On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, in Daniel Juventus And The Stonehenge – Gate Of Magic By J. A. Thinky, a bullied and peculiar young boy is transported to a parallel universe to save the king of the Kingdom of Light.
Daniel Juventus And The Stonehenge – Gate Of Magic
Daniel Juventus and The Stonehenge – Gate of Magic by J. A. Thinky sees the slightly unconventional Daniel transported to Havillars – the Kingdom of Light. There, Daniel is educated in an academy that has Leonardo da Vinci as principal, Isaac Newton as vice principal, and professors including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, Alfred Nobel and many other famous historical people.
Always the brunt of teasing and bullying from his classmates due to his peculiar nature and a slight deformity in his hand, Daniel Juventus has never known his parents and lives with his grandfather, which leaves a gaping hole in his heart.
When Daniel begins having strange dreams, his grandfather finally admits to the truth of his parents’ disappearance. In one dream, Daniel is given a powerful key – an Ankh – and is told he is the Chosen One. He is destined to free the soul of EV; the King of the Kingdom of Light, who is imprisoned alongside Dzărum; the Lord of Darkness.
One night, a strange woman appears in his bedroom and guides him to a parallel world, where Daniel thinks his mission to save both his parents and EV has finally begun. Little does he know, what lies beyond is a continuing stream of dark forces preventing him from fulfilling his mission. These forces are after the Ankh as it can unlock the gate to Hell. Daniel must do what he can to save those he holds dear and thwart all attempts of the minions of darkness to take over the goodness of the world.
Fantastical and absorbing, J. A. Thinky offers a book filled with original worldbuilding and plausible magic systems, and hugely compelling character building through the unconventional Daniel. His introductions to history’s real-life heroes from science and the arts give this first volume a thumbs up from all that pick up a copy.
With a whole new generation awaiting a literary hero worthy of their adoration – the future could be looking very rosy for Daniel Juventus, and his creator.
J. A. Thinky
Vo Quang Thinh is better known by his pen name; J. A. Thinky. He was born in Da Nang, Vietnam, and studied interior design for many years and played the piano for the church where his father was a pastor. He is now working for the church as a songwriter as well as the choir conductor. He is passionate about Renaissance paintings and is a freelance artist. He likes to study European languages, including Latin and Greek; and enjoys studying history and medieval literature.
With William Shakespeare, J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, and J.K. Rowling the role models who inspired him to embark on his writing career, the author loves fantasy literature and the way the British tell their stories.
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, in Bobo The Bear’s Enchanted Forest By Gurvinder Singh Lawrence-Sandhu, children learn gratitude, empathy, and caring for others, all of which are effortlessly woven in to a page turning tale.
Bobo The Bear’s Enchanted Forest
Bobo The Bear’s Enchanted Forest By Gurvinder Singh Lawrence-Sandhu
With the likes of Winnie, Paddington and Rupert demonstrating how readily readers will take a lovable bear to their hearts, Bobo is the latest to enthrall a whole host of young minds (aged two to -six).
Embark on a heartwarming adventure in Bobo The Bear’s Enchanted Forest: Journeys In Friendship And Joy, as Gurvinder Singh Lawrence-Sandhu ticks all the boxes of creativity and imaginative storytelling. Elevating the book for both its intended audience and those reading aloud, the raft of life lessons that are effortlessly woven into the story teach children how to understand and manage emotions and encouraging self-reflection.
Discover a world where every sunrise brings new lessons in kindness and every sunset is a reminder to be thankful. Bobo The Bear’s Enchanted Forest: Journeys In Friendship And Joy is not just a storybook—it’s a gentle journey through life’s simple pleasures and the importance of connecting with others. Every page is a gentle nudge towards building a kinder, more mindful generation, filling your child’s world with wonder and teaching them the beauty of spreading happiness.
Having experienced first-hand the power that comes with learning to be empathetic, compassionate and mindful, Gurvinder Singh Lawrence-Sandhu crafted a timeless adventure which also makes a great starting point for those taking their first tentative steps to becoming an independent reader.
Why Parents Love “Bobo the Bear”:
Life Lessons: Bobo’s adventures offer tender teachings about gratitude, empathy, and joy that resonate long after the last page is turned.
Emotional Growth: Through Bobo’s eyes, children learn to navigate their emotions and understand the value of caring for others.
Engaging Read-Aloud: Lyrical prose and vibrant illustrations make sharing Bobo’s story an enchanting experience for both reader and listener.
For the Little Ones:
Charming Characters: Meet Bobo and his forest friends—each encounter a new friend, each moment a new delight.
Interactive Elements: Questions and prompts throughout the book encourage thoughtful engagement and self-reflection.
A Cozy Bedtime Companion: The perfect wind-down tale to end the day with smiles and hearts full of joy.
Gurvinder Singh Lawrence-Sandhu
Gurvinder Lawrence-Sandhu was born and raised in Birmingham, England. Having faced a series of daunting physical health crises, including severe weight loss, the need for a CPAP machine, hormone replacement therapy, and an inability to leave home, he has also grappled with a range of mental health issues including stress, anxiety, and fear.
