Book Reviews – Page 55 – Sassy Reviews

November 5, 2024November 5, 2024

Days of Undoing

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Days of Undoing 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jonathan Walquist ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Days of Undoing” by Jonathan Walquist takes readers on an engaging journey with Tristan Baker, a high schooler whose life is about to be turned upside down. Tristan has a single, lifelong friend, Lex, and a host of casual acquaintances. On the first day of high school, Tristan was late. Lex was supposed to meet him after school but Tristan couldn’t find her anywhere.

That night, in his dreams, Tristan arrives at “Days Gate,” a mysterious realm where people can alter their past actions. Here, two choices await him: Re:live or Live:on. Desperate to save his kidnapped friend, Tristan chooses Re:live, rewinding his day to prevent Lex’s abduction. The next day, curious and more confident, he selects Live:on—unwittingly opening the door to a mystery involving a girl in a striking red dress. Who is she, and what secrets is she hiding?

Jonathan Walquist’s debut novel captivates from start to finish. Tristan is a well-crafted, relatable protagonist, and the plot feels fresh, with each page offering something new to discover. The book’s title fits perfectly, and the cover art is compelling. “Days of Undoing” left me reflecting on the choices I might make if given a similar opportunity. A fantastic read—highly recommended!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

November 4, 2024November 4, 2024

Swirling Tides of Flames

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Swirling Tides of Flames 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Wooseok Park ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Wooseok Park’s “Swirling Tides of Flames” is an intriguing tale set in a world scarred by conflict. The protagonist, Solan, is a young orphan who has always believed his parents perished in the devastating Great War, much like so many other children who lost their families.

Solan’s mentor, Master Kaint, urges him to participate in the prestigious Olympiad—a competition renowned across the lands. Though Solan is initially unenthusiastic, Kaint reveals a startling secret: a birthstone that belongs to Solan’s father, along with a clue that the Lighthouse of Life could help locate its owner. Driven by the hope that his parents may still be alive, Solan resolves to join the Olympiad and gains an appointment with the UE, his best shot at reaching the mysterious lighthouse.

In the two months leading up to the competition, Solan throws himself into intense training. The birthstone begins to evoke memories and voices that Solan senses might belong to his father, filling his dreams with faint echoes of the past. Though a decade has passed since the Great War, its devastation remains widespread, with villages in the Democratic Republic of Crimson struggling to rebuild amid a shortage of resources.

With well-crafted world-building, Park’s storytelling pulls readers into a vibrant and tumultuous fantasy realm. Solan’s journey, fueled by hope and resilience, makes him an engaging protagonist, and the Olympiad promises thrilling challenges ahead. This book is a must-read for lovers of epic fantasy, combining gripping plotlines with rich, atmospheric writing.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

November 4, 2024

The Black Wall

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Black Wall: River to the Wasteland 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Brian Douglas MacLeod ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Brian Douglas MacLeod’s novel The Black Wall: River to the Wasteland takes readers on a haunting journey that begins in 1990. David, the main character, is trapped in a mysterious, dreamlike state, able to see only a pitch-black expanse around him. In his visions, he finds himself in a boat propelled forward by a shadowy figure, surrounded by an impenetrable black wall.

As David’s memories begin to resurface, he’s transported back to 1967, where his story intersects with John and Randy. Randy, hardened by a troubled home life, clings to aggression to cope and dreams of escape through military service, hoping to break free from the turmoil of his family. David’s mother, wary of Randy’s influence, tries to keep him away. Yet as events unfold, John’s tragic loss leaves a heavy mark on David’s family.

Now, as he drifts in his strange dream world, David feels the need to escape this endless river, fearing the constant presence of the black wall around him. Can he withstand more loss, or will his sister Sandra, who holds a special place in his life, also face danger?

MacLeod’s writing style grips readers with a well-paced plot that keeps the suspense alive until the end. The cover art alone draws you in, but the narrative holds you there, making this book an unforgettable experience for those looking for something fresh and original. Don’t miss the chance to dive into this story—it’s both a thrill and a haunting reflection on memory and resilience.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

November 4, 2024November 5, 2024

One Shining Soul

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: One Shining Soul 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Wayne L. Wilson ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
I love stories that capture the extraordinary, and Wayne L. Wilson’s “One Shining Soul” does just that. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Venice Beach on the 4th of July, the story follows Olisa, a young girl born with special abilities that her parents have kept hidden from the world.

The holiday takes a dramatic turn when a violent clash breaks out between Black and Latino gangs. Amid the chaos, Olisa steps forward to help Ernesto Padilla, a gang member who has been gravely injured. She touches his wounds, and to the shock of everyone watching, they vanish entirely, as if he had never been hurt. Known for her humility and kindness, Olisa hadn’t performed this miracle for attention—she simply acted out of compassion.

But now, Olisa finds herself thrust into the public eye. Journalist Eva Sanchez is determined to interview her, hoping to make Olisa a sensation. Her father, Joseph, is wary, but Eva persists, eager to tell the world about Olisa’s remarkable gift. Olisa, with her deep empathy and love for humanity, put her own safety on the line to help someone in need. But where will this newfound fame lead her?

The story moves at a rapid pace, with no slow moments. I was captivated not only by the compelling plot but also by Wilson’s choice of title, which feels perfect for the story. I couldn’t put it down! Wilson has woven in themes of media, deception, politics, miracles, secrets, and love, all in a narrative filled with vivid descriptions that fully immerse the reader.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

November 2, 2024

Scourge

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Scourge 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Rodney W. McWilliams ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Those who enjoy reading paranormal fantasy should get their hands on Scourge penned by the author Rodney McWilliams. It is the first book in the Triskellion book series. Angela Benson and Joe Anderson are the detectives who have recently partnered up and are working to investigate the chain of murders.

Angela’s father never liked the fact that she became a detective being a woman. According to him, the role of the protector suits men. But, Angela was lucky to have the support from her mother. Now, her partner Joe supports her well.

When Dr. Allen Palmer performed an autopsy on John Doe, Detectives Angela and Joe attended as representatives from the Homicide Division of the Police Department. Doctor informed that the victim was given facial trauma first and the damage to the torso is the cause of death. Angela was shocked to know about the murderer’s intent to remove the victim’s heart. Who is behind these murders and why is the killer so brutal?

This is a gripping story. Those who enjoy reading stories with many characters should get their hands on this book. The story is full of twists and turns. There are no dull moments in this book. I am eager to read the next book in the series. The author has done fantastic work with the storyline and the characters. The brutality with which people were murdered will leave you in shock.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

November 2, 2024

What a Beautiful Struggle: Thoughts from the Heart

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: What a Beautiful Struggle: Thoughts from the Heart 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Opio ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“What a Beautiful Struggle: Thoughts from the Heart” by Opio offers a deeply insightful perspective on turning life’s struggles into a meaningful and transformative journey. Through a collection of daily reflections, the author shares personal thoughts and meditations that encourage readers to find beauty and purpose in their challenges.

One thought, “Always Live by a particular “Creed” in life,” inspires us to focus only on what we can control.

“How do you do?” prompts readers to reflect on what they allow into their minds and hearts, understanding that these influences shape our actions and outlook.

Meanwhile, “Time to Get Motivated” serves as a call to make the most of our time, helping us avoid regrets about missed opportunities.

For anyone interested in personal growth and self-discovery, this book offers valuable insights. I plan to read a passage daily to help stay inspired and positive. The themes of character-building and introspection in Opio’s writing resonate deeply with me, and I’m grateful for his honest reflections. This is a truly worthwhile read for anyone on a journey of self-improvement.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

November 1, 2024

Jeff – Trust Me

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Jeff – Trust Me 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Barbara Eckhoff ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Jeff – Trust Me” by Barbara Eckhoff delivers a captivating tale with twists and turns that keep readers hooked. The story follows Jeff, a man seeking solace after a troubling final case in Washington that pushed him to resign and escape his old life. Haunted by nightmares, he checks into a cozy inn in Lexington, hoping for a quiet reprieve. But things take an intriguing turn when he meets Raven, the innkeeper’s daughter. Skeptical of Jeff’s intentions, she secretly investigates him, believing there’s more to his story.

Raven has her own complicated past, having left her modeling career to pursue a role as an FBI profiler. But as mysterious and disturbing news starts surfacing around her, she’s unsure if Jeff’s presence is a coincidence or if there’s a deeper connection between him and the recent events. Is Jeff a charming stranger simply looking to heal, or is there a darker truth beneath his arrival?

