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The Christmas Trials < Back William Carroll The Christmas Trials Book blurb... When seventeen-year-old Morgan is unexpectedly summoned to the North Pole, she discovers she's been chosen to compete in the ancient trials to become the next Santa Claus. As she faces magical challenges and rival candidates from around the world, Morgan learns that the true test isn't about power or perfection, but about about kindness, courage, and the quiet strength that has always lived inside her. Purchase here

< Back Carter Fielding Murder in the Marshes The Blake sisters are back to solve another murder mystery. Finley Blake is travelling home to Charleston with her life partner Max Davies for her sister’s wedding. Whitt is marrying David Quinn, and Finley is looking forward to spending time with her family and friends. Whitt has rented a stately mansion for the wedding party, and guests are due to arrive soon. As Whitt and David check the house before the guests arrival, they find a dead body wrapped inside a sleeping bag in the closet. Whitt thinks she recognises the man but cannot place him. The police are called, and a murder investigation opens when they discover the man has a blunt force trauma to the head. Whitt and David, and the wedding party, are relocated to Whitt and Finley’s aunt’s house, while the police search the property. The body is later revealed to be Whitt and Finley’s estranged cousin, Tommy. As the wedding party settle into the house, and preparations for the wedding begin, Whitt and Finley take a trip with their parents to their rental property in Beaufort. As they examine the house that has been left empty for many years, they find another dead body. Inside an old army issue duffle bag, they find a skeleton and thousands of pounds in cash. The police are called again, and another murder investigation opens. As Whitt and David find themselves under suspicion, their upcoming wedding is put in jeopardy. As the police fail to make any progress, Whitt and Finley start their own investigation, starting with enquiries into their own family. Their investigation reveals dark family secrets, a sinister blackmail plot, and a web of deceit and lies. But as the sisters get closer to the truth, they find themselves caught up in a dangerous situation. Will the sisters find a connection between the murders? Will they identify the culprit? And will Whitt and Davids marriage go ahead? Murder in the Marshes is the fourth instalment in the Blake Sisters Travel Mystery Series by Carter Fielding. The book sees the return of the Blake sisters, as they return home for Whitt’s wedding, and find themselves embroiled in another murder investigation. The sisters become unlikely amateur detectives as they discover not one, but two, dead bodies. This is a gripping murder mystery, full of mystery and suspense. While the book successfully embodies the cozy mystery genre, it also explores the sisters personalities, personal lives, and relationships. This adds depth to the characters and enhances the readers emotional investment into the series. While the book can be read as a stand-alone, readers will benefit from reading the previous books to get the full enjoyment of this cosy murder mystery series. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An enjoyable read, perfect for fans of cozy murder mystery. Purchase here

< Back Matthew Binder Pure Cosmos Club Can a flailing artist find his place in the lavish New York art scene? Paul, a thirty-seven-year-old New Yorker, is sacked from his job for not meeting the minimum expectations of performance. He lies to his girlfriend and keeps up the pretence of going to work for several months, while at the same time trying to set himself up as a visual artist. When his girlfriend discovers his betrayal she leaves him instantly, leaving him alone in his apartment in New York City with his disabled dog named Blanche. In an art studio with his friend and fellow artist, Danny, Paul attempts to make a living creating and selling art. But his art is unconventional and often misunderstood, and he struggles to be accepted by the traditional art world. When Paul has an affair with a married woman, he discovers that her husband is the leader of the Pure Cosmo Club, a secretive, quasi-religious cult that promotes rebirth and freedom of thought. In his quest to find his true self and a deeper purpose in life, Paul becomes obsessed with the club. He desperately tries to reach the clubs highest ranks, sacrificing his friendships and business relationships along the way. Pure Cosmos Club by author Matthew Binder is an original satirical comedy, that follows the chaotic life of an eccentric visual artist as he attempts to navigate the art world in New York City. The author delivers a hilarious and thought-provoking commentary on the world of high art, celebrity, and fashion. Paul is a typical anti-hero, self-absorbed, annoying, and deeply flawed. But somehow, he is a relatable and likeable character, that readers will root for. His relationship with his dog, is endearing. Overall, a unique, clever, funny, and entertaining novel. This is not my preferred genre, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The book will appeal to readers who enjoy satire and dry humour. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A clever, sharp, and funny satire about the lavish art world. Wild, weird, and wonderful in equal measure. Purchase here

