Engelske bøger

When Janine Scott was summoned by her sister Chris to visit her home in Devonshire, she knew that something was wrong. Indeed, strange things were happening. A man was visiting her sister’s room at night, terrifying her to the core. Janine, on the other hand, met a charming local man called Tim Hannaford, who also made unexpected visits and appeared altogether intriguing... The alluring 20th-century love tale mixing mystery with romance was written by Pamela Kent, a pseudonym of Ida Pollock.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.Pamela Kent is a pseudonym of Ida Pollock (1908 – 2013), a highly successful British writer of over 125 romance novels translated into numerous languages and published across the world. Ida Pollock has sold millions of copies over her 90-year career. Pollock began writing when she was 10 years old. Ida has travelled widely, living in several different countries. She continues to be popular amongst both her devoted fan base and new readers alike. Pollock has been referred to as the "world's oldest novelist" who was still active at 105 and continued writing until her death. On the occasion of her 105th birthday, Pollock was appointed honorary vice-president of the Romantic Novelists' Association, having been one of its founding members.Ida Pollock wrote in a wide variety of pseudonyms: Joan M. Allen, Susan Barrie, Pamela Kent, Averil Ives, Anita Charles, Barbara Rowan, Jane Beaufort, Rose Burghley, Mary Whistler and Marguerite Bell.

How do you find the perfect man? Like most people Titania aka Thomas Schwartz is desperately trying to find out!Set in New Orleans and featuring a colourful cast of louche but loveable characters, the story follows Titania through the backstreets, bars and club of the French Quarter in search of the perfect lover – the Gaudy Image.Originally published in Europe in the 50s to avoid prosecution for obscenity, The Gaudy Image is one of the most important ‘lost’ gay novels.A beautifully written story that is both elegant and caustically humorous, erotic and sympathetic.For fans of Dorothy Baker, Bryan Washington and Zak Salih.William Talsman was the pseudonym of James M Smith a US writer and poet, who is considered to be one of the founders of modern gay literature.

Dante Alighieri’s journey continues in the third part of "The Divine Comedy". Opposite to the main subject in the previous two parts, "Paradiso" depicts virtues and not sins as it represents the soul’s ascent to God. Dante’s journey goes through the nine spheres of Heaven, associated with nine different virtues such as Justice, Faith, Love. Which is the last stage of Dante’s journey and what will it bring to his soul? Dante Alighieri was an Italian poet, philosopher, language and political theorist, born in Florence in 1265. He is one of the best known poets of the Middle Ages and his masterpiece "The Divine Comedy" is considered to be a representative of the medieval world-view. "The Divine Comedy" and "The New life" were written in vernacular, i.e. the speech variety that was used in everyday life. This made the literature accessible to most people and this is mainly why Dante is called "The father of Italian language". Dante’s life was divided by poetry and politics and the relationships between secular and religious authority were topics which were often depicted in his literary works.

"Purgatorio" is the second part of Alighieri’s poem "The Divine Comedy". The story of Dante travelling through the nine circles of Hell in "Inferno" continues as he survives the depths of hell and climbs the mountain Purgatory. The mountain has seven terraces which represent the seven deadly sins and the seven levels of suffering which lead to spiritual growth. The story depicts love as the initial reason for the arising of sins. On top of the mountain is the Earthly Paradise. If the soul is however going to reach it, depends on the choices one makes.Dante Alighieri was an Italian poet, philosopher, language and political theorist, born in Florence in 1265. He is one of the best known poets of the Middle Ages and his masterpiece "The Divine Comedy" is considered to be a representative of the medieval world-view. "The Divine Comedy" and "The New life" were written in vernacular, i.e. the speech variety that was used in everyday life. This made the literature accessible to most people and this is mainly why Dante is called "The father of Italian language". Dante’s life was divided by poetry and politics and the relationships between secular and religious authority were topics which were often depicted in his literary works.

A fake date ... a real secretAn invitation to her ex's wedding is just the icing on a crappy cake for burlesque dancer Yolande. Her ex ghosted her just as they were about to take the stage for their neo-burlesque act. Yolande’s friends at Seraph's Burlesque Club convince her that attending the wedding will show her ex that she's moved on. Only one problem - she just needs a date.Shy bartender Reiko has a secret, or two. She can't risk anyone discovering that her life as a penniless PhD student and bartender is a sham. And even though she's been in love with Yolande forever, when Yolande needs a plus-one to save face at her the wedding, Reiko knows any fantasy of romance is just that – a fantasy. Yolande will never notice the way Reiko looks at her.When the drama of the wedding reveals a spark of attraction between them, Reiko will have to risk her fake identity for the chance at true love.‘Show Up’ is the first installment in the "Seraph’s Burlesque Club" – a series of lesbian romances set in a London burlesque club.Perfect for readers who love a steamy read with friends (with benefits) to lovers plot. If you love reading about a found family with queer people who thrive, this series has that and more.Trigger warnings – Please note that this book contains mentions of the following:-tReferences to a character’s mother dying in a car crash prior to the book-tA minor discussion of racism-tReferences to the pandemic - as the book is set in a post-COVID London where everyone is vaccinatedA writer of Sassy Daring Romance, Renée Dahlia is an unabashed romance reader who loves feisty women and strong & clever men. Her books reflect this, with a hint of awkward humour.Renée has a science degree in physics. When not distracted by the characters fighting for her, she works in the horseracing 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.

"White Nights" is the story about a melancholic daydreamer, who spends his life idling in St. Petersburg and indulging in existential questions. He is so much in a world of his own that any actual real-life encounter leaves him bewildered and numb. Dostoevsky’s powerful and detailed psychological portrait makes the reader identify with the protagonist, who cannot but seek means of consoling him. One day a random encounter takes place and the story takes a surprising turn – only to leave the reader gasping for breath once the final pages come. Highly recommended for people who often feels the need to find an alternative to the grey and stifling everyday life.Fyodor Dostoevsky 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. He is most famous for the novels "Crime and Punishment", "The Idiot", and "The Brothers Karamazov". His literary legacy was met with mixed feelings, but remains gargantuan in its influence.

One of Dostoevsky’s shorter novels, "The Gambler" reflects the author’s own difficult and prolonged battles with gambling as one of his major addictions. It is the story of a young man with aspirations to see and go beyond the established order, but in reality only gets stuck deeper and deeper into addiction and degradation. Dostoevsky does a great job in painting the psychological portrait of the protagonist, Alexey, who is having difficulties finding meaning in life and himself. Fyodor Dostoevsky 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. He is most famous for the novels "Crime and Punishment", "The Idiot", and "The Brothers Karamazov". His literary legacy was met with mixed feelings, but remains gargantuan in its influence.

Corruption, conspiracies and the cynicism of true Machiavellian villains... Move over Frank Underwood there is a new bunch of power-hungry sociopaths in town. Just three weeks before the election the leader of the Democratic Party is seriously injured in a severe car accident. This catapults the party into a grubby power struggle between the parliamentary group chairman and the political spokesman. Only one of the two will be taking over the future leadership of the party.Past events, malignant arm-twisting and document forgery are all used in their efforts to reach the very top. Here everyone is a pawn in this high stakes game of political chess where even the journalists covering the Danish parliament have their own agendas.Enter young, ambitious journalist, Ulrik Torp, who is made Dagbladet’s correspondent in Parliament. An opportunity of a lifetime. But Ulrik gets caught up in the power struggle the parties two successors and slowly uncovers a cynical plot that involves the country's incumbent Prime Minister.Obsessed with learning the truth Ulrik must slowly watch as his ideals crack and eventually forced to take action himself...Something is definitely rotten in the state of Denmark.Great for fans of Borgen, House of Cards and Narcos. Niels Krause-Kjær (born 1963) is a Danish journalist. After a period as press chief for the Danish Conservative Party’s Parliamentary Group, he wrote the political thriller "Solitaire", which became the award-winning film "King's Game" by Nikolaj Arcel. In 2019, "Darklands", the second volume in the series about journalist Ulrik Torp was published. This thriller is also being filmed.