By focusing on simple yet powerful emotions like gratitude, helping others, empathy, and compassion I have found the strength to heal and thrive.
-Gurvinder Singh Lawrence-Sandhu
Find more from Gurvinder Singh Lawrence-Sandhu now:
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, picking up from where the first story ended, Hebru Young’s Success Opulence And Power sees Eddie Dominguez with a life sentence looming. Will he come out on the winning side of the court case of the century?
Success, Opulence And Power
Success, Opulence and Power is a drug cartel novel stands out from the crowd, with volume two to be published on 4th April 2024.
In Volume 1, we are introduced to Hebru Young’s protagonist Eddie, and now the second instalment picks up from where the first left off. In Volume 2, Eddie comes into his own and continues to gain the notoriety that landed him in court, and sees him desperately hoping he will be able to dodge a life sentence.
Following the disclosure of all evidence held by the prosecution, Eddie’s legal team makes it clear that his looming trial will be an uphill battle. Things aren’t looking good for his businesses either with mounting pressure to keep his companies in profit whilst reassuring his partners that the negative press will eventually blow over. Eddie’s enemies continue to pile on the pressure as they encroach on his territories. He needs to do everything in his power to secure a win in court and maintain his empire.
This second instalment confirms that Success, Opulence and Power by Hubru Young is far more than your standard cartel caper. The introduction of developed technologies that impact how crimes are committed as well as solved gives his story an understated sci-fi feel, and bringing most of the western world together in a project aptly named ‘The Great Merger’ hints at the potential of this saga going forward.
Bursting with real-world intrigue, conflict and characters firmly entrenched on the wrong side of the law, Success Opulence and Power is a worthy read.
Success Opulence And Power, Volume 1 By Hebru Young
Hebru Young
UK-based author Hebru Young has a background in Computing & IT having worked as a Systems Analyst in various business sectors. He enjoys spending time with family, reading, gaming on the Xbox, watching YouTube, and binge-watching TV shows and movies.
He has a passion for storytelling and character development. His published work contains worlds crafted with the intention of arousing the reader’s imagination.
Hebru got his first book deal on his fourth attempt, two months after submitting his manuscript. He is currently trying to transition from IT professional to full-time writer.
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best creativity magazine in the UK“, we introduce Uno, the one-cup bra that embraces asymmetry for the post-mastectomy body, created by Katy Marks.
Uno
Every year, 55,000 women in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer, 14,850 women undergo mastectomies every year in the UK, and many of them opt not to have reconstructive surgery afterwards, many of them put off by years-long waiting lists or the possibility of further health risk. This means that the number of women adjusting to life with one breast increases by more than 10,000 every year. For these women, the overwhelming majority of lingerie options are designed to hide their loss of a breast, but what if they want to embrace their asymmetry?
Uno, founded by architect Katy Marks of Citizens Design Bureau, is a one-cup mastectomy bra and bikini range that moves beyond conventional beauty standards and empowers women to embrace their post-surgery bodies. Made in the UK with sustainable fabrics (the bikini is recycled ocean plastic) and engineered for comfort and support, Uno is architecture for the body.
I just want some clothing that I can wear with the body I have, and if no one else is going to make it, then I will.
–Katy Marks, founder of Uno
Katy Marks wearing Uno, photo credit: Tara Darby
Katy Marks
Liverpool-born, London-based architect Katy Marks co-founded the pioneering coworking concept Impact Hub in 2003, and founded Citizens Design Bureau – an award-winning team of architects, interior designers and new-enterprise strategists – in 2013. She and her team collaborate with inspired, forward-thinking organisations and individuals, distilling complex briefs to create spaces with functional clarity, woven with ingenuity and joy. The practice was named Public Building Architect of the Year at the 2022 Building Design Awards for its work on Manchester Jewish Museum.
Throughout her professional career, she has specialised in addressing real-life problems by designing intelligent, practical solutions that are infused with beauty and which give people joy. Now, she is bringing this approach to a very different sort of challenge: the lack of empowering women’s lingerie for the post-mastectomy body.
The underwear on the market for this expanding contingent of women is almost exclusively designed to conceal the loss of a breast – to restore symmetry to the body in the service of societal beauty norms and standards. After her own mastectomy, Katy found most post-surgery bras were either soft but unsupportive to her breast or had tight underband elastic that was painful over scar tissue, and irritated skin that was tender after radiotherapy. Most of all though, she hated the feeling of wearing clothes that made her feel that her body was something to be ashamed of.
I was coming to terms with having one breast and didn’t want to live in hiding for several years while waiting for reconstructive surgery. At first my scar looked brutal and puckered. I cried a lot in changing rooms, but at some point I looked at myself in the mirror and thought ‘I just have to learn to like my body’. I reasoned that there must be thousands of women like me but I couldn’t understand why I’d never seen anyone else openly asymmetric.
