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< Back Richard Kiehr The TellTale Lie The TellTale Lie by author Richard Kiehr is a historical fiction / mystery novel, about a young Canadian man, whose world is torn apart following the sudden death of his father. Set in 1968, teacher Treyton Chase is living a seemingly ordinary life until the sudden death of his father. The loss triggers a deep sense of emptiness and unresolved questions about his parents. Treyton returns to his childhood home and discovers a Bible with the name Denis Aubert scribbled out beneath his own. Treyton’s initial confusion and denial give way to determination as he discovers he was adopted as a baby and his entire life has been built on a lie. Driven by a need for answers, Treyton embarks on a painstaking investigation into his adoption, combing through records, family heirlooms, and cryptic notes. As Treyton delves deeper into his past, he travels first to Paris where he meets his biological sister, Manon. Manon reveals that their parents were archaeologists who travelled extensively and were involved in secretive work during World War I. Treyton becomes entangled in the political and social upheaval of Paris, facing threats from the authorities. As Treyton’s investigation continues, he discovers a link to the Ottoman Empire, and he travels to Turkey on the legendary Orient Express. In Istanbul, Treyton visits the Ottoman Archives and museums, seeking records of his parents’ archaeological activities. Treyton’s journey is marked by moments of revelation and danger. He faces threats from political forces, uncovers the sacrifices of his birth parents, and is forced to come to terms with his own identity. The TellTale Lie is a powerful and captivating novel that explores themes of identity, loss, the weight of family secrets, and the relentless search for truth. Treyton is not a hero in the traditional sense, but a deeply human character - flawed, searching, and transformed by his experiences. The author skilfully connects real-world events with Treyton’s quest, balancing historical detail with a journey of personal discovery. The blend of mystery, suspense, humor, and heartfelt moments makes the story both entertaining and thought-provoking. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A captivating page-turner and a rewarding read for readers who enjoy historical fiction, suspense, and family drama. Purchase here

< Back Bryan Asher The Treasure of Lor-Rev Another gripping fantasy fiction adventure, set in the Intercontinents, by author Bryan Asher On the Intercontinent of Lor-Rev, Jared Dareje, an explorer, and collector of digital artefacts, is searching in the deserted mountains of Kal for a prototype model of the SatellaField Personal Station. When he finds the devise hidden in a cave and takes it away, he sees a projection of the late Johan Naoki, the man who created the device and the owner SatellaField, and a stark warning meant for someone, or something called Daemon. Daemon, an android built by Johan, has evolved into a cybernetic demigod. He has escaped the digital cage where he has been imprisoned, and he needs the Personal Station to link up with three other devises, to achieve his goal of enslaving humanity. But first he must find others who can help him on his mission, and he has engineered microscopic nanites to ensure that those he recruits will participate, willingly or otherwise. Meanwhile, Johan’s granddaughter Kanna, receives an alert that the device has been taken. Kanna must find and retrieve the devise before Daemon pairs the devise with the others and destroys the whole of humanity. The Treasure of Lor-Rev is the second book in a series, and another gripping fantasy fiction adventure from author Bryan Asher. With unique and memorable characters, an enticing plot, and a rich and imaginative setting, the second book in the series does not disappoint. The book stands alone, and can be read without reading the first book, The Assassin of Malcoze, but the two books together create an imaginative and mesmerising fantasy world. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A rich and imaginative fantasy fiction novel, with unique and memorable characters. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Jeremiah Gilbert On to Plan C A Return to Travel Jeremiah Gilbert’s experience of international travel, following the Covid19 pandemic. On to Plan C: A Return to Travel by author Jeremiah Gilbert is a travel memoir / travel guidebook about the authors return to international travel after more than two years of cancellations, following the Covid19 pandemic. Gilbert, a Californian travel writer and photographer, describes his experience of travelling to Fiji, Europe, and the West Indies. In May 2022, Gilbert travelled to Fiji and describes a visit to the oldest settlement in Fiji , a nd the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere . He discusses a near death experience whilst climbing sand dunes in Sigatoka. During a trip to London in July 2022, he has afternoon tea on a Jubilee themed bus and visits Greenwich and Tower Bridge. From London, he travels to Bergen, the street art capital of Norway; Copenhagen, the capital and cultural centre of Denmark; and Berlin, where he visits the Holocaust Memorial, Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie. In November 2022, Gilbert takes a Christmas river cruise, travelling on the Rhine from Amsterdam to Basel, visiting Dordrecht, Düsseldorf, Cologne, Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Mannheim, Strasbourg, Freiburg, and the Ravenna Gorge enroute. In December 2023, Gilbert takes a three-week Caribbean cruise, visiting St. Barts, Antigua, Martinique, St. Vincent, Trinidad, Guadeloupe, St. Kitts, Grenada, Bonaire, Aruba, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. On to Plan C: A Return to Travel is an insightful and captivating blend of travel memoir and travel guide, with a stunning collection of photographs. While Gilbert shares his experience of each destination, the main sights, activities, and cultural experiences, he also discusses his travel experience, and how he navigated the airlines and train services in a post-Covid world. Through vivid storytelling and lots of humor, Gilbert takes the reader on a journey across continents, weaving his own personal experiences with practical travel tips. The memoir aspect provides an intimate touch, allowing readers to connect with Gilbert’s experience and adventures, while the guide provides valuable insights for anyone looking to embark on a similar journey. Whether you are a virtual traveller, or are planning your own adventure, this book offers a delightful mix of inspiration and advice. What sets this book apart is Gilbert’s breathtaking photography. Each image transports the reader to the heart of the destination, capturing the landscapes, culture, and people, beautifully. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An insightful and captivating blend of travel memoir and travel guide, with a stunning collection of photographs. Purchase here

