Gnomes

Gnomes: Deluxe Collector's Edition
by Wil Huygen and Rien Poortvliet

Who Is This Little Man?

For hundreds of years gnomes have watched, listened, advised, assisted and inspired us. Known for their wisdom, patience and kindness to small animals, gnomes have always been there as an essential part of nature. At times they have even been known to assist those in need, council those with difficulties and on occasion teach the unpleasant among us a hard lesson.

Elusive and cunning, these happy little men with their affinity for animals and knowledge of plant life run about the night on their secret duties, while at home the females are busy tending the children and completing domestic chores. Their sworn enemies, besides animals of prey, are trolls who are disliked for their foul odour and general badness; in turn trolls detest gnomes for their beguiling ways and quick feet.

Gnomes is a charming and comprehensive guide into the world of these amazing and astonishing little people. Known mostly for their full beards, rosy cheeks and nose rubbing ways, within these pages you will discover just what it is to be a gnome. Which according to any gnome would be his cap, for a gnome is just not a gnome without his pointy red cap. With physiology, remedies, courtship, legends, songs and personal accounts, Gnomes is a book for anyone with a inquisitive mind and an open heart.

Wil Huygen @ Thames & Hudson

Wil Huygen @ Abrams Books

(includes 8 Frameable Prints)
On sale: 01 May 2011
Price (AU): $49.95
ISBN: 9780810998469
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Gnomes
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Fallen Grace

Fallen Grace by Mary Hooper

Grieved, Mute And All Alone!

Grace and her older sister Lily lost their mother at a young age, before that they had lost their father. Alone in the world the girls had been sent to an orphanage and when older to a workhouse, but now they were living on their own making what they could selling watercress in one of the poorest areas in London.

It had always been Grace's responsibility to look after Lily, who now almost seventeen was still as unable to care for herself as she was when a child. Grace and Lily had left the workhouse and all it's horrors behind them, or so they had thought until Grace could no longer deny what was to be the outcome of her short stay there. And so, grieved and emotional, Grace found herself at Brookwood Cemetery with two business cards placed into her hands.

When the worst came to worst and Grace and Lily were forced from their home, Grace determined not to see her sister or herself resorting to living in the streets. She tried unsuccessfully to contact Mr Solent, the man who had given her the first business card. When that had failed she reluctantly took up the second black edged business card. She had been offered a job once, working for a funeral business.

It was not a position Grace was comfortable with but the Unwin family had agreed to take in Lily also, and although the sisters were to be separated Grace was only pleased they would both have food, clothing and shelter for the quickly approaching winter. However unbeknownst to Grace, the Unwin's had motives of their own for taking in the young girls.

Fallen Grace is a historical novel depicting life in London for both the poor and the wealthy, discriminating against neither as a poor beggar on the streets could be as much a thief as the wealthy in their posh houses, or worse. Amongst death, grief and greed Grace shines as a strong and vulnerable character able to tell a story that is fast paced, well thought out and all her own. A story full of deceptive actions, heartbreaking decisions and, if she's lucky, happy endings.

Mary Hooper Webpage

Mary Hooper @ Bloomsbury Australia

On sale: 27 June 2011
Price (AU): $15.99
ISBN: 9780747599128
Recommended age: 14-18
In a word: Grace
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Solid #1

SOLID:
Solid by Shelley Workinger

'I'm Invisible'

With the government's new 'open-book' policy about its past dealings, it has come to light that eighteen years ago a hundred pregnant women were exposed to a chemical that has altered the DNA of their children. In order to discover just how these children have been affected a program has been set up to bring these children together and over the course of a few short week, test and observe these children for any abnormalities. So far the results are inconclusive.

Apart from the fact that every teenager affected by this chemical is good looking, there seems to be nothing too out of the ordinary about the group. At least as far as Clio and her new friends are concerned. That is of course until the 'stars' are exposed and a number of sinister and dark secrets about the campus staff is revealed. With so many questions and strange abilities presenting themselves, Clio and her friends go looking for answers but what they get is a deadly stand-off.

Solid brings together a hundred seventeen-year-olds to a secret and secure campus where they can be informed, monitored and tested on any abnormal traits or abilities they may possess. The cause of all this, a drug known as C9x that has affected the very 'solidity' of these teenagers' beings. As a result superhuman abilities are experienced as is rule breaking, secrets, lies, dancing, stars, romance, murderous soldiers and unshakable friendships. A series debut that's unique subject matter makes this a highly engrossing read.

Paperback @ Amazon
eBook @ Smashwords
Solid novels

On sale: 09 July 2010
Price (US): $7.99
ISBN: 9781453624821
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Solid
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: three out of five
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The Goblins Of Labyrinth

The Goblins Of Labyrinth by Brian Froud
captured and cataloged by Terry Jones

'Stranger! If You Would Know The Goblins Of The Labyrinth, Seek...'

