Indo-European languages

A masterclass in the manipulation of the English language ‘Poems in Prose’ is a collection of six poems, from the pen of one of the world’s most celebrated writers. Delving into themes such as art, Christianity, vanity, sin, and love, Wilde flexes his literary muscles to create six works of enduring beauty and profound insight. The only poems published during his lifetime, this is a superb collection for those who want to see behind the wit that Wilde often used to protect himself.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.

Written on the eve of Allied Forces’ preparation for going into battle with Germany, this prophetic book can be read as a manifesto preaching peace amidst the horrors of the Great War. In ‘What is Coming?’ Wells puts forth the need for a world organization that would ensure a fair peace treaty that unfortunately did not take place after the First World War. The celebrated author correctly ascertains that Germany would strengthen after The Great War ends through exhaustion. Wells delves deeper into the financial and social traps that await the post-war world and predicts the rise of feminism and the fall of colonialism. The accurate predictions are impressive but the ones which did not take place may be even more interesting as Wells’ arguments for a socialist world order to provide basic needs remain relevant to this day. ‘What is Coming?’ is a thought-provoking and captivating window into a time that still impacts our world today. Teeming with prophecies, the book is a perfect read for First World War historians and the history of socialist thought.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.

‘The Jesuits’ Church in G‘ (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 ballet ‘The Nutcracker’.The story first appeared in the ‘Night Pieces’ collection, published in 1816 by The Georg Reimer publishing house in Berlin.Taken "from the papers of a traveling enthusiast’, it tells the story of the creative power of the visual artist Berthold. 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.

‘What does all this struggle here amount to?’ William Benham sets out on a globe-trotting adventure to find the answer in H.G. Wells’ ‘The Research Magnificent’. Overzealous and unprepared, the young aristocrat embarks on a journey to live an honourable life. What ensues is a picaresque tale of one man’s pilgrimage around the globe in which his philanthropy puts him in many preposterous and perilous situations. This tragi-comic odyssey features some of Wells’ most vivid and picturesque writing as he describes the beauty of the world from Slovenia to South Africa. ‘The Research Magnificent’ is one of Wells’ funniest stories but its striking cross-examination of the beauty of travel and the cost of colonialism ensures that it remains relevant to this day. This book’s blend of humour and poignancy makes it the perfect read for fans of authors such as John Kennedy Toole and Kurt Vonnegut.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.

Challenged to a duel, Lord Lodore must make a life-changing decision, one that will split his family in two.His daughter Ethel, raised to depend on her father, and Cornelia, Lodore’s estranged wife, must leave behind all they ever knew to survive.Mary Shelley’s dramatic novel ‘Lodore’ (1835), tells the story of Ethel and Cornelia’s long road to reconciliation. One that takes them to Niagara Falls, Italy, England and the brink of destitution.The book portrays the education and social role of women in Victorian society. Also published under the title ‘The Beautiful Widow’, it is Shelley’s penultimate novel.Mary Shelley (1797–1851) earned her place in the pantheon of British novelists with her ground-breaking Gothic novel ‘Frankenstein’ (1818). Considered one of the first true works of science-fiction, the book became an instant bestseller. But she was far from a one-hit-wonder, producing a host of other novels, including 'Valperga', 'Perkin Warbeck' and 'The Last Man'. Most were not well received in her lifetime, though, only being fully appreciated from the 1960s.She moved in a circle of famed 19th-century writers and philosophers. She was married to the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and spent time with Lord Byron. Her mother was the philosopher and feminist activist Mary Wollstonecraft and her father was the political philosopher William Godwin.Mary Shelley’s work has been adapted for TV, stage and film on many occasions, with Boris Karloff famously playing Frankenstein’s monster on screen in 1933. Other adaptations include ‘Mary Shelley's Frankenstein’ (1994) starring Kenneth Branagh and Robert De Niro and ‘Viktor Frankenstein’ (2015) starring Daniel Radcliffe and James McAvoy. Most recently, Elle Fanning portrayed Mary in Haifaa Al-Mansour’s film ‘Mary Shelley’ from 2017.

Councillor Krespel is an eccentric violin maker who lives with the mysterious Antonia. Considered to have the most beautiful singing voice the town has ever heard; she has only sung once in her life. Krespel is renowned for making the finest violins in the world, but never sells any and plays each violin he makes only once. What is the dark secret behind this odd couple’s behaviour?This classic short horror story was written by the famous German Romantic author E.T.A. Hoffmann and is perfect for fans of 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.

