Book Confessions of an Ex-Ballerina

It’s time for another 4-Star Friday, where I highlight the books that hit that sweet spot between engaging, well-crafted, and downright enjoyable. These are the stories that kept me turning pages, delivered solid characters and plotting, and left me glad I picked them up. Even if they weren’t quite perfect. If you’re looking for reliable recommendations to add to your TBR, this week’s four-star reads are absolutely worth a look. Let’s dive in!

Sisterhood of Dune delivers an engaging return to the ever expanding Dune universe, balancing political intrigue, ideological conflict, and rich world-building in a way that feels both familiar and fresh. Herbert and Anderson do a great job exploring the early roots of the Bene Gesserit, giving depth to the women and forces that will eventually shape the galaxy. While the large cast and multiple plotlines can feel overwhelming at times, the narrative remains compelling and full of tension. Overall, it’s a solid installment that expands the lore in satisfying ways and keeps the legacy of Dune moving forward.

If It Bleeds is King doing what he does best, blending the uncanny with the deeply human. This collection of four novellas offers a mix of grounded storytelling and eerie suspense, each tale exploring a different flavor of fear, grief, or mystery. The standout is undeniably the title story, bringing Holly Gibney back into the spotlight with a gripping, slow burn investigation. A couple of the other entries aren’t quite as strong, but the collection as a whole is imaginative, atmospheric, and satisfyingly unsettling. It’s a great pick for fans who enjoy King’s shorter works and want a taste of his storytelling range without committing to a full length novel.

Open, Heaven is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel, filled with Hewitt’s signature lyrical prose and a haunting sense of atmosphere. The themes of identity, longing, and spiritual searching are handled with nuance, and the imagery is often striking. Even though I didn’t fully connect with the story on a personal level, I could still appreciate the craft, the careful pacing, and the quiet power behind the writing. It’s a thoughtful, intimate read that will resonate deeply with readers who love contemplative, poetic fiction.

Broken Fields is a gripping and heartfelt mystery that continues Rendon’s powerful blend of crime fiction and Indigenous storytelling. The writing is sharp and grounded, bringing the setting and its cultural layers vividly to life. Cash Blackbear remains an unforgettable protagonist, tough, intuitive, and refreshingly honest, and her journey in this installment is both emotionally compelling and tightly plotted. While a few moments move a bit quickly, the story’s tension, character depth, and atmospheric detail make it a standout read. Another strong addition to the series and a must for fans of thoughtful, character driven mysteries.

Daughter of the Moon Goddess is a lush, enchanting fantasy inspired by Chinese mythology, and Sue Lynn Tan’s prose brings the celestial world to life with vivid beauty. I really enjoyed following Xingyin’s journey. Her strength, her determination, and her emotional growth make her easy to root for. The magic, romance, and adventure all weave together in a way that feels wonderfully immersive. That said, the pacing does stretch a bit in places, and some sections dragged more than I expected. Still, the stunning world-building and heartfelt character arcs make this a captivating read well worth diving into.