This collection of short stories and vignettes is at once sad, humorous, and inspiring, set against the backdrop of the Diaspora. Woven from the recollections and experiences of childhood in a society divided by religion, expectations, despair, and hope, it tells the tales of those who crossed the Lagan in search of a better life. This canvas captures the fleeting nature of the Church's influence and control, and the contempt for its hypocrisy.
Join Elizabeth Grevstad-Mork on a captivating journey through the heart of Bangladesh in Cyclus - 12 Months in Bangladesh. This illuminating memoir unravels the rich tapestry of Bangladesh's landscapes, cultures and traditions over the course of a year. From the vibrant festivities of Baishakh to the serene winters of Magh, each chapter explores the unique aspects of life in different parts of Bangladesh. Grevstad-Mork masterfully interweaves personal anecdotes with vivid descriptions, bringing to life the beauty and complexity of this South Asian nation. As the seasons change, so do the stories, painting a picture of a country full of contrast and colour. Experience the bustle of Dhaka's streets, the tranquillity of rural villages and the spiritual solemnity of ancient temples. More than a travel memoir, Cyclus is a profound reflection on the human spirit, resilience and the universal search for meaning in the world's endless cycles. This book is a must read for anyone who longs to understand the soul of Bangladesh and the rhythm of life that pulses through its land and people.
Forced Circumstances tells the story of a young 22-year old British woman living in 1960s Iran, bringing together a fragmented family amidst the turmoil of the Shah's rule. Married to an Iranian man with two children from a previous marriage, our bold protagonist takes on the complex role of stepmother to kids unaccustomed to affection or stability. Navigating traditions requiring full body coverings and forbidding women to venture out alone, she faces intense challenges as a conspicuous foreigner subject to contempt and harassment. Did she quietly harbour regrets over tying her fate to such complications instead of a more comfortable English life? Would the eruption of Ayatollah Khomeini and Iran's Islamic Revolution provide the leverage needed to hold their Jewish family together? Or drive them further toward resentment and dysfunction in a now-perilous homeland? Relating this family's ambitions, sacrifices, and conflicts across clashing societal upheavals, the memoir serves up lessons in perseverance and perspective. It illuminates the timeless experiences that unfold when different cultures combine under a single roof - and what it truly takes to transform that awkward juxtaposition into a nurturing sense of home.
Do you really know your parents? We all think we do but never consider them as persons before parenthood descended. And do they know you? In Talent Show an introverted father becomes talkative and lifts the curtain on who his wife was before she was a mother, who she became after, and who each of his children were in his eyes. He reveals a few secrets of his own and describes life in a household of ten children as a perpetual talent show. Everyone is always anxious to perform, to shine and to receive applause, even if they don't know what their talent is. Life is a rehearsal for the family talent shows, or is it the other way around? The children get their bit in as they reply with their own versions and reveal who they are. One thing is clear- there is no shared version of a family's life. Everyone has their own and pain is often hidden in the busyness of family life until family members speak honestly.
Justin Ebberson was 26 years old and came from a working-class family in Bolton. In 1958 Justin had two strokes of luck, three if you include Jean Baxter, a girl that he fell in love with. The first stroke of luck came in the form of a house that was left to him on Roa Island, near Barrow-in-Furness and the second was a job that fell in his lap with the only firm on the island, Isherwood & Son, Photo-Etching Specialists. Isherwood & Son introduced Justin to Jean Baxter, the love of his life, and a womanising Deputy Managing Director in the form of Commander RN (Rtd) Rupert Isherwood who brought emotional chaos into their lives, the outcome of which could not be foreseen. Justin constantly struggled to stay in control of events but was it all worth it? Only time would tell.
Transport yourself to a country beyond the boundaries of civilization, where civil war rages and armed gangs rule the streets. This is a place of absolute poverty and despair, where the outermost provincial city lies in ruins, a desolate and barren city that resembles hell itself. On a frosty winter morning, Apollo is forced to leave his home by his wife, wandering the empty streets of the devastated city, cold and hungry. Seeking solace in his memories, Apollo recounts a series of surreal and diverse episodes, including a great love story, scenes of bizarre funerals, and countless unbelievable stories that could only have occurred in this forsaken city. Amidst the harshness of this day, Apollo experiences two strange encounters that will change his life forever. The first is a chance meeting with a dog, also abandoned and alone on the streets, who will ultimately save Apollo from certain death. Apollo names the dog Angel and they embark on a journey together. The second encounter is even more profound, as Apollo meets Esma, a person living on the margins of society, excluded from family and community. Esma's story of humiliation, life in a totalitarian empire, and years spent in psychiatric facilities leaves a deep and lasting impression on Apollo, causing him to question everything he once believed. This captivating and haunting tale offers a poignant commentary on the human condition and the power of hope in the midst of darkness. Written with exquisite prose and a deep understanding of the human experience, it is a story that will stay with you long after the final page is turned.
Two millennia ago, a thief named Levi finds himself crucified alongside his companion and a holy man. As he endures the agonizing crucifixion, he resigns himself to the imminent embrace of death. Yet, the unknown realm beyond life remains a mystery he's unprepared for. Venture into the afterlife with Levi as he embarks on an astonishing odyssey through the fabric of space and time, venturing into dimensions attainable only in a bodiless existence. Unravel the enigmatic journey of Levi in a world where death is just the beginning.
This compassionate novel depicts the disrupted lives of Greta and her daughter Lily, forced to abruptly relocate due to the unendurable violent behaviour of Pat, Greta's volatile, alcoholic husband. Their move lands mother and daughter in the rural Australian town of Woodshine - a new beginning offering hope after trauma's storm. Yet forward is the only direction, Lily just five years old. A tranquil childhood shattered, she grapples beyond her years while still cradling stuffed toys at bedtime, seeking security. Greta battles exhaustion from hypervigilance, longing to banish bad dreams. Their refuge in Woodshine brings peace step by step - a gentle landlord, good-hearted townsfolk and possibility breathing optimism into each new day. As Lily plays in grassy meadows under boundless skies, glimmers emerge that broken spirits can mend. While the indelible scars remain, maybe here they can continue writing their story without fear at the helm. Just maybe this move marks the start of budding happiness taking root for not just survival - but life thriving in the sunshine.
The She Team is back! Mags the dog and the four cats Smig, Ebi, Trig, and Roisín are once again using their superpowers to help others, beginning with Fran, the badger and her babies and later helping out the humans in their family when a very unusual event occurs. A deadly virus has spread all over the world, causing serious disease and confining everybody to their homes for months at a time. The Mammy and Daddy have to work from home and mind their three boys - baby Éanna, eight-year-old Eoghan, and ten-year-old old Diarmuid. Tempers become frayed and the mischievous boys cause a few problems without meaning to. Our heroes, the She Team, come up with solutions to these problems and others, much to the delight of the boys and the initial disbelief of their parents. As time goes by, however, the Mammy and Daddy are forced to look at their pets in a different way and see how special they really are. Maybe they are actually superheroes, as their sons believe!
Dive into the heart of late 19th-century England in Margot, the first in a stirring trilogy. Young Margot, forced to relinquish her newborn, finds herself torn between the affections of the wealthy Lord Beaufort and the passionate painter, Matthew. As Margot navigates love, loyalty, and loss amidst a tumultuous love triangle, the lingering hope of reuniting with her daughter, Mary, casts a long shadow. Every choice she makes draws her closer to heartache or salvation, leading to a journey of self-discovery in a time of societal constraints.
When Karina receives a mysterious letter accompanied by a miniature statue of the Greek god Hades on her birthday, it catapults her, Jeff, and their two friends into a whirlwind of dark secrets. Forced to acquire skills far beyond those of typical eleven-year-olds, they confront perilous challenges as they journey across Greece. Together, they embark on an unforgettable adventure that will test their wits and courage.
A simple hug and kiss, often followed by a goodbye, can leave us puzzled and longing, wondering why our parents' important work takes them away. Yet, it's in these small, tender moments that we find a daily connection to them, bridging the distance with love and affection.
Axzis, son of Thela the Swordsmistress and Vasmox the head of the institute of the Paranormal in New Sydney, knows about his Ezskiasian heritage, though he has never been Over There. His rich and varied life as a student and lute player is, however, interrupted when he catches sight of a strange, masked figure on the side walk opposite where he lives. From then on his life takes dramatic turns where he comes face to face with his roots. Lucy, a middle-aged Zealandian academic receives a large sum of money from an unknown source, which prompts her to finally follow her dreams and explore sides of her nature which have remained on hold for most of her life. So, she goes north to the mystical and myth-laden area of the beautiful Hokianga Harbour and the home of the patupaiarehe, fairies of M¿ori mythology. Her historic new home is beautiful. The forest mysterious and compelling. Then, in a strange configuration of trees resembling a tunnel, she comes face to face with something not wholly unexpected...
After quite some time and a bit of wobbling, John had made a crucial decision: he was going to leave Madrid after more than 20 years abroad and go back to Stockholm. There were plenty of reasons for this monumental step: a divorce, no real job, and a daughter in New York; nothing kept him there anymore. A fascinating rollercoaster voyage begins when he is hired as a private eye, searching for money launderers and tricksters, unravelling mysteries of gambling on the internet, travelling like a rover between Madrid, Hong Kong, Stockholm, London, and Paris, bumping into women, while discovering his father was a former spy at MI6. As any man, John is a distilled version of many things: a sportsman, a father, an optimist, a man of reading who perhaps seems more intelligent than he actually is, but nonetheless a good asset, when there are new frontiers to explore, with a potential future in politics. Amazed by life's uncertainty, he believes if he had the guts to leave his country, he must have the courage to come back, let the wind take him and let life intervene. He is navigating the Asian, Swedish, and Spanish cultures first-hand. A feel-good read. The hero whirls into a tour de force of travel and business intrigue peppered with worldwide romantic adventures.
WHAT MAKES A HERO STRONG? THE VILLAIN. Aaron Annwyn is determined to destroy the Secret Society that has ruled his life for the past few years. The demands placed upon him have harmed his relationships and strained his psyche. Can Diana, his co-conspirator until now, be trusted? Or should he depend on Sasha, a beautiful computer guru, with whom he begins a relationship? Regardless, his resolve is now greater than ever to defeat the powerful adversary, starting with his handler Jake. To be close enough to accomplish this, he accepts another mission that takes him to medieval Venice with a seemingly impossible task. Will he succeed and survive long enough for justice to prevail?
Ever met someone you felt compelled to connect with, maybe a colleague? Dive into the story of Werewolf Joe, a seemingly average man with more than one hidden facet. Then there's Demetria, the epitome of kindness and thoughtfulness, traits that make her unexpectedly perfect for a man of Joe's... unique nature. Join them on a journey where secrets intertwine and destinies collide.
I began my poetic journey at the tender age of eight. Initially, when I shared my poems with my father, he was sceptical, suspecting plagiarism. However, once he believed in my talent, he became a source of encouragement for me to continue writing. My inspiration often springs from moments that deeply move me or bring laughter; I find myself instinctively crafting poems about these experiences. Poetry has become a therapeutic medium for me, allowing me to articulate my feelings and perceptions. In this collection, I aim to capture and share the beauty of the world, whether it reflects joy or sorrow. These poems are my way of conveying my perspective on the world's wonders, and as I navigate my twilight years, this sharing feels increasingly vital. It is my sincere hope that these poems will spark excitement in you, the reader, compelling you to eagerly turn each page and immerse yourself in the world of my poetry.
Back Road Mysteries: The Church sets the stage for a captivating six-book series rooted in the author's quaint hometown of New Castle, Virginia, nestled amidst the Western Mountains of the Commonwealth. This saga embarks on a riveting journey through a tapestry of murder mysteries, each laden with unexpected twists and eerie turns. Our story begins with The Church, where the murder of Janet Moore's brother catapults her into a complex love-hate relationship with Sheriff Clifford Davidson, a bond that intensifies as they unravel the secrets buried in their town's history. With each book - The Tower, The Pond, The Mine, The Old Brick Hotel, and The Disappearing Town - the duo delves deeper into the enigmatic landscapes of Virginia, unearthing mysteries that lurk within the shadows of the back roads. As Davidson and Moore navigate through tumultuous investigations, the series entwines the intricacies of personal relationships with the chilling allure of unsolved crimes, leading readers through an enthralling narrative that echoes the silence of the unseen paths of New Castle.
Dive into the compelling world of Arrive Dead at the Same Place, a poignant poetry collection by Ken Eaton-Dykes. This anthology bridges the ordinary and the extraordinary, capturing life's diverse tapestry with wit, wisdom, and a touch of cynicism.Eaton-Dykes' poetry traverses a vast emotional landscape, from reflective musings on war and its indelible impact on society to the humorous absurdities of daily existence. Written in an array of styles, his verses offer a deep exploration of the human condition in all its complexities, from the mundane to the profound.This collection speaks to readers' souls with its unique voice. It encompasses themes that range from the trials of aging and the quirks of family dynamics to sharp societal observations and intimate personal introspections.Whether it's a satirical commentary on modern life or a nostalgic reminiscence of days gone by, Arrive Dead at the Same Place is a journey through poetry that promises to engage, amuse, and provoke thought. Eaton-Dykes' work resonates with a truthfulness and relatability that leaves a lasting impression.
A serendipitous duet between two rising classical stars crescendos into a fiery musical chemistry. Yet ambition, arrogance and misunderstanding threaten to keep pianist Susanne Campbell and tenor Luke de Mora out of harmony. Though their instant connection leads to a promising musical collaboration, clashing temperaments drive the pair apart. As they build successful separate careers and experience the thrills of new romances and devastating heartbreaks, Susanne and Luke remain haunted by echoes of that unforgettable first performance. Over years marked by fame and failure, birth, and death, can the two star-crossed musicians find their way back to each other? Will long-buried memories of their powerful musical bond rekindle into an enduring encore of passion? Or will the scars of the past sabotage their last chance at love?
Paul and Sophie are planning the holiday of a lifetime, a month-long road trip in Australia, and when they return, they will finally start making plans for their marriage. Then one day a man, Larsen, turns up at Sophie's work. He is from the company's Swedish office and needs her help with legal issues. They work together and he seems to know exactly what a woman wants, making her question her relationship with her fiancé. Paul meets Marty, a complete stranger, but who seems like a combination of every friend he has ever had. Paul finds himself talking to Marty about deeply personal issues and they bond over similar highly emotional experiences. Then Marty introduces Paul to a world that he never knew existed; a world of willing women, a world where his every desire would be fulfilled.
'School' evokes a spectrum of feelings, and for Ian Baggot, it's a mix of mild disdain and disinterest, especially when it comes to math, P.E., and homework. But an unexpected discovery presents Ian with a miraculous solution. Seizing this chance, Ian's life is transformed in ways beyond his wildest dreams, turning his school days from mundane to extraordinary. This tale follows an ordinary boy on an incredible journey, where one golden opportunity alters his world irrevocably.
"Catch me if you can!" She says to herself, for this is a game. Elizabeth Violet has no remorse, no regrets, for she finds her life took a dramatic turn that fateful night when she discovered her husband's infidelity. No one understood her, no one will find her. The dagger, where did she put the dagger? She wanders the graveyard alone at night, never forgetting that fateful night, the blood on her hands, the anger in the dead man's eyes, the dagger she used with all her might. CATCH HER IF YOU CAN... FOR SHE IS A WOMAN SCORNED...
Happiness is a tapestry we craft from the myriad threads life provides - some coarse, some silky. Yet, it's our choice how we intertwine them. Your life's tapestry is your sanctuary; make it as resplendent as possible. Once woven, the threads remain fixed; time won't reverse, so craft each moment, each connection, with care. Every instant is a potential stitch, every action a defining pattern. Relish each strand and moment, for time is relentless. Be the mastermind of your own intricate pattern. Avoid leaving gaps, lest your tapestry unravels. While it's okay to seek guidance, remember, the significance lies not in the process, but in the magnificent final piece you create.
It was freezing where I was The cold kept knocking me down I lay there on the ground My heart still beating But my body numb Would I ever be able to feel again? - Winter Season A collection of poetry about pain, depression, trauma, and anger. But also about love, happiness, forgiveness and hope.
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