< Back Timothy D. White The Original Human Beings: Sometimes, in the Darkest Moments, We Can See the Brightest Lights! Book blurb... The world treated her as collateral damage. She answered with music—a premonition of rediscovering humanity. In a world growing numb to cruelty, The Original Human Beings tells the inspirational story of a girl named Never—a Honduran orphan who escapes living in a Central American city dump and journeys north with a cello on her back. She's fighting simply to stay alive. She alone could protect her hilarious little brother, Homero. She searched for a hero—but found a dreamy Nez Perce young man, the most athletic person she had ever seen, who helped her realize the hero was staring back at her in the mirror. It is a romance as scandalous as it is soulful, with no promise of happily ever after—only truth. She found refuge in Loco Lucy, the garbage dump's foul-mouthed, delightfully deranged, vampire-dressing matriarch. She was hunted by General Alejandro Mendoza—El Caudillo—a ruthless crime lord who misbelieved he was her father and would burn down the world to control her. And she was stalked by Alonzo Gomez, a seven-foot hitman with a French accent, a loaded pistol, and a soul darker than midnight—until she made him believe in something more dangerous. It is a high-concept saga infused with magical realism. It echoes with the mythic power of Le Morte d'Arthur—as timeless a tale as we may see in our generation. This is how we remember what truly matters. This is how we broken walk out of the monster. Purchase here

< Back Rozsa Gaston Margaret of Austria “Fortune, misfortune, fortifies one.” Margaret of Austria, born in Brussels in 1480, was the only daughter of the great Habsburg Roman Emperor, Archduke Maximilian I of Austria, and the Duchess Mary of Burgundy. She was raised to become Queen of Austria, and betrothed to Charles, the Dauphin of France. As a young girl she was sent to France to experience life at the French court. But, when King Charles married another woman, Maximillan forms an alliance with Spain. Margaret marries Juan , the Prince of Asturias and heir to the Spanish throne. But their marriage is short lived, when Juan becomes ill and dies just a few months later. Four years later, Maximillan arranges a marriage between Margaret and Philibert II, the Duke of Savoy. The Duke has little interest in state affairs, and Margaret begins to manage the Duchy, where she develops skills in leadership and diplomacy. After Philibert's death, Margaret's becomes the governor of the Netherlands in 1507, as Regent for her nephew, Charles V, who was too young to rule the country. Margaret of Austria: Governor of the Netherlands and Early 16th Century Europe’s Greatest Diplomat is an engaging, historical fiction novel by author and art historian, Rozsa Gaston, about one of Europe’s great, but often overlooked, leaders. The book follows the life, fortunes, and misfortunes of Margaret, from her early life, her two marriages and her role as Governor of the Netherlands, through to her death in 1530. Gaston describes her many connections to European royalty, and how she became an accomplished leader and diplomat, negotiating disputes between various foreign parties and maintaining peace in the Netherlands. During a significant period in European history, when women seldom had a voice or role in politics, Margaret became one of the most prominent figures of her time. This is a rich, insightful, and entertaining historical fiction novel, with a captivating cast of historical figures. Meticulously researched by Gaston, this book will appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction, particularly those interested in early European politics. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: With a captivating cast of historical figures, the book sheds light on the fascinating life of one of Europe’s great leaders. Purchase here

< Back Dr. Marlena E. Uhrik The Magic of Making A DIFFERENCE Book blurb... Get ready to be transported into the heartwarming and inspiring journey of an eight-year-old girl with a big heart and even bigger dreams. Through a tender yet challenging relationship with her mother, this story reveals the power of love, resilience, and hope in the face of life’s trials. This profound yet simple tale captures a rollercoaster of emotions — despair, scarcity, compassion, and empathy — leading to an unforgettable “Aha Moment” that transforms not only the young girl’s outlook but also those around her. It’s a story of shifting from “I can’t” to “I can,” and discovering the extraordinary ripple effect that a single act of kindness or determination can create. Rich with meaning and filled with universal lessons, this book reminds readers of the incredible impact one person can make. It will leave you inspired, uplifted, and ready to embrace your own power to make a difference. A must-read for anyone seeking hope, inspiration, and a renewed belief in the beauty of humanity. Purchase here

< Back Jennifer Radtke When a Catholic Gets a Lutheran Pregnant Book blurb... When a Catholic Gets a Lutheran Pregnant is a powerful, deeply moving memoir that explores family, faith, disability, and resilience through the life and loss of Todd Simon — a man born with profound intellectual and physical disabilities whose quiet strength shaped everyone around him. Told through the eyes of his sister and lifelong guardian, this book exposes the realities of mid-century institutionalization, the emotional cost of caregiving, and the enduring bond between siblings. Set against the backdrop of a large Midwestern family shaped by poverty, religious tension, and generational trauma, the memoir is both heartbreaking and unexpectedly humorous. At once raw and compassionate, this story is not only about loss — but about dignity, belonging, and the kind of love that endures when systems fail and words fall short. Purchase here

< Back Eddie Wayne Runde The Genesis Trust The Genesis Trust by Wayne Runde is a compelling blend of science fiction, Christian faith, and historical reflection. The novel explores the journey of a secretive scientific community, the Genesis Trust, founded by scientists who integrate their belief in God with scientific exploration. The story spans decades, beginning in the early 20th century and extending into a dystopian future where society has crumbled under the weight of moral decay and misguided scientific pursuits. The narrative is divided into five parts, each focusing on distinct aspects of the Genesis Trust's evolution and its interactions with the outside world. The first part introduces the origins of the Trust, its founding members, and their mission to pursue science while acknowledging divine creation. The story then delves into the challenges faced by the Trust, including confrontations with the U.S. government and the scientific elite, who dismiss their work as "science denial." The novel also explores the Trust's efforts to remain hidden while advancing their research and developing groundbreaking technologies, such as teleportation devices and personal shields. The plot thickens as the Trust faces threats from the U.S. military and internal dissent from younger members who wish to reveal their existence to the world. Runde skilfully weaves themes of faith, redemption, and the pursuit of truth throughout the novel. The characters are well-developed, with Craig Marsh standing out as a relatable and inspiring protagonist. His humility, resourcefulness, and unwavering faith make him a compelling figure. The Genesis Trust raises thought-provoking questions about the intersection of science and religion, the consequences of abandoning moral principles, and the importance of community and trust. The novel challenges readers to consider the role of faith in scientific discovery and the moral implications of technological advancement. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thought-provoking and imaginative novel that combines science fiction with Christian themes Purchase here

< Back Simon Vine Turning Skills Into Dumb Luck: Skills and Mindset for the Times of the Fourth Industrial Revolution Book blurb... This isn’t a book of clichés—it’s a practical, honest guide to building a meaningful and successful career without losing your soul. 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 Brian R Estvander Stilled: The Story of Inklebrawt Winklehank An original and gripping sci-fi adventure, by author Brian R Estvander Inklebrawt (Ink) Winklehank is a Huply - a hybrid of a human and a biologically engineered species, created by humans using nanomachinery (the Plythi’i). The Plythi’i are a peaceful and empathetic species, and have psychokinetic abilities, called the Plythi’i Sense. Since their creation, the Plythi’i and Huply have lived in harmony with humans, in a world called Ply’. But the Shepherds, an exiled group of half-breeds and humans, want to eliminate any type of artificial speciation, threaten to attack Ply’ and eradicate all Huply and Plythi’i. Ink has always struggled to balance his advanced Plythi’i abilities and empathic temperament, with his wild human emotions and desires. But, when threatened by the Shepherds, Ink must learn to come to terms with his true identity to locate his Plythi’i siblings and safeguard the future of the human race. Stilled: The Story of Inklebrawt Winklehank by author Brian R Estvander is an original sci-fi adventure about a group of hybrid siblings and their fight for survival against a rogue group of Shepherds who want to eliminate them, and all artificial speciation. It is an epic battle of good versus evil, nature versus technology. The story interweaves effortlessly across galaxies and between past and present, revealing the complex backstory of the species and the characters. Overall, an expertly crafted sci-fi adventure, which brings together science, technology, and human evolution. With a fast-paced and gripping plot, authentic and believable characters, and excellent world building, this book will appeal to fans of action, adventure and science fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An epic sci-fi adventure about a group of hybrid siblings and their fight for survival. Purchase here

