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< Back Gail Scoates Paws, Purpose and Possibilities: How therapy dogs and faith healed my heart Author Gail Scoates shares her story of how therapy dogs gave her a sense of purpose following the death of her beloved younger sister. Dogs had always played a significant part in Gail’s life. Growing up, there were many dogs in the family, and Gail recalls happy memories and adventures with her sister, Karen, and their dogs. She describes how dogs provided a sense of comfort and security throughout her whole life. When Karen was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer at the age of thirty-eight, Gail witnessed the special love and bond between Karen and her two dogs, Preston and Tanner. When Karen sadly passed away, Gail’s dog, Tucker, provided comfort and helped her through the grieving process. Following Karen’s passing, Gail became involved with the PAWS ministry, a therapy dog program. Gail trained up Tucker as a therapy dog, and together they visited a residential home for children with emotional and behavioural challenges, providing them with an opportunity to play and have fun, while learning how to interact with a dog safely. When Tucker passed away, Gail adopted a rescue dog, Max, and also trained him up as a therapy dog. Through many dog therapy visits, and observing the positive impact on children, Gail was able to find a sense of purpose and meaning in life. Later, Gail set up her own dog therapy program, named Karing Partners in memory of her sister. She was successful in setting up a program in a hospital and recruited other volunteer handlers and their dogs. With Max, and a subsequent dog, Sadie, the program made a significant difference to the lives of many patients and their families, hospital visitors, and health care staff. Paws, Purpose and Possibilities: How therapy dogs and faith healed my heart is a beautiful memoir by author Gail Scoates. Gail shares her story of how dogs supported her through many difficult periods of her life, including the death of her younger sister, and how therapy dogs have changed the lives of many others. This is a powerful story that not only shows the special bond between humans and dogs, but how dogs can help support, heal and rehabilitate people. A ‘ Paws for Reflection’ section at the end of each chapter, provides the reader with an opportunity for personal reflection. Gail’s commitment and dedication to dog therapy work is remarkable and her story is inspiring. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful and inspiring memoir, by an inspirational woman. Purchase here

< Back Stoni Astley Sanctuary's Lights A powerful and heart-breaking novel about parental neglect and domestic violence, from author Stoni Astley. Eleven-year-old Sydney and her younger siblings, Amanda, and Dylan, move to a new house, a new town, and a new school. Their mother Barbara, alcohol dependent and addicted to prescription drugs, has moved them again, this time to Ontario to escape the prying eyes of the social services and nosey neighbours. The children have spent years in and out of social services care, due to their mother’s substance abuse and violence. As the children try to settle into their new school, the neglect, the abuse, the violence, and the range continues at home. No-one hears their cries. No-one sees their bruises. No-one cares. But when their mother’s violence escalates, Sydney confides in one teacher who shows her kindness and compassion. Just when Sydney gets the support she desperately needs, and starts to believe she will escape with her siblings, her mother loses control and the lives of all three siblings are changed forever. Sanctuary’s Lights is a powerful and heart-breaking novel of three siblings who live in constant fear of their mother. While a work of fiction, the book is inspired by the authors own traumatic childhood experiences. Honestly and sensitively told from the children’s perspective, the novel is a moving tribute to all victims and survivors of childhood neglect and domestic abuse. The book highlights the brutality of a system that repeatedly fails vulnerable children, by failing to act quickly, by separating traumatised siblings, by housing them in unsuitable homes, by repeatedly allowing them to go back to neglectful and abusive parents, and by simply not caring enough. Sadly, the story of Sydney, Amanda, and Dylan, and of the author, Stoni Astley, is not an uncommon one. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘Honestly and sensitively told from the children’s perspective, the novel is a moving tribute to all victims and survivors of childhood neglect and domestic abuse. A BRONZE WINNER and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Holly Brough The Name I Choose A historical fiction novel about the experience of women in nineteenth century Spain Set in nineteenth century Spain, fifteen-year-old Amalia is sold by her family to work as a housekeeper on the wealthy Tudós Estate. Amalia is expected to take care of the house and look after the family’s children, but the estate’s patriarch, Manuel Tudó, has a more sinister motive. Manuel is a violent, deceptive, manipulator and takes a sexual interest in the girl. He watches her closely and seeks every opportunity to catch her alone. Amalia is a sweet and naïve girl, who develops a close friendship with another maid who reminds her of her position in the household. When Tudó leaves the estate, Amalia is seduced by the duke of Cadiz, the future king of Spain. Amalia falls in love with the duke, but he quickly abandons her, and she discovers she is pregnant. Alone, penniless, and ruined, Amalia flees the estate and takes refuge with an older woman. The woman helps Amalia escape to the charming island of Menorca in the Balearic Sea, with the help of two English naval officers. Amalia hopes that her life will improve, but discovers the same patriarchal society exists on the small island. As she tries to make ends meet for herself and her child, she reaches the depths of despair. But, with the help of her new friends she discovers the shocking truth about her ancestors and heritage. The Name I Choose by Holly Brough is a harrowing and heart wrenching historical fiction novel about a young woman who is torn from her family to work on a wealthy estate, and experiences horrific abuse from her master. This is a well-researched, beautifully written, and fast-paced novel, which explores the experience of women in nineteenth century Spain, when women had limited freedoms and few rights. The main protagonist Amalia is a believable, likeable and well-developed character. Despite her abandonment, neglect, and abuse, she never gives up hope. It was great to follow her journey from a sweet, naive young girl to a strong, courageous woman. The book provides a fascinating insight into the culture of Spain in the nineteenth century, and the oppression that many women faced. A riveting good read and highly recommended. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A harrowing and heart wrenching historical fiction novel, and a riveting good read. Purchase here

