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‘The Mysterious Traveller, the Adventures of Arsène Lupin the Gentleman Burglar’ is a classic crime caper by the French writer and journalist Maurice Leblanc, featuring his famous gentleman-thief turned detective, Arsène Lupin.Travelling under an alias, Lupin is robbed by a mysterious thief. However, when the police think the culprit is the infamous Lupin, the real crime genius is forced to go along with the detectives in their search for the imposter.The inspiration behind the Netflix TV series ‘Lupin’ and widely regarded as the French ‘Sherlock Holmes’, this short story is taken from ‘The Adventures of Arsene Lupin the Gentleman Burglar’ collection.Maurice Leblanc (1864 - 1941) was a French author and journalist, whose literary legacy consists of novels and short stories. Although he wrote two well-received science fiction books, he was most famous for his gentleman thief adventure series, ‘Arsène Lupin’ who was considered a French counterpart to Arthur Conan Doyle’s fictional detective ‘Sherlock Holmes’.A whip-smart, witty, and roguishly handsome master of disguise, Lupin became an international success and saw Leblanc write over 60 crime novels and short stories featuring his French detective. The books inspired the hit Netflix TV series ‘Lupin’ starring Omar Sy, Ludivine Sagnier, and Clotilde Hesme.He was awarded the Légion d'Honneur for his services to literature.

‘100 Quotes by Edmond and Jules de Goncourt’ is a collection of reflections and thoughts by the literary world’s most unexpected collaborators.Touching on everything from religion and the nature of the self to history and poetry, the brothers’ ideas are strikingly similar and timelessly resonant.An ideal book for dipping in and out of, these quotes will provide any reader with food for thought and the tools with which to spark an interesting conversation.Known as the ‘Goncourt Brothers,’ Jules (1830 – 1870) and Edmond de Goncourt (1822 – 1896) were siblings, collaborative, and virtually inseparable authors. Born in France, they went on to become significant figures in the Naturalist movement and in the world of art criticism.Their works focussed on the use of the senses, creating novels that eschewed literary logic in favour of a sensory experience. Their most famous work, ‘Germinie,’ threw the spotlight on the double life of their servant, Rosie.

´100 Quotes by Marcel Proust’ is a compendium of thoughts, observations, and reflections by one of France’s greatest writers.Pithy, witty, barbed, but often touching and thoughtful, readers will discover another dimension to this noted novelist, most famous for his novel ´In Search of Lost Time´.His philosophy mainly focused on how people should be appreciative of their circumstances.A superb book for dipping in and out of, this will make a welcome addition to any book collection.Considered to be one of the most important writers of the 20th century, Valentin Louis Georges Eugène Marcel Proust (1871 – 1922) was born in Paris. The son of a notable physician and epidemiologist, he was educated at the Lycée Condorcet.Proust’s sexuality was the subject of much speculation, and although he never confirmed it, he explored the subject of homosexuality in many of his works, including ‘In Search of Lost Time.’Some of his works have found themselves adapted for film, such as ‘Swann in Love,’ starring Jeremy Irons, while the writer himself was to be lampooned by the comedy troupe Monty Python.

Featuring some of the most brilliant and notable sayings from a revolutionising world, ´100 Quotes by Charles Louis de Montesquieu´ is the perfect companion for readers looking to be inspired by one of the most influential figures in history.French judge, historian, and political philosopher, Montesquieu remains a leading figure in the French Revolution and a major influence on the Founding Fathers of the United States. Responsible for devising a government separated into branches of power, his political theories remain in practice in many constitutions throughout the world today.Uncover his thoughts and musing with this impressive collection from the man who lay the foundations for the world as we know it. ´100 Quotes by Charles Louis de Montesquieu´ is perfect for fans of Hugh Jackman's ´Les Miserables´.Charles Louis de Montesquieu (1689-1755) was a French judge, man of letters, historian, and political philosopher. His most influential work, 'The Spirit of the Law', divided French society into three classes, thereby erasing the feudal system.Montesquieu is remembered today as a defining influence on the Founding Fathers of the United States.

‘100 Quotes by Jean Racine’ uncovers one of the greatest playwrights of 17th-century France.Famous for the works of ‘Phèdre’, ‘Andromaque’, and ‘Athalie’, Racine’s writings are renowned for their beauty, elegance, and style.Peppered with psychological insight, his quotes invite readers to peek behind the scenes at one of Europe’s most celebrated dramatists - and thinkers - of the age.An ideal book for dipping in and out of, these quotes will provide any reader with food for thought and the tools with which to spark an interesting conversation.Jean Racine (1639-1699) was a French dramatist and one of the greatest playwrights of 17th-century France, along with Molière and Corneille. An important literary figure in the Western tradition and world literature, Racine primarily wrote tragedies, along with the occasional comedy, such as 'Les Plaideurs'.He remains today a hugely influential figure in world literature during 17th century France.

‘The Infernal Trap, the Confessions of Arsène Lupin’ is a classic crime caper by the French writer Maurice Leblanc, featuring his famous gentleman-thief turned detective, Arsène Lupin.A witty and charismatic character widely regarded as the French Sherlock Holmes, the daring detective Lupin looks back on his action-packed adventures in this ‘Confessions of Arsène Lupin’ collection.The other stories featured in this compilation are: ‘Two Hundred Thousand Francs Reward’, ‘The Wedding Ring’, ‘The Sign of the Shadow’, ‘The Red Silk Scarf’, ‘Shadowed by Death’, ‘A Tragedy in the Forest of Morgues’, ‘Lupin's Marriage’, ‘The Invisible Prisoner’ and ‘Edith Swan-Neck’.Full of villains to outsmart and ladies to save, these classic nail-biting mysteries are perfect for fans of the Netflix TV series ‘Lupin’ and Arthur Conan Doyle’s ‘Sherlock Holmes’ stories.Maurice Leblanc (1864 - 1941) was a French author and journalist, whose literary legacy consists of novels and short stories. Although he wrote two well-received science fiction books, he was most famous for his gentleman thief adventure series, ‘Arsène Lupin’ who was considered a French counterpart to Arthur Conan Doyle’s fictional detective ‘Sherlock Holmes’.A whip-smart, witty, and roguishly handsome master of disguise, Lupin became an international success and saw Leblanc write over 60 crime novels and short stories featuring his French detective. The books inspired the hit Netflix TV series ‘Lupin’ starring Omar Sy, Ludivine Sagnier, and Clotilde Hesme.He was awarded the Légion d'Honneur for his services to literature.

Often surprising and always original, ‘100 Quotes by Stendhal’ is a superb book for those who like to challenge the conventional.Stendhal was well known for his outspoken views on life, and this book cherry-picks some of his most entertaining and incisive thoughts.A superb read for those looking to challenge their own point of view, and those who want to get to know this outstanding author a little better.The pen-name of Marie-Henri Beyle, Stendhal (1783 – 1842) was born in Grenoble. The son of a barrister, his mother died when he was seven years old, which had a lasting impact on his mental health and his writing.An aspiring playwright, he travelled through Italy, before returning to Paris, where he married the actress, Mélanie Louason. However, after the fall of the French Empire, he returned to Italy, making a home for himself in Milan and embarking on a literary career.His greatest works, including ‘La Chartreuse de Parme,’ and ‘Le Rouge et le noir’ are noted for their views on morality and politics while indulging his hatred for the concept of boredom.

Featuring some of the most brilliant and notable sayings from a revolutionising world, ‘100 Quotes by Nicolas de Chamfort’ paints a vivid mosaic of life during and after the French Revolution.Having thrown himself into the Republican movement and fight to overthrow the last king of France, Chamfort was one of the first to have entered the Bastille as it was triumphantly stormed.Secretary to Louis XVI’s sister and of the notary Jacobin Club, he went on to witness the dawn of a new era with the reign of Marat and Robespierre, underseeing the campaign towards universal men’s suffrage.Influencing and shaping one of the most defining moments of history, ‘100 Quotes by Nicolas Chamfort’ is a must-read collection for those interested in the figures, who lay the foundations for the world as we know it today.Nicolas de Chamfort (1741-1894) was a French writer and secretary to Louis XVI's sister, along with that of the Jacobin club. A strong defender of the Republican movement, his work reflects a turbulent time in France's history when society turned against the Monarchy.

‘The Sign of the Shadow, the Confessions of Arsène Lupin’ is a classic crime caper by the French writer Maurice Leblanc, featuring his famous gentleman-thief turned detective, Arsène Lupin.A witty and charismatic character widely regarded as the French ‘Sherlock Holmes’, the daring detective looks back on his action-packed adventures in this third tale from the ten-story collection ‘Confessions of Arsène Lupin’.The other stories in this compilation are: ‘Two Hundred Thousand Francs Reward’, ‘The Wedding Ring’, ‘The Infernal Trap’, ‘The Red Silk Scarf’, ‘Shadowed by Death’, ‘A Tragedy in the Forest of Morgues’, ‘Lupin's Marriage’, ‘The Invisible Prisoner’ and ‘Edith Swan-Neck’.Full of murder and intrigue, these classic nail-biting mysteries are perfect for fans of the Netflix TV series ‘Lupin’ and Arthur Conan Doyle’s ‘Sherlock Holmes’ stories.Maurice Leblanc (1864 - 1941) was a French author and journalist, whose literary legacy consists of novels and short stories. Although he wrote two well-received science fiction books, he was most famous for his gentleman thief adventure series, ‘Arsène Lupin’ who was considered a French counterpart to Arthur Conan Doyle’s fictional detective ‘Sherlock Holmes’.A whip-smart, witty, and roguishly handsome master of disguise, Lupin became an international success and saw Leblanc write over 60 crime novels and short stories featuring his French detective. The books inspired the hit Netflix TV series ‘Lupin’ starring Omar Sy, Ludivine Sagnier, and Clotilde Hesme.He was awarded the Légion d'Honneur for his services to literature.

‘100 Quotes by Molière’ is a compendium of thoughts and observations by one of the greatest minds of 17th-century France.Often witty, sometimes sharp, and occasionally touching, readers will find themselves getting a sneak peek inside Molière’s mind.A superb read, ‘100 Quotes by Molière’ is ideal for those with an interest in theatre and a wonderful book for dipping in and out of.One of France’s greatest dramatists, Jean-Baptiste Poquelin (1622 – 1673), better known by his stage name, Molière, was born in Paris. While his father fully intended for Molière to become a furnisher for the French Royal family, much like himself, Molière initially decided he wanted to work as an actor.However, after trying to establish a theatre company in Paris, spending some time in prison, and touring with a theatre troupe, Molière eventually turned his attention to writing plays. His first, ‘L’Étourdi; ou, les contretemps,’ was staged in Lyons in 1655. However, it was three years later, when performing his ‘Le Docteur Lamoureux' that Molière found fame, falling under the wing of the king’s brother, Phillipe.Although little is known about his later life, his plays are staged worldwide to this day. Many have been adapted for film and television, including ‘Don Juan,’ starring Jacques Weber.

