the_sassy_bookworm's reviews
5118 reviews

Book Review: A Corpse Among the Carolers by Debra Sennefelder

Rating: 🎄🎄🎄🎄

I recently dove into A Corpse Among the Carolers by Debra Sennefelder, and it was quite the holiday ride! Picture this: Hope Early, our charming food blogger protagonist, is all set to embrace the festive cheer of Christmas in her quaint town of Jefferson, Connecticut. She’s looking forward to the annual Jingle Bell Stroll, where everyone gathers to sing carols and soak in the holiday spirit. Just when you think everything is merry and bright, the festive atmosphere takes a dark turn when Hope stumbles upon the body of the Santa volunteer—yes, a knife in his back. Talk about a real "Ho-ho-homicide" moment!

The story unfolds with a colorful cast of characters and a long list of suspects that keeps you guessing. The victim’s ex-wife and new wife both have their reasons to be suspicious, but as Hope digs deeper, she uncovers some secrets that suggest there’s more to this murder than meets the eye. This author really knows how to keep you on your toes with her excellent misdirection and suspenseful twists.

One of the things I absolutely loved about this book was its adorable and festive cover—perfectly sets the tone for a cozy holiday read! The entire town is decked out in Christmas splendor, making it an ideal backdrop for the season, despite the chaos of a murder mystery. I could almost smell the cookies baking while reading! Speaking of which, the recipes included at the end are a delightful bonus, and they all sound delicious. I can’t wait to try them out during my own holiday celebrations!

Hope Early is such an easy character to relate to; her determination to solve the mystery while juggling her food blog makes her feel like a friend you’d want to root for. Plus, if you haven’t read the previous books in the series, don’t worry—this one stands alone beautifully.

Overall, A Corpse Among the Carolers is a fantastic addition to the Food Blogger Series. With its engaging characters and a compelling mystery that will captivate cozy mystery lovers, I found myself completely immersed in this holiday tale. The heartwarming ending left me wanting more—can't wait for the next installment! I’m giving it a solid four stars for its charm and festive cheer, along with a well-executed plot. If you're looking for a cozy mystery to get you in the holiday spirit, I highly recommend picking this one up!

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

Book Review: Christmas at the Little Bookshop by the Sea by Eliza J. Scott

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently dove into Christmas at the Little Bookshop by the Sea, the fourth installment in the Micklewick Bay series by Eliza J. Scott. This book is the perfect blend of festive cheer and heartfelt storytelling, making it an ideal read for a cozy winter day.

Set in the charming seaside town of Micklewick Bay, we meet Florrie Appleton and Ed Harte as they prepare for a truly magical holiday season at their beloved Happy Hartes Bookshop. Florrie’s whimsical book-themed decorations have everyone buzzing, while Ed’s stunning window displays are like something out of a storybook. Romance seems to be in the air, and it looks like they’re all set for their best Christmas yet. However, a surprise call from Ed's father throws a wrench in their festive plans, leading Florrie to suspect that Ed is hiding something. As she notices his increasing absences to the attic and his distant behavior, her worry begins to overshadow the holiday spirit.

Determined to make this Christmas unforgettable, Florrie fills their days with delightful seasonal treats and enchanting adventures. But just days before Christmas, Ed goes missing, leaving Florrie fearing that her holiday dreams might come crashing down. Will she find out what’s really going on, or will this Christmas turn into a bittersweet memory?

First off, can we take a moment to appreciate the adorable cover of this book? It perfectly encapsulates the cozy and festive vibes that Eliza J. Scott has woven throughout the story. As my first experience with her writing, I found it so charming and it could easily enjoyed as a standalone.

The story itself is wonderfully sweet and cozy. Florrie and Ed are an endearing couple, and I loved witnessing their journey supported by their friends and found family in Micklewick Bay. Their playful chemistry brought humor and warmth to the narrative, making me smile more than once. 

What truly stands out is how festive the whole atmosphere is—the author has a knack for creating scenes that feel like a postcard from a winter wonderland. Whether it’s sipping gingerbread hot chocolate or enjoying sleigh rides under twinkling stars, I felt completely immersed in the holiday spirit.

Overall, Christmas at the Little Bookshop by the Sea is a delightful read that I’d recommend to anyone looking for a heartwarming story to curl up with during the snowy season. With its charming characters, romantic undertones, and festive setting, it’s easily worthy of four stars in my book!

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

Book Review: Christmas Presents by Lisa Unger

Rating: 3 Stars

In this novella, we follow Madeline Martin, the owner of a quaint little bookshop called The Next Chapter, as she navigates her complex past and the responsibility of caring for her ailing father. Just before Christmas, the arrival of Harley Granger, a true crime podcaster with a knack for unraveling dark stories, sets off a chain of events that Madeline would rather keep buried. 

Harley’s fascination with a cold case involving the murder of Madeline's best friend Steph and the mysterious disappearance of two other girls from their town puts him at odds with Madeline's desire to forget. The chilling background is all too real for Madeline, who bears the scars of her past as the sole survivor of a brutal attack. As they delve deeper into these old wounds, they uncover unsettling truths about the cases—and perhaps about themselves.

Christmas Presents is perfect for fans of mystery thrillers set against a backdrop of small-town charm. The juxtaposition of cozy holiday vibes with dark themes surrounding missing women makes for an intriguing read. I appreciate how the book plays with both past and present timelines, adding layers to the narrative that kept me engaged.

However, I did feel like the story could have benefited from a bit more depth. At times, it felt rushed and left me wanting more development—especially since there’s a lot to unpack regarding the characters and their histories. If you're looking for something that embodies the cheerful spirit of the holiday season, this might not be it. Instead, it leans into darker themes that won’t exactly have you feeling jolly.

In conclusion, Christmas Presents is an engaging little novella for those who enjoy their holiday reads with a twist of mystery and suspense. If you’re into stories that explore troubling pasts wrapped in a cozy setting, give it a go. Overall, I’d give it three stars—worth reading but left me hoping for a bit more.

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

Book Review: Winter Magic on Railway Lane by Alison Sherlock

Rating: 3.5 Stars

I recently picked up Winter Magic on Railway Lane by Alison Sherlock, and let me tell you, it felt like wrapping myself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. This book takes us back to the charming village of Cranfield, where we reunite with familiar faces for one last festive adventure. 

The storyline revolves around Libby Jacobs, a globetrotting chocolate enthusiast who finds herself jobless but hopeful as she returns to her hometown. She has dreams of transforming her chocolate-making hobby into a full-fledged business. However, there’s a catch—Ethan Connolly. Once childhood soulmates, their relationship took a nosedive after a disastrous prom date, and now they’re thrown together again. Ethan, who typically avoids Cranfield due to reminders of his tumultuous family history, is back to help realize his grandfather’s dream of a Christmas train. As disaster strikes, both he and Libby must confront their pasts and decide if they can work together—and possibly rekindle their relationship.

First off, can we talk about the cover? It’s so charming and perfectly captures the essence of the story. Being in Cranfield felt like coming home to me. Alison Sherlock has a beautiful way of weaving heartfelt narratives, and this one set during the festive season really tugged at my heartstrings. The community surrounding the railway serves as a brilliant backdrop for the story.

Libby's relationship with her father is messy, filled with unspoken grief and emotional barriers. And let’s not forget the chemistry between Libby and Ethan! Their dynamic is fraught with tension and nostalgia, making for some genuinely sweet moments.

In conclusion, Winter Magic on Railway Lane is a delightful read that captures the magic of second chances against the backdrop of a close-knit community. It’s sweet, nostalgic, and leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside—definitely worth picking up if you’re looking for a cozy winter read. I’m giving it a solid 3.5 stars!

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

Book Review: Gingerbread Danger by Amanda Flower

Rating: 4 Stars

Hey there, fellow book lovers! 🌟 I just wrapped up reading Gingerbread Danger by Amanda Flower, and I’m here to share my thoughts. Spoiler alert: I really enjoyed it!

Bailey King, our charming Amish candy shop owner and star of the hit show Bailey’s Amish Sweets, is buzzing with excitement. She’s set to marry Aiden Brody, the new sheriff in town, and her candy factory is about to have its grand opening just in time for Christmas in the quaint little village of Harvest, Ohio. Everything is looking sweet until tragedy strikes when one of Bailey's Amish employees turns up dead outside her factory. Enter Aiden, who jumps headfirst into the investigation, but of course, Bailey can’t resist getting involved too. As they dig deeper, they uncover some pretty shady dealings that put the entire community—and Bailey—at risk.

First off, can we talk about how adorable the cover is? It totally sets the scene for a cozy read. The writing style was delightful and perfectly captures the festive spirit of the season. Plus, I appreciated that even if you're not familiar with the previous books, this one stands strong on its own. The setting just oozes warmth and charm, making it a perfect backdrop for a holiday mystery.

The characters? Super likable! I found myself rooting for Bailey and Aiden as they navigated through this tricky situation. The plot was solid and kept me guessing—just when I thought I had it all figured out, the author threw in some twists that left me surprised. And let’s not forget the extra treat at the end: a bonus recipe! Seriously, what’s better than a good mystery paired with something sweet?

All in all, Gingerbread Danger is a delightful read that brings together mystery, romance, and a touch of holiday cheer. If you’re looking for something festive to dive into this season, I’d definitely recommend picking it up. Two thumbs up from me! 👍👍

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

Book Review: The Christmas Tree Farm by Laurie Gilmore

Rating: 3 Stars

So, I just finished reading The Christmas Tree Farm by Laurie Gilmore, and I’ve got a few things to say about it. First off, can we talk about how absolutely adorable the cover is? I mean, it screams festive vibes and makes you want to dive right into the holiday spirit. But let’s break it down a bit.

The story follows Kira North, who is not exactly the biggest fan of Christmas. I mean, what are the chances she ends up buying a Christmas tree farm in this super cute little town called Dream Harbor? Talk about ironic! Then there's Bennett Ellis, who is taking a much-needed vacation from California and his string of awful dates. He stumbles into Kira’s world after a rather awkward run-in while she’s trying to get her tree farm up and running—though let’s be real, she’s kind of a hot mess about it.

As the story unfolds, you see Kira’s stubbornness clash with Ben's willingness to help, even when she insists she doesn’t need it. And honestly, watching her go from grumpy tree farmer to someone who starts to appreciate Ben's strength is kind of entertaining. There’s a bit of that spicy romance intertwined with some mystery elements—like, is there really a body buried on with Kira’s farm? 😂

Now, I have to say, while the book was undeniably cute and festive, my overall feelings are a bit mixed. The romance felt kind of forced at times, and Kira was, well, not the most likable character in the world. It made it tough to fully root for her and Ben as a couple. Still, I can't deny that I was entertained throughout the read. 

So, if you’re looking for something light and seasonal to get you in the mood for the holidays, The Christmas Tree Farm might just do the trick. Just go into it knowing that Kira might test your patience a bit. Overall, I’d give it a solid three stars!

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

A Midwinter Murder – A Cozy Mystery Delight! 

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Oh my goodness, where do I even begin with A Midwinter Murder by Verity Bright? I’m practically bursting to tell you how much I absolutely loved this book! Picture this: it’s winter 1924, and Lady Eleanor Swift finds herself at the grand but mysterious Auldwyke Hall, hosted by the reclusive Duke. She has her heart set on a cozy, festive celebration with her fiancé, the charming detective Hugh Seldon, complete with homemade baubles and reindeer-shaped cookies. But, of course, things take a dramatic turn when a body is discovered!