< Back Joanne Russo Insull Don't Follow Pino! Brothers, Dugan and Pino, escape their yard and are lost far away from home, by author Joanne Russo Insull This is a picture book for young readers about two dogs, brothers Dugan and Pino. Dugan loves to go on a walk with his mom and big brother, Pino. Every morning, they walk around their neighborhood and meet lots of new people. Dugan and Pino try to be on their best behavior when they walk on their leash, and if they are very lucky they might even receive a nice treat or two. When they are not out walking, they like to play outside in their back yard. The yard is locked and safe, and Dugan and Pino run and play with the squirrels and chipmunks. But one day, a workman who is fixing a pole behind the house, forgets to shut the gate. Pino suggests to Dugan that they go on a walk outside, without their mom. Dugan is reluctant, he knows they shouldn’t leave the yard alone, but Pino is persistent. Dugan is scared they will get lost, or get into big trouble, but he follows Pino through the gate and out into the street. He tells himself, “Don’t follow Pino!”, but he continues to follow him into a field, far away from home. As Dugan becomes more concerned, he hears his mom calling from the other side of the field. He turns around and sees her waving at the entrance, walking quickly towards them. But Pino thinks it’s a game, and he runs even further away. Suddenly, Dugan notices his mom turn around and walk slowly in the opposite direction. Dugan panics and decides to follow his mom rather than Pino. He runs as fast as he can to catch up with his mom, and Pino follows closely behind. Mom is happy to see her boys again, and quickly puts on their leashes. Dugan feels bad for scaring mom and promises never to run away again. Pino, on the other hand, has other ideas! Don't Follow Pino! by Joanne Russo Insull is a sweet picture book about a couple of mischievous dogs, who escape the safety of their back yard and become lost far away from home. Dugan is influenced by his older brother, Pino, and tags along even though he knows he shouldn’t. Mom eventually finds them, but Pino thinks it’s a game, and runs away. Mom’s quick reaction is to turn and walk in the opposite direction, to bring the boys safely home. Dugan and Pino are sweet and adorable characters, and younger children will enjoy reading about their exciting adventure. This is a fun read for the whole family, but there are some important messages for young people too, about peer pressure, following rules, personal safety. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet picture book about two mischievous pups, and a fun read for the whole family. Purchase here