‘Two Hundred Thousand Francs Reward, the Confessions of Arsène Lupin’ is a collection of ten gripping short stories in which the world's premier thief looks back on a lifetime of adventures.Widely regarded as the French ‘Sherlock Holmes’, the daring Lupin finds himself on the wrong side of the law once again, as he seeks justice in his own unique way.The ten stories featured in this compilation are: ‘Two Hundred Thousand Francs Reward’, ‘The Wedding Ring’, ‘The Sign of the Shadow’, ‘The Infernal Trap’, ‘The Red Silk Scarf’, ‘Shadowed by Death’, ‘A Tragedy in the Forest of Morgues’, ‘Lupin's Marriage’, ‘The Invisible Prisoner’, and ‘Edith Swan-Neck’.Full of murder and intrigue, these classic nail-biting mysteries are perfect for fans of the Netflix TV series ‘Lupin’ and Arthur Conan Doyle’s ‘Sherlock Holmes’ stories.Maurice Leblanc (1864 - 1941) was a French author and journalist, whose literary legacy consists of novels and short stories. Although he wrote two well-received science fiction books, he was most famous for his gentleman thief adventure series, ‘Arsène Lupin’ who was considered a French counterpart to Arthur Conan Doyle’s fictional detective ‘Sherlock Holmes’.A whip-smart, witty, and roguishly handsome master of disguise, Lupin became an international success and saw Leblanc write over 60 crime novels and short stories featuring his French detective. The books inspired the hit Netflix TV series ‘Lupin’ starring Omar Sy, Ludivine Sagnier, and Clotilde Hesme.He was awarded the Légion d'Honneur for his services to literature.

‘100 Quotes by Jean Giraudoux’ takes readers on a journey behind the scenes of one of the most important French dramatists of the period between World War I and World War II.A novelist, essayist, diplomat, and playwright, Giraudoux’s work features stylistic elegance and poetic fantasy – during a time when the world was far from at ease.An ideal book for dipping in and out of, this must-read collection is ideal for history buffs looking to uncover the greatest thinkers of an unprecedented period.Jean Giraudoux (1882-1944) was a French literary figure of immense might. A novelist, essayist, diplomat, and playwright, Giraudoux's dominant theme is the relationship between man and woman, or in some cases, between man and some unattainable ideal. He remains today a hugely influential figure within 19th-century literature.

‘Thérèse and Germaine, the Eight Strokes of the Clock, the Adventures of Arsène Lupin’ is a compilation of short stories by the famous French writer Maurice Leblanc, featuring his famous gentleman-thief turned detective, Arsène Lupin.Follow beloved Arsène Lupin as he uses his renowned wit and charisma to unravel the mysteries and solve the hard riddles he encounters throughout his adventures.This collection includes: ´On the Top of the Tower´, ´The Water Bottle´, ´The Lady with the Hatchet´, ´Footprints in the Snow´, ´At the Sign of Mercury´, and ´Thérèse and Germaine’.Full of murder and intrigue, these classic nail-biting mysteries are perfect for fans of the Netflix TV series ‘Lupin’ and Arthur Conan Doyle’s ‘Sherlock Holmes’ stories.Maurice Leblanc (1864 - 1941) was a French author and journalist, whose literary legacy consists of novels and short stories. Although he wrote two well-received science fiction books, he was most famous for his gentleman thief adventure series, ‘Arsène Lupin’ who was considered a French counterpart to Arthur Conan Doyle’s fictional detective ‘Sherlock Holmes’.A whip-smart, witty, and roguishly handsome master of disguise, Lupin became an international success and saw Leblanc write over 60 crime novels and short stories featuring his French detective. The books inspired the hit Netflix TV series ‘Lupin’ starring Omar Sy, Ludivine Sagnier, and Clotilde Hesme.He was awarded the Légion d'Honneur for his services to literature.

‘100 Quotes by Jean de la Fontaine’ uncovers one of the most widely read French poets of the 17th century.In this impressive collection, readers are invited to explore Fontaine’s influence on the French language, discovering pockets of wisdom and wit along the way.Having been depicted resisting the rule of Louis XIV during the dawn of the French Revolution in the 2007 film ‘Jean de la Fontaine’, his quotes are a must-read for those looking to discover one of the greatest thinkers - and writers - of the age.Ideal for Hugh Jackman fans of 'Les Misérables'.Jean de la Fontaine (1621-1695) was one of the most widely-read French poets of the 17th century. Known for his ‘Fables’, he explored a traditional style of French verse dating back to the Middle Ages.His influence on the French language today is reflected by his prestigious reception into the Académie Française, along with the many statues, pictures and depictions of Fontaine on coins, medals and stamps.

