< Back Lem Moye Catching Cold Vol 2 - Redemption Can a small scientific company survive a hostile take-over from a giant pharma company? A small scientific company, CiliCold, has developed the ‘ immunology breakthrough of the century ’ , a partial antibody that can defeat many of the viruses that cause the common cold. A big-pharma company, Tripel S Pharmaceuticals, is desperate for their intellectual property and will stop at nothing to take over the company. But Tripel S has a sinister motive for acquiring CiliCold. They want to prevent the product reaching the open market, to protect their own work. A cure for the common cold would affect multi-million-dollar sales of their over-the-counter cold remedies and treatments. The CEO of CiliCold decides to relocate the team over 3,000 miles away to a secret research laboratory, to escape the clutches of Triple S. Meanwhile, the V ice P resident L egal of Triple S is forced to resign following an incident where she witnessed a colleague take her own life. She has no option but to defect to CiliCold. Triple S develop a new medicine that is successful in preventing autism, but they soon discover the medicine has catastrophic side effects. Board members disagree on how to manage the situation. Several board members want to continue with its development, arguing they would be withholding a new critical therapy from children who are going to be very sick. The CiliCold team, on the other hand, is on the verge of a breakthrough, and are in desperate need of financial assistance. Just when CiliCold receive the investment they require, they soon discover they have been duped by their biggest rival. Catching Cold Vol 2 – Redemption, by author Lem Moyé, is a tense and gritty pharmaceutical drama, about a disreputable big-pharma company that tries to take over a small scientific company, by any means possible. This is a well written, thoroughly researched and believable story about money and power, versus ethics and morality. The author clearly has excellent knowledge about science and medical research. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I look forward to reading more from Lem Moyé. This is the second instalment in a three-part series. I had not read the first book in the series, and while there were a few moments where I struggled to understand the back-story, the story was easy to follow. I would recommend readers begin with the first book in the series, to get the full enjoyment of this trilogy. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary: A tense and gritty pharmaceutical drama about money and power, versus ethics and morality. Purchase here

< Back Suzanne Gillis The Landlady of Maple Avenue In 1951, wife and mother of seven, Marceline Gillis, is moving from one of the poorest areas of Cambridgeport to a grand Victorian property in a prosperous middle class suburb of Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is her final move with her husband Fred and her adult son Tommy, who has special needs. Marceline’s son Andrew recently passed away following a heart attack, and her other children have moved out of the family home. Marceline isn’t entirely happy about the move. Her two other sons, Bernie and Johnny, purchased the large property as an investment. They plan to divide the property into apartments, providing a home for their parents and a rental income for the family. Marceline’s name is not on the deeds, and she has no say, or control over anything happening in the house. She struggles with the transition from the head of the household in her previous home, into what she considers forced retirement. Determined to own the house outright and become the new landlady of 27 Maple Avenue, Marceline has a secret plan to gain back control. As Marceline attempts to regain control of her home, she reflects back on her life and her turbulent relationships with her husband and children. But, when further tragedy strikes the Gillis family, Marceline is forced to reconsider her future. The Landlady of Maple Avenue is a heartfelt novel by author Suzanne Gillis, about Marceline Gillis and the Gillis family. The novel is inspired by true stories of the authors family, but the characters and events have been altered and fictionalised. Suzanne Gillis crafts a touching narrative about an elderly matriarch whose life is turned upside down as she reluctantly moves to a new house. The book explores themes of aging, womanhood and motherhood, identity and displacement. Suzanne Gillis beautifully captures the nuanced textures of Marceline’s world, her beliefs and behaviours, her routines and rituals, her deep attachments to traditions and her resistance to change. Suzanne Gillis does not paint Marceline as a caricature of stubborn old age, but as a deeply human and complex woman navigating change in later life. For readers who enjoy character-driven historical fiction, with subtle social commentary. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A graceful and tender novel that explores the female identity, and the triumphs and tragedies of life. Purchase here