< Back Andy Lipman The CF Warrior Project, Volume 2: Celebrating Our Cystic Fibrosis Community A deeply moving collection of stories about cystic fibrosis (CF), from author Andy Lipman Author Andy Lipman writes the second volume of The CF Warrior Project: Celebrating Our Cystic Fibrosis Community. The first chapter presents the profiles of many trailblazers who saved lives through a lifetime of dedication to CF, including Doris Tulcin who created the CF Foundation. Chapter two shares the stories of those living with CF, such as six year old Liam Wilson, already an advocate for CF awareness and fundraiser. In the third chapter, we hear from several people who were diagnosed later in life, including Terry Wright an African American man who was not diagnosed until aged fifty-four, after years of pain and suffering, due to biases and stereotypes in diagnosis. Chapter four tells the stories of moms who have raised children with CF, including Margarete Cassalina and Laura Bonnell, both mothers of two CF warriors. Chapter five explores the impact of CF on the entire family, and presents stories from the parents, children, siblings and spouses of those living with CF. In Chapter six, we hear from those who have survived double-lung transplants, and in chapter seven, we hear from those who run to stay healthy and active, inspire others, and raise money for CF. Chapters eight and nine present the stories of famous people who are advocates for CF, and TV celebrities living with CF. Chapter ten discusses the benefits of exercise for CF, through various sports such as softball, tandem-surfing, bodybuilding, yoga, swimming, climbing, adventure sports, and martial arts. The eleventh chapter explores the unique ways people have made a difference, through fundraising, advocacy, research, science and politics. The final chapter is a beautiful and loving tribute to the author’s mother, and CF advocate, Eva Lipman. The CF Warrior Project, Volume 2: Celebrating Our Cystic Fibrosis Community , is a collection of thoughtful and inspiring stories by author Andy Lipman. This book is the second installment in the CF Warrior Project, and explores the impact of CF on those living with disease, their loved ones and their physicians, and many others who have dedicated their lives to raising awareness of CF. Told through a series of personal stories, this is a deeply moving and insightful collection, from a wide and diverse range of people impacted by CF. Each story is unique. Each story is powerful. Each story is inspirational. Each story will give hope to anyone living with, or impacted, by CF. This is a beautifully curated and written collection, and the author has done an excellent job at bringing the stories to life. Thank you to Andy Lipman for collating these stories, and to all the individual contributors who shared their personal stories. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A collection of thoughtful and inspiring personal stories about cystic fibrosis, and the impact on those living with the disease, their loved ones and their physicians. Purchase here

