Book Reviews – Page 22 – Sassy Reviews

July 23, 2025

Rune of Renewal

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Rune of Renewal 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Bjorn Leesson ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Rune of Renewal” by Bjorn Leesson is the second installment in the Outside the Thalsparr series. After finishing the first book, I was eager to dive into Book 2—and it was definitely worth the wait.

This time, the story follows Myrgjol Andersdottir, who is no longer in Montana. She finds herself in a strange land and an unfamiliar era, surrounded by her own descendants. According to Greenfeather, she’s now in Nevada—a place where people freeze at night and roast during the day.

Here, Myrgjol meets Rebecca Peele, the fifth descendant of the original company. It’s been fifty years since Dokkrsdottir vanished, and now her descendants try to fill her in on everything that has changed. Myrgjol becomes the focal point of a new mission. She also meets Greenfeather’s son and daughter, deepening her connection to this new world.

What follows is a journey of discovery—both personal and supernatural—as Myrgjol tries to unlock the powers within her.

The world-building in this book is incredibly rich, a testament to the author’s vivid imagination. Myrgjol once again captures the heart, just as she did in the first book. Alongside her, several other characters leave a lasting impression. The plot is engaging and will keep you hooked until the very last page.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 23, 2025

Divided

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Divided 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: CC Robinson ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
This gripping dystopian novel envisions a divided United States governed by a harsh and oppressive regime. Society is segregated by ethnicity, with towering walls enforcing strict separation and banning any interaction. The narrative centers around four teenagers—Marcos, Rose, Harriet, and Jason—each belonging to a different group.

Marcos Sanchez, an eighteen-year-old, dreams of escaping the tyranny of both his authoritarian father and the ruthless Supreme Commander Martin. But when a daring decision leads him to a secret labor camp, he discovers The Underground—a secret resistance group fighting to overthrow the regime. Together, the teens take on the dangerous mission of liberating the camp. Read this book to find out what challenges they will face in their journey.

The story captivated me so deeply that it made me forget my boring routine. The characters are richly developed, with Marcos and Rose standing out as my personal favorites. It’s a compelling and immersive read—I loved every part of it. This book will inspire readers to value and fight for their freedom. I devoured it in one sitting and can’t wait to dive into the next installment in the series.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 23, 2025

The Stag Diary

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Stag Diary 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Doug Limbrick ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Stag Diary – Passage to Colonial Adelaide 1850” by Doug Limbrick is a compelling and well-researched account of a remarkable journey. The book chronicles the voyage of around 260 emigrants who travelled to colonial South Australia in 1850 aboard a square-rigged ship named The Stag.

Most of the emigrants made the journey in steerage class, including Francis Taylor, who wrote, “… you cannot by day or night enjoy one moment of solitude…” He described the challenges faced by passengers, particularly after 12 days at sea with the ship making slow progress toward Plymouth—many struggled with sleep due to the ship’s motion and seasickness.

The Stag, a medium-sized square-rigger built in Sunderland in 1842, is illustrated in the book alongside an unidentified vessel. The final days of the voyage were filled with a mix of emotions and experiences, which the author vividly captures.

Through detailed references and thoughtful narration, Limbrick offers a glimpse into the lives and feelings of those on board. His extensive research shines throughout the book, making it a fascinating and informative read. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 22, 2025

To Be a Fae Queen

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: To Be a Fae Queen 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Tricia Copeland ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“To Be a Fae Queen” by Tricia Copeland is the first installment in the Realm Chronicles series. The story begins years after Titania’s four brothers were killed in battle against the fierce kobold army. With their deaths and the loss of other warriors, Titania becomes the sole heir to the throne. Her father, burdened with too few soldiers, struggles to protect her, guard the Faerie Ring, and defend against the kobold threat.

As more magical crystals are taken, the Faerie Ring begins to weaken. Determined to act, Titania secretly discovers the kobolds’ entry point into their realm. At just fifteen, she is crowned queen—though many doubt her capability. But Titania is strong-willed and fearless, ready to do whatever it takes to protect her kingdom. As the realm’s first female monarch, she is determined to prove herself.

This is a gripping, fast-paced fantasy with well-crafted characters. Titania’s strength and resolve make her an inspiring figure, especially for young female readers. Tricia Copeland’s vivid imagination brings this magical world to life. If you’re a fan of young adult fantasy, this book is a must-read.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 22, 2025

The Dungeoneers and the Treasure of Roan

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Dungeoneers and the Treasure of Roan 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Joel McKay ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The Dungeoneers and the Treasure of Roan by Joel McKay is an engaging and adventurous read. At the heart of the story is Wincott, a seasoned thief who has been stealing for nearly fifty years. His latest crime—stealing a pouch of coins from Goblins and killing two goblins—has put him on the run, with furious goblins hot on his trail.

In his escape, Wincott enters the long-abandoned city of Roan. There, he reunites with his son, Sish Torren—a fellow thief and habitual liar. With danger close behind, the two decide to set off together in search of the legendary Treasure of Roan. Wincott believes that finesse, focus, and luck are the three essential qualities for any thief, and these are put to the test as the story unfolds.

The tense and complex relationship between Wincott and Sish adds emotional depth to the fast-paced narrative. Wincott often wonders whether Sish would make the same sacrifices he does—especially after risking his life to save Sish from Fulk.

Brimming with action, unexpected twists, and thrilling moments, this book kept me hooked from beginning to end. Wincott stands out as a particularly compelling and well-developed character. I also found the eerie, atmospheric setting of Roan to be a perfect backdrop for this gripping tale.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 20, 2025

It’s (Mostly) Good to Be Martha

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: It’s (Mostly) Good to Be Martha 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Mershon Niesner ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“It’s (Mostly) Good to Be Martha” by Mershon Niesner is an engaging and entertaining read. After a kitchen fire, 89-year-old Martha Anderson is moved into an assisted living apartment at Martyn Manor by her son. Known as like the family’s troublemaker, Martha accepts that ending up in a place like this was bound to happen eventually.

Martha’s adventurous spirit is far from fading. Eager to add a spark of excitement to her own life and that of her friends, she hatches a plan to visit Sam’s—a lively spot popular with college students, especially on Sundays when live music plays. But when the staff catches wind of their little outing and rule-breaking, Martha finds herself having to apologize for her mischief.

Things take a more serious turn when Detective Warren pays Martha a visit. Harold Lancaster has been missing for 72 hours, and a cryptic note in his handwriting reads: “Talk to Martha Anderson if anything happens to me.” What happened to Harold?

Readers who enjoy a blend of mystery and light romance will find this book thoroughly enjoyable. The cover is charming, and the story itself had me laughing out loud. Whether she’s causing chaos or chaos finds her, Martha’s antics make the story all the more delightful.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 19, 2025July 27, 2025

180° Life Leadership

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: 180° Life Leadership 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Elise Krentzel and Cassie Lincoln ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“180° Life Leadership” by Elise Krentzel and Cassie Lincoln is a truly inspiring read. This book presents a thoughtful compilation of reflective quotes designed to spark transformation. The authors candidly share life-changing lessons born from personal experience.

The quotes touch on themes such as personal growth, self-awareness, confidence, resilience, interpersonal relationships, and timeless wisdom.
“Wisdom is knowing when to listen, step back, or walk away.”

“Resilience isn’t about never breaking. It’s about finding the strength to rebuild.”
Quotes like these are powerful reminders of inner strength and perseverance. They encourage readers to understand the deeper essence of wisdom, integrity, and staying aligned with one’s true self.

This book invites you to reconnect with your inner voice. It’s the kind of book you’ll want to keep on your nightstand—perfect for a quick dose of reflection either at the start or end of your day. Personally, I found it incredibly motivating. It’s inspired me to embrace values that bring me closer to my higher self.

