< Back Reese Trapped A coming-of-age story about four diverse young women who find friendship in college. Four young women meet during their freshman year at college, Naomi, Arnya, Stephanie, and Jasmine. Brought together to complete a group assignment, the women develop a friendship that spans many years. Naomi is the only child in a well-to-do family of overachievers and her family have high expectations of her. She has lived a privileged and protected life but suffers from anxiety in social situations. Arnya is an only child, with a large extended family. She is grieving the loss of her mother, who died during high school. Arnya is determined to fulfil her dreams to make her mother proud. Stephanie was brought up by her church fairing grandmother, after her mother abandoned her when she was six years old. Her grandmother ruled with tough love and taught her how to be strong and resilient. Jasmine grew up in the foster care system and literally talked her way into college with a debating scholarship. She has relied on no-one and has had to hustle for everything in life. Despite their different personalities and upbringings, the women share many things in common and develop a close bond. The novel follows their journey through college, but as college comes to an end, each woman must find their own path in life. Trapped by author Reese is a heartfelt and relatable coming-of-age novel, about four diverse young women who find friendship in college. With romance, heartache, and lots (and lots!) of drama, this book captures the true essence of friendship. The novel is written from the point of view of each of the four characters, which helps the reader develop a deep understanding of, and empathy with, each character. The book took me back to my own college experiences, and the many wonderful friendships I developed along the way. Beautifully written, with rich and authentic dialogue, full of wonderful New Orleans sayings and slang, this novel was an absolute joy to read. Readers who enjoy character-led fiction and women’s fiction will enjoy this book. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heartfelt and relatable exploration of the friendships that blossom during college. ​ Purchase here

< Back Richard Lui Enough About Me: The Unexpected Power of Selflessness The story of an award-winning news anchor who paused his successful career to care for his father. Enough About Me: The Unexpected Power of Selflessness is a guidebook, by author and former news anchor, Richard Lui. Lui shares his personal story, how he became a successful news anchor, and why he gave it all up at the height of his career. His father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Lui had a difficult decision to make, whether to continue to pursue his career, or whether to give it all up to care for his father. He decided his father was more important than what happens on camera and paused his career to take care of him. It was a difficult decision, and the care-giving lifestyle was not easy, so Lui set out to understand the psychology of selflessness. Lui discusses claims made by eminent social scientists, such as Charles Darwin and Richard Dawkins, that humans are not naturally selfless, and that pure altruism does not exist. Lui questions these theories and examines other evidence to suggest that selfless communities can survive adeptly. Lui argues that selflessness has many positive benefits, and he provides evidence to suggest that people who act selflessly are more likely to be healthier, happier, live longer and have more prosperous careers. Lui discusses his own personal journey, and the stories of many people he encountered during his journalism career. Lui challenges the traditional self-help / self-care trope and calls his book an ‘anti-self-help’ book. He offers advice, tips and tricks, and practical tools to help readers live a more fulfilled life, through thinking and behaving more selflessly. He shares the lessons learned from his journey and provides examples from others who have shown remarkable selflessness when faced with tragedy and loss. Enough About Me: The Unexpected Power of Selflessness is an inspiring and engaging book by an award-winning news anchor who performed an act of selflessness to pause his career and care for his father. The book will inspire readers to pursue more selfless goals and will help them to live a more balanced and fulfilled life. The book will appeal to readers who enjoy self-help books and who are interested in personal development. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thought provoking, inspiring and engaging book about the power and impact of selflessness. ​ Purchase here

