English books

He talks to bottles, collects strange stones and only "few know his real name".If the title of the short story is not enough, these facts about 'The Terrible Old Man' make it clear that he is not really approachable.But he is rumoured to have made a fortune while captaining East India Company clipper ships.Three robbers decide to ignore the unsettling aspects and head to his house to turn it over.Two of them go inside, with the third man waiting in the getaway car. Suddenly, the driver hears horrendous screaming coming from the house and the old man opens the gate, "smiling hideously".The getaway man goes to investigate and comes face-to-face with blood-soaked terror beyond his darkest nightmares.This short story is perfect for those already familiar with the writings of H. P. Lovecraft, or those simply looking for a quick scare.Howard Phillips (H.P.) Lovecraft (1890-1937) was an American author famed for his horror and fantasy fiction.Born in Rhode Island, he became a pioneer of ‘cosmic horror’, conjuring up the lore of supernatural creatures who exist beyond our understanding. His best-known stories include "The Call of Cthulhu", "At the Mountains of Madness" and "The Colour Out of Space".While he was a mainstay of pulp magazines, Lovecraft never achieved wider literary recognition in his lifetime. But his posthumous influence has been profound. It can be found in everything from the fiction of Stephen King and Neil Gaiman to the HBO series "Lovecraft Country".

‘Bouvard and Pécuchet’ (1881) was written by the great French author Gustave Flaubert, famous for his scandalous best-selling novel ‘Madame Bovary’.Although unfinished at the time of his passing, this posthumous novel is now considered one of Flaubert's masterpieces.Two retired Parisian clerks, Bouvard and Pécuchet, set out on a quest for truth and knowledge, but despite constant failure, the pair continue their symbolic adventure with dogged optimism.A humorous, gripping satire that touches on politics, love, and religion, ‘Bouvard and Pécuchet’ is Flaubert at his best.Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880) was a French novelist, regarded as one of the great Western writers and a leading exponent of literary realism in France. A hugely influential figure, he is best known for his debut novel ‘Madame Bovary’ (1857) which caused a nationwide scandal upon publication with its realistic portrayal of bourgeois life.The historical novel ‘Salammbô’ and the painting-inspired ‘The Temptation of Saint Anthony’ are some of his other well-known works.Many of Flaubert’s stories have since been adapted for TV and film including ‘Madame Bovary’ (2000) starring Hugh Bonneville.

Written by the great French author Gustave Flaubert, ‘Hérodias’ is the third and final tale from the short story collection, ‘Three Tales’ (1877) and is a memorable retelling of the biblical story of Saint John the Baptist.After her divorce from John's half-brother, Herodias marries Herod, but John claims their marriage is against Mosaic Law. During a lavish birthday celebration for Herod, Herodias plans to have John beheaded.Now his fate rests in the hands of King Herod’s daughter, Salome.This biblical tale will delight fans of Ancient Rome and historical fiction.Gustave Flaubert (1821-1880) was a French novelist, regarded as one of the greatest Western writers and a leading exponent of literary realism in France.A hugely influential figure, he is best known for his debut novel ‘Madame Bovary’ (1857), which caused a nationwide scandal upon publication with its realistic portrayal of bourgeois life.The historical novel ‘Salammbô’ and the painting-inspired ‘The Temptation of Saint Anthony’ are some of his other well-known works.Many of Flaubert’s stories have since been adapted for TV and film including ‘Madame Bovary’ (2000) starring Hugh Bonneville.

‘Behind the Scenes’ (1868) was written by American civil activist and author, Elizabeth Keckley, who is best known as the confidante of the First Lady, Mary Todd Lincoln.Her astonishing life story is told in this autobiographical book which traces her eventful life, from enslavement in Virginia and thirty years as a slave to her eventual freedom and time working in the White House.This enthralling, poignant book is an extraordinary piece of American history that will delight anyone interested in slave narratives, such as Frederick Douglass' ´Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass´.Elizabeth Keckley (1818 –1907) was a successful seamstress, civil activist, and author, best known as a confidante of First Lady, Mary Todd Lincoln, and for her autobiography ‘Behind the Scenes: Or, Thirty Years a Slave and Four Years in the White House’ (1868).Born into slavery, she became a seamstress and eventually bought her freedom in 1855. She moved to Washington where she started a successful business as a seamstress and was popular amongst politicians’ wives.Meeting the President’s wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, Keckley became her confidante and ended up working in the White House.

