Search Results

< Back Robin Jeffrey .exe: A Cadence Turing Mystery Chance Hale is enamoured by a mysterious woman from a different planet. Chance Hale is an Arrhidaean living in the wealthy suburb or Zahia. Chance is heir to the multi-billion-dollar company, Halcyon Enterprises, headed up by his father, Felix Hale. Travelling home after a one-night stand he can hardly remember, Chance notices a woman with a phoenix tattoo on her back. He introduces himself to the woman, and learns her name is Cadence Turing, from the plant Paraesepe. New to the city, and with no where else to stay, Chance invites the stranger to stay at his house, the imposing Hale Manor. Felix is planning a party that night and has an important announcement to make. He is not happy his son has brought a stranger into the house. As Cadence learns more about the strange, new world, the party gets underway. To everyone’s surprise, Felix announces his engagement t o Desdemona Eydis, and gives her an expensive necklace. Chance is livid that his father is marrying a woman younger than him, and who he has known for just three months. When Chance confronts his father, Felix threatens to cut him off from his inheritance. The next day, Desdemona’s necklace is missing, and the following day Felix is found beaten to death in his room. As Chance becomes the prime suspect for his father’s murder, Cadence reveals her true identity, putting her own life in danger. Will Chance prove his innocence? Will Cadence’s true identity be discovered by the authorities? And can they solve the mystery of Felix’s death? .exe: A Cadence Turing Mystery is a thrilling science fiction novel by author Robin Jeffrey , and the first book in the Cadence Turing mystery series. The book follows two people from two different worlds, who are unexpectedly brought together and realise they have more in common than they think. This is a classic mystery novel, set in a captivating futuristic world. With intriguing characters, and a gripping mystery plot, this book will appeal to readers who enjoy futuristic fantasy fiction and crime mysteries. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A classic whodunnit, with a unique, futuristic twist. Purchase here

< Back Hans Ness Rolo on the Planet of the Cats Rolo on the Planet of the Cats is the sequel to Rolo the Pet Earthling, by author Hans Ness. Rolo is a thirteen year old juvenile male hooman from planet Earth, who was adopted as a pet earthling on the planet Blorx. Rolo has lived his whole life on Blorx, but escapes and travels to Earth with his pet Quiggles in search of the ancient home of his ancient ancestors. But, when Rolo arrives on Earth he cannot find a single earthling in sight. Much to his disappointment and mild terror, he discovers that catlings have overthrown the hoomans and taken their place at the top of the pyramid of power. He is summoned before the court, charged as an illegal alien, and remanded at a detention centre - the Litterpool Pound for Stray Hoomans. He escapes and stows away on a Flying Circus skyship, where he meets Ailey, an eleven-year-old juvenile hooman and a circus performer on the ship. Ailey agrees to help Rolo find his family in the mythical city of Zorx, in return for helping her flee the circus. Rolo and Ailey are fugitives are on the run, but bounty hunters are hot on their trail. Rolo on the Planet of the Cats is a fun and entertaining addition to this unique and captivating sci-fi adventure series, by author Hans Ness. Featuring strange creatures, alien worlds, and not-so-cute-cats, this book will appeal to readers who enjoy imaginative, alien-themed stories. I loved the first book in the series, and I loved this one even more! With a unique plot, memorable characters, and plenty of humour, this is a thoroughly enjoyable, laugh-out-loud story that will appeal to readers of all ages. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun, quirky, and action packed sci-fi sequel, about a young earthling who escapes from the planet Blorx to discover Earth has been overtaken by catlings. Purchase here

