Complete Peach Tree Series. Peach Tree Life: Wyatt was never the good brother, but now he's the only one who can take care of his two little nephews. After losing their parents, the two little boys are heartbroken. Wyatt doesn't want to uproot them so he moves to the small town of Peach Tree. Sam is prone to panic attacks and he only just escaped his abusive ex. He doesn't plan to get involved with anyone until Wyatt comes along. Wyatt is a man who knows what he wants, and he's not afraid to go after it. Just when Wyatt is sure to get his way, trouble finds them. With Wyatt by his side, can Sam finally fight back against his fear, or will it wreck everything he found? Peach Tree Love: When a job offer falls through, Mitch agrees to fix up an old house that hides unexpected trouble. Rico is recruited to be his assistant and can't help but fall in love with the gruff handyman. Could Mitch ever feel the same? Until he met Rico, Mitch believed he was straight. Now his whole word has been turned upside down. After all the hardships in his life, could this be the one time when everything works out just right? Peach Tree Manny: Julian doesn't have good memories of his childhood home in Peach Tree, but he's moving back there for the sake of his little brother. Rob is a little rough around the edges and not afraid of a fight. His protective side is what Julian notices first, but it's Rob's kindness that wins him over. Both men have old pain and troubled histories to overcome. Will they realize their love was meant to be? Peach Tree Baby: Andy doesn't like his chances when it comes to finding the perfect man in a small town. Plus the scars and the limp from an accident don't help his self-confidence. When Andy brings his baby daughter home just in time for Christmas and hires a manager to help him run the inn, things start to turn around for him. Leo is hot, built and has a take-charge attitude. That man just fits at the inn, in Peach Tree and quite possibly in Andy's life. Will Andy realize he finally found the perfect man, or will a secret from Leo's past make him lose faith in the man he loves? Peach Tree Family: Hungry and out of money, Seth comes across a house that's been abandoned for years just as Theo and his little brother, Ace, show up to claim it their inheritance. They grudgingly share the shelter they found, and Seth and Theo start to lean on each other. Theo can't resist the sweet hunk for now, but Seth is sure Theo is the only one he wants. He just has to convince Theo to let his guard down and listen to his heart. Peach Tree Bodyguard: Moving to Peach Tree, all Lane wants is security for his little girl, Nola, and his grandmother, nothing more. But how can he resist his hot, arrogant neighbor with a cute dog. Joss has secrets and scars, and he's in Peach Tree to do a job, not get involved. Both men are playing with fire, but as their secrets come out, it's Joss who has to convince Lane that he's not in danger. When Joss is proved wrong, their whole world might be torn apart. Peach Tree Christmas: After a difficult breakup, Gabe moves to the small town of Peach Tree with his shy little girl, Mazey. Gabe is looking for a fresh start and a quiet place to raise his daughter, but he didn't count on his brash new neighbor, Stan. Stan is a little bit crude and not into relationships. He's absolutely sure he could never fall head over heels for any guy, much less his uptight neighbor with a kid. But then Stan gets a dog, and who can keep a dog a little kid apart? Will Stan realize that Peach Tree is where he belongs and let himself finally fall in love?

Peach Tree (Gay Romance Box Set)

"She should have appreciated my deed"! Control and narcissism, greed and jealousy. The evil of a man driving his young wife to suicide and yet, he still believes he has done no wrong. 'A Gentle Creature' is a short story about a heartbroken pawnbroker, who takes an interest in a young girl that frequents his shop. Dostoevsky’s attempt here is to portray the evil, prideful, cowardly man who wants above everything else to possess, control, and ultimately destroy everything that he touches. Based loosely on an event that the author read about in a newspaper, the story criticizes the destructive impulses and greed for domination over that kind of life these spiteful men can never have. A gentle, yet emotionally cruel tale of wickedness, abuse and tragedy that is tinged by Dostoevsky’s most somber tones. 'A Gentle Creature' was made into a film adaptation in 2017 and this was in the main competition section at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological. There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel 'Crime and Punishment' with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich. 'The Idiot' has also been adapted for films and TV, as has 'Demons' and 'The Brothers Karamazov'.

A Gentle Creature

Why are they taking me away from my mother? Please someone stop them! Imagine the pain of being separated from your loving mother as a young child. This is exactly what the poor puppy Aileen had to face. Aileen Mavourneen is a St. Bernard and collie cross puppy who thinks of herself as a Presbyterian because that is what her mother had told her. At first, life for Aileen seems perfect with her new family until a fire breaks out in the house of her master. Aileen risks her own life to save her owner’s infant but her actions are misunderstood. Will anyone return the favour to save Aileen's pup? This heart-breaking tale plays with the reader's feelings while depicting the life of a family seen through the eyes of a dog. Mark Twain is the pseudonym of Samuel Langhorne Clemens, (1835-1910). He was an American humorist, 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' as well as for his travel narratives, especially 'The Innocents Abroad', 'Roughing It', and 'Life on the Mississippi'. 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 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.

A Dog's Tale

Who doesn't love the magic of Christmas? Waiting for presents and enjoying the taste of the delicious food? Though the poor can't afford all this they still have the closeness of their families to treasure, unless that family is now dead! 'The Heavenly Christmas Tree' is a short story by Dostoevsky that very much resembles Hans Christian Andersen’s 'The Little Match Girl'. In St. Petersburg, on Christmas Eve, a poor boy wakes up in a damp and gloomy cellar, oblivious to the tragedy that has befallen his poverty-stricken family. The boy’s meandering through the cold, empty streets while looking thorugh windows into the warm interiors of houses depicts a rather horrific and shiveringly depressive picture of sadness and inevitability. The story offers sharp social criticism and speaks for the voiceless. Above all, it remains a compelling and unforgettable short read. Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological. There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel 'Crime and Punishment' with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich. 'The Idiot' has also been adapted for films and TV, as has 'Demons' and 'The Brothers Karamazov'.

The Heavenly Christmas Tree

After Sydney Grey returns to her quaint hometown of Stoney Creek and begins renovations on her childhood farm, she discovers a set of journals written by her mother. Presumed to have abandoned her family 20 years ago, a long-hidden secret about her mother is uncovered. Aided by her grandmother who returns to the farm, Sydney must rely on her instincts to uncover the mystery. But do they have enough clues to unravel the truth about her mother's disappearance?

The Crossing Trilogy

Magnolia Tree

Based on 14th Century Scandinavian actual events, The Folkungs --Sweden's royal family--is a generational saga interwoven with jealousy, conspiracy, rivalry, treason, regicide, exorcism, paganism, torture, witchcraft, shamanism, Falconry, folklore, power struggles, and deeply touching love stories. It begins at Nykoping Castle, Sweden, 1291. King Magnus is dead and his three young sons--Birger (eleven), Erik (nine), and Valdemar (eight)--await the arrival of the appointed Regent of Sweden, a powerful noble and celebrated warrior, who will teach them the arts of governing, knighthood and skills of war until the young king, Birger, comes of age. Under his tutelage, Erik, the middle child, will show himself to be the most intelligent and skilful of the three; Valdemar, the youngest, will look on in admiration, while the fledgling King, will bridle with jealousy. Kristina, all innocence, is entering a world where personal desires are sacrificed to political necessity. Marriage is about forging international alliances so Birger, King of Sweden, will marry Princess Marta of Denmark; the King of Denmark will marry Princess Ingeborg of Sweden while Dukes Valdemar and Erik will marry a Norwegian princess or a princess from one of the German principalities. Kristina cannot but wonder what her own future will hold. As the young princes mature, King Birger proves himself to be increasingly inept and manipulated by the self-seeking Regent. He accuses his innocent brothers of treachery and wages war against them as punishment, wreaking unnecessary bloodshed on the land. For Erik this is intolerable. Can Sweden be left prey to his brother's weak rule? Alliances are formed across the borders as t

The Folkungs

Violet Daniels isn't perfect. She's made mistakes in her life, but the deep love she has for her five-year-old twins is beyond dispute. When their feckless and often violent father turns up out of the blue, demanding to see them, she's terrified he might snatch them from her. She flees with them to a place of safety where she meets the handsome and charming Gabriel Stone. He shows her a better way of life, but is he everything he appears to be? Violet decides to stop running and finds the courage to return to London to confront the children's father. There she finds a far greater evil than she ever thought possible. How far will Violet go to protect her children?

A Girl Called Violet

Victor Hugo was a French poet, novelist, and dramatist of the Romantic movement. Hugo is considered to be one of the greatest and best-known French writers. Outside France, his most famous works are the novels Les Misérables, 1862, and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, 1831. The Victor Hugo Collection features: Les Misérables The Man Who Laughs The Hunchback of Notre-Dame Toilers of the Sea Hans of Iceland Bug-Jargal The Last Day of a Condemned Man; or, A Criminal's Last Hours Claude Gueux (A Crime Story) and A Fight with a Cannon

The Victor Hugo Collection

'The Lovely Lady' is a fine observation of a life - the lovely lady of the title - which thrives by sucking the life out of others. The two victims escape by a somewhat melodramatic and comical means but in the process destroy the lovely lady and form what will probably be a dull and passionless union.

The Lovely Lady

'The Mortal Coil' is one of Lawrence's darker stories. From adversity the lovers find a kind of happiness in each other only for death to snatch it away.

The Mortal Coil

'Mother and Daughter' can be read as one of Lawrence's diatribes against women. Two women do their best to get along without men but in the end, as Lawrence always proposed, a woman cannot be fulfilled without a dominant man, however unsuitable he may be.

Mother and Daughter

‘In Love’ handles a serious subject in a light, almost comic way. A couple are engaged but have no  sexual feelings for each other. The tensions, as they try to do what is expected of them, explode until a compromise is reached. But will the marriage last?

In Love

'England, My England' is set in the years before the Great War of 1914, seen by some as an idyllic time of sunshine and peace before everything was shattered by the mechanised war of 1914 to 1918. The family are placed in an idealised setting, deep in the English countryside but there are snakes in this Garden of Eden. There is conflict between man and woman, brought to the fore by an accident to a child and there is the seeming purposeless life led by the husband. The story ripples with the eugenic theories popular at the time yet the conflicts are finally solved by the horror of the war.

England, My England

Love in late capitalism: Ivana Sajko takes us into a war between kitchen and bedroom. He, an unemployed humanist, is trying to change the world and write a novel. She, a passable actress, has given up her safe job at the theatre to care for their child. He is delirious, she is on edge. With the rent overdue and violence looming on all sides, the two of them circle one another in a dizzying dance towards the abyss.

Love Novel

Why is it that people mistake sincerity, kindness and positivity as stupidness? Lev Myshkin has all these great character qualities and certainly is no idiot though everyone assumes him to be one. "The Idiot" is one of Dostoevsky’s most emotional and private novels, where the author talks about intimate issues, often neglected or totally ignored in contemporary Russian society. Religious discussions and symbolism, philosophical endeavours, and existential ups and down mark the novel’s entirety, turning it into a compelling and remarkable read, perfect for fans of Dostoevsky and Russian literature in general. Fyodor Dostoevsky (1821-1881) was a famous Russian writer of novels, short stories, and essays. A connoisseur of the troubled human psyche and the relationships between the individuals, Dostoevsky’s oeuvre covers a large area of subjects: politics, religion, social issues, philosophy, and the uncharted realms of the psychological. There have been at least 30 film and TV adaptations of Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s 1866 novel "Crime and Punishment" with probably the most popular being the British BBC TV series starring John Simm as Raskolnikov and Ian McDiarmid as Porfiry Petrovich. "The Idiot" has also been adapted for films and TV, as has "Demons" and "The Brothers Karamazov".

World Classics

The Idiot

"Women have a wonderful instinct about things. They can discover everything except the obvious." Sir Robert Chiltern is a moral and upstanding politician with a wife who adores and idolizes him, but when one of her old classmates shows up at their party the image of her perfect husband crumbles. She learns that, in the early days of her husband’s political career, he sold a state secret in order to advance his position. Now the couple has to deal with blackmail and their own moral failings. 'An Ideal Husband' is a must-read for Wilde fans and anyone who appreciates wit and sarcasm. In 1999 an adaptation starring Julianne Moore, Minnie Driver and Cate Blanchett came out to great reviews. Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was an Irish playwright, novelist, essayist, and poet, famous for ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ and ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ to name a couple. He died in Paris at the age of 46. The Importance of Being Earnest is Oscar Wilde’s most popular and enduring play. Poking fun at the ridiculousness of human nature, especially that of the Victorian elite, it is both incredibly clever and undeniably silly. It has been performed and made into films and for television many times, most recently in the 2002 film starring Colin Firth, Reese Witherspoon and Judi Dench.

An Ideal Husband

‘Work: A Story of Experience’ is a semi-autobiographical novel loosely based on Alcott’s own life, which explores the social standing of women in the US, in the years around the Civil War. Christie, our heroine, is a single woman who works outside the home doing a number of odd jobs to make ends meet. This story tracks the change in women’s work with the dawn of the new industrial age, the meaning of work to women and the tension and dilemmas that came with this work. It is a story of women trying to find their place in the world, in a society that continually hampers their progress. It is a mature story full of insightful and uplifting anecdotes, that gives an excellent window in to Alcott’s own life as well. It is a profoundly uplifting read, with a triumphant conclusion that makes perfect reading for any fans of underdog stories. Louisa May Alcott (1832-1888) was an author, abolitionist and proud feminist. Her family suffered financially while she was growing up and so she was forced to take on multiple jobs in her youth to help provide for her family. Her writing became her outlet, forming her ideas and beliefs in the empowerment of women and people in to literature that reverberates to this day. Her most notable works include "Little Women", which is now a movie starring Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet, its sequel ‘Little Men’ and ‘An Old Fashioned Girl’.

Work: A Story of Experience

Imagine being torn away from the person you love most in the world! The pain would be just too terrible to bear! This is exactly what happens to Shah Mah Phru after she falls passionately in love with King Meng Geng The king promises to return but time passes, and he never does. One day, Shah Mah Phru spots a group of horsemen riding her way, and she is overcome with joy thinking her lover has finally returned, however the horsemen bring news she could never have predicted. Oscar Wilde wrote 'For Love of the King' for his friend Mabel Cosgrove, and it was not published until after his death, in the 1920's. Its publication sparked a great deal of controversy that resulted in a trial because Mabel Cosgrove was accused of having written the play herself. A great read for any short story and Oscar Wilde fan. Oscar Wilde (1854-1900) was an Irish playwright, novelist, essayist, and poet, famous for ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ and ‘The Importance of Being Earnest’ to name a couple. He died in Paris at the age of 46. The Importance of Being Earnest is Oscar Wilde’s most popular and enduring play. Poking fun at the ridiculousness of human nature, especially that of the Victorian elite, it is both incredibly clever and undeniably silly. It has been performed and made into films and for television many times, most recently in the 2002 film starring Colin Firth, Reese Witherspoon and Judi Dench.

For Love of the King

A peaceful morning is shattered when Washington Metro Police lieutenant Sam Holland’s beloved father succumbs to injuries from an unsolved shooting while on duty four years ago. As the community rallies around Sam and her family, one thing becomes crystal clear: her father’s death has turned the unsolved case into a homicide—and it’s on her to bring her father’s killer to justice. But the case has been cold for years…until an anonymous tip that’s too shocking to believe leads Sam down a dark and dangerous path. Her husband, Vice President Nick Cappuano, knows if she can’t solve this case, it will haunt her for the rest of her life. She’ll need the strength of their bond to pull her out of the darkness before it’s too late—because as the missing pieces rapidly fall into place, Sam realizes the truth might just break her all the same…and that her father’s killer isn’t done yet.

Fatal

Fatal Reckoning

A deadly serious affair… The story breaks as Metro PD Lieutenant Sam Holland attends a dinner party with her husband, Vice President Nick Cappuano: President Nelson is accused of having an affair. More shocking still, campaign staffer Tara Weber claims the president fathered her newborn son—while the First Lady was undergoing secret cancer treatment. When a high-profile murder case hits Sam’s desk, she’s shocked to uncover a connection to the presidential scandal. With the department caught up in its own internal scandals, and the chief’s job hanging by a thread, Sam questions who she can trust as her team uncovers information that clouds an already-murky case. And with calls for the president to resign getting louder by the minute, Sam needs to close this case before she finds herself living at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Fatal Accusation

June 6, 1944. Allied forces hit the beaches of Nazi-occupied France. Among the countless lives shattered are those of five spirited women with starkly different lives. As the war reaches its tipping point, each of the women fight for the survival of themselves, their countries, and their way of life during one of the most pivotal days in history. American expatriate Mildred, better known as Axis Sally, has a thriving career as a Nazi radio propagandist, but her conscience haunts her. Meanwhile, across the English Channel, young medical volunteer Theda is pushed to her limit as shiploads of casualties dock in Portsmouth. Closer to the front, intrepid Flora aids the French resistance while seeking out her vanished parents. Iron-willed Emilia has climbed the Gestapo ranks, but she is now bent on betraying them. Finally, dignified Adelaide’s faith is shaken when she is forced to quarter German soldiers. Now, during the most perilous twenty-four hours of their lives, all five women must summon courage they never knew they had as they confront the physical dangers of war alongside treacherous family secrets, heartbreak, and the ability to trust themselves. For these women, their inner strength is their only hope. But is it enough? How far can one person go for the things they believe in?

All the Lights Above Us

Our life is given to us and we awaken day by day. After two and a half weeks in a coma following surgery Hugh woke up. He experiences a transition between two sides of being. In addition to confrontation with strong fear - on Hugh's side and on the side of his wife Renate - there is the chance of expanded perception on both sides. This is what this book is about, a true book of individual experiences that have a strong connection to the common ground, also to a greater whole.

The Day I Woke Up

With the week of their wedding finally upon them, Washington, D.C., Police Lieutenant Sam Holland and her fiancé, Senator Nick Cappuano, are at odds. In the aftermath of a tragic loss, they struggle to reconnect as the big day draws near, and their work keeps pulling them apart. When a new clue in a cold case surfaces, Nick asks Sam not to take any foolish chances before the wedding and to leave it alone for the time being. Sam agrees, but she can’t let it go entirely and winds up trapped in an explosive situation. Then an unwelcome visitor from her past threatens her future happiness. With trouble at every turn, will Sam survive long enough to walk down the aisle?

Fatal Destiny

‘A romcom that speaks to me – a single woman in her forties who still has a rock-chick streak!’ Woman & HomeThe perfect, laugh out loud read for fans of Milly Johnson, Cathy Bramley and Jill Mansell! Beverley Wilson has always loved the Beatles but kissing a poster goodnight isn’t really an option when you’re a fifty-something mum of three. So when she decides it’s time to get back into the dating game, she turns to a dating agency for help. But the long and winding road to real love is littered with dating disasters – the pantyhose pervert being the real low point and in Bev’s opinon it’s all too much. But meeting fellow Beatles fan Scott Smith changes everything… This hilarious romantic comedy explores life, love and lonely hearts in the suburbs of Liverpool. Is Bev’s attempt to shake things up foolish…or the bravest thing she’s done? Readers LOVE Bev:‘I blitzed through this book over the weekend as I just could not get enough…Light and witty I enjoyed every second’ Nadine ‘Sweet, heartwarming read…I can't wait to read more from this author!’ Jennifer ‘Fun, whimsical read! Perfect for one sitting’ Heather ‘I cannot wait to see what comes next from this talented author…a wonderful, heartwarming story that is an absolute must read’ Andrea ‘The fact she’s willing to step outside her comfort zone into the world of internet dating deserves a round of applause. Good on you Bev!’ Caroline

Shake It Up, Beverley

The latest in the heartwarming WW2 family saga series! ‘Uplifting and full of warmth, this tale of friendship and love is another brilliant instalment in this much loved historical fiction series’MyWeekly ‘This heartwarming, nostalgic book is a fitting finale to a delightful series’ Woman’s Weekly Summer 1945. After victory in Europe, best friends Lily, Gladys and Beryl are looking to the future. But even with this happy news, their lives are far from simple… Despite Lily’s joyful summer wedding, she has doubts over what her heart wants now. As she adjusts to her role as young wife, could this signal the end of her position at Marlows? The return of Gladys’s husband Bill raises questions of their family life as he struggles to find work after the Navy, and for Beryl big changes at her bridal shop are afoot. As the girls start to move on with their lives, they have never needed to stick together more… Acclaim for The Shop Girls series'Jo writes with a sure hand and a light touch… a real page-turner with a spirited heroine who will worm her way into readers' hearts. A sparkling new voice in fiction' VERONICA HENRY ‘Cheerful and uplifting… I thoroughly enjoyed it’ KATIE FFORDE ‘Highly recommended – an engrossing story with a charmingly forthright heroine’ ANNA JACOBS ‘Warm and wonderfully page-turning’ ANNIE GROVES ‘Captivating… a triumphant debut novel’ Women’s Weekly ‘Family drama, community spirit and love… [a] warm, compassionate read’ People’s Friend

The Shop Girls

Wedding Bells for the Victory Girls

Written over a century and a half ago, Madame Bovary is still an extraordinarily fresh, exciting and shockingly frank novel, at once an acute psychological study of a woman drawn into adultery through circumstances we can partly understand, and a sharply-observed comedy that offers a fascinating glimpse of the social and cultural divisions running through French provincial society in the mid nineteenth century. This translation is by Eleanor Marx-Aveling, a prominent social activist and literary translator. She was the youngest daughter of Karl Marx. Gustave Flaubert was a highly influential, he has been considered the leading exponent of literary realism in his country. According to the literary theorist Kornelije Kvas, "in Flaubert, realism strives for formal perfection, so the presentation of reality tends to be neutral, emphasizing the values and importance of style as an objective method of presenting reality".He is known especially for his debut novel Madame Bovary (1857), his Correspondence, and his scrupulous devotion to his style and aesthetics. The celebrated short story writer Guy de Maupassant was a protégé of Flaubert. On the occasion of Flaubert's 198th birthday (12 December 2019), a group of researchers at CNRS published a neural language model under his name.

Madame Bovary

“Babbitt” is a book by Sinclair Lewis an American writer. In 1930, he became the first writer from the United States to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature. “Babbitt” is a satirical novel by Sinclair Lewis, about American culture and society that critiques the vacuity of middle class life and the social pressure toward conformity. The controversy provoked by Babbitt was influential in the decision to award the Nobel Prize in Literature to Lewis in 1930.

Babbitt

“Arrowsmith” is a book by Sinclair Lewis an American writer. In 1930, he became the first writer from the United States to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature. “Arrowsmith” is a novel by Sinclair Lewis. It won the 1926 Pulitzer Prize (which Lewis declined). Arrowsmith tells the story of bright and scientifically minded Martin Arrowsmith of Elk Mills, Winnemac (the same fictional state in which several of Lewis's other novels are set), as he makes his way from a small town in the Midwest to the upper echelons of the scientific community at a prestigious foundation in New York City.