Now no longer the Lady of Blackmere, Natalie joins the travelling troop of legendary champions as they hunt down the traitor who arranged the siege of the town of Blackmere. Along the way, Natalie and Brandon the Bear find themselves increasingly romantically entangled, and struggling to keep their love a secret. When Brandon is faced with the difficult choice between the life he has always known and his new lover however, their future is thrown into doubt. The Champions Desire is the second novel in the erotic romance series ‘Hearts of Blackmere’ by Marie Lipscomb.Marie Lipscomb is a romance author from the north of England. Now based in the USA where she lives with her husband, Marie first fell in love with storytelling when she studied creative writing at the University of Cumbria. Her stories are full of unlikely heroes, fantastical elements, and steamy romance. She is the author of the ‘Hearts of Blackmere’ and ‘Vixens Rock’ series.

Revitalised by the love of Natalie Blackmere, Brandon the Bear is recalled to the Champions Guild where he seeks to prove himself once and for all. Finally free to love her champion, Natalie is struggling with her identity however – must she return to being Lady Natalie or may she now remain Brandon’s muse and lover - the Lioness of Blackmere? ‘Forever His Champion’ is the third in the erotic romance series ‘Hearts of Blackmere’ by author Marie Lipscomb.Marie Lipscomb is a romance author from the north of England. Now based in the USA where she lives with her husband, Marie first fell in love with storytelling when she studied creative writing at the University of Cumbria. Her stories are full of unlikely heroes, fantastical elements, and steamy romance. She is the author of the ‘Hearts of Blackmere’ and ‘Vixens Rock’ series.

Set in the fictional medieval land of Aldland, Lady Natalie Blackmere has long dreamt of somehow meeting the famous champions of Aldland – in particular the legendary Brandon the Bear. When the champions arrive in Blackmere, Natalie disguises herself as a barmaid and sets out to meet Brandon – the hero of so many ballads. When the town is attacked by bandits however, Natalie finds herself alone in the woods with the man she has been dreaming about for so long. The Lady’s Champion is the first in the ‘Hearts of Blackmere’ series by erotic romance author Marie Lipscomb.Marie Lipscomb is a romance author from the north of England. Now based in the USA where she lives with her husband, Marie first fell in love with storytelling when she studied creative writing at the University of Cumbria. Her stories are full of unlikely heroes, fantastical elements, and steamy romance. She is the author of the ‘Hearts of Blackmere’ and ‘Vixens Rock’ series.

The narrative follows the stylishly controversial Dodo, a young woman from the British upper-middle-class. She is very confident she is about to make a most advantageous match which should position her perfectly for the social status and money she so deeply craves. This makes for a work replete with sardonic and romantic and paranormal melodrama. In an atmosphere so full of extreme snobbery that it is a riot of hilarity. Brought to you by one of the most distinguished practitioners of the supernatural short story, this is a must read for fans of the American horror drama series 'Lovecraft Country'. Starring Jurnee Smollet, Jonathan Majors, Michael. K. Williams and Wunmi Mosaku. Edward Frederic Benson (1867-1940) was a British archeologist and author. Originally from Berkshire, he studied at Cambridge University and published his first novel 'Dodo' in 1893. It was an instant success. He was a prolific novelist and wrote a blend of satire, science-fiction, supernatural and romantic melodramas. He has been admired by later authors such as H. P. Lovecraft. He was also a reputed memoirist and wrote an acclaimed biography of Charlotte Brontë. Benson was a very discreet character but it is widely assumed that he was homosexual, based on the circles he moved in as well as the characters in his fiction. He never married and passed away in 1940 at the age of 72.

'Dodo Wonders' is the third and final installment in the 'Dodo' series by E. F. Benson. The series was rumoured to be based on Lady Asquith, though she herself claimed that she had little in common with the character of Dodo - except the splendour of her drawing-room, perhaps.The glitzy life of Lady Dodo Chesterford is abruptly interrupted by the arrival of World War I. Along with her husband and their friends, Lady Dodo is faced with the challenge of rapidly adapting to an unfamiliar and dangerous new environment. 'Dodo Wonders' delicately reveals the history of the First World War in Britain while also unfolding an intricate love story. Dodo is a charming, vivid heroine with whom it becomes almost a pleasure to move through wartime. Recommended for fans of Sam Mendes' 2019 war movie '1917', which follows the gripping tale of two young British soldiers tasked with delivering a message in enemy territory - starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Richard Madden and Colin Firth. Edward Frederic Benson (1867-1940) was a British archeologist and author. Originally from Berkshire, he studied at Cambridge University and published his first novel 'Dodo' in 1893. It was an instant success. He was a prolific novelist and wrote a blend of satire, science-fiction, supernatural and romantic melodramas. He has been admired by later authors such as H. P. Lovecraft. He was also a reputed memoirist and wrote an acclaimed biography of Charlotte Brontë. Benson was a very discreet character but it is widely assumed that he was homosexual, based on the circles he moved in as well as the characters in his fiction. He never married and passed away in 1940 at the age of 72.

Josie Winter ad the pleasurable task of nursing the lovely Dr. Michael Duveen as his private nurse at his friend’s place in Spain. The family friend turned out to be the charming Marquis de Palheiro, and it did not take long for Josie to be swept away by feelings for him. Yet she was convinced that the Marquis would marry the elegant American heiress Sylvia. Surely she does not stand a chance? The love tale dating back to the 20th century was written by Averil Ives, one of the pseudonyms of the English romance writer Ida Pollock.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.Averil Ives is a pseudonym of Ida Pollock (1908 – 2013), a highly successful British writer of over 125 romance novels translated into numerous languages and published across the world. Ida Pollock has sold millions of copies over her 90-year career.Pollock began writing when she was 10 years old. Ida has travelled widely, living in several different countries. She continues to be popular amongst both her devoted fan base and new readers alike. Pollock has been referred to as the "world's oldest novelist" who was still active at 105 and continued writing until her death.On the occasion of her 105th birthday, Pollock was appointed honorary vice-president of the Romantic Novelists' Association, having been one of its founding members.Ida Pollock wrote in a wide variety of pseudonyms: Joan M. Allen, Susan Barrie, Pamela Kent, Averil Ives, Anita Charles, Barbara Rowan, Jane Beaufort, Rose Burghley, Mary Whistler and Marguerite Bell.

Felicity leaves for the beautiful Menzies Island in the Caribbean with Cassandra Wood, who has come to visit his uncle. The property is now inhabited by Paul Halloran, a former conductor who almost lost his vision in an accident a few years earlier. Cassandra makes it clear that she wants Paul, this enigmatic musician, to herself. Hence Felicity is uncomfortable with her own, growing feelings for Paul. Yet it seems that chance could well be on her side this time... The memorable love story written by Averil Ives, a pseudonym of romance writer Ida Pollock, dates back to the 20th century.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.Averil Ives is a pseudonym of Ida Pollock (1908 – 2013), a highly successful British writer of over 125 romance novels translated into numerous languages and published across the world. Ida Pollock has sold millions of copies over her 90-year career.Pollock began writing when she was 10 years old. Ida has travelled widely, living in several different countries. She continues to be popular amongst both her devoted fan base and new readers alike. Pollock has been referred to as the "world's oldest novelist" who was still active at 105 and continued writing until her death.On the occasion of her 105th birthday, Pollock was appointed honorary vice-president of the Romantic Novelists' Association, having been one of its founding members.Ida Pollock wrote in a wide variety of pseudonyms: Joan M. Allen, Susan Barrie, Pamela Kent, Averil Ives, Anita Charles, Barbara Rowan, Jane Beaufort, Rose Burghley, Mary Whistler and Marguerite Bell.

Why did Christians preach about loving their neighbours and yet keep their fellow humans as slaves? Ups and downs with Stowe's own family, and the inhumanity of slavery are the focus of this collection of essays.The obvious inequality spurred Stowe to get involved with the 'Fugitive Slave Act' which came to be important for the emancipation of slaves. Written with careful and detailed insight, this book is recommended for both history-lovers and curious souls because of its compelling portrayal of life and slavery in the South.A thorn in the angry eyes of American slave owners, Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) was an American author and ardent abolitionist. Her novel, 'Uncle Tom’s Cabin' (1852), became one of the most famous literary attacks on slavery at the time. The novel was also turned into a play and made into movies more than once.The latest version from 1987 features Samuel L. Jackson, one of the most popular actors of his generation.Stowe also wrote numerous travel memoirs, letters, articles, and short stories – all crucial to the depiction of the injustice of African Americans we still hear about today.

What are you most afraid of? Spiders, ghosts or perhaps the Slender Man? But have you ever been afraid of life itself? 'Terror' tells the story of just that: a man who is afraid of living. His fears range from his office job in St. Petersburg to the mere act of tilling the soil. He is even scared of his lovely wife and children.But the ultimate cause of his fear of day to day life is not what it may seem at first. Chekhov's 'Terror' is a hauntingly realistic novel which leaves no two people with the same impression after reading. Suffused with unrelenting existentialism and wit, this is a must-read for fans of Woody Allen's 2015 popular romantic comedy movie 'Irrational Man' which follows a small-town philosophy professor's existential musings on the meanings of love and life. Starring Joaquin Phoenix, Emma Stone, Parker Posey and Jamie Blackley.A prolific writer of seven plays, a novel and hundreds of short stories, Anton Chekhov (1860-1904) is considered one of the world masters of the short story genre. Painstakingly true to life yet morbid with his realistic depictions of the 19th century Russian world, Chekhov’s characters effortlessly glide between humour, melancholy, artistic ambition and death. Some of his best-known works include the plays 'Uncle Vanya', 'The Seagull' and 'The Cherry Orchard'. His short stories shed light on the mysterious concealed beneath the surface of the ordinary, as well as the doom and the horror lurking in the shadows.

Serving on a jury board at the trial of a prostitute accused of murder, Prince Nekhlyudov is appalled to discover that the defendant is a woman he had once seduced and then abandoned when she was only a young servant girl, Katyusha Maslova.He feels an unbearable burden of guilt when he realises that he directly caused her downfall. Nekhlyudov resolves to fight for her release. If unsuccessful, he is ready to follow Maslova into prison at all costs.In 'Resurrection' Tolstoy paints a panoramic view of late 19th century Russia and the harshness of life for its lower classes. It ferries the reader from the bleak netherworld of the prison cells to the resplendent chambers of the nobility. Brimming with fervent indignation at the government, the upper classes, the judicial system and the Church.A perfect fit for readers who love narratives upholding the conviction that it's never too late for human redemption. Recommended for fans of the 2012 film 'Anna Karenina' depicting the eponymous aristocrat's romantic tragedy set against the backdrop of Tsarist Russia. Starring Kiera Knightley, Jude Law and Aaron Taylor-Johnson.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.

Susan noticed him first on the plane from Paris to Baghdad – an aloof yet extremely handsome man who intrigued her greatly. However, when an emergency hit them, this man called Raoul Mehmet Bey, is the one to take care of her. They were tied in more ways than one, as she discovered that she was traveling to his place for employment. Although far from a polite gentleman, Susan is endlessly drawn to Raoul and finds herself at his mercy during dangerous adventures in the desert. Set in the beautiful landscapes of Iraq, the love story from the 20th century was written under Pamela Kent, a pseudonym of the prolific romance writer Ida Pollock.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.Pamela Kent is a pseudonym of Ida Pollock (1908 – 2013), a highly successful British writer of over 125 romance novels translated into numerous languages and published across the world. Ida Pollock has sold millions of copies over her 90-year career.Pollock began writing when she was 10 years old. Ida has travelled widely, living in several different countries. She continues to be popular amongst both her devoted fan base and new readers alike. Pollock has been referred to as the "world's oldest novelist" who was still active at 105 and continued writing until her death.On the occasion of her 105th birthday, Pollock was appointed honorary vice-president of the Romantic Novelists' Association, having been one of its founding members.Ida Pollock wrote in a wide variety of pseudonyms: Joan M. Allen, Susan Barrie, Pamela Kent, Averil Ives, Anita Charles, Barbara Rowan, Jane Beaufort, Rose Burghley, Mary Whistler and Marguerite Bell.

‘Henry VIII’ is a highly entertaining historical play by William Shakespeare that dramatizes court intrigues and personal vendettas between the King’s advisors. King Henry starts to question his marriage to Queen Katherine after becoming enamoured with a young woman named Anne Boleyn. While Henry deals with his marital issues and his growing attraction to Anne, his noblemen battle with the treacherous Cardinal Wolsey, who conspires against the Queen. As Katherine faces the court, Wolsey further betrays the Monarchy and Henry embarks on a course that will change history. This play is one of Shakespeare’s finest dramas as it combines conspiracy, romance, and death into a thrilling tale that remains remarkably readable to this day. Melodic dialogue expresses the characters’ inner turmoil as loyalties are tested throughout the riveting story. Fans of British historical dramas such as ‘The Tudors’ starring Henry Cavill and Natalie Dormer, or ‘The Other Boleyn Girl’ starring Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson will enjoy this compelling and provocative version of Henry VIII’s reign.William Shakespeare (1564-1616) was an English playwright and poet who is often referred to as ‘The Bard’ due to his standing as one of the most talented poets ever. Considered the greatest dramatist of all time, he is widely regarded as the most influential English language writer. Shakespeare has not only inspired authors such as Herman Melville and Charles Dickens, but many phrases used commonly today were coined by The Bard including ‘break the ice’. Shakespeare’s timeless plays are still studied to this day and focus on the range of human emotion, romance, and conflict while remaining endlessly entertaining. Shakespeare is the best-selling playwright of all time and his works have been translated into more than 100 languages. Much of his celebrated work has been adapted into movies including ‘Romeo and Juliet’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio and ‘Macbeth’ starring Academy Award winners Denzel Washington and Frances McDormand.

‘Jimmy's Cruise in the Pinafore’ is another short story from famed American author Louisa May Alcott, that follows the young, kind hearted Jimmy through his difficult adolescence. The parallels between young Jimmy and Alcott in her own youth are profound, with twelve year old Jimmy having to work multiple menial jobs to make ends meet for his family and make up for his absent father. It is a tale celebrating the human spirit, its resilience in the face of overwhelming odds and the importance of family, with a healthy dose of adventure. Jimmy’s beautiful spirit and unflinching soul makes this book a beautiful read full of valuable lessons for readers of all ages, as well as anyone who loved ‘Oliver Twist’.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 in to 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’.

The narrative focuses on the extraordinary predicament of the Civil Councillor Navagin. For the past thirteen years he has striven in vain to uncover the undisclosed identity of a certain Fedyukov. His signature mysteriously appears in every single document that leaves Navagin's office. Navagin is perplexed and out of his wits.Ironically enough, the time comes when the Councillor decides to follow his superstitious wife's advice to seek arcane knowledge from a spiritual medium. What follows is a hilarious lesson about the consequences of deciding one is above ordinary explanations for extraordinary events.An entertaining and memorable read, 'A Mystery' is highly recommended for fans of the much-loved 1979 satirical comedy movie 'Monty Python's Life of Brian' starring John Cleese, Terry Jones, Eric Idle and Graham Chapman. It makes for an excellent addition to any Chekhov and O.Henry reader's bookshelf.A prolific writer of seven plays, a novel and hundreds of short stories, Anton Chekhov (1860-1904) is considered one of the world masters of the short story genre. Painstakingly true to life yet morbid with his realistic depictions of 19th century Russian day-to-day life, Chekhov’s characters effortlessly glide between humour, melancholy, artistic ambition and death. Some of his best-known works include the plays 'Uncle Vanya', 'The Seagull' and 'The Cherry Orchard'. His short stories shed light on the mysterious concealed beneath the surface of the ordinary, as well as the doom and the horror lurking in the shadows.

