Sarai Henderson's Blog, page 5
October 2, 2025
September 2025 Wrap Up
September turned out to be a whirlwind of reading. I managed to get through 35 books this month! Some were hits, some were misses, but each one added something new to my reading journey. From stories that completely swept me away to others that left me wanting a little more, it was definitely a month of variety. Let’s dive into the highlights (and lowlights) of my September reads.
Looking back, September was a busy reading month with plenty of variety. While not every book hit the mark, I’m glad I pushed through and discovered a few that truly stood out. With 35 books finished, I’m heading into October hopeful for more 5-star reads and excited to see where my TBR takes me next.
317/100 2025 Reading Challenge~116/217 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~19/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge
October 1, 2025
Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 20
Star Wars: The Mandalorian ArmorK.W. Jeter★★★☆☆
This book offers a gritty dive into the criminal underworld of the Star Wars galaxy, centered around the mysterious and legendary Boba Fett. While the concept is compelling and the tone leans darker than most Expanded Universe novels, the execution felt uneven. The plot jumps around quite a bit, and the pacing often drags under layers of dense exposition. Fett is as ruthless and calculating as ever, but his character remains frustratingly distant. There are some exciting moments and cool lore connections, but overall, it didn't quite deliver the punch I was hoping for.
Star Wars: Slave ShipK.W. Jeter★★★☆☆
Star Wars: Slave Ship by K.W. Jeter just didn’t hold my attention the way I hoped it would. The premise had potential, but the pacing felt slow, and by the halfway point, I found myself losing interest. There were moments of intrigue, but overall, it lacked the momentum and excitement I expect from a Star Wars novel. Not a bad read, just not one that left a lasting impression.
Star Wars: Hard MerchandiseK.W. Jeter★★★★☆
Although the Bounty Hunter Wars trilogy moved at a slower pace overall, Hard Merchandise delivered a strong and satisfying conclusion. K.W. Jeter wrapped up the threads with depth and precision, giving fans a rewarding payoff. The character arcs and final twists made the buildup worthwhile, and it felt like the series finally hit its stride. A solid ending to a gritty, under the radar Star Wars story.
Star Wars: The Truce at BakuraKathy Tyers★★★★☆
The Truce at Bakura picks up right after the events of Return of the Jedi, and Kathy Tyers does a great job maintaining the momentum. The pacing is tight, the stakes feel real, and the character development, especially for Leia and Luke, adds emotional depth. One of my favorite touches was Anakin’s occasional appearances as a Force spirit, which added an unexpected layer of complexity and tension. While not a perfect entry, it’s a compelling and satisfying bridge between the films and the expanded universe.
Alphabet SquadronAlexander Freed★★★★☆
Alphabet Squadron by Alexander Freed is a thrilling addition to the Star Wars universe. I loved seeing familiar characters return, woven seamlessly into a new story full of heart, grit, and starfighter action. The balance of nostalgia with fresh perspectives made this a standout read, and while a few pacing lulls kept it from being a perfect five, it’s still an exciting and worthwhile journey for any Star Wars fan.
September 30, 2025
ARC Review: Princess of Blood by Sarah Hawley
Title: Princess of Blood
By: Sarah Hawley
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 512
Release Date: September 30th, 2025
Rating: ★★☆☆☆
Summary from Goodreads:Once a servant, now a princess, a young woman thrust into power challenges everything about the underground Fae realm in the next installment of Sarah Hawley's new romantasy series.
Kenna Heron is still reeling from her lover's betrayal and the threat of an impending war. With only her two closest--and most powerless--friends by her side, she must navigate the treacherous politics of Mistei while coming to terms with her new identity as not just Fae, but princess of her own house.
With the king dead, three candidates are vying for the right to wear the crown next. A princess who claims the throne as her birthright and two rebel princes, both of whom are depending on the support of Blood House to break the stalemate between them. Old loyalties fray as new, dangerous alliances form, and Kenna finds herself caught in a web of violence, deceit, and unexpected passion.
Kenna has the power to shape Mistei's future... but someone's willing to kill to make sure she never gets the chance.
