Trace the awe-inspiring Islamic history of a desert sanctuary that became the spiritual center of a global faith. Step into the stark Arabian Desert and uncover how a modest settlement along ancient trade routes evolved into the ultimate destination for sacred pilgrimage.Whether you are seeking reflective learning during your daily commute or deeply exploring world religions, this immersive narrative offers a profoundly human perspective. Experience the calm, reverent atmosphere of...

The hoofbeats grew louder, accompanied by shouts. James's eyes met Thomas's, a silent battle raging within them. "I can't leave you here," he said finally, his voice tight with urgency."That wound needs dressing properly."Thomas's mind raced. "But if they catch you -""Then we'd better not let them catch us, shall we?" James grinned.When James Blackwood, known to the world as the notorious highwayman the Shadow of the Moor, holds inquisitive clerk Thomas Hopk...

Globalization has become a seemingly unstoppable force over recent decades and, in its wake, global notions of social justice have developed in response to its negative aspects. Neo-liberal economic policies have been a key element in the wider process of globalization, and these policies have had a profound impact on welfare provision and the shape of social work practice. Arising dissatisfaction among users of welfare and social work services is fuelling the search for a new, more radica...

In writing her 'Drama of Exile', Barrett's subject was 'the new and strange experience of the fallen humanity, as it went forth from Paradise into the wilderness'. The bizarre, lyrical scenes that follow powerfully describe the grief and guilt of Eve, the sorrowful pride of Lucifer, and the redeeming power of love.

Toby never meant to be a highway robber, but needs must. He didn't plan to impersonate a top London valet either, but when the chance comes to present himself as the earl of Arvon's new gentleman's gentleman, he grabs it. Unfortunately, the earl is the man he seduced and robbed on the road to get here. Oops.Miles, Lord Arvon, is not impressed. But he's faced with a tumbledown home and lost family fortune, and desperate times call for desperate measures. Toby—shameless, practical, a...

Thalia knows three things;Her first name.That she barely escaped the clutches of the Septori with the help of a mysterious stranger.And that her run in with the Septori's iron butterfly machine did something to her. It changed her into something neither fully human nor Denai.Fearing her inner darkness and seeking answers to her past, Thalia finds refuge as a servant at the Citadel in Calandry, a school for the gifted Denai.When strange powers awaken ...

The Black Jewels Trilogy established Anne Bishop as an author whose “sublime skill...blend[s] the darkly macabre with spine-tingling emotional intensity”(SF Site). Now, the saga continues in this collection that includes four more adventures of Jaenelle and her kindred…Jaenelle is the most powerful Witch ever known, centuries of hopes and dreams made flesh at last. She has forged ties with three of the realm’s mightiest Blood warriors: Saetan, the High Lord of Hell...

**Set in a world of dark myth and dangerous prophecy, this thrilling fantasy launches an epic tale of daring warriors, living weapons, and bloodthirsty vengeance."The Sword Defiant is a treat for all fantasy fans . . . . It’s an absolute blast.” ― Justin Lee Anderson, author of The Lost War**Many years ago, Sir Aelfric and his eight companions saved the world, seizing the Dark Lord's cursed weapons, along with his dread city of Necrad. That was the easy pa...

From the highly celebrated and award-winning authors Jeff Noon and Steve Beard comes Gogmagog, the first book in adventurous seafaring duology, perfect for fans of Mervyn Peake.A journey through the sixty-mile long ghost of a dragon.Meet Cady Meade, captain of the steam-launch, Juniper. In her heyday she carried people and goods on the river Nysis, from the thriving seaports of the estuary into Ludwich, the capital city. But that w...

A Whyborne & Griffin short story.Griffin Flaherty wants nothing more than to create a perfect Valentine’s Day for his lover, Dr. Percival Endicott Whyborne. Dinner at a fancy restaurant, an evening at the theater, and a romantic interlude at home should do the trick.But a new client with an urgent case puts Griffin’s plans in jeopardy. A magic talisman has been stolen, and if it isn’t returned by sundown, disaster will befall not only on the thief but the innocents...

Absolute Power Corrupts Even the Best of Friends.Mildred Graeme is a witch that knows what it’s like to fail. She loathes small talk, struggles with magic, and grew up wretchedly poor. What’s easy for her best friend Evelyn, a wealthy, powerful socialite, is difficult for Mildred.The two lifelong friends reunite at Chatham Castle where they fight together for the dream of a better world. Mildred wants to save the Network from political elitism, while Evelyn encourages it. W...

TESTAMENT - For some...death is just the beginning...You have a chance to save the world or the only person you ever loved...What would you do...?Sean Doyle faced danger, death and other things he'd rather forget during his time in the Counter Terrorist Unit. But times change, even if Doyle doesn't. He's older but no wiser and the world he knew has changed.Now he finds himself working as a Private Security Consultant in Baghdad, sti...