In Anton Chekhov's short story "Happiness" from 1887, a horseman approaches two shepherds just before dawn on a summer's night. He tells them the story of a wicked old man without moral who had died without sharing the location of a secret, enchanted treasure with anyone. As the horseman takes his leave, the shepherds are left to reflect on the interconnected nature of greed, temptation and the pursuit of happiness: Is it possible to find happiness without wealth? Or is happiness nothing but a man-made fairy-tale character in the story that is life?A prolific writer of seven plays, a novel and hundreds of short stories, Anton Chekhov (1860-1904) is considered one of the best practitioners of the short story genre in literature. True to life and painfully morbid with his miserable and realistic depictions of Russian everyday life, Chekhov’s characters drift between humor, melancholy, artistic ambition, and death. Some of his best-known works include the plays "Uncle Vanya", "The Seagull", and "The Cherry Orchard", where Chekhov dramatizes and portrays social and existential problems. His short stories unearth mystery beneath ordinary situations, the failure and horror present in everyday life.

‘Eight Hundred Leagues on the Amazon’ follows Joam Garral a Brazilian ranch owner living on the Peruvian border. When his daughter wants to return to their old city of Belem for her wedding Joam relents as the loving father he is. Joam is a wanted man however, framed for a crime he never committed he will have to face the music when he returns home, putting his life and everything he holds dear at risk. Garral is offered a way out, he can clear his name, but the cost could very well tear his family apart. It is a wonderful read built on the strength of Verne’s mastery of description and his ensemble of brilliant characters.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’, shared with fellow science fiction author H.G. Wells. 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.

The novella unfolds around a blind old man, Facino Cane who claims to be a descendant of the 14th century condottiere of the same name. The narrator meets Facino Cane at a wedding, and begins a conversation with him. Facino then recounts his life story involving the most extraordinary tales of murder, exile, buried treasure, incarceration and a daring escape.A thoroughly enticing and enthralling short story, with a narrator that has a magnificent knack for getting inside another person's head. This demonstrates that Balzac could have mastered the melodramatic adventure style of writing for which Alexandre Dumas and Victor Hugo are best known. If slightly longer, 'Facino Cane' would be a ready companion piece to Dumas' epic 'The Count of Monte Cristo'.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for his collection of novels and plays, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His detailed observation of humanity and realistic depiction of society makes him one of the earliest representatives of realism in Europe. He was a master-creator of complex characters that often found themselves in ambiguous moral dilemmas.

Lois Fairchild ends up becoming he governess to the son of Dom Julyan, a charming and wealthy Portuguese widower. Yet not everyone is happy about Lois staying at Quinta de Valerira, Julyan’s beautiful house, nor about her kindling passions for the man. Can she stay there, with her feelings for Julyan becoming stronger every day, and more importantly, does she even stand a chance? The gripping love tale from the 20th century was written by Barbara Rowan, one of the pseudonyms of the prolific romance writer Ida Pollock.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.Barbara Rowan is a pseudonym of Ida Pollock (1908 – 2013), a highly successful British writer of over 125 romance novels translated into numerous languages and published across the world. Ida Pollock has sold millions of copies over her 90-year career.Pollock began writing when she was 10 years old. Ida has travelled widely, living in several different countries. She continues to be popular amongst both her devoted fan base and new readers alike. Pollock has been referred to as the "world's oldest novelist" who was still active at 105 and continued writing until her death.On the occasion of her 105th birthday, Pollock was appointed honorary vice-president of the Romantic Novelists' Association, having been one of its founding members.Ida Pollock wrote in a wide variety of pseudonyms: Joan M. Allen, Susan Barrie, Pamela Kent, Averil Ives, Anita Charles, Barbara Rowan, Jane Beaufort, Rose Burghley, Mary Whistler and Marguerite Bell.

