Engelske bøger

Dr. Leon Daudet is a famous Parisian doctor specializing in the heart. One day he meets a young English girl, Valentine, who is spending only a few months in Paris. The doctor finds his own heart struck by deep feelings for her and wants to make this time count. The problem is, he is not the only one contending for her, and to make matters even more dramatic, Valentine's aunt has left her a hefty inheritance - but only on the condition that she marry within a year. Valentine has no such plans, but the men vying for her love might disagree. The story was written under one of Ida Pollock's pseudonyms, Susan Barrie, in the 20th century and offers a gripping love tale set in romantic Paris.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.-

"The Antiquary" is a book steeped in family secrets.One of Walter Scott’s "Waverley" novels, its plot revolves around a memorable odd couple: Lovel, a young man with a mysterious past, and Oldbuck, an eccentric collector of artifacts. The pair are headed to the Scottish town of Fairport, where Lovel hopes to woo the beautiful Isabella. Along the way they’ll fight duels and write epic poems, and by the end, Lovel’s true identity will be revealed.Ripe with melodrama and suspense, "The Antiquary" brings to mind the gothic drama of Bronte’s "Wuthering Heights". But it really shines in its vivid depiction of 18th century Scottish life.Sir Walter Scott (1771–1832) was a Scottish novelist, historian and poet. He became a key figure within Romanticism—an artistic movement that revered nature, emotion and spontaneity.A prolific author across genre and form, Scott pioneered historical fiction with novels like "Waverley", "Rob Roy" and "Ivanhoe". These books married exciting adventures with real events from Britain’s turbulent past. Among his best known poems are the epic "The Lady of the Lake".Scott’s works remain a touchstone of Scottish and European literature. They’ve also inspired numerous movies, including 1995’s "Rob Roy" starring Liam Neeson.

Published in 1916, ‘In the World’ is the second volume in Maxim Gorky’s autobiography. Gorky demonstrates how his views and opinions were shaped by his life and what he saw around him. After a tricky childhood, life did not get much easier for Gorky, and alcoholism, gambling, and his shattered dreams all feature, as well as shocking descriptions of the terrible working conditions he noted all around him. Full of agony and tragedy, ‘In the World’ provides valuable insight into the mind and workings of Gorky – a key figure in Russian literary history.Maxim Gorky (1868-1936) was a Russian author, playwright, and political activist. Orphaned at the age of eleven, Gorky ran away from home and survived by taking on a variety of menial jobs whilst travelling around Russia – experiences which would influence his writing in later life. He often worked as a journalist for local newspapers and his first short story ‘Makar Chudra’ was published in a newspaper in 1892. His first book, ‘Essays and Stories’ was published in 1898 and was an immediate success, allowing Gorky to concentrate fully on his writing. His focus was on those struggling and outcast from society and he was dedicated to portraying their worth and humanity – viewing his literary work as a moral obligation and a political act. He became associated with the Marxist movement and was critical of the Tsarist regime, resulting in his numerous arrests, imprisonments, and periods of exile. Some of his best-known works include ‘The Lower Depths’, ‘My Childhood’, ‘Mother’, and ‘Children of the Sun’. He was a five-time Nobel Prize nominee for his services to literature.

Originally published in 1913, ‘My Childhood’ is the first volume of Maxim Gorky’s autobiography. Orphaned at an early age, Gorky was brought up in his grandparents’ strict household and he ran away at the age of just twelve. His life on the road, undertaking menial jobs in order to survive would have a huge influence on his literary career and worldview. His impoverished and bleak beginnings helped him to better understand and sympathise with the plight of those on the outskirts of society. A powerful novel, with beautiful descriptions of the Russian landscape, and lots of touching moments - this is a fascinating insight into the Russian author.Maxim Gorky (1868-1936) was a Russian author, playwright, and political activist. Orphaned at the age of eleven, Gorky ran away from home and survived by taking on a variety of menial jobs whilst travelling around Russia – experiences which would influence his writing in later life. He often worked as a journalist for local newspapers and his first short story ‘Makar Chudra’ was published in a newspaper in 1892. His first book, ‘Essays and Stories’ was published in 1898 and was an immediate success, allowing Gorky to concentrate fully on his writing. His focus was on those struggling and outcast from society and he was dedicated to portraying their worth and humanity – viewing his literary work as a moral obligation and a political act. He became associated with the Marxist movement and was critical of the Tsarist regime, resulting in his numerous arrests, imprisonments, and periods of exile. Some of his best-known works include ‘The Lower Depths’, ‘My Childhood’, ‘Mother’, and ‘Children of the Sun’. He was a five-time Nobel Prize nominee for his services to literature.

When Karen was travelling on the night train to Edinburgh only half-recovered from pneumonia, she was lucky to have Iain Mackenzie swoop in. Taking her to his home in the Highlands, Craigie House, he cared for her and eventually asked her to marry him. Karen couldn’t quite believe that Iain truly wanted her, and the appearance of his stunning former love, Fiona Barrington, did not exactly help put her mind at ease... The memorable 20th-century love tale set in romantic Scotland was written by Susan Barrie, a pseudonym of the English romance writer Ida Pollock.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.Susan Barrie 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.

‘The Struggles of Brown, Jones and Robinson’ is a satirical tale from Victorian author Anthony Trollope about a failing haberdashery firm. One of the partners, Mr Robinson, is our narrator. We follow the story as he spends beyond the company’s means on advertising, leading the company into ruin. There is romance and comedy along the way in this sardonic tale, which was a departure from Trollope’s usual writing style.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 American Senator" by Anthony Trollope contains one of his most memorable character creations in Arabella Trefoil, whose determination to find a wealthy husband at any cost lies at the heart of this story. The Senator of the title, Elias Gotobed, is attempting to learn more about England and the English, and through his eyes Trollope is able to parody many aspects of English life and customs. Themes of romance, ambition, marriage, as well as a host of humorous characters - "The American Senator" contains all of the key ingredients which make up a Trollope tale.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.

First published in 1923 ‘Through Russia’ is a collection of short stories by the well-known Russian author, Maxim Gorky. The collection includes ‘The Birth of a Man’, ‘Nilushka’, and ‘The Dead Man’. With some of the stories written during the turbulent period of the Russian Revolution, the tales in this collection frequently deal with the social issues of the time. The focus is on the struggles of everyday, ordinary people, portraying them in a sympathetic and compassionate way. A great introduction to the work of Maxim Gorky, and a fascinating snapshot of a changing early twentieth century Russia.Maxim Gorky (1868-1936) was a Russian author, playwright, and political activist. Orphaned at the age of eleven, Gorky ran away from home and survived by taking on a variety of menial jobs whilst travelling around Russia – experiences which would influence his writing in later life. He often worked as a journalist for local newspapers and his first short story ‘Makar Chudra’ was published in a newspaper in 1892. His first book, ‘Essays and Stories’ was published in 1898 and was an immediate success, allowing Gorky to concentrate fully on his writing. His focus was on those struggling and outcast from society and he was dedicated to portraying their worth and humanity – viewing his literary work as a moral obligation and a political act. He became associated with the Marxist movement and was critical of the Tsarist regime, resulting in his numerous arrests, imprisonments, and periods of exile. Some of his best-known works include ‘The Lower Depths’, ‘My Childhood’, ‘Mother’, and ‘Children of the Sun’. He was a five-time Nobel Prize nominee for his services to literature.

‘The Small House at Allington’ is the fifth in Anthony Trollope’s ‘Chronicles of Barsetshire’ series of novels. The plot centres around the romantic fortunes of young sisters Lily and Bell Dale, who live with their widowed mother in the Small House at Allington thanks to the generosity of their uncle, Squire Dale. Packed with tangled romances and moral dilemmas, this is classic Trollope. In ‘The Small House at Allington’ we are also introduced to some of the most popular recurring Trollope characters, including Lady Glencora and Plantagenet Palliser.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.

Pessimistic young Foma Gordyeff has inherited his father’s shipping business and soon finds himself spiralling out of control – squandering his fortune and indulging his every whim. When he meets Sasha it seems as though his life is about to change for the better, but will Sasha be the salvation that Foma so desperately needs? A compelling story from famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky, ‘The Man Who Was Afraid’ is a powerful tale about social injustice. A contemporary of Tolstoy and Chekhov, this is an essential read for fans of Russian literature.Maxim Gorky (1868-1936) was a Russian author, playwright, and political activist. Orphaned at the age of eleven, Gorky ran away from home and survived by taking on a variety of menial jobs whilst travelling around Russia – experiences which would influence his writing in later life. He often worked as a journalist for local newspapers and his first short story ‘Makar Chudra’ was published in a newspaper in 1892. His first book, ‘Essays and Stories’ was published in 1898 and was an immediate success, allowing Gorky to concentrate fully on his writing. His focus was on those struggling and outcast from society and he was dedicated to portraying their worth and humanity – viewing his literary work as a moral obligation and a political act. He became associated with the Marxist movement and was critical of the Tsarist regime, resulting in his numerous arrests, imprisonments, and periods of exile. Some of his best-known works include ‘The Lower Depths’, ‘My Childhood’, ‘Mother’, and ‘Children of the Sun’. He was a five-time Nobel Prize nominee for his services to literature.

