Engelske bøger

Recently divorced Claudia is looking to start again in a small town, in Colorado. Problem is she's still hooked on a mysterious crush she's found on a dating app, in New York City. "Jamie S" is gorgeous, accomplished, a former NFL football player, now a tech guru millionaire. He’s also twelve years younger than her.Determined that she doesn't have time for steamy New York fling, Claudia heads to Colorado, only to find someone waiting on her new doorstep...Can she trust the instant connection between them, or is it doomed from the start? Especially when the reason he's there is not quite what it seems...Perfect for fans of Talia Hibbert, Kristen Ashley and Beverly Jenkins."Rebel Carter writes with wit, elegance and longing. Her love stories exist in a world of their own, and it's one I never want to leave." - Talia Hibbert, author of That Kind Of Guy.Rebel Carter is a romance novelist from Colorado, USA. Her books are packed with passion, intriguing and dynamic characters, and plenty of steamy scenes. A writer of both contemporary and historical romance fiction, Carter is an exciting new voice in the romance genre.

It was the toothpaste smeared around the sink that broke my marriage. As I rubbed it away AGAIN, I was reminded of everything else I’ve put up with these twenty-five years. My husband’s obsession with his pension, his ability to charm me into every single one of his ideas, never being taken on a romantic date, let alone ravished on the patio (like the woman who lives next door)... small things, but the realisation was huge.Just when Lucy Jones thinks her marriage is about to screech to a halt over toothpaste, her husband, Leo, announces he wants to move to tumbledown (clapped-out) Rose Cottage, and Lucy knows she’ll be the one managing the renovations.Then along comes gorgeous builder Will, ten years younger and the only person actually listening to Lucy. His twinkly eyes and blowtorch smile are causing Lucy to break out in a hot sweat – but is it love, lust or simply dodgy hormones that are causing her heart to flutter?Lucy loves her husband, but everyone knows that little things build up. And then they explode. Can Lucy keep it together, or will there be one last straw she might not be able to get over?A laugh-out-loud romp with an ending that will make you gasp! Perfect for fans of Tracy Bloom, Sophie Kinsella and Dawn French.What readers are saying about Lucy’s Last Straw:‘My favourite book this year... had me literally LAUGHING OUT LOUD... This book had me laughing, crying and rooting for Lucy on all the way. I loved it and recommend it for everyone!’ Being Miss Meg, 5 stars‘Absolutely hilarious. It is so easy for any woman to relate to this book... sooooo good. I read this in just a few hours as I simply couldn’t put it down. Go and grab your copy now. It’s one everyone will be talking about this year.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars‘Wow!... Honest, heartfelt and totally hilarious! Such an amazing read, I found myself either smiling or laughing constantly... Bl**dy brilliant!! I love it!... a must read for every woman this summer.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars‘Made me smile, giggle and laugh out loud. I loved it and would recommend it to anyone.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars‘Funny from the very beginning until the end, and there were some laugh out loud moments which I loved... I was reading this at 2am!... had me giggling away. I ended up reading this in one sitting, I just couldn't put it down. Thanks for one hell of a laugh Debbie!’ The Bookend Reviews, 5 stars‘Loved this book from the very first word... It is the sort of book that I would love to be reading whilst laying on a hot beach... with so many twists and turns it keeps you hooked.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars‘My first read of Debbie Viggiano, and I can't wait to read more!... Entertaining from beginning to end.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars‘You will be hard pressed to not find something both lovable and relatable in the character of Lucy Jones, who is reminiscent of Bridget Jones had the latter been on HRT. I laughed my way right through this charming and addictive read.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars‘Funny from beginning to end... a real laugh-out-loud book, that not only had me giggling away, but quite often nodding in recognition of some of the situations.’ A Good Book and a Brew, 5 stars‘OMGoodness – what a treat... a chuckly book, with good characters and a light heart.’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 starsPrior to turning her attention to writing, Debbie Viggiano was, for more years than she cares to remember, a legal secretary. She lives with her Italian husband, a rescued pooch from Crete, and a very disgruntled cat. Occasionally her children return home from university bringing her much joy... and piles of dirty laundry.

