the_sassy_bookworm's reviews
5070 reviews

Book Review: The Christmas Eve Murders by Noelle Albright

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently finished reading "The Christmas Eve Murders" by Noelle Albright, and I have to say, it was quite the festive ride! The cover immediately caught my eye—it's just so delightful. Imagine a cozy English pub, the Merry Monarch, nestled in the charming Yorkshire Dales, preparing for its annual Christmas scavenger hunt. Sounds quaint and fun, right? Well, things take a turn for the mysterious when a journalist named Maddie Marlowe shows up unexpectedly, stranded by car trouble and a looming snowstorm.

The cast of characters is wonderfully eclectic. There's Mickey, the pubs' landlord; his wife Sofia; their rebellious son James; and a motley crew of villagers, including a local policeman and his deputy with a penchant for the supernatural. As if that wasn’t intriguing enough, chaos ensues when the power goes out, plunging everyone into darkness. What was supposed to be a lighthearted hunt turns deadly serious, as Maddie and her newfound companions realize they have a murderer in their midst.

Albright's writing is top-notch—she weaves a well-paced and well-plotted mystery that kept me guessing until the very end. Each character feels like someone you might know, with their quirks and secrets adding layers to the plot. It's a classic whodunit with a festive twist, making it the perfect quick read for the holiday season. If you’re in the mood for a cozy yet thrilling escape, "The Christmas Eve Murders" is definitely worth picking up. Four stars from me!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: Taken in the Cold by Roger Stelljes

Rating: 4 Stars

So, I just finished Taken in the Cold, and what a ride! Roger Stelljes really knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat. 

Let me give you a quick rundown of the story. It kicks off with ten-year-old Teddy getting a classic mom reminder to bundle up for school because a blizzard is headed their way. Sounds pretty typical, right? Well, it takes a dark turn when Teddy’s mother is found dead in their home, and Teddy is nowhere to be found. Talk about an opening that grabs you by the collar! 

Agent Tori Hunter jumps into action as she races against time and the blizzard to find Teddy. The situation escalates quickly as it becomes clear that there’s more to this tragedy than meets the eye. While local police are leaning toward a jealous ex-husband theory, Tori’s instincts tell her otherwise. The plot thickens when she discovers that Teddy's father is also missing, leading to a shocking revelation that adds layers to an already complex story. 

What I love about this book is how Stelljes masterfully blends suspense with character development. Tori is such a compelling protagonist—determined and resourceful, yet vulnerable in her own way. And as she digs deeper into the case, we uncover some chilling secrets surrounding the abandoned vacation resort that tie everything together.

I have to say, I thoroughly enjoy the hell out of this series. The writing is top-notch, and the pacing is just right—never too rushed or too slow. The plot is intricately woven with great character arcs that keep you invested from start to finish. I mean, it really does have it all!

If you’re a fan of thrillers with well-developed characters and gripping storylines, I can’t recommend Taken in the Cold enough. I’m already itching to dive into the next book in the series. So, if you haven't picked it up yet, what are you waiting for? Grab a cozy blanket (because, you know, blizzard vibes) and get ready for a wild read! 

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: Up, Up High: The Secret Poetry of Earth's Atmosphere by Lydia Lukidis (Author), Katie Rewse (Illustrator)

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of diving into Up, Up High: The Secret Poetry of Earth's Atmosphere by Lydia Lukidis, with charming illustrations by Katie Rewse, and I enjoyed every minute of it. This book invites readers to gaze upward into the vast expanse of the sky, revealing that it’s far from empty or invisible. Through beautifully crafted, lyrical poetry, Lukidis takes us on an imaginative journey exploring the wonders that exist high above us—those mysterious things that are flying, floating, and taking place between the treetops and the twinkling stars. 

What I love about this book is that it truly wears many hats. It’s not just a collection of poems; it’s also a treasure trove of fascinating facts, making it perfect for older children who are eager to learn. Each page is a blend of art and information, and I found the little black boxes in the corner particularly clever. They provide the name of each atmospheric layer along with the altitude at which it begins, seamlessly integrating educational content with the poetic narrative. 

Katie Rewse’s illustrations are nothing short of stunning. Each page captures the essence of the atmosphere in a way that is both beautiful and thrilling. The visuals really enhance the experience, guiding readers through this detailed journey into the unknown. 

As I turned the final pages, I was delighted to find four pages of back matter that includes a handy chart of the different atmospheric layers. This makes it an excellent reference tool for curious minds wanting to dive deeper into the science behind what they’ve just read.

Overall, I would rate Up, Up High a solid four stars. It’s a delightful blend of poetry and science that invites readers to dream big while grounding them in facts about our planet's atmosphere. Whether you're reading it with a child or simply enjoying it for yourself, this book is sure to inspire wonder and curiosity about the world above us. So, if you haven’t yet looked up into the blue and beyond, I highly recommend giving this book a try!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: I Am on Indigenous Land by Katrina M. Phillips and Sam Zimmerman (illustrator)

Rating: 3 Stars

As someone who loves children's literature, I recently had the pleasure of reviewing "I Am on Indigenous Land" by Katrina M. Phillips, with illustrations by Sam Zimmerman. This picture book caught my eye because of its aim to explore the heritage and resources of thirteen Indigenous lands through lyrical text and vibrant visuals. 

The book does a fantastic job of introducing young readers to the beauty of these ancestral territories. With poetic simplicity, it showcases children and families enjoying everyday activities like biking, playing at the beach, or relaxing in parks. These scenes serve as a gentle reminder of how we interact with the land and the importance of recognizing the Indigenous nations that have called these places home for generations. Phillips, an Ojibwe citizen, and Zimmerman, an Ojibwe direct descendant, have created a heartfelt tribute that emphasizes respect and awareness of Indigenous cultures.

While I appreciated the book's intent and execution, I found myself wanting a bit more depth. The colorful, painting-like illustrations are engaging and certainly draw you in, but I felt the content could have explored the histories or stories behind the tribes in greater detail. The glossary at the end is a fantastic addition, providing resources for further research and discussion, but I wish there had been a bit more narrative to accompany the visuals.

Overall, I Am on Indigenous Land is a lovely introduction to Indigenous cultures for young readers, making it a great option for parents and educators looking to foster appreciation and recognition of these communities. However, it left me wishing for more substance to fully capture the richness of the stories it seeks to tell. A solid three stars!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: The Intuitive Eating Workbook (Second Edition) by Evelyn Tribole, Elyse Resch, Tracy Tylka (foreword)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you’ve ever found yourself feeling anxious about what to eat or how your body looks while eating, you're not alone. I recently picked up The Intuitive Eating Workbook, and it has been a real eye-opener! This updated edition builds on the principles laid out in the original Intuitive Eating book and aims to help readers heal their relationship with food and their bodies. 

At its core, this workbook offers a fresh and evidence-based approach to break free from the constraints of diet culture. It walks you through a journey of learning to honor your body's hunger and fullness signals, allowing you to enjoy food without the constant stress. The authors provide guidance on how to trust your intuition when it comes to eating, encouraging you to reconnect with the natural wisdom that we all have but often forget in today's diet-obsessed world. 

One of the things I really appreciated about this edition is the thoughtful updates that tackle current societal issues surrounding food and body image. The workbook dives deeper into how intuitive eating can be connected to social justice—something I hadn’t considered before. It challenges the harmful narratives pushed by diet culture and instead promotes a compassionate approach to our bodies and eating habits. 

This workbook is a true gift for anyone looking to mend their relationship with food, whether you’re already familiar with intuitive eating or just starting out. The exercises are practical, engaging, and thought-provoking, pushing you to reflect on your beliefs about food and self-worth. I found that the more I worked through it, the more liberated I felt from my previous anxieties surrounding meals. 

Overall, The Intuitive Eating Workbook is not just another diet plan; it's a heartfelt invitation to experience life through the lens of joy rather than restriction. If you're ready to embrace a healthier mindset around food and body image, this book might just change your life—one delicious bite at a time!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: Murder in New York by Helena Dixon

Rating: 4 Stars

I just wrapped up Murder in New York by Helena Dixon, and let me tell you, it was a delightful ride! This book has everything I love about cozy mysteries, and it’s set against the fabulous backdrop of 1936 New York City. Talk about a perfect combo!

