Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 29
January 21, 2025
Triple Take Tuesday - Jimenez, Henry and Kamali
Welcome to this week’s Triple Take Tuesday, where I dive into three captivating reads that left distinct impressions on my literary journey. From the swoon-worthy romance of Jimenez, to the heartwarming charm of Henry, and the evocative storytelling of Kamali, each book brought something special to the table. Whether you're craving love stories that tug at your heartstrings or narratives steeped in emotional depth, these reviews have something for everyone. Let’s turn the page and explore!
Just for the SummerAbby Jimenez★★★★★Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez is a heartwarming, laugh-out-loud romance that delivers all the swoon-worthy moments and emotional depth fans of her work have come to adore. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque lakeside town, the chemistry between the leads crackles with authenticity, balancing witty banter with vulnerable, heartfelt moments. Jimenez masterfully weaves themes of love, self-discovery, and healing into a story that feels fresh and deeply relatable. The side characters and small-town charm add richness, making this a book you’ll want to savor and revisit. A perfect summer read that leaves you with a full heart and a big smile!
Beach ReadEmily Henry★★★★☆Beach Read by Emily Henry is a delightful and emotionally rich romance that strikes the perfect balance between humor and heartache. January and Gus, two writers with contrasting styles, have undeniable chemistry that makes their journey from rivals to lovers a joy to follow. Henry’s witty dialogue and layered characters create a story that feels authentic and deeply relatable, though the exploration of heavier themes occasionally shifts the tone in unexpected ways. With its mix of romance, personal growth, and thoughtful commentary on creativity, Beach Read is a captivating tale that’s as much about finding yourself as it is about finding love.
The Lion Women of TehranMarjan Kamali★★★★★The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali is a stunning, emotionally resonant novel that intertwines themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience against the backdrop of political upheaval in Iran. Kamali’s lyrical prose brings to life a richly textured world, where the lives of courageous women fighting for freedom and personal identity take center stage. The characters are vividly drawn, their struggles and triumphs feeling achingly real, and the historical context adds depth without overshadowing the heart of the story. This is a tale that lingers long after the final page, reminding readers of the power of hope and the enduring strength of women in the face of adversity. A must-read for fans of deeply moving, beautifully crafted historical fiction.
Each of these books—Jimenez’s heartfelt romance, Henry’s enchanting tale, and Kamali’s poignant storytelling—offered unique and unforgettable reading experiences. From laughter to tears, they each left a mark, reminding me why I love getting lost in the pages of a good book. Whether you’re looking for love, escape, or inspiration, I hope these reviews guide you to your next great read. Until next week’s Triple Take Tuesday, happy reading!
January 20, 2025
Weekly Menu #591 And The Book Of The Week
This week, our culinary adventure takes us to the vibrant and diverse flavors of Brazil! Known for its rich culinary traditions, Brazilian cuisine is a celebration of bold spices, fresh ingredients, and regional diversity. From savory classics like feijoada and pão de queijo to sweet treats like brigadeiros, our menu this week will immerse you in the heart of Brazilian culture, one delicious bite at a time. Whether you're craving something hearty or have a sweet tooth to satisfy, there's something for everyone to enjoy.This week’s reading lineup is a mix of claws, fangs, and fierce battles! My main focus is Kingdom of Claw by Demi Winters, a gripping fantasy that promises intrigue and danger at every turn. Balancing that intensity is the sharp humor of Fang Fiction by Kate Stayman-London, a laugh-out-loud satire that pokes fun at vampire tropes while delivering a clever, entertaining story. Rounding out the list is Bloodguard by Cecy Robson, a fast-paced urban fantasy filled with action, romance, and a world of supernatural danger. It’s a week full of excitement, and I can’t wait to dive deeper into these fantastic reads!
Let’s get cooking!
