Engelske bøger

When John Mellon encounters a stray dog whilst out walking one day his first feeling is one of distrust, and his first instinct is to chase it away. It doesn’t take long for John to fall in love with the hare-brained creature however, and the pair are soon inseparable and share a number of adventures together. A sweet tale by prolific author R.M. Ballantyne, all about the love between a man and his doggie.R.M. Ballantyne (1825-1894) was a Scottish artist and prolific author of mostly children’s fiction. Born in Edinburgh, Ballantyne was the ninth of ten children. At the age of 16 Ballantyne moved to Canada, where he worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company, travelling all over the country to trade for fur. He returned to Scotland in 1847 following the death of his father, and it was then that he began his literary career in earnest, writing over 100 children’s adventure books over the course of his life. Stories such as ‘The Coral Island’ and ‘The Young Fur Traders’ were hugely popular, and many of them drew on his own experiences of travelling throughout Canada. A stickler for detail, Ballantyne continued to travel widely to research the backgrounds and settings for his exciting stories. His tales became an inspiration for authors of the future, including ‘Treasure Island’ novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Ballantyne spent the latter period of his life living in London and Italy for the sake of his health. He died in Rome in 1894 at the age of 68.

Sergeant Billy MacVeigh and his partner Pelliter are tasked to defend the outpost of Point Fullerton. They are all alone in the Canadian Northwest, hundreds of miles from civilisation. Their last mission, right before the end of their service, is to find and arrest the ruthless murderer Scottie Deane. Part of the mission is also to capture Eskimo women traders, if they come across any of them.How will Billy and Pelliter deal with the frozen wilderness? Will they finally capture the elusive Deane? Can someone help them to find the murderer? Find all the answers in James Oliver Curwood’s rough and tumble adventure novel "Isobel" from 1913.James Oliver Curwood (1878 - 1927) was an American writer as well as an unwavering nature lover and conservationist. As such, many of Curwood’s action-adventure stories were based on real events from the rugged landscapes of the American Northwest. He built himself Curwood Castle, which he used as a writing studio and as a place to greet guests. More than 150 motion pictures have been adapted to or directly inspired by his novels.

It is often the lot of the creative individual to not be appreciated during their lifetime. While alive, Walt Whitman endured countless campaigns to ban his book of poems, 'Leaves of Grass', on the basis of its obscene sexual imagery. A century later, his poem 'O Captain! My Captain!' featured in the movie 'Dead Poets Society'. Then, the US TV series 'Breaking Bad' included numerous Walt Whitman references in different episodes.Some argue that he was ahead of his time. It is certainly the case that he was a one-off.'Leaves of Grass', which was first published as a handful of poems and grew to more than 400, is a loosely-connected collection. It focuses on the body and the material world and celebrates the natural world. The poems do not rhyme and do not follow any accepted rules. But they capture people's imagination - and have a place among the greatest works of US poetry.Walt Whitman (1819-1892) was an American poet, essayist and journalist. He was a humanist and is often called the father of free verse - a sobriquet inspired by the unstructured nature of much of his poetry. His poetry collection 'Leaves of Grass' was controversial, with critics decrying its overt sensuality. At different times a teacher, a journalist and a government clerk. Whitman worked in hospitals caring for the wounded during the American Civil War.

It is fair to say that 'Heidi' is a phenomenon.The novel about a five-year-old girl living with her grandfather in the Swiss Alps has been on the high school reading list of millions of children.More than 50 million copies of the book have been shifted since it was published.Author Johanna Spyri rightly calls it "a book for children and those who love children".'Heidi' finds herself orphaned and living with her bad-tempered grandfather, who has fallen out with his neighbours and also refuses to send Heidi to school.Her kindness gradually melts her granddad's heart, but she is then taken away to be a companion for a wheelchair-bound girl named Klara, whose home features the monstrous bully of a housekeeper, Fraulein Rottenmeier.The strictness crushes Heidi's spirit and she longs to return to her grandfather.Will this beautiful story of redemption and friendship have a happy ending?If you like 'Anne of Green Gables' by Lucy Maud Montgomery, you will love 'Heidi'.Johanna Louise Spyri (1827-1901) was a Swiss novelist, known largely for her children’s books.After marrying a lawyer and moving to Zurich, Spyri began to write about life in the countryside, where she had been brought up.Her first story, 'A Leaf on Vrony's Grave', described a woman's life of domestic violence.Her breakthrough novel was 'Heidi', which she wrote in four weeks.It tells the story of a young girl being raised in the Alps by her grandfather.Tragedy struck in 1884, when Spyri's husband and only child, both called Bernhard, died.She dedicated the rest of her life to charitable works and wrote 50 more stories.Some of her other novels include 'The Story of Rico', 'Veronica and Other Friends', 'Cornelli', and 'Little Miss Grasshopper'.

Imagine you wake up hundreds of years into the future. The world has been turned into an industrial hellscape, ruled over by the authoritarian White Council. And to your horror, you discover that this regime’s figurehead—the mythical ‘sleeper’—is you!This is the nightmare which greets Graham, the main character in H.G. Wells’ "When the Sleeper Wakes". Graham must choose whether to remain part of the new world order, or join the revolution.Exploring similar themes to Orwell’s "1984", this is a gripping science fiction tale from one of the genre's masters.H.G. Wells (1866–1946) was an English author often called the "father of science fiction". His work popularised some of the genre’s most abiding concepts, such as time travel and parallel universes, while also exploring social issues of the day. Among his most famous books are "The Time Machine", "The Island of Doctor Moreau", "The Invisible Man" and "The First Men in the Moon".Wells was also one of the first writers to imagine an alien invasion. In "The War of the Worlds" he depicts a devastating attack by Martians, who stalk the earth in huge metal tripods. Orson Welles famously created an American radio version in the 1930s, panicking some listeners who thought it was a real news bulletin. The book has been adapted for the screen many times, including a movie starring Tom Cruise and a BBC television series.

Virginia Woolf dreamed of the Day of Judgment.The "great conquerors and lawyers and statesmen" come to receive their rewards - crowns, laurels, names carved on marble.But, when he sees people coming with books under their arms, God turns to Peter and says: "Look, those need no reward. We have nothing to give them here."They have loved reading."And this is the essence of her essay - sheer love for the written word: a joy in exploring the thoughts and imaginings of the author.If you sometimes get bogged down in a book, Woolf has produced the perfect self-help manual and motivational guide to reading.If you enjoyed 'How Should One Read a Book?', try 'How to Read a Book: The Classic Guide to Intelligent Reading', by Mortimer J Adler."To read a novel is a difficult and complex art," says Virginia Woolf.Adeline Virginia Woolf (1882-1941) made an impact during her life, but her fame grew in the decades after her death.The English writer helped launch the use of stream-of-consciousness in literature and was a pioneer of 20th century modernism.Arguably her greatest legacy, though, comes from how her writing helped to inspire the feminist movements of the second half of the 20th century.Along with members of her family and other authors, Woolf helped found the Bloomsbury Group.After she married the political theorist and author Leonard Woolf in 1912, they went on the found the Hogarth Press.Virginia also had a long relationship with the writer Vita Sackville-West. The affair featured in the 2018 movie Vita and Virginia', starring Gemma Arterton and Elizabeth Debicki,He best-known works include the novels 'Mrs Dalloway', 'To the Lighthouse' and 'Orlando'.

Who is Egbert Craddock Cummins? And why is he changing?'The Obliterated Man' tells the tale of a shy young man, Egbert Craddock Cummins, who reluctantly takes on the role of a theatre critic and as a result, somehow takes on the mannerisms and over-acting he sees displayed on stage.The short story by the "father of science fiction", H.G. Wells, was first published in 'New Budget' in 1895 under the title 'The Sad Story of a Dramatic Critic', it was later included in Wells' short story collections 'The Plattner Story and Others' and 'The Country of the Blind and Other Stories'.H.G. Wells (1866 – 1946) was a prolific writer and the author of more than 50 novels. In addition, we wrote more than 60 short stories, alongside various scientific papers. Many of his most famous works have been adapted for film and television, including ‘The Time Machine,’ starring Guy Pearce, ‘War of the Worlds,’ starring Tom Cruise, and ‘The Invisible Man,’ starring Elizabeth Moss. Because of his various works exploring futuristic themes, Wells is regarded as one of the ‘Fathers of Science Fiction.’

A fierce November storm is raging, and before long a ship finds itself in difficulty just offshore. Captain Boyns and his son Harry hurry to help rescue the stricken crew and take in a young girl, Annie, who had been aboard and nearly drowned. Annie and Harry strike up a close friendship, but her father John Webster, is a mean, tight-fisted merchant who intends to come between the couple. In his daughter he sees no value except as a bride, and so he deviously plots to keep the pair apart. A swashbuckling, romantic adventure from the popular children’s author R.M. Ballantyne.R.M. Ballantyne (1825-1894) was a Scottish artist and prolific author of mostly children’s fiction. Born in Edinburgh, Ballantyne was the ninth of ten children. At the age of 16 Ballantyne moved to Canada, where he worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company, travelling all over the country to trade for fur. He returned to Scotland in 1847 following the death of his father, and it was then that he began his literary career in earnest, writing over 100 children’s adventure books over the course of his life. Stories such as ‘The Coral Island’ and ‘The Young Fur Traders’ were hugely popular, and many of them drew on his own experiences of travelling throughout Canada. A stickler for detail, Ballantyne continued to travel widely to research the backgrounds and settings for his exciting stories. His tales became an inspiration for authors of the future, including ‘Treasure Island’ novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Ballantyne spent the latter period of his life living in London and Italy for the sake of his health. He died in Rome in 1894 at the age of 68.

Henrik Ibsens drama "Hedda Gabler" fra 1890 er et studie af en kvinde, som er stærkt optaget af at lykkes i det sociale liv. Hvor en anden af Ibsens store kvinderoller, Nora fra "Et dukkehjem", ti år tidligere fik øjnene op for borgerstandens hykleri og brød med mand og børn, bevæger hendes modsætning Hedda Gabler sig ind i denne verden med vidt åbne øjne og uden at gøre sig nogen illusioner om, at livet i det bedre borgerskab skulle kunne gøre hende lykkelig. Et valg, der selvfølgelig får tragiske konsekvenser.Den norske dramatiker og digter Henrik Ibsen (1828-1906) er én af de vigtigste forfattere i Det Moderne Gennembrud og regnes som grundlæggeren af det moderne drama med skuespil, der sætter den menneskelige psykologi i centrum og kredser om den fortid, det er så umuligt at flygte fra. Ibsen er verdensberømt for skuespil som "Et dukkehjem", "Peer Gynt" og "Hedda Gabler", men producerede i alt over tyve dramaer, der stadig opføres på teatre over hele verden.

'It ranks with the greatest books ever written in the English language.' So said Winston Churchill after reading T.E. Lawrence's 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom'.The book, a mixture of autobiography and military history, tells the story of the almost 'Boy's Own Adventures' of Lawrence as he helped the Arab leaders in their revolt against the Ottoman Empire from 1916. The escapades were given global attention in 1962, when the movie 'Lawrence of Arabia' was released. Very little Hollywood spin was needed. For the truth was extraordinary enough. Find out about sun-baked negotiations in the desert, near misses, friendship, tragedy and fierce desert battles.It is an autobiography that reads like fast-moving military fiction.Thomas Edward (T.E.) Lawrence (1888-1935) was a British archaeologist, writer, diplomat and army officer who became known as 'Lawrence of Arabia' through his role in the Arab Revolt (1916-1918). He was working in the British Army's intelligence unit in Egypt and - during missions in Mesopotamia and Arabia - liaised with the Arab forces that were fighting the Ottoman Empire.Lawrence worked closely with Emir Faisal, leader of the revolt, even taking charge of some military actions. Back in Britain after 1918, Lawrence joined the Foreign Office, then the Royal Air Force. In 1926 he wrote the autobiographical 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom', about his participation in the Arab Revolt. He also wrote 'The Mint', about his time in the RAF.Lawrence died in a motorcycle accident in Dorset in 1935. His public image was later to receive a huge boost when David Lean directed the 1962 movie 'Lawrence of Arabia', starring Peter O'Toole and Alec Guinness.

From the "father of science fiction", H.G. Wells, comes a tale of a near-death experience.In H.G. Wells' short story 'Under the Knife', the narrator undergoes an operation during which Dr Haddon administers an anaesthetic. While under, the patient journeys into space and discovers that the universe is merely a speck of light reflected on a ring, worn on God's hand. A thought-provoking exploration of the afterlife, the universe, and the unconscious mind, H.G. Wells' novella 'Under the knife' will be enjoyed by fans of the Matrix films.H.G. Wells (1866 – 1946) was a prolific writer and the author of more than 50 novels. In addition, we wrote more than 60 short stories, alongside various scientific papers. Many of his most famous works have been adapted for film and television, including ‘The Time Machine,’ starring Guy Pearce, ‘War of the Worlds,’ starring Tom Cruise, and ‘The Invisible Man,’ starring Elizabeth Moss. Because of his various works exploring futuristic themes, Wells is regarded as one of the ‘Fathers of Science Fiction.’

While Jim Kent lies in his bed, thinking that he is dying from a fatal serious disease, he confesses to having committed a murder but he also falls head over heels in love with Marette Radisson, after she pays him a short visit. Kent is captivated by her dazzling beauty and violet-flamed eyes, and she is about to change the course of his life.Did Jim Kent actually commit the murder, or is he covering up for someone else? Who is Marette Radisson and what role will she play? Find all the answers in James Oliver Curwood’s 1920 novel "The Valley of Silent Men".James Oliver Curwood (1878 - 1927) was an American writer as well as an unwavering nature lover and conservationist. As such, many of Curwood’s action-adventure stories were based on real events from the rugged landscapes of the American Northwest. He built himself Curwood Castle, which he used as a writing studio and as a place to greet guests. More than 150 motion pictures have been adapted to or directly inspired by his novels.

When unassuming shopkeeper, Mr Coombes, decides to end his melancholic life, he eats what he believes to be a poisonous mushroom: the 'Purple Pileus' of the title. However, Mr Coombes is mistaken in his choice and, instead, ingests a fungus with powerful hallucinatory properties. In the grip of a psychedelic fever, the shopkeeper decides it’s time for a change. One of Wells’ short stories, this intriguing tale was adapted for television in 2016, featuring Leanne Best and Ray Winstone.HG Wells (1866 – 1946) was a prolific writer and the author of more than 50 novels. In addition, we wrote more than 60 short stories, alongside various scientific papers. Many of his most famous works have been adapted for film and television, including ‘The Time Machine,’ starring Guy Pearce, ‘War of the Worlds,’ starring Tom Cruise, and ‘The Invisible Man,’ starring Elizabeth Moss. Because of his various works exploring futuristic themes, Wells is regarded as one of the ‘Fathers of Science Fiction.’

‘The Sandman‘ (1844) was written by the German romantic author E. T. A. Hoffmann, most famous for his novella ‘The Nutcracker and the Mouse King’ (1816) which inspired Tchaikovsky’s ‘The Nutcracker’.A tale of madness, deceit and murder. A young man becomes obsessed with the sandman, who steals people's eyes. ‘The Sandman’, has produced numerous adaptations and has influenced modern horror fiction. It provided the inspiration for Delibes's ballet Coppélia, and formed the basis of Sigmund Freud’s important essay, 'The Uncanny'. This classic short story is perfect for fans of horror and fantasy fiction and the authors H. P. Lovecraft and Neil Gaiman.Ernst Theodor Wilhelm Hoffmann (1776-1822), better known as E. T. A. Hoffmann, was a German romantic author of fantasy and gothic horror. He was also a composer, music critic, draftsman and caricaturist.Hoffmann's stories inspired several famous operatic composers, including Richard Wagner, Jacques Offenbach and Léo Delibes. He is also the author of the novella ‘The Nutcracker and the Mouse King’, on which Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet, ‘The Nutcracker’ is based. The story also inspired the film ‘The Nutcracker and the Four Realms’ (2018), starring Keira Knightley, Morgan Freeman, Helen Mirren.

‘I absolutely loved it from start to finish and really didn’t want it to end.' The Reading ShedAmongst the beautiful olive groves and sea-front tavernas, summer has arrived on the sun-drenched island of Crete.After losing the love of her life, Ria’s life has been on hold. So when her boss becomes completely unbearable she makes the snap decision to run away to the Greek island of Crete, armed only with her passport.When Ria finds herself working for eccentric novelist Caroline, she meets handsome vineyard owner Tom. He’s charming, mysterious and Ria starts to wonder if it’s not just the beautiful Greek island that she’s falling for.But as Ria gets to know Tom better, she uncovers a tangled web of secrets. What is he hiding? Ria has some secrets of her own. Can she open up to Tom and learn to live again?This summer, escape to the sun with this charming and emotional story about starting over and grabbing happiness with both hands.Read what everyone's saying about The Summer Escape:'Five out of five stars. A really enjoyable read, this book had it all for me ... loveable, warm, believable characters, a great plot and the Greek ambiance was perfect for my rainy Sunday escape!' Shellyback Books'Lily Graham's writing really brings Crete to life on the pages of this book. You can almost smell the souvlaki and feel the sand between your toes and the sun on the back of your neck. I'm not so sure about the Greek coffee though! If you're looking for a summer escape for yourself, pop this one into your bag or suitcase' Fabulous Book Fiend'Lily has a gorgeous way with words. The Summer Escape is a beautifully written story, full of secrets and intrigue, far deeper than I'd first thought. I couldn't put it down.' Louise JensenNote: Previously published as 'An Invincible Summer.' This is a new extended version.Over 46,000 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.

The view across the valley takes her breath away; everywhere she looks tiny patches of colour – ochre, chestnut, lime and purple. The farmhouse behind her glows pink in the morning sun. Finally, Flora has the home of her dreams... but is she about to lose it?Free-spirited Flora Dunbar is heartbroken at the news that she must close down her beloved little flower shop on the high street. As she packs away her pretty pots and vases and locks the door for the very last time, the only spark of hope is an offer from Ned, a gorgeous farmer with an irresistible twinkle in his eye, to come and start a new life on his family farm.Arriving at Hope Corner, Flora’s heart sings as she takes in the stunning landscape that surrounds her new home. But it’s not long before she realises that her creative, romantic thinking has no place in a household built on tradition and strict routine.Pulling up her signature striped socks and throwing herself into her chores, little by little Flora blossoms as she learns to love the order and patterns of life on the land, feeding the chickens every morning and checking on the cows at night. But the more she understands about her new home, the more she suspects it’s under threat, and worse, that Ned is hiding something from her...But this time, Flora’s not going to run from her problems, especially not when she was just beginning to let herself believe that Ned could really be The One. Can she find a way to save her relationship AND the first house she’s ever truly called home?An absolutely gorgeous and utterly uplifting romance to sweep you off your feet! Perfect reading for fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Debbie Johnson.Readers adore The House at Hope Corner:‘Wow!!! Five stars is not enough for this book! Absolutely nothing more than delightful and purely heart-warming! I did not put this book down!!... I highly recommended this book and can't wait to get my hands on all of her books!!!!!!!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars‘Joyful and uplifting and really warms the cockles of your heart... Entirely uplifting and satisfying, with an ending that really does bring a tear to the eye along with the widest of smiles. The writing is excellent – an ease of readability, a vividly described setting, excellent character development... this book has all the warmth of the fluffiest blanket, and I enjoyed it very much.’ Being Anne, 5 stars‘Surpassed all my expectations!... the warmth just pours out of it and it is a tremendously enjoyable read! I cannot recommend this one highly enough... A full five dancing, glowing stars!’ Grace J Reviewerlady, 5 starsEmma once worked for a design studio where she was asked to provide a fun, humorous, and not necessarily true anecdote about herself for their website. She wrote the following: ‘I am a bestselling novelist currently masquerading as a thirty-something mother of three.’ Well the job didn’t work out but she’s now a forty-something mother of three and happy to report the rest of her dream came true. She now lives in rural Shropshire with her husband, three children, and two guinea pigs where she writes full time from a shed in the garden.

‘I really fell for this storyline hook, line and sinker... a beautiful, touching storyline which will have you feeling fuzzy from your head to your toes, and possibly your shoulders and knees in between.’ The Writing GarnetCarrie Dashwood fled Dorset ten years ago when her best friend Megan stole her love, local heart-throb Tom. Now she’s back to help run her aunt Ruby’s flower stall in idyllic Shipley.Trying to persuade herself that her feelings for Tom are in the past, Carrie plans to avoid him and Megan completely. But it’s not to be, because Ruby’s Blooms are arranging the flowers for Megan and Tom’s wedding.Soon Carrie’s crawling under the stall to hide and accidentally inventing an imaginary boyfriend. But with the stall’s finances in jeopardy and Ruby needing her niece more than ever, Carrie has to keep her emotions in check.With bouquets to arrange, family secrets to uncover, and Tom unavoidably a part of her life again, can Carrie keep her cool, save the stall, and find her very own happy ever after?A heartening and uplifting read about lost love and true friendship. Perfect for fans of Cressida McLaughlin, Cathy Bramley, and Polly Babbington.‘The author has a way of just bringing her novels and the characters to life. They are such fabulous feel good books... This is a series that will have fans falling over themselves to get their hands on a copy. It really is that good.’ By the Letter Book Reviews, 5 stars‘What a lovely, evocative story!... Wow! A beautiful story of lost love and coming of age and new beginnings. Written with heart. Loved it! Cannot wait for more by this author.’ Renita D’Silva, 5 stars‘What a complete and utter joy... I found myself chortling away... Charming and feel-good and I loved every minute of it.’ Short Book and Scribes, 5 stars.The Beachside collection has sold over 75,000 copiesAfter giving up her job as a library assistant, Karen now writes full-time. She’s had over 300 stories published in women’s magazines in the UK and abroad, and has written three paranormal romantic comedies, published by Little, Brown/Corsair. When she’s not writing she reads avidly, walks dogs at her local rescue centre, and is eagerly awaiting the next season of The Walking Dead. She lives in Buckinghamshire with her husband and three grown-up children.

Comforted by the gentle hum of the beehives at the bottom of the garden, Grace drains the last of her tea and walks slowly back towards the little hillside house she adores. Her marriage is over, but is it too late to start her life again?Beekeeper Grace thought throwing out her cheating husband would be the hardest thing she ever did. But when she opens the door to a property developer one morning, it’s clear that keeping her beautiful home and garden – her only sanctuary throughout her miserable marriage – will be the greatest challenge of all...Fleeing to her best friend at the farm next door, Grace blurts out all her problems, only to be overheard by Amos, a handsome, free-spirited visitor with a twinkle in his eye. Fascinated by Grace and her bees, Amos offers to stay in the village of Hope Corner, to help turn her home into a guest house in return for lessons on beekeeping.As Grace shows Amos how to nurture a hive and harvest honeycomb without getting stung, he is charming but secretive. He never stays long in the same place after an incident in his past involving a mysterious woman named Maria. But as their eyes lock over a jar of homemade honey, Grace can’t help feeling that she’d really like him to stay...Determined to dispel her growing suspicion that Amos is running from something serious, Grace goes in search of the truth about Maria. But when she finds it, will she still want Amos to put down roots in Hope Corner, and will they still have a house to return to?No matter how far they travel, bees will always find their way home...An absolutely perfect feel good romance for readers who adore Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Debbie Johnson.Readers adore The Beekeeper’s Cottage:‘Captures you from the start... full of romance... you are so invested in these characters it is almost heart-breaking to stop reading about them and their lives. An excellent summer read, full of warmth and the sweet taste of honey. Highly recommended.’ The Book Jotter, 5 stars‘What an emotional and heart-wrenching read. I've read a few by Emma Davies before but this was certainly my fave. I felt like I was right there with the characters... A lovely read.’ The Cosiest Corner, 5 stars‘I could literally imagine walking through the gardens and near the bees and smelling all the flowers. I could taste the food and imagine sitting and having tea with the characters. Thank you for such a lovely book!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars.130k copies of Emma Davies’ books sold to date. Previous title The Little Cottage on the Hill reached Amazon UK and Amazon CA top 70.Emma once worked for a design studio where she was asked to provide a fun, humorous, and not necessarily true anecdote about herself for their website. She wrote the following: ‘I am a bestselling novelist currently masquerading as a thirty-something mother of three.’ Well the job didn’t work out but she’s now a forty-something mother of three and happy to report the rest of her dream came true. She now lives in rural Shropshire with her husband, three children, and two guinea pigs where she writes full time from a shed in the garden.

