Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 46
June 5, 2024
Book Review: The Book of Elsewhere by Keanu Reeves
My book review of The Book of Elsewhere by Keanu Reeves and China Miaville. This book is worth exploring for its artistic merit and the opportunity to see a different side of Keanu Reeves, but it may not be for everyone.
Title: The Book of Elsewhere
By: Keanu Reeves and China Mieville
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 352
Release Date: July 23rd, 2024
Publisher: Del Rey
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Summary from Goodreads:The legendary Keanu Reeves and inimitable writer China Miéville team up on this genre-bending epic of ancient powers, modern war, and an outcast who cannot die.
A mind-blowing epic from Keanu Reeves and China Miéville, unlike anything these two genre-bending pioneers have created before, inspired by the world of the BRZRKR comic books
She said, We needed a tool. So I asked the gods.
There have always been whispers. Legends. The warrior who cannot be killed. Who’s seen a thousand civilizations rise and fall. He has had many names: Unute, Child of Lightning, Death himself. These days, he’s known simply as “B.”
And he wants to be able to die.
In the present day, a U.S. black-ops group has promised him they can help with that. And all he needs to do is help them in return. But when an all-too-mortal soldier comes back to life, the impossible event ultimately points toward a force even more mysterious than B himself. One at least as strong. And one with a plan all its own.
In a collaboration that combines Miéville’s singular style and creativity with Reeves’s haunting and soul-stirring narrative, these two inimitable artists have created something utterly unique, sure to delight existing fans and to create scores of new ones.
What Works: Reeves' prose is often poetic, with a lyrical quality that draws readers into a dreamlike state. His musings on life and the human condition are thought-provoking, offering glimpses into the mind of an actor known for his depth and introspection. The book is beautifully designed, with compelling illustrations that complement the text and enhance the reading experience. Fans of Reeves will appreciate the intimate look into his thoughts and creative process.
What Falls Short: However, the book sometimes feels disjointed and abstract, making it difficult to follow. The lack of a clear narrative structure can leave readers feeling lost, as if they are wandering through a maze without a map. Some passages are overly cryptic, requiring multiple readings to grasp their full meaning, which might not appeal to those seeking a more straightforward storytelling approach.
Conclusion: Overall, The Book of Elsewhere is a mixed bag. It showcases Keanu Reeves' unique voice and creative vision, but its abstract nature and lack of coherence might not resonate with everyone. It's a book that will likely be appreciated by those who enjoy experimental literature and are willing to delve into its enigmatic depths. For others, it may be an interesting, albeit challenging, read.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
June 4, 2024
May Wrap Up 2024
June is here and the kids and I are counting down the days until the end of the school year. Its right around the corner, and we can't wait for the freedom.
Lets get to the monthly recap.
Home Is Where the Bodies AreJeneva Rose
From New York Times bestselling author of The Perfect Marriage and You Shouldn’t Have Come Here comes a chilling family thriller about the (sometimes literal) skeletons in the closet.
After their mother passes, three estranged siblings reunite to sort out her estate. Beth, the oldest, never left home. She stayed with her mom, caring for her until the very end. Nicole, the middle child, has been kept at arm’s length due to her ongoing battle with a serious drug addiction. Michael, the youngest, lives out of state and hasn’t been back to their small Wisconsin town since their father ran out on them seven years before.
While going through their parent’s belongings, the siblings stumble upon a collection of home videos and decide to revisit those happier memories. However, the nostalgia is cut short when one of the VHS tapes reveals a night back in 1999 that none of them have any recollection of. On screen, their father appears covered in blood. What follows is a dead body and a pact between their parents to get rid of it, before the video abruptly ends.
Beth, Nicole, and Michael must now decide whether to leave the past in the past or uncover the dark secret their mother took to her grave.
The Empowering ADHD Workbook for Women: Evidence-based techniques and actionable tools to improve executive function, relationships, self-esteem, and emotional regulationEstelle Rose
We Were the Lucky OnesGeorgia Hunter
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.