‘The Remarkable Rocket’ is a morality tale, cloaked in fairy-tale magic. It focuses on a firework, who is too full of himself for his own good. His bravado and boasts are put to the test, as the wedding ceremony he’s due to perform at draws nearer. Even the presence of another, possibly more arrogant, character doesn’t seem to make a dent in his vanity. ‘The Remarkable Rocket’ is beautifully-written tale, leaving the reader in no doubt as to the message the author is putting across. Perfect for children and the young at heart.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.

‘The Happy Prince’ is a fairy story, written for children, from the pen of one of the 19th Century’s most regarded writers. It tells the story of a lovelorn swallow, trying to follow his friends to Egypt for the winter. However, he tires and decides to land at the foot of a statue, in a large city. Slowly, he befriends the statue of the Happy Prince, who may not be quite as happy as he seems. A tender and tragic tale, ‘The Happy Prince’ is beautifully written and deservedly takes up the title of a timeless classic. Perfect for readers of all ages.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.

‘Ravenna’ is one of Wilde’s earliest poems, written while he was a student at Oxford in the 1870s. He submitted it as an entry for the Newdigate Prize, in which the subject for a poem was already set. As chance would have it, Wilde had already visited Ravenna in the previous year and had already begun work on a poem, celebrating the "much-loved city." Needless to say, Wilde won the Newdigate Prize, despite submitting his entry anonymously. A wonderful example of the poet at his most lyrical, ‘Ravenna’ was constructively criticised by the college’s Professor of Poetry. Wilde, of course, ignored him and the poem remains as he originally wrote it.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.

A giant diamond stolen from India; a rakish rogue; a naive teenager and a drug-fueled scandal.These are the leading parts that combine to make one of the greatest detective novels of all time.'The Moonstone' by Wilkie Collins laid many of the foundations for the detective genre.At heart, though, it is a great story.Rachel Verinder inherits a large Indian diamond on her 18th birthday. It turns out to have been stolen from India by her corrupt uncle and is of immense religious significance.When the diamond goes missing at Rachel's birthday party, it sparks a mystery that involves Indian jugglers, Hindu priests, an unlikely love story, betrayal, intrigue - and twists and turns to the final page.Collins was a close friend of Charles Dickens, who serialised 'The Moonstone' in his magazine 'All the Year Round'.In 2016 it was made into a five-part BBC TV series, starring John Thomson.It is an example of an epistolary novel: one written as a series of documents, including letters and diary entries. Other famous examples include Mary Shelley's 'Frankenstein' and Bram Stoker's 'Dracula'.William Wilkie Collins (1824-1889) was an English novelist and playwright. His most popular novels are 'The Woman in White' - adapted for stage in 2004 by Andrew Lloyd Webber and for BBC TV in 2018, starring Ben Hardy and Jessie Buckley - and 'The Moonstone'.Collins was initially a tea merchant before his first novel 'Antonina' was published. Soon afterwards, his life was transformed by meeting and becoming friends with Charles Dickens. The great novelist became a mentor and helped him with his two classic novels.

Maud Ruthyn is just seventeen when a tragic event leaves her orphaned and sent to live with her mysterious Uncle Silas. Alone inside the walls of Bartram-Haugh, Maud soon begins to realise her uncle is not the reformed Christian he pretends to be. Knowing that her fortune will pass to him, should she die before her eighteenth birthday, Maud is petrified as rumours unfold that Silas was once a heartless murderer.A spine-chilling tale of greed and vile intentions, ‘Uncle Silas’ is a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic horror. Sheridan Le Fanu combines the pulsing dread of works like Wilkie Collin’s ‘The Woman in White’ and Radcliffe’s ‘Mysteries of Udolpho’ into a novel that remains to this day a psychological horror that will chill you to your bones.Joseph Thomas Sheridan Le Fanu (1814-1873) was an Irish Gothic writer of short stories and novels. One of the central names amidst the ghost-story writers of the 19th century, Le Fanu’s influence cannot be underestimated. Inspiring the likes of Bram Stoker, Le Fanu laid the basis for the Victorian Horror genre by combining realism with deeper psychological elements. His most important works include ‘Uncle Silas’, ‘Carmilla’, ‘The House by the Churchyard’, and his short story collection ‘In a Glass Darkly’.