Esther Waters is an unmarried young woman from an impoverished working class family who, while employed as a kitchen maid, is seduced by one of her fellow domestic servants, falls pregnant, then subsequently is deserted by her lover. Despite the dire circumstances and the social stigma of bearing a child out of wedlock, Esther decides to bring up her future child as a single mother, despite the backlash she will face. 'Esther Waters' is one of a group of Victorian novels depicting the life and times of the "e;fallen woman"e;. It is widely regarded as Moore's best novel. Highly recommended for fans of the natural realist novels of Emile Zola, Charles Dickens and Anthony Trollope, who examined the societal repercussions of the early-stage capitalism immediately following the Industrial Resolution. -

Showcasing a true-to-life and compelling menagerie of characters, Edith Wharton's 'Tales of Men and Ghosts' is an assortment of ten different uncanny, paranormal and tragic stories. While depicting vivid and fascinating characters, 'Tales of Men and Ghosts' also studies the social attitudes of 20th century society. Repressed sexuality, strained relationships and class distinctions are among the issues explored by Wharton. A bare bones exhibition of the vices of mankind is paraded by the characters, but it is presented without harsh criticism or judgement. This gives rise to a beautiful and enthralling collection of character sketches. Timelessly written prose, 'Tales of Men and Ghosts' is as relatable and enticing a masterpiece of gothic fiction as it was when it was first published.A perfect fit for fans of the American horror drama series 'Lovecraft Country'. Starring Jurnee Smollet, Jonathan Majors, Michael. K. Williams and Wunmi Mosaku.-

'We can't do much, being "e;only girls,"e;' said Anna; 'but if each does one small chore somewhere it will pave the way for better work'.From the author of 'Little Women', this short story follows a group of young Boston girls who discover the power of kindness and of sharing their abundance. As descendants of the Pilgrim Fathers, they call themselves the May Flower Club. Instead of gathering to sew and read, they decide to spend their time helping the poor over the winter. They each choose and commit to a project, which they will reveal to each other the following spring if they succeed. But success does not come without struggle.Inspiring, wholesome, and filled with lessons applicable in our world today, "e;May Flowers"e; is a classic Louisa May Alcott story. -

'In The South Seas' is a collection of stories from the Pacific Islands curated by Stevenson as he cruised through the islands. The collection is among some of the most important bodies of literature that focus on the Pacific area in the 19th century. The collection acts as a time capsule of tradition and culture that has since been lost to time and offers an incredibly fascinating and valuable insight in to a part of human history rarely given its due attention. The collection covers the various tribal cultures, languages, traditions and societies in the islands making it an important anthropological piece of work. Stevenson brings the vast ocean expanses, the stunning nature and the beauty of Polynesian culture to life in these pages. It is a compelling and deeply fascinating read perfect for anyone who loves David Attenborough's show 'Our Planet'.-

Originally published under a pseudonym, this tale set in Victorian Britain follows the journey of the simple and sweet governess of the Coventry family, Jean Muir. But all is not as it seems, this sweet governess has a dark secret that might spell the end for the Coventry family. Like a sickness she will worm her way into the hearts of this family, and it will take everything for them not to crumble. It is a tale distinctly unlike anything like Alcott had published before, while still incorporating many larger discussions on social class and the struggle for agency. It is a book that has had a profound impact on feminist literature with its potent plot twists, Gothic imagery and perfectly crafted villain. It is one of Alcott's masterpieces and perfect for anyone who loved 'Jane Eyre'. -

Alcott's first published work, 'Flower Fables' was originally written for the daughter of her good friend Ralph Waldo Emerson. The worlds of these wonderful fairy tales are populated with elves, fairies and other wonderful magical creatures, which embody goodness, love and responsibility. They are tales crafted with a profound love and appreciation for the natural world, and represent an earnest attempt to pass that love for nature on to a younger audience. This wonderful collection of fairy tales is perfect for young families looking for a fun read that teaches the importance of love and appreciation for the world around you.-

'Hospital Sketches' is a collection of four sketches based on Alcott's time as a nurse for the Union during the American Civil War. The sketches follow Tribulation Periwinkle a bored city girl who decides against being a teacher, acting or getting married to instead serve on the front nursing the soldiers. It is a sensitive, heart-warming, humorous collection that made Alcott an overnight sensation. The horrors of war contrasted with the human goodness in these dark times make the collection incredibly compelling, creating an intelligent and remarkable insight in to the horrors of the civil war. It is a collection perfect for lovers of short stories and history buffs alike.-

'Jack and Jill' is a children's book set in a small New England town after the Civil War, following Jack and Jane, who are so close everybody calls them Jack and Jill, to mimic the old rhyme. One winter day the two suffer terrible injuries in a sledding accident and face a tremendous up-hill battle to recover. As they recover they are learning and growing as people, taking their first steps in to adulthood and leaving their childhood behind. It is an incredibly heart-warming story brimming with kindness and love, but it doesn't shy away from serious topics either, creating a powerful tale that highlights the importance of family and friends. It is a story perfect for family reading on a quiet night in, or anyone who wants to see a new take on the classic children's rhyme.-

