Sakshi's Bookshelf

 Book: Reprisal Road: A Joe Erickson Mystery Author: Lynn-Steven Johanson Review:  Lynn-Steven Johanson knows how to pull readers in with strong storytelling and believable characters. Reprisal Road isn’t just a mystery—it’s a gritty dive into the dark side of human behavior. The opening chapter sets the stage brilliantly with a shocking murder. Then, before you can catch your breath, another murder happens. The tension never really lets up. Joe Erickson is a detective you want to follow. He’s smart, persistent, and deeply invested in his cases. He doesn’t feel like a cliché—he feels like someone you could actually meet. The ending caught me off guard. It wasn’t flashy, but it was disturbing in its own way. That grounded realism is what made the book work so well for me. Rating: 5/5

Book: Death Ships Written by: Doug Limbrick  My Thoughts: History books often talk about kings, wars, or riches, but very few stop to ask: what about the ordinary people who risked everything for a better life? That’s exactly where Death Ships takes us. Instead of focusing on gold nuggets and riches, it focuses on the tough journey across the seas. Reading about six massive ships crammed with passengers makes you realize how desperate and determined these emigrants were. The journey wasn’t glamorous — it was dangerous, uncomfortable, and in many cases, deadly. Yet this book manages to highlight their strength and the bigger forces, like the gold rush, that pushed them into this situation. For me, it’s both sad and inspiring. Sad because of the suffering, but inspiring because it shows how far people will go when they want a new life. Rating: 5/5

  Book: Mr. Blackematics: Money Matters  Written by: Darrell Hubbard  My Thoughts: This was my first time reading a book by Darrell Hubbard, and I must say I’m impressed by his storytelling. The character of Mr. Blackematics is instantly endearing, and children will surely find themselves wishing for a teacher like him in real life. The kids’ adventure in Mathtopia is packed with valuable lessons. Along the way, they develop problem-solving skills that extend far beyond mathematics, proving useful in many aspects of life. The story also conveys a powerful message—that with the right guidance, anything is possible. It’s an engaging and thought-provoking read. It made me reflect on how I could bring more fun into different subjects for my own children. The narration is smooth and compelling, drawing young readers so deeply into Mathtopia that they may forget about the real world for a while. I’m truly grateful to have received a copy of this book for my daughter. Rating: 5/...

  Book: Shaggy’s Cheeseburgers Author: Ron Ladner Review: Shaggy’s Cheeseburgers is a story about more than food. It’s about belonging, comfort, and the connections that keep people going in tough times. The cheeseburger becomes a symbol of happiness, and that idea stays with you throughout the book. The stories about Hurricane Katrina are both heartbreaking and inspiring. They show the destruction but also the strength of the human spirit. You can feel the pain of loss but also the determination to rebuild. What makes this book unique is its tone. It doesn’t try to be overly polished or dramatic—it feels real, raw, and authentic. You feel like you’re hearing these stories directly from the author over a meal. By the end, you’re left with a sense of warmth. It’s the kind of book that makes you appreciate small joys and reminds you not to take life for granted. Rating: 5/5

  Book: Pacer Coulee Chronicles Author: Wayne Edwards  Review: Pacer Coulee Chronicles is a vibrant portrayal of small-town life where high school sports are as important as the harvest. Set in Pacer Coulee, Montana, the story follows the arrival of two new coaches, Luke Carter and Madison Danielsen, who are tasked with bringing glory back to the school’s teams. But the book isn’t just about touchdowns or baskets—it’s about the way sports connect people, heal old wounds, and give young athletes a sense of direction. The novel shines through its memorable characters. From the strong-willed Edna Coffman to troubled teen Tank Hollister and Native American siblings Clare and Elvis, each one adds texture to the story. Their struggles—family issues, cultural transitions, personal insecurities—are handled with warmth and honesty. Small-town quirks, humorous exchanges, and heartfelt moments create an atmosphere that feels both authentic and entertaining. What makes this book engaging ...

  Book: Consumed with Fire  Written by: Theresa Gage  My Thoughts: This intriguing tale follows Cassie, a courageous yet wounded soul burdened by grief, responsibility, and the thirst for justice. After her brother’s death, Cassie shoulders the heavy mantle of chieftain while struggling to lead a broken clan decimated by war. Haunted by memories of dragons feasting on her people, she wrestles with both duty and personal longing for companionship. The story takes a darker turn when King Roark and his ruthless ally, Larkin, set their sights on Cassie. Betrayed, captured, and left with a festering wound, Cassie escapes imprisonment only to face even greater trials.  The author masterfully blends action, emotion, and world-building to create a strong narrative. Cassie’s resilience and raw vulnerability make her an unforgettable heroine. The pacing keeps readers hooked, while the emotional depth ensures the story lingers long after the final page. Rating: 5/5