The FamiliarLeigh Bardugo
From the New York Times bestselling author of Ninth House, Hell Bent, and creator of the Grishaverse series comes a highly anticipated historical fantasy set during the Spanish Golden Age
In a shabby house, on a shabby street, in the new capital of Madrid, Luzia Cotado uses scraps of magic to get through her days of endless toil as a scullion. But when her scheming mistress discovers the lump of a servant cowering in the kitchen is actually hiding a talent for little miracles, she demands Luzia use those gifts to better the family's social position.
What begins as simple amusement for the bored nobility takes a perilous turn when Luzia garners the notice of Antonio Pérez, the disgraced secretary to Spain's king. Still reeling from the defeat of his armada, the king is desperate for any advantage in the war against England's heretic queen—and Pérez will stop at nothing to regain the king's favor.
Determined to seize this one chance to better her fortunes, Luzia plunges into a world of seers and alchemists, holy men and hucksters, where the line between magic, science, and fraud is never certain. But as her notoriety grows, so does the danger that her Jewish blood will doom her to the Inquisition's wrath. She will have to use every bit of her wit and will to survive—even if that means enlisting the help of Guillén Santangel, an embittered immortal familiar whose own secrets could prove deadly for them both.
Fourth WingRebecca Yarros
Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders...
Twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail was supposed to enter the Scribe Quadrant, living a quiet life among books and history. Now, the commanding general—also known as her tough-as-talons mother—has ordered Violet to join the hundreds of candidates striving to become the elite of Navarre: dragon riders.
But when you’re smaller than everyone else and your body is brittle, death is only a heartbeat away...because dragons don’t bond to “fragile” humans. They incinerate them.
With fewer dragons willing to bond than cadets, most would kill Violet to better their own chances of success. The rest would kill her just for being her mother’s daughter—like Xaden Riorson, the most powerful and ruthless wingleader in the Riders Quadrant.
She’ll need every edge her wits can give her just to see the next sunrise.
Yet, with every day that passes, the war outside grows more deadly, the kingdom's protective wards are failing, and the death toll continues to rise. Even worse, Violet begins to suspect leadership is hiding a terrible secret.
Friends, enemies, lovers. Everyone at Basgiath War College has an agenda—because once you enter, there are only two ways out: graduate or die.
An Offer From a GentlemanJulia Quinn
Sophie Beckett never dreamed she'd be able to sneak into Lady Bridgerton's famed masquerade ball—or that "Prince Charming" would be waiting there for her! Though the daughter of an earl, Sophie has been relegated to the role of servant by her disdainful stepmother. But now, spinning in the strong arms of the debonair and devastatingly handsome Benedict Bridgerton, she feels like royalty. Alas, she knows all enchantments must end when the clock strikes midnight.
Who was that extraordinary woman? Ever since that magical night, a radiant vision in silver has blinded Benedict to the attractions of any other—except, perhaps, this alluring and oddly familiar beauty dressed in housemaid's garb whom he feels compelled to rescue from a most disagreeable situation. He has sworn to find and wed his mystery miss, but this breathtaking maid makes him weak with wanting her. Yet, if he offers her his heart, will Benedict sacrifice his only chance for a fairy tale love?
68/100 2024 Reading Challenge~71/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~70/341 Gilmore Girls challenge~96/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge
It was a great month. 19 books off the shelf. Can't wait to see what June has to offer.
Happy reading, friends!
June 3, 2024
Weekly Menu #559 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.I managed to get some reading done, but not the book I had planned at the beginning of the week. There were just too many library books coming close to their due dates and they took priority. This week is the same thing. There are still 5 library books. 2 are down to their last week in my hands, so I will be working on those. The first will be Bride by Ali Hazelwood. I've heard so many great things about this book, so I'm excited to see what it has to offer.
