< Back Paula Dail Fearless One woman’s selfless and fearless pursuit of greater equality, justice, and reproductive rights for women, by author Paula Dáil. Maggie Corrigan was born in 1932 to young Irish immigrants, and brought up in a rough, South Side neighbourhood of Chicago. Her mother, Maureen, died during childbirth when Maggie was just nine years old, leaving her to bring up her younger siblings as the oldest female in the household. Her father, Paddy, worked in the stock yards, and spent much of his spare time in drinking establishments. At the age of seventeen Maggie contemplates her future. She could marry and have children like her mother, or she could work for a pittance as a domestic, but Maggie wants more from life and wants to improve the lives of poor catholic women. She decides to enter a convent with the hope of changing the catholic church and making it more equitable for women. Maggie joins the Order of the Pax Christi Sisters of Charity and Justice (SCJ) motherhouse in Saint Xavier, Indiana, where she is assessed by her superiors for her commitment and suitability for religious life. Maggie is admitted into the novitiate, and six years after entering the Order, she becomes a fully professed member of the SCJ religious community. Maggie dedicates the rest of her life to improving the lives of women, by helping them gain the self-confidence and freedom to control their own futures and their reproductive lives. In 2017, at the age of 86, Maggie contacts Professor Gillian Spencer, a sociologist, poverty researcher and women’s rights advocate, and invites her to write the story of her life. Gillian turns down the offer at first, but is eventually persuaded by Maggie to tell her story. Gillian travels to Chicago and immerses herself into the life of Maggie, following her journey back to her birthplace, through the church, to her work leading the women’s reproductive rights movement, and as a patient advocate in an Illinois abortion clinic. Fearless, by author Paula Dáil, is a moving and inspirational story about one woman’s selfless and fearless pursuit of greater equality, justice, and reproductive rights for women. Maggie dedicated her entire life to God, and to helping poor catholic women, while overcoming her own childhood trauma, and risking her profession and reputation. This is an insightful, captivating and sometimes harrowing novel, with believable characters and authentic narrative. The book highlights the patriarchal control and authoritarianism that still exists in society and the Catholic Church today. It is a great way of engaging those who might find feminist literature inaccessible, in women’s rights issues. Whilst this novel is a work of fiction, it is inspired by the collective stories of real women. The many women that inspired this story are a true inspiration to women and girls everywhere. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A moving and inspirational story that highlights the patriarchal control and authoritarianism that still exists in society and the Catholic Church today. Purchase here

< Back Laurie Elizabeth Murphy Dream Me Dead: A Story of Betrayal, Infidelity, and Love Book blurb... Most people think that death is final. Most people are wrong. From the award-winning author Laurie Murphy comes the sequel to "Dream Me Home". "Dream Me Dead" follows the path of Peggy Prescott as she gives clues to her demise. These books appeal to readers who love psychological thrillers, with clues hidden in plain sight! Purchase here

< Back Marlayne Jan Giron Second Chance Inn A couple cross cultural boundaries and find love after tragic loss. Rachel Winston is grieving the loss of her husband, Barry, who died suddenly of a brain aneurysm. After a year of financial struggles following his death, Rachel decides to sell her home in Southern California, and moves to Pennsylvania with her sixteen-year-old adopted daughter, Karen. With the proceeds from the sale of her house, she buys a six-bedroom farm from an Amish man, Samuel Miller. She plans to convert the farm into a traditional Amish style bed and breakfast. As part of the sale agreement, Samuel will continue to work on the farm and is allowed to live rent-free in the Dawdi (in-law) house. Samuel is grieving the loss of his wife and five children, following a tragic buggy accident. As Rachel and Karen settle into their new home, they learn about Amish life, values, and culture. Karen misses her old friends and complains about the lack of internet, electricity, and plumbing. Rachel and Karen’s relationship becomes strained, and Samuel intervenes when Karen disrespects her mother. Rachel and Samuel grow increasingly close, but Rachel feels it is too soon to start a new relationship; and Samuel fears he would be excommunicated from the Amish community. Karen soon settles into the community, meets other teenagers, and starts a relationship with a young Amish man. Meanwhile, Rachel struggles to fit in, and experiences further financial hardship as the renovation costs escalate. Rachel and Samuel have important decisions to make about their life in Pennsylvania and their future in the Amish community. Second Chance Inn by author Marlayne Jan Giron is a compelling and heartwarming novel about a couple from different cultures, who unexpectedly find love after tragic loss. Set in the picturesque countryside, the novel follows the journey of Rachel, a spirited Englisch (non-Amish) woman, as she builds a new life for herself in Pennsylvania and falls in love with Samuel, a devout Amish man. The book provides a fascinating insight into the Amish community, exploring their values, customs, beliefs, and ways of life. It is a testament to the transformative power of love, and the strength to follow one’s heart. The novel is a must read for readers who enjoy romance, and those interested in Amish culture. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A compelling and heartwarming novel about the transformative power of love. Purchase here

< Back Duane Deason Operationally Svelte: Manage Costs to Increase Profit and Manage Performance In Operationally Svelte, Duane Deason delivers a comprehensive guide to transforming organizations into lean, efficient, and high-performing entities by addressing the often-overlooked area of cost management. Drawing on his extensive experience as a Certified Public Accountant and founder of The Efficacy Group, Deason provides a step-by-step framework for creating a dedicated Cost Management Center (CMC) to tackle organizational bloat, waste, and inefficiency. Deason meticulously outlines the process of creating a CMC, starting with selecting a capable leader, determining the scope of the center, and assessing current capabilities. He emphasizes the importance of empowering the CMC with authority, establishing clear policies and procedures, and fostering a culture of cost awareness throughout the organization. The book also provides practical operational tips, such as prioritizing cost-saving targets, building trust with internal stakeholders, and managing vendor relationships effectively. The book also addresses broader macroeconomic trends, such as inflation, trade tariffs, and geographic instability, and their potential impact on cost management. Deason provides insights into how organizations can prepare for these challenges, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and adaptability. He also explores the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize cost management, while cautioning against the initial costs and complexities of implementing AI solutions. Deason argues that creating a culture of cost awareness is essential for long-term success. He provides practical strategies for fostering this culture, such as rewarding employees for identifying cost-saving opportunities, tying bonuses to efficiency, and educating the workforce about financial stewardship. Deason’s writing is clear and accessible, making complex concepts easy to understand. The inclusion of real-world examples and anecdotes allows readers to see how these strategies can be applied in practice. Overall, Operationally Svelte offers a fresh perspective on cost management, emphasizing its role as a driver of growth and innovation rather than a hindrance. A must-read for business leaders, CFOs, and anyone involved in corporate finance or operation. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A comprehensive guide to help leaders transform organizations into lean, efficient, and high-performing entities. Purchase here

< Back Tamar Massoyan The Second Fire Book blurb... Perimenopause isn’t the end—it’s your awakening. Author Tamar Massoyan shatters the silence around women’s health and reframes this misunderstood phase as a powerful turning point. Through bold insights and deeply personal storytelling, this transformative book challenges outdated narratives and invites you to reconnect with your body, your intuition, and your truth. If you’ve felt confused, dismissed, or disconnected, this is your guide to clarity, confidence, and renewal. It’s time to stop shrinking and start rising. Step into your next chapter with strength, wisdom, and unapologetic power—because your fire was never meant to fade. Purchase here

< Back Regan Walker Bound by Honor Two young men become comrades in life and in battle, by author Regan Walker In 1286, following the death of the King of Scots, Scottish lords meet in secret at Turnberry Castle, to discuss the successor to Scotland’s throne. The lords pledge their allegiance to Robert the Noble, a direct descendant of King David. Fourteen-year-old Angus Og Macdonald, who has travelled to Turnberry Castle with his father, the Lord of the Isles, meets a young Robert Bruce, the grandson of Robert the Noble. The two young men become good friends and Angus promises to stand by the Bruce’s and his loyal friend, the future heir to the Scottish crown. A few years later, Angus meets and falls in love with Aine, a young widow and daughter of an Irish Lord, Cumee O’Cahan. Following the death of his father, and the brutal murder of his elder brother, Alexander, Angus takes over the lordship of the Isles. Angus is thrust into matters of state and war, as tensions rise between the warring Scottish clans and the English overlord, King Edward 1. After several years of courtship, Angus and Aine finally marry and start a family, but their lives together are often disrupted as Angus joins his loyal friend and comrade Robert Bruce, as they battle for Scottish independence and Bruce’s rightful position as the King of Scots. Bound by Honor by Regan Walker is a medieval fiction novel about the battle for Scottish independence during the early thirteenth century. Historically accurate, with imaginative storytelling from Walker to fill the gaps in historical records, this is an authentic, meticulously researched, and cleverly crafted historical novel. Walker describes the Scottish and Irish landscapes and bird life beautifully. The battle scenes are brutal and intense, but depicted honestly and sensitively. The characters are authentic and memorable, and the love scenes are intimate and tender. Walkers’ beautiful storytelling, and skilful juxtaposition of love and war, make this novel a compelling and captivating read, for fans of medieval fiction and other genres. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An authentic, meticulously researched, and cleverly crafted historical fiction novel of love and war. Purchase here

< Back Ashley Porsche Bugge The Ocean is Calling A poignant memoir of love and loss, beautifully written by author Ashley Porsche Bugge Thirty-five-year-old Brian James Bugge, sailor, explorer, naval officer, and diver, died tragically in a scuba diving accident in Hawaii on May 20, 2018, leaving behind his two young children, Izzy and Hudson, and wife, Ashley, pregnant with their third child, Adeline. Ashley is heartbroken, as she tries to come to terms with the loss of her beloved husband, best friend and soul mate. Brian was stationed in Hawaii as a US Naval Officer, and the family had built a beautiful home and incredible life on the paradise island. But, with memories and visions of Brian on every part of the island, Ashley is unable to stay in their family home. Just three weeks after Brian’s funeral, Ashley packs up her life and moves with the children to Boise, Idaho, with Brian’s sister, Nikki, and her family. Ashley is stricken with grief and struggles to eat, sleep and drink. She cannot see a future without Brian, and contemplates ending her own life. As her health deteriorates, Ashley is diagnosed with pre-eclampsia and hospitalised. At thirty-five weeks, Ashley is induced early, and baby Adeline is born safely in July 2018. The next few months are hard for Ashley, as she learns how to cope with new motherhood without her ‘tried and true.’ Ashley is determined to pull through and knows she must find something to look forward to. So, she decides to plan an epic trip to Europe, including seven countries in eight weeks. Several months later, with her best friend Kasey, nanny Kayla, and three young children in tow, the party embark on a European adventure of a lifetime. The trip is an opportunity for fun and adventure, but also allows time for Ashley to heal and recover, as she fondly remembers Brian and scatters his ashes in the ocean of each country she visits. Returning home, Ashley is comforted by a letter from one of Brian’s organ donor recipients and she deposits his remaining ashes in the dive site where he tragically lost his life. The Ocean is Calling is a poignant memoir, beautifully written by Ashley Porsche Bugge, wife of Brian who tragically lost his life in a scuba diving accident. Ashley writes about their life together, and his tragic death, with such openness and tenderness. She describes the impact of his death on her health and life with pure, raw emotion. The scenes she describes when she first learnt about his death, said goodbye in the hospital, carried his urn through the airport, and contemplated her own life, are truly heart-breaking. This book is a beautiful and loving tribute, to a man well loved. I’m sure it will provide much comfort to Brian’s family and friends, and his children as they grow older and start to process their own grief. It will help them to remember his life was a life well-lived. It will help them to remember what an extraordinary woman their mother was to overcome such unimaginable pain and loss, and their amazing travels through Europe. The book will provide hope to anyone who has lost a loved one, that even in the darkest of times, one can find happiness. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful and loving tribute, to a man well loved. Purchase here

< Back Cristiana Pinciroli Sport : a Stage for Life - How to Connect with the Touchstones of Elite Performance and Personal Fulfillment Lessons in sport and life from professional athlete, Cristiana Pinciroli Sport: A Stage for Life: How to Connect with the Touchstones of Elite Performance and Personal Fulfillment is a self-help / handbook written by Cristiana Pinciroli, with her father Pedro Pinciroli Junior. Cristiana is a former professional water polo player who captained the Brazilian national team for over a decade, and her father Pedro represented Brazil at two Olympic games. Cristiana shares her memories of her father’s sporting achievements, and how his success and legacy inspired her to achieve her own goals in the sport. She shares her own personal experiences of sport, the successes and failures, the challenges and rewards, the highs and the lows. There are twelve chapters, divided into four parts (dimensions). The dimensions follow the ‘WeTeam’ method, which includes the things that motivate us, move us, and enable us to act intentionally (self-knowledge, purpose and values, and happiness). In each chapter the authors explore the key elements needed for a fuller and more successful life. They show how they applied the lessons from sport in building successful corporate careers. In addition, there are contributions from other athletes, coaches, psychologists, and academics, who share their own personal stories of the impact of sport. This is an inspiring and captivating book which will appeal to both professional and amateur athletes, parents of athletes, sport coaches, and anyone interested in sport. It provides a fascinating insight into water polo and other sports. For water polo enthusiasts, or those new to the sport, the book provides plenty of valuable hints and tips on how to play the sport. For athletes, she provides advice and guidance on how to balance the demands and pressure of high-performance sport and other aspects of life. The authors show how everything we learn in sport applies to life and they provide many life hacks that will help readers live a more fulfilled and happy life. This is a well-written, and entertaining book. The writing is warm, funny, and engaging. The book demonstrates the positive role and impact of sport on individuals, and on society as a whole. It will help readers develop more positive mindsets and behaviors to live a happy and more fulfilled life. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspiring and captivating book about the positive role and impact of sport on individuals and society. Purchase here

< Back Carl Gorham My Life in a Garden My Life in a Garden is a poignant and deeply personal memoir by author and TV writer/producer, Carl Gorham. In 2005, Gorham retreats from the hustle and bustle of London, with his wife and their four year old daughter. They find the house of their dreams in the Norfolk countryside, complete with three acres of land, a maze, orchard, tennis court and outdoor swimming pool. Gorham loves the garden but describes himself as the ‘world’s most useless gardener’. He has ambitious plans for the land, but everything changes following his wife’s death in 2007. Overcome with grief, and with a young daughter to take care of, the garden falls into a state of disrepair. A few years later, with a new love and renewed energy, the garden finally gets the attention it deserves. But, when Gorham’s TV work dries up, he is left with no option to move out and rent the house out as a holiday let. He hires a professional gardener and together they attempt to transform the garden into a tranquil space for paying guests. My Life in a Garden by Carl Gorham is a beautifully written, tender and emotional memoir. The book chronicles Gorham’s journey as he attempts to reclaim his life and garden following death, grief, illness and a breakdown. What begins as an effort to maintain the physical land soon becomes a symbolic act of survival. Gorham’s connection with his garden mirrors his life – tired and careworn, neglected in places, but slowly coming back to life after a long period of turbulence. The memoir is a moving exploration of how our external world can reflect our internal struggles, and how tending to the earth can help us through the healing process. The garden provides a rhythm and a sense that life - even though altered - carries on. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A warm, honest, and funny memoir about love, loss, and the healing power of nature. Purchase here

< Back Mary L Schmidt Her Alibi A heart-breaking story of survival, by author Mary Schmidt One of seven children, Mary tells the story of her childhood and growing up in a household where the children were neglected and abused by their mother, Marguerite. Mary describes the horrific mental and physical abuse she experienced and the trauma of living with a sociopath. Mary recalls her first memories of her mother’s rage, from around the age of two, when she was regularly beaten and force fed. She describes how she was often singled out by her mother throughout her childhood, and blamed for the misdemeanours of her siblings. Unfortunately, Marguerite’s abuse was never discovered by the authorities. From the outside, Marguerite was a warm, loving and attentive parent, but behind closed doors, she was a monster who terrorised her children, her husband, and even her own mother. While Mary describes a loving relationship with her father and grandmother, they could do little to intervene, help or protect the children, as they were subject to the same cruelty and feared the matriarch. As an adult, Mary distanced herself from her mother, as did most of her siblings. But one day, her mother unexpectedly visits her home and they spend several hours reconnecting and bonding. Mary had hoped for a reconciliation, but the next day she heard tragic news that her step father had been shot, and Mary questions the motivation for her mothers’ strange and sudden visit. Her Alibi is a heart-breaking novel and a memoir by author Mary L Schmidt. Mary describes the pain and trauma she suffered at the hands of her abusive mother, and the impact this had on her life, and the lives of her siblings. It is an open, honest and graphic account of child abuse, told through Mary’s own tragic lived experience. Whilst this is a deeply upsetting story, there is some comfort that Mary survived and was successful in her own life, despite her mother's maltreatment. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A compelling memoir about one woman’s lived experience of childhood abuse and trauma. Purchase here

< Back David James Escala's Wish (Tales of Valla) Book blurb... An action-adventure romantasy filled with intrigue, sharp banter, dangerous secrets, and real emotional stakes. Escala's Wish, the debut fantasy-romance novel by David James, launches the epic Tales from Valla series - where fey folklore, political tension, and forbidden love collide in a world shaped as much by choices as by power. In the realm of Valla, immortal courts trade in secrets, bargains, and influence. Escala is a mortal caught between forces far larger than herself - drawn into a conflict of shifting loyalties, hidden agendas, and a connection she never expected to feel. As alliances fracture and betrayals surface, she must navigate deadly intrigue, unfolding destiny, and a slow-burn romance built on trust, loyalty, and longing - not cliche tropes. This is a fresh, unique romantasy: no werewolves, no vampires, no 'bad boy' love interest, and no enemies-to-lovers arc. Instead, the romance is sweet, gradual, emotionally sincere, and reminiscent of classic fantasy love stories - an innocent slow burn that grows from shared trials and genuine connection. The heart of her journey is forged in action, resilience, found family, and moments of warmth and wit with the unlikely allies who choose to stand beside her. It's a tale of redemption, sacrifice, and love tested by impossible choices - where every decision carries a cost. Perfect for readers who love: * Fey / fae-inspired worlds rooted in folklore rather than heavy magic * Slow-burn romance with emotional depth and believable chemistry * Action-adventure fantasy with political tension and intrigue * Found family, loyalty, betrayal, and courageous choices * Banter and character-driven storytelling With its blend of adventure, political manoeuvring, and forbidden affection, Escala's Wish delivers a gripping romantasy where passion and peril walk hand in hand - and one mortal woman's choices could change everything. Step into Valla and discover how one wish sets an entire world in motion. 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