I realised that so many women are hiding: wearing baggy t-shirts and uncomfortable prosthetics – feeling like they have to look ‘normal’ to be a woman. I have two sons. I didn’t want them to see me feeling ashamed. It was important to me to show them that difference is OK, beautiful even.
–Katy Marks, founder of Uno
Uno bras, photo credit: Tara Darby
Post-Mastectomy Bodies
Having the trauma of losing a breast compounded by the frustration of not being able to find an appropriate bra led Katy to challenge the assumptions about what, how and who we define as ‘beautiful’. Rather than hiding what had happened to their bodies to meet societal expectations, why shouldn’t women feel confident, empowered, and sexy in their new figures?
There is no reason why the loss of a breast should equate to a loss of feminine identity. No one should feel ashamed at living through, or with, cancer. Katy stresses that women have so many different experiences of cancer and there is no right or wrong decision about whether or not to have a reconstruction, but it simply seemed crazy that so many thousands of women who had decided to remain flat had nothing to wear that was designed for their asymmetry.
As an architect, Katy is experienced at developing design solutions to everyday problems, and this was no exception – a bra, after all, is essentially architecture for the body. Designing a bra for a single breast entails specific engineering challenges. Asymmetric bras twist in unusual ways, consideration of how fabrics touch sensitive skin is paramount. Katy sketched designs, cut up and sewed together bras to create one-cup prototypes, and commissioned custom versions from bespoke lingerie maker Rachel Kenyon. These were beautiful creations but Katy was determined to make the innovation accessible to as many women as possible.
With the help of lingerie specialists Aimee McWilliams, Sarah Raskino and Maxine Wells, Katy developed a series of patterns that could be produced affordably and at scale. The result is Uno – a range of ingeniously engineered, elegantly form-fitting bras and bikinis that help women rebuild their love for themselves after a single mastectomy, rejecting received ideas of beauty in favour of one which accepts and celebrates the asymmetric body.
Creating Uno has made me feel that it is possible to look in the mirror again and feel like myself.
–Katy Marks, founder of Uno
Uno bras, photo credit: Tara Darby
Uno Lingerie
Katy has worked hard to source fabrics that are sustainable, non-toxic and incredibly soft. Uno bras are made in the UK from innovative fabric derived from wood fibres combined with stretch satin to give a sleek silhouette. The bikini is made from recycled ocean plastics.
Both will be released in a variety of colours and styles over the next few months, with inclusive sizing up to a FF/G cup and versions for left and right breasts. A gentle compression strap covers scar tissue, with a contoured cup for the breast, combining comfort and support with an elegant aesthetic that is confidently asymmetric.
At a time that can be stressful and traumatic for women, Uno bras offer a practical solution to the reality of living with the loss of a breast while empowering women to redefine beauty, comfort and confidence on their own terms.
Whereas most post-surgery underwear is created with the aim of hiding the loss of your breast, Uno is about embracing asymmetry and falling in love with your body again. It is also about support, healing and feeling wonderful. No more adjusting prosthetics and hiding in baggy t-shirts. Uno bras and bikinis are designed to feel and look stunning from the beach to the bedroom and everywhere in between.
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, new single from Olive Louise, Special, is dedicated to all the misfits out there and those that are yearning to feel more self assured.
Olive Louise
Olive Louise
Embodying ‘don’t gild the Lily’, Olive Louise uses production heavily laden in soaring strings and floating harmonies, creating music liked to the dream pop, indie folk, and Americana genres.
One might expect Olive Louise to be less of an open book after having lost both of her parents before the age of 15. Instead, her poetic lyrics feel so intimate it’s as though she is speaking directly to you.
Olive’s music is haunting and heroic. Olive Louise is for the time traveler, the wanderer and those hungry for real storytelling and adventure.
My father used to tell me, “you don’t paint apples red or flowers more vibrant” and that is always in the forefront of my mind. I don’t want my imperfections washed out. You can be soft and have grit. The events in my life have forced me through so many huge changes.
I never could have seen my life going the way it has. It’s had a profound effect on what I resonate with. I understand not fitting in and moving around and trying to make sense of things without time to, and so that’s the imagery I’m drawn to and the music I write reflects my lived experience.
-Olive Louise
Special
New single Special was written about an amalgamation of experiences where she felt nervous and out of place and had wished she could feel comfortable as herself rather than instantly wishing to leave.
I created this character in the song, this perfect person, that comes along, understands how I’m feeling, and says “let’s go look at the view” because that’s what I had almost always wished for in those times.
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, Rlyblonde has released a new music video for her single, Your Angel, the first release since her debut EP, Fantasy.
Your Angel
Rlyblonde
Brooklyn-based multidisciplinary artist Carina Allen who performs as Rlyblonde has revealed her new single and video, Your Angel, the first new single since her momentous debut EP, Fantasy.
