the_sassy_bookworm's reviews
5100 reviews

Book Review: Superstition by James Blakey

Rating: 3 Stars

So, I just finished Superstition by James Blakey and I’d give it a solid 3 stars. Let me break it down for you.

The story kicks off at Van Buren University, where a bunch of seemingly harmless superstitions—like opening an umbrella indoors or having a black cat cross your path—start to take a dark turn when they lead to actual deaths on campus. Our protagonist, Jerry Williams, is a sophomore journalist who’s super passionate about his reporting. He connects the dots between these gruesome happenings and the superstitions, but his editor isn’t having it. She shuts him down, and he finds himself suspended from the school newspaper. Talk about a buzzkill! 

As the body count rises, Jerry’s girlfriend Darla gets caught up in the chaos, barely escaping with her life. This pushes Jerry into full-on detective mode as he decides to publish his findings in an alternative newspaper. But of course, the university administration isn’t thrilled about that either and threatens him with suspension for causing panic. It’s a race against time as Friday the 13th approaches, and Jerry has to figure out who—or what—is behind these bad luck deaths before it’s too late.

Now, onto my thoughts. Honestly, the beginning didn’t really grab me. It took a little while to get into the groove, but once I did, it was a fun read. The premise is intriguing—who doesn’t love a good murder mystery mixed with a bit of romance? The writing is beautiful and flows nicely, making it a quick read. However, I felt like the story got bogged down with too many extra tropes that didn’t quite fit together. There were all these cool ideas about superstitions leading to horrible deaths, but somehow it turned into a bit of a mishmash that didn’t fully click for me.

In the end, while I enjoyed the fast pace and the engaging writing style, I’m not sure I’m ready to dive into more books in this series. It was definitely entertaining but left me wanting something more cohesive. If you're looking for a light YA mystery with a sprinkle of romance, this might be right up your alley!

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

Book Review: Six Stunning Sirens by Lynn Cahoon

Rating: 3 Stars

I just finished reading Six Stunning Sirens, the latest installment in Lynn Cahoon's delightful Kitchen Witch series, and I have to say, it was quite the charming read! This book follows Mia Malone as she gears up to cater the Miss Magic Springs Harvest Pageant, a significant event for her catering business, Mia’s Morsels. Set against the backdrop of a cozy Idaho mountain town, this story combines the charm of a small community with a dash of magical intrigue.

Mia is excited about the opportunity to showcase her culinary talents while managing a gaggle of stage moms and their social-media-savvy daughters, all vying for a chance at the coveted title of queen. The stakes are high—winning means gaining inside access to the local coven's power, making this event even more intense. But just as the excitement builds, things take a dark turn when one of the stage moms is found dead and another is rushed to the hospital. Naturally, the coven starts to suspect that some magical mischief is at play. With the coronation just around the corner, Mia has to put on her sleuthing hat and figure out what's really going on in this cutthroat competition.

Overall, I found Six Stunning Sirens to be an entertaining addition to the series! I’ve really grown to enjoy Mia and her crew, and I've completely fallen in love with Cerby—their adorable hellhound companion. The mystery was well-constructed, keeping me guessing until the very end. Plus, the cozy setting made it easy to lose myself in the story. The pacing felt just right, with moments of tension balanced nicely against lighter scenes. And as a bonus, we even get some delicious recipes at the end!

While it didn't completely blow me away, it was still a solid read that kept me engaged from start to finish. If you’re looking for a whimsical mystery filled with magic, charming characters, and a touch of culinary flair, you might want to give this book a try!

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

Book Review: Creepy Kitchen: 60 Terror—rific Recipes That'll Possess Your Palette

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Creepy Kitchen: 60 Terror—rific Recipes That'll Possess Your Palette by Kim Kindelsperger, and let's just say, this cookbook is a whole vibe! Seriously, if you love Halloween (or just enjoy a good fright any time of year), this book is right up your alley. 

