the_sassy_bookworm's reviews
5085 reviews

Book Review: Death by the Book by Lucy Connelly

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently dove into Death by the Book by Lucy Connelly, and it was quite the cozy mystery adventure! Set in the charming seaside village of Shamrock Cove on Ireland’s picturesque west coast, the story follows Mercy McCarthy, a mystery writer who finds herself reluctantly pulled into a local literary festival organized by her sister, Lizzie. Things take a dark turn when the festival's featured author, James Brandt, is discovered dead after a rather unfortunate incident involving a falling bookshelf.

Now, you might think that an accident like that would be just that—an accident—but Mercy has a hunch that something more sinister is at play. The local detective isn't convinced, but when a second body shows up in their own bookstore (thanks to their adorable dog, Mr. Poe), the stakes get higher, and all eyes are on Mercy. With a quirky cast of characters—including a meddling mayor and a timid botanist—Mercy races against time to unravel the mystery before she becomes the prime suspect herself.

First off, I have to mention the cover—it's absolutely delightful! It really captures the cozy vibe of the book. Initially, I found myself taking a bit of time to get into the story, but once it hit its stride, I was fully hooked. There were moments when it felt slightly repetitive, but overall, the pacing picked up nicely. The plot was well-crafted, keeping me guessing until the end while still allowing me to enjoy the little details of Shamrock Cove life.

The characters were another highlight for me. They were all incredibly likable and added depth to the story. Mercy is relatable as she navigates her unexpected role in solving a murder mystery while also dealing with the challenges of her new life in this picturesque village. 

In short, Death by the Book is a delightful read that stands well on its own, even if it is part of a series. If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries or just love a good whodunit with a touch of charm, I highly recommend giving it a try. I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment in this series!

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

Book Review: Last Dance in Salzburg by Vivian Conroy

Rating: Solid 3 Stars

I recently picked up Last Dance in Salzburg by Vivian Conroy, and it was a cozy escapade through the wintery charm of 1930s Austria. The story follows Miss Atalanta Ashford, who finds herself attending a ballet in the picturesque city of Salzburg. What starts as an enchanting evening quickly turns dark when a notorious jewel thief is discovered dead in the concert hall—a location linked to a heist from ten years earlier. It begs the question: did he come back to clear his name, or is there something more sinister at play among the elegant crowd?

As much as I wanted to love this book, I found the pacing a bit sluggish at times. The mystery unfolds slowly, which had me flipping pages with more curiosity than urgency. However, the setting of Salzburg is simply enchanting; the vivid descriptions of the snowy streets filled with the aromas of Glühwein and Lebkuchen brought a delightful atmosphere to the story. 

What really stood out for me, though, was the character development. Atalanta's journey was intriguing, especially her evolving relationship with Raoul and the surprising revelations about her grandfather's past. This blend of romantic tension and mystery kept me invested, and I appreciated how the author fleshed out her characters.

The ending was satisfying and tied up loose ends nicely, leaving me with a sense of closure that I always appreciate. Overall, while Last Dance in Salzburg had its slow moments, the beautiful setting and rich character arcs made it an enjoyable read. I’d give it three stars—definitely worth a look for fans of cozy historical mysteries!

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

Book Review: Nature: Fascinating Facts You Never Knew About the Natural World!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I just finished reading Nature: Fascinating Facts You Never Knew About the Natural World! by Eric Huang, and I can't recommend it enough! This book takes a fresh and fun look at nature, showing just how much incredible life exists all around us, even in our own backyards and homes. It challenges a lot of common misconceptions we have about the natural world, like thinking that all dinosaurs are long gone or that spiders are just creepy insects. Spoiler alert: they aren’t! 

The format of the book is a delightful mix of engaging text and vibrant illustrations by Sam Caldwell. From start to finish, the visuals add a lively touch that perfectly complements the informative content. The illustrations are charming and filled with humor, making it a joy to flip through the pages. Each page is bright and exciting, with clever little puns and witty remarks from the animals that brought a smile to my face.

This book is perfect for kids curious about nature but also appeals to adults with its wealth of information. The layout is well-structured, making it easy to digest all the fascinating facts about plants and animals, both ancient and modern. It feels far from a traditional textbook; instead, it presents everything in an engaging way that captivates readers of all ages.

Overall, Nature: Fascinating Facts You Never Knew About the Natural World! is a must-read for anyone interested in biology and the wonders of our planet. Whether you're young or just young at heart, this book will keep you entertained while expanding your knowledge about the world around us!