< Back Cynthia Hughes Live...But LIVE! Author Cynthia Hughes, tells the story of her diagnosis, treatment and recovery from cancer In 1987, the author Cynthia Hughes was diagnosed with breast cancer, at thirty-two years old. As a wife and mother of four young children, the diagnosis was devastating for the family, and Cynthia experienced a range of emotions from pride, shame, fear and a feeling of failure. Cynthia was told that surgery was the only solution to sustain her life, and underwent a full mastectomy, followed by two rounds of chemotherapy and radiation. She remained strong and positive throughout her treatment, by following her faith and choosing to live her life. Following the treatment, Cynthia was advised not to have another baby, as the increase in oestrogen during pregnancy could cause the cancer to return and the cells to grow rapidly, which would put her life in danger. Thirty-nine months following her surgery, Cynthia fell pregnant and was advised by doctors not to continue the pregnancy. Cynthia ignored the doctor’s advice, followed her faith, and gave birth to a healthy baby boy. The cancer did not return, and Cynthia later went on to have two more healthy babies, another son and a daughter. Thirty-six years after her cancer diagnosis, Cynthia wrote Live...But LIVE! to document her cancer journey, to share her faith in Yah, to help and support others, and to encourage others to choose life. Live...But LIVE! Is a beautiful and inspiring memoir from author Cynthia Hughes, telling the story of her diagnosis, treatment and recovery from cancer. Cynthia describes how her faith in Yah got her through this difficult period in her life, and how she chose to live her life, rather than focus on death. Cynthia describes the ten keys that allowed her to experience faith and live her life to the fullest. Cynthia’s story, guidance and keys may help others who are going through difficult times. This book provides a great record of Cynthia’s journey, which will be treasured by her loved ones for years to come, and will provide comfort, hope and inspiration to others. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful and inspiring memoir that will provide comfort, hope and inspiration to others. Purchase here

< Back Kate Seng Mazie's Full Heart: An Adoption Story Mazie's Full Heart highlights the natural curiosity of an adopted child. Mazie's desire for clarity allows her to realize just how much she loves the only family that she knows and that includes Noodle, her favorite pet! Purchase here

< Back Nick Vakalopoulos There's Something About ROBINS The beautiful robin is captured in this children’s picture book, by author and wildlife photographer, Nick Vakalopoulos. There's Something About ROBINS follows a robin in its natural habitat, as it hops in the grass, searches for food, listens for predators, and prods the ground to find a worm or a bug. The robin soars through the sky before landing on the ground to feed its young. There's Something About ROBINS features glorious technicolour photographs of Robins in their natural environment, taken and edited by Vakalopoulos. This book is a great introduction to robins for young readers, but older readers will enjoy the photography too. We might be fortunate to spot a robin in nature, but we rarely get an opportunity to see a robin up close, and in this level of detail. The robin is a stunning bird, and the photographs wouldn’t look out of place on a festive greetings card. The book might inspire children and adults to grab their binoculars and explore birds in their natural habitats. While aimed at a younger audience, this book is a great reference for readers of all ages. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A glorious book about the beautiful robin, and a perfect resource for wildlife enthusiasts. Purchase here

< Back Katherine Lockwood Why Me Mama A Childrens Book About The Disability Experience A little owl has a big worry. It’s Rose’s birthday and she is planning a party, but she is not looking forward to the celebrations. She is afraid her friends will not want to come to the party because she is different. Her mom explains that she felt different from her friends too, but people couldn’t see her difference. Some differences can be seen, but others cannot. So, Rose decides she wants to invite everyone, and as she hands out her invitations, she learns that many of her friends have differences too. Some of the differences are visible, but some of them are not visible. As Rose prepares for her birthday party, she learns that sometimes her friends have to find new ways of doing things, but it does not stop them from joining in and taking part. Rose also learns that some of her friends cannot attend her party because it is just too difficult for them, but she makes sure they still feel involved by sharing her birthday cake with them. The day of the party arrives, and Rose is looking forward to the celebrations. Rose understands that many of her friends have differences, and their differences make them who they are. She soon realises they are all wonderful and unique, and so is she. Why Me, Mama? A Childrens Book About The Disability Experience by author Katherine Lockwood is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book, about Rose who is worried about being different but learns to accept and love her differences. This is a powerful and inspiring story about a little girl, told through the eyes of an adorable owl. Featuring a variety of charming woodland creatures with human characteristics, young children will be able to connect with their emotions and experiences. The book will help young children learn the importance of equality, diversity, and inclusion, of accepting people the way they are, and of celebrating their individual differences. An excellent choice for parents and educators to explore themes of self-acceptance and friendship with young readers. The enchanting illustrations by Evgeniya Erokhina, complement the story perfectly, capturing the owl’s changing emotions and the delightful woodland setting. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written and illustrated picture book, which explores themes of self-acceptance and friendship. Purchase here