It’s no secret that writers often used their books, poems, and plays to impart observations, thoughts, and reflections.This was also the case for the literature of the 17th century which followed France’s pioneering status in politics and culture.‘500 Quotations from the Great French Writers of the 17th Century’ offers a fascinating snapshot of that changing society, seen through the eyes of some of the best writers of the era.A superb book for dipping in and out of, this makes a great gift for anyone with an interest in French literature.One of the most popular French poets of the 17th century, Jean de la Fontaine (1621 – 1695) was a pioneer of the fabulist form of literature. Imbuing animals with human characteristics, he paved the way for other fabulists to follow. Recognised as one of the three most important playwrights of the era, Pierre Corneille (1606 – 1684) is best remembered for his tragedies. He wrote 37 plays, including ‘El Cid.’The next of the three French greats, Jean Racine (1639 – 1699) was also a tragedian known for his use of brutal yet eloquent speech. Completing the trio is Moliere (1622 – 1673). While his peers wrote tragedies, Moliere focused on comedies and his plays have been translated into almost every language on the planet. Jean de La Bruyère (1645 – 1696) was a philosopher and satirist whose works satirised many of his contemporaries.

Uncover the wisdom from the master of short-form himself, Guy de Maupassant, in this collection of carefully selected quotes. French author and representative of the literary movement ‘Naturalism’, Maupassant’s short stories weave expert observation and reflection with deep social insight.Typically set during the Franco-Prussian war of 1870, he focused on human lives and their fateful destinies. His first published story, ‘Boule de Suif’, remains his most celebrated work today.With this impressive collection of Maupassant quotes, readers are invited to peak behind the scenes at his musings and thoughts. This weaves a must-read collection for those looking to discover one of France’s most influential writers to date.Guy de Maupassant (1850-1893) was a French author and representative of the literary movement ‘Naturalism’. His impressive short story collection spans 'Boule de Suife', Une Vie', 'Bel-Ami', 'La Moustache' and 'A Woman's Life'.Maupassant remains today a wide influence on culture, with numerous plays and adaptations continuously in the work - especially for the much loved moral tale 'Boule de Suife'.

´100 Quotes by Honoré de Balzac’ is a collection of writings and thoughts from the French novelist and playwright, Honoré de Balzac.Balzac was known to frequently flit between several ‘work in progress’ writings, and his finished articles were often revised between editions.The way that Balzac wrote is very much reflective of the difficulties in his own life, and perhaps the writer was attempting to stabilise his life through fiction.A superb and thought-provoking collection of inspiring quotes, ´100 Quotes by Honoré de Balzac’ is ideal for fans of Balzac and those who want something to dip in and out of.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.

Known as the ‘Age of Enlightenment,’ the 1700s were a time that provoked significant leaps in philosophical thought.Most importantly, the thinkers of the time espoused the virtues of happiness, the evidence provided by the senses, and the distance between organised religion and the state.‘400 Quotations from the Philosophy of the Enlightenment’ offers a fascinating insight into the philosophical revolution that was taking place during the 18th century.It is ideal for those needing an extra bit of motivation throughout their day.Montesquieu (1689 – 1755) was born in Aquitaine, and his writing had a huge influence on political systems during the 18th century. Voltaire (1694 – 1778), a Parisian, was one of the founders of the French Enlightenment movement.Born in Langres, Denis Diderot (1713 – 1784) was a writer and another important figure in the Age of Enlightenment. Born in Geneva, Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712 – 1778) was a spearhead in the European Enlightenment movement.

