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< Back Gifford MacShane Rainbow Man A western historical fiction novel set in the 1880s Arizona Territory. 1880s, White’s Station Arizona Territory, Adam Donovan rescues Alec Twelve Trees, a native American silversmith after he was robbed, beaten, and dragged along the ground by a horse, by the US Cavalry patrol. The racially motivated attack leaves Alec with life threatening injuries and Adam seeks the assistance of his family and little sister, Irene Donovan. Irene, an accomplished herbalist, treats his wounds and helps to nurse him back to health. Alec and Irene had been best friends since childhood, and during his convalescence Alec realises just how much he loves her. Alec is reluctant to testify against the assailants, but Irene persuades him to reconsider. The attackers are court martialled and are eventually found guilty of the unprovoked attack on Alec. Alec and the wealthy Navajo Twelve Trees family had always looked after other’s less fortunate and were well respected members of the community. Alec had inherited a fortune from his grandfather but had promised to give most of it away to good causes. As the village reel from the unprovoked racist attack on Alec, the citizens join forces to try and push the army out of White’s Station. As Irene turns nineteen, she is visited by many suitors. Alec is distraught, but unable to declare his love for her, for fear her family will not approve. Rainbow Man (Donovan Family Saga Book 3) is a western historical fiction novel by Gifford MacShane, set in the 1880s Arizona Territory. This is the third book in the series, which follows the younger members of the Donovan and Twelve Trees families. The characters are well drawn, believable and engaging. The slow-burn romance between Alec and Irene is beautifully told. Meticulously researched, and full of historical details, this novel is a fascinating insight into life in the 1800s. I hadn’t read the previous books in the series, but I could follow the story easily. However, I recommend readers start with the first book, to get the full enjoyment of this series. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An engrossing and unforgettable western romance. Purchase here

< Back Billy Baldwin Orbit's Monster Nebula Beware, Author Billy Baldwin creates a monstrous world like no other. Have you ever wondered where monsters come from? The abdominal snowman? King Kong? The Loch Ness monster? Orbit’s Monster Nebula will take you on a journey through far distant galaxies to a planet like no other. A planet where only the bravest space travellers dare to venture. A planet where monsters are born. Big ones, small ones, pink ones, green ones, furry ones, slimy ones. Any kind of monster you dare to imagine was born on this planet, in a scare factory by young Orbit and the Astroblast family. But when Orbit notices his monsters are disappearing, he sets off on a treacherous journey to Earth to capture the monsters and bring them home. Will Orbit succeed in his mission? Or will the monsters escape and wreak havoc on planet Earth? This is a super scary, imaginative picture book that will appeal to intrepid monster hunters and wanna-be galaxy travellers. Baldwin creatures a horrifying but very humorous fantasy planet that will have young children shaking in their boots. The illustrator Liesl Bell is an outstanding talent. The wonderfully detailed, vibrant illustrations really capture the imagination and bring the terrifying creatures to life. Children will love pouring over the intricate images of the fantasy world and the disgusting creatures that inhabit it. We cannot wait to read more adventures or Orbit and the Astroblast family. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A super scary, imaginative picture book that will have young children shaking in their boots. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Dr Pietro Emanuele Garbelli The Doctor's Voice - Empowering Solutions to Physicians' Frustrations, Burnout and Healthcare Inefficiencies ‘Empowered doctors are catalysts for purposeful healthcare transformation’. In The Doctor's Voice - Empowering Solutions to Physicians' Frustrations, Burnout and Healthcare Inefficiencies, Pietro Emanuele Garbelli, Doctor of Medicine and founder of Transforming Healthcare Ltd, shares his experience of working as a doctor in the National Health Service in England. Dr Pietro describes his journey to becoming a doctor, from his own experiences as a young patient in Northern Italy and his struggles to fit in in an environment full of prejudices; through to his medical training in Italy, and his move to London to further develop his skills and clinical practice. Drawing on his own personal experiences, he shares his frustrations of working in a modern, complex healthcare system, and offers potential solutions to the common problems faced by doctors. He discusses ten common sources of frustrations and their impact on the workforce, such as: constrained budgets; the imbalance of supply and demand for healthcare services; increasing bureaucracy and restrictions placed on doctors; workload pressures, retention, stress, and burnout; and management and leadership challenges. As Dr Pietro writes, ‘ A common feeling I have experienced and observed time and time again is disempowerment: perceiving that we have no control over any of the problems affecting us, believing that the solutions depend on remote higher powers we cannot control or even influence, essentially feeling stuck and powerless .’ Dr Pietro aims to empower doctors and encourages them to become changemakers. This is an inspirational and provocative book that gives a much-needed voice to all those doctors and healthcare professionals who dedicate their lives to helping others. Through this book, Dr Pietro hopes to raise awareness of work-related frustrations, stress and burnout that are so common in healthcare and in many other workplace environments. Dr Pietro has written this book about/to f rustrated doctors, to help raise awareness of these issues and to drive a more positive workplace culture and environment. What I particularly liked about the book is that Dr Pietro doesn’t complain about these issues, he acknowledges the challenges and offers thoughtful and practical solutions to help doctors and improve patient care. Authentic, engaging, and accessible for all audiences, the book is a must read for anyone working in or with healthcare, including students, junior doctors, consultants, and healthcare managers. It will also appeal to those who are interested in the National Health Service and are passionate about health care reform. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspirational and provocative book that gives a much-needed voice to all those doctors and healthcare professionals who dedicate their lives to helping others. Purchase here