This book was an absolute page-turner. The chemistry between Jeff and Raven unfolds against a well-crafted, atmospheric setting, making the suspense even more intense. The writing is straightforward and accessible, while the plot’s pace and unexpected developments had me hooked from start to finish. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey and found it impossible to put down!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 31, 2024

The Ghost Ship Fire

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Ghost Ship Fire 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Colleen Dolan ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Ghost Ship Fire” by Colleen Dolan is a profoundly moving memoir about loss, resilience, and accountability. On December 2, 2016, Colleen’s life changed forever with a phone call from her daughter Chelsea’s boyfriend, David, who informed her that a fire had broken out at the Ghost Ship warehouse in Oakland where Chelsea was.

As Colleen arrived at the site, she was met with a devastating scene—the warehouse engulfed in flames and her daughter unaccounted for. Chelsea, an enthusiastic supporter of the Bay Area music scene, was there with others musicians when the tragedy struck. Soon, the parents of other victims began to arrive, sharing in the horror and grief. Colleen’s heart shattered as she learned of her daughter’s fate, her vibrant spirit lost to the flames.

Haunted by nightmares and unrelenting sorrow, Colleen sought to understand the events that led to the fire. Her search revealed details about the building’s tenant, Derick Almena, and other figures involved. Through her pain, she reflects on memories of Chelsea, bringing the past into sharp focus amid her grief.

Colleen’s memoir reaches out to other parents enduring similar anguish, reminding them that they aren’t alone. The raw honesty and depth of emotion in this book offer a glimpse into a mother’s unimaginable heartache, but also her strength. Reading this story, I was struck by the profound impact of the tragedy and the resilience shown by Colleen and other families. The composite images of those lost serve as a poignant reminder of the lives cut short and the parents left behind, searching for answers and justice.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 29, 2024

Long Term Damage

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Long Term Damage 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Billy Hanson ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
If you’re a fan of horror stories, you should definitely check out Billy Hanson’s book Long Term Damage.

In “Fresh Hell,” we follow a man named Curtis Booker who finds himself in an eerie, unfamiliar place. Standing before him is a Devil who demands that Curtis recall his memories. Slowly, fragments of Curtis’s past sins come flooding back, but despite the Devil’s attempts to terrify him, Curtis remains unfazed. What plans does the Devil have for him?

Another short story, “It’ll Grow Back,” brings humor to the mix. It centers around a man with a meticulously kept beard. His girlfriend, a lawyer named Carla, asks him to shave it off. Torn between his commitment to maintaining his beard and his desire to please Carla, he struggles with the decision.

Each story in this collection is distinct and captivating. The narratives kept me hooked from beginning to end, and I couldn’t stop reading until I reached the last page. This collection features stories that are spooky, thought-provoking, and will linger in your mind long after you’ve finished. I’m thrilled I picked up this book—it’s well worth a read!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

October 29, 2024

Play It In Reverse

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Play It In Reverse 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Victoria Angelique ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
For fans of gripping, fast-paced mysteries, Play It In Reverse by Victoria Angelique is a must-read. The story revolves around Addison, a burnt-out critical care nurse who feels deeply about helping her patients. When a mysterious John Doe arrives in her ICU suffering from septic shock, his final words to her are cryptic: “Darkside must die.” He asks her to keep his belongings safe. Addison thought that she couldn’t save his life but she could honor his dying request.

After discovering an old tape among John’s things, Addison listens with her friend Chris and realizes the recording was purposely made backward. When they play it in reverse, a chilling message from John emerges, warning that dangerous people are after him and hinting at a path Addison must follow, symbolized by the “yellow brick road.” With intrigue and uncertainty pulling her forward, Addison embarks on a journey to reveal secrets concealed in music and navigate a hidden danger.

Angelique’s storytelling shines with its brisk pace, and her vivid character development brings Addison to life as an unforgettable protagonist. The captivating cover design and suspenseful twists kept me glued to every page, and the story’s surprises were thoroughly engaging. If you’re looking for a mystery with suspense, dynamic characters, and a plot that keeps you guessing, Play It In Reverse won’t disappoint.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon