Engelske bøger

This novel is dedicated to one of Wallace’s favourite pastimes, horse racing. It follows the rough neck Australian gambler Brian Pallard as he arrives in England to meet his distant relatives. Over the course of this fast paced novel, Pallard transforms from degenerate gambler to winning the hearts of his relatives in a sympathetic and dynamic tale. The story itself seems to draw significant parallels to Wallace’s own horse racing addiction which landed his family in serious financial difficulty. With this kernel of truth at its core ‘Grey Timothy’ is a brilliant, captivating tale with a brilliant cast of characters and divine plot twists.Edgar Wallace (1875-1932) was an English writer, poet and journalist. He was such a prolific writer that his publisher claimed his work could account for a quarter of all books sold in England. He wrote countless books, screenplays, poems and historical non-fiction, spawning over one hundred and sixty films based on his work. He unfortunately passed away suddenly before he could see his most famous creation ‘King Kong’ come to life. It has been adapted several times over the years, notably by Peter Jackson of Lord of the Rings fame, and more recently in ‘Godzilla vs Kong’ starring Millie Bobby Brown.

‘The Fortunes and Misfortunes of the Famous Moll Flanders’ is one of Daniel Defoe’s most celebrated novels. It tells the story of Moll Flanders, a charming con woman, from an autobiographical perspective. The reader follows Moll in her travels between London and Virginia as she attempts to marry or steal her way out of destitution. This novel is both hilarious and tragic as Defoe’s acclaimed writing portrays the hardship of 17th-century life in a wholly entertaining manner. This story remains influential as the titular Moll is an early example of a feminist anti-hero in English novels. ‘Moll Flanders’ is teeming with adventure, romance, and shocking twists and it was adapted into a movie starring Morgan Freeman and a television series starring Daniel Craig in 1996. This captivating family saga should be read by fans of Charles Dickens.Daniel Defoe (1660 – 1731) is one of the most important authors in the English language. Defoe was one of the original English novelists and greatly helped to popularise the form. Defoe was highly prolific and is believed to have written over 300 works ranging from novels to political pamphlets. He was highly celebrated but also controversial as his writings influenced politicians but also led to Defoe being imprisoned. Defoe’s novels have been translated into many languages and are still read across the globe to this day. Some of his most famous books include ‘Moll Flanders’ and ‘Robinson Crusoe’ which was adapted into a movie starring Pierce Brosnan and Damian Lewis in 1997. Defoe’s influence on English novels cannot be understated and his legacy lives on to this day.

Theodora has, in many ways, a rich life. Many ways apart from the one that counts. She’s got beauty and innocence in abundance, but when it comes to financial means, she sadly falls short. Luckily, a wealthy aunt takes a shine to the poor girl and invites her to London, where she makes the acquaintance of some interesting characters, including Mr. Oglethorpe, a famed journalist.Just like everyone else, Mr. Oglethorpe can’t seem to take his eyes of the young Theo. There’s only one problem – he's already engaged to someone else.‘Theo - A Sprightly Love Story’ is a melodramatic tale of young love and controversy.Those who loved the work of Jane Austen, including such titles as ‘Pride and Prejudice’, which was adapted into film starring Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet, will undoubtedly also fall in love with Frances Hodgson Burnett’s young heroine, Theo.Frances Hodgson Burnett was an English American playwright and author. Born in the UK in Manchester to a family of ironmongers, she later migrated to the United States where she would go on to write some of her most famous plays and novels.During the span of her career, Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote and published more than 53 novels, most of them for adults. However, she is perhaps best known for her work in children’s literature, including famous titles such as ‘The Little Princess’ (1905), ‘The Secret Garden’ (1911), and ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’ (1886).Frances Hodgson Burnett is also known for her historical fiction, including acclaimed titles such as 'The Head of the House of Coombe' (1922) and its sequel, 'Robin' (1922).Burnett’s work has been adapted for film many times. The latest movie adaptation of ‘The Secret Garden’ was released in 2020, starring Colin Firth and Julie Walters.

First published in 1881 ‘The Gully of Bluemansdyke’ is a collection of seven short stories from the much-loved author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The stories are set all over the world, from Australia to Scotland and Budapest. Full of adventure, excitement and even the paranormal, tales in this collection include ‘My Friend the Murderer’, ‘The Silver Hatchet’ and ‘That Little Square Box’.Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) was a British author, best known as the creator of the world-famous detective Sherlock Holmes. Born in Edinburgh, he was educated in England and Austria before studying medicine at the University of Edinburgh. It was during his time at university that Doyle began writing short stories, submitting them to magazines and journals. His first Sherlock Holmes novel, ‘A Study in Scarlet’ was written in just three weeks and published in 1887 to favourable reviews, and more Sherlock adventures followed. By 1893, Doyle was growing tired of Sherlock and attempted to kill him off in the story ‘The Final Problem’, but public outcry caused him to resurrect the famous detective. He featured in a total of 56 short stories and four novels along with his trusty sidekick Dr Watson and made Doyle one of the best-paid authors of the time. The stories have been adapted multiple times; most recently in the successful BBC series ‘Sherlock’ starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. Later literary works included the Professor Challenger series which began with ‘The Lost World’, in which Challenger sets out to find evidence of prehistoric life. The book inspired numerous adaptations, including the films ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘The Lost World’. In later life Doyle became captivated by the world of spiritualism and the occult and published non-fiction works about his beliefs including ‘The Coming of the Fairies’. Arthur Conan Doyle died at home in 1930.

Mary Shelley was ahead of her time - arguably by 200 years.For when her novel 'The Last Man' was published in 1826 with a plot featuring a deadly global pandemic, the public was not impressed.In modern days, it looks far more current.Her first novel since 'Frankenstein', 'The Last Man' is set in the late 21st century as humankind is virtually wiped out by a global pandemic.There are no zombies, but fans of 'The Walking Dead' will appreciate the apocalyptic theme and the way Shelley follows the fortunes of a small group of survivors as they unravel emotionally.They include characters inspired by two men she was mourning: her husband and famous poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and the poet Lord Byron.Can they survive? Or is the human race going the way of the dinosaurs?Mary Shelley (1797–1851) earned her place in the pantheon of British novelists with her ground-breaking Gothic novel ‘Frankenstein’ (1818). Considered one of the first true works of science-fiction, the book became an instant bestseller. But she was far from a one-hit-wonder, producing a host of other novels, including 'Valperga', 'Perkin Warbeck' and 'The Last Man'. Most were not well received in her lifetime, though, only being fully appreciated from the 1960s.She moved in a circle of famed 19th-century writers and philosophers. She was married to the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and spent time with Lord Byron. Her mother was the philosopher and feminist activist Mary Wollstonecraft and her father was the political philosopher William Godwin.Mary Shelley’s work 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. Most recently, Elle Fanning portrayed Mary in Haifaa Al-Mansour’s film ‘Mary Shelley’ from 2017.

Published in 1917, ‘The New Revelation’ by author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is a collection of his thoughts about religion, spiritualism, and the afterlife. An advocate of spiritualism throughout his later life (for which he received much ridicule and criticism) Doyle reasons throughout ‘The New Revelation’ for its existence and validity, citing his own personal experiences. A fascinating insight into the beliefs and interests of the world-famous author.Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) was a British author, best known as the creator of the world-famous detective Sherlock Holmes. Born in Edinburgh, he was educated in England and Austria before studying medicine at the University of Edinburgh. It was during his time at university that Doyle began writing short stories, submitting them to magazines and journals. His first Sherlock Holmes novel, ‘A Study in Scarlet’ was written in just three weeks and published in 1887 to favourable reviews, and more Sherlock adventures followed. By 1893, Doyle was growing tired of Sherlock and attempted to kill him off in the story ‘The Final Problem’, but public outcry caused him to resurrect the famous detective. He featured in a total of 56 short stories and four novels along with his trusty sidekick Dr Watson and made Doyle one of the best-paid authors of the time. The stories have been adapted multiple times; most recently in the successful BBC series ‘Sherlock’ starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. Later literary works included the Professor Challenger series which began with ‘The Lost World’, in which Challenger sets out to find evidence of prehistoric life. The book inspired numerous adaptations, including the films ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘The Lost World’. In later life Doyle became captivated by the world of spiritualism and the occult and published non-fiction works about his beliefs including ‘The Coming of the Fairies’. Arthur Conan Doyle died at home in 1930.

‘The Lay-Man's Sermon Upon the Late Storm’ is a thought-provoking political pamphlet written by Daniel Defoe. In this essay, Defoe discusses the Church of England’s reaction to the great storm of 1703 that killed over a thousand people in England. The Church claimed that those who died deserved it for their sins and Defoe smartly and satirically disputes this line of thought. In an original and witty manner, Defoe claims that 18th Century England would put moderates to death as extreme views were the norm. Defoe’s writings on religion and politics were controversial at the time and led to him being imprisoned but they also influenced many other politicians. This book remains relevant as it preaches centrism and peace in a fractured society. ‘The Lay-Man’s Sermon Upon the Late Storm’ should be read by anyone interested in politics and religion as it provides great insight into an interesting time in history.Daniel Defoe (1660 – 1731) is one of the most important authors in the English language. Defoe was one of the original English novelists and greatly helped to popularise the form. Defoe was highly prolific and is believed to have written over 300 works ranging from novels to political pamphlets. He was highly celebrated but also controversial as his writings influenced politicians but also led to Defoe being imprisoned. Defoe’s novels have been translated into many languages and are still read across the globe to this day. Some of his most famous books include ‘Moll Flanders’ and ‘Robinson Crusoe’ which was adapted into a movie starring Pierce Brosnan and Damian Lewis in 1997. Defoe’s influence on English novels cannot be understated and his legacy lives on to this day.

‘Joseph and His Friend: A Story of Pennsylvania’ was written by American author Bayard Taylor.After marrying a wealthy woman, young Joseph discovers a deep and powerful love for his friend Philip. Confused by his feelings and unhappy with his manipulative wife, Joseph’s love for Philip grows stronger.Considered to be the ‘first gay novel’ in America, the book discusses the friends' special attachment and their romantic but not sexual relationship. Noted for its enigmatic treatment of homosexuality, critics were divided over their interpretation of the novel with many arguing it was a political argument for gay relationships while others thought it an idealization of male spirituality. A great read for fans of E. M. Forster's novel 'Maurice' and 'Brokeback Mountain' by Annie Proulx.Bayard Taylor (1825–1878) was an American poet, author, literary critic and diplomat. Widely travelled, he was known primarily for his travelogues, which were popular in the UK and the United States.Visiting California at the height of the gold rush, Taylor published a hugely successful travel book called ‘El Dorado; or Adventures in the Path of Empire’ (1850). His other works include ‘Views Afoot, or Europe seen with Knapsack and Staff’ (1846), ‘A Journey to Central Africa; or Life and Landscapes from Egypt’ and ‘A Visit to India, China and Japan in the Year 1853’ (1855).Taylor is also credited with writing the ‘first gay novel’ in America, with his 1870 novel ‘Joseph and His Friend: A Story of Pennsylvania.’ His later work included Poems of the Orient (1855) and his famous translation of ‘Faust’ (1870–71).

"Fashion is ephemeral. Art is eternal. Indeed, what is a fashion really? A fashion is merely a form of ugliness so absolutely unbearable that we have to alter it every six months!"‘The Philosophy of Fashion’ is the article that elevated Wilde from the position of a commercial journalist to a writer of repute. In this essay, Wilde dismantles the concept of fashion, with his characteristic wit and biting social criticism.Funny and fascinating, ‘The Philosophy of Fashion’ is a wry look at social conventions, through the eyes of a dedicated dandy. For anyone with an interest in fashion or works commenting on societal trends.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.

‘A General History of the Pyrates’ is a captivating account of some of history’s most notorious pirates. The author, writing as Captain Charles Johnson, blends fiction and non-fiction to provide readers with a most entertaining version of these iconic heroes and villains. This book was a massive success upon its first release due to its adventurous stories filled with danger and treasure and its influence lives on to this day as it shaped the modern view of pirates. Some of the best accounts in the book are of the infamous Blackbeard and the trailblazing female pirates Anne Bonny and Mary Read. ‘A General History of the Pyrates’ is the definitive story of the golden age of piracy and should be read by fans of books such as ‘Treasure Island’ and movies such as ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’.Daniel Defoe (1660 – 1731) is one of the most important authors in the English language. Defoe was one of the original English novelists and greatly helped to popularise the form. Defoe was highly prolific and is believed to have written over 300 works ranging from novels to political pamphlets. He was highly celebrated but also controversial as his writings influenced politicians but also led to Defoe being imprisoned. Defoe’s novels have been translated into many languages and are still read across the globe to this day. Some of his most famous books include ‘Moll Flanders’ and ‘Robinson Crusoe’ which was adapted into a movie starring Pierce Brosnan and Damian Lewis in 1997. Defoe’s influence on English novels cannot be understated and his legacy lives on to this day.

In the imaginary Republic of San Martina, a former British MP and millionaire marries the President’s beautiful daughter. Wil his plan to overthrow her father and rule in his stead come to fruition? An adventurous tale of revolution, intrigue, and romance from the prolific author E. Phillips Oppenheim.E. Phillips Oppenheim (1866-1946) was a hugely prolific and highly popular British author of novels and short stories. Born in Tottenham, London, Oppenheim left school as a teenager and worked for his leather-merchant father for 20 years prior to launching his literary career. Oppenheim published five novels under the pseudonym ‘Anthony Partridge’ before establishing his reputation as a writer under his own name. An internationally successful author, Oppenheim’s stories revolved mainly around glamourous characters, luxurious settings, and themes of espionage, suspense, and crime. He is widely regarded as one of the earliest pioneers of the thriller and spy-fiction genre as it is recognised today. Oppenheim’s incredible literary success meant that his own life soon began to mirror that of his opulent characters. He held lavish, Gatsby-style parties at his French Villa and was rumoured to have had frequent love affairs aboard his luxury yacht. Oppenheim’s success earned him the cover of Time magazine in 1927. Some of his most well-known novels include ‘The Great Impersonation’, ‘The Long Arm of Mannister’ and ‘The Moving Finger’.

Given the wrong name at baptism and accidentally circumcised by a sash window at age five - Tristram Shandy had a difficult start to life.His luck never changed - but the hero of Laurence Sterne's great comic novel battled on against "this scurvy and disastrous world of ours".He is joined by the likes of Uncle Toby, Corporal Trim, Parson Yorick, Dr Slop and the Widow Wadman as he faces misfortune head-on, with a sardonic smile.The book, an "autobiography", was originally published in nine volumes over eight years.It sees Shandy getting into scrapes, while launching into stream-of-consciousness tirades about subjects including sexual practices, insults, the human nose, siege warfare and obstetrics.This hilarious and heart-warming book is perfect for fans of Charles Dickens and Jonathan Swift.In 2006, the book was adapted into the movie 'A Cock and Bull Story', starring Steve Coogan, Rob Brydon and Keeley Hawes.Laurence Sterne (1713-1768) was an Anglo-Irish novelist and Anglican cleric who also dabbled in local politics.After becoming a vicar, he published his ecclesiastical satire 'A Political Romance', which infuriated Church leaders and was burnt.He then published successive volumes of his classic comic novel 'The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman'.He travelled to France to relieve tuberculosis and wrote 'A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy' shortly before his death.

Could it be that people who never lie are devoid of creativity? If that’s true, then all creative art must be founded in lies. ‘The Decay of Lying’ is a beguiling essay on the nature of art, in all its forms.Set in the library of a country house in Nottinghamshire, and written as a dialogue between Cyril and Vivian, ‘The Decay of Lying’ sets out to prove just how creative we can all be, as long as we defy societal conventions.Referencing everyone from the Ancient Greeks to Shakespeare, this is Wilde at his most thoughtful and mischievous. For anyone interested in art or witty debate.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 forty-three poems, and seven essays. His life was the subject of a film, starring Stephen Fry.

E.T.A. Hoffmann's 'The Devil's Elixir' is a gothic, horror-fantasy novel inspired by Matthew Gregory Lewis's novel 'The Monk'.Medardus is the son of a sinner and is raised in a monastery to atone for his father's past. When Medardus succumbs to temptation, he is dragged into a deadly mystery that sees him travel to Rome, pursued by his murderous lookalike.At the Vatican in Rome, the monk's only hope for salvation is the beautiful Aurelie but in order to finally discover the truth of the curse that haunts his family, Medardus must evade the sinister powers of the living and the dead.A must-read for fans of the TV adaptations of Umberto Eco's 'The Name of the Rose' or Rumer Godden's 'Black Narcissus'.E.T.A Hoffmann was a German author of romance, fantasy, and gothic horror, and was highly influential on the Romantic Movement. He is perhaps best known for writing the novella 'The Nutcracker and the Mouse King' which was the inspiration for Tchaikovsky's ballet 'The Nutcracker'.

Lord Glenthorn is bored and lacking oomph. But before you feel sorry for him, it is worth knowing that he has a pile of money, a grand title, estates in England and Ireland and no stress.That is until he finds out he is not Lord Glenthorn, the Anglo-Irish earl. He is in fact the peasant Christy O'Donoghoe, which is a fly in the ointment for his efforts to provide for the woman he loves.At the same time, he gets caught up in the violent Irish Rebellion of 1798.Can he shake off the ennui, become a self-made man and win the hand of his love?Those who enjoy Jane Austen's novels, including 'Persuasion', 'Sense and Sensibility', and 'Pride and Prejudice', will love 'Ennui'. Like Austen, Maria Edgeworth has a gift for gently exposing the hypocrisy and accidental comedy of Britain's 19th century upper-middle class.First published in 1809, 'Ennui' is a didactic novel, which means it aims to teach the reader a moral lesson - like 'Aesop's Fables'.The Irish writer Maria Edgeworth (1768-1849) was highly regarded in her day as a pioneer of early 19th century fiction and children's literature.A friend of the novelist Sir Walter Scott ('Ivanhoe', 'Rob Roy'), she was active and vocal about political and estate reform.Today, she is rather underappreciated - and overshadowed - by other 19th century satirical novelists like Jane Austen and Anthony Trollope.A prolific writer, Edgeworth's best-known works include 'Ennui', 'The Dun' and 'Belinda', which was controversial in its day for featuring inter-racial marriage.

A psychological thriller, woven with fantastic characters and delicious plot twists that will leave you spinning.‘The Strange Lapses of Larry Loman’ tells the story of Scotland Yard detective Larry Loman on a special mission to Asia. Once there he contracts a particularly vicious bout of malaria that causes him to have amnesiac blackouts for up to eight hours at a time. Nevertheless he is assigned to the Criminal Trust case, taking on an organisation that has gathered every major criminal in England under one banner but his blackouts worsen, making him unsure of the very reality he inhabits.If you loved the James Bond film ‘Spectre’ this book is perfect for you.Edgar Wallace (1875-1932) was an English writer, poet and journalist. He was such a prolific writer that his publisher claimed his work could account for a quarter of all books sold in England. He wrote countless books, screenplays, poems and historical non-fiction, spawning over one hundred and sixty films based on his work. He unfortunately passed away suddenly before he could see his most famous creation ‘King Kong’ come to life. It has been adapted several times over the years, notably by Peter Jackson of Lord of the Rings fame, and more recently in ‘Godzilla vs Kong’ starring Millie Bobby Brown.

‘A Treatise of Human Nature’ is one of Hume’s most important works, dissecting the concepts of passion and emotions.His focus on the correlation between cause and effect has been the subject of debate for psychologists and philosophers for years since its original publication.A thought-provoking and intricate read, ‘A Treatise of Human Nature’ is ideal for fans of Sam Harris' 'Making Sense' podcast and those with even a passing interest in morality, the scientific method, and philosophy as a whole.David Hume (1711 – 1776) is widely considered to be one of the most influential philosophers to be published in the English language. A Scotsman, Hume postulated the theory that the universe is governed by natural laws and forces. Critically acclaimed, his writings were cited by Charles Darwin as having a major influence into the Theory of Evolution. He was also known for questioning the nature of the ‘self,’ believing that personal identity is a cultural illusion. His work on the correlation between emotions and moral judgments helped to pioneer the emotivist metaethical school of thought.

Hartley and Robbins meet one another in a building so near to the railroad that the smell of coal unceasingly wafts in through the open windows. A detective enters the room where they are chatting and tells Hartley that he has found 'the address' of the girl. Who is this girl and why is she so special that Hartley promises her everything to persuade her to go with him? O. Henry gives us the answer to the mystery in an explosive surprise, even by his own standards.American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In doing so he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film 'O. Henry's Full House' starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. Perhaps the most famous of these are, 'Cabbages and Kings,' 'The Voice of the City' and 'Strictly Business.' The immensity of O. Henry's impact on the American short story genre for time to come is evidenced by the fact an annual award in his name is given out each year in the United States. O. Henry's work is a must read for fans of Hemingway, Guy de Maupassant and Anton Chekhov.

"All right. I suppose you think I'm spoiled by the city. I'm as good a Westerner as you are, Greenbrier; but, somehow, I can't make up my mind to go back out there. New York is comfortable - comfortable. I make a good living, and I love it. No more wet blankets and riding herd in snowstorms, and bacon and cold coffee, and blowouts once in six months for me."An Arizona cowboy on a short visit to New York finds himself rubbing shoulders with an old friend- but finds the man deeply changed by his seven years living in the Big Apple. Can he convert him back to his old ways without alarming too many fellow New Yorkers?American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In doing so he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film 'O. Henry's Full House' starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. Perhaps the most famous of these are, 'Cabbages and Kings,' 'The Voice of the City' and 'Strictly Business.' The immensity of O. Henry's impact on the American short story genre for time to come is evidenced by the fact an annual award in his name is given out each year in the United States. O. Henry's work is a must read for fans of Hemingway, Guy de Maupassant and Anton Chekhov.

Much of Bierce’s work revolves around the foolish idea of a glorious war, the idea that there is glory in death and violence. This theme can be seen in the title itself, it is a bloody violent battle but it is merely an ‘Affair’, as such occurrences are regular, everyday things. This is a story which focuses on the divide that the Civil War wreaked in America, tearing families and friendships apart.In this story we follow a Union brigade as they push the retreating Confederate army deeper in to their own territory. The retreating army guards a perilous pass for which Captain Coulter, a Union soldier from a Southern family is sent to take.It is a heart-breaking tale, fraught with brutal imagery much like Mel Gibson’s ‘Hacksaw Ridge’.Ambrose Bierce (1842-1914) was an American author, journalist, critic and soldier, best known for his works of horror and fiction. He was a truly talented writer whose ability was not bound to one genre. His works of horror draw honourable comparison to Edgar Allan Poe and H.P Lovecraft while his more humorous, satirical work draws the comparison to such literary greats as Jonathan Swift and Voltaire. Bierce’s ‘The Devils Dictionary’ has been named one of ‘The 100 Greatest Masterpieces of American Literature’. His war stories such as ‘An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge’ and ‘Tales of Soldiers and Civilians’ are amongst his best works and are said to have inspired Ernest Hemingway and Stephen Crane. Even Bierce’s end is as mysterious as one of his own tales, travelling to Mexico to cover the revolution first-hand but never being heard or seen from again.

'The Living Present' is a non-fiction text by Atherton about her stay in France during which she became deeply acquainted with its people, customs, and traditions. The book reads like a study of French life at the time – replete with vibrancy, cultural peculiarities and sheer spirit. Atherton was greatly influenced by and enamoured with French culture, and this led in turn to this epistolary ode in honour of France and the French people.Her feminist side is also at play, with Atherton paying close attention to the lives and mores of French women of the day all throughout the course of the book.A highly recommended reading to fans of Gertrude Atherton and Francophiles. 'The Living Present' and its photographic & deeply reflective musings, especially in relation to what it means to be a woman in the modern era, may bring to mind the writing style of Virginia Woolf and Susan Sontag.Gertrude Atherton was an American author who lived in the period 1857-1948. She wrote novels, short stories, essays and articles, and her work often dealt with feminism and politics. Her personal life inspired her to write about women and their rights as she felt genuine disappointment in her own marriage, because her husband was not willing to let her be a writer. After his death, Atherton opened up to the world and started developing her career as a novelist. She is best known for the novel "Black Oxen" which was published in 1923. The work was so well accepted by the public, that it was made into a silent film the same year. In 1946 she published the autobiography "My San Francisco: A Wayward Biography".

Close your eyes and imagine the horrors of being sentenced to hard labour at an isolated Siberian prison camp. The torturous conditions, the brutality of the guards and the suffering of your everyday life!"The House of the Dead" is a semi-autobiographical novel by Fyodor Dostoevsky. The author uses autofiction to be able to use facts, fiction and to discuss topics that have happened to him while he was imprisoned. The primitive conditions and horrifying episodes in the prison camp mirror the author’s own exile in such a camp for four years in 1849.The novel focuses on the exploration of the Russian character, mostly depicted in times of trouble and hardship. The themes of crime, punishment and isolation run potent in this haunting novel where the reader has to suffer and endure the arduous path through the house of the dead in order to be born again into freedom. A five-star reading recommendation.Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological.There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel 'Crime and Punishment' with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich.'The Idiot' has also been adapted for films and TV, as has 'Demons' and 'The Brothers Karamazov'.

Dr. Helberson and his friends, Harper and Mancher, are enjoying a night of smoking and drinking in the good doctor’s office when a question arises. Is a fear of the dead curable?The doctor believes it absolutely is and sets about organising a wager with his friends. They find a local gambler named Jarette and bet a large sum of money on whether he can spend the night locked in a room with a corpse without losing his mind.A haunting tale full of monstrous imagery, which deftly displays Bierce’s terrifying mastery of the horror genre.If you loved ‘The Conjuring’ you will love this classic ghost story.Ambrose Bierce (1842-1914) was an American author, journalist, critic and soldier, best known for his works of horror and fiction. He was a truly talented writer whose ability was not bound to one genre.His works of horror draw honourable comparison to Edgar Allan Poe and H.P Lovecraft while his more humorous, satirical work draws the comparison to such literary greats as Jonathan Swift and Voltaire. Bierce’s ‘The Devils Dictionary’ has been named one of ‘The 100 Greatest Masterpieces of American Literature’. His war stories such as ‘An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge’ and ‘Tales of Soldiers and Civilians’ are amongst his best works and are said to have inspired Ernest Hemingway and Stephen Crane.Even Bierce’s end is as mysterious as one of his own tales, travelling to Mexico to cover the revolution first-hand but never being heard or seen from again.

In 'The Girl and the Graft' O. Henry challenges the traditionally held expectations of a woman's role in society. With his hallmark matter-of-fact wit, O. Henry questions the chasm between women's and men's socio-economic conditions in the newfound era of women's activism. The unfairness that the protagonist addresses is that men are the sole proprietors of "all the money in world." A must read for fans of satirical short stories and feminists alike.American short story master O. Henry is best known for his pithy, witty scores and surprise endings. In doing so he made commonplace experiences extraordinary and memorable. His work has been immortalised in the popular 1952 film 'O. Henry's Full House' starring Fred Allen, Anne Baxter, Marilyn Monroe and Jeanne Crain.William Sidney Porter (1862-1919), known simply as O. Henry, was a prolific American author of humorous literary pieces. His fame came exceptionally quickly and he became a bestselling author of short story collections. Perhaps the most famous of these are, 'Cabbages and Kings,' 'The Voice of the City' and 'Strictly Business.' The immensity of O. Henry's impact on the American short story genre for time to come is evidenced by the fact an annual award in his name is given out each year in the United States. O. Henry's work is a must read for fans of Hemingway, Guy de Maupassant and Anton Chekhov.

A lovely day out takes a dark turn when a complaining customer is found dead... Luckily amateur sleuth Belinda Penshurst is on the scene – and ready to investigate!Belinda Penshurst has always loved Brabourne Gardens. A keen animal lover, she enjoys walking its winding paths and listening to the excited squeals of schoolchildren. So when one of the visitors is found strangled, she’s determined to learn whodunnit – and why.The victim, Simon Carter, had a reputation for making trouble... But surely that’s not a good enough reason to want him dead. Together with retired detective Harry Powell, Belinda investigates the goings-on behind the scenes and learns that some of the staff are more savage than the animals.Is it Estelle Samuels, the anti-social owner, who clearly has something to hide? Or the security guard who takes his job too seriously? Most worrying of all, Belinda’s ex Ivan was there when the body was found, and she’s determined to clear his name. As suspicions swirl, one thing’s for sure: if Belinda keeps following the killer’s tracks, she might find herself in their sights...Can she sniff out a murderer, before she becomes the prey?A completely unputdownable and charming cozy mystery. Fans of M.C. Beaton, Richard Osman and Anthony Horowitz' "Magpie Murders" will love the Belinda Penshurst series!See what readers are saying about Murder at the Gardens:‘Absolutely fantastic... A page-turning, non-stop, addictive, hilarious cosy mystery... Perfect for the beach or in front of a fire, a fantastic start to what promises to be a riveting series!!!’ Bookworm86‘What a great start to a new series!... A lively, spark-filled investigation... Wonderfully entertaining with the perfect set of ingredients.’ Goodreads reviewer‘I love this book!!!... An absolute blinder... The perfect cosy afternoon whodunnit, it’s fun, light-hearted, charming, a definite winner!’ Chicks, Rogues and Scandals.

They’re real-life enemies, but online they’re besties. . .Stubborn disabled dance club owner meets demisexual property tycoon in this ff enemies to lovers romance.Seraph's Burlesque Club owner Beth Zendeli takes no nonsense. She hustled to keep her club afloat through lean years and a pandemic, and she doesn’t let her disability define her. But her perfect location has been sold, and the club is being evicted. The new owner is unreasonable, immovable, and irritating. In desperation, she turns to the online friends she talks about plants with. . .Property investor Liz Whitten has plans for the old building she's just purchased, and she's used to getting her way. But when she meets the leaseholder in real life, a chance statement reveals Beth to be Liz's online friend QueenB. Can she really evict a friend? Especially a friend who is so unexpected and fascinating in real life.Liz must decide if profits and ideals matter more than friendship, or if it’s worth taking a risk on love.Tropes:Enemies to loversSeasoned romance (older main characters)Online friends to IRL loversFriends online and enemies IRLThis series consists of three lesbian romances is set in a burlesque club in London. If you love to read about a found family with queer people who thrive, this series has that and more.If you love online friends but enemies in real life, and older main characters who think they already know what they want in life, then you’ll enjoy this one.Renée Dahlia is an unabashed romance reader who loves feisty women and strong, clever men. Her books reflect this, with a side note of awkward humour. Renée has a science degree in physics. When not distracted by the characters fighting for attention in her brain, she works in the horse-racing industry doing data analysis and writing magazine articles. When she isn’t reading or writing, Renée spends her time with her partner and four children, usually watching them play cricket.

Motherhood is a personal journey of self-discovery. From feeling delight and wonder, to challenged and overwhelmed – often, all in one day! FLOURISH for Mums is your perfect companion to cultivate 21 healthy ways to let go of unrealistic expectations and create space to celebrate your unique parenting pathway. Filled with uplifting anecdotes and supportive strategies, while busting big misconceptions – this is personal, yet universal in its strong, yet gentle message. The weight of social media, societal expectations, and an ever-evolving concept of what it means to be a good parent play heavily on the minds of mothers. If the daily life of a busy mum is not enough this is the burden that can break a mother’s feelings of self-worth and success – personally, in work, and in the family unit.Filled with uplifting anecdotes and supportive strategies, while busting big misconceptions Flourish for Mums cultivates a self-empowerment specific to mothers with its unique, strong, yet gentle messages."This compassionate, wise and soulful book cuts to the heart of motherhood ... It’s the ideal handholding companion." - Michelle Mitchell Author, Speaker, EducatorSonia Bestulic is a creative, energised woman, combining an extraordinary blend of creativity, intellect, empathy and passionate, determined drive; Sonia shares a natural gift for empowering those with children in their lives, to embrace their own personal growth.Sonia is an award-nominated Children’s Author, Speech Pathologist, Podcaster, and highly regarded Speaker. She combines real-world experience having worked with thousands of mothers and their children, within her Speech Pathology practices, together with her own lived motherhood, raising three children.Sonia is also the Founder of Talking Heads Speech Pathology clinics, in Sydney Australia. She is an advocate for honouring mothers’ wellbeing, celebrating children, and living a life powered by love.

Even wedding planners struggle to get it right...Jason is the best wedding planner around, known as the Fairy Godfather to the couples whose special days he plans. But coming up against workplace prejudice is taking a toll on his love for his job.His mother-in-law, Mel, has just discovered her husband has been cheating on her with a younger woman. Nearing fifty, jobless and struggling, she needs to work out who she is aside from a mum and a wife, and get her life back on track.Meanwhile, up-tight wedding planner Harriet is struggling to find her own true love – if such a thing exists. Between liars, married men, and disastrous dates, she thinks she may never find the one. And her outdated attitude toward LGBT marriages makes her even more bitter.When Jason starts Extra Weddings – helping people marry whoever they like, in whatever way they want – he, Mel and Harriet find themselves coming together to help couples make memories to last a lifetime. But can they bridge their gaps, and be a unit when others need them most?Fans of Casey McQuiston, Abigail Mann and Beth O'Leary are invited to the most heart-warming and extravagant wedding event of the year.Charlie Lyndhurst is the Diversity Officer of the RNA and heavily involved in the Rainbow Chapter. Charlie previously wrote as Liam Livings, self and trade publishing gay erotic/romance novels.

Mysterious seafarer Captain Wopper is in London trying to track down Willum Stout - a man he knew many years before when they worked together in the gold mines of California. When he learns of Willum’s untimely death from a wise old lady named Roby, Captain Wopper knows he must fulfil Willum’s last wishes, and track down the young son Willum left behind. An intriguing adventure story by the prolific author R.M. Ballantyne, full of twists and turns and fascinating characters.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.

‘Certain Personal Matters’ is an intriguing and entertaining collection of essays by H.G. Wells that range from satirical political sketches to scientific speculations. Wells’ shorts shed unparalleled light on the author’s life such as a harrowing and intimate recollection of his battle with tuberculosis. Many essays discuss topics that remain relevant like social inequalities although Wells uses his humour and wit to ensure these articles remain engaging. Some of the essays contain science fiction material, providing an incredible insight into the author’s later ventures into the genre. Among the most interesting essays are ‘The Book of Curses’ about a man doomed to be unpopular as he collects swear words from people he encounters and ‘The Amateur Nature-Lover’ that comically ponders where abandoned boots come from. ‘Certain Personal Matters’ will satisfy Wells readers with its scientific discussions while also providing a different perspective on the celebrated author by portraying his humour. This collection is a must-read for fans of Wells and ‘The Twilight Zone’.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.