< Back Louiza Kallona The Tickling Tale of Smoo Will siblings Lucy and Ben find one of the worlds ticklers, and restore laughter to the world? Lucy and Ben McClafferty live in a farmhouse in Fiddle Wood, in the Scottish Borders. Across the world, people are sad and gloomy. No one has laughed, or giggled, or even smiled for many months. Grandma McClafferty is worried that something bad has happened to Gabel Lylhu (otherwise known as Belly Laugh), an old man who lives in Durness, in the north of Scotland. Gabel is a tickler and has brought laughter to the world, by tickling Smoo with a laughing gull feather for almost 150 years. Smoo is a deep cave hidden out of sight at the very top of Scotland, and one of the ‘armpits of the world’. Grandma McClafferty has an idea. She will take Lucy and Ben to visit Gabel and bring laughter back to the world. Lucy and Ben’s parents would never agree, so she tells them she is taking them on a trip to Loch Ness. So, Lucy, Ben, Grandma McClafferty and Uncle Patrick travel all the way to Durness, to find Gabel Lylhu’s cottage. They find Gabel sound asleep in his cottage, and when they finally wake him, they discover he has been asleep for four months. They need to take Gabel’s laughing gull feather to Smoo, and tickle its armpits during a full moon, to restore laughter to the world. But when the only laughing gull feather is destroyed, Lucy and Ben must go on an epic adventure, to help Gabel find another. Will they find another laughing gull feather? And will they ever restore laughter to the world? The Tickling Tale of Smoo is a fun, fantasy adventure story, by debut author Louiza Kallona. Full of eccentric characters, amazing adventures, and plenty of magic and mystery, this book will appeal to middle grade readers who enjoy comedy and fantasy fiction. Louiza Kallona is a creative and entertaining storyteller, and I look forward to reading more from her in the future. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: Brilliantly written, with unique characters, an imaginative plot, and lots of humour, this is a laugh-out-loud fantasy adventure not to be missed! Purchase here

< Back Mahika Goswami Growing Pains Growing Pains is a deeply introspective collection of poetry by Mahika Ray Goswami, exploring themes of trauma, self-discovery, healing, and transformation. The collection is structured across four stages (inertia, displacement, resonance, and momentum) to mirror the nonlinear path of recovery, with shifts in tone from despair to hope. Inertia explores the feeling of being stuck—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—while yearning for movement and change. Displacement delves into the emotional and psychological consequences of feeling uprooted, alienated, and disconnected from one’s sense of self and belonging. Resonance explores how individual experiences begin to echo beyond the self, creating emotional ripples that touch others and reshape relationships. Momentum shifts from introspection to action and captures the forward movement, channelling pain into growth. One of the manuscript’s strengths lies in its ability to balance vulnerability with empowerment. It emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and emotional honesty, portraying pain not as weakness but as a necessary part of healing. The tone shifts fluidly between melancholy and hope, creating a rhythm that mirrors the unpredictable nature of healing. The poems invite readers into Goswami’s inner world while also encouraging them to confront their own vulnerabilities. The writing is raw and confessional, capturing every ache and restless moment that shapes who we become. Goswami often uses nature-based imagery—such as flowers, seasons, and celestial bodies—to symbolize growth and renewal. Overall, Growing Pains is a poignant and courageous collection of poetry that speaks to anyone who has grappled with inner turmoil and sought meaning in the middle of chaos. It’s not just a personal narrative—it’s a universal meditation on what it means to feel pain, grow, and heal. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A deeply poignant, courageous, and introspective collection of poetry about what it means to feel pain, grow, and heal. Purchase here

< Back K J Kelly However Long the Day Lorna escapes an arranged marriage in Canada and builds a new life in Michigan, enduring hardships such as mining accidents, brutal winters, and the loss of her husband, Patrick. Lorna's determination and resourcefulness shine as she raises her children amidst adversity, eventually remarrying Max to reunite her family after a period of separation. Lorna's daughter, Grace, inherits her mother's strength and tenacity. Grace marries Joseph, a charming and ambitious man, and they move near to Tacoma, Washington. As the couple build a family, Grace navigates the challenges of living next to Joseph's controlling and judgmental family. Her struggles intensify after Joseph's untimely death, leaving her to raise five children alone during the Great Depression. Despite the hardships, Grace demonstrates remarkable resilience, finding ways to provide for her family and maintain their dignity. The story delves into the complexities of family relationships, particularly the tension between Grace and her in-laws, and the enduring impact of hidden family secrets. The story is set against the backdrop of key historical events, such as the Great Depression, World War I, and World War II, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individual lives and broader societal challenges. However Long the Day by author K J Kelly is a heartfelt and poignant historical fiction novel that spans multiple generations, exploring themes of resilience, family dynamics, love, loss, and survival. The story is rich with cultural references and captures the struggles of a family navigating personal tragedies, societal expectations, and the challenges of survival during the Great Depression. The characters are well-developed, each with their own flaws, strengths, and motivations. The story captures the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity and the importance of family, even when relationships are fraught with tension and pain. The story's conclusion leaves readers with a sense of unresolved tension and the possibility of a sequel. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A moving and intricately woven tale that explores family dynamics, love, and loss amidst life's hardships. Purchase here

< Back Elizabeth H. Cottrell HEARTSPOKEN: How to Write Notes that Connect, Comfort, Encourage, and INspire Author Elizabeth H. Cottrell demonstrates how to write beautiful, handwritten notes that connect with others on a deeper level. Heartspoken: How to Write Notes that Connect, Comfort, Encourage, and Inspire is a guidebook by author Elizabeth H. Cottrell about how to write beautiful, handwritten notes that connect with others on a deeper level. Cottrell explains how handwritten notes have been effective, meaningful tools for connection throughout her life. She shares her experience of writing personal and professional notes, and offers advice and guidance to help readers find and write their own words. The book is divided into six key sections. In Chapter 1, Cottrell explains why she wrote the book, and discusses the history of note writing. In Chapter 2 she describes how note writing can build deeper and more meaningful connections with people. Chapter 3 describes her secret NOTES formula for note writing, and Chapter 4 examine how to apply the formula in different scenarios. In Chapter 5, Cottrell provides examples of notes in less common or difficult situations. Chapter 6 demonstrates how to apply the same principles to business and professional correspondence. The remaining chapters and appendices include a variety of tools and tips, and further resources to help readers on their personal note writing journey. Heartspoken: How to Write Notes that Connect, Comfort, Encourage, and Inspire is a beautifully written and insightful book by author Elizabeth H. Cottrell. Cottrell shares her own personal experiences and describes the power of note writing to connect, comfort, encourage, and inspire. The book provides insight, advice, hints and tips, and helpful tools, to help readers craft meaningful and impactful notes for any occasion. With a simple and easy to follow NOTES formula, the book will help develop readers confidence and skills in note writing. The book is a comprehensive and valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their note writing skills, and will appeal to any reader interested in note writing, in either a personal or professional capacity. I hope this beautiful book will inspire a love of this art-form. Cottrell’s expertise in note writing, and her passion for more meaningful communication, shines throughout this book. Cottrell speaks from the heart and this book is very special. Truly heart spoken. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary : A definitive guide to more meaningful and impactful communication through the art of note writing. Purchase here

Aylen Isle < Back Aud Supplee Aylen Isle Fourteen-year-old Winnie Harris (aka General Windemere) is a renowned warrior and Frama-traveller, who uses frama-scopes to journey between alternate worlds. Winnie has just returned to Earth following a mission to an alternate world, Hutra, with her stepbrother, Mikey, and their friend and magician, Kip. During the mission, six year old Mikey found a toad and brought it back to Earth as his pet. Winnie is visited in a dream by Princess Gwenevieve of the Aylen Isle Kingdom and learns that she has been enchanted by a spell and trapped in the body of Mikey’s pet toad, Stompy. Princess Gwenevieve asks for Winnie’s help to transport her back to Aylen Isle, so she can be turned back into her original form before she is stuck as a toad forever. Winnie, Mikey, and Kip travel to Aylen Isle to try and reverse Princess Gwenevieve’s enchantment, and at the same time return an alien bird to his original world. While Winnie tries to find the conjurer who will turn the toad back to a princess, she learns of a prophecy that a young female warrior in pink armour will save Aylen Isle from an enemy invasion. Aylen Isle: Winnie and the “Wizard” is the third book in this captivating teen, fantasy fiction series, by Aud Supplee. The book follows the journey of Winnie Harris as she embarks on an epic mission to an alternate world, to save an enchanted princess. This is an imaginative and well-crafted novel, which draws readers into a magical world of adventure and self-discovery. With a well-paced plot, timely-twists and turns, and a relatable female protagonist, the book will keep readers engaged until the very end. A must read for young adult readers who love fantasy fiction. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary: A n exquisite novel for young adult readers, packed full of action and adventure, and familiar fantasy fiction themes. Purchase here

