring within her, Suraya has drawn the attention of a dark god, an immortal whose interest might be the biggest threat of all.

 

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Review:The Starlight Heir by Amalie Howard offers an intriguing premise but stumbles in execution due to its rushed pacing and lack of depth. What begins as a promising Hunger Games-style story quickly pivots as the characters escape the city, abandoning the initial setup and leaving little room for world-building or meaningful character development. The protagonist’s unearned trust in others feels unrealistic, and the inclusion of her bizarre wet dreams detracts from the narrative. While the book is packed with action and ideas, the overwhelming pace makes it hard to keep up. With more time and space, perhaps spread over 2-3 books, the story could have reached its full potential.

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