English books

‘Three Men in a Boat’ (1889) is the bestselling comic masterpiece by English writer, humourist, and playwright Jerome K. Jerome.It follows the author and his two companions as they try to escape busy Victorian London on a two-week boating holiday along the River Thames, from Kingston to Oxford and back.Initially intended as a serious travel guide, the comical mishaps and misfortunes that happen along the way, turned the book into a satirical gem that perfectly captured the escapism of Victorian England.From pineapple chunks to tow-ropes, tents, and the pointlessness of weather forecasts, Jerome K Jerome’s witticisms and social commentary remain as funny and relevant today.The novel has been adapted for TV and film on many occasions, including a recreation of the trip by the BBC, starring comedians Griff Rhys Jones, Dara Ó Briain, and Rory McGrath.Jerome K. Jerome (1859 –1927) was an English novelist, humourist and playwright, best known for his hugely successful comic masterpiece ‘Three Men in a Boat’ (1889), which was inspired by his honeymoon on the river Thames.It has since been adapted on numerous occasions, including the BBC TV series starring Tim Curry and Michael Palin.Jerome wrote eight novels, fifteen collections of short stories and sketches, two autobiographical works, and more than thirty plays.His works include the essay collections ‘Idle Thoughts of an Idle Fellow’ (1886) and ‘Second Thoughts of an Idle Fellow’. The novel ‘Three Men on the Bummel’, a sequel to ´Three Men in a Boat´, and the play ‘The Passing of the Third Floor Back’ (1908).

‘This is the story, among others, of Henry the waiter—or, as he now prefers to call himself, Henri—told to me in the long dining-room of the Riffel Alp Hotel, where I once stayed for a melancholy week "between seasons".’ The collection of short stories in The Observations of Henry are a witty and wondrous insight into the life and times of 19th century England, as told by an enigmatic waiter, Henry (Henri). An observer of life, and offering counsel to his various customers’ romantic entanglements, dramas and career carry-ons, the charming tales from a unique hotelier’s perspective is an uplifting, funny and occasionally shocking set of tit-bits from some of the more memorable characters which Henry has met in his work. Aided by comic assailants, Kipper and Carrot, Jerome K. Jerome sets the perfect scene for scandal, humour and charismatic capers. Originally published in 1901, the warm and witty mini sagas will appeal to any reader who is a fan of Roald Dahl, Oscar Wilde and Mark Twain. Sometimes dark, often light and occasionally highly unexpected, The Observations of Henry is charming, insightful and extremely funny - people watching at its very best.Jerome Klapka Jerome (1859-1927) was born in Walsall, in northern Great Britain, on 2nd May 1859. Orphaned as a teenager, he was forced to leave education at just 14 years old to start working. After various jobs as an actor, clerk and a school teacher, Jerome published his first book in 1885 based upon is own experiences - ‘On the Stage and Off: The Brief Career of a Would-Be Actor’. Stage plays, books and journalism articles followed suit, including his most successful book – a warm and witty autobiographical story entitled 'Three Men in a Boat'. Other works include ‘Idle Thoughts of an Idle Fellow’, ‘Second Thoughts of an Idle Fellow’, and ‘Three Men on the Bummel’. Jerome founded the weekly magazine ‘To-Day’ in 1893 and edited another magazine named ‘The Idler’ until 1898, whilst also working as a lecturer and writer in England. During World War I, he wasn’t accepted for active service in the UK’s army so instead enlisted as an ambulance driver in the French army. He died on 14th June 1927 after suffering a stroke.

The local mayor has a dinner date with death...With school out for the summer, dinner ladies Margery and Clementine Butcher-Baker are off on holiday to the picturesque village of St-Martins-on-the-Water. But on their first night, their meal at the hotel ends in disaster, when the local mayor is found dead on the restaurant floor, supposedly poisoned by his dinner.The village has a history of poisoning, and the locals are convinced the Poisoner is back. Immediately suspicion turns on Margery and – in particular – Clementine. But why? As more villagers grow sick, the question is: has the Poisoner returned or is this sinister turn the work of a menacing new copycat?Margery and Clementine are on the case... to clear their name, to catch the killer, and all in time to celebrate Mrs Smith at her hen party.A charming, cosy British mystery that will make you laugh out loud, "A Terrible Village Poisoning" is perfect for fans of Julia Chapman, Fiona Leitch and Richard Osman.Hannah Hendy lives in a small town in South Wales with her long-suffering wife and two spoilt cats. A professional chef by trade, she started writing to fill the time between shifts.