Spoiling a child is not just about letting them have a few extra sweets. In some cases, years of doting really do spoil them.Victurien d'Esgrignon was raised by his doting aunt and adoring father - a family high up in the aristocracy of Restoration France. As a young man, he is both intelligent and shallow: a liar and a cheat who ruins his family, their lawyer, and others drawn into his circle.Then he meets his match - a young man with the same cold heart and eye for an opportunity. Who will triumph in this race to the bottom?Honore de Balzac's 'The Collection of Antiquities' shines a bright light on the social and moral decline of the aristocracy in 1830s France.Fans of 'Les Miserables' by Victor Hugo and 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens will love this!Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.

The final story in Joyce’s ‘Dubliners’ collection, ‘The Dead’ tells the story of Gabriel Conroy and his wife, Gretta.While at a Christmas party hosted by his aunts, Gretta tells the story of Michael Furey, who had wooed her in her youth. However, Michael died at the age of 17, leaving her heartbroken.For Gabriel, this tale is something of a shocking revelation. Will he be able to reconcile himself to walking in Michael’s shadow?With one of the best closing lines in literary history, ‘The Dead’ was adapted for film, starring Anjelica Houston and Colm Meaney.Widely considered to be one of the greatest writers of all time, James Joyce (1882 – 1941) was born in Dublin. At the age of six, he was sent to the prestigious Clongowes Wood College, paid for by his wealthy father. However, Joyce’s father succumbed to alcoholism and was unable to afford for his son to return there after the first year.After educating himself at home, Joyce was eventually schooled at Belvedere College. After leaving University College Dublin in 1902, Joyce studied medicine in Paris. However, on hearing his mother was dying, he returned to Ireland. While there, he would read her passages from what was to be his first novel, ‘Stephen Hero.’

There are dilemmas - and then there are dilemmas. Juanito Leganes faces the sort of choice that is beyond our worst nightmares.It comes after his father, Marquis of the Spanish town of Menda, leads an uprising against the French occupiers, allowing the British to take the town. When the French retake it, their general orders the hanging of the Marquis and his entire family, including his wife, three sons and two daughters.However, Marquis asks for beheadings instead and for his eldest son, Juanito, to be spared. The general agrees but on one condition: that Juanito wields the axe.Will he decapitate them all and live, or will he choose to die with them at the end of a rope?If you are a fan of Bernard Cornwell's 'Sharpe' novels and the TV series starring Sean Bean, this short story is for you.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.

Philip Whittemore is a young man who goes on an adventure up the Churchill River. He travels to a land which he thought he knew very well, yet he finds it to be very different from what he expected. Whittemore comes across something unfamiliar, concealed among the rocks and hills outpost called Fort o’God. This place, together with its inhabitants, is shrouded in mystery.What is the purpose of Philip Whittemore’s trip? What is going to happen at Fort o’God and who is the "flower of the north"? Find all the answers in James Oliver Curwood’s adventure novel "Flower of the North" from 1912.James Oliver Curwood (1878 - 1927) was an American writer as well as an unwavering nature lover and conservationist. As such, many of Curwood’s action-adventure stories were based on real events from the rugged landscapes of the American Northwest. He built himself Curwood Castle, which he used as a writing studio and as a place to greet guests. More than 150 motion pictures have been adapted to or directly inspired by his novels.

While a man is out cycling in rural New England, a storm is brewing. He finds that the only option for shelter is a house nearby.It is, of course, not a normal house. It is a creepy house - occupied by an even creepier, old man.When the narrator and the old man study an inscription in a rare book, the man says it makes him hunger for "victuals I couldn't raise nor buy".As it dawns on the cyclist that the man is a cannibal who lures travellers to their death, blood drips from the ceiling onto the book that he holds...'The Picture in the House' is a must-read for fans of horror classics including Alfred Hitchcock's 'Psycho', and the Netflix series and novel 'The Haunting of Hill House'.Howard Phillips (H.P.) Lovecraft (1890-1937) was an American author famed for his horror and fantasy fiction.Born in Rhode Island, he became a pioneer of ‘cosmic horror’, conjuring up the lore of supernatural creatures who exist beyond our understanding. His best-known stories include "The Call of Cthulhu", "At the Mountains of Madness" and "The Colour Out of Space".While he was a mainstay of pulp magazines, Lovecraft never achieved wider literary recognition in his lifetime. But his posthumous influence has been profound. It can be found in everything from the fiction of Stephen King and Neil Gaiman to the HBO series "Lovecraft Country".