A Quick Peek Inside

Creepy Kitchen is packed with some seriously ghoulish recipes that will make your taste buds tingle with excitement—whether it’s Halloween or just a random Tuesday. The collection includes 60 delightfully eerie recipes that range from adorable treats for the kids to downright terrifying dishes for the adventurous eater. Think sausage biscuit brains and vampire bites that are as fun to make as they are to eat! And the best part? You can whip these up for any occasion, not just spooky season.

From appetizers to desserts and even some creepy Christmas recipes, this book has you covered. Each recipe comes complete with easy-to-follow instructions, making it a breeze to recreate these frightfully delicious dishes in your own kitchen. Plus, the illustrations are such a fun touch—they really bring the recipes to life!

My Thoughts on the Book

First off, flipping through Creepy Kitchen was just plain fun! The illustrations are super cute and add so much character to the book. I mean, who doesn't want a cookbook that looks like it jumped straight out of a Halloween party? Each dish has such creative names that make you chuckle while you're cooking. 

I loved how simple and straightforward the recipes are; they make cooking feel less daunting and more like a spooky adventure. The back of the book is also a goldmine, packed with tips on how to host your own creepy gathering—definitely a plus for those of us who love throwing themed parties!

Now, while the illustrations are adorable and add a quirky charm, I do wish there were actual photos of the finished dishes. I think seeing real food would have made my mouth water even more! But hey, the creativity still shines through.

Overall, Creepy Kitchen is a frightfully delightful cookbook that's perfect for anyone who loves all things spooky—be it for Halloween or just because you want to spice up your dinner routine. I could definitely see this book making an awesome gift for fellow spooky lovers. So if you're looking to dive into some deliciously creepy cooking, grab a copy and get ready to possess your palette! 

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

Book Review: A Winter Dictionary: A Collection of Words for the Festive Season by Paul Anthony Jones

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hey there, fellow book lovers! I just finished reading A Winter Dictionary: A Collection of Words for the Festive Season by Paul Anthony Jones, and I’m excited to share my thoughts. This isn’t your typical dictionary; it’s a delightful dive into the rich vocabulary that beautifully encapsulates the winter season. 

As the chilly nights creep in and winter starts to weave its magic, this book presents a treasure trove of unique words that perfectly capture the essence of the season. From quirky terms like "frost-dogs" (those adorable little frozen snowflakes) to "Stepmother's breath" (a sudden, frosty chill that makes you shiver), Jones takes us on a journey through language that’s both fascinating and fun. He even introduces us to "hibernaculum," which, let’s be honest, is just a fancy word for a cozy winter hideaway. And who can forget "crapulent"? You know, that feeling you get after enjoying one too many festive treats!

What I really appreciated about this book is the way it’s structured. Each entry kicks off with a word in bold, followed by its part of speech and a neat definition. But here’s where it gets interesting: Jones doesn’t stop there! Each definition is paired with backstories and etymological nuggets that add depth and context. Sometimes, there’s even a fitting quote that ties everything together. It feels more like storytelling than just flipping through a reference book.

The collection is thoughtfully divided into 11 chapters, starting and ending with transitional winter terms. There are sections dedicated to celebrating the joys of the season—think Christmas and New Year—as well as chapters that touch on the more restless and melancholic emotions that can surface during these colder months. And let’s not forget the weather words! From enchanting snowfalls to fierce ice storms, Jones covers it all.

I found myself dipping into this book whenever I had a spare moment, exploring each chapter at my own pace. The diversity of words from various time periods and languages—Old Norse, Old English, Latin, Dutch, and more—kept me engaged and eager to learn more about the origins of these terms. It’s like a cozy blanket of words wrapped around me during those chilly evenings!

In conclusion, A Winter Dictionary is a charming blend of education and entertainment that will warm your heart (and maybe your vocabulary) this festive season. If you're looking for a unique way to embrace the winter months, I highly recommend picking up this delightful read. It’s perfect for those cozy fireside evenings or when you just want to ponder the beauty of winter through the lens of language. Happy reading!

