< Back Rachel Robbins The Sound of a Thousand Stars The Sound of a Thousand Stars by Rachel Robbins is a deeply evocative and thought-provoking novel that weaves historical fiction with personal narratives. Set against the backdrop of the Manhattan Project in Los Alamos, New Mexico, the story explores themes of love, loss, ambition, guilt, and the moral complexities of scientific discovery during World War II. The narrative is structured with alternating timelines and perspectives, including a unique reverse chronological account of Haruki Sato, a Hiroshima bombing survivor, which adds emotional depth and highlights the devastating aftermath of the atomic bomb. The novel primarily focuses on Alice Katz, a brilliant physicist who defies societal norms to pursue her passion for science, and Caleb Blum, a Jewish scientist grappling with the moral weight of his contributions to the bomb. Their love story is central to the narrative, marked by personal tragedy, secrecy, and the ethical dilemmas of their work. Robbins skilfully portrays the psychological toll of the Manhattan Project on its participants, including the enigmatic J. Robert Oppenheimer, whose charisma and intellect are juxtaposed with his personal struggles and the burden of creating a weapon of mass destruction. The novel also delves into the lives of other historical figures, such as Richard Feynman, blending fact and fiction to create a compelling narrative. The inclusion of the hibakusha (survivors of the Hiroshima bombing) adds a powerful layer of humanity, emphasizing the global consequences of the atomic bomb. The author’s note and historical context further enhance the narrative, shedding light on the real-life inspirations behind the story and the contributions of women in STEM during the Manhattan Project era. Robbins challenges readers to reflect on the human cost of scientific progress, the ethical dilemmas of war, and the enduring impact of historical events on individuals and families. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A compelling and unforgettable novel that examines the intersection of science, morality, and human relationships. Purchase here

< Back PJ Ellis After You, My Dear: I will always follow you Book blurb... The stunning Selena Mirrell, formerly a famed fashion model, marries young to the wealthy and charming Victor LaRoche. Her storybook romance becomes a living nightmare as Victor reveals his true, dark nature. After the fairy-tale romance turned sour, Selena flees her abusive husband, but finds no escape from his relentless pursuit. She settles in Andersonville, Georgia, where she rebuilds her life, but old demons resurface. When Victor remarries, Selena hopes to have finally escaped her past, but strange events plague her new home. A mysterious child enters her life, and she meets a widowed detective who wants to protect her from Victor's wrath. But as his behavior escalates, Selena must summon her strength and courage to protect herself and those she loves. Will she be able to outsmart Victor and find peace, or will he finally catch up with her? Dive into this romantic thriller for a tale of love, obsession, and survival to find out. Purchase here

< Back Marcia Dawood Unapologetic Wealth, Rewrite Your Money Story From Any Beginning Book blurb... You want money to make life easier, more fulfilling, rewarding—but it’s never that simple. You budget, save, strategize. You’re doing everything right, yet something holds you back from harnessing your money to build the life you truly want. Maybe it’s guilt. Maybe it’s fear. Maybe it’s an old story you don’t even realize you are living by. In this book, financial story strategist Marcia Dawood, author of Do Good While Doing Well, helps you uncover the hidden narratives that have been quietly shaping your financial choices. She shows you how to rewrite your money story with purpose, no matter your age or starting point. Whether you want to speak up in salary negotiations, invest in what you value, or simply feel at peace with your spending decisions, Unapologetic Wealth gives you the tools to do it. This is your launchpad to build wealth on your terms by releasing guilt and finally believing you are good with money. Build that life you truly deserve. You are not behind. You are not late. The time to rewrite your money story is now. Purchase here

< Back T.V. Holiday T.V. Holiday's Vendetta: Legend of The Iron Warrior Vol. 3 Book blurb... Vendetta: Legend of the Iron Warrior Vol. 3 is a critically acclaimed, editor-recommended, and Top Choice dark fantasy noir thriller blending cinematic superhero action, spiritual warfare, psychological conflict, and deeply human themes of redemption, identity, reputation, and faith. A mythic superhero deconstruction set in the cursed streets of Carnage Coast, Vendetta combines supernatural warfare, emotionally charged character drama, and psychological tension into a sprawling noir fantasy saga where the fate of heaven, hell, and the human soul hangs in the balance. Purchase here

