An Empty Stool by TJ Whittle

Tegan never imagined she'd find herself as a single mum but here she was, alone with three pre-schoolers. Despite being starved of adult conversation, she didn't mind for the most part. Tegan loves being a Mum and he kids bring her so much joy. She doesn't expect a relationship will ever come her way again. Three kids is a lot to take on and Tegan understands the chances of finding someone who would be prepared to fit in with her life would be next to impossible. But is it really? Is it possible for not only adult conversation but true love and hot steamy sex?

What does courage look like to you? Is it a young girl facing an unwanted marriage? Does it echo the fears of a spouse exposing their secret? Is it the strength of a young woman protecting her unborn child? Perhaps it’s as simple as a first kiss. Without Your Courage takes us to Auckland, New Zealand and the surrounding countryside, to join the lives of four strong women. 1940s. Violet and Charlotte form a beautiful friendship while John’s away at war. What will happen when he returns? Present Day. An accident introduces Ella and Gemma, who struggle to define their new friendship across the barrier of age. Four women with their lives entwined. Will they find the love they seek?

Trauma glues you to your seat. Don’t move, don’t make any noise, it’s safer to be unseen. And really, watching the world through a lens isn’t so bad. You’re doing ok till, one day, someone notices you and makes contact. That first little nudge is so shocking that even your favourite café stool isn't safe anymore. But when Hope keeps calling, what do you do?