< Back Rebecca Olmstead Dreams and Illusions: A Gabrielle Dorian Mystery A young woman is unwittingly thrust into a complex investigation when her sister is accused of a brutal murder. Gabrielle Dorian co-owns a boutique called Belle Femme in Washington with her best friend, Kate Goldstein. Gabrielle is a psychic and experiences recurring, vivid dreams. She believes her dreams are trying to tell her something and has a bad feeling it is something connected to her husband, James. Gabrielle is worried and Kate encourages her to have an extended lunch with James. She visits him while he is working on a construction site, and everything is fine, except for the annoying presence of his business partner, Trevor. Shortly after lunch, Gabrielle receives a visit from Trevor and the police, informing her that James has tragically died in an accident at the site. On the day of his funeral, Gabrielle receives a frantic call from her estranged younger sister, Tina. Tina has been arrested and asks Gabrielle to travel to Seattle to bail her out. Kate advises Gabrielle to stay at home, rest and grieve for her husband, but Gabrielle feels a responsibility to her sister. Gabrielle feels she let her husband down by ignoring her dreams, and she does not want to let her last living relative down. She travels to Seattle to learn Tina has been charged with writing bad checks and first-degree murder. The victim is Tina’s neighbor, an elderly woman named Winnifred Everette, who was robbed and shot in her apartment. The police have a good case, as Tina’s gun is linked to the crime scene, and they discover that Tina is the sole beneficiary of Winnifred’s eighteen-million fortune. Tina is confident that her sister will be able to prove her innocence due to her psychic abilities. Can Gabrielle solve the case, and save her sister from death row? Dreams and Illusions: A Gabrielle Dorian Mystery by Rebecca Olmstead is an absorbing crime detective novel, and the first instalment in a planned series. The book follows Gabrielle Dorian’s journey as she discovers her psychic abilities and is unwittingly thrust into a complex investigation when her sister is accused of a brutal murder. The book is more than a crime detective novel, as it deals with family relationships, faith, love and loss. Gabrielle Dorian is a strong, charming and relatable protagonist. Her journey is both personal and investigative, as she battles her own grief, fears and doubts while delving into the murky circumstances surrounding the crime. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A super addition to the crime detective genre, with a captivating protagonist and a fresh psychic twist. 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

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

< Back Debz Hobbs-Wyatt If Crows Could Talk Book blurb... George Tucker and April Jefferson have never met but they share a secret. Born the same day fifty years apart, in the same town in Florida, both are battling demons. George is African-American - now living in Atlanta, having run from Jim Crow - only it seems you can't outrun the past. April is a white teenager terrified she will end up like her mother. George's story is set over fifty years, April's over a single year... yet their destinies are tied up together. They must meet... but how is the troubled teenager April the key to unlocking the secrets of George's past? Find out in the gripping If Crows Could Talk by award-winning literary writer Debz Hobbs-Wyatt. Purchase here

The Sea Turtle Spy Project: Putney Hicks Inventor Adventures Book 4 < Back Marsha Tufft The Sea Turtle Spy Project: Putney Hicks Inventor Adventures Book 4 Twelve-year-old Putney Hicks is ready to spring into action. As news spreads of a legendary three-legged turtle laying its eggs, she fears that the bright lights of a nearby porch will tempt the vulnerable babies away from the ocean. And with only ten days left before they hatch, Putney works furiously on a clever prototype to save the newborns before they become easy prey for hungry predators. Just as the ingenious middle schooler makes progress on her design, she’s terrified when her beloved AI companion vanishes. And without her trusted helper by her side, Putney’s frantic efforts to rescue the tiny reptiles could be in jeopardy. With the clock ticking, can she track down her smart sidekick and help the hatchlings survive? The Sea Turtle Spy Project is the energizing fourth book in the award-winning Putney Hicks Inventor Adventures middle grade series. If you like courageous young girls, seaside settings, and science-inspired curiosity, then you’ll love Marsha Tufft’s fun-filled mission. Purchase here

< Back Alayne Smith The December Postcards Reeda (“Ree”) Jones lives in Lawrenceville, Georgia, with her father James, and her thirteen-year-old daughter, Virginia. Ree is a reporter for a local newspaper, covering four to five stories a day on local issues. Her husband, Mason, was killed shortly after they were married while serving in the Army Air Corp in North Korea. Her mother, Mildred, was murdered thirty years ago, when Ree was just twelve-years old. James’ brother (Ree’s uncle), Richard, was accused of her mother’s murder, but he mysteriously disappeared just before the trial. Ree and her father struggled to come to terms with her death, but never believed Richard was capable or responsible for her murder. Since the year after Mildred’s death, James had received an anonymous postcard every December. The postcards were sent from all over Europe and North America, and James believed they were sent by Richard. As James looks through the collection of old postcards again, Ree decides to try and find her uncle. She hopes to clear Richard’s name, and bring the real perpetrator to justice. Ree visits the location of several postcards, and discovers a connection between her mother’s murder, and an infamous serial killer. As Ree learns more about her mothers life, and the tragic circumstances of her death, she receives a mysterious letter that puts her life in imminent danger. The December Postcards is an intriguing family saga and murder mystery novel, by author Alayne Smith. Set in the early 1960’s against the backdrop of the Cuban Missile Crisis, the book follows a reporter who reluctantly investigates her own mothers murder. As she learns more about her mother’s death, she uncovers dark secrets that have been buried for over thirty years. Ree is a compelling protagonist; flawed and vulnerable, yet strong and determined. The mystery itself is well paced, with plenty of twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. Readers who enjoy murder mysteries, and thought-provoking fiction that is rich in historical detail, will enjoy this book. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An intriguing family saga and murder mystery novel, with a unique and fascinating plot and interesting characters. Purchase here

< Back Trevor Crafts, Aaron Burakoff The Apple That Fell Far From the Tree A little apple with a big family tree, and an even bigger imagination. A little apple has a big family tree. All of his 247 relatives are pretty much alike, but the little apple is different. He doesn’t enjoy bobbing in the pond like the other apples. He doesn’t enjoy rolling down the hill. He might look like all the other apples, but he doesn’t fit in. Unlike the other apples, he has a big imagination and big ideas. One day, the little apple decides to leave the orchard to find somewhere where he can fit in. After much searching, the little apple ends up in the Big Apple. In the big city, he meets lots of new friends who don’t look like him, but who have big imaginations and share similar ideas. The little apple finds new ways of expressing himself, and finally finds a sense of purpose and belonging. But when the little apple sees his family again, he does something totally unexpected. The Apple That Fell Far From the Tree is an illustrated picture book by Trevor Crafts and Aaron Burakoff about a curious and adventurous little apple who leaves home to find himself. He settles into big city life, and finds a new sense of purpose and belonging. When the little apple fulfils his dreams, he finally begins to understand who he really is and what he truly wants. The story shows children that stepping outside of our comfort zone might be necessary to fulfil our true potential. It also highlights the importance of family connections and reminds readers that while the journey to finding oneself might take them far away from home, they are always welcome back when they are ready. The book encourages children to follow their dreams, and embrace their unique qualities and differences. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A heart-warming, inspiring and funny story for young readers, with a sweet apple character and themes of identity, self-discovery and belonging. Purchase here

< Back Rusty Reece The Warrior & The Dragon Book blurb... In the wake of the exhausting Succession War, Jason seeks solace in Smoky Springs, only to find himself entangled in a dangerous prophecy. Tasked with delivering an ancient athame, Jason must unlock his hidden magic while evading the sinister necromancer Erlender, who craves the kalasha he carries. Joined by Akela - a powerful wolf shapeshifter - and thrust into a world of transformation, Jason becomes a dragon, a warrior, and a reluctant hero. As he teaches the community to stand strong, they band together to fend off brutal attacks, discovering courage they never knew they had. But when Erlender's chilling whisper darkens the valley, Jason must confront his greatest fear: the choice between his personal quest and the safety of those he loves. Will he rise as the true hero Smoky Springs needs? Purchase here