‘100 Quotes by Gaston Bachelard’ is a collection of thoughts from the French philosopher whose work influenced many other philosophers including; Michel Foucault, Louis Althusser, Dominique Lecourt and Jacques Derrida.The quotes featured open a door into his monumental work with a selection of his most significant thoughts and ideas from witticisms to deeper reflections.‘100 Quotes by Gaston Bachelard’ will delight those interested in Western philosophy.Gaston Bachelard (1884-1962) was a French philosopher who made contributions to the fields of poetics – a theory of literary discourse – and also to the philosophy of science, introducing the concepts of epistemological obstacle and epistemological break.

"1100 Quotations from the Great French Writers of the 19th Century" is a wonderful collection of wit and wisdom from some of the greatest French writers ever.From Guy de Maupassant and Honoré de Balzac to Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas, this carefully crafted collection is guaranteed to inspire and entertain.Ideal for those needing a dose of encouragement.These French literary giants are responsible for some of the worlds most famous works, including "The Three Musketeers", "Les Misérables", "Madame Bovary" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame."

Phèdre aime le fils de son époux - Hippolyte. Une rumeur circule: Thésée, le roi d'Athènes est mort. Mais il est déjà trop tard. Avant d'avoir eu vent de la vérité, Phèdre s'est livrée tout entière à l'ivresse d'une passion aveugle. Thésée sait tout, et Hippolyte en aime une autre.Un modèle classique de la tragédie, «Phèdre» illustre la violence de l'abandon passionné - l'absence de raison en l'amour interdit.Jean Racine (1639-1699) est un dramaturge et poète français. Orphelin et destiné à la religion, il préfère la littérature. En 1665, «Alexandre le Grand» est un incroyable succès. Il est rapidement remarqué par Louis XIV. Racine entretient une relation tendue avec Molière, lui aussi à la cour. Suite à «Phèdre» en 1677, et des disputes, il abandonne peu à peu le théâtre, à regret, pour se livrer à l'historiographie. Ses dernière pièces ( «Esther», 1688, et «Athalie», 1691) sont quant à elles commandées par la femme du Roi.

Miehet kaskeavat joen rannassa. Liekit ovat miltei viisimetrisiä, ja miesten kasvot ovat yltäpäältä noessa. Tuli ei saa sammua. Kun aurinko lopulta painuu alas, tulee pieni maailmanloppu. Savua on kaikkialla. Se saa kuvittelemaan: Millaista on, kun säätä ei enää ole? Kun on liian kylmä elää? Kun kaiken kasvu loppuu?Tulen valopiiri on Petter Sairasen taianomainen romaani ihmisen luontosuhteesta ja ilmastonmuutoksesta.Sagan ympäristökirjat ovat monipuolisia puheenvuoroja ilmastosta, ympäristöstä ja luonnosta.Kirjailija Petter Sairanen (s. 1958) tunnetaan erityisesti teoksesta Sähköllä valaistu talo, joka sai Kalevi Jäntin palkinnon vuonna 1990. Sairanen on työskennellyt myös dramaturgina.

‘The Fortune of the Rougons' is the first novel in Zola's monumental 'Les Rougon-Macquart' series. The novel is partly an origin story with an enormous cast of characters, many of whom go on to become the main characters of later novels in the series. It is also a testament to the December 1851 coup d'état that gave rise to the Second French Empire, from the perspective of a large provincial town in southern France.As the title suggests. the protagonists Pierre and Felicité Rougon chase fortune in all its symbolic and tangible meanings in one grand, captivating and hilarious adventure. The title also pays homage to the fortunes of many different family members introduced in the novel, whose lives take on an integral importance throughout later books. An unquestionably successful foundation for the ensuing masterpieces of the series - 'The Fortune of the Rougons' is sure to be savoured by fans of 'Germinal' as an exciting and engrossing read.Nominated twice in the first two instances of the Nobel Prize in Literature, Zola is cited as a major literary influence on authors of the new journalism style of writing, namely Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, and playwright, and one of the most important representatives of French naturalism. His literary topics address violence and its repercussions, alcoholism and issues within the family unit.

