Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 44
July 7, 2024
Sunday Confessions #257
Hello Sunday! What a wonderful week. Took some time off work to rest and feel better after a long battle with my autoimmune disorder. Most the time it lays dormant, but when it decides to show its ugly head, it really takes me out. Feeling better now, but still healing.
Lets recap the week.
Sunday Confessions #256~Weekly Menu #563 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter~June 2024 Wrap Up~Book Review: The Prison Healer by Lynette Noni
Weekly Menu #564 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: Romancing Mr. Bridgerton by Julia Quinn~Annie Bot by Sierra Greer~Sunday Confessions #258
81/100 2024 Reading Challenge~73/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~70/341 Gilmore Girls challenge~96/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge
Another wonderful week. Happy reading, friends.
July 5, 2024
Book Review: The Prison Healer by Lynette Noni
My book review of The Prison Healer by Lynette Noni. An exhilarating and enchanting start to a new fantasy series that captivates readers from the first page to the last.
Title: The Prison Healer
By: Lynette Noni
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 416
Release Date: April 13th, 2021
Publisher: Clarion Books
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:Seventeen-year-old Kiva Meridan has spent the last ten years fighting for survival in the notorious death prison, Zalindov, working as the prison healer.
When the Rebel Queen is captured, Kiva is charged with keeping the terminally ill woman alive long enough for her to undergo the Trial by Ordeal: a series of elemental challenges against the torments of air, fire, water, and earth, assigned to only the most dangerous of criminals.
Then a coded message from Kiva’s family arrives, containing a single order: “Don’t let her die. We are coming.” Aware that the Trials will kill the sickly queen, Kiva risks her own life to volunteer in her place. If she succeeds, both she and the queen will be granted their freedom.
But no one has ever survived.
With an incurable plague sweeping Zalindov, a mysterious new inmate fighting for Kiva’s heart, and a prison rebellion brewing, Kiva can’t escape the terrible feeling that her trials have only just begun.
The story follows Kiva Meridan, a young healer who has spent the past ten years of her life within the brutal confines of Zalindov. Kiva's character is richly developed, embodying strength, compassion, and a determination that is both inspiring and heart-wrenching. Her journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with her past, her identity, and the dire circumstances that surround her.
Noni’s world-building is nothing short of spectacular. The detailed descriptions of Zalindov create an oppressive and dark atmosphere, yet there is an underlying current of magic and mystery that keeps the reader engaged. The prison itself becomes a character in the story, its grim walls holding secrets that slowly unravel as the plot progresses.
The narrative is infused with suspense and unexpected twists that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. One of the most gripping aspects of the story is Kiva's involvement in the Trial by Ordeal, a series of deadly challenges she must endure to save the life of the mysterious Rebel Queen. These trials are vividly depicted, each more harrowing than the last, showcasing Noni’s ability to blend action with emotional depth.
The supporting characters add layers of complexity and richness to the story. From Jaren, the enigmatic and charming new prisoner, to Tipp, the young boy whose innocence brings light to the darkest corners of Zalindov, each character is thoughtfully crafted and adds to the emotional tapestry of the novel. Their relationships with Kiva are authentic and compelling, enhancing the reader's connection to the story.
Noni’s prose is elegant and immersive, making The Prison Healer a joy to read. She balances the darker themes of the story with moments of hope, friendship, and even romance, creating a well-rounded narrative that appeals to a wide range of readers. The themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the search for justice resonate throughout the novel, giving it a profound emotional impact.
In conclusion, The Prison Healer is a stunning achievement in the fantasy genre. Lynette Noni has delivered a story that is both thrilling and deeply moving, with a heroine who is impossible not to root for. The novel sets the stage for an epic series that promises even more adventure, mystery, and magic. It’s a must-read for fans of fantasy, and a testament to Noni’s skill as a storyteller. This book is an unforgettable journey that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.
July 4, 2024
June 2024 Wrap Up
Can you believe its July, and the 4th already? My husband purchased way too many fire works, but the kids are excited to lite them off tonight.
Lets get to the June recap.
Romancing Mister Bridgerton: Penelope & Colin's StoryJulia QuinnPenelope Featherington has secretly adored her best friend’s brother for . . . well, it feels like forever. After half a lifetime of watching Colin Bridgerton from afar, she thinks she knows everything about him, until she stumbles across his deepest secret . . . and fears she doesn’t know him at all.
