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Faye Bonsu seems to have it all: a drop-dead gorgeous and successful boyfriend, a bourgeoning career as an interior designer and a rent-free mansion in leafy Hampstead to call home. But with all her friends shifting into yummy-mummy mode, a man who seems to have no desire to put a ring on it, tricky clients, and a very attractive and single boss, things are not quite as simple as they might appear.Hoping to escape from her suddenly complicated life and revive her wilting romance, Faye returns to sunny Ghana for what she hopes will be the time of her life. But life doesn't always offer second chances and when disaster strikes, she is forced to confront the biggest question of her life and to make a choice that comes with consequences she will have to live with forever.Perfect for fans of Talia Hibbert, Joya Goffney and Farrah Rochon.Frances Mensah Williams was born in Ghana, but spent her early childhood in the USA, Austria and Ghana before settling in the UK. Her first novel 'From Pasta to Pigfoot' was published in 2015 and was selected by WH Smith Travel as one of the top 25 best summer reads. Williams has also written extensively about the benefits of harnessing the talents of the African diaspora to accelerate Africa’s development. In 2020, she was awarded a CBE by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for her services to the African community in the UK and in Africa.

"Beautiful and heartbreaking. I know it will stay with me for a long time." Reader Review"I'm greeted by the strangest sight. A small dark-haired boy is standing there. It's like he's a human parcel, delivered to my front door."My name is Luke," he says."When Johnny meets Lauren in a bar in Santa Cruz, there's an instant connection. On an American road trip with best friend Will, Johnny promises to return to the girl who has stolen his heart.Until tragedy strikes, forcing Johnny to fly back home without ever seeing Lauren again.Six years later, Johnny is living his life in London, even if he's never forgotten the girl with the grey eyes and dark hair.Until one September morning, he opens his door to find a little boy standing there - a child, Johnny quickly comes to learn, who was created that one magical night. Lauren is dying, and her last wish is to reunite five-year-old Luke with the father he doesn't yet know.Thrown into unexpected parenthood, Johnny finds himself navigating school-gate politics, Disney movies and tantrums, guided by the notes Lauren has written for him.Life as an instant dad isn't always easy, but as Johnny and Luke open their hearts to each other, Johnny is about to discover that life's joy isn't always where you expected it.An emotional, feel-good read that will have you laughing while you wipe away a tear - readers of Dani Atkins, Mike Gayle and Jojo Moyes will be captivated.Readers are falling in love with this debut novel:"Delightful. Pulled at my heart strings. I would totally recommend this as a feelgood book." Reader Review"What a beautifully emotive read. The perfect feelgood read that will make you laugh and cry." _____ Reader Review"A heart-wrenching, heart-warming story of a young man forced by circumstance to become an instant dad - a lovely read about growing into responsibility and love." Reader Review"My heart is just so full from this book. Watching Johnny navigate his unexpected new fatherhood was so gentle and raw." Reader ReviewGordon is a former journalist writing about media and technology. He now works in marketing for Twitter UK. He has also blogged about dating and politics. His first novel Songs For Your Mother was published in May, 2021. His second novel, Ten Dates to Happiness, will be published in 2022.

‘I absolutely loved this book! I was laughing out loud at certain scenes and when I tried to go to bed I ended up giggling myself into a fit thinking about them. Absolutely amazing... A delightful, HILARIOUS book.’ Goodreads Reviewer, 5 starsCat’s life has hit a brick wall. Since her ex ditched her without ceremony five years ago she’s quit stand-up comedy, landed in a steady but dull job, and lives in a tiny flat with roommates she knows only as The One Who Eats All My Food and The One Who Has Really Loud Sex.So when she bumps into old friend Harvey and sparks fly, Cat is surprised – and horrified, because Harvey is her ex’s brother, and so absolutely, 100% off-limits romantically. Even if his dimples do make her insides fizz...When she’s offered a new job abroad, Cat is tempted to accept – and leave her depressing flat and mess of a love life behind her. But will running away from her problems really solve them?A hilarious rom com about falling in love, falling out of love, and finding out who you really are. Fans of Jenny Colgan, Marian Keyes and Mhairi McFarlane will love Keris Stainton!Read what everyone is saying about The One Who's Not the One:‘A fabulous feel-good read... This book had me in tears, both happy and sad ones in equal doses! It had me hooked from the first page and it certainly had me laughing out loud unashamedly!’ Stardust Book Reviews‘I absolutely adored this book from start to finish. All the characters were so lovable and the story was lovely and totally laugh-out-loud funny... I love funny and heartwarming love stories so this ticked all my boxes.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars‘I couldn’t put it down. It’s funny, engaging and thoroughly relatable. I really enjoyed it. It’s got some genuinely laugh-out-loud moments while being full of real heart as well. Loved it!’ Bibliophile Book Club.Over 34,000 copies soldKeris lives in Lancashire with her husband and two sons. She’s written a bunch of books for young adults and children, and is obsessed with Twitter, tea, and 1D.

When Piper James unexpectedly gets a message from her insanely hot teenage crush Rob Kingsford, inviting her to their school reunion, her heart flips. She hasn’t seen Rob in eight years – and he’s always been the one that got away.Older (but not wiser), fatter (but much happier), and still definitely crushing on Rob, Piper’s about to come face-to-face with the very best of old friends and the very worst of old frenemies. Add in enough G&Ts and a few too many Cosmos, and there are all the ingredients for a real night to remember...Could it be second-time lucky for Piper and Rob, or will she have her heartbroken all over again?A hilarious and uplifting story about facing your fears and being true to who you are – perfect for fans of Mhairi McFarlane, Sophie Kinsella and Sophie Ranald.Read what everyone is saying about The One That Got Away:‘Oh my gosh it was brilliant! I laughed, I got choked up, my emotions were all over the place and by the end, I was uplifted into believing I could do anything... I loved everything about this book.’ Katie’s Book Cave, 5 stars‘I adored the story from start to finish! Rob was completely and utterly gorgeous and I literally swooned every time he appeared on the page... Had me laughing one minute and then crying the next!... Had me hooked... A fantastic and uplifting read which I would heartily recommend!’ Stardust Book Reviews, 5 stars‘I am now completely head over heels in love with this book and the characters. I think Piper may be my new favourite character ever (sorry Hermione Granger)... Funny, heart-warming, emotional all at once... Just perfect!’ Vicki in Neverland, 5 stars.Over 24,000 copies soldKeris lives in Lancashire with her husband and two sons. She’s written a bunch of books for young adults and children and is obsessed with Twitter and tea.

Fans of Kimberley Chambers’ Queenie and Martina Cole will love this unputdownable crime thriller from bestselling crime author Emma Tallon.Sometimes revenge is the only option.Anna Davies is young, smart and successful, plus she’s the head of one of London’s biggest crime networks. She’s seen off her abusive ex-boyfriend and cut her teeth managing clubs around London’s West End. But nothing could have prepared her for what’s around the corner...Beautiful, rich and powerful, Sophia Ivanov has been sniffing around Anna’s business empire and she’s got only one thing on her mind – revenge. She’s convinced Anna and her gangster boyfriend, Freddie Tyler, killed her Russian crime boss husband, Alexis, and she’s determined to make them pay.When Sophia turns up at their club one night, it’s clear she’s not there for a friendly visit and tensions begin to flare. Anna knows Sophia is a danger to their business, but she doesn’t realise how much until Freddie finds himself in unthinkable danger. Can Anna and Freddie get rid of Sophia once and for all... and what will be left when the fighting stops?What readers are saying about Ruthless Girl:‘369 pages of pure gold adorned with diamonds! My heart stopped a few times. My heart broke a few times.’ B for Book ReviewMy heart was beating so fast my Fitbit thought I’d been for a run... These books should come with an addiction warning.’ I Love Reading blog‘Like a tube of Pringles – once you start, you can’t stop.’ Goodreads reviewer.This series has sold over 140,000 copies to dateEmma Tallon is a British writer and mother to a young son. She started her writing career several years ago, as a freelance ghostwriter. Behind the scenes she has crafted some of the most adventurous, edgy and heart-wrenching stories you will find in bookshops today. More recently, Emma decided to step out of the literary shadows and launch the first novel under her own name, Life Game. Emma has plans for several more books in the London Underworld series.

Fans of Martina Cole, Kimberley Chambers and Jessie Keane will be hooked by Fearless Girl.When everything changes, you have to come out fighting.It’s been three years since Anna Davis’s ex-boyfriend Freddie Tyler was sent to prison, now he’s back on the streets of London and about to find out that everything has changed.As Freddie enters his West End club for the first time in years, he finds Anna sitting behind his desk, confidently leading his team of men. Anna used to hate the world he lived in, but she has now become a big part of it. And she’s not about to give up running the family business easily.Anna shows a toughness Freddie has never witnessed in her before when she tells him about her new enterprise, smuggling stolen diamonds through London’s Hatton Garden. And alarm bells start ringing when Freddie meets Anna’s new partner. Cold and ruthless, Roman Gains isn’t someone Freddie trusts around the club and particularly not around Anna.Whilst tensions flare between Anna and Freddie, a new Russian firm enters their world, determined to bring the Tylers down. And when they take out one of his best men, Freddie has to take drastic action to wrestle control from Anna. But she has other ideas. And when Roman becomes Anna’s closest ally, Freddie finally reaches breaking point. Could this be the fall of the Tyler empire and the last time Freddie and Anna are on the same side?What readers are saying about Fearless Girl:‘WOW. What an addictive book this was. To say this book had me gripped is an understatement. Emma Tallon writes a BRILLIANT story that has you wanting more. If I could, I would give this book more than 5 stars.’ Goodreads reviewer‘I’m still bouncing up and down. I just want to shout it from the rooftops how totally marvellous this book is.’ B for Book Review‘Emma Tallon has once again proved she is up there with the best when it comes to this genre. A five star masterpiece!’ Goodreads reviewer.This series has sold over 140,000 copies to dateEmma Tallon is a British writer and mother to a young son. She started her writing career several years ago, as a freelance ghostwriter. Behind the scenes she has crafted some of the most adventurous, edgy and heart-wrenching stories you will find in bookshops today. More recently, Emma decided to step out of the literary shadows and launch the first novel under her own name, Life Game. Emma has plans for several more books in the London Underworld series.

Be swept away by sun, sea, self-love and a delicious dollop of romance in this original, multicultural romance novel set between London and Ghana. Introducing your new, favourite girl-next-door Faye Bonsu.Dismissed as a cultural lightweight by the man she is desperate to please, under-achieving PA, Faye Bonsu, is on a mission to find love. A disastrous night out leaves pasta-fanatic Faye’s romantic dreams in tatters and underscores her alienation from her African heritage. Leaving her cosy middle-class life in London’s leafy Hampstead to find out what she’s missing, Faye is whisked into the hectic social whirlpool of Ghana where she meets the handsome Rocky Asante, a cynical, career-obsessed banker with no time for women... until now.Transported into a world of food, fun and sun, and faced with choices she had never thought possible, Faye is forced to discover that no matter how far you travel, you can’t find love until you find yourself.From Pasta to Pigfoot is a fun, contemporary, multi-cultural novel that explores in a light-hearted way the clash of cultures that has become characteristic of our increasingly multicultural society.Perfect for fans of Talia Hibbert, Joya Goffney and Farrah Rochon.Frances Mensah Williams was born in Ghana, but spent her early childhood in the USA, Austria and Ghana before settling in the UK. Her first novel 'From Pasta to Pigfoot' was published in 2015 and was selected by WH Smith Travel as one of the top 25 best summer reads. Williams has also written extensively about the benefits of harnessing the talents of the African diaspora to accelerate Africa’s development. In 2020, she was awarded a CBE by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for her services to the African community in the UK and in Africa.

Lost to the desiccated desert of 4th century Egypt, reclusive hermit Paphunce reflects on his sinful life. Determined to become closer to God, Paphunce resolves to bring God his childhood infatuation, the beautiful actress Thaïs.On his godly mission, Paphunce ventures out across the desperate landscape and dons a disguise to reach Thaïs. However, in his attempts to help her reach salvation, Paphunce may find himself eternally lost to damnation.As beautifully written as it is profoundly philosophical, ‘Thaïs’, a fictionalised retelling of the life of fabled Christian convert Saint Thaïs of Egypt, seeks to question the superficial virtuousness of religion.For any fans of Martin Scorcese’s ‘Silence’, ‘Thaïs’ is an enthralling story that asks similarly important questions about the nature of faith and is a riveting read that belongs on everyone’s bookshelf.François-Anatole Thibault (1844 – 1924), better known as Anatole France, was a French journalist, poet, novelist, and Nobel laureate for literature. Spending much of his early life in his father's bookshop, France quickly rose to prominence as a respected author of over 25 works.A French classicist writer with a style reminiscent of Voltaire and Fénélon, France's work has a strong preoccupation with scepticism and hedonism. He is best remembered for his classic French novels ‘La Rôtisserie de la Reine Pédauque’ (1893) and ‘Le Crime de Sylvestre Bonnard’ (1881).France's works have had a historic legacy, and he is recognised today as one of France’s most prominent authors.

When Ellen’s parents die, she inherits a pound50,000 fortune and goes to live with her uncle. While there, she falls for one of her two cousins and they secretly marry. However, Ellen’s rashness leads her to regret her actions, and she comes to the realisation that she loves her other cousin.‘The Elder Son’ (1835) is a classic short story by the English writer Mary Shelley, famous for her best-selling novel ‘Frankenstein’ or ‘The Modern Prometheus’ (1818).Mary Shelley (1797–1851) was an English author and travel writer best known for her ground-breaking Gothic novel ‘Frankenstein’ (1818). Considered one of the first true works of science-fiction, the book became an instant bestseller.It has been adapted for TV, stage and film on many occasions, with Boris Karloff famously playing Frankenstein’s monster on screen in 1933. Other adaptations include ‘Mary Shelley's Frankenstein’ (1994) starring Kenneth Branagh and Robert De Niro and ‘Viktor Frankenstein’ (2015) starring Daniel Radcliffe and James McAvoy.Shelley’s other novels include Valperga (1823), The Last Man (1826), Perkin Warbeck (1830), Lodore (1835), Falkner (1837) and the posthumously published Mathilde (1959). However, she will always be remembered as the creator of Frankenstein.The book continues to influence filmmakers, writers and popular culture to this day, inspiring and terrifying new audiences the world over.

