Sara Reads Things

  Happy Fantasy Friday, friends! There’s something truly magical about stepping into a world where anything is possible, where dragons soar, magic pulses, and heroes (or villains) emerge from the shadows. This week, I’m diving into a fantastical adventure that transported me far beyond reality and into a story brimming with wonder. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy reader or just looking for an escape, grab a mug of something warm and join me as I explore Lightlark —a tale of twists, turns, and pure enchantment. Title:  Lightlark By:  Alex Aster Genre:  Fantasy Pages:  416 Release Date:  August 23rd, 2022 Rating: ★★★★☆   Summary from Goodreads: Welcome to the Centennial. Every 100 years, the island of Lightlark appears to host the Centennial, a deadly game that only the rulers of six realms are invited to play. The invitation is a summons—a call to embrace victory and ruin, baubles and blood. The Centennial offers the six rulers one final chance to bre...

  Welcome back to my corner of the bookish world! This week, I’m excited to share my thoughts on a book that completely captivated me. Whether you’re in search of your next read or simply love hearing what others think, join me as I dive into The Book of Life . From its unforgettable characters to its rich storytelling, this one left a lasting impression—and I can’t wait to tell you why! Title:  The Book of Life By:  Deborah Harkness Genre:  Fantasy Pages:  564 Release Date:  July 15th, 2014 Rating: ★★★☆☆   Summary from Goodreads: Bringing the magic and suspense of the All Souls Trilogy to a deeply satisfying conclusion, this highly anticipated finale went straight to #1 on the  New York Times  bestseller list. In  The Book of Life,  Diana and Matthew time-travel back from Elizabethan London to make a dramatic return to the present—facing new crises and old enemies. At Matthew’s ancestral home, Sept-Tours, they reunite with the belo...

  Welcome back, fellow readers! This week, I’ve decided to shift gears and dive into a shorter, yet no less impactful, story. There’s something uniquely satisfying about a novella—concise yet rich with meaning, delivering a complete experience in a fraction of the time of a full-length novel. Today, I’m excited to share my thoughts on Brighter than Scale, Swifter than Flame , a story that captivated me from the first page and lingered in my mind long after I finished. Let’s dive in! Title:  Brighter Than Scale, Swifter Than Flame By:  Neon Yang Genre:  Fantasy Pages:  176 Release Date: May 6th, 2025   Rating: ★★★★★   Summary from Goodreads: A new Queer, Asian-inspired fantasy novella about a renowned dragon slayer who never takes her armor off in public,  Brighter than Scale, Swifter than Flame   reads like   She Who Became the Sun   meets   The Mandalorian , with dragons! The fiercely independent nation of Quanbao is isolated...

  Welcome, bookworms! As the seasons shift and the days grow shorter (or longer, depending on where you are!), my reading list has been a constant companion. This week, I’m diving into a story that tugged at my heartstrings and sparked more than a few thoughtful moments. Whether you’re looking for your next weekend read or just love hearing about new releases, grab a cozy blanket, a hot drink, and join me as I share my thoughts on Junie ! Title:  Junie By:  Erin Crosby Eckstine Genre:  Historical Pages:  368 Release Date:  February 4th, 2025 Rating: ★★★★★   Summary from Goodreads: A young girl must face a life-altering decision after awakening her sister’s ghost, navigating truths about love, friendship, and power as the Civil War looms. Sixteen years old and enslaved since she was born, Junie has spent her life on Bellereine Plantation in Alabama, cooking and cleaning alongside her family, and tending to the white master’s daughter, Violet. Her daydr...

  Sometimes, all we crave is a comforting, satisfying meal that warms us from the inside out – but that doesn’t mean we have to overload on heavy ingredients. This week’s menu brings the cozy comfort we love, while focusing on dishes that are lighter, naturally gluten-free, and loaded with vegetables. It’s a delicious way to nourish your body while still indulging in the familiar flavors that make comfort food so special. As I savor these meals, I’m also diving into The Thirteenth Child by Erin A. Craig, a book full of eerie twists and dark family secrets that’s perfect for these cozy, comforting nights. Let's get to this week's menu. Enjoy! WEEKLY MENU Monday Stuffed Bell Peppers Side of Roasted Carrots & Zucchini Kids -   Tuesday Chicken and Vegetable Soup Side of Mixed Greens Salad Kids - Ramen   Wednesday Spaghetti with Marinara and Turkey Meatballs Side of Steamed Broccoli Kids - Little Pizzas   Thursday Sheet Pan Salmon with Roasted Veggies Side...

  Welcome to this week’s Sunday Book Confessions , where I spill the tea on my current reads, bookish highs and lows, and whatever literary thoughts I can’t keep to myself. Whether I’m swooning over a new favorite, battling a reading slump, or admitting to yet another book haul I didn’t need, this is my cozy corner for all things unfiltered and bookish. Grab a warm drink, settle in, and let’s confess! Sunday Confessions #305 ~ Weekly Menu #608 And The Book Of The Week ~ Book Review: Empire of the Vampire by Jay Kristoff ~ Reading through the Star Wars Universe Part 18 ~ Book Review: A Sweet Sting of Salt by Rose Sutherland ~ Fantasy Friday: What If... Loki Was Worthy? by Madaline Roux ~ Saturday Sips: 4 star Bonanza Weekly Menu #609 And The Book Of The Week ~ Book Review: Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine ~ Novella Review: Brighter than Scale, Swifter than Flame by Neon Yang ~ Book Review: The Book of Life by Deborah Harkness ~ Fantasy Friday: Lightlark by Alex Aster ~ Sunday Confessio...