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Sunday Confessions #330

 

It’s that time again. Sunday confession time. Today, I’m letting it all out: the books I couldn’t finish, the characters I didn’t vibe with, the plot twists that left me scratching my head. No judgment here, just a little corner of honesty where we can admit that not every book is a home run… and sometimes that’s perfectly okay.

Sunday Confessions #329~Weekly Menu #632 And The Book Of The Week~October 2025 Wrap Up~Book Review: Unflappable: Soaring Beyond a Diagnosis by Jonathan A. Hutton~Book Review: King's Cage by Victoria Aveyard~ARC Review: The Swimmer of Auschwitz by Renaud Leblond~Saturday Sips: The Place Where They Burrier Your Heart by Christina Henry

Weekly Menu #633 And The Book Of The Week~ARC Review: Within the Space of a Second by Elise Helliwell~Book Review: A Promised Land by Barak Obama~ARC Review: Fallen City by Adrienne Young~Book Review: Never Flinch by Steven King~Sunday Confessions #331




★★★☆☆
Sadly, this one fell victim to the classic second book slump. After such a strong start to the series, I had high hopes, but The Rebel and the Rose just didn’t deliver the same spark. The pacing dragged, the emotional stakes felt lower, and the magic that made the first book so captivating seemed to fade. It wasn’t terrible, but it definitely left me wanting more.








359/100 2025 Reading Challenge~121/214 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~19/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

And that wraps up this week’s Sunday Confessions. Whether it’s loving a book everyone else hated, or struggling through one I wanted to adore, it’s all part of the reading journey. Every story, good, bad, or somewhere in between, teaches me something new about what I love most as a reader. Until next Sunday, may your TBRs be kind and your next read be worth confessing about.

Saturday Sips: The Place Where They Burrier Your Heart by Christina Henry

 

Title: The Place Where They Buried Your Heart.

By: Christina Henry

Genre: Horror

Pages: 320

Release Date: November 4th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:A woman must confront the evil that has been terrorizing her street since she was a child in this gripping haunted house novel, perfect for fans of The Last House on Needless Street and Tell Me I'm Worthless.On an otherwise ordinary street in Chicago, there is a house. An abandoned house where, once upon a time, terrible things happened. The children who live on this block are told by their parents to stay away from that house. But of course, children don't listen. Children think it's fun to be scared, to dare each other to go inside.Jessie Campanelli did what many older sisters do and dared her little brother Paul. But unlike all the other kids who went inside that abandoned house, Paul didn't return. His two friends, Jake and Richie, said that the house ate Paul. Of course adults didn't believe that. Adults never believe what kids say. They thought someone kidnapped Paul, or otherwise hurt him. They thought Paul had disappeared in a way that was ordinary, explainable.The disappearance of her little brother broke Jessie's family apart in ways that would never be repaired. Jessie grew up, had a child of her own, kept living on the same street where the house that ate her brother sat, crouched and waiting. And darkness seemed to spread out from that house, a darkness that was alive—alive and hungry.

 

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Review:This was an absolute rollercoaster! Dark, twisted, and utterly gripping. I loved every terrifying second. Super creepy and haunting in all the best ways. Highly recommend if you’re ready for a wild, chilling ride.

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

ARC Review: The Swimmer of Auschwitz by Renaud Leblond

 

Title: The Swimmer of Auschwitz

By: Renaud Leblond

Genre: Historical Non-Fiction

Pages: 275

Release Date: August 14th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:Alfred Nakache, a Jewish child from Constantine, never imagined that he would one day swim for France at the Olympic Games in Berlin in 1936, nor than he would achieve a world record, as he did in 1941. As a child he was petrified of the water and yet, somehow, through sheer willpower and determination, he rose to become one of the very best swimmers in the world. That was until 1943, when he was banned from the pool - and in the same year, deported and sent to Auschwitz.
Not knowing if he would ever see his wife and daughter again, Alfred battled on, through the humiliation and the pain, even defying the guards by swimming in the water reserves of Auschwitz. Somehow - miraculously - he survived, swimming every day until the end of his life.
The Swimmer of Auschwitz is the unique, true story of a forgotten hero, told with remarkable power and simplicity.

