Engelske bøger

‘The Swiss Peasant’ (1830) is a short story by the famous English writer Mary Shelley. The story tells of the brutal effect the French Revolution had on those living in the Alps. Told through the eyes of a Swiss peasant called Fanny, it exposes the flaws of the class system and highlights the strength of women - a common Shelley theme.Mary Shelley wrote several successful books but is best known for her highly acclaimed novel ‘Frankenstein’ (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.

Pregnant. Single. Dating. It's going to be... a bumpy year!Trish Kirkpatrick never expected to find herself unmarried, pregnant... and not entirely sure who the baby's father is.With her ex, Pete, and her colleague, Elliot, in line for daddy duty while waiting on the DNA results, Trish finds her complicated world getting even more chaotic when a meet-cute on a plane to Tokyo with gorgeous architect Scott sparks a new flame.Now, as her bump grows so do Trish's troubles. Between family issues reappearing on her doorstep and the delivery date fast approaching, Trish will need to make up her mind not only on who she wants to be but who she wants to become.Praise for Olivia Spooner:'Wonderful... Will keep you turning the pages and before you know it you are on the final chapter... Utterly likeable characters and a lovely book' NetGalley reviewer on A Way Back to Happy'FIVE STARS! I flew through it in two days and hated putting it down. I admittedly stayed reading up way too much reading when I should have been sleeping. I loved the story but loved the characters even more... I could almost feel tightness in my own chest and heart, and tears in my own eyes' Goodreads reviewer on A Way Back to HappyOlivia Spooner has been writing fiction for twenty years. She lives in New Zealand and is the proud owner of an independent bookshop where she happily shares her love of books with everyone who walks through the door. When not creating stories, Olivia is most likely to be found at the beach or simply out walking: the more remote the location, the better.

‘Hands down one of the best books I've read in a long time. This story hooks you immediately, one cannot put it down. I even dreamed about the book!’ Goodreads Reviewer 5*Victoria Langley needs to find a refuge when her husband leaves her. She finds it, in the shape of Seafall Cottage on a Cornwall clifftop.The unkempt cottage in the village of Tregollan is a perfect place to recharge - particularly when she finds a fascinating diary from 1905.Victoria determines to solve the secrets the diary contains, but locals blank her when she asks about its author, Tilly Asprey.In walks a handsome lawyer with a missing piece of the puzzle. Now Victoria knows that Tilly's story is just like hers.Can Victoria learn from TIlly's mistakes or is she destined to suffer the same fate?An evocative and romantic read about lost love and new beginnings, this is perfect for fans of Phillipa Ashley, Emma Burstall and Liz Fenwick.Previously published as The Cornish EscapeWhat everyone’s saying about 'Summer at Seafall Cottage':‘My anguished howl of "nooooo" as I finished was so loud I had to go and check I hadn’t woken my three-year-old ... I wanted the book to carry on and on and on ... I was caught from the very first, beautifully written, paragraph.’ After the Rain‘I read it in one sitting and so will you.’ Goodreads Reviewer 5*‘Oh, this was such an enjoyable book! ... To sum up, The Cornish Escape is one enjoyable, feel-good book I totally recommend. You’ll simply be flying through it, devouring it in one sitting.’ This Chick ReadsOver 21,000 copies sold. Amazon US and UK Top 20 bestselling author.Lily has been telling stories since she was a child, starting with her imaginary rabbit, Stephanus, and their adventures in the enchanted peach tree in her garden, which she envisioned as a magical portal to Enid Blyton’s Faraway Tree. She’s never really got out of the habit of making things up, and still thinks of Stephanus rather fondly. She lives with her husband and her English bulldog, Fudge, and brings her love for the sea and country-living to her fiction.

