Engelske bøger

First published in 1918 ‘Patty-Bride’ is set against the backdrop of WWI. Now engaged, the threat of young men being sent overseas as part of the war effort has dampened the joy of her engagement, and Patty and her friends are fearful of the threat spies pose to them. There is still fun to be had though, and Patty has her first eventful ride in an airplane. A captivating episode in Patty’s life from Carolyn Well’s hugely popular ‘Patty Fairfield’ series of children’s books.Carolyn Wells (1862-1942) was a prolific American novelist and poet, best known for her children’s literature, mystery novels and humorous verse. Following school in New Jersey, Wells worked as a librarian, where she developed her love of reading. It was during 1896 that Wells' first book ‘At the Sign of the Sphinx’ was published. From 1900 she dedicated herself to her literary career, writing over 170 novels in total across a range of genres. Some of her most loved works include the ‘Patty Fairfield’ and ‘Marjorie Maynard’ series for girls, as well as the ‘Fleming Stone’ mystery series for adults. Wells is also well-known for her humorous nonsense verse, and was a frequent contributor of verse to magazines. She published an autobiography ‘The Rest of my Life’ in 1937. Wells died in New York City in 1942.

‘The Eternal Feminine’ is a collection of short stories from the prolific American author Carolyn Wells. Tales in the collection include ‘The Night Before Christmas’, ‘Taking Care of Uncle’ and ‘At the Cooking Class’. A charming collection of short stories, and a wonderful introduction to Carolyn Wells.Carolyn Wells (1862-1942) was a prolific American novelist and poet, best known for her children’s literature, mystery novels and humorous verse. Born in New Jersey, following school Wells worked as a librarian where she developed her love of reading, and her first book ‘At the Sign of the Sphinx’ was published in 1896. From 1900 Wells dedicated herself to her literary career, writing over 170 novels in total across a range of genres. Some of her most loved works include the ‘Patty Fairfield’ and ‘Marjorie Maynard’ series for girls, as well as the ‘Fleming Stone’ mystery series for adults. Wells is also well-known for her humorous nonsense verse, and was a frequent contributor of verse to magazines. She published an autobiography ‘The Rest of my Life’ in 1937. Wells died in New York City in 1942.

Love can be confusing but should that stop us from pursuing it?This is a love story about a bored young man who desperately seeks adventure.He finally achieves his dream when he suddenly inherits a large amount of money and goes on a journey around England. He is not selfish with his money, and he happily spends them on other people, but something is still missing.Suddenly, he falls in love with a young woman, and she is everything he has been looking for. However, their romance is not without complications. As their relationship grows deeper and deeper, a man named Mr. Schultz tries to stop their happiness.Are the two young lovers meant for each other, or will their relationship break?Great for readers of Margaret Mitchell and Jane Austen.Born in Kennington in 1858, Edith Nesbit wrote and co-authored over 60 beloved adventures at the beginning of the 20th century. Among her most popular books are "The Story of the Treasure-Seekers" (1899), "The Phoenix and the Carpet" (1904), and "The Railway Children" (1906). Many of her works became adapted to musicals, movies, and TV shows. Along with her husband Hubert Bland, she was among the first members of the Fabian society - a socialist debating club. A path in London close to her home was named "Railway Children Walk" in her honor, manifesting her legacy as one of the pioneers within the children’s fantasy genre.

First published in 1879, Cousin Henry is one of Anthony Trollope’s later novels. In it, we are introduced to Indefer Jones, the elderly squire of a large manor in Carmarthen as he deliberates as to who to name as his heir. Will his beloved young niece Isabel Broderick inherit all that he owns, or will Indefer bow to convention and pass the property to his disagreeable nephew and sole male heir, Henry Jones? Rumours about a final will abound following Indefer’s death, as we are caught up in a story of pride and conscience, deceit and guilt.Anthony Trollope (1815 – 1882) was a Victorian writer and author of 47 novels. He also wrote an autobiography, short stories and plays, travel articles, reviews and lectures. A prolific writer, he made no secret of the fact that money was his motivation for writing – an admission which raised eyebrows among his literary contemporaries at the time. The amount of works Trollope authored are testament to his belief in hard work. His first successful novel was The Warden followed by its sequel, Barchester Towers. The Chronicles of Barsetshire are perhaps his most well-known series of novels, though many of his works have been adapted for TV and radio, starring many familiar faces such as Alan Rickman, David Tennant, Bill Nighy and Tom Hollander. Alongside his literary career, Trollope also worked for some time for the Post Office and is credited with the introduction of the iconic post box to Britain. A memorial to Anthony Trollope was unveiled in Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey in 1993.

Imagine if magic was real, would it be used for good or evil? Kathleen, Gerald, and Jimmy is about to find out.During a summer vacation, the three children find a mysterious house with what appears to be a sleeping princess in the garden. When they wake her up and find out that she is the housekeeper’s niece, an adventure begins.The niece, Mabel, has a magical ring, and making the wearer invisible is just one of the many things it can do.But soon the children find out that magic is not all good and using it can go horribly wrong. In order to control it, they must find courage and strength that they have never experienced before.Revealing the wonderful world of children similar to J.M. Barrie’s "Peter Pan," this is one of the many enchanted tales Nesbit is known for.Born in Kennington in 1858, Edith Nesbit wrote and co-authored over 60 beloved adventures at the beginning of the 20th century. Among her most popular books are "The Story of the Treasure-Seekers" (1899), "The Phoenix and the Carpet" (1904), and "The Railway Children" (1906). Many of her works became adapted to musicals, movies, and TV shows. Along with her husband Hubert Bland, she was among the first members of the Fabian society - a socialist debating club. A path in London close to her home was named "Railway Children Walk" in her honor, manifesting her legacy as one of the pioneers within the children’s fantasy genre.

The only Anthony Trollope tale set in Australia, ‘Harry Heathcote of Gangoil’ is a short story which follows the troubles of young sheep farmer Harry as he attempts to thwart his jealous and villainous former neighbours. Trollope drew on knowledge of Australian bush life he acquired during a year long trip there in 1871, and on the experiences of his son Frederic who had emigrated to Australia to become a sheep farmer himself. Set around the Christmas period this is a quick, fun read.Anthony Trollope (1815 – 1882) was a Victorian writer and author of 47 novels. He also wrote an autobiography, short stories and plays, travel articles, reviews and lectures. A prolific writer, he made no secret of the fact that money was his motivation for writing – an admission which raised eyebrows among his literary contemporaries at the time. The amount of works Trollope authored are testament to his belief in hard work. His first successful novel was The Warden followed by its sequel, Barchester Towers. The Chronicles of Barsetshire are perhaps his most well-known series of novels, though many of his works have been adapted for TV and radio, starring many familiar faces such as Alan Rickman, David Tennant, Bill Nighy and Tom Hollander. Alongside his literary career, Trollope also worked for some time for the Post Office and is credited with the introduction of the iconic post box to Britain. A memorial to Anthony Trollope was unveiled in Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey in 1993.

‘The Duke’s Children’ is the sixth and final novel in Anthony Trollope’s popular ‘Palliser’ series of novels. In it, we are reunited with Plantagenet Palliser, the Duke of Omnium in tragic circumstances. A formerly remote father figure to his children, the Duke now finds himself drawn into each of their romantic and professional troubles. What will the two generations be able to learn from each other in a changing Victorian society?Anthony Trollope (1815 – 1882) was a Victorian writer and author of 47 novels. He also wrote an autobiography, short stories and plays, travel articles, reviews and lectures. A prolific writer, he made no secret of the fact that money was his motivation for writing – an admission which raised eyebrows among his literary contemporaries at the time. The amount of works Trollope authored are testament to his belief in hard work. His first successful novel was The Warden followed by its sequel, Barchester Towers. The Chronicles of Barsetshire are perhaps his most well-known series of novels, though many of his works have been adapted for TV and radio, starring many familiar faces such as Alan Rickman, David Tennant, Bill Nighy and Tom Hollander. Alongside his literary career, Trollope also worked for some time for the Post Office and is credited with the introduction of the iconic post box to Britain. A memorial to Anthony Trollope was unveiled in Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey in 1993.

Young Englishman John Pomfret is making his way through Spain in order to propose to Marie Daguilar, the daughter of his father’s partner. En route, he encounters an elaborately dressed Spanish gentleman who he takes to be a bullfighter and assumes can speak no English. John’s rudeness and arrogance toward the Spaniard will come back to shame him during a later encounter. ‘John Bull on the Guadalquivir’ is an entertaining short story from much-loved author Anthony Trollope.Anthony Trollope (1815 – 1882) was a Victorian writer and author of 47 novels. He also wrote an autobiography, short stories and plays, travel articles, reviews and lectures. A prolific writer, he made no secret of the fact that money was his motivation for writing – an admission which raised eyebrows among his literary contemporaries at the time. The amount of works Trollope authored are testament to his belief in hard work. His first successful novel was The Warden followed by its sequel, Barchester Towers. The Chronicles of Barsetshire are perhaps his most well-known series of novels, though many of his works have been adapted for TV and radio, starring many familiar faces such as Alan Rickman, David Tennant, Bill Nighy and Tom Hollander. Alongside his literary career, Trollope also worked for some time for the Post Office and is credited with the introduction of the iconic post box to Britain. A memorial to Anthony Trollope was unveiled in Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey in 1993.

Exasperated hostess Grace Gordon is tired of friends and distant relatives coming to stay, imposing themselves upon her and her husband’s lives. When a third cousin and his new bride threaten to come and stay Grace can take no more and decides to elope with her husband Bob. They find themselves in a remote and eerily quiet hotel, with plenty of adventures ahead of them. A fun, humorous story from the popular author Carolyn Wells.Carolyn Wells (1862-1942) was a prolific American novelist and poet, best known for her children’s literature, mystery novels and humorous verse. Following school in New Jersey, Wells worked as a librarian, where she developed her love of reading. It was during 1896 that Wells' first book ‘At the Sign of the Sphinx’ was published. From 1900 she dedicated herself to her literary career, writing over 170 novels in total across a range of genres. Some of her most loved works include the ‘Patty Fairfield’ and ‘Marjorie Maynard’ series for girls, as well as the ‘Fleming Stone’ mystery series for adults. Wells is also well-known for her humorous nonsense verse, and was a frequent contributor of verse to magazines. She published an autobiography ‘The Rest of my Life’ in 1937. Wells died in New York City in 1942.

Love, relationships and everything in between.Although written over a hundred years ago each story in this collection touches on significant topics that are just as relevant today.No matter what you are going through there is something relatable for everyone within this dramatic compilation of engaging stories.Written through the perspectives of different characters, the collection includes "The Duel," "The Man With the Boots," and "The Girl with the Guitar."Recommended for fans of Margaret Atwood and anyone who loves a great story.Born in Kennington in 1858, Edith Nesbit wrote and co-authored over 60 beloved adventures at the beginning of the 20th century. Among her most popular books are "The Story of the Treasure-Seekers" (1899), "The Phoenix and the Carpet" (1904), and "The Railway Children" (1906). Many of her works became adapted to musicals, movies, and TV shows. Along with her husband Hubert Bland, she was among the first members of the Fabian society - a socialist debating club. A path in London close to her home was named "Railway Children Walk" in her honor, manifesting her legacy as one of the pioneers within the children’s fantasy genre.

Two siblings, Elfrida and Edred Arden, have recently become poor. However, the siblings inherit a ruined castle previously owned by a baron, and together they explore the depths of its mystery, hoping to find a treasure that will restore the castle and turn their luck around.Going back in time, they discover magical things they have never dreamed of. The siblings are swept off to see the plans of Napoleon and the inside of the Tower of London, and they even encounter a mouldiwarp (a magical mole).Most surprising of all: they find their lost father in South America, but is there still time to save him?A beautiful tale about family, sacrifice, and self-discovery. Excellent for fans of C.S. Lewis, Lemony Snicket and Madeleine L'Engle.Born in Kennington in 1858, Edith Nesbit wrote and co-authored over 60 beloved adventures at the beginning of the 20th century. Among her most popular books are "The Story of the Treasure-Seekers" (1899), "The Phoenix and the Carpet" (1904), and "The Railway Children" (1906). Many of her works became adapted to musicals, movies, and TV shows. Along with her husband Hubert Bland, she was among the first members of the Fabian society - a socialist debating club. A path in London close to her home was named "Railway Children Walk" in her honor, manifesting her legacy as one of the pioneers within the children’s fantasy genre.

Set in County Leitrim in Ireland, ‘The Macdermots of Ballycloran’ was the first novel Anthony Trollope wrote. When a traveller stumbles across the abandoned estate of Ballycloran, he learns from local residents of the unfortunate fate of the Macdermot family who once inhabited it. A gripping tale which explores themes of poverty, honour, crime and murder.Anthony Trollope (1815 – 1882) was a Victorian writer and author of 47 novels. He also wrote an autobiography, short stories and plays, travel articles, reviews and lectures. A prolific writer, he made no secret of the fact that money was his motivation for writing – an admission which raised eyebrows among his literary contemporaries at the time. The amount of works Trollope authored are testament to his belief in hard work. His first successful novel was The Warden followed by its sequel, Barchester Towers. The Chronicles of Barsetshire are perhaps his most well-known series of novels, though many of his works have been adapted for TV and radio, starring many familiar faces such as Alan Rickman, David Tennant, Bill Nighy and Tom Hollander. Alongside his literary career, Trollope also worked for some time for the Post Office and is credited with the introduction of the iconic post box to Britain. A memorial to Anthony Trollope was unveiled in Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey in 1993.

1970: Fourteen-year-old Tony becomes seduced by the skinhead movement, sucked into a world of brutal racist violence and bizarre rituals. It's a milieu in which he must hide his homosexuality, in which every encounter is explosively risky.2003: James is a young TV researcher, living with his boyfriend. At a loose end, he begins to research the far right in Britain and its secret gay membership.The two narrative threads of this extraordinarily assured and ambitious first novel unforgettably intersect.Children of the Sun is a work of great imaginative sympathy and range - a novel of unblinking honesty but also of deep feeling, which illuminates the surprisingly thin line that separates aggression from tenderness and offers us a picture of a Britain that is strange and yet utterly convincing.https://www.theguardian.com/books/2010/mar/20/max-schaefer-children-of-sunMax Schaefer was born in London in 1974 and studied at Cambridge and Harvard. He is a Barrister and lives in Islington, London.

Newly orphaned Lois Barclay is forced to leave England and sail to America to join her only remaining distant family. Set in Salem against the hysteria of the witch trials, the honest and truthful Lois soon finds her new family to be jealous and manipulative, putting her own life in very real danger. A gripping and poignant short story from the acclaimed Victorian author Elizabeth Gaskell. -

A collection of five short stories from popular Victorian author Elizabeth Gaskell. The collection includes the tales 'The Poor Clare', 'Lois the Witch', 'The Grey Woman' and 'The Old Nurse's Story' as well as the title tale, 'Curious, If True'. A rich selection of some of Gaskells finest and most atmospheric short stories, with plenty of mystery, ghosts, horror and suspense from the talented author. -

Author Elizabeth Gaskell's first ever novel 'Mary Barton' was written as a means of distracting herself from her grief over the loss of her young son. Taking inspiration from Manchester, the industrial hub where Elizabeth Gaskell was living at the time, 'Mary Barton' paints a fascinating yet horrifying picture of working-class life in a Victorian city. Young Mary Barton and her trade unionist father are barely getting by, and all around them people are being exploited and abused by the wealthy. While her father pursues a political path to equality, Mary is torn between marrying for love, and marrying above her social situation in order to improve her family's fortunes. A ground-breaking novel for its' time, 'Mary Barton' put the plight of the working classes front and centre - revealing the shocking cycle of poverty, starvation and death which affected so much of the population. -

Young Margaret Dawson has been taken in by her distant cousin Lady Ludlow, the Mistress of Hanbury Court. Though charitable and kind to Margaret, Lady Ludlow holds strict views about the lower classes - insistent that they have no rights and fearful that their education will be her downfall. In a changing world though, Lady Ludlow faces opposition to her rigid beliefs from a rich cast of characters. 'My Lady Ludlow' was one of the Elizabeth Gaskell novels upon which the popular BBC TV adaptation of 'Cranford' was based.-

Miss Greatorex is invited to join a group of friends who meet weekly at Mrs Dawson's house. When Miss Greatorex asks to hear more about Mrs Dawson's cousin Lady Ludlow, the friends begin to swap stories, starting with 'My Lady Ludlow'. What follows is a collection of five short stories from the hugely popular Victorian author Elizabeth Gaskell, including works such as 'The Doom of the Griffiths' about a cursed family; a tale of selfless love in 'The Half-Brothers'; and 'The Poor Clare' in which the lonely Bridget Fitzgerald sets out to avenge the death of her only companion.-

French royalist Mr. Sabin is working to acquire valuable papers regarding English coastal defences for the German government. In return, he demands German conquest of France and the restoration of the French monarchy to Prince Henri and Mr. Sabin's own cousin, Helene of Bourbon. An international plot of intrigue, cunning, spies and subterfuge - in this thrilling tale from author E. Phillips Oppenheim. -

First published in 1912, 'Peter Ruff and the Double Four' by E. Phillips Oppenheim follows the story of country squire Peter Ruff as he is drawn into the criminal underworld. Named as successor of the mysterious 'Double Four' organisation, Peter has no choice but to throw himself into his new role. Full of spies, international espionage and mystery, this is a thrilling read from Oppenheim. -

First serialised in the Cornhill Magazine in 1860 before publication as a novel, 'Framley Parsonage' is the fourth in the 'Chronicles of Barsetshire' series of novels by Anthony Trollope. The young vicar of Framley Mark Robarts has big ambitions. These are soon preyed upon by a corrupt local politician, Nathaniel Sowerby, and Mark must face the consequences that his naive ambitions have brought upon himself and his young family. An evocative account of Victorian England, 'Framley Parsonage' explores family, convention and social status. -

When her great-aunt passed, Romilly was pleased to find that she had inherited a house in Cairo. To her surprise, Crighton Bey cautioned her about her new possessions. Romilly could get his warning, or his charming disposition, out of her mind. Should she be worried about his intentions, rather than her new fortune? The memorable love tale dating back to the 20th century is written by Pamela Kent, a pseudonym of the beloved romance writer Ida Pollock.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.-

Young Lizzie Leigh has fallen pregnant after moving to Manchester. Fearful of her father’s reaction and consumed by guilt, Lizzie deserts her family, believing her disappearance to be for the best. Determined to find her beloved daughter however, Lizzie’s mother desperately searches Manchester. Wracked with regret and shame - even if her family forgive her, will Lizzie ever be able to forgive herself? A short story about unconditional love, and a comment on the prevailing harsh views about ‘fallen women’ at the time, ‘Lizzie Leigh’ is a compassionate tale from popular Victorian author Elizabeth Gaskell.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.

A short essay by acclaimed Victorian writer Elizabeth Gaskell, ‘An Accursed Race’ is a study of the plight of the much-persecuted minority group the Cagots. In her essay, Gaskell explores the reasons behind their persecution in Europe, the commonly held superstitions surrounding them, and describes their ill-treatment in an effort to change the attitude towards this group.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.

First published in 1865, Anthony Trollope’s ‘Hunting Sketches’ is a series of eight short essays based around the topic of hunting. Each sketch examines a different aspect of the hunt – from those who partake in it and the differences between them, to advice and guidance on how to improve your own hunting techniques. A short, educational piece full of vivid descriptions, ‘Hunting Sketches’ offers a fascinating window into the custom as it was practised in the 19th century.Anthony Trollope (1815 – 1882) was a Victorian writer and author of 47 novels. He also wrote an autobiography, short stories and plays, travel articles, reviews and lectures. A prolific writer, he made no secret of the fact that money was his motivation for writing – an admission which raised eyebrows among his literary contemporaries at the time. The amount of works Trollope authored are testament to his belief in hard work. His first successful novel was The Warden followed by its sequel, Barchester Towers. The Chronicles of Barsetshire are perhaps his most well-known series of novels, though many of his works have been adapted for TV and radio, starring many familiar faces such as Alan Rickman, David Tennant, Bill Nighy and Tom Hollander. Alongside his literary career, Trollope also worked for some time for the Post Office and is credited with the introduction of the iconic post box to Britain. A memorial to Anthony Trollope was unveiled in Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey in 1993.

