Book Reviews – Page 17 – Sassy Reviews

July 2, 2025

The Lost Seigneur

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Lost Seigneur 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: David Loux ✍️
.
.

🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Lost Seigneur” by David Loux is the sequel to Chateau Laux. The story centers around Jean-Pierre du Laux, a nobleman living in Southern France. Jean-Pierre and his devoted wife Eleanor chose to have only one child—Pierre.

When Jean-Pierre informs Eleanor that he must travel to Versailles, he assures her he’ll be away no longer than a fortnight. Accompanying him is Guy Aguirre, a trusted friend and mentor in the martial arts. Their journey takes a turn when the smooth road ahead suddenly vanishes into the woods. Guy senses danger—but before long, Jean-Pierre is abducted. A mysterious scholar tells him that he will soon learn much about Señor Neuve.

Years go by, and Jean-Pierre remains in captivity. The only thing that sustains him through the hardship is his enduring love for Eleanor and Pierre.

Will Jean-Pierre ever reunite with his family? To find out, dive into this captivating historical fiction. The characters are richly drawn, and the setting is beautifully crafted. I highly recommend this book to fellow readers who enjoy a gripping story with emotional depth and historical intrigue.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon for Pre-order

July 2, 2025

The Unforgiven Walk Alone

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Unforgiven Walk Alone 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Carole Sanek ✍️
.
.

🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Unforgiven Walk Alone: When Forgiveness Isn’t an Option” by Carole Sanek is a powerful and compelling memoir. In 1979, Carole seemed to have an ideal life — a loving husband, three children, a dog, and she was pursuing a nursing degree. But everything changed in 1981 when one day she discovered her husband, Donald, was unwell. It soon came to light that he had attempted suicide three times.

From that moment, her life took a complete turn. The family lived in constant fear, walking on eggshells, terrified that any misstep might trigger another suicide attempt from Donald. Carole and Donald’s marriage began to deteriorate rapidly. In the years that followed, Donald suffered several strokes, leaving him partially paralyzed on his right side. His behavior grew increasingly disturbing, eventually prompting Carole to seek a restraining order to keep him from entering their home when she wasn’t there. What unforgivable act he committed is revealed in the following pages of this story.

I resonate with the author’s belief that healing doesn’t always require forgiveness. The book is written with raw honesty, and I deeply admire Carole’s courage, resilience, and strength. For anyone going through dark or difficult times, this memoir offers valuable insight and lessons. The title is perfectly chosen, and I look forward to reading more of Carole Sanek’s work.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 1, 2025

Leaves in the Sun

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Leaves in the Sun 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Will Solomon ✍️
.
.

🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Leaves in the Sun” by Will Solomon is a compelling tale set in 1940, against the backdrop of World War II. The story follows Lynn Valeska, a courageous 21-year-old woman born near Bordeaux, France. Forced to flee the horrors of German-occupied France, Lynn makes a harrowing journey through Palestine before eventually reaching England. She loses her family, her home—everything she once knew. In England, she works as a housemaid for Lord Drake, who grants her certain privileges not extended to others in her position.

Things take a dramatic turn when Corinthian Ramsay, a veteran of the First World War, visits Lord Drake with an unusual proposal: Lynn is to be recruited, trained, and sent behind enemy lines as a spy. Despite Lord Drake’s reservations, Lynn chooses to accept the offer. The mission is perilous, with slim chances of survival—but Lynn is undeterred.

This novel is a must-read for those who enjoy strong female protagonists and wartime thrillers. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. Lynn’s bravery is inspiring, and the author has done an excellent job of crafting her character with depth and nuance. The gripping storyline kept me hooked until the very last page.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 25, 2025

Grumps

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Grumps 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Glyn Davies ✍️
.
.

🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
If you enjoy quick, engaging reads, Grumps by Glyn Davies is a must-pick. Set in 1974, the story follows Arthur Pickering—better known as Grumps—who stations himself in the middle of the road to help mums and children cross safely on their way to school. I was touched by how much Grumps does for the children.