Sometimes true life spins more shocking stories than the minds of writers. That is the case with 'The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano'.The understated title masks an autobiography where truth trumps fiction, featuring kidnapping, death, slavery, jail, transportation, rape, Christian faith and much more.It is also one of the most important books of its time, the late 18th century. For its publication told the truth about the trans-Atlantic slave trade, and sowed the seeds for the abolition movement that eventually stopped it.The scandal of slavery that Equiano helped get into the public's consciousness has been featured in a host of films, including '12 Years a Slave', directed by Steve McQueen and based on a novel by Solomon Northup.Olaudah Equiano (1745-1797) was known throughout most of his life as Gustavus Vassa. He was born in Benin, where he and his sister were kidnapped and sold to slave traders.They were separated and Equiano endured the horrors of transportation to the Caribbean, was sold to three slave owners and witnessed the very worst of the truly shameful trade. After buying his freedom, he lived in London and supported the British abolitionist movement.His autobiography, 'The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano', went through nine editions and helped the abolitionist movement gain the momentum that saw the British Slave Trade Act passed in 1807.

Don Juan is more than just an infamous womaniser. For he has been the 'Don Juan' of Bryon's epic poem, the 'Don Giovanni' of Mozart's opera and the main man in the play 'The Trickster of Seville and the Stone Guest'. George Bernard Shaw added to Don Juan's many identities with his play 'Man and Superman', which is a four-act play based on the Don Juan theme.It features John Tanner, an eloquent anarchist who is one of two men named in Mr. Whitefield's will to care for his daughter Ann. The other, wealthy old Roebuck Ramsden, is rejected as guardian by Ann in favour of Tanner. The "political firebrand and confirmed bachelor" is not keen at all: he fears the guardianship will interfere with his commitment to anarchy.But when the two minds collide, the results are unexpected. While Ann gently leads Tanner to rethink his revolutionary ideas, the determined singleton finds himself falling for Ann, despite his close friend wanting to marry her.Will the rebel lose his cause? And who will prevail in the romance race? 'Man and Superman' is perfect for fans of the play 'Private Lives' by Oscar Wilde and 'Endgame' by Samuel Beckett.George Bernard Shaw (1856–1950) was a giant of the literary and political world at the end of the 19th century and deep into the 20th century. Best known as a playwright, he was also a famous critic, political activist and polemicist, stoking controversy to provoke debate.His first successful play was 'Arms and the Man', followed by classics including 'Man and Superman' and 'Pygmalion', which was turned into the musical 'My Fair Lady'. In 1925, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. His opinions still divide critics, but he is widely acknowledged as second only to William Shakespeare as a playwright.

Having lived in France during the First World War, it’s no surprise that Wharton documented the impact on her spiritual homeland, both in fiction and non-fiction.‘Coming Home’ is told from the perspective of an American aid worker, who helps a wounded French soldier, Jen Réchamp. A bond between the two sees them travel to Jean’s home to see that everything is as it should be.While Wharton might be better known for her high-society satires, ‘Coming Home’ reveals an author who can capture the horrors of war and the heroic spirits of those who choose to stand against it.A gripping insight into how the First World War was perceived in France, Wharton's ´Coming Home´ will delight fans of other WWI narratives such as Sam Mendes' Oscar-nominated movie ´1917´.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors.During her career, Wharton wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

Experience the masterful prose of Katherine Mansfield in "The Garden Party and Other Stories." Published in 1922, this collection of 15 short stories is a perfect distillation of Mansfield's keen observations, emotional depth, and deft storytelling.The title story, "The Garden Party," thrusts readers into an enthralling exploration of class division as it juxtaposes the lavish Sheridan garden party with the stark reality of a neighbour's death. Each additional tale offers its intimate examination of human nature and relationships, painting vivid portraits that leave lasting impressions.Dive into this timeless collection to witness one of modernism's finest short story writers weaving her magic. If you like the work of Virginia Woolf and Sylvia Plath, you will love this.A pivotal modernist short story writer and poet, New Zealand-born Katherine Mansfield (1888-1923) transformed the short story genre with her lyrical style. She was admired by literary peers like Virginia Woolf and D.H. Lawrence and had her stories memorialized in TV series and films.

