Sassy Reviews

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

September 4, 2024

The Love She Forgot

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Love She Forgot 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Roxie Holland ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Roxie Holland’s novel, “The Love She Forgot”, offers an engaging and emotional journey through the life of Beatrice, a young woman at a crossroads. At just twenty-four, Beatrice finds herself adrift after quitting her job and ending her relationship with her boyfriend, Ryan. Beatrice’s parents sold their family home to travel all the countries on their bucket list. This left her homeless.

With no other options, Beatrice moves in with her brother Ben and his roommate Matt. When Matt suggests a job opportunity at a local bar, she takes it up and starts a new chapter in her life. However, a slip on the ice leaves Beatrice with partial amnesia, erasing the memories of the past few months. She can’t remember breaking up with Ryan or why she left her job, but she discovers mysterious notes and locked files on her device that hint at the life she’s forgotten.

As Beatrice navigates through the pieces of her fragmented past, readers will be captivated by her journey of self-discovery. Holland’s storytelling is compelling, and the well-crafted plot keeps you turning pages. The book’s cover is also visually striking, adding to its appeal. If you’re in the mood for a light yet absorbing read, “The Love She Forgot” is a perfect choice that you won’t want to put down.”

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

September 4, 2024

Downfall

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Downfall 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jonathan K. Walson ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The main character of the story is Gracie, Altrant Human. She found herself waking up at Nelson Bioengineering and Augmentations. Gracie was guided by Admiral Charles Altherton and she embraces her mentor’s influence. She introduced herself as Lieutenant Gracie of the Tactical Cruiser Ticonderoga of
the fourth fleet of Earth’s Navy to Captain Kerry.

Kerry was just a freighter captain and something about him piqued Gracie’s interest. Even after months passed, Gracie couldn’t get Kerry out of her mind. Charles told Gracie about the file that has the information on who she is and why. He instructed Gracie to open the file when she was safe and far away. Since Charles will be retiring soon, Gracie would be assigned to Captain Tarrant of Lockhart. She needs to protect herself now from the Altrant Recovery Bureau. After Charles’ retirement, Gracie reported to Lockhart and dreaded working under Captain Tarrant. Gracie was told whoever has complained about Tarrant has disappeared or been sent to prison. Read this novel to find out what would happen next and if Gracie would reunite with Captain Kerry.

This is a unique story with a gripping plot. I appreciate the vivid imagination of the author in creating the fantasy world. The story is well paced and there are no dull moments in it. Gracie’s character is my favorite from the story. The way she wasn’t aware of her own reality and therefore walked on the path of self-discovery is amazing. Sci-fi stories fans should definitely get their hands on this book.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

September 3, 2024September 3, 2024

Interview with author Louise Glass

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

A1. Hello. I’m Louise Glass, the author behind the popular, two-time award-winning Dream Lover series. I am a clairvoyant empath with an abiding interest in the supernatural and the afterlife, so I write paranormal romance. I made the life-altering decision to give up my career as an interior designer to pursue my true passion: writing books.

Q2. What were the key challenges you faced while writing your book “Dream Lover”?

A2. My biggest challenge during the writing process was formulating a solid and captivating storyline. As I delved deeper into the writing process, the characters came to life, describing the experiences of three best friends navigating between two worlds. Like many authors, I had to make numerous revisions, delete chapters, and write extensively. But it is worth it to see the characters resonate with the readers.

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

A3. There have been many authors through the years. Linda Howard was an eclectic writer, and several books dealt with paranormal romance. Death Angel, being a memorable example, stands out in particular. Another author I greatly admire for her descriptive prose is Kristin Hannah. Ira Levin, the mastermind who wrote Rosemary’s Baby and the Stepford Wives, is a favorite.

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

A4. New Orleans, an enchanting city in the USA, is a favorite place to visit. The charming French flavor permeates the city. The Garden District and the architecture are astonishing, and the cuisine is superb. The native New Orleanians are ingratiating, and it’s a beautiful place to visit if you are a Francophile like me.

Q5. What inspired you to write the book ‘Dream Lover’?

A5. When I woke one morning, I didn’t have just one idea for a book but several―an entire series. I was excited and could not get to the computer quick enough and I began typing. I wrote Dream Lover and Book Two in the Dream Lover series; Arianna’s Story needs the requisite rewrites, edits, and formatting. The outline for Book Three is already taking shape in my fertile mind.

Q6. How long did it take you to write your book ‘Dream Lover’?

A6. Dream Lover took approximately eighteen months of dedication, hard work, and late nights to complete. Book two, Arianna’s Story will hopefully be finished in under a year. I plan to get it out before the end of 2024.

Q7. On what platforms can readers buy your books?

A7. https:// www.amazon.com/author/louiseglassdreamloverseries and my website. www.louiseglassauthor.com for autographed copies.

Q8. Tell us about the process of coming up with the book cover and the title ‘Dream Lover’?

A8. I create the book covers and the book trailers for all my books. I have always been artistic and enjoy working with Canva Pro. I use Shutterstock, Pinterest, and other venues to put together my covers entirely myself. The cover art has to resonate with potential readers, drawing their eyes to the cover and making them inclined to purchase the book.

The book’s cover depicts the principal friend of the trio, who is psychic and fantasizes about a dream lover. The man shown in the background of the cover is in silhouette. The breakout star of the book is a

toddler-like verbose cockatoo. Fred the Cockatoo is a fan favorite, and I have readers in social media writing me for more information on Fred the Cockatoo!

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

A9. That’s never been a problem for me. My paranormal romances are about real people and spirits as human as you and I. They have relationships and go through real-life problems. Some are dark, frightening, and sad, but the humor of pets in the books and the people themselves helps blend the light and the dark, forming a cohesive whole.

I added LGBTQ characters in book two and plan to expand on them and other ethnicities in book three. My Dream Lover series is diverse, like our world, and my books reflect that. Writing fiction, paranormal in particular, allows the imagination to go to unique places a nonfiction author could not do. I research everything in Dream Lover and the subsequent novels. In book two, Arianna’s Story, I discovered a 1940s wartime Hollywood tragic love affair between two top box office stars. I included that in my book and gave them a happy ending because book two is time travel. Honestly, the ideas are overflowing.

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

A10. There are two. One is to avoid repetition, which drags a story down and creates boredom for the reader. Additionally, it is essential to focus on the dialogue. I become the character I am writing about, which is a great help. I also read the dialogue aloud to check if it flows well.

Buy Dream Lover on Amazon