Book Reviews – Page 52 – Sassy Reviews

October 15, 2024

Sweet Glory

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Sweet Glory 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Lisa Y. Potocar ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Sweet Glory” by Lisa Y. Potocar is the first book in the “Glory: A Civil War Series,” and it’s a captivating historical fiction. The protagonist, Jana Brady, decides to join Miss Dorothea Dix’s nursing corps. Her parents have always taught her to serve her country, even at great personal risk.

However, Jana’s journey takes a bold turn when she learns from Leanne about a regiment departing on Christmas Eve. Determined to contribute more directly to the war effort, Jana disguises herself as a man to enlist in the Union Army. Leanne helps her cut her hair short, and soon Jana leaves her home in Elmira as a trooper with the Tenth New York Volunteer Cavalry Regiment. She was then shifted from Pennsylvania to Maryland.

Jana writes letters to her parents, hiding the truth about her dangerous role. As she faces the brutal realities of war, she begins to question whether joining the army was the right decision. Along the way, she meets an Irishman named Keeley, with whom she falls in love, though she fears that their relationship could distract her and put her life at risk.

The story reaches a critical point when Keeley is captured, and Jana herself is wounded by a bullet. The tension builds as the reader is left wondering whether Jana will be able to rescue him and survive the war. The book’s mix of historical detail, romance, and well-drawn characters, especially the strong-willed Jana, makes it an engaging and memorable read. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, and the romance woven into the historical backdrop added depth to the narrative.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 15, 2024

Redeye

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Redeye 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Syntell Smith ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The latest book I’ve read by Syntell Smith is “Redeye”, a captivating novel centered on Nate and Cynthia Durant. Years ago, Cynthia underwent a dramatic transformation, slimming down from a size twenty-four to a size nine, while her husband Nate opted for weight loss surgery. Nate and Cynthia have been married for ten years. Getting pregnant means gestational diabetes that can kill Cynthia.

Tension arises when Cynthia sends their dog, Brutus, to visit a neighbor’s pit bull. This infuriates Nate, who disapproves of Isaiah, the breeder next door, and insists Cynthia steer clear of him. Meanwhile, Cynthia feels neglected by Nate, who is always caught up in work and rarely makes time for her.

As the story unfolds, Nate reconnects with an old friend, Stephanie Grace, after stumbling upon her photo online. Their conversation sparks a series of events. Nate and Cynthia’s relationship faces its challenges. How will they navigate these challenges, and what truths will come to light?

For readers who love romance and drama, “Redeye” is a must-read. The plot is engaging, the characters are well-developed, and the pacing keeps you hooked from start to finish. The book’s title and cover are fitting, and I found myself binge-reading it with ease.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 15, 2024

The Classroom Formula

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Classroom Formula 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Ramez Takawy ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Ramez Takawy’s “The Classroom Formula: Mastering Classroom Management and Empowering Teachers for Success” offers a comprehensive guide for educators looking to enhance their classroom management skills. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned teacher, this book provides essential strategies to create a productive learning environment. Drawing from years of experience, Takawy introduces practical, proven techniques for success.

The book focuses on five key areas: mindset, classroom, students, planning and health. These core elements are designed to foster attentiveness and focus among students. Takawy’s methods encourage educators to gradually implement these strategies, ensuring a smooth transition without feeling overwhelmed.

Readers will explore essential topics such as the three pillars of teaching, establishing classroom rules, promoting respect, and understanding the differences between active and passive learning. The author’s step-by-step approach helps teachers regain control and create a positive learning atmosphere.

Takawy’s insightful tips are invaluable, making this book a must-read for educators at any stage of their career. The practical advice provided in each chapter is easy to follow, allowing readers to apply new strategies one at a time for lasting results. Both teachers and students can benefit from the lessons shared, as they foster a deeper understanding of classroom dynamics. The book’s well-designed cover is also a nice touch, and its accessible format makes it ideal for reading and reflection. If you’re looking to improve your classroom management skills, this is the guide for you.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 13, 2024October 13, 2024

The Sixth Raven

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Sixth Raven 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: J.R. Didomenico ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Sixth Raven”, written by J.R. Didomenico, takes readers on a captivating journey through an epic fantasy world. Crown Prince Chazz finds himself bound by duty, including an arranged marriage to Lady Velvet, orchestrated by his father to strengthen ties with the powerful Grand Lord. Yet Chazz resists this fate, uninterested in the match that promises wealth and security.

The Ocreeans, a ruthless and bloodthirsty people, have sought for centuries to conquer Balkanos. When Chazz’s father and his knights mysteriously disappear, the burden of ruling the kingdom falls upon him. Named protector of the realm for six months, Chazz makes a bold move by appointing his brother Brutus as the new crown prince. Complicating matters, Brutus and Lady Velvet are secretly in love.

As the plot thickens, Lady Velvet is kidnapped, and Brutus sets out on a dangerous quest to rescue her. Along the way, he encounters a mysterious man named Marik, who seems to know far more about Lady Velvet than Brutus does. Despite his frustration, Brutus reluctantly accepts Marik’s help. What follows is a thrilling and unpredictable chase that will keep readers hooked.

The story’s pace is brisk, with engaging characters and a richly imagined world. Chazz, in particular, stands out as a compelling figure. Didomenico’s world-building is detailed and immersive, pulling readers into the narrative from the first page. The cover and title are both fitting, and there isn’t a dull moment in this fast-paced, adventurous tale. If you’re a fan of epic fantasy, this one is definitely worth picking up!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 6, 2024

Are You an Animal Lover or Abuser?

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Are You an Animal Lover or Abuser? 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Maggie Cheung ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Are You an Animal Lover or Abuser?: Your Answers to 3 Questions Will Surprise You” by Maggie Cheung offers a thought-provoking exploration into our relationship with animals. This compelling book guides readers through a personal journey of reflection by presenting three pivotal questions that reveal surprising truths about our everyday actions.

After leaving her corporate job to volunteer at a cat shelter, Maggie discovered that like many of us, she had unknowingly participated in forms of animal abuse. Through this book, she presents three key questions—starting with, “Where do the animals come from?”—inviting readers to reflect on their own choices. The remaining questions will leave you pondering your role in the animal welfare spectrum.

Maggie’s experiences led her to brainstorm ways to genuinely help animals, including persuading a company to shift from harming animals to supporting their well-being. She also highlights the importance of ending our support for industries like animal entertainment, where animals suffer for human amusement. In her vision, animal sanctuaries represent a future of compassionate care and respect.

This book will make you reconsider whether your choices align with your love for animals. By raising awareness about the realities of animal treatment, Maggie encourages us to create a world that is kinder to all creatures. After reading this, you may think twice about visiting a zoo or circus. It’s a transformative read that profoundly shifted my perspective, turning me from an unintentional abuser into a genuine advocate for animals.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 6, 2024

The Blue-Eyed Butterfly

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Blue-Eyed Butterfly 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Sharon Suskin ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Sharon Suskin’s novel “The Blue-Eyed Butterfly” is a gripping tale based on true events, set against the backdrop of 1917. It introduces us to Callie, a young girl learning the art of managing a household under her mother’s guidance. When her mother fell ill, the family had no doctor, money or midwife to care for her. After her mother’s death, Callie faces a devastating violation of trust from her father, marking the loss of her innocence in a heartbreaking moment.

Parallel to Callie’s story is the life of Lillian, who begins working for the affluent Youngren family. She captures the heart of their eldest son, Hugh, and soon finds herself pregnant with his child. She gives birth to a daughter, Lydia, but questions loom over whether Hugh will commit to her and how the fates of these women will eventually connect.

The author’s narrative style flows smoothly, keeping readers invested in the intertwined lives of Callie, Lillian, and Lydia. The plot is absorbing, and I found myself unable to set the book down until I knew the outcome. Despite the hardships they face, their journeys of endurance, forgiveness, and strength left me deeply moved.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 6, 2024October 6, 2024

Behind Blue Eyes

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Behind Blue Eyes 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Anthony Superina ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Behind Blue Eyes” by Anthony Superina is an engaging and emotional journey through love, connection, and life’s unexpected turns. Set in the late 90s, the story follows Anthony, an early adopter of online communication tools like ICQ and PowWow, where he meets a woman named Dee. What begins as casual online chats soon blossoms into a meaningful relationship, spanning weeks and months. Before long, Anthony finds himself developing deeper feelings for Dee, but it’s Dee who first confesses her love, and the two start envisioning a future together.