< Back Jordan Marsh Try Your Own Case A definitive guide to representing yourself in court, by Jordan Marsh. The Sixth Amendment to the United States Constitution guarantees the right to an attorney for all criminal defendants. There is no such right for people involved in civil lawsuits. The rules and laws that govern civil litigation naturally favor the side with the attorney who has the best training and experience. However, many people cannot afford to hire a good attorney, and many others are unable to find an attorney to represent them . Try Your Own Case is a guidebook by trial attorney and author Jordan Marsh to support people in ‘pro se’ litigation, in other words those who are representing themselves in a civil case, rather than being represented by an attorney. Marsh’s aim is to level the playing field between those who are represented by an attorney and those who are representing themselves. Marsh explains that the rules that govern civil litigation are complex and sometimes difficult to understand for those who do not have legal training, but with plenty of research, preparation, and focus, anyone can do this. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on different aspects of the civil litigation process. Part I explains the stages of a lawsuit before the trial; Part II explains the pretrial and trial process; and Part III explains other key aspects of civil litigation. There is a handy glossary and index at the end of the book, and a comprehensive package of additional information and resources in the appendix. Try Your Own Case by Jordan Marsh is a guidebook for people who are considering representing themselves in civil court. The book aims to demystify the legal process and provides practical guidance for those navigating the court system without an attorney. This is a comprehensive, extensively researched, well written and engaging guidebook. Marsh’s writing is clear, simple and accessible for both the lay-reader and more experienced professional. While it may not replace the need for professional legal advice, it does provide a solid foundation for understanding the civil litigation process. I have absolutely zero legal knowledge and I learnt a great deal from this informative and insightful book. I hope I never have to represent myself in court, but if I do, I know exactly where to go! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An essential read for anyone navigating a civil lawsuit on their own. 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 S Gale Bleth A.W.A.R.E. Book blurb... Don't be a victim. Be A.W.A.R.E. You're on your own, without the safety net of family, friends, and familiar places. The world can be dangerous, but you are far from helpless. For twenty-five years, S. Gale Bleth has taught people of all ages to change their mindset and grow their awareness and confidence. Her guidance has helped thousands of people take their personal safety to another level. Now you can be A.W.A.R.E. as well. In simple, clear language, Bleth reveals how awareness is responsible for 90 percent of your safety. Learn the keys to proactively stay out of danger so you don't become a victim. Get to know your personal weapons, should you ever need to defend yourself. Powerful, engaging, and ultimately empowering, A.W.A.R.E. is your practical guide to self-defense through staying alert, watching your surroundings, assessing situations, responding appropriately, and escaping if necessary. Purchase here

< Back Christy Sauro Jr The Legacy of the Twins Platoon Book blurb... They were sworn in on television at a pregame ceremony and were guests of the Twins at the game. By the end of the fourth inning, the recruits were hustled to buses whisking them to the Wold-Chamberlain Field Airport, and they ew to San Diego. Before dawn the next day, the Twins Platoon met their drill sergeants at the receiving barracks of the Marine Corps Recruit Depot. By the end of the year, the Marines were in Vietnam sprinkled across the length and breadth of the Marine Corps operating areas of I Corps, the northernmost part of South Vietnam where they experienced some of the toughest combat of the war. Khe Sanh and Hue City were just a few of the hot spots they encountered as the 1968 TET Offensive rolled across the country. Not all members of the Twins Platoon came home in one piece. Some did not come home at all. In The Legacy of the Twins Platoon, author Christy Sauro Jr. tells their complete stories from baseball to combat and their lifelong readjustment to civilian life. Purchase here

< Back Juliet Rose Through the Surface A haunting love story, by author Juliet Rose Teenager, Iris Brubaker, fights for her life after her abusive father brutally attacks her and leaves her for dead. Iris dies on the operating table, but is brought back to life several times and survives the ordeal. Iris’s father kills her mother, aunt and cousin, and Iris is traumatised and scarred for life, both physically and mentally. Around the same time, another teen, Ledger Elliot, faces unimaginable loss when his father tragically commits suicide by jumping from his fishing boat. Ledger takes on the household responsibilities of his father, and decides to keep the fishing boat in use, to honour his father’s memory. Fifteen years later, Iris and Ledger’s worlds collide when Iris takes residence on a small Island, off the coast of Maine, where Ledger was born and raised. Iris arrives on the island to take over the ownership of the old Crowley Lodge, which she inherited as the only living survivor of the Brubaker family, following the death of her late grandmother. Iris plans to bring the lodge back to its former glory and open a hotel, in her grandmother’s memory. She hires Ledger, now a fisherman and an all-round handy man to help her with some jobs. Ledger feels a presence in the lodge, and experiences strange visions and terrifying nightmares. Ledger starts to develop feelings for Iris, but is scared of taking the relationship forward when he hears about her trauma and near-death experience. As the couple grow closer, Ledger learns more about Iris’s past, the history of the lodge, and the mystery of his father’s death. He discovers evil, demonic forces that have forced the couple together and risk tearing their whole lives apart. Through the Surface is a gripping horror novel, by author Juliet Rose, with an unexpected and supernatural twist. What starts out as a typical love story (boy and girl have troubled pasts, help each other recover, and fall in love), turns into a haunting, terrifying and gripping thriller. This book is weird and wonderful, serious and surreal, engaging and horrifying. Juliet Rose has a natural gift for storytelling and super characterisation, and this novel does not disappoint. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A haunting, terrifying and gripping thriller, with an unexpected and supernatural twist. Purchase here

