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< Back Jim Malloy Raptor's Revenge A thrilling, fast-paced, novel, about a heroic privateer who seeks vengeance following the brutal murder of his entire family, from author Jim Malloy Raptor’s Revenge is a historical novel set in Elizabethan England. The book follows fourteen-year-old Jamey Fallon as he returns home to find his whole family murdered. The only clue left behind is a severed finger with a gold ring attached. Jamey pockets the ring and is determined to find and destroy the nine fingered murderer responsible. Jamey sets out on a heroic journey across the high seas, as he seeks revenge on the culprit who murdered his entire family. In doing so, Jamey takes command of his own pirate ship, the ‘Raptor,’ and takes on the persona of a pirate ‘El Raptor.’ For over a decade, Jamey and his one-eyed friend sail the Caribbean Sea and hunt down Spanish ships in search of the murderer. When he arrives in Jamaica, Jamey falls in love with Maria, but they are soon captured and turned over to the inquisition. The lovers escape and intercept the killer’s ship. Jamey finally comes face to face his family’s killer, and faces a brutal and bloody duel to the death. This is a thrilling, fast-paced, novel, jam packed full of action and swashbuckling sea adventures. With a blend of history, mystery, revenge and romance, this book will appeal to those who enjoy historical fiction and pirating adventures. With well-developed characters, an elaborate plot with plenty of gruesome battles, and numerous twists and turns, the book will keep readers captivated and on the edge of their seats. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A captivating, swashbuckling pirate adventure on the high seas. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back J.R. Buchta NORTH: A Magical Friendship Story Set in the enchanting North Pole, the story follows three old friends, the North Wind, the North Star, and the Northern Lights as they try to find new friends. They enjoy each other’s company and have lots of animal friends, but they would like new companions to brighten their frozen magical world. They think about all the different attributes of a good friend – kindness, helpfulness, loyalty, honesty, respectfulness, and friendliness. The North Wind, the North Star, and the Northern Lights work together and use their imagination and magical powers to create new friends using stardust and snowflakes. Out of the bright sky, lit by the Northern Lights, stirred by the North Wind, and dusted by the North Star, the three friends bring to life something extra special that will bring joy to the North Pole and children everywhere. NORTH: A Magical Friendship Story by author J.R. Buchta is a delightful and heartwarming story that celebrates friendship, imagination, and teamwork. The book emphasizes the importance of collaboration and creativity, showing how magic happens when friends work together. Erin O’Leary Brown’s whimsical artwork brings the snowy landscapes and magical characters to life beautifully. The surprise at the end of the story, adds an extra layer of excitement for young readers and sets the stage for future adventures. Overall, this is a beautifully crafted picture book that combines a magical storyline with stunning illustrations. Adults and children will enjoy this imaginative journey to the North Pole. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A delightful, imaginative picture book, with a timeless message about friendship, community, and collaboration. Purchase here

< Back Kerk Murray Since the Day We Danced A second chance at love, for two Hadley Cove residents. Forty-year-old Emma Wright is forced to sell the home her grandfather gifted to her, following her divorce to Chad Jones. Throughout the marriage, Chad was cruel, manipulative, and controlling. The turbulent relationship ends when Chad had an affair with a younger woman, and Emma is left broken. With intense feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and hopelessness, she doesn’t know how to move on with her life. Her only joy is Riley, the golden retriever rescue dog she retained full custody of following the divorce. She moves into a smaller cottage, closer to the coast in Hadley Cove, Georgia. But shortly after the move, Riley escapes through an open door and Emma is distraught when she cannot find him. Riley finds his way back to his old home, where he meets new residents Luke Grayson and his seventeen-year-old son, Jeremiah. Still grieving the loss of his wife who died two years previously from cancer, Luke has moved to Hadley Cove from Chicago, to spend more time with his son. Jeremiah has struggled since his moms death and blames his dad for not being there for him when he was younger. Luke and Jeremiah grow fond of Riley and let him stay until they can track down his owner. When Emma and Riley are finally reunited, Emma develops a friendship with Luke, Hadley Cove’s handsome new bachelor. But when their friendship turns into something more intimate, they decide to keep their relationship secret, to avoid hurting Jeremiah. Will Emma ever trust a man again? Can Luke learn to love another? How will they break the news to Jeremiah? Since the Day We Danced by author Kerk Murray is a romantic novel and a tender love story between two middle aged adults who find love again after heartache. As Emma and Luke try to rebuild their lives in Hadley Cove, they are brought together by Emma’s beloved dog, Riley, and discover an unexpected companionship. But the path to finding love again isn’t easy, as each character must deal with their own pain and trauma. The novel explores the devastating impact of grief and divorce, and the healing power of connection, friendship, and love. A beautiful reminder that even after heartache, one can find love again. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A tender and heartfelt love story about a widower and a divorcee who discover an unexpected companionship, and the prospect of a second chance at love. Purchase here

< Back Jamie Anderson Drive All Day (Because I'm Too Old to Drive All Night) Author Jamie Anderson is on the road again… Jamie Anderson, author, singer-songwriter, and Youtuber, writes about her life on the road as a working musician, travelling to gigs across the country. It’s been several years since Jamie wrote her first memoir, ‘Drive all Night’, and now a little older, no longer has the energy or desire to drive for eight hours during the night. But, her passion for music remains, and she seizes new opportunities to make a living through music with new audiences. Jamie discusses her early childhood, how she was born to perform, and how she later built a successful career as a recording artist, guitar teacher and social media influencer. She shares her real-life experiences as a touring musician, the highs of performing, and the lows of shady producers and greasy spoon cafes. She also shares her love of teaching, and some of the many wonderful and colourful students she has taught over many years. Drive All Day (Because I'm Too Old to Drive All Night) by Jamie Anderson is an intimate, ‘warts and all’ memoir about the reality of life on the road as a touring musician. Jamie is an inspirational woman and a talented artist, and has a wonderful gift for storytelling. Her stories are funny, entertaining, and occasionally outrageous! This is a well written and entertaining memoir, and a fascinating insight into the not so glamorous life as a musician. The book will appeal to Jamie’s many fans, and anyone interested in the real life of a jobbing musician. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A funny, intimate, ‘warts and all’ memoir about the reality of life on the road as a touring musician Purchase here

< Back Wittingly Yours You can be anything (Yes! It's True) Wittingly Yours is a sweet and inspiring illustrated picture book, perfect for young readers and dreamers. The book encourages readers to explore different activities and careers, emphasizing the importance of following your heart and doing the things that you enjoy and make you happy. Written in lyrical rhyme, this is an uplifting and motivational picture book, exploring themes of ambition, determination, and self-belief. I particularly enjoyed the illustrations, which are charming, colorful, and engaging for young readers, and complement the text beautifully. Each career or aspiration, from being a pilot, astronaut, doctor, artist or baker, is accompanied with charming illustrations that will spark young readers imagination and curiosity. There are a diverse range of professions highlighted in the book, which will encourage children to dream big and explore various possibilities without judgement or limitation. The book reassures young readers that they are supported and loved no matter what path they might choose. The recurring theme of patience and trusting the process is a valuable lesson for young readers, teaching them resilience and the importance of taking their time to find their way. Overall, this is a delightful rhyming picture book, which will inspire young readers to follow their dreams. It is a perfect resource to help build confidence and self-belief in young readers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A charming and beautifully illustrated, rhyming picture book, which will inspire young readers to follow their dreams. Purchase here

< Back Paul Sanders Victim or the Crime - The Day Before Jerry Died: A Grateful Dead Thriller A successful author is forced to relive his childhood abuse in order to clear his name. Dan Wilcox wakes up one morning with a gash on his head, and his shirt slashed and splattered in blood. He cannot recall how he got into that state and realises he has lost four days of his memory. He changes out of his blood-stained clothes and decides to retrace his steps back to the last thing he can remember, a visit to his parents’ home in Marquette, Michigan . Dan had not spoken to his parents in fifteen years, and he had hoped to speak to them to help him deal with unresolved childhood trauma. He travels to his parent’s house and finds the house ransacked, and his mother dead on the kitchen floor, with a knife sticking out of her neck. Dan calls the police and then Diana, a p sychiatrist who as helping him process the neglect and abuse he suffered as a child, from his mother and father. Detective Robinson is assigned the case and Dan is suspected of killing his mother to inherit her wealth. Dan learns that his father has been dead for several years and his sister Louise has been missing for many years, also presumed dead. His brother, Mark, lives in California and has a solid alibi. Dan is confident he played no part in his mother’s murder and begs Diana to perform hypnosis. Diana refuses but she does review his case files and recorded therapy sessions. When Dan’s bloodied clothes are found by the police, he feels he has no choice but to run. He confides in Diana, and she agrees to flee with him, to try and help him solve the mystery of his mother’s death. As the fugitives travel across the country, they are pursued by Detective Robinson and the Michigan State Police. Dan has flashbacks to the scene of the murder, and he is forced to relive painful childhood memories. As the runaways attempt to track down Dan’s estranged relatives, they discover sordid details about his father’s meddling in a juvenile court case, and the truth about his sister’s disappearance. Victim or the Crime - The Day Before Jerry Died: A Grateful Dead Thriller is a tense and gripping psychological thriller by author Paul Sanders. The novel is a well written, authentic and believable work of crime fiction. Told partly through Dan’s flashbacks with graphic descriptions of childhood abuse, it is a harrowing and difficult read in places. I enjoyed the weaving of the Grateful Dead throughout this story, and the musical references. This is a lengthy novel (at 683 pages), but it flows at a good pace and is easy to read. The book will appeal to readers who enjoy detective stories, psychological thrillers, true crime and the Grateful Dead. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A tense and gripping psychological thriller about one man’s search for the truth. Purchase here

< Back Eddie W Runde Shadow of the Deceiver: The Genesis Trust, Book 3 Wayne Runde’s Shadow of the Deceiver is a compelling blend of science fiction and Christian allegory, offering a thought-provoking exploration of faith, redemption, and the battle between truth and deception. The novel is set in a dystopian future where technology dazzles society, but communities are fractured by the manipulative ideology of the Falcon, an enigmatic leader who twists faith into a tool for control and fear. The story follows Chris and Brianna Ballanger, newlyweds returning from Atlantis, as they embark on a mission to restore truth and faith in a world consumed by fear and false ideologies. The protagonists, Chris and Brianna, are portrayed as steadfast and compassionate leaders, embodying virtues of faith, love, and perseverance. Their interactions with villagers emphasize the importance of seeking truth and embracing faith as a personal journey. Runde’s writing is immersive, with detailed world-building that brings the dystopian setting to life. The pacing is well-balanced, blending moments of quiet reflection with intense action sequences, such as the climactic battles at Base Two and Base Three. The inclusion of scripture and hymns enriches the narrative, reinforcing its spiritual undertones and leaving readers with a sense of hope and purpose. The novel delves into philosophical and spiritual aspects of faith, exploring how it can be twisted into fear and control or used as a foundation for freedom and unity. The dialogue is thought-provoking, encouraging readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the role of truth in overcoming fear and manipulation. While deeply rooted in Christian themes, Shadow of the Deceiver avoids being preachy, focusing instead on universal struggles between light and darkness, fear and truth. The book challenges readers to think deeply about their beliefs and offers valuable lessons for navigating the complexities of modern life. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A powerful and inspiring read for fans of science fiction and faith-based fiction alike. Purchase here

< Back Adalgisa and David Nico Frogs on the Mountain: The Mountain Yellow-Legged Frogs in Yosemite Adele is visiting Yosemite National Park with her mom and dad. But as she tries to settle down to sleep in her hammock for the night, she is kept awake by a strange ‘kraak, kraak, kraak’ sound. The next morning, Adele asks a ranger about the strange noise, and discovers the sound was from mountain yellow-legged frogs. The ranger explains that the frogs nearly became extinct when trout were introduced into the river and ate the tadpoles and frogs, dragonfly larvae, and other insects that frogs relied on for food. Adele learns about the frogs habitat, defense mechanisms, breeding patterns, and how tadpoles develop into frogs. The ranger explains how the frogs made a comeback in Yosemite, and how they thrived once the trout were removed from some of the lakes. Adele learns that the mountain yellow-legged frogs are connected to other creatures in the ecosystem, and each species is reliant on the others for survival. Frogs on the Mountain: The Mountain Yellow-Legged Frogs in Yosemite is an illustrated children’s picture book by authors, Adalgisa and David Nico. The book provides a fascinating insight into the mountain yellow-legged frogs, an endangered amphibian species that can be found in the lakes in Yosemite National Park. With lots of fascinating facts, and glorious illustrations by Andy Atkins that capture Yosemite’s breath-taking scenery, this book brings the little known frog species to life. Through Adele’s exploration of the park, children will learn about the challenges these tiny amphibians face in their natural habitat and the importance of conservation. Adalgisa and David Nico do an excellent job at balancing a conservation message with an engaging storyline. A wonderful addition to any bookshelf. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An inspiring story, which will help children learn about these fascinating amphibians, the role they play in the ecosystem, and the importance of conservation. Purchase here

< Back Nancy Jean Exploring is NOT for Me!: A Humorous, Perspective-Taking Outdoor Adventure for Kids George is not looking forward to the outdoor adventure at the ‘Ruffin It Camphound’, planned by his mom. He thinks it will be dull and boring. Gemma, on the other hand, is super excited and looking forward to playing with her paw friends in the park. When they arrive at the campsite, Gemma puts on her special spy glasses to look for treasure, while George is reluctant to leave his tent. ‘Exploring is NOT for me!’ George cries. Poor George cannot get comfortable in his bed and is not having the best time at camp. The next day, while Gemma is out searching for treasure, George notices she has left her special spy glasses behind. He heads out to find her, and reluctantly becomes involved in the search. He doesn’t like the cold water, or climbing the rocks, but he is determined to help Gemma win the grand prize. With a little guidance from Gemma, George conquers his fears and soon discovers that outdoor adventures are not so dull and boring after all. Exploring is NOT for Me!: A Humorous, Perspective-Taking Outdoor Adventure for Kids is a fun and interactive picture book for young readers by author Nancy Jean. The book follows the adventures of George, a pup who does not enjoy the outdoors. George is a cute and funny little pup, with a unique personality. He knows what he likes, and will not be forced into anything he doesn’t like! Many young children do not enjoy certain activities, and the book provides reassurance that it is okay not to join in. It will give young ones the confidence to say no, and to sit out when they don’t feel comfortable in an activity, but it will also help them to develop the courage to try out new activities. With lots of fun facts and interactive activities, this is the perfect book to get children interested in the outdoors. I particularly enjoyed the whimsical illustrations by Lucy Shin, who captured George’s unique personality perfectly. A joy to read for both children and adults, and I hope there will be more adventures of George and Gemma to come very soon. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun and humorous interactive picture book, about a cute little pup who attempts to conquer his fears of the outdoors. Purchase here

< Back Becca Johnsey When We Are Apart Author Becca Johnsey explores separation anxiety in a sweet picture book This is a picture book about a little boy who loves spending time with his father. Father and son have lots of fun, playing games and reading books together. But when his father is away at work during the day, the little boy feels sad. He misses his father terribly, and hopes he will come home soon. The little boy’s mom comforts him, and explains she misses him and feels sad too. The little boy tries a number of things to pass the time and relieve the sadness. Breathing and relaxation techniques, keeping busy, and looking at the watch his father bought him. He also rings his father at work, which reassures him he will be home soon. When We Are Apart by author Becca Johnsey is a sweet, rhyming, picture book about a little boy who misses his father when he is away at work. The author was inspired to write this book following her own experiences when her young son missed his father, when he returned to work following the pandemic. The book will help young children name and understand their feelings, and deal with their emotions. It will provide comfort and reassurance that they are loved even when a parent might be absent, and that the parent will come home. With a list of activities to support families at the end of this book, the book will help families manage emotions when a parent or loved one leaves home. It will provide support and comfort to those who might be experiencing separation anxiety. Beautiful digital illustrations by Mariza, created in a traditional style. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet, rhyming, picture book that will help young children deal with their emotions when a parent might be away from home. Purchase here

< Back Charissa Bates The Traveling Book A unique and imaginative picture book by author Charissa Bates If a book could talk, what would it say? How would the book describe its world and the people it meets every day? Well, the book in The Travelling Book, can do just that! In this delightful picture book, by author Charissa Bates, we meet a little blue, travelling book, who just wants to be picked up and read by children. Shortly after the book is printed, it is shipped off to a bookstore, where it meets the friendly cashier, a cute kitten, and all the customers who browse through its pages. The book is bought and packaged, and then whisked off on an adventure to meet a new friend. The book is happy in its new home, where it is read every day, and even gets to go to school to share all of its colorful pictures with the school children. But soon, the book is left abandoned and unread, before it is boxed up and discarded with other unused books. But this is just the start of an adventure for the little blue travelling book, as it finds a new home in a Little Free Library. The book is borrowed, read and swapped many times, and travels across the world, where it finds new libraries and meets lots of new friends. Where will the book travel to next? And which lucky reader will find the book amongst all the other books that reside in free libraries? This is a unique and imaginative picture book by author Charissa Bates, which celebrates little free libraries, and highlights the different types of libraries that exist across the world. The book will encourage young children to visit free libraries, and to share and recycle their books. The book is both entertaining and educational, and will help to support a lifelong love of reading, and sustainable reading practices. With some fun and interactive features, and beautiful, whimsical illustrations by Nadja Bullis, this book would make a wonderful addition to any home or free library. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An entertaining and educational picture book, which will help to support a lifelong love of reading, and sustainable reading practices. Purchase here

< Back Mariah Clark Skewes O is for Pig O is for Pig by author Mariah Clark Skewes is an illustrated, A to Z picture book for young children. The book features a diverse and colourful cast of characters and creatures, from babies to weightlifters, and pigs to kangaroos. But this is not your average A to Z book. Instead of naming the animal or object, this picture book highlights either the sound the animals make, or an alternative expression, for example ‘O’ for oink’, ‘B for baaa’, ‘E for eeekk’. This is a unique and creative A to Z picture book by Mariah Clark Skewes, which invites parents and caregivers to be playful with storytelling and phonetics. Young readers will laugh out loud at the vibrant illustrations and the sound effects that leap off the page. Written in rhyme, with lots of lovely alliteration, young children will enjoy repeating the sounds aloud. The unique concept not only makes learning the alphabet fun, it will also help build vocabulary and develop phonemic awareness. The illustrations by Terri Einer are lively and full of personality, complementing the fun journey through the alphabet perfectly. At the end of the book there is a ‘real letter list’, for those who want to teach the alphabet in the traditional way. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun, fresh and playful take on the classic alphabet picture book. Purchase here