Castruccio’s armies surround the fortress of Valperga governed by Countess Euthanasia - his childhood friend and the woman he loves. Forced to choose between her Guelph people and a lifelong love for Castruccio, Euthanasia must make an impossible choice.‘Valperga’ (1823) is a historical adventure novel written by Mary Shelley, the author of ‘Frankenstein’. It follows the exploits of fourteenth-century tyrant Castruccio Castracani, a real-life historical figure, who conquered Florence and became the Lord of Lucca.Evoking the beauty of the Italian landscape, ‘Valperga’ is a tale of politics, love and betrayal in medieval Italy.Mary Shelley (1797–1851) earned her place in the pantheon of British novelists with her ground-breaking Gothic novel ‘Frankenstein’ (1818). Considered one of the first true works of science-fiction, the book became an instant bestseller. But she was far from a one-hit-wonder, producing a host of other novels, including 'Valperga', 'Perkin Warbeck' and 'The Last Man'. Most were not well received in her lifetime, though, only being fully appreciated from the 1960s.She moved in a circle of famed 19th-century writers and philosophers. She was married to the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and spent time with Lord Byron. Her mother was the philosopher and feminist activist Mary Wollstonecraft and her father was the political philosopher William Godwin.Mary Shelley’s work has been adapted for TV, stage and film on many occasions, with Boris Karloff famously playing Frankenstein’s monster on screen in 1933. Other adaptations include ‘Mary Shelley's Frankenstein’ (1994) starring Kenneth Branagh and Robert De Niro and ‘Viktor Frankenstein’ (2015) starring Daniel Radcliffe and James McAvoy. Most recently, Elle Fanning portrayed Mary in Haifaa Al-Mansour’s film ‘Mary Shelley’ from 2017.

‘The Sea Lady’ is ‘The Little Mermaid’ for grownups. Set in Folkestone, the story focuses on a mermaid who comes ashore, with the intent of seducing Harry Chatteris. Living under the name of Doris Thalassia Waters, the mermaid makes it her mission to disrupt his engagement and take Chatteris for herself. Can he withstand her charms, or will he abandon his betrothed? An exploration of the human condition and the desire to fetter our wilder natures, ‘The Sea Lady’ perfectly captures the conventions and attitudes of the time.Herbert George Wells (1866 – 1946) was an English writer, historian, sociologist, and journalist. His interests in technology and time travel (a term he is thought to have coined), have seen him hailed as one of the pioneers of the science-fiction genre. During his career, Wells wrote over 50 novels, alongside more than 60 short stories and numerous historical and scientific papers. Many of his most famous works have been adapted for film and television, such as ‘War of the Worlds,’ starring Tom Cruise, ‘The Island of Dr Moreau,’ starring Val Kilmer, and ‘The Invisible Man,’ starring ‘Elizabeth Moss.’

When you turn 32, you die. That’s the fate of the male descendants of the Chabrillane family who have all perished on their 32nd birthday.The curse began over 600 years ago, the night Henri Chabrillane killed the alchemist Michel Mauvis. Michel’s son, Charles, swore revenge on Henri and his descendants and from that day forth, no male Chabrillane has ever lived to thirty-three years of age.Now, Antoine, the Count de Chabrillane and the last of his line, is approaching his 32nd birthday. Alone in the family's crumbling castle, he must face the Chabrillane curse.‘The Alchemist’ is a short story by American writer H. P. Lovecraft, written in 1908, when he was still a teenager and first published in 1916.Howard Phillips Lovecraft (1890-1937) was an American author of horror, fantasy and science fiction. He is best known for his short stories of weird fiction, including ‘The Call of Cthulhu’, ‘At the Mountains of Madness’, ‘The Shadow over Innsmouth’, and ‘The Shadow Out of Time’.Lovecraft's writing did not grant him fame or fortune during his life. He died without the acclaim his work now generates. Credited with inventing cosmic horror, he is widely regarded as one of the most influential horror writers of the 20th Century,Inspired by the likes of Alexander Pope, Jonathan Swift, and Edgar Allan Poe, Lovecraft’s work has influenced writers and filmmakers such as Guillermo del Toro, Neil Gaiman, Thomas Ligotti and Stephen King.H.P Lovecraft was inducted into the Museum of Pop Culture's Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame in 2016.

Ein Toter im Riesenrad? Ein Fall für Helena Hansen!Der dritte Augschburg-Krimi – für lustig-gemütliche LesestundenWas ist los in der sonst so ruhigen Fuggerstadt? Ein Toter im Riesenrad, Aufruhr im Augsburger Stadtmarkt und gleich darauf noch eine Leiche! Helena und Franzi haben alle Hände voll zu tun. Als auch noch die nationale Presse Wind von der Sache bekommt, wird es ungemütlich für die beiden Kommissarinnen. Der Druck wächst und irgendwie scheint alles aus dem Lot zu laufen. Als wäre das alles nicht schon genug, hat Helena auch noch Liebeskummer ...Uli Vögl wurde 1976 in Augsburg geboren und lebt mit ihrem Mann und ihren drei Kindern in der Fuggerstadt. Wann immer ihr es möglich ist, verbringt sie viel Zeit in der Natur und bewirtschaftet einen eigenen kleinen Krautgarten. Ihre Leidenschaft für das Schreiben teilt sie mit ihrer Zwillingsschwester, mit der sie gemeinsam den Historienroman Keltensonne geschrieben hat.

