Binge-Worthy Wednesday: Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez


Welcome to another Binge-Worthy Wednesday! Every week, I spotlight a book, series, or show that’s absolutely impossible to put down — the kind of story that demands just one more chapter (or episode). This week’s pick had me completely hooked, and I can’t wait to share why it deserves a spot on your must-binge list. Let’s dive in!

Title: Say You'll Remember Me

By: Abby Jimenez

Genre: Romance

Pages: 416

Release Date: April 1st, 2025

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:

There might be no such a thing as a perfect guy, but Xavier Rush comes disastrously close. A gorgeous veterinarian giving Greek god vibes—all while cuddling a tiny kitten? Immediately yes. That is until Xavier opens his mouth and proves that even sculpted gods can say the absolute wrong thing. Like, really wrong. Of course, there’s nothing Samantha loves more than proving an asshole wrong…

. . . unless, of course, he can admit he made a mistake. But after one incredible and seemingly endless date—possibly the best in living history—Samantha is forced to admit the truth, that her family is in crisis and any kind of relationship would be impossible. Samantha begs Xavier to forget her. To remember their night together as a perfect moment, as crushing as that may be.

Only no amount of distance or time is nearly enough to forget that something between them. And the only thing better than one single perfect memory is to make a life—and even a love—worth remembering.

 

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Review:

Abby Jimenez has an incredible gift for weaving heartfelt, emotional stories, and Say You’ll Remember Me is no exception. This novel completely swept me away with its layered characters, tender romance, and authentic portrayal of resilience and hope. The chemistry between the main characters felt so real, with moments that made me laugh, ache, and cheer for their happiness. Jimenez balances heavier themes with her signature warmth and humor, creating a story that’s as uplifting as it is powerful. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough — and when I reached the final chapter, I found myself wishing for even more time with these unforgettable characters. Say You’ll Remember Me is a beautifully written, emotionally rich story that’s guaranteed to stay with me for a long time.

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ARC Review: Rebel in the Deep by Katee Roberts

 


There’s something extra exciting about getting an early look at a book before it officially hits the shelves, and today I'm thrilled to share my thoughts on Rebel in the Deep by Katee Roberts. As an ARC reader, I had the opportunity to dive into this story ahead of its release, and I’m here to give you a spoiler-free glimpse into what you can expect. Let’s get into it!

Title: Rebel in the Deep

By: Katee Roberts

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 352

Release Date: May 20th, 2025 

Rating: ★★★☆☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:

The rebellion’s fight turns into a battle for their hearts aboard the next sexy fantasy romance from Katee Robert, the New York Times bestselling author of Hunt on Dark Waters.

Nox has been steadfastly working as a quartermaster for the rebellion for years. They don’t ask for much in return, except for one crucial condition—their ex, the noble Lord Bastian, stays as far away from them as possible. To say things ended poorly between them is a gross understatement . . . and it’s the only relationship Nox has never quite recovered from.

But now the rules have changed. Siobhan, the rebel leader, has emerged from hiding to tell Nox that Bastian’s involvement in the rebellion has been discovered, and he’s being taken to stand trial in the capital as a traitor. The fate of the entire rebellion now rests on Nox and Siobhan’s ability to rescue Bastian from the Cŵn Annwn ship.

Saving Bastian is only the start of their hardships, as the trio is tracked by ferocious pirates across Threshold. And Nox’s complicated relationships and entanglements with Bastian and Siobhan put not only their life at risk but their heart on the line.

 

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Review:

Katee Robert’s Rebel in the Deep had an intriguing premise, but the execution fell flat. The story dragged, struggling to maintain momentum, and while the buildup promised an explosive climax, the payoff was underwhelming. The resolution felt far too convenient, wrapping things up without the depth or struggle needed to make it satisfying. While Robert’s writing and world-building had potential, the lack of tension in the ending made the journey feel less rewarding.

Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.

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Weekly Menu #605 And The Book Of The Week

 


For this week’s weekly menu, I’m taking a flavorful journey to India, a country known for its rich, diverse cuisine that blends spices, fresh ingredients, and centuries-old culinary traditions. From the aromatic curries to the irresistible street food, India’s food culture offers something for every palate. Join me as we explore a menu inspired by vibrant, bold flavors—perfect for adding some zest to your week!

This week, I'm diving into Empire of the Vampire by Jay Kristoff—a story that blends horror, fantasy, and a touch of dark romance. Set in a world where the sun has vanished, leaving humanity in constant battle with vampires, Kristoff's vivid world-building and relentless pacing pull you in from the very first page. The tale follows Gabriel de León, a vampire hunter, as he recounts his journey filled with tragedy, betrayal, and an unyielding fight for survival. With its epic scope and morally gray characters, this book is perfect for fans of intense, atmospheric fantasy.

Let's get to this week's menu. Enjoy!

WEEKLY MENU

Monday

Butter Chicken with Jeera Rice

Kids - Mild Butter Chicken with rice and Cucumbers

 

Tuesday

Chicken Rogan Josh with Mint and Tomato Salad

Kids - Chicken with Naan and Peas

 

Wednesday

Chicken Tikka Skewers with Turmeric Rice and a Salad

Kids - Grilled Chicken Tikka Pieces with Rice and Carrot sticks

 

Thursday

Keema Matar with Naan and Salad

Kids - Mild Chicken Korma with tortilla and Cauliflower

 

Friday

Chicken Korma with Rice and Tandoori Roasted Cauliflower

Kids - Chicken Meatballs with Rice and Cucumbers

 

Saturday

Beef Curry with Spiced Carrot and Peas Stir-Fry

Kids - Chicken Tenders with Buttered Bread and corn

 

Sunday

Leftovers Night

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Sunday Confessions #302

 


It’s time to spill the tea—bookish style. Every now and then, I come across a read that surprises me, disappoints me, or leaves me with opinions that might not be the popular vote. Book Confessions is my little corner to share the good, the meh, and the downright unexpected moments in my recent reads. Whether it’s a beloved author who missed the mark or a hyped book that actually delivered, here’s what I’ve been dying to confess.


Sunday Confessions #301
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Weekly Menu #604 And The Book Of The Week
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Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 17
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Book Review: The Wild Huntress by Emily Lloyd-Jones
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Three Things I Loved About Somewhere Beyond the Sea by T.J. Klune
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Book Review: Twilight Company by Alexander Freed
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Saturday Sips: Witchy Reads


Weekly Menu #605 And The Book Of The Week
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ARC Review: Rebel in the Deep by Katee Roberts
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Binge-Worthy Wednesday: Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez
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Book Review: The Housemaid's Secret by Frida McFadden
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April 2025 Wrap Up
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Sunday Confessions #303





A Scar in the Bone

Sophie Jordan

★★☆☆☆
Sophie Jordan, you cannot lose a main character for 75% of the book and then expect us to care in the end. A Scar in the Bone dragged with a sluggish pace, making it difficult to stay invested, and by the time the missing character resurfaced, any emotional weight had long since evaporated. The story felt hollow, lacking the tension and engagement needed to sustain interest. While Jordan's writing has its moments, the structure of this novel ultimately made it frustrating rather than compelling.








134/100 2025 Reading Challenge


Reading isn’t always about loving every page—it’s about the journey, the surprises, and even the occasional letdown. These bookish confessions may not be glowing reviews, but they’re honest reflections from one reader to another. Whether you agree, disagree, or have your own confessions to share, I’d love to hear your thoughts. After all, the best part of reading is talking about it—flaws and all.

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Saturday Sips: Witchy Reads


There’s something about curling up with a good witchy read that makes the weekend feel just a little more magical. This Saturday, I’m diving into a collection of books filled with potions, spells, and a touch of dark mystery—perfect for sipping on something warm or a little stronger. Whether you’re a seasoned witchcraft fan or just curious about the allure of the arcane, these books will transport you to worlds where magic is real, and every sip feels like an incantation. Let’s get started with some of my favorite witchy reads.

A Witch's Guide to Magical Innkeeping

Sangu Mandanna

★★★★☆
A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna is a cozy, enchanting read filled with charm, warmth, and just the right touch of magic. The setting is beautifully crafted, making the inn feel like a place I’d love to visit, and the characters are delightful, with their relationships adding heart to the story. While the plot moved a bit slowly at times, the overall atmosphere and engaging writing kept me hooked. It’s a lovely, comforting read—perfect for fans of cozy fantasy—earning it a solid four stars.

The Witching Moon Manor

Stacy Sivinski

★★★★☆
The Witching Moon Manor by Stacy Sivinski is a wonderfully atmospheric read that blends mystery, magic, and family secrets into a spellbinding tale. The setting is rich and immersive, with the manor itself feeling like a character in its own right, and the plot pulls you in with its twists and turns. While the pacing occasionally slowed and some elements felt a bit predictable, the strong character development and enchanting world-building made it an engaging read. Sivinski's ability to weave magic and intrigue together kept me hooked until the very end—definitely a book worth picking up for fans of witchy mysteries.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches

Sangu Mandanna

★★★★☆
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a charming, heartwarming story that blends found family, gentle magic, and a touch of romance into something truly special. Sangu Mandanna creates a cozy, whimsical world that’s easy to sink into, with lovable characters and a quietly empowering message about embracing who you are. While some plot points felt a bit predictable, the emotional depth and tender moments more than made up for it. This book is like a warm cup of tea on a rainy day—comforting, sweet, and just what I needed.

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Book Review: Twilight Company by Alexander Freed

 


Some books sweep you off your feet, others leave you wondering what could’ve been—and Twilight Company by Alexander Freed landed somewhere in the middle for me. While there were moments that sparked my interest—a unique premise, a compelling character, or beautiful prose—the overall experience didn’t quite hit the mark. It had potential, but a few key elements kept me from fully connecting. Let’s dive into the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

Title: Twilight Company

By: Alexander Freed

Genre: Scifi

Pages: 384

Release Date: November 3rd, 2015

Rating: ★★★☆☆

 

Summary from Goodreads:

A companion novel inspired by the hotly anticipated videogame Star Wars: Battlefront, this action-packed adventure follows a squad of soldiers caught in the trenches of the ultimate galactic war between good and evil.

The bravest soldiers. The toughest warriors. The ultimate survivors.

Among the stars and across the vast expanses of space, the Galactic Civil War rages. On the battlefields of multiple worlds in the Mid Rim, legions of ruthless stormtroopers—bent on crushing resistance to the Empire wherever it arises—are waging close and brutal combat against an armada of freedom fighters. In the streets and alleys of ravaged cities, the front-line forces of the Rebel Alliance are taking the fight to the enemy, pushing deeper into Imperial territory and grappling with the savage flesh-and-blood realities of war on the ground.

Leading the charge are the soldiers—men and women, human and nonhuman—of the Sixty-First Mobile Infantry, better known as Twilight Company. Hard-bitten, war-weary, and ferociously loyal to one another, the members of this renegade outfit doggedly survive where others perish, and defiance is their most powerful weapon against the deadliest odds. When orders come down for the rebels to fall back in the face of superior opposition numbers and firepower, Twilight reluctantly complies. Then an unlikely ally radically changes the strategic equation—and gives the Alliance’s hardest-fighting warriors a crucial chance to turn retreat into resurgence.

Orders or not, alone and outgunned but unbowed, Twilight Company locks, loads, and prepares to make its boldest maneuver—trading down-and-dirty battle in the trenches for a game-changing strike at the ultimate target: the very heart of the Empire’s military machine.

 

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Review:

Twilight Company by Alexander Freed offers an intriguing glimpse into the gritty, tactical side of the Star Wars universe, but it ultimately left me wanting more. The novel’s focus on a ragtag group of soldiers in the Rebel Alliance is a refreshing change from the usual Jedi-centered tales, and Freed does a great job highlighting the personal stakes and camaraderie of war. However, the pacing occasionally drags, and some character development feels a bit underdone, making it hard to fully invest in the story. While it’s a solid read for Star Wars fans who enjoy military narratives, it doesn’t quite reach the emotional depth or excitement I’d hoped for.
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Three Things I Loved About Somewhere Beyond the Sea by T.J. Klune


Some books are meant to be savored—and this one was an absolute treat from start to finish. In this Three Things I Loved review, I’m diving into the standout elements that made this story unforgettable. Whether it was the characters, the atmosphere, or a plot twist that caught me off guard, these three things are what truly brought the book to life for me.

Title: Somewhere Beyond the Sea

By: TJ Klune

Genre: Fantasy 

Pages: 406

Release Date: September 10th, 2024 

Rating: ★★★★★

 

Summary from Goodreads:

A magical house. A secret past. A summons that could change everything.

Arthur Parnassus lives a good life, built on the ashes of a bad one. He's the headmaster of a strange orphanage on a distant and peculiar island, and he hopes to soon be the adoptive father to the six magical and so-called dangerous children who live there.

Arthur works hard and loves with his whole heart so none of the children ever feel the neglect and pain that he once felt as an orphan on that very same island so long ago. And he is not alone: joining him is the love of his life, Linus Baker, a former caseworker in the Department in Charge of Magical Youth; Zoe Chapelwhite, the island's sprite; and her girlfriend, Mayor Helen Webb. Together, they will do anything to protect the children.

But when Arthur is summoned to make a public statement about his dark past, he finds himself at the helm of a fight for the future that his family, and all magical people, deserve.

And when a new magical child hopes to join them on their island home—one who finds power in calling himself monster, a name Arthur worked so hard to protect his children from—Arthur knows they're at a breaking point: their family will either grow stronger than ever or fall apart.

Welcome back to Marsyas Island. This is Arthur's story.

 

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Three Things I Loved


1. The Deep Emotional Resonance
Klune has a gift for writing about grief, love, and healing in a way that’s both tender and hopeful. Somewhere Beyond the Sea dives even deeper into the emotional arcs introduced in The House in the Cerulean Sea, delivering tear-jerking moments alongside heartwarming hope.

2. The Quirky, Lovable Characters
From returning favorites to new additions, the characters in this book are filled with charm, heart, and just enough magical oddity to make them unforgettable. Klune makes you fall in love with each one—flaws and all—and root for their happiness.

3. The Magic of Found Family
As always, Klune beautifully captures the theme of chosen family. The relationships at the center of the story—romantic, platonic, and everything in between—remind us that love doesn’t have to look traditional to be powerful and true.
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