< Back Jennifer Ivy Walker The Lady of the Mirrored Lake A sensational second instalment in the Sea Raven trilogy, by Jennifer Ivy Walker The Lady of the Mirrored Lake is the second book in the Sea Raven series, and picks up where the first book, The Wild Rose and the Sea Raven, ended. Issylte leaves Avalon and her beloved Elf, Ronan, and travels to Bretagne with the Blue Knight of Cornwall, Tristan, and Lancelot. Issylte is given the name Lady Opale to hide her identity from her evil stepmother, Morag, and trains with Tristan to become a Warrior Priestess of the Tribe of Dana. Both Issylte and Tristan are determined to regain their thrones and prepare for battle with Morag, the Black Widow Queen, and the dark wizard, Voldurk. As Issylte grieves the loss of Ronan, she grows closer to Tristan and their relationship blossoms. When she kills the evil dwarf, Malvon, she becomes the Priestess of the Mirrored Lake and enters into an eternal bond with Tristan. Issylte is gifted new powers and sworn to protect the sacred waters of the lake . She embarks on a treacherous journey to find an enchanted orb that is imbued with special powers, and hidden in the depths of the mirrored lake. In Issylte’s absence, Princess Blanchine of Armorique tries to seduce Tristan and is tricked by Voldurk into casting a powerful enchantment on him to bind his love. Once the spell is cast, Princess Blanchine is murdered, and Tristan is wrongfully arrested and imprisoned in the castle of Tintagel . With her new powers, Issylte frees Tristan and blocks Voldurk’s evil enchantment. Issylte and Tristan rekindle their mating bond and are married in the sacred forest. But their lives and kingdoms are put in danger, as Voldurk and The Black Widow Queen try to capture and kill them. Issylte is forced to seek the assistance of her former lover, Elf Ronan, and convince him to forge a sword for Tristan that can slay the wizard and stop the evil queen. The Lady of the Mirrored Lake is a medieval fantasy fiction novel by author Jennifer Ivy Walker and the second instalment in the Sea Raven trilogy. The novel is a thrilling, action-packed and captivating adaptation of the A rthurian myth, with a passionate and steamy twist. With magnificent world building, wonderful characterisation and rich storytelling, this is a dark fantasy fiction novel not to be missed. I recommend readers start with the first book in the series, to get the full benefit of this unique and enchanting novel. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A steamy adaptation of the A rthurian myth, with magnificent world building, wonderful characterisation and rich storytelling. Purchase here

< Back Bryan Asher The Assassin of Malcoze Debut author Bryan Asher builds a rich fantasy world in the Intercontinents The book takes place in the Intercontinent of Malcoze, a fantasy realm, comprising a floating world of continents. The Malcozeans are an advanced species, with unique powers and special abilities to augment, enhance and manipulate everyday things. Three Malcozeans, Auros, Analia and Taurong are each on an independent journey of self-discovery, finding their own way in life. Auros an eccentric, ageing mercenary is working on a contract to find a mysterious heir of the King Tarburous. Analia, Princess of Malcoze, the Kings daughter and a student with a unique talent for enchantment. Taurong, a young man studying battle arts to become a member of the Rincoyle elite military, with special aura powers. As the characters’ progress on their own journeys, they are unwittingly united by a dangerous assassin, Scoria Kith from a neighbouring continent, the Intercontinent of Kratas. Kith’s mission is to destabilise Malcoze and assassinate King Tarburous, and he will not stop until he achieves his goal. The Assassin of Malcoze is a gripping, fantasy fiction novel, set in the fantasy realm of the Intercontinents. Asher has built a rich, fantasy world with strong, well-developed characters that will appeal to fans of this genre. The second half of the book was amazing, and I couldn’t put it down. I look forward to reading the next instalment in this series. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A beautifully crafted fantasy fiction novel, with an intriguing plot, brilliant character development, and excellent artwork. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Kenneth Chanko Exit Tickets Exit Tickets by Kenneth Chanko is a compelling exploration of identity, relationships, and the challenges of teaching in a District 75 school in New York City. Through the intertwined lives of its characters, the story delves into themes of resilience, power dynamics, family, and self-discovery, offering a poignant and realistic portrayal of life in a special education setting. At the heart of the novel is Martin “Mr. J” Jordanowski, a first-year teacher navigating the complexities of his role in a school filled with emotionally disturbed students. His journey is marked by moments of self-doubt, reflection, and growth as he struggles to connect with his students and make a meaningful impact. His relationship with Kandra McKissick, a bright but troubled student, becomes a focal point of the narrative, raising questions about the boundaries between teacher and student and the ethical dilemmas that arise in such relationships. Kandra’s character is equally compelling, as she uses writing to explore her identity, process her emotions, and navigate her relationships with her stepmother, stepsister, and peers. Chanko’s portrayal of the school environment is raw and unflinching, capturing the chaos, challenges, and occasional moments of triumph that define life in a District 75 school. The power dynamics between teachers, students, and administrators are explored in depth, highlighting the systemic issues and bureaucratic hurdles that often hinder meaningful progress. The novel also touches on racial and social disparities, offering a nuanced perspective on the experiences of Black students in predominantly white neighborhoods. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, capturing the unique voices of the students and staff. The novel’s structure, with its shifting perspectives and detailed character development, allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the motivations and struggles of each character. A must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of education, identity, and social issues. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thought-provoking and emotionally resonant exploration of the human experience within the context of a challenging educational environment. Purchase here

< Back Juliet Rose Carrying the Dead A young woman embarks on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. When H annah Moore discovers she is pregnant, she is devastated. Neither Hannah or her partner, Parker, want to keep the baby and discuss adoption. At twelve weeks, Hannah miscarries and experiences unimaginable grief for the unborn child she never wanted. Hannah doesn’t receive the support she needs from Parker, and the relationship breaks down. Hannah is in a horrific road traffic collision, and an innocent motorcyclist, eighteen-year-old Logan Slip, is killed. At the scene of the accident Hannah breaks down, as memories of her miscarriage come flooding back to her. She is admitted to a mental hospital, where she meets George (Buzzy), a healthcare worker. Hannah attends support groups and receives therapy and medication. Six weeks after her admission, Hannah is released from hospital and experiences recurrent nightmares and visions of Logan and a young boy who looks like Parker. George continues to provide comfort and support for Hannah after her release, and they develop a close friendship. When Hannah’s nightmares and visions continue, George believes they are trying to give her a message embedded in an ancient culture. He suggests they travel to Mexico to meet Miguel and Sebastián, who helped him through drug addiction, following a caving accident. The couple fly to Texas and cross the border to Mexico. They rent a RV, and George teaches Hannah self-defence and meditation techniques. On their journey to meet Miguel and Sebastián, they visit ancient ruins and caves, and Hannah feels a spiritual connection to the sacred sites. Hannah and George’s relationship further develops, as they go on a journey of spiritual awakening, and discover a connection between Hannah’s unborn child and the motorcyclist. Carrying the Dead by author Juliet Rose is a mystical fiction novel about an unlikely couple who embark on a transformational journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening. This is an emotional and powerful novel that blends themes of grief, addiction, healing, and romance. Hannah is grieving for the loss of her unborn child, and George is recovering from drug addiction. The couple help each other navigate their feelings and deal with trauma, and I enjoyed seeing the growth of both characters throughout the book. Part horror, part mystery, part mysticism and part romance, this is a moving, engaging and thoroughly absorbing read. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A moving, engaging and thoroughly absorbing mystical fiction novel. Purchase here

< Back Mary Perrine The Storms of Eddie Greer An elderly man is forced to confront the ghosts of his past following a tragic accident. Sixty-year-old Eddie Greer lives on a four-hundred-acre farm with his wife, Jules, in a small town named Holland Crossing. Eddie inherited the farm from his late parents, but he has no love or attachment to the farm. Eddie was forced to give up his dreams, take over the farm and look after his mother, following his father’s death. Everything on the farm reminds him of his childhood and his abusive, alcoholic father. When Jules leaves him after forty-two years of marriage, and six weeks later his only grandson, twenty-two-year-old Cade, is tragically killed in a lightning bolt storm, Eddie is forced to face the ghosts of his past. Eddie’s family and the community blame him for Cade’s death, for working him too hard and not protecting him during the storm. Eddie reflects on his life, from his early childhood growing up on the farm, through to young adulthood, his marriage to Jules and the birth of his daughter, Melia. As a child, Eddie lived in almost constant fear of his father, George. George was a tyrant and ruled the household with an iron rod. He was physically and emotionally abusive towards Eddie and Eddie’s mother, Elisabeth. From an early age, Eddie shouldered the responsibility of protecting his mother and keeping her safe. Eddie vowed he would never be like his father, but as he relives past events, his relationships with his wife, daughter and grandson, and his dependency on alcohol, he soon realises he has become a clone of his father. Can Eddie heal the wounds of the past and turn his life around before it is too late? The Storms of Eddie Greer is an intriguing and thought-provoking family / psychological drama by author Mary Perrine. The book follows the journey of one man who is forced to face his past, following the tragic death of his grandson and the breakdown of his marriage. The author offers a compelling narrative of the protagonist’s internal conflict as he realises he has become a mirror of his abusive, alcoholic father. The book examines the human condition and questions whether people are destined to follow in their parents’ footsteps, or if they can break free from the cycle of violence and abuse. This is a heart breaking novel, which deals with disturbing issues of childhood trauma, neglect, and abuse. The protagonist is both a victim and a perpetrator of abuse, and readers will emphasize with him and despise him in equal measure. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An intriguing and thought-provoking family / psychological drama that examines the human condition and the intergenerational transmission of violence and abuse. Purchase here

< Back SAVI The Journey Begins Within A profound and intimate spiritual guide, by author SAVI. In The Journey Begins Within, author and spiritual guide, SAVI, takes the reader on a journey of spiritual enlightenment, as he describes his own personal journey and his relationship with the Holy Spirit. SAVI recalls his first encounter with the Spirit when he was just six-years old, growing up in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He explains, “ fully conscious, I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit heal my body, which could be construed as a true miracle.” Dismissed by his parents as a psychosomatic episode, SAVI knew he had been visited by an other-worldly presence. This was the first of many supernatural visitations, which could not be explained by anything else. After graduating from high school in the US, SAVI returned back to Buenos Aires to study engineering when the next inexplicable metaphysical event happened. He also recalls a time in his life when he suffered from a serious back injury. “I sensed a presence leave my body. As this presence departed, my body regained its mobility.” Through his relationship with God, SAVI discovered the journey into unconditional self-love, which in turn, helped him to see his past emotional injuries from a new perspective and heal the emotional wounds. The Journey Begins Within is a transformative and thought-provoking guide to spirituality and self-discovery. SAVI’s story is uplifting and inspiring. By sharing his own spiritual journey, and interweaving his experiences with practical tools and advice, SAVI offers readers a path to spiritual enlightenment. He gently encourages readers to live in the present and find their own true self through a personal connection with the Divine. The book serves as both a beacon of hope, and a practical guide for those seeking healing through spiritual means. A must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of spirituality and find their own connection to God. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An uplifting and deeply moving exploration of spirituality and personal transformation. Purchase here

