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< Back Kimberley Troutte The Package (Infiltrix Series Book 1) Set in the distant future, following the second civil war, the United States is carved up into the Patriot Union and the Free States. The Patriot Union, led by President Blockwell, is a brutal regime that thrives on fear, propaganda, and public executions. The Free States are controlled by the Revo’s, who fight for democracy and human rights. The story follows Heather Slade, a skilled undercover agent working for a secret group of Revo agents. Heather embarks on a high-stakes mission to transport a ‘package’ across the heavily guarded Patriot Union to the Free States, accompanied by her bodyguard and fellow spy, Miguel Robles. Heather and Miguel board the luxurious Golden Patriot Express train and travel across the country to deliver the package. As Heather and Miguel endeavour to keep the contents of the package secret, danger looms everywhere they turn. The pair risk their lives to protect the package and evade the train’s undercover agents and Patriot Defenders. As tensions rise, Heather uses her wit and charm to manipulate high-ranking officials of the authoritarian regime. Along the way, Heather and Miguel confront their own pasts, including Heather’s amnesia and Miguel’s search for his missing brother. Heather is a compelling protagonist—tough, resourceful, and deeply scarred by her mysterious past. Miguel, with his unwavering determination and moral compass, is a perfect partner. Their partnership evolves naturally, with moments of vulnerability and trust that provide a glimmer of hope in an otherwise bleak setting. Kimberley Troutte masterfully builds a tense, oppressive, authoritarian world. The pacing is relentless, with unexpected twists and turns at every corner. Troutte’s writing is vivid and cinematic, immersing readers in the high-stakes world of espionage. The action sequences are well-executed, and the dialogue feels authentic. Overall, The Package is a thrilling, emotionally charged novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With its strong characters, intricate plot, and richly imagined world, it’s a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and spy thrillers. The ending leaves room for more, and I’m sure readers will be eager to follow Heather on her next mission. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary : A gripping and fast-paced dystopian thriller, with a blend of suspense and espionage. 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 Angel A Holy Parrot Can a young teen convince her village she is the mother of the new Christ? Leonard (Leo) Lumière, a twenty-one-year-old Australian and science student from Melbourne University, is working in a laboratory in a small village in Buritaca, on Colombia's Caribbean coast. He is studying why the local people have longer than average life-expectancy, when he meets a young woman named Maria Santos. Maria, a naive but strong-willed sixteen-year-old, confides in Leo that she is pregnant. She agrees to help Leo find the ‘elixir of life’, in exchange for a pregnancy test. Maria seeks refuge in Leo’s lab when her father is furious by her pregnancy. Maria and Leo develop a close friendship, and Leo becomes embroiled in the family drama that unfolds. Leo conducts the test and confirms she is pregnant; however, Maria claims she is a virgin. She declares that she was told by a holy parrot name Garbriel that she was to be the mother of the new Christ. Her parents and many villagers believe her story and shower her with gifts and lots of attention. Others are not convinced, including Leo, and suspect a local boy named Pablo is the father. Her father shares the news, and the world descends on the village to worship Maria and the parrot. As Maria continues to stand by her story, the book explores the connection between religion and science, and the human experience. Holy Parrot by author Angel A is a unique and original fiction novel, about a pregnant teenager named Maria who is convinced she will be the mother of the new Christ. The story is told from the perspective of Leo, an Australian student who meets Maria and becomes her protector as the world descends on the small Colombia village to worship the virgin mother-to-be. This is a fresh and fascinating read, which raises questions about science, faith, culture, humanity, and the world we inhabit. The characters are well developed, full of personality and complexity; and the setting in the Colombian jungle and beaches is breathtaking. This is a rich and compelling read with a complex, multi-faceted plot, and fascinating characters. Although the story might seem a little far-fetched, I was totally taken in by every moment. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A captivating story of faith, science, and self-discovery. Purchase here

< Back Mary Perrine The Storms of Eddie Greer An elderly man is forced to confront the ghosts of his past following a tragic accident. Sixty-year-old Eddie Greer lives on a four-hundred-acre farm with his wife, Jules, in a small town named Holland Crossing. Eddie inherited the farm from his late parents, but he has no love or attachment to the farm. Eddie was forced to give up his dreams, take over the farm and look after his mother, following his father’s death. Everything on the farm reminds him of his childhood and his abusive, alcoholic father. When Jules leaves him after forty-two years of marriage, and six weeks later his only grandson, twenty-two-year-old Cade, is tragically killed in a lightning bolt storm, Eddie is forced to face the ghosts of his past. Eddie’s family and the community blame him for Cade’s death, for working him too hard and not protecting him during the storm. Eddie reflects on his life, from his early childhood growing up on the farm, through to young adulthood, his marriage to Jules and the birth of his daughter, Melia. As a child, Eddie lived in almost constant fear of his father, George. George was a tyrant and ruled the household with an iron rod. He was physically and emotionally abusive towards Eddie and Eddie’s mother, Elisabeth. From an early age, Eddie shouldered the responsibility of protecting his mother and keeping her safe. Eddie vowed he would never be like his father, but as he relives past events, his relationships with his wife, daughter and grandson, and his dependency on alcohol, he soon realises he has become a clone of his father. Can Eddie heal the wounds of the past and turn his life around before it is too late? The Storms of Eddie Greer is an intriguing and thought-provoking family / psychological drama by author Mary Perrine. The book follows the journey of one man who is forced to face his past, following the tragic death of his grandson and the breakdown of his marriage. The author offers a compelling narrative of the protagonist’s internal conflict as he realises he has become a mirror of his abusive, alcoholic father. The book examines the human condition and questions whether people are destined to follow in their parents’ footsteps, or if they can break free from the cycle of violence and abuse. This is a heart breaking novel, which deals with disturbing issues of childhood trauma, neglect, and abuse. The protagonist is both a victim and a perpetrator of abuse, and readers will emphasize with him and despise him in equal measure. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An intriguing and thought-provoking family / psychological drama that examines the human condition and the intergenerational transmission of violence and abuse. Purchase here

< Back Rebecca Sharpless Shackled: 92 Refugees Imprisoned on ICE Air Shackled: 92 Refugees Imprisoned on ICE Air by Rebecca Sharpless is the harrowing true story of Flight N225AX, an ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) aircraft that attempted to deport 92 people from the United States to Somalia in 2017. Told through the eyes of Sa’id Abdi Janale and Abdulahi Hassan Mohumed, two of the 92 passengers on board the flight. Sa’id Abdi Janale arrived in the United States with his mother and siblings at the age of 11. The family entered the country with legal immigration status, after they endured horrific violence in war-torn Somalia. Sa’id was facing deportation due to his involvement in criminal activity. Abdulahi arrived at the United States/Mexican border seeking asylum and protection as a refugee as a young man. After his parents were killed in Somalia, Abdulahi escaped to South Africa before embarking on an arduous journey through South and Central America. After two years in detention his right to stay was declined. The 92 men and women on Flight N225AX were shackled in chains on the aircraft for two days. The aircraft was grounded in Senegal and the passengers were immobilized in their seats. Unable to complete the journey, the plane was forced to return back to the United States. The passengers were treated like slaves, abused by staff and unable to use the bathroom facilities. Based on extensive research and first-hand testimonies, the book describes the inhumane treatment the passengers experienced on board the flight, and their subsequent fight to stay in the United States. Readers are taken inside the legal battles that followed, as lawyers and advocacy groups sought to stop the deportations permanently. Rebecca Sharpless meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to, and during the flight, and exposes the brutal reality of ICE’s deportation practices. She describes the passengers experiences in detail, and gives a much needed voice to those who survived the ordeal. It is a timely and sobering reminder of the inhumanity of the immigration system, and a call to action to prevent such tragedies in the future. An essential read for anyone interested in human rights, social justice and immigration policy. It is a story that had to be told, and a story that needs to be heard. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A deeply moving and harrowing true story of 92 people, brutally confined and abused on a U.S deportation flight. https://www.amazon.com/Shackled-Refugees-Imprisoned-ICE-Air/dp/0520398653 Purchase here