< Back Peter Eliott A Dream of Shadows A notorious criminal joins a bunch of misfits, to take down a powerful villain. Vazeer the Lash is a notorious criminal, born and raised in the nefarious underworld capital of Hell’s Labyrinth. Having spent most of his life in the seedy underworld, he is keen to retire from a life of crime. When Vazeer’s contract broker offers him big money to join the Shadow Bidders, he sees it as an opportunity to walk away from his life of crime, and he hopes it will be his final contract. The Shadow Bidders are a group of misfit criminals and include a locksmith, an actress, an assassin, and a Line Man. Their mission is to hunt down and take out the Count Ulan Gueritus (the ‘Raving Blade’), one of Hell’s Labyrinth’s most powerful brokers. The evil Count has a reputation for torturing his victims and has blackmailed the Countess of Odel. His actions have sparked outrage and could result in war in the once peaceful city of Sullward. The Shadow Bidders have just forty-eight hours to hunt down the target and complete the task. Each member of the team must risk their lives to defeat the Count, by harnessing their own distinctive and unique talents. But, with their lives in imminent danger, the team soon discovers that nothing is quite as it seems in this strange case. Will the Shadow Bidders defeat the Count? Will they restore peace to the city of Sullward? Can Vazeer move on from his life of crime? And will this really be his final contract? A Dream of Shadows is a remarkable, fantasy novel by debut author Peter Eliott, about a career criminal desperate to escape his life of crime, who risks it all for one last shot at the big money. With beautiful prose, fantastic world building, and fascinating, well-developed, multi-layered characters, this is an immersive and gripping novel. Peter Eliott is a creative and masterful writer, and a talent to watch out for. This is an exceptional novel at every level, and highly recommended. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A brilliantly plotted fantasy fiction novel. I couldn't put this compelling debut book down. ​ Purchase here

Paula Welch The Interlopers Angie Bailey Believe Ryan Poirier The Herd Ellen Davidson WIND Colette Sewall Kiki Macadoo and the Graveyard Ballerinas Sally Kingman Everything Is Everything: Finding Your Magic Leah Cupps Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings Molly Awiszus Puddles of Windrush Farm Spring 2022: Best Children's Book Age 8 to 12

< Back Genevieve Jenner Chocolate Cake for Imaginary Lives A collection of food inspired short stories, by debut author Genevieve Jenner. Chocolate Cake for Imaginary Lives is a delectable collection of thirty-eight short stories, by debut author Genevieve Jenner. This is a diverse collection of fictional stories, with a wide range of characters and settings, but all centered around food and how people interact with food in their everyday lives. The book takes the reader on a culinary journey across different countries and cultures, including stories from England, the deep South, Paris, Jerusalem, and many more. It explores the role that food plays in all of our lives, and the relationships between people and the foods that they share. The opening story, Dead Dove , explores the weird and wonderful food that people leave in communal fridges in the workplace, and follows two unknown colleagues as they converse anonymously by sharing notes and recipes in the work fridge . I found it hard to find a favourite in this remarkable collection, but as an avid tea drinker I enjoyed An Incomplete Guide to Drinkers of Some Black Teas . I am ashamed to admit it, but I have been known to microwave a cup of Lipton Tea in desperation! Some stories are quite lengthy, others just a few pages long. Jenner discusses a wide range of foods, from Southern flips, borscht, macaroni cheese, chocolate brownies, and even pigeon. Each story serves up generous portions of emotions and memories inspired by our love of food. This is a unique, imaginative, and funny collection that will appeal to readers who enjoy short stories, foodies, and those who enjoy food inspired stories. With wonderful and colourful characters, intriguing story lines, and mouth-watering recipes, the book invites readers to reflect on their own relationship with food. A wonderful short story collection and a celebration of food and the impact it has on our everyday lives. I encourage readers to read, eat, repeat! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delicious, mouth-watering collection of short stories, inspired by our relationship with food. ​ Purchase here

