South & South East England

First published in 1873, ‘Life in the Red Brigade’ by popular author R.M. Ballantyne is an adventure story which follows young firefighter Joe Dashwood and his exploits with the London fire service during its earliest days. Joe and his colleagues face all sorts of problems and dangers as they dash around London attending calls for their urgent services. A fascinating story, and a delightful peek at an institution in its infancy.R.M. Ballantyne (1825-1894) was a Scottish artist and prolific author of mostly children’s fiction. Born in Edinburgh, Ballantyne was the ninth of ten children. At the age of 16 Ballantyne moved to Canada, where he worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company, travelling all over the country to trade for fur. He returned to Scotland in 1847 following the death of his father, and it was then that he began his literary career in earnest, writing over 100 children’s adventure books over the course of his life. Stories such as ‘The Coral Island’ and ‘The Young Fur Traders’ were hugely popular, and many of them drew on his own experiences of travelling throughout Canada. A stickler for detail, Ballantyne continued to travel widely to research the backgrounds and settings for his exciting stories. His tales became an inspiration for authors of the future, including ‘Treasure Island’ novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Ballantyne spent the latter period of his life living in London and Italy for the sake of his health. He died in Rome in 1894 at the age of 68.

‘Floor Games’ is a delightful book by H.G. Wells about the fun children can have with some simple toys and a lot of imagination. The author’s humorous tone in this book makes it an entertaining read for parents, but Wells also provides deeply personal anecdotes about playing with his children. Wells’ celebrated creativity is clear to see as the games he describes are about inventing worlds out of one’s imagination, constructing cities and empires from a few wooden blocks. ‘Floor Games’ is an influential book that is used by psychotherapists to assist children’s development by learning through play. A perfect read for parents who are weary of the internet age and anyone who wishes to reminisce about their childhood.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.

Cagney and Lacey may be the most iconic female detective duo, but who was the fictional female sleuth who started it all? Nancy Drew? Maybe Miss Marple? Nope – one of the first literary female detectives was Valeria Brinton, this novel’s heroin. "The Law and the Lady" is the trailblazing book that begins the whole detective genre.In this suspenseful Victorian story, something is amiss with Valeria’s new husband, Eustace. Valeria becomes suspicious during their honeymoon in Ramsgate on the Kentish coast. Back in London, Valeria digs deeper and discovers Eustace’s dark past.On the trail of truth, Valeria secretly investigates the legal proceedings surrounding Eustace to find her own evidence. After travelling to Edinburgh in Scotland, she unearths the answer that will rock the future of her marriage.Next time you’re getting into your favourite detective movie – deerstalker in hand – remember where it all started.London-born Wilke Collins (1824-1889) became known in Victorian England for his novels and plays, sometimes writing together with Charles Dickens. His most famous works, "The Woman in White" (1859) and "The Moonstone" (1868), are some of the first modern detective novels.

‘Select Conversations with an Uncle’ is H.G. Wells’ first book. It is a collection of fourteen humorous conversations between a man and his newly wealthy uncle. These short stories are more grounded than Wells’ later science-fiction work, but they portray the same values and ideals that influence his celebrated novels. This deeply personal collection gives the reader invaluable insight into Wells’ character and his views on topics from marriage to art. While these short conversations are intimate, Wells’ unique and witty prose ensures that they are always entertaining. The best exchanges include the lovelorn tale of ‘La Belle Dame Sans Merci’ and ‘On Social Music’ in which the uncle comically complains about a neighbour playing the piano poorly. Drifting between playful and poignant ‘Select Conversations with an Uncle’ is the perfect read for fans of Wells or conversational literature such as Oscar Wilde’s ‘The Decay of Lying’.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.

‘New Worlds for Old’ is a highly celebrated non-fiction book about socialism by H.G. Wells. The book was written by Wells due to the success and praise of his earlier political writings and it is the most insightful and comprehensive portrayal of the author’s socialist views. With a unique and balanced approach, Wells argues for a just and equitable society built on collectivism instead of individualism. However, the book is not simply reiterating Marx as Wells criticises armed revolution and praises constructive socialism. ‘New Worlds for Old’ was incredibly successful at the time of its release and was praised by authors and activists such as Joseph Conrad and Helen Keller. This book remains highly influential and relevant and should be read by anyone interested in politics and especially socialism.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.

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

"A raw, funny, surprisingly tender novel about belonging, class, and what makes a life a success. I loved the central brother/sister relationship and how the book confronted masculinity and the disparity between womanhood and the male experience. I grew so fond of the protagonist, and devoured the book in a day." Dolly Alderton."What I did to them was terrible, but you have to understand the context. This was London, 2016.."Bohemia is history. Paul has awoken to the fact that he will always be better known for reviewing haircuts than for his literary journalism. He is about to be kicked out of his cheap flat in east London and his sister has gone missing after an argument about what to do with the house where they grew up. Now that their mother is dead this is the last link they have to the declining town on the north-west coast where they grew up.Enter Emily Nardini, a cult author, who – after granting Paul a rare interview – receives him into her surprisingly grand home. Paul is immediately intrigued: by Emily and her fictions, by her vexingly famous and successful partner Andrew (too old for her by half), and later by Andrew’s daughter Sophie, a journalist whose sexed-up vision of the revolution has gone viral. Increasingly obsessed, relationships under strain, Paul travels up and down, north and south, torn between the town he thought he had escaped and the city that threatens to chew him up.With heart, bite and humour, Luke Brown leads the reader beyond easy partisanship and into much trickier terrain. Straddling the fissures within a man and his country, riven by envy, wealth, ownership, entitlement, and loss, Theft is an exhilarating howl of a novel.Perfect for fans of Jonathan Cole's "Middle England", Zadie Smith's "NW" and Nick Hornby's "High Fidelity."‘It's a rare thrill to find a writer with Luke Brown's gift for nimbly navigating the maze of gentrification, Brexit, and the gig economy with dark, effervescent hilarity. Theft is a funhouse mirror held up to the grim absurdity of our political moment, a quick-witted tale of generational crisis, and an incredibly poignant and funny take on what happens after bad turns to worse.’ Alexandra Kleeman‘Luke Brown’s Theft is acerbic but tender, biting but elegiac, a snapshot of early twenty-first century life in which the unceasing prospect of catastrophe is the new normal.’ Colin Barrett‘Theft is a witty, tender and insightful portrait of a city, and a life, at at time of crisis. It’s engrossing and charming and made me laugh many, many times.’ Nicole Flattery‘This Britain is both utterly recognisable and freshly revealed and the writing assured, funny and always humane.’ Catherine O'Flynn‘Astute and funny.’ Lucy Knight, Sunday Times.Luke Brown grew up in a former fishing town on the coast of Lancashire. He works as a book editor and is a lecturer at the Centre for New Writing at the University of Manchester. He writes regularly for the Financial Times; and sometimes for the TLS, London Review of Books and New Statesman. His debut novel My Biggest Lie was published in 2014, and his fiction has appeared in The White Review.

"Drink is the greatest enemy that man had on Earth".A tale of tragedy and consumptive violence from the pen of Bram Stoker, 'The Primrose Path' follows the descent of Jerry O'Sullivan, born and raised in Dublin, as he moves to London in pursuit of a better life. Through drink, misfortune, and growing suspicions of his wife's dishonesty, O'Sullivan begins to lose himself in a waking nightmare that demands the shedding of blood.If you liked the Netflix hits 'The Haunting of Hill House' and 'Bly Manor' or Sarah Perrey's 'The Essex Serpent', you'll love 'The Primrose Path'. A precursor to Stoker's 'Dracula', 'The Primrose Path' lays the foundations of Gothic horror and grips the reader to the very last drop.Bram Stoker (1847 - 1912) was an Irish author celebrated for his contributions to the Victorian Gothic period. Among his works, 'The Primrose Path', 'The Snake's Pass', and 'The Lair of the White Worm', 'Dracula' is best-known as the masterpiece of Gothic Horror that introduced the vampire to English shores. Born in Dublin, Ireland, Stoker later moved to London to work alongside Henry Irving at the Lyceum Theatre, where he followed his interests in the arts, science, and the occult.

This police thriller opens with Scotland Yard Detective Surefoot Smith as he is called to a strange murder scene. Tom Tickler, a well-known petty thief has been brutally murdered, his corpse left in an abandoned taxi with a huge sum of money in his pockets. This sets Surefoot on a path that will take his investigation to the very top of British society and he will have to risk everything to get his man. The bodies continue to pile up in this mystifying thriller with an ever growing list of suspects. The plot is masterfully weaved to betray the reader at every turn creating an exhilarating and heartily enjoyable read for anyone who loves ‘Bosch’ or ‘Sherlock’.Edgar Wallace (1875-1932) was an English writer, poet and journalist. He was such a prolific writer that his publisher claimed his work could account for a quarter of all books sold in England. He wrote countless books, screenplays, poems and historical non-fiction, spawning over one hundred and sixty films based on his work. He unfortunately passed away suddenly before he could see his most famous creation ‘King Kong’ come to life. It has been adapted several times over the years, notably by Peter Jackson of Lord of the Rings fame, and more recently in ‘Godzilla vs Kong’ starring Millie Bobby Brown.

You’ve probably read or seen a film based on an epistolary novel (a story presented through letters sent between characters): "Persuasion", "Dracula", and "The Perks of Being a Wallflower". You’ll also like "The Black Robe" if you want to get straight into a character’s thoughts from their letters, with compelling narration between the letters.Haunted by a death in Boulogne, Lewis Romayne returns to London where he meets Stella Eyrecourt, who falls in love with Lewis. Enter Father Benwell, a Catholic priest who wants to convert Lewis to Catholicism. He makes it his mission to stop a marriage between Lewis and Stella because Stella is Protestant.With the forces against them, Lewis and Stella then become embroiled in gripping events involving love triangles, Catholic authorities and inheritance. An insight into Victorian England’s angst surrounding the Catholic Church, this novel is ultimately about a love story against all odds.London-born Wilke Collins (1824-1889) became known in Victorian England for his novels and plays, sometimes writing together with Charles Dickens. His most famous works, "The Woman in White" (1859) and "The Moonstone" (1868), are examples of the first modern detective novels.

Alle kennen ihn: den legendären Vampirjäger Abraham Van Helsing! Was die Wenigsten wissen – er hat eine Nachfahrin. Patricia Vanhelsing ist Reporterin bei der London Express News. Als in London ungewöhnliche Dinge vor sich gehen, will Patricia der Sache auf den Grund gehen. Dabei helfen will ihr attraktiver neuer Kollege, der selbst ein Geheimnis verbirgt. Die nächsten vier Romane in der Patricia Vanhelsing-Reihe bleiben genau so spannend wie ihre Vorgänger. Für ihre neusten Abenteuer wandeln Patricia und Tom durch gefährliche Sümpfe, betreten ein geheimnisvolles Geisterschiff, wandeln durch eine magische Galerie und treffen auf einen Feind, der gefährlicher ist als alle anderen!Band 12: Patricia Vanhelsing: Der HöllensumpfBand 13: Patricia Vanhelsing: Das GeisterschiffBand 14: Patricia Vanhelsing: Die unheimliche GalerieBand 15: Patricia Vanhelsing: Der NamenloseSidney Gardner ist eines der vielen Pseudonyme des deutschen Autors Alfred Bekker (1964-heute). Mit seinen Romanen ist er in sehr vielen Genres vertreten, doch besonders erfolgreich wurde er durch seine Fantasy- und Sci-Fi-Romane. Außerdem schreibt er auch Kinder- und Jugendbücher.

Alle kennen ihn: den legendären Vampirjäger Abraham Van Helsing! Was die Wenigsten wissen – er hat eine Nachfahrin. Patricia Vanhelsing ist Reporterin bei der London Express News. Als in London ungewöhnliche Dinge vor sich gehen, will Patricia der Sache auf den Grund gehen. Dabei helfen will ihr attraktiver neuer Kollege, der selbst ein Geheimnis verbirgt. In der Patricia Vanhelsing-Reihe treffen Leser*innen auf Spannung, Romantik, Fantasy und gefährliche Geheimnisse und Wesen!Diese Sammlung enthält die Bände 1-18Sidney Gardner ist eines der vielen Pseudonyme des deutschen Autors Alfred Bekker (1964-heute). Mit seinen Romanen ist er in sehr vielen Genres vertreten, doch besonders erfolgreich wurde er durch seine Fantasy- und Sci-Fi-Romane. Außerdem schreibt er auch Kinder- und Jugendbücher.

Alle kennen ihn: den legendären Vampirjäger Abraham Van Helsing! Was die Wenigsten wissen – er hat eine Nachfahrin. Patricia Vanhelsing ist Reporterin bei der London Express News. Als in London ungewöhnliche Dinge vor sich gehen, will Patricia der Sache auf den Grund gehen. Dabei helfen will ihr attraktiver neuer Kollege, der selbst ein Geheimnis verbirgt. Die nächsten Romane in der Patricia Vanhelsing-Reihe bleiben genau so spannend wie ihre Vorgänger. In Patricias und Toms neusten Fälle treffen sie auf einen Eis-Zombie, einen gefährlichen Dschungel und einen blutrünstigen Tiermörder.Band 9: Patricia Vanhelsing: Das kalte GrauenBand 10: Patricia Vanhelsing: Die DschungelgeisterBand 11: Patricia Vanhelsing: Die VampireSidney Gardner ist eines der vielen Pseudonyme des deutschen Autors Alfred Bekker (1964-heute). Mit seinen Romanen ist er in sehr vielen Genres vertreten, doch besonders erfolgreich wurde er durch seine Fantasy- und Sci-Fi-Romane. Außerdem schreibt er auch Kinder- und Jugendbücher.

Spannung, Romantik und Mystery vereint in drei aufregenden Romantischen Thrillern von Ann Murdoch! In "Der Magier von London" werden ein Zauberer und seine Assistentin von einer bösen Mordserie bedroht. Werden sie aufklären können, wer hinter den Angriffen steckt? In "Rosen für die Ewigkeit" wird ein zauberhaftes Schloss, nachts von einem Geist heimgesucht, auf der Suche nach einer Rose!Ann Murdoch ist eines der vielen Pseudonyme des Autors Alfred Bekker (1964-heute). Er schreibt Romane in vielen Genres, doch besonders bekannt wurde er durch seine Fantasy- und Sci-Fi-Romane. Mit dem Pseudonym Ann Murdoch schreibt er Romane, die zum dem Genre Romantic Thriller gehören.

Alle kennen ihn: den legendären Vampirjäger Abraham Van Helsing! Was die Wenigsten wissen – er hat eine Nachfahrin. Patricia Vanhelsing ist Reporterin bei der London Express News. Als in London ungewöhnliche Dinge vor sich gehen, will Patricia der Sache auf den Grund gehen. Dabei helfen will ihr attraktiver neuer Kollege, der selbst ein Geheimnis verbirgt. Die nächsten vier Romane in der Patricia Vanhelsing-Reihe bleiben genau so spannend wie ihre Vorgänger. Dieses Mal treffen Patricia und ihr Kollege Tom auf ein mörderisches Skelett, eine geisterhafte Frau, eine unheimliche Unterwasserwelt und einen geheimen Orden.Band 5: Patricia Vanhelsing: Der Jahrmarkt des GrauensBand 6: Patricia Vanhelsing: Die bleiche LadyBand 7: Patricia Vanhelsing: Die KrakengeisterBand 8: Patricia Vanhelsing: Der DruidenzauberSidney Gardner ist eines der vielen Pseudonyme des deutschen Autors Alfred Bekker (1964-heute). Mit seinen Romanen ist er in sehr vielen Genres vertreten, doch besonders erfolgreich wurde er durch seine Fantasy- und Sci-Fi-Romane. Außerdem schreibt er auch Kinder- und Jugendbücher.

Alle kennen ihn: den legendären Vampirjäger Abraham Van Helsing! Was die Wenigsten wissen – er hat eine Nachfahrin. Patricia Vanhelsing ist Reporterin bei der London Express News. Als in London ungewöhnliche Dinge vor sich gehen, will Patricia der Sache auf den Grund gehen. Dabei helfen will ihr attraktiver neuer Kollege, der selbst ein Geheimnis verbirgt. In den ersten vier Romanen der "Patricia Vanhelsing"-Reihe von Sidney Gardner treffen Patricia und ihr Kollege Tom auf einen mörderischen Wagen, Teufelsaustreibungen, eine geheimnisvolle Frau und einen gefährlichen Tiger!Band 1: Patricia vanHelsing: Der schwarze WagenBand 2: Patricia Vanhelsing: Der GeisterwaldBand 3: Patricia Vanhelsing: Die SturmhexeBand 4: Patricia Vanhelsing, 4: Die GeistreicherSidney Gardner ist eines der vielen Pseudonyme des deutschen Autors Alfred Bekker (1964-heute). Mit seinen Romanen ist er in sehr vielen Genres vertreten, doch besonders erfolgreich wurde er durch seine Fantasy- und Sci-Fi-Romane. Außerdem schreibt er auch Kinder- und Jugendbücher.

One man's curiosity can unleash unspeakable evils...When spiritualist Mr. Bessel dabbles in the forbidden realm of astral projection, he never expects to actually succeed in projecting his spirit.As he fights to reclaim his own body, he discovers it's been possessed by a malevolent spirit with intentions far darker than his own.Now, Bessel's friend Mr. Vincey must race against time to return Bessel to his body before the imposter wreaks irreparable havoc.Blurring the boundaries between the spiritual and physical, this chilling tale by H.G. Wells is perfect for sci-fi enthusiasts and fans of Marvel's "Doctor Strange".H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was an English author and Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, prolific across several genres, and celebrated as the "father of science fiction". His notable science fiction works include the blockbuster hit adaptation "The Time Machine", "The Invisible Man", and "The War of the Worlds".

It’s Christmas morning and Jack Frost and his sons Colonel Wind and Major Snow are causing havoc in the streets of London – their bitter winds and cold assaulting everyone they encounter. In the midst of this freezing wintry weather, siblings Tom and Matty decide to head out to bring Christmas cheer to one and all. A charming festive tale by children’s author R.M. Ballantyne.R.M. Ballantyne (1825-1894) was a Scottish artist and prolific author of mostly children’s fiction. Born in Edinburgh, Ballantyne was the ninth of ten children. At the age of 16 Ballantyne moved to Canada, where he worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company, travelling all over the country to trade for fur. He returned to Scotland in 1847 following the death of his father, and it was then that he began his literary career in earnest, writing over 100 children’s adventure books over the course of his life. Stories such as ‘The Coral Island’ and ‘The Young Fur Traders’ were hugely popular, and many of them drew on his own experiences of travelling throughout Canada. A stickler for detail, Ballantyne continued to travel widely to research the backgrounds and settings for his exciting stories. His tales became an inspiration for authors of the future, including ‘Treasure Island’ novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Ballantyne spent the latter period of his life living in London and Italy for the sake of his health. He died in Rome in 1894 at the age of 68.

First published in 1867, ‘Fighting the Flames’ by R.M. Ballantyne is set against the backdrop of the busy and newly formed London Fire Brigade. Recent recruit Frank Wilders is proving himself to be something of a hero of the brigade as he bravely faces all sorts of dangerous situations, making his mischievous younger brother Willie incredibly proud. Through the brothers story we encounter a range of fascinating characters as the London Fire Brigade touches the lives of people from all reaches of society. An intriguing, charming tale from the popular author.R.M. Ballantyne (1825-1894) was a Scottish artist and prolific author of mostly children’s fiction. Born in Edinburgh, Ballantyne was the ninth of ten children. At the age of 16 Ballantyne moved to Canada, where he worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company, travelling all over the country to trade for fur. He returned to Scotland in 1847 following the death of his father, and it was then that he began his literary career in earnest, writing over 100 children’s adventure books over the course of his life. Stories such as ‘The Coral Island’ and ‘The Young Fur Traders’ were hugely popular, and many of them drew on his own experiences of travelling throughout Canada. A stickler for detail, Ballantyne continued to travel widely to research the backgrounds and settings for his exciting stories. His tales became an inspiration for authors of the future, including ‘Treasure Island’ novelist Robert Louis Stevenson. Ballantyne spent the latter period of his life living in London and Italy for the sake of his health. He died in Rome in 1894 at the age of 68.

‘Beyond the City’ is a short story by Sherlock Holmes author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, first published in 1892. Set in the changing world of London during the latter stages of the 19th century, the story is a departure from Conan Doyle’s usual literary themes of mystery and adventure, and instead is a story of four families and their intertwining lives. Romance, wealth, women’s suffrage, and family all feature in this delightful short story from the popular author.Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859-1930) was a British author, best known as the creator of the world-famous detective Sherlock Holmes. Born in Edinburgh, he was educated in England and Austria before studying medicine at the University of Edinburgh. It was during his time at university that Doyle began writing short stories, submitting them to magazines and journals. His first Sherlock Holmes novel, ‘A Study in Scarlet’ was written in just three weeks and published in 1887 to favourable reviews, and more Sherlock adventures followed. By 1893, Doyle was growing tired of Sherlock and attempted to kill him off in the story ‘The Final Problem’, but public outcry caused him to resurrect the famous detective. He featured in a total of 56 short stories and four novels along with his trusty sidekick Dr Watson and made Doyle one of the best-paid authors of the time. The stories have been adapted multiple times; most recently in the successful BBC series ‘Sherlock’ starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. Later literary works included the Professor Challenger series which began with ‘The Lost World’, in which Challenger sets out to find evidence of prehistoric life. The book inspired numerous adaptations, including the films ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘The Lost World’. In later life Doyle became captivated by the world of spiritualism and the occult and published non-fiction works about his beliefs including ‘The Coming of the Fairies’. Arthur Conan Doyle died at home in 1930.

Vuonna 1902 Jack London lähtee tutkimusmatkalle, joka ei kuitenkaan suuntaudu kohti lumista Alaskaa. London haluaa tutkia Lontoon köyhälistön asuinaluetta Whitechapelia. Niinpä kirjailija jalkautuu itäisen Lontoon kaduille ja jopa nukkuu niillä. Kaduilla kulkiessa Londonin mieli täyttyy kysymyksistä. Miksi yhteiskunta on niin epätasa-arvoinen? Miksi sanomalehdet kertovat tehtaiden omistajien menetyksistä eivätkä ihmisistä, jotka jäävät ilman ruokaa? Millainen maailma olisi oikeudenmukainen kaikille?Kadotuksen kansa avaa kirjailija Jack Londonin yhteiskunnallista ajattelua.Jack London (1876–1916) syntyi San Franciscossa. 15-vuotiaasta saakka hänen oli selvittävä omillaan huonosti palkatuissa töissä, kuten kullankaivajana Pohjois-Amerikan erämaassa. Myöhemmin London palasi takaisin Kaliforniaan ja alkoi työskennellä lehtimiehenä ja kirjailijana. Lyhyeksi jääneen elämänsä aikana Londonista tuli sekä rikas että kuuluisa Yukon-aiheisilla romaaneillaan, kuten Erämaan kutsu (1903) ja Susikoira (1906).

"The good old times, the good old times ... what times they were!" Set during the Christmas period, ‘The Chimes’ is an affecting examination of social structure, hypocrisy, and emotional poverty. The central figure, Trotty Veck, is gradually losing his faith in humanity. However, the church bells and a horde of goblins may have the answer to his melancholy. Written in four parts, ‘The Chimes’ sees Dickens dissect the smug attitudes of the wealthy and the bleak fortunes of the poor while focusing on the good that is in everyone.Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was an English author, social critic, and philanthropist. He is the author of 15 novels, five novellas, and hundreds of short stories. Among his most famous works are 'Oliver Twist' (1839), 'A Christmas Carol' (1843), and 'Great Expectations' (1861). Several of his books have been adapted for film, with characters such as Jacob Marley in 'A Christmas Carol' played by Alec Guinness.

'The Nottinghill Mystery' is one of the few detective novels not written from the perspective of a detective. One of its main appeals is that it was written through extracts and court case depositions, and not one long narrative; making the reading feel like they are almost one of the jury delivering their final verdict.Set in the 1840s, insurance broker Ralph Henderson must collect evidence against a local professor who is suspected of a number of murders of women over the years.It was first published as an eight-part serial in a magazine but you will struggle not to read it from start to finish in one sitting.Charles Warren Adams originally published 'The Nottinghill Murders' under the pseudonym Charles Felix leaving readers guessing over it's author. The English lawyer and author became involved in bailing out publishing firms after their proprietor died and then went on to publish at least two of his own works under Charles Felix.Born in 1883, he was a prominent anti-vivisection campaigner and was secretary of their society. His first wife died in 1880, and he remarried again five years later.

Klasyczna i jedna z najbardziej popularnych powieści kryminalnych Edgara Wallace’a, sfilmowana w 1959 roku. Po londyńskich ulicach tułają się ludzie z wytatuowaną na przedramieniu żabą. To członkowie legalnej organizacji Bractwo Wielkiej Żaby zrzeszającej włóczęgów. Choć jej działalność jest sformalizowana, nikt - łącznie z uczestnikami - nie zna jej struktur ani przywódców. Inspektor Elk i prokurator Gordon mają podejrzenia, których postarają się dowieść - ich zdaniem Bractwo jest mafią.Edgar Wallace (1875-1932) - angielski pisarz i scenarzysta, autor popularnych powieści awanturniczo-kryminalnych. Nie miał łatwego startu. Był nieślubnym dzieckiem aktorki wychowywanym przez rodzinę tragarza. Edukację zakończył na szkole podstawowej i tuż po niej rozpoczął pracę. Po uzyskaniu pełnoletności przystąpił do Royal West Kent Regiment i służył w Południowej Afryce. Jego talent dosłownie eksplodował w 1905 r., kiedy ukazała się jego powieść "Zemsta Sprawiedliwych". W ciągu kolejnych dwudziestu ośmiu lat napisał ok. 170 książek, kilkanaście sztuk teatralnych i wiele scenariuszy filmowych, m.in. do "King-Konga" z 1932 r. Nie używał pióra, treść swoich książek rejestrował na dyktafonie, skąd spisywała je maszynistka.

Milioner Comstock Bell znienacka pojawia się w Londynie i bierze pospieszny ślub ze świeżo poznaną kobietą. Tuż po ceremonii para podobno wyruszyła w podróż poślubną, ale tej samej nocy ktoś widział młodą mężatkę w rezydencji męża - była samotna i nie wydawała się szczęśliwa. Okazuje się, że Bell jest zamieszany w działalność szajki fałszerzy pieniędzy, zaś jego zniknięcie ma związek z dawną historią z czasów studenckich. Powieść dla miłośników kryminałów retro.Edgar Wallace (1875-1932) - angielski pisarz i scenarzysta, autor popularnych powieści awanturniczo-kryminalnych. Nie miał łatwego startu. Był nieślubnym dzieckiem aktorki wychowywanym przez rodzinę tragarza. Edukację zakończył na szkole podstawowej i tuż po niej rozpoczął pracę. Po uzyskaniu pełnoletności przystąpił do Royal West Kent Regiment i służył w Południowej Afryce. Jego talent dosłownie eksplodował w 1905 r., kiedy ukazała się jego powieść "Zemsta Sprawiedliwych". W ciągu kolejnych dwudziestu ośmiu lat napisał ok. 170 książek, kilkanaście sztuk teatralnych i wiele scenariuszy filmowych, m.in. do "King-Konga" z 1932 r. Nie używał pióra, treść swoich książek rejestrował na dyktafonie, skąd spisywała je maszynistka.

Kto by się spodziewał, że zaręczyny Agnieszki Lockwood i lorda Monberryego zostaną zerwane? Każdy, kto choć trochę poznał hrabinę Naronę, mógł oczekiwać takiego zakończenia. Tajemnicza, intrygująca, piękna i pewna siebie kobieta, która zarazem zachowuje w kontakcie lekki dystans - to istny wabik na mężczyzn. Kobieta puka do gabinetu lekarskiego lorda Monberryego z jasnym celem: uwieść i poślubić lekarza. Intryga, którą snuje, działa niezawodnie i nie oszczędza ofiar. Z biegiem czasu czytelnik poznaje jednak głębsze psychologiczne uzasadnienie tych zuchwałych działań. Postać hrabiny Narony to pierwszy tak wyrazisty portret tzw. "nowej kobiety" w literaturze wiktoriańskiej.William Wilkie Collins (1824-1889) - brytyjski pisarz i dramaturg, syn malarza Williama Collinsa. Jego książka "Kamień Księżycowy" jest uważana za pierwszą na świecie powieść detektywistyczną. Pisarz specjalizował się w tym gatunku, pozostawił po sobie 30 powieści (m.in. "The Woman in White", "Armadale" i "No Name") i ponad 60 opowiadań, które cieszyły się dużą popularnością i przyniosły autorowi sławę i bogactwo. Collins napisał także 14 dramatów i ponad 100 esejów. Przyjaźnił się z Karolem Dickensem. Alfred Hitchcock wymieniał powieści Collinsa wśród tekstów, które były inspiracją dla jego twórczości filmowej.

Zimowe popołudnie, wykwintne przyjęcie ślubne. W wystawnej sali kłębią się szacowni goście - bawią się rozmową, dowcipkują, oglądają prezenty przyniesione dla pary młodej. Wśród nich, nieco na uboczu, stoi milczący O. Rater, nazywany przekornie Mówcą. Tylko on może podejrzewać, że ten uroczy bankiet da początek sensacyjnym wydarzeniom. Zbiór dwunastu opowiadań Wallace'a połączonych postacią tajemniczego Oratora, który rozprawia się z najbardziej przebiegłymi przestępcami Londynu lat dwudziestych. Pozycja dla miłośników krótkich, mrożących krew w żyłach opowieści z wątkiem kryminalnym.Edgar Wallace (1875-1932) - angielski pisarz i scenarzysta, autor popularnych powieści awanturniczo-kryminalnych. Nie miał łatwego startu. Był nieślubnym dzieckiem aktorki wychowywanym przez rodzinę tragarza. Edukację zakończył na szkole podstawowej i tuż po niej rozpoczął pracę. Po uzyskaniu pełnoletności przystąpił do Royal West Kent Regiment i służył w Południowej Afryce. Jego talent dosłownie eksplodował w 1905 r., kiedy ukazała się jego powieść "Zemsta Sprawiedliwych". W ciągu kolejnych dwudziestu ośmiu lat napisał ok. 170 książek, kilkanaście sztuk teatralnych i wiele scenariuszy filmowych, m.in. do "King-Konga" z 1932 r. Nie używał pióra, treść swoich książek rejestrował na dyktafonie, skąd spisywała je maszynistka.

Auf einem Londoner Friedhof wird die Leiche eines nigerianischen Terrorismus-Experten entdeckt, er wurde brutal ermordet. Kurz zuvor hatte der Professor dort ein geheimes Treffen mit Nora Sand, Korrespondentin der dänischen Zeitung Globalt. Mit seinem Tod fehlt ihre wichtigste Informationsquelle, daher wird Nora auf etwas anderes angesetzt: die spektakuläre Scheidung eines russischen Oligarchen von einem dänischen Reality-Star. Das Paar streitet öffentlich um das Sorgerecht für ihren Sohn. Als er entführt wird, stößt Nora darauf, dass beide Fälle zusammenhängen könnten. Die Suche nach der Wahrheit führt sie in die dunkelsten Winkel der Stadt.Lone Theils war jahrelang London-Korrespondentin für die angesehene dänische Tageszeitung Politiken sowie fürs Fernsehen. Ihr Debütroman und Auftakt der Reihe um Nora Sand erscheint in 16 Ländern und wird für das Fernsehen verfilmt. Neben ihrer journalistischen Tätigkeit zwischen Dänemark und England teilt die Autorin mit ihrer Protagonistin auch die Leidenschaft fürs Kickboxen.

In der historischen Miniaturerzählung "Scott", welche in dem Erzählband "Sternstunden der Menschheit" veröffentlicht wurde, bricht der englische Offizier und Kapitän Robert Falcon Scott zu einer Expedition des noch unerforschten Südpols auf. Durch seinen praktischen Weltsinn und seine fanatische Willensstärke hat er bereits verschiedene namenlose Inseln entdeckt, sowie Indien erobert und Afrika kolonisiert. Nachdem er sein Vermögen opfert und sich in der Sicherheit des Gelingens verschuldet, bricht er am 01.06.1910 mit Freunden und Gefährten auf dem Schiff Terra Nova auf, um den Südpol zu erobern.Stefan Zweig wurde am 28.11.1881 in Wien geboren und zählt zu einem der bekanntesten deutschsprachigen Schriftsteller und Dolmetscher seiner Zeit. Eines seiner berühmtesten Werke, die "Schachnovelle", ist bis heute ein wichtiger Bestandteil der Schullektüre. Nach vielen historischen und politischen Erzählungen sowie sehr anschaulichen, psychologischen Novellen wurden seine Werke schließlich im Jahre 1935 verboten und fielen der Bücherverbrennung zum Opfer.Nachdem er durch das Regime unter Adolf Hitler ins Exil nach Brasilien getrieben wurde und vor den Nationalsozialisten geflohen ist, begeht Stefan Zweig am 23.02.1942 gemeinsam mit seiner Frau Charlotte Zweig Selbstmord in Rio de Janeiro.

Claudia Kalser ist Pilotin aus Leidenschaft. Für das Wiener Luftfahrtunternehmen „Lufttaxi" fliegt sie eine Cessna 414 und erlebt dabei allerhand Kurioses. In vier Episoden wird sie in spannende Mordfälle verwickelt, bei denen ihre vielschichtigen Fluggäste eine Rolle spielen. So berichtet eine Mitreisende auf dem Rückflug von Kreta von einem beinahe tödlichen Zwischenfall auf See und einer daraus resultierenden Amnesie. Nach der Rückkehr aus Marokko erfährt Kalser von dem mysteriösen Tod einer jungen Frau, deren Verlobter erst kürzlich Kalsers Fluggast war. Auch Stoffenten, Agenten und verängstigte Teenager kreuzen den Weg der Pilotin. Packende und fesselnde Flugreisen der besonderen Art!Sylvia Grünberger ist untrennbar mit dem Fliegen verbunden. Schon in jungen Jahren versuchte sie sich am Fallschirmspringen und entdeckte schon bald ihre Leidenschaft für die Lüfte. Als Mitglied der österreichischen Damen-Nationalmannschaft nahm sie zweimal an der WM teil. Des Weiteren bildete sie selbst Fallschirmspringer aus und absolvierte eine Ausbildung zur Privatpilotin. Ihre Leidenschaft inspirierte sie unter anderem zu der Krimireihe „Lufttaxi gewünscht".