´I defy anyone to read the opening pages and not to be drawn in, as I was... Quite simply, Comyns writes like no one else.´ - Maggie O'Farrell, author of "Hamnet".Pretty, unworldly Sophia is twenty-one years old and hastily married to a young painter called Charles. An artist's model with an eccentric collection of pets, she is ill-equipped to cope with the bohemian London of the 1930s, where poverty, babies (however much loved) and her husband conspire to torment her.Hoping to add some spice to her life, Sophia takes up with Peregrine, a dismal, ageing critic, and comes to regret her marriage - and her affair. But in this case, virtue is more than its own reward, for repentance brings an abrupt end to the cycle of unsold pictures, unpaid bills and unwashed dishes...Born and raised in England, Barbara Comyns (1909-1992) was a writer and artist who juggled various creative and entrepreneurial endeavors throughout her colorful life, leaving behind a rich literary legacy.

Dark waters hide deadly secrets.When the headmistress of a Portsmouth school is found brutally murdered on an old structure in the middle of Langstone Harbour, Detective Andy Horton of Portsmouth CID is assigned to the case.The victim, discovered with a note with the words ‘Have you forgotten ME?’, was a steely, determined woman who made enemies on her path to success. But did any of them hate her enough to want her dead?With the clock ticking and Superintendent Uckfield pressing for results, Horton is forced to make a decision that will put his life on the line.This absolutely gripping detective mystery is perfect for fans of Ann Cleeves, Joy Ellis, and Rachel McLean.The Langstone Harbour Murders © Pauline Rowson 2023THE DETECTIVEDI Andy Horton’s mum walked out on him when he was a child and he grew up in children’s home. Now he lives onboard his yacht in Southsea Marina. He rides a Harley-Davidson and never wears a suit or tie — unless it’s to go to court. He’s an instinctive copper and a man of contrasts, which often lands him in trouble with his bosses. He has a desperate need to belong, and yet is always just on the outside. Self-contained, afraid to show his feelings, but he’s a risk-taker that seeks justice.THE SETTINGPortsmouth boasts a vibrant waterfront, a diverse multicultural population, an international port, a historic dockyard, and is home of the Royal Navy. Portsmouth Harbour is one of the busiest in the world — and one of the best places to hide a body, it seems. Set against the backdrop of the sea, the Solent area of Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight is every detective’s worst nightmare. The sea is ever-changing and often the best clues get swept away by the tide.ALSO BY PAULINE ROWSONTHE SOLENT MURDER MYSTERIESBook 1: THE PORTSMOUTH MURDERSBook 2: THE LANGSTONE HARBOUR MURDERSBook 3: THE HORSEA MARINA MURDERSBook 4: THE ROYAL HOTEL MURDERSBook 5: THE ISLE OF WIGHT MURDERSBook 6: THE PORTCHESTER CASTLE MURDERSBook 7: THE CHALE BAY MURDERSPauline Rowson is the author of twenty-four gripping, fast-paced, atmospheric crime novels including the popular SOLENT MURDER MYSTERY series featuring the rugged and troubled DI Andy Horton. She is a member of the Crime Writers' Association and the Society of Authors.