< Back Dorrie-Lenore Parsons Becoming Hazel: Inherited Treasures Book 1 Book blurb... Inspired by true events Hazel Cunningham was born to faithful, loving parents in Kalamazoo, Michigan in December, 1889. She had a severe curvature of her spine and one shortened leg, and there was some talk about why the Lord had allowed that to happen - or whether it was a curse. But Hazel saw no reason why she should be constrained by anyone's expectations, though the taunts from others were distressing. "Midget." "Cripple." "Willful." Stubborn." She had also heard "Brilliant." "Inspired." and "Brava!" She adored applause, and she lived for it. Hazel yearned to be an independent, modern woman, and her opportunity came when she was sent away to Mineral Wells Texas to be "cured" of her congenital ailments. There she met Mildred Witherspoon, a generous new friend and confidante; JB Parker, a movie theater owner and mentor; Maria de Jesus, a suffragist; and Charlie Roberts, an awkward fireman nearly two decades older and two feet taller, who fell head-over heels in love with her. She was about to break all the rules with their help. Purchase here

< Back Charly Froh The Dragon and the Unicorn: The Magic of Friendship Two unlikely friends must work together to find their way home, by author Charly Froh In the Emerald Kingdom, there are two fantastical cities, separated by the Marble Mountain. On one side live the fiery dragons in Cloud City. On the other side, the magical unicorns live in Sparkle Land. The creatures that live in these cities are happy and content in their own wonderful worlds, and are not aware of each other’s existence. Until one day, a storm strikes the kingdom, and the creatures are carried away far from home. Lost, alone, and far from home, Dan, a fiery dragon from Cloud City, stumbles across a strange and unfamiliar creature. The creature is Fran, a magical unicorn from Sparkle Land. Curious of each other, but with no time to spare to make new friends, and too afraid to ask for help, the two creatures try to find their own way home. But poor Dan’s wing has been hurt in the storm and he cannot fly, and poor Fran’s hoof is injured, and she gets stuck in the ice. The pair know that their only option is to work together and help each other find the mountain. As Dan rescues Fran from the ice, and Fran heals Dans wound, the pair start their perilous journey towards home, and on an adventure through the sky, across the sea and over the ice. Will Dan and Fran ever make it home? And will the two new best friends ever see each other again? The Dragon and the Unicorn: The Magic of Friendship is a super, engaging, and entertaining picture book by author Charly Froh. With two cute and loveable characters, a wonderful fantasy world, and positive messages about friendship, resilience and teamwork, this book will appeal to young children who love magic and adventure. With lots of lovely alliteration and repetition, and many humorous scenes, this book is a fun read for the whole family. I’m sure young readers will demand to read more about Dan and Fran, and I hope there will be more books in this series! The bright, digital illustrations by Zuzana Svobodová really capture the humour, and bring the characters and their personalities to life perfectly. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A super picture book with two loveable characters, a wonderful fantasy world, and positive messages about friendship, resilience, and teamwork. Purchase here

< Back D Burton Smith Quoth the Raven Author D. Burton Smith offers a fascinating insight into the world of a young raven. Named after an Edgar Allan Poe poem, Quoth the North American raven lives high up in a nest on the edge of a cliff, overlooking the ocean. He is one of three chicks, and his mom and dad take good care of him and his siblings. They keep their nest fresh, clean, and tidy, and bring food for the chicks every day. Until he is two or three years old, and finds a partner of his own, Quoth joins a rowdy group of young ravens, called the unkindness of ravens. He enjoys dropping and catching objects from the sky, and he catches small animals, like mice, to eat. He likes shiny things, and often picks up objects that have been left by humans. One day, he meets a raven named Viola. After courting for many months, Quoth and Viola build a nest together and prepare for their own chicks. Quoth the Raven is a delightful and beautifully illustrated picture book by author D. Burton Smith, about the life of a North American raven, named Quoth. The book follows his journey from before he was born, his life as a chick and a young adolescent, until he meets a life partner of his own. Burton Smith describes the behaviours and habitat of this beautiful, and often misunderstood, bird. While often associated with death and illness, raven’s are one of the smartest birds in the world. They can use tools, play games, and mimic animal, bird, and even human sounds. Ravens can even recognise people and hold grudges against those who have wronged them! The illustrations by Paul Hock are stunning. Each page is a work of art, with vivid colours and intricate details that bring Quoth’s world to life. Written from the perspective of the raven, this is a charming story that will engage readers of all ages. While primarily aimed at children, the illustrations and story make it a pleasure to read for adults and children alike. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful and beautifully illustrated picture book, that will spark children’s curiosity about the natural world and this magnificent species. Purchase here