< Back J.C. Wade Summer's Reaping A powerful witch named Ursa is heartbroken following the death of her young daughter, Elenwin, who was bitten by a viper while exploring her mothers’ witching pantry. Ursa journeys through the Wild Wood with Elenwin’s decaying body, in search of the evasive ingredients needed to cast a spell to bring her back to life. But, when her spells fail, Ursa must make a living sacrifice to fully restore her daughter. When two local village children are found dead and mutilated in the forest, a young woman named Saoirse suspects the beast that roams the boundary between the human and fae worlds is responsible. When Saoirse’s little brother Dafydd disappears in the middle of the night, she journeys into the forbidden forest to find him. Accompanied by her friend and secret love, Edred, they are guided on their journey by enchanted bees. They find Dafydd alive deep inside a cave, but he is changed beyond recognition. They interrupt Ursa’s evil spell but become trapped inside the cave by the wicked beast. Saoirse and Edred must escape the cave and stop Ursa before Dafydd becomes her next victim. They must leave the human world and enter Faerie to find the summer goddess Áine and restore Dafydd’s soul. But, when Edred is snatched by dark elves, Saoirse is forced to make a sacrifice of her own. Summer's Reaping by author J.C. Wade is a chilling fantasy fiction novel inspired by Welsh mythology. The story follows Saoirse, a determined young woman, who attempts to rescue her little brother after he is snatched by an evil witch. Accompanied by her friend and secret love, their perilous journey through a mystical forest tests their courage, resourcefulness, and friendship. J.C. Wade has created a rich fantasy world, filled with faeries, elves, dragons, monsters, and mythical creatures. This is a dark and chilling tale, intertwined with a beautiful and tender love story. A must-read for fans of fantasy, fairy tales, folklore, and Celtic mythology. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A rich and beautifully crafted fantasy fiction tale, with a perfect blend of dark magic, mysticism, and a touch of romance. Purchase here

< Back Charly Froh Lotti and the Impossible Dream Lotti overcomes many obstacles to follow her dream, by author Charly Froh Eleven-year-old Lotti starts a new school at Little Hill Middle School, New York. Lottie tries desperately hard to try and hide her knee injury and the scar on her leg, from a medical accident when she was a baby. Teased throughout kindergarten, Lotti vowed never to reveal her scar again. But the school rules state she has to wear the school PE uniform and Lotti is required to wear a pair of shorts. Her classmates notice the scar on her leg and tease her relentlessly. When an Olympic rhythmic gymnast visits the school and showcases her skills, Lotti is fascinated by the sport. She contacts the gymnasium and joins up straight away. Lotti worries about wearing a leotard and revealing her scar to the other gymnasts, but also worries whether she can achieve the skills and flexibility required, due to her knee injury. Lotti does not want special treatment, and through hard work and determination, makes the team who will compete in the upcoming Junior Regional Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships . Lotti finds friendship and a sense of belonging at the gym, and is determined to succeed in the sport. At the same time, she settles into school, develops new friendships, experiences her first slumber party, and goes on a date to the movies with a boy. But as the Junior Regional Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship approaches, Lotti is anxious about wearing the championship leotard, and revealing her scar to her teammates. When her teammates notice the scar, some of them question her place on the team, and think she has taken the place of a more capable gymnast. Lotti’s role in the championship is put in jeopardy. Will Lotti’s team mates accept her place in the team? Will she compete in the Regional Championships? And can she put her traumatic kindergarten experience behind her to move forward in life and shine in the sport she loves so much? Lotti and the Impossible Dream by author Charly Froh is a sweet, heart-warming and inspiring story about a young girl who is determined to follow her dream. Against all odds, and with the support of a loving family, supportive coach and good friends, Lotti overcomes many challenges and becomes a successful rhythmic gymnast. Based on a true story, this book will inspire others to follow their own dreams. Young readers will relate to Lotti’s experiences, her fears and anxieties, lack of confidence, school bullies, and struggle to fit in. It will help to develop confidence, self-esteem and resilience in younger readers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet, heart-warming and humorous novel, which will inspire young readers to follow their dreams. Purchase here

