Book Reviews – Sassy Reviews

June 27, 2026

Writers of the Future Volume 42

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Writers of the Future Volume 42 📚
Presented by: L. Ron Hubbard ✍️
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Writers of the Future Volume 42 brings together imaginative science fiction and fantasy stories from emerging writers along with contributions from established authors. The collection features winning stories from the Writers of the Future international writers’ program, along with additional works from well-known voices in speculative fiction. The anthology explores a wide range of themes, including advanced technology, consciousness transfer, dragons, time travel, artificial intelligence, and human emotions.

Each story presents a unique world and concept, from futuristic questions about identity and digital existence in “Form 14B: Application for Certification of Consciousness Transfer (Post-Mortem)” to emotional fantasy tales involving dragons and magical connections. The illustrations included throughout the anthology add another layer of depth, making the reading experience visually engaging.

It is a memorable collection for readers who enjoy science fiction, fantasy, and thought-provoking short stories. It successfully highlights fresh voices while celebrating the power of imagination and storytelling. This anthology offers an exciting glimpse into the future of speculative fiction. I binge read it on the weekend.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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June 27, 2026

The Backside of Hades

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Backside of Hades 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Ann Charles and Sam Lucky ✍️
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The Backside of Hades by Ann Charles and Sam Lucky is set in the harsh winter landscape of the Black Hills. The story follows Boone, Clementine, Rabbit, and Hank as they face terrifying creatures known as Draug: deadly, reanimated beings threatening the region. The opening immediately pulls readers into the action with a tense encounter against these mysterious creatures.

Clementine stands out as a fearless warrior, while Boone, Rabbit, and Hank bring loyalty, humor, and personality to the group. Their banter provides moments of relief amid the frightening battles, making the story feel balanced between horror and adventure. The imaginative world-building, from the Draug threat to the strange forces controlling them, keeps the reader curious about what awaits the characters next.

With thrilling fights, memorable characters, and a unique combination of folklore and frontier adventure, Ann Charles and Sam Lucky create a story that feels fun. The book delivers plenty of suspense while maintaining a sense of humor, making it an engaging addition to the supernatural adventure genre.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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June 25, 2026

Pegasus

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Pegasus 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: James L. Hill ✍️
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The story follows humanity’s attempt to escape a failing Earth aboard the massive starship Pegasus. The narrative introduces a richly imagined world where companies wield more power than governments and space colonization becomes both a necessity and a moral dilemma. From the opening prologue, the author establishes a thought-provoking tone, exploring how war and technological advancement have shaped and damaged civilization.

At the heart of the novel are characters like Zack and Zuri. Zack’s life as an indentured worker reflects the harsh realities of a system where human value is measured in labor, while Zuri’s intelligence and independence provide a compelling counterbalance. The contrast between the beauty of Pegasus and the oppressive structures behind it highlights the novel’s central tension: the dream of a new beginning versus the persistence of old inequalities.

What I loved the most about this book is its detailed world-building and imaginative concepts, such as “Space Spiders,” advanced colonies, and the idea of transporting entire ecosystems to a new planet. The pacing balances action with philosophical reflection, touching on themes of freedom, control, survival, and the cost of progress.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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June 25, 2026

Thunder Dog

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Thunder Dog 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Michael Hingson ✍️
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At its core, the book recounts Hingson’s experience as a blind man navigating life with resilience, culminating in his escape from the World Trade Center during the September 11 attacks. What makes the story especially powerful is how it begins long before that tragic day, exploring his childhood, the challenges of blindness, and the unwavering support of his parents who refused to limit his potential despite societal expectations.

The narrative stands out because of its calm tone in the face of disaster. Instead of panic, Hingson relies on training, instinct, and most importantly trust in Roselle, whose composure becomes a guiding force. The detailed sensory descriptions, especially how he “hears” his surroundings, offer a unique perspective that sighted readers rarely consider, making the experience eye-opening.

Thunder Dog is as much about the bond between human and animal as it is about survival. Roselle is not just a guide dog but a partner whose loyalty and discipline save lives. The book leaves a lasting impression, not only as a story of survival but as a testament to resilience, perspective, and the extraordinary connection between humans and animals.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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June 25, 2026

Raised in Silence

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Raised in Silence 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Maria Gallucci ✍️
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Raised in Silence by Maria Gallucci is an inspiring memoir that explores family, identity, communication, and the unique experience of growing up as a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA). Through personal stories from her childhood, Gallucci shares how American Sign Language (ASL), Deaf culture, and her family’s way of connecting shaped her understanding of the world. The book beautifully highlights that communication is not only about spoken words but also about presence, emotions, expressions, and love.

Gallucci’s honest portrayal of the responsibilities she carried from a young age is heart touching. She describes interpreting for her parents, helping them navigate everyday situations, and learning independence earlier than many children.

However, the story is not only about challenges, it is also about the deep bond, humor, pride, and connection within her family. Her experiences reveal how differences can become strengths and how empathy can grow from seeing life through another person’s perspective.

Maria Gallucci’s storytelling is engaging, educational, and deeply personal, making this book a meaningful read for anyone interested in family, resilience, inclusion, and the power of human connection.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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June 24, 2026June 24, 2026

Mid-Glow

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Mid-Glow 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Seth Voorhees ✍️
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The story follows Philip Van-Drown and his crew of small-town bank robbers, each driven by economic hardship and the lingering effects of the Great Depression. From the very first heist, the author builds a strong sense of atmosphere: cold mornings, quiet towns, and the ever-present tension of violence while also grounding the narrative in the emotional struggles of the characters.