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

Book Review: Roots and Legends: Folktales from African Culture

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently picked up Roots and Legends: Folktales from African Culture edited by the folks at Wellfleet Press, and I have to say, it was quite the enlightening experience! As someone who was relatively unfamiliar with African folklore, this book opened up a whole new world of storytelling that I never knew existed. 

This beautifully illustrated collection features over 50 folktales that have been passed down through generations, showcasing the richness of African culture and the power of oral tradition. The stories cover a range of themes—from whimsical tales explaining why spiders seem to settle in the corners of ceilings, to profound lessons about the relationships between the sun, moon, and earth. The book is thoughtfully divided into four sections, each highlighting different aspects of life and wisdom through engaging narratives. 

One of the things that struck me most about Roots and Legends is how accessible it is. Each story is captivating enough to pull you in while also teaching valuable lessons about morality, nature, and community. I found myself completely absorbed in tales like "How the Tortoise Got Its Shell" and "Brer Rabbit and the Gold Mine." The storytelling truly showcases the art of oral tradition—these aren't just stories; they are vessels of history and culture.

And let me not forget to mention the illustrations! They’re absolutely stunning and complement the tales perfectly. They burst with color and creativity, making the reading experience even more delightful. The book feels like a treasure trove that would make for a wonderful addition to any family’s collection, especially for those looking to pass down African heritage through storytelling.

Overall, I found Roots and Legends to be a fantastic introduction to African folklore. It's simple to pick up and put down, making it ideal for leisurely reading or sharing tales with family and friends.. This is definitely a book I would recommend to anyone curious about cultural myths or looking to broaden their understanding of global storytelling traditions. I'd give it a solid four stars for its engaging content and gorgeous presentation. If you're looking for a way to enrich your library with diverse narratives, this is a must-have!

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

Book Review: Guided Numerology Workbook by Kelli Miller

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of diving into Guided Numerology Workbook by Kelli Miller, and it was quite the enlightening experience! As someone who has always been intrigued by numerology but didn’t know where to begin, this workbook was exactly what I needed to unlock the wisdom hidden in numbers.

At its core, this workbook serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding numerology—an ancient practice that reveals insights about our personalities and destinies through specific numbers derived from our names and birth dates. Kelli Miller does a fantastic job of breaking down complex concepts into digestible chunks. The workbook not only helps you calculate your unique numerology chart but also teaches you how to interpret it. I found myself particularly drawn to learning about my Life Path Number, Expression Number, and Inner Soul Number, discovering new layers to my personality that I hadn't considered before.

One of the standout features of the workbook is how it combines numerology with other esoteric practices, such as astrology and tarot. This multifaceted approach really enriched my understanding and added depth to my self-reflection. Plus, the engaging exercises and reflective questions provided a hands-on experience that made learning fun. I loved how I could fill in the spaces with my thoughts and interpretations—this aspect made it feel like a personal journey rather than just a workbook.

Visually, the Guided Numerology Workbook is a delight. The cover is beautifully designed, and the layout is clear and inviting. It’s packed with useful information yet offers plenty of space for personal notes, making it perfect for anyone looking to engage with the material deeply. I can easily see this book being a thoughtful gift for anyone interested in self-discovery or numerology.

It’s suitable for beginners and seasoned numerologists alike, offering valuable insights regardless of your experience level. However, I think some readers might find they want even more depth in certain areas. But overall, Kelli Miller has crafted a wonderful resource that encourages us all to explore our unique potential through the fascinating lens of numbers. Definitely worth checking out!

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

Book Review: The Art of Embroidery Design by Christi Johnson

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I just finished reading The Art of Embroidery Design: A Workshop for Developing Your Own Original Stitching by Christi Johnson, and I can't help but rave about it! As someone who has dabbled in embroidery but never really felt confident in my design skills, this book was exactly what I needed to take my stitching game to the next level.

From the get-go, Christi Johnson sets the stage for an engaging and accessible workshop experience right from the comfort of your own home. Unlike many embroidery books that merely hand you patterns to copy, this gem encourages readers to unleash their creativity. It’s truly refreshing! Johnson artfully guides you through establishing a creative practice with helpful sketching and stitching exercises that really build your confidence.