 

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Review:The Swimmer of Auschwitz tells the remarkable true story of an Olympic hero who uses his skill and determination to survive one of history’s darkest chapters. It’s a deeply human story of endurance, faith, and the will to live against impossible odds. While I found the history fascinating and the subject inspiring, the narrative itself felt like it was missing a little emotional depth or connection that would have made it truly unforgettable. Still, it’s a compelling and important read, one that sheds light on courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable horror.

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

Book Review: King's Cage by Victoria Aveyard

Title: King's Cage

By: Victoria Aveyard

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 700

Release Date: February 7th, 2017

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:In this breathless third installment to Victoria Aveyard’s #1 New York Times bestselling Red Queen series, rebellion is rising and allegiances will be tested on every side.
Mare Barrow is a prisoner, powerless without her lightning, tormented by her lethal mistakes. She lives at the mercy of a boy she once loved, a boy made of lies and betrayal. Now a king, Maven Calore continues weaving his dead mother's web in an attempt to maintain control over his country—and his prisoner.
As Mare bears the weight of Silent Stone in the palace, her once-ragtag band of newbloods and Reds continue organizing, training, and expanding. They prepare for war, no longer able to linger in the shadows. And Cal, the exiled prince with his own claim on Mare's heart, will stop at nothing to bring her back.
When blood turns on blood, and ability on ability, there may be no one left to put out the fire—leaving Norta as Mare knows it to burn all the way down.

 

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Review:This was a solid addition to the series. The story continued to expand the world and deepen the characters, keeping me invested in the conflicts and twists. While not perfect, it delivered enough intrigue and drama to make it an enjoyable read.

Book Review: Unflappable: Soaring Beyond a Diagnosis by Jonathan A. Hutton

 

Title: Unflappable: Soaring Beyond a Diagnosis

By: Jonathan A. Hutton

Genre: Non-Fiction

Pages: 202

Release Date: September 30th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:A journey through rare disease, a dream of flying, and the gratitude found in acceptance.
When Jonathan first threw his parachute—in that instant—the rushing air was still, the falling stopped, and a dream of flying began to take soaring, free from the burdens he carried, held in the sky by a fabric wing. But a cancer diagnosis began a cascade—surgeries, treatments, recurrences, and life-altering side effects. Learning to fly felt impossible.
Told with candor, vivid detail, and flashes of humor, Unflappable: Soaring Beyond a Diagnosis is more than a story of rare disease, it’s about learning from hardship, finding community, and discovering healing, even when cures are out of reach. Jonathan shares how he learned to accept a body forever changed, let go of old identities, and move through turbulent moments in life with grace and resilience.
For anyone touched by disease or disability, those who fly or dream, for medical practitioners seeking greater understanding, Unflappable offers an honest and compelling look at what it means to live fully in the face of uncertainty.

 

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Review:I loved this story, it held my attention from start to finish with its engaging narrative and unique perspective. Jonathan A. Hutton does a great job of weaving together humor, resilience, and everyday challenges in a way that feels both relatable and inspiring. While I wish there had been a bit more emotional depth in certain moments to fully connect with the journey, the book still left a lasting impression. Overall, it’s a compelling and uplifting read that I would recommend to anyone looking for a story about perseverance and courage.

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

Sunday Confessions #327

 

Welcome back to Sunday Confessions, where I spill a few truths from my week, bookish or otherwise. Sometimes it’s a reading slump, sometimes it’s a new obsession, and sometimes it’s just the chaos of trying to balance it all. This week’s confessions are a mix of cozy reflections and honest admissions, because Sundays are the perfect time to unwind, reset, and share what’s really been on my mind.

Sunday Confessions #326~Weekly Menu #629 And The Book Of The Week~ARC Review: Bling Date with a Vampire by Patricia Briggs~Book Review: A Cures Carved in Bone by Danielle L. Jensen~Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 21~4 Star Friday

Weekly Menu #630 And The Book Of The Week~ARC Review: Revolve by Bal Khabra~Book Review: The Glass Sword by Victoria Aveyard~Memoir Review: Home Work by Julie Andrews Edwards~4 Star Friday~Sunday Confessions #328




★★★☆☆

Tilt by Emma Pattee was a book I picked up because it’s set in a city I used to live in, and I was curious to see how the place I knew would come alive on the page. While it started off fine, I quickly found the main character to be rather bland, which made it hard to stay invested. There were also several intriguing side plots that never seemed to fully develop, leaving me wishing for more depth and resolution. By the end, the story came to an abrupt stop, which left me feeling more disappointed than satisfied. Overall, this one was just okay for me. An average read that didn’t quite deliver on its potential.

332/100 2025 Reading Challenge~118/214 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~19/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

And that wraps up this week’s Sunday Confessions. As always, thank you for stopping by and sharing a little slice of Sunday with me. Whether you’re spending the rest of the day reading, relaxing, or just catching your breath before the new week begins, I hope it’s exactly what you need. Until next time. May your coffee be strong, your books be good, and your confessions be cathartic.

4 Star Friday

 

It’s time for another 4 Star Friday! This week’s picks were all solid, satisfying reads that struck that sweet spot between good and great. Each story had something special. Whether it was clever writing, memorable characters, or a plot that kept me turning the pages late into the night. These are the books that didn’t quite hit perfection, but absolutely earned their place in my favorites list for the week.

Jane and Dan at the End of the WorldColleen Oakley
Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley was a fun, unique read with a great premise. I really enjoyed the quirky dynamic between Jane and Dan and the way their story unfolded against such high stakes circumstances. That said, the pacing felt a little slow at times, which kept it from being a full five star read for me. Still, it’s an engaging and entertaining story that blends heart, humor, and the question of what really matters when the world is falling apart.
The Black Bird OracleDeborah Harkness

I went into this one a little hesitant after the disappointment of the last book, but I’m glad I gave it a chance. The Black Bird Oracle pulled me right back into Harkness’s world with strong writing, a rich sense of atmosphere, and characters that felt alive again. While not without its slower moments, the story carried an energy and depth that reminded me why I loved this series in the first place. A definite step up from its predecessor and a solid 4 star read.

Dating After the End of the WorldJeneva Rose

Dating After the End of the World by Jeneva Rose was pure fun from start to finish. It’s not the kind of story I usually expect from her, but she brings the same effortless storytelling style that makes all her books so enjoyable. Lighthearted, clever, and engaging, this book was an easy read that kept me smiling. While it may not be groundbreaking, it’s exactly the kind of comfort read you want when you just need something entertaining and gritty.

We Shall Be MonstersAlyssa Wees

We Shall Be Monsters by Alyssa Wees is a book that demands your full attention. Dark, layered, and haunting, it’s the kind of story that pulls you into its depths but can be challenging to follow at times. Still, the payoff is worth it. Wees crafts a world so intricate and beautifully detailed that it lingers long after the last page. It’s a heavy, atmospheric read, but one that rewards readers willing to dive in fully.

The Bluest EyeToni Morrison

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison is a classic for a reason. Morrison’s writing is powerful and poetic, weaving together themes of beauty, identity, and trauma in a way that lingers long after you’ve closed the book. While it’s not always an easy read, it’s an essential one, challenging, heartbreaking, and beautifully told.

Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 21

 

Welcome back to my Reading Through the Star Wars Universe series part 21! It’s been quite the intergalactic journey so far, full of Jedi wisdom, Sith scheming, and everything in between. Each book continues to expand the galaxy in ways I never expected, adding new layers to characters I thought I already knew. This week’s reads brought a mix of nostalgia, adventure, and a few surprises that reminded me why I love exploring this universe one story at a time.

AftermathChuck Wendig
★★★☆☆
Aftermath by Chuck Wendig wasn’t my favorite Star Wars read, but it still had its bright spots. The pacing and style didn’t fully click for me, yet I really enjoyed seeing some of the old, familiar characters return. A mixed experience overall, but worth it for the nostalgia factor.
Rogue One: A Star Wars StoryAlexander Freed

★★★★★
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story by Alexander Freed is a stellar novelization that truly captures the heart of the film while adding even more depth to the characters and story. Freed takes the familiar plot and enriches it with powerful inner monologues, emotional nuance, and a sense of grit that makes the stakes feel even higher. I loved how the book gave us greater insight into Jyn, Cassian, and the rest of the crew, making their sacrifices hit that much harder. A fantastic portrayal of the movie and an absolute must read for any Star Wars fan.
Shadow FallAlexander Freed

