Sarai Henderson's Blog

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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. 

 

This week, our kitchen is traveling to the vibrant streets of Malaysia, where every dish bursts with color, texture, and bold yet balanced flavor. Malaysian cuisine is a beautiful blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. Fragrant with coconut, lemongrass, and spice, yet full of comforting, family friendly dishes. From smoky satay skewers to coconut rich soups and sizzling stir fries, this week’s menu is all about protein packed meals, plenty of vegetables, and a touch of tropical warmth to brighten our table.

WEEKLY MENU

Monday

Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

Kids - Chicken Satay Bowls

 

Tuesday

Nasi Goreng (Malaysian Fried Rice)

Kids - Fried Rice with Egg and Veggies

 

Wednesday

Stir Fried Tofu and Veggies

Kids - Coconut Chicken Tenders with Rice and Veggies

 

Thursday

Beef Rendang

Kids - Beef Ramen

 

Friday

Ikan Bakar (Grilled Fish Day!)

Kids - Cheese Quesadillas

 

Saturday

Chicken and Vegetable Laksa

Kids - Chicken Noodle Soup

 

Sunday

Leftovers Night

 

It’s time for another Sunday Book Confession, where I spill the bookish thoughts, habits, and surprises that have been living rent-free in my head all week. Whether it’s a new obsession, a reading slump, or a stack of unread books staring me down, Sundays are for honesty. So here’s what I’ve been thinking (and probably overthinking) about lately.

Sunday Confessions #325~Weekly Menu #628 And The Book Of The Week~ARC Review: The Mad Wife by Meagen Church~Book Review: The Kight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig~Three Star Thursday~Five Star Friday

Weekly Menu #629 And The Book Of The Week~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~Sunday Confessions #327

Beautiful DarknessKami Garcia
★★★★☆
Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl is a strong follow up to Beautiful Creatures, even if it didn’t captivate me quite as much as the first book. The story takes the characters into darker territory, with new twists and emotional struggles that continue to expand the world of the Caster Chronicles. While the pacing felt a bit slower and the intrigue not as sharp as in book one, it’s still a solid continuance of the series that kept me invested in Lena and Ethan’s journey. A worthy 4 star read that sets the stage for what’s to come.







324/100 2025 Reading Challenge~117/214 in my Star Wars Legends challenge~19/20 2024 Goodreads Fantasy Nominees Reading Challenge

At the end of the day, every bookish confession just reminds me how much I love being part of this reading journey, the highs, the slumps, and everything in between. Whether I’m adding yet another title to my TBR or finally checking one off, it’s all part of the fun. Until next Sunday, happy reading and happy confessing!

 

I’ve got way too many reviews sitting in my drafts, so it’s time to share a few of the standouts! For this week’s Five Star Friday, I’m highlighting the books that completely swept me away. The ones that made me feel all the emotions, kept me up way too late, and reminded me exactly why I love reading. Here are some of my recent five star favorites.
The Martian by Andy Weir was an absolute blast to read. I loved this one! Weir’s mix of science, humor, and survival kept me hooked from start to finish. Mark Watney’s voice is sharp, witty, and resilient, making his struggle to survive on Mars feel both thrilling and oddly relatable. The balance between technical detail and fast paced storytelling was spot on, and I found myself laughing just as often as I was holding my breath. A smart, funny, and unforgettable sci fi adventure.





I’m not sure what took me so long to read Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard, but I absolutely loved it! The mix of court intrigue, rebellion, and electric powers hooked me from the start. Aveyard’s world feels rich and dangerous, and Mare’s journey kept me turning pages late into the night. It’s the perfect blend of fantasy, politics, and heart. I can’t wait to dive into the rest of the series.






I never thought this would be a topic I’d get into, but I couldn’t put this book down. It’s not Green’s typical kind of read, but it’s still so goo. Thoughtful, engaging, and unexpectedly moving. The way he approaches such a heavy subject made me stop and think long after I finished.







