< Back Henk Pretorius Rational Defiance: A Guide to Clear Thinking, Bold Action, and Living on Your Own Terms Book blurb... Stay defiant. Most people settle. They take the safe job, follow the accepted path, and silence the voice that says there's something more. One day, they realize they've been living someone else's life. Consistency, compliance, and complacency aren't virtues. They're traps that keep you stuck. If you’re ready to break free, level up, and dismantle the status quo, now is the time for change. In Rational Defiance, Henk Pretorius reveals how our universal tendency to conform sabotages the results we want most. Drawing from psychology, philosophy, and real-world examples, he helps you leave the pack through a deliberate approach. This isn't a formula for rebellion or a prescription for any particular version of nonconformity—it's a framework for discovering what you truly want and building the courage to pursue it. Short, actionable, and unflinching, Rational Defiance is your guide to mastering conformity for unconventional results. Purchase here

< Back David Zelman PhD What's Next? Get Clear & Get Going The opportunity to create your life awaits you. What's Next? Get Clear and Get Going, is a self-help book from author and CEO of Transitions Institute Inc, David Zelman, PhD. Based on forty years of experience teaching , training, coaching, and mentoring thousands of people, Zelman presents the Transitions Program, a unique approach to help people resolve their own problems and achieve their goals. Zelman argues that his program is different from traditional self-help programs because it encourages people to take ownership of their past and the present, to develop an enlightened relationship with their future. He argues that the key to success lies within us, we just have to learn how to unlock it. The program focuses attention on achieving both tangible (ie the things you want to achieve, such as getting a new job, or moving home) and intangible positive outcomes (ie your experiences and emotional responses to the things you are and are not accomplishing). Central to the program is the theory that people cannot focus on two distinctly different thoughts at the same time (ie positive and negative thoughts). As such, by focusing on positive thoughts, the process helps to free people from the distracting and negative thoughts that might hinder their progress. What's Next? Get Clear and Get Going by David Zelman, PhD is a powerful and inspirational self-help book that takes readers on a journey towards self-awareness, self-improvement, and self-discovery. The book explores the power of the mind, encouraging readers to cultivate a positive, future focused outlook. Zelman draws on his own personal journey towards self-improvement, including learnings from Transcendental Meditation and Erhard Training. He presents real life stories from a number of clients he has helped throughout his career, and the tools and techniques he used to help them discover their full potential. T hrough following Zelman’s guidance, readers will discover their innate ability to create the life they want to live. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A powerful and inspirational self-help book that empowers readers to take control of their lives and shape their own futures. Purchase here

< Back DF Kennedy The Truth A gripping semi-autobiographical novel, by author DF Kennedy Dahlia Frost joins the US Air Force to escape her dysfunctional family, but during one particular mission she discovers a phobia of wearing a mask and small spaces. Unable to conquer her fears, and experiencing recurrent traumatic nightmares, Dahlia is medically retired from the Air Force. When Dahlia returns home to the US, she learns from her mother, Sylvia, the cause of her nightmares. As a child, Dahlia was abducted by her biological father, Dahmon, and driven into a lake where her father tragically drowned. Following her father’s death, her mother marries Bob, a violent man who terrorises and abuses both women. Dahlia learns she has lost six years of childhood memories and records her mother’s testimony in a journal. Several years later, Dahlia writes Daddy Issues, an autobiographical novel based on her dysfunctional family and traumatic childhood experiences. Published under the penname of Frances Slater to protect her identity, the novel becomes a worldwide bestseller. But when Dahlia’s real identity is mysteriously exposed, she is unwittingly thrust into the limelight and back into the arms of her ex-lover, Roland, an a-list Hollywood actor. The couple rekindle their relationship, but Dahlia is tormented by a secret stalker, who seems to know much more about her past than revealed in her novel. As the stalker closes in, Dahlia finally learns the truth about her childhood, and the real cause of her father’s death. The Truth by DF Kennedy is a tense, gripping and emotional semi-autobiographical novel, loosely based on the authors own experiences. The author successfully interweaves a story of horrific abuse and childhood trauma, with joyous, light-hearted moments of love and romance. Dahlia is a well-developed, complex character, with complex relationships. Readers will empathise with her and route for her, but will equally be frustrated by her decisions. This is the first volume in a planned series, and ends on a thrilling cliff-hanger. I can’t wait to read the next instalment in this series. The book will appeal to readers of drama fiction, suspense, and women’s fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A tense, gripping and emotional semi-autobiographical novel, which successfully interweaves a story of horrific abuse and childhood trauma with a beautiful love story. Purchase here