★★★★☆
Shadow Fall by Alexander Freed is another solid entry in the Alphabet Squadron series, and I have to say this author is really starting to grow on me. His command of Star Wars lore shines through on every page, weaving together space battles, political tension, and character driven drama in a way that feels both authentic and fresh. The pacing can be a little dense at times, but the payoff is worth it, especially with the depth he gives to the characters and the moral gray areas they navigate. A strong 4 star read that proves Freed knows exactly how to expand the galaxy we all love.
Crimson ClimbE.K. Johnston

★★★★★
Crimson Climb by E.K. Johnston is a standout Star Wars novel and a reminder of why Johnston is one of my favorite authors in the galaxy far, far away. She breathes life into a mostly forgotten character from Han Solo’s early days, giving depth, voice, and agency to someone who deserved the spotlight. The writing is sharp, the pacing smooth, and the emotional beats hit perfectly. I absolutely loved it. An easy 5 stars and a must read for any Star Wars fan.
Star Wars: Luke Skywalker and the Shadows of MindorMatthew Woodring Stover

★★★★☆
Another great read in the Star Wars universe, this book delivers a fast paced adventure that captures the spirit of the original trilogy while exploring Luke’s struggles with leadership, responsibility, and the lingering shadows of the Empire. Stover balances action, humor, and character depth in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. While a few parts get a bit heavy on detail, the overall story is exciting, cinematic, and a solid addition to the expanded universe.

Book Review: A Cures Carved in Bone by Danielle L. Jensen

 

Title: A Curse Carved in Bone

By: Danielle L. Jensen

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 403

Release Date: May 13th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:A shield maiden fights to break the shackles of prophecy—and to overcome the betrayal of the man who broke her heart—in this searing conclusion to the Norse-inspired fantasy romance duology that began with the bestselling A Fate Inked in Blood.
The secret of her divine heritage revealed, Freya finds herself on a path that will see thousands of lives lost to the magic in her blood. Desperate to avoid this dark fate, she risks an alliance with Skaland’s greatest enemy to seek answers from the seer who foretold her future—the same seer who sent Bjorn to kill her.
While Freya still seethes with rage over Bjorn’s betrayal, the blood oaths that bind her demand that she keep him close as she hunts for a way to avert the looming war. Her magic draws her to the front lines of an old enmity, embroiling her with Nordeland’s Unfated—children of the gods who serve the king she was raised to fear. The same king who, unlike Bjorn, is now willing to fight at her back. For despite the desire that burns hot between Bjorn and Freya, his growing distrust of her chosen path threatens to drag them further apart.
As war approaches, gods and mortals must choose their weapons. Yet the fiercest battle will be the one Freya wages within herself. With the magic of two goddesses burning in her veins, she must weave the threads of destiny to decide her own fate: Will she be the shield that protects her people or the curse that destroys them?

 

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Review:

A Curse Carved in Bone by Danielle L. Jensen was a solid follow up, though I didn’t love it quite as much as the first book. The story still carried Jensen’s trademark mix of romance, tension, and high stakes, and I enjoyed being back in this world. While it didn’t grip me quite as tightly as its predecessor, it was still a great read that kept me turning pages and left me excited to see where the series will go next.

ARC Review: Bling Date with a Vampire by Patricia Briggs

 

Title: Blind Date with a Werewolf

By: Patricia Briggs

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 288

Release Date: October 21st, 2025

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:When the deadly werewolf Asil is gifted five blind dates by some anonymous “friends,” his reclusive life will never be the same, in this enthralling novel in stories from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Mercy Thompson series.

Includes two all-new stories as well as three previously published stories.
Dear Asil:
We are worried about you. A werewolf alone is a sad thing, especially at Christmastime. So we have a challenge for you: five dates in three weeks. We have taken the work out of it and connected you with five people from online dating sites. You should also know that we have informed the whole pack and instigated a betting pool. Have fun!
Sincerely,Your Concerned Friends

 

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Review:This was a fun and engaging collection of short stories set in the Mercy Thompson world. Each tale added a little extra magic and depth to the universe, with the familiar mix of humor, danger, and heart that makes Briggs’ writing so enjoyable. While not every story stood out equally, the overall collection was a treat for fans of the series and a great way to revisit some beloved characters in bite sized adventures.

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