Engelske bøger

Leo Tolstoy's 'Sevastopol Sketches' is a series of three semi-autobiographical short stories which are based on his own recollections and experiences of the Crimean War. As a young artillery officer, Tolstoy was present at Sevastopol - the city under intense siege during the war, and his experiences of the grim situation are retold here in gruesome detail. The horrors and realities of war are laid bare as Tolstoy contrasts the heroism of soldiers with the futility of war. Undoubtedly an influence for his later epic 'War and Peace', 'Sevastopol Sketches' is an important novel in the timeline of Tolstoy's work. -

This historical fiction is set in ancient Britain when it belonged to the Roman Empire. Cymbeline, a Celtic king who has lost both his sons, opposes his only child, princess Imogen's marriage to the lowborn gentleman, Posthumus. In anger Cymbeline sends Posthumus to exile in Italy, where he falls into the company of the sleek Iachimo.Imogen's stepmother and Iachimo forge sinister plans against the poor king's daughter. She soon decides to flee from her father's court keen to find her beloved Posthumus.This bestseller contains plenty of surprising twists and turns, bloody confrontations and fatal encounters. But can the drama come to an end?'Cymbeline' is one of William Shakespeare's strongest plays, intertwined with themes of envy and forgiveness. As one of Shakespeare's lesser-known romances, this historical romance mixes some of his most stunning verse with an interesting blend of history, legend and fairy tale. For fans of Meg Mason, Jennifer Weiner and Sally Thorne.-

John, King of England's rule is challenged by an ambassador for King Phillip of France.Claiming that Arthur, the nephew of John should be crowned king instead, John declares war against France. Although John orders his nephew's death and turns the nobles against himself, the questions remain... who is the rightful heir to the throne of England?'King John' is a brilliant historical fiction with its underlying theme of sources of power and authority it is both tragically poetic and satiric in equal measure. Perfect for fans of The Dr Ruth Galloway Mysteries by Elly Griffiths. -

Based on the mythological Leir of Britain, the main character of King Lear decides to retire from the throne and hands over the kingdom his daughters.The premonition of the division of the kingdom will solely be based on the girls' strength of flattery. His two oldest daughters flatter him greatly, but the youngest one, Cordelia, refuses to play this game. King Lear is furious and chooses to banish her despite her love for him.Soon, however, the old king finds himself overruled by his oldest daughters and is driven to madness. Who will now fix the kingdom and resolve the civil wars to come?King Lear is a classic book for adults, one of Shakespeare's most tragic and heart-breaking plays as it searches the depths of human suffering and despair. Great for fans of Gayle Forman and John Green. -

The death of their father leaves Oliver and Orlando at odds. Oliver inherits everything and out of spite forces his younger brother to live in poverty by denying him his inheritance.Left with little choice, Orlando heads to Duke Frederick's court to fight the court's champion wrestler. There, Orlando wins the match, gets the prize and falls in love with the Duke's niece Rosalind.Orlando's win infuriates Frederick because of the friendship between the boy's father and his own brother Duke Senior, who he has banished to the forest. Frederick accuses Rosalind of conspiring against him and banishes her from the court despite his daughter Celia's pleas.Rosalind disguises herself as a boy called Ganymede and heads for the forest with her cousin Celia, who pretends to be a young country girl named Aliena. In the forest, Orlando runs into Duke Senior and his men. Then the girls in disguise arrive, and chaos ensues.-

Jules Verne's 'Off on a Comet' is a science-fiction adventure first published in 1877. After a comet collides with planet earth, several inhabitants of earth are unknowingly carried away on it. Believing the collision at first to be an earthquake, it takes some time before the unlikely bunch realise what has happened. The group encounter all kinds of adventures on their journey through space - but will they ever see their beloved home again? A thrilling adventure, this is the fifteenth book in Verne's 'Voyages Extraordinaire' series which also included 'Journey to the Centre of the Earth' and 'Around the World in Eighty Days'.-

First published in 1919, ‘The Avalanche’ by Gertrude Atherton is set in San Francisco following a devastating earthquake. Young Price Ruyler is struggling to keep the California branch of the family business running when he encounters a beautiful young French woman, Helene Perrin. The pair fall hopelessly in love and are swiftly married, but all is not as it seems, and Price begins to have suspicions about his new wife. Does he truly know the woman that he married? A novel full of suspense, mystery, and intrigue.Gertrude Atherton (1857-1948) was an American novelist, short story writer and early feminist. Born in California, Gertrude attended schools in California and Kentucky and became widely read. She married George H.B. Atherton in 1876, and lived with him and his mother in San Francisco, where they had two children. Atherton struggled with married life, her husband did not support her writing ambitions and Gertrude found life as a wife and mother stifling. When her husband died at sea in 1887, Atherton felt free to pursue her burgeoning career as an author and went on to publish over 50 novels. She is best known for her California series of novels which explored the social history of California and included popular works such as ‘The Californians’ and the controversial ‘Black Oxen’ which was adapted into a silent movie in 1923. Feminist themes and strong female characters are common in her novels. She died in San Francisco in 1948.

"They were so absorbed in their plotting that they did not hear Boule de Suif return. But the Comte's whispered 'shh!' made them all look up. There she was. A sudden silence fell..."A group of wealthy passengers on a coach are side-eyeing a sex worker on board, who goes by the name "Boule de Suif" (Ball of Fat). But when she shares her food with everyone, the mood changes and the passengers all turn in for the night at an inn in good spirits. However, the next morning, they find that a Prussian officier is refusing to let them continue their journey until he's had his way with Boule de Suif. She refuses. But as the days passes, the other passengers grow more and more impatient.'Boule de Suif' is a great study of French society and moral attitudes in the late 1800s' France, and indeed, it makes you wonder what would be different today.Guy de Maupassant (1850 – 1893) was a French author and one of the fathers of the modern short story. His mother, Laure Le Poittevin, was an extremely well-read woman and introduced him to literature at a young age. Maupassant wrote six novels and over 300 short stories, the first and most famous being 'Boule de Suif' (1880).

When sixteen years John T. Unger leaves for a vacation with a wealthy school mate of his, he doesn’t know yet what he is about to encounter. His school friend’s family is not only rich; they are ‘rich rich’ – and the family has decided to build a house inside a giant diamond.As if the giand diamond would not be enough, soon John is in the middle of unexpected and thrilling events.‘The Diamond as Big as the Ritz’ is F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novella published in 1920.F. Scott Fitzgerald (1896–1940) is one of the greatest American novelists of the 20th century and author of the classics ‘Tender is the Night’ and ‘The Great Gatsby’. His writing helped illustrate the 1920s Jazz Age that he and wife Zelda Fitzgerald were in the centre of.

First published at the turn of the century, ‘The Splendid, Idle Forties’ by feminist author Gertrude Atherton is a collection of short stories, all set in California. Romance and forbidden love are key themes throughout, and though each story stands alone, many refer to previous events and characters. Full of vivid descriptions, this is a wonderful collection of short stories from the Golden State, which inspires nostalgia for a bygone age.Gertrude Atherton (1857-1948) was an American novelist, short story writer and early feminist. Born in California, Gertrude attended schools in California and Kentucky and became widely read. She married George H.B. Atherton in 1876, and lived with him and his mother in San Francisco, where they had two children. Atherton struggled with married life, her husband did not support her writing ambitions and Gertrude found life as a wife and mother stifling. When her husband died at sea in 1887, Atherton felt free to pursue her burgeoning career as an author and went on to publish over 50 novels. She is best known for her California series of novels which explored the social history of California and included popular works such as ‘The Californians’ and the controversial ‘Black Oxen’ which was adapted into a silent movie in 1923. Feminist themes and strong female characters are common in her novels. She died in San Francisco in 1948.

Judge Derwent dotes on his daughter, Nancy. So when he receives a letter in the mail threatening Nancy's life, he immediately springs into an investigation. Attorney Littlefield assists him in his mission, and they track the letter to 'Mexico Sam' a desperado recently imprisoned on manslaughter charges. Things quickly turn dark as Judge Derwent races to save his daughter's life. This thrilling short story explores human relationships, sacrifice, and revenge, with a fast-paced plot bound to intrigue fans of James Patterson.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

‘The Bell in the Fog, and Other Stories’ is a supernatural short story collection from famous American author Gertrude Atherton. The collection focusses on the dark side of human nature and the corrupting influence of wealth, and is heavily influenced by Atherton’s fascination and admiration for renowned author Henry James’ horror stories. ‘The Bell in the Fog’ bears some resemblance to James’ most famous tale ‘The Turn of the Screw’ and is dedicated to the author. Other stories in the collection include ‘The Dead and the Countess’ about restless cemetery inhabitants, and ‘The Tragedy of a Snob’ in which a middle-class man foolishly believes that money alone will grant him access to New York’s elite social circles. A haunting collection of chilling tales for fans of the supernatural.Gertrude Atherton (1857-1948) was an American novelist, short story writer and early feminist. Born in California, Gertrude attended schools in California and Kentucky and became widely read. She married George H.B. Atherton in 1876, and lived with him and his mother in San Francisco, where they had two children. Atherton struggled with married life, her husband did not support her writing ambitions and Gertrude found life as a wife and mother stifling. When her husband died at sea in 1887, Atherton felt free to pursue her burgeoning career as an author and went on to publish over 50 novels. She is best known for her California series of novels which explored the social history of California and included popular works such as ‘The Californians’ and the controversial ‘Black Oxen’ which was adapted into a silent movie in 1923. Feminist themes and strong female characters are common in her novels. She died in San Francisco in 1948.

Talking animals are always intriguing, and this wonderful collection of short fables is no exception.These stories for children are told by animals, focusing on their point of view as they tell us about their quirky daily rituals and how they feel towards their human owners.Through brilliant tales, the animals reveal how they are both similar to and different from us humans.Follow the journey of the hen Mrs. Feathertop who suddenly hatches ducks, the squirrels that live in a house, and Mother Magpie as she gets into mischief. An entertaining, fun, and powerful book recommended for children, teenagers, and adults who love H.C. Andersen’s fairy tales and Beatrix Potter.The daughter of a Calvinist preacher, Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) was an American author and ardent abolitionist, whose most famous novel "Uncle Tom’s Cabin" became the fiercest attack on slavery at the time. Stowe’s influence reached much farther than literature, and marked politics and society, opening the world’s eyes to the horrors of slavery. Stowe also wrote travel memoirs, numerous articles, letters, and short stories.

General Falcon casts his ship's anchor at Pier No. 55, close to the Spanish-Amerian colony in Columbia. He disembarks and heads towards a shady hotel with the intention of engaging in an elusive rendezvous. Mysterious meetings, hidden messages, and revolutionary ideas follow -alongside an impossible to predict plot twist. O Henry puts his idea of morality on full display in this compelling story, perfect for fans of Oscar Wilde's flamboyancy.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

Dr. James is respectable, dependable, and kind. Mr. Chandler is vulgar, violent, and rude. A chance encounter between the two sets a series of events in motion that are bound to change their lives forever. This short story explores the dark recesses and duality of the human condition with chilling precision. Perfect for those who enjoyed Gabriel Krauze's 'Who They Was'.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

A tragic short story from much-loved Victorian author Elizabeth Gaskell, ‘The Half-Brothers’ is a tale of love and rejection. Unloved and spurned by his stepfather, Gregory is treated very differently from his half-brother. When the favoured brother is caught in a dangerous and violent snowstorm as night is falling, Gregory must prove that his brotherly love is great enough to overcome the harsh treatment he has received – but will he be too late?Elizabeth Gaskell (1810-1865) is an enduringly popular and highly regarded English novelist. Born in Chelsea, London, Elizabeth was sent to live with her aunt in Knutsford, Cheshire after her mother died, a place which would provide inspiration for some of her most popular works, including ‘Cranford’. A sociable and lively young woman, Elizabeth married Minister William Gaskell in 1832 and settled in Manchester. An industrial hub and the scene of much political and social change, her time in Manchester influenced much of her writing. Her first novel, ‘Mary Barton’ focussed on the appalling and impoverished living conditions of those living in Northern industrial cities and was a huge success, sparking the interest of notable figures such as Charles Dickens, who invited Elizabeth to contribute to the periodicals he edited. An active humanitarian, her works dealt sympathetically with the plight of the poorest in society, and she did not shy away from controversial topics such as prostitution and illegitimacy. A close friend of Charlotte Brontë, Elizabeth also wrote a highly acclaimed biography of the author in 1857. Some of her best known and most loved novels include ‘Cranford’, ‘North and South’ and the posthumously published ‘Wives and Daughters’, all of which have been adapted for TV by the BBC, most recently ‘Cranford’ starring Judi Dench, Michael Gambon, and Greg Wise. Elizabeth Gaskell is regarded as one of the most important novelists of the Victorian era.

Looking for a great love story? You have found it! This novel is told as both a sentimental romance and a humorous piece of historical fiction.Taking place in Rhode Island the story revolves around Mary a devout but passionate woman living under humble conditions.Mary is in love with James, even though he is skeptical of religion. When James supposedly drowns at sea, Mary is engaged to a minister, Dr. Hopkins, instead.But the story does not end here. In fact, it has only just begun..A captivating story of post revolutionary New England filled with both romance and drama. A must read for all you romantics, daredevils and drama-lovers! And of course recommended fans of Emily Dickinson and the Brontë sisters.The daughter of a Calvinist preacher, Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) was an American author and ardent abolitionist, whose most famous novel "Uncle Tom’s Cabin" became the fiercest attack on slavery at the time. Stowe’s influence reached much farther than literature, and marked politics and society, opening the world’s eyes to the horrors of slavery. Stowe also wrote travel memoirs, numerous articles, letters, and short stories.

A shipwreck 25 years ago separated Egeon from his wife and one of his identical twin sons. Both boys are named Antipholus and both have servants names Dromio, who also happen to be identical twins.As Egeon arrives in Ephesus from Syracuse, hoping to find his wife and son, he is unaware that the other twin has also made his way there. Egeon is arrested and condemned to death for violating the travel ban between Syracuse and Ephesus. After stating his case to the Ephesian Duke, Solinus, Egeon is granted a day to raise ransom funds to save his life.Meanwhile, Adriana, the wife of Antipholus of Ephesus, mistakes Antipholus of Syracuse for her husband and drags him home. He then falls in love with Adriana’s sister Luciana. What could possibly go wrong?As with many Shakespearean plays, mistaken identities wreck confusion for everyone and lead to many comical encounters. "The Comedy of Errors" is the shortest of Shakespeare’s plays. It has been adapted for opera, stage, screen and musical theatre worldwide.William Shakespeare (1564-1616) was an English playwright, poet and actor. Considered the greatest dramatist of all time, he is widely regarded as the most influential English language writer. Shakespeare’s plays focus on the range of human emotion and conflict, and have been translated into more than 100 languages. Many including "Hamlet," "Macbeth," and "Romeo and Juliet" have been adapted for stage and screen.

Isabel Archer, a beautiful and adventurous young American woman, has been brought to Europe by her Aunt, Mrs Touchett, hoping to find a future husband for her niece. When Isabel turns down several suitors, it appears that she is too headstrong to ever find a match, but when Isabel encounters the handsome and charming Gilbert Osmond, it appears that she might finally have found love. Beneath his charm however, there is more to Gilbert Osmond than meets the eye – is it Isabel or her money that Osmond truly desires? A fascinating story of wealth, freedom, and betrayal from famous American author Henry James, ‘The Portrait of a Lady’ is widely considered one of his finest works.Henry James (1843 – 1916) was an American novelist. Born in New York, he spent long periods of time in Europe as a young man, and eventually settled in England, becoming a British citizen in 1915. By his mid-twenties James was already regarded as one of the best short-story writers in America, and he continued to find success with his novels. Some of his best-known works include ‘The Portrait of a Lady’, ‘The Wings of the Dove’ and his much-loved gothic horror story ‘The Turn of the Screw’, which has been adapted for stage and screen multiple times. James was nominated for the Nobel Prize in literature three times. He died in London in 1916.

First published in 1874, ‘The Temptation of Saint Anthony’ is a novel which French author Gustave Flaubert worked on throughout his life. Inspired by the painting of the same name following a visit to Genoa in his youth, Flaubert became captivated by the picture and wrote a story inspired by it in three parts. The story centres around Saint Anthony who, living alone in the Egyptian desert, is visited by visions and temptations which he must resist. Full of philosophical and existential themes, this is an original and fascinating story by the famous French novelist.Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880) was a French novelist, best known for his scandalous novel ‘Madame Bovary’. Born in Rouen, Flaubert began writing at an early age. He moved to Paris to study law, where he met contemporaries such as Victor Hugo. First serialised in the Revue de Paris, ‘Madame Bovary’ initially faced legal action from the government on the charge of immorality – but Flaubert was acquitted, and novel has since become perhaps his most popular and famous work. Other works include historical novel ‘Salammbo’ and ‘A Sentimental Education’ a novel which dealt with the difficulties of human aspiration. One of the most important European writers of the 19th century, Flaubert died in France in 1880.

First published in 1898, ‘The Californians’ depicts life in California at the turn of the century. As California undergoes a period of rapid change and diversification, so too do the two young protagonists - the wealthy, shy Magdalena finds herself outshone at every turn by her best friend Helena as the two girls become young women. A tale about love, morals, and women’s rights in old California, this is a gripping and intriguing tale from the feminist author Gertrude Atherton.Gertrude Atherton (1857-1948) was an American novelist, short story writer and early feminist. Born in California, Gertrude attended schools in California and Kentucky and became widely read. She married George H.B. Atherton in 1876, and lived with him and his mother in San Francisco, where they had two children. Atherton struggled with married life, her husband did not support her writing ambitions and Gertrude found life as a wife and mother stifling. When her husband died at sea in 1887, Atherton felt free to pursue her burgeoning career as an author and went on to publish over 50 novels. She is best known for her California series of novels which explored the social history of California and included popular works such as ‘The Californians’ and the controversial ‘Black Oxen’ which was adapted into a silent movie in 1923. Feminist themes and strong female characters are common in her novels. She died in San Francisco in 1948.

Fuzzy the homeless drunkard is infamous. What most people aren't aware of though, is his kind heart. When he finds a tattered rag doll lying in the snow, he realises that it belongs to a spoiled child living in a nearby mansion, and promptly goes to return it. He is unaware of the reward that awaits him, and he is even less aware of the three street gangsters watching his every move, desperate to claim the reward for themselves. A morality tale with a twist, 'Compliments of the Season' is O. Henry's exploration of just how small the world is, and how people from completely different walks of life can find themselves entangled.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

Set on the Caribbean Island of Nevis, ‘The Gorgeous Isle’ by Gertrude Atherton follows the story of Byam Warner, a poet and an alcoholic who is slowly drinking himself to an early grave. Hurt by love once before, when he marries strong-willed and beautiful Anne Percy against her family’s wishes, he finds himself caught between her love, his talent, and his self-destructive habit. Will the pair find contentment and happiness, or was the tumultuous love affair doomed from the start?Gertrude Atherton (1857-1948) was an American novelist, short story writer and early feminist. Born in California, Gertrude attended schools in California and Kentucky and became widely read. She married George H.B. Atherton in 1876, and lived with him and his mother in San Francisco, where they had two children. Atherton struggled with married life, her husband did not support her writing ambitions and Gertrude found life as a wife and mother stifling. When her husband died at sea in 1887, Atherton felt free to pursue her burgeoning career as an author and went on to publish over 50 novels. She is best known for her California series of novels which explored the social history of California and included popular works such as ‘The Californians’ and the controversial ‘Black Oxen’ which was adapted into a silent movie in 1923. Feminist themes and strong female characters are common in her novels. She died in San Francisco in 1948.

"Something that he was going to say was cut short in his throat, and he sat there with his mouth half open and a terrible look in his eyes."A group of vulgar and disrespectful Prussian soldiers have seized a beautiful manor in Normandy, passing endless days with drinking, womanizing and vandalising. The worst of the soldiers is a man who goes by the name ''Mademoiselle Fifi" and he thinks he can get away with just about anything. But when he tries to have his way with a Jewish sex worker named Rachel, he has another thing coming.In 'Mademoiselle Fifi', the little guy – or girl – wins, which makes for a satisfying reading experience. The short story was adapted to screen in 1944 by Robert Wise, who would later go on to direct the Oscar winning movies 'West Side Story' (1961) and 'The Sound of Music' (1965).Guy de Maupassant (1850 – 1893) was a French author and one of the fathers of the modern short story. His mother, Laure Le Poittevin, was an extremely well-read woman and introduced him to literature at a young age. Maupassant wrote six novels and over 300 short stories, the first and most famous being 'Boule de Suif' (1880).

Published in 1893, and set against a backdrop of violence between Mexico and the United States, this is a passionate and compelling love story from famous American author Gertrude Atherton. Loyal to her family, Doña Chonita finds herself questioning her firmly held morals and values when she falls for the charming Don Diego. The star-crossed lovers’ worlds are turned upside down by their passion, as well as forces outside their control. Vividly written, this is a haunting romance and a compelling piece of classic American literature.Gertrude Atherton (1857-1948) was an American novelist, short story writer and early feminist. Born in California, Gertrude attended schools in California and Kentucky and became widely read. She married George H.B. Atherton in 1876, and lived with him and his mother in San Francisco, where they had two children. Atherton struggled with married life, her husband did not support her writing ambitions and Gertrude found life as a wife and mother stifling. When her husband died at sea in 1887, Atherton felt free to pursue her burgeoning career as an author and went on to publish over 50 novels. She is best known for her California series of novels which explored the social history of California and included popular works such as ‘The Californians’ and the controversial ‘Black Oxen’ which was adapted into a silent movie in 1923. Feminist themes and strong female characters are common in her novels. She died in San Francisco in 1948.

Pilgrims, colonialism, slavery, politics, romance - this book is packed with tales depicting the history of America spanning over 400 years.Starting with the settlement of the pilgrims aboard the most important ship in US history, "The Mayflower" all the way to their descendants in the early 20th century. Exploring the remarkable and exciting history of the United States, Harriet Beecher Stowe describes serious events through the course of American history with a sense of humor that makes you want to keep reading.The daughter of a Calvinist preacher, Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) was an American author and ardent abolitionist, whose most famous novel "Uncle Tom’s Cabin" became the fiercest attack on slavery at the time. Stowe’s influence reached much farther than literature, and marked politics and society, opening the world’s eyes to the horrors of slavery. Stowe also wrote travel memoirs, numerous articles, letters, and short stories.

The constant issue of society is: how can we make it better? Join Stowe’s characters as they explore and discuss almost every topic you could dream of.Through their conversations, critical social issues are revealed as they uncover religion, education, women’s suffrage, fashion, and beauty all still relevant today.Not only touching upon important and current discussions but doing so in an entertaining way, this book is great for anyone who wants to learn more about how society has both changed and stayed the same throughout history.The daughter of a Calvinist preacher, Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) was an American author and ardent abolitionist, whose most famous novel "Uncle Tom’s Cabin" became the fiercest attack on slavery at the time. Stowe’s influence reached much farther than literature, and marked politics and society, opening the world’s eyes to the horrors of slavery. Stowe also wrote travel memoirs, numerous articles, letters, and short stories.

Receiving large sums of money is never without its challenges and Dan's situation is no exception. When he inherits an impossible amount of money from his father, he is over the moon, but it soon transpires that the cash is blood money, born from ill intentions. He becomes desperate to right his father's past wrongs, in order to make peace with his own present and inspire hope for the future. Luckily for Dan, when he falls in love the solutions to his problems start to become clear. In this raw tale of humanity, O Henry reminds us that no misdeed goes unpunished.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

A man moves from Nevada to New York, tired of his old life and hungry for change. He immediately meets a man completely enamored by Nevada's charm. They enter into a heated debate over the merits and downfalls of their respective cities. This humorous short story reflects O Henry's own enchantment with New York City and reminds us that although people talk a lot, rarely do they listen.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. The most notable of which being "Cabbages and Kings", "The Voice of the City", and "Strictly Business." In fact, his legacy was so great that the ‘O. Henry Award’ was established to celebrate the best short stories. His vivid storytelling is perfect for fans of Roald Dahl.

Like any true ladies man, Sir John Falstaff, the fat king, attempts to seduce two wealthy women at the same time. To make things easy he decides to send ends Mistress Page and Mistress Ford identical love letters.But little does Falstaff know that women tend to talk to one another, only causing him a great deal of trouble..As Frank Ford hears of Falstaff's plan, he decides to test his wife’s loyalty. By dressing up, Frank pretends to be someone else and pays Falstaff off to seduce his wife on his behalf. The men in Windsor desperately try to control the situation, however, it is the women of Windsor who pull the strings in this play.This hilarious comedy by Shakespeare is a classic worth reading! First published in 1602, this play presents themes of marriage, wealth, jealousy and lies. Complete with clumsy men and strong women, this appeals to all ages.For fans of Clare McHugh, Thomas Middleton and Julia Quinn.William Shakespeare (1564-1616) is widely considered the world's greatest dramatist and is often referred to as England's national poet or the Bard. Most famous for his timeless plays, he also wrote a multitude of poems and sonnets. Shakespeare was the blockbuster writer of his day, his many works concerning universal themes of life, love, death, revenge, grief, jealousy, murder, magic, and mystery. Among some of his most famous are "Macbeth", "Romeo and Juliet", and "Hamlet", but the list is long, and many continue to be studied and performed, both their original form and modern adaptations.