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< Back Charles Byrd The Reaper's Guide on How NOT to Take a Soul! A young girl dreams of becoming a Grim Reaper. Eleven-year-old Lyra Corvin is a living girl in the Underworld. She has no memory of her childhood or recollection of how she came to the Underworld. Lyra works as an assistant to a Grim Reaper named Silas. She hopes one day to become a Grim Reaper herself, but Silas does not think she has the necessary people skills to do the job. But, when a strange case presents itself to the Grim Reaper, he asks for Lyra’s help. Lyra is sent to the Living Realm, to help guide a young boy to the Afterlife, but the circumstances on the death scroll keep changing. Lyra meets the boy named Casper at a bus stop, and discovers she is not invisible to him, as expected. Casper is scared of Lyra and runs away. As she tries to catch him, Lyra trips and falls, and her precious necklace is broken in the tussle. Casper falls in the road and is hit by a bus. His soul leaves his body and becomes a ghost, but his body does not die. Lyra must take Casper to the Underworld to seek Silas’s advice. During the journey, Lyra and Casper are chased by Soul Eaters who want to capture their souls. But when Silas suddenly disappears, Lyra seeks help from various creatures of the Underworld. She wants to help return Casper’s soul to his body, find her necklace, and understand why she has no memories of her childhood. As Lyra and Casper try to evade capture from Soul Eaters and Spectres, they go on a journey to the Greek Afterlife, where Lyra finally learns the truth about her family history. The Reaper's Guide on How NOT to Take a Soul! by Charles Byrd is a funny and slightly scary book for young readers about ghosts and ghouls, spectres and soul eaters, and all kinds of terrifying creatures that inhabit the Underworld. The book follows a seemingly ordinary girl who somehow came to live in the Underworld, and her work as an assistant Grim Reaper. At just eleven, she is not quite ready to step into the Grim Reaper’s shoes, and she must learn the key tricks of the trade. Byrd crafts a rich, detailed world, filled with intriguing characters and dark secrets. Overall, this is a unique and captivating book that explores the darkly enchanting world of life, death and the supernatural. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An imaginative, funny and slightly scary book for young readers about the job of a Grim Reaper, and the ghosts and ghouls that inhabit the Underworld. Purchase here

< Back Kris Land The Infinity Within: Break Through Fear, Trust Your Inner Power, And Create A Life That Reflects Who You Truly Are Book blurb... Are you ready to awaken the vast power already within you? The Infinity Within invites you to break through fear, trust your soul’s knowing, and remember who you truly are. Follow Gabe’s gripping journey—from childhood visions to a life-shattering crash—as he uncovers a truth too powerful to ignore: the impossible becomes possible when you stop doubting your divine potential. In a world ruled by fear and forgetting, this story delivers a radical message: your transformation begins within. Blending spiritual wisdom, mystical encounters, and raw personal insight, this book reveals how to dissolve illusion, reframe suffering, and reclaim your infinite self. If you’ve ever sensed there’s more to life than what you’ve been told, this is your sign. Stop surviving. Start remembering. The answers, the healing, and the power have always lived inside you. You are not broken. You are divine. Purchase here

< Back Kyle Palmer The Last Rival: A Time of Our Choosing Late 1946, shortly after the end of World War II, and the Soviets continue to threaten peace in Europe. The Soviets have successfully developed a fusion bomb, and a group of men are summoned to Washington DC for a secret meeting with President Truman. Truman sets out his ‘Marshall Plan’, a grand scheme to resurrect Europe and position the United States of America as the leading world power. The plan brings together the great and the good of warfare, science, technology and business to construct and manage a new independent, intelligence agency, and build a fusion bomb. The new agency will be a rival of the Central Intelligence Agency, but entirely devoid of governmental influence or awareness. But when the men learn that Adolf Hitler did not die at the end of the War, their mission becomes even more critical. They discover that Hitler and other Nazi leaders fled to Argentina under the cover and protection of President Juan Peron. The men face an arduous journey by land and sea, to track down and eliminate the world’s most dangerous predator. The Last Rival: A Time of Our Choosing is an alternate history novel, set shortly after the end of World War II, by author Kyle Palmer. This is a chilling story, which imagines a world with a different outcome at the end of the War. The book poses a number of thought-provoking, but terrifying questions. What might have happened if Hitler survived World War II? What would you say if you came face to face with the Fuhrer? Palmer masterfully blends history, politics and detective fiction into a disturbing, but believable story. At over 500 pages this is a long novel, but very easy to read. A must read for fans of alternate history, political thrillers and detective fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A well-researched and believable alternate history, with a compelling mix of mystery, suspense and espionage. Purchase here

