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An authentic description of an expedition across the heart of the Rocky Mountains that turned out to be an elaborate hoax."The Journal of Julius Rodman" is Edgar Allen Poe’s second attempt at producing a lengthier work and until recently even hardcore fans have missed out on this adventurous gem.It tells the story of the first expedition over the Rocky Mountains conducted by "civilized man" and is packed with wild and vivid nature descriptions, encounters with Native American tribes and supreme emotions bringing Leonardo DiCaprio’s "The Revenant" to mind.Intended as a serialized novel, it was published anonymously in six instalments in Burton’s Gentleman Magazine in 1839-40 while Poe was working as a contributing editor. This novel, though unfinished, is extremely enjoyable and even prominent Senators initially believed the expedition to be a true story. A must-read for bona fide Poe fans.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).

In a decrepit, Scottish castle overlooking the sea, Edgar Ravenswood dreams of revenge.Years ago, his father’s rival conspired to strip the Ravenswoods of their fortune. But fate is about to play a cruel trick. After a chance encounter, Edgar falls for the beautiful Lucy. Her father is the very man behind his downfall. Can love heal the wounds of the past, or is the romance doomed from the start?Moody and gothic, "The Bride of Lammemoor" is set amidst the upheaval caused by the 1707 Act of Union. But Scott also lightens the atmosphere with satirical depictions of Scottish stereotypes. A great read for fans of the Brontes or Daphne Du Maurier.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.

The Ohio Frontier of the late 1700s. It’s where two worlds met; native Americans to the west, white settlers to the east.Into this unpredictable region come brothers Jim and Joe Downs. One of them aims to spread the word of God, the other has his heart set on violence. "The Spirit of the Border" traces their two journeys, which take in missionaries, kidnappers and militias. The story builds to one of the period’s most shameful events.Based on the experiences of his own ancestors, Zane Grey’s novel is a propulsive and stark portrait of the Western Expansion. It’s the second part of his "Ohio River Trilogy", which begins with "Betty Zane" and ends with "The Last Trail".Zane Grey (1872–1939) helped shaped the mythos of the Old West. Born in Zanesville, Ohio (a town founded by his grandfather), Grey’s first career was as a dentist. But he gave it up to pursue writing, going on to produce nearly 100 books. These wildly popular adventures defined many of the Western’s most enduring tropes and characters, from noble lawmen to mysterious gunslingers, and made Grey a household name.His stories include "Riders of the Purple Sage", "The Rainbow Trail" and "The Lone Star Ranger". Hollywood produced dozens of Zane Grey adaptations, mostly during the 1930s and 40s, starring Western icons like Gary Cooper and Randolph Scott.

The US frontier was a lawless place. Self-appointed ‘border-men’ helped keep the peace. Battle-scarred and solitary, they tended to shoot first and ask questions later.One such man is Lewis Wetzel. He’s resigned himself to his grim lifestyle until the beautiful Helen catches his eye. For the first time, Lewis imagines himself settling down. But then Helen is kidnapped by a band of Native American warriors. So Lewis saddles up and heads out on a rescue mission, knowing the chances he’ll make it back alive are slim at best.The final book in "Ohio River Trilogy", "The Last Trail" is set in the final years of the 18th century. An exciting Western adventure with dashes of romance, it never shies away from the harsh realities of pioneer life.Zane Grey (1872–1939) helped shaped the mythos of the Old West. Born in Zanesville, Ohio (a town founded by his grandfather), Grey’s first career was as a dentist. But he gave it up to pursue writing, going on to produce nearly 100 books. These wildly popular adventures defined many of the Western’s most enduring tropes and characters, from noble lawmen to mysterious gunslingers, and made Grey a household name.His stories include "Riders of the Purple Sage", "The Rainbow Trail" and "The Lone Star Ranger". Hollywood produced dozens of Zane Grey adaptations, mostly during the 1930s and 40s, starring Western icons like Gary Cooper and Randolph Scott.

Scottish lord Nigel Olifaunt is more than a little naive. So when he arrives in London, he’s soon sucked into the chaos of the big city. Pinballing between a lively cast of petty criminals, Templers, and loan sharks, Nigel has to keep his eyes on the ultimate prize: an audience with King James I.Set in the period following the Union of the Crowns, "The Fortunes of Nigel" takes us into the heart of 17th century London—a sometimes lawless metropolis brimming with possibility. It’s an intricate tale that transports you back in time. And its many larger-than-life characters are catnip for fans of Dickens.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.

