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< Back Kat Farrow Bobbin and the Magic Thief Can a young faerie rescue her friend from an evil thief? Miss Bobbin, a head-strong young Spindle Faerie, is an outsider in the realm of the Eastern Faeries. But she needs all the help she can get from her fae-folk when her best friend, Heddy, is stolen. One day, whilst out exploring the woods, Bobbin and Heddy approach the millers cottage. The friends know they are forbidden to get close to humans, but Heddy is attracted to something in the cottage. Entranced by the millers’ daughter singing, Heddy enters the cottage and dances on the spinning wheel. Bobbin tries to coax her out of the cottage, but Heddy is snatched suddenly by a flying sack. Bobbin chases the sack and finds the thief; a strange, little man. She chases the thief but soon loses sight of him. Unable to find her friend, Bobbin seeks the help of the fair Queen Maeb. She pleads with the Queen to help her, but the Queen makes it clear that Bobbin must rescue Heddy herself, because she is the one responsible for her disappearance. As Bobbin sets out on her mission to locate the thief and rescue her friend, she joins allies with a host of woodland creatures. But unbeknownst to Bobbin, the thief has another, more sinister motive for stealing Heddy. When Bobbin learns of the thief’s plot, she is forced to break the faerie law in order to save her best friend. Will Bobbin save her friend? Or will the thief achieve his goal and destroy the Spindle Faeries? Bobbin and the Magic Thief: A Spindle Faerie Tale is the first book in the fantasy fiction series, by author Kat Farrow. The story is a retelling of the classic Rumpelstiltskin fairytale, with a magical infusion of faeries. In this imaginative adaptation, the author transports the reader to an enchanting faerie realm, full of charming characters, wonder, and adventure . The plot, while retaining some of the original Rumpelstiltskin story, takes on many twists and turns. Bobbin is a delightful character, and her journey to rescue her friend is also a personal journey of self-discovery. This is a wonderful novel for young readers, combining elements of magic, mystery, and suspense. It will appeal to readers who enjoy traditional fairy tales as well as contemporary fantasy fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A traditional fairy tale reimagined and infused with enchanting faerie magic. Purchase here

< Back George R. Hopkins When Secrets Come to Light: A novel of love and tangled friendships A psychological thriller, with a touch of the supernatural, by author George R. Hopkins. A retired homicide detective, Tom Cavanaugh, meets up with a group of old school friends at a funeral, over fifty years since they last met. Members of the ‘Terrifying Tullingers’ (Tom, Jackie, Lee, Harry, Brian, Jason) agree to meet again to play a game of cards. On the second meeting, at Harry’s house, Jason performs a ‘miracle’ on Harry’s wife, by curing her headaches through the power of prayer, but he is ridiculed by the others. Later, Jason reveals he knows the secrets of the Terrifying Tullingers, and then leaves the party early. Shortly after, there is a freak storm, and Tom and the others are forced to stay the night due to a fallen tree. During the night, Tom overhears a strange conversation between Jackie, Brian, and Harry, and thinks it might relate to Jason’s earlier revelation. Following the meeting, Jason mentions he received a series of anonymous, threatening messages. Tom sets out on a mission to find the culprits of the message and uncover the secrets of the Terrifying Tullingers. But things take a turn for the worst when Jason is brutally murdered, and Tom finds himself at the centre of a murder investigation implicating his childhood friends. But as Tom uncovers each clue, he is also forced to confront his own painful secrets. When Secrets Come to Light: A novel of love and tangled friendships is a psychological thriller, with a touch of the supernatural, by author George R. Hopkins. This is a captivating novel, which contains all the key ingredients for a gripping thriller: curious and complex characters, mystery and suspense, friendships, and betrayal. The plot is cleverly constructed, and unfolds beautifully over the course of the book, as the characters back stories and secrets are slowly revealed. This is a unique and fascinating novel, with a touch of humor. It will appeal to readers of mysteries and psychological thrillers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A captivating novel, with all the key ingredients for a gripping thriller: curious and complex characters, mystery and suspense, friendships, and betrayal. Purchase here

< Back Karen B. Shea A Bug-Lightful Discovery Emelia discovers the wonderous world of bugs. Emelia is visiting Ms. Z when she finds an alien-looking critter on her step. She is about to stomp on the bug, when Ms. Z tells her not to. Ms. Z explains that all bugs have a purpose, and they deserve to live as much as everyone else. Emelia’s older sisters, Ellery and Jacqueline, agree with Ms. Z and explain that bugs are part of the web of life and are connected to everything else. That night, Emelia’s Grandma Jane gives Emelia a special book all about bugs, and Emelia learns how bugs help the earth and other critters. The next day, Emelia goes out to the meadow to explore these fascinating creatures. She learns how bees help pollinate plants, how hummingbirds use strands of a spiders web to build their nests, and how other birds catch beetles to feed their babies. She also learns that just because you can stomp on a bug, doesn’t mean that you should! A Bug-Lightful Discovery by author Karen B. Shea is a delightful and educational story about Emelia, a curious little girl, who discovers the wonderous world of bugs. With a little help from Ms. Z, her older sisters, and her Grandma Jane, Emelia learns the importance of bugs for life on earth. Many children dislike bugs and this book will help them understand the value and beauty of these little critters. Shea does a fabulous job of interweaving awareness of bugs and ecosystems, into an entertaining story for young readers. Through Emelia’s journey, children will learn about the web of life and the importance of respecting even the smallest of creatures. The charming illustrations by Luella Jane Wright bring Emelia’s character to life and complement the story perfectly. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A delightful and educational picture book that introduces young readers to bugs and ecosystems. Truly bug-lightful! Purchase here

< Back Jennifer Welborn Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals Dr. Rosie finds alternative treatments for her animal friends. Rosie loves to help animals, just like her mom. She asks lots of questions as her mom treats and cares for the animals in her veterinary practice. She watches her mom treat a puppy with a cut on his ear, and then Rosie decides to go out and help real live animals. She uses her new skills to treat a rabbit with a poorly ear, a pig with a swollen tummy, a giraffe with a sore throat, an elephant with a stuffy nose, an ostrich with an injured knee, a crocodile with a painful tooth, an octopus with a bump on his head, a beluga whale with a nasty rash, a polar bear with a fever, and an owl with an allergy. Rosie uses natural remedies, including gel from the aloe plant, honey, salt water, a cold compress, and rest and water. But most importantly, she offers lots of kisses and cuddles! Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals by author Jennifer Welborn is a children’s picture book about a little girl who loves animals and wants to help care for them and make them better. This is a cute, engaging and funny picture book that will appeal to younger readers who love animals and nature. The book explores a range of animal symptoms, diagnoses, and natural treatments, informed by real-life veterinarians and scientists. The book will help children learn about different animals, their symptoms and natural remedy treatments. It will encourage children to show empathy towards animals and could inspire them to get involved in animal health and welfare, for example as a veterinary surgeon, nurse, or volunteer. I particularly like that the book focuses on natural remedies and could help to support further discussions about alternative treatments, for both humans and animals. I enjoyed the colourful illustrations by Rozillia MH and the diversity of the characters represented. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A cute, engaging and funny picture book for younger readers who love animals and nature. 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 Teri M Brown Daughters of Green Mountain Gap An Appalachian granny woman. A daughter on a crusade. A granddaughter caught between the two. Maggie McCoury, a generational healer woman, relies on family traditions, folklore, and beliefs gleaned from a local Cherokee tribe. Her daughter, Carrie Ann, believes her university training holds the answers. As they clash over the use of roots, herbs, and a dash of mountain magic versus the medicine available in the town’s apothecary, Josie Mae doesn’t know whom to follow. But what happens when neither family traditions nor science can save the ones you love most? Daughters of Green Mountain Gap weaves a compelling tale of Maggie, Carrie Ann, and Josie Mae, three generations of remarkable North Carolina women living at the turn of the twentieth century, shedding light on racism, fear of change, loss of traditions, and the intricate dynamics within a family. Author Teri M. Brown skillfully navigates the complexities of their lives, revealing that some questions are not as easy to answer as one might think. Purchase here