'The Rush for the Spoil' is the second novel in Zola’s 'Les Rougon-Macquart' series. It is set in Paris during the reign of Napoleon III and focuses on the modernization and evisceration of the ancient city.Aristide Rougon leaves the countryside for the city in order to climb the social hierarchy and improve his financial conditions - but what lengths is he wiiling to go? It is in this artificial world at the turn of the 20th century where Aristide’s wife Renne steps in, a diametric opposite personality to her husband.Depicting the greed of its main characters combined with their cynical attitudes, this is a dark, disturbing yet highly engaging read with an ironic and chilling finale.It's an example of Zola at his best: prose that is strong and compelling yet poetic and atmospheric, as well as psychologically complex characters - Zola's hallmark social critique and a heavy dose of sensationalism. Acclaimed writers that cite Zola among their main influences include Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, and playwright, and one of the most important representative of French naturalism. His literary topics include violence and its repercussions, alcoholism, and the problems within the family unit. Zola was nominated twice in the first two instances of the Nobel Prize in Literature.

‘His Excellency’ is the sixth entry in the ‘Les Rougon-Marquart’, set in the Imperial court it chronicles the absolute power and corruption of the upper echelons of French society. Our protagonist, Eugene Rougon is the vice-emperor, one of the most powerful men in the empire but his position is never an assurance of safety. We are thrown in to a world of political intrigue, of rivalries and schemes, blackmail, bribery and manipulation in this political thriller. It is a thriller that rises above pure political drama to become an important discourse on the manipulation of legislation for personal power. It is a brilliant read exposing the fragility of the powerful and is perfect for anyone who loved ‘House of Cards’.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, playwright, two time Nobel Prize nominee and one of the most important representatives of French naturalism. He was a very influential figure in France’s liberalisation, as well as in the exoneration of the falsely accused French officer Alfred Dreyfus. More than half of his published work was dedicated to the ‘Les Rougon-Macquart’ cycle, detailing the growth of a single family under the second French Empire and the repercussions of alcoholism and violence on subsequent generations. Zola influenced many writers from the "new journalism" wave of writing, including Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese. Some of his best known works include "Germinal", "Nana", and "Work".

‘The Conquest of Plassans’ is the fourth novel in the ‘Les Rougon-Macquart’ cycle, returning the reader to the fictional Provencal town of Plassans. It follows the Mouret family as their lives are forever upended by the arrival of an unscrupulous and sinister cleric. The devious cleric manipulates the townsfolk and the Mouret family in particular, for his own political intrigue and to build clerical power in the provinces. The struggle for power between the clergy and government becomes secondary to the human drama unfolding before us as the unassuming town of Plassans is torn apart in a complex web of greed, evil and faith. It is an astonishing drama built on the strength of it’s characters and the pace of it’s plot, perfect for anyone who loved ‘Les Miserables’.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, playwright, two time Nobel Prize nominee and one of the most important representatives of French naturalism. He was a very influential figure in France’s liberalisation, as well as in the exoneration of the falsely accused French officer Alfred Dreyfus. More than half of his published work was dedicated to the ‘Les Rougon-Macquart’ cycle, detailing the growth of a single family under the second French Empire and the repercussions of alcoholism and violence on subsequent generations. Zola influenced many writers from the "new journalism" wave of writing, including Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese. Some of his best known works include "Germinal", "Nana", and "Work".

In this tale the Duchesse de Langeais leads General Armande de Montriveau by the nose in her distinct coquettish yet grandiose manner. But as a member of the Thirteen, Armande kidnaps the Duchesse and threatens to have her branded as a criminal. However, he returns her unscathed.Suddenly the Duchesse develops feelings for Armande, who now will have nothing to do with her. After sparking rumours in Paris that she is visiting him, she disappears. Then Armande realises that he wants her more than ever before...A romantic and greatly tumultuous tale with an unexpected ending.A perfect fit for readers seeking a romance novel infused with notes of irony and the supernatural. A critically-acclaimed film adaptation of the same name was released in 2007, starring Jeanne Balibar, Guillaume Depardieu, Michel Piccoli and Bulle Ogier.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.