'Miss Mapp' is the second novel from the 'Mapp and Lucia' series, following the life of a progressive woman who spends her days gossiping and scheming. One must tread carefully in society, or at least so Miss Mapp thinks. In a hilarious display of snobbish one-upmanship, Miss Mapp considers her every move and its possible outcome with the deftness and skill of a master chess player. God forbid she lose an ounce of social standing!But the village of Tilling becomes a battleground where romances and rumours have ensnared its inhabitants in a ruthless battle for domination. The idyllic setting, delicate daily routines and witty escapades make 'Miss Mapp' a compelling and intriguing read. It has been adapted into an ongoing TV miniseries called 'Mapp & Lucia' starring Miranda Richardson, Anna Chancellor, Poppy Miller and Felicity Montagu.Edward Frederic Benson (1867-1940) was a British archeologist and author, who wrote under the pen name E. F. Benson. Originally from Berkshire, he studied at Cambridge University and published his first novel 'Dodo' in 1893. It was an instant success. He was a prolific novelist, and wrote in a blend of satire, science-fiction, supernatural and romantic melodramas and has been admired by later authors such as H. P. Lovecraft. He was also a reputed memoirist, and wrote amongst others a biography of Charlotte Brontë. Benson was a very discreet character but it is widely assumed that he was homosexual, of which traces can be found in the circles he kept as well as in his fiction. He never married and passed away in 1940 at age 72.

Three sisters go on a road trip through Europe, leaving behind the men in their lives as well as any social limitations and the female behaviour expected of them in the US. Semi-autobiographical in nature, the adventures of Amanda, Matilda and Lavinia are based on Alcott’s travels with her own sister. The title of the novel comes from their shawl backpacks which is the only thing they bring with them on their trip. The tale is full of excellent dialogue, character reflection and beautiful description of the places they visit, while constantly drawing parallels between European and American life. This novel really drives home the very different lives women of the period lived, creating a compelling and fascinating book suitable for any reader.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 in to 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’.

Valentine had been drawn to Richard Sterne ever since that one dreamy summer they spent at Bladon’s Rock. Too bad that he has always only had eyes for the beautiful Roxanne, who left. Now Valentine meets the charming Dr. Gaston Lamoine and hopes that he would see Valentine as adoringly as she sees him. Yet when Roxanne returns, she is forced to compete for the doctor’s affections as well. Can she win? The steamy story of competing hearts dates back to the 20th century was written under Pamela Kent, a pseudonym of the classic romance writer Ida Pollock.A must-read for fans of literary romance and surprising twists of fate.Pamela Kent is a pseudonym of Ida Pollock (1908 – 2013), a highly successful British writer of over 125 romance novels translated into numerous languages and published across the world. Ida Pollock has sold millions of copies over her 90-year career.Pollock began writing when she was 10 years old. Ida has travelled widely, living in several different countries. She continues to be popular amongst both her devoted fan base and new readers alike. Pollock has been referred to as the "world's oldest novelist" who was still active at 105 and continued writing until her death.On the occasion of her 105th birthday, Pollock was appointed honorary vice-president of the Romantic Novelists' Association, having been one of its founding members.Ida Pollock wrote in a wide variety of pseudonyms: Joan M. Allen, Susan Barrie, Pamela Kent, Averil Ives, Anita Charles, Barbara Rowan, Jane Beaufort, Rose Burghley, Mary Whistler and Marguerite Bell.

'A Nightmare' is a short story by Anton Chekhov about two men, one a penniless priest and the other a wealthy aristocrat. The now desperate priest is too proud to ask for assistance, whereas the conniving aristocrat is plotting against him because of his oddball behavior. Where exactly will this dangerous game of cat-and-mouse carry the two?A masterful portrayal of human emotions and the misunderstandings that harbour the potential to wreak havoc upon our lives. Chekhov’s story criticizes man’s silent dignity and displays how even the most benevolent of desires can be utterly ruined in human folly and error.A perfect fit for fans of the 2012 film 'Anna Karenina' depicting the eponymous aristocrat's romantic tragedy set against the backdrop of Tsarist Russia. Starring Kiera Knightley, Jude Law and Aaron Taylor-Johnson.A prolific writer of seven plays, a novel and hundreds of short stories, Anton Chekhov (1860-1904) is considered one of the world masters of the short story genre. Painstakingly true to life yet morbid with his realistic depictions of 19th century Russian day-to-day life, Chekhov’s characters effortlessly glide between humour, melancholy, artistic ambition and death. Some of his best-known works include the plays 'Uncle Vanya', 'The Seagull' and 'The Cherry Orchard'. His short stories shed light on the mysterious concealed beneath the surface of the ordinary, as well as the doom and the horror lurking in the shadows.