Evil lurks in the city streets.A man is discovered on a leafy North London street, fighting for life after a brutal beating. DI Matthew Denning and his team are quickly called in to track down the monster responsible.Except the victim is hiding secrets of his own. His name shows that he was reported missing two decades ago - but it's clear that the missing person is not the same man lying broken in a hospital bed.A visit to a squalid East London flat unearths a victim with his throat slit, his body left to decompose. A sad end to any life - but when it is identified as former DCI Frank Buckfield, star of the Met police, the case takes on a new significance.Two seemingly unrelated cases - but as Denning and DS Molly Fisher, investigate further, they uncover links between the two victims that lead back to a ring of silence cloaking the blackest of crimes.But as Denning and Fisher try to track down a killer with revenge on their mind, they find themselves pitted against a psychopath who will kill to keep their secrets hidden. Can they uncover the truth, before they end up the latest victims?The latest in the gripping London crime series featuring DI Matthew Denning and DS Molly Fisher, The Darkness Within is a must-read if you like Angela Marsons, L.J. Ross or Joy Ellis.Praise for the Denning and Fisher crime thriller series:'This story starts with a bang and holds your attention throughout...fast paced and multi layered, each twist and turn drawing us further in' - Book Bound'Enough twists to keep you guessing in this solid, engrossing and well plotted police procedural...thoroughly entertaining' - The Bookwormery'Wow I really enjoyed this book! It is a complex, intriguing, grabbing book that you can sink your teeth into. I was hooked from beginning to end' - Reading Through the Pain.Graeme Hampton grew up in Central Scotland. After training as a stage manager in the theatre, he worked in London for a number of years, before returning to Scotland to study for a BA in English Literature at Stirling University. The DArkness Within is his third novel.He lives in Hastings, East Sussex.

‘Count Robert of Paris’ is Walter Scott’s penultimate novel from his celebrated ‘Waverley’ series. It is a historical novel set in Constantinople during the First Crusade. The story revolves around the titular Count Robert who is captured by the Byzantine emperor and challenged to a duel to the death. Count Robert and his friend Hereward must escape their treacherous captors and reunite with their true loves, but they face many dangerous challenges along the way. This novel is a gripping read, brimming with romance, power struggles, political intrigue, and fanaticism that threatens to destroy the very foundations of civilization. Scott’s incredible romantic prose is on display in this tale as he elegantly describes Byzantine Constantinople. The historical aspect of the story focuses on the clash between cultures as Scott poetically displays the precarious relationship between the crusaders and the Byzantine emperor. This novel is a thrilling adventure through the streets of exotic Constantinople and should be read by fans of historical fiction.Walter Scott (1771 – 1832) was a Scottish writer, poet, and historian. Fascinated by traditional storytelling, during the 1790s Scott dedicated himself to researching and collecting ballads and published the epic collection ‘Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border’ in 1802. A prominent poet, Scott also wrote and published a range of poems, including the popular ‘The Lady of the Lake.’ His first historical novel ‘Waverley’ was published in 1814, whereupon it was an immediate success, receiving critical acclaim and selling out many printings. His best-known work ‘Ivanhoe’ followed in 1820. Scott died in 1832 at the age of 61. He was commemorated after his death with monuments in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and New York due to his impact on western literature. His literary works influenced and inspired many other great authors such as Virginia Woolf. Internationally renowned, Scott’s literary legacy continues to be felt all over the world to this day.

‘This Misery of Boots’ is a compelling non-fiction book by H.G. Wells. The book uniquely and entertainingly puts forth the virtues of socialism and criticises working conditions in 20th Century Britain. Wells uses the symbol of the boot as a striking example of the various ‘preventable miseries’ that British citizens suffered at that time. This book is not simply a repeat of what other celebrated socialist thinkers such as Marx wrote, but a thought-provoking and well-balanced new vision. Wells argues that private property should be disbanded for essential services such as transport but argues against armed revolution. Wells argues that ‘it lies in the power of men to cure’ society’s ills and his ideas received praise from other great authors such as George Bernard Shaw. ‘This Misery of Boots’ remains relevant as many of the miseries Wells discusses still plague society to this day and it should be read by people interested in socialism and politics.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.