First published in 1896, ‘The World’s Great Snare’ is one of E. Phillips Oppenheim’s earlier novels. Set in a California gold mining camp, Englishman Bryan Bryan is tracking down a mysterious man named Huntley who holds key information about Bryan’s past. Bryan encounters the beautiful Myra Mercier, who is fleeing a life of prostitution, and decides to join Bryan in his quest. Murder and vengeance follow, before Bryan escapes back to Britain. He cannot escape what transpired in California however, and the events of that time will return to haunt him.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’.

Our protagonist the young George Bertram meets and befriends the vicar’s son Arthur Wilkinson whilst studying at Oxford, and begins to wonder if he too has a vocation in the Church. Though strongly dissuaded by his wealthy merchant uncle, George takes a trip to the Holy Land to investigate his yearnings, triggering a series of romantic events. Unusual for an Anthony Trollope novel due to its many international locations, ‘The Bertrams’ is in all other ways a classic Trollope blend of romance, humour and religion.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.

First published in 1900, ‘Three Men’ is a novel by famous Russian author Maxim Gorky. The story follows the fortunes of Ilya, a poor boy from the slums who finds himself catapulted into middle-class society in contrast to the friends and family he has left behind. He soon discovers, however, that wealth does not necessarily buy you security or happiness. A touching, melancholic novel which shockingly depicts the harsh reality of the working class at the time. A contemporary of Tolstoy and Chekhov, Gorky’s work is essential reading for all fans of Russian literature.Maxim Gorky (1868-1936) was a Russian author, playwright, and political activist. Orphaned at the age of eleven, Gorky ran away from home and survived by taking on a variety of menial jobs whilst travelling around Russia – experiences which would influence his writing in later life. He often worked as a journalist for local newspapers and his first short story ‘Makar Chudra’ was published in a newspaper in 1892. His first book, ‘Essays and Stories’ was published in 1898 and was an immediate success, allowing Gorky to concentrate fully on his writing. His focus was on those struggling and outcast from society and he was dedicated to portraying their worth and humanity – viewing his literary work as a moral obligation and a political act. He became associated with the Marxist movement and was critical of the Tsarist regime, resulting in his numerous arrests, imprisonments, and periods of exile. Some of his best-known works include ‘The Lower Depths’, ‘My Childhood’, ‘Mother’, and ‘Children of the Sun’. He was a five-time Nobel Prize nominee for his services to literature.

A thought-provoking novel by E. Phillips Oppenheim, ‘A Prince of Sinners’ is set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing Britain. Unemployment and poverty are rampant, and the book explores whether one person’s charity and philanthropy can really make a difference. Elements of romance and forgiveness also feature, combining to make this a fascinating and provocative tale from the popular author.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 1903, ‘The Yellow Crayon’ is the sequel to E. Phillips Oppenheim’s earlier novel, ‘Mysterious Mr Sabin’. French royalist Mr Sabin is on the hunt for his missing wife Lucille, who has unwittingly got mixed up with the dangerous Yellow Crayon group. Mr Sabin must find and save his wife before it is too late. A gripping tale of love, danger, and intrigue.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’.

In this 1867 classic from Anthony Trollope, we follow the predicaments of Harry Clavering as he tries to find his path in both love and work. Jilted by his first love Julia Brabazon for another man several years previously, Harry finds himself once again caught in a love triangle when Julia returns following her husband’s death only to find that Harry has by now pledged himself to another. What follows is a true Trollopian tale of romance, humour and numerous moral dilemmas. The novel provides a fascinating insight into mid-Victorian society and contrasts the ambitions of the genders of the time; while Harry must settle on both a career and a wife, marriage is the only aspect of their futures over which the novels’ female characters have any control.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.