'The carpenter's daughter has won a name for herself, and deserved to win it.'"Contributions to 'All the Year Round'" by Charles Dickens is a collection of short stories originally published in 'All the Year Round' - a weekly British literary journal which was founded and owned by Charles Dickens himself.Featuring titles such as 'The Poor Man and his Beer', 'Five New Points of Criminal Law', 'Leigh Hunt: A Remonstrance', 'The Young Man from the Country' and 'The Late Mr Stanfield' among others.These tales were very popular amongst readers of the magazine and will be with any classics and Charles Dickens fan too.Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was a widely popular English author and social critic. Among his most famous novels are ‘Oliver Twist’, ‘A Christmas Carol’, and ‘Great Expectations’. Dickens is best known for his depictions of poor Victorian living conditions and his unforgettable characters, some compassionate and others grotesquely malicious.Dickens’ timeless tales are still as celebrated today as when they were written, and his literary style is so influential that the term Dickensian was coined to describe the literature he inspired.Many of Dickens’ novels have been adapted for movies and television, including the Academy Award-winning musical ‘Oliver’. 'A Christmas Carol' is well known worldwide and is a huge favourite movie for families to watch together at Christmas time. The most famous movie was from Disney in 2009 starring Jim Carrey, Gary Oldman and Colin Firth.

"Suddenly it struck him: the windows had not fogged up as they usually did in the winter when his wife hung up the laundry inside. There was a sour smell and the house was unusually quiet."Where are the children?" he asked, receiving no answer.On opening the door to the bedroom, Artur saw the large, round copper washtub sitting just inside. It was half full of water, and the rest had spilled out onto the floor. The water left in the tub contained traces of vomit."It is a cold Easter in the spring of 1929. Artur leaves his wife and three children alone for a few hours to go fetch firewood in the forest. When he returns, his world has collapsed. The story about Ingeborg Andersson and what happened that day in 1929 was a well-kept secret for seventy years. The tragic family drama is now being retold by Ingeborg Andersson's grand-niece, Maria Bouroncle.A compelling and horrifying tale that will grip true-crime fans as Bouroncle's extensive research and tireless investigation slowly sheds light on her family's tightly-guarded family secret.Maria Bouroncle is a Swedish author. An economist by profession, she spent over 25 years in the field of international development before publishing her first novel in 2018. It Came to Me on a Whim has been translated into several languages and is currently used on the Scandinavian Crime Literature course at UCLA. She lives in Washington, DC."Maria Bouroncle takes us deep into a story of real-life murder to show us the humanity – even love – behind the crime. A riveting read – haunting, atmospheric, and ultimately, heartbreaking."Manil Suri, author of three acclaimed novels, including The Death of Vishnu, and a former contributing opinion writer at the New York Times.

This fascinating literary essay, written by the famous American writer and poet, Edgar Allan Poe, explores the mystique of artistic creation.By using his renowned poem ‘The Raven’ as an example, Poe explains how good writers write well, concluding that brevity, ‘unity of effect’ and a logical method are the most important factors.Taking the reader through the deliberate choices made when writing the poem, the author also discusses theme, setting, sound, and the importance of refrain.‘The Philosophy of Composition’ (1846) is a perfect read for literary scholars, writers, and fans of Poe.Edgar Allan Poe (1809–1849) was an American writer, poet, editor and literary critic, best known for his gothic, macabre tales that include ‘The Fall of the House of Usher’, ‘The Tell-Tale Heart’, and ‘The Murders in the Rue Morgue’.One of America’s first short story writers, Poe is considered the inventor of detective fiction and a key figure in both horror and science fiction. His work had a profound impact on American and international literature and he was one of the first American writers to earn international recognition. His other notable works include ‘The Raven and other Poem’s’, (1845) ‘The Cask of Amontillado’, ‘The Fall of the House of Usher’, and ‘The Tell-Take Heart’.With many of his stories adapted for TV and screen, including the gothic 2014 film ‘Stonehearst Asylum’, starring Kate Beckinsale, Michael Caine, and Ben Kingsley, Poe continues to influence literature, film, and television to this day.

‘Transformation’ (1831) is a short story by English writer Mary Shelley, famous for her best-selling novel ‘Frankenstein’. Having squandered his wealth, Guido returns to claim the hand of the beautiful Juliet, but his petulant behaviour sees him banished. While Guido plots his revenge, a strange, disturbing figure emerges from the stormy sea and makes him an offer; Will Guido agree to swap bodies for three days?A tale of greed, identity and love, ‘Transformation’ is Mary Shelley at her Gothic horror best.Mary Shelley (1797–1851) was an English author and travel writer best known for her ground-breaking Gothic novel ‘Frankenstein’ (1818). Considered one of the first true works of science-fiction, the book became an instant bestseller.It has been adapted for TV, stage and film on many occasions, with Boris Karloff famously playing Frankenstein’s monster on screen in 1933. Other adaptations include ‘Mary Shelley's Frankenstein’ (1994) starring Kenneth Branagh and Robert De Niro and ‘Viktor Frankenstein’ (2015) starring Daniel Radcliffe and James McAvoy. Shelley’s other novels include Valperga (1823), The Last Man (1826), Perkin Warbeck (1830), Lodore (1835), Falkner (1837) and the posthumously published Mathilde (1959). However, she will always be remembered as the creator of Frankenstein. The book continues to influence filmmakers, writers and popular culture to this day, inspiring and terrifying new audiences the world over.

A wide-ranging collection from classics of fiction tales to humorous sketches to romances, these short stories, with their interesting and diverse characters, have something for everyone.‘Desiree’s Baby’ deals with mixed-race children, with a surprise ending that subtly questions the feelings of racial superiority.‘La Belle Zoraide’ is about the cruelty of slaveholders in trying to arrange a marriage between a creole beauty and a mulatto she doesn’t love.‘A Lady of Bayou St. John’ tells the tale of a young married woman in a lonely marriage who is attracted to another man and believes she will go "anywhere, anywhere" with him.You may well find yourself curled up on your sofa one evening reading all these great stories in one sitting!Kate Chopin (1850-1904), born Katherine O’Flaherty, was an American writer of novels and short stories mostly set in the 19th-century American South. Her works deal with themes of the female psyche and women's limited life opportunities in the Victorian era, often in a naturalist style. She was considered controversial in her time, but is now praised as a pioneer of 20th-century feminist American literature.Her most famous works include the novel ‘The Awakening’ (1899), which explores themes of rebellion against femininity and motherhood at the turn of the 20th century. Adaptations of this title include Grand Isle (1991) starring Kelly McGillis and Adrian Pasdar, and The End of August (1981).

A snowstorm delays four friends on their journey from Brighton to Lewes. While they wait for the storm to clear, Harry Valency tells his friends about his adventures as a soldier during the Greek revolution.Desperate to prove himself as a worthy fighter, Harry is wounded during a Turkish ambush. But having proved his bravery, he is saved by Constantine who recounts the tragic story of his sister Euphrasia while they wait for help.‘Euphrasia’ (1838) is one of many classic short stories by the English writer Mary Shelley and will delight fans of her best-selling novel ‘Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus’ (1818).Mary Shelley (1797–1851) was an English author and travel writer best known for her ground-breaking Gothic novel ‘Frankenstein’ (1818). Considered one of the first true works of science-fiction, the book became an instant bestseller and continues to influence filmmakers, writers, and popular culture to this day, inspiring and terrifying new audiences across the globe.It has been adapted for TV, stage, and film on many occasions, with Boris Karloff famously playing Frankenstein’s monster on screen in 1933. Other adaptations include ‘Mary Shelley's Frankenstein’ (1994) starring Kenneth Branagh and Robert De Niro and ‘Viktor Frankenstein’ (2015) starring Daniel Radcliffe and James McAvoy.Shelley’s other novels include ´Valperga´ (1823), ´The Last Man´ (1826), ´Perkin Warbeck´ (1830), ´Lodore´ (1835), ´Falkner´ (1837), and the posthumously published ´Mathilde´ (1959). However, she will always be remembered as the creator of ´Frankenstein´.

Have you ever spent an evening in the English countryside and marveled at the beauty around you? In ‘The Pageant of Summer’, Victorian British author Richard Jefferies takes you on a poetic journey that examines all of the warmth and wonder of a bright summer’s evening. You will feel as if you are along for the ride as he describes the luscious green grass below and the light buzz of a dragonflies wings above your head. A type of nature meditation awaits as you dive into the world of Jeffries’ vivid imagery and imagination. Lovers of nature documentaries such as Sir David Attenborough’s 'Planet Earth' will enjoy this short relaxing read.Victorian English author Richard Jefferies is well known as a nature writer focusing on the British countryside. His works also include two well received books, one, a children’s book ‘Bevis’ (1882) as well as a sci-fi book 'After London’ (1885) among other works. Jefferies is regarded as a brilliant imagery creator, showing the world all of the wonder happening right in front of us that we have been too busy to stop and see.

Charles Dickens' ‘Children Stories’ is a collection of tales for kids from one of history’s finest storytellers. In this wonderful anthology, children are introduced to characters who also appear in Dickens’ adult fiction including; Tiny Tim from ‘A Christmas Carol’, Trotty Veck and his daughter Meg from ‘The Chimes’, Oliver Twist and Little David Copperfield among other entertaining characters that we already know and love. These stories are the perfect bedtime reading, with wonderful tales to read out loud. Children and adults alike will delight in hearing them.Regarded by many as the greatest novelist of the Victorian era, Charles Dickens is best known for creating some of the world’s best known fictional characters who feature in his most popular novels, including The Artful Dodger in 'Oliver Twist’, Ebenezer Scrooge in ‘A Christmas Carol’, and Miss Havisham in ‘Great Expectations’. Dickens’ timeless novels and short stories are still widely read today and many have been adapted into countless TV programmes and films including the Academy Award-winning musical ‘Oliver’, and 'A Christmas Carol' which is well known worldwide and is a huge favourite movie for families to watch together at Christmas time.