< Back Marieke Lexmond The Cup, The Madigan Chronicles #4 The Madigan clan return in the fourth volume of this magical series. The Cup, The Madigan Chronicles is the fourth instalment in this fantasy series, by author Marieke Lexmond. Several centuries ago, four sisters separated four powerful elemental objects (the Cup of Plenty, the Wand of Wisdom, the Dagger of Consciousness, and the Pentacle of Growth). The Cup of Plenty was hidden in northern Greenland, with a strong magical safety net, of witch wands and modern technology. The Cup is protected by the guardian of the Cup, Snowflake, and the Berthelsen family. In her pursuit of power, evil aunt Lucy Lockwood was banished from the family for trying to steal the elemental objects. She created a powerful spell to find the general location of the Cup and to breakdown the protective barriers. Lucy locates the Cup on the island of Greenland, and travels to the island to recover it. Freya and Luna Madigan also travel to Greenland, to warn Snowflake and help her protect the Cup of Plenty. Will Freya and Luna find the Cup before Aunt Lucy and the Queen of Fairy? The Cup, The Madigan Chronicles #4 is a magical and mesmerising fantasy fiction novel by author Marieke Lexmond. Lexmond effortlessly weaves together a spellbinding tale of magic, destiny, and a battle between good and evil. With beautiful scenery, a rich mystical world, wonderful eccentric characters, and a cleverly crafted and gripping plot, this is a fantasy fiction novel not to be missed. Readers new to the series might struggle to follow some of the backstory, and I recommend starting from the first book to fully enjoy this magical series. The book (and series) will appeal to readers who enjoy character-led fantasy fiction adventure. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A spellbinding tale of magic, destiny, and a battle between good and evil. Purchase here

< Back Jerry Gundersheimer Reach: A Nexus of Life and Love A heart-breaking love story, by author Jerry Gundersheimer Reach: A Nexus of Life and Love by Jerry Gundersheimer is a beautiful story about Ernie Resnick, who met his childhood sweetheart, Ava Winkler, when he was just 11 years old. The young couple fell deeply in love, and believed they would grow old and spend the rest of their lives together. The couple were happy and pursuing their dreams, Ava as a professional ballerina, and Ernie as a New York Times bestselling author. But when Ava was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, their whole worlds fall apart. As Ernie watches Ava’s health decline, he feels powerless to help her. But he must also face his own frailty, and the possibility of life without his beloved sweetheart. As Ernie comes to terms with Ava’s diagnosis, it has a devastating impact on his own mental health, and he is later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Reach: A Nexus of Life and Love is a powerful, heart-breaking and deeply emotional story about a man who slowly loses his wife to Lewy Body Dementia, a type of dementia with a rapid loss of mental ability. Beautifully written, well-researched, and told with sensitivity and compassion, through the eyes of Ernie. It is a powerful story about love and loss, and a tribute to all those who have been impacted by Lewy Body Dementia, and the dedicated caregivers who provide love, care and support to those in need. One cannot fail to be moved by this book; it brought a tear to my eye on several occasions. Gundersheimer’s beautifully written prose will remain with me for a very long time. Anyone who has been impacted by Lewy Body Dementia, or other types of dementia, will relate to this story. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A powerful, heart-breaking and deeply emotional story about a man who slowly loses his wife to Lewy Body Dementia. Purchase here