< 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 SJ Williams The Auburn Guide: A True Story of Spirit, Survival and Awakening The Auburn Guide by SJ Williams is a deeply personal memoir and spiritual guide that weaves together the author’s harrowing life experiences with practical tools for healing and spiritual connection. Williams does not shy away from recounting the darkest moments of her life—childhood abuse, family violence, betrayal, loss, and physical and mental health struggles. The narrative is unfiltered and authentic, inviting readers into the author’s most private pain and triumphs. This vulnerability is a major strength, as it fosters a sense of trust and relatability. Williams describes moments of divine intervention, encounters with spirit guides and archangels, and the gradual awakening of her intuitive gifts. These experiences are not presented as distant or mystical, but as accessible and real, offering hope to readers who may be seeking their own connection to something greater. The second part of the book is a practical toolkit, offering exercises linked to each chapter’s theme—protection, connecting with spirit guides, aura observation, full moon rituals, energy release, and more. These are clear, step-by-step, and grounded in lived experience rather than abstract theory. For example, the “Bubble of Protection” exercise (Chapter 1) and “Heart-Centred Gratitude” (Chapter 8) are simple yet powerful practices that readers can immediately apply. Despite the trauma and setbacks, the memoir is ultimately a story of survival, resilience, and transformation. Williams’s journey from victimhood to empowerment is inspiring, and her ability to find meaning and spiritual growth in adversity is a central message. This book is ideal for readers interested in memoirs of survival, spiritual awakening, and practical self-healing. It will particularly resonate with those who have experienced trauma, loss, or are seeking a deeper spiritual path. The inclusion of exercises makes it a valuable resource for personal growth or group discussion. Highly recommended for anyone seeking inspiration, healing, or a reminder that even in the darkest times, light and guidance are possible. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A courageous, compassionate, and practical memoir that offers both solace and tools for transformation. Purchase here

< Back Donna Lin Pratt Bittermarsh Book blurb... Slip into Bittermarsh, a brooding Southern Gothic mystery of a ruined estate, a vanished wife, and the dangerous architecture of desire. Purchase here

< Back Faith MacGregor Children of Angels Book blurb... Children of Angels is an epic fantasy that follows King Tiras and his family of Nephilim (human-angel hybrids) as they defend their island kingdom against invaders from Ra who seek to destroy them, culminating in a massive battle where mercy and understanding ultimately triumph over vengeance and hatred. Purchase here

< Back Angelo Perone The Best Attorney Never Wins: Why Great Lawyers Go Broke and Average Ones Build Empires Book blurb... Law school taught you how to win cases. Now learn how to run a business. You know you're the best attorney in the room. You've always known it. So why is the guy down the street, the one you'd never hire, the one your clients would never choose if they knew better… Why is he the one with the eight-figure firm? It's not talent. It's not luck. It's a game you were never taught to play. Angelo Perone is not an attorney. He's the CEO of Case Connect. $200M in ad spend. 120+ firms scaled. $50M a year and growing. He cracked this industry wide open from the outside, and what he found will make your blood boil. The best attorney almost never wins. The best operator does. This is the system. Purchase here

< Back Katie Jay Murder most Vegan There is a new amateur sleuth in town, by author Katie Jay Cecilia, a fifty-something environmental health officer from Glenelg Council, Adelaide, is annoyed when a routine health inspection at The Vegan Café, is derailed by the presence of the cook sprawled out on the kitchen floor. Cecilia notices a bottle of vodka on the counter and presumes the cook has passed out from drinking too much alcohol. But when there is no response after she prods the cook with her stiletto heel, she realises there is something not quite right. The cook is pronounced dead, presumed murdered, by the police. The next day, Cecilia returns back to the café to help the police with their investigations, and using her skills of health and environmental safety investigations, notices a few things awry in the kitchen. Cecilia turns amateur detective and joins forces with Aldo Giovanni, a handsome police detective, to help solve the mystery. Who could possibly want to kill a peaceful vegan in a sleepy coastal town? And why does the owner of the café seem intent on publicising the death of her cook? Murder most vegan, by author Katie Jay, is a charming cosy mystery novel, about a middle-aged woman from Adelaide who is thrown into the curious world of criminal investigation, following a death of a cook on her patch. Cecilia is a well-developed, likeable protagonist, and a charming amateur sleuth for a cosy murder mystery series. This is a light-hearted and funny novel, which will entertain adults and young adult readers. Well written, with a gripping plot, this book will appeal to readers who enjoy women's fiction and cosy mysteries. I hope there will be more investigations from amateur sleuth Cecilia, in the future. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A laugh out loud cosy mystery, with a charming new amateur sleuth. Purchase here

< Back Jennifer Ivy Walker The Wild Rose and the Sea Raven A wonderful adaptation of a medieval French fairy-tale, by Jennifer Ivy Walker Fourteen-year-old Issylte, the Emerald Princess of Ireland, is forced to flee her home, when her father, King Donnchadh of Ireland, marries Princess Morag of Scotland. Queen Morag, unable to conceive a child of her own and fearful of the heirs’ future claim to the throne, orders her death. Issylte is lured into the forest, but she is spared from death by two loyal guards. She is taken to the enchanted Hazelwood Forest, where she is sheltered by Maiwenn, a wizened witch, and the forest fairies. Issylte’s identity is hidden and she lives an idyllic life, where she learns how to wield the herbal essences of the forest and develops her powers of healing. After several years living in Hazelwood, Issylte’s true identity is discovered. Queen Morag is furious to learn the princess is alive and sends an army to find and kill her. Issylte is forced to flee again, leaving behind her dear Maiwenn, who is brutally murdered by the Queens army. Issylte finds sanctuary on the mystical island of Avalon, with Maiwenn’s friend and mother of Lancelot, Viviane. Her identity is changed once again and Issylte becomes an acolyte and gifted healer. She meets and falls in love with Ronan, an Avalonian Elf. When Queen Morag’s army savagely attacks the Kingdom of Cornwall, the Blue Knight of Cornwall and heir to the Cornish Crown, Tristan, is severely injured and sent to Avalon for treatment and recovery. Issylte heals Tristan and discovers a deep and powerful connection with the warrior. Queen Morag, now betrothed to the King of Cornwall following her murder of King Donnchadh, learns of Issylte’s and Tristen’s location on the protected Isle. She sends her army to kill both Issylte and Tristen, as the heirs to the Irish and Cornish crowns. Issylte must decide whether to leave the safety of Avalon and her beloved Ronan, or flee with Tristan to France, avenge her father’s death and become the rightful Queen of Ireland. The Wild Rose and the Sea Raven is a sensational, well-crafted, medieval fantasy fiction novel by author Jennifer Ivy Walker. The novel is an adaptation of a medieval French classic, with a perfect blend of magic, mysticism, romance, tragedy, drama, and suspense. This novel will captivate and enthral readers from the outset. I was fully immersed in this wonderful story and invested in the two main characters, whose lives and journeys are seamlessly interwoven in this beautiful magical, fantasy world. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sensational, well-crafted, fantasy fiction novel, with a perfect blend of magic, mysticism, romance, tragedy, drama, and suspense. Purchase here

< Back Rachel Elwiss Joyce Lady of the Castle Lady of the Castle by Rachel Elwiss Joyce is a compelling historical novel set in late 12th-century England, centering on Nicola de la Haye, a real-life hereditary constable of Lincoln Castle. Rachel Elwiss Joyce crafts a vivid tapestry of love, loyalty, and betrayal against the backdrop of political upheaval, religious tension, and personal struggle. Joyce excels at immersing readers in the medieval world. The novel is meticulously researched, with authentic depictions of castle life, feudal politics, and the precarious position of women in power. The siege of Lincoln Castle, food shortages, and the threat of violence against the Jewish community are rendered with gripping realism. For example, Nicola's management of supplies and her strategic thinking during sieges highlight the daily pressures of leadership in a turbulent era. The characters are complex and nuanced. Nicola is portrayed as a formidable yet deeply human protagonist. Her struggles with authority, motherhood, and marriage are explored with empathy and nuance. The supporting cast—including her husband Gerard, her children, and members of the Jewish community—are equally well-drawn, each facing their own moral dilemmas and growth. The evolving relationship between Nicola and Gerard, marked by misunderstandings, loyalty, and eventual reconciliation, adds emotional depth. The novel highlights the challenges faced by women in positions of authority. Nicola's determination to defend her inheritance and her people, even when undermined by male counterparts, is both inspiring and historically significant. The narrative does not shy away from the limitations and prejudices of the time, making Nicola's achievements all the more remarkable. Readers seeking a novel that combines action, emotional resonance, and historical insight will find much to admire in Joyce's work. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A standout work of historical fiction, blending meticulous research with engaging storytelling. It offers a powerful portrait of a woman who defied expectations and shaped her own destiny. Purchase here

< Back Jasmine Kah Yan Loo Reigning Fire Book blurb.. . In a realm where power is sealed through smoke and blood, Yan Xun was born to inherit a crown-or be destroyed by it. When her Emberkin arrives far too early, and in a form the world has no place for, Xun becomes a danger to the very empire she was meant to serve. As she uncovers long-buried truths and navigates a court built on silence, loyalty, and control, her existence alone threatens to unravel everything. Set in an ancient Chinese-inspired empire of myth and ash, Reigning Fire is a lyrical fantasy about forbidden power, political unrest, and the ghosts we carry. Through richly layered worldbuilding and emotional depth, this debut novel explores the complexities of trauma, neurodivergence, and what it means to survive when your truth has no place in the world. Perfect for readers who love introspective characters, slow-burn rebellion, and myth-infused storytelling, Reigning Fire blends court intrigue with emotional intensity in a story about legacy, selfhood, and the quiet power of choosing your own name. Purchase here