Mashup

A delightfully heartwarming and funny story that proves it's never too late to change the habits of a lifetime, perfect for fans of Judy Leigh, Hazel Prior and Maddie Please.Something old, something new, something stolen...?Gina Knight is looking forward to the prospect of retirement with her husband of forty-three years. Until, to her surprise, said husband decides he needs to 'find himself' - alone - and disappears to Santa Fe, leaving a Dear John letter in his wake.Now Gina needs a new role in life, not to mention somewhere to live, so she applies for the position of Companion to elderly Dorothy Reed. At eighty-nine, 'Dot' needs someone to help her around the house - or at least, her family seems to think so. Her companion's first role would be to accompany Dot for a week-long extravagant wedding party.But when Gina arrives at the large Norfolk estate where the wedding will take place, she quickly discovers Dot has an ulterior motive for hiring her. While the other guests are busy sipping champagne and playing croquet, Dot needs Georgina to help her solve a mystery - about a missing painting, which she believes is hidden somewhere in the house.Because, after all, who would suspect two old ladies of getting up to mischief?Praise for Kate Galley's books: 'An uplifting, positive story... Eat Pray Love for the older generation' Judy Leigh'I thoroughly enjoyed this poignant and heartwarming debut!' Fiona Gibson'I loved this book! I wouldn't have thought it was a debut novel, it was so well-written. I loved the author's style and also the pace of the story', NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'The perfect holiday read! I'll be looking for more books by Kate Galley in the future', NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'Wonderful story about friendships, second chances, and what ultimately can make life feel worth living', NetGalley Reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'Sad, funny and uplifting. I really think we need a sequel to this one!', NetGalley Reviewer'Wonderfully fluent and evocative writing, complemented this beautifully textured, fast-paced, multi-layered storyline... This story was definitely one of a kind', NetGalley Reviewer, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Welcome to the beautiful English village of Inkbury. Tucked deep in the North Wessex Downs, its only claim to fame is the picturesque riverside that once appeared in a Richard Curtis movie. That is, until the murder...Former stand-up comic Juno Mulligan has been suffering a serious sense-of-humour failure. Not only has she lost the love of her life, but she's having to relocate to the (admittedly idyllic) village of Inkbury to watch out for her elderly mother, who she's genuinely worried might be marrying a wife-killer.She hopes that her old friend, disgraced-journalist-turned-novelist Phoebe Fredericks can help her crack the case of whether her mother's perma-tanned, iceberg-smiled, three-times-a-widower fiancé is hiding a murderous past.But before they have a chance, the local art dealer washes up distinctly dead in the village's famous river. His lover is in the frame, but Juno and Phoebe suspect that there is a deeper secret... One that relates to Phoebe's own past and Juno's present.Will the unofficial Village Detective Agency solve the mystery before the killer strikes again? In sleepy Inkbury, as they soon discover, living one's best midlife can be murder.An utterly gripping cozy crime mystery, from million-copy bestselling Fiona Walker, guaranteed to absolutely delight fans of Richard Osman, Janet Evanovich and the Reverend Richard Coles. Readers love Fiona Walker: 'Loved it!!!! Couldn't put it down... Keeps you on the edge of your seat.' Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'Witty, addictive, and with plenty of drama to sink your teeth into... Entertaining from beginning to end... Fantastic.' Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'There were times when I belly laughed so loudly I had to put my hand in front of my mouth to stifle it. (This would be during a binge read until 2 a.m.)!' Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Can love blossom in times of trouble?Life-long friends Louisa, Jeannie and Kate are following in the footsteps of their families, working at the Clarks shoe factory.But when Britain declares war on Germany, the Somerset village of Street is shaken to its core. The Clarks factory is at the heart of life in the village, but the Clark family are Quakers and pacifists. Before long, there are fierce debates amongst the workers and tensions between those who oppose the war and those who believe the village men should go to fight.Each of the girls must decide her own position but as brothers and sweethearts leave for France, Louisa is relieved that her beloved Mattie, a Quaker, won't be signing up. But she'll soon find that they face fierce opposition at home as well as across the Channel.Will the girls' friendship be enough to keep them together, as everything around them falls apart?A heartwarming and gripping new saga series perfect for fans of Elaine Everest and Rosie Clarke.