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

Book Review: The Most Beautiful Winter by Cristina Sitja Rubio

Rating: 3 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of diving into The Most Beautiful Winter, a cozy little gem that captures the essence of winter through the eyes of Badger, a rather restless forest dweller. As the snow blankets the trees and all the other animals settle down for their long winter's nap, Badger finds himself wide awake and brimming with ideas for fun. Unfortunately, his friends seem to be hibernating hard—Mr. Bear has a "DO NOT DISTURB" sign posted, Marmot is unresponsive, and even the nighthawk is deep in slumber. So, what's a busy Badger to do? 

As he engages in various activities like drawing, knitting, and reading, you can't help but feel for him. The story cleverly encourages readers to think outside the box about what hibernating animals might do instead of just snoozing away. While I really found this narrative charming, I did wish for a bit more interaction or connection with the other animals. It feels a little lonely at times, but perhaps that also drives home the message of making your own fun during winter.

One of the standout features of this book is its vibrant illustrations. The crayon-like artwork brings the forest and its inhabitants to life in such a delightful way. Seriously, some of these illustrations—like Badger knitting—are just beautiful and add so much warmth to the story. They truly enhance the overall reading experience, making it visually appealing for children and adults alike.

Additionally, I appreciate how The Most Beautiful Winter doesn't just tell a story but also educates its readers. At the end of the book, there's a helpful section explaining hibernation and even touches on the concept of torpor—something that badgers experience as winter comes to a close. This educational component is a wonderful touch and serves as a great conversation starter for families.

In summary, while The Most Beautiful Winter is a lovely read that teaches kids about hibernation in an imaginative way, I found myself wishing for deeper interactions between Badger and his friends. Nevertheless, with its enchanting illustrations and informative content, it's still a solid pick for family reading time or library story hours during the chilly months. All in all, I’d give it three stars out of five; it’s delightful but could use a little more warmth from its characters.

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

Book Review: The "I Don't Want to Cook" Book

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

As someone who often finds cooking to be a chore after a long day, I was genuinely excited to dive into The "I Don't Want to Cook" Book: Dinners Done in One Pot by Alyssa Brantley. This cookbook is like a comforting friend who understands those “I just don’t feel like cooking” days. With 100 quick and easy one-pot recipes, it promises minimal prep and limited clean-up, all while ensuring that you can still enjoy a healthy dinner.

Brantley’s approach is refreshingly straightforward. Each recipe requires just one piece of cookware—be it a skillet, Dutch oven, or even a mixing bowl. This not only cuts down on cooking time but also makes the dreary task of cleaning up afterward a breeze. For anyone who has ever dreaded the thought of tackling a sink full of dishes after dinner, this book is a lifesaver.

One of the aspects I truly appreciate is how accessible and easy Brantley makes cooking for beginners. The cookbook features an impressive variety of recipe types and flavor profiles, catering to almost everyone’s palate. It’s fantastic that this book doesn’t limit itself to just one-pot meals; it also includes recipes for woks, grills, slow cookers, and more. The diversity of options really impressed me!

Another highlight for me was the organization of the book. At the back, there's a helpful list of recipes sorted by cook time. I find it beneficial for dinner planning to know how long my meal will take to prepare—especially on those busy weeknights. Additionally, the front section provides excellent tips on how to care for and choose the right cooking vessels. The insights on cast iron skillets were particularly spot-on, showcasing Brantley’s expertise.

I also loved that each recipe clearly states prep time, cook time, and hands-off time. This transparency allows you to plan your evening with ease. The layout of the recipes is straightforward and easy to follow, making it ideal even for the most novice cooks. Plus, the visuals in this book are drool worthy; the photos are vibrant and mouth-watering, making it a visual feast that tempts you to get cooking.

In summary, The "I Don't Want to Cook" Book is a delightful addition to any kitchen bookshelf—especially for those days when cooking feels like a monumental task. With its diverse range of recipes, easy-to-follow instructions, and helpful tips on cooking vessels, I’m looking forward to trying out many of these dishes! The cover alone had me hooked from the start. If you’re searching for a cookbook that makes dinner a stress-free affair while still being deliciously satisfying, then look no further!

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

Book Review: Cooking and the Crown by Tom Parker Bowles

Rating: 5 Stars

As someone who loves both cooking and history, I was absolutely thrilled to dive into Cooking and the Crown by Tom Parker Bowles. This delightful cookbook invites readers into the fascinating world of British royal cuisine, spanning a remarkable 200 years of recipes, traditions, and anecdotes. With over 100 recipes, Parker Bowles combines his expertise as a food writer with intriguing glimpses into the lives of the royals—from Queen Victoria to King Charles III.

The book opens with a charming introduction to British royal food, setting the stage for what’s to come. As I flipped through the pages, I was greeted by an array of recipes organized into sections for breakfast, lunch, tea, dinner, and dessert. Each recipe is prefaced with a brief introduction, followed by a comprehensive ingredient list and clear directions. I especially appreciated that most recipes are accompanied by mouth watering photographs. And the beautiful illustrations throughout the book add a whimsical touch that complements Parker Bowles' companionable writing style. It feels like having a chat with a knowledgeable friend over a cup of tea—informative yet casual.

What truly adds to this book are the historical tidbits sprinkled throughout. Parker Bowles delves into various aspects of royal food history, including rationing during tough times, picnic traditions, and the grandeur of coronation feasts. These insights not only enrich the cooking experience but also provide a deeper understanding of the cultural context behind each dish. 

Now, let's talk about some of the standout recipes! The Fried Sole with shrimp sauce immediately caught my attention, and I can’t wait to try making George V’s Curry. The Quiche de Lorraine sounds divine, while the Welsh Teabread and Lemon Meringue Tartlet recipes has me daydreaming about their flavors. 

Overall, Cooking and the Crown is not just a cookbook; it’s a sensory feast that captures the essence of British royal dining. I am completely besotted with it! Whether you're a history buff, a passionate cook, or simply curious about royal life, this book promises inspiration and delight in every page. I’m giving it a solid 4 stars and highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore the intersection of gastronomy and royalty. Happy cooking!

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

Book Review: Vegan Japan: 70 Comforting Plant-Based Recipes by Julia Boucachard

Rating: 4 Stars

As a fan of Japanese cuisine, I was excited to dive into "Vegan Japan" by Julia Boucachard. This cookbook is a delightful exploration of comforting Japanese recipes that have been lovingly transformed into vegan versions. Boucachard, a Japanese French chef, draws on her childhood memories and culinary expertise to bring us an array of warming soups, slurpable noodles, refreshing vegetable sides, and even indulgent street foods—all without any animal products.

The book does an excellent job of showcasing the versatility of Japanese cuisine while emphasizing seasonality and balance in flavors. I was thrilled to find beloved classics like Kabocha Stew, Miso Butter Ramen, and Gyoza among the pages. But it's not just about the well-known dishes; Boucachard also introduces us to Yoshoku—Western dishes with a playful Japanese twist—and cleverly veganized takes on meat and seafood favorites like Karaage. Plus, there's an entire section dedicated to homemade sauces and condiments, which is a game changer for anyone looking to elevate their cooking.

One of the standout features of "Vegan Japan" is its layout. It’s not just beautiful; it’s thoughtfully organized, making it easy to navigate through the various recipes. Each page is adorned with mouthwatering photographs that make you want to dive right into the kitchen. The charming illustrations sprinkled throughout add a touch of whimsy, making the cookbook a joy to leaf through.

Moreover, Boucachard goes above and beyond by providing valuable insights into the ingredients and supplies needed for each dish. I particularly appreciated her attention to detail regarding the seasons in which certain recipes shine. This thoughtful touch caters to those of us who enjoy celebrating plant-based eating in tune with nature’s rhythms.

"Vegan Japan" is a fantastic resource for anyone interested in exploring plant-based Japanese cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this cookbook has something to offer everyone. With its easy-to-follow recipes and beautiful visuals, it's a four-star gem that I highly recommend for anyone looking to bring a little taste of Japan into their home cooking—vegan style!