Review:
What a disappointment. After loving the first book and giving it 5 stars, this sequel completely lost the spark. The rich world building and intrigue were replaced with scattered storytelling and an overbearing focus on dull politics. Honestly about 90% of the book. Kenna, who once carried the story, felt flat, and the promise of fascinating threads like her friend’s broken mind or the Blood House never delivered. Instead of pulling me deeper into the world, this installment left me bored and frustrated.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
September 29, 2025
Weekly Menu #627 And The Book Of The Week
This week’s menu takes us on a flavorful journey across Asia, with each night bringing a new country to our table. From the sweet tang of Thai noodles to the cozy comfort of Japanese ramen, the smoky spice of Indian curries, and the fresh herbs of Vietnamese street food, we’ll be sampling a little bit of everything. It’s a week full of bold flavors, warm bowls, and shareable plates, perfect for when the weather calls for comfort food with a global twist.
WEEKLY MENU
Monday
Thai Night
Kids - Chicken Noodles
Tuesday
Korean Night
Kids - Chicken and Rice
Wednesday
Japanese Night
Kids - Beef Ramen
Thursday
Indian Night
Kids - Cheese Quesadilla
Friday
Chinese Night
Kids - Pizza Night
Saturday
Vietnamese Night
Kids - Cheese Sandwiches
Sunday
Leftovers Night
September 28, 2025
Sunday Confessions #324
Sundays always feel like the perfect time to slow down, sip something comforting, and share a few truths, big or small, that have been sitting on my mind all week. Sunday Confessions has become my space to lay it all out there. The wins, the struggles, the random thoughts, and the little moments I don’t always say out loud. Think of it as a cozy corner chat where I spill what’s been on my heart and, hopefully, connect with others who might feel the same.
Sunday Confessions #323~Weekly Menu #626 And The Book Of The Week~Book Review: The Long Walk by Stephen King~
ARC Review: Thief of Night by Holly Black~Thriller Thursday: With a Vengeance by Riley Sager~Fantasy Friday: With Reverence: By Rebecca Ross
Weekly Menu #627 And The Book Of The Week~Princess of Blood by Sarah Hawley/ Pub date~Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 20~September 2025 Wrap Up~Book Review: The Phoenix Pencil Company by Allison King~Sunday Confessions #325
A Shadow in the EmberJennifer L. Armentrout★★★☆☆A Shadow in the Ember by Jennifer L. Armentrout was a mixed experience for me. The first half easily earned 5 stars. I was fully immersed in the world, the tension, and the characters. But once the MC entered the Shadowlands, the momentum slowed drastically. The story shifted into endless rules and frustrations, which left me annoyed and struggling to finish. This seems to be a pattern I’ve noticed with this author’s writing: strong, captivating beginnings that lose steam midway through. Ultimately, while the setup was fantastic, the payoff didn’t land for me.
310/100 2025 Reading Challenge~115/217 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~19/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge
At the end of the day, these are just my musings, but sharing them here feels like lifting a little weight off my shoulders. Whether you’re nodding along, laughing, or shaking your head at my confessions, I’m glad you’re here with me. Until next Sunday, I’ll be collecting new stories, small truths, and maybe a few more confessions to spill.
September 26, 2025
Fantasy Friday: With Reverence: By Rebecca Ross
Title: Wild Reverence
By: Rebecca Ross
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 554
Release Date: September 2nd, 2025
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:Born in the firelit domain of the under realm, Matilda is the youngest goddess of her clan, blessed with humble messenger magic. But in a land where gods often kill each other to steal power and alliances break as quickly as they are forged, Matilda must come of age sooner than most. She may be known to carry words and letters through the realms, but she holds a secret she must hide from even her dearest of allies to ensure her survival. And to complicate matters . . . there is a mortal boy who dreams of her, despite the fact they have never met in the waking world.
Ten years ago, Vincent of Beckett wrote to Matilda on the darkest night of his life―begging the goddess he befriended in dreams to help him. When his request went unanswered, Vincent moved on, becoming the hardened, irreverent lord of the river who has long forgotten Matilda. That is, until she comes tumbling into his bedroom window with a letter for him.
