< Back Gifford MacShane Rainbow Man A western historical fiction novel set in the 1880s Arizona Territory. 1880s, White’s Station Arizona Territory, Adam Donovan rescues Alec Twelve Trees, a native American silversmith after he was robbed, beaten, and dragged along the ground by a horse, by the US Cavalry patrol. The racially motivated attack leaves Alec with life threatening injuries and Adam seeks the assistance of his family and little sister, Irene Donovan. Irene, an accomplished herbalist, treats his wounds and helps to nurse him back to health. Alec and Irene had been best friends since childhood, and during his convalescence Alec realises just how much he loves her. Alec is reluctant to testify against the assailants, but Irene persuades him to reconsider. The attackers are court martialled and are eventually found guilty of the unprovoked attack on Alec. Alec and the wealthy Navajo Twelve Trees family had always looked after other’s less fortunate and were well respected members of the community. Alec had inherited a fortune from his grandfather but had promised to give most of it away to good causes. As the village reel from the unprovoked racist attack on Alec, the citizens join forces to try and push the army out of White’s Station. As Irene turns nineteen, she is visited by many suitors. Alec is distraught, but unable to declare his love for her, for fear her family will not approve. Rainbow Man (Donovan Family Saga Book 3) is a western historical fiction novel by Gifford MacShane, set in the 1880s Arizona Territory. This is the third book in the series, which follows the younger members of the Donovan and Twelve Trees families. The characters are well drawn, believable and engaging. The slow-burn romance between Alec and Irene is beautifully told. Meticulously researched, and full of historical details, this novel is a fascinating insight into life in the 1800s. I hadn’t read the previous books in the series, but I could follow the story easily. However, I recommend readers start with the first book, to get the full enjoyment of this series. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An engrossing and unforgettable western romance. Purchase here

< Back Angelo Perone The Best Attorney Never Wins: Why Great Lawyers Go Broke and Average Ones Build Empires Book blurb... Law school taught you how to win cases. Now learn how to run a business. You know you're the best attorney in the room. You've always known it. So why is the guy down the street, the one you'd never hire, the one your clients would never choose if they knew better… Why is he the one with the eight-figure firm? It's not talent. It's not luck. It's a game you were never taught to play. Angelo Perone is not an attorney. He's the CEO of Case Connect. $200M in ad spend. 120+ firms scaled. $50M a year and growing. He cracked this industry wide open from the outside, and what he found will make your blood boil. The best attorney almost never wins. The best operator does. This is the system. Purchase here

< Back Pastor John Rumble The Psalms and Proverbs: Let's discover together the Treasures of the Psalms and Proverbs Book blurb... As you read the blessed book of Psalms, you’ll witness the hand of God upon King David and how he discovers the riches of the Lord through trials and blessings — and so much more. Purchase here

< Back Randy Susan Meyers The Many Mothers of Ivy Puddingstone A young woman is torn between saving the world and saving her family. Summer 1964, eighteen-year old Annabel Cooper, a self-declared, free-thinking Unitarian, volunteers with the Mississippi Freedom Summer Project. She is assigned to work as a teacher in a Baptist church, and decides she wants to devote her life to serving God. Everything changes when she meets and falls in love with Clay, a young African American volunteer. The couple try to keep their blossoming relationship a secret, but when Clay mysteriously disappears, the involvement of the Klu Klux Klan cannot be ruled out. Annabel returns home and starts a new relationship with Guthrie. Annabel and Guthrie attend college in Boston together, and move into an intentional community, Puddingstone, with other civil rights activists. The Puddingstone families devote their time to fighting for human rights and social justice, but Annabel is forced to give up college when she falls pregnant and has a daughter named Ivy. In the mid 1970’s, the Puddingstone families decide to move their children to a commune in Vermont - the Roundhouse. The children are cared for permanently by one adult, while the other parents continue to fight for their cause in Boston. Life in the commune is challenging, and Ivy struggles to adapt to the new environment and regime. But when the children discover an old, locked trunk in a barn, there are tragic consequences that change their whole lives forever. The Many Mothers of Ivy Puddingstone is a poignant and thought-provoking novel by Randy Susan Meyers. Set predominantly in the 1960’s and 1970’s, the story centres on Annabel Cooper who makes the heart-wrenching decision to send her children away to live in a commune. Interweaved throughout Annabel’s story is the story of her daughter, Ivy, who reflects on her own experience. Meyers has crafted a story that is both intimate and expansive. Told from the perspective of the two women, the book captures the unique bond between mothers and daughters, and it also captures key events of this turbulent period of American history. There are beautiful moments of joy, love and tenderness, and there are harrowing scenes of loss and grief. I laughed and cried in equal measure. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A beautifully written, witty and heart-warming novel of love and loss, set against the backdrop of the American civil rights movement. Purchase here