The relationships especially between Philip, Alex, and the enigmatic Maggie add complexity to what could have been a straightforward crime story. Maggie’s thrill-seeking nature contrasts sharply with Philip’s anxiety, while underlying tensions and unspoken motives begin to surface as the group plans their next job. The introduction of investigator Tommy Riggs further raises the stakes, adding a sense of pursuit and inevitability to the narrative.

As the story progresses, Mid-Glow evolves from a tale of calculated robberies into a cautionary exploration of greed, overconfidence, and consequence. Voorhees delivers a powerful message about the cost of chasing quick success, supported by vivid action scenes and emotional fallout. Mid-Glow is a gripping character-driven novel that blends crime, tension, and human vulnerability into a thought-provoking read.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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June 24, 2026

Willow Tree Tears

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Willow Tree Tears 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Mandy Eve-Barnett ✍️
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Willow Tree Tears by Mandy Eve-Barnett is a heartfelt romance that beautifully blends the worlds of rodeo, ranch life, family bonds, and unexpected love. The story follows Madison Beauchamp, a talented barrel racer who finds strength after experiencing betrayal and heartbreak. At the rodeo, her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Lucio Calligaris whose charm, kindness, and different outlook on life challenge Madison’s beliefs about love and relationships.

Madison is portrayed as independent, determined, and passionate about her horses and family ranch, while Lucio brings warmth, patience, and a sense of romance that helps her open her heart again. The story also explores themes of trust, healing, loyalty, and the importance of finding someone who respects who you truly are. The rodeo scenes add excitement and showcase Madison’s dedication.

Willow Tree Tears is an emotional romance filled with vivid settings, strong characters, and a touching exploration of love across different worlds. Mandy Eve-Barnett creates a story that will appeal to readers who enjoy contemporary romance with a countryside atmosphere, family values, and a journey of rediscovering happiness.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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June 23, 2026

An Authentic Success

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: An Authentic Success 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Chad Betz ✍️
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An Authentic Success is a thoughtful exploration of what it truly means to achieve success. Rather than focusing only on career achievements or external recognition, the book invites readers to examine their personal goals, values, and the reasons behind their ambitions. Betz shares his own journey of facing frustration and self-doubt, creating a relatable narrative for anyone who has questioned whether they are still capable of reaching new heights.

What makes this book stand out is its focus on transformation through intentional action. Betz explains how people can overcome limiting beliefs, adapt to changing circumstances, and use their existing experiences as strengths instead of viewing them as barriers. The book offers a structured approach to moving forward, with ideas around mindset, personal development, and creating a roadmap that aligns with one’s authentic definition of success.

This book is a motivating read for those navigating career transitions, personal challenges, or a desire for something more meaningful in life. The message is clear: success is not restricted by age, timing, or past setbacks. With its honest reflections and practical lessons, the book encourages readers to embrace change, recognize their potential, and actively create the future they want.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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June 20, 2026

An Auroral Flame

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: An Auroral Flame 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: R. Peter Ubtrent ✍️
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An Auroral Flame opens with a desperate attempt to save an infant during the destruction of an Elven city, leading to one of the most entertaining sequences in the book: a dragon named Unniass reluctantly becoming the child’s caretaker. These early chapters are equal parts humorous and heartfelt, as the fearsome dragon struggles with feeding, bathing, and protecting a baby while an army of Rakhasa searches for her.

As Aurora grows up in the Monastery of St. Vorrucht, the novel truly finds its voice. Aurora’s first-person narration is witty, inquisitive, and often laugh-out-loud funny. Her descriptions of the eccentric monks, her fascination with forbidden books, and her complete inability to stay out of trouble make her an interesting character. What I particularly enjoyed was how naturally the author reveals the world’s history through Aurora’s curiosity.

Aurora’s discovery of magic and her growing awareness that she is different from those around her create genuine emotional stakes. It is a story about self-discovery in a world scarred by war and old hatreds. Readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy with strong world-building, memorable side characters, and a heroine whose curiosity constantly drives the plot forward will find An Auroral Flame an enjoyable read.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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June 17, 2026

Perfect Secrets

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Perfect Secrets 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Maria Jane ✍️
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Perfect Secrets by Maria Jane is an engaging romantic fiction novel. The story follows Elle, a hardworking woman balancing multiple jobs, personal struggles, and her dream of attending law school. Her carefully guarded life becomes complicated when she meets Tanner Clarke, a lawyer who unknowingly encounters her hidden identity while she works at a vampire-themed bar.

Elle is portrayed as resilient, compassionate, and determined, especially through her dedication to her career goals, her family, and helping others. Tanner adds balance to the story with his kindness and willingness to support Elle’s ambitions. Their relationship develops naturally through shared experiences, including working together on a pro bono custody case, creating a romance built on trust, understanding, and emotional connection rather than just attraction.

Perfect Secrets is an entertaining read that explores themes of identity, healing, ambition, and the courage to let others see the real you. Maria Jane creates a story filled with charming moments, emotional challenges, and a memorable romance. Readers who enjoy contemporary romance with a touch of mystery and characters carrying hidden layers will find this book worth reading.

• 𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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