30.3.24

Atom Inc


Atom Inc
By OC Heaton
Genre:-Science Fiction
Pages:-384
Blurb:-No one is above the Laws...
Seven years after its conception, LEAP is finally about to spell the end of global warming. For Uma and Ethan, this means personal and professional triumph-but quantum teleportation is an unwieldy beast, held back by those fighting to dominate the new world order.
 As LEAP's roll out slows to a trickle, a greater threat emerges when a stealth attack on US troops leaves thousands dead, With the finger of suspicion pointing to a LEAP copycat, Ethan and Uma are forced to condone a breach of the Laws to reverse the massacre.
 As LEAP's new rival continues to show their hand, Ethan is dragged back into a nightmare he thought he had escaped. One that may finally claim his sanity, and that pushes Uma to the limits of hers, to defeat an evil that no longer plays by the rules.
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My review:-This is Book Three in 'The Race Is On.' I've had the pleasure of reading and reviewing the last two books in the series, 'LEAP' and 'Green Ray.' Seven years on from LEAP, and LEAP is finally ready to spell the end of global warming, but there is a problem, a LEAP copycat. It's up to Uma and Ethan to accept a breach, so they could reverse the massacre on US troops. Uma and Ethan know they have to do something, but can they risk everything. What will happen to them if they go back? I love OC Heaton, the storylines and writing style is amazing. Because the story flows well, I found myself reading the book in one sitting, even though it was very late into the night/morning. I'm looking forward in seeing what OC has for us next, I know I won't be disappointed.


28.3.24

Captain Vlad and The Mary Rose



Captain Vlad and The Mary Rose
By Kate and Sam Cunningham
Genre:-Children's Fiction
Ages:-5-11 years
Pages:-40
Publisher:-Reading Riddle
Blurb:-King Henry V111's favourite ship, the Mary Rose, is sailing to Portsmouth to stop a French invasion. This should be the easy part of the journey, but for Captain Vlad flea and his crew of rats, the humans and their pets create dangers on every deck.
Uses vibrant detailed colour illustrations and first person narrative by Vlad flea to engage children.
・Shows historically accurate depictions of the life aboard a Tudor ship based on artefacts and research
・Introduces a key moment in England's maritime history
・Links to the National Curriculum, giving opportunities to learn about Tudor life and the impact of having more ships
・Supported with online resources for teachers and parents
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My Review:-Captain Vlad and the Mary Rose is a great book for young and old, I really enjoyed it. My granddaughter Emily and I read this book together, which we found easy to read. There are many characters throughout the book that you will love, Captain Vlad, second in command Master Roxton, Sluge the carpenter twins Gripe and Tripe, Hatch the dog, Grimbolde, and Captain Carew and his hawk, Oh and not forgetting the rats (you'll have to read it to find out about them. The Mary Rose was Henry V111's first ship that he built to create the 'Royal Navy.' You will learn a bit about HenryV111, battles, the Mary Rose and what happened to both HenryV111 and the Mary Rose. We loved all the colourful and details on each page that tells the story as you read. Even though you are learning as you read, it doesn't feel like that, it just feels that your reading a great funny story. I know I found it hard to find books that my boys would read, but I would say this is one that they would of been happy to read. We did enjoy the last page where you are asked if you can find objects in the picture, that is also in the book Emily gave it 5 stars.

26.3.24

Sanctuary of The Shadow



Sanctuary of The Shadow
By Aurora Ascher
Genre:-Epic Fantasy/Fantasy Romance
Pages:-400
Publisher:-Bantam Tranworld
Blurb:-A spell-binding and gripping enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance that is perfect for fans of Fourth Wing, Raven Kennedy, and Jennifer L Armentrout.
 Enter the circus at your own risk... and discover the greatest show on earth in this explosive  and darkly magical fantasy novel.
 For humans, the circus is a place filled with wonder and amazement. For Harrow, it's a place to hide from those who slaughtered her entire clan. Disguising her abilities as part of her act has kept her true identity safe for years. Until he arrives.
 A strange new attraction with no name, no memory of who-or even what-he is, let alone an explanation for his odd yet deadly powers. But beneath the layers of anger and isolation, one glimpse into his inky eyes reveals a soul that calls out to the loneliness in her own. And so, she chooses him.
 Harrow is drawn to the darkness, to her insatiable need to soothe the beast who threatens their very existence. But with every secret she unlocks from his past, another from hers is revealed-luring enemies who will stop at nothing to get their final revenge on Harrow. And she's afraid she's given them the perfect weapon against her because he's not what he seems.
 But maybe it's time they finally learn neither is she...
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My Review:-Sanctuary of The Shadow is the first book in a planned trilogy. Harrow has always been hiding who she really is, she pretends to be human. Harrow has used the Enchanter Salizar and his traveling 'Incredible Elemental Circus' to protect her from the world she's in, after all she is the last of her kind, an Elemental seer, whose source of power is The Water.  Raith has no memory of where he's from and who he is, he doesn't even know why he has came to the circus. Harrow sees something in Raith and is certain he's the one for her, but is he? That's all I'm saying as I don't want to give away any of the plot and spoil it for you. I love the storyline that the author, Aurora has wrote, as well as characters that are all well developed, but they have a bit of mystery as well. I had to read it in two sittings as I needed to know what the ending had instore. and it didn't disappoint me.

25.3.24

Specular - Read Along Q7


Specular: Read Along
By Calix Leigh-Reign

Q7-Ch 21:-Other than our own, do you believe there are any inhabited galaxies?

A7:-I totally believe there is more than us. I also believe that one day our planet and others will come together and meet

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Specular - Read Along Q6


Specular: Read Along
By Calix Leigh-Reign

Q6-Ch 20:-You wake up, surrounded by alien type creatures telling you the world isn't how you've always believed. How do you react?

A6:-I'm not to sure on this one. I think I would confused but depending on how they looked and explained things to me, would depend if I believed them

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Specular-Read Along Q5


Specular: Read Along
By Calix Leigh-Reign

Q5-Ch 16:-Would you take the V?

A5:-No, I wouldn't take it knowingly

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Jesse's Triumph-Read Along Q7

 

Jesse's Triumph: Read Along
By Amra Pajalic

Q7 Ch 13:-Would your family have been cool about a member of the opposite sex staying overnight in your room when you were that age?

A7:- My mam would of definitely won't allow it, as she found it hard when I stayed over when I was married, but my dad trusted me 100% so I don't think it would of been a problem

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Jesse's Triumph: Read Along Q6


Jesse's Triumph: Read Along
By Amra Pajalic

Q6-Ch 11:-The sassy saints are a diverse friendship group, tell us about your people?

A6:- A have a close group, we might not see here other as much as we would like, but if anything happens they would be there straight away

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Jesse's Triumph: Read Along Q5


Jesse's Triumph: Read Along
By Amra Pajalic

Q5-Ch 9:-Have you ever felt dumped by a friend?

A5:-Yes, in my 40's, it was a friend that I had known for more than ten years. I still don't know why.

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The Advocate's Betrayal



The Advocate's Betrayal
By Teresa Burrell
Genre:-Murder mystery
Pages:-321
Publisher:-Silent Thunder Publishing
Blurb:-The killer left nothing behind but a rosary, a kitchen knife, and a dead man, but the dead man is a friend of Sabre Orin Brown. When his unsuspecting wife is accused of the murder, Sabre will stop at nothing to uncover the truth, even if it means unearthing chilling secrets. From a Sam Diego jail to the shady Chicago nightlife, Sabre's search for the true killer forces her to face the question: What do you do when the ones you trust the most are the ones with the most to hide?
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My Review:-This is Book Two in 'The Advocate Series.' Sabre Orin Brown is an attorney who represents children that have came from a difficult background. But when a friend is murdered and his wife is accused of his murder, Sabre knows it's going to be up to her to find the truth behind the death. Only working within the juvenile count, Sabre knows its not going to be as straightforward as she would like it to be. Nothing is what it seems once Sabre digs deeper into the murder. This story is a legal based thriller with a strong female character, Sabre Orin Brown. I found it a strong storyline that had me invested from the very beginning. 

Alycats and the Sunday Scaries


Alycats and the Sunday Scaries
By Alysson Foti Bourque
Illustrated By:-Chiara Civati
Genre:-Children's Fiction
Ages:-4-8 years
Pages:-32
Publisher:-Pelican Publishing
Blurb:-It's Sunday, the day before the school week begins, and Alycat is nervous. She just knows that Monday is going to be the Mondayest Monday ever! On the playground, Alycat realizes she isn't the only one suffering from the Sunday Scaries It's hard to ride a bike. What if Kit falls? The treehouse is so high. Will Spotty make it to safety back down? The kittens band together to overcome their fears, but can they turn the Sunday Scaries into a Sunday Funday? The themes of the book in the Alycat Series all reflect a reliance on friendships, imagination, and creativity towards problem-solving. Fans of Alycat and her friends will enjoy spotting references to the kittens' daily adventures within these pages. Tips for a successful lemonade stand are included!
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My Review:-This book was read by granddaughter Emily and myself as part of her bedtime stories. I decided to let Emily give her review on this book, so here it is... Alycat isn't happy as tomorrow is Monday and that means school, but her mam tells her to go play with her friends and it will make her forget about it for a while. Alycat finds her friends playing on their bikes and they go on a bike ride, but Kit is left behind because she thinks she can't ride her bike. with the help of her friends Kit finds it easy to ride her bike and everyone is happy as they can ride bikes together. At the park the kittens find Spotty stuck at the top of ladders to the treehouse because he thinks he can't get down, but everyone helps him and he can really do it. Alycat asks everyone if they want to come to her house, because her mam has made cookies, but on the way they see Eleonor, she's got a lemonade stand but nobody has bought any of her lemonade, so the kittens help, they pick up the signs to tell everyone how much the lemonade is and Eleonor sale all her lemonade. All the kittens have cookies at Alycats house. I liked this book, it shows you with help from friends you can do it, if you try and it's not as bad as you think it is. 

