Alaya Books is a vibrant and growing publisher committed to offering a diverse selection of titles spanning memoirs, biographies, self-help books, and children’s books. We are also excited to publish some exceptional novels and other captivating titles soon. Stay tuned for what’s to come!

The Painter from Seville

An engrossing tale of love and Renaissance art that will keep you hooked until the last page.

‘The Painter from Seville’ is an intriguing tale of forbidden love, justice, and art, set against the complexity of Renaissance Seville. 

It is 1512 and Francisca dreams of making her way as a painter. Leonardo da Vinci’s radical new ideas inspire her, but reality weighs her down. 

A prospective marriage looms and when she uncovers her mother’s final masterpiece, questions surrounding a tragedy that befell her parents when she was a child begin to prey on her mind.  

Francisca’s life takes an unexpected turn when she is tasked to assist a renowned Italian artist in decorating the grand Seville Cathedral. She meets Isabel, the artist’s captivating muse, whose flamenco singing ignites a passion within her that cannot be ignored.

Just as Francisca begins to believe she can break free from the constraints of her life, the Inquisition threatens and the secrets that have kept her safe unravel. Amid the splendours of the Renaissance and the dangers of persecution, she faces a stark choice: submit or fight for freedom.

Praise for ‘The Painter from Seville’: 

“Sonya Van de Graaff’s captivating novel hooks readers from the start with her eloquent storytelling. The characters spring to life with their passion for art and will for survival that drives the unfolding narrative and leaves the reader eager for more.”

“Beautifully and eloquently written. It is a feast for the reader. I did not want the book to end.”

“Sonya Van de Graaff is a brilliant writer and storyteller. I read the first chapters and could not put it down… the plot is so interesting. Fascinating story.”

Inspired Writing with Angelic Affirmations

This stunning illustrated notebook provides angelic inspiration with every turn of the page. The cover is reminiscent of Klimt, and the interior artwork is filled with beautiful angels illustrated in full colour following the seasons. The gently lined pages also have cupids, fairies and feathers to accompany your journaling.

Paperback
112 pages
18 x 20cm
6.3 x 7.87 inches

Award Winning Author, Alyssa Brade

If you constantly put everyone else first, even when you’re running on empty, then this book, Mommy Needs A Minute, is for you. This award-winning book examines the unique struggles of modern motherhood and offers practical self-care solutions. Through heart-warming and often comedic anecdotes, explore practical strategies to support reclaiming confidence and mental well-being.

Paperback
168 pages
15 x 23cm
6 x 9 inches

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Alyssa's Gold Medal IMPACT

International Impact Book Awards celebrate significant stories that resonate with excellence.

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LJ Hooker The Man is the fascinating and true story of LJ Hooker, the founder of the real estate empire. Born illegitimate to a half-Chinese mother in 1903, orphaned at the age of eight, and with no high school education, at 21 years of age, Leslie Joseph Tingyou changed his name by deed poll to Leslie Joseph Hooker. All he had to his name was a second-hand car that he leased, and a burning ambition to have the biggest real estate company in Australia.

The name LJ Hooker went on become synonymous with real estate. LJ Hooker created housing for thousands of people, developed some of the most prestigious buildings in Australia, and also became the largest landowner in the Southern hemisphere with property holdings the same size as Belgium. Also a philanthropist, in 1973 Leslie Hooker was knighted in recognition of his distinguished service to commerce and the community.

LJ Hooker the Man is a must-read for all students of management and life itself. The story is weaved throughout with tragedy, hidden identity and struggle for survival in business. It is like reading a novel rather than a biography.”
Kevin Weldon AM, member of the Order of Australia for service to the publishing industry

Ebook available on Amazon
300 fully illustrated pages
45,000 words

To be released April, 2025.

UnStuck is a light-hearted and inspirational story based on true events. A must-read for anyone who dreams of leaving their day job for a creative career.

Luna is a banker in New York with a lucrative position and all the perks, however, her impending thirtieth birthday makes her re-evaluate her life. Fueled by a romance with a younger man, Luna defies her previous do-good-for-my-resume attitude and leaves it all behind to follow her passion to learn languages and have a creative career in Europe. Before long she starts a new life in the fashion capital, Milan. With Prosecco corks flying, Italy delivers plenty of excitement. One night out she poses the question to two exotic acquaintances: Wanna start a girl-band?

“Natalia, thank you for writing this fun, adventurous and romantic book which demonstrates that when we follow our heart and soul, and live life fearlessly, anything and everything is possible.”
Marina Miletic, New Mexico, USA

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