< Back Deborah Erdmann and Kate Jungwirth Haunted Hemlock Book blurb... Dominic and his friends are invited back to Point Beach for the holidays to await the ghostly apparition of the Christmas Tree Ship. It soon becomes clear there are more mysteries that need solving, when the owner of a nearby cabin sees dead people and the hauntings have spread to the small town of Two Rivers. When a ghost hunter is called to the scene, the young detectives become entangled in a spirited effort to solve this spooky case. Will they be able to scare the ghosts away in time for a Christmas miracle? Purchase here

< Back Charlene McIver Squishy Sand Three friends invent a new monster wheelchair buggy and enjoy a fun filled day at the beach, from author Charlene McIver Leigh wants to play on the beach with his friends Cosmo and Tara, but the beach is inaccessible for his wheelchair. The friends think of lots of different ways to enable Leigh to enjoy the beach – such as getting the dogs to pull the wheelchair across the sand like a sled, adapting the wheelchair so it glides across the sand. But it’s no use, nothing works! Until Cosmo finds some discarded tyres and they transform the wheelchair into a monster dune-buggy. The friends take it in turns to whiz down the boat ramp in the new wheelchair buggy. They speed across the squishy sand and splash through the waves, enjoying the beach and sun. A fun-filled, perfect day out, where everyone is equal, and everyone is included. This is a sweet story about a group of friends spending time together and having fun at the beach. Despite the inaccessibility of the beach to wheelchairs, it doesn’t hold them back from having fun. The friends find a fun and creative solution to ensure all three can enjoy the sand and shore together. This book highlights some of the challenges faced by wheelchair users, reinforcing the importance of kindness, empathy, and compassion. But it is not primarily a book about disability, it’s a book about courage and true friendships. A fun-filled book which captures the essence of friendship, and beautifully illustrated by Caroline Keys. It was a joy to read, and we can’t wait to read the next book in the series. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A sweet story about a group of friends spending time together and having fun at the beach. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Wittingly Yours You Are Enough, Just as You Are (Yes! It's True) You Are Enough by Wittingly Yours is a heartfelt and empowering book that gently reminds young readers of their self-worth and individuality. Through poetic verses and soothing imagery, the author crafts a message of self-acceptance, resilience, and the importance of embracing one's unique journey. The tone is compassionate and uplifting, making it a comforting read for anyone struggling with self-doubt or societal pressures. The book emphasizes that self-worth is not defined by external validation, material possessions, or social media likes. Instead, it encourages readers to treasure their inner qualities, scars, and experiences, as these are what make them truly unique. The recurring affirmation, "You are enough," acts as a mantra, urging readers to embrace their authentic selves and reject the urge to conform to societal molds. The poetic structure flows beautifully. The verses are simple yet profound, making them accessible to a wide audience. The imagery of nature, such as blooming flowers and growing trees, is used effectively to symbolize personal growth and the importance of patience in one's journey. The book also touches on themes of resilience, reminding readers that mistakes and setbacks are natural parts of life and essential for growth. You Are Enough by Wittingly Yours is a beautifully written picture book for younger readers. With its simplicity and heartfelt message, this book would make a valuable addition to anyone's collection of inspirational literature. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A beautifully written and heart-warming book that gently reminds young readers of their self-worth and individuality. Purchase here