As Fate would have it, Matilda and Vincent were destined to find each other beyond dreams. There may be a chance for Matilda to rewrite the blood-soaked ways of the gods, but at immense sacrifice. She will have to face something she fears even more than losing her magic: to be vulnerable, and to allow herself to finally be loved.
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
September 25, 2025
Thriller Thursday: With a Vengeance by Riley Sager
Title: With a Vengeance
By: Riley Sager
Genre: Thriller
Pages: 383
Release Date: June 10th, 2025
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:One train. No stops. A deadly game of survival and revenge.
In 1942, six people destroyed Anna Matheson’s family. Twelve years later, she’s ready for retribution.
Under false pretenses, Anna has lured those responsible for her family’s downfall onto a luxury train from Philadelphia to Chicago, an overnight journey of fourteen hours. Her goal? Confront the people who’ve wronged her, get them to confess their crimes, and deliver them into the hands of authorities waiting at the end of the line. Justice will at last be served.
But Anna’s plan is quickly derailed by the murder of one of the passengers. As the train barrels through the night, it becomes clear that someone else on board is enacting their own form of revenge—and that they won’t stop until everyone else is dead.
With time running out before the train reaches its destination, Anna is forced to hunt the killer in their midst while protecting the people she hates the most. In order to destroy her enemies, she must first save them—even though it means putting her own life at risk.
September 24, 2025
ARC Review: Thief of Night by Holly Black
Title: Thief of Night
By: Holly Black
Genre: Fantasy
Pages: 288
Release Date: September 23rd, 2025
Rating: ★★★★☆
Summary from Goodreads:There'd always been something wrong with Charlie Hall. Crooked from the day she was born. Never met a bad decision she wasn't willing to double down on. She may be good enough to steal a shadow from a tower, but will she be good enough to steal back a heart?
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
September 23, 2025
Book Review: The Long Walk by Stephen King
Title: The Long Walk
By: Stephen King
Genre: Horror
Pages: 319
Release Date: December 1st, 1978
Rating: ★★★★★
Summary from Goodreads:Against the wishes of his mother, sixteen-year-old Ray Garraty is about to compete in the annual grueling match of stamina and wits known as the Long Walk. One hundred boys must keep a steady pace of four miles per hour without ever stopping...with the winner being awarded “The Prize”—anything he wants for the rest of his life. But, as part of this national tournament that sweeps through a dystopian America year after year, there are some harsh rules that Garraty and ninety-nine others must adhere to in order to beat out the rest. There is no finish line—the winner is the last man standing. Contestants cannot receive any outside aid whatsoever. Slow down under the speed limit and you’re given a warning. Three warnings and you’re out of the game—permanently...
September 22, 2025
Weekly Menu #626 And The Book Of The Week
This week we’re diving into the fresh, vibrant flavors of Greece. A cuisine that feels like it was made for family tables. From grilled souvlaki to flaky spanakopita and a colorful mezze spread, Greek food brings together simple ingredients in bold, nourishing ways. With plenty of protein, vegetables, and familiar comfort foods, it’s a menu that works just as well for picky eaters as it does for adventurous food lovers.My current read is Servant of Earth by Sarah Howley, a fantasy steeped in elemental magic and ancient power. The story pulls me into a world where the earth itself holds secrets, and the characters must decide whether to serve, resist, or reshape that power. It’s atmospheric, thoughtful, and layered with mythology, the kind of book that makes me linger over each chapter, curious to see how the story will unfold.
WEEKLY MENU
Monday
Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki & Pita
Kids - Chicken Skewers with Pita & Yogurt Dip
Tuesday
Kids - Cheese Sandwich & Potato Wedges
Wednesday
Kids - Lentils, Chips and Cheese
Thursday
Keftedes with Orzo
Kids - Chicken Tenders and Orzo
Friday
Grilled Fish with Ladolemono with Salad
Kids - Fish Sticks with Veggies
Saturday
Kids - Pick-and-Choose Mezze Plate
Sunday
Leftovers Night