The video to go with Your Angel is in-step with the song’s dark, brooding energy, produced by rlyblonde’s own production company, HOT CREATIVE (@rlyhotcreative). Handling the production and direction of all of her own videos, rlyblonde creates an all-encompassing visual world that compliments the music.
It’s one of the most important parts of the whole project.
-Rlyblonde
As the saying goes, ‘hell hath no fury like a woman scorned,’ and in Your Angel, rlyblonde proves that to be true with a cathartic release of anger packaged into an anthemic alt-rock banger.
Creating music, for me, was always something fueled partially by anger; an anger at my life not being what I wanted, of being jealous of people around me, of feeling trapped or stuck. So this song really sums up all of those angry, rebellious, teen feelings, while also tapping into something a bit darker— what it really feels like to have a trauma response to someone or something, and what to do with those complicated feelings.
-Rlyblonde
After years of being the go-to photographer, videographer and creative director for New York’s favorite indie acts, Rlyblonde stepped into the spotlight with her debut EP, Fantasy. The EP was met with praise by tastemakers like The Luna Collective, Unpublished Magazine, and Enfnts Terribles Magazine.
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best creativity magazine in the UK“, experts at Pandora UK share their top tips for 7 questions to ask a jewellery expert when buying an engagement ring.
Choosing An Engagement Ring
Choosing the perfect ring is a personal journey. But with so much to think about, where do you begin?
In a survey of 500 UK couples, commissioned byPandora UK, around two-thirds dedicated time to research before buying the perfect ring, spending an average of two weeks on their search.
However, inadequate research can be costly as almost half of respondents (41%) were unhappy with the initial design, style, and sizing of their ring.
Among those surveyed, one in four (28%) modified, enhanced or replaced their engagement ring after purchasing, investing an average additional cost of £182 to achieve the perfect style.
To help you cut down on additional costs and help you select the perfect engagement ring, Pandora’s experts share essential questions to ask a jeweller before making a purchase.
1. How involved should my partner be in the process?
According to our survey, one in three (61%) chose to involve their partner in the engagement ring-buying process.
The level of involvement your partner has in the engagement ring buying process is a personal preference. Some couples prefer the element of surprise, allowing one partner to take the lead in selecting the ring. Others find it beneficial for both partners to be involved to ensure the ring aligns with the recipient’s taste and style. Ultimately, this could save you any further costs on finding the perfect ring if your partner has a particular preference that you might not be aware of.
Communication is key; discussing preferences, styles, and even shopping together can ensure a meaningful and cherished choice. Ultimately, the ideal level of involvement is a decision best made together.
2. How can I measure my partner’s ring size without them knowing?
Delve into their jewellery box, observe the rings they already own, and use a ruler to measure the diameter. Or, while they are asleep, a gentle piece of string wrapped around their finger, marked discreetly with a pen, can be the key to an accurate measurement. For a more collaborative approach, encourage them to try on rings from friends or family.
These subtle gestures ensure that the engagement ring not only fits perfectly but also carries the essence of a well-kept secret.
3. How much time should I spend researching the perfect engagement ring?
One in three (31%) admit to buying a ring without any research conducted beforehand.
The amount of time you should spend researching the perfect engagement ring depends on your personal preferences, knowledge, and the significance you place on this decision.
Generally, dedicating a few weeks to thoroughly understand various aspects, such as diamond quality, ring styles, and budget considerations, is advisable. However, the key is to strike a balance that aligns with your comfort level and the importance you assign to selecting a meaningful and cherished symbol of commitment.
4. What costs are associated with buying an engagement ring?
There are various factors that impact the cost of an engagement ring. The type of gemstone, metal, customisation, and craftsmanship all play a role, along with the cut, colour, and weight of your chosen stone.
Larger ring sizes, intricate designs, and certification services can also contribute to higher expenses. It’s a balance between personal preferences and budget.
5. How do lab-grown diamonds compare in terms of quality to natural diamonds?
Most couples (70%) prefer lab-grown diamond engagement rings, with 40% citing cost savings as the main influence. Ethical considerations impact 23% of respondents, while 19% prioritise the quality and purity of man-made diamonds.
Lab-grown diamonds, sharing a similar chemical composition and optical appeal with natural diamonds, offer a thoughtful and eco-friendly alternative. With potential cost advantages, they provide a conscientious choice for those seeking both beauty and ethical considerations.
6. What metal options do you recommend for engagement rings, considering durability and maintenance?
When considering metal options for engagement rings, durability, and maintenance are crucial factors. Metals such as gold and silver are known for their robustness and resistance to tarnish or corrosion. Platinum is particularly durable and hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.
Ultimately, the metal choice should align with your lifestyle and preferences. Routine maintenance will also contribute to the longevity of the ring.
7. What advice do you have for maintaining the longevity and brilliance of the engagement ring?
Regular cleaning every two to four weeks with mild soap and warm water, or a gentlejewellery cleaner, helps to preserve its brilliance. It’s also best to avoid wearing your ring when participating in activities such as cooking, cleaning, or exercising to prevent build-up of dirt, or potential damage.
Safely store your ring when not in use to prevent scratches and damage and avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and activities that may pose risks.
-Sarah Rowlands of Pandora UK
About Pandora
The world’s largest jewellery brand, designing, manufacturing, and marketing hand-finished jewellery from high-quality materials at affordable prices. Pandora has over 240 stores in the UK and is sold in over 100 countries.
Methodology
We used OnePulse to survey 500 UK romantic couples on their engagement ring preferences.
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, new playful and sexy single from Paris based R&B artist, Faith Richards, Good Girl, stems from the artist refusing to be put in a box.
Faith Richards
Faith Richards
R&B artist Faith Richards is currently based in Paris, France after having lived a nomadic life, traveling to and living in different countries including the US and the UK. In each country, Faith soaked up elements of each culture and infused it into her sound today.
This ever-evolving life is reflected in her music, where she experiments with different genres and moods from sad and sexy, to empowering and fiery. Some songs touch on her insecurities, while others highlight her bad b*tch energy, but one thing that remains the same throughout, is her ability to craft chill, relaxed and totally honest music.
Faith Richards has garnered over 11 million streams to date and received recognition from the likes of BBC Radio East Midlands and Rolling Stone India. She has had her music featured in several movies and shows including Love Is Blind, The Ultimatum and Temptation Island, as well as ads for Vogue Germany and Vogue Korea.
Good Girl
New single, Good Girl was inspired by how much she hates being put in a box, with a playful and sexy turn, emphasizing the juxtaposition of being a good girl who is also a dominatrix. The lyrics see Faith bragging about sexual relationship with her man, while also admitting that they still go to church together in a little nod to her Mormon background.
I’m human – sometimes I’m shy, sometimes I’m social, sometimes I’m busy, sometimes I’m just doing my own thing. I can be everything all at once. No label. No box. Just Faith Richards in her entirety.
I’ve been wanting to share more with my fans about my upbringing. So with this song, I’m excited to be able to share little videos of me explaining my Mormon upbringing and how I wasn’t always this bold!
-Faith Richards
Glowing with iridescent synths, Good Girl features sultry vocals and hypnotic, throbbing R&B beats. Hoping to inspire others to embrace who they truly are, Richards is here to remind you to boss up and remember the bad b*tch that you are.
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, rising alt-pop singer and songwriter Maddie Regent released her new EP, Girl Of Your Dreams, on all streaming platforms.
Girl Of Your Dreams by Maddie Regent
Girl Of Your Dreams
Girl of Your Dreams is the new shimmery, electro-pop 8 track EP from Maddie Regent, featuring her dreamy vocals atop driving electronic beats and glittery synths.
With an effortless balance between heart-wrenching lyricism and uplifting pop melodies, Girl Of Your Dreams, which was produced by her boyfriend and close collaborator Cade Hoppe, includes 5 previously released singles and 3 brand new songs: Buy Her A Drink, Prettiest Please, and Hiding Place.
Girl Of Your Dreams is about how bad love conditions you to believe you’re not worthy of good love… so you can’t help but ruin it. It’s a cycle of toxic relationships — both with others and yourself.
-Maddie Regent
Maddie Regent
Maddie Regent, photo credit: Cade Hoppe
Originally from Toronto, now based in New York City, Maddie Regent first started making music at the age of 12. As an introverted child, music became her tool to express herself and work through her anxieties, helping her to find power in her vulnerability. After years of honing her sound, she’s found the perfect balance between escapist pop bops and raw, honest songwriting.
Maddie first broke out in 2021 with her impressive debut EP, Miss Regent, which was produced by Grammy-nominated songwriting and production trio, LIONCHLD (Britney Spears, Bebe Rexha, Calvin Harris).
Her song Ego became an instant fan-favorite with multiple viral TikTok moments. With the release of her new EP, Girl Of Your Dreams, Maddie displays her growth as an artist and songwriter, as well as her ability to transcend genre boundaries.
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Indie artist, Stefan West, who hails from the sun-kissed shores of Geelong, Australia, released Happily Ever After, the second single release from his debut album, Cambride.
Exploring not only the theme of falling in love, but also the profound experience of imagining a future of growing old together, Happily Ever After reflects a turning point in Stefan’s life when he realised that staying young forever is about continuous learning, growth, and curiosity rather than avoiding responsibility.
With a harmonious marriage of heartfelt verses and melodies that dance through the senses, Happily Ever After was produced and mixed by Chris Gatz at GM Sound Studios, and mastered by Joe Carra at Crystal Mastering.
Happily Ever After is a beautiful mesh of a really intense moment I had never experienced before, accompanied by a train of thought that felt incredibly freeing, painted into a new world in my mind. I think all songs are a varying version of that for me, but this one felt particularly special. It was the first song finished for the record.
Once covid hit Aaron Schembri and I did a bunch of songwriting together. I would send him the bare bones of demos (vocals and AcousticGuitar) and he would create these incredible arrangements around them, this is how 80% of the record was written, and this was the first one we finished. It was an incredibly exciting time.
-Stefan West
Stefan West
Stefan West
Stefan West fuses indie, pop, punk, and folk rock elements, with influences such as Angels & Airwaves, blink 182, Powderfinger, and Joe Pug. His music reflects a variety of life experiences, with Happily Ever After reflecting on his relationship at the time.
Debut album, Cambridge, delves into Stefan’s personal journey of resilience and redemption that has led him to this point. As he battles addiction and finds solace in music, Stefan’s story unfolds through his authentic and vulnerable songwriting. The album, which is set to be released in April, promises to be an intimate look at his journey to recovery and self-discovery.
Aside from his musical endeavours, Stefan West is a passionate advocate of mental health awareness and addiction recovery. He hopes to use his platform to inspire and uplift others who are going through similar struggles, transforming his journey into an embodiment of hope.
As more releases prepare to emerge from Stefan West’s creative vault, the Australian and global indie music scene braces for impact. Happily Ever After is just a taster of the adventure that ‘Cambridge’ will invite listeners to embark upon.
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine“, dark pop artist Liv Hanna has released new song, Lonely, about the seemingly perfect life that is more so imperfect.
Lonely by Liv Hanna, phoot credit: Lizzie Kristal
Lonely
After the release of her hit single, Back To Hell, Liv Hanna has released the new single, Lonely, putting her unique and distinctive twist on the pop genre. While it can be considered as an alt-pop/dark pop record, Lonely is more eclectic in nature as it features synths, the ebb and flow of up-tempo and downtempo sounds, and elements drawn from Electropop, Pop Rock, etc.
Lonely is actually a deeper song than the title suggests as it explores a seemingly perfect life that is more so imperfect.
Lonely takes you behind the scenes of someone’s life that people think is perfect. It highlights the club scene and life of a socialite who’s always out on the town, but actually feels immense loneliness. Lonely illustrates how many put up a facade, or use a party or an ostentatious lifestyle to hide their pain, fear, angst, etc.
-Liv Hanna
Using contrasting sounds to perfectly depict the story that Liv Hanna penned through the mix of flashy, wavy sounds and soft, somber tones, renowned producer Jake Sonderman was enlisted by Liv Hanna to craft the infectious record.
Demonstrating the versatility that Liv Hanna possesses, Lonely showcases her creative, introspective/extrospective songwriting, and her powerful, mellifluous vocals. While Lonely is a standalone single, it is also a prelude of what’s to come. At only 20 years old, this rising sensation is just getting started.
Liv Hanna
Liv Hanna photo credit: Lizzie Kristal
20-year-old singer-songwriter and recording artist Liv Hanna is a New York native, currently based in Miami, FL.
Known for writing music with emotional angst, fermented in Pop, Dark Pop, and Pop Rock sensibilities, Liv Hanna’s expansive vocal range and clever, resonating songwriting has garnered attention from countless media outlets including EARMILK, BroadwayWorld, BuzzFeed, and the Metropolitan Magazine.
Liv Hanna is well on her way to superstardom, and 2024 will prove that the limelight isn’t too bright for the rising star.
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment magazine in the UK“, Wabi Sabi, the new album from Australian indie pop band, The Moving Stills, covers themes from heartbreak to falling in love, and being around your favourite people.
The Moving Stills
Friendly neighbourhood indie pop band, The Moving Stills from the Central Coast NSW (Darkinjung Country), established a reputation for danceable alt-indie pop tracks that float through the coastal air. Their vibrant melodies and nostalgic sounds have pop hooks that glide through a dance floor full of heart and warmth.
The Moving Stills
In Feb 2022, the band became a viral hit on Tiktok with their cover of Tears For Fears song Everybody Wants To Rule The World collating over 79k video uses and a bunch of views and likes of the cover. even getting a nod from Tears For Fears themselves.
The Moving Stills have recently ticked off another milestone that is triple j’s Like A Version, injecting some of that fun and wholesome energy into covering Ladyhawke’s My Delirium.
The much lauded feel-good four piece continue to establish themselves in the live circuit, supporting bands such as Spacey Jane, Nothing But Thieves and Lime Cordiale, as well as performing on festival stages including Party In The Paddock, The Big Pineapple, BIGSOUND and Woodford Folk Festival.
The Moving Stills have been on the road so much lately, their van has a residency at the local mechanic. They’ve sold out their own headline shows around the country, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and their hometown of the Central Coast.
Wabi Sabi
For The Moving Stills’ sophomore album, Wabi Sabi, they have artnered up with Izaac Wilson on production, and honed their indie pop sound as well as explored new grooves.
This collection of songs that capture the last few years for the band in their personal lives, as well as life as a touring band, with themes covering everything from heartbreak to upbeat tracks that talk about love and being around your favourite people.
We wanted to keep the honesty there on this album, and write about our experiences and so we’ve been very open in expressing our feelings in these songs.
We wanted to introduce new feelings and vibes, to those on our first record Sunshine Corner. Whilst maintaining a lot of the key elements of our previous tunes, we delved into making a spread of new flavours.
With songs like Drive Home, In Your City and the title-track Wabi Sabi, we leaned into a more groove based feel. Songs that you can immediately vibe out to. On the other hand, we had songs like Volcano and Best Friend, which showcases a more upbeat side to our sound. Definitely works well at gigs and on the dancefloor.
-The Moving Stills
Two years ago The Moving Stills bought a tour van to run around Australia in. The experience came with its share of problems, but it’s made up for those in memories.
In your City tells the tale of long drives in the tour van and playing shows which lead to late nights catching up with friends… then getting in the car and doing it the next night in the next city.
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, fantasy author J.W. Jarvis shares what inspired him to write the second book in his First Responder YA book series, The Phantom Enforcer, and his creative writing process.
I interviewed J.W. Jarvis about his life and career, the inspiration behind his YA fantasy First Responder book series, and the work that went into book two, The Phantom Enforcer.
J.W. Jarvis
Tell me a bit about who you are.
My pen name is J.W. Jarvis, and I grew up in the Midwest in a suburb of Chicago. The cold winters were too much for me, so I moved to California in my late 20s to take a job transfer in IT. I currently work in IT and as an Author. My goal is to switch full-time to being an author.
When did you first WANT to write a book?
I first got the desire to write books when I used to read to my son when he was young. I enjoyed that time together and the ability to take him places without even having to leave the house. I truly think a life-long love of reading makes us smarter, more creative, and open to change.
When did you take a step to start writing?
Last year is when I really decided to make something of my ideas that I had jotted down over time. I bought a manuscript software, created some goals, and less than a year later here I am writing my 3rd book.
How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?
I had to rewrite it because at first, I was going to make it a chapter book, but I had so many ideas to fill the pages, figured it would be better for tweens and teens, as well as adults that enjoy fantasy. From start to finish about six months with the rewrite.
How long did it take you to complete your latest book from the first idea to release?
Probably about five months which included a month of editing.
Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write The Phantom Enforcer?
Book 2 is a continuation of Noah and Danielle’s adventure and it was super fun to write because I didn’t have to setup the characters anymore or the premise, instead I could focus on the magic and Phantom powers which really added an additional layer of excitement to Book 2.
What were your biggest challenges with writing The Phantom Enforcer?
As with any series, many authors will probably tell you, keeping the story consistent and not messing up something you wrote in the earlier part of the series. Sometimes, you must reread your previous book and go “Did I explain that?” or “Do they know this about the character?”
Who or what inspired you when creating your Protagonist?
Kids in general inspire me. They are our future and hopefully I can convince some of them to be our next generation First Responders that are so critical to our families’ well-being.
Who or what inspired you when creating your Antagonist?
I always have related to victims of bullies or people that focus their energy on arousing negative energy in others. I also despise criminals that like to shortcut their way through life at other people’s expense.
What is the inciting incident of The Phantom Enforcer?
Without giving away too much, the kids’ journey into the police world is much different than the previous firefighter book where they were dealing with unintended consequences. This time, someone has joined them inside the book making it much more difficult to help the First Responders.
What is the main conflict of The Phantom Enforcer?
The kids realize they can change the future with their book journeys so there is conflict there. They continually worry about making it worse than the past. The incident above forces them to make the book journeys to improve the future, but also to clean up their past mistakes.
Did you plot The Phantom Enforcer in advance, or fly by the seat of your pants and write freely?
I am continually plotting books. When I go on walks, I think of ideas and add them to phone notes to remember to integrate later. I would say it is a little bit of both. As you write, you get ideas that make you want to change the plot trajectory or a character’s fate.
Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did The Phantom Enforcer need?
Yes, this book went through weeks of editing. I will be honest, editing is my least favorite part of writing, but very important when putting tens of thousands of words on paper.
What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a story?
Many people think the planets need to be aligned to write something. You will never have the time you want, the setting you want or the absence of distractions. If you want to write, plan to write a little each day. You will be amazed how much you can accomplish in a short time with a daily goal!
Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?
Well, of course, the First Responder series is a trilogy, so there will be a Book 3 coming out in late fall 2024. The book I am currently writing is an adult technothriller novel that will be published this summer.
And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?
Very proud of what I have accomplished, but always feel like I can do more and what I have done is not good enough. I am a big fan of continual improvement and not just in writing, in relationships, your health, and making every day count.
Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, challenging the traditionally male-centric historiography, Untold Histories Of Nigerian Women By Tayo Agunbiade brings to light the substantial roles of Nigerian women from 1922 to 2022.
Untold Histories Of Nigerian Women
Untold Histories Of Nigerian Women by Tayo Agunbiade
In an era where recognition of women’s roles in history is increasingly sought but often overlooked, Untold Histories Of Nigerian Women: Emerging From The Margins by Tayo Agunbiade is an essential read for anyone interested in an inclusive, diversified understanding of Nigeria’s past.