Lets get to this weeks menu. Enjoy!WEEKLY MENU
Monday
Kids - Fruit and Crackers
Tuesday
Kids - Bacon Grilled Cheese
Wednesday
Kids - Alphabet Noodle Soup with Chicken
Thursday
Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs
Kids - Chicken and rice
Friday
Kids - Chicken Nugget and French Fry Bowls
Saturday
Kids - Cheese Quesadillas
Sunday
Leftovers Night
June 2, 2024
Sunday Confessions #252
Hello Sunday! When did June get here? This year is flying by, and so are these blog posts. Let recap the week.
Sunday Confessions #251~Weekly Menu #558 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare~Series Review: The 100 Series by Kass Morgan~Book Review: The Empowering ADHD workbook for Women by Estelle Rose
Weekly Menu #559 And The Book Of The Week~May Wrap Up 2024~Book Review: The Book of Elsewhere by Keanu Reeves~Book Review: The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo~Sunday Confessions #253
64/100 2024 Reading Challenge~71/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~70/341 Gilmore Girls challenge~96/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge
I don't know if I did any better this week with the amount of books I'm currently reading, but so far I haven't had to return any to the library before I finished them. Cross your fingers it stays that way. Picked up a few more...
Happy ready, friends!
May 31, 2024
Book Review: The Empowering ADHD workbook for Women by Estelle Rose
My book review of The Empowering ADHD Workbook for Women by Estelle Rose. A must-have for any woman seeking to better understand and manage her ADHD.
Title: The Empowering ADHD Workbook for Women
By: Estelle Rose
Genre: Non-Fiction
Pages: 240
Release Date: May 11th, 2024
Publisher: Independently published
Rating: ★★★★★
The Empowering ADHD Workbook for Women by Estella Rose is an invaluable resource that offers a comprehensive and compassionate approach to managing ADHD. Tailored specifically for women, this workbook is a treasure trove of evidence-based techniques and actionable tools designed to improve executive function, relationships, self-esteem, and emotional regulation.
From the very first page, it's evident that Rose understands the unique challenges faced by women with ADHD. The workbook begins by addressing the common misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding ADHD, particularly how they affect women differently. This sets a reassuring tone, making readers feel seen and understood.
One of the standout features of this workbook is its practicality. Rose doesn't just offer theoretical advice; she provides concrete, actionable steps that can be implemented immediately. Each chapter is filled with exercises, self-assessment tools, and real-life examples that make the content relatable and easy to apply. The techniques for improving executive function are particularly noteworthy, offering strategies to enhance time management, organization, and focus.
The sections on relationships and self-esteem are equally empowering. Rose delves into the social and emotional aspects of living with ADHD, offering guidance on how to communicate effectively, set boundaries, and build healthier relationships. Her advice is compassionate and realistic, acknowledging the difficulties while providing hope and practical solutions.
Emotional regulation is another critical area addressed in this workbook. Rose's techniques for managing stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm are rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices. These methods are presented in a clear, step-by-step manner, making them accessible even to those new to these concepts.
In conclusion, The Empowering ADHD Workbook for Women by Estella Rose is a must-have for any woman seeking to better understand and manage her ADHD. Its blend of evidence-based techniques, practical tools, and compassionate insights make it a standout resource. Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with ADHD for years, this workbook offers invaluable support and guidance. For its thoroughness, practicality, and empathetic approach, it deserves a full five stars.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
May 30, 2024
Series Review: The 100 Series by Kass Morgan
My series review for Kass Morgan's The 100. Fans of dystopian fiction and science fiction will find much to enjoy in this adventurous and thought-provoking series.
The 100 series by Kass Morgan is a captivating blend of science fiction and dystopian drama that successfully keeps readers engaged from start to finish. Spanning four books, the series offers a thrilling journey through a post-apocalyptic world where humanity's survival hangs in the balance.
The story begins with The 100, where 100 juvenile delinquents are sent from a failing space colony back to Earth to determine if the planet is habitable after a nuclear apocalypse. This unique premise sets the stage for a series filled with adventure, suspense, and complex character dynamics.
One of the standout elements of The 100 series is its character development. Morgan crafts a diverse cast of protagonists, each with their own backstory and motivations. Clarke Griffin emerges as a strong and empathetic leader, while Bellamy Blake's rebellious nature adds tension and excitement. Other characters like Octavia, Wells, and Glass offer their own perspectives, enriching the narrative with multiple viewpoints.