‘Abbe Mouret's Transgression’ is the fifth novel in the ‘Les Rougon-Marquart’ cycle, following the overly zealous priest Serge Mouret in his search for spiritual purity. He lives in a near constant state of prayer, neglecting his worldly needs until he becomes gravely ill and begins to suffer from Amnesia. In this state of amnesia he forgets his priestly vows, becoming a whole other person and experiencing the world in a completely new and profound way. This novel draws numerous biblical parallels, exploring the meaning of innocence and sin as well as the relationship between the Church and Nature. It is an incredibly compelling and thoughtful read with truly beautiful moments thanks to the strength of it’s cast of characters.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, playwright, two time Nobel Prize nominee and one of the most important representatives of French naturalism. He was a very influential figure in France’s liberalisation, as well as in the exoneration of the falsely accused French officer Alfred Dreyfus. More than half of his published work was dedicated to the ‘Les Rougon-Macquart’ cycle, detailing the growth of a single family under the second French Empire and the repercussions of alcoholism and violence on subsequent generations. Zola influenced many writers from the "new journalism" wave of writing, including Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese. Some of his best known works include "Germinal", "Nana", and "Work".

‘A Love Episode’, the eighth entry in the ‘Les Rougon-Marquart- cycle is unusual in Zola’s collection as it seemingly does not contain a social critique but instead focuses intensely on our protagonist, Helene. Helene is a widow caring for her sickly daughter on a daily basis who gradually falls in love with her doctor. It is an intense character study of a dutiful woman who refuses her happiness at every turn, constantly torn between her duties as a mother and her own personal needs. It is a maelstrom of love, affairs and heartbreak in the City of Lights, powered by it’s brilliantly written protagonist and bookended by a profound conclusion. It is a wonderful read, perfect for anyone who loved Netflix’s ‘Bridgerton’.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, playwright, two time Nobel Prize nominee and one of the most important representatives of French naturalism. He was a very influential figure in France’s liberalisation, as well as in the exoneration of the falsely accused French officer Alfred Dreyfus. More than half of his published work was dedicated to the ‘Les Rougon-Macquart’ cycle, detailing the growth of a single family under the second French Empire and the repercussions of alcoholism and violence on subsequent generations. Zola influenced many writers from the "new journalism" wave of writing, including Tom Wolfe, Truman Capote, and Gay Talese. Some of his best known works include "Germinal", "Nana", and "Work".

"Respectable people...What bastards!"Rake-thin and exhausted prisoner Florent, wrongly convicted during the 1848 Revolution, escapes and seeks refuge with his half-brother in Paris. Florent finds a job at the local central market Les Halles. Initially he is met with a baffled but friendly warmth. But this warmth soon erodes into a poisonous animosity in an atmosphere shot with insidious political intrigue, petty rivalries and perfidious gossip from the "respectable people", that impinge upon the Florent's safety and wellbeing.'The Fat and the Thin' is the third installment of the 'Les Rougon-Macquart' series packed with powerful social commentary comparing those in power (the fat) to those in the lower classes (the thin).The allegories of the burgeoning Parisian market stalls are so poignant that the reader would be forgiven for thinking this is a story of anthropomorphism, where the characters have turned into the food they buy and sell. Yet, simultaneously rebuffed with depictions of abject poverty, this is an unforgettable novel reminiscent of 'The Ladies’ Paradise' and 'Nana'. It comes as little surprise that literary icons Charles Dickens and Anthony Bourdain cited Zola among their favourite authors.Émile Zola (1840-1902) was a French novelist, journalist, and playwright, and one of the most prolific purveyors of French naturalism. His primary literary topics include violence and its repercussions, alcoholism and issues within the nuclear family.