< Back Sarah Barry Time Management for the Time Anxious Book blurb... Living Beyond the Clock: Mastering Time Anxiety for a Fulfilling Life Do you feel the relentless tick-tock of the clock, even in silence? This book delves into the heart of time anxiety—that insidious feeling that time is a predator, and we are its prey. Time Management for the Time-Anxious offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and managing time anxiety. Read about the psychological, physiological and environmental factors that contribute to time anxiety and poor time management. Follow the steps within to transform your relationship with time and free yourself from the shackles of time anxiety! Key insights include: * Understanding Time Anxiety: Discover the psychological roots of time anxiety and how it impacts your well-being. * Redefining Concepts and Values: Learn the art of making conscious decisions that align with your redefined values. * Creating Your Time Anxiety Profile: Assess your triggers, habits, and cycles of procrastination and perfectionism. * Practical Tools and Techniques: Implement effective strategies to manage anxiety and embrace time affluence gradually. * Setting Boundaries and Prioritization: Master the art of prioritization with proven strategies to set boundaries and enhance productivity. * Personalized Time Management Blueprint: Overcome procrastination and perfectionism with a tailored blueprint for time management. It is not just about managing time; it's about managing your mind, but to do this, you must first understand yourself, and then learn how to manage any self-limiting habits or tendencies you discover. By understanding your responses to time anxiety, you can liberate yourself from the grips of stress and reclaim your well-being. Embrace a life where success is measured by the impact of your actions and the quality of your engagements, rather than the quantity of tasks completed. Why not just stop racing to catch up, and try fully embracing each moment instead? Purchase here

< Back KJ The Forever and The Now Will Bron McIntyre ever find her forever and now? By author KJ Bron McIntyre, a fortysomething teacher from Melbourne, is sketching on her favourite bench in her local park, when she notices a beautiful woman. Attracted to the woman, she begins to sketch her picture, when a cyclist crashes into the woman and spills a smoothie down her shirt. Bron helps the woman clean up and starts up a conversation, where she learns the woman’s name is Kate and is going through a divorce. The pair share an instant connection, and following the cycling incident they meet up regularly in the park and become close friends. Bron develops feelings for Kate, and senses something in return, but unsure of Kate’s feelings towards her, she is scared to make the first move. Kate finally confesses her desire for Bron, and the relationship slowly develops into something more intimate. Bron has a close and supportive family, who accept Kate with open arms. Kate’s mother on the other hand is less supportive, and judgemental of her life choices. Feeling pressure from Bron, Kate reluctantly comes out to her mother, which causes tension in the relationship. Kate’s mother struggles to accept her new love, hoping Kate will return to her ex-husband, Neil. As Kate’s mother continues to meddle in their relationship, Bron and Kate feel disconnected, and they turn to a counsellor for help. But as Bron and Kate try to work through their issues, Bron notices Kate acting out of character. When the couple learn more about Kate’s uncharacteristic behaviour, their entire world begins to fall apart. The Forever and The Now, by author KJ, is a beautifully written love story of two women, whose lives become entwined and are changed forever, following a chance encounter at the park. Written in the first-person perspective, KJ’s narrative is real, emotional and authentic, and the intimate scenes between Bron and Kate are beautiful, tender and passionate. KJ beautifully describes the pleasure and power of love, the tender and unconditional love that many people dream about. But this is not a happy ever after story, there is heartbreak, pain and tragedy. Readers might need something to dry their eyes with, in order to finish this book! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written love story of two women, whose lives become entwined and are changed forever, by author KJ. Purchase here

< Back Scarlet Ibis James Love in the Dark: A Holiday Romance Book blurb... What if the love you're standing inside, worn, familiar, and strained, is still the love worth choosing? Love in the Dark is a mature, emotionally grounded holiday romance about marriage after the spark, when commitment is tested not by scandal, but by silence. Two weeks before Christmas, Marissa and Gregory Williams-Parker are trapped in their Connecticut home by a blizzard, power out, phones dying, distractions stripped away. What remains is the marriage they've avoided examining for years. Purchase here