In thirteenth-century Florence, Italy, the pro-Papacy Guelphs defeated and expelled the pro-imperial Ghibellines. The triumphant Guelphs await their champion, the Frenchman Charles d'Anjou, while their opponents pin their hopes on the arrival of Corradino and his troops from Germany.In an unexpected turn of events, the androgynous Ghibelline, Ricciardo de' Rossini, knows secrets that could change everything, and they set out on a secret mission to bring an end to the war.‘A Tales of the Passions; or, The Death of Despina’ (1823) is one of many classic short stories by the English writer Mary Shelley and is perfect for 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 the world over.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´.

Written by the 1913 winner of the Nobel Price in Literature, Rabindranath Tagore, 'The Home and the World' follows the characters of Nikhil and Sandip, who have very different ideals around using violence to reach their goals.The novel illustrates the battle Tagore had with himself, between the ideas of Western culture and revolution against the Western culture. This is ultimately shown through Nikhil and Sandip.Covering themes such as truth, love and union, religion vs nationalism, and the role of women, 'The Home and the World' gives a real insight into societal problems in the Bengal region following the turn of the 19th century.Rabindranath Tagore (1861–1941) was an Indian poet and philosopher. He was the first non-European to receive the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913.Rebellious to classical studies, he was sent to England to study law. Back in India, he devoted himself to poetry and musical dramas, and in 1883 began writing his collection 'Chants de l'aurore'.Dreaming of harmony between men, he wrote in 1904 a political essay in favour of the Independence of India. In 1910, 'L'Offrande lyrique' was published, translated by André Gide. At the end of his life, he supported Gandhi in his struggle.

When the research vessel "Idun" arrives in Smögens harbour one early winter morning, the head of research, Kaj Malmberg, is found murdered in his cabin. For the university's rector, Regina Löfdahl, the tragedy is leaving her short, because Malmberg is supposed to present the research elite's top prize in marine research at Smögens Havsbad that same evening.Dennis Wilhelmson and Sandra Haraldsson are drawn into a murder investigation that puts both their cooperation and important relationships across national borders at risk.Is the person behind the crime in Smögen or is he still on board the "Idun", which despite protests, is given permission to complete its expedition along the Norwegian coast up to Svalbard?Could an event during the icy winters of the Second World War have a bearing on the case?The Ice Fisher is the exciting continuation of the 'Murders on Smögen' series, and the sequel to 'The Man on the Beach'.Perfect for fans of Jo Nesbø, Anne Holt, and Lars Kepler. Anna Ihrén grew up in Stockholm and in Gothenburg, but spent her childhood summers on the island of Smögen. Now she resides in Sjövik with her husband and children. Her series of crime novels "The Smögen Murders" has become very popular, "The Ice Fisher" being the second book in the series.

In this great historical adventure novel, Ransal Holles, a former soldier in Cromwell’s army, feels like there is no place for him now that the monarchy has been restored and the exploits of the Republicans are being condemned.Desperate for an escape from his hopeless situation and the very certain threat of execution that lingers over him, Holles has no choice but to accept the Duke of Wellington’s commission to abduct a famous actress and bring her to him.Set in London, 1665, ‘Fortune's Fool’ by Rafael Sabatini is a story of love, adventure, villains, and swashbuckling heroes that will be enjoyed by fans of 'The Three Musketeers' and Hilary Mantel’s 'Wolf Hall'.Rafael Sabatini was an Italian-English writer of romance and adventure novels. He produced 34 novels, eight short story collections, six non-fiction books, several uncollected short stories, and several plays, and he is best known for his worldwide bestsellers; ´The Sea Hawk´, ´Scaramouche´, and ´Bellarion the Fortunate´.

29 and unmarried, gasp! - can you think of anything worse? In 1920s rural Canada, Valancy Stirling is considered "past it" and with a controlling, nagging mother and petty gossips for relatives she feels trapped in the life she has ended up in and when she is diagnosed with a terminal heart condition and given a year to live, it seems she will die without ever experiencing happiness.And so, she rebels.She leaves her family home slamming the door as she does and moves in with her old friend Cissy and starts working as a housekeeper.The independence is intoxicating - as is a growing friendship with local man, Barney Snaith.It looks as though Valancy will have love to warm her heart in her final months. But secrets on both sides threaten to ruin things.The intoxicating story of love and loss is perfect for fans of Elizabeth Gaskell and Jodie Picoult.Lucy Maud (L.M.) Montgomery was a Canadian author best known for a series of children's books beginning with 'Anne of Green Gables'. The books were a huge hit in her lifetime and were recently made in the Netflix series 'Anne with an E'.Montgomery published 20 novels, 530 short stories, 500 poems and 30 essays in her lifetime. Most were set in Canada's smallest province, Prince Edward Island.

‘Laughter’ is a collection of three essays by French philosopher and Nobel Prize for Literature winner, Henri Bergson. In this interesting piece of philosophy that will be enjoyed by those studying stand-up comedy, Bergson explores laughter, the meaning of the comic, and how laughter is caused by a comic to determine categories and laws of comedy.Henri Bergson was a French philosopher, born in 1859, who criticised his contemporary Kant, and debated Albert Einstein. In 1927, Bergson won the Nobel Prize in Literature "in recognition of his rich and vitalizing ideas and the brilliant skill with which they have been presented".

Barbie, her sisters and all of their puppies are out for an evening stroll on the boardwalk. They decide to go visit Barbie’s friend Nikki, who works at a pirate themed mini-golf place called Crossbones. The evening takes a spooky turn when Nikki reveals that she thinks Crossbones is haunted!Luckily, no secret is safe from the super sleuthing sisters! Another major mystery for The Sisters Mystery Club.Come on an amazing adventure with Barbie and all her friends! Solve mysteries with secret doors, sea monsters and messages in a bottle, catch the baddies as a secret agent, sing in Barbie’s rock band, celebrate Chelsea’s birthday in Dreamtopia and fly to tropical beaches and distant planets in far-away galaxies. Let’s go!Mattel’s Barbie doll is a fashion icon, world adventurer and every child’s best friend. Since the 1950’s she remains a popular toy in homes worldwide and the star of countless tv shows, movies, and books. The popular Netflix series Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures follows Barbie, her sisters and her boyfriend Ken, as they hang out in LA and travel the world in the Barbie camper van. For younger fans, Barbie’s little sister, Chelsea, takes centre stage in Barbie Dreamtopia as the sisters meet mermaids and fairies in a magical dreamland. In recent years, Barbie has taken YouTube by storm as a popular vlogger. She talks fashion, family, her life in Malibu but also sensitively tackles tough issues like racism, mental health and body image. Barbie’s new mission is to inspire girls to dream big. A recent line of empowering role model dolls includes Indian Paralympian, Manasi Joshi, and American soccer player, Alex Morgan. While Inspiring Women celebrates heroines such as Maya Angelou, Florence Nightingale and astronaut, Sally Ride.Barbie and associated trademarks are owned by Mattel and used under license from Mattel Europa. © 2021 Mattel

After self-imposed exiled in Italy, Mrs Lidcote is returning to New York, full of trepidation about her divorced daughter’s remarriage. Mrs Lidcote is a divorcee herself and only too aware of what it means in social circles. Can she change her daughter’s future and reconcile her own past?‘Autre Temps’ is a heartfelt exploration of the changing attitudes to divorce and women. Wharton perfectly captures the sneering attitudes of the older generation, setting them against the more open-minded attitudes of younger people.A touching and fascinating read, ´Autres Temps´ is perfect for fans of Camille Pagán's ´Everything Must Go´.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors.During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

Maria and Anina are sisters who live with their father in the hills of Lake Albano in Italy. Over time, the young Anina falls in love with an outlaw named Domenico, who is a sworn enemy of Napoleon and his army. But when Anina gets arrested and the French army close in on Domenico, Maria must fight for those she loves.'The Sisters of Albano' (1828) is a short story about war, revolution and romance. It was written by the English author Mary Shelley who is best known for her highly acclaimed novel ‘Frankenstein’ (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.

This short story tells the tale of a Polish man who intervenes in a fight between Marietta, a defenceless Italian girl, and Giorgio, a young army officer. His actions set in motion a chain of events that will change all their lives forever.‘The Pole’ was written in collaboration with Claire Clairmont and published in 1832. Mary Shelley wrote several successful books but is best known for her highly acclaimed novel ‘Frankenstein’ (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.

A searing satire on the British class system, social hypocrisy, and keeping up appearances, ‘Lady Windemere’s Fan’ is one of Wilde’s best-loved plays. Such is its popularity that it has been adapted for the silver screen a number of times, most recently in 2018, with Samantha Spiro and ‘Absolutely Fabulous’ star, Jennifer Saunders.The play focuses on 21 year-old Lady Windemere, who has become convinced that her husband is embarking on an affair with the mysterious Mrs Erlynne. However, Mrs Erlynne hides a scandalous secret that sets some unexpected wheels in motion. Witty, satirical, and packed with acute social observations, ‘Lady Windemere’s Fan’ continues to grace stages around the world. A superb read for those who want to see Wilde at the height of his powers.Oscar Wilde (1854 – 1900) was an Irish novelist, poet, playwright, and wit. He was an advocate of the Aesthetic movement, which extolled the virtues of art for the sake of art. During his career, Wilde wrote nine plays, including ‘The Importance of Being Earnest,’ ‘Lady Windermere’s Fan,’ and ‘A Woman of No Importance,’ many of which are still performed today. His only novel, ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ was adapted for the silver screen, in the film, ‘Dorian Gray,’ starring Ben Barnes and Colin Firth. In addition, Wilde wrote 43 poems, and seven essays. His life was the subject of a film, starring Stephen Fry.

'Herland' is a adventurous book that looks at what an all female utopia could look like. Written by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, the story is about three explorers that crash land in a community where women have created a utopia without any men. The book questions feminism, the structure of society and the concept of gender itself. The book paves the way to feminist discussions explored in titles such as 'The Handmaid's Tale' by Margaret Atwood, and by trailblazers like Judith Butler.Charlotte Perkins Gilman is an American novelist that was known for her feminist and humanitarian literature. Considered a utopian-feminist, Perkins paved the way for future generations of feminists through her writing. Best known for her semi-autobiographical short 'The Yellow Wallpaper', Perkins examined women's role in society, and the concept of gender itself.

Discover the English writer of romantic poems, Christina Rossetti's extensive collection with this comprehensive anthology. Spanning ‘The Prince’s Progress’, following the story of a princess awaiting the return of her prince and ‘The Goblin Market’, the tale of Laura and Lizzie tempted with fruit by goblin merchants, Rossetti's delicate and swift prose is crafted to charm adults and children alike. Dealing with themes of female sexuality, patience and religion, Rossetti's ‘Poems’ are the perfect companion for fans of the Radio 4 podcast ‘In our Time’.Christina Rossetti (1830-1894) was an English writer of romantic, religious and children’s poems. Celebrated today as an inspiration for Virginia Woolf’s writings, Rossetti's work spans themes of female sexuality with ‘The Goblin Market’ and issues of self-indulgence, devotion and patience with ‘The Prince’s Progress’. She volunteered at St Mary Magdalene house of charity in Highgate, a refuge for ex-prostitutes, and openly opposed slavery in the United States during the years of the American Civil War. Rossetti remains a prominent female poet, associated with Elizabeth Barret Browning as her predecessor.

