Sassy Reviews

July 31, 2023

Silent Grief: To New Beginnings

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Silent Grief: To New Beginnings 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Deborah Adele ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Silent Grief: To New Beginnings” written by the author Deborah Adele is an intriguing story. The story features two main characters: Arya Alexander and Jacob Ryan. They saw each other at the airport and since then, they have been intrigued by each other.

It has been two years since Arya lost her husband, father and brother in a tragic accident. To deal with her grief, she has to keep herself busy at work. Jacob is a handsome man who is living a luxurious life. He wasn’t born rich but through hard work, he became rich. Jacob had a failed marriage. He dates women but he wants a family and children. He wants to love someone and be loved back.

Since the time Jacob has seen Arya, he couldn’t get his mind off her. Read this story to know what will happen further. One is a real estate agent and the other is an interior designer.

If you are ready to read a story involving loss and love then get your hands on this book. The plot of the story is nice. The title is suitable. The narration is smooth and strong. The writing style of the author is amazing. I was pulled into the story so much that I couldn’t put this book down without finishing it. Add this book to your tbr without any second thoughts.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 28, 2023

Glow Stick Kids

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Glow Stick Kids 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Tamara Trevino ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Glow Stick Kids is a fun-filled book written by the author Tamara Trevino. The story features many kids that are glowing. A young boy noticed that his eyes weren’t glowing and he visited the doctor for the consultation.

The doctor explained to the kid that some scary memories get stuck in our head and they make us glow. We all have had past traumas, bad experiences, etc. This book teaches the little readers that it’s okay to feel your feelings. Read this interesting story book to know what adults can do so less grown ups glow green.

The writing style of the author is nice and the cover photo is eye-catching. The language used in the book is lucid. The colorful pages of the book would attract kids’ attention on the first look. Tamara has written a beautiful story. Kids would be delighted to read more books by her.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 28, 2023

My Father Knew the Secret

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: My Father Knew The Secret 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Brian Proctor ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“My Father Knew the Secret: Growing Up with Bob Proctor” written by the author Brian Proctor is a must read book. The author has mentioned various topics like mindset, gratitude, forgiveness, attraction, etc. These topics are very common but they change our life if we have the right wisdom related to them.

If you are hungry for your self-development then you should definitely get your hands on this book. This book teaches valuable and simple lessons to us. These lessons can make a huge difference in our life. This book takes us on the path to improve our life and relationships.

It is full of wisdom and gives us life-changing insights. It’s a thought provoking read. This book is not just meant for one time reading. One could revisit the pages of this book anytime again and refer to them to simplify their life. Personal development has no finish line. Every page of this book has inspired me to transform myself for the better. It’s a must read book. I am glad to get my hands on it. I strongly recommend it to my fellow readers. Great work by Brian and Bob.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 28, 2023

Interview with author Erich Hartung

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

A: I work as a high school English teacher and am also a member of the Navy Reserve with over twenty years of service, including time spent in Iraq and Afghanistan. Writing has always been a passion of mine, and I frequently come up with story ideas. I have been writing since my own days in high school. My personal life is fulfilling as well – I am happily married and have two children.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Terror in the Woods”?

A: In mid-2021, I began this project and faced two major challenges. Firstly, I struggled to find time between my two jobs and family commitments. Secondly, I had to deal with writer’s block.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

A: I am a huge fan of Tom Clancy (The Hunt for Red October), Jeff Shaara (Gods and Generals), and Jack Carr (The Terminal List). Each of those authors is extremely gifted in telling a story and painting a picture to the reader’s imagination. While I try to use my own ideas to create a story, I find myself using many of their styles in my writing.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

A: As a child, I enjoyed visiting Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, because of the rich heritage that place has. Our nation was plagued with a Civil War from 1861-1865, leaving the future of our country doubting if we could remain a unified nation. The battle of Gettysburg was a turning point for the Union during the war, which many historians believe was the beginning of the end for the Confederacy. Even now when I get the chance to take my kids to the battlefield, I find it important for them to have fun at the National Park and learn our country’s history.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Terror in the Woods’?

A: I am intrigued by mysterious phenomena that are not yet fully understood. One such topic that has caught my attention is the existence of Bigfoot or Sasquatch, which has been reported by numerous eyewitnesses and featured in documentaries on YouTube and the Travel Channel. Although I am somewhat skeptical of some of the accounts, I remain open-minded and have developed my own theories about these creatures. Recently, I wrote a story about military veterans facing a terrifying ordeal in the woods, which I found to be a compelling and entertaining concept.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Terror in the Woods’?

A: From start to finish, it took about two years.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A: Right now, Terror in the Woods is exclusively on Amazon. It is available as a Kindle eBook and paperback.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Terror in the Woods’?

A: I wished to utilize cover art that could capture the audience’s attention without revealing the nature of the terror. The woods have the ability to be both calming and eerie, as we relish the seclusion of the natural world while simultaneously being haunted by the concept of the unknown.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

A: In 2017, I wrote a lengthy novel that I was very proud of. However, I soon realized that the storyline was too complex with too many characters, spanning nearly 600 pages. Reflecting on this, I realized that it may have been too overwhelming for readers. I wanted my next book to be different – fun and easy to read, with a limited cast of just four or five characters. To keep it fresh and exciting, I aimed for suspense, action, and a quick pace. So far, the feedback I’ve received has been more positive than my previous book. I have already received questions asking if I was going to do a sequel.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

A: Interestingly, my English teacher in high school always encouraged me to tap into my imagination and write. Now that I am an English teacher myself, I continually inspire my students to utilize their creative talents and writing skills. I have integrated writing assignments into my curriculum, and the majority of my students find it enjoyable.

Terror in the Woods: When Nightmares Become Reality on Amazon

July 28, 2023

Link Takes a Stand

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Link Takes A Stand 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Anders & Vivi Grit ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Link Takes a Stand: A Story about Bullying” written by the authors Anders Grit and Vivi Grit is an interesting Children’s book. It teaches a valuable lesson to the readers.

The story features Link, a dinosaur. When he joined the new school, he met a guinea pig, Zig who was a bully. Whenever Zig would pass Link, he uttered mean jokes and Link thought it wasn’t kind at all. When he shared about being bullied at school with his parents and uncle, his uncle taught him a magic trick. Read this story to know will it work or would Link be sad again.

This book teaches kids not to bully others. It also teaches them to stand against bullying. The pages of the books are colorful and would attract kids’ attention on the first look.

Seek & Find activity at the end of the book is interesting. Kids would have a great time reading this book. I appreciate the storytelling skills of the author. It would be interesting to read more books by them.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 25, 2023

In Love with a Carolina Rose

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: In Love with a Carolina Rose 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Josepha H.K. ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Pryce was known as a cold man with a fierce temperament. Never in his life, he had felt the way he felt for a stranger Jane. He went out of his way to help a tumbling woman and brought her to his mansion. Pryce’s staff could already notice the impact this woman had on Pryce. Just by sleeping in the same bed with her for the night, Pryce felt at ease. He hadn’t slept that well in years.

Jane, on the other hand, is bound by responsibilities. She has never got butterflies in her stomach for anyone. There is no place for romance in her life and she hasn’t even pursued it. Jane’s mother has told her that she could trust Braxton but she isn’t sure whether she should share her secrets so early.

Read this story to know to what extent they are ready to take the risk for each other. The cover photo of the book could have been more creative. The title is suitable. The story is well paced and I wasn’t bored anytime while reading this book. The author has done a fantastic job in this book and I am glad to get my hands on it.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 25, 2023

Maribelle’s Shadow

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Maribelle’s Shadow 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Susannah Marren ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Maribelle’s Shadow: Sisters shouldn’t be playing these games” written by the author Susannah Marren is an intriguing story. The story features three Barrows’ sisters and their husbands living a high life in Palm Beach. Maribelle is aware of the unfaithfulness of her husband Samuel but she couldn’t confront him.

One day Maribelle read a text from Rebecca on her husband’s phone and once she received a phone call that her husband had ordered special earrings for someone. In spite of his affairs, Samuel always gets back to Maribelle. One morning, Samuel went for speed boating even though he was warned by Maribelle about the bad weather. After Samuel’s death in the boating accident, the secrets between Maribelle and her sisters came forward. Maribelle’s mother Lucinda lives a royal life too. Find out more about their secrets.

If you enjoy reading stories of deception and family loyalty then get your hands on this book. The title of the book is suitable. The narration is smooth and strong. The writing style of the author is amazing. The storyline is intriguing and I couldn’t put this book down once I started reading it. Go ahead with it without any second thoughts.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 24, 2023

Unless the Lord

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Unless the Lord 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Alan Gedde ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Unless the Lord” written by the author Alan Gedde is a life changing book. I got my hands on this book at the right time. Through this book, the author brings the reader’s attention to Psalm 127. It’s the passage on which the author and his wife have built their lives around.

Psalm 127 is the reason behind the strength of the author’s marriage. We could too use it in our lives to improve our relationships and life. This book would change how you view life. I, who worries a lot feels peaceful after reading the lines below:
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.”

This book made me realize not to worry so much as God knows all our fears and worries. He is our protector and he will protect us if we allow him. The author suggests us to be a reflection of the Lord so our children could follow us on the same path. There are many tips and lessons given in this book that would help you to get your life on track. The writing style of the author is amazing and this is a must read book. This book has strengthened my faith in God. It has driven me in a new direction and I am all set to start my life through the way of God. I am grateful to the author for this insightful read.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 24, 2023

Dead in the Water

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Dead in the Water 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Mark Ellis ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Dead in the Water” written by the author Mark Ellis is the fifth book in the DCI Frank Merlin Series. This is a murder mystery. The story begins from London, 1942 when Detective Chief Inspector Frank Merlin and Detective Sergeant Sam Bridges was on a mission to catch two Canadian army deserters. Bridges received a tip-off in the phone call from an informant.

After successfully catching two men, Merlin heard about a dead body found in Thames. Leon’s body was fished out of Thames and there was also a robbery involved at his house. Who has stolen the valuable art from Leon’s house? There are so many suspects and the story gets interesting with every page turn.