Sometimes hope is the most dangerous thing of all.When their brother dies, sisters Freya and Tamsin lose the one thing that connected them. But when Tamsin goes missing a year later, Freya is determined to find her.Guided by a trail of diary entries, revelations are unveiled about the grief that drove Tamsin to the edge of a cliff - and into the arms of a mysterious stranger...A man who promised hope but demanded sacrifice.Packed with danger, deep waters, and shadowy myths, ´The Way the Light Bends´ is perfect for fans of Erin Morgenstern's ´The Starless Sea', and 'Sistersong' by Lucy Holland.What people are saying about ´The Way the Light Bends´:"Wilson's novel is rooted in a deep sense of place, beautifully evoking the history and magic of Scotland. A fantasy-tinged story about the hole grief makes, complicated family relationships, and the road to healing." - A.C. Wise, author of ´Wendy, Darling´.Lorraine is an award-winning writer and biologist. Having spent years working in remote corners of the world, she now lives by the sea in Scotland and writes stories full of the wilderness and folklore, exploring themes of family, belonging, and the legacy of trauma. Her debut novel, ´This Is Our Undoing´, won the SCKA for Best Debut.

She has sold more than 150 million albums, wowed sell-out audiences around the globe and starred in iconic music videos but Britney Spears’ success has come at an almost unbearable price.As she enters her third decade in the spotlight, read the story of how a church-going girl from the Deep South became an objectified teenage sensation and the Princess of Pop.Go behind the scenes of Britney’s battle to free herself from her notorious conservatorship and the impact it has had on a highly talented but fragile woman.This book lifts the lid on the controversies that have plagued her life, covers her romances and celebrates her many remarkable triumphs. A compelling and intimate portrait of the real Britney that brings her story up to date.Danny White is the author of the international and Sunday Times bestseller 1D: The One Direction Story which has been translated into sixteen languages. He has also written successful biographies of Harry Styles, Rihanna, Ariana Grande, Niall Horan, will.i.am and Johnny Depp.

A Miss Pauline Marchrose applies for the position of "Lady Superintendent" at the Commercial and Technical College for South West England, where Sir Julian Rossiter is the college director. He is greatly impressed by her and soon this admiration turns to adoration. But his wife, Lady Edna Rossiter, discovers that Marchrose was the very same woman who jilted her cousin Clarence after he was paralysed in an accident. She starts a whispering campaign against her, without even trying to find out more about Marchrose’s motives and the peace of the local community is shattered by the ensuing tension.E. M. Delafield was the pen name of Edmée Elizabeth Monica Dashwood, née de la Pasture (1890-1943). She was a British author from Sussex and the daughter of a count and a novelist. Delafield was raised following Late Victorian upper class morals, and when at age 21 she found herself still single, she joined a French covenant in Belgium. But she soon tired of being a nun and left monastery life behind. During WWI, she volunteered as a nurse in Exeter. In 1919, she married civil engineer turned land agent Paul Dashwood, with whom she spent three years in Malaysia. She remains most famous today for her semi-autobiographical "Diary of a Provincial Lady," which had started as a column in the weekly woman’s magazine "Time and Tide."

The fictional town of Tiverton is the centre of these short stories by Alice Brown. Tiverton is based in New England, like many of Brown's other works, and is home to traditional, American families in the late 19th century. The various tales explore domestic life at this time and the gender balance between men and women.Alice Brown is an American novelist and short-story writer. She is best known for her tales about New England and as a writer of local colour stories. Born in New Hampshire in 1857, Brown's stories often portray a female protagonist in a domestic setting. Her first novel, 'Stratford-by-the-Sea', was published in 1884. It cemented Brown as part of the Boston literary scene, but by the time she died in 1948 (aged 91), many of her stories had been forgotten about and were no longer being published.

‘The Wizard's Touch’ (1906) is a short story by American playwright and novelist, Alice Brown.Jerome Wilmer is an artist who returned from his travels to find Mary, the girl he loves, engaged to another. Determined to get her back, he must find a way to win her hand before it's too late.This sentimental love story is perfect for fans of romantic fiction and the tangled web of relationships.Alice Brown (1857-1948) was an American playwright, novelist, poet, and short story writer. She is best known as a writer of local colour stories with her dialect tales of New Hampshire life, including ‘Tiverton Tales’ (1899), ‘The Country Road’ (1906), ‘Meadow Grass’ (1886), and ‘Country Neighbors’ (1910).She joined the staff of the ‘Christian Register’ and the ‘Youth’s Companion’ before publishing her first novel, ‘Stratford-by-the-Sea’ in 1884. A prolific writer, Alice Brown’s other works of note include ‘Dear Old Templeton’ (1927), ‘The Diary of a Dryad’ (1932), ‘The Kingdom in the Sky’ (1932), ‘Jeremy Hamlin’ (1934), ‘The Willoughby’s’ (1935), and ‘The Secret of the Clan’ (1912).

Homecoming hero Jeffrey Blake returns after a stint in prison and tries to embed himself back into his former life. Blake hopes to reconcile with his wife and find his place back in his family alongside his aging father but is met with obstacles and judgement, as well as trying to solve the mystery of a stolen necklace in the family with his wife as the prime suspect.Alice Brown is an American novelist and short-story writer. She is best known for her tales about New England and as a writer of stories with local colour. Born in New Hampshire in 1857, Brown's stories often portray a female protagonist in a domestic setting. Her first novel, 'Stratford-by-the-Sea', was published in 1884. It cemented Brown as part of the Boston literary scene, but by the time she died in 1948 (aged 91), many of her stories had been forgotten about and were no longer in print.

'The Day of His Youth' is the story of Francis Hume who battles between his own personal guilt and his desire to seize the day, after his mother died during childbirth.Alice Brown is an American novelist and short-story writer. She is best known for her tales about New England and as a writer of local colour stories. Born in New Hampshire in 1857, Brown's stories often portray a female protagonist in a domestic setting. Her first novel, 'Stratford-by-the-Sea', was published in 1884. It cemented Brown as part of the Boston literary scene, but by the time she died in 1948 (aged 91), many of her stories had been forgotten about and were no longer being published.

Murder is a dish best served ice cold...In the idyllic, small town of Dewstow, Margery and Clementine are eagerly awaiting retirement from their work on the front-line serving meals to the students at Summerview secondary school.Their peaceful life is shattered when their kitchen manager is found dead in the school’s walk-in freezer. The police are adamant that it’s an open-and-shut case of accidental death. But Margery and Clementine are convinced that something more sinister is afoot and take it upon themselves to investigate.As the dinner ladies inch closer to the truth, time's running out. Will the perpetrator get their just desserts or is everything just going to go down the pan?A charming, cosy British mystery, ´The Dinner Lady Detectives´ is ideal for fans of Richard Osman's ´The Thursday Murder Club´ or ´Murder, She Wrote´.Hannah Hendy lives in a small town in South Wales with her long-suffering wife and two spoilt cats. A professional chef by trade, she started writing to fill the time between shifts.

'A small Gothic masterpiece... I have read it many times, and with every re-read I marvel again at its many qualities - its darkness, its strangeness, its humour, its sadness, its startling images and twists of phrase' - Sarah Waters.Growing up in Edwardian south London, Alice Rowlands longs for romance and excitement, for a release from a life that is dreary and lonely. Her father, a vet, is harsh and oppressive; his new girlfriend, brash and lascivious.Alice seeks refuge in fantasy, in her rapturous longing for Nicholas, a handsome young sailor, and in the blossoming of what she perceives as her occult powers.Harrowing and haunting, this Gothic tale is a strange cross between Daphne du Maurier and Stephen King, but will also intrigue readers of Silvia Moreno-Garcia and Diane Setterfield.Born and raised in England, Barbara Comyns (1909-1992) was a writer and artist who juggled various creative and entrepreneurial endeavors throughout her colorful life, leaving behind a rich literary legacy.

A single death could plunge the Empire into chaos...Silus, a member of Emperor Caracalla's elite assassins, the Arcani, is dispatched to Numidia. Rumours of assassination plots against Marcellus, the Emperor's closest aide, are rife. Silus must stop them. But the forces arrayed against the Arcani are now as powerful as they are clandestine.Inducted into the Emperor’s bodyguard, his Lions, Silus soon discovers secrets that should have stayed hidden. And as the Emperor becomes ever more reckless in battle, Silus unearths a conspiracy that runs deeper than his worst nightmares.It’s not clear who is a friend and who is an enemy. Yet, whatever happens, Silus must keep the Emperor alive or – yet again – watch the ones he loves die.An awe-inspiring historical thriller of Ancient Rome, perfect for fans of Ben Kane and Andrew Frediani.Alex Gough is the author of Roman historical adventures. The Carbo Chronicles, including ´Watchmen of Rome´ and ´Bandits of Rome´, was written as a result of a lifelong obsession with ancient Rome and the culmination of a lot of research into the underclasses of the time.

A romantic Valentine’s evening at The Bluebird turns into a murder mystery when a dead body plummets to the bottom of the village well.There are no witnesses, but surely in a community where everyone knows each other’s business, the murderer can’t stay hidden for long?Sophie doesn’t think so, and she’s on the case, determined to restore peace to the idyllic Cotswold village once more.The latest cosy mystery from bestselling author Debbie Young is ideal for fans of Richard Osman, Katie Gayle, and Catherine Coles.Debbie Young is the much-loved author of the "Sophie Sayers" and St Brides cosy crime mysteries. She lives in a Cotswold village, where she runs the local literary festival, and has worked at Westonbirt School, both of which provide inspiration for her writing.

Referencing Victor Hugo, author of ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame,’ ‘Châli’ is an equally tragic love story.Admiral de la Vallée tells of the time he was sent to Central India, as part of an expedition. There, he is introduced to the prince, Rajah Maddan, and a host of customs that take him far outside of his comfort zone.The Admiral is presented with a harem but cannot take it upon himself to use the young women as is expected of him. When he gives one of the girls, Châli, a gift, he unwittingly sets a chain of heart-breaking events in motion.‘Châli’ will delight fans of other tragic love stories such as Shakespeare's ´Romeo and Juliet´ and Emily Brontë's ´Wuthering Heights´.Hailed as one of the pioneers of the modern short story, Henri Ren Albert Guy de Maupassant (1850 - 1893) was born in Dieppe, France. After his parents’ divorce, Maupassant was cared for by his mother who had a passion for literature.During his secondary education, he was introduced to the acclaimed novelist, Gustave Flaubert, who was to play a prominent part in Maupassant’s literary career.The Franco-Prussian War saw the author enlist in the Navy, and his experiences influenced many of his books, including ‘Boule de Suif.’ Flaubert was to take him under his wing after the war, introducing him to realist and naturalist authors, such as Émile Zola and Ivan Turgenev.

It is Christmas time and Maisie Llewelyn is invited as a guest to Wolverden Hall. She does not know anybody there but she quickly befriends two girls. She meets them in the nearby church whose tower was recently rebuilt. It is strange and a bit suspicious that none of the other guests know the two girls but Maisie decides to trust them. After Christmas the three friends decide to climb the new church tower. Maisie is however unaware of the danger that lurks behind her back. What will happen and how will this friendship end up? Who are those girls and what do they want from Maisie? "Wolverden Tower" holds the answers.Grant Allen was a Canadian writer who lived in the period 1848 – 1899. His writing career began around 1876 when he published a series of essays on science. His first books, "Physiological Aesthetics" and "Flowers and Their Pedigrees" took up this subject as well. Grant Allen was also a pioneer in science fiction. He wrote about thirty science fiction novels in the period 1884-1899. In his later works, Allen also took up some revolutionary theories for the time regarding marriage. "The Woman Who Did" which depicts the life of an independent woman who takes care of her child on her own became a bestseller.

Love is a riddle waiting to be solved...Meet Cassy Brookes, a composed 26-year-old whose life is about to be flipped by a twist of fate.Stuck in a doctor's office, Cassy scribbles a message in a puzzle book, and when she returns for a check-up, she sees someone has replied. She soon finds herself torn between searching for love and outwitting her work rival, Martin.Will finding the mystery puzzle man be the cure to all her problems or will the truth be a bitter pill to swallow?Perfect for fans of Beth O'Leary, Ali Hazelwood, and Lorraine Brown.What readers are saying about "Puzzle Girl":´Puzzle Girl is a fantastic debut. Sparklingly funny, original and brilliantly clever, it's a real treat. I loved it!´ - Miranda Dickinson´Clever, funny and utterly engaging.´ - Jules WakeRachael Featherstone was born and raised in Woodford. After her mother's cancer diagnosis in 2012, Rachael decided to quit her job, and fulfil a lifetime ambition to write a novel. She went back to university and completed a Masters in English Literature and had several short stories published.