When Milanese nobleman Count Andrea Marcosini sees Marianna in the crowd at the Palais-Royal in Paris, he immediately decides that she will be his. After all, this wealthy man with a wandering eye is used to getting what he wants.However, she is married to a composer called "Gambara", whose music reaches heights of beauty - but only when he is drunk. The count gives them money, then gives him a drink, and then, finally, steals Marianna from him.It is a tale of lust, greed and arrogance - with one significant twist. 'Gambara' will delight fans of Balzac's body of work.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.

Virginibus Puerisque represents the legendary author’s first collection of personal essays. Far from being a droll affair they are playful and spirited, they are written in defiance of the hardship of everyday life and the contemptuous philistines who rage against the arts. These essays are here to calm and help, they are positive reflections on things we all worry about. In ‘Childs Play’ Stevenson sooths our fears over lost childhoods, and then takes us on a sweeping orchestration of bravery in ‘The English Admirals’. The essays are playful and thoughtful and absolutely perfect for a calm commute home.Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894), was an author with a formidable legacy. You will be hard pressed to find anyone alive today who has not come across his work in one form or another. The brilliant mind behind ‘Treasure Island’ and the ‘Strange case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde’, has had a profound impact on every aspect of entertainment to this day with his brilliant creations. Despite dealing with ill health all his life he was a prolific traveller, spending his later years in Samoa where he fought vigorously for the rights of the natives, earning their love and respect. R.L Stevenson was a character in his own right, passionate and adventurous, his spirit shines through in his work, from his novels to his travel guides. You simply owe it to yourself to experience his creations, he was a true titan of literature on whose shoulders we all stand.

Set against the backdrop of the Paris Uprising of 1832, ‘The She-Wolves of Machecoul’ is dripping with political intrigue, sinister plots, and knuckle-cracking villains.However, at its heart, the story is a romantic one, focusing on the fortunes of the eponymous she-wolves, Mary and Bertha.While the plot to establish a new monarch unfolds, Mary and Bertha are both smitten with Baron Michel Logerie.But is the Baron all that he seems, or does he have ulterior motives?Filled with thrills, secrets, and historical detail, ´The She-Wolves of Machecoul´ is a superb adventure story, which will surely delight fans of Dumas' other works.Alexandre Dumas (1802 – 1870) was one of the most popular French authors and playwrights of the 19th Century. After the death of his father, Dumas travelled to Paris where he eventually decided to work in the theatre. He first came to public attention at the age of 27 with his first play, ‘King Henry III and his Courts.’After a succession of successful stage plays, Dumas turned his hand to writing novels. Many of these were serialised in newspapers, such as ‘La Comtesse de Salisbury; Édouard III,’ and ‘Le Capitaine Paul.’Many of Dumas’ later works have been hailed as timeless classics and adapted for television and the silver screen, such as ‘The Three Musketeers’, starring ‘Lord of the Rings’´ Orlando Bloom, and ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’, starring ‘Superman’ star, Henry Cavill.

Felix was rejected as a child by his mother and those scars never fully heal.In a book with great emotional depth, Honore de Balzac explores Felix' two major adult relationships with women through the form of a single letter.With the beautiful, but married, Madame Mortsauf, maternal love grows into a passion - but never crosses into physical infidelity. As the years pass by, Felix falls for sensuous Englishwoman Lady Arabelle.Torn between "the wife of the spirit" and "the mistress of the flesh", he becomes the laughing stock of the French Court. How will he untie his emotional knot without causing emotional damage to the two women?The insights and descriptions are exquisite - and there is an unexpected twist at the end.'The Lily of the Valley' is perfect reading for fans of other books featuring a love triangle, including Margaret Mitchell's 'Gone With the Wind' and Emily Brontë's 'Wuthering Heights'.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.