The series excels in exploring themes of survival, morality, and leadership. As the characters confront the harsh realities of Earth, they are forced to make difficult decisions that test their principles and relationships. This moral ambiguity adds depth to the story, making it more than just a typical survival tale.
Morgan's world-building is another strength. The contrast between the technologically advanced space colony and the wild, untamed Earth is vividly portrayed. The descriptions of Earth's reclaimed nature, complete with dangers and mysteries, create a palpable sense of place that draws readers into the story.
While the series is gripping, it is not without its flaws. Some plot twists can feel predictable, and certain romantic subplots occasionally overshadow the main narrative. However, these minor issues do not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the series.
The pacing of the books is generally well-handled, with a good balance of action, character development, and world-building. The cliffhangers at the end of each book compel readers to continue, creating a binge-worthy reading experience.
In conclusion, The 100 series by Kass Morgan is a thoroughly engaging read that combines thrilling action with thoughtful exploration of human nature. Its strong characters, vivid world-building, and compelling themes earn it a solid four stars. Fans of dystopian fiction and science fiction will find much to enjoy in this adventurous and thought-provoking series.
May 29, 2024
Book Review: City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare
My book review of City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare. An enjoyable read for fans of the series, but it lacks the cohesiveness and intensity of earlier installments.
Title: City of Fallen Angels
By: Cassandra Clare
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Pages: 425
Release Date: April 15th, 2011
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Summary from Goodreads:The Mortal War is over, and sixteen-year-old Clary Fray is back home in New York, excited about all the possibilities before her. She’s training to become a Shadowhunter and to use her unique power. Her mother is getting married to the love of her life. Downworlders and Shadowhunters are at peace at last. And—most importantly of all—she can finally call Jace her boyfriend.
But nothing comes without a price.
Someone is murdering Shadowhunters, provoking tensions between Downworlders and Shadowhunters that could lead to a second, bloody war. Clary’s best friend, Simon, can’t help her—his mother just found out that he’s a vampire, and now he’s homeless. When Jace begins to pull away from her without explaining why, Clary is forced to delve into the heart of a mystery whose solution reveals her worst nightmare: she herself has set in motion a terrible chain of events that could lead to her losing everything she loves. Even Jace.
The plot picks up where City of Glass left off, with Clary training to become a Shadowhunter and her relationship with Jace flourishing. However, things take a darker turn as a series of murders targeting Shadowhunters and Downworlders sets off a chain of events that threatens their world once again. The introduction of Simon's perspective adds a fresh dimension, but his storyline feels a bit disconnected at times.
One of the strengths of the book lies in its character development. Simon's struggle with his new identity as a vampire and his complicated love life is compelling, adding depth to his character. However, Jace and Clary's relationship drama feels repetitive, with the same issues resurfacing, making their interactions less impactful.
The pacing of the novel is uneven, with some parts dragging while others rush through critical plot points. The abundance of subplots can be overwhelming, and some resolutions feel too convenient or underdeveloped. Despite these flaws, Clare's world-building remains vivid and immersive, drawing readers back into the richly detailed universe of Shadowhunters and Downworlders.
The dialogue, a mix of witty banter and emotional exchanges, is a highlight, showcasing Clare's knack for capturing the voices of her characters. However, the overarching narrative sometimes gets lost in the melodrama, detracting from the book's overall impact.
In conclusion, City of Fallen Angels is an enjoyable read for fans of the series, but it lacks the cohesiveness and intensity of earlier installments. While it sets the stage for future developments, it doesn't quite deliver the same level of excitement and satisfaction. For these reasons, I give it three stars.
May 27, 2024
Weekly Menu #558 And The Book Of The Week
Hello Monday! Welcome to my weekly menu where I share all the delicious recipes we will be making this week.I've done a lot of reading this last week. It was mainly due to the fact that I requested a bunch of books from the library and of course they all came in at the same time. Took me forever to get my hands on them too, so I can't let them go back to the library before I know what they are all about. 2 down, 6 more to go.