One of the things I loved most about this book is how it breaks down the design process into manageable steps. Whether you're developing your vision, choosing a color palette, or learning how to create depth with line weight variations, each aspect feels approachable and exciting. The emphasis on achieving different textural effects is particularly inspiring; I was surprised at how much variety I could create with just a few techniques!

The visuals in The Art of Embroidery Design are absolutely stunning. The pages are filled with vibrant photographs of Johnson's own work, alongside historical examples from talented artisans around the world. It’s like a visual feast that showcases the rich tapestry of embroidery traditions from Mexico to Nigeria and beyond. And let me tell you, the profiles of contemporary embroidery artists included in the book are just as inspiring—it's like having a backstage pass to the world of innovative stitching!

This book isn't just informative; it's a treasure trove for anyone interested in embroidery. The layout is beautifully designed, making it a joy to flip through, and the stitch guide is both clear and comprehensive. Each stitch is accompanied by detailed pictures that show exactly how they should look, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and seasoned stitchers alike.

In short, The Art of Embroidery Design is so much more than just an instructional guide—it's an invitation to explore your own artistic potential. I can’t recommend it enough, especially as a thoughtful gift for all the embroidery enthusiasts in your life. If you’re looking to elevate your embroidery skills while tapping into your creativity, look no further. This book is a true jewel in the world of embroidery literature!

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

Book Review: Misery Hates Company by Elizabeth Hobbs

Rating: 5 Stars

Oh my goodness, where do I even begin? Misery Hates Company by Elizabeth Hobbs has officially claimed the title of my first 5-star fiction read of 2025, and let me tell you, I adored every moment spent within its pages!

From the get-go, we’re introduced to Miss Marigold Manners, a character who is as delightful as her name suggests. Marigold is not just your average young woman from an old-money Boston family; she’s an intelligent, modern wouldbe archaeologist who finds herself in a bit of a pickle after the death of her parents leaves her financially strapped. But instead of wallowing in despair, she receives a letter from a mysterious relative on Great Misery Island and hops on her bicycle to see what fate has in store for her. And fate sure knows how to throw a curveball!

Upon arriving at Hatchet Farm, Marigold is met with a gothic farm that could rival the eeriness of Crimson Peak. It’s all craggy cliffs and foggy nights, setting the perfect backdrop for the drama that unfolds. However, this isn’t just a dark tale of family secrets; it’s laced with humor that reminds me of the absurdities found in Knives Out. As Marigold tries to bring some much-needed modernity to her reclusive relatives, her well-intentioned efforts spiral into chaos—leading to malice and murder.

The tension ramps up quickly when Marigold sees a body floating in the stormy waters surrounding the island, and with another corpse turning up in the garden, she's suddenly at the center of a murder investigation. Talk about a plot twist! I found myself fully invested in her quest to clear her name while navigating through a web of quirky characters who were practically bursting with personality. 

This author expertly weaves together mystery and humor, creating a vibrant tapestry of suspense that kept me guessing until the very end. The dynamic between Marigold and her newfound friends—each more eccentric than the last—added layers of richness and warmth to the story. The twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat, and just when I thought I had it all figured out, another surprise would come along to shake things up.

What truly resonated with me was Marigold's journey of self-discovery amidst chaos. As secrets are revealed and lies come to light, she confronts truths that challenge her very identity. It’s a poignant reminder that sometimes, our past can shape us in unexpected ways.

In short, Misery Hates Company is an absolute triumph! It’s witty, engrossing, and filled with just the right amount of gothic flair. If you’re looking for a historical mystery that will keep you entertained while also tugging at your heartstrings, look no further. Elizabeth Hobbs has crafted a masterpiece that I can’t recommend highly enough! Grab your copy; you won't regret it!

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

Book Review: The Wives by Valerie Keogh

Rating: 2 Stars

As someone who eagerly dives into psychological thrillers, I was excited to pick up The Wives by Valerie Keogh. The premise seemed promising: Natasha, seemingly having it all with her rich and charming husband Daniel, discovers that their perfect life is built on a shaky foundation of lies and secrets. An enticing cruise with friends and their husbands quickly morphs into a dangerous game where everyone has a motive against Daniel. The book promises a gripping plot that should keep you on the edge of your seat.

However, as I sailed through the pages, I found myself stranded in disappointment. The narrative setup was intriguing, with its promise of suspense and drama. Unfortunately, the execution left much to be desired. My biggest hurdle was the characters, each more unlikable than the last. Natasha, who should have been a compelling protagonist caught in a web of deceit, felt flat and difficult to empathize with. Her friends and their husbands didn't fare much better. Instead of rooting for them or feeling invested in their fates, I was mostly detached and frustrated.