When a small, impossibly ancient, earthenware pot was first discovered in remote Olduvai Gorge its significance was such that it was promptly ignored and abandoned. Luckily it was later discovered and destroyed by Brian Froud. However before its destruction Mr Froud was able to discover a message hidden within this pot. And when that message was eventually deciphered he began a journey that would lead to the greatest goblin related discovery in history.

The Labyrinth, created by a goblin king, was built as a refuge to goblins from those in the world not of goblinkind. Over the years the Labyrinth has become one of the only places in the world where goblins can be found, however until now little has ever been known of their daily lives let alone their appearances. But when one goblin artist decided to thrown down his images of goblins, images that were later enhanced or butchered depending on who you talk to, finally the world was introduced to the goblins of Labyrinth.

The Goblins Of Labyrinth is a unique look at a species that has eluded, beguiled, teased, tormented and terrorised many a human over the course of history, a time honoured goblin pastime that is still alive and well today. There is much to read, see and ponder within these pages, the least of which not being the story, and goblins, behind the well known movie Labyrinth. Aside from this however there are plenty of legends, tales and poems, not to mention recipes, games, philosophies and sacred days to uncover. All in all a very beautifully presented book of not so beautiful beasts.

Brian Froud - World Of Froud

Brian Froud @ Thames & Hudson

Brian Froud @ Abrams Books

On sale: 1 October 2006
Price (AU): $49.95
ISBN: 9780810970557
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Goblins
Re-read it: yes, many times
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Faery Rebels #3

FAERY REBELS:
Arrow by R J Anderson

'We Are At War'

Timothy and Linden left the Green Isles with more then a stone and a few good men of the Children of Rhys, they left with the means of protecting themselves and their fellow faeries against the all conquering Empress. Returned home to the Oak the real work is now to begin. At any time the Empress would descend on the Oak she has vowed to destroy with her many hundreds of follower, willing or otherwise. But would the faeries of the Oak be ready?

When the Stone of Naming was taken from the Green Isles, the Children of Rhys were left confused, frightened and desperate to have their most precious possession returned to them. But as faeries of peace, the Children of Rhys have little chance of surviving on the mainland against the Empress and her faeries to take back the stone from the rebels, unless they are willing to break their most sacred law.

As a Child of Rhys and daughter of one of the most esteemed elders, Rosemary is shocked to discover her mother plans to invade the mainland and break this sacred law. With little choice to save her people, Rosemary leaves home in an effort to reclaim the sacred stone and restore peace to her homeland. However the mainland is nothing like the sheltered home she left behind and Rosemary soon finds out how tricky faeries can really be.

Arrow sees a new heroine take the spotlight in this charming yet dangerous series. Rosemary is a faery who is learning about life the hard way, but she is not the only one. As her innocence and naivety are turned against her, Rosemary is able to find inner strength in her beliefs. Even after being betrayed, humbled, dominated, kissed, forgiven and exiled she is still strong, smart and brave in the face of all. A delightful and endearing continuation of a wonderfully enchanting series.

R J Anderson Webpage

(cover art) Brian Froud - World Of Froud

R J Anderson @ Hachette Children's

On sale: 01 March 2011
Price (AU): $16.99
ISBN: 9781408312629
Recommended age: 10+
In a word: Faeries
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Banana Kiss

Banana Kiss by Bonnie Rozanski

Crazy In Love!

There are voices in her head, voices no one else can hear. They tell her not to believe Whitecoat, not to believe anyone but them. They tell her she is God and they are right. She is God. She created the world, by observing the world she allows it to exist, and yet people do as they please without her commanding them. But this too is her doing for she created free will.

Whitecoat tells her that the voices in head are not real, that they do not exist. But if they do not exist, if they are not real, then how can she hear them in her head? Whitecoat tells her that she should trust him, that he is here to help her. But being asked 'how she feels' about everything does not feel like help, waking up in a fog and being strapped to a bed does not feel like help.

Sometimes when the voices in her head contradict the voices without it is difficult at times to know who to listen to, who to believe. With medication the voices in her head quieten but she does not feel herself. Without medication she is free to be herself but finds it difficult to know who she is with so many voices in her head telling her who she should be.

Banana Kiss is a story of Robin, a girl who has lost herself amongst the voices in her head, a girl who converses with her long dead father on visits he makes into her mind. Robin has had to deal with a number of losses in her life. Disappointments and heartaches have left her broken, despondent and disenchanted with those who have claimed to love her. Through betrayal, love, death and pills Robin must find a way let go of her past if she is to have hope for the future.

eBook @ Amazon

On sale: 08 December 2010
Price eBook (US): $2.99
ISBN: 9780889842762
Recommended age: 18+
In a word: Voices
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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Mermaid Magic

Mermaid Magic
by Lucy Cavendish & Serene Conneeley

'Connecting With The Energy Of The Ocean
And The Healing Power Of Water'

The oceans have long drawn people to its shores to marvel at its wonder and beauty, its ability to provide and its power to destroy. For thousands of years people have taken to the seas to find food, fortune and adventure. Those who meet the waters find themselves moved by its music, mystery and depth and few can turn their back on it without leaving behind a piece of their heart. As the personification of these waters Mermaids carry with them a magic and intrigue that has captured our imaginations for thousands of years.

Mermaid Magic is more then just a history of mermaids and the legends that have sustained them; it is a book of healing, hope and magic. A catalogue of spells, stories and knowledge on a number of sea creatures that are as majestic as they are inspiring. Even as land animals we rely on the power water has to sustain us, provide for us and heal us. Mermaids are the embodiment of water and of life, and it is impossible for us to deny that which makes up a significant part of who we are, after all it's in our blood.

Lucy Cavendish Webpage

Serene Conneeley Webpage

Paperback @ Mermaid Magic

Paperback @ Amazon

Mermaid Magic

On sale: 13 May 2011
Price (AU): $34.95
ISBN: 9780987050533
Recommended age: 16+
In a word: Mermaids
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Winter's Shadow

Winter's Shadow by M. J. Hearle

Cats, Keys and Soul Collectors!

She first saw those piercing green eyes, that saw deep into her soul, only minutes before her world came crashing down around her. He was nothing more then a shadow through her camera lens before he became her saviour and she was indebted to him more then she would know.

He spent his life on the run, moving about from place to place, running from those who chased him, running from the danger he possessed. Now, however, he was running out of time, her life was over before she knew it, but he would make it right, or at least he would try to. But you can't out run death.

Winter's Shadow is a love story that takes you through history revealing a past of family betrayal, passion, murder, monsters, magic and love. Blake makes the intimate sacrifice for love and in return Winter has the rest of her very long life to morn his gift. A dark, dangerous and original story of demon's and love that is a brilliant debut novel.

M. J. Hearle Webpage

M. J. Hearle @ Pan Macmillan

On sale: 01 June 2011
Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9780330404471
Recommended age: 14+
In a word: Monsters
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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The Folk Keeper

The Folk Keeper by Franny Billingsley

'There Is A Price You Pay For Power.'

As Corin, Corinna has been able to trade her time and chores for skills and spells. This was essential to her plans, for only as a boy could she become educated and only with education could she become a Folk Keeper. At a young age Corinna learnt that only through power over others could she obtain what she wanted and what she wanted was the cold and dark place where she belonged.

For years Corinna kept her secrets; her secret knowledge, her magic abilities, her convictions that kept her through the tough times. Everything that made Corinna who she is was hidden behind the façade of Corin. But then one day a Lady arrived at the orphanage to fetch her and take her to a new home, here the hard and disciplined Corin is stripped away and only the vulnerable and stubborn Corinna is left behind.

The Folk Keeper is a beautifully unique story of a girl searching for her place in the world. Written with poetic language and a descriptive style, this complex story is full of vivid characters, mystery, charm and charms. A tale of transformation, homecoming and murderous plots; this story is just another reason why Franny Billingsley is fast becoming one of my favourite authors.

Franny Billingsley Webpage

Franny Billingsley @ Bloomsbury Australia

On sale: 01 April 2011
Price (AU): $15.99
ISBN: 9781408813195
Recommended age: 12+
In a word: Corinna
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: five out of five
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Wings #3

WINGS:
Illusions by Aprilynne Pike

How To Tell A Faerie By Their Illusions!

When Lauren made the choice to stay with her human parents, and to stay with her human boyfriend David, she wasn't sure when, or if, she would ever see Tamani again. Making that decision was the hardest of her life but how could she choose to leave them knowing without her they could all be in very real danger. She loved them all too much for that, and yet when she said goodbye to Tamani she was also saying goodbye to a piece of herself, to something she wanted but could not let herself have.

After nearly a year Tamani has come back into Laurels life, unexpected but not unwelcomed, at least not to all but David who really could have lived happier the rest of his life never seeing him again. Tamani is on a mission, not just for the faerie land of Avalon but also a mission of the heart, he is determined to win Laurel's heart and no human, not even David, will stand in his way. However when a wild faerie enters their lives all bets are off and all hearts will be broken.

Illusions continues Laurel's story where now, in her senior year, Laurel has more to consider then just her weekend plans. Laurel is facing either a future in hiding among the humans she loves or a future as herself in Avalon and away from the only world she knows. But before a decision can be made there is a threat to vanquish. With disappearing trolls, a wild faerie and a love triangle that is quickly becoming a complicated mess, this story is has a little of everything for everyone.

Aprilynne Pike Webpage
Aprilynne Pike @ Harper Collins

Wings

On sale: 01 June 2010

Price (AU): $19.99
ISBN: 9780007358403
Recommended age: 11+
In a word: Wild
Re-read it: yes
Recommend: yes
Star rating: four out of five
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