< Back Stephanie Woodward The Big Scale Back: Success and Balance By Your Own Design Author Stephanie Woodward describes how she ‘scaled back’ her life in business to find fun, happiness and love. Author Stephanie Woodward excelled in business, and climbed the ladder to the very top. But, her drive and dedication to work eventually took its toll on her mind and body. Woodward describes how she sacrificed herself and her relationships to achieve success. But the success she was striving for was based on other people’s standards of productivity, long hours, loyalty, dedication and self-sacrifice. Woodward describes how she was conditioned at a very young age to enter the world of business, suppressing her inner desires and love of reading, writing and creativity. When her father sadly passed away from a terminal brain tumour, Woodward reflects on her father’s life as a businessman, and her own life as a self-described ‘loyal workhorse’. Exhausted, burnt out, and grief stricken, Woodward receives support from a coach and therapist. She begins to question her role in the workplace, and seeks to make changes in her life, to restore balance and find happiness. The Big Scale Back: Success and Balance by Your Own Design is an engaging and insightful memoir and self-help book by author Stephanie Woodward, a life and leadership coach. Woodward shares her own personal journey, from her school days, through university, and into the corporate world. She describes how her work was all encompassing, impacting all areas of her life, and how she managed to step ‘off the ramp’ to find fun, happiness and love. She explains the many obstacles and challenges she faced, and how she eventually identified four measures of success: having fun, paying bills, moving her body and love. She provides a useful framework for others who might want to embark on personal change, based on the concept of ‘conscious productivity’, which defines success on understanding the self. This is a real and honest book about how one woman found fulfilment, personally and professionally. With resources, worksheets and reflective questions, this book may encourage readers to start their own journey to find work-life fulfilment. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An engaging and insightful non-fiction book, which will appeal to readers looking for a real and honest book about leadership, management, and personal development. 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 Diann Floyd Boehm Charlie and the Tire Swing - How it Began A charming story about the special bond between grandparent and child, by author Diann Floyd Boehm Charlie looks at the big oak tree outside his grandparent’s kitchen window, and asks his Grandpa Jack, how did the oak tree grow so big? Grandpa Jacks tells Charlie a story from his own childhood, when he found a little acorn and with the help of his own grandfather, planted it in the garden. Young Jack waited patiently for the acorn to grow and visited his grandparents every weekend to check the trees progress. Over many weeks and months, there was still no sign of a tree, and Jack feared the little acorn had been washed away in the rainstorms, or frozen in the winter snow. Until one spring day, a little sapling sprouted from the ground. Jack took very good care of the little tree, watering it, talking to it, and protecting it from the frost in winter. Over several years, the little sapling grew into a magnificent tree, and became home to many creatures, including cardinals, owls and hawks. The tree was enjoyed by the whole family for many years, as the house and beloved tree were passed through the generations. Grandpa Jack asks Charlie to take good care of the tree and he ties an old rope and tire to the branches, so Charlie can play and enjoy the splendid specimen. Charlie and the Tire Swing: How it Began by author Diann Floyd Boehm is a sweet and wonderful picture book about a young boy and his exploration with nature with his grandfather. It shows the beauty of the relationship between child and grandparent, as Grandpa Jack lovingly tells the young boy a story from his own childhood over a mug of hot chocolate. In an age of gaming, technology, high energy entertainment and social media, this is a reminder of the simpler things in life, and the importance of nurturing relationships through conversations and storytelling. I hope this book will encourage both young children and adults to explore nature in their own backyard, and beyond. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet, wonderful and warm intergenerational story and exploration of nature. Purchase here

< Back Vincentia Schroeter Babymaking Book blurb... A story of one woman's harrowing journey through trauma and disillusionment on the road to become a mother. The author travels through infertility, loss and adoption, calling on faith to help her achieve her dream. Purchase here

< Back Eric Halstead The Final Verdict: A Shane Alexander Novel Book blurb... The military fiction “The Final Verdict” by Eric Halstead is an enthralling exploration of duty, fairness, and the heavy weight carried by those in uniform. Set in the background of military courtroom drama, the story follows Specialist Shane Alexander as he confronts a court-martial that changes the way of his life forever. Halstead skillfully narrates the complications of military law, the poignant chaos of family, and the ethical dilemmas confronted by soldiers in combat. This convincing story exemplifies the punitive realities of military service and raises serious quarrels about accountability and the burden of choices made in the heat of conflict. With bright characters and an accurately composed plot, readers will find themselves engrossed in Shane’s fight for improvement and the journey for truth during chaotic times. Best for the enthusiast of military fiction and courtroom dramas, “The Final Verdict” delivers a deep reflection on sacrifice and the consequences of war. Accompany Shane on his journey and explore the daunting realities within the military justice system. This book is a crucial read for an intense and provocative experience. Purchase here

< Back Iris Kain Offshoot Book blurb... What happens when a dedicated Alabama cop and a savvy drug dealer shoot the same guy…at the same time…in parallel universes? Dragged into another dimension by a single bullet, Detective Wade Beringer crosses paths with Sergio Vega, his street-smart doppelgänger–a shadow of the darker man Wade might have become. Meanwhile, August Webb and Ida Kightlinger have carved out a new existence in Gryphon, Alabama, far from her overbearing family and their West Virginia roots. Here, as August launches his moonshining business, he finds unlikely mentors in their mystical neighbors who help him realize his ability to see ghosts. And their new house is full of them. As Wade’s friends and family back home embark on a desperate mission to retrieve him, Wade learns that his traditional detective skills may not be enough to solve this supernatural mystery. Unless there’s more to a couple of criminals and a haunted house than meets the eye… Purchase here

< Back Tracey Sullivan The Polar Bear in the Closet Book blurb... Scotty is a precocious kindergartner that believes his neighbor, Miss Cora, lives with a polar bear named Poley. He shares his arctic adventures with his teacher, Miss Gracie, his classmates, and Mom a LOT. In fact, Scotty wears a parka to school everyday even thought it is hot out. Mom and Miss Cora come up with a plan so that Scotty can meet the real Poley. Scotty's fantasy takes a twist that introduces him to a new friend. Miss Gracie even gets permission from the principal for Scotty to bring Poley to school. Scotty's friends, Jessica and Ian, are excited to finally meet Poley. In this children's story, a young boy's imagination with a polar bear takes a surprising turn with Poley overcoming shyness, and a magical friendship begins. Purchase here