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< 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 Duane Deason Operationally Svelte: Manage Costs to Increase Profit and Manage Performance In Operationally Svelte, Duane Deason delivers a comprehensive guide to transforming organizations into lean, efficient, and high-performing entities by addressing the often-overlooked area of cost management. Drawing on his extensive experience as a Certified Public Accountant and founder of The Efficacy Group, Deason provides a step-by-step framework for creating a dedicated Cost Management Center (CMC) to tackle organizational bloat, waste, and inefficiency. Deason meticulously outlines the process of creating a CMC, starting with selecting a capable leader, determining the scope of the center, and assessing current capabilities. He emphasizes the importance of empowering the CMC with authority, establishing clear policies and procedures, and fostering a culture of cost awareness throughout the organization. The book also provides practical operational tips, such as prioritizing cost-saving targets, building trust with internal stakeholders, and managing vendor relationships effectively. The book also addresses broader macroeconomic trends, such as inflation, trade tariffs, and geographic instability, and their potential impact on cost management. Deason provides insights into how organizations can prepare for these challenges, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and adaptability. He also explores the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize cost management, while cautioning against the initial costs and complexities of implementing AI solutions. Deason argues that creating a culture of cost awareness is essential for long-term success. He provides practical strategies for fostering this culture, such as rewarding employees for identifying cost-saving opportunities, tying bonuses to efficiency, and educating the workforce about financial stewardship. Deason’s writing is clear and accessible, making complex concepts easy to understand. The inclusion of real-world examples and anecdotes allows readers to see how these strategies can be applied in practice. Overall, Operationally Svelte offers a fresh perspective on cost management, emphasizing its role as a driver of growth and innovation rather than a hindrance. A must-read for business leaders, CFOs, and anyone involved in corporate finance or operation. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A comprehensive guide to help leaders transform organizations into lean, efficient, and high-performing entities. Purchase here

< Back Andrea Antico The Books That You'll Read with Leo the Lion, Your Library Guide Leo the Lion is a library guide, who will help young readers discover the wonder of stories and books. Leo takes readers on a tour of the library, and introduces readers to a wide range of books, children’s authors and their famous characters. Leo explains different types of books (including e-readers), how to borrow a book, and how to avoid a fine! He also helps children explore mobile library services (book bikes, bookmobiles). But there is much more to do in a library than borrowing books, children can also use laptops, find resources, use the space to do homework, and take part in activities, such as story time. The Books That You'll Read with Leo the Lion (Your Library Guide) is a cheerful and engaging picture book, written in rhyme, by Andrea Antico. This delightful book introduces young readers to Leo the Lion, a wise and gentle lion who serves as an informative library guide. If you ever wondered what happens inside a library, or just need a friendly face to show you around, look no further than Leo the Lion. The storytelling is engaging and informative, with illustrations that are bright and colourful. Leo is a loveable character who makes the library feel welcoming and exciting, especially for children who might be visiting the library for the first time. Perfect for pre-school readers, or prior to a first library visit, this book will help young readers develop a life-long love of reading. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun and friendly resource for young children, to help them navigate the wonder of libraries and discover the joy of books. Purchase here

< Back Mitzi Perdue Mark Victor Hansen, Relentless: Wisdom Behind the Incomparable Chicken Soup for the Soul An insightful biography about an inspirational man, by author Mitzi Perdue Relentless: Wisdom Behind the Incomparable Chicken Soup for the Soul, is a biography about author, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur, Mark Victor Hansen, by Mitzi Perdue. The book comprises thirty chapters, which follow Mark from early childhood, his teenage and college years, through to his sixties and right through to the present day. The book describes how even at a young age, Mark was a hustler, buying and selling greetings cards to buy a racing bike. During his teenage years he excelled at writing, and at college he was destined for a career in academia. Later, he ventured into business when his academic career was cut short, but his business failed, and he was made bankrupt at the age of twenty-five. Described as one of the lowest points of his young life, Mark felt a failure and contemplated suicide. But, his faith in God pulled him through, and with the help of his friends and trusted mentors, he became a successful motivational speaker. He set up two successful companies: The Million Dollar Forum, and The Three Percent Club. The stories he collected during this time became the foundation for his book, Chicken Soup for the Soul, coauthored with friend and business partner Jack Canfield. The Chicken Soup for the Soul series led to sales of half a billion books and a Guinness Book of World’s Records entry for the most books on The New York Times bestseller list at the time. Relentless: Wisdom Behind the Incomparable Chicken Soup for the Soul is an insightful and inspirational biography by Mitzi Perdue, based on interviews with Mark and many of his relatives, friends, and colleagues, who shared their personal stories and memories. The stories show how Mark strived hard to achieve his goals and didn’t give up when things got tough, and how he maintained a strong sense of faith during good and bad times. Throughout his life, Mark was supported by many friends and mentors who guided him on his journey, and he used his experiences to give back to others. He inspired millions of people across the world, through his books, speaking events, and philanthropic activities. After each chapter, there is a short section titled ‘Learn from Mark’, which includes hints and tips for the reader to help them achieve success in their own life. Mitzi Perdue has done a great job at bringing Mark Victor Hansen’s story to life, sharing the good, the bad and the ugly events of his life. This is an honest, respectful, well-researched and exhaustive biography, which covers Mark’s life from early childhood to the present day. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fascinating and insightful biography, packed full of life-lessons that will benefit any reader. Purchase here