< Back Brandon Moore Bridget Kimble Learns Self Control Bridget Kimble is looking forward to her first day at EnMotion elementary school and cannot wait to meet lots of new friends. She travels to school by bus and meets her teacher, Ms Widget. Ms Widget explains the school rules and asks each student to introduce themselves. But, when it is Bridget’s turn to introduce herself, a boy interrupts her. Bridget is upset but Ms Widget steps in and allows the boy to introduce himself first. Bridget stays quiet and when the boy has finished talking, she calmly introduces herself. Later, Ms Widget explains why she stepped in and praises Bridget for demonstrating self-control. Rather than reacting to the boy, Bridget processed the situation and made a decision to control her emotions. Bridget Kimble Learns Self Control is an illustrated picture book by Brandon Moore about a little girl’s first day at elementary school and the big feelings that come with it. When an interaction in the classroom doesn’t go as planned, her teacher gently guides her through a lesson in self-control and kindness. Moore skilfully captures the emotional highs and lows of a first day at school, offering readers a realistic and relatable experience. The story will help children learn that it is okay to feel sad or upset when someone doesn’t follow the rules, and how to pause, breathe and respond calmly. The anime-style illustrations by Mick Edrick M. Marcellana are vibrant and expressive, perfectly capturing Bridget’s experience and emotions. The book not only helps young readers learn important life skills, it also introduces them to this striking and expressive art-form. With additional creative content at the end of the book, this is a great resource for budding comic book or anime artists. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A sweet and empowering first-day-at-school story that will help young children learn self-control and important life skills. Purchase here

< Back Carol Amorosi Death on the Line A classic murder mystery, by debut author Carol Amorosi In 1763, a young Scot named Angus MacKay was offered the opportunity of a lifetime, to work as an apprentice on a ground-breaking surveying project, to define the border between the American colonies of Maryland and Pennsylvania, using new technologies. The border had been fiercely contested for many years, and the King had ordered British surveyors, Charles Mason and Jeremiah Dixon, to resolve the issue once and for all. Angus sells everything he owns and sets sail from London to America, in search of a better life in the colonies. But during the ten-week journey, he notices some suspicious activity between a sailor and a crewman, as they secretly exchange a package. Arriving in Philadelphia, Angus notices the same sailor exchanging packages with another man, and senses something is not quite right. The surveying team leave Philadelphia and travel towards the border of Pennsylvania and Maryland, where Angus befriends Susquehannock Natives, Running Bear and Gray Wolf. But during their journey, the team hears news of brutal attacks on the Conestoga, a Native American tribe, and Angus notices the team are being followed by a one-armed man. But when Angus stumbles over a dead body, he becomes the prime murder suspect. Desperate to clear his name, Angus must do everything he can, to learn the truth and find the killer. Death on the Line is a thrilling murder mystery, and the first book in The MacKay Mysteries historical fiction series. Extensively researched, and based on real events cleverly crafted from Charles Mason's own journals, this book provides a fascinating insight into colonial America and the experiences of the Native Americans and the early settlers. With wonderful descriptions of the landscape, rich characterisation with authentic dialogue, and a unique and gripping plot, this is an excellent book and will appeal to readers of both historical fiction and murder mysteries. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thrilling murder mystery, extensively researched, and cleverly crafted from Charles Mason's own journals, this book will appeal to readers of both historical fiction and murder mysteries. Purchase here

< Back Elizabeth M Grieco Paws in Paris: The Adventures of Tenny and Bella An exciting cat adventure through the streets of Paris, by Elizabeth M Grieco Journalist Sarah has been offered a new job in Paris. Sarah accepts the position on the condition she can take her two beloved cats with her, Tenny and Bella. After a long flight from Atlanta to Paris, Sarah and her two cats arrive in Paris, but no sooner have they found their new apartment, Sarah receives an urgent call and has to travel to Berlin for an important job. Tenny and Bella are left alone and scared in a new apartment in a strange city, under the watchful eye of their new neighbour Mme Gautier. But Mme Gautier accidently leaves a window open, and the two cats go outside to explore the garden. With new sights and sounds all around them, the frightened cats escape the garden and find themselves lost in the streets of Paris. They meet a tomcat, Mephisto, and ask for his help to find their way home. Mephisto takes the cats to meet his friends Cleo, Maurice, and Seraphine, who advise the only way back is to seek assistance from Pierre le Matou, the notorious leader of the brutal Graveyard Gang. The cats are scared but agree to find Le Matou and fight their way into his secret hideout. But before their journey can begin, Tenny is catnapped by a struggling artist as a gift for his wife, and Bella is hit by a motorbike and seriously injured. How will Tenny escape from the artist who thinks she is a stray? Will Bella recover from her injuries and ever see Tenny again? And will the pair ever find Le Matou and their way back home to Sarah? Paws in Paris: The Adventures of Tenny and Bella is a sweet and charming book for young independent readers by Elizabeth M Grieco. With two adorable cats, an intriguing plot, and a wonderful Parisian setting, this book will appeal to those who like animal stories and travel adventures. The book opens with Sarah and her husband Mark as they notice a painting from a famous artist featuring their beloved cat Tenny. How on earth did their beloved cat find her way into a famous painting? This is a great opening for a story, and will leave readers thinking of all possible scenarios. What follows, is an unexpected and exciting cat adventure through the streets of Paris. Readers will be engaged and entertained, as they root for Tenny and Bella, and at the same time learn about the magnificent city of Paris. The first chapter would make a fantastic prompt for parents, carers, or teachers, to encourage children to tell their own version of the story and engage them in imaginative thinking and creative writing. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and charming story, with two adorable cats, an intriguing plot, and a wonderful Parisian setting. Purchase here

