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< Back W.A. Pepper You Will Know Vengeance: A Tanto Thriller Author WA Pepper writes a new techno-charged version of the Shawshank Redemption for the 21st century A young hacker, known by his handle name, Tanto, is captured and found guilty of cyber terrorism. Imprisoned under a new US law, he has lost of all his rights as a human being. He is implanted with a tracking and torture devise and is subjected to forced labour. To secure his freedom, Tanto must capture other hackers and defend government systems from cyber-attacks. Failure to do so would result in death, or worse, a transfer to Guantanamo Bay. For eight years, Tanto follows the rules and meets the minimum capture requirements, while at the same time he protects the other inmates (his tribe). But everything changes when a new inmate, the notorious hacker Barca, enters the prison and the safety of the whole tribe is put under threat. Tanto hatches a desperate plan to protect his tribe, destroy the enemy, and escape the prison. You will Know Vengeance, is the first part of a fresh, new techno-thriller trilogy by author WA Pepper. Set within the confines of a prison, and the wilderness of cyber space, the two disparate worlds collide in a tense, gripping drama. It is a fast-paced, high-energy novel, that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Whilst this book will certainly appeal to techno-thriller junkies, it is an easy-to-read novel for neophytes, providing a fascinating insight into the hidden world of hackers, cyber criminals, and the dark web. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A fast-paced, high-energy, techno-thriller novel, that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ ​ Purchase here

< Back Elizabeth H. Cottrell HEARTSPOKEN: How to Write Notes that Connect, Comfort, Encourage, and INspire Author Elizabeth H. Cottrell demonstrates how to write beautiful, handwritten notes that connect with others on a deeper level. Heartspoken: How to Write Notes that Connect, Comfort, Encourage, and Inspire is a guidebook by author Elizabeth H. Cottrell about how to write beautiful, handwritten notes that connect with others on a deeper level. Cottrell explains how handwritten notes have been effective, meaningful tools for connection throughout her life. She shares her experience of writing personal and professional notes, and offers advice and guidance to help readers find and write their own words. The book is divided into six key sections. In Chapter 1, Cottrell explains why she wrote the book, and discusses the history of note writing. In Chapter 2 she describes how note writing can build deeper and more meaningful connections with people. Chapter 3 describes her secret NOTES formula for note writing, and Chapter 4 examine how to apply the formula in different scenarios. In Chapter 5, Cottrell provides examples of notes in less common or difficult situations. Chapter 6 demonstrates how to apply the same principles to business and professional correspondence. The remaining chapters and appendices include a variety of tools and tips, and further resources to help readers on their personal note writing journey. Heartspoken: How to Write Notes that Connect, Comfort, Encourage, and Inspire is a beautifully written and insightful book by author Elizabeth H. Cottrell. Cottrell shares her own personal experiences and describes the power of note writing to connect, comfort, encourage, and inspire. The book provides insight, advice, hints and tips, and helpful tools, to help readers craft meaningful and impactful notes for any occasion. With a simple and easy to follow NOTES formula, the book will help develop readers confidence and skills in note writing. The book is a comprehensive and valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their note writing skills, and will appeal to any reader interested in note writing, in either a personal or professional capacity. I hope this beautiful book will inspire a love of this art-form. Cottrell’s expertise in note writing, and her passion for more meaningful communication, shines throughout this book. Cottrell speaks from the heart and this book is very special. Truly heart spoken. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary : A definitive guide to more meaningful and impactful communication through the art of note writing. ​ Purchase here