So, here’s the scoop: our protagonist, Kitty Underhay, gets an unexpected telegram that her father is seriously ill, prompting her and her husband Matt to rush to New York. After a choppy ocean crossing, they arrive to find out he’s actually on the mend. Kitty decides to embrace the city while she’s there, indulging in classic Manhattan cocktails and taking leisurely strolls through Central Park. But, just when things seem to be going swimmingly, Kitty stumbles upon a murder—not just any murder, but that of her father’s friend, Mrs. Dangerfield, who is discovered dead after a fancy costume party. Talk about a buzzkill!

The story unfolds as Kitty and Matt try to untangle the mystery surrounding Mrs. Dangerfield’s death. The suspects are as colorful as the setting: there's the resentful daughter, the elderly chauffeur, and even a secret lover. As if that wasn’t enough to keep you guessing, another death complicates things even further. I found myself on the edge of my seat, wondering who the culprit could be.

What I absolutely loved about this book was how enjoyable it was. It stands strong as a standalone read—perfect for those who haven’t dived into the series yet. The writing is top-notch; it flows well and keeps you engaged from start to finish. The pacing felt just right, never dragging but still allowing enough time to savor the sights and sounds of New York. The characters are wonderfully likable, making it easy to root for them as they navigate this tangled mystery.

Overall, this book is a well-plotted whodunit that kept me guessing right until the end. I can’t express how much I’m looking forward to the next installment in this series! If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries or just looking for a fun escape into the past, I highly recommend giving Murder in New York a read. Trust me; you won’t regret it!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: A Holiday Homicide by Ellie Alexander

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

So, I just finished reading A Holiday Homicide by Ellie Alexander, and wow, what a fun ride! This was my first time diving into this series, and I have to say, it won’t be my last. 

The story follows Annie Murray, who has big plans for a festive season at her charming little bookstore, the Secret Bookcase. Just as she’s gearing up for a gingerbread-baking competition, disaster strikes when a celebrity baker drops dead right in the middle of the action. Talk about a holiday bummer! The whispers of foul play start swirling around Redwood Grove faster than snowflakes in a blizzard. Annie, with her new love interest Liam and her trusty bookstore crew, jumps headfirst into solving the murder. As they dig deeper, Annie uncovers layers of secrets and rivalries that make the baking community far less sweet than it seems. The suspense builds as she races against time to unravel the mystery before the killer can strike again. 

First off, can we talk about how gorgeous the cover is? Seriously, I’m a sucker for a good book cover, and this one is just perfect for the holiday vibe. The writing was so engaging that I found myself completely sucked into the story. It’s definitely cozy mystery material and worked perfectly as a standalone—no need to have read previous books in the series to enjoy this one.

The pacing was spot-on; I never felt like it dragged or rushed. The plot was well thought out, keeping me guessing until the very end. Plus, I absolutely loved the characters! Annie is relatable and likable, and it’s easy to root for her throughout the twists and turns of this festive whodunit.

All in all, A Holiday Homicide is a delightful read that truly captures the essence of the season while keeping you on your toes. I can't wait to dive into the next book in this series—if they’re all this entertaining, I'm in for a treat! If you're looking for a cozy mystery to cozy up with this holiday season, grab yourself a cookie (or two) and get ready for some sleuthing fun!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: 52 Shabbats: Friday Night Dinners Inspired by a Global Jewish Kitchen by Faith Kramer

Rating: 3.5 Stars

As someone who enjoys hosting dinners but isn't deeply knowledgeable of Jewish traditions, I was excited to dive into 52 Shabbats. This book is a vibrant celebration of Shabbat dinners, and it’s clear that there’s something here for everyone, whether you're a seasoned pro at hosting or just looking to dip your toes into the custom.

Kramer's book introduces readers to the rich cultural tapestry behind Shabbat meals. She presents over fifty main recipes, along with more than twenty side dishes, accompaniments, and desserts. The way she organizes the book seasonally makes it super easy to source fresh ingredients, which not only enhances the authenticity of each dish but also brings a lively vibrancy to the table. I loved how the recipes are designed to be mix-and-match friendly, allowing for easy substitutions depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

What stood out to me was the pairing of each main recipe with a suggested menu that guides you seamlessly from start to finish. This feature takes a lot of the guesswork out of planning a Friday night meal. And let me tell you, the photographs throughout the book are stunning! They really do justice to the dishes and served as great visual inspiration for my cooking endeavors. That said, I did find myself wishing for a few more photos to further entice my culinary imagination.

