Sassy Reviews

May 17, 2025

Dragon Killers in Avalon

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Dragon Killers in Avalon 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Phil Harris ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Dragon Killers in Avalon” by Phil Harris is the sequel to Trial by Dragon Fire, but it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone. The story picks up after the fall of Desseley Castle, where the dragon Blaze has been slain by three brave companions—Perkin Trueblood, Vivienne Lachapelle, and the magician Merlin.

As Vivienne and Perkin set out to relocate to Lake Land, their journey is ambushed. Vivienne is captured by Rogue, a dragon from the powerful Dragon Council of Twelve, and taken to Avalon. The council is furious over Blaze’s death and seeks retribution. With a new dragon leader rising, what fate awaits Vivienne?

This thrilling fantasy adventure had me hooked from start to finish. The scene where Vivienne is flown through the skies to Avalon was especially breathtaking. The world is rich with mythical beings—dragons, elves, wizards, and more. The dragons stood out as my favorite, particularly their remarkable unity. A truly gripping read that kept me turning pages nonstop.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

May 17, 2025May 27, 2025

A Poetry Encyclopedia of Dreams

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: A Poetry Encyclopedia of Dreams 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jakob Brønnum ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
This poetry collection presents a lyrical exploration of dream interpretation. Through evocative verse, the author delves into the hidden meanings behind various types of dreams, weaving together themes that often emerge in our subconscious. Serving as a companion volume to Jakob Brønnum’s Dreamscape Journeys, this book deepens the poetic inquiry into the landscapes of the mind.

One such dream—being doomed to live with an ex—symbolizes the need to break free from the confines of time. Another, titled Forgetting Your Name, reflects the loss or absence of self-identity, hinting that perhaps it was never fully formed.

The dream of being naked is particularly intriguing. According to the interpreter, it’s actually a positive sign, suggesting that there’s still shame we need to shed in order to grow.

I often dream about my teeth falling out, and like many, I’ve turned to Google for answers. That’s why this collection resonated with me. The poetic interpretations offered a fresh, imaginative take on common dreams. It was my first time reading a poetry book centered on dream analysis, and the experience felt truly original and engaging.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

May 17, 2025May 17, 2025

Me No Pause, Me Play

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Me No Pause, Me Play 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Manoj Kumar Sharma ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
This book is a moving tribute to the strength, struggles, and silent endurance of women, especially during midlife. Me No Pause, Me Play explores the emotional and psychological journey of a woman navigating the challenges of menopause, societal pressure, and self-identity. At its core, it’s a story of reclaiming space—physical, emotional, and spiritual—in a world that often forgets to acknowledge the woman behind the roles.

The protagonist doesn’t just endure her circumstances—she transforms them. Through thoughtful choices and inner strength, she pushes past pain and invisibility, using her experiences as fuel for growth. Her story highlights not only the physiological changes women face, but the deeper internal shifts that push them to either stay silent or rise. She chooses to rise.

Manoj Kumar Sharma’s storytelling is straightforward, yet quietly powerful. His writing gives voice to a stage of life often spoken about in hushed tones. This book encourages women to view midlife not as an end but as a new beginning—to stop pausing for the world, and start playing for themselves. A resonant, relatable read for anyone who values self-worth and transformation.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

May 17, 2025

Interview with author Sheveland L. Jones

Please introduce yourself so that the readers will get to know you better.

A1. Hello! My name is Sheveland and I am a new children’s Book author who loves creating stories that celebrate diversity and little victories.

What is the inspiration behind your book “Lilly’s Potty Dance”

A2. The inspiration behind Lilly’s Potty Dance was my actual interactions with potty training my daughter and stories that I had heard from other parents. The main character Lilly’s name was coined after my Grandmother Lillian

When did you realize you want to be an author?

A3. I realized that I wanted to be an author after realizing that I would make up stories for my daughter all the time. The stories would often involve changing my voice and incorporating a dance, which always makes it fun. My mother realized it before I did, she encouraged me to write a book years ago.

Please tell us something about your book “Lilly’s Potty Dance”

A4. This is an engaging story that tells the story through Lilly’s lens about potty training. Lilly’s mom helps her navigate her fears and teaches her how to use the potty, wash her hands and transition to a big girl. While navigating using the potty, Lilly’s comes up with a dance. Away to the potty she goes.

For which age group is your book “Lilly’s Potty Dance” suitable for?

A5. 2-4 years old, but if you believe that your little one is ready for potty training sooner, then this is the book for you

What is your favorite Quote?

A6. “Be who are you are and SAY what you FEEL, Because those Who Mind Don’t matter, and those who Matter Don’t Mind” ~ Dr. Seuss

What do you like the most about your country?

A7. Freedom to express yourself

What suggestion do you want to give to parents of little readers regarding a reading habit?

A8. Start your little one off by reading to them while you’re pregnant and when they arrive. Read before bed and sooner or later they will begin to create their own stories and spark that love for reading at an early age. Reading nurtures the imagination, so start as soon as you can.

What does literary success look like to you?

A9. Literary success looks like my book being in pre-schools and school libraries. A children’s best seller and the opportunity to travel around the world reading my book to various events that support children and literacy.

Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

A10. My Grandmother is the inspiration of my life for several reasons. She was an educator, mother, grandmother, poured into the community and defied several odds. She showed courage and grace in every aspect of life.

Buy Lilly’s Potty Dance on Amazon

May 17, 2025

Lilly’s Potty Dance

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Lilly’s Potty Dance 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Sheveland L. Jones ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Lilly’s Potty Dance,” written by Sheveland L. Jones and illustrated by Truly Sandra, is a delightful and engaging story.

The story centers around Lilly, a little girl who still wears diapers. While everyone around her encourages her to start using the potty, Lilly isn’t quite sure she’s ready. She’s filled with questions—when should she go, how does it work, and are there scary monsters hiding in the potty?

With gentle guidance from her mom, Lilly learns helpful tips and practices throughout the day to build her confidence and become a potty pro. Will she be able to overcome her fear?

This book stands out as both entertaining and educational, offering practical potty training tips for young readers and their caregivers. The illustrations are vibrant and captivating, and the cover is especially creative. The collaboration between the author and illustrator shines through every page.

Overall, it’s a fun and encouraging read that turns potty training into a positive, joyful journey for both kids and parents.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

May 15, 2025May 16, 2025

Every Ornament Has Its Place

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Every Ornament Has Its Place 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Vincent Verrico ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Every Ornament Has Its Place” penned by the author Vincent Verrico and illustrated by Marcus Williams is a great read. The main character of the story is an eight-year-old boy named Matthew who couldn’t find his mouse in the rocket ship ornament, the night the Christmas tree was brought home.

Matt’s older brothers started decorating the Christmas tree with the ornaments they had. However, after seeing Matt worried, his dad announced that they won’t put any other ornament on the tree until they find Matt’s favorite ornament.

Read this story to know will Matt’s family be successful in finding his favorite Christmas ornament. This story teaches kids about the true spirit of Christmas. Kids will learn the importance of family and seeking loved ones’ help in times of need. I had a great time reading this wonderful book.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon and Barnes & Noble

May 15, 2025

Interview with author Charlie

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

A1. Hello! My name is Charlie and I’m from Rhode Island. I’ve always been an art minded person. I create art in various mediums, dabble in music and recently began taking writing very seriously. Aside from the creative, I’m a gamer, amateur astronomer, cannabis cultivator, music lover and nature admirer.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “The Key and the Scythe”?

A2. “The Key and the Scythe” started with a fantasy and a few drawings. I didn’t consider making it a novel for a long time. When I started writing, I realized I needed to construct the story from a couple of faces and not much more. Giving them purpose, personalities and building their respective worlds were the toughest challenges.

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

A3. Stephen King is one of my favorite authors with “Carrie” being my favorite of his. “Scary Stories to Read in the Dark” series by Alvin Schwartz. The poetry of Edgar Allen Poe. “Lord of the Rings” series by J.R.R Tolkien.

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

A4. My favorite spot to visit is New Hampshire. I go up that way on vacation sometimes and the view of the night sky without light pollution is breathtaking.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘The Key and the Scythe’?

A5. The idea of a “second chance” is what inspired me to write. A lot of us have regrets or things in our past we would do differently now. I took that idea to the extreme and asked the question “what would I do for a second chance?”

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘The Key and the Scythe’?

A6. It took about a year and a half to write ‘The Key and the Scythe’.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. It’ll be on Apple books, Google Play, Kindle, Kobo and Nook.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘The Key and the Scythe’?

A8. The book cover took inspiration from the artist Romare Bearden, who used simple geometric shapes to construct portraits of city life. The title comes from the key Estelle seeks in the first book and the scythe is the magic weapon her Guardian wields.

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

A9. I love to watch new movies or shows or play different video games. I love horror and action or anything with deep mythology.

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

A10. “It’s not about what happens. It’s about why it matters.” -Abbie Emmons

May 14, 2025

Spoiler

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Spoiler 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Michael J. Bowler ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Alex’s twin brother had tried to kill him, and the memory made Alex shudder every time it crossed his mind. His old wheelchair was completely destroyed when one of Ms. G’s soldiers ravaged the ghost town. In its place, Alex received a brand-new, indestructible wheelchair. What hurt the most was that his identical twin—whom he had only recently been reunited with—had turned on him like a rabid dog.

Despite everything, Alex never let his wheelchair stop him from living life on his own terms. Mr. Shaw is now working with General Lewis to use advanced technology to track down Andy and Ms. G. Alex resents Ms. G for poisoning his brother’s mind and turning him against his own blood. Even though Andy attacked Alex for her sake, Ms. G doesn’t truly trust him. She reminds Andy that he belongs to her.

Alex has been told that his compassionate and caring nature is the reason the full powers of the Healer are accessible only to him. While Andy managed to steal some of those powers temporarily, they won’t last. If Andy attempts to open the gate and fails, Alex knows that Ms. G and her followers will come after him next.
Read this book to find out what happens next.

I loved how the story concluded. It’s fast-paced and full of twists that keep readers hooked until the final page. The more we learn about Alex, the more we admire him. His compassion and love for others encourage us to become healers in our own lives. Michael has done a fantastic job in this book. Go ahead with this series for sure.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

May 14, 2025

Baylie

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Baylie: A Life Shattered. A Promise Kept. A Secret Revealed 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Shawnee Baker ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Baylie: A Life Shattered. A Promise Kept. A Secret Revealed” by Shawnee Baker is a powerful and emotionally charged read. In this heartfelt memoir, Shawnee shares her real-life journey. A mother to three children—Mickenzie, Tristan, and Baylie—she found herself spiraling into negativity after a painful divorce.

Things began to change when she met Scott, a gentle and steady presence who soon became her safe haven. In her late thirties, Shawnee took a leap of faith, remarried, and began rebuilding her life. With her sons having moved out, Scott often spent time with Baylie while Shawnee worked night shifts. Just as she was starting to envision a new chapter—travel, adventure, and peace—life threw a devastating curveball.

Baylie was in a tragic accident, one so severe that her chances of survival were slim. What unfolded next is a blend of mystery and emotion. Did Baylie share something from beyond? Was there a secret waiting to be uncovered?

This story takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster of love, loss, grief, healing, etc. I was deeply moved by Shawnee’s resilience and the comfort she found in Scott. Baylie’s story is truly heartbreaking. Those who find comfort in reading memoirs should get their hands on this book.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

May 13, 2025

Descend

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Descend 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jen Lyon ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Fans of epic fantasy won’t want to miss Descend by Jen Lyon. In this imaginative tale, death is not the end—it’s only the beginning. Arrivals was the first place humans returned to after their death. The newly deceased were assisted in their predetermined sections: Lo-Reps, Mid-Reps and High-Reps.

The shift from Earth to Descend is softened by dim lighting, but the reality is harsh—most souls now belong to the High-Reps, individuals who have returned to life over 150 times without successfully Ascending. Once, Ascension was common. Now, humanity is stuck in an endless cycle between Earth and Descend. Those who ascended live for millennia, but humanity’s increasingly self-destructive nature threatens to wipe them out within 3,000 years.

Sarah, the Demon Keeper of Descend, must devise a way to save the human race. ReTraining efforts have failed. Can someone—or something—intervene to break the cycle and save the universe?

Jen Lyon’s vivid world-building is truly impressive. The story is packed with action, the pacing is quick, and the writing is rich with detail. The concept of Ascend and Descend is both original and compelling, and the characters are thoughtfully crafted. A must-read for fantasy lovers.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon