< Back Jon Howe Shanghaied A young man is stolen from his family and enslaved on a merchant ship. In 1810, Eamon McGrath a printer from Marblehead, Massachusetts, wakes up on board a ship in the middle of the North Atlantic ocean. With no memory of how he came to be on board the ship, he soon learns he has been kidnapped (‘shanghaied’) with four other men. The men have been stolen and are forced to work on the merchant ship, Atalanta, after a British frigate captured most of the ships original crew. The ship has been sold to a company in Hong Kong and is headed to East Asia. The men know that any attempt of mutiny would be futile, and quickly adapt to life at sea. The ship sails down the east coast of North and South America, before rounding Cape Horn at the southern tip of mainland South America, and then sails up the west coast. They cross the tropics in the North Pacific and approach Hong Kong via the Solomon Islands and the South China sea. The men learn the daily chores and rituals, but conditions on the ship are brutal and the men live in constant fear for their lives. At every port, Eamon writes a letter to his wife and his two children, hoping it will one day reach home. After the ship stops in Hong Kong, it continues to journey west towards Africa. But when they reach Port Louis in Madagascar, Eamon finally has a chance to escape when he meets the crew of a ship named Voilà . Shanghaied by Jon Howe is an enthralling and insightful historical fiction novel about a man who is stolen from his family and enslaved on a merchant ship. As Eamon McGrath and the crew circumnavigate the globe on board the Atalanta, their resilience is put to the test as they battle to survive in the horrific conditions. Set in the early nineteenth century, during a period of rapid social change and increasing global trade, the book captures the experience of many sailors during this time and the brutality of life at sea. Throughout the book, the reader is transported to the oceans of the world and the many fascinating countries, tropical islands, and ports, that the crew encounter along their journey. Thoroughly researched, with references to key historical events, the book will appeal to those who enjoy historical fiction and adventures at sea. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A compelling and thought provoking read about a man enslaved on a merchant ship, and his fight for survival. Purchase here

< Back John Randall Harsh Winters: Book 1 Book blurb... Diane Campbell has lived in the shadow of killers for as long as she can remember. The murder of her best friend left wounds that never fully healed, even after the killer was caught. That silence carved deep scars, shaping a life haunted by loss, fear, and more killers on the prowl. Years later, Diane throws herself into a tight-knit group of true crime devotees, using her sharp mind and relentless drive to hunt a predator whose crimes ripple through Denver’s mountains like a frozen ghost. In a city gripped by winter’s oppressive silence, where snow muffles footsteps and secrets cling to the cold air, Diane believes she is closing in on the truth. But her relentless pursuit leads to a devastating mistake. She publicly accuses the wrong man, and everything she has built from her credibility, her relationships, and her fragile sense of safety all begins to unravel. Sometimes, in seeking justice, we become the architects of injustice. Closer to home, someone watches patiently and silently, waiting for the moment when the ice finally cracks. Purchase here

< Back Alissa Butterworth To Die Is Different Than Supposed Book blurb... The estranged Gable siblings return home for their fathers funeral, only to find themselves haunted by the ghost of their dead brother and the long-buried secrets that could finally set them free. Twenty years ago, the Gable family was nearly perfect—five siblings growing up in an old farmhouse in Pennsylvania with supposedly loving parents. But when a series of devastating events rocks the family—a house fire, the death of their young brother, infidelity, and betrayal—the siblings are left shattered and lost. Jackson is the oldest, the distant wanderer. Lex is trapped on the other side, desperately trying to communicate. Adrian is on the verge of a breakdown. Ella is haunted, finding comfort in a familiar ghost. Remy is the embittered “good” son. And Calvin is the youngest, the half-brother trying to make sense of inherited pain. When the estranged siblings come together for their father’s funeral, they must reckon with his legacy of abuse and abandonment, and with the secrets they kept from each other for so long. Will Jackson find it in himself to tell the horrific story the family most needs to hear? Or will they all be forever trapped by their complicated pasts, unable to move into a more hopeful and united future? Purchase here