The unfortunate Mr. Porritt, the Duke’s secretary, is found dead in a storeroom clutching a golden rose pendant that sends Eleanor's curiosity—and her detective instincts—into overdrive. As she and Hugh navigate through a blizzard and a house full of suspicious guests, each with their own secrets, the tension builds. The stakes are raised even higher when an attempt is made on the Duke’s life. Seriously, the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat!

What really made this read special for me was seeing Hugh play such a significant role throughout the story. Finally! I’ve been waiting for this! And of course, it’s always a joy to reunite with our beloved characters who feel like old friends at this point. The atmosphere of Auldwyke Hall was so vivid; I could practically feel the chill of the moors and the warmth of the fireside.

Verity Bright has crafted a delightful mystery that kept me guessing until the very end. I can’t rave enough about how well everything was tied together—every little detail felt perfectly placed. Honestly, I can’t wait for the next adventure with Eleanor, Hugh, Clifford, and the rest of this fabulous crew!

If you’re looking for a cozy mystery to curl up with this winter, look no further than A Midwinter Murder. 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: The Night Before Christmas (Illustrated): A Polar Bear Family Edition

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

As someone who cherishes holiday traditions, I was absolutely thrilled to dive into The Night Before Christmas (Illustrated): A Polar Bear Family Edition by Clement Clarke Moore, narrated by Lucy Bozzi and beautifully illustrated by Ilya Tolochka. This enchanting picture book is a delightful twist on the classic Christmas poem we all know and love. 

The story transports readers into a whimsical winter wonderland, where a cozy polar bear family anticipates the arrival of Santa Bear in their charming snow-covered cabin. It’s the perfect setting for capturing the joy and magic of Christmas. With every turn of the page, the excitement builds as Santa Bear prepares to make their dreams come true, echoing the timeless sentiment of the original poem. 

One of my favorite aspects of this edition is how it stays true to the iconic verses penned back in 1823. The nostalgia of A Visit from Saint Nicholas is palpable, and I appreciate how the authors have honored that legacy while adding a fresh, heartwarming narrative that appeals to both children and adults alike. 

The illustrations are simply adorable! Ilya Tolochka’s watercolor art is bright, festive, and perfectly encapsulates the coziness of the holiday season. Each image is a feast for the eyes, making it a joy to share this book with loved ones. It truly brings the story to life in a way that will engage readers of all ages.

Additionally, I was pleasantly surprised by the educational elements included at the end of the book. There’s a thoughtful glossary that explains the meanings behind the reindeer names, as well as a list of metaphors, similes, and contractions. These features enrich the reading experience and provide fantastic opportunities for learning as children grow older—what a clever way to blend fun with education!

Moreover, I adore the personalized "This Book Belongs To" page—it's such a beautiful touch that makes this book an ideal keepsake gift for boys and girls of all ages. Whether you’re reading it aloud to your family or using it in a classroom setting, this edition is perfect for creating cherished memories during the holiday season.

In conclusion, The Night Before Christmas (Illustrated): A Polar Bear Family Edition is not just a book; it's a celebration of love, family, and the magic of Christmas. I wholeheartedly give it five stars and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a beautiful picture book to share with their loved ones during this special time of year!

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

Book Review: Feasts of Good Fortune by Hsiao-Ching Chou; Meilee Chou Riddle

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

As a lover of both cooking and culture, I was absolutely thrilled to dive into Feasts of Good Fortune by Hsiao-Ching Chou and her daughter Meilee Chou Riddle. This stunningly beautiful cookbook is not just a collection of recipes; it's a heartfelt journey through the Chinese American experience, celebrating the traditions and values that bind families together over shared meals.