WEEKLY MENU
Monday
Chicken Meatballs and Coconut Curry
Kids - Chicken and Rice
Tuesday
Kids - French Toast
Wednesday
Churrasco (Grilled Skirt Steak)
Kids - Beef Ramen
Thursday
Gyudon (Japanese Beef and Rice)
Not Brazilian
Kids - Chicken and Macaroni
Friday
Kids - Chicken Soup
Saturday
Kids - Cheese Quesadillas
Sunday
Leftovers Night
January 19, 2025
Sunday Confessions #288
Welcome to this week’s Sunday Confessions, where I spill the tea on my latest reading adventures, bookish obsessions, and the occasional misstep. From the thrill of discovering new favorites to the guilt of abandoning a book halfway through, it’s all part of the rollercoaster that is a reader’s life. So, grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s chat about the highs, lows, and surprises from the past week in my bookish world!
Weekly Menu #590 And The Book Of The Week~Triple Take Tuesday - Roberts, Song and Yarros~Book Review: Accidentally Amy by Lynn Painter~
Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 16~Book Review: Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix
Weekly Menu #591 And The Book Of The Week~Triple Take Tuesday - Jimenez, Henry and Kamali~
Book Review: The Starlight Heir by Amalie Howard~Three Things I Loved About The Unmaking of June Furrow by Adrienne Young~Book Review: A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage by Asia Mackay~Saturday Sips: Disappointing Adventures~Sunday Confessions #289
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin ★★★★☆The Art of War by Sun Tzu ★★★☆☆Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo ★★★★★
13/100 2025 Reading Challenge~90/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~4/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge
That wraps up this week’s Sunday Confessions! Whether it’s celebrating new five-star reads, grappling with a DNF, or planning the next additions to my TBR, this space is always a reminder of how much joy (and occasional frustration) books bring into my life. I’d love to hear about your reading week—what’s been lighting up your bookshelf or weighing it down? Drop your confessions in the comments, and let’s keep the conversation going!
January 17, 2025
Book Review: Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix
My book review of Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix.
Title: Witchcraft for Wayward Girls
By: Grady Hendrix
Genre: Paranormal / Thriller
Pages: 496
Release Date: January 14th, 2025
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:There’s power in a book…
They call them wayward girls. Loose girls. Girls who grew up too fast. And they’re sent to the Wellwood Home in St. Augustine, Florida, where unwed mothers are hidden by their families to have their babies in secret, give them up for adoption, and most important of all, to forget any of it ever happened.
Fifteen-year-old Fern arrives at the home in the sweltering summer of 1970, pregnant, terrified and alone. Under the watchful eye of the stern Miss Wellwood, she meets a dozen other girls in the same predicament. There’s Rose, a hippie who insists she’s going to find a way to keep her baby and escape to a commune. And Zinnia, a budding musician who knows she’s going to go home and marry her baby’s father. And Holly, a wisp of a girl, barely fourteen, mute and pregnant by no-one-knows-who.
Everything the girls eat, every moment of their waking day, and everything they’re allowed to talk about is strictly controlled by adults who claim they know what’s best for them. Then Fern meets a librarian who gives her an occult book about witchcraft, and power is in the hands of the girls for the first time in their lives. But power can destroy as easily as it creates, and it’s never given freely. There’s always a price to be paid…and it’s usually paid in blood.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
January 16, 2025
Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 16
Welcome back to Reading Around the Star Wars Universe! In part 16 of this ongoing adventure, I’m diving into the stories that make the galaxy far, far away feel even more expansive. From untold perspectives to hidden moments between the saga's biggest events, this week’s reading highlights the richness of the Star Wars universe in ways that only deepen my love for it. Whether you're here for the Jedi, the scoundrels, or the everyday beings caught in the fray, there’s something here for every fan. Let’s jump to hyperspace and explore what’s next!
Star Wars: Tales from the New RepublicPeter SchweighoferWritten by some of today's leading science fiction writers, these tales sweep us into a world where the only laws are cunning, force, and power--and only the bravest, craziest, and deadliest dare to tread. Here mercs and smugglers, gangsters and warriors fight toe to toe, side by side, and behind each other's backs in the backwaters of a universe ripped apart by war.