Kramer's in-depth introduction provides a valuable context about Jewish traditions and the sense of community surrounding Shabbat. These insights added depth to my understanding of the rituals involved and made me appreciate the significance behind each meal even more. Plus, I enjoyed the cultural tidbits sprinkled throughout the book, giving readers a glimpse into Jewish communities worldwide.

In conclusion, while 52 Shabbats has its strengths—like its engaging layout and inspiring recipes—I would rate it a solid three stars. It certainly spiced up my Friday nights and opened my eyes to new flavors and traditions. However, I feel that it could have benefitted from a few more visuals to spark even more creativity in the kitchen. Nonetheless, if you're looking to explore global Jewish cuisine or simply want to enrich your culinary repertoire, this book is worth checking out!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: How to Catch a Groundhog

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing "How to Catch a Groundhog" by Alice Walstead, and I have to say, it was an absolute treat! This delightful picture book is perfect for kids aged 4-10, and it definitely brought a smile to my face. 

The story kicks off with a group of energetic kids playing outside, when they accidentally disturb a groundhog that’s been peacefully living in the park. In their excitement, they realize that tomorrow is Groundhog Day. If they don’t catch this little guy and bring him back, the town won't know if winter is ending or if we’re stuck in it for a while longer! Cue the chaos and hilarity as the kids devise a series of imaginative plans to catch the groundhog before it's too late. It’s such a clever premise that perfectly captures the playful spirit of childhood.

From start to finish, this book is just so charming. The illustrations by Emma Gillette and Andy Elkerton are vibrant and full of life, adding an extra layer of fun to the already engaging story. Each page bursts with color, making it an absolute joy to flip through. 

What I loved most about How to Catch a Groundhog is how it blends humor with a touch of educational content. The silly rhymes and playful antics of the kids keep the story light-hearted and entertaining, while also introducing some STEAM concepts in a way that's accessible and enjoyable for young readers. 

Overall, this book is a fantastic addition to any child’s library. It’s perfect for reading at home or in the classroom, especially as Groundhog Day approaches. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun story that sparks creativity and laughter. Trust me, you won’t regret picking up this adorable gem!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: You Feta Watch Out by Linda Reilly

Rating: 4 Stars

I just finished You Feta Watch Out by Linda Reilly, and it was a delightful and festive read! Set in the charming little town of Balsam Dell, this installment of the Grilled Cheese Mystery series has all the festive vibes you’d expect during the holiday season, but with a juicy twist that keeps you on your toes.

So, here’s the scoop: Carly Hale is gearing up for what she thinks will be a merry Christmas as a theater company rolls into town to put on A Christmas Carol. But instead of enjoying the holiday cheer, things take a dark turn when a rather unpleasant actor named Prescott Lennon starts stirring up trouble. This guy isn’t just a diva; he’s downright insufferable, and his harsh criticisms make him quite a few enemies among the cast. When someone finally snaps and, well, takes him out of the picture—Carly’s friend Gina gets pinned as the prime suspect. Talk about drama!

What I really loved about this book was the unexpected twist on who ended up being the victim. It definitely added depth to the mystery. The roster of suspects is vast and colorful, from a widow with a suspiciously dry eye to an eager understudy desperate for his moment in the spotlight. Each character brings something unique to the table, and I found myself enjoying the interactions just as much as the mystery itself. Plus, revisiting Carly and her friends felt like catching up with old pals over hot cocoa.

And of course, what’s a cozy mystery without some mouth-watering recipes? The book includes yummy recipes, one of which is a fruitcake grilled cheese. As a self-proclaimed fruitcake lover, I couldn’t have been more excited about that! 

In conclusion, You Feta Watch Out is a fantastic addition to Linda Reilly's series. It delivers an engaging mystery wrapped in holiday cheer, complete with lovable characters and a backdrop that makes you feel all warm inside. If you’re looking for a cozy read that combines murder with melt-in-your-mouth sandwiches, then definitely check this one out! I’d give it four stars for its festive charm and clever plot twists!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️