Bøger udgivet af Austin Macauley

A kingdom stands on the precipice of devastation, endangered by a foe no one saw coming. Its last beacon of hope? Five unsuspecting children, thrust into an adventure beyond their wildest imaginations. Embark with them on an epic quest across uncharted territories of their realm, seeking the legacy of an age-old alliance: the dragons, legendary guardians who once stood side by side with humans to defend their land. But as they encounter the first of these mythical beasts, they quickly realize that allying with the dragons might be a greater challenge than facing the enemy itself...

Deeper into mystery. Darker into the unknown. For Hannah, receiving a pet seems like the worst gift ever - until an unexpected bond grows, transforming reluctance into love. But soon, Hannah, her newfound canine companion, and hundreds of townspeople vanish, whisked away into a surreal distortion of reality.In this bizarre new world, Hannah confronts intense friendship dilemmas, narrow escapes, and uncharted territories. With every twist and turn, she faces a growing web of mischief and danger. The stakes are high: how can she navigate this strange realm to rescue the lost souls, including her own? And what role will her once-unwanted pet play in this extraordinary journey?Embark on an epic adventure with Hannah, who has just one friend, one pet, and one chance to save her world. It may sound cliché, but prepare to be utterly lost in a story of bravery, friendship, and the power of unexpected connections.

Poems from the Volcano was written in a challenging and painful time in my life. Originally, I had bought a normal diary from WHSmiths with the thought that I would write my daily diary. I was rather overweight though. I had done a Prevention of Type II Diabetes Programme remotely using Microsoft Teams and because of this programme I was losing weight.From February 2022 I had also decided not to take any medication to treat my Bipolar Disorder. This had resulted in me not being able to sleep which resulted in me suffering horrific hallucinations. It was in the diary then I would write notes about my life. From the age of seventeen to twenty-two I had suffered different stages of mental illness which included, nervous tension, agoraphobia, schizophrenia. I was put in a psychiatric ward for four weeks. My life after that went into hell and out of sheer madness became obese. I began writing Poems from the Volcano in the Spring of 2022 and concluded in the Autumn of 2022. It is about adolescence heartbreak and the writing is inspired by own battle with heartbreak and depression. Some poems reflect political themes such as Ukraine and Russia. There is a historical poem called 'Tat', about Tutankhamun, the Egyptian pharaoh. These poems were a joy to pen.

Jake McMullen is an eighteen-year-old boy just starting out in life and already on the wrong track! One night fuelled by too much bourbon and rebellion he makes a disastrous decision that will see him spending a life-saving week in jail with an enigmatic cellmate - Danny. Through Danny's obsession with history and his thoroughly unique way of teaching it, Jake will learn the most important lesson of his young life so far which will hopefully put him back on track to lead the happy and fulfilling life he was always destined to live.

Sometimes words are all we have. What could have been and what should have been sit starkly against what is and what was and all there will ever be. Sometimes a life is so short, and yet its impact so huge, that we wonder how it could ever be contained by time.Then we realise it isn't, for as long as we love those we have lost they live on in us. Every time they cross our minds, or when their names grace our lips, they enter another day. And if that's true, if we could write their names, if we carve them with ink into paper then just maybe, in some way or another, we could write them into life.

Embark on a stirring journey through the harrowing trenches of WW1 and the quaint tranquillity of England's countryside in Wasted Lives. As the war rages, two valiant young lieutenants find solace away from the front lines, convalescing in a serene country house. However, the peace is shattered when the estate becomes the stage for a sinister murder. Bound by duty and haunted by the spectre of war, the duo finds themselves entangled in a dark mystery that threatens to unveil secrets that could change the course of their lives forever. With each unfolding clue, they venture further into a web of deceit, coming face to face with the harsh realities of war and the shadowy figures lurking in the peaceful English meadow.