Originally published in 1906, ‘The Malefactor’ is one of E. Phillips Oppenheim’s earlier novels. Sir Wingrave Seton has been wrongfully imprisoned for manslaughter in order to defend the honour of a lady. The years inside have changed his nature however, and upon his release Sir Wingrave wishes only to plot his revenge. Fans of Alexandre Dumas’ ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’ will enjoy this similar tale of wrongful imprisonment, mystery, and vengeance.E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

First published in 1855 ‘Half a Lifetime Ago’ by much-loved author Elizabeth Gaskell recounts the events which have befallen the now pessimistic and solitary Susan Dixon, shaping her personality and outlook on life. Set against a bleak, rural backdrop, it is a tale of love and loss and of hope and disappointment as she looks back on the moments which have moulded her. A morose yet moving reflection on life.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.

No one seemed to know how exactly Philip Drew was. It appeared that he was in the village temporarily to assist the local doctor. Yet in the manor house Falaise, there is a portrait of the man who looks exactly like Philip, attracting Harriet’s interest. Who is this man, really, and how is he connected to Falaise? Wrapped in mystery and intrigue, the 20th-century tale written by one of the romance writer Ida Pollock’s pseudonyms, Pamela Kent, grips the reader to the core.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.Pamela Kent is a pseudonym of Ida Pollock (1908 – 2013), a highly successful British writer of over 125 romance novels translated into numerous languages and published across the world. Ida Pollock has sold millions of copies over her 90-year career.Pollock began writing when she was 10 years old. Ida has travelled widely, living in several different countries. She continues to be popular amongst both her devoted fan base and new readers alike. Pollock has been referred to as the "world's oldest novelist" who was still active at 105 and continued writing until her death.On the occasion of her 105th birthday, Pollock was appointed honorary vice-president of the Romantic Novelists' Association, having been one of its founding members.Ida Pollock wrote in a wide variety of pseudonyms: Joan M. Allen, Susan Barrie, Pamela Kent, Averil Ives, Anita Charles, Barbara Rowan, Jane Beaufort, Rose Burghley, Mary Whistler and Marguerite Bell.

Nothing boosts evocative narrative as well as narrow escapes. And Ann Radcliffe mastered it.In this early gothic horror novel, Radcliffe tells the story of the Mazzini household’s fall from grace through rugged and cavernous landscapes and the labyrinthine passages of Sicily’s castles and convents.When Julia, one of the daughters of Marquis Mazzini, falls in love with an Italian nobleman, her father disapproves of her choice and arranges for another marriage. Feeling suffocated, Julia tries to escape, but her father’s will and rage is not easily undone."A Sicilian Romance" (1790) explores how women’s desires were often at odds with the patriarchy and the all-powerful aristocracy at the end of the 16th century.A novel full of adventures, close calls, elopements, and forbidden love. "A Sicilian Romance" is an early gem in Radcliffe’s work.Ann Radcliffe (1764-1823) was a British fiction writer, best known for her pioneering role in the English gothic tradition. She married a journalist and in his long absences, she began to write. Her works exhibit a preference for exotic and sinister places, where her female protagonists often suffer supernatural occurrences. Her best known novels include "The Mysteries of Udolpho", "The Italian", and "A Sicilian Romance".

First published in 1863, ‘Aaron Trow’ follows the plight of convict Aaron, who has been sent to prison in Bermuda for the murder of a man during a strike in England. He escapes and breaks into the home of Anastasia Bergen who is home alone, demanding food, drink and money. When she refuses to give him money, a scuffle ensues which will have far-reaching and dramatic consequences. A departure from Anthony Trollope’s more usual subject matter, ‘Aaron Trow’ is nevertheless a gripping short story from the much-loved author.Anthony Trollope (1815 – 1882) was a Victorian writer and author of 47 novels. He also wrote an autobiography, short stories and plays, travel articles, reviews and lectures. A prolific writer, he made no secret of the fact that money was his motivation for writing – an admission which raised eyebrows among his literary contemporaries at the time. The amount of works Trollope authored are testament to his belief in hard work. His first successful novel was The Warden followed by its sequel, Barchester Towers. The Chronicles of Barsetshire are perhaps his most well-known series of novels, though many of his works have been adapted for TV and radio, starring many familiar faces such as Alan Rickman, David Tennant, Bill Nighy and Tom Hollander. Alongside his literary career, Trollope also worked for some time for the Post Office and is credited with the introduction of the iconic post box to Britain. A memorial to Anthony Trollope was unveiled in Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey in 1993.