When their parents suddenly die, siblings José and Pepita are left in the care of their grandmother, already an old woman. Their uncle is a wealthy man, yet he only helps by giving the children some fallen fruit to eat every now and again.Life is hard in rural Spain during the 19th century, and from a young age José must work in his uncle’s vineyards. José is slow and simple, while his sister, seemingly the more fortunate of the two, grows more beautiful every day. Surely a girl of such beauty must be destined for greater things, suggests the village priest, Padre Alejandro. He tells the children to travel to Madrid, and so they do, but life in the big city turns out to be just as hard as life in the countryside, and much more complicated...‘The Pretty Sister of José’ by Frances Hodgson Burnett is not only a tale of struggle and romance. It is also a political commentary on the position of girls and women in a society that favours the limited few.Enjoy Burnett’s descriptions of 19th-century Madrid with colorful markets where the smell of jasmine and orange fruits hangs heavy in the air, like the set of a film by Oscar-winning Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar.Frances Hodgson Burnett was an English American playwright and author. Born in the UK in Manchester to a family of ironmongers, she later migrated to the United States where she would go on to write some of her most famous plays and novels.During the span of her career, Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote and published more than 53 novels, most of them for adults. However, she is perhaps best known for her work in children’s literature, including famous titles such as ‘The Little Princess’ (1905), ‘The Secret Garden’ (1911), and ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’ (1886).Frances Hodgson Burnett is also known for her historical fiction, including acclaimed titles such as 'The Head of the House of Coombe' (1922) and its sequel, 'Robin' (1922).Burnett’s work has been adapted for film many times. The latest movie adaptation of ‘The Secret Garden’ was released in 2020, starring Colin Firth and Julie Walters.

‘St. Ronan’s Well’ is a tragicomic tale of two brothers in love with the same woman. Walter Scott’s trademark dramatic tension is palpable in this novel, but it is unique in the fact that it is his only novel set during the 19th century. The story revolves around a spa in a small Scottish town that is home to a large cast of highly comedic and compelling characters. Scott expertly builds suspense over the course of the novel as each character has something to hide in this satirical village. Throughout the story, dark secrets are revealed and blackmail escalates to violent confrontation as both brothers battle for the love of Clara. ‘St. Ronan’s Well’ features some of Scott’s best characters and beautifully vivid descriptions of the Scottish countryside and its satirical style is an interesting departure from his typical historical fiction. This novel should be read by fans of Scott’s work but its luxurious setting and fusion of irony and high drama make it the perfect book for fans of ‘The White Lotus’ or ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’.Walter Scott (1771 – 1832) was a Scottish writer, poet, and historian. Fascinated by traditional storytelling, during the 1790s Scott dedicated himself to researching and collecting ballads and published the epic collection ‘Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border’ in 1802. A prominent poet, Scott also wrote and published a range of poems, including the popular ‘The Lady of the Lake.’ His first historical novel ‘Waverley’ was published in 1814, whereupon it was an immediate success, receiving critical acclaim and selling out many printings. His best-known work ‘Ivanhoe’ followed in 1820. Scott died in 1832 at the age of 61. He was commemorated after his death with monuments in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and New York due to his impact on western literature. His literary works influenced and inspired many other great authors such as Virginia Woolf. Internationally renowned, Scott’s literary legacy continues to be felt all over the world to this day.

‘The King of Pirates’ is an entertaining and creative story by Daniel Defoe. Written as Captain Avery, the notorious and feared pirate king, the book is told in two letters as Avery reveals the truth about his swashbuckling adventures. Defoe takes the reader on a captivating journey from South America to Asia as the infamous pirates encounter danger and discover lost treasure. Defoe’s thrilling stories about pirates have influenced films such as ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ and created the modern-day image of pirates. This novel controversially portrays pirates as heroes and not villains in a gripping and humorous manner. ‘The King of Pirates’ should be read by fans of ‘Robinson Crusoe’ and ‘A General History of the Pyrates’.Daniel Defoe (1660 – 1731) is one of the most important authors in the English language. Defoe was one of the original English novelists and greatly helped to popularise the form. Defoe was highly prolific and is believed to have written over 300 works ranging from novels to political pamphlets. He was highly celebrated but also controversial as his writings influenced politicians but also led to Defoe being imprisoned. Defoe’s novels have been translated into many languages and are still read across the globe to this day. Some of his most famous books include ‘Moll Flanders’ and ‘Robinson Crusoe’ which was adapted into a movie starring Pierce Brosnan and Damian Lewis in 1997. Defoe’s influence on English novels cannot be understated and his legacy lives on to this day.