As the war reaches London, they'll band together...War strikes close to home for chief librarian Cordelia when her flat is bombed, and her beloved Robert is called up and sent abroad. Fortunately, her colleagues Mavis and Jane can help see her through hard times.The three friends find purpose in making the Silvertown library a friendly sanctuary for their deprived and devastated community. But sinister forces, from callous bureaucrats to crafty criminals, still lurk among the stacks. Worse, Jane's soldier husband is injured and suffers both physically and mentally.With so many struggles Cordelia and her friends might need more than books to survive war's shadow. Can they find light in the darkness?A captivating tale of resilience and determination, perfect for fans of Lizzie Lane, Elaine Roberts and Lesley Eames.'a compelling story of friendships and the hardships of war, with excellent sketches of the East End. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend.' Rosie Clarke'I was hooked from page one. Rich in historical detail and with characters you feel you know... Highly recommended!' Lynette Rees'A brilliant read - the sort of book you can immerse yourself in completely ... You couldn't read the story without it reaching your heart, or without wanting to know what will become of these women' Fran Smith

He taught her every step... except how to resist him ¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿¿**Previously published as The Dance Deception**Kateis astonished when she secures a place in a televised dance competition... especially as it means she'll be paired with a professional dancer to compete for a life-changing cash prize.When she's matched with the gorgeous Merle it quickly becomes clear that he's just as keen to work on their chemistry as their routine. But when the competition is rocked by a scandal, Kate's forced to switch to a new partner, Aleksis, who is just as devastatingly attractive as Merle - but seems to hate her.With the odds stacked against them, Kate and Aleksis embark on a showmance to try and win over the public. But what happens when Kate's feelings for her fake boyfriend become all too real? And how far will Merle go to sabotage her chances - both in the competition and in love?Tropes:¿ Enemies-to-lovers ¿¿¿¿¿ Fake dating ¿¿¿¿¿ Spicy romance¿¿Funny, feel-good and oh-so-steamy, this is the perfect read for the Strictly-obsessed and anyone who loves Hannah Grace and Tessa Bailey.Readers love Take the Lead!'I loved it so much... It was perfect! Cute and witty characters, entertaining story and a sweet romance. Going to recommend to all romcom lovers.' Reader review ¿¿¿¿¿'A feel-good and steamy read with lots of funny moments. The chemistry is electric.' Reader review ¿¿¿¿¿' I had a blast... I instantly fell in love with the characters and found them very relatable. The chemistry between the two love interests practically sizzled off the page and there were so many laugh out loud moments as well.' Reader review ¿¿¿¿¿'Sexy, intriguing, and well-paced...will keep you entertained!' Reader review ¿¿¿¿¿'Lots of drama and steamy scenes. This was so good I stayed up late to finish reading' Reader review ¿¿¿¿¿

A loveable heroine and a swoonworthy hero - yes please!' Sandy Barker Mercy Alexander doesn't believe in love, let alone love at first sight. There's one sure fire way of steering clear of heartbreak, and that's not to get your heart involved in the first place. So what is that irritating flutter she feels every time she sees Brooks Hudson, and why is she finding him so hard to ignore? Brooks Hudson can't understand where he's going wrong. Doting single father to six-year-old Ali, supportive co-parent with his ex, much-loved friend and respected colleague, not to mention he's smoking hot. So why is he constantly being dumped, told in no uncertain terms he's 'too nice'? Since when was being nice a crime? Mercy is in serious need of someone to restore her faith in men, and Brooks needs a girl he likes to stick around long enough for him to believe in love again. But when Mercy's past threatens to remind her of everything she's scared of, will love be enough to save the day? You won't be able to put Aimee Brown's new sexy, swoony, sultry romance down. Perfect for all fans of Sariah Wilson, Lindsey Kelk and Abby Jiminez. Readers are loving Aimee Brown: Swoony, touching, and so entertaining, Aimee Brown hit this one out of the park' Jacquelyn Middleton Loved, loved, loved this book' 5 Star Reader Review I really enjoyed this fun, whirlwind romance, which I can really imagine on the big screen. I give this 5 out of 5' 5 Star Reader Review I just loved this novel, the characters are authentic, the story is gorgeous and it won't fail to bring a smile to your face' 5 Star Reader Review This is a book that any romantic lover will enjoy and the ones that are not fans of romance will not be disappointed, the story has a happy ending, of course, but the characters will have their path 'til the ending, because sometimes you have to be happy with yourself before starting a new relationship, don't you think?' 5 Star Reader Review

How many croissants does it take to mend a broken heart?Ava and her best friend Debs arrive in Paris just as the snow starts to fall. The Eiffel Tower glitters gold, but all Ava can think about is Leo, her no-good, cheating ex.Debs is on a mission to make Ava smile again, and as they tour the Christmas markets, and eat their body weight in pain-au-chocolat, Ava remembers there's more to life than men... Until they cross paths with sizzling hot, oh-so-mysterious photographer Julien, with his French accent and hazelnut eyes that seem to see right inside her.Ava can't ignore the intense chemistry between them, but she can't help but feel he's hiding something. Her fingers have been burned before. Can Ava really trust Julien - and what exactly is his secret?Join Ava and Julien in the most romantic city in the world this Christmas, as they discover the importance of being true to themselves, and learn how to follow their hearts.

Valley of FaithValley of Faith brings you five short stories of people who find love and compassion in other people around them. You'll meet characters who somehow manage to find and realize their faith in God by chance, by natural instinct or by dealing with incidents, events or circumstances.There is a group of hobos, a homeless family, two young men who had been friends since childhood, a group of school-aged children who live in a small community near a river, and a boy who is worried about his grandfather and writes a letter to God on his behalf. All bring to life stories of their own experiences and faith... no matter how brief, of what nature, or how deep the conviction.

Heart-swelling, heart-breaking and all-round unforgettable - this is the campervan journey everyone will love this summer' Shari Low Mother, daughter, wife and friend. Maggie Pink is a lot of things to a lot of people, but have any of them noticed that she's drowning... Maggie is a mother to a stroppy teenager, a wife to a befuddled husband, and a daughter to two very different women. She has always known she's adopted, but has she ever understood what that means? Not really. Following the death of her mother, Maggie finally feels able to go in search of her birth mother Morag, and heads to the Highlands of Scotland with her disgruntled daughter Roxie in tow, leaving her crumbling marriage to worry about another day. The family reunion is bittersweet, buteverything is blown wide open when Roxie unearths Morag's explosive teenage diaries. Why did Morag give Maggie away? What really happened all those years ago, and how have the echoes of the past resounded through the generations, like ripples in a puddle? And when all the secrets and promises are out in the open, will Maggie finally have an answer to the question ' who do you think you are Maggie Pink? In turns funny, heart-breaking, nostalgic and utterly compelling, one thing's for sure, Maggie Pink's story will stay with you forever' Janet Hoggarth is the bestselling author of The Single Mums series. Perfect for fans of Marian Keyes, Mike Gayle and Jenny 'clair. What readers are saying about Janet Hoggarth: A heart-rending, heart-warming, heart-stopping and hilarious tale of a mother's love and a wounded soul rediscovering her awesome potential for life and (we are left hoping) for lasting love' Reader Review Sometimes heart-breaking, frequently laugh-out-loud funny and always searingly honest. The story is a rollercoaster and one that I was hooked on until the very end. More from Janet Hoggarth please!' Reader Review Best book I've read for a long time! An honest and empowering read' Reader Review A real page turner! This book is written in a heartfelt and endearing way... the author manages to create a realistic story full of joy, heartbreak, tears and laughter' Reader Review

In a world where courage and faith collide, ""Deborah: A Tale of the Times of Judas Maccabaeus"" invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey through ancient Jewish tales of rebellion and resilience. This captivating novel, originally penned by M. Ludlow, breathes life into the epic story of the Maccabean revolt, illuminating the struggles and triumphs of a people fighting for their identity and freedom.Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous era, ""Deborah"" weaves a rich tapestry of love, sacrifice, and unwavering faith. As the heroine navigates the complexities of her world, readers will find themselves immersed in a narrative that not only entertains but also resonates deeply with themes of Jewish cultural heritage and identity. This is more than just a story; it's a powerful exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity.After decades of being out of print, Alpha Editions is proud to present this restored edition, ensuring that M. Ludlow's remarkable work reaches today's readers and future generations. This is not merely a reprint; it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure that enriches the landscape of historical Jewish literature. With its engaging prose and profound insights, ""Deborah"" stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of biblical fiction and epic historical narratives.Whether you are a casual reader seeking a gripping tale or a classic literature collector eager to add a unique piece to your library, ""Deborah"" promises to captivate your heart and mind. Dive into this extraordinary Jewish historical fiction and discover the timeless story of the Maccabean revolt through the eyes of a remarkable woman. Don't miss your chance to own this literary gem-revive the spirit of rebellion and faith today!

Discover the transformative power of storytelling in ""The Barton Experiment,"" a captivating novel by John Habberton that has been out of print for decades and is now lovingly republished by Alpha Editions. This edition is not just a reprint; it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure, meticulously restored for today's and future generations.Set against the backdrop of moral dilemmas and ethical challenges, ""The Barton Experiment"" invites readers into a world where faith-based literature meets the complexities of human experience. Through the lives of its richly developed characters, this inspirational Christian novel explores profound themes of character development and spiritual growth. Habberton's narrative weaves together life conduct stories that resonate with readers seeking both entertainment and moral lessons in fiction.As you journey through the pages, you'll encounter transformative life experiences that challenge the status quo and inspire introspection. This classic Christian literature not only entertains but also encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and the ethical dilemmas they face. It's a powerful reminder of the impact of faith and the importance of making choices that align with one's values.Whether you're a casual reader looking for an engaging story or a classic literature collector seeking a unique addition to your library, ""The Barton Experiment"" offers something for everyone. This book is a testament to the enduring relevance of John Habberton's novels, showcasing the timeless nature of moral lessons and the importance of spiritual growth through storytelling.Don't miss your chance to own this remarkable piece of literary history. Dive into ""The Barton Experiment"" today and experience the joy of reading a story that not only entertains but also enriches the soul. Embrace the journey of faith and personal development that awaits within these pages!

What happens when her pure hare-itage meets royal blood?Harriet is descended from a long line of pure hares. Unfortunately, an experiment rendered her a hybrid, a mutant... a critter who runs towards danger instead of from it. Because of it, she's found it near impossible to move up the ranks as a FUC agent. Until a sexy leatherback turtle shows up at the Academy and demands Harriet be on his security detail!Prince Lear from Skyros Island is in search of a mate, but everyone suitable has known him since he hatched. How is a slow-moving turtle supposed to find someone to polish his shell in this fast-paced world?When he comes face to face with Harriet, he's smitten. He doesn't mind at all that she's not reptile. Fast of word and fleet of foot, not only is this hare his lucky charm, she's his mate too.As if his royal turtleness didn't have enough to balance on his back, a plot is afoot to steal his royal blood. What will it take to convince her to make his shell her home?Turtle and the Hare is part of Eve Langlais' Furry United Coalition EveL Worlds.Does this premise and world seem familiar? That's because it is based off the Eve Langlais Furry United Coalition. Eve Langlais has invited her author friends to come and play in her world.

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Young bookseller Cathy Finn is having a bad day. First, there's the assassin's bullet. Then comes the realisation that she's been living in a work of fiction. Worse, she wasn't even the main character.Cathy's quiet, bit-part life may be over, but her troubles are only beginning. Her last day on Earth is also her first as a citizen of New Tybet. For over four hundred years, its people have been rescuing those destined to die in other narratives, but now the system is faltering. A saboteur is at work and Cathy will have to stop him if she's ever going to find a way home. Failure could maroon her forever and spark a revolution that sets all the worlds of literature ablaze.

Folklore and fantasy enmesh with physics and forensics in DOMAINE DELAFAIRE, the first volume of THE STEWARD series.Ellen Doyle, an introverted young woman must face the unanticipated challenge of being named heir to the stewardship of some staggering secrets, not the least of which is that the Multiverse is attainable - and she now controls access, the Grand Portal, without benefit of guidance or instructions. Nor is every creature she had always thought to be a figment of fanciful folklore or mere myth actually so. Some may be far closer than she has ever imagined.And now, someone means her harm.When strange things happen to Ellen and those around her, no one can adequately explain. The authorities investigate, of course. But, where's the usual evidence that makes sense? Why is she being targeted? What's really going on?Connor Redhawk, a young detective assigned to the case becomes smitten with Ellen, running the risk of compromising the growing number of baffling cases. Is this a distrating infatuation, or a real danger - or worse, both?When her best friend, Stacy, goes missing through the portal, Ellen realizes she cannot search and rescue Stacy alone. She enlists the aid of her cousin, Mark, and the detective of whom she's grown so fond, Hawk. Trusting her instincts, and her heart, she shares the truth about her access to the Multiverse. Using the Grand Portal, they enter another realm of reality, where the laws of physics differ, sometimes in subtle ways, sometimes drastically . . . hmm, magic? The learning curve can be steep and dangerous, especially since other realms host sentient beings that strongly resemble those from our own myth and folklore, not all of whom hold humans in high regard.In fact, some realms are aware of each other and are often in opposition. Internecine strife, periodic skirmishes, political intrigue, hidden agendas, and nefarious plotting are typical. A loose confederation is held tenuously together by an elected Council, which maintains a delicate balance among the known member realms. Stacy, lost in the Realm of Shadow, experiences her own adventures in her effort to survive and find her way home. She discovers an unsual aspect about herself that seems to fully manifest in this alien yet strangely familiar realm.The search for Stacy will succeed, but at a cost. For Ellen, Hawk, Mark, and Stacy the very concept of reality will be forever altered. Who can they tell? Perhaps the better question is should they tell anyone - who would believe them? On the other hand, knowing one can explore other realms of the Multiverse is a strong enticement to holding such knowledge close. Who knows what unintended consequences might loom should the wrong elements become so aware?And so will begin a host of unimagined adventures.

In this sixth installment of the Anthology Askew series, we asked our authors to imagine Askew Horizons - and to stretch the boundaries of what has been referred to as Science Fiction. They answered us in some amazing ways, and reached beyond the standard fare of mere space exploration and alien encounters, to bring you stories of wonder.In these pages you will encounter man's interactions with lifeforms beyond his comprehension, monsters both microscopic and gigantic, and a few stories that are reminiscent of episodes from anthology-style TV shows of the past, like Outer Limits and The Twilight Zone.Like always, we have included a sprinkling of poems and flash fiction pieces-all of which embrace, in one way or another, our hopes and fears for the future we are all heading into.