< Back Jonnie Ramsey Brown You Promised To Do No Harm: A True Story of Love, Loss, and the Horror of Healthcare Disparity for One African American Family Author Jonnie Ramsey Brown tells the heartbreaking story of the loss of her beloved husband and her fight to uncover the truth about his hospital treatment during his final days. The book is divided into three parts: Part 1 The Life, Part 2 The Loss, Part 3 The Fight. In Part 1, Jonnie describes her relationship with Thomas, how they met and built a happy home with their two children. Jonnie first met Thomas in 1972, aged twenty-three. After meeting by chance at a night club one evening, the couple fell deeply in love. Jonnie describes a fairytale romance and how from the moment they met, Thomas never left her side. The couple married in 1979. In Part 2, Jonnie describes how Thomas was suddenly taken ill during a family reunion in Florida. He was rushed to hospital and treated in an ‘unofficial’ ICU, when they couldn’t find out what was wrong with him. Jonnie recalls in graphic detail the neglect and subpar treatment her husband experienced, and her own experiences trying to navigate the hospital system and communicate with medical staff. Thomas’s condition deteriorated and he was moved to a hospice where sadly he passed away. Following his death, Jonnie describes her fight to uncover the truth about her husband’s illness and his treatment. She discovered that Thomas did not receive basic medical care and that the hospital had several opportunities to save his life but did not. Jonnie filed a lawsuit against the hospital in 2018. In Part 3, Jonnie describes the court case that ensued, and her struggle to get justice for her husband. You Promised To Do No Harm: A True Story of Love, Loss, and the Horror of Healthcare Disparity for One African American Family, is a poignant and heartbreaking memoir by Jonnie Ramsey Brown. This is a deeply moving book, written by Jonnie with such love, care, tenderness and compassion for her husband. Jonnie’s ability to put down in words this horrific experience is inspiring, and a true testament of her love for Thomas. The book highlights many failures in care, due to incompetence and racial discrimination. Sadly, Jonnie and Thomas’s story is not unique. Throughout the book Jonnie draws similar comparisons to the murder of George Floyd. Like George Floyd, Thomas did not receive the standard of care or compassion due to the color of the skin. This is a deeply personal and deeply distressing memoir, but it is a story that needs to be told. It gives a much-needed voice to Thomas and all those who do not have a voice. I hope this book will draw attention to racial discrimination in the healthcare system, and racism all its forms. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A deeply personal and deeply distressing memoir that shines a much-needed spotlight on racial disparities in the healthcare system. 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

< Back Trisha T Pritikin Then Came the Summer Snow: An Atomic Age Hero's Journey Then Came the Summer Snow by Trisha T. Pritikin is a compelling work of historical fiction set in Richland, Washington, during the 1950s. The novel intricately weaves the personal struggles of a family with the broader implications of living in the shadow of the Hanford nuclear site, a key facility in the U.S. atomic weapons program. Through the lens of Edith Higgenbothum, a determined homemaker, the story explores the devastating effects of radioactive fallout on communities downwind of Hanford. The novel delves into the secrecy surrounding Hanford’s operations, highlighting the government’s efforts to suppress information about the health risks posed by radioactive fallout. It also examines the societal dynamics of Richland, a government-owned atomic city where loyalty to the Hanford site often overrides concerns about public health. Edith’s journey is marked by her growing awareness of the dangers posed by radiation and her determination to protect her family and community, even at great personal cost. The story is rich with historical context, referencing real events such as the Windscale reactor accident in the UK and the Nevada atomic bomb tests. It also touches on broader themes, including the role of women in 1950s America, the impact of government secrecy, and the ethical dilemmas faced by scientists and engineers working in the atomic industry. Pritikin’s writing is vivid and evocative, capturing the tension and emotional turmoil of living in a community affected by nuclear fallout. The novel’s detailed descriptions of 1950s culture add authenticity and depth to the story. Then Came the Summer Snow is also a powerful commentary on the intersection of science, ethics, and public health. It raises important questions about the responsibilities of scientists and government officials in protecting the public from harm, and the role of ordinary citizens in holding them accountable. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history Purchase here

The Monarchs < Back Mark Sabbas The Monarchs A teenager escapes incarceration and is forced to confront the demons of his past. The ‘Facility’ is a secure, military base for a group of ‘new youth’ children, born with special abilities. The children, identified by their abnormally large eyes and extraordinary psychic capabilities, are taken from their families and imprisoned against their will. Every Sunday, scientists conduct horrific experiments on the young minds, with the hope of harnessing their telekinetic powers in the future. Seventeen year old Samuel Helen has been incarcerated inside the facility since he was a young boy. But after ten years of pills, injections, and shock therapy, Samuel still cannot control his powers, and neither can his handlers. When prodded hard enough, the monster that lays dormant inside of him awakens. Samuel seeks comfort and solace from his trusted tutor and mentor, Walter, and his girlfriend Evelyn, an orphan from a neighboring village. One day, a group of radicalised psychic children attack the facility and attempt to set free the imprisoned children. Walter is killed and Evelyn’s village is burnt to the ground. Samuel and Evelyn escape into the forest, but when Evelyn is involved in a catastrophic incident and left unconscious, Samuel blames himself. Samuel meets Luna, a psychic with telepathic powers, and they travel through the forest to seek refuge at the Sanctuary, a hidden colony of gifted youth. As Samuel struggles to master his growing powers, he is forced to confront the demons of his own traumatic past. The Monarchs is an epic, immersive, fantasy fiction novel, by debut author Mark Sabbas. Set in the not too distant future, Sabbas transports readers to a harrowing dystopian world where children are incarcerated to weaponize their telekinetic powers. With a unique blend of science fiction, fantasy and mysticism, Sabbas has created a unique futuristic world, full of action and memorable characters. Social commentary and contemporary references give this magical story an element of realism. A stand-out debut novel by Mark Sabbas. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : Beautifully written, with incredible world building and unforgettable characters, this book will appeal to readers of science fiction and fantasy of all ages. Purchase here

< Back Tina Neely Bacon's Very Important Christmas Job! Bacon Bits (Bacon for short) wants to help his family get ready for Christmas. Everyone has a job to make Santa’s work easier, and Bacon would like his own job too. He attempts to help his forever daddy build special toys for children, but he ends up making a big mess. He tries to help his forever mom spread the joy of Christmas by singing Christmas carols, but poor Bacon does not have the best singing voice. He even tries to help mawmaw by sealing Christmas card envelopes with his nose, but he makes all the cards go soggy. But just when Bacon has given up all hope of helping Santa, Santa recognizes Bacon’s unique talent and finds the perfect job for a Vietnamese pot-bellied pig. Tina Neely’s Bacon’s Very Important Christmas Job! is a delightful and heartwarming children’s book that captures the magic of Christmas through the eyes of Bacon Bit, a lovable Vietnamese pot-bellied pig. The story follows Bacon’s journey as he tries to help Santa in numerous ways, but nothing seems to go according to plan. Every time things go wrong, his family tells him he is loved. A wonderful way to remind young readers that everyone is loved and has something special to contribute. This is a funny and charming story for young readers, with valuable lessons about love, acceptance, belonging, and finding one’s special role in the world. The book’s vibrant and quirky illustrations complement the story perfectly. The inclusion of over five hundred hidden hearts adds an interactive element, making it a fun and engaging read for children. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A festive, heartwarming tale that will leave readers smiling and inspired. Pig-tastic! Purchase here

< Back Angie Bailey Believe Abigale believes there is more to life than the dull, grey world she inhabits, by author Angie Bailey Thirteen-year-old Abigale Johnson was born into a family of Never-Believers. A family who did not believe in Christmas, or birthdays, or fun, adventure or magic. A family whose life was dull and grey. But Abigale was a little different from the Johnson’s. She had dreams of a better life, and a life a little less grey. So Abigale spent most her time tyring to avoid her family, particularly her brothers who were the meanest of the mean, and teased and taunted Abigale every single day. One day, on a dreaded train trip to visit her despicable and very grey Aunt Violet, Abigale’s life changes for ever. After a knock on the head, Abigale discovers an alternate Fae world of wonder and magic, fae-folk, and Believers. Whizzing along on the Faedora magic train, Abigale meets lots of new friends and discovers Christmas and other wonderful celebrations. At thirteen, Abigale has her first ever birthday party, full of love and laughter. But not everyone on the magical train is happy with Abigale’s arrival, and they plot a sinister spell to extract her from the train during the next pink moon, putting her life in mortal danger. As Abigale’s new friends try to save her from doom, they soon discover Abigale has some important royal connections, and even her despicable Aunt Violet is not quite who she seems. Believe is an imaginative and enchanting novel. Well written by Angie Bailey and full of wonder, mystery and magic, the book has fabulous characters and a magnificent plot. This book will captivate both adults and younger readers. The book is the first part of a series, and we can’t wait to read the next instalment in Abigale’s magical journey. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An enchanting novel, with fabulous characters and a magnificent plot. This book will captivate both adults and younger readers.’ A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back JB Van Cleave PTSDragon Author Van Cleave explores the magic of the human brain, and how dragons have helped the human brain overcome great challenges. PTSDragon explores the magic of the human brain, and how dragons have helped the human brain overcome great challenges. People working in difficult or dangerous jobs, such as the military, emergency services and healthcare; and those who have experienced an accident, disaster, or crime, may experience trauma. A dragon can be summoned by the brain to help it cope with a dangerous or stressful situation, for example to help a soldier fight to victory, or to help a paramedic stay calm and focused. But sometimes a dragon is known to outstay its welcome and can stay with a person even after the danger has passed, causing further challenge, pain, sadness or discomfort to the brain and others around it. In these scenarios, wizards (psychiatrists) and dragon trainers (therapists) can help train the brain and manage the dragon. PTSDragon is an inspiring, insightful, and educational picture book for children, exploring an often complex and confusing subject matter. The imaginative use of dragons and magic will help children to understand the issue in a really engaging and accessible way. It will encourage families to discuss the topic, and help children to understand the experiences of their loved ones and the impact of PTSD. The book is a great resource for those who might have experienced trauma, or for anyone who wants to open up conversations about PTSD and mental health. Van Cleave provides hope to those experiencing trauma, and those that have been affected by PTSD, that support and help is available. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An inspiring, insightful, and educational picture book for children exploring PTSD and mental health. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Julie Ellis Williams Bella Joins the Service Bella Joins the Service by Julie Ellis Williams is a children’s picture book that captures the bond between a man and his dog, while highlighting the important role of service animals. The story follows Bella, a young Labrador, and her owner, Kirk, as they navigate a life-changing event. Kirk, an adventurous young man, enjoys an active lifestyle in the Colorado mountains with Bella by his side. However, their lives take a dramatic turn when Kirk is involved in a mountain bike accident, leaving him unable to use his arms and legs as he once did. Bella, sensing Kirk’s struggles, joins “the service” and trains as a service dog to help Kirk adapt to his new way of life. The story is told from Bella’s perspective, and readers are drawn into her world as she learns to assist Kirk with everyday tasks, such as turning lights on and off, picking up dropped items, and even helping him navigate with his wheelchair. The book highlights Bella’s determination and the challenges she faces during her training, emphasizing the importance of patience, perseverance, and love. The book addresses complex topics, such as disability and adaptation, in a way that young children will relate to. The story emphasizes the importance of resilience and finding new ways to enjoy life, even in the face of adversity. The water-color style illustrations by Penny Weber are warm and endearing, capturing the essence of the story beautifully. Based on a true story, this book is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the authors son Kirk, and his beloved dog, Bella. The book also provides valuable information about service dogs, including how families can train their own dogs and how shelter dogs can become service animals. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heart-warming and inspiring tale of the bond between a man and his dog, and the valuable work of service animals. Purchase here

< Back Barry Hoffner Belonging to the World Belonging to the World by Barry Hoffner is a deeply moving memoir that explores themes of grief, healing, and the transformative power of travel. Following the sudden loss of his wife Jackie in Botswana in 2017, Hoffner embarked on a remarkable journey to visit all 193 UN-recognized countries. What began as an attempt to escape his pain evolved into a profound quest for connection, understanding, and closure. The book is structured as a personal narrative, divided into seven parts, each capturing a different phase of Hoffner's journey. Hoffner's travels are both physical and emotional, as he grapples with his grief and seeks solace in the beauty and humanity of the world. His journey takes him to remote and challenging destinations, including Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, and Sudan, where he encounters resilience, kindness, and connection in the face of adversity. Hoffner's vivid descriptions of landscapes, wildlife, and people bring readers along on his journey, from the Kalahari Desert to the bustling streets of Bangkok. His encounters with individuals from diverse cultures, such as Syrian refugees in Lebanon and Bushmen in Botswana, highlight the universal threads of humanity—kindness, resilience, and the desire for connection. The memoir is interwoven with reflections on Hoffner's life with Jackie, their shared love for travel, and the family they built together. Hoffner's writing is raw, introspective, and poignant, capturing the depth of his sorrow and the gradual process of healing. The narrative is filled with moments of wonder and connection. His reflections on love, loss, and resilience are relatable and inspiring, encouraging readers to embrace life's uncertainties and find meaning in unexpected places. Hoffner's journey is about finding a sense of belonging that transcends borders and cultures. His story is a testament to the healing power of connection and the importance of embracing the unknown. The memoir invites readers to reflect on their own journeys and consider how they can find belonging and purpose in their lives. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This beautifully written memoir is a celebration of life, love, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Purchase here