< Back Srdjan Macanovic Bridge Between Two Worlds: From Sarajevo to London Book blurb... Bridge Between Two Worlds is a luminous literary memoir, tracing an extraordinary journey from the siege of Sarajevo to the operating rooms and quiet beaches of Australia. At once intimate and universal, it explores how knowledge, compassion, and memory can rebuild a life shattered by war. It traces a remarkable journey - from the besieged streets of Sarajevo to the halls of Cambridge and the healing shores of Australia. Through war and exile, loss and renewal, Dr. Macanovic weaves a deeply human story of resilience, compassion, and the search for belonging. Blending memoir, reflection, and philosophy, Bridge Between Two Worlds: a Doctor's Journey from Sarajevo to London builds literal and metaphorical bridges - between East and West, past and present, science and spirit, and above all, between pain and hope. Purchase here

< Back Pat Wahler The Rose of Washington Square: A Novel of Rose O'Neill, Creator of the Kewpie Doll A biographical historical fiction novel about Rose O’Neill, the creator of the Kewpie doll June 1893, nineteen-year-old Rose O’Neill travels from the Midwest to New York, determined to sell her illustrations. It’s a tough industry, and Rose is accompanied by a couple of nuns, who chaperone her as she tries to sell her wares in a profession dominated by males. Rose dreams of becoming a successful illustrator and hopes to make a better life for herself and her family back home. Following numerous rejections, Rose walks the streets of New York, knocking on the door of every publishing office she can find. When her work is finally accepted by a magazine publisher, Mr Martin, she begins to earn good money. Her illustrations prove very popular, and Rose creates Kewpie, a cute cherub character. The Kewpie character becomes popular with women and children, and Rose is approached to produce a Kewpie doll. Kewpie dolls are a huge success, and Rose earns a significant amount of money. Rose uses her income to support her family, friends and other struggling artists. But her personal life is less successful, as she marries and divorces twice, during a time when divorce is uncommon. Rose becomes heavily involved in the women’s suffragette movement, and immerses herself into her art, whilst supporting other artists. The Rose of Washington Square by Pat Wahler is a biographical historical fiction novel about the fascinating life of Rose O’Neill, illustrator and creator of the Kewpie doll. During a time when women had few legal and political rights, and limited employment opportunities, Rose became the highest earning female illustrator of her time. Yet, despite her extraordinary success, Rose faced a number of obstacles in her career and in her personal life. She never gave up hope, and she continued to follow her dream, whilst using her talent and success to help and support others less fortunate. The book provides an extraordinary insight into her fascinating life and phenomenal career. This is a well-researched and beautifully written biographical historical fiction novel, which captures the extraordinary life and legacy of Rose O’Neill. It follows her journey from artist, illustrator, writer and inventor, to philanthropist and suffragette. The book will appeal to readers of historical fiction biographies and women’s fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fascinating rags to riches biographical historical fiction novel about Rose O’Neill, artist, illustrator, writer, inventor, philanthropist and suffragette. Purchase here

< Back Brian R Estvander Stilled: The Story of Inklebrawt Winklehank An original and gripping sci-fi adventure, by author Brian R Estvander Inklebrawt (Ink) Winklehank is a Huply - a hybrid of a human and a biologically engineered species, created by humans using nanomachinery (the Plythi’i). The Plythi’i are a peaceful and empathetic species, and have psychokinetic abilities, called the Plythi’i Sense. Since their creation, the Plythi’i and Huply have lived in harmony with humans, in a world called Ply’. But the Shepherds, an exiled group of half-breeds and humans, want to eliminate any type of artificial speciation, threaten to attack Ply’ and eradicate all Huply and Plythi’i. Ink has always struggled to balance his advanced Plythi’i abilities and empathic temperament, with his wild human emotions and desires. But, when threatened by the Shepherds, Ink must learn to come to terms with his true identity to locate his Plythi’i siblings and safeguard the future of the human race. Stilled: The Story of Inklebrawt Winklehank by author Brian R Estvander is an original sci-fi adventure about a group of hybrid siblings and their fight for survival against a rogue group of Shepherds who want to eliminate them, and all artificial speciation. It is an epic battle of good versus evil, nature versus technology. The story interweaves effortlessly across galaxies and between past and present, revealing the complex backstory of the species and the characters. Overall, an expertly crafted sci-fi adventure, which brings together science, technology, and human evolution. With a fast-paced and gripping plot, authentic and believable characters, and excellent world building, this book will appeal to fans of action, adventure and science fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An epic sci-fi adventure about a group of hybrid siblings and their fight for survival. Purchase here

< Back Julia Brewer Daily ;The Fifth Daughter of Thorn Ranch A Modern Ranch with an Ancient Secret A modern Texas ranch has an ancient secret. Twenty-two-year-old Emma Rosales has trained all of her life to take over ‘The Thorn’, a million-acre ranch in Texas. As sole heir to the property, Emma is ready to take over the property after recently graduating from college with a degree in veterinary medicine. Emma is fierce and headstrong, and follows in a long line of strong, female matriarchs. However, she is disheartened to learn that her boyfriend is more in love with the ranch than he is with her. While her parents, Josie and John, are out of the country on a trip to Europe, Emma decides to explore the vast ranch on her horse, Honey-Boy. But, when Honey-Boy falls and breaks a leg, she is forced to put him down. She takes shelter in a cave and discovers a group of people living there. The ‘People’ have been completely isolated from the modern world, and they live a primitive but peaceful life. Afraid that Emma might reveal their secret, they hold her captive in the secret cave. While her distraught parents search frantically for their missing daughter, Emma has an important decision to make. Will she try to escape and return to her beloved parents? Or will she live with the ‘People’ and remain hidden in the cave forever? The Fifth Daughter of Thorn Ranch: A Modern Ranch with an Ancient Secret, by author Julia Brewer Daily, is a gripping adventure and romance novel set in the Texas wilderness. This is a unique and imaginative novel, with many twists and turns. Beautifully written, with a fascinating plot and well developed, believable and relatable characters, the book will appeal to readers who enjoy women’s fiction, adventure stories and romance. I particularly enjoyed reading the different perspectives of the two primary characters, Emma, and her mother Josie. With vivid descriptions of Texas, the book captures the breath-taking beauty and the vastness of the Lone Star State. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A gripping adventure, with a fascinating plot and well developed, believable and relatable characters. Purchase here

< Back G.S. Carline Blood Dragon Rising An enthralling first instalment in the Dragon Shadows series, by author G.S. Carline On the fictional Caribbean Island of Los Peces Pequeña, the French aristocracy are attempting to secure their future as rulers of the island by arranging a marriage between Lisette, the twenty-year-old daughter of the Duke and Duchess de Lille, and Eric, the son of the Count and Countess of d’Auguste. It’s Lisette’s birthday and her betrothal to Eric will be announced later that evening. Lisette isn’t too happy about marrying Eric, but she accepts the arrangement and her role as a future wife and mother within the French nobility. During the engagement, Eric suddenly announces he cannot marry Lisette, as it would jeopardize the islands relationship with Spain, and future trade opportunities. Lisette is drugged and kidnapped, and awakes a day later on board the L’Implacable, a notorious pirate ship, led by Captain Rocco. Lisette learns that Eric and his new lover Lady Mercedes de Medina have sold her to pirates to make way for their own wedding. By uniting the d’Auguste and de Medina families they hope to secure Spanish control of the island. Their plan is to displace Lisette, kill off the remaining members of the de Lille family, and inherit the families’ wealth. Rocco confines Lisette to his cabin before delivering her to a wealthy Spanish gentleman. Lisette manages to escape, and flees back to the ship where she finds a Blood Dragon feather and develops a close connection with her Captain. She soon settles into pirate life, and learns key seafaring and combat skills, but is determined to seek revenge on those who betrayed her. Lisette learns that Captain Rocco is afflicted by an ancient curse, and turns into a Blood Dragon after dark, seeking vengeance on all those who have wronged him. But when Lisette is accidently stabbed by one of his feathers, she too becomes cursed by the ancient magic. The couple discover that their lives are inextricably bound by the ancient curse, but will their desire for vengeance destroy them or unite them? Blood Dragon Rising is a fantasy fiction novel by author G.S. Carline, about a young woman’s fight for survival, following the ultimate betrayal of her fiancé. As a gentle noblewoman, protected from the outside world, she doesn’t stand much chance, but she develops into a strong, confident and determined woman, and a pirate you wouldn’t want to cross paths with! With a strong female protagonist, a captivating plot with an unexpected twist, and a fabulous cliff hanger that will leave readers wanting more, this book is a super, swashbuckling, fantasy adventure set on the high seas. I was fully immersed and engaged in this book, and I look forward to reading the next instalment. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A super, swashbuckling, fantasy adventure set on the high seas. Purchase here

< Back G.V. Hext The Vatra Witch Book blurb... A Witch hiding death magic... A Captain who's broken her heart... A Demon who could destroy them both... When Seraphina’s sister is dragged into the underworld, she’s forced to deal with a deadly well of magic that she swore to keep secret. Tasked with an impossible rescue mission, Seraphina must navigate a realm of monsters, bargains, and betrayal. Her council-appointed guard happens to be the warlock who once stole her heart and shattered it without ever knowing. But they aren’t alone. A demon lord with a mysterious bond watches and waits, bargaining for power, protection...and fated temptation. As the path darkens and choices between her past and future grow complicated, Seraphina must decide who she can trust and how much she's willing to sacrifice. Because what Eraphon demands...the souls must follow. Purchase here

< Back Andrew Houlston The Pagalan Chronicles: Book 1 Search for Morganuke's Roots Book blurb... The world of Pagalan is one of mystery and warfare, where conflict ravages the land, gradually swallowing up peaceful societies. Morganuke and his friends are drawn into dangerous and radical life-changing quests to protect their way of life and those they love. They are taken far away from their homelands to find Morganuke's mysterious origins in a bid to stop their world crumbling into chaos. As the mysteries of a secret and strange civilization unfold, the stakes rise. Will they succeed in their mission, or will chaos consume their world? Immerse yourself in a tale of friendship, courage, and the relentless pursuit of peace. Adventure awaits you in this first volume of The Pagalan Chronicles. Purchase here

< Back Mitzi Perdue Mark Victor Hansen, Relentless: Wisdom Behind the Incomparable Chicken Soup for the Soul An insightful biography about an inspirational man, by author Mitzi Perdue Relentless: Wisdom Behind the Incomparable Chicken Soup for the Soul, is a biography about author, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur, Mark Victor Hansen, by Mitzi Perdue. The book comprises thirty chapters, which follow Mark from early childhood, his teenage and college years, through to his sixties and right through to the present day. The book describes how even at a young age, Mark was a hustler, buying and selling greetings cards to buy a racing bike. During his teenage years he excelled at writing, and at college he was destined for a career in academia. Later, he ventured into business when his academic career was cut short, but his business failed, and he was made bankrupt at the age of twenty-five. Described as one of the lowest points of his young life, Mark felt a failure and contemplated suicide. But, his faith in God pulled him through, and with the help of his friends and trusted mentors, he became a successful motivational speaker. He set up two successful companies: The Million Dollar Forum, and The Three Percent Club. The stories he collected during this time became the foundation for his book, Chicken Soup for the Soul, coauthored with friend and business partner Jack Canfield. The Chicken Soup for the Soul series led to sales of half a billion books and a Guinness Book of World’s Records entry for the most books on The New York Times bestseller list at the time. Relentless: Wisdom Behind the Incomparable Chicken Soup for the Soul is an insightful and inspirational biography by Mitzi Perdue, based on interviews with Mark and many of his relatives, friends, and colleagues, who shared their personal stories and memories. The stories show how Mark strived hard to achieve his goals and didn’t give up when things got tough, and how he maintained a strong sense of faith during good and bad times. Throughout his life, Mark was supported by many friends and mentors who guided him on his journey, and he used his experiences to give back to others. He inspired millions of people across the world, through his books, speaking events, and philanthropic activities. After each chapter, there is a short section titled ‘Learn from Mark’, which includes hints and tips for the reader to help them achieve success in their own life. Mitzi Perdue has done a great job at bringing Mark Victor Hansen’s story to life, sharing the good, the bad and the ugly events of his life. This is an honest, respectful, well-researched and exhaustive biography, which covers Mark’s life from early childhood to the present day. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fascinating and insightful biography, packed full of life-lessons that will benefit any reader. Purchase here

< Back Kyli Santiago Healing Yesterday's Tears: An Inspiring Poetry Book about Overcoming Emotion and Discovering Love of Self A collection of heartfelt poems from author Kyli Santiago Healing Yesterday's Tears: An Inspiring Poetry Book about Overcoming Emotion and Discovering Love of Self is a collection of twenty-five poems by author Kyli Santiago. This is an inspiring and heartfelt collection of poems, based on Kyli’s own lived experience. The poems were written during the authors darkest moments and follow her personal journey from the depths of depression towards recovery. Kyli experienced significant trauma, as a child and throughout adulthood, and the cathartic process of writing poetry supported her healing process. This is an emotional, touching and deeply personal poetry collection, which deals with issues of abuse, rape and suicide. One cannot fail to be moved by this book – Kyli’s words are powerful and will remain with me for a very long time. The book will provide comfort and encouragement to anyone who has experienced trauma or depression, and hope that one can find true happiness and fulfil their potential, if they move forward in life, rather than look back. Kyli’s bio states she is a poet and performer, and I can imagine these poems would be even more impactful in the spoken word. The poems have a wonderful lyrical quality, and I would love to hear these poems performed on stage. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written collection of poems about one woman’s journey from the depths of depression towards recovery and healing. Purchase here

< Back Clifton Wilcox The Plagiarist's Game Book blurb... The Plagiarist’s Game is a dark literary thriller where a detective hunts a killer who stages murders as twisted recreations of classic tragedies. As clues hidden in poetry and academia unravel, the line between scholarship and obsession turns deadly. Purchase here

< Back Robyn M. Bolton Unlocking Innovation: A Leader's Guide for Turning Bold Ideas Into Tangible Results Unlocking Innovation: A Leader's Guide for Turning Bold Ideas Into Tangible Results is a guidebook by business leader and innovation expert, Robyn M. Bolton. Bolton builds on her experience of advising global brands to help business leaders develop new approaches and strategies to drive innovation. In the United States, 90 percent of corporate innovation incubators and labs are shut down within the first three years. Bolton sets out to prove what it takes to succeed and be among the 10 percent of corporate innovators who survive the first three years. Bolton argues that most companies don’t lack bold ideas, they lack the systems and leadership qualities to turn those ideas into results. Drawing on her extensive experience of advising global companies, Bolton offers a new framework for a holistic approach to innovation, named the ABCs of Innovation (Architecture, Behaviour, Culture). The ABCs of Innovation is a clear and simple three-year road map that any business leader can follow to foster a culture of creativity within their organization and drive impactful change. Unlocking Innovation: A Leader's Guide for Turning Bold Ideas Into Tangible Results, is an insightful, engaging and candid guidebook. Bolton’s tone is refreshingly honest, and the book is packed full of practical tools for readers to take away. With real life stories and examples from global companies, this is an excellent resource for anyone serious about driving innovation within their organization. Bolton doesn’t pretend that innovation is easy, but that it is possible with the right approach. If you have ever attempted to launch something new in a large company and hit a wall, this guidebook is for you. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A refreshing and practical resource for both new and seasoned innovation leaders and corporate executives. Purchase here

< Back W.W. Hennemann Call the Wind Mariah - A Story of Survival and Romance at Sea in a Futuristic World Turned Upside Down Book blurb... Call the Wind Mariah is a futuristic Odyssey in the face of catastrophic climate change. It's November 2055. Climate change has dramatically altered the planet. Coastal cities have been inundated by a dramatic ten-foot rise in sea level, far greater and far sooner than the climate models had anticipated. Large inland cities have become islands of civilization in a sea of anarchy caused by mass migrations and armed conflicts. Corey Wells' ticket out of the madness into which his country has descended is a 45-foot sailing catamaran named Mariah. He will make the 600-nautical-mile voyage from his home in Sea Isle, braving storms, pirates, shipwrecks and an uncertain future in a daring bid to reunite with his expatriated sister and start life anew in the futuristic island nation of Bermuda. The voyage will test his seamanship, his courage, his compassion and his will to survive in a world turned upside down. Will he find love and security enroute? Or is he fated to forever navigate solo through tempestuous seas in search of safe harbor? Call the Wind Mariah is a gripping, emotionally charged voyage through a near-future world undone by climate disaster - and a timeless story of resilience, humanity, and the search for love and safe harbor in a storm-tossed world. Purchase here