Grumps is hard to miss—he’s a towering six-foot-seven with a massive moustache. While children adore him, many adults, especially motorists, find him intimidating. Arthur carries around a mysterious little black book filled with the names of people who’ve caught his attention—destined, it seems, for some form of future reckoning.

People often wonder who’s on the receiving end of his wrath on any given day. Ann Macey, for instance, couldn’t stand him and even asked her husband Gerald not to let Arthur into their shop. The book is full of quirky moments like this, and discovering what Grumps does next is half the fun.

I was completely hooked from the first page. Glyn Davies has crafted a compelling story, and the eye-catching cover adds to its charm. Arthur is a truly one-of-a-kind character. Definitely add Grumps to your TBR—you’re in for a delightful read.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 25, 2025

Failure at 45

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Failure at 45: From Messy to Kinda Amazing (With Snacks) 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Stacy M. Martinez ✍️
.
.

🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Failure at 45: From Messy to Kinda Amazing (With Snacks)” by Stacy M. Martinez is an inspiring and heartfelt read. The author emphasizes that failure isn’t the end—it’s the turning point. When Stacy lost her dream job, she felt as if she failed. It took her time to realize that failure doesn’t write our ending—it rewrites our next beginning.

Stacy encourages readers to take bold risks. Yes, we may fall—but we might also soar. She openly shares the emotional toll of losing a job she deeply loved, an experience that felt like losing part of her identity. Yet, through her journey, she reminds us that rejection often leads to redirection.

One of the standout sections, “5 Steps I Took to Rebuild My Confidence and Find My Purpose Again,” offers practical insights and uplifting guidance. Stacy’s personal love story shows that love can bloom once more—even after heartbreak. When discussing motherhood, she gently advises readers to let go of unrealistic expectations and focus instead on building genuine connections and creating lasting memories.

This book is both thought-provoking and empowering. The chapter-end reflection questions offer a chance for personal growth and clarity. Stacy’s honest storytelling and helpful advice make this a deeply engaging read. The title perfectly captures the essence of the book. I found myself relating to many of her experiences, and more importantly, finding meaningful solutions while reading this book.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 24, 2025

Runes of the Dokkrsdottir

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Runes of the Dokkrsdottir 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Bjorn Leesson ✍️
.
.

🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Runes of the Dokkrsdottir by Bjorn Leesson is the first book in the Outside the Thalsparr series. The story follows Myrgjol, the daughter of Ander—of Moorish descent—and Brigga, a Norse woman. Born in Scandinavia, Myrgjol is known as the Dokkrsdottir, and her name translates to “shining sea.” At her birth, Brigga heard the voice of a Valkyrie whisper, “Keep her safe and secret. She has a destiny.” Brigga took this as a divine message from the gods.

At the age of sixteen, Ander inherited his adoptive family’s farm after their passing. Through his hard work, he earned the respect of the Dyrhagi. But one day, he witnessed something unsettling—Myrgjol’s transformation. Her shadowed eyes, jagged fangs, smoke, and a piercing growl revealed a darker side to her nature. In that moment, it became clear: Myrgjol was no ordinary child.

What mysterious things will Myrgjol do at the Thing? How will she continue to astonish those around her with strange and supernatural occurrences? And will she eventually uncover the true extent of her destiny?

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to avid readers. Myrgjol is a compelling and well-developed character, and the plot is filled with twists and surprises. If you enjoy fast-paced fantasy with Norse elements, this is a book worth picking up. I’m excited to see what the next installment holds!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 24, 2025

Santa’s Holiday

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Santa’s Holiday 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Glyn Davies ✍️
.
.

🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Santa’s Holiday by Glyn Davies is a delightful and engaging read. In this story, Santa’s wife, Sandra, decides it’s time for them to take a proper vacation—just like normal people. She handles all the arrangements, determined to experience an ordinary getaway at a normal hotel in a typical holiday resort.

Sandra plans their trip to Hotel Dream in Costapacketa, Spain. She even packs Santa’s bags herself and insists that he relax and not lift a finger. To their surprise, Mr. and Mrs. Claus are told they’ll be flying on a special flight—just the two of them. The flight attendants, knowing Santa’s fondness for cowboy movies, are prepared to make the journey memorable. But what kind of chaos awaits on this “normal” holiday?

This is the third installment in the Santa Saga, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book cover is charming, and the title perfectly fits the story. The characters are well-developed, especially Sandra and Santa, who are both lovable and entertaining. The storyline is simple yet engaging, with smooth narration that kept me hooked until the very end.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 24, 2025

Santa’s Disastrous Delivery

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Santa’s Disastrous Delivery 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Glyn Davies ✍️
.
.

🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Santa’s Disastrous Delivery” by Glyn Davies is a delightful and entertaining Christmas tale. On Christmas Eve, Santa sets out to deliver presents, and siblings Kevin and Katie Robinson eagerly hang up their stockings in anticipation. When Santa arrives at their home, he asks his trusty little elf, Eric, for the magic word to enter the house. After much effort, Santa finally landed in a small bathroom.

Once inside, Santa places the gifts under the Christmas tree — but things quickly spiral into chaos. Two patrolling policemen, Ken and Bill, mistake him for a burglar, leading to a hilarious turn of events.

Full of magic and mischief, this story is sure to keep readers engaged. Glyn Davies tells the tale with charm and humor that will have you laughing out loud. With an eye-catching cover and festive spirit, this book is a perfect read for the holiday season. I am looking forward to reading more books by Glyn on Christmas theme.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 23, 2025

Phartman

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Phartman 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Glyn Davies ✍️
.
.

🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The story kicks off when Geoff contacts Sgt Randall to report a spaceship that has landed in his field—complete with a green alien standing beside it. Unfortunately, the alien also flattened his cabbages.

The visitor introduces himself as Phartman Blowbum Pooply Plop from the planet Gaseous. He explains that his spaceship runs on plant-based fuel and has run out of energy, leaving him stranded. Luckily, cabbages can serve as an alternative fuel. Phartman is joined by Nik Nik, the spaceship’s engineer.

Will the rest of the world find out about the alien and his peculiar spacecraft? The story had me laughing at several moments. Imagine seeing a green alien in front of you—how would you react?

This is a quick and entertaining read. The cover perfectly matches the quirky tone of the book. With a fast-paced plot and memorable characters, the story is sure to stick with readers. If you’re someone who enjoys humorous alien tales, this book is a delightful pick.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 22, 2025

Whispers on the Tide

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Whispers on the Tide 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Naomi Rawlings ✍️
.
.

🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Whispers on the Tide” by Naomi Rawlings is the second book in the Dawn of Alaska series. Maggie McDougal has recently left Wisconsin in search of her brother, Tavish, hoping he can return to claim the family business. Their uncle, who had worked alongside them for twenty-five years, is now attempting to seize their family’s land.

Captain Sacha Amos commands the cargo ship Aurora and agrees to take Maggie to Unalaska, where she believes Tavish might be. With Uncle Ewan determined to take their land, home, and shipyard, Maggie boards the ship with her two younger siblings and only a dwindling stash of money. Will she be able to find Tavish in time?

The story is engaging and held my attention throughout. I especially loved Maggie’s character—strong, determined, and relatable. The narration is smooth and easy to follow, and the author weaves a plot that provides a refreshing escape from everyday life.

The cover art is appealing, and the title fits the story well. Naomi Rawlings’ descriptive writing brings the setting to life, making the backdrop feel vivid and immersive. Those who enjoy reading stories invoicing a sea journey will have a great time reading this book.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon