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Comforted by the gentle hum of the beehives at the bottom of the garden, Grace drains the last of her tea and walks slowly back towards the little hillside house she adores. Her marriage is over, but is it too late to start her life again?Beekeeper Grace thought throwing out her cheating husband would be the hardest thing she ever did. But when she opens the door to a property developer one morning, it’s clear that keeping her beautiful home and garden – her only sanctuary throughout her miserable marriage – will be the greatest challenge of all...Fleeing to her best friend at the farm next door, Grace blurts out all her problems, only to be overheard by Amos, a handsome, free-spirited visitor with a twinkle in his eye. Fascinated by Grace and her bees, Amos offers to stay in the village of Hope Corner, to help turn her home into a guest house in return for lessons on beekeeping.As Grace shows Amos how to nurture a hive and harvest honeycomb without getting stung, he is charming but secretive. He never stays long in the same place after an incident in his past involving a mysterious woman named Maria. But as their eyes lock over a jar of homemade honey, Grace can’t help feeling that she’d really like him to stay...Determined to dispel her growing suspicion that Amos is running from something serious, Grace goes in search of the truth about Maria. But when she finds it, will she still want Amos to put down roots in Hope Corner, and will they still have a house to return to?No matter how far they travel, bees will always find their way home...An absolutely perfect feel good romance for readers who adore Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Debbie Johnson.Readers adore The Beekeeper’s Cottage:‘Captures you from the start... full of romance... you are so invested in these characters it is almost heart-breaking to stop reading about them and their lives. An excellent summer read, full of warmth and the sweet taste of honey. Highly recommended.’ The Book Jotter, 5 stars‘What an emotional and heart-wrenching read. I've read a few by Emma Davies before but this was certainly my fave. I felt like I was right there with the characters... A lovely read.’ The Cosiest Corner, 5 stars‘I could literally imagine walking through the gardens and near the bees and smelling all the flowers. I could taste the food and imagine sitting and having tea with the characters. Thank you for such a lovely book!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars.130k copies of Emma Davies’ books sold to date. Previous title The Little Cottage on the Hill reached Amazon UK and Amazon CA top 70.Emma once worked for a design studio where she was asked to provide a fun, humorous, and not necessarily true anecdote about herself for their website. She wrote the following: ‘I am a bestselling novelist currently masquerading as a thirty-something mother of three.’ Well the job didn’t work out but she’s now a forty-something mother of three and happy to report the rest of her dream came true. She now lives in rural Shropshire with her husband, three children, and two guinea pigs where she writes full time from a shed in the garden.

‘I really fell for this storyline hook, line and sinker... a beautiful, touching storyline which will have you feeling fuzzy from your head to your toes, and possibly your shoulders and knees in between.’ The Writing GarnetCarrie Dashwood fled Dorset ten years ago when her best friend Megan stole her love, local heart-throb Tom. Now she’s back to help run her aunt Ruby’s flower stall in idyllic Shipley.Trying to persuade herself that her feelings for Tom are in the past, Carrie plans to avoid him and Megan completely. But it’s not to be, because Ruby’s Blooms are arranging the flowers for Megan and Tom’s wedding.Soon Carrie’s crawling under the stall to hide and accidentally inventing an imaginary boyfriend. But with the stall’s finances in jeopardy and Ruby needing her niece more than ever, Carrie has to keep her emotions in check.With bouquets to arrange, family secrets to uncover, and Tom unavoidably a part of her life again, can Carrie keep her cool, save the stall, and find her very own happy ever after?A heartening and uplifting read about lost love and true friendship. Perfect for fans of Cressida McLaughlin, Cathy Bramley, and Polly Babbington.‘The author has a way of just bringing her novels and the characters to life. They are such fabulous feel good books... This is a series that will have fans falling over themselves to get their hands on a copy. It really is that good.’ By the Letter Book Reviews, 5 stars‘What a lovely, evocative story!... Wow! A beautiful story of lost love and coming of age and new beginnings. Written with heart. Loved it! Cannot wait for more by this author.’ Renita D’Silva, 5 stars‘What a complete and utter joy... I found myself chortling away... Charming and feel-good and I loved every minute of it.’ Short Book and Scribes, 5 stars.The Beachside collection has sold over 75,000 copiesAfter giving up her job as a library assistant, Karen now writes full-time. She’s had over 300 stories published in women’s magazines in the UK and abroad, and has written three paranormal romantic comedies, published by Little, Brown/Corsair. When she’s not writing she reads avidly, walks dogs at her local rescue centre, and is eagerly awaiting the next season of The Walking Dead. She lives in Buckinghamshire with her husband and three grown-up children.

The view across the valley takes her breath away; everywhere she looks tiny patches of colour – ochre, chestnut, lime and purple. The farmhouse behind her glows pink in the morning sun. Finally, Flora has the home of her dreams... but is she about to lose it?Free-spirited Flora Dunbar is heartbroken at the news that she must close down her beloved little flower shop on the high street. As she packs away her pretty pots and vases and locks the door for the very last time, the only spark of hope is an offer from Ned, a gorgeous farmer with an irresistible twinkle in his eye, to come and start a new life on his family farm.Arriving at Hope Corner, Flora’s heart sings as she takes in the stunning landscape that surrounds her new home. But it’s not long before she realises that her creative, romantic thinking has no place in a household built on tradition and strict routine.Pulling up her signature striped socks and throwing herself into her chores, little by little Flora blossoms as she learns to love the order and patterns of life on the land, feeding the chickens every morning and checking on the cows at night. But the more she understands about her new home, the more she suspects it’s under threat, and worse, that Ned is hiding something from her...But this time, Flora’s not going to run from her problems, especially not when she was just beginning to let herself believe that Ned could really be The One. Can she find a way to save her relationship AND the first house she’s ever truly called home?An absolutely gorgeous and utterly uplifting romance to sweep you off your feet! Perfect reading for fans of Jenny Colgan, Lucy Diamond and Debbie Johnson.Readers adore The House at Hope Corner:‘Wow!!! Five stars is not enough for this book! Absolutely nothing more than delightful and purely heart-warming! I did not put this book down!!... I highly recommended this book and can't wait to get my hands on all of her books!!!!!!!’ Goodreads reviewer, 5 stars‘Joyful and uplifting and really warms the cockles of your heart... Entirely uplifting and satisfying, with an ending that really does bring a tear to the eye along with the widest of smiles. The writing is excellent – an ease of readability, a vividly described setting, excellent character development... this book has all the warmth of the fluffiest blanket, and I enjoyed it very much.’ Being Anne, 5 stars‘Surpassed all my expectations!... the warmth just pours out of it and it is a tremendously enjoyable read! I cannot recommend this one highly enough... A full five dancing, glowing stars!’ Grace J Reviewerlady, 5 starsEmma once worked for a design studio where she was asked to provide a fun, humorous, and not necessarily true anecdote about herself for their website. She wrote the following: ‘I am a bestselling novelist currently masquerading as a thirty-something mother of three.’ Well the job didn’t work out but she’s now a forty-something mother of three and happy to report the rest of her dream came true. She now lives in rural Shropshire with her husband, three children, and two guinea pigs where she writes full time from a shed in the garden.

‘I absolutely loved it from start to finish and really didn’t want it to end.' The Reading ShedAmongst the beautiful olive groves and sea-front tavernas, summer has arrived on the sun-drenched island of Crete.After losing the love of her life, Ria’s life has been on hold. So when her boss becomes completely unbearable she makes the snap decision to run away to the Greek island of Crete, armed only with her passport.When Ria finds herself working for eccentric novelist Caroline, she meets handsome vineyard owner Tom. He’s charming, mysterious and Ria starts to wonder if it’s not just the beautiful Greek island that she’s falling for.But as Ria gets to know Tom better, she uncovers a tangled web of secrets. What is he hiding? Ria has some secrets of her own. Can she open up to Tom and learn to live again?This summer, escape to the sun with this charming and emotional story about starting over and grabbing happiness with both hands.Read what everyone's saying about The Summer Escape:'Five out of five stars. A really enjoyable read, this book had it all for me ... loveable, warm, believable characters, a great plot and the Greek ambiance was perfect for my rainy Sunday escape!' Shellyback Books'Lily Graham's writing really brings Crete to life on the pages of this book. You can almost smell the souvlaki and feel the sand between your toes and the sun on the back of your neck. I'm not so sure about the Greek coffee though! If you're looking for a summer escape for yourself, pop this one into your bag or suitcase' Fabulous Book Fiend'Lily has a gorgeous way with words. The Summer Escape is a beautifully written story, full of secrets and intrigue, far deeper than I'd first thought. I couldn't put it down.' Louise JensenNote: Previously published as 'An Invincible Summer.' This is a new extended version.Over 46,000 copies sold. Amazon US and UK Top 20 bestselling author.Lily has been telling stories since she was a child, starting with her imaginary rabbit, Stephanus, and their adventures in the enchanted peach tree in her garden, which she envisioned as a magical portal to Enid Blyton’s Faraway Tree. She’s never really got out of the habit of making things up, and still thinks of Stephanus rather fondly. She lives with her husband and her English bulldog, Fudge, and brings her love for the sea and country-living to her fiction.

‘The Sandman‘ (1844) was written by the German romantic author E. T. A. Hoffmann, most famous for his novella ‘The Nutcracker and the Mouse King’ (1816) which inspired Tchaikovsky’s ‘The Nutcracker’.A tale of madness, deceit and murder. A young man becomes obsessed with the sandman, who steals people's eyes. ‘The Sandman’, has produced numerous adaptations and has influenced modern horror fiction. It provided the inspiration for Delibes's ballet Coppélia, and formed the basis of Sigmund Freud’s important essay, 'The Uncanny'. This classic short story is perfect for fans of horror and fantasy fiction and the authors H. P. Lovecraft and Neil Gaiman.Ernst Theodor Wilhelm Hoffmann (1776-1822), better known as E. T. A. Hoffmann, was a German romantic author of fantasy and gothic horror. He was also a composer, music critic, draftsman and caricaturist.Hoffmann's stories inspired several famous operatic composers, including Richard Wagner, Jacques Offenbach and Léo Delibes. He is also the author of the novella ‘The Nutcracker and the Mouse King’, on which Tchaikovsky’s famous ballet, ‘The Nutcracker’ is based. The story also inspired the film ‘The Nutcracker and the Four Realms’ (2018), starring Keira Knightley, Morgan Freeman, Helen Mirren.

From the "father of science fiction", H.G. Wells, comes a tale of a near-death experience.In H.G. Wells' short story 'Under the Knife', the narrator undergoes an operation during which Dr Haddon administers an anaesthetic. While under, the patient journeys into space and discovers that the universe is merely a speck of light reflected on a ring, worn on God's hand. A thought-provoking exploration of the afterlife, the universe, and the unconscious mind, H.G. Wells' novella 'Under the knife' will be enjoyed by fans of the Matrix films.H.G. Wells (1866 – 1946) was a prolific writer and the author of more than 50 novels. In addition, we wrote more than 60 short stories, alongside various scientific papers. Many of his most famous works have been adapted for film and television, including ‘The Time Machine,’ starring Guy Pearce, ‘War of the Worlds,’ starring Tom Cruise, and ‘The Invisible Man,’ starring Elizabeth Moss. Because of his various works exploring futuristic themes, Wells is regarded as one of the ‘Fathers of Science Fiction.’

'It ranks with the greatest books ever written in the English language.' So said Winston Churchill after reading T.E. Lawrence's 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom'.The book, a mixture of autobiography and military history, tells the story of the almost 'Boy's Own Adventures' of Lawrence as he helped the Arab leaders in their revolt against the Ottoman Empire from 1916. The escapades were given global attention in 1962, when the movie 'Lawrence of Arabia' was released. Very little Hollywood spin was needed. For the truth was extraordinary enough. Find out about sun-baked negotiations in the desert, near misses, friendship, tragedy and fierce desert battles.It is an autobiography that reads like fast-moving military fiction.Thomas Edward (T.E.) Lawrence (1888-1935) was a British archaeologist, writer, diplomat and army officer who became known as 'Lawrence of Arabia' through his role in the Arab Revolt (1916-1918). He was working in the British Army's intelligence unit in Egypt and - during missions in Mesopotamia and Arabia - liaised with the Arab forces that were fighting the Ottoman Empire.Lawrence worked closely with Emir Faisal, leader of the revolt, even taking charge of some military actions. Back in Britain after 1918, Lawrence joined the Foreign Office, then the Royal Air Force. In 1926 he wrote the autobiographical 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom', about his participation in the Arab Revolt. He also wrote 'The Mint', about his time in the RAF.Lawrence died in a motorcycle accident in Dorset in 1935. His public image was later to receive a huge boost when David Lean directed the 1962 movie 'Lawrence of Arabia', starring Peter O'Toole and Alec Guinness.

Who is Egbert Craddock Cummins? And why is he changing?'The Obliterated Man' tells the tale of a shy young man, Egbert Craddock Cummins, who reluctantly takes on the role of a theatre critic and as a result, somehow takes on the mannerisms and over-acting he sees displayed on stage.The short story by the "father of science fiction", H.G. Wells, was first published in 'New Budget' in 1895 under the title 'The Sad Story of a Dramatic Critic', it was later included in Wells' short story collections 'The Plattner Story and Others' and 'The Country of the Blind and Other Stories'.H.G. Wells (1866 – 1946) was a prolific writer and the author of more than 50 novels. In addition, we wrote more than 60 short stories, alongside various scientific papers. Many of his most famous works have been adapted for film and television, including ‘The Time Machine,’ starring Guy Pearce, ‘War of the Worlds,’ starring Tom Cruise, and ‘The Invisible Man,’ starring Elizabeth Moss. Because of his various works exploring futuristic themes, Wells is regarded as one of the ‘Fathers of Science Fiction.’

Virginia Woolf dreamed of the Day of Judgment.The "great conquerors and lawyers and statesmen" come to receive their rewards - crowns, laurels, names carved on marble.But, when he sees people coming with books under their arms, God turns to Peter and says: "Look, those need no reward. We have nothing to give them here."They have loved reading."And this is the essence of her essay - sheer love for the written word: a joy in exploring the thoughts and imaginings of the author.If you sometimes get bogged down in a book, Woolf has produced the perfect self-help manual and motivational guide to reading.If you enjoyed 'How Should One Read a Book?', try 'How to Read a Book: The Classic Guide to Intelligent Reading', by Mortimer J Adler."To read a novel is a difficult and complex art," says Virginia Woolf.Adeline Virginia Woolf (1882-1941) made an impact during her life, but her fame grew in the decades after her death.The English writer helped launch the use of stream-of-consciousness in literature and was a pioneer of 20th century modernism.Arguably her greatest legacy, though, comes from how her writing helped to inspire the feminist movements of the second half of the 20th century.Along with members of her family and other authors, Woolf helped found the Bloomsbury Group.After she married the political theorist and author Leonard Woolf in 1912, they went on the found the Hogarth Press.Virginia also had a long relationship with the writer Vita Sackville-West. The affair featured in the 2018 movie Vita and Virginia', starring Gemma Arterton and Elizabeth Debicki,He best-known works include the novels 'Mrs Dalloway', 'To the Lighthouse' and 'Orlando'.

It is fair to say that 'Heidi' is a phenomenon.The novel about a five-year-old girl living with her grandfather in the Swiss Alps has been on the high school reading list of millions of children.More than 50 million copies of the book have been shifted since it was published.Author Johanna Spyri rightly calls it "a book for children and those who love children".'Heidi' finds herself orphaned and living with her bad-tempered grandfather, who has fallen out with his neighbours and also refuses to send Heidi to school.Her kindness gradually melts her granddad's heart, but she is then taken away to be a companion for a wheelchair-bound girl named Klara, whose home features the monstrous bully of a housekeeper, Fraulein Rottenmeier.The strictness crushes Heidi's spirit and she longs to return to her grandfather.Will this beautiful story of redemption and friendship have a happy ending?If you like 'Anne of Green Gables' by Lucy Maud Montgomery, you will love 'Heidi'.Johanna Louise Spyri (1827-1901) was a Swiss novelist, known largely for her children’s books.After marrying a lawyer and moving to Zurich, Spyri began to write about life in the countryside, where she had been brought up.Her first story, 'A Leaf on Vrony's Grave', described a woman's life of domestic violence.Her breakthrough novel was 'Heidi', which she wrote in four weeks.It tells the story of a young girl being raised in the Alps by her grandfather.Tragedy struck in 1884, when Spyri's husband and only child, both called Bernhard, died.She dedicated the rest of her life to charitable works and wrote 50 more stories.Some of her other novels include 'The Story of Rico', 'Veronica and Other Friends', 'Cornelli', and 'Little Miss Grasshopper'.

Setting the template for almost every subsequent novel set at school, ‘Jeremy at Crale’ follows the trials and tribulations of our eponymous hero. The third in the series, Jeremy is now 15 and finds himself the centre of attention, thanks to his football skills. However, in the school setting, attention can be both wanted and unwanted. Soon, Jeremy acquires his one great enemy and must work out what to do in order to survive each day. Semi-autobiographical, ‘Jeremy at Crale’ is a funny and poignant exploration of puberty and relationships.Hugh Walpole (1884 – 1941) was one of Britain’s most prolific and popular novelists. Although originally destined for a career in the church, Walpole found himself drawn to writing. During his career, Walpole wrote 36 novels, five compendiums of short stories, three sets of memoirs, and two plays. He is most famous for ‘Rogue Herries,’ ‘A Prayer for my Son,’ and ‘The Story of Dolittle,’ which was adapted for the silver screen, and starred Robert Downey Junior.

Based on a story from the Bible, ‘Salomé’ provoked such outrage that it was banned from the British stage for a number of years. However, fiercely defended by academics for its literary worth, that law was finally overturned.In this dark tale, the beautiful Salomé tries to seduce the imprisoned prophet, Iokanaan. When he refuses her advances, Salomé is transformed into the ultimate femme fatale. A lyrical and fascinating play that deals with the themes of love, lust, revenge, murder, and madness, ‘Salomé’ is ideal for those who want to see Wilde at his most bloodthirsty.Oscar Wilde (1854 – 1900) was an Irish novelist, poet, playwright, and wit. He was an advocate of the Aesthetic movement, which extolled the virtues of art for the sake of art. During his career, Wilde wrote nine plays, including ‘The Importance of Being Earnest,’ ‘Lady Windermere’s Fan,’ and ‘A Woman of No Importance,’ many of which are still performed today. His only novel, ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ was adapted for the silver screen, in the film, ‘Dorian Gray,’ starring Ben Barnes and Colin Firth. In addition, Wilde wrote 43 poems, and seven essays. His life was the subject of a film, starring Stephen Fry.

First published in 'The Strand Magazine' in 1925, 'The Pearl of Love' by H.G. Wells is an allegorical tale of love, devotion, and loss.Inspired by ancient Persian literature, this short story tells the fable of a bereaved Indian prince whose beloved wife dies young. Much in the same way as Shah Jahan (the fifth Mughal emperor of India) built the Taj Mahal as a shrine to his late wife, the prince in this story devotes his life to building the perfect memorial to his lost love but, as in many tales of romance, there's a cruel twist that pulls at his heart.H.G. Wells (1866 – 1946) was a prolific writer and the author of more than 50 novels. In addition, he wrote more than 60 short stories, alongside various scientific papers. Many of his most famous works have been adapted for film and television, including ‘The Time Machine,’ starring Guy Pearce, ‘War of the Worlds,’ starring Tom Cruise, and ‘The Invisible Man,’ starring Elizabeth Moss. Because of his various works exploring futuristic themes, Wells is regarded as one of the ‘Fathers of Science Fiction.’

If you had the courage and money to lead a fast life, wouldn't you do so?'Confessions of a Young Man' is a memoir by Irish novelist George Moore who spent about 15 years in his teens and his 20s in Paris, and later in London as a struggling artist.Moore's 'confessions' are aesthetic. If there's more, you'll find a soul struggling to rid itself of Victorian morality. Of landed gentry, Moore moved from Ireland to Paris hoping to be a painter. He immersed himself in Degas and Manet and discussed Gautier and Baudelaire at his Montmartre haunt until dawn.This memoir was finished in his early 30s after he had decided to become a writer. He first tried his hand at journalism, but he found it stifling: ‘I longed to give a personal shape to something and this could not be achieved in an article.’ His memoir is youthfully all over the place, at times, but its alluring ideas are found on every page.This is a wonderful look into the mind of the younger George Moore.George Augustus Moore was an Irish novelist, short-story writer, poet, art critic and playwright. As a writer he is best known for his contribution to the natural realist genre of literature. He was amongst the first English-language writers to follow in the footsteps of the French realists, especially the writings of Émile Zola were influential in his work. Moore himself went on to influence fellow Irishman, James Joyce.Although Moore's work is often not considered to belong to the mainstream Irish and British literature of his time, he is widely accepted as being one of the first great modern Irish novelists.His works have also been adapted for film and TV such as 'Albert Nobbs' (2011) starring Glenn Close, Mia Wasikowska and Aaron Taylor-Johnson; and the 'Esther Waters' TV series from 1977 starring Gabrielle Lloyd, James Laurenson and Alison Steadman.

Throughout history, mankind has sought to harness the power of nature, solve its mysteries and use it for their own advantage. Time and time again, it is shown that mother nature cannot be overpowered, and yet time and time again mankind fails to heed repeated warnings.When Winter Wedderburn seeks to explore new species of orchid he makes a startling discovery about the power of mother nature. Alluring and beautiful, he cannot resist studying the unknown species, oblivious to the fate that met its discoverer.This short story by H. G. Wells tells us a lot about Victorian scientific discoveries such as those by Charles Darwin, and the excitement and mystique surrounding new and exotic creatures and plants.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a writer most well-known for science fiction titles such as 'War of the Worlds' and 'The Time Machine.' In many ways he is often considered to be a pioneer in the science fiction genre, though he also wrote short fiction, satire, social commentaries, biography and autobiography. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature on four occasions. In addition to writing, he was a teacher, historian and artist.

Young and impressionable Holly Ripple unexpectedly finds herself in possession of her father's vast livestock empire after his death. When thieves and desperados start to torment her, she has to forge her way as a strong, daring and brave woman and use her new-found reputation to keep the hustlers at bay.The descriptions in this book will transport you straight into the beautiful American southwest in the mid 1800s and will be a hit with western fans.Zane Grey (1872-1939) was a popular American author, best known for his adventure novels and short stories. The topics of the American West and the Frontier were central to his writings, and Grey became totally engrossed within the Western genre.Many of his novels were written from the perspective and experience gained from his hunting and travelling trips all around the West. Some of Grey’s most famous novels include 'Riders of the Purple Sage', 'The Last Trail' and 'Valley of Wild Horses'.His novels and stories were adapted to more than 100 movie and television productions with the most well-known being the movie 'Riders of the Purple Sage' (1996) starring Ed Harris, Amy Madigan and Henry Thomas.

"I'm so tired of Christmas I wish there never would be another one!"Nobody would be surprised if it were old Scrooge talking. But it's actually little Effie, a child with festive fatigue.Once you find out whether Effie dropped her impression of 'The Grinch', then you can go on a journey to 'Candy Country' or get to know 'Naughty Jocko' and find out more about 'The Piggy Girl'.A collection of 10 short children’s stories, brought to you by the iconic Louisa May Alcott. A winning compilation, perfect for youngsters from any generation.Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an American writer of numerous beloved novels, short stories and poems. She was a feminist, and many of her stories are loosely based on her own life experiences. She is primarily known for her young adult fiction but also wrote gothic thrillers, albeit anonymously, and sensational stories under the pen name A.M. Barnard. One of her best-known works is "Little Women", a novel that has been turned into numerous film and television adaptations, such as the 2019 film, starring Saorise Ronan, Florence Pugh and Timothée Chalamet.

Canterbury Pieces is a classic collection of essays, newspaper articles and letters by the English novelist and critic, Samuel Butler. It includes correspondence between the author and the renowned English naturalist Charles Darwin.The book also features the essay ‘Darwin among the Machines’ (1863). In it, Samuel’s urges the destruction of all machines as he raises the pioneering idea that they will one day replace humans as the dominant species. This and the later article ‘Lucubratio Ebria’ (1865), became part of his widely acclaimed first novel ‘Erewhon’.Butler wrote several other novels, including a sequel, ‘Erewhon Revisited’ and the highly acclaimed ‘The Way of all Flesh’, widely regarded as one of the greatest novels of the 20th century.Samuel Butler (1835-1902) was a revolutionary English novelist and critic. He is best known for the utopian novel ‘Erewhon’ (1872) and the posthumous, semi-autobiographical novel ‘The Way of All Flesh’ (1903). Both of which have remained in print ever since. ‘Erewhon’ is renowned as one of the first books to explore the idea of machine evolution. The English writer Aldous Huxley acknowledged the book's influence on his novel ‘Brave New World’, while George Bernard Shaw deemed Butler ‘the greatest English writer of the latter half of the nineteenth century.’

A witty short story about popularity and revenge, 'Bernice Bobs Her Hair' is about a mixed-race girl with Native American heritage, trying to fit in with those around her. Like a mix between 'Gossip Girl' and 'The Great Gatsby', the story shows the benefits and downfalls of rising up the social ladder. Written by Scott F. Fitzgerald, the great mind behind 'The Great Gatsby'. 'Bernice Bobs Her Hair' is a coming-of-age tale set amid the roaring twenties.F. Scott Fitzgerald (1896-1940) is one of the greatest American novelists of the 20th century and author of the classics ‘Tender is the Night’ and ‘The Great Gatsby’. His writing helped illustrate the 1920s Jazz Age that he and wife Zelda Fitzgerald were in the centre of.

‘Letters from a Cat’ by Helen Hunt Jackson is an adorable, sweet and funny children’s book of fictional letters written by a cat to her owner. A young girl, named Helen goes away on a long trip with her father, and while she’s away, she receives this collection of letters written to her by her beloved pet, a cat.Helen Hunt Jackson was an American poet and writer. She also became an activist on behalf of Native Americans, pushing to improve the treatment of Native Americans by the government of the United States of America. Jackson wrote about the impact of government actions on Native Americans in her history book, ‘A Century of Dishonour’. While her novel, ‘Romona’ was a fictionalised account of the federal government's mistreatment of Native American people in Southern California following the Mexican-American War, and the work successfully attracted attention to Jackson’s cause.

Written by the "father of science fiction", H.G. Wells, 'Men Like Gods' is a science fiction, dystopian novel that transports readers to another world - an advanced version of Earth. Mr. Barnstaple is a journalist for 'The Liberal', a London based newspaper, living but has grown tired of his job.Determinedly resolving to take a holiday he quits - not only his job - but his wife and family too. His holiday plans are soon altered however when, in a twist reminiscent of TV's 'Black Mirror', his vehicle, alongside two others, is suddenly transported to another world.The passengers find themselves in a place "the earthlings" call Utopia, and this intriguing new world is thousands of years ahead of humanity in its development.This science fantasy story is perfect for fans of Andy Weir and Antony Doeer.H.G. Wells (1866 – 1946) was a prolific writer and the author of more than 50 novels. In addition, he wrote more than 60 short stories, alongside various scientific papers. Many of his most famous works have been adapted for film and television, including ‘The Time Machine,’ starring Guy Pearce, ‘War of the Worlds,’ starring Tom Cruise, and ‘The Invisible Man,’ starring Elizabeth Moss. Because of his various works exploring futuristic themes, Wells is regarded as one of the ‘Fathers of Science Fiction.’

A man is awoken in his grave by the sound of trumpets on judgment day.As the first souls come before God and Archangel Gabriel for the last judgment, the man soon discovers that judgement day is not quite how he imagined. God and Archangel Gabriel laugh at saints and sinners alike until they are so embarrassed that they flee "up the sleeve of God" where they are enlightened, given new bodies and a second chance. When God shakes them from his sleeve they land on a foreign planet and humanity is instructed to "try again" with their newfound understanding.This science-fiction fantasy take on a religious parable is written by the author of the science fiction classic 'The War of the Worlds', H.G. Wells. 'A Vision of Judgment' is a satirical short story that could easily be a precursor to comedy-drama 'The Good Place' or animated film 'Soul'.H.G. Wells (1866 – 1946) was a prolific writer and the author of more than 50 novels. In addition, we wrote more than 60 short stories, alongside various scientific papers. Many of his most famous works have been adapted for film and television, including ‘The Time Machine,’ starring Guy Pearce, ‘War of the Worlds,’ starring Tom Cruise, and ‘The Invisible Man,’ starring Elizabeth Moss. Because of his various works exploring futuristic themes, Wells is regarded as one of the ‘Fathers of Science Fiction.’

Freedom. A quality valued by many, and which is never restricted without consequence. Can a mother’s guidance ever be too much?One beautiful suit could be all it takes to break a family apart. Protection becomes a shell, a place to hide from reality, but also a prison. There is always a breaking point, and this breaking point takes the form of one piece of tissue paper. Is freedom the danger, or was the danger created by mother’s constraint?‘The Beautiful Suit’ is an exploration of society’s norms, and whether people’s behaviour determine them, or the norms determine people’s behaviour. Though it was first published in 1909, its themes and questions still ring true in today’s society.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a writer most well-known for science fiction titles such as 'War of the Worlds' and 'The Time Machine.' In many ways he is often considered to be a pioneer in the science fiction genre, though he also wrote short fiction, satire, social commentaries, biography and autobiography. He was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature on four occasions. In addition to writing, he was a teacher, historian and artist.

A social introvert, Lady Dorinda Burne has always felt uncomfortable around lots of people due to a skin condition which has always marked her as the ‘ugly sister’. She is forced on a trip to Singapore to chaperone her sister Lettice, who is set to marry the intelligent and charming Maximus Kirby.However, Dorinda soon finds herself head over heels for Maximus. lost for words when he’s around. Having to overcome drastic hurdles and more challenges than she could have anticipated, Dorinda is forced to face her fears to find a new life, better than she could ever have hoped for.Perfect for fans of Georgette Heyer, Julia Quinn, and Jenny Hambly.In her lifetime, British author Barbara Cartland wrote over 700 novels and was most famous for her contemporary and historical romances. A prominent figure in London society, the young Cartland began her writing career as a gossip columnist for the Daily Express. It was partying in 1920's London that gave her inspiration for her first book, "Jigsaw", a racy society thriller.After marrying into the McCorquodale family, she began writing romance and holds a Guinness World Record for the most number of books published in one year: 191. Her books have been translated into many different languages, as well as adapted for stage and screen. She is beloved the world over and even counts the young Princess Diana as one of her many fans.

Summer sun, chilled, white wine, and a gorgeous fiancé. Nothing could upset pure bliss ... Right?Emmy Jamieson loves her new life in the gentle hills and sunflowers of the lush French countryside, managing La Cour des Roses, a beautiful, white stone guesthouse. With marriage to caramel-eyed Alain just round the corner, things couldn’t be more perfect.The odd glass (gallon) of wine dulls the sound of Emmy’s mum in full motherzilla-of-the-bride mode, and the faint tinkling of alarm bells coming from Alain’s ex are definitely nothing to worry about. Guesthouse owner Rupert and a whole host of old and new friends are there to make sure nothing gets in the way of Emmy’s happiness.But as Emmy gets close to the big day, a secret from the past throws everything decidedly off track. Will her idyllic French wedding go ahead as planned, or will Emmy run back home to England with a broken heart?This summer, escape to the rolling vineyards of France for an utterly uplifting read. Fans of Jenny Colgan, Debbie Johnson and Nick Alexander will want to join Emmy for a pain au chocolat in the sun-drenched garden at La Cour des Roses.What everyone’s saying about Summer at the Little French Guesthouse:‘I'm utterly bereft that this fantastic book has come to an end ... I have been hooked on from the start ... grips my heart and won't let go ... I could potentially wax lyrical for far longer about various aspects of the book, but really I may start spoiling it for you ... a wonderful way to escape your own life, while devouring a great story that should have you grinning!’ Rachel’s Random Reads 5 stars‘Love this book! ... I barely got the first one done and I grabbed the next two to continue ... Fun characters, fun story, and makes me want to pack a bag and head to the Loire Valley in France.’ Goodreads Reviewer‘It's like meeting old friends ... the series is a perfect summer read. It's about family, friendship and helping them ... a twist I didn't see coming ... It caught me by surprise.’ Flying ThoughtsSummer at the Little French Guesthouse has been published in 5 languages and the series has sold over 230,000 copies in the English language.As a child, Helen had a vivid imagination fuelled by her love of reading (long past her bedtime!) so she started to create her own stories in a notebook. She still prefers fictional worlds to real life and loves infusing her writing with humour and heart. Helen lives in Yorkshire with her husband, two grown-up (in theory) kids and a Jekyll and Hyde cat. She enjoys reading, coffee with friends and indulging her nostalgia by watching old seventies and eighties TV shows.

What is "poor" about Miss Finch? Well, with a novel with names like "Mr Sebright" (he’s an eye specialist – "see bright", geddit?), it’s all about sight. You see, Lucilla Finch has been blind since infancy – until she meets the eccentric German doctor Herr Grosse who partially restores her sight. Far from treating her simply as a "poor" blind Victorian woman, this novel is conscious of the experience of blindness, particularly that of blindness and romance.Published a few years after his acclaimed mystery novel, "The Moonstone" (which starred Sarah Hadland in a recent BBC adaptation), Wilkie Collins now keeps up the mystery in "Poor Miss Finch". Having researched a real case of regained sight, Collins depicts great detail in Lucilla’s experience of colours whilst in the midst of a love triangle.Two brothers want Lucilla’s hand in marriage; their deception and plotting must be foiled before Lucilla unwittingly changes her life forever.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.

Imagine as a woman losing all your property to your husband. Sadly, such was the law for much of the Victorian times. Wilkie Collins’s novel "The Woman in White" (starring Charles Dance in a recent BBC adaptation) first explored this absurdity. Now expanding on marriage law, Collins writes a protest for women’s rights in "Man and Wife".Two young women, Anne and Blanche, live together in Scotland after Anne’s father abandoned her due to a legal loophole. Both women are engaged but Anne’s fiancé, Geoffrey, is getting cold feet. Yet Anne knows a trick from the Scottish law books: if a man is witnessed to verbally declare a woman his wife, they are legally married.Meanwhile, Blanche’s fiancé, Arnold, is sent on Geoffrey’s behalf to meet Anne. Under guise, Arnold publicly asks for his "wife", and accidentally potentially marries Anne. A fascinating tale of a wife’s rights, this thriller will make you question the true impact of a marriage proposal.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.

It’s 1870 and the Siege of Paris is in full swing, where the French-Prussian war has brought daily life to a halt. Wearied, starving, and strung out on absinthe, two men meet by chance at their favourite fishing spot. "Two Friends" follows Morissot and Sauvage as they make their way into no man’s land and drink away the miseries of the war.A powerful short story that extolls the virtues of French patriotism and dramatises the cruelties of war. Maupassant’s portrayal yearns for a return to ordinary life and real human connections, through plain philosophy and simple language suited to the styles of Flaubert and Hemingway.Guy de Maupassant (1850-1893) was a famous French writer, often referred to as the father of the short story. A prolific writer, his best known works include "Bel-Ami", "Une Vie" and "The Necklace", alongside some 300 short stories, travel books, and poetry. A master of style and dramatic narrative, Maupassant’s stories are drawn to themes of war, the working class, and the human condition. One of his greatest influences was Gustave Flaubert, who introduced him to some of the central names of the time such as Emile Zola, Ivan Turgenev, and Henry James.

Poetry lovers look no further! Elizabeth Barret Browning’s passionate collection of 44 love sonnets is all you'll ever need.Following the Italian model made popular by Petrarch, Browning’s intimate prose spans the famous ‘Sonnet 43’, an emotional expression of everlasting love for her husband. Named after Richard Browning’s nickname for Elizabeth, and to protect her privacy as a means of suggesting a translated work, 'Sonnets from the Portuguese' weaves a heartfelt collection ideal for romance fans of Nicholas Spark’s ‘The Notebook’.Elizabeth Barret Browning (1806-1861) was an English poet, who wrote during the Victorian era. Following her marriage to the writer Robert Browning, Elizabeth moved to Italy where she lived for the rest of her life. Her poetry such as ‘The Cry of the Children’ urged child-labour reforms, whilst ‘A Drama in Exile’, ‘A Vision of Poets’ and ‘Lady Geraldine’s Courtship’ appeared in her widely successful 1844 two-volume ‘Poems’. Browning is remembered today as a rival candidate for poet laureate Tennyson on the death of Wordsworth.

'A Double Rescue' is a short story that reads in stark contrast to the adventure writing, which Ballantyne is most notorious for. It is an evangelistic tale of a blithe young boy named Jack Matterby who is born into an English farming family of modest means but engaged in unwavering Christian faith.Jack loves his family and community for the richness of their faith in spite of their material poverty. But suddenly his father dies of shock when he receives a letter that he is financially ruined in the aftermath of his bank's collapse. Shortly thereafter, his grief-stricken mother dies in hospital. She had fallen into inextricable levels of debt when moving to London with Jack after the liquidation of the family farm.With nowhere left to go but the unforgiving London streets, Jack has never felt more lost and alone in his life. But little does he know that he is soon to be taken under the wing of a guardian angel who will take him to the shores of young Canada.A truly heartwarming short story showcasing human clemency shining through even the harshest circumstances. A must-read for fans of Daniel Defoe's 'Robinson Crusoe' and Walt Disney's 1960 movie 'Swiss Family Robinson' starring John Mills, Dorothy McGuire, James MacArthur and Janet Munro.R. M. Ballantyne was a Scottish writer specialising in the juvenile fiction genre. He was born as Robert Michael Ballantyne into a family of well-known printers and publishers in Edinburgh. At age 16 he travelled to Canada where he served with the Hudson's Bay Company for six years. He returned to Scotland in 1847 and published his first book the next year, 'Hudson's Bay: or Life in the Wilds of North America'. For several years he was employed by the publishing house Messrs Constable. But in 1856 he decided to leave the literature business. Instead he began writing a series of adventure stories for young readers.