Book Reviews – Page 19 – Sassy Reviews

June 20, 2025

Shadow Man

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Shadow Man 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Vicki M. Taylor ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Shadow Man: A Short Story Compilation” by Vicki M. Taylor is a compelling and emotionally charged read. Among the collection, the title story “The Shadow Man” stood out as my favorite. It centers around a young girl on the verge of turning six, who stays awake long after everyone else has gone to bed—terrified of the mysterious Shadow Man. She fears that the moment she falls asleep, he will appear.

Her nights are filled with relentless terrors. As long as she stays awake, the nightmares can’t reach her. All she wants is peace from these haunting visions. Even in a state of intoxication, the night terrors continue to torment her. To discover how she ultimately finds relief and freedom from night terrors, you’ll need to read the story yourself.

I found myself absorbed in several stories from the collection in one sitting. “Mother’s Helper” and “Moments on the Beach at Sunset” were among my other favorites.

Each story is both gripping and emotionally resonant. For anyone facing dark times and searching for a sense of hope or a spiritual uplift, this book offers comfort and renewal. It reminds readers that light can be found even in the darkest of places, and strengthens faith in God.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 20, 2025

We Accept Her, One of Us

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: We Accept Her, One of Us 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Diane Goldie ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“We Accept Her, One of Us” by Diane Goldie is a powerful and emotionally resonant memoir. On the evening of New Year’s Day, Diane was visited by two police officers who informed her that her eldest daughter, Imogen, had died by suicide in Cambodia on December 31st. When Diane traveled to Cambodia to cremate her daughter, she received Imogen’s suicide note. Imogen was broken by living under neurotypical standards and expectations. It had caused her profound suffering, a pain she had endured since childhood.

While processing her grief, Diane came across Imogen’s sketchbook and other belongings. These revealed that Imogen had been wrestling with complex thoughts and emotions for quite some time. Despite the darkness, Diane uncovered traces of her daughter’s sharp, often dark sense of humor woven through her notes and drawings. As she delved deeper, trying to understand Imogen’s final moments, Diane unearthed not just pieces of her daughter’s life, but also hidden truths about her family and herself.

This memoir will resonate deeply with readers who carry shame from childhood experiences—especially those involving betrayal by adults who should have protected them. Diane also shares her own journey of self-discovery, revealing that she has self-diagnosed as autistic and ADHD, recognizing traits of herself in Imogen, Ollie and Erykah.

The themes explored in this memoir are sensitive and profound, touching on love, grief, neurodivergence, suicide, loss, and childhood sexual abuse. Diane’s writing is rich in detail, yet the narrative remains smooth and accessible. At its heart, the book is an offering of hope and healing for those navigating similar pain.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 20, 2025

Thank God For The Sinners

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Thank God For The Sinners 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Eric Magun ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Thank God For The Sinners – A Rick Price Novel” by Eric Magun is a compelling and intense read. The story revolves around Rick Price, a Jewish man from Long Island who has been traveling to China for nearly a decade to manage his family’s furniture manufacturing business. His Chinese business associate, Shu Shu, well aware of Rick’s fondness for women, consistently arranges hotel stays with best services.

During a recent trip, Rick was booked into a hotel called The Hiyatt. When he requested a massage and selected a particular girl, he was led to the VIP room. There, the experience took a dark turn — the massage girl began pleasing him in the shower and then she suddenly suffered what appeared to be a seizure or stroke and collapsed. Despite Rick’s attempts at CPR, she remained unresponsive. In a panic, Rick contacted Shu Shu for help.

Adding to the complexity, Rick’s younger sister, Mei Mei, is also his CIA handler, secretly tracking his every move. When Rick told her about the recent events, she suggested he do a few things.

The novel dives deep into Rick’s troubled past. He was born with multiple medical issues — a double hernia, undescended testicles, and hip dysplasia — requiring numerous surgeries in his early years. These traumatic childhood experiences left deep psychological scars, which continue to affect him as an adult.

Eric Magun delivers a strong debut with this novel. His writing is vivid, the title aptly chosen, and the cover art eye-catching. The plot is gripping, filled with suspense, and keeps the reader engaged throughout. With every turning page, I found myself constantly wondering what would happen next.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 20, 2025

Voices

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Voices 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Cheryl T. Campbell ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Voices: Stepping Out of the Darkness and Into the Light” by Cheryl T. Campbell is a deeply insightful and healing read. The book gently guides readers toward awakening the inner light that has always resided within them. Cheryl shares a profound experience during meditation, where she was visited by a coyote who brought her three transformative lessons.

Through her time with rescue dogs like Peach, Andy, Blu, Milly, and others, the author uncovered deep emotional truths—lessons that touched the core of her being and reminded her of the strength, joy, and boundless love we all possess. I was particularly moved by the compassion she and her husband showed in offering a safe and loving home to these animals.

The book outlines five stages of awakening that serve as a roadmap to deeper self-discovery and connection with one’s higher self. Drawing from her personal journey, Cheryl powerfully conveys that self-love is not a selfish act, but an essential one.

She encourages readers to come to this book just as they are. By the end, they’re likely to feel a renewed sense of clarity, courage, and spiritual alignment. The wisdom within these pages is truly valuable. One lesson that will stay with me is: “You are the light you have been waiting for.”

This book is beautifully written, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and reflecting on its insights in my journal.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 20, 2025

Joy Overcame Sorrow

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Joy Overcame Sorrow 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jerry L. Woodbridge ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Joy Overcame Sorrow” by Jerry L. Woodbridge is a deeply moving and engaging story. The narrative centers around a young girl named Joy. One day, she visits the park with her best friend Bella. But upon returning home, her heart sinks when she notices a police car parked just a block away from her home. Soon after, her mother delivers the heartbreaking news—Joy’s father, Steve Carter, has died in a tragic multi-vehicle accident.

As condolences pour in from family, friends, and her father’s coworkers, Joy is consumed by grief. The pain of missing her dad is overwhelming, and she finds herself angry with God for not saving him. At the funeral service, the sorrow of Steve’s passing fills the church. Joy is haunted by the moment she sees her father’s casket being lowered into the ground. In the days that follow, she and her mother cling to one another for comfort, silently navigating their shared pain.

This book tells the poignant journey of how Joy slowly learns to live up to her name again, finding light in the aftermath of loss.

It’s a touching read that brought tears to my eyes, especially during the scene describing her father’s accident. Written in simple, heartfelt language, the story resonates deeply with readers. Anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one will find solace in these pages and the hopeful message that healing is possible—even after life’s most painful moments.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon, B&N, BAM, and Walmart.

June 18, 2025

From Brooklyn to Grace

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: From Brooklyn to Grace 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: LaLa Holmes ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
In this book, the author shares her experience of growing up as a young Black girl in a tough neighborhood. Surrounded by drug dealing, gang activity, and petty crime, the streets of Brooklyn played a powerful role in shaping her early life, influencing her decisions and strengthening her resolve to take a different path.

Amid the harsh environment, there were glimmers of hope—the unwavering support of neighbors and a strong sense of community offered comfort and encouragement. Her father, a hardworking man, instilled in her the values of diligence and integrity. Witnessing the people around her fall into cycles of violence, addiction, and despair only intensified her desire for a life free from suffering.

Her mother, too, played a crucial role, teaching her resilience, strength, and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. The author also speaks of surrendering to God and seeking His guidance—an act that, in her words, brought about a series of miraculous turns in her life.

The book’s language is raw and honest. For anyone feeling stuck or hopeless despite their efforts, this story encourages a deeper connection with God. It stands as a powerful testament to His grace, love, and mercy. I truly enjoyed reading it and would highly recommend it to others. For those lost in darkness, this story offers hope.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 18, 2025

Awakening the Mystic

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Awakening the Mystic 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Rob Dorgan ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Awakening the Mystic is a unique and enriching blend of yogic wisdom, personal storytelling, and metaphysical insight. It offers profound reflections on Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and introduces spiritual tools such as the Gayatri Mantra and Abhaya Mudra, all woven into a deeply personal journey of healing and love.

A pivotal moment occurs when Ren’s car hits a boy on a bicycle. The boy is initially lifeless but when Ren keeps a hand on his heart the boy miraculously rises and walks away unharmed. This extraordinary event marks a turning point in Ren’s life, awakening something within that can never be undone.

At the heart of the book is the tender love story between Ren and Sean, a grounding presence that keeps the book’s spiritual themes accessible and heartfelt. It’s a compelling read for seekers and soul-searchers alike. The writing is vivid and fluid, making the narrative easy to follow and deeply engaging.

The cover image is striking, and the book as a whole is thought-provoking and beautifully crafted. If you’re drawn to spiritual growth and personal transformation, don’t hesitate—this is a journey worth taking.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 18, 2025

Live Like a Guide Dog

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Live Like a Guide Dog 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Michael Hingson and Keri Wyatt Kent ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Live Like a Guide Dog: True Stories from a Blind Man and His Dogs About Being Brave, Overcoming Adversity, and Moving Forward in Faith” by Michael Hingson and Keri Wyatt Kent is a remarkable and inspiring read. Blind since birth, Michael never allowed his lack of sight to limit his potential or spirit while growing up.

One of the key insights Michael shares is how our emotional state affects those around us—especially guide dogs. He learned that if we are fearful or anxious, our guide dogs will sense it and get fearful too. While walking through the campus of Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB), Michael observed how trainers carefully evaluate and adjust training sessions to suit each student, ultimately working to match them with the ideal guide dog.

Michael emphasizes how awareness and preparation can significantly reduce fear. Throughout the book, he recounts impactful moments with his guide dog, Squire, and how their bond shaped his life. As Squire aged and slowed down, Michael eventually welcomed his next guide dog, Holland. He has walked with different guide dogs for decades.

This book is not only informative but deeply moving. I’m grateful to have read it. Michael’s journey with his guide dogs teaches us valuable life lessons—most notably, how fear can be transformed into courage. Rather than letting fear hold us back, we can harness it as a force for growth and strength. This is a well written book. I highly recommend it to my fellow readers.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 17, 2025

The Burning Gem

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Burning Gem 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Don Sawyer ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Burning Gem” by Don Sawyer is the first book in the Soul Catcher series. The story centers around Barbara, a woman trapped in an abusive marriage with her husband, David. Recently, Barbara got a part of her soul crystallized into a red ruby gem by a gem maker—a service mostly used by celebrities, CEOs of mid-level corporations, and other elite clients. The gem reflects the soul’s essence, capturing its color.

Determined to protect her soul fragment, Barbara requests an unbreakable chain and a custom setting for the gem. Her search for her gem maker, Zoltan, leads her to an abandoned train station, leaving her exhausted from the journey. Zoltan, however, is bound by strict rules set in a contract by Mester. He cannot touch another human or reveal his true name—violating these terms could be very dangerous for him. But as his bond with Barbara deepens, the question arises: will Zoltan risk it all for her?

Don Sawyer’s writing is engaging, and the storyline is refreshingly original. I was especially intrigued by the concept of soul crystallization. Zoltan’s enigmatic presence added an extra layer of mystery that kept me hooked. This book is a must-read!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 16, 2025

Murder by Storm

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Murder by Storm 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Russell Little ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Murder by Storm” by Russell Little is a gripping crime thriller that keeps you on edge. Marilyn has committed numerous crimes over the years, changing her identity to evade capture. To shield her son from the dangerous world she inhabits, her mother Elizabeth is raising him, alongside Charlie, Marilyn’s stepfather.

O.C. Simms led the homicide division of the Houston Police Department for over a decade. Six months ago, he was shot by attorney Lamb—whom Marilyn later killed. Following the incident, Simms was suspended and eventually let go. His former captain, John Lemaster, refuses to believe Marilyn is responsible for Lamb’s death and advises Simms to leave her alone. But Simms can’t let it go. With a hurricane threatening to strike Houston, he learned that Marilyn has a mother and a son.

As the storm closes in, what will Marilyn do? And will Simms allow the chaos of the hurricane to stop him from tracking her down?

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The twists and turns kept me hooked until the very end. The cover design is eye-catching, and the narration is both smooth and compelling. Marilyn and Simms are brilliantly developed characters, brought to life with skill by the author.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon