< Back JR Rice Broken Pencils A novella by J.R. Rice about one momentous night in a young man’s life. Jonah Tarver from a wealthy suburb of Oakland California is celebrating his eighteenth birthday on the same night of his high school prom. It is also the anniversary of his best friend’s death, who was tragically killed in a car accident four years previously. Still grieving the loss of his best friend, Jonah has received several years of therapy, but has recently stopped taking his medication. Struggling to cope, he has been caught shoplifting and truanting from school. His father, a Superior Court Judge, is a harsh disciplinarian and believes his son is dishonouring the family. While Jonah has led a relatively privileged life, he does not get the love or support he needs from his father. Jonah’s parents are on the brink of divorce, as Jonah strives to protect his little brother , Steven. His father agrees to loan him the use of his beloved Mercedes to drive his girlfriend, Taniesha, to the prom. But following a heated argument with his parents, his father withdraws the offer and Jonah takes the car without consent. During the prom, Taniesha dumps Jonah because he is unable to commit to their relationship. Fuelled by a cocktail of alcohol and illegal drugs, Jonah is involved in a serious, violent incident at the prom and flees the scene. He drives to San Francisco, where he visits an adult club, and his night goes from bad to worse. When he wakes up on a park bench the morning after, Jonah must face his father and the consequences of his actions. Broken Pencils is a short, literary work of fiction, by J.R. Rice. This is a dark, gripping and thought-provoking tale, which explores how a single moment of recklessness can have far reaching consequences. Rice delves into the complex life and psyche of Jonah, a young Black man suffering from mental health issues and trauma following the death of his best friend. On the night of his eighteenth birthday and prom, the night takes a dramatic turn, following a violent incident in the school bathroom. Jonah finds himself in a precarious situation, as he attempts to navigate the San Francisco underworld. Readers will both empathise with, and loathe, this relatable, complex teenager. S tar rating: 5 Stars Summary : A gripping coming of age story and a skilful exploration of grief, the human psyche and broken relationships. Purchase here

< Back David Cairns The Case of the Emigrant Niece Unlikely duo, Findo and Errol, join forces to investigate the mystery of the lost inheritance. A historical fiction novel set in the 1800’s in Australia, London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the Scottish Highlands. Major Findo Gask sustains a serious leg injury at the start of the Indian mutiny in 1858, and is dispatched back to England to convalesce in a nursing home. On discharge he contemplates the next phase of his life and travels to Edinburgh to see his brother. He starts work as a consulting engineer with a local construction firm and is offered a position as a consultant to support the booming mining industry in Melbourne. He meets Errol Rait during a cricket match and rents a room from him on 21/2 Bourke Street. He learns that Errol is a criminal investigator, testing new finger marks to identify suspects. They meet a pretty young heiress, Mary Mitchell, and discover she has been swindled out of her inheritance. Errol decides to take on the case and Findo, keen to develop his investigative skills, decides to accompany him. With a link back to Scotland, the pair travel to Edinburgh to find the will of Mitchell’s late uncle. The investigation takes them from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands where they discover multiple murders and a sinister plot. Will Findo and Errol solve the mystery of the lost inheritance before it is too late? Will Mary receive the fortune that she rightly deserves? The Case of the Emigrant Niece is a captivating historical fiction novel by David Cairns, set in the 1800’s and spanning Australia, London, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the Scottish Highlands. Written in the first-person point of view, from the perspective of Findo, the book follows his journey as he builds a new life for himself in Melbourne, and partners with his friend, Errol, in a fraud investigation. The novel is a work of fiction, inspired by real people, places and events. Extensively researched, and historically accurate, this book will appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction. The novel has a definite Sherlock Holmes vibe, and I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery, suspense and intrigue. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A Sherlock Holmes-esque mystery, with two memorable and eccentric criminal investigators. Purchase here

< Back K J Kelly However Long the Day Lorna escapes an arranged marriage in Canada and builds a new life in Michigan, enduring hardships such as mining accidents, brutal winters, and the loss of her husband, Patrick. Lorna's determination and resourcefulness shine as she raises her children amidst adversity, eventually remarrying Max to reunite her family after a period of separation. Lorna's daughter, Grace, inherits her mother's strength and tenacity. Grace marries Joseph, a charming and ambitious man, and they move near to Tacoma, Washington. As the couple build a family, Grace navigates the challenges of living next to Joseph's controlling and judgmental family. Her struggles intensify after Joseph's untimely death, leaving her to raise five children alone during the Great Depression. Despite the hardships, Grace demonstrates remarkable resilience, finding ways to provide for her family and maintain their dignity. The story delves into the complexities of family relationships, particularly the tension between Grace and her in-laws, and the enduring impact of hidden family secrets. The story is set against the backdrop of key historical events, such as the Great Depression, World War I, and World War II, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individual lives and broader societal challenges. However Long the Day by author K J Kelly is a heartfelt and poignant historical fiction novel that spans multiple generations, exploring themes of resilience, family dynamics, love, loss, and survival. The story is rich with cultural references and captures the struggles of a family navigating personal tragedies, societal expectations, and the challenges of survival during the Great Depression. The characters are well-developed, each with their own flaws, strengths, and motivations. The story captures the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity and the importance of family, even when relationships are fraught with tension and pain. The story's conclusion leaves readers with a sense of unresolved tension and the possibility of a sequel. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A moving and intricately woven tale that explores family dynamics, love, and loss amidst life's hardships. Purchase here

< Back Melissa Jacobus The Accomplice Author Melissa Jacobus’ lived experience of raising children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. The Accomplice, by author Melissa Jacobus, is a courageous and inspirational true story of the authors personal experience of parenting children with FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder). FASD, also known as the ‘invisible disability’, is an umbrella term used to describe a range of conditions that can occur in an individual as a result of exposure to alcohol in utero. The effects can have life-long implications, including physical, mental, behavior, and/or learning issues. Mother of four, Melissa, describes her journey of caring for two adopted children, Natalie and Nicky, both challenged with FASD, and the impact this disorder had on the children and on family life. Natalie ran away from home and fell in with a wrong crowd, who took advantage of her disability. She became involved with Max, also suspected of having FASD, and both were incarcerated for involvement in check fraud. Natalie became pregnant prior to her sentence, and gave birth shortly after her release, but the baby was taken into foster care, as Natalie and Max were unable to take care of her. Melissa describes her struggles as she tried to get the courts, health care system, and social services to recognise FASD and get the support Natalie deserved. Nicky, feeling abandoned while Melissa was supporting Natalie, and experiencing significant work-related stress, also ran away from home. He lived with his older brother for a short time, before ending up homeless and on the streets. Melissa describes her struggle to find her son and bring him safely home. Melissa works tirelessly to increase awareness of FASD, through advocacy and speaking events. Alongside her own lived experience, she describes how FASD has impacted the lives of many others, including a fifteen-year-old boy suffering from FASD, who killed his mother in a violent rage. The book deals with some of the common outcomes of FASD, such as homelessness, violence, drug and alcohol abuse, and criminality. It is a heart-breaking and difficult read, but it is a story that needs to be told. The book is a call to action to raise awareness of this invisible disorder, and to recognise FASD as a developmental disability. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspirational story of one woman’s fight to protect her children and raise awareness of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. Purchase here

< Back Bill Bennett Borealis Book blurb... A pulse beneath the ice. A conspiracy beneath the surface. A detective who can’t walk away. When Detective Ava Martinez travels to Alaska seeking a break from her last case, she’s pulled into a world of high‑stakes espionage, dangerous secrets, and a land that refuses to stay silent. Joined by energy specialist Cole Stratton, she uncovers a web of corruption stretching from corporate boardrooms to geopolitical power players — all while the northern wilderness closes in around them. Purchase here

< Back Rick Soshensky The Music Therapy Studio: Empowering the Soul's Truth A masterpiece of non-fiction, by author Rick Soshensky Rick Soshensky, a music therapist for thirty years, writes a ground-breaking non-fiction book about the power of music, and its ability to integrate, heal and transform peoples’ lives. Rick discusses his love of music, his life as a musician, and his work as a music therapist. Based on extensive research, and many years of clinical practice, Rick describes his approach to music therapy as the Music Therapy Studio, and organises his approach into three sections: The Foundation, which sets out the theoretical groundwork for his work; The Framework, which identifies the different components of music and the relationship between conventional musicianship and music therapy, and; The Philosophy, which examines the underlying principles and assumptions including esoteric and metaphysical concepts. Rick presents a number of real-life stories, of people he has supported through music therapy, including Daniel, a young blind man with a number of other diagnoses including Autism, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Tourette’s Syndrome. Daniel had an innate musical talent and Rick describes the impact of musical therapy on him and his family. According to Daniel’s adopted mother, “Music has helped Daniel to find himself through the adversity and handicapping of his autism, OCD, Tourette’s and total darkness in blindness. Music truly has given him the gift of life.” This is an emotional and powerful book that demonstrates the therapeutic effects of music, through real life stories. Beautifully written by Rick Soshensky with such respect, care and compassion for his clients, this book will appeal to anyone interested in music therapy, and the benefits of music more generally. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspiring and thought-provoking book for anyone interested in the therapeutic effects of music. Purchase here

< Back Nathalie Martin The Inspired Retirement: Purpose and Passion in Your Next Adventure Book blurb... Retirement Can Be Anything We Want, As Long as We Know What We Want. Most people plan for retirement by checking their portfolios. Yet there is so much more to a happy retirement. This book focuses not on the money but what you'll actually do in retirement, helping readers plan and live a joyful, healthy, meaningful retirement. In a fun and thoughtful way, this book helps you picture, plan and start living a purposeful and inspired next chapter. Through its exploration of your own unique values, skills, and passions, it will infuse joy and direction into your life as you navigate one of life's most complex transitions. It playfully balances planning for a bright future with making the most of the here and now. Two of my back-cover endorsers are #1 New York Times Bestselling authors. Purchase here

< Back Pearl Allen Andree Maud and Pearl: The Matriarch and the Odyssey Maud and Pearl: The Matriarch and the Odyssey is a deeply personal and comprehensive family memoir that spans multiple generations, offering a vivid portrayal of the lives of Stella Maud Allen, her youngest daughter Pearl, and their extended family. The narrative begins with Maud’s early life in late 19th-century Oklahoma, her marriage to Ezekiel Allen, and their struggles as pioneers and farmers during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl era. It highlights Maud’s resilience, faith, and dedication to raising her nine children amidst poverty and loss, showcasing her ability to create beauty and unity through her passion for quilting. The memoir is divided into two parts: the first focuses on the Allen family’s history, including their migration westward and their experiences in Oklahoma, Arizona, and California. It provides a rich historical context, touching on significant events like World War II and the Great Depression, and delves into the family’s efforts to overcome adversity and build a better life. The second part shifts to Pearl’s life, detailing her upbringing, education, and marriages to Jimmy Goggin and later Bill Andree. Pearl’s reflections on her blended family’s life in the 1960s and beyond are filled with humor, tragedy, and triumph, capturing the essence of family bonds, personal struggles, and the challenges of blending families. The narrative also explores the Andree family’s time in Australia, where they lived for several years. The memoir is enriched with anecdotes, photographs, sketches, and family trees, providing depth and visual context to the stories. It also includes reflections from various family members, offering multiple perspectives and adding layers to the narrative. Pearl’s writing is introspective and heartfelt, blending humor with candid accounts of sensitive topics such as divorce, loss, and mental health. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A compelling and heartfelt memoir of family and faith, love and loss. Purchase here

< Back Trisha T Pritikin Then Came the Summer Snow: An Atomic Age Hero's Journey Then Came the Summer Snow by Trisha T. Pritikin is a compelling work of historical fiction set in Richland, Washington, during the 1950s. The novel intricately weaves the personal struggles of a family with the broader implications of living in the shadow of the Hanford nuclear site, a key facility in the U.S. atomic weapons program. Through the lens of Edith Higgenbothum, a determined homemaker, the story explores the devastating effects of radioactive fallout on communities downwind of Hanford. The novel delves into the secrecy surrounding Hanford’s operations, highlighting the government’s efforts to suppress information about the health risks posed by radioactive fallout. It also examines the societal dynamics of Richland, a government-owned atomic city where loyalty to the Hanford site often overrides concerns about public health. Edith’s journey is marked by her growing awareness of the dangers posed by radiation and her determination to protect her family and community, even at great personal cost. The story is rich with historical context, referencing real events such as the Windscale reactor accident in the UK and the Nevada atomic bomb tests. It also touches on broader themes, including the role of women in 1950s America, the impact of government secrecy, and the ethical dilemmas faced by scientists and engineers working in the atomic industry. Pritikin’s writing is vivid and evocative, capturing the tension and emotional turmoil of living in a community affected by nuclear fallout. The novel’s detailed descriptions of 1950s culture add authenticity and depth to the story. Then Came the Summer Snow is also a powerful commentary on the intersection of science, ethics, and public health. It raises important questions about the responsibilities of scientists and government officials in protecting the public from harm, and the role of ordinary citizens in holding them accountable. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that sheds light on a dark chapter in American history Purchase here

< Back Joe Battaglia Beneath The Rings Joe Battaglia’s Beneath the Rings is a gripping and ambitious thriller set against the backdrop of the 2040 Summer Olympics in Doha, Qatar—the first Games hosted in the Middle East. The novel intertwines the grandeur of the Olympics with a harrowing tale of international intrigue, political tension, and human resilience. It explores the dark underbelly of global sports, exposing the clash between the ideals of unity and the harsh realities of geopolitics. The story follows Nova Mendelsohn, a seasoned Olympic journalist, and Omar Al-Kaabi, a Doha historian and spice merchant, as they navigate a world of spectacle and shadows. Nova’s journey begins with her arrival in Doha to cover the historic Games, but her plans are derailed by a shocking terrorist attack. A shadowy extremist group kidnaps twelve athletes and demands a hefty ransom. Battaglia’s vivid prose captures the chaos, trauma, and resilience of the characters involved. The novel delves into the psychological and physical toll on the hostages and their rescuers, with harrowing depictions of the survivors’ recovery. The novel also explores the political and cultural tensions surrounding the Olympics, delving into themes of justice, corruption, and the power of symbols. The novel’s pacing is relentless, with each chapter building on the suspense and urgency of the unfolding crisis. The scenes of the hostage situation and rescue operation are harrowing and unflinching. Battaglia’s attention to detail is evident in his vivid descriptions of Doha’s contrasting landscapes. Battaglia’s storytelling is both captivating and impactful, making this book a standout in the thriller genre. It is a must-read for fans of international intrigue, sports journalism, and stories that challenge the status quo. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A powerful and thought-provoking novel that combines the thrill of a high-stakes hostage crisis with a deep exploration of global issues Purchase here

< Back Jonathan H. Jiang and Philip E. Rosen Avoiding the Great Filter: Illuminating Pathways to Humanity's Future in the Cosmos Book blurb... Humanity stands at a crossroads. With over eight billion people on Earth and technology advancing at breakneck speed, we now possess the power to shape our destiny - or destroy it. Avoiding the Great Filter is a bold, science-grounded roadmap to ensure the former. Authors Jonathan Jiang and Philip Rosen draw on deep expertise in science, engineering, and research to explore how we can sidestep the existential pitfalls of our own making and build a thriving, multi-world civilization. From planetary stewardship to achievable space expansion, this visionary yet practical guide offers real-world solutions for sustainable progress. It's not just about survival - it's about evolving into an advanced technological society prepared for the vast unknowns of the cosmos. If you've ever wondered whether humanity can rise above its challenges and embrace a limitless future, this book is your answer. The tools are in our hands. The question is: will we use them? Purchase here

< Back Kristen Wilson Nobody Likes a Picky Eater: And Other Life Lessons From Nonna's Kitchen K. Renée’s memoir, Nobody Likes a Picky Eater: And Other Life Lessons from Nonna’s Kitchen, is a poignant and deeply personal exploration of family, food, love, grief and sacrifice. Through a series of vivid, heartfelt vignettes, Renée weaves together her Italian heritage, childhood memories, and the complex relationships that shaped her life. The narrative is both intimate and universal, inviting readers to reflect on their own familial bonds and the ways in which food serves as a metaphor for connection, care, and identity. Renée’s prose is evocative, painting scenes of her childhood with sensory detail that brings her memories to life. From the olive tree in her front yard to the strawberries she sliced for her father, each anecdote is filled with emotion and meaning. The recurring theme of food—whether it’s Nonna’s insistence on clean plates, the strawberries sold by farm workers, or the meals shared with loved ones—serves as a thread that ties the narrative together, symbolizing nourishment in both the physical and emotional sense. Renée does not shy away from the darker aspects of her family’s history, including abuse, loss, and the weight of unfulfilled dreams. Yet, she balances these moments with humor, warmth, and a deep sense of gratitude for the resilience of the women in her family. The stories of her mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother reveal a legacy of strength and endurance, even in the face of hardship. Ultimately, Nobody Likes a Picky Eater is a celebration of life’s messy, imperfect beauty. It reminds us that the act of feeding—whether it’s a meal, a memory, or a moment of comfort—is an expression of love. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : Renée’s memoir is a heartfelt tribute to the power of food to connect us to our past, our loved ones, and ourselves. Purchase here