< Back Madeline Pasimio Contrary to Conception: Stories and Lessons about Successful Birth Control and Contraceptive Methods Everything you wanted to know about birth control and contraceptive methods but were afraid to ask, by Madeline Pasimio Contrary to Conception is an informative and educational reference book by Madeline Pasimio about birth control and contraception. The book describes the key terms and definitions of contraceptive methods, explores the history of birth control, and provides useful insights into different methods, such as the pill, emergency contraception, barrier methods, the shot, the implant, hormonal and copper IUDs, and sterilization. Each chapter includes detailed information about each method and how it works, its effectiveness and side effects, and other considerations and common misconceptions. Each chapter also includes fictionalised stories, based on women’s real-life experiences, such as student Gina who suffered aggravating period cramps and decided to try the pill to help alleviate her symptoms, and parents of two-Terri and David who considered permanent methods of contraception to prevent future pregnancy, such as male and female sterilization. This book is a valuable resource for anyone considering birth control for the first time, or for those who want to learn more about different contraceptive methods. It is educational and informative, but accessible and easy to read for all readers. Madeline Pasimio writes about this sensitive, and often taboo subject, respectfully and without judgement. This book will help educate women and their partners, to make informed choices about contraception and birth control options. This book should be an essential part of sex education and the school curriculum, and would make a valuable addition to any home, school, or public library. As a veteran, but very naïve, contraceptive user, I wish I had this book when I started using contraception many years ago. Now, as a mother of a teenage daughter, I will be recommending this book to her, and all of my female friends and relatives. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An informative and educational reference book about birth control and contraception, that should be an essential part of sex education and the school curriculum. ​ Purchase here

< Back KJ The Forever and The Now Will Bron McIntyre ever find her forever and now? By author KJ Bron McIntyre, a fortysomething teacher from Melbourne, is sketching on her favourite bench in her local park, when she notices a beautiful woman. Attracted to the woman, she begins to sketch her picture, when a cyclist crashes into the woman and spills a smoothie down her shirt. Bron helps the woman clean up and starts up a conversation, where she learns the woman’s name is Kate and is going through a divorce. The pair share an instant connection, and following the cycling incident they meet up regularly in the park and become close friends. Bron develops feelings for Kate, and senses something in return, but unsure of Kate’s feelings towards her, she is scared to make the first move. Kate finally confesses her desire for Bron, and the relationship slowly develops into something more intimate. Bron has a close and supportive family, who accept Kate with open arms. Kate’s mother on the other hand is less supportive, and judgemental of her life choices. Feeling pressure from Bron, Kate reluctantly comes out to her mother, which causes tension in the relationship. Kate’s mother struggles to accept her new love, hoping Kate will return to her ex-husband, Neil. As Kate’s mother continues to meddle in their relationship, Bron and Kate feel disconnected, and they turn to a counsellor for help. But as Bron and Kate try to work through their issues, Bron notices Kate acting out of character. When the couple learn more about Kate’s uncharacteristic behaviour, their entire world begins to fall apart. The Forever and The Now, by author KJ, is a beautifully written love story of two women, whose lives become entwined and are changed forever, following a chance encounter at the park. Written in the first-person perspective, KJ’s narrative is real, emotional and authentic, and the intimate scenes between Bron and Kate are beautiful, tender and passionate. KJ beautifully describes the pleasure and power of love, the tender and unconditional love that many people dream about. But this is not a happy ever after story, there is heartbreak, pain and tragedy. Readers might need something to dry their eyes with, in order to finish this book! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written love story of two women, whose lives become entwined and are changed forever, by author KJ. ​ Purchase here

< Back Paula Welch Cloud Piercer A fight for survival on a treacherous mountain, by author Paula Welch When a small explosive device is found on a private jet from Sydney to Christchurch, the passengers, Henry and Gertrude, are diverted to a commercial airline, carrying 500 passengers. Joining them onboard the Airbus is a police officer named Victoria, dispatched by the Australian Federal Police to travel to Christchurch to interview one of the suspects believed to be responsible for planting the bomb. Also on the flight is Wolf, a hit man sent to finish the job he started on the private jet and kill Henry and Gertrude before they reach their destination. Just before the flight is due to land in Christchurch, news arrives of an earthquake nearby and the crew are advised to divert the flight to Auckland. Captain Benjamin turns the plane around but inadvertently flies straight through invisible gas vapours, choking the engines and causing them to shut down. The plane descends through the peaks of Mt Walter, Mt Green, and Mt Darwin and crash lands on a snowy mountain top. Many passengers are dead and seriously injured, but rescue attempts are impeded by ongoing seismic activity, and precarious conditions. As the survivors await the arrival of the mountain rescue teams, Captain Benjamin tries to maintain calm and order on the plane. The crew and passengers work together to move the dead and treat the wounded, but one passenger has other ideas. Wolf sees an opportunity to finish his job, and sets out to eliminate his targets. Cloud Piercer is a fast paced, drama and disaster fiction novel by author Paula Welch. The book brings together an aeroplane disaster, a mountain rescue, and earthquakes, avalanches, and volcanic activity; with several subplots, including a murder mystery; and a romance. Yet, this is a gripping disaster novel that doesn’t take itself too seriously. There is a fair bit of death and tragedy, but there are also wonderful uplifting and comedy moments. The characters - each with a unique backstory – are plentiful, diverse, and well developed. The character Pauline, an eccentric, fictional character (and a parody of the author), is a really nice addition. Overall a thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable read. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fast-paced, gripping, drama and disaster novel that doesn’t take itself too seriously. ​ Purchase here