< Back Mary Myers Pocket Watch Portal Adventure Book blurb... Introducing Pocket Watch Portal Adventures - a thrilling, heart-warming tale that will captivate your imagination and inspire your heart. The Story of siblings Justice, Teddy, Ellie, baby Artie, and their fearless Uncle Jeff, an ancient pocket watch becomes their ticket to the extraordinary. From prehistoric jungles teeming with dinosaurs to futuristic cities of flying cars and holographic zoos, every twist in time is brimming with wonder and danger. But when a shocking mishap strands them in the year 2525, they find themselves in a world without trees, familiar food, or faith. As they fight to survive, they discover that courage, love, and belief are the greatest tools they have. Meanwhile, their heroic father, Christopher, embarks on a daring mission across time itself to bring his family home - proving that love knows no bounds. Purchase here

< Back Russell Camp Seeking The Healer Book blurb... How far will a father go to see his son healed? This thing that would come and attack his son. Without warning. Without remorse. Without a cure. Yosef’s heart broke more with each one, his hope fading as he watched this thing slowly destroy his son, along with everything he loved. But just as the darkness seemed to envelop him, Yosef heard a whisper on the fluttering wings of a dove. There was one who might be able to help. A healer existed somewhere, out there. Yosef had only to find him. SEEKING THE HEALER is the gripping story of a father’s love, a son’s courage, and a family on the brink. Pursued by an enemy who is as relentless as he is corrupt, Yosef and his son, Gabriel, must flee their home and follow an unsure path, hoping it will lead them to a mysterious healer, of whom they have only heard rumors. Along the way, they meet others who will point them towards the end of their journey, but will they find this healer before their enemy finds them? Purchase here

< Back Caryn Rivadeneira Monster Match: Frankinschool Book 1 Fred meets his monster match. Fred is given a book by his teacher, following an author visit, which is inscribed to a Frank. It is a mystery, as Fred definitely recalls his mom asking for the inscription for Fred. In creative writing, the class is asked to write a story about What if...? Fred looks at his new book and has an idea. What if I am Frank in school? Frank-in-school? Frankinschool? As Fred starts to pen his story, a green mist covers the classroom, the children fall asleep, and Fred discovers that his story has come to life. He is magically transformed into Frankinschool, and his enemy, Luisa, has also transformed into Princess Maria Luisa Octavia. The pair learn that they must work together to solve the mystery of green mist to wake their classmates. Frankinschool and Princess visit the school attic, where they find a laboratory infested with bats, mice, and a rather friendly ghost, named Frank. Frank has invented a potion to send children to sleep so that he can steel their books. Frank wants his book back and will do anything to get it! Will Frankinschool and Princess recover the book before Frank finds it? Will Frank ever escape from the confines of the attic? And can they wake their classmates from their slumber? Monster Match: Frankinschool Book 1 by author Caryn Rivadeneira is a funny and entertaining chapter book for middle grade readers about a young boy who writes a story and is suddenly transformed into Frankinschool in his creative writing class. He must join forces with his number one enemy, to help him solve the mystery and return back to his human self. This is a unique and imaginative book, and will appeal to children who enjoy fantasy, adventure, and suspense. A great first instalment of a planned series, and I look forward to more adventures from Frankinschool and Princess. The wonderful black and white illustrations by Dani Jones complement the story perfectly. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A funny, entertaining, and slightly spooky chapter book for middle grade readers. Purchase here