< Back Jessica Pleuss Sharing My Family Sharing My Family is a heartfelt bilingual children’s book by Jessica Pleuss that introduces the concept of foster care to young children. Told through the eyes of an eight-year-old boy named Zee, the book follows his family’s story as they welcome two new foster children, Jackson and Emma, to their home. Their arrival brings significant changes to Zee’s life as the children disrupt his routine with unfamiliar habits and behaviors. Zee initially feels frustrated and perceives the situation as unfair, but his mother helps him to understand the situation from the foster children’s perspective. She explains the difficulties they have faced, from being separated from their family, adjusting to new rules, and leaving most of their personal belongings behind. This moment of empathy helps Zee see the behavior in a new light, leading to a deeper understanding of the challenges foster children endure. Written in both English and Spanish, the story is accessible to a diverse audience and provides a thoughtful exploration of the challenges and rewards of becoming a foster family. The book is beautifully illustrated, with vibrant and relatable images that complement the story. The inclusion of practical tips for parents and caregivers at the end of the book is a valuable addition. These tips provide guidance on discussing foster care with children, teaching empathy, and reassuring biological children about their place in the family. Jessica Pleuss draws on her expertise as a child psychologist and her personal experience as a foster parent to create a story that is both authentic and educational. The book is a compassionate and engaging introduction to foster care, emphasizing the importance of empathy, understanding, and family. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An excellent resource for families, educators, and anyone considering or navigating foster care. Purchase here

< Back Nicole Encarnacion My ABC'S to Positivity Author Nicole Encarnacion inspires confidence, self-belief, and positivity in young children, through an alphabet picture book. My ABC'S to Positivity is a unique and educational alphabet-style picture book by Nicole Encarnacion. The book aims to inspire confidence, self-belief, and positivity in young children, through 26 positive affirmations, each beginning with a letter of the alphabet. The book features a young girl, in a variety of different scenes, as she reminds herself just how unique and wonderful she is. With empowering positive affirmations through the alphabet, including A for Awesome, K for Kindness and W for Worthy, the book will encourage young children to practice their own positive affirmations in front of the mirror every day: ‘Every morning before I start my day. I look in the mirror and I say...I am awesome, flaws and all.’ This easy-to-read and engaging picture book will encourage both children and adults to practice positive affirmations. It will help children to learn the alphabet, whilst at the same time supporting the development of new knowledge and new vocabulary. This book is a great resource for parents, carers, and teachers to help nurture confidence and self-belief in young children. With fifteen pages of additional resources, including fun activities for children, the book would make a great addition to any home or school library. Beautifully written in rhyme, with fun and bright illustrations by Mayank Sharma, this book will engage and captivate younger audiences. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An easy-to-read and engaging picture book that will encourage both children and adults to practice positive affirmations. Purchase here

< Back Jasmine Kah Yan Loo Reigning Fire Book blurb.. . In a realm where power is sealed through smoke and blood, Yan Xun was born to inherit a crown-or be destroyed by it. When her Emberkin arrives far too early, and in a form the world has no place for, Xun becomes a danger to the very empire she was meant to serve. As she uncovers long-buried truths and navigates a court built on silence, loyalty, and control, her existence alone threatens to unravel everything. Set in an ancient Chinese-inspired empire of myth and ash, Reigning Fire is a lyrical fantasy about forbidden power, political unrest, and the ghosts we carry. Through richly layered worldbuilding and emotional depth, this debut novel explores the complexities of trauma, neurodivergence, and what it means to survive when your truth has no place in the world. Perfect for readers who love introspective characters, slow-burn rebellion, and myth-infused storytelling, Reigning Fire blends court intrigue with emotional intensity in a story about legacy, selfhood, and the quiet power of choosing your own name. Purchase here