< Back Ralph L. Bayrer Liberty, Science and Wealth: The Evolution to Modern Society An essential read for historians, sociologists and economists, by author Ralph L. Bayrer Author Ralph L. Bayrer reposes a question asked two centuries ago, about why some countries prosper and others remain poor, despite having access to science and international capital markets. He describes the key features that are prominent in developed countries and stunted in undeveloped ones, and why America has become the wealthiest nation of our time, through free market systems and reduced government spending, regulation and taxation. He explains how societies are in constant competition with one another and fight for survival in an evolutionary dynamic process. He e xplores the American way of life, and the role that human cooperation and freedom has played in the creation of a modern affluent society. The book explores these issues in eight chapters. Chapter 1 explores the economic development gap between developed and less developed countries. Chapter 2 presents the theory of societal evolution. Chapter 3 describes man’s propensity for enterprise and commerce, and in Chapter 4, how commerce and enterprise led to the evolution of political institutions. Chapter 5 describes the emergence of science in the West, and how the west evolved into a culture of individual empowerment, in Chapter 6. In Chapter 7, Bayrer explores how other cultures have responded to the west’s advancements, and Chapter 8 explores why some countries have failed to advance. Liberty, Science and Wealth: The Evolution to Modern Society by author Ralph L. Bayrer is an engaging and thought-provoking non-fiction book, which provides a fascinating insight into the history and evolution of modern society. Well written and extensively researched, this book provides interesting new perspectives on humanity and society. This is a fascinating and insightful work of non-fiction, which will appeal to readers of educational and reference books, and students of the political and social sciences. This is an essential read for historians, sociologists and economists, and anyone who would like to learn more about modern society and its evolution. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A well written and extensively researched non-fiction book, which provides a fascinating insight into the history and evolution of modern society. ​ Purchase here

< Back Angie Bailey Believe Abigale believes there is more to life than the dull, grey world she inhabits, by author Angie Bailey Thirteen-year-old Abigale Johnson was born into a family of Never-Believers. A family who did not believe in Christmas, or birthdays, or fun, adventure or magic. A family whose life was dull and grey. But Abigale was a little different from the Johnson’s. She had dreams of a better life, and a life a little less grey. So Abigale spent most her time tyring to avoid her family, particularly her brothers who were the meanest of the mean, and teased and taunted Abigale every single day. One day, on a dreaded train trip to visit her despicable and very grey Aunt Violet, Abigale’s life changes for ever. After a knock on the head, Abigale discovers an alternate Fae world of wonder and magic, fae-folk, and Believers. Whizzing along on the Faedora magic train, Abigale meets lots of new friends and discovers Christmas and other wonderful celebrations. At thirteen, Abigale has her first ever birthday party, full of love and laughter. But not everyone on the magical train is happy with Abigale’s arrival, and they plot a sinister spell to extract her from the train during the next pink moon, putting her life in mortal danger. As Abigale’s new friends try to save her from doom, they soon discover Abigale has some important royal connections, and even her despicable Aunt Violet is not quite who she seems. Believe is an imaginative and enchanting novel. Well written by Angie Bailey and full of wonder, mystery and magic, the book has fabulous characters and a magnificent plot. This book will captivate both adults and younger readers. The book is the first part of a series, and we can’t wait to read the next instalment in Abigale’s magical journey. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An enchanting novel, with fabulous characters and a magnificent plot. This book will captivate both adults and younger readers.’ A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ ​ Purchase here