Colin Bridgerton is tired of being thought of as nothing but an empty-headed charmer, tired of the notorious gossip columnist Lady Whistledown, who can’t seem to publish an edition without mentioning him. But when Colin returns to London from a trip abroad, he discovers nothing in his life is quite the same—especially Penelope Featherington! The girl who was always simply there is suddenly the girl haunting his dreams. When he discovers that Penelope has secrets of her own, this elusive bachelor must decide . . . is she his biggest threat— or his promise of a happy ending?
The Prison HealerLynette NoniSeventeen-year-old Kiva Meridan has spent the last ten years fighting for survival in the notorious death prison, Zalindov, working as the prison healer.
When the Rebel Queen is captured, Kiva is charged with keeping the terminally ill woman alive long enough for her to undergo the Trial by Ordeal: a series of elemental challenges against the torments of air, fire, water, and earth, assigned to only the most dangerous of criminals.
Then a coded message from Kiva’s family arrives, containing a single order: “Don’t let her die. We are coming.” Aware that the Trials will kill the sickly queen, Kiva risks her own life to volunteer in her place. If she succeeds, both she and the queen will be granted their freedom.
But no one has ever survived.
With an incurable plague sweeping Zalindov, a mysterious new inmate fighting for Kiva’s heart, and a prison rebellion brewing, Kiva can’t escape the terrible feeling that her trials have only just begun.
81/100 2024 Reading Challenge~73/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~70/341 Gilmore Girls challenge~96/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge
13 books in June. I'm hoping for at least another 13 in July, but I'm having a slow start. You would think I would be reading more on Vacation, but that is not the case.
July 3, 2024
Book Review: We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter
My book review of We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter. A breathtaking and heart-wrenching novel that captures the indomitable spirit of the human soul amidst the horrors of World War II.
Title: We Were the Lucky Ones
By: Georgia Hunter
Genre: Historical
Pages: 403
Release Date: February 14th, 2017
Publisher: Viking
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:It is the spring of 1939 and three generations of the Kurc family are doing their best to live normal lives, even as the shadow of war grows closer. The talk around the family Seder table is of new babies and budding romance, not of the increasing hardships threatening Jews in their hometown of Radom, Poland. But soon the horrors overtaking Europe will become inescapable and the Kurcs will be flung to the far corners of the world, each desperately trying to navigate his or her own path to safety.
As one sibling is forced into exile, another attempts to flee the continent, while others struggle to escape certain death, either by working grueling hours on empty stomachs in the factories of the ghetto or by hiding as gentiles in plain sight. Driven by an unwavering will to survive and by the fear that they may never see one another again, the Kurcs must rely on hope, ingenuity, and inner strength to persevere.
An extraordinary, propulsive novel, We Were the Lucky Ones demonstrates how in the face of the twentieth century’s darkest moment, the human spirit can endure and even thrive.
From the very first page, Hunter’s eloquent prose immerses you in the lives of the Kurc family members, whose lives are upended by the Nazi invasion of Poland. Each chapter shifts perspective, giving a multifaceted view of the family's experiences as they are scattered across continents, enduring unimaginable trials and tribulations. This narrative style is both powerful and intimate, allowing readers to deeply connect with each family member's unique journey.
What makes We Were the Lucky Ones truly exceptional is its meticulous historical accuracy combined with the emotional depth of its characters. Hunter’s extensive research shines through, painting a vivid picture of the era’s political and social landscape. The authenticity of the setting and events grounds the story in reality, making the Kurc family’s courage and determination all the more inspiring.
The characters are wonderfully developed, each exhibiting a strength and resilience that is both awe-inspiring and humbling. From Addy’s escape to Brazil and Genek’s harrowing experiences in a Siberian labor camp to Mila’s fight for survival in the ghettos, every storyline is compelling and heart-rending. The Kurc family’s unwavering faith and commitment to one another serve as a poignant reminder of the power of love and hope, even in the darkest times.
Hunter’s narrative skillfully balances the portrayal of the atrocities of war with moments of profound humanity and tenderness. The story is not just one of survival but also of enduring love, familial bonds, and the small acts of kindness that sustain us. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a tribute to the strength of the family unit.
In conclusion, We Were the Lucky Ones is a monumental achievement in historical fiction. Georgia Hunter has created a deeply moving and beautifully written tribute to her ancestors, and to all those who suffered and survived during one of history’s darkest periods. This novel is an essential read for anyone who appreciates powerful storytelling, historical accuracy, and the triumph of the human spirit. It's a book that stays with you long after you've turned the last page, a true testament to the enduring power of hope and love.
July 1, 2024
Weekly Menu #563 And The Book Of The Week
Hello Monday! Welcome back to my weekly menu where I share the delicious recipes we will be making this week.I can't believe its July already and the weather in the PNW is still cold and rainy. I've hear most the rest of the country is having a heatwave. Not that I want to be all sweaty all the time, but maybe we can share a little and everyone can have a nice mellow warm summer.
This weeks read is The Woman by Kristin Hannah. I've really enjoyed all the other books by this author I've read and I've heard a lot of good things about this one. Can't wait to see what it has in store for me.
Lets get to this weeks menu. Enjoy!WEEKLY MENU
Monday
Kids - Chicken Salad
Tuesday
Kids - Ramen
Wednesday
Kids - Cheese Quesadillas
Thursday
Kids - Alphabet Noodles
Friday
Kids - Pizza
Saturday
Kids - Mac and Cheese
Sunday
Leftovers Night
June 30, 2024
Sunday Confessions #256
Hello Sunday! Welcome back to the weekly recap of the blog.
Sunday Confessions #255~Weekly Menu #562 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: Bride by Ali Hazelwood~Book Review: Breaking the Dark by Lisa Jewell
Weekly Menu #563 And The Book Of The Week~June 2024 Wrap Up~Book Review: We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter~Book Review: The Prison Healer by Lynette Noni~Sunday Confessions #257
79/100 2024 Reading Challenge~73/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~70/341 Gilmore Girls challenge~96/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge
Making great headway on my reading challenges. Almost finished with my yearly goal of 100 books, and my 100 books before you die challenge is nearly complete. Found the last few audio books on YouTube. Happy reading/Listening my friends.
June 28, 2024
Book Review: Breaking the Dark by Lisa Jewell
My book review of Breaking the Dark by Lisa Jewell.
Title: Breaking the Dark
By: Lisa Jewell
Genre: Action/Thriller/Mystery
Pages: 384
Release Date: July 2nd, 2024
Publisher: Hyperion Avenue
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:In her most imaginative novel yet, #1 New York Times bestselling author Lisa Jewell (None of This Is True) launches the Marvel Crime series of thriller books for adults with an original story starring the private detective Jessica Jones.
Meet Jessica Jones: Retired super hero, private investigator, loner. She tried her best to be a shiny spandex crimefighter, but that life only led to unspeakable trauma. Now she avoids that world altogether and works on surviving day-to-day in Hell’s Kitchen, New York.
The morning a distraught mother comes into her office, Jessica would prefer to nurse her hangover and try to forget last night’s poor choices. But something about Amber Randall’s story strikes a chord with her. Amber is adamant that something happened to her teenage twins while they were visiting their father in the UK. The twins don’t act like themselves, and they now have flawless skin, have lost their distinctive tics and habits, and keep talking about a girl named Belle. Amber insists her children have been replaced by something horrible, something “perfect.”
Traveling to a small village in the British countryside, Jessica meets the mysterious Belle, who lives a curiously isolated life in an old farmhouse with a strange woman who claims to be her guardian. Can this unworldly teenager really be responsible for the Randall twins’ new personas? Why does the strange little village of Barton Wallop seem to harbor dark energies and mysteries in its tight-knit community?
A mother’s intuition is never wrong. And Jessica knows that nothing in life is perfect—not these kids, not her on-again, off-again relationship with Luke Cage, and certainly not Jessica herself. But even as she tries to buy into the idea that better days are ahead, Jessica Jones has seen all too clearly that behind every promise of perfection trails a dark, dangerous shadow.
Breaking the Dark, the first book in the brand-new Marvel Crime series, introduces fans to a grittier, street-level side of the Marvel Universe, and will continue with original novels featuring fan-favorite characters like Luke Cage, written by S.A. Cosby, and Daredevil, written by Alex Segura.
Breaking the Dark is a mind-bending journey into the Marvel Universe, starring none other than Jessica Jones. The story is laced with Jewell's signature suspense and complex character development, but with a twist of superhuman elements. From the moment you dive in, it's clear that conventional logic need not apply. The narrative is infused with the uncanny, making it impossible to predict what's coming next.
Jessica Jones, a character I was only vaguely familiar with, stands out as a deeply flawed yet relatable protagonist. Her struggles with her past and her mental health add depth to her superhuman persona, reminding us that even heroes are not invincible. Jewell intersperses hints of Jessica’s backstory throughout the novel, which enhances the reading experience without overwhelming those new to the character.
Lisa Jewell's writing in Breaking the Dark is as sharp and engaging as ever. She deftly balances the gritty reality of crime fiction with the fantastical elements of the Marvel Universe. The story’s pacing is brisk, and the suspense is palpable, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Jewell’s ability to craft a narrative that feels both familiar and wildly unpredictable is a testament to her versatility as a writer.
This book is a reminder that even superheroes need to prioritize their mental health. A solid 4-star read, Breaking the Dark is a thrilling addition to the Marvel Universe that leaves readers eager for more.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
June 26, 2024
Book Review: Bride by Ali Hazelwood
My book review of Bride by Ali Hazelwood. A Paranormal Romance with Bite and Heart.
Title: Bride
By: Ali Hazelwood
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 410
Release Date: February 6th, 2024
Publisher: Berkley
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:A dangerous alliance between a Vampyre bride and an Alpha Werewolf becomes a love deep enough to sink your teeth into in this new paranormal romance.
Misery Lark, the only daughter of the most powerful Vampyre councilman of the Southwest, is an outcast—again. Her days of living in anonymity among the Humans are over: she has been called upon to uphold a historic peacekeeping alliance between the Vampyres and their mortal enemies, the Weres, and she sees little choice but to surrender herself in the exchange—again...
Weres are ruthless and unpredictable, and their Alpha, Lowe Moreland, is no exception. He rules his pack with absolute authority, but not without justice. And, unlike the Vampyre Council, not without feeling. It’s clear from the way he tracks Misery’s every movement that he doesn’t trust her. If only he knew how right he was….
Because Misery has her own reasons to agree to this marriage of convenience, reasons that have nothing to do with politics or alliances, and everything to do with the only thing she's ever cared about. And she is willing to do whatever it takes to get back what’s hers, even if it means a life alone in Were territory…alone with the wolf.
Enter Lowe Moreland, the ruthless and unpredictable Alpha of the Were pack. He rules with absolute authority but not without justice and empathy. Lowe’s mistrust of Misery is palpable, as he scrutinizes her every move. Little does he know, Misery’s agreement to this marriage of convenience hides personal reasons, driven by her deepest desires and the pursuit of something precious she has lost.
Bride by Ali Hazelwood is a thrilling and romantic journey into a world where Vampyres and Weres navigate complex political alliances and forbidden love. With its engaging characters, sharp humor, and heartfelt moments, this novel is a must-read for fans of paranormal romance. Hazelwood’s unique voice and storytelling prowess shine through, making Bride a standout addition to the genre. A solid 4-star read, this book promises a love story deep enough to sink your teeth into.
June 24, 2024
Weekly Menu #562 And The Book Of The Week
Hello Monday! Welcome back to my weekly menu where I share all the delicious recipes we will be making this week.First full week of summer break is down and I have to tell you, its been chaos around here. The kids are figuring out their new schedules. Although, sleeping is a bit off we are doing pretty good so far.
This weeks read is All the Lovely Bad Ones by Mary Downing Hahn. I've been craving a paranormal read lately and this one looked pretty intriguing. We shall see.
Lets get to this weeks menu. Enjoy!WEEKLY MENU
Monday
Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joe's
Kids - English Muffin Pizza
Tuesday
Grilled Chimichurri Steak Bowls
Kids - Mac and Cheese
Wednesday
Kids - Chips and Cheese
Thursday
Crispy Chicken Rice and Bean Burritos
Kids - Cheese Quesadillas
Friday
Kids - Chicken and Rice
Saturday
Kids - Ramen
Sunday
Family Dinner
June 23, 2024
Sunday Confessions #255
Hello Sunday. Welcome back to my weekly recap of the blog. Glad to have you here. Lets get to it.
Sunday Confessions #254~Weekly Menu #561 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: The Sunflower House by Adriana Allegri~Book Review: An Offer From A Gentleman by Julia Quinn
Weekly Menu #562 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: Bride by Ali Hazelwood~Book Review: Breaking the Dark by Lisa Jewell~Sunday Confessions #256
76/100 2024 Reading Challenge~72/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~70/341 Gilmore Girls challenge~96/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge
Another wonderful week. Happy reading!