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

Book Review: Bell, Book and Corpses by T.C. LoTempio

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Bell, Book and Corpses by T.C. LoTempio, and this cozy mystery is the perfect treat for the Halloween season! Set against the eerie backdrop of Waincroft Manor—a mansion steeped in tales of witchcraft and curses—Nora Charles finds herself in the middle of a spine-tingling whodunit when a body is discovered laid out in a coffin, complete with two peculiar bite marks on its neck. As the whispers of vampires begin to circulate among the local gossips, Nora is determined to clear the air and prove that the real murderer is human.

This installment of the Nick and Nora Mystery series brings back familiar faces that fans will adore. I always enjoy revisiting characters I've come to love, and Nora, Nick, and their quirky supporting cast fit seamlessly into this spooky narrative. Nick, the most cleverest of cats is my favorite character. He communicates through Scrabble tiles and "meows", always one step ahead of Nora!

The author also has a knack for immersing readers in the Halloween spirit. A haunted mansion, vampires, ghostbusters, all set the stage for a cozy and festive Halloween themed read. Plus, can we take a moment to appreciate the cover? It's absolutely perfect for capturing that Halloween ambiance!

Overall, Bell, Book and Corpses earns a solid four stars from me. It’s an engaging read that combines humor, suspense, and just the right amount of spooky vibes. It works well as a standalone. Has great writing, a well plotted mystery, and fun characters. So if you're in the mood for a cozy mystery that captures the essence of Halloween, this book is definitely worth adding to your reading list!

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

Book Review: Haunted to Death by Frank Anthony Polito

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½

Hey folks! So, I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Haunted to Death by Frank Anthony Polito, and let me tell you, it was a perfect October read. This book is the third installment in the Domestic Partners series, and it’s just as engaging as the previous ones. If you’re into cozy mysteries with a sprinkle of ghostly charm, keep on reading!

A Quick Summary

This Halloween season, our favorite home renovation duo, Peter (PJ) Penwell and JP Broadway, find themselves in a bit of a spooky situation. They’re tasked with restoring Woods Hall, a gorgeous old manor in Pleasant Woods, Detroit, that has a chilling backstory. Picture this: 25 years ago, during a Halloween party, the glamorous Emma Wheeler-Woods—dressed in a stunning wedding gown—plummeted from a balcony. Was it an accident? Or did someone give her a little push? 

Now, Fiona Forrest, Emma’s daughter and an indie music star, has inherited this haunted beauty and is determined to restore it. As PJ and JP dive into renovations, things start to go bump in the night, and they can't help but wonder if they’re dealing with a ghost or something much darker. With a Halloween deadline looming, they juggle renovations, a haunted house, and the mystery of Emma's death—all while trying to keep their reality show on track.

My Thoughts

Okay, let’s talk about PJ and JP.  DIY experts; they’re also life partners. Their dynamic is just so charming! PJ is the anxious one while JP is the brave heart—together they make quite the team. It’s like watching a perfectly balanced recipe come together.

This book has that delicious Halloween vibe, especially with the backdrop of an old mansion filled with secrets and possible curses. The back-and-forth storytelling really kept me hooked; it was like peeling back layers of an onion (a spooky onion!). You get to meet some of the townsfolk who were around during Emma's tragic party, and their insights add depth to the narrative. Plus, Fiona’s celebrity status throws in a nice twist to the mix!

I loved how the author paints PJ and JP’s everyday life. They’ve got rescue dogs and their own lovingly restored home that feels so relatable. It’s cozy in all the right ways. And let’s not forget about their sleuthing—while they might be nosy (who isn’t?), their gentle probing feels appropriate as they try to uncover the truth behind Emma’s death.

By the time I reached the end of this book, I felt a genuine affection for these characters. They’re endearing enough that I’d happily join them for a cup of coffee in their craftsman-style home! If you’re looking for a fun read that combines humor, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural, I’d say give Haunted to Death a shot.

Overall, while I didn’t find it to be absolutely perfect (hence the 3.5 stars), it certainly delivered some cozy vibes and kept me entertained. I’m already looking forward to seeing what PJ and JP get into next!

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