< Back Joshua Hershey Linden Falls Can a young woman free her people from darkness? Orphan, Mabel, was brought up by her grandmother, Gigi, in Linden, a nation cursed and shrouded by dark and evil forces. Mabel’s parents died of the plague when she was a young girl, but Gigi never discussed their life or death. Mabel always thought she was different from other children and had vivid dreams she was a witch. Rumors had even spread at school that Mabel was a possessed dreamer, who uses magic to enter shadows and speak with the dead. When Gigi dies, Mabel is left penniless and alone. She visits Gigi’s cabin to retrieve her belongings and feels a strange presence. When she spots a book that she had seen in her dream, she must open it. The book emits light and fire, and Mabel is spellbound. The magic book creates a cyclone and Mabel flees the cabin by stepping through a door of fire. Mabel is chased by a serpent, Lavian, and a hoard of Dark Angels. She is saved by the Light Angels and taken to Citadel; a fortress suspended above the Earth. Mabel learns from the Light Angels that the book has special powers, and she was chosen by the one who wrote the book to break the darkness over Linden. She also learns there are two worlds, the world where she lives and the unseen realm that permeates the heavens and Earth. Mable has two choices, to return to her old life in Linden and give up the book, or to harness the book’s powers and continue the path of her calling. Which path will Mabel take? Can she end the darkness that presides over Linden? And will she find out the truth about her parents, and her special powers? Linden Falls is an imaginative and thrilling dark fantasy fiction novel by author Joshua Hershey. This is a well written and tightly crafted story, with a gripping plot, and rich, memorable characters. Mabel is a strong female protagonist, who overcomes adversity to free her people. There are strong Christian messages throughout the book, which make this a unique and powerful read. Hershey has created a spellbinding world that will appeal to those who enjoy action-adventure, fantasy fiction, and Christian fiction. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thoroughly enjoyable and spellbinding read. ​ Purchase here

< Back Don Ake Deep Heavy Stuff - Thoughts and essays for enriching your life A memoir and life-help book by author and blogger, Don Ake. Deep Heavy Stuff - Thoughts and essays for enriching your life is a memoir and life-help book by author and blogger, Don Ake. Ake took a departure from his usual humor writing to embark on a book of essays about the serious issues of life. Written during the Covid19 pandemic, Ake reflects on the stress, pain, and fear he experienced during this time, but also how his faith got him through some of the darkest moments of his life. The book is divided into two parts: Part 1: Remembering What’s Important in Life; and Part 2: Dealing With Hardship and Other Life Challenges. Each part contains six essays, where Ake discuses a range of diverse topics, from the joy of giving and the importance of purposeful acts of kindness; the art of making good friends and the importance of accepting people as they are; how to win at the ‘Game of Life’ and the personal traits required for a fuller and richer life. All of Ake’s essays and life-lessons are centered around family, friends, and faith. He talks openly and honestly about his personal life, the birth of his daughter, losing his job, and the deaths of loved ones. He discusses the trauma of the pandemic, and how we must all let go of the sorrows and struggles of the past to fully embrace the future. Sharing learnings from his own personal experiences, Ake offers practical advice to readers who might be going through similar struggles. Deep Heavy Stuff - Thoughts and essays for enriching your life by author Don Ake is a powerful, poignant, and thought-provoking collection of essays. Ake shares his experiences and wisdom to help guide and support others through the challenges that life inevitably brings. The book offers light and hope to anyone experiencing or recovering from trauma. While the book does deal with some ‘deep heavy’ issues, Ake writes with sensitivity, honesty and also much humor. The essays can be read in any order, and the book can be picked up by readers at any time they need a little extra guidance or motivation. I expect readers will revisit the essays time and time again, through the ebbs and flows of life. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A powerful, poignant, and thought-provoking collection of essays, and a valuable resource for anyone seeking to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and others. ​ Purchase here