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Never Believe a Lie Twice < Back Kathleen Troy Never Believe a Lie Twice Thirteen-year old aspiring journalist Sage Christopher wakes up in a Las Vegas jail, after his dead beat father died in car accident. With no one else to take care of him, he spent the night in a cell before being handed over to the Children’s Home Society. The Society locate his estranged, elderly, grandparents in Evansville, Connecticut, and Sage is sent by train to live with them. Sage is given his father’s belongings and discovers old newspaper clippings about the mysterious disappearance of a wealthy newspaper tycoon, Jonathan Evans. A cryptic note with the clippings suggests Evans’ was murdered by someone named “C”. Sage discovers that his father was caught up in an elaborate blackmail attempt to keep the circumstances surrounding Evans’ disappearance secret. Evans’ body was never recovered, and the newspaper offered a $1 million reward to solve the mystery. As Sage settles into a new home and a new school, he secretly plots his escape from his grandparents’ house. But first, he must find “C”, solve Evans’ murder and cash in on the reward. As Sage delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a connection to his own aunt and uncle, who bought the newspaper following Evans’ death. But, as Sage comes close to solving the case and claiming the reward, he grapples with his own moral dilemmas, his loyalty to his new family, and his desire for independence. Never Believe a Lie Twice is a gripping novel for young adults, by author Kathleen Troy. The novel follows the journey of a young boy as he begins a new life in a new town, where family ties and dark secrets collide. The novel is filled with action, suspense, humor, and heartfelt moments as Sage struggles to overcome his traumatic past and accept his new family. A must-read for fans of mystery and adventure, the book sets the stage for an exciting series. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary : A thrilling, fast-paced, whodunit and heartfelt coming-of-age story. Purchase here

< Back Jamie McMahon The Handy Pandas There is a cottage hidden deep in the woods where the handiest panda friends live. The panda’s are so handy, they can fix the most impossible tasks. They work so hard fixing things together, but they also like to have lots of fun, climbing, sliding, tumbling and running. One day, while working hard in the garden, they are so exhausted they fall asleep. When they wake, it is dark outside, and they think the sky is broken. One panda has an idea. He thinks the sun has fallen down, and so the panda’s set out to find it. They search here, there and everywhere, but cannot find the sun. Another panda thinks the sun has gone down because it is unhappy, and so the panda’s try to make the sun go back up by making it laugh. The panda’s stay up all night, until something miraculous happens… The Handy Pandas is a joyful illustrated picture book for young readers by Jamie McMahon. The book follows a group of adorable and mischievous panda’s, who try their best to fix things, and sometimes try to fix things that maybe don’t need fixing! The story is sweet, silly and full of giggles. The illustrations are super colourful and full of fun, and children will laugh out loud at the cute panda bears and their wild ideas. Star rating: 5 stars Summary : A super sweet and funny picture book for young readers who like animals and enjoy silly adventures. Purchase here

< Back Kate Giles Camp Cattitude Crazy camp capers and cats with a cranky cattitude, by author Kate Giles Camp Cattitude is the world’s top kitten camp, run by the formidable Meowmoiselle. Meowmoiselle trained all the top kittens, including the world’s Expert Sofa Shredder, the Olympic Napping Champion and the Fussiest Eater Alive, and was in high demand from all the cat moms. Camp Cattitude was bursting at the seams, much to the dismay of the neighbouring Rottweilers, when a little kitty named Snug, turned up at the door. Meowmoiselle was smitten by the kitten, and could not refuse to take him in. But Snug was no ordinary little kitten. He was well behaved. He did not follow the camp rules. He had no cattitude! One day, when Meowmoiselle was out shopping, the other kittens escape and wreak havoc in the neighbour’s garden. Little Snug is caught and faces the wrath of a raging Rottweiler. But rather than face-off with the Rottweiler, Snug tries a different approach. He works with the other kittens to repair the damage to the garden, and restores friendships with the warring neighbours. Snug teaches the other kittens an important lesson in kitty cattitude! Camp Cattitude by author Kate Giles is a sweet and funny picture book about a crazy camp, for cute cats with a cranky cattitude. The book is a funny and enjoyable read and has a subtle message about kindness and the importance of not following the crowd. With lots of word play and cat puns, children will laugh out loud at the mischievousness little kittens, and their crazy antics. The illustrations by Ben Chandler and Enile Reiner are simply delightful. With fabulous facial expressions and body language, and intricate details like the dog drinking a cup of tea and the comedy signs around the camp, the illustrations will amuse young readers and adults alike. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and funny picture book, with delightful illustrations. It was a joy to read. 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 Charlene McIver Off to School in my Wheelie Chair Leigh’s fun journey to school in his super wheelie chair. Leigh is off to school in his super wheelie chair. With his four wheels, he zooms down the path, being careful not to ride over any bumps or cracks in the path. He splashes through puddles and tests his strength by spinning his wheels to the top of a hill, before cruising down the other side to reach his school. He scoots through the school gate and up the ramp, before arriving safely in his class. Leigh meets his friends, and settles down in class, where he is ready, willing, and ABLE to learn. Off to School in my Wheelie Chair is an illustrated picture book by author Charlene McIver, about Leigh and his adventures in his super wheelie chair. The book follows Leigh’s journey to school one day, as he splashes through puddles, avoids obstacles, climes a strenuous hill and freewheels down the other side in his wheelchair. The book is a positive story about a little boy who doesn’t let his wheelchair get in the way of his life or his learning. His journey to school in his wheelchair is a fun, enjoyable experience, albeit sometimes challenging. He is happy, confident, and included at school, he understands his strengths and he is ready, willing, and ABLE to learn. Leigh’s wheelchair is not a hinderance, but used as a tool to maintain independence. The book will help children who might be in a wheelchair, prepare for their first day at school. It will help other children understand other peoples’ differences and abilities. Beautifully written in rhyme, with charming illustrations by Winendra Adi, the book delivers an important message of acceptance, inclusion, and friendship. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful picture book about a remarkable young boy with a super wheelie chair and an infectious sense of fun and adventure. Purchase here

< Back Nina Blakeman The Peace Talk Four men, united by a shared history and a secret they have harboured for ten long years. Every May for the last ten years, four men have been brought together for the anniversary of the death of their high school teacher, Otis Watt. A vigil is held to commemorate Otis’s passing, and high school friends, Andy, Gary, Hal, and Mont y are forced to relive the events of ten years ago. Otis was brutally attacked on the banks of the Arkansas River, after their high school graduation. The four men know more about the attack than they have previously revealed and are sworn by a dark secret that has bound them together for a decade. Each man has gone his own way since the incident, but as they try to move on with their lives, they are haunted by the events of that fateful night. May 2019, the men reluctantly meet before the vigil to put on a united front and to get their story straight. But, when Otis’s daughter, Angela, is found dead at the same high school, the complex web of lies and deceit begin to unravel. Angela had asked to speak to Monty before the vigil, and he was one of the last to see her alive. Monty’s brief liaison with Angela could implicate him in her death and tie him to the death of her father ten years ago. As the investigation into Angela’s death ensues, the lives and loves of the four men intertwine, while they recall events from their teen years. Meanwhile, Monty's tyrannical father and Judge, Winston Reardon, is determined to make a soldier out of his son. The Peace Talk by Nina Blakeman is a gripping, twisty, tale about a group of four men, who share a dark secret from a decade ago. There is no love lost between the men, but their lives became forever entwined when their high school teacher was viciously attacked following their high school graduation. Ten years have passed since the fateful night, but the consequences of their actions still loom large. The event that bound them together a decade ago, now threatens to tear their lives apart. The narrative is compelling and emotionally charged as the author slowly peels back another layer of each character’s psyche, and the circumstances that led to the event. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A gripping and twisty tale, and a masterful exploration of how a single event can impact one’s life forever. Purchase here

< Back Betty Cetas Oscar and Otto Friendship is much more fun than fighting. Oscar is a troll who loves to fish. Otto is a fish who loves to trick fishermen. When Oscar takes his boat into the lake, Otto cannot wait to have some fun. Oscar throws his line into the lake, and Otto bites on the tasty worm. But when Oscar retrieves the worm, there is no fish. Oscar drops his line again, and again and again, and Otto nibbles on the worm, one bit at a time. Until Oscar has no worms left. Otto teases Oscar, and Oscar hatches a plan to catch the fish. He tries a fishing net, but Otto is too strong and falls into the water. He tries a hook, but the line snaps and he falls into the water. Otto escapes, but the hook is stuck in his mouth. Oscar is furious, and even when the lake freezes over, he plots to catch Otto. He cuts a hole in the icy surface of the lake, but the ice isn’t thick enough and he falls into the water again. Oscar cannot find the ice hole, but Otto sees him drowning and helps him to the surface. When spring arrives, Oscar returns back to the lake…but this time he has a very different plan. Oscar and Otto is part of the Troll Tales and Other Stories from Grandma’s Cottage series, by Betty Cetas. This is a heartwarming tale of two enemies who set their differences aside to become good friends. It follows Oscar as he battles to catch the fish ‘that cannot be caught’. The more Otto evades Oscar’s capture, the more furious Oscar becomes. Oscar is determined to catch the pesky fish, and Otto is determined to evade the fisherman. Until the day their games go too far, and both Oscar and Otto’s lives are in danger. Otto notices Oscar is in trouble and helps save his life. In return, Oscar does a good deed to help the fish. The book demonstrates the importance of friendship, kindness, and supporting others when they are in need. Young children will enjoy the fun scenes of Oscar repeatedly falling in the lake and will root for the fish as he evades the troll’s capture. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heartwarming tale of two enemies who set their differences aside and become best friends. Purchase here

< Back Tricia Copeland Azreya Aztec Priestess A young Aztec girl's journey of courage, self-discovery and emancipation. Azreya is born with light eyes and a mark on her hand. Her parents fear she is cursed, and they seek advice from a shaman, Nukpana, just two days after her birth. Nukpana confirms Azreya is Tepeyollotl, the Aztec god and Lord of Darkness, with hidden powers and the ability to transform into a beast. Nukpana suggests he trains Azreya to subdue her inner beast, help her learn to control it, and harness her gifts. Just before her fourth birthday, Azreya is sent to live with Nukpana. He trains her daily through games, physical activity, and meditation. She connects with her inner beast, a spotted leopard she names Tecuani. She also discovers her special gift is the ability to hear other peoples thoughts and see the future. For many years Azreya is hidden away, but, as Nukpana attempts to reintroduce her into society, she is ridiculed because she is different to other children. As Azreya harnesses her gifts, Nukpana asks her to help him perform his shaman duties incognito. Azreya is able to help many people by looking into their future and diverting them from danger. Soon, word gets out that Nukpana is an exceptional shaman, and he is asked to help the King. But when Azreya learns that Nukpana has lied to the King, and also realises he has exploited her for many years, she decides to escape. Alone, afraid, and scared her inner beast might surface, Azreya goes in search of her family. But, when Nukpana reveals Azreya’s true identity, she is soon pursued by the King and his army. Azreya, Aztec Priestess, by author Tricia Copeland is an engrossing chapter book for middle grade readers based on Aztec mysticism and mythology. The book is told from Azreya’s perspective, a young girl born with special gifts and extraordinary powers. The book follows her journey from birth to her teenage years, as she is torn from her family and forced to live with a shaman who exploits her for his own personal gain. It is a journey of courage, self-discovery, and emancipation, as Azreya fights for her life and her people. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and the illustrations by Matt Maes are divine. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fascinating and engaging book about Aztec mythology for middle grade readers. Purchase here

< Back DF Kennedy The Whole Truth Dahlia Frost returns in this gripping second instalment, by author DF Kennedy. The Whole Truth is the second book in a series from author DF Kennedy, which follows on where the first book, The Truth, ended. Following her kidnapping in Scotland, pregnant Dahlia returns home to rebuild her life with her fiancé, Roland. Dahlia suspects her stepfather Bob was involved in her kidnapping, and confronts him at his home, threatening to kill him. With Roland away at a movie premier, Dahlia calls her ex-husband, Daniel, for support. There is an altercation at the river, when they find Bob in a boat with her mother, Sylvia. Bob is reported missing when his boat washes up on the bank, empty. Sylvia is rushed to hospital with a suspected brain bleed, brought on by ongoing health issues, the stress of Bob’s disappearance and recent revelations in Dahlia’s autobiographical novel. Meanwhile, as Dahlia tries to settle into her new home with Roland, she finds a letter in her mother’s possessions with the real identity of her birth father. When Bob’s dead body is found in the river with a bullet wound, the scene bears an uncanny resemblance to the death of Dahlia’s father, many years ago. While Roland is away, Daniel visits Dahlia in the hope of a reconciliation. When Dahlia turns down his advances, Daniel threatens to tell the police that she killed Bob, unless she leaves Roland and tells him the baby is not his. Dahlia plays along and attempts to leave Roland, but when Roland’s life is put in danger, she finally reveals the truth. Daniel informs the police and Dahlia is arrested and taken in for questioning. The murder weapon is found with Dahlias fingerprints. The police interrogate Dahlia and review her autobiography, finding a compelling motive for his murder. The Whole Truth by DF Kennedy is a gripping psychological thriller, loosely based on the authors own experiences. The second book in the series, this novel explores further the relationships between the main characters, and their backstories. This is a captivating novel, with a complex, intricate and well-crafted plot, and well-developed, authentic characters. The book had me gripped from start to finish. There are a number of clues and key pieces of evidence featured throughout the book, but I still have no idea where this book will end! I cannot wait for the next instalment. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A gripping psychological thriller, with a complex, intricate and well-crafted plot, and well-developed, authentic characters. Purchase here

Will Harley James solve the clues to find the missing statue, and save the world from ultimate destruction? < Back Leah Cupps Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings Harley Rebecca James, a budding cryptologist, and the daughter of a world-renowned archaeologist, is on an expedition to Tikal Guatemala. Out walking with her dog one day, Harley discovers a Mayan carving and a missing stone from six nooks carved into the wall. When Harley finds the sixth stone, and places it in the wall, part of the wall collapses and she discovers a hidden, glowing, statue. But before Harley can tell her dad about the mysterious artefact, it is stolen from under her bed. Harley soon learns about the legend of the three Mayan Kings, and if her statue meets two other missing statues, it could result in world destruction. Harley must follow the clues to find the statue before it gets into the wrong hands. Little does she know that a criminal gang is also in search of the missing statue, and Harley and her friends must stop them before it’s too late. Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings is a superb story for young, independent readers. Harley is a strong, confident, female lead, with a quest for knowledge and adventure. The book will appeal to those who like action, adventures, and mystery stories. With lots of interesting facts about Mayan history, readers might be inspired to learn more about this fascinating, ancient civilisation. There are cryptic clues throughout the book, that will also encourage readers to learn more about code breaking and cryptology. The book is complemented by wonderful illustrations, and other resources to access on the authors website. As the first in the series, this book sets the scene for future adventures of Harley James, and we look forward to reading the next instalment. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A superb mystery story, with a strong female lead. A BRONZE WINNER and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Michael Shandler Karma and Kismet A spiritual quest across continents, cultures and consciousness. A Memoir of Adversity and Triumph One man’s journey of struggle, self-acceptance and success. Author Michael Shandler writes about his life growing up as ‘Gary Fuchs’, in South Africa, and his journey across the ocean to North America as a young man. Part one (‘Karma’) focuses on his early life in 1950’s Cape Town, where he lived in constant fear of his violent father. At age thirteen, he was sent away to an all-boys boarding school, where he was regularly bullied by other students. After leaving school at eighteen, he was drafted into the all-White South African army but struggled to find his place: “I’m not a proud South African. The country’s history is alien to me. I love the land and the sea, but I’m a Jew. An outsider. Bullied by Afrikaners and English alike”. After he is discharged from the army due to medical reasons, he joins a training program in Johannesburg, but he remains sad, lonely, and depressed. Part two (‘Seeking’) focuses on his early twenties, as he leaves South Africa in search of new opportunities. Following the outbreak of the Arab-Israel conflict in 1967, the twenty-one-year-old volunteers to work in a kibbutzim to support the war effort. When he receives cash from his uncle's in Canada, he decides to emigrate to Vancouver. He takes several jobs, and experiments with psychedelic drugs. He soon discovers a love of yoga, which he later teaches and develops a friendship with Ram Dass, a spiritual teacher and yoga guru. He is given the spiritual name Ravi Dass, and he joins an intensive ‘Arica’ enlightenment training program. He later marries Aparna, and they have a daughter named Manju. In the late 1970’s he writes a yoga journal and publishes his first book. In Part three (‘Kismet’) he publishes several other books with his wife, under the names Michael and Nina Shandler. Aparna gives birth to their second daughter, Sara, and Michael reconciles with his estranged father. Karma and Kismet A spiritual quest across continents, cultures and consciousness: A Memoir of Adversity and Triumph is an absorbing and heartfelt memoir by author Michael Shandler. Shandler shares his personal journey from Cape Town to Canada, chronicling key personal, social and political events during his life. Shandler escapes a violent and controlling father, and builds a new life in a new country, where he finds peace and a sense of purpose through yoga and spiritual practice. This is a deeply moving, honest, authentic and courageous memoir, exploring the complexity of the human experience and the basic need for love and belonging. It offers a beacon of hope and healing for anyone recovering from childhood trauma. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A deeply moving, honest, authentic and courageous memoir, exploring the complexity of the human experience and the basic need for love and belonging. Purchase here

< Back Michelle Carbajal Heirs of Ruin Book blurb... Alésia fell two thousand years ago. When the last queen was betrayed and murdered by her own sister. The surviving Aléshen people were banished from their home and forced into exile. Hiding within protected havens throughout Velendia. Forced to wait... Until the heir to the throne would appear to lead the Aléshen people to victory against their mortal enemy - The Alkarii. Kiona was born into this world of turmoil. The eldest daughter of Alésia, it falls to her to restore her people to their ancestral home. Facing off against powerful foes, dark sorcerers, and insubordinate allies, she struggles to find her place in a world she never asked to be in. A world she would rather forget. Because by all laws and decrees of Alésia, Purchase here