On Zelos II a man and a woman are held prisoner in a dark cell, each fighting in their own way for survival at the hands of Imperial captors--and a chance for escape that could cost one of them their life. On the tortured landscape of Ryloth, Fenig Nabon awaits a ship of women warriors to complete a dangerous deal: the smuggling of a troupe of dancers to the homeworld of the Hutts--only to get more than she bargained for. And in a stunning novella written especially for this collection by Hugo Award-winning, New York Times bestselling author Timothy Zahn and Michael A. Stackpole, Senator Garm Bel Iblis, believed dead at the hands of an Imperial assassin, teams up with Hal Horn in a duel against the Empire's most dangerous agent. At stake are the plans for a terrifying new weapon called the Death Star--and the fate of both the Empire and the New Republic.
Star Wars: Tales from the EmpirePeter SchweighoferCulled from the pages of the Star Wars Adventure Journal, one of the most popular Star Wars magazines in the field today, comes this exciting new short-story collection. Here are stories from such award-winning and New York Times bestselling authors as Timothy Zahn, Michael A. Stackpole and Kathy Tyers as well as exciting newcomers, including Erin Endom, Laurie Burns, and Patricia A. Jackson. From the desperate flight of a civilian mail courier carrying vital Rebel intelligence through an Imperial blockade, to a suicidal commando raid on an impregnable Imperial prison, to a Corellian smuggler mysteriously hired by an actor turned Jedi Knight turned Imperial assassin for one final transformation, these tales capture all the high adventure, imaginative genius, and nonstop action that are the hallmarks of the Star Wars saga.
What's more, the centerpiece of this magnificent collection is the short novel Side Trip, the first-ever collaboration between Timothy Zahn and Michael A. Stackpole, in which a freighter smuggling arms for the Rebels is commandeered by an Imperial Star Destroyer led by a mysterious helmeted figure who claims to be the notorious bounty hunter Jodo Kast. It is all part of a devious plan that includes Hal and Corran Horn, who are working undercover to nail the infamous Corellian warlord Zekka Thyne. But one slip-up can get them all killed.
Collected for the first time, Star Wars(r): Tales from the Empire is one book no fan will want to be without.
Star Wars: From a Certain Point of ViewElizabeth SchaeferForty years. Forty stories.
On May 25, 1977, the world was introduced to Han, Luke, Leia, a pair of droids, a Wookiee, an old wizard, a villain in black, and a galaxy full of possibilities. Forty years on, Star Wars remains an unparalleled cultural phenomenon, having inspired and influenced generations of fans and creators. Decades of rich storytelling were sparked by one film, in part because the Star Wars galaxy feels alive. Strange and wonderful characters fill the edges of the screen and make us wonder:
What are their stories?
This unique anthology celebrates that legacy, as more than forty contributors lend their vision to this retelling of the original Star Wars film. Each of the forty stories reimagines a moment from the film through the eyes of a supporting character. From A Certain Point of View features contributions by bestselling authors, trendsetting artists, and treasured voices from the literary history of Star Wars:
- Gary Whitta bridges the gap from Rogue One to A New Hope through the eyes of Captain Antilles.- Aunt Beru finds her voice in an intimate character study by Meg Cabot.- Nnedi Okorafor brings dignity and depth to a most unlikely character: the monster in the trash compactor.- Pablo Hidalgo provides a chilling glimpse inside the mind of Grand Moff Tarkin.- Wil Wheaton spins a poignant tale of the rebels left behind on Yavin.- Plus thirty-five more hilarious, heartbreaking, and astonishing tales.
Experience the story of Star Wars from a whole new point of view.
