Now Available…
Stream Reader
Book One of THE STREAM
THE STREAM REVEALS ALL. BUT WHAT IF IT SEES MORE THAN IT SHOULD?
Sarian has excelled as a student aura reader - one of the few who will be given access to the hidden stream to interpret the glowing threads that weave through her kingdom, warning of danger and unrest. But on the day of her assessment something stirs.
The Stream watches her back. Unspoken truths ripple beneath its surface. A past she can’t remember. A presence reaching out. A test that was never what it seemed. As Sarian’s gift deepens, so do the consequences and the line between duty and destiny begins to blur.
Author reveal…the first printed copies of my book arrive…
A truly surreal moment when you open your book, that has been beautifully designed, and for the first time you see the words you have written, previously only on the computer screen, or printed at home copies now as a book…
Pictures from book signing at Rosetta Books in Maleny 17th May 2026
I just want to express how wonderful it is that independent bookshops make space for authors to have these events at their book stores.
Book signing event at The BookShop at Caloundra
21st June 2026.
Again a big thank you to independent book shops.
A big thanks also for the company of fellow author -
Carolyn F Bundensen, her children's book Squeaky - the Purple Swamp Hen.
Besides the pure enjoyment of a wonderful childrens book, it is a must for anyone who parents or works with neurodivergent children.
Carolyn was a teacher of early years children for over 40 years and brings in her experience and understanding, weaving into her story a desire to bring awareness and acceptance of differences with love and compassion.
I just wanted to add something about this particular photo, as it is a rather special moment, here you have 3 generations of Reiki Masters. The first in the picture is Carolyn Bundensen, whom undertook her Reiki training with me, then in the middle is Wendy Jakeman who is my Reiki Master, and last in the pic is me.
Testimonials From Stream Reader
This novel unfolds like a dream, as Sarian embarks on a mission to free the Stream, a mystical, elemental force, from its entrapment. You materfully blur the boundary between fate and free will, anchoring the story in Sarian’s personal journey, and the prose is fluid and poetic, echoing the Stream itself. Sarian is a compelling protagonist, and her evolving relationship with the Stream feels both intimate and profound. The narrative explores the tension between knowledge and truth, showing how insight can simultaneously illuminate and burden. As Sarian gathers companions—each one carrying pieces of the puzzle—she must unravel the mystery of her past and face an uncertain future.
Daina Lindeman - Editor
PRAISE FOR STREAM READER
With relatable, likeable characters, a vivid universe and engaging pace. Stream Reader will capture your imagination from the first page. Themes of society, friendship and freedom are interwoven into a rolicking tale that will have you questioning the status quo. Highly recommended!
Melisa Radak
I have just finished Stream Reade…Anne Pickering’s debut novel…a fantasy novel taking us into an adventure of discovery, betrayal & freedom introducing concepts of energy & healing that align with the author’s life long passion…I totally didn’t expect the ending…intriguing…I’m so looking forward to the next instalment.
Heidi Lawrence
Sarian learnt combat from her friend and mentor Gruff, befriended as a small child new to the town of Galen. She is highly skilled with the blade..
Reviews for Stream Reader
Added with great appreciation to the readers who have taken the time to let me know their thoughts on my story.
I’ve just finished reading Anne Pickering’s Book I in the Stream Reader series - Stream Reader - which I enjoyed and loved. Each reader sees something different within the same story. This is what I saw. I loved the way Anne has skillfully weaved magic throughout her story using a language spoken thoughtfully. I connected with Sarian the main protagonist and her unique gifts. Through her characters, Anne shows how important the family unit is. I also felt the warmth and strength of her friendships, or chosen family, reminding us of how important human connection is. The other theme that resonated deeply with me was how, in times past, we revered and respected Mother Nature, the sun, the moon the stars, and as the days slipped past, we followed her rhythm. I found comfort in feeling the energy of the group of people who secretly banded together to protect the vulnerable. I don’t want to give too much away, so I’ll simply say that this book has so much to offer. As I read, it opened my mind and my heart to reconnect with what is important. I can’t wait to read Book II in the Stream Reader series. I highly recommend Stream Reader.
Jill Metcalfe – Author of The Hunter Valley Mystery Series
I have just finished reading Stream Reader, to Gemma’s (faithful fur child) disgust. She wants her dinner and and mummy was reading.
I LOVED YOUR BOOK.
When I started reading it, it took a few chapters before I got excited. After that I could not put it down.
I feel a void now that I have finished it.
Good on you. A great book.
Let me know when I can get the next one.
Tina Kruidiner
A review from Goodreads
There is fantasy that takes you out of the ordinary for a while. Then there is fantasy that takes you somewhere you want to stay a little longer. Stream Reader will take you and show you a place you didn’t even know you had been longing for. Anne Pickering has woven a world for us to wander in endlessly. A masterpiece.
Lorraine Cameron
A truly unique reading experience, it is engaging, endearing, and extremely enjoyable. It takes you on a journey you didn’t realise you were missing.
The creative expression of ‘Anne Pickering’ the writer, allows you to fully immerse yourself in the story, and as you lose yourself with the pages your imagination is free to soar.
I did not want the story to end, and await in eager anticipation for ‘The Stream’ sequel.
Kerry Esparon
What I really noticed about this novel at first glance was the cover. It truly depicts the story.
The book is very unique, that’s what I love about it. The idea of reading from a stream, and its threads and auras? Well who would ever have thought about this???
Great idea Anne.
It is a mystical story with Sarian being the main character. Read it and see what happens as she learns to read from the stream…unravelling dangers and hints from her past.
Anne’s character narrative in this book is cleverly written. You really feel the characters and their emotions, friendships, and trust. As if they are real people.
A truly enjoyable read.
Elaine Moore
From Manuscript to Publishing
It’s a great step forward chosing how you are going to see that manuscript come into fruition.
I attended Ann, of Dettori Publishing’s talk on Self-Publishing, at the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Writers Festival 2025. It was one of the many talks and workshops one can attend at the festival.
Before that I was challenged with how to move forward, the big question of self-publishing versus, traditional publishing, engaging an agent. I felt like I had been sitting on my project too long and needed a way to progress, and I wanted to do it in a way that I was happy with the end result.
I contacted Ann, and the process began smoothly and professionally. I highly recommend her team for their ongoing support, practical help, deep expertise, and for transforming my manuscript into a polished, publishable novel.
When it started to become real -
The reality of forward movement was receiving the first edits back from editor Daina Lindeman. Her positive feedback—was deeply moving. The edits fixed errors, clarified meaning, corrected punctuation, all the while keeping my my voice.
Then Daniela Catucci worked her magic on illustrations for the cover. Her options captured the Stream and Sarian, the heroine, perfectly. Each time she forwarded an design idea I was blown away, this was the seeing of the manuscript start to turn into a visual reality.
Renee Bahr handled interior design and formatting for print-on-demand and online. Ann coordinated all the details that turned a self-published novel into something professional.
The final thrill came on 25 March 2026, when I opened the first printed copies. It was surreal seeing my words in a book, exactly as I’d revised them so many times, was everything I hoped for.