The product of over three decades of dedicated research, Tayo Agunbiade illuminates the untold stories of Nigerian women who have been crucial in shaping their country’s history and current climate. Untold Histories Of Nigerian Women chronicles their protest movements against colonial administrations, including “monster” petitions on taxation and food price controls. It details a string of remarkable political landmarks which highlight women’s historical credentials as nationalists, as well as their voice in early male-dominated legislative institutions. It also narrates more contemporary episodes in women’s resistance against oil exploitation, environmental pollution and anger over the mass abduction of school girls.
This timely preservation of the voice and agency of Nigerian women from a wide variety of colonial and contemporary documents will benefit readers interested in African history and gender and women’s studies.
A revelatory journey through time, encapsulating a century of struggles, triumphs and steadfast resilience by Nigerian women, the book delves into an extensive array of sources, including colonial-era documents, newspapers and journals. Agunbiade resurrects the voices and experiences of women who fought against oppression, led protests and broke barriers. This narrative enriches the collective understanding of Nigerian history through a gender-inclusive lens.
Tayo Agunbiade
In my journey through the archives and annals of Nigeria’s past, I discovered not just stories of resistance and resilience, but a profound testament to the agency of women in shaping our society.
These women, from Alimotu Pelewura, to the unnamed voices of the protestors, were not merely footnotes in our history. They were its architects. Their stories challenge the entrenched narratives of history that have sidelined their contributions and bring to light the critical role they played in our nation’s evolution. My work seeks not only to acknowledge their struggles and triumphs but also to inscribe their legacies into our collective memory, ensuring they are recognized as integral to our understanding of Nigerian history.
This book is an invitation to explore the depths of their influence and to celebrate the unyielding spirit of Nigerian women across decades.
-Tayo Agunbiade
Tayo Agunbiade is a social historian and author with a 35-year + background in journalism. Her research specialises in women’s history in former British West African colonies including the Two World Wars. Her findings have been translated into articles published on www.premiumtimes.ng and www.aljazeera.com. Her research interests also include legislative institutions, politics and governance with a special focus on gender analysis.
Tayo is an Associate Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, a member of the Women’s History Network (WHN), the Historical Writers’ Association, Royal African Society, Social History Society and Coordinating Council for Women in History.
She is currently working on her second volume of history which is a trans-national project based on her archival research of an aspect of women’s literary writings and public life accomplishments in West Africa during the British colonial era.
Find more from Tayo Agunbiade now:
Learn more about women’s history on the author’s X channel (Twitter): @omotayoagunbiad
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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best book magazine in the UK“, set in Devonshire as pestilence is sweeping the land, No Going Back By Susan Frances follows young Lord Thomas De Chiddleigh looking after the family estate when he meets the radical and charismatic priest Rulf.
The second book of The Chiddleigh Saga, No Going Back by Susan Frances, focuses on young Lord Thomas de Chiddleigh, the offspring of Joan de Conteigh and Sir John de Chiddleigh, and his efforts to put duty ahead of his own personal and forbidden desires.
Set in Devonshire, England, in 1348 as the plague is sweeping the land, No Going Back sees Young Lord Thomas de Chiddleigh sent home from school only to discover that the plague has reached his estate, forcing him to take on the role of Lord of the Manor.
Desperate to avoid the plague and save the few surviving people, Thomas leads them to a remote farmstead, intending to wait out the plague and return to his studies in the spring. However, the farmstead is derelict, and with few supplies Thomas and his group face a perilous winter.
No One Must Know by Susan Frances
Tensions mount as the inexperienced Thomas clashes repeatedly with his workers, some of whom are harbouring dark secrets about his family.
Thomas’s life is further complicated when he meets Rulf, a young man who has levels of confidence Thomas can only dream of. As their friendship deepens, and past secrets are revealed, Thomas has to decide between the duty he hates, his burning passion for knowledge and his forbidden love.
This is a story about two young people and their struggles between what society expects and their desires. It explores the differences between the noble and peasant classes and set against the backdrop of day-to-day medieval life, it immerses the reader in the period and examines forbidden love.
Eloquently painting a portrait of the hardships – both physical and mental – of life in the 1330’s, Susan Frances’s inspiration for this series comes from her own personal family history.
Susan Frances
I was born in a small village in Surrey, England. I wrote stories from an early age and still have some of them from when I was 7 years old, and the spellings are lovely. I continued writing until exams and college took over.
As a child my summer holidays were always spent in Devon, and I was fascinated by my grandfather’s tales about our Devon family roots.
Years later, I began to research the family history and many documents and files later, I wondered what to do with all the data I had accumulated. There was a situation in 1840 that made me think – Why did she do that? Did she, do it? I could write a book about that! So began The Chiddleigh Saga.
I moved to Devon and lived in the village which formed the setting for No One Must Know, Book 1 of The Chiddleigh Saga.
I now live on the Devon coast and enjoy walking with my husband, Bill, and our dog, Monty.
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