Everybody in The Lancashire village of Riggan is talking about Joan Lowrie, and who could blame them? She’s as beautiful as she is kindhearted and strong willed.For years she’s endured the daily beatings from her father who works in the pit, just like all the other men in town. But the pit is a dangerous place to be, and so when seventeen-year-old Liz is left to take care of her infant baby on her own, Joan comes to her aid.Joan's many selfless acts don’t go unnoticed. She catches the eye of two very different men. Things are not made easier by the arrival of the new vicar's daughter.‘That Lass O' Lowrie's’ is a tale of friendship, romance, and perseverance, set against the backdrop of a late 19th century mining village in England. Written and published in 1877 by Frances Hodgson Burnett, the novel easily rivals other famous titles of its generation, such as ‘Pride & Prejudice’ by Jane Austen and ‘Jane Eyre’ by Charlotte Brontë.Frances Hodgson Burnett was an English American playwright and author. Born in the UK in Manchester to a family of ironmongers, she later migrated to the United States where she would go on to write some of her most famous plays and novels.During the span of her career, Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote and published more than 53 novels, most of them for adults. However, she is perhaps best known for her work in children’s literature, including famous titles such as ‘The Little Princess’ (1905), ‘The Secret Garden’ (1911), and ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’ (1886).Frances Hodgson Burnett is also known for her historical fiction, including acclaimed titles such as 'The Head of the House of Coombe' (1922) and its sequel, 'Robin' (1922).Burnett’s work has been adapted for film many times. The latest movie adaptation of ‘The Secret Garden’ was released in 2020, starring Colin Firth and Julie Walters.

Little Sara Crewe is devastated when her father leaves her at Miss Minchin's Select Seminary, a boarding school for young women in London. She adores her papa and would have much rather have accompanied him on his expedition to India.Alas, she finds herself stuck under the watchful eye of Miss Minchin. Sara despises everything about the head mistress, from her fishy glare to her large, cold hands. Every time a letter arrives at the boarding school, she hopes it's for her, saying that her father is returning to London.What Sara doesn’t know is that things are about to get worse. A lot worse. Being the wealthy heiress to a large fortune has kept her from knowing Miss Minchin’s true nature, until now. When Sara's father suddenly dies, leaving her orphaned and penniless, the real hardship begins.‘Sara Crewe or What Happened at Miss Minchin's’ is ‘Oliver Twist’ meets ‘Cinderella’. With a good dash of ‘A little princess’, which – coincidentally – was also written by Frances Burnett, who never missed an opportunity to write about orphans overcoming terrible obstacles.Frances Hodgson Burnett was an English American playwright and author. Born in the UK in Manchester to a family of ironmongers, she later migrated to the United States where she would go on to write some of her most famous plays and novels.During the span of her career, Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote and published more than 53 novels, most of them for adults. However, she is perhaps best known for her work in children’s literature, including famous titles such as ‘The Little Princess’ (1905), ‘The Secret Garden’ (1911), and ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’ (1886).Frances Hodgson Burnett is also known for her historical fiction, including acclaimed titles such as 'The Head of the House of Coombe' (1922) and its sequel, 'Robin' (1922).Burnett’s work has been adapted for film many times. The latest movie adaptation of ‘The Secret Garden’ was released in 2020, starring Colin Firth and Julie Walters.

‘Rob Roy’ is one of Walter Scott’s most famous and acclaimed novels, telling the story of the legendary outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor and his thrilling adventures in the Scottish Highlands. Set around the time of the first Jacobite uprising, the characters must navigate a harsh landscape in which danger is constantly present and no one can be trusted. The protagonist is Francis Osbaldistone who travels to Scotland to reclaim stolen documents and rescue his family from financial ruin. On his journey, Francis encounters forbidden romance, violent rebellions, possible ghosts, and the titular Rob Roy. This sprawling novel is an incredible romantic tale as it follows a hero on a perilous adventure to defeat deceitful villains and rescue his true love. ‘Rob Roy’ has some gothic elements, such as spectral figures but remains true to Scott’s acclaimed romanticism as he vividly and lyrically portrays Scotland’s natural beauty. A gripping novel that is sure to entertain and enthral fans of romantic and historical literature.Walter Scott (1771 – 1832) was a Scottish writer, poet, and historian. Fascinated by traditional storytelling, during the 1790s Scott dedicated himself to researching and collecting ballads and published the epic collection ‘Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border’ in 1802. A prominent poet, Scott also wrote and published a range of poems, including the popular ‘The Lady of the Lake.’ His first historical novel ‘Waverley’ was published in 1814, whereupon it was an immediate success, receiving critical acclaim and selling out many printings. His best-known work ‘Ivanhoe’ followed in 1820. Scott died in 1832 at the age of 61. He was commemorated after his death with monuments in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and New York due to his impact on western literature. His literary works influenced and inspired many other great authors such as Virginia Woolf. Internationally renowned, Scott’s literary legacy continues to be felt all over the world to this day.