Often, we traverse through life in a bubble, oblivious to the realities unfolding just across the neighbourhood. It's not deliberate, but a common human tendency. Yet, when a sliver of life 'on the other side' catches our eye, it prompts a riveting realization: do we indeed inhabit the same world? This newfound perspective might send shivers down your spine as you grapple with the stark contrasts of life, especially in the landscape of Southern Africa. Here, countless souls are relegated to the status of 'desperadoes,' their lives shackled by the chains of poverty, a situation exacerbated by the haunting shadows of colonization. How I yearn for our leaders to don disguises, to walk a mile in the shoes of those on the other side of the neighbourhood. Such an experience could unveil the crushing repercussions of lacklustre governance on the future generations of Southern Africa. Perhaps then, they might reconsider their leadership ethos, valuing citizens as beings of emotion and aspiration, not merely as ballot ticks. Through the lens of an ordinary South African immigrant, this narrative unfolds a tapestry of daily challenges, endeavouring to offer you a deeper understanding. As you traverse through her journey, may it spark a transformation within, urging you to look beyond the familiar, and delve into the unseen narratives that share our world yet remain veiled in the mists of unawareness.

The land of Mirrios is terrorised by an evil necromancer who holds the land's guardian, the silver-horned unicorn, Mirabelle, captive. Meanwhile, in Melbourne, Australia, a young girl, Helen, is being terrorised by school bullies. Through a magic door, Helen escapes into Mirrios where she becomes caught up in an adventure that helps her discover her own inner strength. There, she finds that a stone she once found in a creek near her home is really a message from Mirabelle. Helen, or Elena as she is called in Mirrios, meets a little gnome called Pea and his friend Cat, as well as an elf, Nancha, and a boy, Kam. Together, they set out on a quest to save Mirabelle. But, a Melbourne schoolgirl, an elf child, a young boy, a little gnome and a cat - how can any of them defeat the powerful necromancer and his evil goblins? How can they break into his mountain fortress and free Mirabelle from her chains?

Wooj Goob (Burger Bun) is the world's most famous doggy detective, and she's on the case! Someone has stolen a truckload of doggy biscuits meant for all the pup pals in town. Now the canines are sad and hungry.Luckily, Wooj has her best friend Pebble at her side. With Pebble's help - and a few surprise twists along the way - can crackerjack Wooj sniff out the culprit before nightfall?Join the intrepid pooch sleuth on her thrilling quest to solve the Case of the Pilfered Biscuits!Bursting with fun and adventure, this tail-wagging detective tale will have young readers panting for more Wooj Goob mysteries!

When her mother received a terminal hospice diagnosis just two weeks before their planned move to a new house, far from familiar surroundings, Loretta Fox was unprepared for the challenges ahead. Balancing the demands of around-the-clock care for her difficult yet sweet mother with the upheaval of an out-of-state move, Loretta also had to set up a home that could accommodate everyone's needs, including their emotional baggage. Walk Her Up the Stairs is a memoir interwoven with poetry written during the author's time caring for her dying mother. It gives voice to the complex and often unspoken emotions experienced by many caregivers. This candid and touching account reflects on the tumultuous yet ultimately bonding journey between mother and daughter. Through her caregiving, Loretta discovers an unexpected skill in Spirit Mediumship, which becomes a source of profound healing. The memoir explores Spirit Mediumship with clear descriptions and includes basics on both receiving and giving Spirit Readings. With a background as a former hospice worker, a master's degree in Religious Studies, and as a practicing Spirit Medium, Loretta Fox offers a unique perspective. Her story aims to inspire fellow caregivers, comfort those grieving, intrigue individuals curious about Spirit Mediumship, and resonate with anyone who has navigated a challenging mother-child relationship.

Modern World? delves into the entwined lives of two compelling characters navigating the complexities of life. First, we meet a young girl, orphaned by the tragic actions of her own community. The story traces her journey of resilience and self-discovery in a world marred by the darker aspects of human behaviour. Alongside her, we follow the life of a boy, raised by a single mother, as he grapples with the challenges and expectations of transitioning from boyhood to manhood. Through the lens of these two characters, Modern World? offers a poignant exploration of existential questions, all framed by the author's insightful perspective. This narrative invites readers to confront the often-uncomfortable realities of life, while also providing a glimmer of hope for understanding one's place in this fractured world.

Suzanne, once a resident of the Convent of the Golden Orb, finds herself drawn back to its echoing halls, now transformed into the luxurious Hotel Orb de L'Or in Switzerland. But a fateful trip to the hotel's historic caves results in tragedy. What does the cryptic 'Count's Revenge' signify? And is there a cure for its menacing consequences? Determined to unveil the truth behind Suzanne's death, her former employer from International Viewpoint delves deep into the enigma. With a trusted circle of allies, he ventures into a web of secrets and shadows, racing against time to decipher a mystery that's more intricate than it first appears.

The first blow has fallen in the war against the Notandi. As the fragile peace in the Kingdom of Meridius begins to fracture, the demons' counterattack could shatter it. Yecats Ratiug, also known as the Creator's Vassal, has committed his life to ridding his homeland of the demon scourge. One man alone is not enough in such a crusade, and he finds assistance from an unlikely ally - a group that has been considered a myth for generations. To the north, Relyt and his companion Prince Mason have fled the slavers of Chelawin, seeking a way home. But it seems that not even royalty can escape the cruel whims of fate, as they are forced to survive in a blood-soaked land unfamiliar to either. Within the walls of Harmagin, Nagol spreads his ideas and gathers allies to his side, preparing for the inevitable arrival of his father to claim bloody vengeance for their exile. His faith in the cause is tested as he is confronted by the idea that his enemies may not be who he thought.

Delve into the shadowy world of crime with this revealing exploration of the criminal underworld. Beyond the notorious crime lords and the violent realm of drug trafficking, lies a complex network of theft, fraud, and borderline legal activities. Who are the masterminds behind these operations? How do they seamlessly orchestrate crimes while remaining undetected? In everyday life, we find plumbers, electricians, and plasterers through a simple internet search or recommendations. But in the criminal fraternity, things operate differently. Fences, who trade in stolen goods, rely on a clandestine network: one group supplies the contraband, another discreetly purchases it, no questions asked. Imagine if this underworld also had its own 'sub-contractors' - skilled individuals specializing in specific illegal activities, and facilitators who connect various players in this covert market. This book takes you deep into this hidden society, shedding light on how organized crime functions with the same efficiency and connectivity as legitimate businesses. If you've ever been curious about the intricacies of the criminal world and its unseen yet organized culture, this is your guide to understanding how these hidden networks operate, thrive, and evade detection.

8 Seconds defies easy categorization - it's a compelling blend of mystery, fantasy, historical exploration, and philosophical inquiry. At its core is the character Harry Avramov, a modern-day Lucifer who emerged from a fractured childhood and damaged dignity. Driven by revenge, Harry becomes a spellbinding anti-hero who bends the rules of morality, flitting between this world and the otherworld while questioning the very nature of choice and destiny.Unfettered by genre conventions, the novel avoids expected resolutions, opting instead for a trio of unexpected, yet inevitable, endings. Steering clear of cliché, the story delves into the complex fabric of family and the consequences of its collapse. It draws inspiration from literary giants like Dante and Byron, as well as timeless Biblical themes, shaping the narrative into a contemporary parable rich with age-old wisdom.As Harry navigates the trials of existence and ambition, he ultimately finds himself journeying through time, from a cycle initiated 50,000 years ago to the present. It takes him a mere 8 seconds to confront the ultimate Truth - the essence of what truly matters in life.

The Chronicles of William John Brickell the Second, Volume 2: Manipulation and Trickery, continues the historical fiction adventure series by Stephen Hanisch. This novel is categorized as 'fact-ton', blending non-fiction narrative history with storytelling flair. The author retells a subject's memoir, maintaining factual accuracy while adding enriched dialogue and physical descriptions beyond established facts. In this sequel, our diverse group of characters embarks on a perilous mission to dismantle a cross-continental smuggling ring. They find themselves both the hunters and the hunted, as those threatened by their efforts relentlessly pursue them. The narrative escalates in intensity as gunshots ring out and deceptions deeper than the Atlantic Ocean come to light. Their journey to uncover the true identities of the culprits takes them from Spain to England and to the coast of France and North Africa. Terrifying decisions test the mettle of William and his friends and crew, but the bond between them all only grows stronger as the hunt continues.