< Back Angela Williams Loving Me: After Abuse Loving yourself after abuse is the path to greater healing. Loving Me: After Abuse is a heart wrenching but inspiring memoir by Angela Williams that follows her journey towards healing and restoration, following years of childhood abuse. Williams discusses the horrific physical, emotional, and sexual abuse she experienced by her stepfather between the ages of three and seventeen. She describes the pain and trauma she experienced, and the significant impact of the abuse on all facets of her life. The abuse stole her innocence, and ravaged her confidence and self-respect, but it did not destroy her. Williams describes how the abuse made her stronger. Through professional counselling and listening to God, she was able to overcome the pain, trauma, and shame of the abuse, and learnt how to love herself. Divided into ten chapters, Williams describes her own personal journey towards loving herself, her life, and others. “ I’ve learned that a critical step on this healing journey is to learn to love myself in light of horrific circumstances that taught me to hate myself.” Williams uses her personal experience to help and support other survivors of abuse on their own healing journey. With guidance, such as maintaining good health, positive affirmations, sharing struggles, grounding techniques, seeking professional help, and connecting with a church, Williams hopes to break the cycle of abuse. Loving Me: After Abuse by Angela Williams is a deeply personal and moving memoir that chronicles Williams journey towards self-love after enduring many years of childhood abuse. This memoir was heart wrenching to read in places, as Williams discusses the abuse she experienced, and the impact this had on her life, including several attempted suicides. While the memoir deals with a difficult subject matter, it does have a positive message that will provide hope and healing to other survivors of childhood abuse. Loving Me: After Abuse is not just a memoir, but a source of inspiration and hope for anyone on their own journey towards healing. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A deeply personal and moving memoir, which will provide hope and healing to other survivors of childhood abuse. Purchase here

< Back Jennifer Ivy Walker Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle Can Princess Gabrielle and her lover Bastien save the Kingdom of Finistère. Princess Gabrielle, ‘the Viking Princess’ and daughter of the King Guillemin of Finistère, has returned home from Paris due to her father’s rapidly declining health. French law proclaims that a woman can neither inherit the throne or rule as queen in her own right. If her father dies before she marries, the throne and Kingdom of Finistère would be lost. The Marquis de Nantes is pressurizing the King to arrange a marriage between Gabrielle and his son, Ugolin Cauchon. Ugolin is a wicked and ruthless man who seeks control of the Breton seas and plans to revoke the Maritime Treaty which ensures safe passage along the coast. Rather than reject the offer outright, the King announces a Yuletide Joust, where members of the nobility will compete to win Gabrielle’s hand in marriage. Gabrielle is distraught and seeks comfort in the arms of Sir Bastien de Landuc, her equestrian tutor and royal personal guard. Bastien has secretly loved Gabrielle for many years and the relationship soon becomes intimate. Bastien dreams of marrying his Viking Princess, but without a title of nobility, he is unable to compete in the joust. Meanwhile, Ugolin is determined to become the King of Finistère, and will stop at nothing to win the contest. He has a wicked plan to win the contest, marry the princess, and then enslave her in the castle so he can take control of the Kingdom. Ugolin and his cronies attempt to kidnap Gabrielle, but she is saved by her beloved Bastien. The King rewards Bastien with a fiefdom and a title of nobility, which makes him eligible to compete in the joust. As Bastien prepares to enter the contest and win Gabrielle’s hand in marriage, Ugolin has another devious plan to take the princess, her royal dowry, and the Kingdom of Finistère. Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle is the first in a new ‘Christmas in the Castle Series’ by author Jennifer Ivy Walker. Set in the mythical Arthurian period, the book features familiar characters, such as Sir Lancelot du Lac, and other characters from Walkers’ Sea Raven trilogy series. With a beautiful, star-crossed love story, an enchanting fantasy world set within the royal courts, and a wicked villain, this medieval fantasy fiction novel was a joy to read. The book transports the reader to a mythical realm of kings and queens, armoured knights, and horses. A delightful read for those seeking escapism from reality. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A perfect cosy, medieval fantasy book to snuggle up and escape with over the holiday period. Purchase here

< Back EF Nordmed Market of the Never Setting Sun Book blurb... On the perpetually sunlit planet of Thabit, Stout, a gifted repair tech with dreams of space travel gets caught in a web of mystery when his neighbor's brother, Andrew, goes missing. His search leads him down a dangerous path, tangling with corporate conspiracies, a shadowy criminal organization, and a murder investigation that paints him as the prime suspect. With the help of his old flame Yasmeen, a police officer grappling with her own ethical dilemmas, can they unravel the truth before a catastrophic solar flare engulfs the planet and seals Andrew's fate? Purchase here