In a preface to this collection, Louisa May Alcott calls these eight stories her "various waifs and strays" and they all beautifully demonstrate her wry sense of humour, sharp observational skills, and straightforward style of storytelling.From the light-hearted romance of 'Kitty's Class Day' to the transformational tale of 'Aunt Kipp', who is a female version of Ebenezer Scrooge in Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol', each story has the charm to keep you gripped.Fans of her other work, including the bestseller 'Little Women', will be pleased that she herded these stories together.Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an American writer who is best known for her novel 'Little Women'. She grew up among some heavyweight 19th-century intellectuals, including Henry David Thoreau and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.With her parents struggling financially, Alcott worked to support them. At the same time, she began writing, initially under pseudonyms because her work was largely short stories and sensation novels for adults.'Little Women', published in 1868, was a success when it was released. Alcott also penned the follow-ups 'Little Men' and 'Jo's Boys'. She was a staunch abolitionist and a campaigning feminist who was heavily involved in temperance and women's suffrage movements.

Do you like 'Pretty Woman', with Julia Roberts and Richard Gere? Do you love 'Maid in Manhattan', starring Jennifer Lopez and Ralph Fiennes? And how about little orphan 'Annie'? Well, 'Pygmalion' is the play that paved the ways for these - and countless other - rags-to-riches films, plays, and books.In it, phonetics scientist professor Henry Higgins and linguist Colonel Pickering make a bet. The scientist wagers that he can turn Cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle into a woman with the poise and diction of a duchess.She is given new clothes, speech lessons - and subjected to merciless ridicule. Becoming Shaw's most famous play, ´Pygmalion´ throws blinding light on the invidious habits and traditions at both levels of society.George Bernard Shaw (1856–1950) was a giant of the literary and political world at the end of the 19th century and deep into the 20th century. Best known as a playwright, he was also a famous critic, political activist and polemicist, stoking controversy to provoke debate.His first successful play was 'Arms and the Man', which was followed by classics including 'Man and Superman' and 'Pygmalion', which was turned into the musical 'My Fair Lady'.In 1925, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature. His opinions still divide critics, but he is widely acknowledged as second only to William Shakespeare as a playwright.

This is a story for fans of the books ´How to Stop Time’ by Matt Haig and ‘The Suicide Club’ by Rachel Heng. It is a love story that is a cross between ´Frankenstein´ and John Green's ´The Fault in Our Stars´.Winzy reluctantly starts working for the alchemist Cornelius Agrippa in order to provide for his childhood sweetheart Bertha, but when Winzy drinks an unlabelled potion to rid himself of his love for Bertha, he becomes immortal. Suddenly blessed with a youthful appearance, Winzy slowly but surely discovers the disadvantages of the potion.‘The Mortal Immortal’ (1833) is a Gothic short story by the English writer Mary Shelley, famous for her best-selling novel ‘Frankenstein’ (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.

When Fanny is 17 years old, a house fire nearly kills her entire family and destroys their home. Lord Reginald Desborough saves her from the flames and the couple marry, but her father’s demands put her happiness in jeopardy and leaves Fanny with an impossible decision.This story mirrors the author’s relationship with her own father, in its depiction of the money troubles that plague Fanny’s family and their constant demands on Lord Reginald.‘The Parvenue’ (1836) is a classic, short story by the English writer Mary Shelley, famous for her best-selling novel ‘Frankenstein’.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.

After the heartbreak of losing his lover, King Francis I swears never to love another woman. His sister, Marguerite of Navarre, overhears his lament and vows to prove him wrong. Marguerite bets her brother that within one month she will find a woman that will prove him wrong.‘The False Rhyme’ (1829) is a short story by the English writer Mary Shelley, famous for her best-selling novel ‘Frankenstein’. It features the familiar strong female characters of Shelley’s work and the themes of love and forgiveness.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.

"Do you have a name for her?" she asked.He shook his head. "You've decided it's a girl?"She looked at the skull and thought of it washing backwards and forwards in the dirty water of the Thames until coming to rest in sight of tip of the Isle of Dogs under the gaze of the grandiose buildings of Greenwich."We'll call her Flotsam," she said.Home truths are always the hardest.Beatrice Palmenter is 36, a successful filmmaker. And discontent. She is about to make two journeys, one back a thousand years to the world of the Anglo Saxons, the other to wartime France.It begins when she holds a small skull in the palm of her hand on the bleak foreshore of the River Thames. It continues as she travels to Paris and Marseille on the trail of the world famous restaurateur Joseph Troumeg. Along the way she meets three extraordinary women and archaeologist Harry Wesley. And discovers some home truths about herself.A Girl Called Flotsam is a captivating love story and a compelling mystery about the elusiveness of history and the messages, true and false, it leaves behind.For fans of William Boyd, Joanne Harris and Sebastian Faulks.John Tagholm was born in Cardiff. He has written all his working life, for newspapers, magazines, radio and television. There was a long gap between "Football: How Much Do You Really Know?", published by Independent Television Books in the 70's and "No Identifiable Remains", his first work of fiction, which was followed by"Bad Marriage", and "Parallel Lives".

After the death of her parents, young Andrina Maldon has selflessly carried the responsibility of running a household impoverished by her father’s profligacy and also for the future happiness of her two sisters. Despite their striking looks, there is no hope of her sisters finding a suitable suitor without someone to introduce them into high society. So Andrina travels unchaperoned to London to seek the assistance of the Duke of Broxbourne, her father’s friend and the Godfather she has never met.On the journey, Andrina has an unpleasant encounter with a gentleman at a Posting inn and on arrival at Broxbourne House she is appalled to find that this man is none other than the Duke of Broxbourne himself.At first unwilling to help her, the Duke grudgingly agrees to her requests and although outwardly grateful, Andrina despises this arrogant and insensitive man. Forced to work together to secure the future of her sisters, Andrina gradually starts to see another side of the Duke and unexpected feelings begin to rise on both sides...A classic, swoon-worthy rags to riches tale, perfect for fans of Julia Quinn, Georgette Heyer and Jenny Hambly.In her lifetime, British author Barbara Cartland wrote over 700 novels and was most famous for her contemporary and historical romances. A prominent figure in London society, the young Cartland began her writing career as a gossip columnist for the Daily Express. It was partying in 1920's London that gave her inspiration for her first book, "Jigsaw", a racy society thriller.After marrying into the McCorquodale family, she began writing romance and holds a Guinness World Record for the most number of books published in one year: 191. Her books have been translated into many different languages, as well as adapted for stage and screen. She is beloved the world over and even counts the young Princess Diana as one of her many fans.

Demelza is caught up in the middle of chaos when her brother rents their family home to Valient, Earl of Trevarnon and his friends during the Royal Ascot races. Infamous playboy Trevarnon wins over Demelza, despite him being married. As she explores the secret chambers and underground passages in the manor, Demelza finds herself falling for Trevarnon but knowing he can never be hers. The drama unfolds when she spoils a plot against Trevarnon – could this be enough to win him over for good?In her lifetime, British author Barbara Cartland wrote over 700 novels and was most famous for her contemporary and historical romances. A prominent figure in London society, the young Cartland began her writing career as a gossip columnist for the Daily Express. It was partying in 1920's London that gave her inspiration for her first book, "Jigsaw", a racy society thriller.After marrying into the McCorquodale family, she began writing romance and holds a Guinness World Record for the most number of books published in one year: 191. Her books have been translated into many different languages, as well as adapted for stage and screen. She is beloved the world over and even counts the young Princess Diana as one of her many fans.

Annie Martin is thrilled to have moved from the hectic buzz of L.A. to the small town of Hillsboro, Northern California, where the most happening bar only plays honky-tonk and nowhere does a good matcha latte. But the best thing about Hillsboro? The Anderson sisters. At their noisy family dinners, Annie can almost forget the mistakes she made back in the city, trying to fit in.Annie has repaid the sisters’ friendship with some obvious-but-effective matchmaking and now there’s only one Anderson still looking for love. But Rose is surprisingly prickly about an enforced happy-ever-after, and when a meticulously planned meet-cute ends drenched in the town fountain, Annie realizes this project calls for someone with a deeper knowledge of the Hillsboro bachelors.Local reporter and all-around grouch George Barnett has been a thorn in Annie’s side since she came to town. He knows all too well that everyone has secrets and he thinks the story of why social media darling Annie Martin swapped stilettos for sneakers might be the scoop that makes his career. Annie is sure her skeletons are under triple lock and key, so she offers him an exclusive, if he’ll help her find a match for Rose.But the more George and Annie try to control the love lives around them, the less they’re able to sway their own hearts. As Annie’s infectious laugh begins to bring down George’s barrier of surliness, can he open his heart and let her in for real? And can Annie be brave enough to trust the man who could be her future, with the secrets of her past?A heart-warming story of friendship and finding love in the most unlikely of places, fans of Robyn Carr, Debbie Macomber and Carolyn Brown will adore The Perfect Hideaway.Readers love The Perfect Hideaway:"I love this series... heartwarming and uplifting, it made me laugh and root for the characters but it also moved me to tears because it’s the story of two hurt and lonely people who meet and change their life." Scrapping and Playing, 5 stars"A wonderfully heartfelt and charming novel. If you enjoy the lovey, butterflies in your stomach and heart melting moments Hallmark movies deliver, then you’re going to absolutely love this... wonderful romance novel that shouldn’t be missed." Tamsterdam Reads, 5 stars"Feel-good romance that genuinely had me laughing out loud!... The perfect book to read whilst you’re chilling with your feet up and a glass of wine/cup of tea!" Curled Up With a Good Book, 5 starsThe first book featuring the Anderson family, The Magnolia Sisters reached #40 in the US top 100. Alys' previous title, The Christmas Company, was turned into a Hallmark movieAlys Murray writes novels for the romantic in all of us. Born and raised in New Orleans, she received her BFA from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts and her Master's in Film Studies from King's College London. Though she's moved away from home, she'll always be a Southern girl at heart.

Rose Anderson is done with being known as "the nice one" in the small town where she lives. She’s done with playing third, fifth, or seventh wheel at loud gatherings on her family’s flower farm. And most of all, she is done with the pitying looks she gets about her single status from the way-too-interested townsfolk.Busy with her flower-arranging business, Rose has no time for a man, thank you very much. And it has nothing to do with the scars she still nurses from her last breakup. So when she meets Cole McKittrick, Rose gets an idea. But first, she needs to get beneath his aloof exterior and convince him to agree...Cole McKittrick is trying to keep calm. So what if he quit a steady job for a shot at his dream, was dumped and his move to Yokel County, California is bringing back childhood memories he’d rather forget? It’s all about perspective. He doesn’t want to get any more involved in this town than he has to be, so his first instinct is to push Rose Anderson and her intriguing idea away. But the woman won’t get gone, and then she makes him an offer he can’t refuse.The two are soon neck deep in deception, playing up a starry-eyed romance in public while they clash wits and wills in private. But Cole has been hiding a big secret from Rose about his past. And when Rose finds out could it spell the end for their picture-perfect romance, or will she realize that he has taken over not just her home, but also her heart...?A fun, charming romance about family and finding the one, perfect for fans of Robyn Carr, Debbie Macomber and Carolyn Brown.What readers are saying about Alys Murray:"Wow... Loved it, loved it, loved it! The romance, humour, memorable-after-memorable scene... make this book a must-have addition for any shelf." Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars"All I can say about this book is that it is brilliant, addicting, memorable... The best book I have read all year... I’m giving it five stars, I wish I could give it more." Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars"This is a fabulous read, beautifully written. It’s the kind of book that will remain with you long after you’ve reached the last page. I'm absolutely not going to give anything away, only to say HIGHLY RECOMMENDED." Brook Cottage Books Blog, 5 stars"I could not have been happier. This book has everything you could ever want (and more)... the warmth of the story enveloped my soul... an exceptionally fun and sweet story." Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars.The first book featuring the Anderson family, The Magnolia Sisters, reached #40 in the US top 100. Alys' previous title, The Christmas Company, was turned into a Hallmark movieAlys Murray writes novels for the romantic in all of us. Born and raised in New Orleans, she received her BFA from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts and her Master's in Film Studies from King's College London. Though she's moved away from home, she'll always be a Southern girl at heart.