"Harder Yet!"

Police Academy meets Cops in this stand-alone novel that is well worth the read. I enjoyed the characters, especially Ed and Harry. Could any of them find their way in a world of power struggles? I couldn’t stop turning pages wondering what was next for them. Though there was a trial and tribulation in the book it was obvious the characters cared enough about each other to overcome them. The authors brought so many insights. The writing is powerful, humorous at times and gripping at others. 

"The Worst Journey In The World"

Set during World War 2, this story is narrated by George, who is on a mission to protect supply boats during the height of the war. There is so much here; suspense, mystery, love, heroism and most of all a historical insight to a very dark time in our history! We get to see the day-to-day living in a terrible place during the war at that time. The author who did an excellent job with this read. It made me want to explore history more and gave me a new perspective on WW2. Excellent and well written. 

'Hidden in the Dark'

An intense and suspenseful story about family secrets, "Hidden in the Dark" by Rashell Lashbrook had me hooked from the first chapter. I couldn't put it down if I tried! The book was well written, full of excitement, suspense, hatred and love. She captures every feeling imaginable in this book. One of the standouts for me is the detail the Rashell has put into the characters. She is on her way to becoming a notable author. Looking forward to reading her upcoming publications.

'Truth From the Bathroom'

Full of wisdom, goodness, and compassion for those who know the agony and shame of domestic violence.  I think people don't understand being in a abusive relationship that's more verbal. This treasure of a book invites the reader into understanding of the view of men that if embraced would radically alter how victims address this heartache. This is a must-read book. If you or some one you know are or may be in an abusive relationship or even just getting out of one this book is for you. This book has left an indelible mark on myself and my partner. Never again will I assume men don't suffer domestic abuse.

'6.4 Squared'

There are only a handful of authors in the world who I would read every word they’ve ever written. John Walsh is one of those. With Irish wit and worldly knowledge, John has put together a wonderfully warm and humourous collection of reflective poems. Several of the poems from John's rich understanding and wisdom about life made me stop, think, reread and really absorb what he said. With a masterful command of verse and a bullish view of life, this book is both special and thought provoking. A true treasure to read and a book that you will pick up again and again and again and.....

'Borrowed Wings'

The sequel to the award winning 'Skylark', Borrowed Wings continues where Skylark left off. Billie must find her way forward and Jack must find his way back. But this time the secondary characters from the first book get into the spotlight much more, and that is a good thing. The great thing is this is a book that pretty much everyone can (and will) enjoy. It is funny, tender, thoughtful and thought-provoking - as the layered meanings run deep in this book. This isn't Fargo. It is something more tender and beautiful. It is a book you will think about long after you close the cover. 

'Granite Grit'

Granite Grit by Lee Cooper is a superb story, that is both fast and engaging. The plot was powerful and utterly gripping; filled with highs and lows, laughter and tears. The story of a boxer named Joe who falls into the seedie world of underground bare knuckle fighting. Not being familiar with this topic, reading this book allowed me an amazing insight to the world of boxing. Along the way we are introduced to a lot of characters but not once did I get confused whilst reading as they all connect well with one another. So thank you Lee for this fabulous book which gave me many hours of reading pleasure.

'Underwater'

I have to say I've never read anything quite like Underwater by Marisa Reichardt. There’s something so undeniably perfect about this book that I found myself reading it into the early hours of the morning. When I finally finished this book, I wanted to hug Marisa and thank her for writing this book. By reading this, the author allows us to better understand what is the real life experience for so many who feel trapped and have suffered in silence, not allowing themselves to be free of a certain burden. This is a powerful book that I believe will serve as a great conversation piece. Thanks to Macmillan Books for sending me a copy of this book! loved it.

'Seven Steps to Freedom'

Even if you want to change something, the first thing you should do is to say yes to the current situation. 'Seven Steps to Freedom' by Darrell Mowat maybe a fast and simple read but don't let that fool you! It's packed full of great thought-provoking quotes that will only better your life. I love how simple this book makes everything. The first half contains short stories, while the second half is a discussion for self-development. This is the perfect antidote if you are ever struggling to know your life and emotions.

'The Missing Husband'

The Missing Husband by Amanda Brooke is a spectacularly sneaky story about a husbands mysterious disappearance? In the first few chapters, I was thinking, "This is one of those rare novels that's totally engrossing, cleverly plotted and I'm eager to find out what happens next."  In a nutshell, this is a psychological thriller that keeps you guessing. But it's not only a thriller, the book is also about the unconventional truths in love and marriage.

'Nothing'

Nothing by Linda Naseem is, as the author says herself "unfortunately, inspired by experience". It tells the "fictional" story of Annie, who discovers her husband is a drug addict. It was a very interesting story highlighting the affects on a relationship due to drug abuse. Some of the writing was convoluted and hard to get through but nonetheless worth the effort. A raw story filled with tragedy, violence and hope. These kind of stories stir up just about every emotion possible. So thank you Linda for sharing a story that many of us are not strong enough to even articulate aloud.

'King Pawn'

King Pawn is an intense portrayal of what's going on in Syria. Raj Nellooli’s gripping novel tells of revenge and honour in the complex setting of an oversimplified war. This story is fiction, but it's set in today’s world, and follows a man named Robert Frost who goes under cover in Syria. If you're tempted to think the current Syrian crisis is simple, Nellooli's unflinching novel should wake you up to the messy, heartbreaking reality of it all. The author has done a fantastic job of telling this gripping story that kept me on the edge of my seat with my chest clenched. The only word of warning I would give, set some time aside, because once you start, you won’t stop until you're finished. 

'Violet Chain'

People lie and manipulate, I simply don't know how I would react if I found my fiancé with another person at our engagement party!!! But things change for Violet when Chain comes into her life. The dual narrative tells the story from the alternating POVs of Violet and Chain. I'm not going to go into much detail, as I don't want to ruin anything. I will just say: within the first few pages of Chain being introduced, you'll develop a certain feeling towards him. The characters might seem stereotypical and one-dimensional to begin with, but as the story progresses we begin to see just how complex they really are. Absolutely delightful, well written, sensual, and characters you won’t forget. Janelle Kahele’s Violet Chain is a book not to be missed.

'Expecting'

After two miscarriages, Laurie and Alan are expecting - through IVF. But everything gets turned upside down when their doctor tells Laurie she was accidentally impregnated from a donor other than her husband! They must now face reality and their new future. You could easily see this being a movie. Expecting by Ann Lewis Hamilton is told with humour and substance that will leave you thinking of it long after you close the book. I thought it was going to be a bit fluffy but the author manages to pack in a lot of emotions without overdoing it. Ann's book was a wonderful read that I expect to rise on the best-sellers list.

'Leaving Normal'

Not your "normal" memoir :P Leaving Normal: Adventures in Gender by Rae Theodore will challenge you to examine your ideas about gender & society. Small anecdotes and memories make up this easy to read memoir dealing with a complex subject. Self-identity is so important for your peace of mind and it can be extremely difficult when society wont accept your identity. This book is an insight into the soul of woman who gives a tremendously moving and funny account of a bitter-sweet life. At about 120 pages, its well worth your time.

'Erasing Ramona'

I fell in love with Peggy's writing with her first book Clementine's Shadow (if you haven't read it, pick it up!). She has an uncanny way of pulling you into stories. Her description of the scenes, characters and their emotions are so well written that you are immediately invested in them. Her latest novel 'Erasing Ramona' begins with a murder scene unlike any you've ever imagined - or would want to - dead bodies and a loss of memory cause the main character Miranda, to go on the run. From there the author spins a gripping tale whose heroes and villains are equally unpredictable, and where the past is never to far behind. I'm delighted to have discovered Peggy, and hope she has more ideas for more "gripping reads".

'My Beautiful Flower'

Jean Murray has written an inspirational memoir about life with depression and her daughter's learning difficulties. 'My Beautiful Flower' is both uplifting and somber at the same time. What most distinguishes this book, however, is Jean's affection for her daughter. The reader will recognizes that people with disabilities have the same human desires and needs as the rest of us do - like respect, shelter, education, love etc. No matter how strong our personality is, it is inevitable to feel down. But depression can ruin your life by making you less productive and withdrawn. We should all read books on personality development and coping with depression while we still have the time to read. I heartily thank Jean for allowing me a glimpse into her life :)