There are good secrets, bad secrets, and mysteries. Two dramatic incidents happen on the same day. First, a hacker attack is carried out in England, then the old Farm Hall tapes are stolen from the National Government Communications Head Quarters (NGCHQ) - England's most secure archive. Achilles, the main protagonist of Warsecret, sees a sinister and dangerous connection between the two events. As the top negotiator of Organisation Number One (ONO) and director of the Global Agency for Informed Consent (GAIG), he must find out why and how they are linked. A series of suspenseful and dramatic actions take place in Berlin, Cambridge, London, and New York. During this sensational adventure, Achilles relies on the help of his young, stoic assistant, Lucillo, and the advice of two enlightened colonels, James Neill and Dag Olsen. The final act plays out at a global negotiation about nuclear weapons and the quantum computer, where the deep-rooted danger of scientific inventions of this type will become apparent. As will the terrifying system of secrecy that screens them from scrutiny.
In a bygone age, India's forests whispered tales of unicorns. The magic nestled within their spiralled horns was legendary, with villagers weaving tales of its mesmerizing properties. But these stories also painted targets on the creatures. Driven by greed, hunters came in droves, seeking the power in those horns. With every stolen horn, they boasted their conquests, leaving a trail of slain unicorns and bystanders in their wake. Darkness soon descended upon the forest, and the once-celebrated unicorns faded into myths. Yet hope endured through ancient prophecies predicting the unicorns' return. Symbols of their resurgence - a golden seven-pointed star and a bangle adorned with horse and unicorn carvings - were foretold to re-emerge. And in November 1861, these artifacts surfaced from the ocean's depths, heralding the start of The Alicorn Quest. This epic journey follows a young Indian adventurer's quest to an unfamiliar Oregon, where destiny awaits in the form of a unique colt. As adversaries thwart his path, this colt, unaware of his future, grazes in Oregon's
When old friend Arnold Chater Q.C. sends retired Norwegian Judge Christofferson a yellowing manuscript with the mysterious initials G.B. on the first page, the latter starts a quest to seek the truth about British composer Sir Edward Elgar's secret muse in his masterpiece, the Enigma Variations, and whether he fathered an illegitimate child. Fascinated with riddles and puzzles, the composer was in the habit of leaving a series of codes denoting the inspiration for his timeless compositions. But in the Enigma Variations, Elgar forsook his usual practice of inserting initials to honour his muse, explicitly refusing to name his great love by using a mysterious ellipsis. Cheekily, he gives a clue about his inspiration in the violin concerto with the words, 'Here is enshrined the soul of ...' Chris Nicholson's seminal musical thriller weaves an amazing tale with enigmas piled on riddles. He flagrantly delights in leading readers on a breathless chase of the women who were extraordinarily important in Elgar's life. At the same time, he also unmasks Elgar as a man who hid himself and his intimate affairs behind a mask of respectability. Nicholson is merciless in the details of Elgar's life, loves and music, deciphering all the clues and delivering the final judgment as only he can. Chris Nicholson is a retired judge and author of seven books.
As the earth's environment and ecosystems become increasingly degraded, humans must rely on the advanced technology of the unfolding METAVERSE to survive. In this thrilling and fast-moving novel, we explore the transience of human frailty through themes of lust, jealousy, greed, betrayal, intrigue, murder, and the sacrifice of immortality for love. With the limitations of our current environment, many choose to spend much of their time in virtual reality, where they can enjoy a sense of home, family, and the beauty of nature. However, as millions flock to this virtual world, it becomes increasingly likely that we, and those around us, are simply part of a virtual journey. Will you join us in the METAVERSE?
In this astonishing true adventure, follow two middle-aged, divorced pals as they embark on a journey that neither sobriety nor careful planning might have ever inspired. After reminiscing over drinks, a spontaneous decision takes them aboard a Philippine airline 747 in 1988, bound for Australia, to reunite with an old friend. But to say 'things didn't go to plan' would be the understatement of the century. The series of unbelievable events that befall these audacious adventurers will leave you astounded, amused, and at moments, deeply moved. More miraculously, they lived to recount every twist and turn. Their tale not only evokes laughter and tears but also serves as a testament to life's unpredictable wonders and the magic that can unfold when you seize the day. Join these two endearing risk-takers on a whirlwind odyssey that proves sometimes, the best stories are the unplanned ones.
Step into the mesmerizing world of Solitudes, a captivating and daring literary masterpiece that weaves an intricate tapestry of diverse emotions and themes. This thought-provoking work transcends traditional boundaries, exploring romance, fears, experiences - both sought after and unexpected - politics, theological-philosophical-spiritual matters, and all-encompassing human issues from a truly unique and otherworldly perspective. Employing a kaleidoscope of linguistic elements, Solitudes artfully utilizes words and expressions from various languages, blending neologisms, archaisms, interjections, onomatopoeias, and more, creating an innovative and evocative language mosaic. With every page, it seeks to make an indelible impact on readers of all ages, immersing them in a realm infused with a harmonious fusion of technology and melody - like strokes on a canvas, stirring the senses and igniting the imagination.
Enter the extravagant world of naughty children, school bullies and nerds, fancy cats, dirty dogs, world-record holding bubble blowers, showoffs, scary teachers, hypochondriacs, lost beloved bunnies, annoying little brothers, funky potions, heroes that come in all shapes and sizes and more. You may just find that these larger-than-life characters remind you of someone you know, maybe even a little of yourself! Read at your own risk: you must know that you may laugh aloud, so be prepared to have a tissue ready or even a spare pair of undies at your disposal. Do the good guys always win? You'll just have to wait and see. Sit on mum and dad's knee, or maybe your older brother and sister, and turn the pages if you dare to enjoy the playful and joyous rhyming tales.
Off Alexa and Pup go, hand in paw, excited to see what the farm has in store, Mooing cows and knitting sheep, flapping ducks and goats that leap, Alexa and Pup, the best of friends, will there be a surprise at the end? This charming children's story is sure to delight and surprise.
Discover an electrifying tale where Mother Nature herself orchestrates a new dawn for humanity, converging five extraordinary strangers in the pulsating heart of New York City. Together, they form FiveChamp, a sports team unlike any the world has ever seen, epitomizing endurance, determination, strength, and sportsmanship. But can any team possibly defeat them? The stakes are high: it's the world versus five! As they navigate the high-octane arena of sports, FiveChamp also grapples with a darker challenge: the insidious corruption and underworld mafias infiltrating the glamorous world of athletics. Their battle intensifies when an infamous New York serial killer is mysteriously resurrected, unleashing chaos in the city they call home. Immerse yourself in the gripping saga of FiveChamp as they battle both human vice and supernatural malevolence. Armed with unwavering teamwork and virtuous sportsmanship, they not only aim to vanquish evil but also inspire a new paradigm for unity and valour. Can they triumph over overwhelming odds and capture our hearts? The clock is ticking, and the game has just begun.
Are you looking for the ideal bedtime book for your child? A book where you and your child can connect to strong characters and develop essential life skills through fun? Then look no further than Calm Pond! Calm Pond is in Blackstone Edge. It is a wonderful place, a special place. It can be quiet and beautiful, but it can also be noisy and fun as it is the home of some amazing creatures! The creatures of Calm Pond live and work together, helping each other to form a strong community. The nine short stories cover many topics to help children understand many life issues, such as equality, resilience, honesty, change, strengths and weaknesses, anxiety, differences, empathy, and bereavement. Calm Pond - educating and entertaining!
Discover an electrifying tale where Mother Nature herself orchestrates a new dawn for humanity, converging five extraordinary strangers in the pulsating heart of New York City. Together, they form FiveChamp, a sports team unlike any the world has ever seen, epitomizing endurance, determination, strength, and sportsmanship. But can any team possibly defeat them? The stakes are high: it's the world versus five! As they navigate the high-octane arena of sports, FiveChamp also grapples with a darker challenge: the insidious corruption and underworld mafias infiltrating the glamorous world of athletics. Their battle intensifies when an infamous New York serial killer is mysteriously resurrected, unleashing chaos in the city they call home. Immerse yourself in the gripping saga of FiveChamp as they battle both human vice and supernatural malevolence. Armed with unwavering teamwork and virtuous sportsmanship, they not only aim to vanquish evil but also inspire a new paradigm for unity and valour. Can they triumph over overwhelming odds and capture our hearts? The clock is ticking, and the game has just begun.
Chemical warfare leaves millions dead except for the lone fisherman, or is everything not as it seems? A spirit who would never let go, who wanted to claim the girl, now a woman as its own. Dare you get a job in this house. Lockdown, tears, laughs, pulling together except the house on the corner. Loneliness, despair - an outcome so shocking and so real. Always expect the unexpected; are the footsteps behind you real? Take a ride through every emotion with bumps on the way.
In the dizzying whirl of intrigue and passion, world-renowned author Mary McKenzie and astute FBI Profiler SSA Matthew Michael Gryffin find themselves embroiled in a high-stakes chase. From the icy decks of an Alaskan ocean liner to the sacred lands of the Hopi and Navajo reservations, Gryffin relentlessly tracks a sinister serial killer dubbed the "Skinwalker". Guiding their steps is the enigmatic Hege Andreason, an ex-agent of the DDIS with her own cryptic agenda. As the trio delves deeper into the murky world of darknet and its sinister patrons, every decision becomes a matter of life or death in the shadow of the reservation. But as Gryffin gets closer to the truth, a malevolent brujo emerges from the shadows, wielding a dark power that terrifies the local communities. Alongside local agent Tom Evehema and Hopi Police Deputy Talayumptewa, Gryffin races against time, always one step behind. The stakes escalate when Gryffin, the very man leading the chase, is abducted. What unfolds is a riveting tale of suspense, mysticism, and danger.
Abbie Brown kicks off her 34th year with an unexpected splash of fame: her Santorini vacation snap, featuring her in a vibrant yellow bikini atop a donkey, is plastered on billboards across London. (For clarity, the bikini is on Abbie, not the donkey!) Riding this wave of newfound celebrity, she lands a spot on Sir Giles Bromley's BBC gardening show. Life seems perfect, until the universe serves her a slice of humble pie. Navigating the chaos of single life (weighing in at 73kgs, if you must know), Abbie finds herself in the midst of an office medical drama, dealing with her nightmare flatmate Janice, and questioning if Rebecca truly is the refined acquaintance she seems. As for romance? Between George's overbearing mother, Oliver's youth, a married butcher, a BBC exec with a cringe-worthy habit, and the not-so-perfect 'Peter Perfect, ' Abbie's love life is a rollercoaster. Yet, she remains hopeful that her knight in shining armor is out there in the vast English countryside. In the midst of it all, she gains a furry companion: Woofer, a lovable terrier with a quirky ear. Plus, there's a promising spark with a dashing farmer from the Yorkshire Dales. The two are smitten. (We're talking about Abbie and the farmer, not the dog, of course!) But with Abbie's track record, what could possibly go awry? Dive into a tale of unexpected fame, comedic misadventures, and the quest for true love
A story of the extraordinary lives of ordinary people. Set between Victorian Liverpool and Dundee and the battlefields of the First World War, three families face the perils of life on the economic cliff-edge, where a single misstep can send lives plunging out of control. Crossing a century of dramatic change, their journey begins in the aftermath of the slave trade, moving through the era of Empire expansion and Industrial Revolution to a time of religious strife and global conflict. The world they navigate is one fraught with hazard in which exploitation, zealotry and violence lead to rape, prostitution, fraud, and murder. At its heart, two indomitable women - lifelong friends - choose very different paths as they strive to hold their worlds together, and to survive.
In a time defined by colonialism and the struggle for the lucrative spice trade between the Far East and Europe, leaders who resisted imperial control found themselves exiled to distant corners of empire. With little more than their faith and the clothes they wore, these individuals and their families arrived at the Cape of Storms. Against staggering odds, they succeeded in laying the foundations for the first free communities. This gripping narrative recounts their trials, tribulations, and enduring collective will to forge a new way of life. They not only navigated harsh landscapes and geopolitical challenges but also left an indelible legacy for future generations. This is their story - a vivid testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.
In the dizzying whirl of intrigue and passion, world-renowned author Mary McKenzie and astute FBI Profiler SSA Matthew Michael Gryffin find themselves embroiled in a high-stakes chase. From the icy decks of an Alaskan ocean liner to the sacred lands of the Hopi and Navajo reservations, Gryffin relentlessly tracks a sinister serial killer dubbed the "Skinwalker". Guiding their steps is the enigmatic Hege Andreason, an ex-agent of the DDIS with her own cryptic agenda. As the trio delves deeper into the murky world of darknet and its sinister patrons, every decision becomes a matter of life or death in the shadow of the reservation. But as Gryffin gets closer to the truth, a malevolent brujo emerges from the shadows, wielding a dark power that terrifies the local communities. Alongside local agent Tom Evehema and Hopi Police Deputy Talayumptewa, Gryffin races against time, always one step behind. The stakes escalate when Gryffin, the very man leading the chase, is abducted. What unfolds is a riveting tale of suspense, mysticism, and danger.
"God is. There is no statement more profound or simpler than this. Nothing exists apart from God. God is Being - the eternal, unchanging, infinitely powerful, infinitely knowing, and infinitely loving Being. God is life. He is creator and sustainer of all life and has created us in his own image to know, serve, and love him and to share eternal life with him. History is the story of our response to God's unceasing invitation to be known, served, and loved." And so begins one of our generation's most necessary and rationally deduced theological texts on Catholicism. A Parent's Catechism: Passing on the Catholic Faith is an accessible, highly readable, and objective explanation of the Catholic faith. With a measured hand and strong sense of hope, Dana Paul Robinson thoughtfully and eloquently examines all that is relevant and necessary as he explores the basics of the Catholic faith, a faith when effectively followed, leads to knowledge of God, commitment to God, and surrender to God.
In the winding canals of Venice, artist Martin Snow's fate intertwines with an enigmatic German writer, wealthy and world-weary, with a haunting tale yet to share. Shockingly, this story mirrors Martin's own past, pushing him to confront family secrets that have long been buried. As Martin digs deeper, he's forced to make painful decisions that wound his loved ones. The backlash is swift and fierce, but the truth remains elusive. Only two men hold the key to unravelling the mystery: the stranger and his frail grandfather, bound by the memories of a shared war and a captivating woman. As Martin edges closer to the truth, he faces a dilemma: expose dark family secrets that might shatter his world, or continue living a life draped in half-truths. One thing is certain - his journey will lead him, and those he holds dear, down a treacherous path where past and present collide.
"I see the girl running towards me now just as she did that day when I reached Drew Stainer's land." Such is the shape of one memory Guy Tynan retains of his adventures in Canada when he travels there to find his distant relatives and so fulfils a plan which his grandfather David never managed. Memories of his family and their close friends the Hursts will also be important to him. Guy's meeting with Nicola Stainer will lead him to unlock some of her life's mysteries with a key she is only too eager to protect while sharing her story with him. As he tries to understand her, she in turn will ask him to talk of his childhood sweetheart, Julia Hurst, and will wonder, as his family has, what can have happened to create a gulf between them. Years of exile cannot protect Guy from "the possibility of a horrific and irreversible mistake" as he remains haunted by memories of an encounter in Hareton Woods, and an earlier adventure shared with his cousin Mel. Shaped by Memory is not simply about the power of "what would be so much better forgotten", whether this involves a missing watch, dreadful war-time experiences or the hurt inflicted by damaged relationships; it is also about how much more can be lost in the course of time by a failure to see clearly, for "what you think you see might not be what you're looking at." Guy Tynan will not be alone in having to "think of how not seeing the true picture has the potential for limitless damage."