Star Wars: Winner Lose AllTimothy ZahnLando Calrissian’s no stranger to card tournaments, but this one has a truly electrifying atmosphere. That’s because the prize is a rare sculpture worth a whopping fifty million credits. If Lando’s not careful, he’s going to go bust, especially after meeting identical twins Bink and Tavia Kitik, master thieves who have reason to believe that the sculpture is a fake. The Kitiks are beautiful, dangerous, and determined to set things right—and they’ve convinced Lando to help them expose the scam. But what they’re up against is no simple double cross, nor even a twisted triple cross. It is a full-blown power play of colossal proportions. For an unseen mastermind holds all the cards and has a fail-proof solution for every murder.
Star Wars: ScoundrelsTimothy ZahnTo make his biggest score, Han’s ready to take even bigger risks.But even he can’t do this job solo.
Han Solo should be basking in his moment of glory. After all, the cocky smuggler and captain of the Millennium Falcon just played a key role in the daring raid that destroyed the Death Star and landed the first serious blow to the Empire in its war against the Rebel Alliance. But after losing the reward his heroics earned him, Han’s got nothing to celebrate. Especially since he’s deep in debt to the ruthless crime lord Jabba the Hutt. There’s a bounty on Han’s head—and if he can’t cough up the credits, he’ll surely pay with his hide. The only thing that can save him is a king’s ransom. Or maybe a gangster’s fortune? That’s what a mysterious stranger is offering in exchange for Han’s less-than-legal help with a riskier-than-usual caper. The payoff will be more than enough for Han to settle up with Jabba—and ensure he never has to haggle with the Hutts again.
All he has to do is infiltrate the ultra-fortified stronghold of a Black Sun crime syndicate underboss and crack the galaxy’s most notoriously impregnable safe. It sounds like a job for miracle workers . . . or madmen. So Han assembles a gallery of rogues who are a little of both—including his indispensable sidekick Chewbacca and the cunning Lando Calrissian. If anyone can dodge, deceive, and defeat heavily armed thugs, killer droids, and Imperial agents alike—and pull off the heist of the century—it’s Solo’s scoundrels. But will their crime really pay, or will it cost them the ultimate price?
January 15, 2025
Book Review: Accidentally Amy by Lynn Painter
My book review of Accidentally Amy by Lynn Painter.
Title: Accidentally Amy
By: Lynn Painter
Genre: Romance
Pages: 320
Release Date: September 6th, 2022
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:IT STARTED WITH A CUP…
Isabella Shay is usually a very honest person.
But when she’s running late for her first day at a dream job and the barista yells for “Amy” 3x with no answer, she does the unthinkable.
Izzy takes that PSL.
It’s the exact drink she ordered and paid for, only waaaay further ahead in the line, so she mutters “I’m Amy” and grabs the cup.
But when she turns around and runs directly into the most attractive man she’s ever seen, spilling the drink all over his GQ shirt and tie, she ends up having the ultimate meet-cute. Sparks fly and things feel beyond promising until he says the words, “See you tomorrow, Amy.”
Uh, oh – she’ll definitely have to straighten him out the following day.
Only when she gets to her new office and meets the VP of her department, it is none other than Blake Phillips - the hottie from Starbucks. And the man might’ve been charming to “Amy,” but he is an arrogant grump to Izzy, an arrogant grump who dos not find her explanation funny at all.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
January 14, 2025
Triple Take Tuesday - Roberts, Song and Yarros
Welcome to another Triple Take Tuesday, where I dive into three books that left me with plenty to ponder. This week’s trio takes us through an emotional whirlwind—from the heart-pounding fantasy of Lauren Roberts’ Reckless, to the poignant, fire-lit journey of K.X. Song’s The Night Ends with Fire, and the passionate ballet-infused romance of Rebecca Yarros’ Variation. Each story shines in its own way, offering unforgettable characters and unique storytelling, though not without their quirks and challenges. Let’s explore what makes these books worth a spot on your TBR!