Against the backdrop of the Porteous Riots, one woman must give everything to save her sister.It’s 1763, and there’s pandemonium on the streets of Edinburgh. Innocent protesters have been gunned down, and an angry mob is baying for the blood.Jeanie Deans is hoping for another form of justice. Her sister, Effie, has been wrongly sentenced to death. And the one thing that can save her is a royal pardon. So Jeanie sets out an epic journey to London to plead Effie’s case to the queen.A classic work of historical fiction, "The Heart of Midlothian" is an incisive commentary on the malleable nature of justice. And at its center is one of literature’s most appealing and courageous heroines.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.

When WW1 soldier Darren Lane returns home, he’s shocked by what he finds. Underage drinking, jazz music, gambling; all signs that the Roaring Twenties are just around the corner. But where some see liberation, Darren sees only a dangerous moral decline. And he want to put a stop to it. Fuelled by the pain of his war experiences, Darren’s righteous cause mutates into violent vigilantism.Zane Grey is best known for his Westerns, but with "The Day of the Beast" he creates an insightful portrait of post-war depression and illness. Reading like a precursor to "Taxi Driver", it holds a unique place in his bibliography. A novel well worth exploring for any Grey fans.Zane Grey (1872–1939) helped shaped the mythos of the Old West. Born in Zanesville, Ohio (a town founded by his grandfather), Grey’s first career was as a dentist. But he gave it up to pursue writing, going on to produce nearly 100 books. These wildly popular adventures defined many of the Western’s most enduring tropes and characters, from noble lawmen to mysterious gunslingers, and made Grey a household name.His stories include "Riders of the Purple Sage", "The Rainbow Trail" and "The Lone Star Ranger". Hollywood produced dozens of Zane Grey adaptations, mostly during the 1930s and 40s, starring Western icons like Gary Cooper and Randolph Scott.

Joan Randle is riding the Idaho trail when she’s taken hostage by a bandit gang. Their leader is the ruthless Jack Kells. And Joan’s situation is about to go from bad to worse. For one thing, Jack Kells fall for her. And secondly, the promise of gold is turning the gang’s camp into a ticking time bomb of tensions and resentment. Can Joan escape before it’s too late?"The Border Legion" is a winning Gold Rush adventure, set across Idaho’s majestic mountain ranges and its precarious border towns. There’s shootouts and romance a-plenty. And, more unusually for the Western genre, the story is told entirely from a woman's perspective.Zane Grey (1872–1939) helped shaped the mythos of the Old West. Born in Zanesville, Ohio (a town founded by his grandfather), Grey’s first career was as a dentist. But he gave it up to pursue writing, going on to produce nearly 100 books. These wildly popular adventures defined many of the Western’s most enduring tropes and characters, from noble lawmen to mysterious gunslingers, and made Grey a household name.His stories include "Riders of the Purple Sage", "The Rainbow Trail" and "The Lone Star Ranger". Hollywood produced dozens of Zane Grey adaptations, mostly during the 1930s and 40s, starring Western icons like Gary Cooper and Randolph Scott.

Immature and reckless the two best friends, Proteus and Valentine, are sent to the court in Milan by their families to do some growing up. Here they both fall for the duke’s daughter, Silvia. Only there is the small issue of Silvia falling in love with Valentine and Proteus’ girlfriend, Julia, who is waiting at home.Loyalties and friendships are tested when Proteus, jealous of Valentine and Silvia’s plan to elope, betrays him to the duke. Meanwhile, more drama awaits, as Julia disguises herself as a boy and sets for Milan.For fans of Jenny Han, Jane Austen and E. Lockhart.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.

Stacey is married to Dr. Martin Guelder knowing that he has taken her under his wing as, practically, his housekeeper. A perfectly simple arrangement – or is it? She discovers that she has stronger feelings for him than she should. Should Stacey follow her feelings for him, or accept her place? The romantic novel from 20th century written under a pseudonym of Ida Pollock, Susan Barrie, is a gripping tale of difficult, yet romantic fates.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.

One of Anthony Trollope's later tales, 'Is He Popenjoy?' is a comic novel which deals with themes of inheritance and illegitimacy. The novel centres around the contested inheritance of Manor Cross, a large family estate. Having spent time abroad, the Marquis of Manor Cross returns to England with his new Italian wife and son, Lord Popenjoy, but soon reveals himself to be a tyrannical character. His brother Lord George Germain must vacate the property for his brother the Marquis, but questions soon arise as to the legitimacy of his marriage and heir. This Trollope tale is full of twists and turns, scheming and jealousy. Fans of the book may also enjoy Trollope's earlier novel 'He Knew He Was Right'. -

Allegedly a favourite among his own works, Anthony Trollope's 'Orley Farm' centres around a contested and mysterious will, in which the late Sir Joseph Mason left Orley Farm to Lucius Mason, the son of his younger second wife, Lady Mason. Years later an aggrieved tenant decides to investigate the veracity of the will and persuades Joseph Mason's oldest son to contest the contents of it. Secrets surround the legitimacy of the will, and morals and conscience are called into question in this compelling Trollope epic. It was adapted into radio drama for BBC Radio 4 Extra in 2008, starring Ronald Pickup, Samantha Bond and Dan Stevens.-

First published in 1862, 'Fathers and Sons' is perhaps the most famous novel by renowned Russian author Ivan Turgenev. Turgenev had become increasingly aware of the widening schism at the time between liberals and the growing nihilist movement, which became his focus for this story. The tale follows the return of University students Bazarov and Kirsanov to their small village home, where they find their newly acquired worldviews coming into direct conflict with the beliefs of the previous generation. Both nostalgic and critical in tone, this timeless novel caused a stir upon its publication, and remains an acclaimed classic of Russian 19th century literature.-

With a subtitle like "e;A Tale of the Great Dismal Swamp"e; you would be forgiven for thinking that this book is an antidote to joy, and when on top of that, you discover that Dred is not in fact Dredd - as in Judge Dredd, futuristic cop played by Sylvester Stallone in the 1995 movie of the same name - vigor and optimism might leave your body entirely. But fear not, somebody left the Stowe on after "e;Uncle Tom's Cabin"e; and Harriet is back with a vengeance. The Great Dismal Swamp was a swamp in Virginia inhabited by thousands of escaped slaves for about 150 years in 18th and 19th century, one of whom is the titular character, Dred, an outspoken revolutionary. The story, however, is Nina Gordon's - the heiress of a failing plantation, her idealistic, liberal husband and their humane relationship with their slaves. In some circles touted as superior to "e;Uncle Tom's Cabin"e;, "e;Dred"e; is a slow-burning drama full of engaging characters sprinkled with the writer's abolitionist viewpoints. A solid pick if you had preferred Uncle Tom to have been more of a Malcolm X.-

"e;Memoirs of a Cavalier"e; is a literary sleight of hand. Written in the style of an eyewitness account, it's actually a work of fiction-a trick Defoe would repeat in his later book "e;A Journal of a Plague Year"e;. Originally published anonymously, many readers of the time were fooled into thinking it was real. The book's unnamed protagonist is an English gentleman with a lust for adventure. He details his experiences on battlefields across Europe, as a soldier in both the Thirty Years' War and the English Civil War. With its vivid scenes of warfare, "e;Memoirs of a Cavalier"e; truly makes history come alive. -

'On the Eve' was the third novel by acclaimed Russian author Ivan Turgenev. It follows the lives of idealistic and free-spirited aristocrat Elena Stakhova and the hot-blooded Bulgarian revolutionary Dmitri Insarov. Much to her parents dismay the pair fall deeply in love, but theirs is a doomed love and there is heartbreak on the horizon for the couple. A tragic yet hopeful tale, 'On the Eve' is also a poignant study of Russia's social class system. A must-read for all fans of Russian literature. -

First published in 1916 ‘The Little Angel and Other Stories’ is a collection of short stories from the famous Russian author Leonid Andreyev. Stories in the collection include a touching and tragic story about an abandoned dog in ‘Snapper’, a creepy identity crisis in ‘The Spy’, and the nightmarish ‘Laughter’, in which a young man is embarrassed and ridiculed. A collection of often dark, pessimistic and doom-laden tales, this is a fantastic introduction to the Russian author.Leonid Andreyev (1871-1919) was a Russian playwright, novelist, and short-story writer. Born in the city of Oryol, Andreyev studied law in Moscow and St Petersburg. He went on to become a police court-reporter but continued to write poetry in his spare time. His first short story was published in 1898, and Andreyev’s literary fame quickly grew after the 1901 publication of his first short story collection. Widely regarded as the father of Russian expressionism, Andreyev’s works are often haunting, dark, pessimistic, and controversial. His body of work includes two novels, five novellas and a number of short stories and plays. The most well-known of them include the story ‘The Seven Who Were Hanged’, ghost story, ‘Lazarus’, the play ‘Tsar Hunger’, and his novel ‘Sashka Zhegulev’. He died in Finland in 1919.

One of E. Phillips Oppenheim’s earlier novels, ‘A Monk of Cruta’ follows the story of wealthy Englishman Paul de Vaux, witness to a murder on the Mediterranean island of Cruta. He finds himself caught up in a love triangle between his former ward, Adrea Kiros, daughter of the murdered man, and the sweet and simple Lady May. A gothic romance, this is a tale of love and tragedy, religion and revenge.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 1905, ‘Mother Goose in Prose’ was the first children’s book written by author L. Frank Baum, best known for his later series of stories set in the imaginary land of Oz. Featuring an introduction from the author, ‘Mother Goose in Prose’ is a book which explores the history of the famous nursery rhymes, using them as the inspiration for this fascinating collection of 22 short stories. A delightful compilation for readers of all ages.Lyman Frank Baum (1856 – 1919) was a prolific and well-known American writer. He is best known for his famous series of modern fairy tales set in the imaginary land of Oz. The first of the books, ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ is widely considered to be the first true American fairy tale and was the basis for the hugely popular 1939 classic musical ‘The Wizard of Oz’ starring Judy Garland. Born and raised in New York, Baum held a range of jobs including as a poultry farmer, clerk, and storekeeper before pursuing his talent for writing at the age of 41. He wrote 14 novels in the Oz series, as well as over 40 other novels and over 80 short stories. He died in California in 1919.

First published in 1863, this is an engaging short story from Anthony Trollope. Set against the backdrop of the Christmas holidays, the self-castigating young Elizabeth Garrow has broken off her engagement to banker Godfrey Holmes, believing the path to their love has been too smooth. Will the warmth of the festive season be enough to reunite the pair?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 Way We Live Now’ is perhaps the most famous of all Anthony Trollope’s novels, and widely considered his masterpiece. A 19th century classic, it follows the tale of the mysterious Augustus Melmotte – a foreign financier who sets himself up in London with his wife and daughter Marie, and soon gains something of a reputation. Trollope wrote the novel on his return to the UK following an extended trip abroad, and was greatly influenced by his shock at the dishonesty and immorality of the financial scandals of the early 1870s that he returned to. The novel has been much adapted for TV and radio, most recently in 2001 as a BBC mini-series starring David Suchet, Matthew Macfadyen and Cillian Murphy.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.

‘Lord have mercy upon us’. If these words were painted on your door, it could only mean one thing—you were one of the infected.In the years 1665 and 1666, the bubonic plague ravaged London. Bodies piled up on the streets, families quarantined themselves indoors. 100,000 people would perish, a quarter of the city’s population.In "A Journal of the Plague Year", Daniel Defoe offer a fictionalised account of the pandemic, seen through the eyes of a God-fearing, upper-class Londoner. Gruesome and vivid in its details, it makes for a terrifyingly relevant read for modern audiences.English writer Daniel Defoe (c. 1660–1731) led an extraordinary life. As a child, he survived both the Great Fire of London and a major outbreak of the bubonic plague. As an adult, he enjoyed careers as a merchant, political satirist, rebel soldier and even a spy.Defoe was in his fifties before he finally turned his hand to fiction. "Robinson Crusoe", his first novel, was an instant bestseller. The story of a shipwrecked sailor, its style and structure made it a landmark text in the history of English literature. His other notable works include "Moll Flanders", "A Journal of the Plague Year" and "Captain Singleton".

Young Guy Poynton finds himself caught up in a mystery after witnessing a clandestine political meeting on the German-Russia border. A few weeks later, Guy disappears from a nightclub in Paris. Despite imploring officials to help look for him, his sister Phyllis finds the police and consul officials are indifferent to his vanishing. Did Guy see too much? A thrilling mystery from author E. Phillips Oppenheim, ‘A Maker of History’ is packed full of twists and turns, spies 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’.

How do you handle a basket case at 7000 metres height?That is the question an accomplished and esteemed aeronaut is forced to ask himself in 1850 after his hot air balloon is hijacked by a young, idealistic admirer in the skies above Frankfurt, Germany.A fellow countryman well-versed in aeronautical science and its history, the newcomer's abrupt arrival is soon forgotten, although his companion's soaring aspirations and numerous tales of historical balloon expeditions leave the narrator with a sense of unease.But how much room is there for honest debate when you're of inferior physique, several kilometersabove ground and a few feet below considerable volumes of highly flammable gas?Originally titled "A Drama in the Air", Jules Verne takes suspense and air balloons to new heights in this 1852 short story, while also providing insight into the technical aspects and oftentimes grim history of hot air balloon travel.Most famous for his 54-volume "Extraordinary Voyages" series, French writer Jules Verne (1828-1905) was a pioneer of fantastical journeys propelled by science, most notably "Journey to the Center of the Earth" (1864), "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea" (1870) and "Around the World in Eighty Days" (1872) .Popular with both children and adults, Verne's works have had an incalculable impact on scientists the world over. He is credited as one of the inventors of the science fiction genre.

A man stows away aboard a whaling ship and gets caught up in shipwreck, mutiny, cannibalism and, finally, utter weirdness.Edgar Allen Poe’s only novel, "The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket" (1838) recounts the grim, violent and often bizarre story of Pym and his companions as they set adrift at sea and gradually descent from terror to absolute horror.The novel makes for a riveting and gruesome tale that influenced writers such as Jules Verne and Herman Melville, and even H. P. Lovecraft and Jorge Luis Borges.An engrossing tale that will speak to maritime and mystery enthusiasts alike. Poe at his best.Listed on Robert MCCrum's '100 Best Novels Written in English' list published in The Guardian, January 2021.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).

Russia was by no means paradise at the turn of the twentieth century, but it was decidedly worse for the poor and homeless community. This play centres around a motley crew of drunkards, vagabonds, and petty criminals whose lives are forever changed by the arrival of mysterious pilgrim Luka. A pillar of Maxim Gorky’s social realism, ‘The Lower Depths’ oozes pessimism, social criticism, and alcoholism. An essential read for fans of both modern and classical Russian literature, from Leo Tolstoy to Boris Akunin.As a five-time Nobel Prize nominee, Maxim Gorky (1868-1936) rightfully holds a spot at the table of the most talented Russian writers. He led a turbulent life as an exile, a dissenter, and a Bolshevik associate. His most notable works include "The Lower Depths", "My Childhood,", "Mother", and "Children of the Sun" all of which are characterised by his realism.

The conference of European Nations is taking place in The Hague. Mr John P. Dunster, an American, is travelling to the conference with important information relating to the seemingly inevitable outbreak of war. The document he carries could prevent the war entirely but when he disappears following a train wreck, Richard Hamel must solve the mystery – before it is too late. A classic mystery novel from popular author E. Phillips Oppenheim.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’.

Published in 1861, ‘The Château of Prince Polignac’ is one of Anthony Trollope’s early short stories. Set in Le Puy in the South of France, it follows the story of widowed Englishwoman Mrs Thompson and her two daughters; Lilian who is attending school in the area, and her younger daughter Mimmy. During their stay, Mrs Thompson catches the eye of Frenchman Monsieur Lacordaire, but is the gentleman all that he seems?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.

A mine that should have been mined out years ago. A series of inexplicable events. A city that suddenly appears almost at the centre of the earth. Mining engineer James Starr discovers that his former colleague Ford lives with his family in the depths of the mine. When Ford discovers a large vein of coal that remains underground, an endless stream of questions arise for both Ford and James, but one remains the biggest, and most pressing - should the secrets of the mines be uncovered, or are they best left buried?Jules Verne (1828-1905) was a French novelist. Renowned for his contributions to the adventure fiction genre, he mainly took his inspiration from the scientific advancements of the nineteenth century. His work is widely popular with both children and adults, particularly his series 'Extraordinary Travels’ which included ‘Journey to the Center of the Earth’ (1864), the 2008 film adaption of which was wildly successful.

Maxim Gorky’s exploration of his own encounter with the Orloffs, this short story follows the lives of a Russian family and delves into the monotony of everyday life. When an unexpected guest arrives in the city, the grey haze of what is ‘normal’ is broken, and accepted values begin to be scrutinized. Why can a man beat his wife? Why must his wife take the beating stoically? Why does everyone else pretend it doesn’t happen? A reminder that every voice deserves to be heard, no matter how small, this is ideal for fans of classic Russian authors and their realism, such as Leo Tolstoy.As a five-time Nobel Prize nominee, Maxim Gorky (1868-1936) rightfully holds a spot at the table of the most talented Russian writers. He led a turbulent life as an exile, a dissenter, and a Bolshevik associate. His most notable works include "The Lower Depths", "My Childhood,", "Mother", and "Children of the Sun" all of which are characterised by his realism.