Spirited < Back S.M. Webb Spirited A new teen fantasy fiction series, by debut author S.M. Webb Teens, Sienna and Cassidy, attend the same school in the small town of Fleet. The girls share the same friendship group, but they do not have a great deal in common. Sienna is quiet, humble and reserved. She has a long-term boyfriend and is content with her modest life in the small town. Cassidy is from a wealthy family, and is loud, obnoxious and a little spoiled. She cannot wait to leave home and explore life outside of the small town. But their paths cross unexpectedly, when they have a near-death experience on a dark, mountain-side road. Both are driving home one evening, when they spot a mysterious figure in the middle of the road and are forced to stop. Cassidy’s father collides into the back of his daughter’s car, narrowly missing the girls who scramble to safety, inches away from the cliff edge. The near-death experience doesn’t bring the girls together and they continue with their daily lives. But when the girls are forced to sit together on a bus trip to a charity event, both of their lives are changed forever. A catastrophic event forces Sienna and Cassidy together, and they must work as one to make the best out of an unimaginable situation. The girls must learn how to put their differences aside and capitalise on their strengths, to secure a positive future for themselves in a different world. Spirited by author S.M. Webb is a beautifully written and profound novel for young adult readers. This is a believable fantasy fiction novel, with plenty of action, teen drama and a touch of romance. The novel questions whether life exists after death, and deals with philosophical and religious issues in a way that will captivate and engage the target reader group. Author S.M. Webb has crafted a unique fantasy world, with well-developed and relatable characters, and a gripping plot. The book will appeal to teens and adults alike. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I look forward to reading the next edition in this series. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written fantasy fiction novel, with plenty of action, teen drama and romance. Purchase here

< Back D.F. Kennedy The Last Time I Saw Her Charlotte’s story Wealthy heiress and author, Dahlia Frost Hughes, is missing presumed dead when the aircraft she boarded in Miami failed to arrive at its destination. Dahlia was travelling to Puerto Rico, for a private getaway with her husband, famous actor Roland Hughes. Dahlia’s best friend and business partner, Charlotte Moore, is questioned by detectives about her disappearance. The police have received information that links Dahlia to the earlier disappearance of Charlotte’s ex-husband, Guy Burke. They believe Dahlia hired a hitman to kill Guy, conspiring with Charlotte to stop him getting hold of her inheritance. Charlotte has connections to the Italian Mafia, and their involvement in the disappearance of her ex-husband cannot be ruled out. Charlotte and Dahlia had been friends for many years, and set up a successful publishing company together. The women were inseparable and supported each other through tough times. Dahlia was finally moving on with her life with her husband and daughter, after she was kidnapped by her ex-husband and harassed by an online stalker. Charlotte also had a difficult few years, following the tragic death of her parents, a miscarriage, and a bitter divorce from her abusive, ex-husband. Guy had attacked Charlotte and left her for dead, before his disappearance a year earlier. As Charlotte grieves for the loss of her best-friend, she tries single-handedly to keep the company afloat, whilst also navigating a new relationship. When an old acquaintance makes an appearance at her office, Charlotte is forced to travel to a remote, private island off the coast of Brazil, to find the truth about her best friends disappearance. The Last Time I Saw Her is the next instalment in this gripping, psychological drama series by D.F. Kennedy. The book follows on from where the last book ended, as Dahlia’s aircraft mysteriously disappears on route to Puerto Rico. This book tells the story from Charlotte’s perspective, an equally fascinating and enigmatic character. Full of chilling thrills, nail-biting suspense, and timely-placed twists and turns, the story keeps you invested as you read in eager anticipation of what's going to happen next. Just when you thought you had it all figured out, a new clue takes you in an entirely different direction! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An electrifying, page-turning, psychological thriller, with an intriguing plot, fascinating characters, and a multi-layered storyline. Purchase here

