'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.

'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. 

'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.

'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.

'Sketches of Spain'

After reading the first book in the series by DL Osment, I just had to get the second instalment "Sketches of Spain". The erotically-charged romance of Lucy Major and Miguel Velasquez continues. I can't say too much about the story without injecting spoilers but things start happening right from the first chapter, as the story delves into their past, present and future. The characters Lucy and Miguel are so meant to be together. They are so well developed you feel every emotion they are feeling throughout the story. It appears Miguel has never forgotten about Lucy just the same as she hasn't forgotten about him. Lucy is a very mysterious character- not only to herself, but to those she is close to. The story moves rapidly along and while the ending may be projected from early on, the getting there certainly keeps your interest. Very impressed with this author and will look for other offerings from her. Give this a try - I think you will enjoy it.

'Mom, Why Do My Farts Stink?'

First a Question - Then a Mom answer - And then a science answer. Both are perfect :) Mom, Why Do My Farts Stink? by Carol Mona is a definite keeper as your child grows. Parents/teachers will have fun reading this book to their children, as it provides helpful, funny answers to some of the most awkward questions children can ask. Parents will gain a lot from the questions Carol has laid out here, as the friendly language will help parents and children learn about science together. They  will learn to think like a scientist as they engage in fun conversations. Put simply - I loved it :D

'Becoming One'

Previously known as multiple personality disorder, Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is one of the most controversial psychiatric disorders, with no clear consensus regarding its diagnosis or treatment. Author Sarah E. Olson reveals her past struggles and explains how she was able to push past them and take back her life. She puts forward a really inspiring story and is a beacon of hope to anyone in a similar situation. Much has changed in the treatment of DID in the past number of decades so I would highly recommend this to anyone who wants to know what it is like to have DID. Thank you Sarah for taking the time to write it, and I look forward to your follow-up book: Living Purposefully with Dissociative Identity Disorder.

'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.

'Becoming Moon'

I started reading 'Becoming Moon' by Craig A. Hart, at the suggestion of a friend in my book club. She had just finished the novel, and said I would enjoy it. But I never expected that it would move me so much. Some read books for the pleasure of seeing their life reflected in the pages. Others, like me, prefer reading books to experience a piece of life I'd otherwise have never known. I would suggest to any prospective readers that you do not read any detailed reviews; the less you known about this story, the better off you are. All I will say is that it's a well-written, intellectual read with genuine three-dimensional characters & I can't wait for my other friends to read this one so we can all talk about it!

'Just a Few Inches'

I will admit: I'm unfamiliar with this particular genre = X-files meets Bridget Jones meets The Incredible Shrinking Woman. But a nice change none the less. Author Tara St. Pierre gives you a quirky and fun read in 'Just a Few Inches'. Most women I know have enough guilt and pressure to fit into new cloths so this book has a positive body message for women and girls alike. I think the author needs to develop the characters' interactions more, but all in all an enjoyable read.

'Chasing Butterflies'

I'm a new fan of Josephine Brierley :) Despite the gloomy subject of cancer, this story is a heart-warming, uplifting tale. Chasing Butterflies tells the story of Lorilei Williams, who discovers she has breast cancer - but also discovers a new life. I think the author captured the imagery of her emotions perfectly. The story is also filled with characters that evolve and grow. If you believe in love or if your heart has ever been broken, you'll find yourself in the pages of this book....Definitely looking forward to anything else Jo writes.

'It's Never Too Late'

This is not an entertaining book - It's inspirational! An amazing story from Chris and Debbie Atkinson who absolutely practice what they preach. Everyone is looking for some magic trick that will allow them to be happy and successful. We all believe that some "quick fix" will guide us effortlessly through life into a blissful well-being. Life is not so simple, but it's never too late to work for the life you want. The information presented here gets you thinking in the right direction and is life transforming if one applies it to their life. I have made a conscious decision to include some of the information into my daily routine. The principles in this book are simple to understand and easy to implement. The biggest thing I got out of it, was I was forced to look at the people I was associating with. Well worth the investment.