An orphaned kitten, rescued from the jaws of a vicious dog by a young naval captain, Horatio Nelson, is taken on board the battleship HMS Agamemnon to control mice and rats in the hold. The year is 1793 and Britain's navy is about to go to war with France. Terrified of cannons, mice and rats the kitten has to learn about life at sea, but struggles to overcome his fears. Follow the cat's adventures as he is befriended by a cabin boy and is helped by a manger full of animals to adapt to the life of a ship's cat. Against regulations he smuggles a young monkey onto the ship and with his help starts to rid the hold of mice. Finally, despite being injured, he is charged with the task of ridding the ship of two fearsome giant rats. How can he get the monsters off the ship and keep his place amongst the friends he has made on board. Failure is not an option.
In the years leading up to the Second World War, amidst an economic depression, a young cabaret dancer from Northern England accepts a job at a modest music hall in Malta, a Mediterranean island. Unbeknownst to her, the outbreak of war following Italy's declaration against Britain and France in the summer of 1940 would leave her stranded in Malta for the entirety of the conflict. In these challenging times, she finds herself working for the Royal Air Force and embroiled in a passionate love affair with a distinguished RAF pilot. The author, drawing on contemporary eyewitness accounts and historical resources, sets the scene against a backdrop of bravery, resilience, and sacrifice. This period marks the two and a half years when Malta's population and its defenders valiantly withstood the relentless onslaught of the Italian and German air forces. Christina and the George Cross Island weaves a narrative that blends fact with fiction, infusing both humour and heartbreak into this compelling tale of war, love, and endurance.
Two single mothers, Brenda and Maureen established friendships when shopping in the city one day. As normal London families, they shared ideas and helped each other out. They both had daughters who automatically became friends too. Events enfold when Tyler the nephew of Maureen began to blackmail his cousin Emilia, Maureen's daughter leading her to sexually groom Maria for Tyler, Brenda's daughter. Maureen suffered depression and was sectioned upon hearing what her nephew had done, Emilia got married early and left for Spain. Maria pursued her education and became a lawyer, but her experience with Tyler scared her emotions; could she love any man? This novel talks about family life and how circumstances change with time. Unexpected illness etc. Find out how The Neighbour at Number 18 got involved.
A cold case comes back to haunt the small town of Valley-Wood. We follow the life of Brendan Gibbons who returns to reconnect with old friends. The townsfolk live a life of quiet effort until it is upturned by outsiders and innuendo. Secrets are being unveiled and catastrophic events lead to a mysterious death that adds a layer of fear and tension. At the foot of the town rests The Woodhouse Lodge on the bank of the fast-flowing Nugget River. The Lodge is a magnet with rafters from the city for the thrill of running white-water rapids. Tangled relationships thread their way through the ever-changing realignments of loyalties. Vivid characters reveal the truth as strange happenings tear the fabric of old friendships. It's a drifting tale of suspenseful moments with no sure footing, until strength and hope shimmer on the horizon.
In an era where freedom remains elusive, a young man finds himself at the heart of a struggle for the most fundamental human right: the right to be free. Set against the tumultuous backdrop of 1950s Cyprus, this tale, inspired by true events and interwoven with a touch of magic, sees Herodotos championing the cause for independence on multiple fronts. His story marks a timeless testament to the resilience of the few who dare to defy the might of the many.
The poetry anthology titled Unstructured presents an intimate reflection on life's profound moments, a poignant expression of the author's personal experiences and contemplations on the world. With a mix of thought-provoking pieces and witty verses that are sure to tickle your fancy, this anthology is a treasure trove of emotions and insights. Whether you're looking to indulge in a few select poems or immerse yourself in its entirety, Unstructured is the perfect collection for savouring, and one that will leave you yearning for more.
My cold, soaked, naked body was exposed, and I immediately knew I was in danger. As my lip began to quiver and involuntarily protrude, I became drenched with an overwhelming, instant yearning for my mum. Yet no sound would escape my mouth, so I stood there cornered like a mouse surrounded by the steal of a trap set to spring at any moment just waiting to secure me in its unforgiving clutches. My startled, fearful eyes only minutely reflecting the implosion that had just been detonated within my inner sanctum. I was rigid with fear as my body stiffened; my mind silent offering no guidance to navigate its way to a place of safety. I was defenceless, weak, alone and oh how his salivation seemed to intensify. This was one of those acute moments in time where the lens ultimately sharpens its focus and the shutter snaps rapidly. The question is: had you orchestrated this moment to quench your sordid desires and are you about to make the most heinous decision that will manifest into a lifetime of Blame, Shame & Guilt? I close my eyes and silently pray that I will be spared the torment.
Trouble arrives early and often for Jo, the new Hospitality Manager at the Santa Barbara Hotel. Shortly after starting, she faces assault, gets reluctantly deputized by police to bust a money laundering ring, and earns local fame pulling vital documents from a crashed plane. Jo handles the nonstop chaos with aplomb while navigating a troublesome relationship with the pompous head waiter and kindling a new romance with Bob. But just as things seem to stabilize, Bob drops a bombshell: he's been temporarily reassigned to manage another hotel in Cape Town. Everyone suspects longer than a few months, leaving Jo's professional and personal lives in flux once more. Can she continue excelling through turmoil at the Santa Barbara without her right-hand man? Jo primed herself for anything but this. The trials never cease for the hotel's beleaguered-yet-brilliant new hospitality manager.
Set within the vivid imagination of a seven-year-old boy, this story unfolds in the shadows of a life not yet touched by the promise of opportunity and escape. Young Dylann must navigate a maze of challenges to reach a brighter, more hopeful chapter. In his quest, he encounters Callum, a pivotal presence with unforeseen significance. Meanwhile, Dylann's father confronts his own demons, wrestling with a shadowy history of addiction that must be reconciled for the family to move forward. Together, they seek the light at the end of the tunnel, where past and future are entwined.
THE HUSBAND Michael is in an unhappy marriage with his wife, Maggie, who has become bitter with her life and has turned into a drunk. As the years tick by, Michael's life becomes more desperate and lonelier. Every day at lunchtime, he sees a woman he feels is the love for him, but lacks the courage to approach her. But then everything starts to unravel when he receives a book from an old man which tells him his life story. This is when everything changed for him. THE WIFE Unbeknownst to Michael, Maggie has also received a book telling her of her future. Frightened and uncertain as to how she can save her marriage, Maggie turns to alcohol to forget, before realising there is only one path she can take to save her marriage. Which is to keep Michael by her side at any cost...
Rory loved listening to stories and he always remembered the ones that Daddy read to him at bedtime. He wanted to know where stories came from. And he told Daddy that one day he would like to write stories. And that was why he couldn't wait to start reading himself. Rory didn't think that he would ever get tired of stories!
This Is Me: A Poem invites you on a captivating journey through the intricacies of the human experience. Within its verses, a tapestry of emotions unfolds as it delves into timeless themes of love, deceit, and the raw realities of our existence. It fearlessly explores the dark corners of drug-induced haze and the haunting echoes of neglect, both as intertwined narratives and individual struggles. With poignant words, it paints a vivid portrait of change and the inevitability of death, all while steering clear of the burden of regret. Moreover, it offers a thought-provoking reflection on life itself, particularly in the context of our ever-evolving modern age.
Anisa John-Kocun's inaugural work, Humility and Obedience, invites readers on a profound spiritual odyssey to discover the awe and majesty of the Most High God, the Creator. In her book, Anisa distils a wealth of spiritual wisdom, sharing transformative insights and personal narratives that resonate deeply, stirring the soul towards greater divine understanding. This book transcends the boundaries of conventional religious texts, offering an introspective reflection on the essence of faith, the potency of prayer, and the transformative impact of God's love. Anisa's sincere and poignant musings aim to reach into the very core of the reader, prompting a journey of personal and spiritual discovery. With engaging narratives and thoughtful musings, Anisa examines crucial aspects of spirituality, such as discerning one's purpose, overcoming life's hurdles, and embracing the divine will of the Creator, the Most High God. Her comforting prose provides solace amid doubt, direction amidst uncertainty, and optimism in the face of trials. Humility and Obedience serves as more than a book; it is an immersive spiritual dialogue. Anisa's genuine faith and clarity of voice offer encouragement, affirming each individual's vast potential as a beloved creation of the Most High God. This book is a heartfelt call to those yearning for spiritual depth, dedicated believers, or the spiritually curious, drawing them into a heartwarming embrace of faith and awakening. Journey alongside Anisa John-Kocun as she leads you closer to the Most High God through the pages of Humility and Obedience, and let her guiding words be a beacon for your spiritual evolution and a deeper communion with the divine.
Little Loop is crafted around the theme of forging friendships in a new classroom setting. Amy, the guiding voice in the story, teaches her girls the importance of accepting others, being inclusive, and exhibiting kindness. This book is a journey of persistence and resilience, aiming to inspire young readers with its message of hope. It encourages children to embrace the joy of connecting with classmates and fostering unity. The story of Little Loop is just the beginning of a planned series of children's books. Amy intends to draw from the endearing experiences and daily interactions she observes with her daughters. Her goal is to lay a foundation of positivity for her daughters during their formative years, guiding them as they grow, learn, and transition through life's various stages. Amy's vision is to create a series that not only entertains but also imparts valuable life lessons to young readers
Surviving Smoking Mirrors: My Reflection is a candid chronicle of Alliey's tumultuous relationship with Josh, tracing its journey from the beginning to its bitter end, and the myriad challenges she faced along the way. Following the collapse of their marriage, Alliey finds herself entangled in a complex property settlement while enduring ongoing gaslighting and abuse from Josh. Concurrently, Josh plunges into a hedonistic lifestyle. Amidst these trials, Alliey's son, Camden, begins to show worrying injuries following visits with Josh, adding to her mounting concerns. As Alliey grapples with supporting Camden, her own battle with anorexia spirals dangerously out of control, threatening to cost her everything. This story is a raw and unflinching exploration of the struggles faced in the aftermath of a tumultuous relationship, highlighting the resilience and determination needed to persevere through adversity.
A true story of hope, belief, failure, need and greed - one person's struggle with addiction and their road to redemption. Have you ever wondered what it's like to live on the 'other side' or longed to change your life? In To Live a Life, the author offers an unflinching tale of experimenting with drugs and alcohol in pursuit of getting 'out there'... only to discover once immersed, there seems no way back. This raw memoir leads readers on a turbulent journey of addiction battling emotion, clinging to life, and ultimately seeking survival. Travel the so-called 'rocky road' of substance abuse leading to utter dependence...when you'd do 'anything' to 'get on,' followed by the agonizing revelation you'd now give anything to "get off. More than an addiction story, this is a universal testament to the human capacity for change and the power of community in bettering our lives when we've lost our way. There is always hope if we want it badly enough.
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.
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.
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