Sassy Reviews

October 22, 2024October 22, 2024

Interview with author Dakotah Sanders

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

A1. My name is Dakotah Sanders. I am a person in long term recovery from substance use disorder, with seven years of recovery. I scored a 9/10 on the ACE’s test. I was born and raised in Kansas. I currently work for a community mental health center as a peer support specialist on the assertive community treatment team. I am also a social work student working towards my license for addictions counselling

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “ENDURE: To Suffer with Patience”?

A2. Probably the most difficult aspect was the conversations that had to happen with my family. I sat down with them and told them every story that was going to be in the book. It was difficult for everyone to dig up our past, however, they all understood what I was trying to do with it and were very supportive.

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

A3. “The Way of the Superior Man,” is probably the most influential book I have ever read. That book influenced me beyond measure as a man. Other influential authors would be Friedrich Nietzsche and Carl Jung. These individuals influenced my thinking which I believe shows in my writing.

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

A4. My favourite place to visit in my own country would be Jack Creek in Arkansas. It reminds me of time spent with my little brother. It is like a fifty foot cliff where people jump off of the water. I just have a lot of special memories there.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘ENDURE: To Suffer with Patience’?

A5. I honestly never meant to write a book. It was a series of events that seemed to push me in the direction of writing. However, I read a book called “The Courage to Create,” by Rollo May. This book inspired me to be creative in some fashion and I chose writing which led to the creation of my book.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘ENDURE: To Suffer with Patience’?

A6. I wrote this book in three months. Then I spent about six months editing it.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. It is on quietstormservices.com and the E-book version is on the Kobo app.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘ENDURE: To Suffer with Patience’?

A8. The book cover is actually one of my son’s baby pictures with my stomach tattoo in the background. I have “endure” tattooed on my stomach as a tribute to my friends who have passed from overdose or street behaviors. In the world of addiction you constantly have friends die. Which poses the question: what is the difference between me and them? Why did I make it out and they didn’t. I have thought long and hard about this question and the only answer I can come up with is that I have the ability to endure great suffering patiently. There isn’t anything magically special about me. I just have the ability to sit with my suffering which is a result of what my childhood was like. So, I got it tattooed on my stomach. I felt like my son’s baby picture was a great symbolism for my book. I am holding a new born baby as a man who endured much in life. My son represents hope, an opportunity for healing in my bloodline of trauma. He represents a clean slate. Me holding him represents the future of my bloodline. I hold within my hands the opportunity to break a cycle.

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

A9. My story already existed so I didn’t have to make anything up. I just needed to organize the memories in a way that made sense. My life has been chaotic from the moment I was born until the moment I got sober and even then there’s still some chaos. I think working with editors helps me keep from being repetitive with words but the story itself does not get boring from start to finish.

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

A10. The first type doesn’t need to be perfect or pretty, you just need to write!

Book is available here

October 22, 2024October 22, 2024

The Wych Elm

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Wych Elm 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Carol Ann Bradley ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Carol Ann Bradley’s ‘The Wych Elm’ is a charming read for children ages 6-8, centered around the adventures of Dulcie Midwinter. One morning, Dulcie sets out for a walk in the woods, hoping to collect bilberries and pine cones.

Along her journey, she encounters a magical world filled with pixies, elves, and their regal Wood-Nymph queen. A pixie informs Dulcie that the queen has been expecting her arrival. The pixies, dressed in bright coats, tartan trousers, and pointed hats, are preparing for a lively dance when a sudden disturbance occurs. Nogdrog, a banished hobgoblin, has returned after being cast out of the woodland realm.

Curious to know how the Wood-Nymph queen will handle the situation? This book is filled with enchantment and mystery. The captivating cover and fitting title add to the allure of the story, which is brought to life with vivid descriptions and delightful characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this magical tale.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 22, 2024

Racing for a Reason!

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Racing for a Reason! 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Eric Clock ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
In “Racing for a Reason!” by Eric Clock, readers embark on an exciting journey filled with action and heartwarming moments. The story centers around Kim, a young girl who learns through a news broadcast that her classmate Emma has lost everything in a devastating bushfire. Deeply moved by the tragedy, Kim wants to help.

She teams up with her friends, Amali and Thomas, to brainstorm ways to support Emma. Together, they come up with the idea of hosting a Billy Cart Race fundraiser. After speaking with the local church pastor, Kim decides to organize a family fun day and the race to raise funds for Emma. Will their efforts make a difference?

This story highlights important values such as compassion, teamwork, and creative problem-solving. Children will not only enjoy the lively illustrations and engaging plot but will also gain a deeper understanding of helping others in tough times. The collaboration between the author and illustrator makes this book a joy to read. I strongly recommend parents pick up the entire “Little Go Getter” series for their kids—it’s a collection they’ll love.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 21, 2024

ENDURE: To Suffer with Patience

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: ENDURE: To Suffer with Patience 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Dakotah Sanders ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“ENDURE: To Suffer with Patience” by Dakotah Sanders is a powerful and emotional memoir. The author shares a deeply personal account of his painful childhood, growing up with an abusive father. From his earliest memories, Dakotah witnessed the trauma inflicted on his family, recalling moments like hearing his mother’s cries behind closed doors when he was only four years old.

As a child, Dakotah often felt a strong desire to protect his mother and sisters but was overwhelmed by the helplessness of his youth. His father would demand that Dakotah “be the man” and take responsibility for their safety, which left him questioning how he could defend them from the very person he was told to follow. He found solace only in the moments when his father was away or during visits to his grandmother’s house.

This memoir stirred deep emotions in me, showcasing the resilience Dakotah developed in the face of such adversity. It’s a heartbreaking yet inspiring story that highlights the impact of abuse on children. I believe this book holds a vital lesson for parents, offering insight into the devastating effects of toxic behavior and urging them to act with greater love and responsibility toward their children.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available here

October 21, 2024

What We Hear Is Coming Near

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: What We Hear Is Coming Near 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: JP Chinmusic ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“What We Hear Is Coming Near” by JP Chinmusic is a perfect grab for Halloween. The story features a few instruments who are exhausted after the session and want to have some rest. When they came to the room to rest, one of the instruments heard breathing sounds.

At first, they thought it was the Trumpet. When Trumpet told them that he is awake and he too can hear the sounds, soon they figured out that they are not alone. It’s time for Halloween and the instruments wondered if it’s a ghost. Read this book to find out if there is an explanation behind the shadow.

Through this book, the author wants to tell the kids that there’s always an explanation for the unknown. The storytelling skills of the author are amazing. Kids would find this book spooky and have a great time reading it. Parents should add this book to their children’s bookshelf for Halloween.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 21, 2024

What a Tale My Thoughts Will Tell: Words Not to Be Forgotten

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: What a Tale My Thoughts Will Tell: Words Not to Be Forgotten 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: John Edwards ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“What a Tale My Thoughts Will Tell: Words Not to Be Forgotten” by John Edwards is an engaging memoir that delves into the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Edwards explores how cultural, psychological, and social factors shape our joys and sorrows, interweaving these themes with the narrative of his own life journey.

The memoir recounts John’s relationship with Robbin, from their instant connection to their eventual marriage after a year and three months of dating. Despite their deep bond, John struggled with expressing his feelings about the lack of intimacy in their relationship. As life progressed and they welcomed a child, the couple found it increasingly difficult to find time for themselves. As they planned for second children, John started feeling emotionally distant from his spouse. He became focused on starting a new management career path.

After 18 years of marriage, John’s world was shattered when Robbin asked for a divorce. John’s ideal of lifelong commitment, inspired by his father, clashed with the painful reality of their separation. Through his story, Edwards reflects on the lasting ache of lost love and emphasizes that the true essence of life lies in love and connection.

This memoir serves as a guide for readers facing their own emotional upheavals, encouraging them to seek meaning and healing through life’s trials. “Reflections of a Life Unspoken” left a profound impact on me, prompting introspection about my own life’s purpose. I highly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates thought-provoking memoirs and is searching for deeper insights into love and relationships.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 21, 2024

Interview with author Kristin Payne

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

A1. My name is Kristin Payne! I have been a public performer for over 20 years in the Dallas/Ft Worth metroplex as an actor/voice actor, stilt walker, living statue, aerial artist, dancer, mermaid, princess, and clown. I have been teaching musical theater and stage combat to children for 15 years, and have 3 beautiful children myself. My life’s purpose is to inspire and motivate children to believe in themselves, and create more beauty for this world.

What is the inspiration behind your book “Pinki & Boots: Alleyway Circus”?

A2. In 2021, I attended a clown camp training with my performer friend, Rita. She wanted to create a clown character that was feline- I originally told her that wouldn’t work.. an animal clown? That’s weird! She created Boots, anyway. Everyone in the clown community LOVED the concept! And since we had very little resources in creating our show, we just worked that into our act and made the theme around – creating something amazing out of nothing. A little girl meets an alley cat and they join forces to make a circus out of the garbage! I wanted to write it into a book so that our message could reach more children. Our clown show can only travel so far- it just made sense to bring these characters to the page, and have our story resonate everywhere it needs to!

When did you realize you want to be an author?

A3. I never imagined that I would be an author, honestly. I always wanted to be an actor and that’s it. I’m a spiritual person, and a psychic told me in a session that I would write and illustrate a kid’s book- initially, I laughed. I had never thought to do that. So, I’m not sure if it was a prophecy or, because someone told me I would, I decided to- but it happened so quickly! It’s still odd to call myself an author, though I’ve been in multiple published works throughout my life.

Please tell us something about your book “Pinki & Boots: Alleyway Circus”?

A4. Pinki is relatable to all children. She’s happy and passionate, but faces adversity to then get crushed by life’s happenstances. She finds a feline friend to help her re-focus her efforts, and not give up on her dreams. It was important for me to get that message across to my young audience; preparing children for obstacles and reassuring them that they can overcome anything. I believe it is important to motivate our kids through the media they consume. I want chicken’s entertainment to be enriching, inspiring, and also- HILARIOUS! I think Pinki & Boots really does that.

For which age group is your book “Pinki & Boots: Alleyway Circus” suitable for?

A5. My target audience for this book is 5-11 (though, most adults who’ve read it enjoy it, too!

What is your favorite Quote?

A6. “Rules Shmooles! We don’t need that silly ol’ circus! Look around, we can make our own circus!”

I love that Boots is so quick to challenge “the system” and is also quick with a solution. It shows what a great friend he is. It is also subtle in suggesting to kids that – they don’t need anything but the will to go on, to create magic, and obtain their hearts desires.

7. What do you like the most about your country?

A7 The USA is a complex country- I was born here, and I’ve enjoyed the spirit of… well I guess it’s similar to the message in my book. Life, liberty, and (i)the pursuit of happiness(i) – I also really like cheeseburgers and BBQ, and we do that very well here.

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

A8. I think that the minute a child learns to read, they should focus on one book at a time. Dr. Seuss, Jacks Prelutsky, Shell Silverstein, Suzanne Collin’s and Stephanie Meyer was some of my favorites.

What does literary success look like to you?

A9. I think I’m already living it! If you’re able to create a literary work and bring it all the way through the publishing phase, in that little success lies a whole lot of congratulations. I’d sure like for my audience to grow- but even if it’s a few hundred kids that read my book, that’s still a few hundred kids that have been inspired (instead of none).

Lastly, who is your inspiration in life and why?

A10. Fred Rogers. That’s an easy answer. He saw an opportunity to use visual media to reach children on a massive scale- and his content was so loving and wholesome that he changed lives. He was truly a remarkable man and I looked up to him in every way.

Buy Pinki & Boots on Amazon

October 21, 2024October 21, 2024

Pinki & Boots

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Pinki & Boots: Alleyway Circus 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Kristin Payne ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Pinki & Boots: Alleyway Circus” by Kristin Payne is a delightful children’s story that is sure to capture young readers’ imaginations. The book centers on Pinki, an adventurous and imaginative eight-year-old girl. Her Gran describes her as funny, creative, and beautiful.

Pinki dreams of becoming a circus clown, entertaining crowds for a lifetime. One day, she heads to the town square and asks the Ticket Seller to pass along a request to the Ringmaster for a new clown costume. However, the Ringmaster tells her she isn’t a clown and can’t be part of the circus.

Disheartened, Pinki starts to head home when she encounters an unusual cat with extraordinary talents. Together, they embark on an unexpected adventure.

This story encourages children to dream without limits and imparts an important lesson about resilience. It also serves as a reminder to adults that it’s never too late to pursue their aspirations. The illustrations are vibrant and beautifully complement the narrative. Kristin Payne has crafted a captivating read, and I look forward to more of her creative works.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 21, 2024

Master of Music

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Master of Music 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Marla Himeda ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Master of Music” penned by the author Marla Himeda is the first book in The Bardic Isles Series. The main character of the story is an eleven-year-old boy named Kaelin. He is an orphan and lives with his sister. Kaelin has a dangerous musical talent. He has a fear that his music can harm others. Therefore, Kaelin plays his flute only when he is alone.

Once, Kaelin listened to Master Bergid playing the variation he had played the night before. This made him realize that the Master must have heard him playing. Kaelin followed the Master secretly so he can take his help to find a Bardic apprenticeship. Read this story to know what Kaelin will learn from Master Bard.

Those who enjoy fantasy fiction stories should get their hands on this book. The writing style of the author is nice. The cover photo is eye-catching. The storyline is gripping and I enjoyed every bit of this book. The author has created an interesting world that hooked me till the last page.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 20, 2024

Interview with author Antonia Agbonkpolor

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

A1 Hello, my name is Antonia Agbonkpolor. I’m a wife, mother of two sons, and an accountant by profession. I recently transitioned into the world of writing and published my first book, SPEAK Life: Healing the Hurt of Verbal Abuse. Through my work as a finance business partner and my passion for helping others, I founded Antonia Creative Writings, a ministry dedicated to using the power of words to uplift and heal. This book is part of that vision.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book SPEAK Life: Healing the Hurt of Verbal Abuse?

A2 One of the main challenges I faced was hearing the stories of people who had endured verbal abuse. Many individuals shared with me how hurtful words impacted their confidence, self-esteem, and mental well-being. Listening to their experiences was difficult, but it became my motivation to transform their pain into a message of healing. Putting their emotions and struggles into words that could comfort others required sensitivity and a deep understanding of their emotional journey.

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

A3 I’ve been influenced by authors like Joyce Meyer, particularly her book Battlefield of the Mind, which opened my eyes to the power of thoughts and words. I also admire Max Lucado, whose ability to communicate profound truths in a simple, relatable way has greatly shaped my approach to writing about faith and healing.

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

A4 I love visiting spas for relaxation or spending time by the seaside. There’s something soothing about the sound of the waves and the calm of the ocean. The beach is a place where I can unwind, reflect, and find peace, which helps rejuvenate my mind and spirit.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book SPEAK Life: Healing the Hurt of Verbal Abuse?

A5 The inspiration for SPEAK Life came from a burden I’ve carried for years, after listening to numerous people who have been affected by verbal abuse. Hearing their stories and understanding the impact it had on their lives especially their confidence and self-worth moved me deeply. I felt called to write this book to help others heal from the wounds inflicted by words and find strength through faith. I also believe this book is also important for the coming up generation to spread awareness of the importance of speaking positively into their lives and the lives of their family.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book SPEAK Life: Healing the Hurt of Verbal Abuse?

A6 It took me about a month to write SPEAK Life. The ideas had been on my mind for a long time, and I had done some research beforehand. Once I sat down to write, the process was relatively fast because the message was clear, and I was eager to share it.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7 My book SPEAK Life is available on platforms like Amazon and soon to be on Barnes & Noble, and it will be available on Waterstones as well. Currently, readers can purchase it in both paperback and e-book formats.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title SPEAK Life: Healing the Hurt of Verbal Abuse?

A8 The title SPEAK Life is inspired by Proverbs 18:21, which states, “The tongue has the power of life and death.” I wanted the title to reflect the power our words have to either build up or tear down. The cover of the book features a silhouette of my face, which symbolizes the personal connection I have with the topic, as well as the broader message of identity and healing that the book conveys.

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

A9 I keep things fresh by drawing from real-life stories and personal experiences, which ensures that my writing feels authentic. Prayer and reflection also play a huge role in the process, helping me stay connected to the message I want to share. Additionally, I make an effort to write in a conversational tone to keep the content engaging for readers.

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

A10 The most valuable piece of advice I’ve received is to write from the heart and not worry about perfection. Authenticity resonates more with readers than anything else. When your writing comes from a place of purpose and passion, it speaks directly to the soul.

Buy Speak Life on Amazon