< Back Diana Dissette The Trackers Part One Nuremberg Lament for the Dead Diana Dissette’s The Trackers (Part One of the Nuremberg: Lament for the Dead series) is a compelling work of historical fiction set in the immediate aftermath of World War II. The novel immerses readers in the turbulent world of postwar Europe, focusing on the Nuremberg Trials, the hunt for Nazi war criminals, and the profound personal and collective trauma left in the wake of the Holocaust. The story is anchored by a diverse cast of characters, including Magna Scott, a battle-hardened U.S. Army Ranger turned Nazi hunter; Stace McKendry, a former homicide detective with a personal vendetta against the Nazis; and sisters Grace and Ginny Lewis, who travel from New Orleans to join the legal teams prosecuting war criminals. Dissette skillfully weaves together their personal stories with the broader historical events, creating a narrative that is both intimate and epic in scope. The depiction of the Nuremberg Trials, the complexities of Allied occupation, and the plight of displaced persons and Holocaust survivors are rendered with sensitivity and realism. The inclusion of diary entries, letters, and poems adds emotional depth and authenticity, allowing readers to witness the psychological toll of war and genocide. Dissette does not shy away from the horrors of the Holocaust or the moral ambiguities faced by those seeking justice. The narrative explores not only the pursuit of Nazi fugitives but also the challenges of rebuilding lives and societies shattered by atrocity. The characters’ personal losses are mirrored by the collective mourning of a continent. While the book is rich in historical context, it remains accessible and engaging. The pacing is well-balanced, alternating between action, investigation, and character-driven scenes. Dissette’s prose is clear and evocative, and her use of multiple perspectives allows for a multifaceted exploration of the era. Readers interested in World War II, legal history, or stories of resilience will find much to admire in this meticulously researched and emotionally resonant work. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A powerful and moving novel that brings to life the complexities of postwar Europe and the enduring impact of the Holocaust. Purchase here

Book Reviews: Adult Todd Miller ENRICH: Create Wealth in Time, Money and Meaning Laura Foley Sister in a Different Movie Dillon W. Buck The Stonecaster: A Modern Parable About Intention, Response, and the Ripples We Create Richard Kiehr The TellTale Lie Dawn Bragg and Devon Jeffers Valdes Reflections: Earth, Heart, Light, Dark Jim Sarto Is School Really Out For The Summer?: Abbreviated Musings of a High School Principal S.D. Huston A Curse of Wings & Gems: A Cursed Royals Fantasy Romance Hussein Kanji Happiness Deconstructed: The Hidden Architecture of a Life Well Lived Dan Shapiro Decoding Genius: The Unexpected Lessons of After-School Chess Club Joshua Qually Anxiety Reset 30 Days to Find Calm: A Self-Regulation Workbook for Busy Adults James Richard Hansen Skies and Chasms: Poems Pastor John Rumble The Psalms and Proverbs: Let's discover together the Treasures of the Psalms and Proverbs LOAD MORE

< Back John Bartell The Pilgrim's Progress Desert Experience One man's search of the King of Promise, by author John Bartell The Pilgrim’s Progress Desert Experience is a Christian fiction novel. Set in Egypt, a pilgrim breaks free from prison and makes his way through the desert in search of the King of Promise. The journey is long and arduous, but he must stay on the Narrow Path, guided by the Evangelist and Comforter. His faith is tested many times, as he experiences suffering and hardship. He meets lots of new people, some good and not-so-good, and he has to learn quickly what is right and what is wrong. He is seduced by many temptations, but the desert helps him learn how to live with both suffering and hardship. The Pilgrim's Progress Desert Experience by author John Bartell, is a captivating Christian story about one man’s journey, the suffering and hardships he experiences, and the lessons he learns along the way, through following the right path. Told through the first-person perspective, the author introduces abstract Christian concepts that people will easily understand and can relate to. This is a relatively short book, and easily accessible to adults and young adult readers. Enlightening and thought-provoking book, which will encourage people to reflect on their own journey, how they respond to situations, and how to stay positive and move forward, despite challenges and setbacks. This is a wonderful book, which is both educational and engaging. With a blend of modern cultural references, and traditional biblical teachings, this is a unique book that will appeal to readers who enjoy religious fiction and fantasy. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An educational, enlightening and engaging religious fiction novel, which will appeal to readers who enjoy religious fiction and fantasy. Purchase here