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< Back Daniel Collins The Little Candle Book blurb... This children's picture book follows a short candlestick's journey to self-acceptance. The story begins in a candle shop, where the short candle is bought by a man as a holiday gift for his youngest daughter Tonya. Tonya treasures it as her own holiday candle, carrying it with her as a valued possession during the Christmas Holiday. The short candle eventually realizes that his size doesn't matter when it comes to making someone happy. He soon learned that he was a century candle, and that he was made to burn for a hundred years or more. So joyful was he to learn this that he would have jumped for joy had he been gifted with any legs. Through the example of a candle, The Little Candle shows readers why comparing oneself to others isn't worthwhile. Everyone has their own special gifts and talents and it is recognized by others, although it may not be apparent at the moment. Purchase here

< Back Nathalie Martin The Inspired Retirement: Purpose and Passion in Your Next Adventure Book blurb... Retirement Can Be Anything We Want, As Long as We Know What We Want. Most people plan for retirement by checking their portfolios. Yet there is so much more to a happy retirement. This book focuses not on the money but what you'll actually do in retirement, helping readers plan and live a joyful, healthy, meaningful retirement. In a fun and thoughtful way, this book helps you picture, plan and start living a purposeful and inspired next chapter. Through its exploration of your own unique values, skills, and passions, it will infuse joy and direction into your life as you navigate one of life's most complex transitions. It playfully balances planning for a bright future with making the most of the here and now. Two of my back-cover endorsers are #1 New York Times Bestselling authors. Purchase here

< Back Sofie Wells and Ali Barclay The Tales of Charlie Wags: European Christmas Adventure Charlie Wags is an adventurous dog with a unique ability to travel the world by wagging his tail. This festive edition of the series follows Charlie as he travels to Europe and celebrates Christmas in five iconic European destinations: Amsterdam, Brussels, the Swiss Alps, Munich, and Vienna. Each place is beautifully depicted, highlighting its unique charm and holiday traditions. In Amsterdam, Charlie skates on frozen canals surrounded by gingerbread-like houses, capturing the magic of winter in the Netherlands. Next, Charlie visits Brussels, where he explores the historic Grand-Place, adorned with gold-lined buildings and a towering Christmas tree. The journey continues to the Swiss Alps, a winter wonderland known for its breath-taking peaks and world-class skiing. In Munich, Charlie experiences the magic of Germany's famous Christmas markets, which have been a tradition since the 14th century. Finally, Charlie arrives in Vienna, the City of Music, where he enjoys the holiday festivities at the Schonbrunn Palace. The beautiful illustrations capture the essence of each city with vibrant colors and intricate details. The text is engaging and rhythmic, making it perfect for young readers and a joy for parents to read aloud. Additionally, the book includes fun facts about each destination, encouraging curiosity and love of travel. The Tales of Charlie Wags: Christmas in Europe is a charming and educational picture book that combines the magic of Christmas with the wonder of travel. It is a perfect read for families looking to explore holiday traditions around the world while enjoying the heart-warming adventures of an extraordinary little pup. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A delightful children's picture book featuring an adorable little pup who takes readers on a magical journey across Europe during the holiday season. Purchase here

< Back Leon Conrad Story and Structure: A complete guide An essential read for anyone interested in writing and storytelling, by Leon Conrad ‘Story and Structure: A complete guide’ is a handbook for anyone interested in writing and storytell ing. It tells the untold story of what makes a story, a ‘story’. Conrad describes his approach, which is based on six primary symbols (inspired by Professor George Spencer-Brown’s book ‘Laws of Form’), as a simple, visual way to analyse and compare different story structures. The six sy mbols approach is a useful way to understand how story works, how and why structures differ, and why story is a much wider phenomena than most people underst and. It has the potential to help us not only understand stories better, but also to underst and ourselves better. He provides examples of 18 distinct story structures, some well-known and some less well known , from across different cultures and eras (from the earliest written records to the present day). Conrad describes the methodology of the approach and applies it to different story structures, as well as describing the implications for the approach, and how the methodology can be applied in the practice of writing, from poetry to creative writing, teaching and anthropology. ‘Story and Structure: A complete guide’ by Leon Conrad is a comprehensive, well-researched and insightful handbook. The book is well structured, and easy to read and understand. This book will help readers appreciate the importance of story structure, and will help anyone to write better stories. It is an essential read for anyone interested in writing and storytelling, includ ing writers, storytellers, teachers, poets, and readers. I really wi sh I had read this book ten years ago, when I started my own writing journey. Star rating: 5 St ars Summary: A fascin ating insight into how story works, which will help readers appreciate the import ance of story structure. Purchase here

< Back Teddy Biron The Lighthouse Keeper Saves the Bay Author and illustrator Teddy Biron shows the devastating impact humans have on the ocean and wildlife. An old lighthouse keeper wakes up early every day, to say hello to all the creatures that live in the bay. Nothing much happens in the quiet bay, he hangs out his laundry, and watches the boats gently drift in the dock. But, in the midst of darkness, as the lighthouse switches on its lights to protect the ships, there is an unwelcome visitor to the bay. He tips a vat of oil and trash into the ocean, and slips away again under the cover of darkness. When the lighthouse keeper wakes the next day, he notices the mess and the devastation caused to the bay and the sea life. He starts to clean up the mess straightaway, and is soon followed by others who join in the clean-up mission. Slowly, the creatures return, and the bay is brought back to life. Sadly, the old man knows it won’t be the last time he has to clean up someone else’s discarded trash. The Lighthouse Keeper Saves the Bay, by author and illustrator Teddy Biron, is a beautiful story, with an important message about the devastating impact humans have on the ocean and wildlife. It will encourage young children and adults to take responsibility for their own actions, and clean up after themselves. But it will also encourage positive action to help out when others fail to play their part in cleaning up their own mess. The illustrations are simply stunning and really bring the story to life. They beautifully capture the serenity of the bay, the magnificent wildlife, the horror of the face-less hooded man, and the devastation caused after the trash is dumped. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This is a beautiful story, with an important environmental message and stunning illustrations. Purchase here

< Back Renee Hamilton Norey Loo Glory's Adoption Story Book blurb... Celebrate adoption through the eyes and heart of nine year old Norey Loo Glory, as she sets the record straight that "adoption is an awesome option". Purchase here

< Back Mrs. Anthony I Am Woman... : Book One: My Journey, My Tony A deeply moving and powerful memoir from author, Mrs Anthony Mrs Anthony recalls happy memories growing up with loving parents in Malaysia, and playing with her older brother Shiv, and their friends and neighbours. We follow her through adolescence and young adulthood, as she falls in love with an old childhood classmate and the man of her dreams, Tony. Despite their different social and religious backgrounds the couple marry and look forward to a long and happy future together. Tony is loving, attentive and kind, everything Mrs Anthony wanted in a husband, but their marriage is thrown into turmoil, when Tony’s business starts to fail. On a path of self-destruction, Tony spends increasing amounts of time in the pub, and becomes dependent on alcohol. As Tony makes reckless business decisions and squanders their money, Mrs Anthony is left alone to care for their two young children and manage her own tutoring business. Mrs Anthony desperately tries to save her marriage and the couple move in with her parents. But as Tony’s alcohol use escalates, his health inevitably deteriorates and Mrs Anthony and her family face unimaginable loss and pain. I Am Woman is a deeply moving and powerful memoir from Mrs Anthony, as she tells the story of her life and the love she shared with her beloved husband, ‘captain’ Tony. This is a heart-wrenching story, eloquently and compassionately told by Mrs Anthony, as she describes her love, pain, despair, and helplessness as she watches her husband’s alcohol addiction spiral out of control. This book is a real and honest account of one woman’s strength and determination to protect her family from this dreadful disease. It shows the devastation caused by alcohol addiction and will provide comfort to those impacted by the disease, that they are not alone. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A heart-wrenching story from Mrs Anthony about the devastating impact of alcohol addiction. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Hazem Nassar Diary of my Dreams Naji is fast asleep when a loud explosion wakes him from his dream. He settles back to sleep and is woken again, and again, and again. Naji just wants to sleep and dream so he doesn’t have to think about the ongoing war in his country. He dreams his school has been destroyed, and there is nothing left but rubble. But, when he wakes, he remembers his school and wishes he could get it back. He dreams of eating left over food for days and days. When he wakes, he wishes he could go out to eat again. He dreams of helping his dad with the groceries. When he is woken again, he remembers he needs to buy and carry the groceries all by himself. As images of war invade Naji’s thoughts and his dreams, he wonders whether he will ever live in peace again. Diary of my Dreams is an illustrated picture book by Hazem Nassar about a young boy growing up in a country torn apart by war. Naji is desperate to sleep to forget about the war in his country, but loud explosions keep him awake. Soon, sleep is no longer a peaceful, restful event, it is a constant reminder of the horrors of war. Written from the perspective of Naji, this book sensitively explores the impact of war from a child’s point of view. The story captures Naji’s fears and grief, making it a powerful and poignant read for young readers. The child-like illustrations and use of handwritten font, complement the story beautifully. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A touching and thought provoking read about war, and its impact on young people. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DTGN64G2 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 Ali Barclay The Tales of Charlie Wags: London Part of the Charlie Wags series, this book follows Charlie as he visits London, England. With a familiar introduction to the story, Charlie wags his tail and travels to London. His first stop is the grand Buckingham Palace, where the King and Queen of England live. Next, he visits Westminster Abbey, the church where Kings and Queens are crowned, and royalty get married. He see Big Ben, the big clock tower and has tea and scones in a fancy restaurant. He hops aboard a boat on the Thames River and passes under Tower Bridge, and he visits the great Tower of London where he sees the royal jewels. With a trip to Borough Market, and a ride on the London Eye, this is a trip Charlie will never forget. In The Tales of Charlie Wags: London by author Ali Barclay, a little pup takes a trip to London, the capital city of England. Each stop on the journey is brought to life with watercolour style, pastel illustrations that capture the magic of this special city. The story is a great addition to the series and encourages young readers to explore new places, and embrace new experiences and different cultures. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A pup-filled travel exploration of London. Joyful, colourful and full of adventure. Purchase here

< Back Bill Canady The 80/20 CEO Take Command of Your Business in 100 Days A business playbook by author and global business executive Bill Canady. The 80/20 CEO: Take Command of Your Business in 100 Days is a business playbook by author and businessman Bill Canady. Canady created an operating system for business – the Profitable Growth Operating System – designed to turn a business around in one hundred days, using the 80/20 principle. The 80/20 principle (also known as the Pareto Principle) is a rule in business that maintains that just 20 percent of what you do or spend generates 80 percent of your revenue. Divided into three parts, the first part describes the Profitable Growth Operating System, the second part focuses on the first one hundred days in a leadership role, and the third part discusses the long-term strategy required for sustained success. Canady’s story is remarkable. He describes his upbringing, growing up ‘dirt poor’ on a farm in southeastern North Carolina, and how he rose to success as a global business executive through hard work and determination. Canady’s operating system is based on his own personal experience of leading multi-million-dollar companies. Over a thirty-year period, Canady generated significant profitable growth for several companies. He uses his insight, business expertise, and knowledge of other management practices (including strategy, talent management, lean methods, and mergers and acquisitions) to provide a comprehensive roadmap for entrepreneurs and business professionals. Canady provides a wealth of information, and practical tools and tips that readers can implement in their own business. Each chapter is filled with expert advice and examples from the real world of business. Canady’s style is engaging, entertaining and easy to understand, making the book accessible to readers of all levels of business expertise. Overall, an inspirational and practical guide to business success for aspiring or experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders , or anyone interested in business. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A comprehensive and valuable resource for entrepreneurs and business professionals. Purchase here

< Back Anna Finch Mellie the Mermaid: Is NOT Scared of ANYTHING Is there anything that will scare Mellie the Mermaid? Mellie the Mermaid is not scared of anything. Not little fish that bite and snap. Or giant clams that clap and trap. Mellie’s mum and dad warn her of the dangers in the sea, the creatures that might sting and bite, or strike and burn. They ask her to be careful when she is on her own exploring the ocean. Mellie is not deterred and ventures out into the deep, deep blue ocean to explore an old shipwreck. She meets a snappy, clappy clam, a bright blue octopus, a whale, a seal, an eel, and a turtle. No, Mellie is still not scared. But as she dives into the shipwreck, she meets a big, toothy shark. Mellie flees as fast as she can and does not stop swish, swish, swishing until she gets all the way home. Mellie realises maybe there are some things she is scared of after all! Mellie the Mermaid is a beautifully illustrated picture book by author Anna Finch about a confident, courageous and adventurous little mermaid who fears nothing. This is a charming and amusing picture book for younger children, featuring magnificent mermaids in glorious underwater scenes. Mellie is a cute and adorable mermaid character, who will delight younger readers. The book is funny and entertaining, but it also teaches children the importance of personal safety. The illustrations by Wathmi de Zoysa are magnificent. I particularly liked the characterisation of the mermaids and the sea creatures, and the underwater colour palette with hues of blue and purple. This is a great book for pre-schoolers and was a joy to read. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming and amusing picture book for younger children, featuring magnificent mermaids in glorious underwater scenes. Purchase here