Moscow is lost, occupied by Napoleon's French hordes.Is Russia lost? Is all lost?Students of history will already know the answer. But whether or not you do, Leo Tolstoy's 'War and Peace IV' is an extraordinary and epic telling of what happened next.Through the eyes of the Russian soldier-aristocrat Pierre, we see mercy and inhumanity behind the lines.He even embarks on a plot to assassinate Napoleon. Spoiler alert: he failed.On the home front, the strands are tied together with death, marriage and hope.But will there be a happy ending after 15 years and 1,000 pages?Leo Tolstoy's masterpiece is a complete semester of Russian and French history, using the zoom button to focus on its impact on families from the aristocracy to the peasants.It paints a picture of petty jealousy, pride and forbidden love in the Russian stately homes.If you like costume dramas and the novels of Jane Austen ('Pride and Prejudice', 'Sense and Sensibility'), this is the granddaddy of them all. The same goes for fans of Bernard Cornwell's 'Sharpe' novels and TV series', starring Sean Bean.'War and Peace' was made into a BBC TV series in 2016, written by Andrew Davies and starring Lily James and James Norton.Leo Tolstoy (1828-1910) was a Russian author, a master of realistic fiction and one of the world’s greatest novelists. Tolstoy’s major works include 'War and Peace' (1865–69) and 'Anna Karenina' (1875–77), two of the greatest novels of all time and pinnacles of realist fiction. Beyond novels, he wrote many short stories and later in life also essays and plays.In the years following the publication of 'War and Peace' Tolstoy - who was born to a Russian aristocratic family - had a spiritual awakening that made him a committed Christian anarchist and pacifist. His philosophy inspired Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.

In ‘Over the Rocky Mountains’ readers are reunited with charismatic hero Will Osten, whose adventures began in the 1869 adventure story ‘Sunk at Sea’. Following the death of his father, Will has returned to England to visit his mother. Set during the height of the gold rush, when he discovers that his father has left a property in California Will sets off immediately for America to find the property and seek his fortune. A classic adventure story from the much-loved author R.M. Ballantyne.R.M. Ballantyne (1825-1894) was a Scottish artist and prolific author of mostly children’s fiction. Born in Edinburgh, Ballantyne was the ninth of ten children. At the age of 16 Ballantyne moved to Canada, where he worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company, travelling all over the country to trade for fur. He returned to Scotland in 1847 following the death of his father, and it was then that he began his literary career in earnest, writing over 100 children’s adventure books over the course of his life. Stories such as ‘The Coral Island’ and ‘The Young Fur Traders’ were hugely popular, and many of them drew on his own experiences of travelling throughout Canada. A stickler for detail, Ballantyne continued to travel widely to research the backgrounds and settings for his exciting stories. His tales became an inspiration for authors of the future, including ‘Treasure Island’ novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Ballantyne spent the latter period of his life living in London and Italy for the sake of his health. He died in Rome in 1894 at the age of 68.

Joaquin Phoenix won an Oscar for playing the Joker, capturing the psychologically dark personality of a villain. Critics were stunned – just as how the villainous character of Lydia Gwilt in "Armadale" stunned critics of the time. "Armadale" might give us the Victorian answer to the Joker, but it’s not only a psychological thriller. This novel is also a feat of classic Victorian themes of the supernatural, detectives, and romance.Inheriting his mother’s family estate in Norfolk, Allan Armadale is brought into contact with the spine-chilling Lydia who is jealous of his love interest. Meanwhile, Allan’s friend, Ozias Midwinter, receives a letter written years before by a man on his deathbed – also named Allan Armadale. The letter reveals a shocking secret that connects the past of Allan and Ozias.Discovering this secret, Lydia "the Joker" Gwilt uses it to plot against Allan in a dramatic tale of stolen identity and family inheritance.London-born Wilke Collins (1824-1889) became known in Victorian England for his novels and plays, sometimes writing together with Charles Dickens. His most famous works, "The Woman in White" (1859) and "The Moonstone" (1868), are examples of the first modern detective novels.

'Away in the Wilderness' is a classic for young readers. Adults are also bound to enjoy this novel as a semi-biographical adventure tale set in the wilderness in the latter half of the 19th Century.A delightful and humorous tale set in Canada. Boasting vibrant descriptions of Rupert's land, the rambling woods, the mosquitoes and of course the friendly and hospitable Canadian folk. It also contains a very good lesson on the best way to take revenge.A perfect fit for fans of the exciting 19th century adventure stories complete with a potent take on morality. Strongly recommended for readers who adore the 19740-1983 TV series 'Little House on the Prairie' starring Michael Landon, Karen Grassle, Melissa Gilbert and Melissa Sue Anderson.This tale is perfect for young readers approximately aged 12-16 or so.R. M. Ballantyne was a Scottish writer specialising in the juvenile fiction genre. He was born as Robert Michael Ballantyne into a family of well-known printers and publishers in Edinburgh. At age 16 he travelled to Canada where he served with the Hudson's Bay Company for six years. He returned to Scotland in 1847 and published his first book the next year, 'Hudson's Bay: or Life in the Wilds of North America'. For several years he was employed by the publishing house Messrs Constable. But in 1856 he decided to leave the literature business. Instead he began writing a series of adventure stories for young readers.

Ok, nobody wants to lose pound500 – but is it big enough of a deal to deserve a short story? To put it into context: a Victorian pound500 was about pound60,000 in today’s money. So, yeah, it’s a big deal. That’s why, when Lady Lydiard has the money stolen from her, the plot becomes a whodunnit. A precursor to modern-day detective novels, this novella revolves around the colourful characters (and a Scottie dog) who are all present in Lady Lydiard’s household when her pound500 disappears.In this fun and compelling tale, two of the men suspected are both romantically interested in Isabel Miller, Lady Lydiard’s companion-cum-adoptive-daughter. "My Lady’s Money" follows these suspects as the intensity of both the theft and romance increases.A classic mystery novella with a love story: think Miss Marple but with marriage proposals.London-born Wilke Collins (1824-1889) became known in Victorian England for his novels and plays, sometimes writing together with Charles Dickens. His most famous works, "The Woman in White" (1859) and "The Moonstone" (1868), are examples of the first modern detective novels.

Fred Temple is a hard-working young man who has quickly risen through the ranks of his father’s business. When not working at the family business, Fred has a passion for the outdoors and outdoor pursuits, and when the opportunity arises for a holiday, he seeks to combine the two and embarks on a yachting and hiking holiday in Norway with friends. The group have plenty of fun on their escapades as they explore Norway together. A charming, entertaining adventure story by popular children’s author R.M. Ballantyne.R.M. Ballantyne (1825-1894) was a Scottish artist and prolific author of mostly children’s fiction. Born in Edinburgh, Ballantyne was the ninth of ten children. At the age of 16 Ballantyne moved to Canada, where he worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company, travelling all over the country to trade for fur. He returned to Scotland in 1847 following the death of his father, and it was then that he began his literary career in earnest, writing over 100 children’s adventure books over the course of his life. Stories such as ‘The Coral Island’ and ‘The Young Fur Traders’ were hugely popular, and many of them drew on his own experiences of travelling throughout Canada. A stickler for detail, Ballantyne continued to travel widely to research the backgrounds and settings for his exciting stories. His tales became an inspiration for authors of the future, including ‘Treasure Island’ novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Ballantyne spent the latter period of his life living in London and Italy for the sake of his health. He died in Rome in 1894 at the age of 68.

Today, children trapped at their grandma's house because of a storm would occupy themselves with social media and a range of streaming services.But in the 1800s, things were very different.In Louisa May Alcott's 'Spinning Wheel Stories', the storm rages while the children gather around gran as she gets the spinning wheel going. While spinning wool and yarn she starts telling the youngers a host of stories.A collection of 12 short children’s stories perfect to catch the attention of the kids, and entertain. Featuring a signature Alcott moral lesson - the benefit of listening to your elders.Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an American writer of numerous beloved novels, short stories and poems. She was a feminist, and many of her stories are loosely based on her own life experiences. She is primarily known for her young adult fiction but also wrote gothic thrillers, albeit anonymously, and sensational stories under the pen name A.M. Barnard. One of her best-known works is "Little Women", a novel that has been turned into numerous film and television adaptations, such as the 2019 film, starring Saorise Ronan, Florence Pugh and Timothée Chalamet.

"Little Novels" isn’t quite a "Little Women" spin-off, as the title might suggest. While you won’t be treated to Timothée Chalamet, you will be treated to fourteen short stories – or little novels (ah now the title makes sense).Wilkie Collins loved writing thrillers about characters proposing marriage who get caught up in dramatic circumstances and must solve a mystery. The thrilling mystery-solving element is the foundations of modern detective novels. While these little novels are true to Collins’s style, they are unique and captivating stand-alone stories. There’s even some supernatural and some social commentary thrown in there.A haunted priest, a sea captain falling in love in Polynesia, a princess falling in love with a secretary, the unsolved murder of a sleepwalker’s husband – these short stories will immerse you in a Victorian world of intrigue, romance, and male suitors who you might imagine looking like Timothée Chalamet.London-born Wilke Collins (1824-1889) became known in Victorian England for his novels and plays, sometimes writing together with Charles Dickens. His most famous works, "The Woman in White" (1859) and "The Moonstone" (1868), are examples of the first modern detective novels.

Dr Phil didn’t invent family drama. This Victorian novel might as well be given the Dr Phil caption of "I found out my parents weren’t married, and my cousin won’t give me my inheritance". A suspenseful yet poignant tale of the prejudices against illegitimacy, "No Name" captures the anxieties at the time – but also love stories – surrounding marriage.Two sisters, Magdalen and Norah Vanstone live an idyllic life in the English countryside with their wealthy parents. A tragedy upends their lives, suddenly losing their status in society. This new life brings Magdalen to York, then London, beginning her riveting tale of acting, marriage proposals, revenge, and even poison.A thriller that would put Dr Phil out of business, "No Name" emphasises romance in the face of rigid Victorian society.London-born Wilke Collins (1824-1889) became known in Victorian England for his novels and plays, sometimes writing together with Charles Dickens. His most famous works, "The Woman in White" (1859) and "The Moonstone" (1868), are examples of the first modern detective novels.

Matilda cannot wait for her husband to be away so she can invite Captain Sommerive into her house and heart. But as their love affair grows more passionate, Matilda begins to see that the secret could cost her everything. With her fifteen month old son crying at the very sight of her lover, and the Captain himself growing bolder by the minute, it seems inevitable that Matilda’s husband must discover the betrayal.In this short story Maupassant paints a dark and satirical portrayal of the lives of women, exploring the tragedy of a cycle of neglect with pointed wit and a wicked sense of humour.Guy de Maupassant (1850-1893) was a famous French writer, often referred to as the father of the short story. A prolific writer, his best known works include "Bel-Ami", "Une Vie" and "The Necklace", alongside some 300 short stories, travel books, and poetry. A master of style and dramatic narrative, Maupassant’s stories are drawn to themes of war, the working class, and the human condition. One of his greatest influences was Gustave Flaubert, who introduced him to some of the central names of the time such as Emile Zola, Ivan Turgenev, and Henry James.

Join Aurora on her travels from Florence to London - a coming of age journey full of trials and tribulations. Spanning 9 books, Browning’s poetic blank verse evokes classical and mythological references, ideal for the passionate philosopher.Dubbed the greatest long poem of the 19th century, ‘Aurora Leigh’ weaves the perfect coming-of-age story for fans of Dev Patel’s 2019 comedy-drama ‘The Personal History of David Copperfield’.Elizabeth Barret Browning (1806-1861) was an English poet, who wrote during the Victorian era. Following her marriage to the writer Robert Browning, Elizabeth moved to Italy where she lived for the rest of her life. Her poetry such as ‘The Cry of the Children’ urged child-labour reforms, whilst ‘A Drama in Exile’, ‘A Vision of Poets’ and ‘Lady Geraldine’s Courtship’ appeared in her 1844 two-volume ‘Poems’. Browning is remembered today as a rival candidate for poet laureate Tennyson on the death of Wordsworth.

'A Modern Mephistopheles' is an eerie tale of passion, deceit, control and greed. It is little wonder Alcott's authorship of the novel was unknown for many years, as she sheltered behind a pseudonym.Felix Canaris, an anguished writer who is about to take his own life, is saved by Jasper Helwyze offering grand promises of fame and fortune - but on the condition that he promises his complete commitment.But when Helwyze exploits the naïve and graceful Gladys as a pawn in his scheme - the race is on, will Canaris break free of him in time to save Gladys?A 150 year-old spine-chilling tale that has never been more relevant today.If you enjoyed 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' by Patricia Highsmith, starring Matt Damon and Cate Blanchett in its film adaptation, then this psychological thriller is for you. Perfect for fans of the Netflix series 'You', starring Penn Badgley and Victoria Pedretti.Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an American writer of numerous beloved novels, short stories and poems. She was a feminist, and many of her stories are loosely based on her own life experiences. She is primarily known for her young adult fiction but also wrote gothic thrillers, albeit anonymously, and sensational stories under the pen name A.M. Barnard. One of her best-known works is "Little Women", a novel that has been turned into numerous film and television adaptations, such as the 2019 film, starring Saorise Ronan, Florence Pugh and Timothée Chalamet.