STEAMed Off to China: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math Adventure in a Foreign Land < Back Roy Davis STEAMed Off to China: Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math Adventure in a Foreign Land Book blurb... STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, ADVENTURE and Math. Oh, yes, Art. But ADVENTURE takes center stage in this story of Ellie Brown as she returns to China for another stint solving technical, political and even criminal mysteries. A phone call on a lazy Sunday afternoon jolts Ellie out of her busy routine of an engineer working at a California high-tech company. It is a call to duty that hours later puts her in the middle of a very public mess in Beijing, China. Three engineers from previous exploits pitch in to help get to the bottom of frustrating technical challenges A fellow female engineer shows great promise as a problem solver and makes Ellie proud. Three new members join the team, each with their own talents, but a lot to learn. The call was from the CEO, urging Ellie to come to the defense of the corporation with a single technical problem. Little does she know there are more and darker troubles to deal with before she can head for home. It is not all suffering. The team of engineers enjoy each other’s sharp wit and ability to help overcome obstacles. Even the legal, security and management people show them a good time and a pleasure trip to Shanghai. Food figures heavily in Ellie’s happiness. She discovers two secret restaurants in Beijing and the best Mexican in Shanghai. However, missing meals from the pressing work saves her figure. Along the way there are lessons learned by everyone about wireless technology. Even the seasoned expert Ellie gains new insight into how cellular networks can malfunction…and how to fix them on the spot. If you have thought about being an engineer, here is an example based on real events of how a career can be anything but boring. Purchase here

Forbidden Ties (Enemy's Keeper Series Book 1) < Back Kyrie Wang Forbidden Ties (Enemy's Keeper Series Book 1) A medieval story for a younger generation, from author Kyrie Wang Nine years after the Norman conquest of England, a young, orphaned, Watermill Keeper named Heather, becomes embroiled in the conflict between the two opposing sides of the Normans and the English rebels. After her home is ambushed by the rebels, Heather meets Toby, a young rebel leader who seeks revenge against the Normans. After Toby is brutally attacked and tortured, Heather helps him escape and unwittingly becomes a fugitive herself. She is later captured by the rebels and is taken on a treacherous journey through forests and overseas, where she learns more about her past, her adoptive family, and the man she once loved. Forbidden Ties is a medieval fiction novel and the first book in the Enemy's Keeper Series. With a blend of history, politics, conflict, and romance, this is a captivating and fast-paced story, that will both entertain and educate young adult readers, and those interested in medieval fiction. Interspersed between the battles is the blossoming relationship between Heather and Toby, as they are drawn together and support each other, despite their differences. The characters are well developed, and Wang develops high levels of empathy for the lead characters, as they struggle to survive during a period of turmoil and political unrest. This is a captivating read, and we hope to read the next instalment in the Enemy’s Keeper Series very soon. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A captivating and fast-paced read, that will both entertain and educate young adult readers. A BRONZE WINNER and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade < Back John Daze Rogues of the Crosslands: Azoria's Blade Purchase here

Lords & Lionesses < Back Michael J Ives Lords & Lionesses Book blurb... England, 1864. When a fire destroys fourteen-year-old Isabella Cringle’s home, she loses everything she has ever known. Then, against all odds, she is offered a scholarship to the prestigious Kensington School in London. Kensington is a world of silk gowns, glittering parties, and unspoken rules the other girls seem to know by heart. Isabella is not one of them. Still, she is determined to find her place—especially after she befriends Margaret, a classmate who seems to shine brighter than anyone else. But Kensington hides secrets of its own. Drawn into the Black Rose Society, Isabella makes a choice she cannot undo and is soon blamed for a scandal that threatens her future at the school. In a last attempt to save her place, she goes home with Margaret, whose father’s influence reaches far beyond the school gates. There, Isabella uncovers a truth that stretches beyond one household—and into her own past. What she learns leaves her with an impossible choice. Silence would secure her future. Speaking up could cost her friendship with Margaret. For Isabella, belonging may no longer matter as much as the truth. Purchase here

The Intrepid Three: Animus Revealed < Back Brianna and Matthew Penfold The Intrepid Three: Animus Revealed Three teens discover their hidden powers, and join forces to save their world. Three very different planes, Euporia, Aurelia and Immerxia, co-exist independently in a place that originated from a world called Pax. Euporia is a futuristic world, full of looming skyscrapers, big corporations and advanced technologies. Life for the citizens of Euporia is hard. Those who are lucky, are forced to work long hours in oppressive conditions in big technology companies. Those who are not so lucky, are exiled in the land of the forgotten. On the surface, Aurelia is a much brighter, picturesque place, full of sunlight, green spaces, and mansions on every street. Yet, all the wealth and power of Aurelia is controlled by an elite group of families. These oligarchs pass on their power and privilege from generation to generation. Immerxia on the other hand, is largely governed by social media, where citizens earn a living and their social status by buying, posting, and sharing their lives online. The citizens of Immerxia live so much of their lives in cyber-space, they struggle to understand what is real and what is fake. The citizens of each territory are unaware of their neighbours, and they live in their own isolated world in relative peace. Until one day, life for all is threatened by the return of an old enemy. Three teenagers, fifteen-year-old Dez from Euporia, fourteen-year-old Arabella from Aurelia, and seventeen-year-old Walter from Immerxia are brought together by a powerful force. They meet in Animus, a land where all three planes converge, and discover they have been carefully selected for their unique abilities to restore peace. Dez, has the power to heal people; Walter, has the power to alter and manipulate objects; and Arabella, has the power to see into the future. The teens must learn how to work together and hone their abilities, to defeat the enemy and restore peace to their world. The Intrepid Three: Animus Revealed, is a captivating, fantasy adventure from husband-and-wife duo, and debut authors Brianna and Matthew Penfold. This is a fast-paced, action-packed novel for young adult readers, set within three unique and different dystopian worlds. Each world is fascinating, and the book explores some of the key threats to our own humanity: the influence of big technological corporations, and the exploitation of human labour; the pervasive and invasive power of social media; and the growing wealth inequality which threatens our democracy. The characters are interesting, each from a different background with different life experiences. I look forward to reading how the characters develop and how their powers grow in the next book. The book will appeal to young adult readers who enjoy adventure, fantasy fiction and dystopian novels. As the first in a planned series, this book introduces the reader to the three worlds, the three main characters, and the back-story of Pax. The book ends on a gripping cliff hanger, and I look forward to reading the next instalment. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fast-paced, captivating, fantasy adventure, set within three unique and different dystopian worlds. Purchase here

Son of Osivirius < Back Cathryn deVries Son of Osivirius A young helicopter pilot named Jayden is sent on a mission to locate the rebels who abandoned his tightly controlled colony in Wormsville, on the planet of Osivirius. The rebels left the colony to build a new, more harmonious life, by blending with the planet’s natural habitat and learning from the wisdom of the ‘Masu,’ giant flying cats. But Jayden’s mission goes horribly wrong when he crash lands his helicopter in rebel territory. Instead of being executed he is captured and detained by the rebels, who take him to hospital to treat his injuries. Jayden meets Flint, a doctor in training who takes care of him, under the watchful eye of his sister, a botanist named Nettle, who is suspicious of Jayden’s every move. As Jayden recovers from his injuries, he develops a close friendship with Flint and Nettle and begins to question his loyalty to the colony. But as Jayden becomes more immersed in the rebels’ world, he hatches a secret plan to escape on a ‘Masu.’ As Jayden and Nettle’s bond develops into something deeper, Jayden has an important decision to make. Son of Osivirius is an action packed, dystopian science fiction and fantasy novel by author Cathryn deVries. The story follows the journey of two siblings and their friendship with a pilot who crash-lands in their territory. deVries has built a rich and complex world on the planet Osivirius, with contrasts between the rigid, controlled and ordered colony, to the lush habitats and fascinating creatures of the rebel territory. The chapters alternate between Jayden and Nettle’s perspective, providing a rich and unique insight into the characters experiences and motivations. The romance is subtle and believable, unfolding naturally alongside Jayden’s internal struggle and moral awakening. With superb world building, captivating characters, and a tender slow-burn romance, this is a must read for fans of dystopian science fiction and fantasy. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: Overall, a beautifully crafted novel and a compelling read for young adults. Readers who enjoy dystopian science fiction and fantasy will love this book. Purchase here

Petals & Teeth < Back Renee Hayes Petals & Teeth Book blurb... Magic is dark, magic is wrong, and magic is banned in all of Martarell. The Demon King is at war with people of Martarell, but when a violent storm tears through Inola Dreston’s cottage, it shakes something loose in her world – and in herself. Desperate for coin, she seeks work at the crumbling Cattenburg Manor, where shadows linger, ravens gather, and an injured soldier named Silas captures her heart before vanishing without a trace. The deeper Inola digs, the more the manor reveals strange memories, a stirring power, and secrets buried beneath the dust – the mysterious Elwin Cattenburg. As the Demon King’s army marches closer, Inola uncovers a truth long stolen – not just from her, but from all of Martarell. Magic is waking, and Inola may be the key to stopping the darkness. Because fire kills demons… and she’s ready to burn. Purchase here

Doizemaster: Phantasm Creed < Back Tony M. Quintana Doizemaster: Phantasm Creed A young librarian becomes an unlikely hero, as he is forced into battle against an evil army, by author Tony M. Quintana The city of Azahar is shielded by a protective barrier from the rogue empire of Zaphyrelia, and its evil emperor, Abelon Asedia. Asedia has an army of soldiers and mechanical monsters, known as the Ochre Brigadiers, who terrorise the population. A young library assistant, Dashiel Ermitage, notices a break in the protective barrier around Azahar, and everyone suspects the Ochre Brigadiers might be behind the attack. When one of his friends goes missing following the attack, Dashiel sets out to rescue him and battle Asedia’s evil forces. Dashiel successfully takes down the invading monsters and is approached by members the Cobalt Phantasms, a secret order dedicated to restoring peace and supporting the Zaphyrolean people suffering under the emperor’s tyrannical rule. Dashiel leaves his family and the safety of Azahar to join the Cobalt Phantasms, where he is trained with the Doizemant, a powerful and magical baton given to him by his father. As Dashiel earns his place with the Phantasms, and battles to save Azahar from destruction, his new life is threatened by a long-held secret that, if exposed, could bring his journey to an end. Doizemaster: Phantasm Creed is an exciting and entertaining read, by author Tony M. Quintana. This is a coming-of-age story of a young man, whose wish for excitement and adventure is fulfilled, when he joins an elite order to fight against the evil forces. Dashiel is sweet and unassuming, but courageous and brave. He is a likeable character, that many young people will relate to. I particularly enjoyed Dashiel’s journey and growth throughout the book, and the development of friendships and blossoming love. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun, teen, fantasy adventure, with wonderful characters and excellent world-building. Purchase here

The Bear and the Rose < Back E.K. Larson-Burnett The Bear and the Rose An outstanding debut, from author E.K. Larson-Burnett Springtide is approaching in Hazelfeur, and the village is on high alert as the bears wake from their winter hibernation. Ever year the bears have grown bolder, and in recent years have started to breach the village. Rhoswen, an orphan and female bear-slayer, has sworn to protect the village from the bear goddess, Artio, who terrorises the village with her army of bears. When a bear enters the village and kills a young boy, Rhoswen travels through the forest to find and slay Artio. While Rhoswen searches for Artio’s lair, she finds a beautiful young woman, named Diomath, trapped in Artio’s nest. Diomath appears to have been attacked by a bear, and has an injury to her leg. Rhoswen is enchanted by the young woman, and goes back to Hazelfeur to get her some help from the village healer. Rhoswen soon discovers that Diomath is the daughter of Artio, but Diomath explains she has no love for her mother who inflicted her with a terrible curse. Can Rhoswen stop the bear attacks once and for all? And can she trust the daughter of the evil bear goddess? The Bear and the Rose is a beautifully written fantasy novel for young adult readers, by debut author E.K. Larson-Burnett. The novel is pure, wonderful escapism, as the author takes the reader on a fantasy journey into the mesmerising world of Hazelfeur. I was totally immersed in this story and transported into Hazelfeur and Artio’s lair for a period of time. The book comprises short, concise chapters, and has many twists and turns that kept me riveted throughout. This book could be easily devoured in a single sitting. With beautiful, lyrical prose, fully developed characters, and a rich fantasy world, this is an outstanding debut novel. I cannot wait to read more from this talented author. The book will appeal to readers who enjoy fantasy, fairy tales, folklore and Celtic mythology. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written fantasy novel for young adult readers. The novel is pure, wonderful escapism, and highly recommended. Purchase here

Vork Chronicles: Welcome to Superhero School < Back Gracie Dix Vork Chronicles: Welcome to Superhero School Book blurb... Welcome to Superhero School! Join Oliver, Jess, and all their friends on a mission to destroy the power-hungry, evil villains of Vork. From subterranean sewers to lush jungle, from dinosaurs to dragons, our heroes will be pushed to their limits in ways they’d never imagined. Will their collective Powers—Flight, Morphing, Invisibility, Mind Reading, and more—be enough for them to overcome the malevolence of Vork? Or will they stumble over their own doubts and painful histories? This action-packed journey of friendship, hardship, and humor will take our heroes to thrilling new heights and a deeper understanding of their own place in the world. But will that be enough—or will Vork always be one step ahead? Purchase here

The Secret of Spirit Lake < Back Jane Haltmaier The Secret of Spirit Lake The Secret of Spirit Lake, by Jane Haltmaier, is a heartfelt and engaging young adult mystery that blends themes of friendship, resilience, and the search for belonging. The story centers on Amy, a fourteen year old girl uprooted from her life in upstate New York to a lakeside town in North Carolina. Struggling with loneliness and anxiety about fitting in, Amy soon discovers that her new home is shrouded in mystery, haunted by the legend of a girl named Penny who disappeared decades earlier. As Amy befriends local teens Maggie, Marissa, and Sam, the group embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind the ghostly happenings at Spirit Lake. Their investigation leads them through old newspaper archives, family secrets, and supernatural encounters. Haltmaier’s writing excels in creating authentic, relatable characters. Amy’s emotional journey, her initial resistance to change, her gradual acceptance, and her growth in confidence, will resonate with young readers facing their own transitions. The friendships depicted are nuanced and supportive, providing a positive model for teamwork and empathy. The dual narrative, alternating between Amy’s present and Penny’s harrowing past, adds depth and suspense, keeping readers invested in both timelines. The novel also addresses serious topics such as child abuse and neglect with sensitivity, offering hope and agency through the characters’ actions. The ghost story element is handled with a light touch, serving as both a metaphor for unresolved trauma and a catalyst for the characters’ personal growth. Overall, this is a beautifully crafted, and emotionally rich mystery novel that intertwines a modern teen's journey of friendship and self-discovery with a haunting historical mystery. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heartfelt coming-of-age mystery where a lonely teen, finds friendship and courage while unravelling the ghostly secrets of her new lakeside home. Purchase here

Divine Code of Quasars: The Fall of Planet Z < Back R.C. Panthera Divine Code of Quasars: The Fall of Planet Z Book blurb... Twelve Zodians flee their fallen utopia, scattering across Earth disguised as ordinary animals while their planet plunges into darkness under an evil force. Stripped of memories and divine powers, they must reunite and regain their lost abilities before the Emós unleash the same devastation on Earth. Each step draws them closer to uncovering their origins, reclaiming their mystical gifts, and fulfilling a destiny written among the stars. Paralleling their quest is fifteen year old Myrah Shields, who escapes a life shaped by danger to protect her younger half siblings. Carrying burdens no teen should bear, she seeks safety in the unknown. Her fight for survival mirrors the Zodians’ plight as they struggle to overcome fear and rediscover inner strength. As their paths intertwine with other chosen guardians, secrets from a distant world reveal a legacy with the power to alter the fate of humanity. Purchase here