< 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 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 Kat Miller The Sarcophagus Scroll Book blurb... When Ellie Meikle moves to the picturesque seaside town of St Andrews to study for her PhD, she soon feels as if she has made a mistake. She has no friends here, her replacement tutor seems to despise her, and book she needs for her research is constantly unavailable. But when she does get her hands on the book, her problems become a whole lot worse. Because this book contains a secret – a secret that someone is prepared to kill for. 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 Daniel Lawrence Abrams Aliens Venmoed Me a Trillion Dollars: The Short Story Douglas “Doug” Dawkins is a sceptical YouTuber known for debunking popular conspiracy theories. Doug’s wife, Lena, is an internationally acclaimed scientist, conducting groundbreaking astronomical research with the Belarusian State University. While Doug scoffs at the notion of alien life, Lena’s research has found undeniable proof of super-advanced, extraterrestrial communications. When Doug is contacted by aliens out of the blue, he thinks it is a scam. The aliens offer Doug huge sums of cash to conceal the truth about extraterrestrial life. They ask him to forward on a computer virus to the Belarusian State University, to destroy his wife’s research before it is made public. Believing the communication to be a prank, Doug sends the virus to the National Security Agency, to protect his own back. The virus completely destroys the NSA’s servers, and two NSA agents are sent to Doug and Lena’s home to spy on the couple, believing them to be Belarusian spies. When the aliens make contact again, Lena requests demonstrable proof that the aliens are real. But, when the aliens provide irrefutable proof of their existence, Doug and Lena find themselves in a whole heap of trouble. Aliens Venmoed Me a Trillion Dollars is a short genre-bending story by author Daniel Lawrence Abrams that fuses satire, science-fiction, conspiracy debunking, and espionage. Abrams delivers a sharp, satirical comedy about a guy who makes his living debunking conspiracy theories, only to discover indisputable proof of alien life. What starts out as a seemingly absurd message from an alien, quickly spirals into a darkly comedic series of events. Lena’s scientific integrity and Doug’s cynicism collide in high-stakes decisions that test their loyalty, love, and the very boundaries of reality. I enjoyed the clever inversion of roles: the sceptic becomes the target of the ultimate conspiracy, and the scientist must demand proof that shakes the foundation of her beliefs. The writing is sharp and laced with dry humor and biting social commentary. The result is a gripping page-turner that is both thought-provoking and laugh-out-loud funny. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary : Satire meets sci-fi in this fast-paced, darkly comic short story by Daniel Lawrence Abrams. Purchase here

< Back Jeffrey Hallett Paths Into Darkness And Light Dr. Tricia Carling, an eminent scientist and self-declared introvert, is working on a new technology project at Crystal Bay University. The ‘Immersive CoSimulation’ is being developed to enable people to physically interact with a remote environment using holographic technology. The project involves using dark matter and dark energy to create the physicality required for instrumentation. During one lab experiment, Tricia is seriously injured and is hospitalised for over a week. But following the accident, Tricia notices changes in her appearance and her physicality, she cannot explain. The accident hyper-stimulated her system, resulting in greater strength and speed than before, and enhanced healing abilities. As Tricia attempts to rebuild her lab, she also has to learn how to control her new powers. She discovers a connection to dark energy, and learns that the forces within her are the same as those responsible for the expansion of the universe. As Tricia embodies her new powers, she takes on a new persona and identity. She is determined to use her powers as a force for good, and sets out to help those in need. But when the activities of a terrorist organisation threaten humanity, Tricia’s character and abilities are put to the test. Paths Into Darkness And Light is a compelling and entertaining science / superhero fiction novel by author Jeffrey Hallett. The novel follows the story of Dr Tricia Carling, a brilliant scientist whose life takes an unexpected turn after a freak accident leaves her with abilities beyond her comprehension. As Tricia learns to control her new powers, she also learns more about herself and her character. Jeffrey Hallett does a great job at blending several genre’s – science fiction, super-hero fiction, self-discovery and adventure. I particularly enjoyed reading about Tricia’s journey, and her transition from an introverted scientist to a fierce superhero. The digital illustrations are a wonderful addition to the novel, and represent the story and the characters perfectly. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A compelling and entertaining blend of science fiction and super heroism, with a strong female protagonist on a captivating journey of self-discovery and adventure. Purchase here

< Back Felicia Taylor E. Southern Spiced: A Brown Girl’s Tale Poet, Felicia Taylor E, shares her memories of childhood, adolescence and young adulthood. Southern Spiced: A Brown Girl’s Tale is a collection of poems by Felicia Taylor E. centered around her childhood memories, adolescence and young adulthood. There are four distinct collections: ‘Beginning’, ‘Piney Woods Time’, ‘Blues of Life and Love’ and ‘Grateful’. The first is a collection about her early childhood, with sweet memories watching and learning from television, her love of books and her imaginary friends, movies, and her adventures with her mom and dad. But also, some traumatic memories of discrimination, random strangers touching her hair, the cruelty of her early years’ teacher, and a terrifying encounter with the Klu Klux Klan. The second collection is about her time growing up, spending time with her grandmother and grandfather, her love of music, playing out with friends, and the joy of singing in the church choir. In the third collection, Felicia describes her youth, her growing understanding of the world around her, the stories of others who fought every day for survival in an unjust society, the cruelty of dementia on patients and their loved ones, her growth as a young woman and a poet, a blossoming love with a ‘brown eyed Knight’, and thoughts about death. In the final collection, Felicia shares beautiful memories of lost loved ones. Southern Spiced: A Brown Girl’s Tale is a beautiful and poignant collection of poetry by Felicia Taylor E. The poems are both heart-warming and heart-breaking, as Felicia takes the reader on a journey through her life, and shares her experiences of growing up as a Black girl and woman in the South. The diverse collection of poems shows the authors ‘multilayers’ of womanhood and being a Black woman. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful and poignant collection of poetry that are both heart-warming and heart-breaking. Purchase here

< Back Donald Levin The World As It Is Book blurb... The lives of four strangers intersect when a shocking act of police violence inflames Detroit in 1963. “An unflinching, immersive, and incendiary portrait of injustice.” “Measured and haunting, this is a story that lingers long after the final page." “The historical authenticity permeates every layer, from the segregated housing protests to the nascent Motown sound.” “Historical fiction with skill and conviction . . . it deserves serious readership.” “Donald Levin masterfully developed a wide cast of characters. Even the minor characters felt fully fleshed out with their own recognizable quirks and mannerisms.” “Absorbing, angry, compassionate, and grounded in a way that stayed with me after the final page." Purchase here

< Back Susan Hayden Now You Are a Missing Person A memoir of love and loss, by poet and playwright Susan Hayden. Now You Are a Missing Person is a collection of poems, stories and memoir fragments, by author, poet and playwright Susan Hayden. Divided into eight parts, the collection follows Hayden’s journey from childhood through to adolescence and adulthood, as she searches for love, belonging and meaning in her life. Hayden describes growing up in the 60s and 70s in a quiet suburb of Encino, San Fernando Valley, and her move to the big city of Los Angeles as a young woman. With celebrity neighbours and dalliances with Hollywood actors, Hayden captures the glitz and glamour of Hollywood that many readers will be familiar with, but also the dark, seedy, underbelly of the city that often goes unnoticed. Hayden discusses her relationships with her parents, her friends and lovers. There are sweet, tender moments of love, joy and happiness, harrowing accounts of abuse, and painful memories of loss and grief. Now You Are a Missing Person by Susan Hayden is a stunning collection of poems and stories, drawn from the memoir of a woman who grew up in California and brushed shoulders with celebrities in Hollywood. Hayden has lived an unconventional and extraordinary life, and she tells her story with openness and honesty. The book is a hybrid of literary forms, weaving together poetry, short stories and fragmented memoir entries in both verse and prose. Each individual piece feels like a snapshot of a memory, woven together to tell the story of a life well-lived. Hayden’s writing is poetic and lyrical, even in its prose form, and the stories are full of wonder, warmth and humor. Throughout the book there are cultural references that defined the period– the music, food, fashion, events and stars– so vivid, I felt I was there walking by Hayden’s side. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A poignant and heartfelt collection of poems and stories, drawn from the memoir of a woman who has lived an unconventional and extraordinary life. Purchase here

< Back Hussein Kanji Happiness Deconstructed: The Hidden Architecture of a Life Well Lived Book blurb... Somewhere along the way, our ideas of happiness became contaminated. We internalized a version of success that wasn’t fully ours. It was louder, shinier, more marketable, and it promised a payoff that kept getting postponed. Eventually it confused us. We kept upgrading the surface while the underlying hunger stayed the same. So I’ve begun asking simple questions. What do I want? What do I need? What am I seeking? And where do these desires come from? Are they truly mine, or were they planted by a culture that benefits from my uncertainty, my dissatisfaction, my sense of never-enough? In Happiness Deconstructed, Dr. Hussein Kanji explores happiness, success, purpose, and identity, offering practices for quieting outside pressure and amplifying inner clarity. This is a profound examination of the human condition by a critical care physician who walks beside people at their most vulnerable. For the unfiltered truth, look no further. Happiness Deconstructed is the cornerstone for a life well lived. Purchase here

< Back Andrew Daniels Tomorrow's Rain Book blurb... Prepare to be whisked away on an adventure written by the majestic writer Andrew Daniels. His poetry is a monument to what a writer can create with their quill dipped in the sacred black ink of a poet's black heart. His drawings and illustrations bring his poetry to life with a flurry of colors and unique vision. Nothing is impossible if an artist has the imagination to build bridges and skyscrapers with only their words, and Andrew Daniels proves it in Tomorrow's Rain. However, will you find the answers to your questions in the trenches of his poetry? Grab your umbrella as Andrew Daniels takes you on an adventure to the state of Washington to find out. Good luck... Purchase here

< Back Doug Einfeld In the Shadow of the Most High: Uncovering My Jewish Ancestors' Perilous Journey Through History Book blurb... For generations, the truth remained hidden—until Doug Einfeld uncovered a family history long concealed: his paternal ancestors were Jewish. Purchase here