< Back Corinne Westbrook The Hollow One The Hollow One by Corinne Westbrook is a chilling and poignant novel, exploring grief, neglect, and the haunting presence of loss. Set in a decaying home on the edge of a forest, the story follows Ellie, a young girl burdened with the care of her infant brother, Sam, as she struggles to navigate a world of abandonment, isolation, and creeping dread. Westbrook’s writing is deeply atmospheric, immersing readers in a world where the house itself feels alive, and the woods loom as a sinister force. Ellie is a compelling protagonist, a child forced to grow up too quickly in the absence of parental care. Her resilience and vulnerability are palpable, making her journey both heart-breaking and relatable. Her mother, a figure consumed by her own struggles, is a tragic character whose neglect leaves Ellie to shoulder the weight of responsibility for her brother. The eerie figure of her father—or what appears to be him—adds layers of tension and emotional complexity, as Ellie grapples with her longing for connection and the fear of what he truly represents. Ellie’s longing for safety and love drives the narrative, and her interactions with the sinister figure of her father highlight the blurred lines between love, fear, and desperation. The novel’s supernatural elements are woven seamlessly into the story, creating a sense of psychological horror that is both terrifying and tragic. The creature that takes on the guise of Ellie’s father is a chilling embodiment of her grief and longing, and its presence in the story is haunting. Westbrook’s ability to blend the supernatural with reality makes this novel a haunting and unforgettable experience. Highly recommended for those who appreciate a slow-burn, emotionally charged horror story. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written and deeply unsettling debut that will resonate with fans of dark, character-driven narratives. Purchase here

< Back Carl Gorham My Life in a Garden My Life in a Garden is a poignant and deeply personal memoir by author and TV writer/producer, Carl Gorham. In 2005, Gorham retreats from the hustle and bustle of London, with his wife and their four year old daughter. They find the house of their dreams in the Norfolk countryside, complete with three acres of land, a maze, orchard, tennis court and outdoor swimming pool. Gorham loves the garden but describes himself as the ‘world’s most useless gardener’. He has ambitious plans for the land, but everything changes following his wife’s death in 2007. Overcome with grief, and with a young daughter to take care of, the garden falls into a state of disrepair. A few years later, with a new love and renewed energy, the garden finally gets the attention it deserves. But, when Gorham’s TV work dries up, he is left with no option to move out and rent the house out as a holiday let. He hires a professional gardener and together they attempt to transform the garden into a tranquil space for paying guests. My Life in a Garden by Carl Gorham is a beautifully written, tender and emotional memoir. The book chronicles Gorham’s journey as he attempts to reclaim his life and garden following death, grief, illness and a breakdown. What begins as an effort to maintain the physical land soon becomes a symbolic act of survival. Gorham’s connection with his garden mirrors his life – tired and careworn, neglected in places, but slowly coming back to life after a long period of turbulence. The memoir is a moving exploration of how our external world can reflect our internal struggles, and how tending to the earth can help us through the healing process. The garden provides a rhythm and a sense that life - even though altered - carries on. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A warm, honest, and funny memoir about love, loss, and the healing power of nature. Purchase here

< Back Douglas King An Innocent World An Innocent World by author Douglas King is a deeply thought-provoking exploration of a hypothetical scenario: What if Adam and Eve had chosen not to eat the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil? This Christian-based non-fiction book delves into the implications of such a choice, contrasting two paths of existence—the innocent, immortal life represented by the Tree of Life; and the guilty, mortal life filled with suffering and character-building. King uses deductive logic to examine profound questions about human nature, morality, and the purpose of suffering. He proposes that the Guilty world, with its pain and challenges, is a necessary path to build the strength of character required to stand in the presence of Almighty God. The book also imagines a world of Innocents, free from human evil, crime, and war, yet still subject to accidents and natural disasters. King contrasts this idyllic world with the harsh realities of our own, highlighting the prevalence of human suffering and evil. The book is rich in philosophical and theological insights, supported by biblical references and logical reasoning. King’s writing is accessible yet deeply reflective, encouraging readers to question their beliefs and consider alternate perspectives on existence, morality, and faith. A fascinating and compelling read for those interested in philosophy, theology, and speculative thought. An Innocent World challenges readers to reflect on their own lives and the choices that shape their spiritual journey, offering a fresh perspective on the human experience. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A bold and speculative exploration of Christianity, morality, suffering, and the human experience. Purchase here