Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 37
October 15, 2024
Book Review: The Night Bazaar London by Lenore Hart
My book review of The Night Bazaar London by Lenore Hart. A captivating collection of short stories that skillfully blends elements of magical realism with the intricacies of human emotion.
Title: The Night Bazaar London
By: Lenore Hart
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 360
Release Date: December 8th, 2023
Publisher: Northampton House Press
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:In volume three of this widely-praised dark fantasy anthology series, the Night Bazaar, a secret marketplace of the rare, strange, occult, and dangerous, journeys to 19th century London. There, as usual, its vendors will purvey curious services, forbidden wares, and rare objects which cannot be had elsewhere, for any price. The midnight market has operated throughout history in various locales, appearing in a city for one week only, never to return. This time the Bazaar’s proprietress, the enigmatic and unflappable Madame Vera, escorts the reader on an eerie, fantastical British tour in ten linked short stories by various authors. Some tales feature such recognizable luminaries as Sherlock Holmes, occultist Madam Blavatsky, and Queen Anne Boleyn. Several take place during the Bazaar proper, while others occur earlier or later, tied to its 1880 London appearance by a curse or spell – or, by an object found, inherited, purchased, or stolen during the decades since, by the unsuspecting, foolish, or greedy (though seldom the completely innocent). Together, these ten linked stories take readers on a fantastical journey into astonishment, dread, and dark delight. The Night Bazaar still holds everything you’ve read about but thought had passed away, or perhaps never existed at all. How wrong you were! But be as usual, each object or service comes with a gift, a curse, or a haunting. . . .
The characters in The Night Bazaar are beautifully drawn, each possessing their own struggles, desires, and unique backgrounds. Hart deftly explores themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, making each story resonate on a deeply emotional level. Some tales are filled with whimsy, while others delve into darker territory.
While most stories in the collection are compelling, a few feel slightly less impactful than the rest, occasionally leaving the reader wanting more depth or resolution. However, the collection as a whole offers a profound exploration of the human experience, making it a delightful read for those who appreciate the art of storytelling. The blend of magical elements with relatable themes creates a unique reading experience that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.
In summary, The Night Bazaar is a testament to Lenore Hart's talent for capturing the essence of life’s fleeting moments through enchanting narratives. Whether you’re a fan of magical realism or simply looking for beautifully crafted short stories, this collection is sure to captivate and inspire.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
October 14, 2024
Weekly Menu #578 And The Book Of The Week
Welcome back to this week’s menu! As the leaves start to change and the days get cozier, there’s no better time to indulge in comforting dishes that warm both the body and soul. This week, I've put together a selection of meals perfect for crisp autumn evenings. Whether you’re curled up with a good book or gathering around the table with family.This week, I’m diving into Knife of Dreams, the eleventh book in Robert Jordan’s epic Wheel of Time series. As the story nears its climactic conclusion, the stakes have never been higher. The world teeters on the brink of chaos, with old alliances tested and new threats emerging. Jordan’s masterful world-building and intricate character arcs continue to shine, drawing readers deeper into the intricate web of prophecy, power, and destiny. If you’ve followed the series this far, Knife of Dreams promises to be a thrilling and pivotal chapter you won’t want to miss.
Let’s dive into this week’s delicious lineup!
WEEKLY MENU
Monday
French Onion French Dip Sandwiches
Kids - Cheese Sandwiches
Tuesday
Kids - Chicken Soup
Wednesday
Kids - Mac and Cheese
Thursday
Kids - Cheese Quesadillas
Friday
Kids - Cheese Pizza
Saturday
Kids - Grilled Cheese and Bacon
Sunday
Family Dinner
October 13, 2024
Sunday Confessions #275
This week’s confessions post is all about the recent reads I’ve devoured and the upcoming new releases I can’t wait to get my hands on. With my TBR pile growing by the day, I’ve been diving into some incredible stories that have kept me turning pages late into the night. But as always, there are fresh releases on the horizon that have me itching to clear space for even more! From hidden gems to much-anticipated titles, I’m excited to share what’s been keeping me hooked and what I’m looking forward to next. Let’s dive into my latest bookish obsessions!
Sunday Confessions #274~
Weekly Menu #577 And The Book Of The Week~Triple Take Tuesday - Van Veen, Schreiber and Sudbanthad~
Book Review: The Blood Traitor by Lynette Noni~Three Things I loved about Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross~Book Review: Han Solo and the Lost Legacy by Brian Daley
Weekly Menu #578 And The Book Of The Week~
Book Review: The Night Bazaar London by Lenore Hart~Book Review: Fun for the Whole Family by Jennifer E. Smith~Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 14~Book Review: An Instruction in Shadow by Benedict Jacka
Books You Could Not Put Down
148/100 2024 Reading Challenge - Finished!~80/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~70/341 Gilmore Girls challenge~100/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge - Finished!
As I wrap up this week's confessions, I’m reminded of the ever-evolving journey of being a book lover. Whether it’s discovering new favorites, grappling with reading slumps, or simply navigating the vast world of literature, each experience adds to the joy of reading. I hope my confessions resonate with some of you and spark a conversation about our shared love for books. As always, I’m eager to hear your thoughts and confessions too—what recent reads have captivated you, and what new releases are you excited about? Let’s keep the bookish spirit alive and continue to support each other in our literary adventures!
October 11, 2024
Book Review: Han Solo and the Lost Legacy by Brian Daley
My book review of Han Solo and the Lost Legacy by Brian Daley.
Title: Han Solo and the Lost Legacy
By: Brian Daley
Genre: Scifi
Pages: 186
Release Date: January 1st, 1980
Publisher: Del Rey
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Summary from Goodreads:When Chewbacca and Han Solo decide to embark on a journey to locate a rumored treasure after being pursued by the most notorious hitman in the universe, their ship is ransacked, killer robots are on their trail, and they must elude dangerous assassins.
October 10, 2024
Three Things I loved about Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
There’s something magical about finishing a book and having certain moments linger in your mind long after the final page. Whether it's a character, a scene, or a piece of dialogue, those standout elements are what make a story truly memorable. In today’s post, I’m excited to share three things I absolutely loved about Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross. These are the moments that made me smile, broke my heart, and left a lasting impression. Let’s dive into what made this book an unforgettable experience!
Title: Divine Rivals
By: Rebecca Ross
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 357
Release Date: April 4th, 2023
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:When two young rival journalists find love through a magical connection, they must face the depths of hell, in a war among gods, to seal their fate forever.
After centuries of sleep, the gods are warring again. But eighteen-year-old Iris Winnow just wants to hold her family together. Her mother is suffering from addiction and her brother is missing from the front lines. Her best bet is to win the columnist promotion at the Oath Gazette.
To combat her worries, Iris writes letters to her brother and slips them beneath her wardrobe door, where they vanish―into the hands of Roman Kitt, her cold and handsome rival at the paper. When he anonymously writes Iris back, the two of them forge a connection that will follow Iris all the way to the front lines of battle: for her brother, the fate of mankind, and love.
Shadow and Bone meets Lore in this epic enemies-to-lovers fantasy novel filled with hope and heartbreak, and the unparalleled power of love.
October 9, 2024
Book Review: The Blood Traitor by Lynette Noni
My book review of The Blood Traitor by Lynette Noni. The third and final installment in the Prison Healer trilogy, offers a thrilling and emotional conclusion to an already captivating series.
Title: The Blood Traitor
By: Lynette Noni
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 464
Release Date: June 14th, 2022
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (Clarion Books)
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:She’d failed them. All of them. And now she was paying the price.
Kiva thought she knew what she wanted—revenge. But feelings change, people change... everything has changed.
After what happened at the palace, Kiva is desperate to know if her friends and family are safe, and whether those she wronged can ever forgive her. But with the kingdoms closer to the brink of war than they’ve ever been, and Kiva far away from the conflict, more is at stake than her own broken heart.
A fresh start will mean a perilous quest, forcing mortal enemies and uneasy allies together in a race against the clock to save not just Evalon, but all of Wenderall. With her loyalties now set, Kiva can no longer just survive—she must fight for what she believes in. For who she believes in. But with danger coming from every side, and the lives of everyone she loves at risk, does she have what it takes to stand, or will she fall?
Following Kiva Meridan’s journey, the story is packed with action, magic, and redemption, and will satisfy readers who have invested in these characters and their complex world.
Kiva is grappling with the consequences of her past choices and faces an even greater threat from the Valenia Empire. After the devastating betrayal in the previous book, The Gilded Cage, she must now navigate dangerous alliances and unexpected challenges to save both herself and those she cares about. The stakes are incredibly high, as Kiva battles both external enemies and her internal struggles with guilt and loyalty.
Kiva’s arc in this novel is deeply satisfying. She has always been a morally gray character, but in The Blood Traitor, her inner turmoil and journey toward forgiveness make her incredibly compelling. The exploration of family, loyalty, and the cost of redemption is handled beautifully.
Noni expertly balances fast-paced action with quieter, introspective moments. The battles and magic sequences are vivid and keep the tension high, while the emotional beats feel genuine and earned. The urgency in the plot never lets up, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish.
The supporting cast, particularly Jaren, Tipp, and Naari, really shine in this installment. Their individual stories are interwoven into the main plot, giving the narrative depth and texture. Jaren’s relationship with Kiva is a highlight, filled with emotional intensity and moments of tenderness.
While The Blood Traitor is a satisfying conclusion, there are a few pacing issues, especially in the middle, where the plot slows down slightly before picking up again. Some of the twists, while exciting, felt predictable, and there were moments where the resolution of certain conflicts felt too convenient. Additionally, a bit more exploration of the world-building could have added richness to the story.
Overall, The Blood Traitor is a gripping and heartwarming finale that fans of the Prison Healer series will undoubtedly enjoy. With its memorable characters, emotional depth, and well-executed action, it delivers on the promise of the series while leaving room for reflection on themes like forgiveness, identity, and the power of choice. Lynette Noni has created a world readers will be sad to leave, and this book serves as a fitting farewell.
October 8, 2024
Triple Take Tuesday - Van Veen, Schreiber and Sudbanthad
Welcome to this week’s Triple Take Tuesday, where I’ll be sharing three quick reviews of my latest reads! With so many books calling out from my ever-growing TBR pile, it’s always exciting to dive into new stories, and this week’s trio brought plenty to discuss. From unexpected twists to unforgettable characters, each book left its own impression, and I can’t wait to break them down for you. Let’s jump into these mini-reviews and see which ones might be your next great read!
My Darling Dreadful Thingby Johanna Van Veen ★★★★☆
My Darling Dreadful Thing by Johanna Van Veen is a hauntingly atmospheric gothic novel that masterfully blends romance and dark fantasy. The story follows a young woman, drawn into a world of secrets and danger, as she unravels the mysteries surrounding a cursed estate and the enigmatic man who resides within it. Van Veen’s lush, descriptive writing perfectly captures the eerie and melancholic tone of the novel, pulling readers deep into its shadowy setting. The characters are complex, and the slow-burn romance adds tension that builds throughout the story. While a few plot points felt predictable, the book’s moody ambiance and gripping storytelling kept me hooked until the very end.
Death Troopersby Joes Schreiber★★★★☆Death Troopers by Joe Schreiber is a gripping blend of horror and science fiction set in the Star Wars universe that delivers a fresh twist on the genre. The novel follows a group of characters trapped aboard a prison ship that becomes overrun by a terrifying zombie outbreak, forcing them to confront not only the undead but their own demons. Schreiber's writing is tense and atmospheric, immersing readers in a visceral experience filled with suspense and gore. The character development is solid, with complex motivations and relationships that heighten the emotional stakes. Although some readers may find the premise a bit outlandish for the Star Wars lore, the compelling action and chilling moments make it a thrilling read for fans of both horror and the franchise.
Bangkok Wakes To Rainby Pitchaya Sudbanthad★★★☆☆Bangkok Wakes to Rain by Pitchaya Sudbanthad is an ambitious, multi-layered novel that weaves together the lives of various characters across different time periods in the vibrant city of Bangkok. While the writing is rich and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the city's culture and complexity, the narrative can feel disjointed at times, making it challenging to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The nonlinear structure, while intriguing, sometimes detracts from the emotional impact, leaving readers longing for a more cohesive storyline. Despite its flaws, the book offers insightful reflections on life, love, and the passage of time, making it a worthwhile read for those who appreciate intricate storytelling.
October 7, 2024
Weekly Menu #577 And The Book Of The Week
Welcome back to another edition of this week’s menu! As the autumn chill sets in, I’ve been craving comforting meals that warm both the body and soul. This week, I’ve crafted a lineup of delicious dishes that pair perfectly with cozy evenings at home. Whether you’re looking for quick weekday dinners or something special for the weekend, I hope this week’s menu brings a bit of culinary inspiration to your table.This week, I’m diving into Powerless by Lauren Roberts, a gripping fantasy set in a world where the stakes are high, and survival is anything but guaranteed. The story unfolds in a brutal, Hunger Games-esque setting, where characters face intense trials that test their physical strength, wit, and resilience. Our fierce, yet vulnerable, protagonist is thrust into these trials, battling not just for her life, but against a destiny and power she never wanted. With heart-pounding action, emotional depth, and plenty of unexpected twists, Powerless is keeping me hooked as I eagerly follow each trial and its deadly consequences.
Lets get to this weeks menu. Enjoy!WEEKLY MENU
Monday
Mexico Night
Kids - Cheese Quesadillas
Tuesday
Kids - Chicken and Rice
Wednesday
Kids - Chicken and Potatoes
Thursday
Kids - Cheese Tacos
Friday
Kids - Mac and Cheese
Saturday
Kids - Grilled Cheese
Sunday
Leftovers Night
October 6, 2024
Sunday Confessions #274
Welcome to another edition of Sunday Confessions, where I share my reading experiences, my guilty pleasures in the literary world, and some confessions that may resonate with fellow book lovers. Whether it's an unexpected book crush or a genre I just can't resist, I’m laying it all out for you. So grab a cup of your favorite brew and let’s dive into this week’s confessions!
Sunday Confessions #273~Weekly Menu #576 And The Book Of The Week~
Book Review: A Reign of Rose by Kate Golden~Book Review: A Fate Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen~Three Things I Loved about The Orphan Collector by Ellen Marie Wiseman~
Book Review: When Among Crows by Veronica Roth~September 2024 Wrap Up
Weekly Menu #577 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: The Blood Traitor by Lynette Noni~Three Things I loved about Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross~Book Review: Han Solo and the Lost Legacy by Brian Daley~Sunday Confessions #275
Best Books to Read When the Snow is Falling
140/100 2024 Reading Challenge - Finished!~79/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~70/341 Gilmore Girls challenge~100/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge - Finished!
As I wrap up this week’s confessions, I hope you enjoyed this peek into my reading world and found some relatable moments along the way. Every confession is a reminder that we all have our quirks and guilty pleasures when it comes to books. I’d love to hear your own confessions, whether it’s a book you secretly love or a reading habit you can’t shake. Until next time, keep reading, stay curious, and embrace the little confessions that make our literary journeys unique!
October 5, 2024
September 2024 Wrap Up
As the September has come to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible stories I've had the pleasure of diving into. Last month was a journey through diverse genres and captivating narratives, each offering something unique and thought-provoking. From heartwarming tales to gripping adventures, I've read some fantastic books that I can’t wait to share with you. Join me as I recap the highlights of my reading month, featuring my favorite discoveries, memorable characters, and the themes that resonated most with me.
Ruthless Vows
Rebecca RossThe epic conclusion to the intensely romantic and beautifully written story that started in Divine Rivals.Two weeks have passed since Iris Winnow returned home bruised and heartbroken from the front, but the war is far from over. Roman is missing, and the city of Oath continues to dwell in a state of disbelief and ignorance. When Iris and Attie are given another chance to report on Dacre’s movements, they both take the opportunity and head westward once more despite the danger, knowing it’s only a matter of time before the conflict reaches a city that’s unprepared and fracturing beneath the chancellor’s reign.
Since waking below in Dacre’s realm, Roman cannot remember his past. But given the reassurance that his memories will return in time, Roman begins to write articles for Dacre, uncertain of his place in the greater scheme of the war. When a strange letter arrives by wardrobe door, Roman is first suspicious, then intrigued. As he strikes up a correspondence with his mysterious pen pal, Roman will soon have to make a decision: to stand with Dacre or betray the god who healed him. And as the days grow darker, inevitably drawing Roman and Iris closer together…the two of them will risk their very hearts and futures to change the tides of the war.
Fun for the Whole Family
Jennifer E. SmithA breathtaking, joy-filled novel about the people we love, the secrets we keep, and the enduring power of family, from the bestselling author of The Unsinkable Greta James.The four Endicott siblings—Gemma, Connor, Roddy, and Jude—were once inseparable, a bond created by the absence of their dazzling, mercurial mother, who would return for a few weeks each summer to whisk them off on sprawling road trips around the country.
Decades later, the unthinkable has the Endicotts haven’t spoken in years . . . until an out-of-the-blue text arrives from Jude, now a famous actress, summoning them to a small town in North Dakota. They’re each at a Gemma, who put her own ambitions aside to raise the others, now isn’t sure if she wants to be a mother herself; Connor, a celebrated novelist, is floundering after his recent divorce and suffering from an epic case of writer’s block; and Roddy, at the tail end of a professional soccer career, is dangerously close to losing his future husband for the chance at one last season.
Jude is the only Endicott who seems to have it all together—but appearances can be deceiving. As the weekend unfolds, and the siblings wrestle with their shared past and uncertain futures, they’ll discover that Jude has been keeping three secrets . . . each of which could change everything.
A captivating journey and an ode to forgiveness that takes readers across all fifty states, Fun for the Whole Family brims with heart and resonates long after the final page.
The Love of My Afterlife
Kirsty GreenwoodA recently deceased woman meets “the one” in the afterlife waiting room, scoring a second chance at life (and love!) if she can find him on Earth before ten days are up….If she wasn’t dead already, Delphie would be dying of embarrassment. Not only did she just die by choking on a microwaveable burger, she’s also now standing in her "sparkle and shine" nightie in front of the hottest man she’s ever seen. And he’s smiling at her.
As they start to chat, everything else becomes background noise. That is, until someone comes running through a door yelling something about a huge mistake and sends the dreamy stranger back down to Earth. And here Delphie was thinking her luck might be different in the afterlife.
When Delphie is offered a deal in which she can return to Earth and reconnect with the mysterious man, she jumps at the opportunity to find her possible soulmate and a fresh start. But to find him in a city of millions, Delphie is going to have to listen to her heart, learn to ask for help, and perhaps even see the magic in the life she’s leaving behind. . . .
140/100 2024 Reading Challenge - Finished!~79/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~70/341 Gilmore Girls challenge~100/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge - Finished!
As I close the chapter on this month's reading journey, I'm left with a sense of fulfillment and excitement for what lies ahead. Each book has added its own unique color to my literary palette, and I can't wait to see where my reading adventures will take me next. I’d love to hear about your favorite reads from this month—what stories captured your heart or sparked your imagination? Until next time, happy reading, and may your TBR pile grow with wonderful tales!