In a bold move, Anthony leaves Australia to join Dee in the United States, and they begin a new chapter as a couple. Dee stands out as a remarkable woman—strong, empathetic, determined, and intelligent. Anthony is devoted to her, vowing to always stand by her side. Their relationship takes a profound turn when Dee shares the unexpected news that she’s pregnant, a true miracle given her past.

To discover the rest of their story, you’ll have to dive into this compelling narrative. With vivid descriptions and a well-paced plot, this book is hard to put down once you start. Anthony Superina’s writing pulls you in, making you feel as if you’re reliving the 90s, and the smooth narration keeps you hooked until the very end. It’s a deeply immersive read that leaves a lasting impression.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 2, 2024

Sunny’s Plant Life

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Sunny’s Plant Life 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Mason Eskew ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Mason Eskew’s debut novel, “Sunny’s Plant Life”, takes readers on an intriguing journey into the world of botanical science. The Dryestan Greenhouse Lab serves as a hub for plant research, providing vital information to the Science Division of the Dryestanian government. Their latest task? Discovering how to cultivate flowers in the sky.

A team of four botanists—Andrew, Burney, Jeffrey, and William—embark on ‘The Skygarden Project,’ launching a hot-air balloon equipped with a tracking device. However, just as the project takes flight, the Supreme Botanist orders its termination. But then, something extraordinary happens: a sunflower sapling begins to exhibit human-like characteristics. The botanists affectionately name it Sunny. From there, the adventure unfolds, leaving readers eager to discover the fate of the project and its creators. Will the Supreme Botanist shut them down for good? Will the botanists be fired?

This unique and imaginative story captivated me from start to finish. Science enthusiasts and those who love experimental fiction will especially enjoy it. The book’s cover art is appealing, and the title perfectly captures the essence of the story. The author skillfully combines suspense with whimsical illustrations, making this a must-read. Don’t hesitate to dive into this wonderful tale!”

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4.5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 2, 2024

Within the Margin of Error

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Within the Margin of Error 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Anthony Superina ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Within the Margin of Error” by Anthony Superina offers a captivating exploration of emotions through a series of heartfelt poems inspired by the author’s personal experiences.

One standout piece, “Long|Lost|Love,” delves into the narrator’s sense of emptiness in the absence of his partner. The poem vividly portrays a deep connection, where the protagonist feels incomplete and weakened without his loved one.

In “That’s Reality,” the narrator grapples with the daily struggle of waking up alone, weighed down by the pain of a love that wasn’t meant to last. The poem captures a haunting reflection on why fate brought them together, only to part ways.

“Energy” reflects the narrator’s yearning for the day his energy might reunite with his lost partner’s. The verses brim with longing for the physical closeness once shared, from the softness of a touch to the warmth of a kiss.

These poems beautifully express profound emotions of love, loss, and longing. Superina’s work touches on themes such as heartbreak, loneliness, and the aching desire for connection. Written in an accessible style, the collection is moving and relatable, particularly for those who’ve experienced love and loss. I found it deeply touching, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a genuine and emotional poetry collection.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 4/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 1, 2024

Dragony Rising

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Dragony Rising 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Michael Stephen Daigle ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Dragony Rising” by Michael Stephen Daigle offers a captivating mystery that’s hard to put down. While it’s the fifth installment in the Frank Nagler Mystery series, it stands strong as a standalone novel for new readers.

The story follows Detective Frank Nagler, whose life takes a sharp turn when three close friends are brutally murdered. Suspended from duty to assess his emotional stability, Nagler remains deeply in tune with the pulse of Ironton. When an explosion devastates the heart of downtown, Nagler is jolted into action. The sight of a yellow kitchen chair perched untouched on a theater roof after the blast puzzles him, raising more questions than answers.

Although initial reports suggest the explosion originated from a Cuban restaurant, Nagler doubts that a small gas leak could level an entire block. Once reinstated, he doggedly pursues the truth, leading him to uncover links to Carlton Dixon, a figure already behind bars for a drug-related offense.

Fans of crime and mystery will appreciate the suspense and unexpected twists in this novel. The title perfectly complements the unfolding drama, and Daigle’s skillful storytelling keeps readers engaged until the very end. It’s a must-read for mystery lovers, and I look forward to exploring more of Daigle’s work.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon