Search results for ""gill""

'A total delight. Witty and fresh - I absolutely loved it!' MILLY JOHNSONIn the modern tech-fuelled world of dating, is it possible to find true love? Hannah lives life on the edge. Never one to pass up on a new adventure, she has truly been living her best life. But once the adrenaline wears off, she wishes she had someone to spend the quieter moments with too. Learning that her best friend’s online dating business has taken a hit, she comes up with an idea that just might solve both of their problems... Jess has been with her husband for twenty years. They have a stable marriage, great kids and run their own businesses. But what looks like a perfect life from the outside has its own problems within, and with her business on the brink Jess can’t help but wonder where the spark has gone in her life, and whether settling down is all it’s cracked up to be. When Hannah embarks upon her latest scheme: finding a man using Jess’s dating app and meeting him for the first time at the altar, both women start to realise the grass isn't always greener. Can Hannah help her friend save her failing business or will Jess stop her from making what could be the biggest mistake of her life? 'A very funny, feel-good read' HOLLY MILLER‘Fun, feelgood, fab!’ KATE EBERLEN'Refreshing, brilliantly-written and highly addictive! HELLY ACTON'A witty, warm, wonderful read!' SOPHIE COUSENS'Fresh, funny, and wonderfully timely – it's feel-good fiction at its finest!' LAURA JANE WILLIAMS'Funny, feel good and full of warmth, love and friendship' LAURA KEMP'A witty, tender story that packs a real emotional punch. I loved it!' NICOLA GILL‘A heart-warming and joyous page-turner. Impossible to put down!’ HOLLY MARTIN'If you’re looking for a story to make you giggle, shed a few tears and cheer, this is the one!' MIRANDA DICKINSON'Enthralling and entertaining!' HEIDI SWAIN'I couldn’t put it down. What a wonderful, warm, wise and witty book!' ALEX BROWN'Fresh, funny and romantic, I totally loved it' SARAH MORGAN'Fresh, funny, and the perfect tonic for these gloomy times' LIA LOUIS'Witty, fun and fresh, Married at First Swipe is the perfect book to lift your spirits and put a smile on your face' PHAEDRA PATRICK'A fabulously fun, heart-warming novel' ANNA BELL'Heartwarming, insightful and very, very funny' KATIE MARSH

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The new edition of this best selling book looks critically at the 2012 Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum and draws attention to issues that underlie the EYFS and the implications for children from birth to five.With its questions for reflection and discussion, further reading and useful websites, Early Years Foundations is essential and informative reading for students studying any early years or early childhood course, or working towards Early Years Teacher Status.Among the many challenges facing early years professionals, there are continual dilemmas arising between perceptions of good practice, the practicalities of provision and meeting OfSTED requirements. This exciting and innovative new edition supports practitioners in thinking through their responsibilities in tackling some of the many challenges they encounter, for example, that children are still perceived as 'deficit' in some way and in need of 'being school ready' rather than as developing individuals who have a right to a childhood and appropriate early education.Chapters explore the rationale behind early years practice based on theory and research, covering important topics including: Prime and specific areas of learning and development Observation and assessment Pedagogy Working with parents Difference and diversity Contributors: Sue Bingham, Gill Boag-Munroe, Liz Brooker, Helen Clarke, Anne Cockburn, Rosie Flewitt, Jan Georgeson, Michael Jones, Lilian G. Katz, Caroline Leeson, Paulette Luff, Jayne Osgood, John Parry, Jane Payler, Karen Phethean, Linda Pound, Anne Rawlings, Jonathan Rix, Sue Rogers, Anita Soni, Suzy Tutchell, Judith Twani, Jane Waters, David Whitebread"Early Years Foundations: Critical issues is a timely and valuable edition for the early childhood bookshelf, offering high quality scholarship combined with deep understanding of early childhood practice."Jane Murray PhD, Senior Lecturer, University of Northampton, UK "This book stands out amongst the crowd for a number of reasons. In particular, the status of the three editing authors means that the content of the book is to be trusted to be both informed and thorough in its attention to detail, and this second edition has been carefully updated to incorporate recent reforms and initiatives. The editing authors' insistence on the creation of an early years text that centres on a critically reflective review of contemporary policy and research can only help to build the argument for a better future for young children's care and education."Dr Kathy Goouch, Reader in Education, Canterbury Christ Church University, UK "This book is not another bland 'how to do it' manual to accompany the EYFS, it goes much further in offering a truly challenging critique. This should be essential reading for experienced practitioners as well as Early Childhood Studies students."Denise Hevey, Professor of Early Years, University of Northampton, UK.

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Razzak Mirjan and his family set up Beder, a charity in honour of his younger brother who sadly took his own life at the age of 18 in 2017, to raise awareness around mental health and suicide prevention. This autumn they launch their first cook book, From Beder's Kitchen, a collection of recipes and stories from amazing foodies around the world, including head and executive chefs at some of the UK's leading restaurants, MasterChef winners, TV chefs, food bloggers, nutritionists, best-selling authors, newspaper journalists, Bake Off winners, mental health advocates and general foodies. There are 90 contributors in all, each sharing their favourite recipe as well as their reflections on looking after their mental health and how cooking has played a part. Among those to take part are: Gordon Ramsay, world famous chef and TV personality; Yotam Ottolenghi, restaurateur, chef and best-selling author; Atul Kochhar, chef and TV regular; Carla Henriques, executive pastry chef at Hawksmoor; Romy Gill, chef and TV regular; Judy Joo, host of Korean Food Made Simple; Michael Zee, author and creator of Symmetry Breakfast; Joudie Kalla, author of Palestine on a Plate; Jack Blumenthal, chef and son of Heston; David Atherton, Great British Bake Off 2019 winner; Liz Earle, writer, TV presenter and author; Miles Kirby, chef director at Caravan. Dishes are divided into 5 chapters: Start Your Day The Right Way, Happy Gut Happy Life, Fast Food (But Not As You Know It), Soul Food and Sweet Treats. Recipes include: Tahini Chicken Schnitzel from Yotam Ottolenghi; Beef Fajitas with Sour Cream & Guacamole from Gordon Ramsay; Coconut & Fermented Turmeric Rebus Roast Cauliflower from chef Daniel Watkins; Bourbon BBQ Turkey Tarragon Burger from MasterChef winner Simon Wood; and Olive Oil, Almond, Apricot & Tahini Cake from 2019 MasterChef winner Irini Tzortzoglou. About Beder Beder takes a unique approach to softly raising awareness around mental health and suicide prevention. Beder intends to increase understanding and reduce fear around the topics of mental health and suicide in order to conquer the stigma surrounding these incredibly important, yet underestimated, issues. Beder has partnered with YoungMinds, a leading mental health charity, and Samaritans, an established and highly respected charity, working across the UK and Ireland focused on reducing suicide. The aims of these partnerships are to harness the specialist knowledge of each charity, as well as promote and further both charities' incredible work. You can find out more information about Beder at www.beder.org.uk and @beder_uk on social media.

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'I was gripped, desperate to solve the mystery of Nancy Moon' Sarah Haywood, New York Times bestselling author of THE CACTUS'Wonderful. This book is a joy' Katie Fforde, Sunday Times bestselling author'Two captivating stories of love and heartbreak, stitched together by a trail through Europe in 1962' Gill Paul, author of THE SECRET WIFETHE USA TODAY BESTSELLER. Set against the glistening backdrop of the Riviera, this is a truly captivating novel about two women whose lives become seamlessly intertwined when they embark on the same journey decades apart. Take a journey and immerse yourself in this year's most irresistible read. Perfect for fans of Kathryn Hughes, Suzanne Goldring and The Paris Seamstress.To unravel that long-lost summer, she had to follow the thread...Florence Connelly is broken hearted. Her marriage has collapsed under the weight of the loss she shares with her husband, and her beloved grandmother has just died. Even the joy she found in dressmaking is gone.But things change when Flo opens a box of vintage 1960s dress patterns found inside her grandmother's wardrobe. Inside each pattern packet is a fabric swatch, a postcard from Europe and a photograph of a mysterious young woman, Nancy Moon, wearing the hand-made dress.Flo discovers that Nancy was a distant relation who took the boat train to Paris in 1962 and never returned. With no one to stay home for, Flo decides to follow Nancy's thread. She unravels an untold story of love and loss in her family's past. And begins to stitch the pieces of her own life back together.** DON'T MISS SARAH STEELE'S STUNNING NOVEL THE SCHOOLTEACHER OF SAINT-MICHEL **'A gorgeous, tender debut' Kate Riordan, author of THE HEATWAVE'I felt so passionately involved in Flo's journey. A GORGEOUS read' Prima, BOOK OF THE MONTH'Warm and true... Pays tribute to the heart and backbone of women who support each other when the world turns its back' Stephanie Butland, author of LOST FOR WORDSReaders worldwide simply adore THE MISSING PIECES OF NANCY MOON:'If I could give 10 stars I would''Heartwarming, uplifting, emotional and immersive, The Missing Pieces of Nancy Moon is a must-read, encapsulating the essence of summer like the sun is shining from the pages''OMG WHAT A BOOK. Fabulously, beautifully written book.''One of the best books I have read this year. It has it all - love, mystery, deceit and a secret. Five stars all the way'

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Papa always told us that to be brave doesn't mean you have no fear. It just means you can move forwards in spite of that fear. 2019. When Imogen Wren's husband dies, she must realise their dream of moving to France on her own. She finds a beautiful abandoned chateau and starts to rebuild her life among its ruins. But she soon notices that the locals won't come near. A dark web of secrets surrounds the house, and it all seems to centre on the war... 1944. Since the moment German troops stepped foot in her village, the sole aim of Simone Varon's life has been to avoid them. Until one soldier begins leaving medicine bottles for her sick brother, and she gets to know the man behind the uniform. Then the Resistance comes calling, and she must choose between love and duty – with devastating consequences that will echo through the decades. As Imogen restores the chateau, she's determined to uncover the truth – and set to rest the ghosts of the past. A beautiful and devastating dual timeline novel that spans from occupied France in World War Two, to the war-ravaged chateau in 2019. Perfect for fans of Gill Paul, Lucinda Riley and Lorna Cook. Reader love All That We Have Lost! 'Will truly sweep you away... I could really imagine the characters. A standout novel and Suzanne Fortin's best yet!' NetGalley 5* Review 'It will crush you then revive you... Absolute stunner of a book! I hope we will be blessed with many more books by this author' Goodreads 5* Review 'An excellent read! I really enjoyed the double time eras and the stories of both modern and WWII kept me enthralled. Such brilliant research and warm characters that brought the French countryside to life' Anne Marie Brear, 5* Review 'Wonderful novel – historical fiction at its best. I really enjoyed the dual timeline the book drew me in kept me reading late into the night... Highly recommend' NetGalley 5* Review 'Fabulous read from beginning to end... Amazing characters who worked so well together, it really was a story off love and loss in during WW2... I want to give nothing away only that I highly recommend ?' Goodreads 5* Review 'Brilliant dual timeline historical fiction story... Hard to put down and five stars from me. I highly recommend' Karen Reads Books, 5* Review 'A brilliant read... This book had it all, part romance, part mystery, throw in intrigue and a little history and you come up with this excellent book... Heartening and at times heartbreaking story' Goodreads 5* Review

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Winter Migrants opens with Tom Pickard's prize-winning sequence Lark & Merlin, an erotic pursuit over the hills and fells of the poet's Northern-English homeland. Stotting clough and gill in sneaping winds, leaping burns by backlit larches, waves of sleek grass skiffing mist ...here, says the poet, 'the weather is overseer'. The borders between body and landscape, desire and object, blur in the mammal heat of pursuit, of a lover, of a self, insatiable and unresolvable. There follows a selection from the Fiends Fell Journals, a haibun or poetry-diary, composed over the decade Pickard lived alone on the wind-blown North Pennines. Short poems dedicated to friends and acerbic, satirical poems lend the second half of Winter Migrants a playful warmth and tonic mischief.As the collection draws to a close, the poems return to the familiar horizon of Solway Firth, the estuary 'where winter migrants gather in long black lines', and the world, cooled now both inside and out, quells: a curlew gifts its 'estuary echo'; gulls make a 'confetti flurry' above the shoreline; and clouds, once pale and flitting, pour purple and gold, 'a mercury whisper of tipped-in light'.' I am an old admirer of Tom Pickard's poetry and believe as does Basil Bunting that he is one of the most live and true poetic voices in Great Britain.'Allen Ginsberg'Pickard uses local words and slang authentically. [...] But throughout his work he reaches into a need for a certain strenuous innocence, a resistance to intellectualising, another way of speaking directly to an audience.'Eric Mottram'In these days of technological wizardry it might be a safe guess to say poets have become rather thin on the ground. I mean to say that there seems to be a surplus of estate agents, bankers, media people, technocrats, lawyers, accountants etc...but the POET...the noble BARD appears to have almost slipped off the map.This is one reason why I'm terribly glad that Tom Pickard is alive and kicking, because in fact he is the living embodiment of "poetdom". [...] To try to describe Tom's poems would be pointless. They speak for themselves, in the most powerful and uniquely personal way.'Annie Lennox'With sharp vision Tom Pickard dissects his gut reaction and reminds us to appreciate the cool clear beauty of our own situation.'Paul McCartney'the linguistic ecstasy [...] slipped into the loneliness of the landscape the poet finds himself answering to instead of a lover [...] A lyric poet in profound correspondence with his home in the Pennines and with the erotic muse.'Ange Mlinko, Poetry

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FREEDOM WORTH FIGHTING FOR. LOVE WORTH WAITING FOREscape this summer with the unforgettable wartime love story and Richard & Judy Bookclub pick 'The French House is a beautifully wrought exploration of love of all kinds. It's utterly gorgeous, convincingly written and completely captivating. Make sure you read it' MY WEEKLY'A raw and honest love story, filled with a wealth of historical detail. The French House is a powerful depiction of the brutal intricacies of island relationships and loyalties in a time of war' FIONA VALPY'Deeply involving . . . A fantastic debut by a gifted storyteller' JILL MANSELL***In Nazi-occupied Guernsey, the wrong decision can destroy a life... Left profoundly deaf after an accident, Émile is no stranger to isolation - or heartbreak. Now, as Nazi planes loom over Guernsey, he senses life is about to change forever.Trapped in a tense, fearful marriage, Isabelle doesn't know what has become of Émile and the future she hoped for. But when she glimpses him from the window of the French House, their lives collide once more. Leutnant Schreiber is more comfortable wielding a paintbrush than a pistol. But he has little choice in the role he is forced to play in the occupying forces - or in his own forbidden desires. As their paths entwine, loyalties are blurred and dangerous secrets forged. But on an island under occupation, courage can have deadly consequences...Lyrical, moving and compelling, this is a novel about wanting to hear and learning to listen - to the truths of our own hearts. Perfect for lovers of The Nightingale, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and All the Light We Cannot See.'A story of fraught secrets and tested loyalties . . . I found this beautifully told tale hard to put down' ANITA FRANK'Heart-wrenching . . . A truly special novel' LOUISE FEIN'Accomplished and atmospheric . . . I really enjoyed this uncliched yet deeply moving love story' TRACY REES'A vividly written, refreshingly different World War Two love story, with a central character I adored. Just brilliant!' GILL PAUL'Such an emotionally gripping novel portraying how love can be betrayed yet still endure' SUZANNE GOLDRING'I have been swept away by Jacquie Bloese's gorgeous writing, completely transported into the rich, atmospheric, and incredibly moving pages of The French House. . . this is an absolutely stunning, beautifully original novel' JENNY ASHCROFT'A wonderful story, powerfully written with beautiful characters'JAMES KENT, director of Testament of Youth'A brilliantly moving historical novel' - 2020 Caledonian Novel Award panel