This science fiction novel is an immersive tale of dark fantasy, combining the occult with a nautical adventure. The story opens with soldiers discovering a recently formed volcanic island. They bring back a mesmerising green artefact, which eventually ends up in the hands of a New Jersey millionaire named Jesse J. Robinson.Jesse and his niece are soon haunted by horrible hallucinations and gruesome visions of the sea. A doctor begins to investigate and is horrified by what he starts to discover...If you love the story of 'Moby Dick' and dark adventures of the sea, you'll love 'Claimed!'Francis Stevens is the pseudonym of Gertrude Barrows Bennett (1884-1948), who was a pioneering author of fantasy and science fiction. Her works explore lost worlds, dystopian societies, and apocalyptic scenarios. If you read H. P. Lovecraft, you’ll love Francis Stevens who has been called ‘the woman who invented dark fantasy’.

Imagine a world where women are the dominant sex. Now picture an old sailor woman. Are you ready? This is the story of the time she became a castaway on a very, very unusual island...An island which feels your every move. One that breathes in line with your breath. It can sense your every feeling. But the island does this for your own good.To understand. To empathise. To unite.She’s called Anita. And she’s about to change your world.Written under the pseudonym Francis Stevens, Gertrude Barrows Bennett’s ‘Friend Island’ is a social experiment-turned-adventure tale like no other.‘Friend Island’ is the perfect read for fans of Amazon Prime’s ‘The Wilds’.Francis Stevens, pseudonym of Gertrude Barrows Bennet (1884-1948), was a writer of science fiction and fantasy and one of the leading names on the American literary scene. Her works are marked by an interest in lost worlds, dystopian societies, apocalyptic scenarios, and horrifying settings.Her best works include the novels "The Citadel of Fear" and "The Heads of Cerberus", as well as the short story collections "Unseen–Unfeared" and "The Curious Experience of Thomas Dunbar".

After the 'Lusitania' ship is torpedoed, a man from New York wakes up to find himself in the ocean off an uncharted island. On the magical South Pacific Island, he encounters a brutal wilderness, where plants can eat men and spiders are as big as dining room tables.Before he knows it, he is caught in a dangerous rivalry between two Russian brothers who will do anything to find the philosopher’s stone.A tale of mystery, suspense, and endless adventures, "Nightmare!" explores the horrors of the natural world set against the even more gruesome horrors found in the human soul.Francis Stevens is the pseudonym of Gertrude Barrows Bennett (1884-1948), who was a pioneering author of fantasy and science fiction. Her works explore lost worlds, dystopian societies, and apocalyptic scenarios. If you read H. P. Lovecraft, you’ll love Francis Stevens who has been called ‘the woman who invented dark fantasy’.

‘Civil Disobedience’ (1849) is an essay by American poet, essayist, and philosopher, Henry David Thoreau, who is best known for his book ‘Walden’ (1854).In this classic essay, Thoreau famously argues that citizens should not allow their government to overrule their consciences, arguing that their compliance enables governments to make them the agents of injustice.A lifelong abolitionist, Thoreau was motivated to write this essay by his contempt for slavery and the plight of John Brown. His work went on to influence the political thoughts and actions of both Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr.This pioneering, thought-provoking classic, remains as relevant today as when it was first written.Henry David Thoreau (1817 – 1862) was an American naturalist, poet, essayist and philosopher. A leading transcendentalist, he is best known for his book ‘Walden’ (1854), a deliberation on simple living in natural surroundings, and his advocation of civil liberties in the essay ‘Civil Disobedience’ (1849).A lifelong abolitionist he praised the writings of Wendell Phillips and defended the abolitionist John Brown, most notably with his works, ‘A Plea for Captain John Brown’ (1859), ‘Remarks After the Hanging of John Brown’ (1859), and ‘The Last Days of John Brown (1860)’.Thoreau's philosophy of civil disobedience went on to influence writers and leading political figures across the world, including Tolstoy, Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr. His pioneering works continue to resonate with people to this day.

Mark Twain's ‘Those Extraordinary Twins’ follows conjoined twins, Luigi and Angelo.While the former is something of a sensualist, often drinking to excess and constantly wreathed in cigarette smoke, the latter, Angelo, is much more conservative, loathing cigarettes and, despite being teetotal, enduring the hangovers his brother doesn’t.When they visit a small village, Twain explores the reaction of the inhabitants and the twins’ reaction towards them. A short story, ‘Those Extraordinary Twins’ is a perfect mix of humour and seriousness, and it takes an intriguing glance at how people interact with one another.This short story is a perfect read for fans of Mark Twain or for anyone who is simply looking for something quick and fun.Mark Twain is the pseudonym of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, (1835-1910). He was an American humourist, lecturer, journalist, and novelist who acquired international fame for his adventure stories of boyhood, especially 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' and 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn'.Twain transcended the apparent limitations of his origins to become a popular public figure and one of America’s most beloved writers.So many of Mark Twain's stories have been made into films that it is impossible to name them all. The most popular ones are "The Adventures of Huck Finn" (1993), starring Elijah Wood, "Tom Sawyer" (1973), starring Jodie Foster, and "The Prince and the Pauper" (1990), produced by Walt Disney animation.

‘The Stolen White Elephant’ is a funny and satirical short story, following the investigations of Inspector Blunt when a pale pachyderm is stolen.Gifted from a king to a queen, the ship carrying the eponymous elephant stops at a harbour in New Jersey and goes missing.In this tale, Twain expertly parodies police investigative procedures, as forces fail to share information and a horribly expensive manhunt – or should that be ‘elephant-hunt’ – is launched.A laugh-out-loud read from the pen of one of the masters, ‘The Stolen White Elephant’ is sure to delight readers familiar with Twain's body of work.Mark Twain is the pseudonym of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, (1835-1910). He was an American humourist, lecturer, journalist, and novelist who acquired international fame for his adventure stories of boyhood, especially 'The Adventures of Tom Sawyer' and 'The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn'.Twain transcended the apparent limitations of his origins to become a popular public figure and one of America’s most beloved writers.So many of Mark Twain's stories have been made into films that it is impossible to name them all. The most popular ones are "The Adventures of Huck Finn" (1993), starring Elijah Wood, "Tom Sawyer" (1973), starring Jodie Foster, and "The Prince and the Pauper" (1990), produced by Walt Disney animation.

‘Walking’ (1851) is an essay by American naturalist, poet, essayist and philosopher, Henry David Thoreau, best known for his book ‘Walden’ (1854).This pioneering work is one of Thoreau’s most famous essays and lauds the merits of immersing yourself in nature while it bemoans the inevitable invasion of private ownership upon nature and the wild.Extolling the virtues of long afternoon walks, the soothing nature of time spent in the countryside and the lure of the wild for artists and writers, this insightful work will delight readers looking to expand their minds on the necessity of walks in nature.Henry David Thoreau (1817 – 1862) was an American naturalist, poet, essayist and philosopher. A leading transcendentalist, he is best known for his book ‘Walden’ (1854), a deliberation on simple living in natural surroundings, and his advocation of civil liberties in the essay ‘Civil Disobedience’ (1849).A lifelong abolitionist, he praised the writings of Wendell Phillips and defended the abolitionist John Brown, most notably with his works ‘A Plea for Captain John Brown’ (1859), ‘Remarks After the Hanging of John Brown’ (1859), and ‘The Last Days of John Brown (1860)’.Thoreau's philosophy of civil disobedience went on to influence writers and leading political figures across the world, including Tolstoy, Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr.

‘Alonzo Fitz and Other Stories’ invites readers to deep dive into Twain’s wealth of knowledge and entertaining anecdotes concerning life, language, and love.With hidden gems such as ‘The Great Revolution in Pitcairn’, which imagines a society built on a deserted island, and ‘On The Decay of the Art of Lying’, which advocates for telling meaningful lies, Twain’s impressive collection offers something for every reader looking to discover the wit and charm of America’s greatest writer.Painting a captivating picture of 19th century America, this classic collection of short stories is perfect for Western lovers of Denzel Washington and Chris Pratt’s ‘The Magnificent Seven’.Mark Twain, pseudonym of Samuel Langhorne Clemens (1835-1910), was an American humorist, lecturer, journalist, and novelist. Celebrated today as the father of American literature, his work spans epic stories of boyhood such as ‘The Adventures of Tom Sawyer’ and ‘The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn’, as well as travel narratives, such as ‘The Innocents Abroad’, ‘Roughing It’, and ‘Life on the Mississippi’.A friend to presidents, artists, and royalty, he is remembered today as a popular public figure. Continuing his influence, Twain inspires Disney attractions, singer Tom Petty’s ‘Down South’ and was portrayed by Nathan Osgood in the 2018 comedy ‘Holmes and Watson’.

Strange things are afoot in the English village where the Willoweed family live.Unnatural floods usher in dead peacocks and ducks, soon followed by an ominous wave of self-inflicted deaths and a peculiar illness.From their humble Willoweed cottage, sisters Emma and Hattie are helpless spectators to this unfolding chaos, their childhood idyll disintegrating as fear infects their once-familiar world.But as the virus spreads and hysteria grips everyone around them, they realise their lives are about to change forever.A twisted pandemic parable and a tragicomic gem.'One of the most distinctive voices in English literature - and ripe for rediscovery.' -- Telegraph'The pleasure in reading Comyns comes from her pure, runaway imagination... Her novels are honest yet dreamy, full of innocence and experience' -- TLSBorn and raised in England, Barbara Comyns (1909-1992) was a writer and artist who juggled various creative and entrepreneurial endeavors throughout her colorful life, leaving behind a rich literary legacy.

Accused of a murder he didn't commit, an innocent man seeks refuge in the Canadian wilderness. Can he prove his innocence before it's too late?When a man bravely stands up to a bully, he becomes the victim of a murder hunt. As the Canadian Mounties close in, he must try his best at proving his innocence before they catch up to him.Set on the banks of Lake Superior in the 1890s in a French-Canadian pioneer village, it is a compelling tale of love, kinship, and adventure.‘A Gentleman of Courage’ is perfect for fans of Jack London.James Oliver Curwood (1878–1927) was an American writer, journalist, and conservationist, best known for his action and adventure stories such as ‘The Valley of Silent Men’ (1920), ‘The Flaming Forest’ (1921), 'Kazan’ (1914), and ‘The Grizzly King’ (1916).His books were often based on adventures set around the Hudson Bay area, Yukon or Alaska and were inspired by his love of nature and passion for conservation.A prolific writer, Curwood was a hugely successful and popular author, and his stories have been adapted for TV and film on multiple occasions. His other works of note include ‘The Danger Trail’, ‘The Flower of the North’, ‘Nomads of the North’, ‘The River's End’, and ‘Baree, Son of Kazan’.

Set in the Swiss Alps, ‘The Inn’ could almost be the template for ‘The Shining,’ starring Jack Nicholson.When winter sets in, the owners of the eponymous inn decide to go see the snow out in the nearby valley. Behind them, they leave the caretaker, Gaspard, Ulrich, and Sam the dog.However, when Ulrich leaves to go hunting and doesn’t come back, Gaspard is left all alone...A haunting tale, swathed in snow and with a brooding, unsettling atmosphere, this is a perfect fireside read for fans of Stephen King.Hailed as one of the pioneers of the modern short story, Henri Ren Albert Guy de Maupassant (1850 - 1893) was born in Dieppe, France. After his parents’ divorce, Maupassant was cared for by his mother who had a passion for literature.During his secondary education, he was introduced to the acclaimed novelist, Gustave Flaubert, who was to play a prominent part in Maupassant’s literary career.The Franco-Prussian War saw the author enlist in the Navy, and his experiences influenced many of his books, including ‘Boule de Suif.’ Flaubert was to take him under his wing after the war, introducing him to realist and naturalist authors, such as Émile Zola and Ivan Turgenev.