the_sassy_bookworm's reviews
5059 reviews

Book Review: Christmas with the Knights by Hannah Langdon

Rating: 3 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Christmas with the Knights, and I have to say, it’s a cozy read that brings the holiday spirit right to your living room. The story follows Fallon Honeywood, an overworked event planner who hits her breaking point after a whirlwind Christmas party. In a rather reluctant turn of events, she finds herself at Blakeney Hall, her mother’s boyfriend's grand manor in the picturesque Yorkshire moors. This family reunion is anything but smooth, as Fallon navigates the awkwardness of her relationship with her soap opera-star mother.

As the plot unfolds, Fallon becomes involved with the charming aristocratic Knight family—particularly the handsome widower Alexander and his sweet son, Theo. There’s a budding romance that ignites between Fallon and Alexander while they work together to launch his artisanal gin business at the local Christmas Fayre. Throughout this journey, Fallon starts to confront some of her own deeper issues, particularly loneliness, which she had been masking with her busy city life.

The story is filled with delightful characters, including Fallon’s quirky aunt Constance and a rescue donkey named Heathcliff, which add a nice touch of whimsy to the narrative. As Christmas approaches, the enchanting atmosphere of the manor and the festive scents wafting through the air create a warm backdrop for Fallon’s personal transformation. The question lingers: will she choose to return to her bustling London life or embrace a new beginning in this snowy wonderland?

Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this book. It had all the festive vibes I was looking for, and I found the romance and side characters quite engaging. However, I wasn't completely sold on Fallon or her mother—something about their dynamic just didn’t sit right with me. That said, Theo was an absolute gem; his character brought so much warmth and charm to the story.

In conclusion, Christmas with the Knights is a delightful read for anyone looking to get lost in a festive tale filled with heartwarming moments and a sprinkle of romance. While it may not be perfect, it certainly has its charm and might just leave you feeling a little more festive!

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

Book Review: Miss Beeton’s Murder Agency by Josie Lloyd

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Miss Beeton’s Murder Agency by Josie Lloyd, and I was pleasantly surprised! This cosy crime novel has a delightful retro vibe while still feeling fresh and contemporary. The story revolves around Alice Beeton, who, like her famous relative Mrs Beeton, always envisioned herself as the queen of a perfectly managed household. However, reality has taken Alice down a different path; at just over fifty, she finds herself single, childless, and living in a somewhat shabby basement flat in Kensington with her quirky little dog, Agatha—a corgi-Jack Russell mix who has a knack for stealing the spotlight.

Alice runs the Good Household Management Agency, where she connects high-end clients with domestic staff. When Camille Messant reaches out for an urgent housekeeper, Alice sends over Enya—an assertive new hire with glowing references and a knack for French. But when New Year’s Day rolls around, Alice is jolted from sleep by the shocking news that Enya has been found dead. With the police dragging their feet and the wealthy family tight-lipped, it’s up to Alice to uncover the truth.

First off, I LOVE the cover of this book. It’s just fabulous! As I dove into the story, I found myself enchanted by the varied settings and the festive atmosphere Lloyd creates. The characters are genuinely likeable and the friendships among them add warmth to the narrative. Of course, Agatha deserves a special mention—her antics are absolutely adorable and she definitely brings some extra charm to Alice's life.

What I appreciated most about this book was how well it balanced a lighthearted tone with genuine mystery. The pacing was spot on; I devoured it in just two days! The characters had real depth, and I was kept guessing about who the villain might be until the very end. Plus, there were delightful twists, turns, and red herrings sprinkled throughout—everything you’d hope for in a cosy mystery.

Oh, and did I mention there are recipes included? That’s just an extra cherry on top! Overall, Miss Beeton’s Murder Agency is a well-crafted cosy mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed. It’s a fantastic start to what promises to be an exciting new series. I can't wait to see what adventures Alice and Agatha will embark on next! If you love a good mystery with charming characters, you won’t want to miss this one. Four stars from me!

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

Book Review: Silent Nights are Murder by Libby Klein

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently dove into Silent Nights are Murder by Libby Klein, and let me tell you, it was a delightful mix of holiday cheer and suspense! As a fan of cozy mysteries, this book did not disappoint. 

In this ninth installment of the Poppy McAllister Mystery series, we find our favorite gluten-free baker, Poppy, caught up in yet another whirlwind of chaos—this time during the festive season. The story kicks off with an engagement ring mysteriously left behind after Thanksgiving, setting the stage for a puzzling adventure. Just when Poppy thinks she’s got it all figured out, a shocking twist occurs: a frozen body of a fish supplier is discovered in her ex's restaurant kitchen, and it’s got a note pinned to it that reads "Get Poppy." Talk about a Christmas surprise! 

