New Releases by Olivia Parker

""Country Health Rank"" offers a comprehensive exploration of global healthcare systems, examining how different nations approach public health and the impact on their populations. The book delves into three crucial aspects: healthcare accessibility, quality of care, and health outcomes across countries, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of what makes a healthcare system effective. At its core, the book argues that a country''s healthcare system reflects its societal values, economic priorities, and political will. Through case studies of both high-performing and struggling healthcare systems, readers gain insight into the factors that contribute to success or failure in healthcare delivery. The book introduces a multidimensional ranking system that goes beyond traditional metrics, considering factors such as patient satisfaction and preventive care effectiveness. This unique approach sets ""Country Health Rank"" apart, offering a more holistic view of healthcare performance. As the narrative progresses, readers are taken on a journey from the historical evolution of healthcare systems to current global health trends and future directions. The book''s accessible writing style, combined with its use of data from reputable sources and insights from healthcare professionals, makes complex concepts understandable to a general audience interested in public health and health policy. By providing this comprehensive analysis, ""Country Health Rank"" equips readers with the knowledge to better understand and potentially improve healthcare systems worldwide.

""About Star Wars"" explores the enduring legacy of George Lucas''s groundbreaking science fiction franchise, examining its innovative storytelling, revolutionary visual effects, and profound cultural impact. The book traces the saga''s evolution from its inception in the 1970s to its current status as a Disney-owned property, highlighting how Star Wars redefined blockbuster filmmaking by blending mythological narratives with cutting-edge technology. Readers will discover fascinating insights into the franchise''s development, including Lucas''s early influences and the technological limitations he faced. The book delves into the creation of Industrial Light & Magic, which revolutionized special effects in cinema, and explores how Joseph Campbell''s work on mythology shaped the Star Wars narrative. It also examines the franchise''s expansion beyond film, including its impact on literature, gaming, and popular culture. Progressing chronologically, the book covers the original trilogy, prequels, and Disney-era productions, offering a comprehensive look at the Star Wars phenomenon. By combining historical analysis, technological insights, and cultural commentary, it provides both casual fans and serious film students with a deeper understanding of how a space opera became a global cultural touchstone.

""Pregnancy Blessing"" offers a refreshing perspective on the transformative journey of pregnancy, challenging readers to view it as an opportunity for personal growth rather than a burden. This comprehensive guide explores the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of pregnancy, providing a holistic approach to maternal health and well-being. The book delves into the physiological changes, psychological impacts, and societal expectations surrounding pregnancy, while emphasizing its potential for relationship strengthening and spiritual development. Structured in three parts, the book progresses from introducing pregnancy as a transformative experience to exploring physical and emotional changes, and finally focusing on personal growth aspects. It draws on scientific studies and personal interviews to support its arguments, making interdisciplinary connections between obstetrics, psychology, and sociology. What sets this book apart is its unique approach to pregnancy as a holistic life event, encouraging readers to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Written in an accessible yet informative style, ""Pregnancy Blessing"" offers practical advice on nutrition, exercise, and self-care during pregnancy. It includes guided journaling exercises, meditation techniques, and partner communication strategies, providing expectant parents with valuable tools to navigate this life-changing experience. By reframing pregnancy as a ""blessing in disguise,"" this book offers a positive perspective on a universal human experience, empowering readers to make informed decisions based on their individual circumstances and values.

""Pet Advice: A Comprehensive Guide to Caring for Your Animal Companions"" offers a holistic approach to pet care, focusing on the interconnected aspects of nutrition, preventive healthcare, and behavioral enrichment. This book explores how these elements combine to create optimal well-being for our furry friends, emphasizing the deep bond between humans and animals that has evolved over time. The book stands out by integrating traditional veterinary knowledge with cutting-edge research in fields like animal cognitive science and nutritional genomics. It presents complex concepts in accessible language, making it valuable for both novice and experienced pet owners. Readers will find intriguing insights, such as how caring for a pet can positively impact the owner''s health, creating a symbiotic relationship of well-being. As the chapters progress, ""Pet Advice"" systematically guides readers through each aspect of pet care, from understanding holistic pet health to implementing practical tips for creating balanced meals and enriching play spaces. By blending scientific studies with real-world applications, this book empowers pet owners to make informed decisions that can significantly enhance the lives of their animal companions.

""Cooking Techniques: Mastering the Art and Science of Food Preparation"" is a comprehensive guide that delves into the fundamental principles behind successful cooking. This book focuses on three core topics: heat transfer, flavor development, and texture manipulation, providing readers with the knowledge to become confident and creative cooks. By understanding these essential concepts, readers can move beyond simply following recipes to improvising in the kitchen and creating unique culinary creations. The book takes readers on a journey through the evolution of cooking techniques, from prehistoric times to modern molecular gastronomy. It explores the science behind various cooking methods, such as sautéing, braising, and baking, explaining how to apply them effectively. What sets this book apart is its emphasis on the ""why"" behind cooking methods, rather than just the ""how,"" fostering creativity and problem-solving skills in the kitchen. ""Cooking Techniques"" bridges the gap between culinary art and science, drawing on a wide range of research and expert insights. It offers practical demonstrations and troubleshooting tips, making it accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. By mastering the principles outlined in this book, readers will gain the ability to adapt recipes, balance flavors, and tackle any culinary challenge with confidence.

""Brain Repair"" explores the groundbreaking concept of the brain''s self-healing capabilities and cutting-edge strategies for enhancing neurological recovery. This comprehensive book delves into three key areas: neuroplasticity, regenerative medicine, and holistic approaches to brain health. It challenges the long-held belief that the adult brain is fixed and unchangeable, presenting compelling evidence for its remarkable plasticity and capacity for regeneration. The book guides readers through a logical progression of ideas, starting with an introduction to neuroplasticity and its implications for brain repair. It then explores regenerative medicine techniques, including stem cell therapy and growth factor treatments, which show promise in repairing damaged brain tissue. Finally, it offers practical, everyday strategies for optimizing brain health, such as dietary recommendations and cognitive training exercises. Throughout, the authors strike a balance between academic rigor and accessibility, using clear explanations and relatable analogies to convey complex neuroscientific concepts. What sets ""Brain Repair"" apart is its integration of cutting-edge research with actionable, evidence-based strategies. By combining scientific facts with compelling stories of remarkable recoveries, the book offers valuable insights for health-conscious individuals, medical professionals, and anyone interested in neurological health. It empowers readers with knowledge and practical tools to take an active role in their brain wellness, potentially transforming our approach to cognitive health and neurological recovery.

""Microbe Fighting Foods"" explores the fascinating connection between our diet and the microbial world within us, offering a unique perspective on how food choices can impact our health through their interaction with microorganisms. This comprehensive guide delves into two key areas: foods that combat harmful microbes and those that promote a balanced gut microbiome. The book argues that strategically incorporating specific foods into our diet can support our body''s defense against harmful microorganisms while fostering a diverse gut ecosystem. The book progresses from introducing basic concepts of microbiology and the human microbiome to exploring antimicrobial foods and their mechanisms of action. It then focuses on prebiotic and probiotic foods, explaining their role in maintaining gut health. Throughout, readers are presented with a wealth of scientific studies, traditional knowledge, and practical dietary recommendations. The authors make interdisciplinary connections between nutrition, microbiology, and immunology, offering a nuanced understanding of how different foods interact with our microbial ecosystems. What sets this book apart is its integration of cutting-edge microbiome research with actionable dietary advice, striking a balance between scientific rigor and practical applicability. By providing clear explanations and practical focus, ""Microbe Fighting Foods"" empowers readers to make informed choices about their diet and overall health, making it a valuable resource for health-conscious individuals and nutrition professionals alike.

""The Longevity Code"" presents a fascinating exploration of the science behind aging and the potential to extend our healthspan. This comprehensive guide delves into three key areas: genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and emerging medical technologies that influence longevity. By examining cutting-edge research in gerontology, the book challenges the notion that aging is an uncontrollable process and offers readers practical strategies to potentially add healthy years to their lives. The book''s unique approach lies in its ability to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable advice. It covers intriguing topics such as longevity genes, epigenetic modifications, and the impact of diet and exercise on aging. For instance, readers will learn about the role of telomeres in cellular aging and how lifestyle choices can influence their length. The author also explores promising developments in senolytic drugs and stem cell therapies, providing a glimpse into the future of anti-aging interventions. Progressing from genetic factors to lifestyle choices and finally to emerging technologies, ""The Longevity Code"" offers a well-structured journey through the multifaceted world of longevity science. By combining scientific rigor with accessibility, this book serves as an invaluable resource for health-conscious individuals and professionals alike, empowering them with knowledge to make informed decisions about their health and longevity.

To Snare a Bride . . . To Gabriel Devine, Duke of Wolverest, the bonds of marriage are nothing more than shackles. But if he''s to remain a lifelong bachelor, that leaves only his younger brother to carry on the family name. Inviting the ton''s most eligible ladies to an elegant ball, Gabriel is certain any one of them would be all too eager to become the next duchess and provide an heir—leaving Gabriel to continue his ecstatic pursuit of pleasure. To Catch a Rogue . . . Her social-climbing stepmother would give anything to have Madelyn Haywood betrothed to a future duke. But Madelyn believes the brothers Devine to be nothing more than heartless rogues—especially Gabriel, whose rakish reputation precedes him. He is nothing more than a slave to passion, and she will not be conquered by his caresses—and yet his wicked ways tempt her so . . .

"A delightful Regency romance with sparkling characters and witty repartee" from the author of At the Bride Hunt Ball ( Fresh Fiction). Adam Faramond, Earl of Rothbury, needs to find a wife—immediately!—or his beloved grandmother will leave him penniless. But Adam, an unrepentant rake, would reform for only one woman, the woman he''s lusted after—and loved—for years. It''s rather unfortunate, then, that Miss Charlotte Greene would never consent to be the blushing bride of a rogue . . . or so he thinks. Charlotte believes that the earl, the only man whose touch leaves her trembling, would never want a woman like her. Weary of her wallflower ways, Charlotte decides that a friendship with the earl just might give her the excitement she desires. Keeping their true feelings hidden, she and Adam plan a sham ceremony to placate the dowager. But when the "marriage of convenience" takes an unexpected turn, will Charlotte and her wicked earl finally reveal their irresistible, unforgettable love—and delight in a lifetime of passion? "Utterly charming!" —Julia Quinn, #1 New York Times–bestselling author "Clever chapter headings and witty banter add to this lively romance that nicely continues the story begun in Parker''s At the Bride Hunt Ball. Verdict A pair of appealing, rather unlikely protagonists finally sort things out in this sexy, funny title . . . delightfully entertaining." — Publishers Weekly

This delightful picture story book for children is set on a Loch Lomond farm placed high up in the hill’s of Scotland. It tells of the family and animals that live on the farm including Hamish, a pure-bred, brown and white Shetland pony. Olivia Parker’s debut picture book introduces Hamish, a character which came to her in a dream. This, coupled with a childhood spent on a North Yorkshire farm, are what inspired Olivia to write this book. Olivia lives in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, with her family. Her love for writing extends to her marketing agency, Storyteller Marketing, where she helps brands tell their stories.

Three young women from different backgrounds move in together. Robin Ashton, the young multi-talented entrepreneur; Ashley Mc Gillis the rich English figure skating brat, and her opponent; Terri Lee the professional figure skater and rebellious daughter of an international fashion designer. Robin’s unsuccessful business takes a prosperous turn when the figure skating production of the year comes to town. The influx of tourists brings with it waves of excitement in Robin’s seemingly ordinary life. The winds of change shapes her life as it brings with it new relationships and great challenges – love being the greatest one. While blinded by her heart’s inability to choose between the man she thinks she loves and the man she thinks she hates, Robin finds herself caught up in a love triangle bordering on life threatening danger. The decisions she makes and the consequences thereof lands her at the wrong place at the wrong time and puts her squarely in harm’s way.

Do-gooder Wesley Johnson is at the top of his game in the rapidly growing IT industry. His future looks rosy after a promotion leads him to the beautiful, rich and talented performing art student, Kristen Katts. The mystifying Kristen has thrown down her anchor on the shores of the Cape of Good Hope seeking refuge from a past that has set her up with a lifetime’s worth of luxury and style. But beyond the clean and glamorously shiny exterior, Kristen has a secret that ties her to the dark, notorious crime underworld that Wesley despises. Their love is put to the ultimate test when an onslaught of danger has them both walking the wire between life and death.

A Regency battle of the sexes begins between the scandalously mischievous Lady Rosalind and her dashing secret guardian . . . A woman of pristine breeding, Lady Rosalind Devine is also an unrepentant meddler and snoop—which is why her brother refuses to leave her to her own devices while on his wedding trip. But Rosalind will not make things easy for any unseen, unwanted “nursemaid”—and vows to use her considerable wiles to expose her mystery guardian. Nicholas Kincaid, the Marquess of Winterbourne, agreed to secretly guard his friend’s spoiled, stubborn sister, though her infuriating penchant for mischief is causing him to question his decision. Though he’s bound by the rules of society—and friendship—Rosalind’s spirit and sensuality have sparked a fierce desire in Nicholas to play a very different role in her life, one that entails passion, ecstasy—and unavoidable scandal . . . Praise for the author “Utterly charming.” —Julia Quinn, New York Times–bestselling author of the Bridgerton novels “Sexy, funny . . . delightfully entertaining.” —Publishers Weekly

"Parker creates ... images from old encyclopedias, cut paper, maps, laboratory glass, street metal, flowers, broken toys, and journals, using the natural light that shines through her studio window"--Cover.