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< Back Leon Conrad Story and Structure: A complete guide An essential read for anyone interested in writing and storytelling, by Leon Conrad ‘Story and Structure: A complete guide’ is a handbook for anyone interested in writing and storytell ing. It tells the untold story of what makes a story, a ‘story’. Conrad describes his approach, which is based on six primary symbols (inspired by Professor George Spencer-Brown’s book ‘Laws of Form’), as a simple, visual way to analyse and compare different story structures. The six sy mbols approach is a useful way to understand how story works, how and why structures differ, and why story is a much wider phenomena than most people underst and. It has the potential to help us not only understand stories better, but also to underst and ourselves better. He provides examples of 18 distinct story structures, some well-known and some less well known , from across different cultures and eras (from the earliest written records to the present day). Conrad describes the methodology of the approach and applies it to different story structures, as well as describing the implications for the approach, and how the methodology can be applied in the practice of writing, from poetry to creative writing, teaching and anthropology. ‘Story and Structure: A complete guide’ by Leon Conrad is a comprehensive, well-researched and insightful handbook. The book is well structured, and easy to read and understand. This book will help readers appreciate the importance of story structure, and will help anyone to write better stories. It is an essential read for anyone interested in writing and storytelling, includ ing writers, storytellers, teachers, poets, and readers. I really wi sh I had read this book ten years ago, when I started my own writing journey. Star rating: 5 St ars Summary: A fascin ating insight into how story works, which will help readers appreciate the import ance of story structure. 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 Sheldon Katz Portrait of the Author as a Young Atomist: Reminiscences Of A Developmental Ontology Book blurb... What if your earliest memories were filled not just with wonder, but with questions that shook the foundations of belief? In Portrait of the Author as a Young Atomist, Dr. Sheldon Katz invites readers into the raw, thoughtful terrain of a young mind awakening to the complexities of faith, free will, morality, and the very nature of existence. Blending memoir with philosophical reflection, Katz chronicles his journey from a tradition-bound childhood to an adulthood marked by intellectual emancipation. Through candid recollections - from battling guilt as a boy over breaking Sabbath rules to questioning the justice of God in the face of the Holocaust - the author explores the evolution of consciousness with clarity, wit, and emotional depth. Each chapter unfolds a layer of his internal transformation, leading to a powerful conclusion: that the meaning of life is not found in divine answers but in the courage to think, love, and live freely. This book is for seekers, skeptics, and thinkers - anyone who has dared to ask, 'What do I believe, and why?' Purchase here

< Back Jim Malloy Raptor's Revenge A thrilling, fast-paced, novel, about a heroic privateer who seeks vengeance following the brutal murder of his entire family, from author Jim Malloy Raptor’s Revenge is a historical novel set in Elizabethan England. The book follows fourteen-year-old Jamey Fallon as he returns home to find his whole family murdered. The only clue left behind is a severed finger with a gold ring attached. Jamey pockets the ring and is determined to find and destroy the nine fingered murderer responsible. Jamey sets out on a heroic journey across the high seas, as he seeks revenge on the culprit who murdered his entire family. In doing so, Jamey takes command of his own pirate ship, the ‘Raptor,’ and takes on the persona of a pirate ‘El Raptor.’ For over a decade, Jamey and his one-eyed friend sail the Caribbean Sea and hunt down Spanish ships in search of the murderer. When he arrives in Jamaica, Jamey falls in love with Maria, but they are soon captured and turned over to the inquisition. The lovers escape and intercept the killer’s ship. Jamey finally comes face to face his family’s killer, and faces a brutal and bloody duel to the death. This is a thrilling, fast-paced, novel, jam packed full of action and swashbuckling sea adventures. With a blend of history, mystery, revenge and romance, this book will appeal to those who enjoy historical fiction and pirating adventures. With well-developed characters, an elaborate plot with plenty of gruesome battles, and numerous twists and turns, the book will keep readers captivated and on the edge of their seats. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A captivating, swashbuckling pirate adventure on the high seas. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ 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 Lesley Beiro and Heather Scott Over the Lotion Over the Lotion is a true story, written by mother and daughter Heather Scott and Lesley Beiro. Written primarily by Scott, a white woman who grew up in South Africa during the 1950s and 1960s. The book follows Scott’s journey from childhood through to adulthood, from her early years in Pretoria , to her emigration to the United States in later life. The latter part of the book is written by her daughter, Biero, following her death. Set against a backdrop of apartheid in South Africa, Scott recalls the social and political changes that happened throughout her life, and the impact on her family and community. From the release of Nelson Mandela, civil unrest, and the turbulent transition into post-apartheid South Africa. Scott faced many personal struggles throughout her life. She survived polio as a teenager, and later married a man she discovered was an alcoholic. Early in her marriage Scott experienced the tragic loss of a baby, and her husband was often violent towards her. As Scott tried to make a good life for herself and her children, she sought comfort, guidance and strength from God. Over the Lotion is a deeply personal and heartfelt memoir that chronicles one woman’s experience of life in South Africa during apartheid and in the immediate post-apartheid period. As Scott witnesses the social and political upheaval of her beloved country, she has to make a difficult decision for her family. Scott does not shy away from the moral dilemmas of many white South African farmers – those who grew up calling South Africa home, but were left feeling alienated and abandoned as society changed. Beiro finished the memoir following Scott’s death, and is a beautiful and touching tribute to a much-loved mother and grandmother. For readers interested in personal histories of South Africa, and the US immigrant experience, this book offers a gripping and emotionally charged perspective . Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A heartfelt and thought-provoking memoir of a white woman growing up in South Africa during apartheid. Purchase here

