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< Back Leah Ingledew Meowl! Author and illustrator Leah Ingledew presents a version of Rome and Juliet for younger readers. Max is a dog and Mia is a cat, and they are very good friends. They like each other a lot. But in the city of Up, dogs and cats are not allowed to be friends. They are not allowed to meet, or talk or play. Dogs and cats are just too different to get on, or so they say in the city of Up. So Max and Mia decide to meet in secret, and every day at sunrise and sunset they play and have lots of fun. Until one day, they are caught, and a big wall is built to keep them apart. But Max and Mia are not happy to be separated and they run far away from their families and the city of Up. How will the two young friends cope away from the parents? And who will protect them now, when they are all alone and in the wilderness? This is a sweet and charming picture book, superbly written and illustrated by Ingeldew. It is a story about forbidden love and friendship, and the destructiveness of forced separation. The book is reminiscent of the story of Romeo and Juliet, but for younger children (and with a happier ending!). The more society pushes Max and Mia apart, the more they are driven to stay together. This is a deep and complex story, but told through dog and cat characters it will easily resonate with younger children. It will help children to learn that despite our physical differences, we are all the same, with the same desires to be happy, have fun, and seek friendships and love. It is a timely reminder for us all. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A story about forbidden love and friendship between two feline and canine friends. Superbly written and illustrated by Ingeldew. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Paula Welch A River of Fortune An ordinary woman, in an ordinary town, finds her extraordinary self, from debut author Paula Welch Maggie Malloy, an ordinary and predictable young woman, is made redundant from her job along with her friends. Months later, while taking a hike by the river, she stumbles across a discarded security case and takes it home. She opens the case and finds 1.2 million pounds inside. Maggie decides to fulfil a promise to her late, dear friend, to be adventurous and spontaneous, and decides to keep the money. She seeks the help of her closest friends to set up a charitable fund, and uses the cash to bring much needed investment to their small town in Devon. Meanwhile, the criminals who stole (and lost) the case, and greedy, corrupt politicians, are desperately searching for the security case. Unbeknown to Maggie, a small electronic pocketbook is hidden inside a black box within the case, and is far more valuable than the money. The towns rapid regeneration eventually brings unwelcome attention to the charity’s finances. Maggie and her friends’ lives are put in danger as the criminals try to retrieve the pocketbook. However, the British intelligence Service GCHQ are also searching for the pocketbook and must catch the culprits before the secrets of the British government are exposed. A River of Fortune by Paula Welch is an enthralling, action packed novel, where a series of accidental events turn one woman’s life from ordinary to extraordinary. Set in a small provincial town in England, Maggie's determination brings her back to life, but in doing so, she is unwittingly exposed to danger. Maggie’s character is well developed, and her confidence grows throughout the book, as she fulfils her friends dying wish to be extraordinary. Overall, this is an action-packed crime fiction book, with a charming protagonist, a smattering of romance and a feel-good factor.  Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An enthralling, action packed novel, where a series of accidental events turns one woman’s life from ordinary to extraordinary . A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Deborah S. Greenhut The Hoarder's Wife Inside the secret world of the hoarder, by debut author Deborah Greenhut Sixty-five-year-old Grace Berg receives a telephone call and is told that her ex-husband, and the father of her two children, Professor Ludwig Berg, has tragically taken his own life. As Grace grieves for the man she once loved, she reads her old journal and reflects on the life she shared with him. The signs were there from the start of their relationship. The clutter. The mess. The lack of empathy. The signs of disorder. Grace recalls how Ludwig took control of their finances and slowly accumulated lots of possessions, throwing their family home into disarray. The couple seek specialist help and Ludwig is diagnosed with adult ADHD, OCD, ODD, perfectionism, procrastination, and depression. But as Ludwig’s hoarding and anger escalates, Grace finally reaches breaking point and makes a heart-breaking decision to reclaim her life, after thirty-five years of marriage. The Hoarder’s Wife by Deborah Greenhut is an engaging and poignant novel, revealing the secret world of the hoarder from the perspective of a hoarder’s wife. Written as a series of journal entries, this is an intimate and personal story about one woman’s experience of living with someone with a severe mental illness, and the devasting impact of hoarding disorder on families and relationships. Greenhut writes about the disorder with sensitivity and compassion, describing Grace’s turmoil as she makes the most difficult decision of her life. This is a deeply moving and emotional story, and it will appeal to readers of women’s fiction and literary fiction. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An engaging and poignant novel, revealing the secret world of the hoarder from the perspective of a hoarder’s wife. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Dr. Randal L. Quackenbush Choir Confidential: Insider Tips & Techniques for the Church Choir Director Book blurb... Are you leading a church choir - or preparing to? This is your essential, practical guide to thriving in this vital role. Written by Dr. Randal L. Quackenbush, a renowned choral arranger and seasoned church choir director, this insightful book blends real-world experience with actionable advice. You'll explore the spiritual and musical dimensions of leadership, discover how to build a vibrant choir culture, sharpen your rehearsal strategies, and master the art of choral administration. With ten global case studies from choirs in the U.S., England, Denmark, Ghana, India, and Italy, you'll gain a fresh perspective on what makes choirs flourish across cultures. Each story is packed with creative solutions and inspiration whether you're working with a dwindling group or a thriving ensemble. From aesthetic guidance to practical tools, Choir Confidential equips directors of all backgrounds ”full-time, part-time, or volunteer” with the confidence and clarity to lead with purpose and passion. Purchase here

< Back Jeremy Bazley My China - Living Inside the Dragon A fascinating insight into China and Chinese culture, by author Jeremy Bazley. My China - Living inside the Dragon is a memoir by author Jeremy Bazley about his experiences and observations of living, working and travelling in China between 2002-2017. Bazley went to work in China in 2002, on behalf of a UK based entrepreneur, managing a joint venture with a state-controlled company making high quality cigarette paper for the huge Chinese market. During this fifteen-year period, Bazley visited twenty-four out of thirty-three regions, covering 73 per cent by region in all geographic areas of China. The book provides a unique western perspective on living in China, away from the more ‘isolated chattering classes, intelligencia and professional communities of the larger cities’ . Bazley built a home and life for himself in a country where he initially did not speak the language. He benefited from many privileges that came with his job, but he also made significant personal sacrifices, that impacted his marriage and children. Bazley’s work brought him in contact with all aspects of Chinese life and culture, from Beijing to the modern mega cities and the rural countryside. Bazley describes his early days in the city of Jiaxing, Zhejiang province in eastern China; his experience of China and ways of life, including Chinese drinking culture, food, leisure pursuits, business dealings, politics and education; his personal life, and his travels across the country. Bazley provides a non-judgmental commentary on China’s politics, economic growth and culture during a period of historic growth and evolution. During his time in China, Bazley was presented with various awards of recognition through the all-important ‘Friendship’, from the Jiaxing city and Zhejiang provincial governments in China. This is an enlightening, engaging and entertaining book about an English man’s life, work and travels across China. I particularly enjoyed Bazley’s extracts from detailed personal diary notes , which were heartfelt, funny and fascinating. The book will appeal to readers who are interested in China, and Chinese culture and politics, those who are considering working and living in China, and anyone interested in travel and adventure. China is an amazing country and is now firmly on my bucket list! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An enlightening, engaging and entertaining book about an English man’s life, work and travels across China. Purchase here

< Back Teddy Biron The Lighthouse Keeper Saves the Bay Author and illustrator Teddy Biron shows the devastating impact humans have on the ocean and wildlife. An old lighthouse keeper wakes up early every day, to say hello to all the creatures that live in the bay. Nothing much happens in the quiet bay, he hangs out his laundry, and watches the boats gently drift in the dock. But, in the midst of darkness, as the lighthouse switches on its lights to protect the ships, there is an unwelcome visitor to the bay. He tips a vat of oil and trash into the ocean, and slips away again under the cover of darkness. When the lighthouse keeper wakes the next day, he notices the mess and the devastation caused to the bay and the sea life. He starts to clean up the mess straightaway, and is soon followed by others who join in the clean-up mission. Slowly, the creatures