Award-recognised collection returns with an immersive story of mystery, resilience and the power of the natural world

MILTON KEYNES, UK. July 2, 2026 – Michael Mathers has officially released New Horizons Book 2, continuing a series that has earned praise for blending outdoor adventure, memorable characters and richly detailed natural settings. The latest novel invites readers back into a world where survival, mystery and the landscape itself are central to the story.

The latest publication represents another important step in Michael’s writing career, which began after a conversation with close friend, author and classical pianist John Hursey. The two initially planned to write a book together. Hursey wrote the opening two pages before encouraging Michael to take the project forward on his own. Looking back, Michael believes his friend intentionally gave him the confidence to continue, setting him on a path that has become both rewarding and deeply meaningful.

Inspired by decades spent working in forestry and exploring the countryside, Michael has built a series grounded in genuine experience. His extensive knowledge of wildlife, birds and natural habitats allows him to create convincing settings and realistic animal characters that enhance each story.

The opening two books transport readers to a secluded island on Scotland’s rugged west coast, where the surrounding landscape plays an essential role in the unfolding events. In New Horizons Book 2, the dramatic scenery and close relationship between people and nature remain at the heart of the narrative.

The story continues to broaden as the series develops. Later books gradually shift the focus toward the Scottish mainland, with Book Three taking place entirely along the dramatic west coast. The expanded setting raises the stakes while preserving the strong environmental themes that define the series.

One standout character introduced in Book Three is Calvin the pig, who has become Michael’s personal favourite. Amusingly, Calvin is also the only animal in the series that Michael has never encountered through his own real-life experience. He jokes that he hopes the other animals never find out.

Beyond its action and adventure, the series contains a carefully woven underlying theme that quietly runs through every relationship and storyline. Rather than explaining its purpose directly, Michael encourages readers to uncover its meaning as they progress through the books.

The novels also blend realistic survival challenges with hints of the unexplained. Michael intentionally leaves room for readers to decide how those mysterious elements should be interpreted, creating opportunities for discussion long after the story ends.

Book Three raises the tension even further as the three main characters face a relentless fight to stay alive. With danger closing in from every direction, they must rely on courage, determination and resilience. Whether those qualities will be enough remains one of the series’ biggest questions.

New Horizons Book 2 is published by Maple Publishers, a UK publishing company that supports creative authors while providing professional book cover design and book layout services.

A Story of Unity, Bravery and Resilience Inspired by Traditional Legends

MILTON KEYNES, UK. July 2, 2026. Author Kevin Ellam has officially released his latest novel, The Ten Headed Shadow. Inspired by classic folklore, the book offers a fresh interpretation of a traditional tale while exploring the lasting importance of courage, perseverance and the strength people discover when they stand together.

Inspired by ancient myths and reimagined for contemporary audiences, The Ten Headed Shadow follows ordinary individuals who face extraordinary trials through hope, determination and cooperation.

The novel combines mythical storytelling with thoughtful reflections on the resilience of the human spirit.

The story centres on a peaceful village whose future is threatened by a terrifying ten-headed creature. As danger grows, the villagers realise that no single person can save them. Instead, they must unite and rely on one another to overcome the challenge before them.

As fear is replaced by determination, they learn that teamwork, perseverance and compassion are their greatest strengths. Their shared journey not only helps them survive but also reshapes their understanding of courage, hope and community.

Filled with symbolism and timeless themes, The Ten Headed Shadow reaches beyond its fantasy setting. While honouring the traditions of folklore, the novel introduces fresh storytelling that encourages readers of every age to appreciate resilience, kindness and the value of standing together.

The publication also reflects Kevin Ellam’s own inspiring life story. A 38-year-old bilateral below-knee amputee, Ellam has faced significant personal challenges that have influenced his writing and given his exploration of resilience and determination a genuine perspective.

Instead of allowing adversity to define his future, Kevin has transformed his experiences into stories that connect with readers through universal emotions and enduring values.

The Ten Headed Shadow is now available for readers looking for an inspiring tale celebrating resilience, hope and the power of community.

The book was designed by White Magic Studios, recognised for creating professional book covers and interior layouts for imaginative literary works. It is published by Maple Publishers, a UK-based publishing company committed to bringing compelling books to readers.

MILTON KEYNES, UK, July 2, 2026. Author Chris Miller has unveiled his latest novel, Desert Messiah, a political thriller that examines the powerful connections between warfare, government decision-making and religious influence during the closing years of the Iraq War.

Built upon more than twenty years of research into events surrounding the Iraq conflict from 2003 to 2011, Desert Messiah combines detailed historical research with an original fictional storyline. Miller studied official reports, government documents and historical archives to create a novel that questions established perspectives while delivering an engaging and suspenseful narrative.

The story centres on Cathy Ashby, an experienced BBC war correspondent who is assigned to determine whether a confidential White House Presidential Briefing Paper anonymously delivered to the BBC in 2004 is genuine. The document suggests the US-led invasion of Iraq may have been influenced by concerns over the rise of Islam rather than the publicly stated objective of locating weapons of mass destruction.

While reporting from Baghdad, Cathy reconnects with American journalist Robert Wiseman, a trusted colleague she first worked with in Afghanistan. Together they uncover evidence that challenges official accounts of the war and exposes layers of political secrecy reaching across multiple governments.

As their investigation unfolds, Cathy meets Saleh al-Fulan, a controversial Muslim preacher recently released from Abu Ghraib prison. Regarded by many supporters as the long-awaited Mahdi, Saleh’s growing popularity unsettles Iraq’s senior religious authorities, who quietly seek American help to stop him without revealing their own role. What begins as an inquiry into a leaked government document develops into a dangerous search for hidden truths with far-reaching consequences.

Set during the Iraq War, Desert Messiah explores political influence, religious conviction and the lasting human impact of conflict. The novel combines authentic historical settings with an original fictional story to examine one of the most debated chapters of recent history.

Chris Miller draws on an extensive professional background. He served in the British Royal Navy as both a navigator and an Admiral’s Flag Lieutenant before spending 28 years with Royal Dutch Shell in offshore and commercial positions. He is also the co-author of Modern Naval Combat.

Discussing the novel, Miller said: “My aim was to combine rigorous historical research with compelling storytelling to encourage readers to consider the complex political and religious forces that shaped the Iraq conflict.”

The book is published by Maple Publishers, a UK-based publishing company recognised for championing imaginative and engaging books while also providing professional book cover design and book layout services.

An Emotional Story of Strength, Acceptance and the Need to Belong

UK, July 3, 2026 – Author Louis Mulholland will publish his latest novel, Perfectly Imperfect, on 7 August 2026. Blending historical storytelling with thought-provoking themes, the book explores how society has treated those who were considered different, while celebrating resilience, compassion and the enduring desire to be accepted.

Combining historical fiction with profound social commentary, the novel challenges long-held perceptions of normality, acceptance and belonging while shining a light on those who have too often been overlooked throughout history.

Perfectly Imperfect follows the journey of a bright, kind-hearted and witty outsider whose greatest wish is to experience an ordinary life. Although gifted and compassionate, she is pushed aside simply because she does not meet society’s expectations.

Through her experiences, Louis Mulholland explores the emotional impact of prejudice, the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring search for dignity in an unforgiving world.

Set during a difficult period in history, the novel immerses readers in a time when vulnerable people frequently faced exploitation, discrimination and cruelty. With little legal protection and widespread superstition influencing public opinion, many were judged through fear and ignorance rather than their true character.

Rather than presenting a traditional historical tale, Perfectly Imperfect focuses on everyday individuals whose humanity was hidden beneath social prejudice. It illustrates how people seeking honest work and acceptance were exploited for financial gain, forced into exhausting labour and subjected to verbal and physical abuse without receiving the respect they deserved.

Despite exploring challenging subjects, the novel ultimately delivers a message of hope, courage and perseverance. It encourages readers to question how society defines normality while reinforcing the lasting importance of empathy, fairness and inclusion.

Writing has always been an important part of Louis Mulholland’s life. His creative path began in childhood through a passion for hip-hop, where artists inspired him with their ability to combine rhythm and meaningful lyrics. As a teenager, he started writing his own songs, developing a love of storytelling, rhyme and language.

His interests later expanded into subjects including religion, planetary science, the universe, ufology, narcissistic abuse and contemporary politics. These influences have helped shape his unique writing style and thoughtful approach to complex topics.

During the COVID-19 lockdown, Louis devoted more time to writing and researching history. He became particularly interested in forgotten events and overlooked individuals, helping to shape the compassionate perspective reflected throughout his work.

For Louis, history offers more than knowledge of the past. It provides lessons that can inspire a kinder and more understanding future, a belief that sits at the heart of Perfectly Imperfect.

The novel is published by Maple Publishers, a UK publishing company recognised for producing engaging literary works while also providing professional book cover design and book layout services.