In Restoration England, two young lovers must battle against a wild conspiracy. Julian and Alice's love has survived a lot. For one thing, their families supported different sides in the English Civil War. But now the monarchy has been restored, bringing with it a terrifying new danger-the Popish Plot, which alleges the country's Catholics are planning a coup. And Julian is one of the accused. Walter Scott's "e;Peveril of the Peak"e; shows an England riven with intrigues, religious hatred, and senseless violence. And at its center, a heart-wrenching 'wrong side of the tracks' romance that echoes "e;Romeo and Juliet"e;. A compelling drama for historical fiction fans. -

Witchcraft and revolution collide in Walter Scott's thrilling "e;Woodstock"e;.King Charles I has been beheaded, and the English Civil War is finally over. His son, Charles Stuart, must flee for his life. He disguises himself as a lowly servant and hides out at a hunting lodge. But not only is this lodge now in the hands of Oliver Cromwell's forces, it's also plagued by supernatural happenings. Alongside these strange events, Charles finds himself involved in a love triangle. In "e;Woodstock"e;, Scott blends real events and legends of the time. It makes for a richly imagined alternative history-and one that will keep you gripped until the final page. -

A biographical book, Harriet Beecher Stowe's 'Our Charley and What to do With Him' is based on her own brother Charles Edward Beecher - a wild, tempestuous child, and the youngest son in the family. Told as a series of individual stories about Charley, we learn that despite his mischief-making and the trouble he gives to his parents, Charley is a much loved and important member of the family. A fascinating insight into the early life of the Beecher family.-

In this magnificent historical adventure, William Shakespeare presents a story on the rise to power and subsequent short reign of King Richard III of England. Malicious, power-hungry, and bitter, Richard aspires to the throne. The trail of cold-blooded murder starts in the midst of deception and political manipulation, but will Richard be able to stay in control in his ruthless strategies for ultimate power? This historical fiction set in England truly display the power of language, as for Richard, it is a vital weapon he uses to manipulate, confuse, and control those around him."e;Richard III"e; stages an important turning point in English history: the end of the Wars of the Roses and the rise to power of the Tudor dynasty in the figure of Henry VII.For fans of 'House of Cards' & 'Designated Survivor'. -

Does Romeo and Juliet really need an introduction? Of all William Shakespeare's plays, this might be the best known to date. Lamentable tragedies, star-crossed lovers and feuding families: if you somehow haven't managed to read the all-time romantic tragedy classic, this is your sign to do so.In the midst of a violence and disputes, two young lovers find each other in a world that continuously contradict their attempt to attain eternal love and happiness. The age-old vendetta between the Montagues and the Capulets erupts into bloodshed. Romeo is a Montague, Juliet a Capulet, will their love be strong enough to stand their families quarrel?For fans of Andre Aciman, John Green and Nicholas Sparks. -

Ferdinand, the King of Navarre, and his three noble companions, the Lords Berowne, Dumaine and Longaville, make a pact. For the next three years, they will focus on their studies while giving up wine, partying and the company of women. To make sure nobody is tempted to stray, Ferdinand bans women from his court. But, as they say, the best-laid plans don't always work out as intended. Soon after, a French princess and her ladies arrive in Navarre on a state visit. They are forced to set up their camp outside the court, as per Ferdinand's decree. So, the king and his men now have to visit the camp where they fall for the princess and her lovely ladies. As the gentlemen are hopelessly trying to disguise their feelings for the women, romantic havoc ensues. -

For his first novel, Zane Grey looked back at the extraordinary life of his ancestor Betty Zane-a heroine of the American Revolutionary War. Betty Zane lived her life on the frontier. Her family founded the settlement of Wheeler in West Virginia, which came under attack from British and Native American forces in 1782. With gunpowder running low, all hope looked lost. What happened next would secure Betty's place in the history books. An easy and pacy read, "e;Betty Zane"e; is a great portrait of the early pioneer days. And Betty makes for a spirited main character. If the "e;Outlander"e; books have peaked your interest in the American Revolution, give this novel a shot. -

First published in 1866, 'Little Foxes' is a form of self-help book by renowned author Harriet Beecher Stowe. Organised into seven different sections including 'Irritability', 'Self-Will' and 'Intolerance', a wealth of advice is given as to how to oppose and avoid negative and self-destructive habits, thereby attaining a happy and peaceful existence within the family home. An intriguing insight into 19th century attitudes towards self-help and personal growth. -

Peta is 19 years old and what you would call a free spirit, taking after her upbringing. When she is orphaned, she is placed in the care of her stepfather's younger brother. Not happy with this change of events and her carefree manner, the "e;uncle"e; is disapproving and the two are off to a rough start. Yet living together eventually leads to new types of emotions as things between this man and the pretty wild girl heat up. The love story dating back to the 20th century was written under Susan Barrie, a pseudonym of the master of romance, Ida Pollock.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.-

Fairies, magic and creatures from another dimension, "A Midsummer Night’s Dream" got it all! If you ever saw and loved "Get Over It" with Kirsten Dunst, this one is for you! This play is an indulgence both in the theatre and on the page as one of William Shakespeare’s sprightliest works.Set in Ancient Greece, the wood at night disrupts the boundaries between three distinct groups, and no mortal is in control. The beautiful Hermia is in a pickle. Her father has forbidden her to marry her true love, Lysander, wanting her to marry Demetrius, in whom she has no interest. The love triangle develops as it is revealed Hermia’s best friend Helena is in love with Demetrius.Including broken hearts, mistaken identities and supernatural transformations, this play reflects the drama of the things we would do for love and the irrational behavior of the people under its spell.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.

Meet Antonio, an antisemitic merchant who treats his own flesh as property to secure a loan. Throughout the play, tangible objects symbolize immaterial ideas about love and loyalty, and the plot is crafted with existential lines throughout the story. This play is made on the contrast between realistic and idealistic beliefs of society and relationships. In its simplicity, this play captures the bewilderment inseparable to human life, yet the purpose of making the Merchant of Venice is still the biggest unknown till date. Nevertheless, it contains beautifully depicted love scenes, magnificent monologues and as always with Shakespeare’s, unique portrayal of diversity.If books like "Shylock Is My Name" or "The Weird Sisters" are on your must-read list, "The Merchant of Venice" should be next in line! This bestseller play is William Shakespeare’s reading of religious difference and it remains provocative, even today.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.

First published in 1872, Harriet Beecher Stowe’s ‘The Lives and Deeds of our Self-Made Men’ is a collection of sketches and biographies which focuses on well-known American figures who went on to become leaders, generals, and even Presidents. Famous names in the collection include Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant, the editor Horace Greely and the lawyer and politician Edwin Stanton. Stowe stresses the importance of their Christian upbringings and the role that the land and American traditions have played in shaping these men, enabling them to reach their full potential. A fascinating insight into the lives of these American leaders from the famous writer and abolitionist.Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) was an American author of novels, articles and memoirs, and was an ardent abolitionist. Stowe was born in Connecticut to a religious family. Her father was a Calvinist preacher and her mother died when she was just five years old. She received a traditional academic education – a rarity for girls at the time – and at the age of twenty-one she moved to Cincinnati, Ohio. A major trading location, it was here that Stowe encountered people who had escaped slavery, and hearing their experiences would greatly influence her life and work. She married in 1850 and moved to Maine, where both she and her husband remained vocal critics of slavery, and actively supported the Underground Railroad. Her most famous novel ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ was serialised and then published in 1852. It caught the attention of the American nation with its passionate opposition and emotional portrayal of the effects of slavery. She died in Connecticut in 1896 at the age of 85.

On a distant island, Prospero waits.The noise of thunder, flashes of lightning and a swelling sea, this tempest sets the stage for William Shakespeare’s most enigmatic play. As we meet characters and creatures set in a world far from our own, we still encounter universal themes of freedom, power and control.After years of planning, Prospero finally seizes the opportunity for vengeance as his feud’s ship is destroyed and the waves wash its sailors ashore. Even his own daughter Miranda is plotted in Prospero’s revenge scheme, leaving the reader wondering if his vicious plan will ever end. Not only is this play clearly concerned with its own nature as a play, but it is also Shakespeare's farewell to the stage. Do not let the opportunity to discover this monument in Western literature pass you by!For fans of Margaret Atwood and Lois Lowry.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.

Ever wondered how to combat the deep-seated urge to do wrong? Maybe Edgar Allen Poe can help.In "The Imp of the Perverse" (1845) Poe sets out to explain the Imp – the archetype responsible for persuading us to do what we know in our minds we shouldn’t. Poe, supposedly distraught with his own self-destructive impulses, lets the story take place primarily in the narrator’s mind as he frets the day he will have to come clean.At the heart of this short story is the question of how far we can justify our wrongdoings. It explores our self-destructive impulses and urges, the abandonment of reason and our inherent wickedness.Join Poe as he takes the reader from the sunny valleys of reason to the darkest regions of the human soul. A descent into madness.Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849) was an American poet, author, and literary critic. Most famous for his poetry, short stories, and tales of the supernatural, mysterious, and macabre, he is also regarded as the inventor of the detective genre and a contributor to the emergence of science fiction, dark romanticism, and weird fiction. His most famous works include "The Raven" (1945), "The Black Cat" (1943), and "The Gold-Bug" (1843).