Beautifully written and easy to relate to, the quotes are simple yet profound. If you’re looking for a book to uplift and guide you, don’t hesitate to pick this one up. I’m grateful I did.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 19, 2025July 29, 2025

The Early Years of Blue Feather

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Early Years of Blue Feather 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: William Tirre ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The Early Years of Blue Feather, written by William Tirre, is a distinctive take on the Western genre. The story centers around Blue Feather, the son of a French-American father and an Osage mother. After his father, Gustave, is tragically killed by a cougar, Blue Feather and his mother relocate to an Osage village.

Honoring Gustave’s wish for his son to receive a white man’s education, Blue Feather was enrolled in a Jesuit-run school for Indian boys. There, he was taught the doctrines of Catholicism and academic subjects, along with practical skills such as agriculture, blacksmithing, and carpentry through work on the seminary farm. It is not long before Blue Feather’s interest in learning other Indian languages is noticed by Father Pierre Jean De Smet who wants his help in sharing the gospel with Indian tribes of the West. During this time, he befriended Winnie, an orphan living at a nearby orphanage. Blue Feather and Winnie eventually marry and settle down on a Missouri farm.

Later, when Blue Feather and his companion Shamus secure a contract to supply vegetables to the U.S. Army, they caught the attention of Sam Grant. Impressed by Blue Feather’s talents, Grant offers him a position as a U.S. Army Scout, complete with a home and a respectable salary—an offer even Winnie supported.

This book traces Blue Feather’s compelling journey from student to translator for Fr. De Smet, to scout for wagon trains and the U.S. Army, where he must help defend against hostile tribes. He is a character who instantly earns the reader’s affection. The setting is vividly crafted, the pacing is steady, and the narration is engaging. I especially appreciated the author’s rich descriptive style. Winnie’s character is also thoughtfully developed and adds depth to the story.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 18, 2025

Diamond on the Rocks

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Diamond on the Rocks 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Diane Bator ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Diamond on the Rocks” by Diane Bator is the second book in the A.J. Cadell Mysteries series. In this installment, Mac’s grandmother enlists the help of his girlfriend, Alison, to organize the annual McKittrick Christmas Ball. Alison, who recently accepted a position as Writer-in-Residence at the local library, arrives in Cedar Grove and stays at Thistlewood Manor—home to Grandma Bebe, who was recently murdered.

While working on her third novel, Alison is also preparing for the upcoming party, which becomes even more complicated when the caterer, Blair Diamond, suddenly goes missing. With guests arriving from Toronto and the event only a week and a half away, tension builds—especially when Blair’s own partner has no idea where she might be. Then, during a walk on the beach behind Thistlewood Manor, Alison and Mac make a chilling discovery: Blair’s body.

What happens next? You’ll have to read to find out how Alison navigates this mystery.

This gripping story had me hooked from start to finish. The suspense kept me turning the pages, and the cover is beautifully done. Although it’s the second book in the series, it reads perfectly well as a standalone. I am definitely interested in reading more books by Diane.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 18, 2025

Chasing Through Time

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Chasing Through Time 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Tara Hodgson ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Chasing Through Time by Tara Hodgson is a compelling Teen & Young Adult novel that follows the lives of two teenagers—Sarah from 2001 and Emma from 2022. Though separated by over two decades, both girls attend Cardothia High School.

Their worlds unexpectedly collide when they begin communicating through an old computer. Sarah is stunned by the technological advances of 2022, especially when she learns that Emma owns a cellphone. As their conversations deepen, the two discover they share many common struggles, including feelings of isolation and neglect. Finding each other became a source of comfort and strength.

Sarah is dealing with the sudden loss of her best friend Danny, who has started ignoring her—something even their teacher, Ms. Ampleson, notices. Meanwhile, Emma is facing a personal crisis after a private photo of hers is leaked online, triggering a wave of cruel comments and messages. While Sarah begins a journey of self-discovery, Emma is in urgent need of support. Though Sarah wants to help, the barrier of time stands in the way. Can she find a way to make a difference before it’s too late?

This story is not only engaging but also thought-provoking. It sheds light on the challenges faced by today’s teenagers and serves as a wake-up call for parents, particularly about the impact of social media on a child’s mental health. The plot is refreshingly original, with excellent pacing. Both Sarah and Emma are well-developed, relatable characters that leave a lasting impression.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon