Sassy Reviews

September 11, 2024

Silent Sirens

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Silent Sirens 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Forbes Johnson ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Forbes Johnson’s novel “Silent Sirens” is a compelling exploration of life behind the scenes in emergency services. This story provides an intimate look into the emotional and psychological toll on those who work in high-stress environments. The protagonist, Joe Gibson, is a fifty-year-old paramedic living in London.

Though the demands of his job are immense, Joe and his team often find humor amid the chaos. Joe is aware that every call holds a potential for an emergency so he is fully committed to providing the best care possible. However, the weight of each call takes its toll, leaving invisible scars. His military background has helped shape his perspective, giving him a strong sense of duty. For Joe, the ambulance service became a lifeline after his military career, offering him a renewed sense of purpose.

Yet with each traumatic call, Joe is drawn deeper into a dark mental space he refers to as “the black.” His desire to be a reliable paramedic is being overshadowed by the growing weight of “the black,” which becomes increasingly dangerous with time. Will Joe find a way to balance his dedication to saving others and the need to save himself?

This thought-provoking novel sheds light on the hidden struggles paramedics face. Johnson masterfully conveys the emotional strength required in this profession. This book is a must-read for anyone wanting a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those in emergency services. It’s a powerful reminder of the resilience and vulnerability of those on the front lines.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

September 10, 2024

JAKE – Don’t Look Back

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: JAKE – Don’t Look Back 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Barbara Eckhoff ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“JAKE – Don’t Look Back” by Barbara Eckhoff is a thrilling novel with an engaging storyline. The protagonist, Savannah Lanier, is tasked by her employer, Raymond Blackborne, to travel to Washington and recruit Jake Forester, the head of Guardian Angels.

Raymond’s company, Poole & Blackborne Drills, has been plagued by mysterious accidents, and he seeks Jake’s expertise to ensure his safety. Although Jake and Raymond share a complicated history, Raymond knows Jake is the best for the job. Initially, Jake declines Savannah’s offer, but after a personal meeting with Raymond and receiving a cryptic warning letter, he reconsiders. Blackborne told Jake that they get quite a few aggressive letters a year. Jake agreed to work alone on the case. Savannah has to convince him as she wants to work on this case too.

The story keeps readers on edge as they follow Jake’s journey and his dynamic with Savannah. Will Jake be able to handle the dangers ahead and form a solid partnership with Savannah?

This novel is packed with suspense, and I found it impossible to stop reading. The unpredictable twists and expertly crafted characters, especially Jake and Savannah, kept me captivated until the end. Barbara Eckhoff’s writing is sharp and compelling, making for a fast-paced and enjoyable read without any slow moments.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

September 9, 2024September 9, 2024

Interview with author Molly Arbuthnott

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

A1. I am Molly Arbuthnott and I write. I write poems and stories. They convey more than just my observations of life. They are a way I share hopes, dreams, wishes… everything really. I have written hundreds of poems and published twelve picture books. I like to think that three books are the equivalent of one child so technically I have four children!

What is the inspiration behind your book “Oscar the Ferry Cat”?

A2. We lost our cat on the ferry. I was feeling a bit lost in London myself at the time so decided to write a story conveying a sense of belonging and hope centred around our cat.

When did you realize you want to be an author?

A3. I don’t and I am not sure I really am. I just find it is an enjoyable way to pass time and it brings amazing people into my life too. It is a way I can observe the world and share and give. I love what I do and feel happy every hour of every day. I used to spend a lot of my life pining to be somewhere I wasn’t. This is not a very healthy way to be and so I can now imagine I am somewhere different sometimes through my stories and teach others about different places too.

Please tell us something about your book “Oscar the Ferry Cat”?

A4. It is a story about hope, the courage to try new things and always be open to new experiences and adventures and bringing new people into your life. It is easier to write about human experiences in animals because one is not restricted to a human’s way of being; breakfast, work, lunch, tea, bed, marriage, children etc etc. It is very prescribed. Writing humans as animals gives one much more freedom.

For which age group is your book “Oscar the Ferry Cat” suitable for?

A5. I like to hope that the sign of a good book means that any age can enjoy it so I like to hope it is a book suitable for all age groups.

What is your favorite Quote?

A6. From my book – “Oscar thought for a while and then said ‘Ok.” Life- “I have that I might give.”

What do you like the most about your country?

A7. The traditions- the dancing, the food and the multi-cultural environment.

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

A8. Don’t force it. It will come naturally if it is supposed to. Do not feel you need to progress on from picture books to chapter books in order to be a ‘good reader’ either. So much can be learnt from reading a picture book. I think the reading progression we teach in our Schools is so wrong for this. It encourages children to not really concentrate on what they are reading, just get though it so they can get onto the next book which is so wrong, I think. It is much better to inspire a ‘love of reading’ whatever it is in a young child as this will stand them in very good stead for the future.

What does literary success look like to you?

A9. Encouraging someone to read a book who maybe wouldn’t otherwise and encouraging a different way of looking at the world.

Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

My mother. We have a fairly up and down relationship; we are so similar you see. But she is one of the smartest women I know and she has always encouraged us all to follow our dreams and never give up and not worry too much about what other people think.. just do what is right for you.

Buy Oscar the Ferry Cat on Amazon

September 7, 2024September 7, 2024

The Benmar Chronicles

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Benmar Chronicles 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jordan Beaudoin ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Benmar Chronicles” by Jordan Beaudoin offers a captivating story centered around the Jason siblings—Michael, Austin, and Jane—who have faced significant challenges. Five years after losing their parents, they find themselves living on their own, with only their uncle Chris providing financial support through monthly checks. Despite this, Chris remains absent from their day-to-day lives.

The siblings were led to believe that their parents died in a tragic car accident involving a drunk driver. However, a conversation overheard between the school principal, Mrs. Beasel, and history teacher, Mr. Dinits, suggests otherwise. They claim that the parents were murdered in their home and that Susan Bovile, who was blamed for the crime, was framed. Now, with doubts raised, Michael and Austin embark on a mission to uncover the truth behind their parents’ deaths.

This novel is an engaging page-turner, with strong character development and smooth, compelling narration. The plot moves at a brisk pace, keeping the reader intrigued throughout. Michael and Austin stand out as particularly well-crafted characters, and their quest for answers adds depth to the narrative. I found this book impossible to put down until I reached the final page.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

September 7, 2024September 7, 2024

Gone Mia

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Gone Mia: Deadly Deception 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Tess Raynes ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Gone Mia: Deadly Deception” by Tess Raynes is a psychological thriller that will keep readers guessing from start to finish. The story follows Mia Agostini, a fiercely independent woman who finds herself in an unexpected situation when her car breaks down on the side of the road. Stranded and unsure how to fix a flat tire, she hesitates when a charming stranger named Alex offers his help. Despite her reservations about trusting a stranger, Mia allows Alex into her life, hoping he might be the one to fill the emptiness she’s been feeling.

What starts as a whirlwind romance quickly takes a dark turn. Alex, who seemed perfect at first, begins to subtly control Mia’s life. Her father senses something is off, and even her best friend, Sara, expresses concerns. As Mia slowly becomes isolated, manipulated into cutting ties with her family, she realizes she’s losing herself. But who is Alex really, and what does he want? As the layers of deception unfold, Mia’s entire world is thrown into chaos.

This gripping novel will leave you breathless with suspense. Raynes’ sharp writing and masterful pacing make it impossible to stop reading. The tension builds with every chapter, and you’ll find yourself desperate to uncover Alex’s true motives. Fans of psychological thrillers will be eager to see what Tess Raynes delivers next.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

September 6, 2024

Of Vital Interest

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Of Vital Interest 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Frank Demith ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Few books have the ability to captivate readers from the very first page, but Frank Demith’s “Of Vital Interest” does just that. This military thriller follows the story of Sergeant Abdullah, a man deeply committed to serving the country that has given him so much. Originally from Iraq, Abdullah returned to his homeland on several military deployments. He began his career as a linguist before training as a mechanic.

One day, a young soldier named Samir Al Khafaji speaks something in Arabic that catches Abdullah’s attention. Samir, who was granted U.S. citizenship through a special program, soon raises suspicions with his behavior. Could he be hiding something?

Sergeant Abdullah stands out as my favorite character due to his unwavering dedication to his duty and country. The writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making it an enjoyable read. The story is fast-paced, action-packed, and keeps you hooked throughout—you won’t want to put it down.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

September 6, 2024September 6, 2024

The Third Way: Book 1 – Awareness

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Third Way: Book 1 – Awareness 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Dr. Karl Phillips ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Karl Phillips’ “The Third Way: Book 1 – Awareness” is a distinctive and thought-provoking work. Divided into three sections—The Mind, The Body, and The Soul—the book offers a compelling exploration of self-awareness. Phillips emphasizes that we are more than just our thoughts and urges readers to be vigilant about their mental patterns, actively combating negativity.

One of the standout quotes for me is:
“Make sure you give more energy to your dreams than to your fears.”

Phillips encourages us to trust both the Universe and ourselves, revealing that we are not just physical beings but eternal souls. He insightfully notes that while we control our thoughts, we often fall victim to our emotions. Negative feelings like fear, jealousy, and anger can overwhelm us if we’re not careful.

This book is a powerful reminder to cultivate faith, which can generate positive energy and momentum in our lives. It’s a resource I’ll keep close at hand for quick inspiration. I’m grateful to the author for sharing his profound insights, drawn from various facets of life, society, and nature. The writing is engaging, and the cover is visually appealing. I only wish I had discovered this book sooner. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking deeper understanding and growth.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

September 6, 2024September 6, 2024

Child Protection Behind Closed Doors

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Child Protection Behind Closed Doors 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jo Cooling ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Child Protection Behind Closed Doors” by Jo Cooling offers a compelling and eye-opening account of the child protection system. Drawing from her extensive experience as a senior child protection worker, Cooling invites readers into the complex and often challenging world of her career.

The book highlights the grim reality many children face when deprived of a stable and loving family. Without support, they become vulnerable to drug abuse, sexual exploitation, homelessness, and, in severe cases, suicide. Cooling also shares firsthand experiences from court cases where parents relinquished their guardianship, leaving children with deep feelings of rejection.

Throughout the narrative, Cooling sheds light on the inadequate support provided to child protection workers, emphasizing the impact of systemic issues like drug use within management. She argues that addressing these problems is crucial to ensuring children receive the care they deserve.

Ultimately, the author encourages resilience and determination in the face of adversity, both for the workers in the field and those advocating for change. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the challenges within child protection, and I commend Jo Cooling for her bravery in sharing these important truths.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

September 5, 2024

The Darkest Passages

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Darkest Passages 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Len Handeland ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Darkest Passages” by Len Handeland is a thrilling follow-up to “The Darkest Gift.” The story centers around Fabien Levesque, who begins as an ordinary human until he is transformed into a vampire by Stefan. This transformation shatters Fabien’s life, pushing him to feed on fresh human blood under Stefan’s control. When Fabien defies Stefan’s rules, Stefan exacts a brutal punishment, leaving Fabien in ruins.

However, Fabien gets a second chance at existence by taking over the body of Jack Devereaux, a mortal. He resumes his life with his lover, Laurent, but his troubles are far from over. Stefan, seeking to ruin Fabien’s new life, possesses Laurent’s body, threatening everything Fabien holds dear. Desperate for freedom and a fresh start, Fabien flees to San Francisco. There, he finds allies who share his hatred for Stefan. Together, they devise a plan to hire a vampire hunter to eliminate Stefan once and for all. Will they succeed in their quest? You’ll have to read the book to find out.

This novel is a must-read for fans of paranormal fiction. Handeland’s engaging writing style and the complex character of Fabien keep readers hooked from beginning to end. The unexpected twists and suspenseful plot make this book a captivating read that you won’t want to put down.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

September 5, 2024September 5, 2024

Of Vital Interest

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Of Vital Interest 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Frank Demith ✍️
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𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon