< Back Jerry Blaze Farm Girl Book blurb... Sixteen-year-old Rowan Quinn hates her life. Living on a farm in North Oklahoma is one pain, reeling from her parents divorce is another, and suffering bullying by the conservative town for being a punk-rock loving trans girl is the final pain. Rowan hopes to get the hell out of town as soon as she graduates and take the chance to pursue her dream of being a musician. However, after returning home from sneaking off to a concert, Rowan is shocked to discover three escaped inmates aggressively torturing her family. With a dead phone and no way to get help, Rowan decides to use her expertise of equipment to save her family from the sadistic trio and show why they should never f*ck with... FARM GIRL Purchase here

< Back Lesley Beiro and Heather Scott Over the Lotion Over the Lotion is a true story, written by mother and daughter Heather Scott and Lesley Beiro. Written primarily by Scott, a white woman who grew up in South Africa during the 1950s and 1960s. The book follows Scott’s journey from childhood through to adulthood, from her early years in Pretoria , to her emigration to the United States in later life. The latter part of the book is written by her daughter, Biero, following her death. Set against a backdrop of apartheid in South Africa, Scott recalls the social and political changes that happened throughout her life, and the impact on her family and community. From the release of Nelson Mandela, civil unrest, and the turbulent transition into post-apartheid South Africa. Scott faced many personal struggles throughout her life. She survived polio as a teenager, and later married a man she discovered was an alcoholic. Early in her marriage Scott experienced the tragic loss of a baby, and her husband was often violent towards her. As Scott tried to make a good life for herself and her children, she sought comfort, guidance and strength from God. Over the Lotion is a deeply personal and heartfelt memoir that chronicles one woman’s experience of life in South Africa during apartheid and in the immediate post-apartheid period. As Scott witnesses the social and political upheaval of her beloved country, she has to make a difficult decision for her family. Scott does not shy away from the moral dilemmas of many white South African farmers – those who grew up calling South Africa home, but were left feeling alienated and abandoned as society changed. Beiro finished the memoir following Scott’s death, and is a beautiful and touching tribute to a much-loved mother and grandmother. For readers interested in personal histories of South Africa, and the US immigrant experience, this book offers a gripping and emotionally charged perspective . Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A heartfelt and thought-provoking memoir of a white woman growing up in South Africa during apartheid. Purchase here

< Back Geoff Sease When We Push Through Sound Can Tristan find happiness again following a painful divorce? Tristan James thought he had it all. A loving wife, a happy daughter and a successful career in a top tier investment firm. But all that changed three years ago, when his marriage to his college sweetheart, Sharon, ended, and he experienced a number of setbacks in his career. Sharon and Tristan share joint custody of their seventeen-year-old daughter, Sara, and Tristan still hopes for a reconciliation with his ex-wife. Over-worked and highly stressed, Tristan makes a series of investment errors and experiences a crisis in confidence in his career. Tristan battles with depression and self-medicates with drugs and alcohol. As he contemplates his future, he considers taking his own life. In an attempt to shop his way out of depression, Triston buys a BMW 745i. He goes on a number of innocent dates with women he knows from around town, but they never lead to anything more serious. Until one day, Tristan meets Julie, a young aspiring musician in a bagel shop, and goes on a date. He meets another woman at a work event, an advertising executive named Beth, and he feels an immediate connection. But just as Tristan starts to find happiness in his personal life, his work life becomes unmanageable, as a multi-million-dollar investment is at risk of collapse. Tristan is close to the edge, but he is supported by five women, his ex-wife, daughter, lover, friend, and assistant, who refuse to give up on him. When We Push Through Sound by debut author Geoff Sease, is about a middle-aged man on the verge of a mid-life crisis, following a painful divorce and a number of setbacks in his career. The book follows Tristan’s journey as he struggles with depression and attempts to pull his life back together. But the road to recovery is not easy, and Tristan experiences a number of challenges that push him close to the edge. Tristan is a believable and likeable character, and many readers will relate to his story. This is a remarkable and heartfelt debut novel from a talented writer with a gift for storytelling. The book will appeal to readers who enjoy romance, realistic fiction and character driven stories. Highly recommended. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A remarkable and heartfelt debut novel about a middle-aged man on the verge of a mid-life crisis. Purchase here

< Back Mark Roeder What We Do Next Really Matters Author Mark Roeder discusses the global economic, political, environmental, societal and technological challenges that are shaping our world. The recent Covid19 pandemic has been a giant wake up call for humanity, but the reality is that the earth was already in a poor state of affairs, and our civilisation in a precarious state. How we respond to these challenges in the next few years will have significant implications for the human race and the planet. The choices we make at this critical point in our history and development, really matter. Roeder argues, if we fail to act now, we are likely to face the same fate as the Mayans, Anasazi, Akkadians, Harappa, Romans and other lesser-known civilisations that ignored the warning signs around them. Roeder questions our fundamental belief systems and explains why a fundamental change in mindset is required to solve the world’s problems. He argues that the pursuit of ‘growth at all costs’ mindset is threatening our very existence. He argues that we need to learn from the pandemic and harness the shock of Covid19, to make fundamental changes in the way we live our lives now, in order to save humanity. The book comprises three parts. Part one (Reflection) explains why humans are often reluctant to face up to difficult truths. Part two (Challenges) takes a critical look at the big challenges our world faces. Part three (Awakening) explores what it will take to put our world on a more sustainable path. Roeder proposes the development of ‘a social contract’, with a set of eight fundamental principles, which together, form the foundation of civil life. What We Do Next Really Matters by author Mark Roeder is an exceptional book about the global challenges that are shaping our world. What I particularly liked about this book, is that the author proposes a number of radical solutions. He recognises it is a difficult task, and suggests it may need to get worse before it gets better, but ‘ Once the ferocious winds die down, we may awaken to a different social landscape than the version we know now. Hopefully, one that is underpinned by a truly sustainable ethos that ensures our survival as a species.’ This is a well-written, thought-provoking book, which will appeal to anyone interested in the future of earth and the human race. It is a timely reminder that each and every one of us must play a part, and collectively we can make a difference. Everyone should read this book. We cannot ignore the warning signs. We have no choice. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An exceptional, well-written, and thought-provoking book that everyone should read. It was a privilege to read and review this book. Purchase here

< Back Cristiana Pinciroli Sport : a Stage for Life - How to Connect with the Touchstones of Elite Performance and Personal Fulfillment Lessons in sport and life from professional athlete, Cristiana Pinciroli Sport: A Stage for Life: How to Connect with the Touchstones of Elite Performance and Personal Fulfillment is a self-help / handbook written by Cristiana Pinciroli, with her father Pedro Pinciroli Junior. Cristiana is a former professional water polo player who captained the Brazilian national team for over a decade, and her father Pedro represented Brazil at two Olympic games. Cristiana shares her memories of her father’s sporting achievements, and how his success and legacy inspired her to achieve her own goals in the sport. She shares her own personal experiences of sport, the successes and failures, the challenges and rewards, the highs and the lows. There are twelve chapters, divided into four parts (dimensions). The dimensions follow the ‘WeTeam’ method, which includes the things that motivate us, move us, and enable us to act intentionally (self-knowledge, purpose and values, and happiness). In each chapter the authors explore the key elements needed for a fuller and more successful life. They show how they applied the lessons from sport in building successful corporate careers. In addition, there are contributions from other athletes, coaches, psychologists, and academics, who share their own personal stories of the impact of sport. This is an inspiring and captivating book which will appeal to both professional and amateur athletes, parents of athletes, sport coaches, and anyone interested in sport. It provides a fascinating insight into water polo and other sports. For water polo enthusiasts, or those new to the sport, the book provides plenty of valuable hints and tips on how to play the sport. For athletes, she provides advice and guidance on how to balance the demands and pressure of high-performance sport and other aspects of life. The authors show how everything we learn in sport applies to life and they provide many life hacks that will help readers live a more fulfilled and happy life. This is a well-written, and entertaining book. The writing is warm, funny, and engaging. The book demonstrates the positive role and impact of sport on individuals, and on society as a whole. It will help readers develop more positive mindsets and behaviors to live a happy and more fulfilled life. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspiring and captivating book about the positive role and impact of sport on individuals and society. Purchase here

< Back Jeremiah Davidson Beyond the Burn: Integrating Purposeful Humanity Book blurb... It was 2007 when Jeremiah Davidson first walked into Burning Man. A month shy of his twenty-ninth birthday, he had just graduated from college and moved to Las Vegas to begin a career in event marketing. As he gazed at the unbelievable scene sprawled across the desert, Davidson had no idea that his decision to attend Burning Man would soon spark amazing worldly adventures and a passion for human connections. In an inspirational true story, Davidson details how his journey from a childhood filled with farms, mountains, coffee shops, and raves led him to attend Burning Man, ultimately weaving a life of intentionality as a citizen of Black Rock City. While creating a lasting desert camp and organizing international participation, Davidson was motivated to embody purposeful humanity. Davidson offers his perspectives of Burning Man’s 10 Principles as well as a glimpse into his personal explorations and triumphs, despite nuanced timing, challenging logistics, and depleting dust storms. Beyond the Burn details one man’s yearly journey to a cultural desert event and how the experiences influenced a more joyful, creative, and fulfilling life — a return to self, society, and source. Purchase here

< Back Mark Steven Hammond The Lost Panel Book blurb... The Lost Panel is a gripping historical thriller that blends art, espionage and an unsolved mystery rooted in real history. Spanning from the Renaissance to the present day, the novel follows the hidden legacy of Jan van Eyck—reimagined as both master painter and covert operative—who embeds dangerous secrets within one of the most important artworks ever created: the Ghent Altarpiece. When a panel known as The Righteous Judges is stolen in 1934 and never recovered, it sets off a mystery that endures for decades. In the present day, art historian Sophia Rossi uncovers clues buried in archives, coded documents and forgotten histories, leading her into a high-stakes search that connects Renaissance intrigue, wartime secrets and modern-day power players. At its core, The Lost Panel explores the idea that great works of art may conceal more than beauty—they may hold truths powerful enough to reshape history. Purchase here

< Back Dr. Trent W. Smallwood Lethal Decree Sebastian Storm overcomes childhood trauma to become an elite super soldier, from author Dr Smallwood. Thirteen-year-old Sebastian Storm’s life is turned upside down when he tragically loses both of his parents within a forty-eight-hour period. First, his beloved mother is killed after apparently falling down the stairs, but Sebastian is convinced his abusive father pushed her. Sebastian is grief stricken but his father shows no emotion. Sebastian is determined to punish his father and shortly after, Sebastian’s father dies in a gruesome and equally suspicious manner. Sebastian is sent to an orphanage for a while, before he is taken in by an older friend James, and goes to live on his farm. James mentors Sebastian and teaches him soldiering and combat skills. Sebastian channels all of his grief and energy into his combat training, and years later, he is noticed by the US government and trained to become an ‘elite super-soldier’. But, a fellow trainee, Tobias Teague, holds Sebastian responsible for his wife’s murder, and sets out to avenge her death. For years, the two men manage to avoid each other, but when Tobias plans a horrific terrorist attack, Sebastian must find a way to stop his old enemy. Lethal Decree is a testosterone-fuelled, suspense thriller. It is an enthralling and gripping novel, filled with action and violence. Sebastian is a well-developed, complex, and likeable character, despite his sadistic tendencies. There is one particular scene that reveals the complexity of his character, when he leaves his father to die in a bear trap, but then sets a rabbit free. The book will appeal to those who enjoy gripping, suspense thrillers, but the gratuitous violence and sex scenes are not for the faint hearted. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A testosterone-fuelled, and gripping suspense thriller. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Jamie Andrea Garzot Unconventional A Memoir of Entrepreneurism Politics and Pot A unique and personal memoir by cannabis advocate and entrepreneur, Jamie Andrea Garzot Unconventional, A Memoir of Entrepreneurism, Politics, and Pot is a memoir by Jamie Andrea Garzot about her experience of setting up and running a medical cannabis store in conservative, Northern California. Garzot explains how she was not a typical cannabis user or part of ‘cannabis heritage’, but used cannabis to help her sleep during episodes of insomnia. As a user of cannabis for medicinal purposes, her experience of purchasing cannabis was not good. Typical stores were unfriendly, intimidating, dirty, and hidden away in back-alleyways. In 2009, she risked it all to leave her secure, corporate job and opened a cannabis store, seven years before full legalisation. Her goal was to create a store that was accessible and welcoming to anyone, regardless of their cannabis experience or background. Her driving force was delivering a great experience for every customer. Garzot describes how she set up the business with minimal funds, and how she went on to lead a successful, multi-million-dollar business. She discusses the many business and leadership challenges she faced, and how she navigated the complex and changing legal landscape. Garzot shares a number of stories of how cannabis played a therapeutic role for clients with Aids, Cancer, and other addictions. Garzot became an advocate for cannabis and worked tirelessly to improve the industry and further the legitimization of cannabis in society. However, whilst the business was thriving, Garzot faced many personal challenges. She discusses openly her childhood and the enduring impact of her mom’s death, her tumultuous marriage and divorce. Unconventional, A Memoir of Entrepreneurism, Politics, and Pot is a memoir by Jamie Andrea Garzot about how she made a successful and profitable business in the cannabis industry. This is an insightful and absorbing memoir by an inspirational woman who has shown, with a strong vision, hard work, commitment, and dogged determination, that anything is possible. This is a well written and fascinating book, with some heartfelt moments and lots of humor. The book will appeal to readers who enjoy memoirs, and those who are interested in enterprise, leadership, and the cannabis industry. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A riveting read about an inspirational woman who made her fortune in an unconventional business. Purchase here

< Back Eric Kok ANIMALIS Ascent of an Angel Book blurb... In a world on the brink of collapse, three lives converge at destiny's edge. Gabrielle, a teenage girl revered as the Divine Emissary, becomes a beacon of hope amid rising chaos. Gifted with mysterious powers, she must navigate the treacherous waters of political schemes and religious fanaticism while struggling with fear and the crushing weight of expectation. Jacob, a brilliant young scientist, joins the world's top research council while concealing a dark family secret. As he works to build a better future, he is haunted by a legacy that threatens to destroy his credibility and everything he's fought for. Rafael, a hardened law enforcer, is tormented by the unsolved murder of his parents. Consumed by guilt and rage, he teeters between justice and revenge, his path one of inner turmoil and self-destruction. Their intertwined paths weave a tapestry of hope, betrayal, and the relentless struggle for survival as they confront the unravelling of their world. Purchase here

< Back Alison McBain Between North & Prior Book blurb... Cancer is an ugly word. Even though several years have passed, Isla’s never gotten over the death of her eleven-year-old daughter, Rory. The resulting grief killed her marriage and her teaching career at the same time, and for a while she thought the pain would kill her also. But Isla has found a new hope to keep her going. She’s no longer alone—Rory has returned. Hoping to rebuild their lives, Isla leaves New York City and travels back home to Harmony Lake, Alberta, with her daughter’s spirit beside her. Between North & Prior uses its ghostly premise to explore grief, identity, and the difficulty of moving forward when the dead remain present. Purchase here

< Back David Parish The Twitter Gospels An Italian seminarian is sent on a mission to East Jerusalem to protect the Catholic Church. Paolo Venticinque is an Italian seminarian working towards becoming a Jesuit priest. He has been relieved of his teaching duties and sent on a mission to East Jerusalem to investigate a number of hospital reports, where men have been admitted claiming to be Jesus Christ. They are inflicted with a unique psychiatric phenomenon called The Jerusalem Syndrome, where visitors to the city develop a sudden and intense religious psychosis. A twitter account, @ilvangelofinale, is believed to be controlled by one of the hospital patients and has quickly amassed millions of followers. The twitter account represents a significant risk to the Catholic Church and its ‘brand.’ Venticinque’s task is to visit the hospital, question the patients, and identify the creator of the Twitter account. He interviews each patient, but concludes they are unlikely to be behind a coherent social media campaign. But when the tweets lead to mass gatherings across the world, the investigation becomes more intense. One patient named Malcolm Garrity admits to being @ilvangelofinale and claims a hospital orderly managed the Twitter account on his behalf. A deal is done with a Bishop, and the Vatican takes control of the Twitter account. Venticinque is suspicious but agrees to return to Rome to manage the account and tend to its thirteen million followers. Meanwhile, there is an assassination attempt on the Pope, and Venticinque is drafted in to put pressure on the would-be assassin to expose any co-conspirators. As Venticinque learns more about the attempted assassination, he discovers a connection to the Bishop responsible for the Garrity deal. He returns to Jerusalem to uncover the truth about Garrity and the mysterious Twitter account. The Twitter Gospels by David Parish is a tense and gripping novel, about a social media campaign that threatens the very existence of the Catholic Church. Paolo Venticinque, a dedicated seminarian, is tasked with investigating the case, and unwittingly becomes embroiled in a corruption scandal. Parish presents a compelling novel that blends the traditions of the church with the modern dilemmas of the digital age. He challenges readers to ponder difficult questions about faith, power and corruption. A must read for fans of thrillers, or anyone interested in faith and the balance of power and integrity. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An intriguing, twisty, and thought-provoking tale of faith, power and corruption. Purchase here