In 'Vagabondia' the bustling streets of 20th century London are home to an artistic family with great ambitions. Phil and his three sisters want only to live a bohemian lifestyle, free of financial speculation, but in a town that revolves around the accumulation of wealth and power, such dreams are hard to achieve.A story which takes place in an environment similar to that of the Hollywood blockbuster 'Titanic', starring Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio as the star crossed lovers Rose and Jack (except for the bit about the boat, but you can't have everything.)Readers of historical fiction often compare 'Vagabondia' to other great titles of the genre such as 'Pride & Prejudice' by Jane Austen and 'Great Expectations' by Charles Dickens.Frances Hodgson Burnett was an English American playwright and author. Born in the UK in Manchester to a family of ironmongers, she later migrated to the United States where she would go on to write some of her most famous plays and novels.During the span of her career, Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote and published more than 53 novels, most of them for adults. However, she is perhaps best known for her work in children’s literature, including famous titles such as ‘The Little Princess’ (1905), ‘The Secret Garden’ (1911), and ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’ (1886).Frances Hodgson Burnett is also known for her historical fiction, including acclaimed titles such as 'The Head of the House of Coombe' (1922) and its sequel, 'Robin' (1922).Burnett’s work has been adapted for film many times. The latest movie adaptation of ‘The Secret Garden’ was released in 2020, starring Colin Firth and Julie Walters.

‘Waverley’ is among Walter Scott’s first novels and one of the original Western historical novels. The sprawling story takes place during the Jacobite Rising from 1745 and follows the life of Edward Waverley, a British soldier who falls in love with a Scottish woman and joins a revolutionary army. ‘Waverley’ shows why Scott is considered one of the forefathers of European romanticism, as the tale follows an individual hero on a grand journey through beautifully vivid settings. However, Edward Waverley follows in the footsteps of ‘Don Quixote’ as a protagonist whose dreams of heroism are difficult to achieve. This dramatic tale has elements of picaresque comedy as Scott creates a less than heroic protagonist that finds himself in ironic situations that he is ill-prepared for. Political intrigue, romance, and breathtakingly beautiful depictions of the Scottish landscape are Scott’s trademark elements that make this classic novel a rewarding read. ‘Waverley’ was celebrated at the time of its release for an accurate portrayal of Gaelic revolutionaries, but it remains timeless due to its poignant storytelling and lyrical prose. ‘Waverley’ is recommended for fans of historical fiction or romanticism.Walter Scott (1771 – 1832) was a Scottish writer, poet, and historian. Fascinated by traditional storytelling, during the 1790s Scott dedicated himself to researching and collecting ballads and published the epic collection ‘Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border’ in 1802. A prominent poet, Scott also wrote and published a range of poems, including the popular ‘The Lady of the Lake.’ His first historical novel ‘Waverley’ was published in 1814, whereupon it was an immediate success, receiving critical acclaim and selling out many printings. His best-known work ‘Ivanhoe’ followed in 1820. Scott died in 1832 at the age of 61. He was commemorated after his death with monuments in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and New York due to his impact on western literature. His literary works influenced and inspired many other great authors such as Virginia Woolf. Internationally renowned, Scott’s literary legacy continues to be felt all over the world to this day.

‘The power to destroy, was continually increasing. There was no increase whatever in the ability to escape’. H.G. Wells creates a hauntingly prophetic narrative of the upcoming atomic era in his acclaimed science-fiction novel ‘The World Set Free’. In this nightmarish book, global leaders must create an atomic bomb that can annihilate society to save the world. In a highly prescient and unique manner, Wells wonders if peace can only be achieved by first having the ability to bring about total destruction. ‘The World Set Free’ is a novel as thrilling as it is terrifying as global warfare threatens to end civilisation completely. A highly influential novel that remains relevant in modern times, ‘The World Set Free’ is one of Wells’ best and should be read by anyone interested in warfare.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.