This book kept me on the edge of my seat. The writing style of the author is amazing. Even though it’s a part of the series, one could read it as a standalone. The storyline is interesting and the cover photo is eye-catching. Go ahead with this book without any second thoughts.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 24, 2023

Interview with author Bob Kelly

Q1. Hello, can you please introduce yourself? Readers would love to know more about you.

Hello Readers! My name is Bob Kelly. I grew up in the great city of Chicago living on the city’s West Side until age 13. At that time we moved to the North Shore suburb of Glencoe where I attended New Trier East High School.. I have always loved sports and as a kid via played youth football and basketball. I carried that on to New Trier where I played basketball and was voted Captain my senior year.

I attended the University of Wisconsin earning a degree in English Literature and then Chicago-Kent School of Law graduating with a J.D. Before beginning law school I worked several different jobs including selling athletic apparel, bartending and coaching professional basketball in Austria.

In 1985 I had a child with my live in girlfriend and seven weeks later we moved from Evanston to Upstate New York to be near her family because her father was about to undergo quadruple bypass surgery. My expectation was that we would return to the Chicago area but when she decided to stay in New York I stayed with her. I was not about to leave my infant son, Morgan. Since I did not have a law license in New York, my choice of jobs in rural Upstate included substitute teaching, coaching junior high basketball and bartending. Throughout this time I wrote several novels and a couple of screen plays.

Just before my son turned seven I became a single father. We moved into a one bedroom apartment and while I kept working as a server at night and began preparing to take the New York Bar Exam. I couldn’t afford the classes but was able to purchase the basic outlines. So, thirteen years after graduating fro law school I sat for the two day New York Bar Exam.

Fortunately, I passed and was able to begin a solo practice after being sworn in on June 21, 1994. The fastest way for me to get started was to jump into criminal defense representing indigent defendants and representing children in Family Court. I continued to do that until June 1, 2023.

However, in May of 2020 while the courts were closed due to COVI and my son no longer with me I decided it was now ornerier to pursue my dream of becoming a writer.

I had developed my focus which was to write about my hometown of Chicago was like currently while touching on its essence that had made me love it as a child and young man. my idea was to use young vibrant contemporary people involved with the most basic and dynamic inner workings of the city. Thus Jack Fallon and Elaina Rodriguez were born.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders”?

Since I had not lived in Chicago in such a long time and only visited a couple of times a year I decide that I needed to spend more time in the city and keep up with current events daily. So, I subscribed to the Chicago Tribune and began visiting four and then six and now eight times a year. My actual physical presence in Chicago has been crucial to my ability to write about it.

Q3. What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

Honestly, I was a voracious reader since around 5th grade when my reading level was already that of a 12th grader. I think it was the “Adventures of Marco Polo” that first got me hooked. I then started ready every adventure and mystery story I could find.

In college my exposure to the great novelists such as William Faulkner, F. Scott Fitzgerald and many others was challenging and enriching. Everything from Shakespeare to James Joyce to Kurt Vonnegut was fascinating to me. I never stopped enjoying the stories of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and during one winter spent in Denmark without a television I read more than 40 Nero Wolfe mysteries, Lord of the Rings and several historical fictions my Morgan Llywelyn among others.

More recently, I have particularly enjoyed reading stories by John Grisham and Stephen King. But, during much of my time as a single parent and lawyer I did not read or write much for fun.

Q4. What’s your favourite spot to visit in your own country? And what makes it so special to you?

Right now my favorite place to visit in America is Chicago. The city is so dynamic and diverse that there are always new things to discover. However, I am always drawn to Lake Michigan. I love to be near it in the parks and on the beaches.During the summer I swim in the lake whenever I can.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders’?

My desire to connect with Chicago as it currently lives and breathes inspired me to create characters who express the particular qualities of the people experiencing it every day. My feeling is that while so many things have changed over the years there are intrinsic characteristics of Chicago people that have remained the same.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders’?

The writing of the first full draft of the story of “Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders” took three and a half months. The editing process added another six months.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

My first book the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders was published by Austin Macauley and is available o Amazon and Barnes&Noble in print and ebook. Amazon Audibles offers an audiobook.

My next book due out some time in August titled “Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Egg of Chaos” will be self published and will be available in print and ebook at Amazon and Barnes&Noble. The audio book will be available on Amazon Audibles in September.

My third book, “Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Legally Dead” should be out in November.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders’?

The titles for my books so far have all been solely my ideas. I told Austin Macauley what I wanted asa cover and they did a great job with it.

Q9. When writing a book how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

I have a concept for the story and then it develops over time even while I am still working on another story. When I am finished with the previous one and have a clear idea of the first chapter and general direction of the ending I begin writing. So much of the story is created during the writing that everything is always fresh and fun.

Q10. What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given about writing?

I really do not have one specific teacher, mentor or piece of advice to refer to. For me the single most important thing that changed from when I began writing to when I started up again in 2020 was that I had lived and experienced a lot more. I purposely have not tried to copy any other writer or writing style.

Buy Chicago Detective Jack Fallon in the Mystery of the Exotic Escort Murders on Amazon