< Back Randy Pressgrove This Car Sux!: Tales and Tips from a Life of Wheeling and Dealing Book blurb... “In THIS CAR SUX! Randy Pressgrove does an exemplary job of colorfully describing the process of getting an automobile from manufacturing through to the brand delivering it to dealerships and into the driveway of its new owner. . . You too may find yourself intrigued, curious, and perhaps tempted, as many of us have been, to wonder what it would be like to be a part of the dynamic story of the modern auto industry.” —John Szymanski, Vice-President, Holman Automotive Group. Purchase here

< Back Tobin Marks Ark of the Apocalypse A new post-apocalyptic/science fiction series, by author Tobin Marks Planet Earth is dying. The global temperature has risen, the polar ice caps have melted, and forest fires are raging out of control across the world. Eleven billion people are dying of thirst, and are on the brink of extinction, as governments rage war over scarce natural resources. The only hope for the survival of the human race is to leave Earth and colonize another planet. The nation states come together and build the Magellan II, the first star ship capable of interstellar travel. The ship transports ten thousand people of childbearing age to the far distant Draco constellation. Reminiscent of the Noah’s Ark, the ship carries the genetic strains of all Earths species, to recreate life on the new planet. It is hoped that the lush, watery planet, as seen in the visions of a prominent geneticist, will have the ability to sustain life and continue humanity. But survival for the colonists isn’t guaranteed, as the star ship crash lands, and the colonists must learn to live alongside the giant, dinosaur-sized reptiles that inhabit the planet. Will the colonists survive in this new alien world? And can this world survive with new human inhabitants? Ark of the Apocalypse by author Tobin Mark is a thrilling and captivating science fiction and fantasy fiction novel, and the first in the series of the Magellan ll Chronicles. This is a well-researched, insightful, and thought-provoking book that details some of the significant scientific and engineering discoveries made by humans, as well as the destruction of planet Earth, caused by power, control and greed. It is a timely reminder of the environmental emergency we are currently facing, and what we could potentially face in the future if we fail to act now. With superb world-building, plentiful and colourful characters, and a fast-paced, engaging plot, this book will appeal to fans of science fiction, fantasy fiction, and those interested in the environment and climate change. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thrilling and captivating science fiction novel, with superb world-building, colourful characters, and a fast-paced, engaging plot. Purchase here

< Back B.V. Glants Half Notes from Berlin A historical fiction novel about the beginning of the Nazi regime, by author B.V. Glants One hundred- and two-year-old Hans, a half-Jew, half-German, veteran of the second world war, vowed never to speak about his life during the Third Reich. But, facing isolation during the Covid19 pandemic lockdown, he decided to tell his story of the beginning of the Nazi regime. Hans recalls his youth in 1933, shortly after Adolf Hitler was appointed Chancellor of Germany and new laws were passed to control the ‘undesirables’ of society. In 1933, fifteen-year-old Hans barely even notices the divisions in society until one day his teacher rages about the Jews and tears down the national flag of Germany, replacing it with a large swastika. Hans believes he and his family are true-blooded Germans, and are safe from persecution, as he witnesses increasing hostility towards the Jewish community and his Jewish classmates. When Hans overhears a conversation between his parents, he learns of his true Jewish heritage, as his maternal grandparents converted from Judaism to Christianity before his birth. As Hans tries to keep his Jewish ancestry secret, he takes a stand against the brutality of the regime, and befriends and falls in love with a local Jewish girl, Rebecca. But as tensions grow at home and at school, Hans is forced to abandon his relationship with Rebecca and is pressured, and eventually tricked, into joining the Hitler Youth. Half Notes from Berlin is a moving, historical fiction novel set in 1933 about a young boy coming of age during the beginning of the Nazi regime. Beautifully written by B.V. Glants, the story is told through the eyes of fifteen-year-old Hans, as he comes to terms with his Jewish heritage and navigates life in a frightening new world. Hans experiences a number of major events in a relatively short period of time: learning of his secret Jewish ancestry, his first kiss and first love, the decline of his family’s business, and his mother’s illness. All set against the backdrop of the violence and brutality of the Nazi regime. Glants describes Hans inner turmoil and despair respectfully and with compassion, as he grapples with his conscience whether to conform and protect himself and his family, or whether to stand up against the oppressive regime. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written and moving historical fiction novel about a young boy coming of age during the beginning of the Nazi regime. Purchase here