We will be starting this week off with The Sunflower House by Adriana Allegri which is a review book from Netgally, also an important read that can't wait. There are a few of those as well.
Do you ever get in over your head? Oh boy, not that I don't enjoy it, lol. Happy reading.
Lets get to this weeks menu, enjoy!
WEEKLY MENU
Monday
Baked Lemon Meatballs and Pasta
Kids - Mac and Cheese
Tuesday
Kids - Alphabet Noodle Soup with Chicken
Wednesday
Kids - Fruit and Crackers
Thursday
Kids - Beef Ramen
Friday
Poached Egg with Chicken Sausage Salad
Kids - English muffin pizzas
Saturday
Kids - Cheese Quesadilla
Sunday
Family Dinner
Pizza for the kids
May 26, 2024
Sunday Confessions #251
Hello Sunday. Welcome back to my weekly confessions where I recap the blog.
Sunday Confessions #250~Weekly Menu #557 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: Rebellion by Kass Morgan~
Book Review: Home is Where the Bodies Are by Jeneva Rose
Weekly Menu #558 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare~Book Review: The Empowering ADHD workbook for Women by Estelle Rose~Sunday Confessions #252
59/100 2024 Reading Challenge~71/196 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~70/341 Gilmore Girls challenge~96/100 in my 100 books before you die challenge
Last week was an absolute blast as we dove into some fantastic reads! We spent hours engrossed in captivating stories, discussing intriguing plots, and sharing our favorite moments from the books. The excitement of discovering new worlds and characters brought so much joy.
Happy reading, my friends!
May 24, 2024
Book Review: Home is Where the Bodies Are by Jeneva Rose
My book review of Home is Where the Bodies Are by Jeneva Rose. This book is a must-read for thriller enthusiasts and anyone looking for a gripping story that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.
Title: Home is Where the Bodies Are
By: Jeneva Rose
Genre: Thriller
Pages: 256
Release Date: April 30th, 2024
Publisher: Blackstone Publishing Inc
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:From New York Times bestselling author of The Perfect Marriage and You Shouldn’t Have Come Here comes a chilling family thriller about the (sometimes literal) skeletons in the closet.
After their mother passes, three estranged siblings reunite to sort out her estate. Beth, the oldest, never left home. She stayed with her mom, caring for her until the very end. Nicole, the middle child, has been kept at arm’s length due to her ongoing battle with a serious drug addiction. Michael, the youngest, lives out of state and hasn’t been back to their small Wisconsin town since their father ran out on them seven years before.
While going through their parent’s belongings, the siblings stumble upon a collection of home videos and decide to revisit those happier memories. However, the nostalgia is cut short when one of the VHS tapes reveals a night back in 1999 that none of them have any recollection of. On screen, their father appears covered in blood. What follows is a dead body and a pact between their parents to get rid of it, before the video abruptly ends.
Beth, Nicole, and Michael must now decide whether to leave the past in the past or uncover the dark secret their mother took to her grave.
The plot revolves around the seemingly idyllic life of a small-town family that quickly unravels as dark secrets come to light. Rose's ability to develop complex, multi-dimensional characters is truly impressive. Each character is meticulously detailed, making it easy for readers to feel a deep connection with them.
One of the standout aspects of this novel is Rose's skillful pacing. The narrative moves at a brisk pace, with twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, Rose threw in another curveball that left me eagerly turning the pages. The suspense builds steadily, and the climax is both satisfying and unexpected.
Moreover, Rose's writing style is both elegant and accessible. Her vivid descriptions and keen attention to detail create a rich, immersive atmosphere that draws readers into the world she has created. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, adding depth to the characters and authenticity to their interactions.
"Home Is Where the Bodies Are" is more than just a thriller; it's a profound exploration of human nature, trust, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their secrets. Jeneva Rose has delivered a novel that is not only entertaining but also thought-provoking.I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Jeneva Rose has proven herself to be a formidable talent in the thriller genre, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next.