< Back J Paul Rieger Jr Clonk! A refreshing and entertaining take on the detective genre. Clonk! by author J Paul Rieger Jr is a dark detective comedy novel about a group of high school friends and social misfits, who meet at Ignatius High School. The story takes place in Baltimore from the mid-1990s to 2020, and follows the friends journey from graduation through to middle age, as they continue to support one another through good and bad times. The main character, Kev Dixit, joined the Baltimore City Police Force and after several failed attempts, was promoted to Detective. A dedicated family man, and a shrewd but unorthodox cop, Kev is the glue that keeps the friends together. Kev and his detective partner, Dinetta Laurence, are investigating the murder of a local artist in Roland Park. With few clues, the pressure to close the case is intense. Can one of her own paintings solve the mystery of her murder? Meanwhile, classmates and real estate businessmen Lou Ricciti and Pete Palanzo find themselves embroiled in a fraudulent scheme with some unsavoury characters. Kev is reluctant to get involved, but forced to step in when things get out of hand. Chris Waxley, an actor, who everyone thinks is gay, but isn’t, is helping another classmate, undertaker Brian (the Troll), to stop his meddling parents interfering in his love life, by pretending to be in a relationship with him. Clonk! is an exceptional crime detective novel, with a fusion of mystery and dark comedy. The clever juxtapositioning of dark and comedic elements will keep readers thoroughly engaged. Kev Dixit is an endearing crime detective, and the supporting, eccentric cast, adds to the comedic charm. Clonk! captures the essence of lifelong friendships, and the camaraderie and banter amongst the friends brings a sense of warmth and familiarity to the characters. Spanning multiple timelines, the plot unfolds slowly, keeping readers guessing to the very end. Clonk! offers a refreshing and entertaining take on the detective genre. If you’re a fan of detective stories and enjoy dark humor, you will love this book. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: Clonk! captures the essence of lifelong friendships, while delivering a satisfying and unforgettable mystery. ​ Purchase here

< Back Carter Fielding Murder in the Tea Leaves: A Blake Sisters Travel Mystery--Book 2 Monkey mayhem and murder mystery, from author Carter Fielding Finley Blake, a freelance travel writer from Manhattan, is asked by a high-end travel magazine to write a piece about Sri Lanka. She snaps up the opportunity and travels out to Sri Lanka, where she meets up with her sister, Whitt, and is later joined by her boyfriend, Max, and her sister’s boyfriend David. On a visit to a tea factory, a dead body is found, and the sisters help the police identify the victim as a young woman residing at their hotel. As they start their adventure again and explore the local Sri Lankan wildlife, another dead body is found – and another familiar face from their expedition. The police think that the deaths are accidental, but Finley and Whitt notice a couple acting very strangely, and some rather odd monkey business. Will Finley and Whitt discover the truth before any more bodies are found? Murder in the Tea Leaves is a cosy mystery novel by Carter Fielding and the second instalment in the Blake Sisters Travel Mystery series. This is an excellent mystery, intertwined with a little romance, monkey business, and a travel adventure of a lifetime. Fielding is an excellent storyteller, who really knows how to plot a mystery and build suspense. I was gripped until the very end. I hadn’t read the first book in the series, and while there were some references to previous events, it did not spoil my enjoyment of the book, or my understanding of the story. With vivid descriptions of the beautiful Sri Lankan landscape, history, culture, and wildlife, I was transported to this idyllic paradise for a while. This is a perfect novel for fans of cosy mysteries, women’s fiction, and travel fiction. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An excellent mystery, intertwined with a little romance, monkey business and a travel adventure of a lifetime. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ ​ Purchase here

< Back Jeremy Bazley My China - Living Inside the Dragon A fascinating insight into China and Chinese culture, by author Jeremy Bazley. My China - Living inside the Dragon is a memoir by author Jeremy Bazley about his experiences and observations of living, working and travelling in China between 2002-2017. Bazley went to work in China in 2002, on behalf of a UK based entrepreneur, managing a joint venture with a state-controlled company making high quality cigarette paper for the huge Chinese market. During this fifteen-year period, Bazley visited twenty-four out of thirty-three regions, covering 73 per cent by region in all geographic areas of China. The book provides a unique western perspective on living in China, away from the more ‘isolated chattering classes, intelligencia and professional communities of the larger cities’ . Bazley built a home and life for himself in a country where he initially did not speak the language. He benefited from many privileges that came with his job, but he also made significant personal sacrifices, that impacted his marriage and children. Bazley’s work brought him in contact with all aspects of Chinese life and culture, from Beijing to the modern mega cities and the rural countryside. Bazley describes his early days in the city of Jiaxing, Zhejiang province in eastern China; his experience of China and ways of life, including Chinese drinking culture, food, leisure pursuits, business dealings, politics and education; his personal life, and his travels across the country. Bazley provides a non-judgmental commentary on China’s politics, economic growth and culture during a period of historic growth and evolution. During his time in China, Bazley was presented with various awards of recognition through the all-important ‘Friendship’, from the Jiaxing city and Zhejiang provincial governments in China. This is an enlightening, engaging and entertaining book about an English man’s life, work and travels across China. I particularly enjoyed Bazley’s extracts from detailed personal diary notes , which were heartfelt, funny and fascinating. The book will appeal to readers who are interested in China, and Chinese culture and politics, those who are considering working and living in China, and anyone interested in travel and adventure. China is an amazing country and is now firmly on my bucket list! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An enlightening, engaging and entertaining book about an English man’s life, work and travels across China. ​ Purchase here

< Back Joanne Griffin and Declan Foster Humology: How to put humans back at the heart of technology Griffin and Foster explore how to put humans into the heart of technology. Humology: How to Put Humans Back at the Heart of Technology, by authors Joanne Griffin and Declan Foster, explores the impact of technology on humans and society. The authors were motivated to write the book to urge others to design technology with humans in mind, not just for the sake of progress. The book is divided into six parts: The Shifting Landscape, Managing Change, Designing with Humans in Mind, Seeing Humans Through Five ‘I’s, Ethical Design and The Humology Approach. It considers the evolution of technology from the dawn of the digital age to the present day, the impact of technology on market dynamics and human behaviours. It examines the complexity of change and the various approaches taken to increase success, including change and project management. The authors seek to understand human psychology through a Five ‘I’s framework (Impatient, Impressionable, Inattentive, Inert, and Irrational) and they describe their human-first approach to solving challenges with technology, ‘The Humology Approach.’ Humology: How to Put Humans Back at the Heart of Technology is an informative and thought-provoking book about the impact of technology on our lives. Well written and thoroughly researched, the book examines the rapid advancement in technology and the challenges and opportunities this presents. The book is easy to read, engaging and very accessible. It is an essential resource for anyone interested in understanding the complex relationship between humans and technology. This book provides practical tools and solutions for those designing and building technological solutions. The book will appeal to readers involved in designing and implementing technology, anyone using technology, and anyone interested in the role technology plays in our lives. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An informative and thought-provoking book about the impact of technology in our lives. ​ Purchase here

< Back J Paul Rieger Jr The Big Comb Over A wild satirical comedy about one extended Baltimore family. It’s 2050 and forty-something Robbie is attempting another DNA test, following several botched results. He is keen to learn more about his ancestry after joining a book circle and learning more about his friends lineage. While contemplating his odd DNA results, Robbie reflects on his life and precious memories of his childhood spent with his brother, cousins, and uncles. He remembers deep, spiritual conversations with his late uncle, Tim Elders (Tim, Tim). Tim had a long history of drug abuse and mental health issues, and Robbie’s parents discouraged contact between them. Robbie recalls happy memories of Tim, who shared extraordinary stories of their long family history. Tim said he could trace the family tree back to biblical times, and claimed the family had special superpowers to help and heal others. Robbie thinks about his strange DNA results and remembers a time when he saved a girl from drowning, even though he could not swim himself. He wonders whether Tim’s stories were in fact true all along. As Robbie further ponders his life, he remembers a particularly special trip with his uncles and nephews to London, when his Uncle Stefan married a distant member of the British royal family. As the men and boys explored the sights and sounds of London, they found themselves in a few sticky situations with the police, radical environmental groups, and neo-Nazi gangs. The Big Comb Over is a satirical comedy by author J. P. Rieger about a Baltimore family, and the special bond between brothers, uncles, cousins, and nephews. Spanning multiple timelines and incorporating multiple perspectives, the book takes readers on a hilarious journey through the lives of one extended family. During one overseas trip, the family stumble through a series of misadventures, whereby readers will simultaneously scratch their heads and laugh-out-loud uncontrollably. If you are in the mood for a laugh-out-loud comedy that defies reason and revels in ridiculousness, this book is for you! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A hilarious satirical comedy about the special bond between brothers, uncles, cousins, and nephews, and their many misadventures. ​ Purchase here