‘Samantha on the Woman Question’ (1913) was written by best-selling American writer and humourist Marietta Holley and tells the story of Samantha and her husband Josiah as they attend a reunion of the Allen family in Washington.Holley’s hugely successful series of Samantha books focus on the character of the sage, small-town woman, Samantha Allen, and her satirical escapades across America with her half-witted husband, Josiah Allen.Famously filled with simple, opinionated, comic characters that pointed out the absurdities of American society at the time, her works shine a light on topical issues such as women's suffrage, racism, class divisions, temperance, and the treatment of women.Marietta Holley (1836–1926) was an American best-selling author and humourist who used satire to comment on U.S. society and politics.She began her literary career writing for newspapers and women’s magazines before publishing her first novel, ‘My Opinions and Betsy Bobbet’s’ in 1873.Holley went on to write over 20 novels, including ‘Round the World with Samantha at the Centennial’ (1876), ‘My Wayward Pardner’ (1880), ‘Miss Richard's Boy’ (1882), and ‘Josiah Allen's Wife’ (1899).Her works popularised women’s rights and criticised sexual double standards and the exploitation of labour. Often compared to Mark Twain, Marietta Holley is one of America's great female humorists.

Once bitten, twice shy sometimes rings true. Madame de Beauseant must have been bitten very hard, for she became a hermit in her Normandy castle due to humiliation after being cast aside by her aristocratic lover.However, when Baron Gaston de Nueil, a far younger and very persistent man, comes to town, he cannot resist seeking out this mysterious and notorious woman.He falls for her but she, being "twice shy", first rejects his advances and then runs away to Geneva. The lovesick Baron follows her, melts her heart and they live happily....for a few years.The age gap spooks the Baron's fearsome mother, who lines up a younger woman for him to marry. Mme de Beauseant fears a second humiliation, while the Baron contends with the call of his heart and the fear of his mother. What will he decide to do?Fans of Jane Austen's 'Mansfield Park' and 'Emma' will love this exquisite story of lost love and social propriety.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.

Two sisters - two contrasting love affairs.Gudrun Brangwen, an artist, becomes deeply involved in a destructive entanglement with the industrialist Gerald Crich.Ursula, a schoolteacher, embarks upon a happy relationship with alienated intellectual Rupert Birkin.After a double tragedy for Gerald, the four head to the Austrian Alps for a holiday. There, the two men are confronted by feelings they have for each other, while Gudrun begins an intense friendship with an artist from Dresden.Enraged, Gerald takes drastic action that will have lifelong consequences for them all.The book was made into a movie, also called 'Women in Love', in 1969, starring Alan Bates, Oliver Reed, and Glenda Jackson.This turbulent tale of love and loss is perfect for fans of E. M. Forster's 'A Room with a View' and the work of Elizabeth Gaskell.David Herbert Lawrence (1885-1930) was an English author and poet. His books focused on the negative effects of industrialisation and modernity.However, he is best known for the controversy that surrounded his leading novels, which contained explicit descriptions of sex and sexuality.His novels include 'Sons and Lovers', 'The Rainbow', 'Women in Love' and 'Lady Chatterley's Lover'.When 'Lady Chatterley's Lover' was first published in full in 1960, long after Lawrence's death, the publisher Penguin was prosecuted under the 1959 Obscene Publications Act. The "not guilty" verdict resulted in greater freedom for writers and publishers.

If you only know Robert Louis Stevenson as the author of "Treasure Island", "Underwoods" will surprise and delight. It collects over 50 of his poems, written in both English and Scots (one of the native languages of Scotland). Most are written in rhyme, and offer elegiac tributes to people and places, or moving reflections on his struggles with illness.Among them are poems dedicated to Stevenson’s famous friends, such as the writers Henry James and W. E. Henley. And the beautiful "Requiem", which Stevenson chose to adorn his own tombstone.Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–1894) was a Scottish novelist, poet and travel writer. Born in Edinburgh, he suffered from severe health issues for most of his life. Despite this, he still managed to produce some of the century’s most famous stories. These include the classic adventure "Treasure Island" and the horror novella "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde".Stevenson’s last years were spent on the Samoan island of Upolo, where he became an advocate for Samoan rights. He died in his home of a brain haemorrhage and was buried on the island’s Mount Vaea.