Silver Elite by Dani Francis was such a wonderful surprise. I loved this book. It struck the perfect balance of being familiar enough to sink into comfortably while still offering a fresh, unique spin that kept me hooked. The characters felt alive, the story carried just the right mix of intrigue and heart, and the writing had a flow that made it hard to put down. Dani Francis has a way of making a world feel exciting, and this one absolutely delivered.





Carrie Soto Is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid is another absolutely wonderful read from an author who never misses. I loved it from start to finish. The intensity, the drive, and the vulnerability of Carrie’s story pulled me in completely. Jenkins Reid captures ambition, aging, and redemption with such emotional depth that it’s impossible not to root for Carrie every step of the way.

 

I have a huge backlog of reviews piling up, and honestly, I can’t seem to keep up with them all! So for this week’s Three Star Thursday, I’m rounding up a few of my recent reads that landed right in the middle of the rating scale. Not bad, not amazing, just solid stories that had their moments but didn’t quite shine as brightly as others. Here’s a look at what I’ve been reading lately.
Firefly Lane had an emotional start. I cried several times in the beginning, but as the story went on, the main characters started to wear on me. Their choices felt frustrating, and by the end, instead of feeling the impact of the conclusion, I was too annoyed to connect with it. A heartfelt story at its core, but ultimately the characters kept me from loving it.






Remain was exactly what I expected. A typical Nicholas Sparks story mixed with the letdown of an M. Night Shyamalan twist. I kept hoping for a wild or unique premise, but it ended up feeling pretty generic. The character development was so thin that I honestly thought the main character was a woman for half the book. While it didn’t work for me, I think die hard Nicholas Sparks fans will probably still enjoy it.





The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving wasn’t quite what I expected. The first 80% of the story focuses heavily on describing Ichabod Crane and his interests, especially in women, leaving very little room for the Headless Horseman. While the writing captures the atmosphere of early American folklore, I was a bit disappointed that the legendary figure himself plays such a small part in the tale.





Each book in this trilogy seemed to lose a bit of its spark, and by the time I reached Ruin and Rising, I felt more disappointed than satisfied. I loved the first book, but this finale just didn’t deliver for me. The pacing, characters, and resolution all fell flat compared to the promise of the beginning.







I think this book peaked in the first 20%, when the story was at its most gripping. After the central event, I found my interest fading as the timelines and characters began to jump around, which made it harder to stay connected. I usually love Jodi Picoult’s work and the way she pulls me in emotionally, but this one didn’t give me the familiar feels I expect from her books. Still, her writing is strong, and fans of her courtroom style storytelling may enjoy it more than I did.

 

Title: The Night and the Moth

By: Rachel Gillig

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 385

Release Date: May 20th, 2025

Rating: ★★★★☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:Sybil Delling has spent nine years dreaming of having no dreams at all. Like the other foundling girls who traded a decade of service for a home in the great cathedral, Sybil is a Diviner. In her dreams she receives visions from six unearthly figures known as Omens. From them, she can predict terrible things before they occur, and lords and common folk alike travel across the kingdom of Traum's windswept moors to learn their futures by her dreams.
Just as she and her sister Diviners near the end of their service, a mysterious knight arrives at the cathedral. Rude, heretical, and devilishly handsome, the knight Rodrick has no respect for Sybil's visions. But when Sybil's fellow Diviners begin to vanish one by one, she has no choice but to seek his help in finding them. For the world outside the cathedral's cloister is wrought with peril. Only the gods have the answers she is seeking, and as much as she'd rather avoid Rodrick's dark eyes and sharp tongue, only a heretic can defeat a god.

 

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Review:The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig was an atmospheric and enchanting read that swept me up with its lush prose and haunting imagery. Gillig creates a world that feels both eerie and magical, filled with tension, romance, and folklore like beauty. The characters are layered and compelling, though at times I wished the pacing had been a little tighter, as certain sections dragged compared to the otherwise mesmerizing narrative. Still, the gothic atmosphere and emotional depth made this a memorable story that lingered long after I turned the final page. A strong, evocative read that fans of dark fairy tales will love.