In a sense the novel is about two worlds that are worlds apart, and which are bridged together. Not only is there a bridge between different geographical regions, but between people of different age groups and experiences. At the end of the day it's love that is the main bridge that brings these different worlds and people together. And as the author also says, 'There is more than one type of love, though not always of the sexual nature!' It's very appropriate that the cover of this novel depicts bridges! There are twists and turns in the plot that take the story into some surprising routes - the main one being from Marlow in Buckinghamshire to Derbyshire in the north. In fact, you might say that in many ways the novel is a dramatized travelogue, and one that especially highlights the scenic and rural appeal of the Peak District. - Charles Muller, Diadem Books.

As our dreams are full of images that entrance us, so Beth Richards' poems are full of images, visual pictures and metaphors, that keep us spellbound and enchant us. Through the images perceived by the poet we are drawn into her world and see through her eyes; for example, through the central image of a mirror in which the ageing poet observes her own image in 'A Lifetime', the reader feels himself or herself in the place of the observer, sharing her feelings and sensations. The poems in this new collection are bound together by the theme of love, and are full of the wisdom of life; it is the wisdom of a poet once described as 'the wise owl', who has experienced a range of feelings and difficulties that increase with the ageing process - for with age comes wisdom! - Charles Muller, Diadem Books.

Beth Richards writes: 'I've always maintained that writing poetry (and other forms of creative writing) is a gift from God.' Here, again, the creative muse continues to inspire Beth-hence this latest book of short stories and poetry entitled Light Reading. (Discerning readers will, of course, appreciate the pun on the word Light, hopefully made clearer by Beth's oil painting of the Baccaro Lighthouse, in Nova Scotia, on the front cover ) Beth really enjoys writing 'free verse', and so there are quite a number of these in this latest book of hers. It appears to come frequently and naturally to her. This way she is able to delve into her subconscious so that the poems-and the stories that follow, too-become reflections of some of her innermost thoughts. In the short stories she also has the remarkable gift of being able to project herself into, and identify with, a character from a completely different walk of life and sphere of experience-the mark of a true creative genius

Beth Richards writes: "My poetry probably reflects the inside image of my thoughts-sometimes very deep thoughts. I write from the heart and sometimes when I'm in a reflective mood my poetry is serious and somewhat philosophical." This collection of poems is a result of Beth's suggestion to Charles Muller that they produce a book that combines their gifts. Beth says: "Charles and I have led two very different lives, and it shows in our writing-hence the title Worlds Apart. Apart from having been born in different hemispheres, we are two very different people, but we appear to be kindred spirits in many ways. (Both born under the star sign of Leo )"

The poems by Charles Muller are perhaps more startling, with jagged images and sentences that cut like broken glass, sometimes exposing the raw nerves of life. Many of these were composed in the context of Apartheid South Africa and recall the violence and injustices of those times.

Beth and Charles are also artists, and the cover depicts a painting by each of the poet-paintings that highlight their contrasting worlds.

Poetry is really something given to us as an inspiration, so Beth's desire is to share these inspirations and thoughts-these words of wisdom-with others. Whoever reads her books (this is her third publication) is drawn into her most innermost thoughts and may be inspired to relate some of these thoughts to his or her own feelings and happenings in his/her life. Therefore these poems might be a help in solving a problem encountered or experienced by the reader at some time; and if it helps someone to do just that, then Beth as the Author will be satisfied that she has accomplished what she set out to do, and it will all have been worthwhile for her. Beth has always found self-help books very valuable and trusts the reader will find her poems helpful.

This story happens in real life to so many people. It revolves around love, fate, and the unexpected! Carol and Noel have reached middle age, their two children having grown up and left home. Carol feels restless and wants to move away from the rat race and perhaps run a bed and breakfast or small gift shop. They encounter so many varied complications along the way, plus the arrival of a grandchild Carol adores and would miss terribly by fulfilling her idea. Is it any wonder she doubts if the "Dream" will ever materialize? Would it just remain a fantasy? It's certainly a troubled journey, but worth following to find out the outcome!

Poetry is one of Beth Richard's creative gifts. She also paints in oils. She believes that if one has a gift one should use it. She has written many poems on many subjects, usually related to happenings in her life and people close to her. She says: 'I think very deeply and therefore what I write and what I paint comes right from my heart." Inspirations come to her at any time. 'Everything we do in life begins with just an idea," she says, and adds, 'whether we pursue it is up to us."

"Chill Out With Beth" embraces her sensitive and optimistic vision for both young and old so that, in a sense, the reader has the benefit of two books in one! Parents and Grandparents can read the beguiling story in the first part to their children or grandchildren, and enjoy the poems that follow for themselves. This volume is in effect an extension of the poet's earlier collection entitled "Reflections in Verse."