RecklessLauren Roberts★★★★☆Reckless by Lauren Roberts is a gripping and action-packed fantasy romance that delivers a high-stakes journey of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. The protagonist's fiery determination and the immersive world-building keep readers hooked, though the book does draw noticeable parallels to popular titles in the genre, sparking controversy over originality. While the similarities are undeniable, Roberts injects enough emotional depth and plot twists to make the story her own, showcasing her talent for crafting intense, character-driven narratives. Ultimately, Reckless stands as an entertaining and heartfelt read, even if it feels overly familiar at times.
The Night Ends with FireK.X. Song★★★★☆
K.X. Song’s The Night Ends with Fire is a poignant fantasy infused with magic, romance, and the fierce determination of a young woman shaping her own destiny. Meilin's journey is captivating, with the first half offering a fast-paced thrill as she escapes her oppressive life and finds her footing in the army. However, the second half slows significantly, focusing more on internal struggles and layered relationships, which, while emotionally rich, diminishes some of the narrative’s momentum. The lush prose and Mulan-inspired themes shine throughout, creating an evocative tale that explores identity, loyalty, and sacrifice. Despite its uneven pacing, this is a memorable, heartfelt story.
VariationRebecca Yarros★★★★☆Variation by Rebecca Yarros is a beautifully written exploration of passion, resilience, and the sacrifices demanded by the pursuit of excellence in ballet. As someone who danced for 14 years, I can attest to how authentically Yarros captures the world of ballet through her deep understanding of terminology and technique. While this adds a layer of realism, the heavy use of technical language occasionally weighs down the story, pulling focus from the characters’ emotional arcs. Nevertheless, the heartfelt portrayal of the art form and the compelling narrative make this a captivating read for both dancers and contemporary romance fans alike.
January 13, 2025
Weekly Menu #590 And The Book Of The Week
Last week, sickness took over our house, which meant a quiet blog and plenty of soup on repeat. But we’re back on our feet just in time for a very exciting theme: Canada Week! This week’s menu is all about celebrating the flavors of our northern neighbors, with dishes inspired by iconic Canadian ingredients and traditions. From butter tarts to poutine, I’m pairing comforting meals with some cozy reads for a true taste of Canada.I’m diving into an advanced reader copy of Listen to Your Sister by Neena Viel. Even better, I have the audiobook version, which means I can enjoy this highly anticipated story while I’m busy in the kitchen. With its intriguing premise and heartfelt themes, I’m already hooked, and I can’t wait to share more about it as the week unfolds!
Lets get to the delicious menu. Enjoy!
WEEKLY MENU
Monday
French Canadian Shepherds Pie (Paté Chinois)
Kids - Chicken and Mashed Potatoes
Tuesday
Kids - Pizza
Wednesday
Kids - Fries and Cheese
Thursday
Kids - Cheese Quesadilla
Friday
Kids - PB and J Uncrustables
Saturday
Chicken Meatballs and Coconut Curry
Kids - Chicken and Rice
Sunday
Leftovers Night
January 5, 2025
Sunday Confessions #287
As another week winds down, I find myself reflecting on the books I’ve read, the characters I’ve met, and the stories that have lingered in my mind. Sunday is my day to confess what’s been on my reading list, the highs and lows of my literary adventures, and the moments that made me pause. Whether it’s an unexpected plot twist, a book that didn’t quite live up to the hype, or a new favorite, this is where I spill all the bookish secrets from the week. So, grab a cup of coffee and join me for another round of Sunday confessions!
Sunday Confessions #286~Weekly Menu #589 And The Book Of The Week~Triple Take Tuesday - Schaefer, Kuang and Pierlot~Audiobook Review: Blue Beard by Jim Clemente~
December 2024 Wrap Up~Saturday Sips: The 3-Star Edition~Book Review: The Love Haters by Katherine Center
Weekly Menu #590 And The Book Of The Week~Triple Take Tuesday - Roberts, Brown and Yarros~Book Review: The Starlight Heir by Amalie Howard~Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 16~Book Review: A Serial Killer's Guide to Marriage by Asia Mackay~Sunday Confessions #288
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin ★★★★☆The Art of War by Sun Tzu ★★★☆☆Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo ★★★★★
219/100 2024 Reading Challenge - Finished!~90/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~100/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge - Finished!~4/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge
As I reflect on this week, I’m reminded that sometimes, the biggest confessions aren't about books or blogs but about the small, quiet moments that shape us. Whether it’s feeling a little overwhelmed by my reading list, finding comfort in a familiar story, or even realizing I need to slow down and enjoy the process instead of rushing through, these are the real confessions of the week. Life, like reading, isn’t always about perfection—it’s about finding the balance between the chaos and the calm, embracing the highs and the lows, and giving myself grace along the way. Thanks for joining me in this space of reflection, and I hope you find your own moments of peace as the week unfolds.