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Freedom worth fighting for. Love worth waiting for.'The French House is a beautifully wrought exploration of love of all kinds. It's utterly gorgeous, convincingly written and completely captivating. Make sure you read it'MY WEEKLY'I was gripped from the start by the characters and the setting. A wonderful read'RUTH DRUART'A raw and honest love story, filled with a wealth of historical detail. The French House is a powerful depiction of the brutal intricacies of island relationships and loyalties in a time of war' FIONA VALPY'Deeply involving . . . A fantastic debut by a gifted storyteller' JILL MANSELL'A story of fraught secrets and tested loyalties . . . I found this beautifully told tale hard to put down' ANITA FRANK'Heart-wrenching . . . A truly special novel' LOUISE FEIN'Accomplished and atmospheric . . . I really enjoyed this uncliched yet deeply moving love story'TRACY REES'A vividly written, refreshingly different World War Two love story, with a central character I adored. Just brilliant!'GILL PAUL'Such an emotionally gripping novel portraying how love can be betrayed yet still endure' SUZANNE GOLDRING'I have been swept away by Jacquie Bloese's gorgeous writing, completely transported into the rich, atmospheric, and incredibly moving pages of The French House. . . this is an absolutely stunning, beautifully original novel'JENNY ASHCROFT'The writing is incredibly strong . . . a compelling read with a highly satisfactory ending'GUERNSEY PRESS***In Nazi-occupied Guernsey, the wrong decision can destroy a life... Left profoundly deaf after an accident, Émile is no stranger to isolation - or heartbreak. Now, as Nazi planes loom over Guernsey, he senses life is about to change forever.Trapped in a tense, fearful marriage, Isabelle doesn't know what has become of Émile and the future she hoped for. But when she glimpses him from the window of the French House, their lives collide once more. Leutnant Schreiber is more comfortable wielding a paintbrush than a pistol. But he has little choice in the role he is forced to play in the occupying forces - or in his own forbidden desires. As their paths entwine, loyalties are blurred and dangerous secrets forged. But on an island under occupation, courage can have deadly consequences...Lyrical, moving and compelling, this is a novel about wanting to hear and learning to listen - to the truths of our own hearts. Perfect for lovers of The Nightingale, The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and All the Light We Cannot See.'A wonderful story, powerfully written with beautiful characters'JAMES KENT, director of Testament of Youth'A brilliantly moving historical novel' - 2020 Caledonian Novel Award panel

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A nation torn apart by war. One woman steps into the crossfire.'This amazing book has everything in it: love, war, history and relevance to today. Gripping.' Russell Kane'I insist you read this intelligent empathetic novel. You won't regret it.' Frost Magazine'Extraordinary events sensitively told.' Lucy Jago, A Net For Small Fishes'I couldn't put it down.' Gill Paul, The Collector's Daughter'A heartrending tale of love, courage and sacrifice.' Nikki Marmery, On Wilder Seas____________1936. Civil war in Spain. A world on the brink of chaos ...Twenty-one-year-old Lucy is frustrated with her constrained life in Hertfordshire, teaching and keeping house for her domineering father. But she is happy to be living next door to Tom and Jamie, two brothers she has known since childhood, and whom she loves equally.But her life is turned upside down when Tom decides he must travel to Spain to fight in the bloody Spanish Civil War. He is quickly followed by Jamie who, much to Lucy's despair, is supporting General Franco.To the dismay of her irascible father, Lucy decides that the only way to bring her boys back safely is to travel to Spain herself to persuade them to come home.Yet when she sees the horrific effects of the war, she quickly becomes immersed in the lifesaving work the Quakers are doing to help the civilian population, many of whom are refugees.As the war progresses and the situation becomes increasingly perilous, Lucy realises that the challenge going forward is not so much which brother she will end up with, but whether any of them will survive the carnage long enough to decide ...____________More praise for Acts of Love and War ...'Be prepared to lose your heart in the simmering heat of war-torn Spain.' Miranda Malins, The Puritan Princess'This is a marvellous book on any level, I thoroughly enjoyed it and could hardly put it down.' Deborahjs'Wide in scope and told with honesty, insight and tenderness, a moving and unputdownable story' Judith Allnatt, The Poet's Wife'Accomplished and expansive' Anne Morgan, Reading The World'Insightful and moving' Katherine Clements, The Crimson Ribbon'One of historical fiction's most lyrical and intelligent voices' Rachel McMillan, The London Restoration'Emotionally captivating and authentic ... an unforgettable story' Susan Meissner, The Nature of Fragile Things_______________Readers can't get enough of Acts of Love and War ...***** 'A tale of passion and passionate caring, and how that can manifest in very different ways.'***** 'A masterpiece.'***** 'Highly recommended if you enjoy historical fiction.'***** 'An amazing and compelling read.'***** 'An immersive and powerful story.'

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'A deeply touching, delicious, slow burn of a love affair. A really excellent book and Jenny Ashcroft's best yet.' Dinah Jeffries'The perfect way to lose myself, escaping from the every day to travel around the world.' Louise DouglasWhat if all you needed to do to find home, was leave?Wanted: companion to escort a young, orphaned child home to Australia.All expenses as well as passage covered.Interested parties to apply without delay to 32 Williams Street, Belgravia.Rose Hamilton is in desperate need of a fresh start. There are so many reasons she should ignore the advertisement: the war, those treacherous seas, her family, her fiancé... but she cannot help herself. Within weeks, she is boarding an enormous convoy, already too attached to five-year-old Walter Lucknow.But rural Queensland, and the cattle station home of Walter's parents, is not as either of them were told to expect. Rose cannot leave this little boy she's grown to love until he is happy, and she knows the key to this is Walter's wounded fighter pilot uncle Max. But how will she ever part with Walter? And what if he isn't the only reason she wants to stay?Authors love Under the Golden Sun:'An epic story of hope and heartbreak.' Iona Grey, author of Letters to the Lost'Utterly emotive and beautiful.' Lorna Cook, author of The Forbidden Promise'A sumptuous story of love and belonging.' Tracy Rees, author of The House at Silvermoor'Ashcroft fans are in for a real treat.' Emma Rous, author of The Perfect Guests'Under the Golden Sun transported me to exciting, sun-filled places.' Liz Trenow, author of The Forgotten Seamstress'Ashcroft writes with the perfect blend of elegance and emotional punch.' Hazel Gaynor, author of The Lighthouse Keeper's Daughter'Will grab your heart, squeeze it and won't let it go until the poignant and emotional end.' Louise Fein, author of People Like Us'A story of love in its various forms, with the powerful pull of promises made, trust broken and well-kept secrets.' Glynis Peters, author of The Secret Orphan'This is a novel to lose yourself in.' Gill Paul, author of The Lost Daughter'Keeps you guessing till the end.' Adrienne Chin, author of The English Wife'A beautiful and sumptuous story that tugs on your heartstrings in all the right ways.' Nikola Scott, author of My Mother's Shadow'Vivid and lyrical, this epic love story completely enchanted and transported me. Unforgettably poignant, Rose's story is spellbinding yet utterly real.' Holly Miller, author of The Sight of You

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In a near future where a series of environmental disasters has left much of the country underwater, Pearl lives on a floating oyster farm with her father and younger sister, Clover. Following her mum’s death several years earlier, Pearl refuses to set foot on land, believing her illness was caused by the poisons in the ground. Meanwhile, Clover dreams of school, friends and a normal life. Then Nat comes to spend the summer at the sea farm while his scientist mum conducts some experiments. Leaving behind the mainland, with its strict rules and regulations, he brings with him a secret. But when the sisters promise to keep his secret safe, little do they realize that they may be risking everything… A thrilling and thought-provoking ecological adventure from the author of the highly acclaimed WHERE THE WORLD TURNS WILD. Perfect for fans of THE EXPLORER, THE LAST WILD and WHERE THE RIVER RUNS GOLD. PRAISE FOR BETWEEN SEA AND SKY: "Atmospheric, memorable, extraordinarily gripping, this is storytelling at its finest.” - The Guardian “I loved Penfold’s debut … and this confirms her as a rising star of children’s fiction, mixing a thrilling evocative adventure with pertinent themes of the environment and recovery.” – Fiona Noble, The Bookseller “A beautifully told adventure that will have readers, like its protagonists, diving deep to discover the fragility of our eco-system and emerging emboldened to protect its delicate balance.” - Sita Brahmachari, author of Where the River Runs Gold “A message to us all in the most powerful, evocative and hopeful story spinning.” - Hilary McKay, author of The Skylarks’ War “I loved Between Sea and Sky. I was totally immersed… I could almost smell the sea and feel salt in my hair. Powerful storytelling and a thought-provoking tale.” - Gill Lewis, author of Sky Hawk “A shimmering testament to the restorative power of nature and the limitless wonder unearthed by childhood curiosity.” - Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild “BOSS level MG dystopia, so vivid!” - Louie Stowell, author of The Dragon in the Library “Nicola Penfold makes me want to love our planet harder, hold it closer.” - Rashmi Sirdeshpande, author of How to Change the World “This is compelling, high-stakes storytelling… This will be a favourite that I will return to over and over again.” - Nizrana Farook, author of The Girl Who Stole an Elephant “An original and wonderful story of wild children and a world in trouble … so perfectly written that reading it is living it. And living it is an adventure.” - Rachel Delahaye, author of Mort the Meek

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'Secrets and lies, poverty and elegance, old loyalties and new friendships all combine to make Eleni Kyriacou's debut novel a compelling page-turner' - Fiona Valpy, bestselling author of The Dressmaker's GiftOne of Woman & Home's Best Historical Fiction Reads of 2020In a city of strangers, who can you trust?London, 1952. Dina Demetriou has travelled from Cyprus for a better life. She's certain that excitement, adventure and opportunity are out there, waiting - if only she knew where to look.Her passion for clothes and flair for sewing land her a job repairing the glittering costumes at the notorious Pelican Revue. It's here that she befriends the mysterious and beautiful Bebba.With her bleached-blonde hair and an appetite for mischief, Bebba is like no Greek Dina has ever met before. She guides Dina around the fashionable shops, bars and clubs of Soho, and Dina finally feels life has begun.But Bebba has a secret. And as thick smog brings the city to a standstill, the truth emerges with devastating results. Dina's new life now hangs by a thread. What will be left when the fog finally clears? And will Dina be willing to risk everything to protect her future?A story of friendship, family, love and loss set against the grimy and glittering streets of fifties Soho. For fans of Kate Furnivall and Rachel Rhys.Further praise for SHE CAME TO STAY:'An atmospheric page-turner perfectly set in the smoke and glitter of a vanished world . . . gripping' - Erin Kelly, bestselling author of He Said/She Said'Compelling and beautifully observed. Kyriacou brilliantly evokes the violence and the grime beneath the sequins and surface glamour of 1950s Soho' - Rachel Rhys, bestselling author of Dangerous Crossing 'I absolutely loved it. A gripping, enthralling story . . . I was completely engrossed' - Laura Marshall, bestselling author of Friend Request 'An absorbing story of friendship, betrayal and resilience' - Sarah Maine, bestselling author of Beyond the Wild River 'A gripping, evocative story . . . well researched and utterly convincing. A real gem of a book' - Gill Paul, bestselling author of The Lost Daughter'An evocative page-turner full of memorable characters. A wonderful debut' - Jenny Quintana, author of The Missing GirlReaders are loving SHE CAME TO STAY, too!'I can highly recommend this book. You will be hooked from start to finish.' 5 STARS'A cracking storyline packed with secrets, as well as unexpected twists and turns make this, cliche or no, a proper page-turner.' 5 STARS'A brilliant read.' 5 STARS'The plot moves quickly and is gripping. I didn't want to put the book down but then was sorry to leave the characters and their London haunts behind when I got to the end.' 5 STARS'A really enjoyable read.' 5 STARS

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Brimming with romance, adventure and vivid historical detail, Christina Courtenay's gripping dual-time novel travels from the present day to the fires of ancient Pompeii.'SHADOWS IN THE ASHES paints a vivid picture of life in two very different timeframes and, as the stories unfold, we see how the themes of life and love change little with the centuries. Fast-paced and thrilling!' SARAH MAINE, author of THE HOUSE BETWEEN TIDES.............................The sunlight caught her gold bracelet, sending a flash that almost blinded her.She closed her eyes, but jumped when the earth started shaking and there was an almighty boom behind her.Present DayFinally escaping an abusive marriage, Caterina Rossi takes her three-year-old daughter and flees to Italy. There she's drawn to research scientist Connor, who needs her translation help for his work on volcanology. Together they visit the ruins of Pompeii and, standing where Mount Vesuvius unleashed its fire on the city centuries before, Cat begins to see startling visions. Visions that appear to come from the antique bracelet handed down through her family's generations...AD 79Sold by his half-brother and enslaved as a gladiator in Roman Pompeii, Raedwald dreams only of surviving each fight, making the coin needed to return to his homeland and taking his revenge. That is, until he is hired to guard beautiful Aemilia. As their forbidden love grows, Raedwald's dreams shift like the ever more violent tremors of the earth beneath his feet.The present starts eerily to mirror the past as Cat must fight to protect her safety, and to forge a new path from the ashes of her old life.......................................................Just some of the rich praise for Christina Courtenay's pacy, evocative and romantic novels including Echoes of the Runes, The Runes of Destiny and Promises of the Runes:'I've been looking forward to this book . . . and it far exceeded my hopes and expectations. Romantic, fascinating and gripping, it's one of my favourites of the series' NICOLA CORNICK'As a reader, I was delighted and absorbed accompanying Ivor on his quest to the 9th Century. Courtenay writes so beautifully, drawing you in to each scene, that time and pages slip by effortlessly' ERIN GREEN'Whenever I need a break from the Twenty-First Century, I read one of Christina Courtenay's novels' SUE MOORCROFT 'I wonder if I, too, can find a way to travel back in time... If not, reading this book was the next best thing' GILL STEWART'Seals Christina Courtenay's crown as the Queen of Viking Romance' CATHERINE MILLER'This epic romance is sure to sweep you off your feet!' TAKE A BREAK'An absorbing story, fast-paced and vividly imagined' PAMELA HARTSHORNE'A love story and an adventure, all rolled up inside a huge amount of intricately-detailed, well-researched history. Thoroughly enjoyable' KATHLEEN MCGURL

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SHE CAME TO STAY is the stunning debut novel from the author of THE UNSPEAKABLE ACTS OF ZINA PAVLOU, now a feature title on BBC2's Between the Covers, and also named one of Woman & Home's Best Historical Fiction Reads of 2020.'Secrets and lies, poverty and elegance, old loyalties and new friendships all combine to make Eleni Kyriacou's debut novel a compelling page-turner' - Fiona Valpy, bestselling author of The Dressmaker's GiftIn a city of strangers, who can you trust?London, 1952. Dina Demetriou has travelled from Cyprus for a better life. She's certain that excitement, adventure and opportunity are out there, waiting - if only she knew where to look.Her passion for clothes and flair for sewing land her a job repairing the glittering costumes at the notorious Pelican Revue. It's here that she befriends the mysterious and beautiful Bebba.With her bleached-blonde hair and an appetite for mischief, Bebba is like no Greek Dina has ever met before. She guides Dina around the fashionable shops, bars and clubs of Soho, and Dina finally feels life has begun.But Bebba has a secret. And as thick smog brings the city to a standstill, the truth emerges with devastating results. Dina's new life now hangs by a thread. What will be left when the fog finally clears? And will Dina be willing to risk everything to protect her future?Further praise for SHE CAME TO STAY:'An atmospheric page-turner perfectly set in the smoke and glitter of a vanished world . . . gripping' - Erin Kelly, bestselling author of He Said/She Said'Compelling and beautifully observed. Kyriacou brilliantly evokes the violence and the grime beneath the sequins and surface glamour of 1950s Soho' - Rachel Rhys, bestselling author of Dangerous Crossing 'I absolutely loved it. A gripping, enthralling story . . . I was completely engrossed' - Laura Marshall, bestselling author of Friend Request 'An absorbing story of friendship, betrayal and resilience' - Sarah Maine, bestselling author of Beyond the Wild River 'A gripping, evocative story . . . well researched and utterly convincing. A real gem of a book' - Gill Paul, bestselling author of The Lost Daughter'An evocative page-turner full of memorable characters. A wonderful debut' - Jenny Quintana, author of The Missing GirlReaders are loving SHE CAME TO STAY!'I can highly recommend this book. You will be hooked from start to finish.' 5 STARS'A cracking storyline packed with secrets, as well as unexpected twists and turns make this, cliche or no, a proper page-turner.' 5 STARS'A brilliant read.' 5 STARS'The plot moves quickly and is gripping. I didn't want to put the book down but then was sorry to leave the characters and their London haunts behind when I got to the end.' 5 STARS'A really enjoyable read.' 5 STARS

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Chaya, a no-nonsense, outspoken hero, leads her friends and a gorgeous elephant on a noisy, fraught, joyous adventure through the jungle where revolution is stirring and leeches lurk. Will stealing the queen's jewels be the beginning or the end of everything for the intrepid gang? With cover illustration by David Dean.The Girl Who Stole an Elephant is as rich, dazzling and alluring as a pouchful of royal jewels, and as triumphant as a trumpeting elephant! I loved it. - Sophie Anderson, author of The House with Chicken Legs A glorious fast-paced adventure through the jungle. I love Chaya's spirit and determination and the friendships that are built along the way. I feel I am there with Chaya and her friends. The Girl Who Stole an Elephant is adventuring at its best; a mystery, a jewel thief, and an escape into the jungle with an elephant at your side. - Gill Lewis, author of Sky HawkChaya, schoolgirl by day, thief by night, will steal your heart in this incredibly assured debut that's packed with adventure, friendship, and loyalty. - Aisha Bushby, author of A Pocketful of StarsThis exciting debut, set on the lush island of ancient Sri Lanka, introduces us to a kick-ass heroine in Chaya, a young girl who robs the rich to help the poor in local villages Richly atmospheric, full of colour and passion, Farook is a writer to watch. - Sally Morris, Daily MailFarook embeds her message in a cracking narrative and never lets us feel we're being preached to. Farook does not beat around the bush. Chaya looked at the bronze spear pointing at her neck, reads the novel's first sentence and in the ensuing 48 chapters, the pace rarely slackens. But she allows every character time to unravel, resulting in a deceptively dense adventure that will appeal to readers well into their teens. - Emily Bearn, TelegraphThe Girl Who Stole an Elephant positively rustles with the textures of rural Sri Lanka. It introduces an author keen to write a love letter to her culture, and upend preconceptions too More like this, please. - Observer Farook's dazzling debut novel follows the stubborn jewel thief Chaya, her friends and the titular elephant through the Sri Lankan jungle in a beautifully paced story of friendship and revolution. - i Readers can still travel to new and exciting places from home with a great adventure story, like The Girl Who Stole an Elephant by Nizrana Farook. Set in Sri Lanka, this debut novel follows Chaya, who has a habit of stealing to help those in need, but taking the queen's jewels and the royal elephant means that she's now a target and needs to escape into the jungle. The vivid setting and fast-paced plot will have you captivated until the final page. - Scotsman

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Inspired by Oscar Wilde's classic story of hedonism and corruption, The Confessions of Dorian Gray imagines a world where Dorian Gray was real, and his friendship with Oscar Wilde once spawned the notorious novel. Starring Alexander Vlahos as Dorian Gray, this fifth and final series comprises four hour-long episodes, reuniting Dorian with a host of familiar friends from throughout his extended lifetime. 1. One Must Not Look At Mirrors by Guy Adams. London, 1888. When Oscar Wilde befriends a young man by the name of Dorian Gray, he finds himself immersed in a world devoid of morals. But as a celebrated killer stalks the streets, and he struggles to come to terms with inhuman actions, can he find any humanity in Dorian...? 2. Angel of War by Roy Gill. France, 1915. In the trenches of the Great War, Lieutenant Dorian Gray reports to Captain James Anderson, shortly before a routine mission into No Man's Land. His comrades rely on their faith to get them through - but is there any truth behind the story of the legendary Angel of Mons...? 3. The Valley of Nightmares by David Llewellyn. Los Angeles, 1948.Reunited in the heart of the Hollywood Hills, Dorian Gray and Dorothy Parker quickly find themselves embroiled in a conspiracy that takes them behind-the-scenes of the region's booming movie industry. But how much of it is an act...? 4. Ever After by Scott Handcock. London, 2016. The end. This is the last in the series of hugely popular adventures based on the premise, "what if Oscar Wilde's character Dorian Gray was real?" The adventures span the decades as an immortal man lives through the years and encounters some of the darkness therein...Star Alexander Vlahos has not only played Dorian across five series for Big Finish, and in several spin-offs, but may also be recognised from BBC TV's Saturday night hit Merlin, or his role in Kenneth Branagh's Macbeth on stage. This collection includes a bonus disc of behind-the-scenes interviews with cast and crew. Guest star Sarah Douglas is still regarded for her iconic role of Ursa in Superman II (1980) Note: The Confessions of Dorian Gray contains adult material and is not suitable for younger listeners.C AST: Alexander Vlahos (Dorian Gray), Guy Adams (German Officer), Samuel Barnett (Stuart Knight), Daniel Brocklebank (James Anderson), Steven Cree (Fraser Collins), Ben Crystal (Richard Dadd), Sarah Douglas (Dorothy Parker), Stephanie Ellyne (Mary Harris), Ben Flohr (Tommy Coogan), Lizzie Hopley (Emma Elizabeth Smith), Jo Joyner (Constance Wilde), Mac McDonald (Walter van Kirk), Lewis Reeves (Walter Sickert), Steffan Rhodri (Oscar Wilde), John Schwab (Jim Harris). Note: The Confessions of Dorian Gray contains adult material and is not suitable for younger listeners.

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This Handbook is concerned with the law of trademarks and related signs - company names, domain names, indications of geographical origin, work names and other names. It consists of a series of comprehensive and practical reports from 14 of the world's most important economies - Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, the Czech Republic, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Switzerland and the United Kingdom - each detailing the present state of the law in that jurisdiction. Each country report is between 40 and 120 pages long. (The law of trademarks in the US will be dealt with in a future second edition). For many multi-national companies their knowledge of trademarks and signs has never been more important. Infringement of valuable signs and trademarks can lead to multi-million dollar disputes and correspondingly large settlements and awards. This Handbook is designed to enable multi-national enterprises to understand the different legal environments in which they operate and to plan their legal and commercial strategies accordingly, avoiding disputes and protecting their own IP assets. Moreover, the Handbook enables communication with foreign advisers and helps to avoid the pitfalls and misunderstandings arising from advice and information given and received across borders. Besides being organised by jurisdiction, the book deals with all types of trademark or sign using the same analytical method (formation, cancellation, proprietorship, transfer, licence, conflicts between signs, scope of protection, opposition to registration, types of claims and procedures) and in respect of each jurisdiction the authors set out the best strategy for safeguarding the goodwill related to trademarks and signs. The second and third parts of the handbook offer an overview of modern approaches to the marketing of trademarks and signs, as well as accepted market valuation methods. The system used to organise the account of trademark law in each country facilitates straightforward and quick access to the relevant laws. Within each country report the authors focus on potential conflicts between signs and trademarks, thus adding to the practical value of the book. The authors are all experienced and well-known experts in their own countries, whose collective approach to writing emphasises making the content clear, coherent, concise and practically-oriented. Country Contributors: Austria - Christian Hauer (Wien) Belgium - Hendrik Vanhees (Antwerp University) Canada - Kelly Gill (Toronto) China - Yi Wenhui/Lian Yunze/Connie Zhuang (Beijing) Czech Republic - Petr Hajn/Ivo Telec (Brno University) France - Pascale Trefigny (Grenoble) Germany - Paul Lange (Dusseldorf) Italy - Adriano Vanzetti (Milan) Japan - Kazuko Matsuo (Tokyo) The Netherlands - Paul van der Kooij (Leiden University) Portugal - Jose de Oliveira Ascencao (Lisbon) Russia - Alexander Petrovich Sergeev (St. Petersburg) Switzerland - Eugen Marbach/Peter Widmer (Bern) United Kingdom - Phillip Johnson (London) Brand Strategy - Klaus Schmidt () Brand Valuation - Klaus Brandmeyer (Hamburg)/Roland Schulz(Cologne)/Ottmar Franzen (Wiesbaden) Language Consultant - Jeremy Phillips (London)

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A thought-provoking combination of visually powerful imagery and comment *Includes 260 stunning photographs by more than 50 international contributors *Keynote essay by Patricia Macdonald *Features an interview with Dan Bailey and George Monbiot *Includes essays by Robert Macfarlane, Owen Logan, Kate Brown, Siobhan Lyons, Andrew Simms, Natasha Myers, Ayelen Liberona, Jared Diamond, Leslie Hook, Adam Nicolson Surveying the Anthropocene presents a range of approaches to image-making concerning the environment by some of the best artist-photographers working worldwide, alongside texts by some of the most illuminating writers on environmental questions, at a pivotal moment in the human relationship with the planet. Photographic approaches to environmental imagery have altered fundamentally in recent decades, largely as a result of increasing socio-ecological awareness. This insightful international survey, with a strong representation from Scotland, considers the varied range of current working practices of a representative selection of artist-photographers, both renowned and emerging, whose image-making explores human-caused environmental change. It concentrates particularly on work which relates to the types of impact, on climate and the web of life, that are sufficiently significant and globally widespread to appear in the future record of the rocks as a new geological epoch - the Anthropocene. The concept of the Anthropocene has engaged the attention and imagination of a wide range of commentators from very different backgrounds and walks of life. It therefore provides an excellent context in which to discuss, in an open and cross-disciplinary way, the range of responses of artist-photographers and cultural writers to our present global situation of multiple, interconnected environmental and social crises - and the options for human ingenuity in addressing these. Contributing photographers Jack Aeby, Antoine d'Agata, Benoit Aquin, Mandy Barker, Olaf Otto Becker, Daniel Beltra , Alex Boyd, Marilyn Bridges, Alicia Bruce, David Buckland, Edward Burtynsky, Anne Campbell, Thomas Joshua Cooper, Cortis & Sonderegger, Dalziel + Scullion, Pedro David de Oliveira Castello Branco, Bryan Debus, Susan Derges, Terry Evans, Tim Flach, Hamish Fulton, Sophie Gerrard, Lorne Gill, Emmet Gowin, Alexander Hamilton, J.J. Harrison, Louis Helbig, Zig Jackson/Rising Buffalo, Chris Jordan, Aleksandr Kupny, Chrystel Lebas, Ayelen Liberona, Timo Lieber, Owen Logan, Patricia & Angus Macdonald, Pradip Malde, Katie Blair Matthews, Meryl McMaster, Gideon Mendel, Richard Misrach, Fabrice Monteiro, Simon Norfolk, Susanne Ramsenthaler, Paul Souders, Jamey Stillings, Thomas Struth, Timm Suess, Klaus Thymann, Chris Wainwright, Greg White, Pinar Yoldas Scientists and photographers, some unnamed, from: Federal government of the United States; United States Department of Energy;, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA: Hannah A. Bullock; Azaibi Tamin;, NASA: including Jeff Schmalz (MODIS) Contributing writers Dan Bailey, Tobia Bezzola, Barbara Bloemink, Kate Brown, Jared Diamond, William A. Ewing, Jared Farmer, Willis E. Hartshorn, Leslie Hook, Siobhan Lyons, Robert Macfarlane, Bill McKibben, George Monbiot, Pete Moore, Jason Arunn Murugesu, Natasha Myers, Adam Nicolson, Andrew Simms

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Longlisted for the Yoto Carnegie Medal The Times' Best Books for Children 2021 "How quickly teenagers fall apart – and how fast they can heal. This is the hopeful message from Sita Brahmachari, a writer who mixes verse and prose to tell stories that stick." - Alex O’Connell, The Times Kai, Orla and Zak grew up together, their days spent on the patch of wilderness in between their homes, a small green space in a sprawling grey city. Music, laughter and friendship bind them together and they have big plans for their future – until Kai’s family suffers a huge loss. Trying to cope with his own grief, as well as watching it tear his family apart, Kai is drawn into a new and more dangerous crowd, until his dreams for the future are a distant memory. Excluded from school and retreating from his loved ones, it seems as though his path is set, his story foretold. Orla, Zak and new classmate Om are determined to help him find his way back. But are they too late? A heart-breaking and poignant novel from award-winning author Sita Brahmachari, for fans of THE BLACK FLAMINGO, AND THE STARS WERE BURNING BRIGHTLY and POET X. PRAISE FOR WHEN SHADOWS FALL: "When Shadows Fall is an invitation to join a community at the heart of which is the tale of a young man gripped by tragedy and trauma. The book offers hope through mutual support and a focus in figuring out what really matters… I was moved and uplifted." - Michael Rosen "Full of empathy and hope … Kai's story is a must read for teens to explore how easily things can fall apart but also how we can heal." - A. M. Dassu, author of Boy, Everywhere “A song of growing up, grief and the power of connection, When Shadows Fall is an illuminating and lyrical read” - Polly Ho-Yen, author of Boy in the Tower “Beautifully told with real care, tenderness and heart” - Jasbinder Bilan, author of Asha and the Spirit Bird “Sita’s lyrical prose captures the raw emotions of adolescence – of a young person navigating their way through grief and troubled times. A book for all of us.” - Gill Lewis, author of Swan Song “A heart-wrenching story about loss and art and nature, about how things can fall apart and how friends stand beside one another no matter what” - Rashmi Sirdeshpande, author of How to Change the World “Empathetic, original, searingly sad in places, but full of hope, & the power of friendship, art, music, wild places, and ravens” - Nicola Penfold, author of Where the World Turns Wild "A gripping, tender, terrifying work... Impactful, innovative, and deeply moving." - Sinéad O’Hart, author of The Eye of the North

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This book presents an exciting and novel approach to explore the concept of the ‘ideal student’. Written in the context of higher education, the concept aims to promote a more transparent conversation about the explicit, implicit and idealistic expectations of university students. It would address concerns that implicit rules or unspoken practices can result in diverse but patterned student experiences, widening social inequalities.The concept of the ideal student can provide students, especially those less familiar or confident with higher education, with a better and clearer understanding of what is valued, expected and rewarded at university. With increasing student diversity, there is an urgent need for greater openness and awareness of the different expectations and ideals of students. The key questions explored include:•How is the ideal student imagined and envisioned?•To what extent are these constructions realistic and achievable? •Are certain students more likely to aspire, identify or embody these ideal characteristics? •Are there any features of the ideal student that are widely shared and recognised? •How do people from different social backgrounds construct their ideal student? •How can staff support students to develop desirable characteristics for university?A number of issues are unpacked as the book discusses the nuances of what it means to be a university student. The Ideal Student is written for a general audience and will be of particular interest to those working or studying in higher education, especially staff, students and senior leaders."This clearly written and engaging book will be of interest to HE practitioners, students and researchers who want to support more inclusive learning environments."Professor Louise Archer, Karl Mannheim Professor of Sociology of Education, UCL Institute of Education, UK"This is a rigorously informed and illuminating reconsideration of the notion of the Ideal Type of student in higher education."Professor Gill Crozier DPhil, FRSA, University of Roehampton, UK"Based on solid empirical work, combining qualitative and quantitative data, the book offers an insight into the perception of whom and what the ideal student is."Professor Lars Ulriksen, Department of Science Education, University of Copenhagen, Denmark"In their well-written and clearly structured volume Wong and Chiu summarise valuable data-driven research that sheds light on the important question of what characterises the ideal student."Stefan T. Siegel & Tobias Böttger, University of Augsburg, GermanyBilly Wong is an Associate Professor in Widening Participation at the Institute of Education, University of Reading.Tiffany Chiu is Senior Teaching Fellow in Educational Development at the Centre for Higher Education Research and Scholarship and Programme Director for the PG Cert in University Learning and Teaching at Imperial College London. She is a Senior Fellow of the HEA.