< Back Liza Gino Imelda's Secret Author Liza Gino details the horrors of the Pacific War from a woman’s perspective Cousins Imelda and Gloria witness Japanese soldiers shoot a neighbour in cold blood and take captive a young woman during the Pacific War. Imelda’s father, Don Fulgencio, fears for the girl’s safety and hides them in the basement, cutting their hair short and dressing them like boys. But when Don tragically passes away, the girls are captured and subjected to horrific abuse by Japanese soldiers. Kenji, an old friend of Imelda’s, and now a Colonel in the Japanese Imperial Army, rescues the girls and takes them to a place of safety. Forty years later, as Gloria lays in a hospital bed in San Francisco, the women reflect on their experiences during the war and the sexual violence they suffered at the hands of the Japanese. Gloria’s dying wish is to talk about their experience and expose the Japanese for their war crimes against women. But Imelda has never discussed the crimes with her family and is reluctant to share her experience. When Kenji suddenly reappears, Imelda finds the strength and courage to tell her story, and she can finally start to heal from her past trauma. Set during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines during World War II, Imelda’s Secret is a heart-breaking novel, based on the real-life experiences of women who endured horrific abuse and sexual violence by the Japanese Imperial Army. This is a powerful and thought-provoking novel, which details the horrors of war and tells the story from a woman’s perspective. The book is for all those women and girls who experienced sexual abuse and exploitation during war and conflict. Their story will not be forgotten. Thank you, Liza Gino, for sharing this story and for all the work you do for women and girls by raising awareness of rape, sexual slavery, and crimes against humanity. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A powerful and thought-provoking novel, detailing the horrific abuse and sexual violence experienced by women during the Japanese invasion of the Philippines in World War II. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Juliet Rose Do Over Can Sam leave her past behind and ‘do over’ in a new town? Samantha (Sam) Rutliffe packs up everything she owns into her car, and drives. She doesn’t know where she is going, she just wants to leave her old life behind. She ends up in a small tourist town by the ocean and sleeps in her car overnight. The town looks like the perfect place to start a new life, enabling her to leave all of her troubles behind. Sam settles into the town, finding herself a place to live and a job as a bar tender at a local bar. She meets lots of new people, and develops a close friendship with two lifeguards, Smitty and Casey. But the whole town is shocked when Casey’s lifeless body is found in the ocean. The cause of his death is uncertain, but drugs are found in his system, and his friends suspect suicide. Rumours spread across the town, and soon the nice boy who tragically lost his life, becomes known as a worthless, back-alley junkie. As Sam comes to term with losing her friend, she grows closer to Smitty, and they soon develop an intimate relationship. But as their relationship develops, Sam learns more about Smitty’s shady past, and his involvement in the local drug scene. As Smitty’s past finally catches up with him, Sam must make a difficult decision about their future together. Will she stay with Smitty as he faces the consequences of his previous misdemeanours? Or will she pack up her car again and start anew in the next town? Do Over, by author Juliet Rose, is a heart-warming novel about a young woman’s struggle with self-acceptance and undiagnosed mental illness. Sam makes a terrible error of judgement and betrays her best friend. She is riddled with guilt and unable to move on from her mistake. She sees her only option is to pack up and leave town, and start over again. But before she can move on with her life, and accept the love she deserves from Smitty, she must face her own demons. This is an authentic, well written and easy to read novel, with likeable and relatable characters, and an intriguing plot. The book deals with issues of mental illness, crime, and drug addiction, that many readers will relate to, and empathise with. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An authentic, well written and heart-warming novel about a young woman’s struggle with self-acceptance and undiagnosed mental illness. Purchase here