< Back Mara Purl When Birds Sing Miranda Jones, a respected wildlife artist, has been commissioned by the state of Oregon to paint the state bird, the Western Meadowlark. The prestigious assignment takes her on a journey to Oregon’s lush landscapes, where she immerses herself in the bird’s habitat, capturing its essence through observation, photography, hiking and plein air painting. Miranda’s adventure is not just about art; it’s a deep exploration of her connection to nature and her own aspirations. Her fascination with birds and their communication becomes a central theme, as she learns from a bird expert about the intricate social systems and vocalizations of avian species. When Miranda finds herself in a dramatic rescue situation on the Columbia River, her attentiveness to bird calls leads her to save a fellow traveller from drowning. The narrative is enriched by vivid descriptions of Oregon’s landscapes, the river’s power, and the delicate beauty of the meadowlark. Purl’s writing is lyrical and evocative, seamlessly weaving together themes of art, nature, and human relationships. The novella stands alone as a complete story but also fits into the larger tapestry of the Milford-Haven saga. When Birds Sing by author Mara Purl is a beautifully crafted novella that celebrates the harmony between humans and nature, the power of art, and the courage to embrace life’s challenges. Purl’s ability to blend fiction with environmental and emotional themes makes this a compelling read for fans of small-town fiction, nature enthusiasts, and those who appreciate stories of personal growth. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A captivating novella set within the Milford-Haven saga, blending themes of nature, art, and human connection. Purchase here

< Back Marianne Hartley ALIGN & SHINE A step-by-step guide to brand design by author Marianne Hartley. Align & Shine is a reference book about business, marketing, and brand design. Author, brand consultant and designer, Marianne Hartley, describes how to create beautiful, inspiring, and powerful brands, by connecting the heart and mind. Hartley discusses her personal journey, from studying graphic design at l’Ecole d’Art Appliques, in Switzerland, to settting up a successful agency, Hartley & Soul. The company was created to bring together the author’s interests in energy healing and design. The book is divided into three parts: Dive, Discover and Define. Dive is the foundational stage, which involves diving deep into the business, understanding what is unique about the business, and identifying the problem it is trying to solve. Dive involves the left, logical side of the brain. Discover involves connecting with intuition and engaging with the heart to get a deeper level of understanding, and aligning the brand with both the heart and the vision. It involves working with the right hand, creative side of the brain. Define brings both sides of thinking together, connecting logic and intuition, to develop a coherent vision, mission and value, to bring the brand to life. Hartley provides many examples through real life client stories and testimonials. At the end of each chapter there are exercises and questions to help guide the reader on their own brand journey, and tips and tools to support self reflection, guided meditation an visualisation. Align & Shine is an inspiring and insightful book by a guru of brand design, Marianne Hartley. Hartley is a leading authority on brand design, and her knowledge and expertise shines throughout this book. The book’s emphasis on the emotional aspects of branding, and connecting hearts and minds, is refreshing. As a reader with little knowledge of brand design, I found the book fascinating. I would love to see more images and examples within the book, as I found myself googling many of the brands the author references. The book is aimed at anyone who has a business idea and wants to turn it into brand; those who are already running a successful business and want to refresh their brand; and serial entrepreneurs who want to create iconic brands for their businesses. It will also appeal to students, teachers, and anyone interested in branding and design. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: Connecting hearts and minds: a refreshing and fascinating insight into brand design. Purchase here

< Back Stephen Alder Deehabta's Song One woman’s journey to find her true self, from author Stephen Alder Deehabta’s Song is set on the futuristic planet of Erunanta (Roon). We first meet the main character Krissa in 4025 AFS (After First Settlement), in her sixties, one day away from retirement as a government official in the Great Library. As Krissa looks forward to a new chapter in her life, she decides to bring in a roommate, and a young woman named Jo moves into her home. We next see Krissa as a young woman in her thirties, in 3995 AFS, where she teaches a style of martial arts which has originated from the neighbouring planet, Caderyn. We learn that this fighting style was banned following the interplanetary war between Roon and Caderyn, due to the prohibition against the spread of Caderyn military tactics. As a result, Krissa is subjected to harassment and abuse by the EPF (Emperor’s Protection Force). Back in 4025, Krissa is troubled and experiences unusual feelings and nightmares, as a result of her experiences during the war. Jo notices that Krissa possesses mysterious qualities and supports her to travel back to Caderyn where she learns the truth about her real identity and is finally set free from her past trauma. Deehabta’s song by Stephen Alder is an imaginative and thrilling science fantasy novel, set in a futuristic world, over two time periods. This is a well written and cleverly crafted story, with a gripping, well-developed plot, and relatable, realistic characters. Alder has created a rich, futuristic world and he builds momentum and suspense through movement between two different time periods. The book will appeal to those who enjoy both science fiction and fantasy. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A cleverly crafted story, with a gripping plot, and realistic characters. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Marcie Shrewsbury Lopez A Place of Promise Book blurb... This is a captivating story of love. The age difference between Adrian and Marcie is a strong appeal and adds to a layer of intrigue. It is a heart-warming story. It is inspiring and will resonate with many readers. The combination of love and art and overcoming challenges also adds to the appeal. Purchase here

< Back Geoff Spellberg Escape From Hawaii A love affair, and a battle for supremacy, on the islands of Hawaii. In the late 1700’s, Jake Attucks, a former Captain in the Continental Army, sails to the Hawaiian islands, on board the ship Columbia. He is fleeing his home in New York, following the death of his younger brother, Tad, who was tragically killed on the battlefield. Still grieving the death of his brother, and seeking redemption from his parents, who blame him for Tad’s death, Jake hopes to make his fortune in the Pacific North fur trade. After a violent incident on board the Columbia, Jake is thrown off the ship and abandoned on the island of Maui . When the natives learn of Jake’s weapon-making skills, they are keen to befriend him and learn his skills. The Chief of Maui is preparing for war against the Chief of Hawaii, who has ambitions to take over the entire archipelago . The Chief of Maui sets Jake up with a forge and two assistants, to make weapons for the impending war. Jake settles into village life, but he is forced to work and fight for the Chief, to stay on the island. Jake meets Leilani, a member of the Maui royal family. The couple fall in love, and Jake is adopted into the Maui royal family, so they can marry. Jake learns that Leilani was stolen from her family on the island of Hawaii and is being held captive on Maui against her will. She hopes one day to escape and return home to her blood family in Hawaii. As the Maui and Hawaiin Chief's prepare for battle, Jake and Leilani have an important decision to make. Will they fight for Maui, or will they risk their lives and try to escape to Leilani’s homeland in Hawaii? Escape From Hawaii by author Geoff Spellberg is a historical fiction novel set on the beautiful, tropical islands of Hawaii in the late 1700’s. This is an insightful and fascinating novel, inspired by real events, following Captain Cook’s discovery of the islands in 1778. The book tells the story of the battle of supremacy between two island Chiefs, and the interference of foreign traders and settlers from Europe and Russia. At the heart of the story is a beautiful affair between two fictional characters, Jake and Leilani, who are both enslaved on the island of Maui, but unexpetedly find love in the tropical paradise. With piracy, warfare, romance, and betrayal, this is a thoroughly enjoyable action, adventure novel not to be missed. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy historical fiction, and those with an interest in the fascinating history of Hawaii. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thoroughly enjoyable, historical fiction novel, set during a significant period in Hawaiian history. Purchase here

< Back Roni Robbins Hands of Gold A fictional memoir about a Jewish man born in 1905, who records his extraordinary life story for his children. Eighty-five-year-old Jewish American, Shimshon (Sam) Tzvi Fox, moves into a nursing home with his wife of sixty-five years, Hannah . When his youngest daughter buys him a recorder and a set of blank tapes, Sam decides to record his life story. He knows he doesn’t have much time left and he wants his children and grandchildren to know the truth about his life. Born in Hungary in 1905 Sam was one of thirteen children, in a close-knit Jewish family. Raised on a farm in a small Jewish community he and his siblings had a modest but happy childhood. Relations with the goyim (non-Jewish community) were generally friendly, but tensions grew following the outbreak of the first world war in Europe. Sam describes the impact of the war, as schools were forced to close, and it became increasingly difficult to make ends meet on the farm. Many of Sam’s elder siblings emigrated to America in search of a better life. Sam longed to join his siblings, but was forced to stay in Hungary to take care of his mother and younger siblings following his fathers death. To avoid conscription at the age of 18, Sam travelled across Czechoslovakia, Austria, and Germany, and found employment on a ship headed to North America. He arrived in Montreal, Canada, where he found work as a cobbler and first met his wife. When Hannah found a job and moved to New York, Sam soon followed, crossing the border illegally in 1926. As the couple settle down and make a new life for themselves, Sam describes the highs and lows of raising a family in the New York melting pot. Hands of Gold: One Man’s Quest to Find the Silver Lining in Misfortune is a fictional memoir inspired by real events, by author Roni Robbins. This is an enlightening and poignant novel about one man’s life and journey from Eastern Europe to New York. Set against a backdrop of war, and rising social and political tensions across Europe, the book captures the experiences and challenges faced by Jewish people during the first half of the twentieth century, to more recent times. Whilst this book deals with some difficult issues, such as the atrocities of war and antisemitism, it is primarily a book about love and family, hope and resilience. Robbin’s storytelling beautifully captures the Jewish faith, culture, customs, language, food, and identity. It will appeal to those who enjoy historical fiction, particularly those interested in the Jewish immigrant experience. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An enlightening and poignant fictional memoir about one man’s life and journey from Eastern Europe to New York in the early twentieth century. Purchase here

< Back Alex Poppe Jinwar and Other Stories A collection of short stories about the experience of women in the aftermath of war. Jinwar and Other Stories is a collection of six short stories from author Alex Poppe about the experiences of young women, following the war in Syria and Iraq. ‘Jinwar’ is the story of a student nurse at a VA Hospital, who has to care for the ex-commanding officer who harassed and raped her. She describes how she was dishonourably discharged from the Marine Corps for reporting the rape, and attempted to take her own life. She goes on to work at a hot dog stand, and several failed jobs later, she works as a volunteer in Jinwar, a women-only, ecological self-sustaining village, to teach women self-defence. ‘Road Trip in War Time’, tells the story of a woman conducting research in Iraq, and a car journey to Erbil with male strangers. ‘V’ is about a Kurdish-American teenager from Oakland who is lonely, isolated and at risk of radicalisation. ‘Kurdistan’ tells the story of a teenager from Tennessee, whose parents fled to the US during the Saddam regime. After both of her parents die, she is sent to Kurdistan to live with her aunt and must learn how to adapt to Kurdish life and culture. ‘Mosul’ is about a woman who helps another woman to run away to a shelter after she is raped by her brother. The women resort to desperate measures, after she becomes pregnant. ‘Ras al-Amud’ tells the story of a nineteen-year-old woman who experiences unimaginable grief following a miscarriage. Jinwar and Other Stories is an affecting and deeply moving work of fiction by author Alex Poppe, about the aftermath of military conflict in the middle east, and its impact on women and girls. Poppe was compelled to write the book after hearing the stories of survivors of rape in the military. This short story collection shows that women and girls suffer disproportionately during and after war. Existing inequalities are magnified, and social networks are disrupted, making them more vulnerable to gender-based violence, abuse and exploitation. Yet, they show remarkable strength and resilience in conflict situations. While this book is a work of fiction, the experiences of real women ring out from every page. With sharp and eloquent prose, and carefully considered settings and characters, this is a powerful collection of short stories by Poppe. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An affecting and deeply moving novel about the aftermath of military conflict in the middle east, and its impact on women and girls. Purchase here

< Back Dawn Bragg and Devon Jeffers Valdes Reflections: Earth, Heart, Light, Dark Reflections is a collaborative poetry collection by mother-daughter duo Dawn Bragg and Devon Jeffers Valdes. The collection is a heartfelt exploration of life’s complexities, weaving themes of Earth, Heart, Light, and Dark into a tapestry of vivid imagery and emotional depth. Through their poetic expressions, the authors invite readers to reflect on their own experiences, emotions, and connections to the world around them. The collection is divided into four sections—Earth, Heart, Light, and Dark—each representing a distinct theme. The poems in the "Earth" section celebrate the beauty and wonder of nature, with evocative descriptions of landscapes, seasons, and the interconnectedness of life. The "Heart" section delves into the emotional core of human experience, exploring themes of love, loss, resilience, and familial bonds. In the "Light" section, the authors explore themes of hope, renewal, and the beauty of life. The final section, "Dark," confronts themes of grief, despair, and the shadowy corners of the human soul. Throughout the collection, Bragg and Valdes experiment with various poetic forms, including free verse, rhyming couplets, villanelles, and prose poetry. This diversity in structure adds depth and texture to the collection, ensuring that each poem feels unique while still contributing to the overarching themes. Overall, Reflections is a moving and thought-provoking collection of poetry that invites readers to explore the beauty and complexity of life. With its rich imagery, emotional depth, and thematic resonance, this debut poetry book is a must-read for anyone seeking solace, inspiration, or a deeper connection to the world around them. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A poignant and beautifully crafted poetry collection that explores themes of nature, love, loss, resilience, and the human experience. Purchase here

< Back Paula Welch Cloud Piercer A fight for survival on a treacherous mountain, by author Paula Welch When a small explosive device is found on a private jet from Sydney to Christchurch, the passengers, Henry and Gertrude, are diverted to a commercial airline, carrying 500 passengers. Joining them onboard the Airbus is a police officer named Victoria, dispatched by the Australian Federal Police to travel to Christchurch to interview one of the suspects believed to be responsible for planting the bomb. Also on the flight is Wolf, a hit man sent to finish the job he started on the private jet and kill Henry and Gertrude before they reach their destination. Just before the flight is due to land in Christchurch, news arrives of an earthquake nearby and the crew are advised to divert the flight to Auckland. Captain Benjamin turns the plane around but inadvertently flies straight through invisible gas vapours, choking the engines and causing them to shut down. The plane descends through the peaks of Mt Walter, Mt Green, and Mt Darwin and crash lands on a snowy mountain top. Many passengers are dead and seriously injured, but rescue attempts are impeded by ongoing seismic activity, and precarious conditions. As the survivors await the arrival of the mountain rescue teams, Captain Benjamin tries to maintain calm and order on the plane. The crew and passengers work together to move the dead and treat the wounded, but one passenger has other ideas. Wolf sees an opportunity to finish his job, and sets out to eliminate his targets. Cloud Piercer is a fast paced, drama and disaster fiction novel by author Paula Welch. The book brings together an aeroplane disaster, a mountain rescue, and earthquakes, avalanches, and volcanic activity; with several subplots, including a murder mystery; and a romance. Yet, this is a gripping disaster novel that doesn’t take itself too seriously. There is a fair bit of death and tragedy, but there are also wonderful uplifting and comedy moments. The characters - each with a unique backstory – are plentiful, diverse, and well developed. The character Pauline, an eccentric, fictional character (and a parody of the author), is a really nice addition. Overall a thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable read. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fast-paced, gripping, drama and disaster novel that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Purchase here