The storyline had potential, especially with the revelations and twists that are essential in a thriller. But instead of surprising or thrilling me, the plot twists felt predictable and somewhat forced. There was a lack of depth that made it hard for me to stay engaged. Instead of being drawn into the mystery, I found myself skimming through sections, hoping for something more substantial to latch onto.

Overall, while The Wives had an intriguing concept, it ultimately fell flat for me. The characters were hard to connect with, and the suspense that should have driven the narrative was lacking. It's a two-star read for me—perhaps others might find it more thrilling, but it just didn't hit the mark for this avid thriller fan.

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

Book Review: Brightly Shining by Ingvild H. Rishøi

Rating: 3 Stars

When I first picked up Brightly Shining, I was immediately drawn to its beautiful cover. It promised a story full of warmth and light, and in many ways, the book delivered just that, albeit with a shadow of melancholy hovering over it. 

Set in the heart of Oslo, this Norwegian Christmas tale introduces us to the world of Ronja and Melissa, two sisters who face the harsh realities of life with their dreamer of a father who is once again out of work as the holiday season approaches. When Ronja discovers a job opportunity at a local Christmas tree stand, it seems like a glimmer of hope for their struggling family. The story beautifully captures the essence of sisterhood as Melissa steps up to work in place of their father when he inevitably falters, disappearing into the night and leaving his daughters to fend for themselves.

The narrative is skillfully woven through the innocent yet insightful perspective of ten-year-old Ronja, whose charm wins over customers at the tree stand. The sisters' dreams of a better life are both heartwarming and heartbreaking, highlighting the fragility and resilience of their family structure. As they navigate their precarious circumstances, they find unexpected kindness and support from those around them, bringing a touch of magic to their otherwise challenging reality.

Despite its brevity, Brightly Shining leaves a lasting impact. Rishøi's storytelling is tender and laced with humor, successfully evoking the innocence and misunderstandings of childhood. However, it's not all festive cheer; there’s an underlying current of sadness as the girls confront their family's instability. This duality makes it an intriguing read that resonates with readers who appreciate stories that reflect the complexities of life.

In conclusion, Brightly Shining is a short but engaging read that offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of two resilient sisters. It's not exactly a feel-good holiday story—there's a somber undertone that might leave you feeling a tad wistful. However, its charm lies in its honest portrayal of hardship and hope. While I wouldn't rate it among my top favorites, it's certainly worth a read for its authentic depiction of family dynamics and the understated magic of everyday kindness. I’d give it a solid three stars—an admirable effort with moments that shine brightly indeed.

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

Book Review: The Lake of Lost Girls by Katherine Greene

Rating" 4 Stars

When I picked up The Lake of Lost Girls by Katherine Greene, I was expecting a typical thriller. What I got, however, was a gripping story that pulled me into its depths with its haunting narrative and unexpected twists. This book is a must-read for fans of suspenseful tales like All Good People Here and We Are All the Same in the Dark.

The novel is set in dual timelines, which adds a layer of complexity that I found both intriguing and immersive. In 1998, we meet Jessica Fadley, a freshman at Southern State University in North Carolina, who suddenly vanishes amidst a wave of disappearances among female students. Flash forward twenty-four years, and we follow Jessica's sister, Lindsey, who is determined to uncover the truth behind her sister’s disappearance. Lindsey's investigation is fueled by a popular true crime podcast that brings renewed attention to the cold case, driving her into a labyrinth of shocking revelations.

Greene cleverly uses podcast clips to keep the suspense taut and the reader on edge. Just when you think you have a handle on where the story is heading, she throws in a twist that completely caught me off guard. That twist alone was enough to elevate my rating from a solid three stars to an enthusiastic four.

What really stood out for me was how the author explores the bond of sisterhood against the dark backdrop of mystery and true crime culture. Her portrayal of Lindsey’s relentless search for answers is both poignant and compelling. As the bodies of the long-missing women begin to surface in a nearby lake, Lindsey’s journey becomes all the more chilling and intense.

The Lake of Lost Girls is more than just a mystery; it's an exploration of human emotions and relationships under extreme circumstances. Katherine Greene knows how to weave a tale that holds your attention from beginning to end. It was a fun read that kept me entertained throughout, and I have to give kudos to Greene for crafting such a memorable twist that pushed this book from good to great.

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