return, and the bay is brought back to life. Sadly, the old man knows it won’t be the last time he has to clean up someone else’s discarded trash. The Lighthouse Keeper Saves the Bay, by author and illustrator Teddy Biron, is a beautiful story, with an important message about the devastating impact humans have on the ocean and wildlife. It will encourage young children and adults to take responsibility for their own actions, and clean up after themselves. But it will also encourage positive action to help out when others fail to play their part in cleaning up their own mess. The illustrations are simply stunning and really bring the story to life. They beautifully capture the serenity of the bay, the magnificent wildlife, the horror of the face-less hooded man, and the devastation caused after the trash is dumped. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This is a beautiful story, with an important environmental message and stunning illustrations. Purchase here

< Back Deborah Erdmann and Kate Jungwirth Haunted Hemlock Book blurb... Dominic and his friends are invited back to Point Beach for the holidays to await the ghostly apparition of the Christmas Tree Ship. It soon becomes clear there are more mysteries that need solving, when the owner of a nearby cabin sees dead people and the hauntings have spread to the small town of Two Rivers. When a ghost hunter is called to the scene, the young detectives become entangled in a spirited effort to solve this spooky case. Will they be able to scare the ghosts away in time for a Christmas miracle? Purchase here

< Back Melitta Santos Fini: The beauty of a broken shell A little turtle finds her inner beauty, by author Melitta Santos One day, Fini the turtle is out walking when she trips over and breaks her shell. Fini thinks she is ugly, and no one will want to play with her because of her broken shell. Her friend, Jack the Jaguar, comforts Fini and offers to help her find someone to fix her shell. They meet Boris the Tapir who tries to fix Fini’s shell with an aquatic plant, but it is too big for the little turtle. Next, they meet Tim the Armadillo, who suggests a coconut shell, but it is too little for Fini’s shell. They meet Bea the Bee, but she can’t help and takes the to see Ana the spider. Ana has a solution, but it will take five long days to fix Fini’s shell. Fini and her new friends stay with Ana while she starts to work, and they have lots of fun, games, food and laughter. Ana makes Fini a magic nanduti, a brightly coloured, pretty lace cover for her shell. Fini is delighted with the nanduti, and Ana explains that it doesn’t fully cover her scars and reflects the inner beauty of the wearer. Fini not only has a beautiful nanduti, but also has four new friends. Fini: The Beauty of a Broken Shell by author Melitta Santos is a sweet and charming, illustrated picture book about a little pond turtle who goes in search of a new shell, when her shell is cracked after a fall. As Fini embarks on her journey, she meets lots of new friends, and soon discovers the importance of friendships, and that real beauty comes from within. The book teaches younger children about the wildlife and cultural heritage of Paraguay. With further information about each character and their values, and information about the nanduti, this book is a wonderful resource for parents, carers and teachers. The book will encourage young children to find their inner beauty and will help to develop confidence and self-esteem in young children. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and charming picture book with important life lessons that will help to develop confidence and self-esteem in young children. 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 Chris Feistl and Dave Mitchell After Escobar: Taking Down the Notorious Cali Godfathers and the Biggest Drug Cartel in History Book blurb. .. By the early 1990s, Colombia's Cali cartel had become what the former head of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Thomas Constantine referred to as the 'biggest and most powerful crime syndicate in history.' Responsible for nearly 85 percent of the cocaine that reached US soil and 90 percent worldwide, they were untouchable, earning billions of dollars all while maintaining their reputation as 'The Godfathers of Cali.' They brazenly corrupted thousands of Colombian authorities and government officials, even 'buying' the outcome of the 1994 presidential election. That same year, the DEA sent young operatives Chris Feistl and Dave Mitchell to Colombia with one formidable task: help Colombian authorities take down the ruthless leaders of the brutal Cali cartel. Not an easy job for two men who looked more like California surfers than DEA agents. Standing well over six feet tall and only six years removed from the DEA Academy, they were the epitome of conspicuous in a city where most residents rarely, if ever, saw an American in person. Many of their colleagues feared for their safety, openly questioning their ability to blend in. Their almost three-year journey would lead them from the bureaucratic halls of the US Embassy to the violent streets of Cali and deep into its rural sugar cane fields, on high alert day and night as they dodged deadly cartel assassins and battled the unprecedented corruption within Colombia's security forces. Throughout their quest they formed loyal, long-term alliances, experienced shocking and devastating betrayals, participated in numerous dramatic arrests, and suffered constant setbacks. Over time, their relentless efforts began to slowly degrade the godfathers' defenses and weaken their infrastructure. After Escobar: Taking Down the Notorious Cali Godfathers and the Biggest Drug Cartel in History offers a unique, on-the-ground perspective that will be praised by true crime enthusiasts, history buffs, and Narcos fans alike. Part of Chris and Dave' s story was told in Season 3 of the acclaimed Netflix series Narcos: Rise of a New Empire. Now, they tell it for themselves. Purchase here

< Back Hans Ness Rolo the Pet Earthling Will a pet earthling discover the truth about his species? Zira, a Blorxling from the planet Blorx, wants a pet earthling. She begs her mom for many years, until one day she receives her very own human pet. She names the little earthling Rolo, and he soon settles into his new home. Luckily, Rolo is potty trained, but he does like to sneak into Zira’s bed at nighttime. As Rolo grows taller, hairier, and smellier, he becomes unsettled and very bored. While out walking one day with Zira, they meet a group of animal rights activists in the park. The activists are protesting about the rights of earthlings, chanting ‘Earthlings have rights too.’ Rolo becomes curious and wonders, Where do earthlings come from? And how did they live before they were pets? As he hangs out with his earthling friends in the park, he is spotted by the Animal Control Force and captured for not wearing his harness. Scared and confused, Rolo manages to escape from the bots. He is chased into a wormhole and finds himself in the big city, far away from his family and beloved Zira. Can Rolo find his way home before the Animal Control Force catch him? And will he ever discover the truth about the origins of his species? Rolo the Pet Earthling is a chapter book for middle grade readers by author Hans Ness. The book follows the adventures of a young alien from the planet Blorx and her earthling pet, Rolo. Owner and pet are involved in a fast paced and frantic cat and mouse chase, as they try to find one another before the human-catchers do. This is a fun book, set in a captivating alien world where human/animal roles are reversed. Children will enjoy the story and laugh out loud as the pet earthlings are treated in the same way we treat our pet dogs. This is a brilliant concept, with a compelling alien world and a captivating cast of weird and wonderful characters. The book will delight young readers who enjoy fantasy, science fiction, and funny stories. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A creative, imaginative, and funny book for middle grade readers, about a young alien and her beloved human pet. Purchase here

< Back Genevieve Jenner Chocolate Cake for Imaginary Lives A collection of food inspired short stories, by debut author Genevieve Jenner. Chocolate Cake for Imaginary Lives is a delectable collection of thirty-eight short stories, by debut author Genevieve Jenner. This is a diverse collection of fictional stories, with a wide range of characters and settings, but all centered around food and how people interact with food in their everyday lives. The book takes the reader on a culinary journey across different countries and cultures, including stories from England, the deep South, Paris, Jerusalem, and many more. It explores the role that food plays in all of our lives, and the relationships between people and the foods that they share. The opening story, Dead Dove , explores the weird and wonderful food that people leave in communal fridges in the workplace, and follows two unknown colleagues as they converse anonymously by sharing notes and recipes in the work fridge . I found it hard to find a favourite in this remarkable collection, but as an avid tea drinker I enjoyed An Incomplete Guide to Drinkers of Some Black Teas . I am ashamed to admit it, but I have been known to microwave a cup of Lipton Tea in desperation! Some stories are quite lengthy, others just a few pages long. Jenner discusses a wide range of foods, from Southern flips, borscht, macaroni cheese, chocolate brownies, and even pigeon. Each story serves up generous portions of emotions and memories inspired by our love of food. This is a unique, imaginative, and funny collection that will appeal to readers who enjoy short stories, foodies, and those who enjoy food inspired stories. With wonderful and colourful characters, intriguing story lines, and mouth-watering recipes, the book invites readers to reflect on their own relationship with food. A wonderful short story collection and a celebration of food and the impact it has on our everyday lives. I encourage readers to read, eat, repeat! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delicious, mouth-watering collection of short stories, inspired by our relationship with food. Purchase here