Broken Roads Lead Me Here tells the true-life story of a boy born into unimaginable abuse in Glasgow in the sixties. By the age of eight, Colin had been abandoned by his mother and continued to be sexually, physically, emotionally, and spiritually traumatised by the man she left him with. Blunted by severe trauma, Colin went through one unimaginable nightmare after another, each more traumatising and soul shattering than the last, with no one to tell and no way to understand why. He wondered as he drifted through life, what was to really become of him? Or his half-sisters? All the while, deep down, sensing that one day it could be his last. At fifteen, he was thrown out of school, and at sixteen he was sent to prison. Colin survived rejection, abandonment, homelessness, gang wars, addiction, mental illness, overdoses, suicide attempts, and abusive adult relationships. But it always seemed as if he was living on borrowed time... Even as he started writing his memoir, Colin had suffered a stroke, and near his recovery's conclusion was then diagnosed with what was initially suspected as pancreatic cancer. While Colin's diagnosis was eventually re-assessed as not immediately life threatening, it did leave him with a series of conditions which would continue to limit the quality of his day-to-day life. His illnesses and his experience of this instead of instilling a sense of profound hopelessness surprisingly led him to a profound sense of inner peace, clarity, and re-awakened purpose through his renewed faith in the real presence, love, forgiveness, and grace of God. His is a miraculous story of faith and redemption. Colin Mackell is a husband, father, and grandfather. In his professional life as Psychotherapist, he has helped people who struggle to overcome drug and alcohol addiction, and helps them find new meaning, and explore new life paths. He is also the founder of Chrysalis Supported Association & Group CEO of Chrysalis Group Services, providing homes and support to some of life's most vulnerable and disadvantaged people.
Broken Roads Lead Me Here tells the true-life story of a boy born into unimaginable abuse in Glasgow in the sixties. By the age of eight, Colin had been abandoned by his mother and continued to be sexually, physically, emotionally, and spiritually traumatised by the man she left him with. Blunted by severe trauma, Colin went through one unimaginable nightmare after another, each more traumatising and soul shattering than the last, with no one to tell and no way to understand why. He wondered as he drifted through life, what was to really become of him? Or his half-sisters? All the while, deep down, sensing that one day it could be his last. At fifteen, he was thrown out of school, and at sixteen he was sent to prison. Colin survived rejection, abandonment, homelessness, gang wars, addiction, mental illness, overdoses, suicide attempts, and abusive adult relationships. But it always seemed as if he was living on borrowed time... Even as he started writing his memoir, Colin had suffered a stroke, and near his recovery's conclusion was then diagnosed with what was initially suspected as pancreatic cancer. While Colin's diagnosis was eventually re-assessed as not immediately life threatening, it did leave him with a series of conditions which would continue to limit the quality of his day-to-day life. His illnesses and his experience of this instead of instilling a sense of profound hopelessness surprisingly led him to a profound sense of inner peace, clarity, and re-awakened purpose through his renewed faith in the real presence, love, forgiveness, and grace of God. His is a miraculous story of faith and redemption. Colin Mackell is a husband, father, and grandfather. In his professional life as Psychotherapist, he has helped people who struggle to overcome drug and alcohol addiction, and helps them find new meaning, and explore new life paths. He is also the founder of Chrysalis Supported Association & Group CEO of Chrysalis Group Services, providing homes and support to some of life's most vulnerable and disadvantaged people.
Four girls each with their own 'take' on 18th century social restrictions conditioning life in a village with an ailing, widowed father: Emma, arrived back into the family after being brought up by an aunt in a rather more social, sophisticated atmosphere; Elizabeth, facing the burden of running a household and caring for an ailing father after a failed romance; dotty Margaret the youngest; selfish Penelope 'escaped' to friends in London. Their two brothers, one married into money, one struggling to make a living as a doctor, know they have a responsibility for the girls' futures. And then there's the young unmarried Vicar, and the Castle family - widowed dowager, young Lord, his sister and wayward brother, and hangers on - whose lives intertwine with the Watsons. And the village gossips who play their part in the dramas that unfold after a dramatic event has long reaching results.
Four girls each with their own 'take' on 18th century social restrictions conditioning life in a village with an ailing, widowed father: Emma, arrived back into the family after being brought up by an aunt in a rather more social, sophisticated atmosphere; Elizabeth, facing the burden of running a household and caring for an ailing father after a failed romance; dotty Margaret the youngest; selfish Penelope 'escaped' to friends in London. Their two brothers, one married into money, one struggling to make a living as a doctor, know they have a responsibility for the girls' futures. And then there's the young unmarried Vicar, and the Castle family - widowed dowager, young Lord, his sister and wayward brother, and hangers on - whose lives intertwine with the Watsons. And the village gossips who play their part in the dramas that unfold after a dramatic event has long reaching results.
Embark on an extraordinary journey alongside Laura as she ventures from the shores of England to the vibrant landscapes of Italy. Set against the backdrop of Italy's struggle for independence, A Mind Behind unravels the compelling story of one woman's courageous odyssey.
Have you ever wondered, even just for a second, what magic is? Where does it come from? What does it look like? Join the curious Sol and his sleepy friend Luna on their autumnal adventure as they explore the enchanting world around them whilst learning to appreciate the beauty in nature.
Have you ever wondered, even just for a second, what magic is? Where does it come from? What does it look like? Join the curious Sol and his sleepy friend Luna on their autumnal adventure as they explore the enchanting world around them whilst learning to appreciate the beauty in nature.
Tanka Cavalcade is a book of poetry on a variety of topics in Tanka form. Many of the poems are ekphrastic, inspired by paintings, photography, dance choreography, and classical music. This includes a tribute to American opera star the late Jessye Norman. Beauty and grace are found all over this book where readers will enjoy their unique perspectives. In addition, different ideas showing internal sensations are used with deep, moving intelligence that are fresh in the poetry genre. Methods, such as the meaning of names, use different languages put a special touch to poems' meaning.
Tanka Cavalcade is a book of poetry on a variety of topics in Tanka form. Many of the poems are ekphrastic, inspired by paintings, photography, dance choreography, and classical music. This includes a tribute to American opera star the late Jessye Norman. Beauty and grace are found all over this book where readers will enjoy their unique perspectives. In addition, different ideas showing internal sensations are used with deep, moving intelligence that are fresh in the poetry genre. Methods, such as the meaning of names, use different languages put a special touch to poems' meaning.
Empower young readers with tools to navigate Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) through this enchanting tale. With captivating illustrations and relatable prose, we follow Poppy and her unique imaginary friend, GAD. As Poppy learns to cope with her anxiety, she's aided by her loving parents, the wise Mr. Purple, and the enchanting Miss Sparkle. This story reassures children that they're not alone in their struggles and introduces them to transformative strategies. With GAD as a potential superpower, the techniques shared by Miss Sparkle can be embraced by parents and caregivers to further support their child's journey. A portion of the proceeds of this book are donated to Young Minds to support their vision for change, and to ensure that no young person feels alone with their mental health. To find out more visit: www.youngminds.org.uk [https://www.youngminds.org.uk/ ]
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