What I really enjoyed was how the author managed to weave in elements of humor and warmth amidst the murder mystery. All the beloved characters are back, and I found myself chuckling at Aunt Ginny and her friends' antics. Seriously, who could resist giggling when Aunt Ginny and her crew create their own brand of chaotic charm? Not to mention the sweet interactions between Poppy and her friends, especially when Gia speaks Italian—it’s moments like these that really tug at your heartstrings.

The pacing of the mystery was spot-on, with plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing right up to the end. I was pleasantly surprised by how well-constructed the plot was; it felt like a well-decorated Christmas tree—full of surprises and delightful ornaments! And while the laughs kept coming, the book also offered glimpses into Poppy’s past that added depth to the story. 

Klein's writing style is so vivid that I could practically see the twinkling Christmas lights while I read. It truly immersed me in the holiday spirit! The ending wrapped everything up beautifully, filled with happiness and laughter—what more could one ask for during the holiday season?

Overall, Silent Nights are Murder deserves a solid four stars from me! I can’t wait to see what kind of zany adventures Poppy gets herself into next. If you’re looking for a cozy mystery that captures the essence of Christmas with a side of murder, this book should definitely be on your reading list!

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

Book Review: A Christmas in Prague by Helga Jensen

Rating: 2.5 Stars

When I picked up A Christmas in Prague by Helga Jensen, I was immediately drawn in by the stunning cover art. It has an enchanting winter vibe that just screams holiday spirit. The premise also intrigued me: after the passing of her beloved Aunt Grace, Olivia is tasked with delivering a message to Grace's long-lost love, Marek, in Prague. This journey seems not only to honor her aunt’s last wish but also to give Olivia a chance to reclaim her life after a tough divorce. 

Let’s start with the positives, shall we? The writing is genuinely well-crafted and flows nicely throughout the story. The pacing kept me engaged, and I appreciated how the festive setting of Prague came alive on the pages. I could practically feel the chill in the air as Olivia navigated through the beautiful Christmas markets, soaking in the sights and sounds of the season. Moreover, I found myself really enjoying the characters of Tomas and Albert; they added a warm charm to the narrative that made me smile.

However, I have to admit that Olivia, the protagonist, was a bit of a stumbling block for me. Despite her journey being central to the story, I found her character quite frustrating. She often came off as rude and obnoxious, which made it hard for me to root for her. I mean, whose workplace gives someone two years off just because their husband left them? That felt unrealistic and honestly a bit pathetic. I understand that she's going through a difficult time, but I wished she had shown more resilience. 

In conclusion, while A Christmas in Prague has a beautiful setting and well-developed supporting characters, Olivia’s character left much to be desired for me. It’s clear that many readers have loved this book, and I may just be in the minority here. But hey, you can’t love every book, right? All in all, I’d give it three stars for its delightful writing and festive atmosphere, even if it didn’t completely resonate with me.

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

Book Review: Murder at a Scottish Christmas by Traci Hall

Rating: 3.5 Stars

So, I just finished Murder at a Scottish Christmas, the sixth book in Traci Hall’s delightful Scottish Shire Mystery series, and it was quite the cozy and festive treat! This book, set in the picturesque seaside village of Nairn, really captures the essence of the season. It’s got all the festive vibes you could ask for and even more!

Summary

In this installment, we follow Paislee Shaw, a sweater shop owner and knitting enthusiast, as she prepares to ring in the New Year. She’s got her hands full with plans for a holiday feast for her twelve-year-old son Brody, her grandpa, and their adorable black Scottish terrier, Wallace. The vibe is all about warmth and togetherness—until things take a dark turn. During the Hogmanay celebrations, with fireworks lighting up the sky, a shot rings out, leaving everyone in shock. McCormac, Amelia's brother, becomes the target in this deadly game of mystery. As chaos unfolds, Paislee takes it upon herself to help Detective Inspector Zeffer crack the case, even though it might put her own life at risk.

My Thoughts

First off, can we talk about how cute and festive the cover is? It totally sets the mood for a cozy mystery! I really enjoyed how Hall captured the small village charm of Nairn. It made me wish I could just pop over there for a Sip and Stitch event myself! The characters are just wonderful; they embody that Scottish pride and community spirit that makes you want to be part of their lives. I’ve grown quite fond of Paislee, her son Brody, grandpa Angus, and of course, Wallace. 

The mystery itself was engaging and well plotted. There were enough twists and turns to keep me guessing right up to the very end. I loved that it wasn’t just about solving a crime; it was also about friendships and community bonds that made it all the more enjoyable. And speaking of enjoyment, I wouldn't mind seeing a little romance blossom between Paislee and Zeffer—just saying!

Overall, I’d definitely recommend Murder at a Scottish Christmas to all my cozy mystery-loving friends. It’s a lovely mix of festive cheer, intriguing mystery, and charming characters that make it worth picking up this holiday season. I’d give 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: Christmas at the Little Paris Hotel by Rebecca Raisin

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

First off, let me just say that I absolutely LOVE the cover of Christmas at the Little Paris Hotel! It’s bursting with color and captures that festive spirit perfectly. You can practically feel the holiday magic just by looking at it. 

Now, let’s dive into the story! Imagine receiving a rundown hotel in Paris as part of a divorce settlement. Not exactly what Anais had in mind for a fresh start, right? Initially, she thinks about sprucing it up just enough to sell it off and move on from her not-so-great marriage. But, of course, things don't go as planned. Instead of a quick sale, she decides to turn this charming but tattered hotel into a beautiful boutique retreat in time for Christmas. Talk about ambitious! 

What I loved most was the quirky twist of having Noah, the grumpy American bar owner next door, constantly meddling in her plans. Their interactions add a delightful tension and humor that really kept me engaged. Plus, there’s a hidden room in the hotel that holds a century-old secret related to love—how intriguing is that? The mystery really kept me turning the pages, eagerly wanting to discover the fate of the unknown author and their connection to Anais.

Rebecca Raisin has this magical way of bringing Paris to life on the page. The descriptions are so vivid—I could practically smell the fresh pastries and hear the twinkling of fairy lights as snowflakes began to fall. It truly felt like I was wandering through the city, soaking in all its enchantment during the holiday season. 

And let's not forget the characters! Each character is unique and adds their own special touch to the story, brimming with humor, and personality. They made me laugh, think, and root for them as they navigated their own challenges throughout the narrative.

Overall, Christmas at the Little Paris Hotel is just an enchanting read—perfect for cozying up with during winter. It’s a lovely mix of romance, mystery, and holiday spirit that left me charmed and inspired. So grab a hot cocoa and settle in for this delightful escape in Paris. You won't regret it!

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

Book Review: Color Me Menopausal by Shirley Serban

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Hey there, friends! If you’re looking for a light-hearted way to tackle the wild ride of menopause, then I've got just the book for you: Color Me Menopausal by Shirley Serban. Seriously, this activity book is like a hilarious lifeline tossed to us hormonal warriors. 

From the very first page, I found myself chuckling at the clever activities designed to guide us through the chaos of perimenopause and menopause. One of the most entertaining parts is figuring out your menopause superheroine name based on your birth month (mine is Crampy Hacker Droopy Boobs 😂} —because who doesn’t want to feel a little super now and then? 

The pages are packed with a variety of fun stuff. There’s everything from mazes that help you “Stop the Leak!” (let's be real, we all need that bathroom map sometimes) to word searches that challenge you to find all the creative names menopause has picked up over the years. And don’t even get me started on “House Partay!”—the differences between our past partying selves and our current "I’d rather stay in with a hot flash" selves had me laughing out loud. 

What I loved most was how this book not only offers a good chuckle but also provides validation and support. It’s like Shirley is sitting right there with you, acknowledging the madness of menopause while helping you navigate it with humor. There are puzzles, quizzes, and even some Shakespearean quotes thrown in for good measure (because why not?). This book genuinely feels like a warm hug!

Plus, it’s packed with tips and guidance that make you feel like you aren’t alone in this journey. Perfect for anyone over 40, it’s an awesome gift idea too. Who wouldn't want a fun-filled escape that celebrates our shared experiences? 

Overall, Color Me Menopausal is an engaging mix of humor and practicality. It’s written by someone who’s living through this phase herself, which makes the advice all the more relatable. So grab your colored pencils, take a deep breath, and dive into this delightful book. You’ll come out feeling lighter, brighter, and perhaps a little more equipped to handle whatever menopause throws your way!

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

Book Review: Open Sesame: 45 Sweet & Savory Recipes for Tahini & All Things Sesame by Rachel Belle

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you're looking to spice up your kitchen game, look no further than Open Sesame by Rachel Belle! Seriously, this book is a total gem. It’s packed with 45 creative recipes that elevate tahini from a simple condiment to the star of the show. Rachel takes this creamy, nutty ingredient and shows you how versatile it really is—think of tahini as the little black dress of the culinary world. It can go from a hearty savory dish to a decadent dessert without missing a beat!