< Back Lisa Towles Terror Bay Detective Kurt Farin investigates a case with a mysterious twist. Detective Kurt Farin wakes up in a Californian hospital with no recollection of how he got there. While drifting in and out of consciousness, he has a recurring vision of a woman deep in the ocean, trapped under the wreckage of a two-hundred-year-old ship. The woman’s name is Genevieve Lucas, and Kurt is determined to find out who she is. Kurt learns that he has sustained a traumatic brain injury, after been shot-at while investigating the murder of a young woman named Leticia Ames. The suspect is a dangerous assassin named Jimmy Breslin, who is believed to have killed Leticia as a warning to her boyfriend, who witnessed Jimmy at a crime scene in a federal case. Kurt is forced to take a leave of absence from work due to his brain injury and begins his search for the mysterious Genevieve. He finds a woman with the same name, who is a Marine Biologist and professional diver located in Bainbridge Island, Seattle. Kurt decides to pay Genevieve a visit and persuades his partner, Vaughn, to accompany him. Kurt arrives in Bainbridge Island, and meets Genevieve’s daughter, Anabel. Anabel explains that Genevieve died tragically in a diving accident and Kurt is convinced she is the woman in his vision. As Kurt learns more about the life and death of Genevieve, Anabel is attacked by a man they believe to be Jimmy. Kurt discovers a peculiar connection between Genevieve, her daughter Anabel, and the hitman, and decides to travel to the site of the shipwreck where Genevieve died. Every strange encounter on his journey brings him closer to solving the case and unravelling the mystery of the woman in his visions. Terror Bay is a gripping, edge of the seat, psychological thriller by author Lisa Towles. Detective Kurt Farin’s life changes as he begins to experience vivid visions of a mysterious woman, following a bump to the head. Driven by an inexplicable force, Kurt sets out on a mission to uncover the truth behind his apparitions. As he goes on a journey across the country, he discovers a strange connection between his visions and the case he was investigating prior to his injury. Towles seamlessly blends crime fiction, psychological thriller, and a touch of supernatural intrigue. With plenty of action, plot twists and spine-tingling suspense, this novel will appeal to readers of both crime fiction and psychological thrillers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A gripping, edge of the seat, psychological thriller, packed full of intrigue, mystery, and suspense. Purchase here

< Back Vassi Rombis Story Swapping A Family Tradition Kali’s exciting storytelling adventure, by author Vassi Rombis It’s a big day at school for Kalianne (Kali), as it’s her turn for ‘Show ‘n Share’. She is a little nervous and has butterflies in her tummy, but she tells her classmates about her family tradition of reading stories with her mom at bedtime, snuggled under her story quilt. Kali’s mom tells her stories of all the amazing adventures she has at work and on her travels. Kali tells her teacher that she would like to share a story with her mom, but she has nothing interesting or exciting to share. Kali’s teacher reminds her of all the wonderful activities she has taken part in throughout her day at school, and Kali has an idea. She doesn’t want to tell her story like her mom, she wants to do something a little different, and decides to paint a picture of her story. Kali’s mom enjoys her story so much, that they start a new family tradition of story swapping, where mother and daughter both share their stories with each other at bedtime. Story Swapping a Family Tradition is a sweet picture book by author Vassi Rombis, about a little girl, Kali, who loves to listen to her mom’s stories at bedtime. But Kali is keen to join in the storytelling and would like to tell her mom a story. Struggling to find an idea for a story, Kali builds up the courage to ask a teacher for help, and comes up with a unique idea to share her story. This is a fun and engaging book, which will encourage young children to tell their own stories, in their own way, encouraging creativity, imagination and storytelling. With bright, digital illustrations by Frances Rose Español, and a cute, relatable, main character, this is a perfect bedtime story for little ones, and may even inspire families to start their own bedtime storytelling tradition! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet picture book that will encourage young children, to tell their own stories, in their own way, encouraging creativity, imagination and storytelling Purchase here