< Back Pat Wahler The Rose of Washington Square: A Novel of Rose O'Neill, Creator of the Kewpie Doll A biographical historical fiction novel about Rose O’Neill, the creator of the Kewpie doll June 1893, nineteen-year-old Rose O’Neill travels from the Midwest to New York, determined to sell her illustrations. It’s a tough industry, and Rose is accompanied by a couple of nuns, who chaperone her as she tries to sell her wares in a profession dominated by males. Rose dreams of becoming a successful illustrator and hopes to make a better life for herself and her family back home. Following numerous rejections, Rose walks the streets of New York, knocking on the door of every publishing office she can find. When her work is finally accepted by a magazine publisher, Mr Martin, she begins to earn good money. Her illustrations prove very popular, and Rose creates Kewpie, a cute cherub character. The Kewpie character becomes popular with women and children, and Rose is approached to produce a Kewpie doll. Kewpie dolls are a huge success, and Rose earns a significant amount of money. Rose uses her income to support her family, friends and other struggling artists. But her personal life is less successful, as she marries and divorces twice, during a time when divorce is uncommon. Rose becomes heavily involved in the women’s suffragette movement, and immerses herself into her art, whilst supporting other artists. The Rose of Washington Square by Pat Wahler is a biographical historical fiction novel about the fascinating life of Rose O’Neill, illustrator and creator of the Kewpie doll. During a time when women had few legal and political rights, and limited employment opportunities, Rose became the highest earning female illustrator of her time. Yet, despite her extraordinary success, Rose faced a number of obstacles in her career and in her personal life. She never gave up hope, and she continued to follow her dream, whilst using her talent and success to help and support others less fortunate. The book provides an extraordinary insight into her fascinating life and phenomenal career. This is a well-researched and beautifully written biographical historical fiction novel, which captures the extraordinary life and legacy of Rose O’Neill. It follows her journey from artist, illustrator, writer and inventor, to philanthropist and suffragette. The book will appeal to readers of historical fiction biographies and women’s fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fascinating rags to riches biographical historical fiction novel about Rose O’Neill, artist, illustrator, writer, inventor, philanthropist and suffragette. Purchase here

< Back Gail Scoates Paws, Purpose and Possibilities: How therapy dogs and faith healed my heart Author Gail Scoates shares her story of how therapy dogs gave her a sense of purpose following the death of her beloved younger sister. Dogs had always played a significant part in Gail’s life. Growing up, there were many dogs in the family, and Gail recalls happy memories and adventures with her sister, Karen, and their dogs. She describes how dogs provided a sense of comfort and security throughout her whole life. When Karen was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer at the age of thirty-eight, Gail witnessed the special love and bond between Karen and her two dogs, Preston and Tanner. When Karen sadly passed away, Gail’s dog, Tucker, provided comfort and helped her through the grieving process. Following Karen’s passing, Gail became involved with the PAWS ministry, a therapy dog program. Gail trained up Tucker as a therapy dog, and together they visited a residential home for children with emotional and behavioural challenges, providing them with an opportunity to play and have fun, while learning how to interact with a dog safely. When Tucker passed away, Gail adopted a rescue dog, Max, and also trained him up as a therapy dog. Through many dog therapy visits, and observing the positive impact on children, Gail was able to find a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Later, Gail set up her own dog therapy program, named Karing Partners in memory of her sister. She was successful in setting up a program in a hospital and recruited other volunteer handlers and their dogs. With Max, and a subsequent dog, Sadie, the program made a significant difference to the lives of many patients and their families, hospital visitors, and health care staff. Paws, Purpose and Possibilities: How therapy dogs and faith healed my heart is a beautiful memoir by author Gail Scoates. Gail shares her story of how dogs supported her through many difficult periods of her life, including the death of her younger sister, and how therapy dogs have changed the lives of many others. This is a powerful story that not only shows the special bond between humans and dogs, but how dogs can help support, heal and rehabilitate people. A ‘ Paws for Reflection’ section at the end of each chapter, provides the reader with an opportunity for personal reflection. Gail’s commitment and dedication to dog therapy work is remarkable and her story is inspiring. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful and inspiring memoir, by an inspirational woman. Purchase here

< Back Jennifer Ivy Walker The Lady of the Mirrored Lake A sensational second instalment in the Sea Raven trilogy, by Jennifer Ivy Walker The Lady of the Mirrored Lake is the second book in the Sea Raven series, and picks up where the first book, The Wild Rose and the Sea Raven, ended. Issylte leaves Avalon and her beloved Elf, Ronan, and travels to Bretagne with the Blue Knight of Cornwall, Tristan, and Lancelot. Issylte is given the name Lady Opale to hide her identity from her evil stepmother, Morag, and trains with Tristan to become a Warrior Priestess of the Tribe of Dana. Both Issylte and Tristan are determined to regain their thrones and prepare for battle with Morag, the Black Widow Queen, and the dark wizard, Voldurk. As Issylte grieves the loss of Ronan, she grows closer to Tristan and their relationship blossoms. When she kills the evil dwarf, Malvon, she becomes the Priestess of the Mirrored Lake and enters into an eternal bond with Tristan. Issylte is gifted new powers and sworn to protect the sacred waters of the lake . She embarks on a treacherous journey to find an enchanted orb that is imbued with special powers, and hidden in the depths of the mirrored lake. In Issylte’s absence, Princess Blanchine of Armorique tries to seduce Tristan and is tricked by Voldurk into casting a powerful enchantment on him to bind his love. Once the spell is cast, Princess Blanchine is murdered, and Tristan is wrongfully arrested and imprisoned in the castle of Tintagel . With her new powers, Issylte frees Tristan and blocks Voldurk’s evil enchantment. Issylte and Tristan rekindle their mating bond and are married in the sacred forest. But their lives and kingdoms are put in danger, as Voldurk and The Black Widow Queen try to capture and kill them. Issylte is forced to seek the assistance of her former lover, Elf Ronan, and convince him to forge a sword for Tristan that can slay the wizard and stop the evil queen. The Lady of the Mirrored Lake is a medieval fantasy fiction novel by author Jennifer Ivy Walker and the second instalment in the Sea Raven trilogy. The novel is a thrilling, action-packed and captivating adaptation of the A rthurian myth, with a passionate and steamy twist. With magnificent world building, wonderful characterisation and rich storytelling, this is a dark fantasy fiction novel not to be missed. I recommend readers start with the first book in the series, to get the full benefit of this unique and enchanting novel. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A steamy adaptation of the A rthurian myth, with magnificent world building, wonderful characterisation and rich storytelling. Purchase here

< Back Joanne Griffin and Declan Foster Humology: How to put humans back at the heart of technology Griffin and Foster explore how to put humans into the heart of technology. Humology: How to Put Humans Back at the Heart of Technology, by authors Joanne Griffin and Declan Foster, explores the impact of technology on humans and society. The authors were motivated to write the book to urge others to design technology with humans in mind, not just for the sake of progress. The book is divided into six parts: The Shifting Landscape, Managing Change, Designing with Humans in Mind, Seeing Humans Through Five ‘I’s, Ethical Design and The Humology Approach. It considers the evolution of technology from the dawn of the digital age to the present day, the impact of technology on market dynamics and human behaviours. It examines the complexity of change and the various approaches taken to increase success, including change and project management. The authors seek to understand human psychology through a Five ‘I’s framework (Impatient, Impressionable, Inattentive, Inert, and Irrational) and they describe their human-first approach to solving challenges with technology, ‘The Humology Approach.’ Humology: How to Put Humans Back at the Heart of Technology is an informative and thought-provoking book about the impact of technology on our lives. Well written and thoroughly researched, the book examines the rapid advancement in technology and the challenges and opportunities this presents. The book is easy to read, engaging and very accessible. It is an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between humans and technology. This book provides practical tools and solutions for those designing and building technological solutions. The book will appeal to readers involved in designing and implementing technology, anyone using technology, and anyone interested in the role technology plays in our lives. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An informative and thought-provoking book about the impact of technology in our lives. Purchase here

< Back Bryan Asher The Assassin of Malcoze Debut author Bryan Asher builds a rich fantasy world in the Intercontinents The book takes place in the Intercontinent of Malcoze, a fantasy realm, comprising a floating world of continents. The Malcozeans are an advanced species, with unique powers and special abilities to augment, enhance and manipulate everyday things. Three Malcozeans, Auros, Analia and Taurong are each on an independent journey of self-discovery, finding their own way in life. Auros an eccentric, ageing mercenary is working on a contract to find a mysterious heir of the King Tarburous. Analia, Princess of Malcoze, the Kings daughter and a student with a unique talent for enchantment. Taurong, a young man studying battle arts to become a member of the Rincoyle elite military, with special aura powers. As the characters’ progress on their own journeys, they are unwittingly united by a dangerous assassin, Scoria Kith from a neighbouring continent, the Intercontinent of Kratas. Kith’s mission is to destabilise Malcoze and assassinate King Tarburous, and he will not stop until he achieves his goal. The Assassin of Malcoze is a gripping, fantasy fiction novel, set in the fantasy realm of the Intercontinents. Asher has built a rich, fantasy world with strong, well-developed characters that will appeal to fans of this genre. The second half of the book was amazing, and I couldn’t put it down. I look forward to reading the next instalment in this series. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A beautifully crafted fantasy fiction novel, with an intriguing plot, brilliant character development, and excellent artwork. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here