From the Book Elf

Nero The Hero by Samantha Mattocks My thanks to Samantha for sending me a copy of  Nero The Hero to review and to  Rachel's Random Resources for inviting me onto the book tour. Synopsis Prepare to meet your new favourite superhero as Nero the Hero reveals his secret!  Nero is no ordinary dog. This miniature schnauzer has a beard, a bark, and a secret. When danger strikes, he transforms into Nero the Hero, a powerful protector with extraordinary abilities. Alongside his human, twelve-year-old Jack, Nero dives into fast-paced adventures filled with mystery, heart, and just a touch of fun. But when Jack makes a brave mistake and finds himself in real danger, Nero must face his greatest challenge yet to save his best friend alone. Perfect for readers aged 8-12, this highly illustrated chapter book blends action-packed fantasy with an engaging, accessible style, making it ideal for reluctant readers and confident young bookworms alike. With short chapters and dynamic illus...

The Scent of Youth  by Mandi Martin My thanks go to Mandi for sending me a copy of The Scent of Youth to review and to Rachel's Random Resources for inviting me to take part on the book tour. Synopsis Welcomed by kind souls, Josiah earns his keep as a skilled vermin remover and helpful stable hand. But when a rat-borne illness strikes the town, Josiah’s unique abilities bring him to the attention of the imposing Duke. Within the castle walls, caught in the strange dynamic between the Duke’s son Bergen and the formidable Helga – children and ogres in one – Josiah’s life takes an unexpected turn with the arrival of the spirited Nadia. Their shared love of poetry ignites a passionate connection, but joy is fragile, and loss leaves an indelible mark. Unbeknownst to Josiah, Helga’s deep-seated hatred of children is taking root within the Duke’s domain, setting in motion a chain of events that will irrevocably alter his destiny… My Thoughts Mandi Martin has created a tome of a book whic...

The Death of Shame by Ambrose Parry  The Death of Shame by Ambrose Parry  was published on 4th June 2026 in Paperback by  Harper Collins . My thanks to the authors and publisher for sending me a copy to review and to  Random Things Tours for inviting me to take part on the tour. Synopsis When you are a prisoner of your secrets, the death of shame is the only path to liberty Annabel Banks was promised work as a maid with a prestigious Edinburgh family. But on her first day, she’s nowhere to be found. Concerned relatives contact Sarah Fisher to help. Sarah might know her way around the city – its light sides and dark – but soon she’ll discover the plight of dozens of girls ensnared in its many brothels: lured, abused and left ruined in the eyes of the world. Meanwhile, a prominent society figure throws himself from the Scott Monument. Will Raven is asked to establish whether the death was suicide or if someone else was involved. Drawing upon real historical events, Th...