21.3.24

The Seeds Of Murder



The Seeds Of Murder
By Dawn Treacher
Genre:-Cozy Whodunnit/Murder Mystery
Blurb:-Cedric Mallenson's wife Carolina is missing. Everyone believes she simply left Cedric because she didn't want to be a vicar's wife any longer. Now retired, and with time on his hands, Cedric's mind begins to wonder why. Why did Carolina leave? Did she leave because she wanted to, or had to? His thoughts prompt him to begin writing a detective novel, a cosy murder mystery. His daughter Scarlett encourages him to also take over the task of gardening, something Carolina used to do when they were together. Little does he realise that whilst he is writing his detective novel and doing the garden, he could be nurturing the seeds of murder. 
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20.3.24

Milestone



Milestone
By Heather Peck
Genre:-Crime Thriller
Pages:-284
Publisher:-Ormesby
Blub:-In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, there have be a number of significant milestones: dates when millions of people around the world can say 'I know where I was when...'
 Aelfwyth, born on the day Elizabeth 11 was crowned Queen, finds her life has shared many pivotal moments with such milestones, from the childhood moment when she heard of the death of Kennedy and met The Five Towns Flasher, through wars and the Chernobyl disaster to the culmination of her ex-husband's persecution coinciding with 9/11. Milestones follow a life through joys and disaters, from first love to last, through miscarriage and abuse to survival and the realisation, at the end, that what really matters is love and hope.
 ・This wide-ranging thriller tracks a life full of incident and mystery across a landscape of shattering world events.
・A gripping, yet life-affirming narrative that explores the dramas of the late 20th and early 2st centurys through the prism of one woman's experience of loss, violence, abuse and love.
・from the award-winning author of DCI Greg Geldard Norfolk Mystery series.
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My Review:-I've had the pleasure of reading and reviewing a few of Heather's books and she has never ever disappointed me and she has with this book either. In this book we follow the life of Aelfwyth and how her life has almost been mapped out by milestones within the life and world we live. Aelfwyth was born on 2 June 1953, the day Elizabeth 11 was crowned Queen and her mother always made a comment on how she missed the coronation because she was born on the same day. But things don't stop there, Aelfwyth  remembers many other times that things have happened, at ten-year-old she was walking home with her best friend Katy, and that's where she hit a man with her school bag. When she got home Sophy the babysitter told her about the flasher, just when she was going to say something there was a new flash on the telly to say President Kennedy had been shot. Through out the book we are reminded of different milestones that intertwine with Aelfwyh own personal life. I don't want to say much more and spoil it for others to read. There were things within the story that I remembered where I was at that time, especially the death of Princess Diana, I remember putting the telly on after making a cuppa and breakfast for my children, and it was all over the news, I remember the weather outside was grey and raining. It story wasn't as fast pace as some of Heather's other books, but that what I enjoyed about this book, it gave me time to think about where was I when this happened, Aelfwyth, is a strong woman and a character you can't help but love.

18.3.24

Orson The Great



Orson The Great
By Colm McElwain
Genre:-Children's Fiction/Magical Realism
Ages:-9-12 Years
Blurb:-From the writer of the ‘James Clyde’ book series comes a heart-warming, middle-grade story about a world-famous magician called ‘Orson the Great’
When ten-year-old Orson Whitlock is given a deck of cards by his father on Christmas Eve 1970, he falls in love with magic. This present kickstarts Orson’s meteoric rise to the top of his profession. 
By Christmas 1972, Orson is an established magician and performs to audiences in some of the most prestigious theatres around the world. 
His blissful life is soon turned upside down, however, when he discovers a family secret going back generations. Orson is dragged deeper into a world of secret societies, deception, strange disappearances and unrest. 
Events take a further unexpected turn when a brilliant, but feared, magician known as ‘Daxton the Destroyer’ challenges Orson to a contest for the most sought-after title in magic.
Teaming up with his assistant Agatha Anderson, Orson must put his skills to the test and confront his most formidable opponent yet – or face losing everything that he holds dear. 
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My Review:-Orson Whitlock was ten-year-old when his father gave him a deck of cards on Christmas Eve 1972. The magic starts from here with Orson, spending time at Christmas was only the beginning of things. Little does he know this is the start of something big.  Orson and his assistance Agatha Anderson just finished a performance, when Daxton the Destroyer tell him he's not as good as he is, he was going to win the competition. Daxton starts to follow Orson and Agatha around, watching him and Daxton will do anything he can to stop Orson winning and becoming the Grand Master. Orson known he has to learn as much as he can and Agatha is by his side to help him, and they both know that it will be devastating if Daxton wins. Orson discovers a family secret, Orson's father and Grandpa were the best magician when they were younger. This is a easy read, that will appeal to young readers.

The Secret Code of The Heartbeat Drum



The Secret Code of The Heartbeat Drum
By S.B Goncarova
Genre:-Childrens
Ages:-7-11 Years
Pages:-148
Publisher:-Clay Grouse Press
Blurb:-Meet So-So! She's got a BIG solo for tonight's concert and she wants to make it best ever! She's so focused on getting it ABSOLUTELY PERFECT that she wouldn't even notice if fireworks were shooting out of the toilet seat!
 But the, she finds out that ABSOLUTELY EVERY SINGLE PERSON IN HER ENTIRE EXTENDED FAMILY will be in the audience watching!
 Gulp! It makes So-So not want to play at the concert AT ALL! But then what would everyone think?
Can Aunt Abba and Caruso-their music-loving tuxedo cat come to the rescue and save the day? Or will it be Abba and Caruso who will be the ones who need saving? And will So-So find the courage to get up on stage and rock her solo?
 Join So-So and her unforgettable family on this hilarious and heartwarming adventure to discover the importance of determination, self-acceptance, cooperation, and the courage to believe in yourself.
 This chapter-book is a must-read that will keep kids reading (and giggling along the way!) Perfect for kids 7-11.
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My Review:-Sophia, known as So-So is doing a solo at her school and needs to practice, but Adam and Lina, her brother and sister are not making it easy. Everyone is meeting at the school, and I mean everyone, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, friends. Momma and Nana are busy preparing for a big party after the concert as it's the end of Ramaddan and the beginning of a new year. When she finds out that everyone is coming and meeting at the school, So-So starts to feel sick and starts to turn a green colour as Lina tells her.  Aunt Abba and Caruso are busy getting ready to go and watch So-So. Caruso's case is packed and ready to go in the motorcycle, than off they can go. Once packed and on the motorcycle, Abba and Caruso are off, but not going to be that simple, the road they need to take is blocked. Caruso has never been late for a concert, not once and he keeps reminding Abba. Back home So-So is starting to worry that Abba and Caruso are going to be late. Lina remembers that Abba had a chip implanted, they can check were Abba and Caruso are...They are in Outer Mongolia. I don't want to give anything else away, so you will need to read it yourself to find out what has to Abba and Caruso? Will So-So manage her solo at the school concert? This is a great book for children 7 and upwards, even adults will love it, I did.

13.3.24

One Eye Opened In That Other Place



One Eye Opened In That Other Place
By Christi Nogle
Genre:-Fiction/Fantasy/Collection & Anthologies
Pages:-224
Publisher:-Flame Tree Press
Blurb:-'One Eye Opened in That Other Place collects Christi Nogle's best weird and fantastical stories.
 The collection focuses on liminal spaces and the borders between places and states of mind. Though you might not find a traditional portal fantasy here, you will travel across thresholds and arrive at other places and times that are by turns disquieting, terrifying, and wonderful. Get up close with the local flora and fauna, peruse the weird art exhibits and special shows and consider taking a dip in the mossy, snail-filled tank of water. Make sure to bring your special glasses.
 The new collection will appeal to readers of Jeff VanderMeer, Charles Wilkinson, Steve Rasnic Tem, M. Rickert, Lynda e. Rucker and Stephen King's novel Lisey's Story.
  FLAME TREE PRESS is the imprint of long-standing Independent Flame Tree Publishing, dedicated to full-length original fiction in the horror and suspense, science fiction and fantasy. The list brings together fantastic new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Learn more about Flame Tress Press at www.flametreepress.com and connect on social media @FlameTreePress
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Instagram:-@christinogle @flametreepress @randomthingstours @paulalearmouth
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My Review:-This book is a collection of short stories. I would say that "Gingerbread," a story of a woman going back to the house she lived in when she was young with her parents, but with a twist, and "The Encausting," about a woman who's life changed because of her skin being like wax, she even left her job. This story reminded me of when my son was little and I had to put wet wraps on him because of his eczema being really bad and would peel.  If you're someone that loves short stories this is a book for you, the stories are shorten enough that you can pick up and put down whenever and wherever you are.

12.3.24

Jesse's Triumph: Read Along Q4


Jesse's Triumph: Read Along
By Amra Pajalic

Q4-Ch 6:-If you were going to a superhero themed party, who would you dress up as?

A4:-I think I would dress as Professor X, being in a wheelchair it would be the perfect one

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Jesse's Triumph: Read Along Q3



Jesse's Triumph: Read Along
By Amra Pajalic

Q3 Ch 5:- Have you ever written a story?

A3:-Yes, I remember writing stories a lot when I was younger, and then again in my 30's, but nothing since.

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Jesse's Triumph: Read Along Q2


Jesse's Triumph: Read Along
By Amra Pajalic

Q2-Ch 2:-How's your flirting game?

A2:- I don't have one

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Jesse's Triumph: Read Along Q1


Jesse's Triumph: Read Along
By Amra Pajalic

Q1-Ch 1:-Are you a Member of a library? What's the last book you borrowed?

A1:-Yes, I've been a member of the library since I was five-years-old. It's been about 3 months since I borrowed a book from the library and it was a book on 'Family Trees'

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Specular: Read Along Q4



Specular: Read Along
By Calix Leigh-Reign

Q4-Ch 11:-Carly and Adam's honeymoon destination sounds pretty spectacular. Where did you , or would you, honeymoon?

A4:-We got married at Gretna Green in Scotland and stayed in a log cabin looking out at Loch Lomond

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Specular:- Read Along Q3



Specular:- Read Along
By Calix Leigh-Reign

Q3-Ch7:- Carly and Val face a situation that no one should have to, but is Val's reaction extreme?

A3:-I don't think Val's reaction was extreme. We are all different and I think we act differently depending on the situation

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Specular:- Read Along Q2


Specular;- Read Along
By Calix Leigh-Reign

Q2-Ch4:-Have you ever had someone turn against you

A2:- Yes, a family member

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Specular-Read Along Q1



Specular:-Read Along
By Calix Leigh-Reign

Q1-Prologue- Have you ever woken up to discover you are being watched?

A1-Yes, my granddaughter often sits watching me when I'm asleep, and when I wake it does make me jump a bit

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Specular



Specular (Scion Saga Book 3)
By Calix Leigh-reign
Genre:-YA/Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Publisher:-Cayelle Publishing/Surge Teen
Blurb:-Carly abandons her innocence to progress into a mature young adult. Amidst a succession of changes, an unlikely ally will not only reveal the origin of the Descendants, but also the Iksha's. Believing the Iksha has been their worst enemy for a millennium, the Descendants discover a more lethal force. Specular unveils a realm of history, exposing secrets, confirming truths, breaking old bonds, and forming new ones.
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The Digital Adventures of Ava & Chip: Smart Home



The Digital Adventures of Ava & Chip: Smart Home
By Beverly Clarke
Genre:-Children's Fiction
Ages:-7-11 Year Olds
Pages:-26
Blurb:-Join sibling duo Ava and Chip in their adventures as they explore a SMART HOME and learning more about the wonderful world of tech. As they explore the fully connected home, they discover many digital surprises. Readers will gain understanding of the digital magic that is hidden within our homes, learning alongside Ava and Chip, as they enjoy the experience of a tech home.
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My Review:-Ava, Chip and mam are going to stay in a 'Smart House' for a few days. The family travel to the smart house by bus, which Ava and Chip use a 'Smart Card' and mam uses a app on her mobile phone. When they arrive at the house, mam show them that she needs to scan the 'QR Code' onto her mobile so they can get in. Going around the house Ava and Chip find loads of 'Smart' things from lights with different colours, a robot vacuum cleaner and an alarm that will go off if anyone gets into the house and sets the sensors off, while nobody is at home, it will also let mam know on her mobile. Ava and Chip enjoyed hearing and looking at all technology in and outside the house, even ordering a pizza through the app on mam's phone. This is a great book to help explain about 'Smart Technology' and how it can help both us and the environment. I liked how there was little questions at the bottom of the pages to ask children about.

The Nameless


The Nameless
By Ramsey Campbell
Genre:-Fiction/Horror
Pages:-256
Publisher:-Flame Tree Press
Blurb:-"Was that an indrawn breath, or a hiss of static? She heard someone dialling on another line..."
 Barbara Waugh's daughter Angela was knapped aged four, and when a disfigured body turned up that appears to be the end of the matter. Dealing with grief, Barbara establishes herself a literary agent. Years after that disappearance she receives a phone call from Angela.
 Convinced her daughter is alive, Barbara's investigations take her deep into London, New York, and Scotland. Was a brainwashing cult responsible for Angela's abduction? The more Barbara learns, the less she can trust, including those closest to her. Will she succumb to an evil ao murderous it might not be of human origin?
 FLAME TREE PRESS is the imprint of long-standing Independent Flame Tree Publishing, dedicated to full-length original fiction in the horror and suspense, science fiction and fantasy. The list brings together fantastic new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Learn more about Flame Tress Press at www.flametreepress.com and connect on social media @FlameTreePress
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My Review:-A mother, Barbara Waugh has lost the most important thing to her. her four-year-old daughter. A few years later Barbara has moved on slowly, but something happened that she wasn't expected and changes her whole life. Her phone has started to ring and when answered the only thing she hears is 'Mummy, help me.' Could this really be her daughter asking for her help or someone playing with her. Barbara knows she can't just leave it, she must try and investigate, but where does she start first. I don't want to say much more, you will have to find out yourself. Ramsay leaves us some questions that need answering, along with a few twists. This is well written, with a dark atmosphere.

11.3.24

Gratitude: Two Hundred Short Poems


Gratitude: Two Hundred Short Poems
By A. H. Morris
Genre:-Poetry/Adult Fiction (18+)
Pages:-214
Publisher:-BluePen
Content Rating:-PG-13+M
Blurb:-Travel through the human condition with succinctly worded verses that linger long in your mind even after you've closed the book. These poems offer a different perspective and a lovely way to view the world.
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My Review:-Here we have a mixture of two hundred short poems. I must say I do love books like this, that can be picked up and put down whenever you have a few minutes. I'm one of the old school that still writes letters and this is a book that will be used many time by myself, as I love to add a little something with my letters. With short poems full of emotions, simple to understand and beautifully wrote this is a book for anyone that loves poems that they can share.

Pink Camouflage



Pink Camouflage
By Gemma Morgan
Genre:-Memoir
Pages:-192
Publisher:-Luath Press Ltd
Blurb:-This is a fascinating insight into a macho, male-dominated world where reality is so grotesquely distorted from the public perception. Read it, believe it, because sometimes the truth is far more incredible than fiction. TERRY BUTCHER, Captain of England Football Team

Her husband found her by the roadside, delirious and choking on her own vomit. Gemma Morgan was 33, happily married with two young children, an outstanding army service record and a first-class international sporting career. But underneath she was a wreck, surviving on a cocktail of vodka, Valium and sleeping pills. Misogyny, sexual abuse and toxic masculinity had been the daily realities of her Army career long before being deployed unarmed and unsupported to the blood and mayhem of a war zone.

When Gemma gave birth to a baby girl, motherhood left her lost and alienated, a soldier who had deliberately suppressed her femininity with no idea how to cope. Together, these experiences triggered a mental health crisis that led her to become suicidal, battling PTSD, betrayed and abandoned by the institution to which she had devoted seven years of her life.

With the support of her family Gemma has been on a long, hard and bumpy road to recovery. This is her story in her own words. She has told it to inspire a fierce and urgent call for change. Gemma speaks with powerful vulnerability – you could hear a pin dropJODIE KIDD Model, Racing Driver and TV Personality

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My Review:-When I read the blurb for this book I knew it was a book for me, so close to home. Being a soldier isn't easy but being a female soldier is harder, a need to prove yourself is one of the hardest thing ever. Even though there is many women in the Arm Forces, there are still people out there that think it's not for women, but Gemma wanted to prove them wrong. Gemma wasn't someone to give up, she pushed herself more and more. Because of what she heard and seen, things got really bad for for her, even though she had PTSD, but nobody was willing to admit to it. This book is a story that should be read, not just by Armed Forces. It's hard to believe that even in the Armed Forces there are still men and women being over looked and left with no help. Gemma has put both good and bad into this book.

8.3.24

Mask of Deception



Mask of Deception
By Karen Furk
Genre:-Fantasy YA/Adult
Blurb:-'Not only eleven kings carry secrets-ancient artefacts do too.
Fifteen-year-old storm rider Haydan has never wanted the mask of the gods or the responsibilities that accompany it, but whether he likes it or not it’s his destiny. Now he’s discovering that unless he plays to his strengths and quickly he stands no chance as the threats to him and his soul family are growing. Rumours have always circulated about the dangerous dark gods, but now they’re showing interest in Haydan. As King Tallin’s masquerade ball approaches, excitement builds and Haydan finds himself trapped between Tallin’s magical games, a mysterious hidden adversary in the elven king’s court and feuding dark gods who want him and the mask at any cost. The only way Haydan will survive is if he places his trust in his feisty chosen one and misbehaving warrior and works with them to capture the realms connected to the mask. Can he figure out the clues and start claiming realms to protect everyone he cares about before it’s too late? Or will the dark gods take him prisoner?                                                                                                                                               Find out in Mask of Deception, the second instalment in the Mask Chronicles                                                               Instagram:-@karenfurkauthor @lovebookstours @paulalearmouth #LBTCrew                                                     X(Twitter):-@karenfurkauthor @KellyALacey @lovebookstours @mamof9 #LBTC


The Giveaway Girl


The Giveaway Girl
By Chrissie Bradshaw
Genre:-Saga/Romance
Blurb:-Joy’s world is turned upside down when she discovers she was given away as a newborn. She runs away from her home in Australia to go in search of her birth family in Northumberland. Coming face-to-face with the Kelly family ignites Joy’s envy of her sister, Rose, and she plunges into a tailspin of mistakes and heartache. Joy’s trouble-strewn journey is set in the sixties, a time of freedom and promise. She sees that popular culture and attitudes are changing, yet she still hides the shame of being the giveaway girl. What will it take for her to accept the events of the past, come to understand the meaning of love and discover her true worth?                                                                        Instagram:-@chrissie-bradshaw_author @lovebookstours @paulalearmouth #LBTCrew  #FamilySaga                         X(Twitter(:-@chrissiebee @KellyALacey @lovebookstours @mamof9 #LBTCrew #FamilySaga













Gaia's Revenge: Earth Chronicles Series


Gaia's Revenge: Earth Chronicles Series
By J.A. Browne
Genre:-Children/YA Coming of Age Fantasy
Pages:-350
Blurb:-Gaia's Revenge: The epic coming of age fantasy continues. unearth the magic of nature and fail in love in love with Hannah, Alpha and the Ffens as they battle to save the Mother of Nature. Perfect for fans of The Girl of Ink and Stars, Harry Potter and His Dark Materials. "The battle with the Furies is epic!" "A stunning follow on."
 "Have we weakened Gaia so much that she has become a target for annihilation? My heart suddenly feels twice its weight...For the first time ever, I hate the fact that I am human.
 Gaia, the Mother of All Nature has been poisoned. Her fevers are wreaking havoc and mass destruction across the worlds.
Hannah has discovered a destiny she knew nothing about. A sacred bloodline under threat.
 Now, she'll discover a world and a heritage she could never have imagined. As the heiress to Gaia and with growing power it falls to her and the Elementals, Constance, Jack and Harriet to save Gaia and all of life itself. But Hannah has a terrifying realisation: Gaia will stop at nothing to get her revenge...
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My Review:-This is Book Two in 'Earth Chronicles Series'. I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing Book One as well, 'Hannah and The Hollow Tree.' In this book we get to meet some new characters, along with the charters we met in Book One and have became friends with (well some of them). In this book there in a lot of emphasis on climate change, which is something that we are all trying to work on in the real world. Hannah has came to terms with her bloodline and she knows to save Gaia, she has to do all she can, which isn't going to be easy, but her powers are becoming stronger and with the help of her friends she might just do it. But you will have to read it yourself to find out. 
 

Hannah And The Hollow Tree: Earth Chronicles


Hannah And The Hollow Tree: Earth Chronicles
By J.A. Browne
Genre:-Children/YA Coming of Age Fantasy
Pages:-274
Blurb:-Hannah and the Hollow Tree: Begin the epic coming of Age Fantasy and discover the nature of magic. Perfect for fans The Girl of Ink and Stars, The Last Bear and Snow Foal. One for every eco-warrior out there.
 "A phenomenal book for all ages-grown up kids as well I can't recommend reading it enough"
"I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves nature!"
 What if you were given a choice... to save the Mother of All Nature... or Become Her?
 Awoken in the middle of the night by an alarming phone call, Hannah and her mum, Caroline rush to the bedside of Eleanor, Hannah's estranged Grandmother. One of them has been lying to Hannah and one has been keeping a magical, but dangerous secret. With deadly forces aligning to destroy the Mother of All Nature's bloodline, Hannah is rushed to the safety of the Hollow Tree. But will she make it in time. And can a mysterious silverback fox keep her alive long enough to save not just the world we  know... but the one we don't...
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My Review:-This is Book One of the Coming of Age Fantasy Series 'Earth Chronicles'. The cover is what got me interested before I read the blurb for it. Hannah is enjoying being a normal teenager, but all the can change in a blink of a eye. After being woken in the middle of the night by her Mum, Caroline, Hannah and her mum must get to her grandmother's bedside. It's time for Hannah to learn about her family history and about her bloodline. Hannah can't believe what she is being told, why has she never heard of any of this before, why has it all been hidden from her. If you love  magical creatures, beasts, and a silver fox this is the book for you. This is a well written book that pulled me in from the beginning and leaving me wanting more. I loved the plot along with a few twists.

Save Me From The Waves



Save Me From The Waves
By Jessica Hepburn
Genre:-Memoirs/Autobiography/Sport/True stories of Heroism, endurance & survival
Pages:-360
Publisher:-Aurum
Blurb:-Save me from the Waves is a journey of survival from sea to summit, all while the author listens to every single track of Britain's beloved radio show, Desert Island Discs. A unique blend of the drama of the 'Sea to Summit' coupled with the wisdom of over 3,000 Desert Island Discs castaways. This book is a tribute to the power of perseverance, courage, and the redemptive power of music, encouraging passion, endurance and personal growth. Discover the true meaning of success through the inspiring journey of an unlikely athlete, who navigates the challenges of life, love and loss on becoming the first woman ever to complete the 'Sea to Summit challenge'
 An Adventure Story-with a difference
 Jessica Hepburn is an unlikely athlete-she was labelled the 'arty' not the 'sporty' one in school. She hates exercise and believes the only reason to do it is for food, booze and box-sets on the sofa. However, in her forties, following a succession of hard and sad life experiences she started to try and exercise her way out of heartbreak. She has now become one of the world's most extraordinary endurance athletes. The first and only woman currently) on the planet to have completed the 'Sea, Street, Summit Challenge'-which is to swim the English Chanel, run the London Marathon and climb Mount Everest (which she calls Chomolungma-the mountain's original Sherpa name). And possibly the only woman (although this can't be officially certified) to have listened to eighty years and over 3,000 episodes of her favourite radio programme-Desert Island Discs.
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My Review:-When Jessica Hepburn hits 40 years old she wants to change. At school she believed the only reason to exercise was for food, booze and box-sets on the sofa. Jessica is the only woman that has completed the "Pond to Peak Challenge" which is swim the English Chanel, run the London Marathon and climb Mount Everest (known to her as Chomolungmo), but it was hard work to get there. There has been one thing that has been with her through everything and that's music and Desert Island Discs. Jessica has added her music lists throughout the book, Childhood Song List, Songs of Home, (If you still believe in) Love Songs, Sad Songs, Happy Songs, Songs of Faith & Survival, Songs to Die To, along with Endnotes. This is a book of what you can achieve if you put you body and mind to it.

Dark Clouds Bring Waters


Dark Clouds Bring Waters
By R Ridley
Genre:-Contemporary/Literary Fiction
Pages:-144
Blurb:-We all have questions for the dead...
Comedy writer Luke Jessop's life is in stasis. He hasn't written a word since his wife, Billie, died almost three years ago and on finding a pile of old letters from her ex, Adam, he has begun to wonder how well he really knew her. Embarking on a pilgrimage to Italy, Luke determines to piece together the full story about his wild and sometimes secretive love. But with Adam refusing to answer his questions and a flame-haired hotel guest threatening his fragile calm, can Luke finally face the truths of the past and learn to live again?
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My Review:-When comedy writer Luke Jessop's wife, Billie died it hasn't been easy, even though it's been three years.  Even after Billie's chemotherapy she still looked beautiful. Sitting remembering all the good times, remembering how she would text from the plane before take off, So when Luke comes across some letters belonging to his late wife from her ex-lover, Adam, he wasn't sure what to think. Did Luke really know his wife...There was only one way to find out, and that was to speak Adam himself. But why would Adam not say anything, was he hidden something.  Do we really know the person that we have gave so many years. Bereavement is a hard thing to come to terms with and except, and Luke takes on that journey. This is a well written book, that I did find enjoyable

Miss Cat


Miss Cat: The Case of The Curious Canary
By Jean-Luc Fromental & Joёl Joliver
Genre:-Children's Fiction
Age:-7-10 years
Pages:-64
Publisher:-Thames and Hudson
Blurb:-This first book in an irresistible new graphic novel series for young readers, featuring a cool detective dressed in her cat-ear hoodie. Meet Miss Cat, a private eye with ears on her hat and a nose for mystery!
 Mr Titula, a sad old man, comes to see Miss Cat at the old dairy shop she uses as an office. Someone has kidnapped his canary, Harry, his pride and joy! he begs the young detective to find him. So, Miss Cat sets on the trail of Harry and a strange couple, the sultry Doris and the aggressive Jean-Pol, a talking dog. What could they be trying to hide? And could the senile Titula and the dashing Titus the Magnificent, a magician with extraordinary powers, be the same person?
 Miss Cat who thinks she's a cat and hides underneath a large hoodie with cat ears, is a perfect new heroine to encourage children to read. With a Scandi0noir mood, Joelle Joliver's dynamic illustrations and Jean-Luc Fromnetal's thrilling plot and irresistible dialogues whisk young, readers through Miss Cat's crime-solving adventures!
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My Review:-Miss Cat: The Case of The Curious Canary is set out like a book and a comic together. My granddaughter, Emily and myself read this book together. Miss Cat runs a detective agency at 29 Thirty Street, which smells of stinky milk. She gets a visit from Mixus Maximus who wants Miss Cat to find his pet canary, Harry, it was a present off his daughter-in-law Doris. Miss Cat goes to visit Doris but doesn't get a friendly welcome. At the offices of Daily Dotti, Miss Cat asks her friend Griselda, what she knew about Mixus the Magnificent. It's not long before Miss Cat is inside Mixus's home looking around when she hears him come in. then a knock at the door, it's Doris and Wolfgang her dog. That's all I'll tell you, you will have to read the book to find out what happens next. Even though I though a few things about the story, it all comes together at the end of the book. Emily and I really enjoyed this book, it's great for all ages.