< Back K.c. LaSaga Dragum One young woman’s search for self-love and self-acceptance, by author K.c. LaSaga Kali Colombe is an ambitious young woman, desperate to leave Vancouver, Canada, in search of independence, romance, travel and adventure. As she sets out on a journey of self-discovery, and plans an epic trip to Europe, she meets and falls in love at first sight with another woman. Kali purchases a new condo and settles into life with her new love, stalling her plans to travel to Europe. But Kali’s parents are not happy about the relationship, and want her to return to the family home in Newfoundland. Torn between her lover and her family, her home and her desire to travel, Kali falls into a depression, despite the intuitive energy ‘Dragum’ gifted to her by her grandfather. Conflict and loneliness overwhelm Kali, and she falls into a deeper depression, as she loses sense of her own identity. Kali must fight to find her true self and break free from family preferences, social norms and cultural expectations. Dragum is an intimate, coming of age story about a young woman who must learn to break free from her family and find self-love and acceptance, by author K.c. LaSaga. LaSaga wrote the book based on her own experiences of depression in early adulthood. LaSaga explains ‘ I’m writing for the adults who are still treated like kids, the queer folk who have been brave enough to come out of the closet but are not accepted and the adventure seekers who are scared to take their first steps alone.’ This is a beautifully written novel in the first-person perspective, and an honest portrait of depression and its enduring aftermath. K.c. LaSaga’s prose is raw, emotional and moving, capturing Kali’s love, passion and inner turmoil. Many readers will relate to Kali’s experience, and I hope this book will provide comfort and support to those experiencing similar troubles. The book will appeal to readers who enjoy character-based novels, and romantic fiction. It will also appeal to those from the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone who has experienced, or has been impacted, by depression or mental health. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This is a beautifully written, intimate and heart-rending novel, which shines a light on mental health and depression. Purchase here

< Back Brittany Severn Maggie's List Book blurb... She thought she was just completing her sister's bucket list, but with every tick off the list, she moved closer to finding herself… and her dream guy. When Ivy loses her twin sister, Maggie, she is pushed adrift, grappling with the void created by her sister's absence. A chance discovery of Maggie's unfinished bucket list becomes a lifeline, guiding her on a soul-stirring journey across continents. Fate leads Ivy to Evan, an attractive Scottish man who helps her downsize the list, and a connection is sparked between them. But Ivy is torn between her sister's memories and her own chance at happiness, and she realizes she must first work through her grief before opening her heart to love. Can Ivy find herself and the life that is truly meant for her? Purchase here

< Back Sabrina Simon Violet A collection of romantic poems and prose, from author Sabrina Simon Violet is a collection of fifty poems and prose by author Sabrina Simon. Written over a seven-year period, from 2015 to 2022, the collection captures the authors journey from her early teenage years through to young adulthood. This is a deeply personal and profound collection of poems from a talented young woman, with a gift for poetry. The early poems capture the authors longing and yearning for love, and her desire for mental and physical intimacy. She describes beautifully her feelings of loss and rejection when love is unrequited, her elation and euphoria when she experiences her first love, and the pain of her first heartbreak. The later poems deal with more mature themes, her fears of starting a new relationship, and her growing sense of self and identity. This book is a deeply intimate collection of poetry and prose about the authors first experiences of love and life as a young teenager, through to early adulthood. This is a beautiful memoir, written during the authors formative years, which captures both the joy and pain of love and relationships. Sabrina Simons describes how poetry became a type of therapy, and how she used it to make sense of new, romantic feelings. Inspired by music and her own life experiences, her poetry is lyrical, powerful, and passionate. Her stories are vivid, emotional and relatable. The book took me back to my own youth, and my own experiences of love and loss. Overall, a beautiful and moving collection of poetry, and a joy to read. Ideal for teens, young adults and anyone who loves romantic poetry. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A deeply personal and profound collection of poetry from a talented young author. Purchase here

< Back Frank Victoria The Founders' Plot A new Governor has a radical plan to solve illegal immigration. Marine veteran, Mike DiGrasso , is inaugurated as the Governor of California. The bedrock issue of his campaign was to solve illegal immigration, by toughening state laws. Several months following the inauguration, Mike’s immigration bill is passed into law by a slim party-line majority. The bill declares English the state’s official language, and requires citizens to show valid identification before voting. It mandates that realtors and landlords make certain checks that buyers and renters are American citizens or have legal status in the United States. It requires that employers use the federal government’s system, to match social security numbers with names. The bill is widely condemned as anti-immigrant and racist, and is challenged in court by the American Civil Liberties Union and the National Center for Immigration Justice. But when the court rules that the bill violates the supremacy clause of the Constitution, Mike ignores the ruling. He argues that the court is imposing powers far beyond those granted to them by the Constitution, and the intentions of the Founding Fathers. As Mike faces the prospect of impeachment, his life begins to spiral downhill as past events come back to haunt him. Meanwhile, Mexican immigrant Carlos Castellano , who entered the US illegally many years ago, considers his family’s future in the US. In a desperate attempt to secure more money before returning back to Mexico, Carlos gets involved with the wrong side of the law, which has devastating consequences for his family. The Founders’ Plot by Frank Victoria is a novel of political intrigue about the Governor of California who will stop at nothing to solve illegal immigration , even if it means breaking federal law. The book has a parallel storyline about a Mexican family, who are impacted by the Governors bill. This is a timely and provocative novel that delves into the complexities of the US Constitution and immigration policy, explores the human cost of political decisions, and considers the delicate balance of power in a free society. A powerful, believable and thought-provoking novel, for readers of political drama and intrigue. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary: A thought-provoking and captivating political intrigue novel, exploring the US Constitution and the far-reaching impact of immigration policy. Purchase here

< Back Danny Holst The Harlem Story A harrowing and moving account of a young African American man growing up in Harlem, from debut author Danny Holst The Harlem Story is an intriguing novel, originally written as a musical screenplay. The novel follows the lives of James Harris and Diane Smith, who witness the murder of their parents at the age of six in 1963, outside their church, by the Klan. James’ great aunt Millie takes the children inside the chapel for safety when it is set on fire. Luckily, the children escape, and they leave with Aunt Millie from their home in the South, to Harlem. The children are raised by their aunt, and they grow up in the Christian faith, singing in church choir. James and Diane become accomplished singers and win an amateur singing contest, singing ‘Lift Every Voice.’ Diane goes on to be a successful recording artist, but James’ singing career is short lived after he is wrongfully arrested and imprisoned for murder in 1983. James is finally exonerated in 1990, but he has lost all of his faith in God. He struggles to reignite his passion for singing and his life spirals out of control. James faces unimaginable pain and hardship, but ten years on from his first singing contest, he reunites with his sister to sing again. This is a beautifully written and profoundly moving story about a young African American man and how he triumphs over adversity. The book deals with painful issues of hate and discrimination, murder, and sexual assault, yet there are wonderful and joyous moments of happiness, love, and romance. The harrowing events are told sensitively and with compassion, and the author does a remarkable job at developing a real connection and empathy for the main characters. The book gives hope that out of darkness, one can find light; and out of hate, one can find love. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A beautifully written and profoundly moving story about a young man and how he triumphs over adversity. A SILVER WINNER and highly recommended.’ Purchase here