‘The Monastery’ is a novel by Walter Scott that tells the story of the Monastery of Kennaquhair and its mysterious occupants and supernatural situations. The monastery is on the brink of destruction as not only are Protestant soldiers marching on it but its inhabitants are plagued by betrayal and infighting. The tale revolves around Halbert and Edward, two troublesome brothers who are both in love with the same woman, Mary. Tensions are already high in the abbey due to sightings of a celestial spectre before Piercie Shafton, an Englishman on the run for treason, arrives to seek solitude. Piercie is one of Scott’s funniest characters as he pompously pursues Mary, much to the chagrin of Halbert, who challenges Piercie to a duel that will determine the fate of the monastery and all its occupants. ‘The Monastery’ is written in the gothic tradition as the haunting White Lady plagues the characters. Scott’s romantic style is still present as the White Lady is an incredibly poetic character and he uses lyrical prose to portray an abbey on the verge of ruin. ‘The Monastery’ is a highly dramatic story, laced with political intrigue, social satire, and haunting imagery that will stick with readers long after they have finished it. This thrilling novel will have readers on the edge of their seats awaiting the fate of the monastery and its citizens and is recommended for fans of gothic literature.Walter Scott (1771 – 1832) was a Scottish writer, poet, and historian. Fascinated by traditional storytelling, during the 1790s Scott dedicated himself to researching and collecting ballads and published the epic collection ‘Minstrelsy of the Scottish Border’ in 1802. A prominent poet, Scott also wrote and published a range of poems, including the popular ‘The Lady of the Lake.’ His first historical novel ‘Waverley’ was published in 1814, whereupon it was an immediate success, receiving critical acclaim and selling out many printings. His best-known work ‘Ivanhoe’ followed in 1820. Scott died in 1832 at the age of 61. He was commemorated after his death with monuments in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and New York due to his impact on western literature. His literary works influenced and inspired many other great authors such as Virginia Woolf. Internationally renowned, Scott’s literary legacy continues to be felt all over the world to this day.

‘The Salvaging of Civilization’ is a thought-provoking non-fiction work by H. G. Wells, written several years after the First World War. Centred around the major issues of education and global development, this series of lectures severely criticizes the current educational situation. Wells provides utopian and futuristic ideas to construct a peaceful civilization. This book remains relevant and provocative as Wells’ socialist ideals argue for absolute control of the masses for better social outcomes. Wells professes the idea of the World State as the best version of the future in an interesting and wholly original way. It is clear to see why Wells was considered one of the great minds of his generation as many of his predictions are incredibly accurate, such as his theory that aerial bombing would be the future of war. ‘The Salvaging of Civilisation’ can be of interest both to fans of Wells as it gives incredible insight into his thoughts on humanity as well as for people interested in politics.H. G. Wells (1866-1946) was a celebrated English writer, remembered mostly for his science fiction works. Often described as a futurist, H. G. Wells’ influence cannot be overstated for his works foresaw many technological innovations such as space travel, the atomic bomb, and the Internet. A four-time Nobel Prize in Literature nominee, Wells explored a wide array of themes in his works, from religion to social criticism and beyond. Some of his best works include the time-travel novel ‘The Time Machine’, the sci-fi adventure novel ‘The Island of Dr. Moreau’, and the mankind-versus-aliens novel ‘The War of the Worlds’. Wells occupies one of the central seats in the canon of science-fiction literature and his writing inspired other celebrated authors such as Ray Bradbury and Philip K. Dick. Wells’ stories are still widely read to this day and have had numerous cinematic adaptations including ‘The Invisible Man’ starring Elisabeth Moss.

Who hasn’t dreamt of discovering that they’re the secret heir to a great fortune? Temple Barholm, or simply T. Tembarom for short, never did. As an orphan growing up on the mean streets of early 20th century New York City he simply can’t afford such foolish notions.Needless to say it comes as an unexpected surprise when Tembarom turns out to be the long forgotten heir to an old family fortune and must make the journey over to England, where unimaginable wealth - and a murder mystery – awaits him.Frances Burnett is the author of ‘T. Tembarom’, and by her own admission, the story is inspired by one of her more famous works, ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’.This classic rags to riches story is Oliver Twist meets Richie Rich, with a murder mystery twist in the middle...Frances Hodgson Burnett was an English American playwright and author. Born in the UK in Manchester to a family of ironmongers, she later migrated to the United States where she would go on to write some of her most famous plays and novels.During the span of her career, Frances Hodgson Burnett wrote and published more than 53 novels, most of them for adults. However, she is perhaps best known for her work in children’s literature, including famous titles such as ‘The Little Princess’ (1905), ‘The Secret Garden’ (1911), and ‘Little Lord Fauntleroy’ (1886).Frances Hodgson Burnett is also known for her historical fiction, including acclaimed titles such as 'The Head of the House of Coombe' (1922) and its sequel, 'Robin' (1922).Burnett’s work has been adapted for film many times. The latest movie adaptation of ‘The Secret Garden’ was released in 2020, starring Colin Firth and Julie Walters.