‘The Miracle of the Great St Nicolas’ (1909) is Anatole France’s satirical reimagining of the classic legend. In this short story, St Nicolas attempts to perform a miracle, resurrecting three children massacred by a crazed butcher and preserved in pickle. However, this good deed will come back to haunt the Saint, threatening to destroy everything he holds dear in his life.‘The Miracle of the Great St Nicolas’ represents Anatole France at his best, picking apart the superficial virtue of religion and bringing it into the harsh reality of the real world.Fans of France’s previous works, or those who wish to see the origins of Santa turn grisly, should venture into this dark but rewarding tale. For any still thirsting for dark Christmases after the 2015 horror movie ‘Krampus’, they will certainly find something to enjoy here.François-Anatole Thibault (1844 – 1924), better known as Anatole France, was a French journalist, poet, novelist, and Nobel laureate for literature. Spending much of his early life in his father’s bookshop, France quickly rose to prominence as a respected author of over 25 works.A French Classicist writer with a style reminiscent of Voltaire and Fénélon, France’s work has a strong preoccupation with scepticism and hedonism. He is best remembered for his classic French novels ‘La Rôtisserie de la Reine Pédauque’ (1893) and ‘Le Crime de Sylvestre Bonnard’ (1881). France’s works have had a historic legacy, and he is recognised today as one of France’s most prominent authors.

Luigi went out one morning and never came back. Without him, Anna feels worthless, losing all sense of all she is. Only the fear of the darkness closing in drives her to attempt some kind of normality. But Gigi's unseen presence is powerful and inhibits Anna from making a new life. Even her attraction to musician Greg feels like a betrayal.An encounter with a friend leads to a new teaching job, offering a chance to find herself. But the school is driven by fear and unsuspecting Anna is exploited by the manipulative headmaster and at the same time cruelly undermined by a jealous colleague. Now the fragile new life she's building threatens to collapse. It is a chance meeting with a stranger who helps her to see that there are lights on dark water.Perfect for fans of fans of Alice Munro, Lorrie Moore, and Irish Murdoch.

"Should we not laugh to see a horse in corsets? The time is coming when we shall so laugh to see a woman." - The Forerunner Volume 1 (1909-1910) by Charlotte Perkins Gilman.In this anthology collection of key writings by prominent humanitarian and pro-equality writer, Charlotte Perkins Gilman, the reader is afforded a fascinating insight into the lives and societal challenges of women in the early 20th century.Through a selection of expertly written poems, essays, and fictional stories as well as non-fiction narratives, the monthly magazine excerpts include lesser-known works such as ‘Our Androcentric Culture; or, The Man-Made World’, the poem ‘Then This’, and an essay entitled ‘A Small God And a Large Goddess’.The original writing showcases a progressive thinker with a strong female voice, who was ahead of her time in terms of feminism and women’s rights, in this selection of politically-inspired pieces from 1909.Charlotte Perkins Gilman, also known as Charlotte Perkins Stetson, was born on 3rd July 1860 in Connecticut, USA. Her early family life was troubled, with her father abandoning his wife and family; a move which strongly influenced her feminist political leanings and advocator of women’s rights.After working as a tutor and painter, Perkins – a self-declared humanist and tomboy – began to work as a writer of short stories, novels, non-fiction pieces, and poetry. Her best-known work is her semi-autobiographical short story, inspired by her post-natal depression, entitled ‘The Yellow Wallpaper’, which was published in 1892 and made into a film in 2011.Charlotte Perkins Gilman was a member of the American National Women's Hall of Fame and strongly believed that "the domestic environment oppressed women through the patriarchal beliefs upheld by society". A believer in euthanasia, she was diagnosed with incurable breast cancer in January 1932 and subsequently took her own life in August 1935, writing in her suicide note that she "chose chloroform over cancer".

Packed with twists and turns, ‘The Four Stragglers’ by Frank L. Packard is a mystery novel in which the reader meets four allied soldiers lost behind enemy lines during the Great War.As the story progresses, three of the soldiers realise that they all played parts in a daring jewel heist just two years earlier. The three soldiers set up a criminal organization running scams in England and France which eventually leads them on a complex and thrilling journey to America.This novel will be greatly enjoyed by fans of ´The Great Train Robbery´ and ´Hatton Garden the Heist´.Frank L. Packard was a Canadian novelist born in Quebec. As a young man, he worked as a civil engineer for the Canadian Pacific Railway, and this experience led him to write many railroad stories. Packard also wrote a series of mystery novels, the most well-known of which featured a character called Jimmie Dale.

What would you do if you accidentally killed someone at the age of 18 and had to become an outlaw? In the classic ‘The Merry Adventures of Robinhood’ by Howard Pyle, young Robin finds himself in this exact predicament and forms a group of other outlaws as they trek through the medieval English forest fighting their way out of trouble and conflicts with the law. Join Robin and his hood along in their great adventures as they discover what it means to be an outlaw, and how they can fight for the poor and their world’s many injustices.American author Howard Pyle, well known for his writing of ‘The Merry Adventures of Robinhood’ and ‘King Arthur’ is also a very well respected illustrator, gaining recognition for his drawings of pirates and attributed with the creation of the modern pirate look. His illustrations were featured in Harper’s Weekly where they quickly became fan favorites. Robinhood is a classic tale, which has been adapted for the classic Disney film, and the newer 2018 movie featuring Taron Egerton and Jamie Foxx.

Pishi was a huge manta ray fish. Normally he would swim in the Indian Ocean, but one day he was caught in a big storm. Wounded and far from home, help came from an unexpected corner. Dive into this book for a dramatic story of the day the storm raged in the Indian Ocean.'Pishi Caught in a Storm' is written by Manisha Chaudhry and Mala Kumar. © Pratham Books, 2015. Some rights reserved. Released under CC BY 4.0 license.This story has been inspired by an entry to the #6FrameStoryChallenge, an illustration campaign conducted by Pratham Books.

‘Pearl-Fishing – Second Series’ is a second collection of short stories written by the renowned author of ‘Great Expectations’, Charles Dickens. First published in ‘Household Words’, Pearl-Fishing – Second Series’ follows Dickens’ first anthology of short stories ‘Pearl-Fishing – First Series’. Featuring titles such as ‘The Young Advocate’, ‘The Last of a Long Line’, ‘Evil is Wrought by Want of Thought’ and ‘The Home of Woodruffe the Gardener’, amongst others. These tales were very popular amongst readers of the magazine when they were first published and are still classic reads to be enjoyed by any modern-day fan of Charles Dickens.Regarded by many as the greatest novelist of the Victorian era, Charles Dickens is best known for creating some of the world’s best known fictional characters who feature in his most popular novels, including The Artful Dodger in 'Oliver Twist’, Ebenezer Scrooge in ‘A Christmas Carol’, and Miss Havisham in ‘Great Expectations’. Dickens’ timeless novels and short stories are still widely read today and many have been adapted into countless TV programmes and films including the Academy Award-winning musical ‘Oliver’, and 'A Christmas Carol' which well known worldwide and is a huge favourite movie for families to watch together at Christmas time.

"The Wonderful Adventures of Nils" is a work of fiction by the Swedish author Selma Lagerlöf. It was originally published in two books, "The Wonderful Adventures of Nils" in 1906 and "Further Adventures of Nils" in 1907. The background for its publication was a commission from the National Teachers Association in 1902, which asked Lagerlöf to write a geography reader for the public schools. She devoted three years to Nature study and to familiarizing herself with animal and bird life. She also sought out hitherto unpublished folklore and legends of the different provinces, which she then ingeniously wove into this story.The story is about Nils Holgersson, a boy who is transformed into a leprechaun and who travels around Sweden on the back of a goose. The journey begins on the 20th of March 1898 and ends on the 8th of November of that same year, when Nils returns to Västra Vemmenhög. The story has been translated into more the 60 languages and appeals to readers of all ages. With superb storytelling, it beautifully unites the story's fantasy with its purpose of providing knowledge about Sweden.Selma Lagerlöf (1858-1940) has written a series of novels and short stories about peasant life in Sweden. Her first novel "Gösta Berling's Saga" was made into the 1924 eponymous silent film featuring Greta Garbo, as well as into the 1925 Zandonai opera "I Cavalieri di Ekebù". Lagerlöf was the first female writer to win the Nobel Prize in literature, which was awarded to her in 1909. She was also the first female member of the Swedish Academy, which she entered in 1914.

The majority of the poems in this collection ‘The Poems and Verses’ are a classic collection of poetic works by Charles Dickens. They are brought together in this anthology after appearing in Dickens' other works, including ‘The Pickwick Papers’ and several plays that he wrote together with Wilkie Collins.Regarded by many as the greatest novelist of the Victorian era, Charles Dickens is best known for creating some of the world’s best known fictional characters who feature in his most popular novels, including The Artful Dodger in 'Oliver Twist’, Ebenezer Scrooge in ‘A Christmas Carol’, and Miss Havisham in ‘Great Expectations’. Dickens’ timeless novels and short stories are still widely read today and many have been adapted into countless TV programmes and films including the Academy Award-winning musical ‘Oliver’, and 'A Christmas Carol' which is well known worldwide and is a huge favourite movie for families to watch together at Christmas time.

It’s Budapest, early 20th century. Oswold is spending the summer at a language school, whilst Imre, a Hungarian calvary officer, is on leave. In the hustle and bustle of a café nestled deep in the city, the two men meet. As their companionship grows in the most unlikely of circumstances, their story is about to carve its own ending...At a time when society was less than kind to the gay community, Edward Prime-Stevenson’s psychological romance weaves a beautifully unexpected tale. Written under the pseudonym of Xavier Mayne, ‘Imre’ marks a turning point in LGBTQ+ literature. The openly gay love story is perfect for fans of ‘Call Me by Your Name’ with of Timothée Chalamet.Edward Prime-Stevenson, pseudonym of Xavier Mayne (1858-1942), was an American writer, journalist and author. Celebrated today as having written the first openly gay novel with a happy ending, his work spans early YA novels such as ‘The White Cockades: An Incident in the "Forty-five"' and ‘Left to Themselves: Being the Ordeal of Philip and Gerald.’ In 1908, Prime-Stevenson published the nonfiction book ‘The Intersexes’; a comprehensive analysis and defence of homosexuality to date. Today, he is remembered as having marked a turning point in English literature and remains an outstanding observer of the early 20th century LGBT scene.

Love for unavailable men, regret, unhappy marriages, priests and an old woman losing her memory, these stories cover many issues we still face today.A young woman tired of marriage resolves to leave her husband, making her way to New Orleans alone. Finished with work for the day, Telèsphore decides to take the train into town. A woman content with spinsterhood unexpectedly finds herself responsible for her neighbour’s four young children.'A Night in Acadie' is a collection of short stories by Kate Chopin and a fantastic read for any classics fan.Kate Chopin (1850-1904), born Katherine O’Flaherty, was an American writer of novels and short stories mostly set in the 19th-century American South. Her works deal with themes of the female psyche and women's limited life opportunities in the Victorian era, often in a naturalist style. She was considered controversial in her time, but is now praised as a pioneer of 20th-century feminist American literature.Her most famous works include the novel ‘The Awakening’ (1899), which explores themes of rebellion against femininity and motherhood at the turn of the 20th century. Adaptations of this title include Grand Isle (1991) starring Kelly McGillis and Adrian Pasdar, and The End of August (1981).

Charles Dickens is renowned as one of the best writers of the Victorian era, and his after-dinner speeches were very much in demand during his lifetime. Dickens spoke on public occasions as a literature representative, and in sympathy with humanitarian movements. He even delivered a speech at the Theatre Royal in Drury Lane, London on Wednesday, 27th June 1855. On one occasion, Dickens became critical of the administrative costs of running a charity and certainly didn't hold back in saying so. "I say openly, and plainly, that this fund is pompously and unnaturally administered at great expense, instead of being quietly administered at small expense."Can you imagine enjoying a meal in the 19th century and suddenly Charles Dickens stands up to deliver a speech? This collection of speeches from Charles Dickens allows readers to experience that moment for themselves.Regarded by many as the greatest novelist of the Victorian era, Charles Dickens is best known for creating some of the world’s best known fictional characters who feature in his most popular novels, including The Artful Dodger in 'Oliver Twist’, Ebenezer Scrooge in ‘A Christmas Carol’, and Miss Havisham in ‘Great Expectations’. Dickens’ timeless novels and short stories are still widely read today and many have been adapted into countless TV programmes and films including the Academy Award-winning musical ‘Oliver’, and 'A Christmas Carol' which well known worldwide and is a huge favourite movie for families to watch together at Christmas time.

Therese, a socialite tired of her loveless marriage, strikes up an affair with a man who cherishes her. Still discontent, she begins another affair, slipping further into depression and jealousy as all her loves come to see their undoing.Through this simple yet riveting plot, Anatole France paints vivid portraits of Paris and Venice, two of his most treasured cities. A love letter to city life and cynicism, ‘The Red Lily’ (1894) represents France at his best.Fans of Anatole France’s work will be delighted with ‘The Red Lily’, but it also will appeal to wider readers of literary fiction for its bold writing and simple, meaningful plot.Anyone who enjoys effective love stories tinged with cynicism like Joseph Gordon Levitt’s ‘500 Days of Summer’ will also find something to love in this beautifully crafted story.François-Anatole Thibault (1844 – 1924), better known as Anatole France, was a French journalist, poet, novelist, and Nobel laureate for literature. Spending much of his early life in his father’s bookshop, France quickly rose to prominence as a respected author of over 25 works.A French Classicist writer with a style reminiscent of Voltaire and Fénélon, France’s work has a strong preoccupation with scepticism and hedonism. He is best remembered for his classic French novels ‘La Rôtisserie de la Reine Pédauque’ (1893) and ‘Le Crime de Sylvestre Bonnard’ (1881). France’s works have had a historic legacy, and he is recognised today as one of France’s most prominent authors.