The book features 75 recipes that guide you through a full year of celebrations, from the rich traditions of the Lunar New Year to the warmth of Thanksgiving get-togethers. What I love most is how the authors blend past and present. Hsiao-Ching draws from her own culinary heritage, sharing recipes that have been passed down through generations, while Meilee brings a fresh perspective as she reconnects with her roots as a young adult. Their collaboration creates a beautiful tapestry of flavors and stories that invite readers to gather around their family dinner table.

One thing that immediately struck me about this cookbook is its gorgeous presentation. It’s visually captivating with colorful photographs and illustrations that make it not only a functional guide but also an impressive addition to my coffee table. I can already imagine friends flipping through it, admiring the vibrant images while I whip up some dumplings!

The recipes are organized chronologically by seasonal celebrations, which is incredibly helpful—no more guessing what to cook for each festival! I caught myself going back and forth to look at my favorites, such as Scallion Pancakes, Glutinous Rice Balls with Black Sesame Paste, Garlic Shrimp, and, of course, all the delicious dumplings! 

Each recipe comes with background information, yields, and clear step-by-step directions, making them accessible to cooks of all skill levels. The authors did a fantastic job of tagging recipes with difficulty ratings, so you know what to expect in terms of prep and cooking time. Most of the ingredients are readily available at your local grocery store, but a few might require a trip to an Asian market—definitely worth it for the authentic flavors!

Beyond just recipes, Feasts of Good Fortune offers rich cultural insights. The authors share personal family stories that bring warmth and depth to the text. As someone who values the significance of food in cultural expression, I was particularly touched by how they honor festivals like Qingming and Dragon Boat with not just recipes but also the stories behind them.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a cookbook that's not only filled with delicious recipes but also serves as a celebration of heritage and family bonds, look no further. Feasts of Good Fortune is a must-have for any foodie’s collection. It's perfect for anyone who wants to bring a piece of Chinese American culture into their home kitchen while creating lasting memories with loved ones. Grab your apron and let’s start cooking!

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

Book Review: The Encyclopedia of Pasta by The Coastal Kitchen

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing The Encyclopedia of Pasta by The Coastal Kitchen, and it's quite the culinary adventure! The instant I spotted the cover, I was drawn in by its stunning design. This book is like a passport to pasta heaven, showcasing around 350 recipes that span from classic Italian favorites to delicious dishes from other parts of the world. 

A Treasure Trove of Recipes

What really stands out to me is how comprehensive this cookbook is. Whether you’re a newbie trying your hand at Spaghetti Bolognese or a seasoned chef looking to tackle more intricate options, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find everything from creamy Carbonara to a simple yet satisfying Aglio e Olio. The structure is user-friendly, with clear and concise instructions that guide you through each recipe, making the cooking process feel almost effortless.

I particularly appreciated the informative section at the beginning that dives into pasta ingredients and the art of making fresh pasta. It’s like a mini pasta school right in your kitchen! Plus, the book thoughtfully covers not just pasta dishes but also soups and sauces, giving you the tools to create an entire meal. 

Eye-Candy Photography

Now, let’s talk about the visuals. The full-color photography is stunning and truly inspires you to get cooking. However, I do wish there were a few more photos of the finished dishes throughout the book. Sometimes it’s nice to see what your culinary creation could look like!

I also loved that this book includes a mix of old favorites and exciting new recipes. It feels like a delightful blend of nostalgia and discovery, which keeps things fresh and interesting in the kitchen. And don’t even get me started on the appendix! Having stock recipes and other handy tips included is such a bonus.

Final Thoughts

Overall, The Encyclopedia of Pasta is an impressive collection that captures the heart and soul of pasta cooking. I’ve already marked several recipes I can’t wait to try, and I’m excited to dive into the world of handmade pasta. If you love putting delicious food on the table—especially pasta—this book deserves a spot on your shelf. I’d give it four stars for its extensive coverage, beautiful presentation, and practicality in the kitchen. So grab a fork and get ready to twirl your way into some pasta magic! 🍝

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