Having just endured the death of his son during the First World War, Delapore moves from the US to his ancestral property, Exham Priory, in England, seeking space and peace to mourn his loss.He begins to restore the estate - despite dire warnings from locals - and hears rats scurrying behind the walls. Joined by academics, he investigates - and discovers a truly spine-chilling family secret.His ancestors had an underground city populated by prisoners, some walking on all fours, who were kept to feed their desire for human flesh!As the sound of the scurrying rats grows to a cacophony in his ears, Delapore is seized by madness and the uncontrollable urge to feast on flesh.Fans of James Herbert's 'Rats' trilogy, 'The Rats', 'Lair', and 'Domain', will get a similar shiver from 'The Rats in the Walls'. There is also a taste of Bram Stoker's 'Dracula'.Howard Phillips (H.P.) Lovecraft (1890-1937) was an American author famed for his horror and fantasy fiction.Born in Rhode Island, he became a pioneer of ‘cosmic horror’, conjuring up the lore of supernatural creatures who exist beyond our understanding. His best-known stories include "The Call of Cthulhu", "At the Mountains of Madness" and "The Colour Out of Space".While he was a mainstay of pulp magazines, Lovecraft never achieved wider literary recognition in his lifetime. But his posthumous influence has been profound. It can be found in everything from the fiction of Stephen King and Neil Gaiman to the HBO series "Lovecraft Country".

Jolly Roger McKay is an outcast who is running from the law, or more precisely from Cassidy – a sheriff from the Royal Mounted Police. Nada is a young girl who lives a difficult life together with her alcoholic father, who worships Jolly Roger. McKay and Nada fall in love and decide to make the most of their time together, as sheriff Cassidy is close in on them.How did Jolly Roger become an outlaw? Will he finally get caught? Do McKay and Nadia have future together? Find all the answers in James Oliver Curwood’s novel of risks and love "The Country Beyond" from 1922.James Oliver Curwood (1878 - 1927) was an American writer as well as an unwavering nature lover and conservationist. As such, many of Curwood’s action-adventure stories were based on real events from the rugged landscapes of the American Northwest. He built himself Curwood Castle, which he used as a writing studio and as a place to greet guests. More than 150 motion pictures have been adapted to or directly inspired by his novels.

"She was patient, elegant in form, the colour of an ideal mouse, and inimitably small."That’s Robert Louis Stevenson’s loving description of Modestine the Donkey. In 1879, the pair became traveling companions on a hike through France. Along the way, Stevenson describes the beauty of the countryside and the people they encounter, while also reflecting on his own personal history.Lyrical and surprising, this travelogue makes for a hugely enjoyable ramble through Stevenson’s mind. And in Modestine, he creates a character you won’t forget.Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–1894) was a Scottish novelist, poet and travel writer. Born in Edinburgh, he suffered from severe health issues for most of his life. Despite this, he still managed to produce some of the century’s most famous stories. These include the classic adventure "Treasure Island" and the horror novella "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde".Stevenson’s last years were spent on the Samoan island of Upolo, where he became an advocate for Samoan rights. He died in his home of a brain haemorrhage and was buried on the island’s Mount Vaea.

The old, abandoned manor of La Grande Bretèche stands between the trees like a secret. Uncovered one day by Dr. Horace Bianchon whilst visiting the nearby town of Vendôme, the ruins will beckon any wandering visitor in.Full of intrigue, the doctor simply can’t resist entering the house. But night after night, he fails. Why can’t La Grande Bretèche be accessed? And what do the locals know of this mysterious shelter?Adapted into 3 films, 2 episodes, an opera, and a BBC Radio 4 play, Balzac’s gripping ‘The Human Comedy’ short story, ‘The Grand Bretèche´, is ideal for fans of Xavier Giannolli’s 2021 ‘Lost Illusions’ film.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.

Although written after ‘The Companions of Jehu,’ ‘The Whites and the Blues’ details events leading up to the first book.It follows the fortunes of young Charles Nodier, who arrives in Strasbourg to study Greek under the tutelage of Euloge Schneider.However, when he gets there, he discovers that Schneider has become the town’s Public Prosecutor and is feared for his indiscriminate use of Madame Guillotine.All the while, the shadow of Napoleon lies heavy on the narrative.A page-turning read, full of political intrigue, betrayal, and romance, this is a must for fans of the ‘Sainte-Hermine’ trilogy.Alexandre Dumas (1802 – 1870) was one of the most popular French authors and playwrights of the 19th Century. After the death of his father, Dumas travelled to Paris where he eventually decided to work in the theatre. He first came to public attention at the age of 27 with his first play, ‘King Henry III and his Courts.’After a succession of successful stage plays, Dumas turned his hand to writing novels. Many of these were serialised in newspapers, such as ‘La Comtesse de Salisbury; Édouard III,’ and ‘Le Capitaine Paul.’Many of Dumas’ later works have been hailed as timeless classics and adapted for television and the silver screen, such as ‘The Three Musketeers’, starring ‘Lord of the Rings’´ Orlando Bloom, and ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’, starring ‘Superman’ star, Henry Cavill.

Considered scandalous at the time, ‘A Political Romance’ is a satirical look at the relationship between the Church and the Law.Written before Sterne's ‘Tristram Shandy’ books (later adapted for film, as ‘A Cock and Bull Story, starring Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon), it tells the tale of a small-town quarrel between a dean, an archbishop, and an ecclesiastical lawyer.While you might think their argument might be something to do with spiritual issues, it is actually over a greatcoat.Did this book deserve to be burned after its publication? Decide for yourself, with this superb read from one of the greats of the 18th Century.Born in Ireland, Laurence Sterne (1713 – 1768) was the son of a commissioned officer in the British army. As a result, the first 10 years of his life were spent travelling from place to place. However, at the age of 11, he was sent to boarding school in England, under the care of his brother. After leaving Jesus College with a Bachelor of Arts, he was ordained both a priest and a deacon.While he had previously written for the ‘York Gazetteer’, Sterne’s uncle encouraged him to write for political journals, much to the consternation of the rest of the family. This was followed by his first novel, ´A Political Romance´, which also put religion under the spotlight.After failing in the role of a farmer, he wrote his most famous book, ‘The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman.’ Six years later, he was to become part of the abolitionist movement, after publicly replying to a letter from former slave, writer, and composer, Ignatius Sancho.Sterne died in London, aged 54.

The last story from the "Mirgorod" cycle, here Gogol presents two landowners deadlocked in an argument over a Turkish rifle, a brown pig, and a goose insult. What results is a playful satire and parody of the middle class Russian society and its war veterans. Quite memorable characters (the two Ivans), vivid imagery (though at time grotesquely depicted), humorous and witty dialogues, and an extraordinarily entertaining narrative make this short story a perfect read and a must for Gogol fans!Nikolai Vasilievich Gogol (1809-1852) was one of the best known realist writers in Russia. Acknowledged as one of the forerunners and best practitioners of the short story genre alongside Pushkin, E. T. A. Hoffmann, and Nathaniel Hawthorne, Gogol’s boundless ambition and penmanship proved remarkably fertile. His writing was largely marked by his own troubles in life, the culture and folklore of his native Ukraine, social issues, and the problematic relationships between people. Gogol’s most famous works include the novel "Dead Souls", the horror novella "Viy", as well as the short story collections "Evenings on a Farm Near Dikanka" and "Mirgorod".

Set during the war between Austria and Prussia in 1866, ‘The Prussian Terror´ is a gritty, historical adventure novel.While the story graphically describes the horrors and effects of the conflict, it primarily focuses on the friendship between two soldiers.As their fortunes unfold, we find out more about their romantic entanglements and watch as the war threatens to destroy their kinship.Packed with historical and military detail, this is essential reading for those with an interest in the period as well as fans of Dumas who want to read beyond his better-known works.Alexandre Dumas (1802 – 1870) was one of the most popular French authors and playwrights of the 19th Century. After the death of his father, Dumas travelled to Paris where he eventually decided to work in the theatre. He first came to public attention at the age of 27 with his first play, ‘King Henry III and his Courts.’After a succession of successful stage plays, Dumas turned his hand to writing novels. Many of these were serialised in newspapers, such as ‘La Comtesse de Salisbury; Édouard III,’ and ‘Le Capitaine Paul.’Many of Dumas’ later works have been hailed as timeless classics and adapted for television and the silver screen, such as ‘The Three Musketeers’, starring ‘Lord of the Rings’´ Orlando Bloom, and ‘The Count of Monte Cristo’, starring ‘Superman’ star, Henry Cavill.

Off the windswept coast of Iceland, there’s a ship with a mysterious passenger on board. Her name is Thorgunna, and soon she’ll be dead. But that won’t be the end of her story.Inspired by Iceland folk-tales, "The Waif Woman" is a creepy fable about pride and envy. It hinges on the deathbed promise the locals make to Thorgunna before she passes. Once they break it, her ghost comes calling to wreak revenge."The Waif Woman" was never published in Stevenson’s lifetime, eventually coming out 20 years after his death. It’s a sinister addition to his bibliography, especially recommended for fans of Edgar Allan Poe or Susan Hill.Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–1894) was a Scottish novelist, poet and travel writer. Born in Edinburgh, he suffered from severe health issues for most of his life. Despite this, he still managed to produce some of the century’s most famous stories. These include the classic adventure "Treasure Island" and the horror novella "The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde".Stevenson’s last years were spent on the Samoan island of Upolo, where he became an advocate for Samoan rights. He died in his home of a brain haemorrhage and was buried on the island’s Mount Vaea.

"Vive la counter-revolution!"In 'Sons of the Soil', Balzac tells an extraordinary story of gentry and peasants, complacency and corruption, jealousy and revenge. And it has a contentious central message: the Revolution upset the balance and sowed new divisions between the classes.Centred around General Moncornet's chateau and estate in Burgundy, there is a large, fascinating cast of listless ladies and gentlemen indoors who "get what amusement they can out of carefully dressing themselves". Meanwhile, the staff are scheming and the locals con and poach their way through life.With the skill of Charles Dickens, Balzac draws together the main characters and enmeshes them in a murderous and treacherous plot with numerous serpentine twists.Fans of 'Downton Abbey' and Dickens' classics, including 'Bleak House' and 'A Tale of Two Cities' will love this.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.

Who doesn't love a little bit of magic? Well this story is full of it! Imagine finding a magical clock and discovering all its secrets.When the storyteller comes across a marvellous ancient clock in Father Time's attic, little does he know that there is going to be magic involved. Each hour from the clock releases a story that corresponds to the hour of the day - breakfast, school, milking, tea, bedtime, and others. 'The Wonder Clock' becomes a timeless masterpiece for little children and their first steps in the world of literature.Katharine Pyle (1863-1938) was an American artist, illustrator, poet, and children’s book author. She wrote over 30 books, beyond her work as illustrator for other writers. She was the sister of fellow artist Howard Pyle.Howard Pyle (1853-1911) was an American artist, illustrator, and children’s book author. He is most famous for his illustrated novel 'The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood of Great Renown in Nottinghamshire' (1883). A teacher, he eventually founded his own school of illustration, The Howard Pyle School of Illustration Art. He was the brother of fellow artist Katharine Pyle.Robin Hood has been made into many movies over the years with the most popular being from Disney (1973), 'Robin Hood' (2010) starring Russell Crowe and Cate Blanchett, and probably the most famous 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves' (1991) starring Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman.

It begins with the undignified scene of two young men on a Parisian stagecoach, boasting about their love affairs with older, married women.Hubris turns to tragedy when the coach overturns, leaving one of the men with fatal injuries. However, drama dictates that there is always time for some final words before death.The dying man gives his travelling companion a mission - collect love letters from his house and deliver them to his lover, a countess.How will the countess react to the news of her lover's death? And how will the count take the news that she was betraying him?If you like this classic short story by Honoré de Balzac about betrayal, try 'Anna Karenina' by Leo Tolstoy or 'Rebecca' by Daphne du Maurier.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.

"Now that I am free, perfectly free, I intend to remain so."Today, this would be a clear message to look for another online date.In 19th-century Paris, Leon de Preval, a captain in the Sixth Horse, does not take the hint. The focus of his intrigue is a mysterious young widow in a mask, who is enjoying the freedom that the death of her controlling husband has allowed her.The woman's identity remains a secret, but they meet a few weeks later at another masquerade ball. When Preval asks for a third meeting, she agrees - but with a set of challenging conditions.'Love in a Mask' is a romantic story with a sharp edge of commentary about women's role in society and their treatment by their husbands.If you like this, try Jane Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice' and 'Sense and Sensibility' or 'Madame Bovary' by Gustave Flaubert.Honoré de Balzac (1799-1850) was a French novelist and playwright, most famous for a sequence of novels, collectively called 'The Human Comedy'. His signature style was a warts-and-all representation of post-Napoleonic French life, rich in detail and featuring complex, unfiltered characters.The style means Balzac is regarded as one of the pioneers of European literary realism. He is named as an influence on writers including Emile Zola, Henry James, Charles Dickens, and Gustave Flaubert.The first novel he published under his own name was 'Les Chouans' in 1829. In 1834 he hit upon the idea of grouping his novels together to record all of society. The result, over a period of years, was 'The Human Comedy', which comprised three categories: 'Analytic Studies'; 'Philosophical Studies'; and 'Studies of Manners'.