< Back Wendy Hewlett Witches & Whisky Maggie Glass must face her past, to solve a horrific crime, by author Wendy Hewlett Magaidh Ghlais was orphaned at the age of eight, following the brutal murder of her parents, who were found burned at the stake on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle. Magaidh was found near the scene of the crime, but had no memory of her parent’s murder, or of her life before the tragic incident. Magaidh was brought up by her godmother and inherited her parents’ successful distillery business, Ghlais Whiskey, on their death. The business was run by her uncle Alastaire until Magaidh was able to take over. But Magaidh, still traumatised and grieving the horrific death of her parents, was uninterested in the business and allowed Alastaire to run it on her behalf. Magaidh changed her name to Maggie Glass to distance herself from the business, and joined the police service of Scotland. Eighteen years following the death of her parents, Detective Constable Maggie Glass is called out to the scene of a horrific crime. A young woman, Jamie Kenmore, is found burned at the stake on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle. Jamie’s murder follows a similar pattern and modus operandi to her parent’s murder, and the murder of many other powerful, intelligent and successful women, found in similar circumstances. Maggie is drafted in to support the investigation, in the hope that it might trigger her childhood memories and identify the killers. But as Maggie starts to investigate the crime, she discovers a connection with her parent’s business, her uncle Alastaire, the highest ranks of the police service, and the Lords of Edinburgh, a secret society of witch-hunters. Maggie must seek the help of a witch, to help her retrieve her childhood memories, and a reporter to help bring the murderers to justice. Witches & Whisky is a thrilling and gritty police drama and murder mystery novel, by author Wendy Hewlett. The book is a traditional murder mystery story, with interesting and memorable characters, and a unique and gripping plot. DC Maggie Glass is a fascinating protagonist, and I look forward to reading more about her life, loves, and detective work. Set against the magnificent and haunting Edinburgh backdrop, and inspired by Scottish history, this is a perfect book for readers of crime fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thrilling and gritty murder mystery novel, with a gripping plot, and a fascinating protagonist. ​ 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 Sherman E Ross Code Name: Juggernaut A relentless cat and mouse chase between a seasoned detective and a cold-bloodied assassin. The FBI is investigating the brutal murder of several high-profile Black men, believed to be targeted by white supremist gangs. When another prominent Black man, Reverend Williams, is shot dead in broad daylight, Special Agent Douglas Rabson is called in to crack the case. Rabson is a rising star in the bureau and a member of the Bureau’s elite Domestic Counter-terrorism Strike Force. A jew, whose maternal great-grandparents had been murdered by the Nazis during the Holocaust, Rabson is concerned by the disturbing resurgence of racism and anti-Semitism in the country. Rabson’s investigation leads him to Utah, and a compound named ‘JerUSAlem,’ the home of the Aryan Church of Yahweh the Creator, a violent, racist, white neo-Nazi supremacist gang. The gang believe they are ‘Aryan chosen people’ and are preparing to destroy the government in a race war. Forensic investigations link the William’s murder to other killings and gang member, Jacqueline 'Jack-L' Diane Lynch, is identified as the prime suspect. Jack-L , a twenty-nine-year-old ex-Marine and professional assassin is in a relationship with another gang member, Howard Brennan, a former USAF colonel and nuclear engineer. As Rabson's investigation continues , Brennan comes up with a bizarre plan to take down the government that wrecked his health and destroyed his career. Will Jack-L assist Brennan with his murderous plan? And will Rabson find her before she takes her next hit? Code Name: Juggernaut by Sherman E. Ross i s a gripping crime thriller and a chilling exploration of radicalisation, extremist ideology, and the threat of a nuclear race war. This is a thought-provoking and unsettling novel with graphic descriptions of racism, violence, and murder. Whilst the subject matter is disturbing, it is a timely reminder of the dangers of radicalisation and the urgent need to combat extremism and intolerance in all its forms. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A gripping, thought-provoking and provocative novel that raises important questions about humanity and society. ​ Purchase here

< Back Angela Williams Loving Me: After Abuse Loving yourself after abuse is the path to greater healing. Loving Me: After Abuse is a heart wrenching but inspiring memoir by Angela Williams that follows her journey towards healing and restoration, following years of childhood abuse. Williams discusses the horrific physical, emotional, and sexual abuse she experienced by her stepfather between the ages of three and seventeen. She describes the pain and trauma she experienced, and the significant impact of the abuse on all facets of her life. The abuse stole her innocence, and ravaged her confidence and self-respect, but it did not destroy her. Williams describes how the abuse made her stronger. Through professional counselling and listening to God, she was able to overcome the pain, trauma, and shame of the abuse, and learnt how to love herself. Divided into ten chapters, Williams describes her own personal journey towards loving herself, her life, and others. “ I’ve learned that a critical step on this healing journey is to learn to love myself in light of horrific circumstances that taught me to hate myself.” Williams uses her personal experience to help and support other survivors of abuse on their own healing journey. With guidance, such as maintaining good health, positive affirmations, sharing struggles, grounding techniques, seeking professional help, and connecting with a church, Williams hopes to break the cycle of abuse. Loving Me: After Abuse by Angela Williams is a deeply personal and moving memoir that chronicles Williams journey towards self-love after enduring many years of childhood abuse. This memoir was heart wrenching to read in places, as Williams discusses the abuse she experienced, and the impact this had on her life, including several attempted suicides. While the memoir deals with a difficult subject matter, it does have a positive message that will provide hope and healing to other survivors of childhood abuse. Loving Me: After Abuse is not just a memoir, but a source of inspiration and hope for anyone on their own journey towards healing. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A deeply personal and moving memoir, which will provide hope and healing to other survivors of childhood abuse. ​ Purchase here

< Back Kyli Santiago Healing Yesterday's Tears: An Inspiring Poetry Book about Overcoming Emotion and Discovering Love of Self A collection of heartfelt poems from author Kyli Santiago Healing Yesterday's Tears: An Inspiring Poetry Book about Overcoming Emotion and Discovering Love of Self is a collection of twenty-five poems by author Kyli Santiago. This is an inspiring and heartfelt collection of poems, based on Kyli’s own lived experience. The poems were written during the authors darkest moments and follow her personal journey from the depths of depression towards recovery. Kyli experienced significant trauma, as a child and throughout adulthood, and the cathartic process of writing poetry supported her healing process. This is an emotional, touching and deeply personal poetry collection, which deals with issues of abuse, rape and suicide. One cannot fail to be moved by this book – Kyli’s words are powerful and will remain with me for a very long time. The book will provide comfort and encouragement to anyone who has experienced trauma or depression, and hope that one can find true happiness and fulfil their potential, if they move forward in life, rather than look back. Kyli’s bio states she is a poet and performer, and I can imagine these poems would be even more impactful in the spoken word. The poems have a wonderful lyrical quality, and I would love to hear these poems performed on stage. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written collection of poems about one woman’s journey from the depths of depression towards recovery and healing. ​ Purchase here