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The war taught her to fight. The children taught her to hope...*The Lost Song of Paris, the new novel from Sarah Steele, is available to pre-order now!*Inspired by real acts of bravery and resistance, The Schoolteacher of Saint Michel is a heartrending and deeply moving story of one woman's courage and sacrifice during World War II, from the USA Today bestselling author of The Missing Piece of Nancy Moon. This exquisitely beautiful novel is perfect for readers of The Rose Code by Kate Quinn, The Postmistress, Lilac Girls and The Girl from Vichy.'A beautifully worked tale of bravery, woven into the reality of a time we can't forget' Mandy Robotham, author of The Berlin Girl'An emotional, beautifully constructed read. I loved the way the clues from the past and present slowly knitted together, answering the questions that had been missing their answers for so long' Sunday Times bestselling author Jill Mansell'Gripping, at times heartbreaking, but ultimately uplifting, I found this beautifully written novel impossible to put down' Sunday Times bestselling author Katie Fforde______'My darling girl, I need you to find someone for me . . .'France, 1942. At the end of the day, the schoolteacher releases her pupils. She checks they have their identity passes, and warns them not to stop until the German guards have let them through the barrier that separates occupied France from Free France. As the little ones fly across the border and into their mothers' arms, she breathes a sigh of relief. No one is safe now. Not even the children.Berkshire, present day. A letter left to her by her beloved late grandmother Gigi takes Hannah Stone on a journey deep into the heart of the Dordogne landscape. As she begins to unravel a forgotten history of wartime bravery and sacrifice, she discovers the heartrending secret that binds her grandmother to a village schoolteacher, the remarkable Lucie Laval . . .______'An engaging tale of courage and friendship. A triumph!' Gill Paul'Evocative writing and the storytelling is masterful. It really draws the reader in' Felicity Hayes-McCoy'A gripping journey about the quiet triumphs and breathtaking courage of so many women in wartime' Jane BaileyReaders ADORE The Schoolteacher of Saint Michel:'I loved this book, I finished reading it on VE Day. It is certainly a fitting tribute to the everyday people in France who resisted the German occupation in WW2. 5 stars''Absolutely fabulous. Highly recommend this. I've read The Missing Pieces of Nancy Moon - this is even better''Such a poignant story and beautiful characters. I can highly recommend this book''A lovely book, by turns emotional, exciting and heart-rending. The story is beautifully told. A book that will stay with me. Definitely recommended, particularly to anyone with an interest in World War II historical novels' 'A lovely story of courage and hope at a time of extreme adversity. Wonderfully written, descriptive and poignant. This one is special''Sheer escapism, beautifully written. I highly recommend it'

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Supporting children with English as an additional language (EAL) requires detailed knowledge and understanding of their social, cognitive and linguistic needs. Supporting Pupils with EAL in the Primary Classroom highlights the fundamental principles that underpin teaching and learning, and examines practical strategies for classroom practice. The book focuses on the importance of recognising the knowledge, skills and experience that children with EAL bring to the classroom, whilst identifying the specific support required. It draws on evidence from an extended case study to illustrate essential points and combines this with an examination of relevant theory as well as how this translates to classroom practice. Key features of the book include:• Core knowledge and skills about how to support children with EAL• Case study scenarios to illustrate particular principles, pedagogies and practices• Practical ideas for the classroom throughoutSupporting Pupils with EAL in the Primary Classroom is an invaluable text for those in teaching training, qualified teachers, senior managers in schools and those working in initial teacher education."The author writes about the demands of teaching EAL learners with commitment, knowledge and enthusiasm. She offers the reader insights and examples from her own research and classroom practice, beginning with a discussion of bilingualism and language learning, followed up by an exploration the four skills and assessment in the classroom, as well as a chapter arguing for professional development and research informed teaching. In this chapter she stresses the importance of teachers finding innovative ways to enable EAL learners within the curriculum context. In the final chapter, drawing on the sociocultural framework that informs her work, the author discusses the challenges, constraints and possibilities for supporting EAL children in the wider contexts of pedagogy and policy. Throughout, there are case studies and examples, and the author writes with a sense of optimism that it is in the capacity of teachers to improve the classroom learning opportunities for EAL learners. Written in a personable and accessible style, this book offers an informative foundation for teacher educators and professionals who want to learn more about working with EAL learners."Dr Charlotte Franson, formerly of Canterbury Christ Church University, UK"As a teacher educator, I am often engaged in discussions around trainees' perceptions of the complexities of teaching children learning EAL. This book, rooted in practice based research provides an accessible and informative scaffold for those embarking on a career in teaching. The premise of the 'what' and 'how' is particularly useful and the sequence of chapters provides a well mapped journey for the reader, through the theory, practice and considerations of supporting children learning EAL. Exemplification, through the case study vignettes, poses reflective thinking points that can be readily applied to one’s own practice.Overall, excellent practitioner guidance that both consolidates subject knowledge and provides realistic practice guidance. A title I will be heartily recommending to my students."Gill Chambers, Senior Lecturer in Education, University of Northampton, UK

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A professional pianist searches for her sister, who disappeared when their parents died, aided by her childhood-care records and a single song that continues to haunt her … the exquisite new novel from the author of This Is How We Are Human‘Utterly beautiful … I couldn’t put it down’ Iona Gray‘Louise Beech has a rare talent … she doesn’t just move the reader, she breaks their heart and mends it again’ Fiona Cummins‘The best one yet … I’m still in tears of heartbreak and joy’ S E Lynes'Like the notes of a nocturne, Nothing Else will leave you profoundly touched by its beauty' Nydia Hetherington–––––––––––––––––––––––––––Heather Harris is a piano teacher and professional musician, whose quiet life revolves around music, whose memories centre on a single song that haunts her. A song she longs to perform again. A song she wrote as a child, to drown out the violence in their home. A song she played with her little sister, Harriet.But Harriet is gone … she disappeared when their parents died, and Heather never saw her again.When Heather is offered an opportunity to play piano on a cruise ship, she leaps at the chance. She’ll read her recently released childhood care records by day – searching for clues to her sister’s disappearance – and play piano by night … coming to terms with the truth about a past she’s done everything to forget.An exquisitely moving novel about surviving devastating trauma, about the unbreakable bond between sisters, Nothing Else is also a story of courage and love, and the power of music to transcend – and change – everything.–––––––––––––––––––––––––––‘One of the best writers of her generation’ John Marrs ‘A story of childhood trauma, survival, the fragility of memory, and of love that survives decades … I loved it’ Gill Paul‘A touching, beautifully written work of literary fiction ... pure perfection’
Michael Wood'A beautiful, heartbreaking, uplifting novel' Vikki Patis‘Another brilliant tale of love and hope’ Fionnuala Kearney'Powerful, mesmerising and honest … I loved every word' Carol Lovekin ‘A tender and beautiful story about the loving and unbreakable bond between sisters’ Madeleine Black ‘Wonderful prose’ Shelley’s Book Nook ‘Emotional, poignant, delightful’ Bobs and Books ‘A masterpiece of emotional artistry, as spectacularly tender as it is disquieting, this book will stay with you long after you finish it’ Bookly Matters ‘This is another beautiful, lyrically written story, made even more perfect with the musical themes throughout’ Karen Reads ‘Beautifully written, in that style that is so typical of this author, and which never fails to draw its reader in’ From Belgium with Booklove ‘Madame Beech has done it again ... both touching and heartbreaking’ Mrs Loves To Read ‘This is such a beautiful book – incredibly tender, it’s like an extended piece of the most beautiful classical music you ever heard’ Tea Leaves and Reads ‘This is a story, at its root, of love and loss, and lost time, but one that testifies to the power of truth and the endurance of love … her best yet’Blue Book Balloon

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It is all too easy for the vogue term 'green infrastructure' to be waved around by local authorities and developers like a totem of environmental awareness, while simply meaning 'greenspace' or 'storm water management'. This book provides a welcome corrective, demonstrating the need to plan the natural environment of cities as integral to their effective social, economic, ecological and aesthetic function. The impressive range of topics includes green infrastructure and health, air quality, biodiversity, water and recreation, and the book shows through policy discussion and case study how principles can be converted into practice. It will be an essential source for students, researchers and practitioners.'- Hugh Barton, University of the West of England, UK'Green infrastructure is an essential feature of social, economic and environmental planning for all places. This important and very comprehensive book will be essential reading for all those involved in its provision and promotion. It offers an exceptionally informative contextual review and it is exemplified throughout by a series of domestic and international case studies at a variety of scales. Its methodological discussion and examples will be of considerable value to all those engaged in the delivery of green infrastructure.'- Janice Morphet, University College London, UKGreen infrastructure encompasses many features in the built environment. It is widely recognised as a valuable resource in our towns and cities and it is therefore crucial to understand, create, protect and manage this resource. This Handbook sets the context for green infrastructure as a means to make urban environments more resilient, sustainable, liveable and equitable.Including state-of-the-art reviews that summarise the existing knowledge as well as research findings, this Handbook provides current evidence for the beneficial impact of green infrastructure on health, environmental quality and the economy. It discusses the planning and design of green infrastructure as a strategic network down to the individual features in a neighbourhood and looks at the process of green infrastructure implementation, emphasising the importance of collaboration across multiple professions and sectors. This comprehensive volume operates at multiple spatial scales, from strategic networks at the regional level to individual features in neighbourhoods, with international case studies used throughout to illustrate key examples of good practice.This collection of expert contributions will be invaluable to students and academics in the fields of planning, urban studies and geography. Practitioners and policy-makers will also find the policy discussion and examples enlightening.Contributors include: J.H. Amorim, A. Barker, S. Burgess, T. Butlin, T. Butterworth, C. Calfapietra, L. Chawla, N. Collomb, A. Coombs, E. Costa Pinto, C. Dair, V. Derr, K.J. Doick, G. Everett, T. Ferguson, P. Freer-Smith, S. Gill, C. Gonçalves, C. Greed, S. Grimmond, S. Kotthaus, J. Lamond, E. Lawson, F. Lemes De Oliveira, M. Lindsey, S. Manley, J. Marques-Da-Cruz, I. Mell, A.I. Miranda, A.J. Moffat, P. Nolan, C. Olver, S. Payne, A. Quintas, A. Rigolon, S. Rolls, M. Short, P. Silva, E. Silveirinha De Oliveira, D. Sinnett, N. Smith, T. Sunderland, M.J. Tallis, P.Toscano, C. Ward Thompson, K. Williams, J. Wilson

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"This book has the potential to do for nurseries what Michael Fullan's work did for schools, to re-affirm the moral heart of leadership. Often omitted from accounts of early years professionalism, an attitude of care is advocated as the central characteristic of leaders. At the same time, Clark and Murray challenge the traditional explanation for this attitude amongst practitioners in terms of female nurture, presenting it instead in non-gendered terms as a function of ethical character and commitment. With their concepts of catalytic agency, reflective integrity and relational interdependence, the authors provide an intellectual justification for something that many practitioners have long known intuitively, that early years leadership calls for a marriage of both mind and heart." Dr Geoff Taggart, Lecturer in Early Years, University of Reading, UK“This book makes an innovative contribution to the discussion and debate about leadership in early years. The new conceptual framework which is introduced for understanding leadership focuses on thinking critically about how leadership is worked out in early childhood practice. Underpinned by empirical research from across the early years sector, a range of practitioner profiles and voices are used to illustrate, examine and discuss the core features of the leadership within process in action. Particularly useful for graduate early years leaders, and all students of early childhood education and care practice, this book includes valuable material that will challenge thinking about the development and professional identity of leaders in early years provision in the twenty-first century.”Gill Goodliff, Department of Education, The Open University, UKThis book explores the realities of leadership in the early years and examines the challenges and opportunities for the profession. The authors suggest that recent moves to professionalize the workforce offer a unique opportunity to reconceptualize leadership and develop a new paradigm more suited to the specific circumstances of the sector.As well as discussing current perspectives of leadership, the book proposes a new concept for the early years, leadership within, which recognises that leadership can come from anywhere within an organisation or setting. The book argues that the concept of leadership within is more appropriate for the early years sector as it draws on the professional desire to further the education and well-being of young children and their families rather than on traditional hierarchy and position. Key features of the book include: Ideas based on research from a wide range of current early years practice Real leadership profiles of practitioners from a diversity of different professional backgrounds and working in a variety of contexts Reflective prompts to assist you in identifying the leadership in your own practice and how this can be developed further The ideas explored in Reconceptualizing Leadership in the Early Years have important implications for sustainable leadership development in the sector and are essential reading for all practitioners as well as those studying early childhood and enrolled on EYPS courses.

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When the body of a woman is discovered in a fisherman’s net in Quebec’s Gaspé Peninsula, new recruit Detective Sergeant Joaquin Moralès is thrown in at the deep end… First in a beautifully written, atmospheric and addictive new series. ***Runner-up for the Scott Moncrieff Prize for Translations from French*** ‘Wonderfully atmospheric … I genuinely couldn’t put this book down’ Gill Paul 'You might want to grab this release if you've read everything by Louise Penny and need more Quebecois noir to feed your crime-loving tendencies’ Crime Fiction Lover ________________ Truth lingers in murky waters… As Montrealer Catherine Day sets foot in a remote fishing village and starts asking around about her birth mother, the body of a woman dredges up in a fisherman’s nets. Not just any woman, though: Marie Garant, an elusive, nomadic sailor and unbridled beauty who once tied many a man’s heart in knots. Detective Sergeant Joaquin Moralès, newly drafted to the area from the suburbs of Montreal, barely has time to unpack his suitcase before he’s thrown into the deep end of the investigation. On Quebec’s outlying Gaspé Peninsula, the truth can be slippery, especially down on the fishermen’s wharves. Interviews drift into idle chit-chat, evidence floats off with the tide and the truth lingers in murky waters. It’s enough to make DS Moralès reach straight for a large whisky… Both a dark and consuming crime thriller and a lyrical, poetic ode to the sea, We Were the Salt of the Sea is a stunning, page-turning novel, from one of the most exciting new names in crime fiction. ________________ Praise for Roxanne Bouchard: ‘Colourful, authentic characters with the kind of flavour that can only be inspired by real locals. So good it’ll make you want to pack your bags and drive straight to the seaside’ Journal de Montréal ‘Lyrical and elegiac, full of quirks and twists’ William Ryan ‘Asks questions right from page one’ Quentin Bates ‘An isolated Canadian fishing community, a missing mother, and some lovely prose. Very impressed by this debut so far’ Eva Dolan 'A tour de force of both writing and translation’ Su Bristow 'The translation from French has retained a dreamily poetic cast to the language, but it's det-fic for all that, as DS Joaquin Morales, transplanted from balmy Mexican shores to a remote Quebecois fishing community, investigates a woman's death at sea. This is the first book by Bouchard, renowned Canadian playwright and author, to be translated into English' Sunday Times 'Characters are well-drawn, from Moralès, the cop, and his sturdy inspector, Marlène, to the husky fishermen who were Marie's devoted suitors three decades ago. There's a comic element: the chef at the bistro, a mine of misleading information; the alcoholic priest who was never ordained - and the appalling undertaker who was once a used-car salesman and never forgot the spiel … An exotic curiosity, raw nugget’ Shots Mag

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'I Never Said I Love You is one of the most electric, enchanting, engrossing and energising memoirs of self-harm, self-loathing, grief, eating disorders, suicide - and sex - that you will read.' The Sunday Times'Indecently entertaining... one of the most uplifting and eccentric memoirs I have ever read.' Observer'Brutally honest and relentlessly funny.' Adam Kay, author of 'This is Going to Hurt''A brilliant memoir full of gasp-inducing honesty about depression and family and taking control of your own pain. Funny, sad, hopeful, I Never Said I Loved You is an irresistible, strangely empowering read.' Matt Haig'This mind-blowingly wonderful memoir had me convulsing with laughter even while my heart was breaking. It's utterly effing BEAUTIFUL.' Marian Keyes'I found myself blindsided by this extraordinary book ... I was deeply moved by its capacity both to depict pain, and offer consolation. I loved it, and won't ever forget it.' Sarah Perry'Both touching and funny' the TelegraphOn an unlikely backpacking trip, Rhik and his mother find themselves speaking openly for the first time in years. Afterwards, the depression that has weighed down on Rhik begins to loosen its grip for a moment - so he seizes the opportunity: to own it, to understand it, and to find out where it came from. Through this begins a journey of investigation, healing and recovery. Along the way Rhik learns some shocking truths about his family, and realizes that, in turn, he will need to confront the secrets he has long buried. But through this, he triumphs over his fears and brings his depression into the light. I Never Said I Loved You is the story of how Rhik learned to let go, and then keep going. With unique humour and honesty, he has created a powerfully rich, funny and poignant exploration of the light and dark in all of us.A vital, moving and darkly funny memoir by a powerful new voice in non-fiction.'Both unputdownable and beautifully-written, bracing and consoling. A book that tackles mental health and the darkest things with razor-sharp wit and mordant laughs aplenty ... read this.' Sharlene Teo'Touching, funny, wildly readable ... Look out for it.' Sathnam Sanghera'No one writes better, or more sweetly, about how it feels to feel. Even the darkest times are shot through with glorious, bright beams of wit.' Janet Ellis'It's honest and funny (and beautifully painful and brutal at times), but also - oh goodness - it's so elegant. The writing is graceful and kind, even when it hurts a little to remember it's a memoir.' Joanna Cannon 'Equal parts hilarious and heartbreaking. What an absolutely riveting read.' Nikita Gill'Heartbreaking, funny, raw, brave and - yes! - even better than the egg thing.' Erin Kelly'I have always loved Rhik Samadder's writing. And now there's a whole book!' Jessie Burton'A sparkling, thoughtful memoir. It manages to be witty, charming, brooding and devastating all the same time.' Justin Myers, The Guyliner

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In this beautiful, lyrical sequel to the critically acclaimed We Were the Salt of the Sea, Detective Moralès finds that a seemingly straightforward search for a missing fisherwoman off Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula is anything but… **SHORTLISTED for Crime Writers of Canada: Best French Crime Novel** **LONGLISTED for the CWA International Dagger** **NUMBER ONE BESTSELLER** 'A riveting story of old enmities, jealousies and friendships that come to light after a woman goes missing in a remote fishing village beautifully atmospheric' Gill Paul 'A haunting murder mystery about how human nature is every bit as dangerous and inscrutable as the sea draws out its suspense to the very last moment' Foreword Reviews _________________ It's not just the sea that holds secrets When an abandoned lobster trawler is found adrift off the coast of Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula, DS Joaquin Moralès begins a straightforward search for the boat's missing captain, Angel Roberts a rare female in a male-dominated world. But Moralès finds himself blocked at every turn by his police colleagues, by fisheries bureaucrats, and by his grown-up son, who has turned up at his door with a host of his own personal problems. When Angel's body is finally discovered, it's clear something very sinister is afoot, and Moralès and son are pulled into murky, dangerous waters, where old resentments run deep. Exquisitely written, with Bouchard's trademark lyrical prose, The Coral Bride evokes the power of the sea on the communities who depend on it, the never-ending struggle between the generations, and an extraordinary mystery at the heart of both. For fans of Ann Cleeves, Annie Proulx, Emma Stonex, Louise Penny and Jane Harper _________________ 'A police procedural like no other marvel at the clever plotting' Crime Fiction Lover 'An absolute joy to read, with as much tension as there is poetry' Le Journal de Montréal 'With a cast of characters you'll engage with and love and a mystery that will have you on edge, Bouchard pulls you into her world wonderful' Michael J. Malone 'Roxanne Bouchard is reinventing the crime novel' Quebec TV 'Emotive and tragically beautiful' Jen Med's Book Reviews 'This is a crime novel but it is also a story about fathers and sons, of strangers in a new land and of women in a man's world a work of distinction' Live & Deadly 'The captivating investigation also conjures up the tides and their mysteries, following the rhythm of the region, the icy course of its autumn tide' Le Devoir 'Beautiful, readable, unforgettable' From Belgium with Booklove 'Characters so vivid, you can hear their voices' The Reading Closet Praise for Roxanne Bouchard: 'Lyrical and elegiac, full of quirks and twists' William Ryan 'Asks questions right from page one' Quentin Bates 'An isolated Canadian fishing community, a missing mother, and some lovely prose. Very impressed by this debut so far' Eva Dolan 'A tour de force of both writing and translation' Su Bristow 'The translation from French has retained a dreamily poetic cast to the language, but it's det-fic for all that ' Sunday Times 'Characters are well-drawn, from Moralès, the cop, and his sturdy inspector, Marlène, to the husky fishermen who were Marie's devoted suitors three decades ago ... An exotic curiosity, raw nugget' Shots Mag

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This Handbook provides a comprehensive guide to the topical and methodological breadth and diversity of the interdisciplinary field of environmental studies. The chapters, each written by leading experts in the field, illustrate cutting-edge quantitative, qualitative and mixed methodologies used in environmental studies research. The Handbook will make an ideal primary or supplemental textbook for graduate research and methods courses. It will also be an excellent resource for environmental studies students, faculty and researchers.'- Robin Leichenko, Rutgers University, US'Usually a book with a title like this is bought by libraries, used occasionally by desperate researchers seeking a new analysis tool. This book is not like that - although between the covers you will find everything need for such emergencies. Rather this is a walk through magic and mystery of environmental science, from cultural aspects to green economy, virtual water to the latest in gaming. Buy and use it for emergencies by all means, but it's a great read too!'- Peter Bridgewater, Centre for Museums and Heritage, The Australian National University'An up-to-date collection of methods and applications for analyzing environmental problems ranging from energy return on energy invested to international trade in virtual water and much else. The book will be of both academic and practical value to ecological economists, geographers, and environmental scientists. Highly recommended.'- Herman E. Daly, University of Maryland, USThis Handbook presents methods to advance the understanding of interdependencies between the well-being of human societies and the performance of their biophysical environment. It showcases applications to material and energy use; urbanization and technological transition; economic growth and social vulnerabilities; development and governance of social and industrial networks; and the role of history, culture, and science itself in carrying out analysis and guiding policy as well as the role of theory, data, and models in guiding decisions.Unique features include:- in-depth presentation of methods and applications in environmental studies- diverse examples of research methods complemented by a wide geographic and thematic range of applications- a careful balance between a review of the state of the art in environmental studies and an exploration of new developments in research methods and applications- strong emphasis on historic, social, and cultural issues together with the life sciences needed to fully assess environmental change- accessibility to a wide readership.Academics and students interested in broadening their knowledge of methods and applications in environmental studies will find this book to be a valuable resource. It will also be of great use to practitioners in environmental agencies looking to gain an insight into particular research methods.Contributors: L. Alçada-Almeida, P. Antunes, E.B. Barbier, A.M.Bassi, C.R. Binder, R. Boyd, L.K. Campbell, J.J.T. Connolly, C. Court, L.C. Dias, A. Drachen, K. Feng, D.R. Fisher, H. Folmer, H. Ghadimi, B. Gill, S. Gößling-Reisemann, C.A.S. Hall, D. Hardy, C. Hartefeld, K. Hubacek, M.E. Ibarrarán, R. Jackson, H.W. Kua, S. Locke, M. Olazabal, M. Paolisso, M. Patterson, M. Popp, D. Reckien, M. Ruth, R. Santos, R. Schoell, J. Schubert, L. Shi, S. Silva, H. Smith, K. Stave, E.S. Svendsen, C. Taiapa, D.S.K. Thomas, P. Von Mouche, N. Videira, J. Zhu, T. Zimmermann

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ONE OF THE 12 BEST HISTORICAL FICTIONS OF 2023 ACCORDING TO THE SUNDAY TIMES'MAGICAL, THRILLING, WONDERFUL, EXCELLENT. HEARTPOUNDINGLY TENSE AND ABSOLUTELY ENGROSSING. CLEVER, AMAZING AND INSPIRING' DAILY MAIL'Artemisia's life was extraordinary, and so is this book. I was swept away by lush, evocative prose. An unforgettable, moving and important story told with great skill and care' JENNIFER SAINT'An unputdownable story of revenge, ambition, and how women overcome adversity. A heartbreaking and empowering read that places Artemisia as one of the greatest painters in history' COSTANZA CASATI, author of Clytemnestra'You'll be gripped. The author brings 17th-century Italy to life' WOMAN & HOME__________Rome 1611.A jewel-bright place of change, with sumptuous new palaces and lavish wealth on display. A city where women are seen but not heard.Artemisia Gentileschi dreams of becoming a great artist. Motherless, she grows up among a family of painters - men and boys. She knows she is more talented than her brothers, but she cannot choose her own future. She wants to experience the world, but she belongs to her father and will belong to a husband.As Artemisia patiently goes from lesson to lesson, perfecting her craft, she also paints in private, recreating the women who inspire her, away from her father's eyes.Until a mysterious tutor enters her life. Tassi is a dashing figure, handsome and worldly, and for a moment he represents everything that a life of freedom might offer. But then the unthinkable happens.In the eyes of her family, Artemisia should accept her fate. In the eyes of the law, she is the villain.But Artemisia is a survivor. And this is her story to tell.__________'An exhilarating read. Through effervescent prose, Elizabeth Fremantle brings the story of artist Artemisia Gentileschi to life. Gripping, captivating, and consistently enlightening, Disobedient firmly places Gentileschi as one of the greatest female heroines in history' KATY HESSEL'An unforgettable book - visceral and lush and fierce. The last few pages left me gasping. An absolute triumph' EVE CHASE'Outstanding. A powerful novel about women who are shamed and silenced, and how they learn to survive. A literary knockout' ANNA MAZZOLA, author of The Clockwork Girl'A great female artist struggling for her voice and for justice is brought to powerful life. Brilliantly researched, rich in detail, grippingly written, Disobedient is the novel Elizabeth Fremantle was born to write' ELIZABETH BUCHAN'I could not put this book down. Every woman - and man - should read it. Shocking, gripping, Fremantle has crafted a tale that vividly evokes Baroque Italy by portraying a strong, assertive women. Splendid!' ALISON WEIR'If you don't already know the story of 17th-century artist Artemisia Gentilleschi, I urge you not to google it but let this phenomenal novel describe her for you. Elizabeth is a writer at the top of her game, and this is historical fiction at its absolute best' GILL PAUL, author of The Secret Wife'The colourful, brutal world of Baroque Italy is superbly evoked in this gripping novel. The challenges faced by a dauntless woman in this man's world leave a deep impression on the reader' LINDA PORTER

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"This is an excellent book for anyone starting out on the Common Foundation year of their Nursing Degree, and as a reference to those further into their degree, on placement, or newly qualified. It covers everything from communication skills to pressure ulcers, and includes all four Nursing branches: Child, Adult, Mental Health and Learning Disability." Conor Hamilton, Student Nurse, Queens University Belfast, UK "An excellent foundation text for first year pre-registration nurses. The accompanying DVD encourages application of the theory and helps consolidate learning." Janine Lee, Leeds Metropolitan University, UK "This book provides an excellent alternative to other Clinical Skills books. The most obvious and most useful difference is the addition of a CD Rom. The book itself is clearly laid out from the beginning, with the table of contents detailing all the essential areas of nursing that are often forgotten. It is often assumed that nursing students already know the basics so the inclusion of how to bed bath a patient or how to feed a patient was welcomed. While primarily aimed at those following the common foundation program (1st year) it has also been of great use to myself during my 3rd year." Jackie Sheridan, Student Nurse, Glasgow Caledonian University, UK "I found this book useful for a backup from clinical skills sessions to refresh my mind. It uses simple easy understandable language with key ideas highlighted and uses pictures and diagrams where necessary. I found the cd-rom invaluable as it uses step to step guides of skills used and although we all learn them in skills sessions we sometimes forget the gold standard way as we learn to cut corners."Becky Gray, Student Nurse, University of Worcester, UK "I was very impressed by this textbook. It reads very well, is easy to follow and is suitable for students within the common foundation programme." Conleth Kelly, Lecturer in The Faculty of Health and Social Care, The University of Chester, UK"This is an impressively comprehensive guide to clinical skills drawing from the expertise and real life experiences of a variety of contributors with health and social care backgrounds ... The edge to the book that I feel raises it above other clinical skills guides, is the free interactive DVD. Designed to be used at certain points during the reading of the book, it provides the reader/viewer with extensive further reading and resources ... Additionally, and perhaps most usefully, it provides the student with video clips of the clinical skills being performed, which show how the bestevidence based methods can easily be applied in practice." Daniel Gill, Student Nurse, University of Salford, UKClinical Skills: The Essence of Caring is an innovative new textbook and integrated Media Tool package which makes teaching and learning nursing interactive! Based on the Essence of Care, this book covers the core clinical skills curriculum and takes a holistic approach to the importance of delivering excellent nursing care.This comprehensive package offers a unique way of relating theory to practice, making it an essential learning resource for all CFP and nursing students.Visit www.openup.co.uk/clinicalskills for a preview of the DVD and updated material.

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Detective Moralès becomes immersed in a chilling case set on the icy seas of Quebec’s remote Magdalen Islands, in the midst of a brutal seal hunt. A breathtaking, atmospheric, race-against-the-clock thriller… **Number One bestseller in Canada****Shortlisted for the Crime Writers of Canada Award for Best French Crime Book** 'A shocking, exquisitely plotted mystery set in the brutal seas off Quebec. The writing is sublime … you can feel the sting of salt on your cheeks' Gill Paul ‘Detective fiction [with] a dreamily poetic cast’ Sunday Times 'Unique, stylish Canadian Noir … absolutely superb' Kjell Ola Dahl _________________________________________There’s only one thing more deadly than the storm… Fisheries officer Simone Lord is transferred to Quebec’s remote Magdalen Islands for the winter, and at the last minute ordered to go aboard a trawler braving a winter storm for the traditional grey seal hunt, while all of the other boats shelter onshore. Detective Sergeant Joaquin Moralès is on a cross-country boat trip down the St Lawrence River, accompanied by Nadine Lauzon, a forensic psychologist working on the case of a savagely beaten teenager with Moralès’ old team in Montreal. When it becomes clear that Simone is in grave danger aboard the trawler, the two cases converge, with startling, terrifying consequences for everyone involved… The award-winning author of The Coral Bride returns with an atmospheric, race-against-the-clock thriller set on the icy seas in the midst of a brutal seal hunt, where nothing is as it seems and absolutely no one can be trusted. For fans of Louise Penny, Ann Cleeves, Emma Stonex and Annie Proulx _________________________________________ ‘From the very beginning I had a feeling of tragic inevitability … the sense of isolation, both physical and emotional, pours from every page’ Jen Med’s Book Reviews ‘Beautiful prose, simple yet powerful, and a boatload of suspense … an absolute winner’ From Belgium with Booklove ‘Thrums with rhythm and tears at the heart … the best Detective Moralès yet’ Live & Deadly What Readers are saying…***** ‘Breathlessly gripping’ ‘Masterful storytelling’ ‘The suspense is palpable’ ‘If you like Louise Penny’s Armand Gamache series, you’ll LOVE this’ 'No one does atmospheric quite like Roxanne Bouchard' ‘Intricate, beautiful and compelling' ‘Gloriously shocking’ Praise for Roxanne Bouchard:**WINNER of the Crime Writers of Canada Award for Best French Crime Book** **Shortlisted for the CWA Crime in Translation Dagger** 'A haunting murder mystery about how human nature is every bit as dangerous and inscrutable as the sea draws out its suspense to the very last moment' Foreword Reviews 'A police procedural like no other – marvel at the clever plotting' Crime Fiction Lover 'An absolute joy to read, with as much tension as there is poetry' Le Journal de Montréal 'With a cast of characters you'll engage with and love and a mystery that will have you on edge, Bouchard pulls you into her world wonderful' Michael J. Malone 'Roxanne Bouchard is reinventing the crime novel' Quebec TV ‘Lyrical and elegiac, full of quirks and twists' William Ryan 'Asks questions right from page one' Quentin Bates 'A tour de force of both writing and translation' Su Bristow

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Swinging from South Africa to England: one woman’s hunt for her birth mother in an all-too-believable near future in which an antibiotic crisis has decimated the population. A prescient, thrilling debut. ‘Combines the excitement of a medical thriller à la Michael Crichton with sensitive characterisation and social insight in a timely debut novel all the more remarkable for being conceived and written before the current pandemic’ Guardian ‘STUNNING and terrifying … The Waiting Rooms wrenches your heart in every way possible, but written with such humanity and emotion’ Miranda Dickinson ‘Chillingly close to reality, this gripping thriller brims with authenticity … a captivating, accomplished and timely debut from an author to watch’ Adam Hamdy ________________ Decades of spiralling drug resistance have unleashed a global antibiotic crisis. Ordinary infections are untreatable, and a scratch from a pet can kill. A sacrifice is required to keep the majority safe: no one over seventy is allowed new antibiotics. The elderly are sent to hospitals nicknamed ‘The Waiting Rooms’ … hospitals where no one ever gets well. Twenty years after the crisis takes hold, Kate begins a search for her birth mother, armed only with her name and her age. As Kate unearths disturbing facts about her mother’s past, she puts her family in danger and risks losing everything. Because Kate is not the only secret that her mother is hiding. Someone else is looking for her, too. Sweeping from an all-too-real modern Britain to a pre-crisis South Africa, The Waiting Rooms is epic in scope, richly populated with unforgettable characters, and a tense, haunting vision of a future that is only a few mutations away. ________________ ‘Engrossing and eye-opening, with heart-stopping plot twists … a stunning medical thriller set in a terrifying possible future’ Foreword Reviews ‘A touching, gut-wrenching story of family mystery and tragedy … a thriller that punches on two fronts – heart AND mind’ The Sun ‘Gripping and disturbing … the medical research is convincing, the scenarios plausible, and the story is emotionally engaging. This is an incredible debut!’ Gill Paul ‘If the themes are dark and topical, the writing is exquisite. Breath held, I got to the finale with my heart in my mouth. Eve Smith weaves a complex and clever tale, merging countries and timelines; the result is a superb and satisfying novel’ Louise Beech ‘Margaret Atwood is one of my all-time writing heroes and The Handmaid's Tale is probably the best book I’ve ever read. Eve Smith and The Waiting Rooms really do challenge that long-held crown…’ Random Things through My Letterbox ‘Thoroughly engaging … an eye-opening read’ Crime Fiction Lover ‘A novel of our times’ Trip Fiction ‘Haunting, honest and horrifying in its reality … An epic and thrilling read’ Book Literati ‘Stunning dystopian debut. A prescient and alarming tale that seems just a whisper from reality’ Suzy Apsley ‘The Waiting Rooms will certainly distract us from the real world for a few hours and this is the immeasurable value of fiction. It gives hope that, as in Eve Smith’s fictitious world, the possibility of a happy ending still exists’ Die Burger ‘The Waiting Rooms is a seriously impressive debut, a novel that is intuitive and chilling, one that will resonate with all in this current climate’ Swirl & Thread

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A heartbreaking, breathtakingly beautiful love story with an unforgettable tragedy at its heart, from the critically acclaimed, award-winning author of Maria in the Moon and How To Be Brave. ***Shortlisted for the Sapere Books ‘Most Popular Romantic Fiction’ Award at the 2019 RNA Awards*** ***Longlisted for the Polari Prize*** ‘Beech eloquently conveys their feelings and longings and sets atmospheric, vividly drawn scenes that transport the reader from grey and damp England to the searing heat of the lion reserve …The Lion Tamer Who Lost will touch the most hardhearted of readers with its persuasive, well-drawn and memorable characters’ Daily Express 'A devastating, tender and powerful love story, beautifully and bravely told. You will lose your heart to this book. I adored it’ Miranda Dickinson ’Vivid, passionate and exquisitely told, this love story will live on in my heart for a very long time to come. A poignant, surprising and all-consuming read’ Katie Marsh _______________ Be careful what you wish for… Long ago, Andrew made a childhood wish, and kept it in a silver box. When it finally comes true, he wishes he hadn’t… Long ago, Ben made a promise and he had a dream: to travel to Africa to volunteer at a lion reserve. When he finally makes it, it isn’t for the reasons he imagined… Ben and Andrew keep meeting in unexpected places, and the intense relationship that develops seems to be guided by fate. Or is it? What if the very thing that draws them together is tainted by past secrets that threaten everything? A dark, consuming drama that shifts from Zimbabwe to England, and then back into the past, The Lion Tamer Who Lost is also a devastatingly beautiful love story, with a tragic heart… ‘A stirring novel, beautifully written, reminiscent of the early work of Maggie O’Farrell’ Irish Times ‘Fans of Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine will love it’ Red Magazine ‘An excruciatingly passionate love story, in its surprising turns and lovely particulars … A beautiful text’ Foreword Reviews ‘This book really got under my skin as a beautiful portrait of love, loss and longing’ Irish Independent 'An incredible, poignant piece of work. Louise Beech had cemented her place as one of Britain’s finest modern storytellers’ John Marrs 'A beautiful, honest and tender love story that I won’t forget for a long time …Their love had me trapped in its spell, their tragic moments had me sobbing like a baby … A triumph’ Fionnuala Kearney ‘A beautifully crafted book’ Carol Lovekin ‘Louise Beech has totally blown me away with her storytelling’ Madeleine Black ‘I adored this beautiful and inspiring book’ Kate Furnivall ‘Already one of my favourites of 2018’ LoveReading ‘Storytelling at its finest. Louise Beech is a beguiling wordsmith. Prepare to be hooked’ Amanda Prowse ‘Digs deep emotionally, but is funny and feel-good, too’ Fiona Mitchell ‘A stunning and very brave book’ Gill Paul ‘The setting alone makes this book worth a read’ S. E. Lynes ‘Louise Beech is a natural-born storyteller with an elegance about her writing that never fails to move me’ Michael J. Malone ‘There are times when you finish reading a book and know that part of it will stay with you always. This will be one of those books’ Claire Allan ‘It put me in mind of John Irving. It’s that feeling of being in the hands of a master storyteller and just trusting him or her so completely’ Laura Pearson

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>> WINNER OF THE SAINSBURYS CHILDREN'S BOOK AWARDS 2021>> WINNER OF THE CRIMEFEST AWARD FOR BEST CRIME NOVEL FOR CHILDREN 2021>> "A twist-laden, thriller-like tale" Observer >> "Simply genius." BBC Wildlife From the internationally bestselling author of Beetle Boy and the Adventures on Trains series, comes the first book in The Twitchers, a thrilling mystery adventure series celebrating friendship, bravery and the incredible world of birds, starring a birdwatching detective called Twitch!Can a birdwatcher outwit an escaped convict?Twitch has three pet chickens, four pigeons, swallows nesting in his bedroom and a passion for birdwatching. On the first day of the summer holidays, he arrives at his secret hide to find police everywhere: a convicted robber has broken out of prison and is hiding in Aves Wood. Can Twitch use his talents for birdwatching to hunt for the dangerous prisoner and find the missing loot?Twitch is a thrilling summer mystery adventure perfect for readers 9+ and for fans of Robin Stevens, Lauren St John and Jenny Pearson. It can be enjoyed as a stand-alone adventure or read as part of The Twitchers series.Praise for Twitch:“Leonard knows her audience and the jeopardy comes in flocks ... Find your nest, curl up and enjoy.” The Times, Children's Book of the Week"A twist-laden, thriller-like tale of a bird-mad boy, some bullies and an escaped convict hiding in the nearby woods." Observer"A twisty crime drama as well as a persuasive story about friendship and nature." The Sunday Times"Twitch is a good old-fashioned adventure story that feels like a modern-day Secret Seven." BBC Wildlife Magazine"[A] pacy mystery adventure featuring a birdwatching detective hot on the heels of a dangerous escaped prisoner." iNewspaper“Leonard has crafted an intelligent mystery from unlikely material, with bonus bird facts.” Irish Times“A winged masterpiece.” Maz Evans“Enthralling from beginning to end, it really touched my young bird-loving heart! Just wonderful!” Dara McAnulty“Birds, mystery and fowl play! What more could you want?” Gill Lewis“Glorious! Full of excitement and wonder!” Sophie Anderson“A brave and thrilling new adventure from one of my favourite writers. I honestly didn’t put the book down until the very last, exciting, page-turn and I’m twitching for the next adventure!” Jasbinder Bilan“Twitch is an absolute triumph. The perfect blend of mystery and adventure, a winning hero with an eye for ornithological facts and a heart as big as the countryside, plus a cracking whipsmart plot, I think this is M. G. Leonard's best book yet.” Christopher Edge“Cracking characters, beyond pacy plotting and an ending that is almost Bugsy Malone-esque!” Phil Earle“Twitch is a compelling read – an adventure mystery with birds – what more could any reader want?!” Stephen Moss“Adventure, friendship and the pure unassuming beauty of nature … a book that could have been a collaboration between David Attenborough and Roald Dahl.” Dr Jess French“A superb adventure of friendship, bravery and the wonderful world of birds, with a strong, but non-preachy theme of the benefits of connection with the natural world.” The Bookseller“One of those really, really good books … Recommended for readers around 8 to 12 years old, and grown-ups like me who still enjoy the delight of a great adventure story!” The Bookbag

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'An absorbing and engaging tale of wartime bravery and endurance. Bill and Izabela are such tenderly drawn characters ... I loved it!' RACHEL HORE, author of Last Letter Home and The Memory Garden_______________________________Their love is a death sentence. But can it keep them alive?Czechoslovakia, 1944. In the dead of night, a farm girl and a British soldier creep through abandoned villages. Secretly married and on the run, Bill and Izabela are searching for Izabela's brother and father, who are fighting for the Czech resistance. They know their luck will not last.Captured by the German army, it seems they must be separated - but they have prepared for this moment. By cutting her hair and pretending to be mute, Izabela successfully disguises herself as a British soldier. Together, they face the terrible conditions of a POW camp, reliant on the help of their fellow POWs to maintain their fragile deception.Their situation is beyond dangerous. If Izabela is discovered, she and Bill - and all the men who helped them - will face lethal consequences._______________________________A novel set in war-torn Czechoslovakia amid the extreme privations of a prisoner of war camp, based on a true story of passion, heroism and a love that transcends overwhelming odds._______________________________'Deeply moving and compelling ... an epic journey not only across war-torn countries but deep into the heart of what it is to be human. A heart-rending story beautifully told.' JUDITH ALLNAT, author of The Poet's Wife and The Silk Factory'Heart-wrenching and heart-warming in equal measure, The Prisoner's Wife is an unputdownable novel ... finely crafted, atmospheric, often nail-biting.' BEN KANE, author of The Eagles of Rome series'A story of danger, fear, determination and the redemptive power of love in war-torn Europe. It is a story that Hemingway might have envied.' JULIET GARDINER, author of Wartime: Britain 1939 to 1945 and The Blitz: The British Under Attack.'A gripping novel that explores the question of how much the human body, and the human spirit, can endure for the sake of love. The wealth of authentic detail makes it feel like a memoir ... I feel enriched to have read it.' GILL PAUL, author of The Lost Daughter and The Secret Wife'The Prisoner's Wife seamlessly and skilfully breathes intense, fully realised life into the stark scenes it describes. I was by turns moved, outraged and humbled' DEBORAH KAY DAVIES, author of True Things About Me'A powerful page-turner' MARIE BENEDICT, New York Times bestselling author of Lady Clementine'You will be spellbound by this stellar novel. So richly imbued with sensory details you'll be feeling every anguished moment and every golden ray of hope.' SUSAN MEISSNER, bestselling author of The Last Year of the War'The most unique World War II story I've ever read... Romantic, perfectly observed, inspiring, and thrilling - The Prisoner's Wife is impossible to put down - and when I did, I was teary-eyed. A complete winner.' SARAH-JANE STRATFORD, author of Red Letter Days'Tremendous ... this is much more than a love story' GEORGINA CLARKE, author of Death and the Harlot'Engrossing, harrowing and heart-warming' ANN MORGAN, author of Reading The World'This is a beautiful book that will give any reader in dark times a reason to believe in the continuing goodness of people' NICOLA GRIFFITH, author of Hild

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The earth is thriving – with wilderness status protecting land and wildlife, and scientific organisations researching new ways to support human life sustainably. Rory’s mum is a geologist on one of these projects, and Rory is beyond excited to join her on a work trip to the Arctic. But the project isn’t all that it seems, and Rory soon learns what’s at stake for the people and animals that live there… A thrilling and thought-provoking ecological adventure from the author of the highly acclaimed WHERE THE WORLD TURNS WILD and BETWEEN SEA AND SKY. Perfect for fans of THE EXPLORER, THE LAST WILD  and WHERE THE RIVER RUNS GOLD PRAISE FOR BEYOND THE FROZEN HORIZON: “A truly thought shifting, light filled journal of environmental protection from an author whose awe-filled stories illuminate hearts and minds and light the way for change” Sita Brahmachari, author of Where the River Runs Gold “A powerful story of hope – a glimpse into a brighter future, a world where we have taken action to protect our fragile planet” Rashmi Sirdeshpande, author of Good News “A beautifully crafted story of wild encounters and conservation; one that will keep pages turning and hearts beating from start to finish” Rachel Delahaye, author of Mort the Meek “With just the right mix of spookiness, action, intrigue and mystery, Beyond the Frozen Horizon takes Nicola Penfold to the next level. This story is both a warning and a celebration: of nature and the threats to it, and the importance of every single person in the fight for our future.” Sinéad O'Hart, author of The Eye of the North “A gripping story that drew me into its icy clutches with a dystopian climate mystery. Polar bear encounters, dog sled rides, blizzards & hugs with arctic foxes, the action is both chilling and thrilling!” Lou Abercrombie, author of Coming Up for Air “Beautifully evocative with a fantastic cast of characters and, as always, an important yet lightly told message about the necessity of caring for our precious environment” Sharon Gosling, author of The Golden Butterfly “A sublimely crafted tale of loss, friendship and bravery set against a stunning but stark Arctic backdrop. Nicola allows the reader a glimpse of a future world where society has taken action to tackle climate change and offers us hope that change really can make a difference.” Jo Clarke, author of Libby and the Parisian Puzzle “It’s such a stunning book, full of beautiful imagery and a strong message for readers of all ages, to respect the world we are in, both a thrilling and thought-provoking story, and one that of we take action now then we could have hope for the future of our world” Emma Finlayson-Palmer, author of Autumn Moonbeam “Nicola’s reverence for nature and the natural world oozes from the pages of this breathtakingly beautiful story of the world and its response to the Climate Crisis. Thrilling and thought provoking and with powerful ecological messages of stewardship and sustainability – this is storytelling at its very best.” Kevin Cobane, teacher “Beyond the Frozen Horizon is a lesson for us all. We must look beyond our own needs and think about impact on the world as a whole… Rory experiences this first hand and takes her readers on a high stakes adventure that will leave them thinking about their place and impact on the world for a very long time.” Kate Heap, Scope for Imagination blog “An eco adventure, ghost story and love letter for a better world” Gill Pawley, Inkpots

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Introduced by newsreader, presenter, and Barnardo's president Natasha Kaplinsky, Letters From Lockdown features 100+ letters from celebrity names, COVID heroes, and a diverse range of members of the public, all answering the question - 'What was lockdown like for you?'Contributors include: Paul McCartney · Joe Wicks · Malala Yousafzai · Ed Sheeran · Helen Mirren · Cressida Cowell · Mary Berry · Richard Branson · Peppa Pig · Andy Murray · Helena Bonham Carter · Lenny Henry · Bruno Tonioli · Romesh Ranganathan · The family of Captain Tom · Bear Grylls · Charly Cox · Dr Alex George · Jacqueline Wilson · Matt Lucas · Monica Galetti · Kelly Holmes · Bill Gates· Sir Mo Farah and many more.The publisher will donate all profits, which will be a minimum of £1.50 for each copy of the book sold, to Barnardo's (registered charity in England and Wales no. 216250), who do important work to protect and support the UK's most vulnerable children, more in need now than ever.The letter writers include doctors and nurses, care home staff and vaccinators, train drivers and hairdressers, teachers and environmentalists - people who have been on the frontline in tackling the pandemic, or in trying to get the world back on its feet. Other letters document the unforgettable lighter moments of the past year: interviews crashed by children, TikTok triumphs and disasters, and Goats joining Zoom meetings. Each offers their unique perspective on the year everything changed.Other contributors include: Al Gore; Alexandra Shulman, Davina McCall, Toby Regbo, Trevor McDonald, Jo Malone, Keir Starmer, Boris Johnson, Mark Ronson, Maro Itoje, Nicola Adams, Raymond Blanc, Richard Curtis and Emma Freud, Chris Van Dusen, Sita Brahmachari, Sophie Gonzales, Hayden Kays, Tim Peake, Sean Fitzpatrick, and Joan Collins.The idea for the book came from Natasha Kaplinsky's children, Arlo and Kika. They wrote an open letter, wanting to understand other people's experiences of lockdown. Their question, 'What was lockdown like for you?' is the prompt; the collection of letters in response form the book. As we keep our fingers crossed that this summer will bring a safe end to restrictions, this mixture of funny, sad, heart-warming, surprising, heroic and honest experiences will mark the start of a period of reflection.Adrian Packer, Al Gore, Alex George, Alexandra Shulman, Ali Mercer, Alice M Greenwald, Ali Joy, Andy Murray, Antony Cauvin, Anushua Gupta, Bear Grylls, Benjie and Georgia Ingram-Moore, Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates, Bob Wilson, Boris Johnson, Bruno Tonioli, Buckingham Palace, Charly Cox, Chimwemwe Chiweza, Chris and Vicki Agar, Chris Van Dusen, Clare Wenham, Colette Moreira-Henocq, Cressida Cowell, Davey Glover, Davina McCall, Dawn Bilbrough, Dot McCarthy, Ed Balls, Ed Sheeran, Elliot Jacobs, Emma Freud and Richard Curtis, Fergus Llewellyn, George Alagiah, Gill Edwards, Hayden Kays, Helen Mirren, Helena Bonham Carter, Hollie Long, HRH The Duchess of Cornwall, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, Jacqueline Wilson, Jacquie Jenkins, James Graham, Javed Khan, Jenny Messenger, Jo Malone, Joan Collins, Joe Wicks, John Vincent, Josie Naughton, Kathryn England, Karen Pollock, Karl Jones, Keir Starmer, Kelly Holmes, Laura Elliott, Lenny Henry, Lindsay Hoyle, Maff Potts, Maia Elliott, Malala Yousafzai, Margaret Keenan, Marie Benton, Mark Ronson, Maro Itoje, The Marsh Family, Mary Berry, Matt Lucas, Meggie Foster, Michele Walter, Mo Farah, Monica Galetti, Mr Men's Mr Happy, Neera Butt, Nicola Adams, Nina Raingold, Patricia Daley, Paul Atherton, Paul McCartney, Paul Morrison, Paula Talman, Peppa Pig, Philippa Craddock, Raymond Blanc, Rene Germain, Richard Branson, Roja Dove, Romesh Ranganathan, Rosie Jones, Rosie Mitchell, Sandi Procter, Scott Evans, Sean Fitzpatrick, Sharna Jackson, Sita Brahmachari, Sophie Gonzales, Tamara Rojo, Tanni Grey-Thompson, Tessa Mattholie Butunoi, Tim Peake, Tim Steiner, Toby Regbo, Trevor McDonald, Will Shu, Woody, Zoe Burke

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When the mother of an autistic young man hires a call girl to make him happy, three lives collide in unexpected and moving ways … changing everything. A devastatingly beautiful, rich and thought-provoking novel that will warm and break your heart… ‘One of the best writers of her generation’ John Marrs, author of The One ‘A brilliant premise, executed beautifully … such a moving, tender and unexpected read’ Catherine Isaac, author of Messy, Wonderful Us ‘I guarantee you will not read anything like it this year … you will fall in love with this book’ Miranda Dickinson, author of Our Story ‘Incredibly moving, gripping, and full of heart … The novel everyone will be talking about this year’ Gill Paul, author of The Secret Wife _______________ Sebastian James Murphy is twenty years, six months and two days old. He loves swimming, fried eggs and Billy Ocean. Sebastian is autistic. And lonely. Veronica wants her son Sebastian to be happy … she wants the world to accept him for who he is. She is also thinking about paying a professional to give him what he desperately wants. Violetta is a high-class escort, who steps out into the night thinking only of money. Of her nursing degree. Paying for her dad’s care. Getting through the dark. When these three lives collide – intertwine in unexpected ways – everything changes. For everyone. A topical and moving drama about a mother’s love for her son, about getting it wrong when we think we know what’s best, about the lengths we go to care for family … to survive … This Is How We Are Human is a searching, rich and thought-provoking novel with an emotional core that will warm and break your heart. _______________ ‘Every now and then you read a book that takes your breath away. This is How We Are Human does just that … you feel from the first page to the last’ Liz Fenwick, author of The River Between Us ‘A writer of beautiful sentences, and they are in abundance. This sensitive subject is treated with the utmost care’ Nydia Hetherington, author of A Girl Made of Air ‘Such a complex and emotive book’ Claire King, author of The Night Rainbow ‘It had me gripped from the start and changed the way I see the world. Beautiful, bold and compelling – another fearless story from Beech’ Katie Marsh, author of Unbreak Your Heart ‘A searching, rich and thought-provoking novel with an emotional core’ LoveReading ‘This book is just what the world needs right now’ Fiona Mills, BBC ‘Oh, Sebastian, I’ll never forget him. Heart is always at the core of Louise’s books and this one is no exception’ Madeleine Black, author of Unbroken ‘What a brave and prejudice busting story this is … brava’ S. E. Lynes, author of Can You See Her ‘A convincing, bittersweet tale of misplaced kindness, a myriad types of vulnerability, and unexpected consequences … All the stars and more’ Carol Lovekin, author of Wild Spinning Girls ‘A tender, insightful read’ Michael J. Malone, author of A Song of Isolation ‘An exceptional book that will make you laugh, cry and feel better for having read it’ Audrey Davis, author of Lost in Translation ‘The most exquisite and moving story I have read in a very long time’ Book Review Café ‘I don’t know of another writer who portrays characters so true, flaws and all … mesmerising, the characters are beautiful but, more importantly, they’re REAL’ J. M. Hewitt, author of The Quiet Girls For fans of Maggie O’Farrell, David Nicholls, Ali Smith and JoJo Moyes.

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An exquisitely written, heart-achingly beautiful retelling of the Selkie legend … both timeless and timely … by award-winning debut author Su Bristow SHORTLISTED FOR THE PAUL TORDAY MEMORIAL PRIZE ‘Sorrowful and lovely, with a well-earned, satisfying conclusion' Publishers Weekly ‘Accomplished and intelligent … a fine piece of craftsmanship and a pleasure to read’ Allan Massie What happens when magic collides with reality? Donald is a young fisherman, eking out a lonely living on the west coast of Scotland. One night he witnesses something miraculous … and makes a terrible mistake. His action changes lives – not only his own, but those of his family and the entire tightly knit community in which they live. Can he ever atone for the wrong he has done, and can love grow when its foundation is violence? Based on the legend of the selkies – seals who can transform into people –Sealskin is a magical story, evoking the harsh beauty of the landscape, the resilience of its people, both human and animal, and the triumph of hope over fear and prejudice. With exquisite grace, Exeter Novel Prize-winner Su Bristow transports us to a different world, subtly and beautifully exploring what it means to be an outsider, and our innate capacity for forgiveness and acceptance. Rich with myth and magic, Sealskin is, nonetheless, a very human story, as relevant to our world as to the timeless place in which it is set. And it is, quite simply, unforgettable. 'This assured and readable story is determined to show that change and growth are possible, even on the very margins of society. The heartfelt message seems to be that acceptance comes when individuals face up to their fears and act for the good beyond themselves' Guardian 'It’s a multi-layered romance which sits equally well in the realms of literary fiction which is where its publisher’s interests lie’ Frost Magazine ‘Told with skill and beauty … held me spellbound to the very last page’ Amanda Jennings ‘Achingly beautiful … written smoothly and skilfully … I absolutely loved it’ Gill Paul ‘Original, vivid, tender and atmospheric … this is a story so deeply immersive that you emerge at the end, gasping for air’ Iona Grey ‘An enthralling human love story. A profound achievement and a stunning debut’ Richard Bean ‘I love books in which magic takes on a gritty reality, and Sealskin is just such a book. Dark and brooding and half-familiar, the tale steals over you till you’re half-in, half-out of a dream’ Jane Johnson ‘A beautiful and bewitching read that haunted my thoughts for days. The sense of the sea, of this small community, of guilt is palpable. This is one of those books you place reverentially on your bookcase and envy those who are yet to dive in’ Michael J. Malone ‘Ms Bristow’s skill in weaving a centuries-old tale into a current-day fiction novel and binding the two together is simply superbly done. Sealskin is boldly written, brilliantly told and a tale of legendary proportions’ JM Hewitt ‘Sealskin is a magical and moral tale woven with a deft hand’ Sara MacDonald ‘Sealskin is a tender, moving and gentle read. Whilst there is an obvious magical feel to it, it’s so well written that it becomes almost believable. It’s a really lovely story and one which I think will stay with me’ New Books Magazine

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When Rachel’s baby is stillborn, she becomes obsessed with the idea that saving a stranger’s life months earlier is to blame. An unforgettable, heart-wrenching, warm and funny debut… 'Emotionally engaging, witty, clever and wonderfully satisfying' Daily Express ‘A stunning debut … a wise, moving, and thought-provoking novel’ Susan Elliot Wright, author of The Flight of Cornelia Blackwood ‘A heartbreaking, deeply moving and wonderfully witty tale, which celebrates all it means to be human’ Isabelle Broom, author of The Getaway –––––––––––––– Mum-to-be Rachel did everything right, but it all went wrong. Her son, Luke, was stillborn and she finds herself on maternity leave without a baby, trying to make sense of her loss. When a misguided well-wisher tells her that “everything happens for a reason”, she becomes obsessed with finding that reason, driven by grief and convinced that she is somehow to blame. She remembers that on the day she discovered her pregnancy, she’d stopped a man from jumping in front of a train, and she’s now certain that saving his life cost her the life of her son. Desperate to find him, she enlists an unlikely ally in Lola, an Underground worker, and Lola’s seven-year-old daughter, Josephine, and eventually tracks him down, with completely unexpected results... Both a heart-wrenchingly poignant portrait of grief and a gloriously uplifting and disarmingly funny story of a young woman’s determination, Everything Happens for a Reason is a bittersweet, life- affirming read and, quite simply, unforgettable. –––––––––––––– ‘A beautiful novel, bursting with raw emotional honesty and authenticity’ Gill Paul, author of The Secret Wife ‘So affecting. Profoundly sad. Funny. I just loved it’ Louise Beech, author of This Is How We Are Human ‘Darkly funny, yet poignant and moving ... Rachel's quest to find out if everything happens for a reason is both heartbreaking and heartwarming’ Anna Bell, author of In Case You Missed It ‘Some books teach you, others touch your soul, then there are books like this one that bury deep and create a home in your heart’ Emma-Claire Wilson, Glass House Magazine ‘A triumph … a book of hope and ambition and making sense of the world, a tale of acting spontaneously, living in the moment and throwing caution to the wind’ Isabella May, author of Oh! What a Pavlova ‘An incredibly important and beautifully written book. Bittersweet and brave, it will keep you both laughing and crying until the last page’ Kate Ford, actress, Coronation Street ‘The perfect mix of clever, funny and intensely moving’ Cari Rosen, author of Secret Diary of a New Mum Aged 43 ¼ ’A heart-wrenching, soul-lifting read about loss and redemption in unlikely places’ Eve Smith, author of The Waiting Rooms ‘Read it and weep but also, incredibly, find moments to laugh and to know there is life after death’ Julia Hobsbawm, author of The Simplicity Principle ‘Simultaneously devastating and hilarious’ Clare Allan, author of Poppy Shakespeare ’A memorable, poetic read ... The writing reminded me of Eleanor Oliphant’ Becky Fleetwood, author of the Chroma series ‘Quirky yet insightful, bright yet wistful, amusing yet emotional … full of contradictions that fuse into the most surprising, moving, and beautiful novel’ LoveReading For fans of Jonas Jonasson, Matt Haig, Graeme Simsion and Rachel Joyce.

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In `The Working Class: Poverty, education and alternative voices`, Ian Gilbert unites educators from across the UK and further afield to call on all those working in schools to adopt a more enlightened and empathetic approach to supporting children in challenging circumstances. One of the most intractable problems in modern education is how to close the widening gap in attainment between the haves and the have-nots. Unfortunately, successive governments both in the UK and abroad have gone about solving it the wrong way. Independent Thinking founder Ian Gilbert's increasing frustration with educational policies that favour `no excuses' and `compliance', and that ignore the broader issues of poverty and inequality, is shared by many others across the sphere of education - and this widespread disaffection has led to the assembly of a diverse cast of teachers, school leaders, academics and poets who unite in this book to challenge the status quo. Their thought-provoking commentary, ideas and impassioned anecdotal insights are presented in the form of essays, think pieces and poems that draw together a wealth of research on the issue and probe and discredit the current view on what is best for children from poorer socio-economic backgrounds. Exploring themes such as inclusion, aspiration, pedagogy and opportunity, the contributions collectively lift the veil of feigned `equality of opportunity for all' to reveal the bigger picture of poverty and to articulate the hidden truth that there is always another way. This book is not about giving you all the answers, however. The contributors are not telling teachers or schools leaders how to run their schools, their classroom or their relationships - the field is too massive, too complex, too open to debate and to discussion to propose `off-the-shelf' solutions. Furthermore, the research referred to in this book is not presented in order to tell educators what to think, but rather to inform their own thinking and to challenge some of the dominant narratives about educating the `feckless poor'. This book is about helping educators to ask the right questions, and its starting question is quite simple: how can we approach the education of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in a way that actually makes a difference for all concerned? Written for policy makers and activists as well as school leaders and educators, The Working Class is both a timely survey of the impact of current policies and an invaluable source of practical advice on what can be done to better support disadvantaged children in the school system. Edited by Ian Gilbert with contributions from Nina Jackson, Tim Taylor, Dr Steven Watson, Rhythmical Mike, Dr Ceri Brown, Dr Brian Male, Julia Hancock, Paul Dix, Chris Kilkenny, Daryn Egan-Simon, Paul Bateson, Sarah Pavey, Dr Matthew McFall, Jamie Thrasivoulou, Hywel Roberts, Dr Kevin Ming, Leah Stewart, (Real) David Cameron, Sir Al Aynsley-Green, Shona Crichton, Floyd Woodrow, Jonathan Lear, Dr Debra Kidd, Will Ryan, Andrew Morrish, Phil Beadle, Jaz Ampaw-Farr, Darren Chetty, Sameena Choudry, Tait Coles, Professor Terry Wrigley, Brian Walton, Dave Whitaker, Gill Kelly, Roy Leighton, Jane Hewitt, Jarlath O'Brien, Crista Hazell, Louise Riley, Mark Creasy, Martin Illingworth, Ian Loynd, David Rogers, Professor Mick Waters and Professor Paul Clarke. Click here to listen to The Working Class on Spotify - It covers all the music mentioned in the book plus a great deal more of working class music from across time and round the world!

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The estranged grandson of a wealthy collector of human curiosities becomes fascinated with teenaged twin sisters, leading them into a web of dark obsessions. A dazzlingly dark gothic novel from the bestselling author of The Somnambulist. 'Makes skilful use of the tropes of Victorian gothic fiction… a story of society’s outsiders seeking acceptance and redemption' Sunday Times Book of the Month ‘Mysterious, sometimes shocking, full of surprises and twists … brimming with Victorian wonders!’ Sean Lusk ‘A magical, macabre masterpiece’ A.J. West ‘Fascinating and immersive’ Anna Mazzola ________________________________Victorian England. A world of rural fairgrounds and glamorous London theatres. A world of dark secrets and deadly obsessions… Twin sisters Keziah and Tilly Lovell are identical in every way, except that Tilly hasn't grown a single inch since she was five. Coerced into promoting their father's quack elixir as they tour the country fairgrounds, at the age of fifteen the girls are sold to a mysterious Italian known as ‘Captain’. Theo is an orphan, raised by his grandfather, Lord Seabrook, a man who has a dark interest in anatomical freaks and other curiosities … particularly the human kind. Resenting his grandson for his mother’s death in childbirth, when Seabrook remarries and a new heir is produced, Theo is forced to leave home without a penny to his name. Theo finds employment in Dr Summerwell’s Museum of Anatomy in London, and here he meets Captain and his theatrical ‘family’ of performers, freaks and outcasts. But it is Theo’s fascination with Tilly and Keziah that will lead all of them into a web of deceits, exposing the darkest secrets and threatening everything they know… Exploring universal themes of love and loss, the power of redemption and what it means to be unique, The Fascination is an evocative, glittering and bewitching gothic novel that brings alive Victorian London – and darkness and deception that lies beneath… ________________________________ ‘Essie Fox follows in the footsteps of Angela Carter and AS Byatt with an adult fairy tale that delves into the darkest compulsions of human nature … an opium trance of a novel, a vivid fantasmagoria’ Noel O’Reilly ‘Deliciously dark, full of twists and surprises’ Liz Hyder ‘Filled with gothic darkness and glorious hope’ Liz Fenwick ‘Rich, dark and heady … a glorious gothic carnival’ Kate Griffin ‘Truly unexpected and original’ Kate Forsyth ‘Beautifully researched, full of horrors and delights … a chilling, thrilling slice of Victorian gothic’ Bridget Walsh ‘A cast of characters Dickens would be proud of’ Frances Quinn ‘A dizzying potion of a novel’ Polly Crosby ‘A twisty, gothic treat … wild and wonderful cast of characters’ Rebecca John ‘Rich in peril, tempered with strange, theatrical beauty’ Kate Mascarenhas ‘A wonderful, captivating carnival’ Elizabeth Fremantle ‘Haunting and emotive’ Gill Paul ‘A gorgeously gothic slice of Victoriana’ Katherine Clements ‘Beautifully controlled … exceptional storytelling, exquisitely told’ Nydia Hetherington ‘A beautiful, haunting tale peopled by a thrilling set of living, breathing characters … very fine historical fiction’ Emma Carroll ‘So inventive and surprising … beautiful writing, unforgettable characters’ Juliet West ‘A sumptuous, gothic treat that will reel you in and not let you go until the final page. Bravo!’ Caroline Green ‘Essie Fox is the mistress of gothic Victoriana … utterly beguiling and rendered in exquisite detail … a wonderful, captivating carnival of a novel’ Elizabeth Fremantle ‘Wonderfully vivid and touching … extraordinary’ Adele Geras ‘I loved this story of a group of wonderful “others” fighting to find their place and purpose in a glittering, but unforgiving, Victorian England’ Marika Cobbold ‘Atmospheric, gripping and ultimately uplifting’ Karen Coles ‘Richly detailed, beautifully written … a fascinating read’ Michael J Malone ‘The very best kind of gothic’ Lianne Dillsworth ‘Masterful’ Louise Swanson ‘A kaleidoscopic, twisting, devilish novel guaranteed to dazzle and delight. I was utterly beguiled’ Dan Bassett, Bookseller

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An extraordinary bond develops between an angry teenage runaway and a middle-aged woman running a large farm on her own, as they work the land and slowly heal … the sublime, achingly beautiful debut that everyone is talking about… ‘A stupendous debut. A triumph. Don’t miss it’ Louisa Treger ‘Tasting Sunlight reminded me of reading Sally Rooney's Normal People. It takes a writer of immeasurable talent to make you feel that intensely, merely by evoking ripening late summer fruit and the sound of rain on dusty ground’ Elizabeth Haynes ‘A sensory joy; a novel of quiet, understated beauty … Original, luminous and intense, it’s a mesmerising read' Iona Gray 'Powerful, original and engaging. I loved it' Susie Boyt ***Over 400,000 copies sold in Germany******THREE YEARS on the German Bestseller List*** ________________________________ Teenager Sally has just run away from a clinic where she to be treated for anorexia. She’s furious with everything and everyone, and wants to be left in peace. Liss is in her forties, living alone on a large farm that she runs single-handedly. She has little contact with the outside world, and no need for other people. From their first meeting, Sally realises that Liss isn’t like other adults; she expects nothing of Sally and simply accepts who she is, offering her a bed for the night with no questions asked. That night becomes weeks and then months, as an unlikely friendship develops and these two damaged women slowly open up – connecting to each other, reconnecting with themselves, and facing the darkness in their pasts through their shared work on the land. Achingly beautiful, profound, invigorating and uplifting, Tasting Sunlight is a story of friendship across generations, of love and acceptance, of the power of nature to heal and transform, and the goodness that surrounds us, if only we take time to see it… ____________________________________ ‘Written with beautiful simplicity, this sensitive and profound story examines how we heal and help each other, delivered with deep insight and huge heart’ Doug Johnstone ‘A truly special book. Powerful, lyrical and profoundly affecting, Ewald Arenz spins a tale of friendship, restoration and possibility, with utmost heart and care. I loved it!’ Miranda Dickinson ‘An exquisitely written, heart-warming story … the smells, tastes, sounds and rhythms of nature are described with sensuous clarity, so you feel as if you are there, picking potatoes from the earth, tending the bees, and tasting the pears. Just beautiful!’ Gill Paul ‘Told with honesty and a clear-sighted understanding of human nature … I loved it’ Michael J. Malone 'The simple minutiae of everyday life becomes intricate and essential: rituals that connect one woman to the land and her heritage, and show a lost, younger one a different truth. Moving and heart-wrenching, but ultimately uplifting' Carol Lovekin ‘Breathtakingly beautiful' Louise Beech ‘A simply wonderful, heartwarming read…’ Fiona Sharp, Bookseller ‘A story that breaks your heart, and fills it too’ Bookly Matters ‘The perfect story for our time … uplifting, healing and truly exceptional’ Random Things through My Letterbox ‘Poignantly, gently and profoundly evocative’ TripFiction ‘Beautiful, at times brutal, and honest … I absolutely loved it’ Claire Clarke ‘A special, beautiful novel’ Café Thinking ‘An absolute joy’ Danielle Louise ‘It touched my soul' Live & Deadly 'A very special story that will leave no one untouched … the author's love of nature shines through' Bilt 'Ewald Arenz has, in the most exquisite way possible, showed how two wounded souls can heal one another … a triumph' Peter Etzel, Nurnberger Zeitung ‘Raw and tender, brutal and gentle, striking and perceptive all at once’ Doppelpunkt ‘It’s rare for a friendship between women to be written with such enchanting, impressive honesty. And by a man. Bravo!’ Stadtmagazine

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‘This book is hilarious! I have not been able to put it down… and I have literally belly laughed on a number of occasions.’ Reader ReviewIt’s Annie Beaton’s 50th birthday! But instead of getting roses and perfume, she gets sacked, her son, Ben, tells her she’s growing a beard and her husband Joe tells her he wants a divorce.Moving to the countryside to stay in her eccentric aunt’s house, Annie must find her mojo again – and fast. So when she discovers a stack of self-help books, Annie vows to use their advice – from Chicken Soup for the Soul to The Secret – to get her life back on track. Never mind that her 9-going-on-19-year-old daughter, Izzy, is currently engaging Annie in psychological warfare and her adorable 6-year-old son, Ben, spends more time wetting the bed than making friends at his new school…But now, armed with a load of affirmations/inspirational quotes/positive vibes, Annie’s determined to kick her Crappy Old Year to the kerb and have a brilliantly Happy New Year. Just as soon as she’s had her chin waxed… A hilarious, laugh-out-loud feelgood read - fans of Gill Sims, Sophie Ranald and Tracy Bloom will be hooked!Readers are loving Annie Beaton's Year of Positive Thinking!‘nothing short of a delight. Annie is a likable and relatable protagonist whose antics had me laughing out loud more than once. I would recommend this book if you are looking for a lighthearted and feel good read to brighten a dreary winter's day. Reader Review‘This was a great book to start the year on, it was full of laughs…I really liked the character of Annie Beaton and would love to see what else she gets up to in the future…engaging and fun.’ Book Before U Leap‘so fun to read. It reminded me of Bridget Jones’ Diary (for 50 year olds!). She definitely turned her life around and had fun doing it. Highly recommend!’ Reader Review ‘A wonderful read, Annie had me laughing hysterically and falling in love with her, her thoughts, life, her “go get it” attitude. So entertaining’ Reader Review ‘This book had me laughing because it is so relatable and down to earth. It is a great read for learning to move forward and accept who you are. Within the first few pages, I found myself chuckling…Highly recommend this read.’ Reader Review‘I really enjoyed reading this in a tough season - it was lighthearted and full of comedy…the story was relatable and enjoyable.’ Reader Review‘A really easy, feel good read which is particularly relatable for those of us of a certain age!!!’ Reader Review‘A brilliant, enjoyable and entertaining book that made me smile and laugh. It also made me reflect on how a positive outlook on life can help to succeed…well written, I loved the humour and the likeable cast of characters. Highly recommended.’ Reader Review‘this book was hilarious…a great way to escape for a few hours.’ Reader Review‘we should always think positive!!! I loved this book! Mink Elliot has caught on to something good and I look forward to more of her books in the future.’ Reader Review‘a fun and light hearted read which I’m sure most women will be able to relate to. It’s a good reminder to not take life so seriously and try and focus on what is good in our lives instead of the negatives.’ By The Letter Book Reviews‘I really enjoyed this, from the outset it has that upbeat feel about it and is easy to sit back with and enjoy…A wonderful uplifting read.’ Nicki’s Book Blog

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