Prayers of a simple heart offer a way of entering the journey of Lent. Andrew Hawes shares his own pilgrimage towards Easter encountering the depths and heights of encounter with God. These 40 'prayer-poems' are the outworking on encountering the Gospel reading set for each day. They are offered as a springboard for thought, prayer and action: as windows opening fresh perspectives. They speak heart to heart. Many of these prayer poems are appropriate to any time or season.

Moll Rogers had a long, mostly loving marriage to Sir John Harington. Sir John a godson of Queen Elizabeth I, was a courtier, port, wit, scamp, dog-lover, jailbird, sanitary engineer (he invested the water-flushing lavatory), briefly a soldier in Ireland and an indefatigable traveller through England and Wales. In My Restless Knight, Moll is seen casting and often sardonic eye, during his absences, over his multifarious writings, including his many private letters. The poems he wrote to her she finds sometimes exasperating, sometimes consoling. He also wrote several to her mother. These were not always conciliatory. His letter to noblemen and gentlemen is seen to give Moll an unusually clear insight into the life of the court. Her duties with her large family meant that she rarely got to go there with her husband. He, however, was often there, dancing in attendance to his godmother the Queen.

Disaster has hit the home suburb of Marnie and Tiana. Someone started stealing toilet lids, and often the whole seat. It started in public places then it started in private homes! Why would anyone contemplate such a vile act? Tempers, anxieties and frustration rise as more and more lids disappear. People go to futile extremes to protect their toilets. What is behind the wave of odious thefts? Is it Cec Pitt, TV presenters of The Collectors and Gatherers Show and, antique and preloved goods dealer involved? Marnie and Tiana are determined to get to the bottom of the mystery and save the nation from an evil, embarrassing scam.

In a world on the brink of multiple conflicts, amidst the backdrop of a relentless pandemic, Bob Ray's life takes an unforeseen turn. Once a writer, former journalist, and undercover intelligence agent, he had lived for his craft until an unexpected event shattered his existence. As the globe grapples with the shocking behavior and unorthodox style of US President Reginald Dropp, a secret plan unfolds involving Dropp's old friend and Yale classmate, Peter Simons, the influential president of a major American television news network. Simultaneously, the resignation of the incumbent Pope gives rise to Lazarus Primus, a young, agile American cardinal of Jewish origin, who astounds the world by becoming the new head of the Catholic Church. Amidst these intriguing developments, the Holy Shroud of Jesus mysteriously disappears from the Turin Cathedral, defying the initial suspicions of a simple robbery. With the world's attention gripped by the relentless pandemic, a profound journey of faith and silence commences, while a chain of unforeseen events upends all preconceived plans, altering the destiny of the entire world.

Even in the stillness of slumber, stories whirl around Munachi's head like great gusts of wind carrying message-filled notes addressed just to her, hoping that one day, a gust so strong will blast by and blow her into adventure. Try as she may, she simply cannot shush the swirling stories trapped inside her head. How about you? Have you ever been asked how you feel and not known the answer? Or felt lost in a familiar place? This is Munachi. She's not sad, nor angry, or lonely...she just is, well, something. And she's determined to find out what 'something' is.

In The Bad Choice, witness the haunting journey of Ekla and her tight-knit circle of friends as they grapple with an unthinkable loss and an impossible decision. After the tragic death of Damon, Ekla's beloved boyfriend, they're presented with a supernatural option that could change the course of their lives forever. Will they cross the ethical boundaries of life and death to help one of their own? Embark on a rollercoaster ride through love, friendship, and the supernatural as choices are made, secrets are revealed, and destinies intertwine. This mesmerizing tale will captivate you with its emotional depth and otherworldly twists.

Dishy Stories serves up a smorgasbord of culinary delights, from the exotic Hungarian cherry soup and French potato classics to the comfort of British and Irish game birds paired with fruit. While many dishes like chip butties, sausages with dumplings, and cheese on toast are everyday favourites, they each carry a rich history that often goes unnoticed. This collection is more than just recipes; it's a journey through the unique and captivating tales behind the foods we love. From the familiar to the gourmet, every meal has a story to tell. With each chapter ending in a recipe, Dishy Stories invites you to explore the origins and narratives of dishes that grace our tables, offering a fresh perspective on the heritage of these kitchen staples. Enjoy the tales and tastes that have woven their way into our lives.

"They say attraction is a chaos of chemicals in our body. Not ours. Ours had its own physical entity - which I wanted to ignore, and boy, did I try. Cupid didn't just arrive with a delicate arrow, but a thunderbolt - one that shattered my reality." Designer Helena Antos never imagined her newfound strength, sass and self-belief would open doors far beyond her vivid imagination. Because when she met new boss Carter Walker, her heart did strange things, and so did the wind. The more time she spent around him became impossible to ignore that her sparked emotions effected the weather. Hailstorms were not her only concern. A girl with a trail of dead bodies warned Helena to go into hiding. Repeating numbers, strange dreams manifesting... Helena's entire concept of normal was confronted, forcing her to question her reality, herself and especially her boss. Helena learns about her own mysterious origins and her attraction to Carter runs far deeper than she'd imagined. They shared an ancient soul connection which awakened a sacred gift within, an elemental power that placed a deadly target on her back. Not only that, but there was also a war going on and her kind were being hunted for their essence, and she was one of the few left.

In a world that persistently teaches us to critique and alter our bodies, where are the lessons on embracing and loving them? Understanding body acceptance isn't as simple as ticking boxes on a checklist. It's not about showering ourselves with compliments or indulging in self-care rituals and then magically achieving self-love. It's a journey, much like navigating a vast, never-ending theme park. With a myriad of rides, from the thrilling roller coasters to the gentle carousels, everyone's adventure is unique. Some may crave the adrenaline of the high-speed rides, while others find joy in the calm of the tea cups. That's the beauty of it - our differences. Just as theme parks cater to diverse tastes, body acceptance is about finding what resonates with you. This book serves as your guide, the map you're handed at the entrance. It offers directions and insights, but the real experience? That's up to you to explore and embrace. Your adventure awaits. Are you ready to embark on this journey of self-discovery and love?

Eight-year-old Jennifer was the quintessential daddy's girl until a tragic car accident claimed his life right beside her. Three years later, her life takes an unexpected turn when her new neighbour, John Smith, rescues her from a violent assault. Finding solace in John's strength and inherent goodness, Jennifer feels an unparalleled sense of safety in his presence. Gradually, an unlikely friendship begins to blossom between them. As time goes on, Jennifer starts to question the true identity of the man who saved her. John's secretive professional life and frequent absences from home ignite Jennifer's curiosity, leading her on a perilous quest to uncover his real identity. Her determination to understand John better draws her into a world fraught with espionage, survival tactics, and foreign intelligence. The journey ahead is full of revelations that only John could foresee. However, Jennifer begins to wonder if there are deeper secrets that even John himself might not be aware of. This tale of mystery and discovery explores the lengths one will go to unravel the truth about those they hold dear.

You can't lie down with your back against the wall. Ex-NYPD officer turned LA Bounty Hunter Tucker Brag has traded the beat on New York's mean streets for chasing bounties in the City of Angels. When Jimmy Brag, Tucker's father, a veteran in the U.S. Army and reclusive doomsayer, dies, Tucker is surprised by a windfall bequeathed to his only child. Sorting out Jimmy's affairs, Tucker is inadvertently thrust into the crosshairs of one of LA's most powerful crime figures. On the run and looking over his shoulder, he is then faced with a past family tragedy, bringing heartbreaking memories back into focus. They compel Tucker to attempt now what he couldn't hope to achieve as a young boy. Tucker will first need to defeat a ruthless enemy before planning to fulfil his own desire for revenge. PRAISE FOR ROGUE JUSTICE 'A rollercoaster journey of criminal justice. For readers of mysteries and thrillers who prefer darker and more dangerous tales. A deftly plotted, intelligently accomplished novel that is as fast-paced as it is gripping.' - Readers Favorite 'Great depth of character and a thrill to read.' - Literary Titan

In a world where father-daughter bonds are often fraught with complexity, this tale explores the transformative journey of a father who emerges from failure to become a beacon of strength. With his indomitable will, he confronts the insurmountable to shield his daughter from the oppressive chains of injustice. Amidst a backdrop of a disputed election and ensuing turmoil, their story is a testament to the power of love and the belief that against all odds, anything can be achieved.