< Back Kate Sweden Wrecked By You Book blurb... There were two problems with kissing Max Harrington. First—he kissed like sin. Second—he knew it. Now we’re stuck in Scotland together, and pretending it never happened is definitely not on the itinerary. Rayann Wilder has charm, connections, and one job: make sure a million-dollar pre-wedding celebration in the Scottish Highlands goes off without a hitch. But when her boss assigns the company's broody security chief to join her? Everything unravels fast. Max Harrington is ex-military, exasperating, and entirely too attractive for Rayann’s sanity. He follows rules. She makes her own. He’s planning for worst-case scenarios. She’s trying not to jump him in a castle hallway. And the worst part? The more they argue, the harder it is to remember why this was supposed to be a strictly professional trip. Tensions are high. The stakes are higher. And between ancient feuds, competitive games, and one very inconvenient suite-sharing situation… the line between enemies and lovers is about to disappear completely. Wrecked by You is a sexy, enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy with snappy banter, forced proximity, and enough slow-burn tension to melt your passport. Perfect for readers who crave serious heat, sharp wit, and emotionally intelligent characters who know exactly how high the stakes are—especially when it comes to falling in love. Purchase here

< Back Madeline Pasimio Contrary to Conception: Stories and Lessons about Successful Birth Control and Contraceptive Methods Everything you wanted to know about birth control and contraceptive methods but were afraid to ask, by Madeline Pasimio Contrary to Conception is an informative and educational reference book by Madeline Pasimio about birth control and contraception. The book describes the key terms and definitions of contraceptive methods, explores the history of birth control, and provides useful insights into different methods, such as the pill, emergency contraception, barrier methods, the shot, the implant, hormonal and copper IUDs, and sterilization. Each chapter includes detailed information about each method and how it works, its effectiveness and side effects, and other considerations and common misconceptions. Each chapter also includes fictionalised stories, based on women’s real-life experiences, such as student Gina who suffered aggravating period cramps and decided to try the pill to help alleviate her symptoms, and parents of two-Terri and David who considered permanent methods of contraception to prevent future pregnancy, such as male and female sterilization. This book is a valuable resource for anyone considering birth control for the first time, or for those who want to learn more about different contraceptive methods. It is educational and informative, but accessible and easy to read for all readers. Madeline Pasimio writes about this sensitive, and often taboo subject, respectfully and without judgement. This book will help educate women and their partners, to make informed choices about contraception and birth control options. This book should be an essential part of sex education and the school curriculum, and would make a valuable addition to any home, school, or public library. As a veteran, but very naïve, contraceptive user, I wish I had this book when I started using contraception many years ago. Now, as a mother of a teenage daughter, I will be recommending this book to her, and all of my female friends and relatives. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An informative and educational reference book about birth control and contraception, that should be an essential part of sex education and the school curriculum. Purchase here

< Back Rebecca Anne Nguyen The 23rd Hero A young woman travels back in time to try and avert an environmental disaster. Sloane Burrows, a twenty-nine-year-old Techno Engineering graduate from Vancouver, is working as a ‘Boothie’ subcontractor (technician) for ‘The Program.’ Developed by an unknown inventor, The Program is a government initiative that aims to right the wrongs of the past, by transporting people back in time, to change the future. Due to over population, deforestation, industrialisation and much more, the world is on the brink of an environmental apocalypse. Citizens are encouraged to apply to The Program to become a ‘Hero,’ to save the world and receive a $10 million reward for their family. Twenty-two Heroes have successfully travelled back in time, resulting in positive environmental impacts. Sloane has secretly dreamed of applying to The Program, but she is ineligible due to her work as a subcontractor. Almost a year has passed since the last Hero travelled back in time and the world is on the brink of collapse once again. The government lifts the restrictions and Sloane is eligible to apply. Her twin brother applies on her behalf, and she is shortlisted. The odds are stacked against her, as no woman has ever been selected as a Hero. But, out of thirty-three million applicants, Sloane is selected as the 23rd Hero. Sloane’s mission is to travel back in time to sixteenth-century France to the home of King Francis I. Her task is to pose as a royal fortune teller, to build the King’s trust and influence his decision making. The aim is to stop the King from investing in the first French expedition to the Americas. It is hoped that this will delay French colonization in the New World, and ensure Indigenous people retain control of their homelands, thereby reducing the carbon footprint for future generations. But, when the man of her dreams walks into her life, Sloane’s world is turned upside down. The mission is a huge risk. There is no guarantee that the intervention will work, and Sloane could die in the past without ever knowing the outcome of her mission, or ever seeing the man of her dreams again. The 23rd Hero by author Rebecca Anne Nguyen follows the journey of an extraordinary young woman who travels back in time to sixteenth century France to try and save the planet. Nguyen successfully combines an environmental disaster, with a historical time travel adventure, and a passionate love story. With an intriguing plot, beautifully written prose, and plenty of humor, this is a unique and remarkable novel from a debut author. Fans of time-travel, eco-dystopian fiction, history and romance will love this story. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : With plenty of humor and a passionate romance, this is a time-travelling adventure like no other. Purchase here

< Back PJ Ellis After You, My Dear: I will always follow you Book blurb... The stunning Selena Mirrell, formerly a famed fashion model, marries young to the wealthy and charming Victor LaRoche. Her storybook romance becomes a living nightmare as Victor reveals his true, dark nature. After the fairy-tale romance turned sour, Selena flees her abusive husband, but finds no escape from his relentless pursuit. She settles in Andersonville, Georgia, where she rebuilds her life, but old demons resurface. When Victor remarries, Selena hopes to have finally escaped her past, but strange events plague her new home. A mysterious child enters her life, and she meets a widowed detective who wants to protect her from Victor's wrath. But as his behavior escalates, Selena must summon her strength and courage to protect herself and those she loves. Will she be able to outsmart Victor and find peace, or will he finally catch up with her? Dive into this romantic thriller for a tale of love, obsession, and survival to find out. 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

< Back James Richard Hansen Moonlight in My Eyes: Poems Book blurb... In Moonlight in My Eyes, poet James Richard Hansen illuminates 2023 with exquisite depictions of nature. Through 55 poems, the moon, stars, wind, sea, and occasional sun blend with words, painting nuances of his emotions. Embracing life's moods, shades, and spirit, the short poems form a symphony of insights. Upon each reread, the visitor delves into new depths, feeling the poet's words resonate. Each line and image triggers sympathetic harmonies, akin to classical music, evoking complex emotional responses. These poems, with clear yet profound language, embrace a spectrum of passions, inviting repeated readings that unveil the poet's soul and the reader's yearnings. Purchase here