'Moods' follows the life of the strong willed tom-boy Sylvia Yule, who is heavily inspired by Alcott's own experiences, embodying her strong feminist and abolitionist attitudes. On a river camping trip with her brother, two of his friends will fall in love with her and compete for her heart. Sylvia will marry one of the men out of passion but will he be the right one for her? The rest of the novel follows Sylvia as she tries to find her place in the world while not losing her own identity. In many ways this tale is Alcott criticising the hasty decisions made in the throes of passion, and the loss of freedom a woman faces when she does marry. It is a timeless tale of love and loss perfect for anyone who loved 'Jane Eyre' or 'Pride and Prejudice', just with an American kick.-

'On Picket Duty, and other tales' is a collection of four short stories that focus on a range of social issues that were raging in America in the nineteenth century. The tales tackle issues near and dear to Alcott's heart, mainly that of women's rights and Abolition. They are profound reading, representing a much more serious artistic creation from Alcott which is reflective and uplifting, and at times dark and gloomy with the tale of 'The Death of John'. Ultimately it a profound piece of work that charts Alcott's continuing fight to represent social issues in industrial America. Have the tissues ready for this one. Don't say we didn't warn you.-

Pauline Valery is a scorned woman, rejected by her lover Gilbert Redmond for a wealthy heiress, she will stop at nothing to exact revenge. She will don a metaphorical mask, shielding her true emotions to the world only allowing people to see what she allows them to see. Using her understanding of human nature, she manipulates those around her to carry out her will, in this fast paced, chilling thriller. The consequences will be severe, but Pauline is a woman possessed and she will stop at nothing till Gilbert has felt her pain. It is a story perfect for lovers of revenge stories and thrillers, or anyone who loved Cameron Diaz's 'The Other Woman'.-

'Work: A Story of Experience' is a semi-autobiographical novel loosely based on Alcott's own life, which explores the social standing of women in the US, in the years around the Civil War. Christie, our heroine, is a single woman who works outside the home doing a number of odd jobs to make ends meet. This story tracks the change in women's work with the dawn of the new industrial age, the meaning of work to women and the tension and dilemmas that came with this work. It is a story of women trying to find their place in the world, in a society that continually hampers their progress. It is a mature story full of insightful and uplifting anecdotes, that gives an excellent window in to Alcott's own life as well. It is a profoundly uplifting read, with a triumphant conclusion that makes perfect reading for any fans of underdog stories.-

"e;Men, Women, and Ghosts"e; is a short story collection by Elizabeth Phelps that deals with primarily the supernatural but also a whole host of topics never publicly addressed at the time. Apart from a few stories such as 'The Day of My Death', the ghosts here aren't the stereotypical clanking chains and wailing type, they're beleaguered, frustrated souls who have suffered great hardship. "e;One of the Elect"e; reads like a changeling story, but gradually becomes a tale dealing with sentimentality and the pains of prostitution. One of the strongest tales is 'Kentucky's Ghost', an old sailors tale of bullying and revenge at sea combined with a compelling and gripping narrative. -

Who wouldn't want passionate love in their life? Of course, this love is usually accompanied by a lot of jealously, conflict and tragedy and this novel is no exception to that rule! Poor Bathsheba has three different suitors; however will she choose between them? Each suitor adds more uncertainty and complications to the ordered world of Bathsheba and she is soon lost in a vortex of passion, love, and social problems. 'Far from the Madding Crowd' is the novel that brought Thomas Hardy considerable literary success and has been made into a movie many times, most notably in the Oscar-nominated 1967 version. The most recent film is from 2015 and starred Carey Mulligan as Bathsheba, Matthias Schoenaerts as Gabriel Oak and the famous Martin Sheen, Charlie Sheen's dad.-

Evelyn's pride and high standards lead her to marry a man she doesn't love, while leaving the man she does love in the past as a piece of history. Her true love is one who is "e;rich in youth, comeliness, talent, and ardor"e;, but poor in "e;fortune and friends"e;. 'Doctor Dorn's Revenge' is a tragic story about a love triangle gone wrong. It also incorporates a potent social critique of the institution of marriage as it existed in the 19th century.A poignant and thought-provoking novel written by one of America's leading suffragettes, 'Doctor Dorn's Revenge' is the perfect for fans of strong female characters in 19th century literature. Recommended for fans of the 2019 movie 'Little Women' based off the famous novel by Alcott - starring Florence Pugh, Emma Watson, Saoirse Ronan and Timothee Chalamet.-

This fascinating tale marks a milestone in world literature as being one of the first examples of the 'mummy's curse' narrative. It follows Paul Forsyth and the older professor Niles as they explore ancient Egyptian ruins, haplessly disturbing the ancient peace of a powerful sorceress' tomb. Upon his return home, Forsyth will present his young fiancee with an ancient souvenir from his travels, which unbeknown to him will have deathly consequences. It is a captivating and haunting tale, furthering Alcott's work with the 'femme fatale' narrative, in a story that is significant in world literature. This story is perfect for anyone who loved Brendan Fraser's 'The Mummy', just with a more serious, but equally enjoyable thrill.-

In 'Perilous Play' we are thrust amongst a group of wealthy Southern Belles and boys on a particularly boring day, until a young doctor among them produces treats infused with cannabis. Taking them eagerly, the group soon finds themselves falling through a raucous, cannabis fuelled thrill ride with some almost fatal consequences. In many ways it is the 19th century equivalent of 'Pineapple Express' but with frocks and no Seth Rogen.-

'Dombey and Son' follows Paul Dombey, the wealthy owner of a shipping firm who is frustrated by his lack of a male heir. His disappointment and frustration triggers his own financial and personal downfall as he spurns the love and support of those around him. It is a brilliant character study as this complex and interesting character comes to grips with his own personal failings. The tragedy in this story comes from Paul's inability to reconcile himself with the world around him, refusing to accept his circumstances until his life takes a devastating turn. Dickens weaves a captivating plot in this melancholic tale, sprinkled with his trademark satire and wit, it is a brilliant and engaging read, perfect for anyone who loves to immerse themselves in world of stark reality. -

"e;And holding wave and wind in boy's despitePeered from his dripping seat across the wet and stormy night."e;Charmides is a beautiful and epic poem rooted in Greek mythology. Whether prose or poetry, drama or tragedy, Oscar Wilde's writing never fails to fascinate and capture one's attention. Displaying a different side to the famous Irish writer, this book of poems is no exception. A short but great read for any Wilde fan.-

Imagine being torn away from the person you love most in the world! The pain would be just too terrible to bear! This is exactly what happens to Shah Mah Phru after she falls passionately in love with King Meng GengThe king promises to return but time passes, and he never does. One day, Shah Mah Phru spots a group of horsemen riding her way, and she is overcome with joy thinking her lover has finally returned, however the horsemen bring news she could never have predicted.Oscar Wilde wrote 'For Love of the King' for his friend Mabel Cosgrove, and it was not published until after his death, in the 1920's. Its publication sparked a great deal of controversy that resulted in a trial because Mabel Cosgrove was accused of having written the play herself.A great read for any short story and Oscar Wilde fan.-

"e;One is impressed in America, but not favourably impressed, by the inordinate size of everything. The country seems to try to bully one into a belief in its power by its impressive bigness."e;In 1881 Oscar Wilde boarded the "e;Arizona"e; and sailed to New York to embark on a year-long lecture tour. In 'Impressions of America' he examines the cultural differences between America and Britain. He notes, for instance, that the Americans aren't necessarily well-dressed but comfortably dressed. He argues that the American youth is more acceptive of new ideas because their education is more practical, and he recounts how unimpressed he was with Niagara Falls and the ugly yellow protective wear he had to put on. Like Charles Dickens' 'American Notes for General Circulation' from some forty years prior, this essay is both entertaining and thought-provoking.-

'Mankind in the Making' is a collection of papers written by Wells about the construction of a better future. These essays discuss topics such as educational reforms, poverty, the modern state, and political institutions in general. Wells critiques the Victorian system and provides a socialist perspective on how it can be improved. While Wells' ideals are socialist, he injects a unique futurist viewpoint as only he can. The book received praise from other authors such as Henry James for its interesting and well-justified ideas. 'Mankind in the Making' provides a deeper understanding of Wells' progressive and futuristic ideas that are abundant in his novels. Wells' thoughtful critiques of modern society remain relevant to this day and this book should be read by all fans of his other work, and anyone interested in politics.-

Despite being a pacifist, Wells masterfully explains and gathers all the prerequisites for waging a war... with toy soldiers. 'Little Wars' can be said to be the original instruction manual for how to run a tabletop battle. Satire and pacifist views blend in this narrative that expresses Wells' idea that wars should be waged on the dining room floor rather than among the corpse-ridden trenches of Europe. The book's influence on modern warfare manuals and board games is indisputable, as tabletop conflicts are conducted to this day. Wells portrays the harrowing nature of war, but his humour ensures the book remains an entertaining read. The whimsical writing and stunning sketches create a book that should be read by all fans of tabletop war games.-

On the shores of Lake Geneva, in the Year Without a Summer, Mary Shelley would first conceive her most famous monster and begin writing "e;Frankenstein"e;. "e;History of a Six Weeks' Tour"e; tells the story of that fateful journey: a travel catalogue by Mary Shelley that recounts her two trips to Europe in 1814 and 1816 alongside Percy Bysshe Shelley and the rakish Lord Byron. From post-Napoleonic France, to the sublime landscapes of Switzerland, Shelley provides a captivating account of the beautiful natural surroundings as well as offering insightful commentary upon the lives and traditions of the countries they visit. A perfect read ahead of the movie adaptation "e;Poor Things"e;, starring a Frankenstein-esque Emma Stone, "e;History"e; gives insight into the lives of the Romantics and the grandeur of the world around them.-

In this intriguing novel, two business partners, Maxwell and Cartwright fall out and their relationship crumbles. Sometime later, Maxwell has been called to serve as a Justice and in a flagrant flouting of the laws, condemns his former business partner to a lengthy prison sentence to save himself. Maxwell has made a fatal error however and Cartwright will have his vengeance. In this fast paced novel, typical of Wallace's style, he has created an ensemble of brilliant characters that power the plot forward, to explosive and unexpected conclusions. It is a novel perfect for anyone who loved ' How To Get Away With Murder'.-

‘The Green Ray’ is a story that exemplifies the age old saying ‘It’s about the journey, not the destination’. The Green Rays, are rare phenomena observable only in certain places of the globe as the sun falls below the horizon. They are said to have profoundly elevating effects on the mind and soul and Helena Campbell is determined to see them. Postponing the wedding forced upon her, she leaves with her uncles and two would-be suitors on a journey to distant shores that will test her absolutely. It is only in the moments where we are pushed to breaking, emotionally or physically, that we find ourselves, who we are and what we love. It is a brilliant novel, wracked with beauty and self-discovery. Verne’s knack for the extraordinary creates a journey that is inspiring and stunning, perfect for anyone with an adventurous spirit or who loved ‘Around the World in Eight Days’.Jules Verne (1828-1905) was a French novelist, poet and playwright who is remembered for his significant contribution to the science fiction genre. With the help of editor Pierre-Jules Hetzel he wrote a series of books called "Extraordinary Travels", which includes "Journey to the Centre of the Earth" (1864), "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea" (1870), and "Around the World in Eighty Days" (1873). Due to his incredible vision he is often given the moniker ‘The Father of Science Fiction’. Widely popular with both children and adults, Verne is one of the most translated authors of all time, second only to Agatha Christie and Shakespeare.

‘An Old Fashioned Girl’ is a tale of the country girl in the big city before it had ever been done. Polly Milton, on a visit to her wealthy city dweller friend Fanny Shaw, is completely in awe at the splendour of their home and clothes. She is treated like a bumpkin, but soon wins the hearts of the family with her sweet heart and gentle honesty. When financial troubles arise, this country girl rises to the occasion to save her friends. It is a tale packed with romance, drama and hard hitting life lessons. Perfect for anyone that loved ‘Sex and the City’ just with frocks and corsets instead of Sarah Jessica Parker and Fendi.Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an author, abolitionist and proud feminist. Her family suffered financially while she was growing up and so she was forced to take on multiple jobs in her youth to help provide for her family. Her writing became her outlet, forming her ideas and beliefs in the empowerment of women and people into literature that reverberates to this day. Her most notable works include "Little Women", which is now a movie starring Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet, its sequel ‘Little Men’ and ‘An Old Fashioned Girl’.

France - Delicious food, beautiful buildings and an elegance of people rarely seen anywhere else!Dear reader, take my hand and enjoy this tour de France – with Henry James as your guide. Written as a first person narrative, "A Little Tour in France" is one of James’ most influential and interesting travel guides. Of course, the tour is not that "little" for the reader is invited to visit the Loire Valley, Britanny, the Bordeaux region, Provence, and Paris. And, in a typical Jamesian style, he never fails to describe the people he meets and their view of life and nature. A valuable book from James’ priceless treasure.Henry James (1843–1916) is regarded as one of the greatest novelists in the English language. Born in the United States, but mainly living and working in Europe, he was largely occupied with the clash of personalities and cultures between the Old World and the New World.He explored this topic in his famous novels 'The Portrait of a Lady' and 'The Wings of the Dove'. James was thrice nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature."The Portrait of a Lady" has been adapted for the big screen many times with the most notable being from 1996 starring Nicole Kidman and John Malkovich.