One of the best things about this cookbook is its global flair. Each recipe has a unique sesame twist that adds a little something extra to your everyday meals. I was particularly blown away by the Ginger Sesame Chicken Soup and the Sesame-Crusted Waffles with Tahini and Maple. My family couldn’t get enough of them! The recipes are straightforward and easy to follow, making it a breeze to whip up something delicious without feeling overwhelmed.

Rachel also sprinkles in helpful tips and suggestions throughout the book, which I found super useful. Plus, the photography? Pure drool-worthy eye candy! The whole book is not just a cookbook but an aesthetically pleasing addition to your kitchen library. 

Whether you're a seasoned chef or just getting started, Open Sesame is a fun and creative resource for making everything from breakfast to snacks, main dishes, sides, and even sweet treats. With standout recipes like Falafel-Spiced Tahini Deviled Eggs with Crispy Chickpeas and Chocolate Miso Whoopie Pies with Tahini Cream, you’re bound to impress your friends and family.

So if you want to sprinkle some sesame sparkle into your life (and your meals), grab this book! It’s perfect for any foodie looking to explore new flavors while keeping things allergy-friendly and nutritious. 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: In the Winter by Lauren Kukla

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently had the pleasure for reviewing "In the Winter by Lauren Kukla", and it was a delightful escape into a winter wonderland! As someone who loves cozy sessional based reads, this book felt like wrapping myself in a warm blanket while sipping hot cocoa on a chilly evening.

The story takes readers on a journey through the tranquil and enchanting aspects of winter—think snowy woods, glistening frozen lakes, and the mesmerizing northern lights. It beautifully illustrates how winter can bring communities together as families prepare for festive gatherings. The animals in the story, some awake making tracks in the snow while others are snuggled up in their burrows, remind us that even in the coldest months, there’s a certain warmth that comes from connection and togetherness.

Now, what really sets this book apart are the stunning watercolor illustrations. They’re absolutely breathtaking! Each page is a visual treat that captures the essence of winter perfectly—soft hues and cozy scenes that transport you right into that snowy landscape. I found that these illustrations complemented the simple yet captivating narrative, making it accessible and engaging for children. 

Kukla's storytelling not only celebrates the beauty of winter but also encourages readers to find joy in the season, even when it feels dark and cold outside. It’s a reminder that there is wonder to be found all around us.

Overall, I would rate this book four stars. It’s a charming read that I would definitely recommend adding to any children's library. Perfect for bedtime stories or family moments, In the Winter is sure to spark imagination and warmth during those long winter nights. If you're looking for a cute read that captures the splendor of winter, look no further!

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

Book Review: Hooray, It's Three Kings Day!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

As I sat down to read Hooray, It's Three Kings Day! by Annette M. Clayton, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. This picture book is not just a story; it’s a heartfelt celebration of the rich traditions surrounding Three Kings Day, and it does an incredible job of capturing the essence of this festive occasion.

The story centers around Sofia and her beloved abuela, who brings her cherished wooden santos from Puerto Rico. Through their special tradition, we learn about the wise men who followed a star to find Baby Jesus. The warmth of family and the beauty of their culture come alive in every page, making it a joyful read that resonates deeply with anyone familiar with these customs. What I particularly loved was how Annette Clayton draws from her own experiences, making the narrative relatable and authentic.

Now, let’s talk about the illustrations by Jone Leal! Wow! The artwork is absolutely stunning—vibrant colors and lively scenes that perfectly encapsulate the festive spirit of Three Kings Day. Each illustration adds another layer to the story, making it visually engaging and enriching the overall reading experience. It’s one of those books where you can’t help but linger on each page, soaking in all the details.

One of my favorite aspects of this book is its educational element. It includes four pages of backmatter filled with traditional recipes, a Spanish glossary, and insights into how this holiday is celebrated in various countries. This makes it not only a delightful story but also a valuable resource for young readers eager to learn more about their cultural heritage.

In summary, Hooray, It’s Three Kings Day! is a joyful celebration that introduces children to the cultural and religious significance of this holiday. With relatable characters, an engaging storyline, and breathtaking illustrations, it’s a book that will surely become a staple in any young reader's holiday collection. Whether you're sharing it with your family or gifting it to a friend, it's an experience that will bring warmth and joy to the season. Highly recommend!

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