< Back Regan Walker Bound by Honor Two young men become comrades in life and in battle, by author Regan Walker In 1286, following the death of the King of Scots, Scottish lords meet in secret at Turnberry Castle, to discuss the successor to Scotland’s throne. The lords pledge their allegiance to Robert the Noble, a direct descendant of King David. Fourteen-year-old Angus Og Macdonald, who has travelled to Turnberry Castle with his father, the Lord of the Isles, meets a young Robert Bruce, the grandson of Robert the Noble. The two young men become good friends and Angus promises to stand by the Bruce’s and his loyal friend, the future heir to the Scottish crown. A few years later, Angus meets and falls in love with Aine, a young widow and daughter of an Irish Lord, Cumee O’Cahan. Following the death of his father, and the brutal murder of his elder brother, Alexander, Angus takes over the lordship of the Isles. Angus is thrust into matters of state and war, as tensions rise between the warring Scottish clans and the English overlord, King Edward 1. After several years of courtship, Angus and Aine finally marry and start a family, but their lives together are often disrupted as Angus joins his loyal friend and comrade Robert Bruce, as they battle for Scottish independence and Bruce’s rightful position as the King of Scots. Bound by Honor by Regan Walker is a medieval fiction novel about the battle for Scottish independence during the early thirteenth century. Historically accurate, with imaginative storytelling from Walker to fill the gaps in historical records, this is an authentic, meticulously researched, and cleverly crafted historical novel. Walker describes the Scottish and Irish landscapes and bird life beautifully. The battle scenes are brutal and intense, but depicted honestly and sensitively. The characters are authentic and memorable, and the love scenes are intimate and tender. Walkers’ beautiful storytelling, and skilful juxtaposition of love and war, make this novel a compelling and captivating read, for fans of medieval fiction and other genres. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An authentic, meticulously researched, and cleverly crafted historical fiction novel of love and war. Purchase here

< Back Joseph T. Lee As Iron Sharpens Iron: Discipleship to Holy Living Book blurb... “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.” (Proverbs 27:17, NKJV) As a marketplace minister, author Joseph T. Lee has encountered many people who are suffering because they are lost and stuck in a world of hopelessness. Through his work, he has been able to help and disciple people and point them to Jesus. Many times, people come to the saving knowledge of Jesus and believe and accept Him as their personal Savior. Then, often, these new converts are not being guided in how to live a life patterned after the life of Christ. Many are stuck in the same sin they were committing before getting saved. They need discipleship to assist them in their walk and their life. As Iron Sharpens Iron discusses real-life problems and sin and offers a way to redemption and freedom so that people’s chains can be broken. Reverend Lee discusses sexual immorality, honoring your parents, witnessing, rebellion, confessing sin, repentance, the armor of God, struggles with the flesh, standing firm, thirsting for righteousness, worry, putting God first, Bible reading, prayer, forgiveness, discipleship, profanity, avoiding the occult, living by faith, less of yourself, being bold in your faith, and much more. New followers of Christ in need of guidance in their Christian walk can find the help they need on how to live a Christlike life. Purchase here

< Back Michael Skoch Have You Seen Grandma's Bra?: ...and other stories from one man's journey to the Father's Mercy Book blurb... Stories from the life of a Kansas farm kid turned family physician, spanning early memories to mid-life experiences, calling out the importance of accepting that one’s parents did the best they could with what they’d been given. Funny, candid, sometimes painful, and poignant stories illustrate the importance of facing life on life’s terms. We are all wounded, some more than others. Some of us, the walking wounded, become parents. The goal is to make the world a better place for future generations. This is achieved, in part, by doing the best one can with what one has been given. It also requires intentional effort to make positive changes. Growing up in a farm family of seven children, the third child and oldest son, taking on significant responsibility at a young age, a brush with death due to poor judgment, overcoming perfectionism and resentment, and the shame of compulsive sinful behavior; these are some of the narratives that take the reader along a journey that encompasses coping with fear, rejection, self-doubt, worry, and pride, through adolescence and early adulthood. God sends angels in human appearance when we need them. With the help of living, breathing angels, I learned about God’s great Ocean of Mercy and His desire to bathe me in it. Forgiveness is the pathway to healing and a key to happiness. Purchase here

< Back Eric Halstead The Final Verdict: A Shane Alexander Novel Book blurb... The military fiction “The Final Verdict” by Eric Halstead is an enthralling exploration of duty, fairness, and the heavy weight carried by those in uniform. Set in the background of military courtroom drama, the story follows Specialist Shane Alexander as he confronts a court-martial that changes the way of his life forever. Halstead skillfully narrates the complications of military law, the poignant chaos of family, and the ethical dilemmas confronted by soldiers in combat. This convincing story exemplifies the punitive realities of military service and raises serious quarrels about accountability and the burden of choices made in the heat of conflict. With bright characters and an accurately composed plot, readers will find themselves engrossed in Shane’s fight for improvement and the journey for truth during chaotic times. Best for the enthusiast of military fiction and courtroom dramas, “The Final Verdict” delivers a deep reflection on sacrifice and the consequences of war. Accompany Shane on his journey and explore the daunting realities within the military justice system. This book is a crucial read for an intense and provocative experience. Purchase here

< Back S. Graham Vacant A chilling and frighteningly good horror novel, by author S. Graham. Becca and Mitch, and their two young boys Connor and Logan, are searching for a new home in Dallas, Texas. Mitch moves frequently with his job and the family have relocated several times over the years. Becca is hoping this next move will be the last, and the family can finally settle down in the Texas country. They think they have found the perfect vacant house, on a community with an outdoor pool, parks, and a golf course. The house is ideal for their growing family, but on the first viewing, Becca senses something isn’t quite right. Nevertheless, the couple sign the papers for 1220 Greenway Close and the family move in shortly after. Becca and Mitch soon discover that the house is not so perfect after all, and requires a lot of work to make the house safe and bring it up to scratch. But Becca has even greater worries, she feels a presence in the house and witnesses paranormal activity. Mitch is sceptical and offers a rational explanation, but as the paranormal activity escalates, the couple fear for their own safety and the safety of their boys. When Becca and Mitch finally learn the truth about the peculiar house, they discover the house was never vacant, and they have inadvertently disturbed a furious and troubled occupant. Vacant by S. Graham is a chilling and frighteningly good horror novel, inspired by true life events. The novel is simple, concise, easy to follow, and easy to read. It is a shorter read, at just over 200 pages, and perfect for young adult readers or readers new to this genre. The book is a real page turner and jam packed with action, horror, and suspense. I was gripped throughout, and the twist at the end was a real shocker! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A horror novel, inspired by true life events, jam packed with action, horror, and suspense. Purchase here

< Back Barry Hoffner Belonging to the World Belonging to the World by Barry Hoffner is a deeply moving memoir that explores themes of grief, healing, and the transformative power of travel. Following the sudden loss of his wife Jackie in Botswana in 2017, Hoffner embarked on a remarkable journey to visit all 193 UN-recognized countries. What began as an attempt to escape his pain evolved into a profound quest for connection, understanding, and closure. The book is structured as a personal narrative, divided into seven parts, each capturing a different phase of Hoffner's journey. Hoffner's travels are both physical and emotional, as he grapples with his grief and seeks solace in the beauty and humanity of the world. His journey takes him to remote and challenging destinations, including Afghanistan, Yemen, Syria, and Sudan, where he encounters resilience, kindness, and connection in the face of adversity. Hoffner's vivid descriptions of landscapes, wildlife, and people bring readers along on his journey, from the Kalahari Desert to the bustling streets of Bangkok. His encounters with individuals from diverse cultures, such as Syrian refugees in Lebanon and Bushmen in Botswana, highlight the universal threads of humanity—kindness, resilience, and the desire for connection. The memoir is interwoven with reflections on Hoffner's life with Jackie, their shared love for travel, and the family they built together. Hoffner's writing is raw, introspective, and poignant, capturing the depth of his sorrow and the gradual process of healing. The narrative is filled with moments of wonder and connection. His reflections on love, loss, and resilience are relatable and inspiring, encouraging readers to embrace life's uncertainties and find meaning in unexpected places. Hoffner's journey is about finding a sense of belonging that transcends borders and cultures. His story is a testament to the healing power of connection and the importance of embracing the unknown. The memoir invites readers to reflect on their own journeys and consider how they can find belonging and purpose in their lives. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This beautifully written memoir is a celebration of life, love, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Purchase here

< Back Kurt Bravata Live Free or Diet: A Holistic Guide to Finding Faith, Freedom, and Abundant Life Book blurb... Are you stuck in a cycle of fatigue, stress, or self-doubt? It’s time for a change. Live Free or Diet offers a powerful blend of practical tools and spiritual guidance to help you break free from negative habits and embrace your true potential. This isn’t just another diet book—it’s a holistic guide that empowers you to take control of your mind, body, and spirit. Discover life-changing strategies for overcoming addictions, cultivating a positive mindset, and finding your true purpose. With inspiring verses from Scripture, Dr. Kurt Bravata shows how God equips us to triumph over adversity. This flexible blueprint will help you reclaim your vitality and step into the abundant life you were meant to live. Start your journey today and experience the freedom, faith, and fulfillment you've been longing for! Purchase here

< Back Peter Eliott A Dream of Shadows A notorious criminal joins a bunch of misfits, to take down a powerful villain. Vazeer the Lash is a notorious criminal, born and raised in the nefarious underworld capital of Hell’s Labyrinth. Having spent most of his life in the seedy underworld, he is keen to retire from a life of crime. When Vazeer’s contract broker offers him big money to join the Shadow Bidders, he sees it as an opportunity to walk away from his life of crime, and he hopes it will be his final contract. The Shadow Bidders are a group of misfit criminals and include a locksmith, an actress, an assassin, and a Line Man. Their mission is to hunt down and take out the Count Ulan Gueritus (the ‘Raving Blade’), one of Hell’s Labyrinth’s most powerful brokers. The evil Count has a reputation for torturing his victims and has blackmailed the Countess of Odel. His actions have sparked outrage and could result in war in the once peaceful city of Sullward. The Shadow Bidders have just forty-eight hours to hunt down the target and complete the task. Each member of the team must risk their lives to defeat the Count, by harnessing their own distinctive and unique talents. But, with their lives in imminent danger, the team soon discovers that nothing is quite as it seems in this strange case. Will the Shadow Bidders defeat the Count? Will they restore peace to the city of Sullward? Can Vazeer move on from his life of crime? And will this really be his final contract? A Dream of Shadows is a remarkable, fantasy novel by debut author Peter Eliott, about a career criminal desperate to escape his life of crime, who risks it all for one last shot at the big money. With beautiful prose, fantastic world building, and fascinating, well-developed, multi-layered characters, this is an immersive and gripping novel. Peter Eliott is a creative and masterful writer, and a talent to watch out for. This is an exceptional novel at every level, and highly recommended. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A brilliantly plotted fantasy fiction novel. I couldn't put this compelling debut book down. Purchase here

< Back Carl Gorham My Life in a Garden My Life in a Garden is a poignant and deeply personal memoir by author and TV writer/producer, Carl Gorham. In 2005, Gorham retreats from the hustle and bustle of London, with his wife and their four year old daughter. They find the house of their dreams in the Norfolk countryside, complete with three acres of land, a maze, orchard, tennis court and outdoor swimming pool. Gorham loves the garden but describes himself as the ‘world’s most useless gardener’. He has ambitious plans for the land, but everything changes following his wife’s death in 2007. Overcome with grief, and with a young daughter to take care of, the garden falls into a state of disrepair. A few years later, with a new love and renewed energy, the garden finally gets the attention it deserves. But, when Gorham’s TV work dries up, he is left with no option to move out and rent the house out as a holiday let. He hires a professional gardener and together they attempt to transform the garden into a tranquil space for paying guests. My Life in a Garden by Carl Gorham is a beautifully written, tender and emotional memoir. The book chronicles Gorham’s journey as he attempts to reclaim his life and garden following death, grief, illness and a breakdown. What begins as an effort to maintain the physical land soon becomes a symbolic act of survival. Gorham’s connection with his garden mirrors his life – tired and careworn, neglected in places, but slowly coming back to life after a long period of turbulence. The memoir is a moving exploration of how our external world can reflect our internal struggles, and how tending to the earth can help us through the healing process. The garden provides a rhythm and a sense that life - even though altered - carries on. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A warm, honest, and funny memoir about love, loss, and the healing power of nature. Purchase here

< Back James Richard Hansen Words To Breathe By Book blurb... Words To Breathe By offers a sanctuary of solace, delivering healing and peace through James Richard Hansen’s emotionally charged anthology. Each verse resonates with wisdom, guiding readers toward inner peace and active participation in their journey of healing. Purchase here