January 4, 2025
Saturday Sips: The 3-Star Edition
Welcome back to another Saturday Sips, where we dive into the week’s bookish adventures over a hot cup of tea (or your beverage of choice!). This week, I'm reflecting on a few 3-star reads that, while not life-changing, offered enjoyable moments and thoughtful narratives. These books brought something to the table, but just didn’t quite hit all the marks for me. So, let’s sip and chat about these good, but not great, reads!
Star Wars: Scoundrels by Timothy ZahnThis was not one of Zahn's best Star Wars books.
Star Wars: Scoundrels by Timothy Zahn delivers a fun, heist-style story featuring Han Solo, Chewbacca, and Lando Calrissian, but it doesn’t quite capture the high stakes and emotional depth fans might expect. While the concept of a "Star Wars meets Ocean's Eleven" caper is enticing, the execution feels bogged down by a slow pace and an overly complex plot. Zahn's trademark sharp characterizations shine in moments, but the narrative lacks the energy needed to keep the momentum going. While enjoyable for hardcore fans of Han and his rogue antics, casual readers may find it less gripping than Zahn’s other Star Wars novels. A decent read, but not among the galaxy’s best.
Six of Crows by Leigh BardugoI'm not a fan of the multiple points of view.Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo is an ambitious heist tale set in a richly crafted world, brimming with intrigue, morally gray characters, and high-stakes action. However, the multiple points of view, while providing depth and backstory, can feel overwhelming and distracting, pulling focus from the central plot. The diverse cast is compelling, but the shifting perspectives occasionally disrupt the story's momentum, making it harder to stay fully immersed. Despite this, Bardugo’s sharp writing and intricate plotting shine through, offering an enjoyable read for fans of dark fantasy, though it may not be for everyone.
Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? by Caitlin DoughtyIt was funny at first, but seemed repetitive by the end.
Will My Cat Eat My Eyeballs? by Caitlin Doughty offers a quirky and engaging look at death through the lens of children's curious questions, paired with wonderful illustrations that enhance the charm. Doughty’s humorous and accessible writing style makes the subject matter approachable, offering a blend of education and entertainment. However, while the book starts strong, the topics begin to feel a bit redundant by the end, diminishing the initial excitement. It’s a fun and informative read, but the lack of fresh insights in the latter chapters keeps it from reaching its full potential.
The Art of War by SunziWhy did I read this one? At least it was short.
The Art of War by Sun Tzu is a classic text on strategy and warfare, offering timeless principles that extend beyond the battlefield into areas like business and personal development. While its concise wisdom and philosophical insights are undeniably thought-provoking, the dense, somewhat cryptic language can make it a challenging read at times. The book’s age also means some of its advice feels less relevant to modern readers, especially when applied in a contemporary context. Overall, The Art of War is valuable for those interested in strategy, but its abstract nature and historical context may not resonate with everyone.
As we wrap up this week’s Saturday Sips, I hope these 3-star reads have sparked some curiosity or perhaps even led to a few new additions to your TBR. While none of these books were game-changers, they still offered enjoyable moments and unique perspectives. Sometimes, a solid 3-star read is all you need to satisfy a craving for a quick escape, and these titles certainly did just that. Until next time, happy reading, and don't forget to grab your favorite beverage before diving into your next adventure!