Arrowsmith

Almost the first thing callow young Englishman John Denton sees when he steps ashore in Shanghai in 1903 is the public beheading of some pirates. Shocked and sickened though he is, he must adapt himself to the brutal but fascinating city of extremes, and he spends the rest of his life there, through all the vicissitudes of revolution, riot, lawlessness and war. He makes, loses, and regains a fortune, dangerously crosses a powerful triad leader, enters politics, is imprisoned by the Japanese and survives to see the communists march in to mete out their own brand of cruel justice. An intricate weaving of fact with fiction, Shanghai is the story of a man at the centre of one of history's most dangerous and crucial epochs. It is also the love story of Denton and his exquisite mistress, Su-mei, who eventually becomes his wife.

Shanghai

The murdered body of Sorcha the prophetess is discovered following a lavish banquet at the Maguire castle in 16th-century Ireland. In the present day, a dig commences on the land, and not only is a body discovered, but a sheaf of prophecies. Who killed Sorcha? 		There has been a guesthouse on the Tierney land in County Fermanagh for hundreds of years. Now Tierney’s Hotel is faced with a development that will block the hotel’s best feature, its view of Enniskillen Castle. But the project can be stopped if there are important historical artifacts buried on the property. Enter the archaeologists. 		Mick’s ancestor, Brigid Tierney, ran the guesthouse in the late 1500s. We see Brigid and Shane and their children at a lavish banquet at the castle, home of the ruling family, the Maguires. The wine and ale flow freely, the harpist plays, the bard recites the Maguires’ heroic deeds. But one woman has a sense of foreboding. Sorcha the prophetess sees harrowing times ahead. The Tudors of England are determined to complete their brutal conquest of Ireland. 		The morning after the banquet, Sorcha is found dead on a bed of oak leaves. And Shane is accused of the killing. His lawyer, Terence, conducts his defence on the hilltop that constitutes the court in 1595. 		Ireland has had a complex and at times woeful history, and we see that history being played out in the lives of the Tierneys, past and present. 		In 2018, the dig commences on Mick Tierney’s land. Historical artifacts? Yes. But also a sheaf of prophecies. And a body ― a bogman ― four hundred years old.

The Keening

As she returned from school, she would trace down her cotton socks and slide into an online world filled with cats. Follow an impressionable, young girl into the depths of online obsession and curiosity where loneliness becomes pacified through sexual exploration and disappointment.

I like cats

Heart of Darkness is a novella written by Polish-born writer Joseph Conrad (born Józef Teodor Konrad Korzeniowski). Before its 1902 publication, it appeared as a three-part series (1899) in Blackwood's Magazine. It is widely regarded as a significant work of English literature and part of the Western canon. This highly symbolic story is actually a story within a story, or frame narrative. It follows Marlow as he recounts, from dusk through to late night, his adventure into the Congo to a group of men aboard a ship anchored in the Thames Estuary. The story details an incident when Marlow, an Englishman, took a foreign assignment as a ferry-boat captain, employed by a Belgian trading company. Although the river is never specifically named, readers may assume it is the Congo River, in the Congo Free State, a private colony of King Leopold II. Marlow is employed to transport ivory downriver; however, his more pressing assignment is to return Kurtz, another ivory trader, to civilization in a cover up. Kurtz has a reputation throughout the region.

Heart of Darkness

In Elizabeth Gaskell's poignant novel, *Mary Barton*, the author presents a vivid portrayal of working-class life in 19th-century Manchester. The book intricately weaves themes of love, class struggle, and the harsh realities of industrialization, encapsulated in the lives of its characters. Gaskell employs a realist style infused with emotional depth, delving into the socio-economic tensions of the era. The narrative is rich in regional dialect, offering readers authentic glimpses into the lives of the impoverished while highlighting the moral dilemmas faced by both workers and their employers. Elizabeth Gaskell, a key figure in Victorian literature, was born in 1810 to a middle-class family with strong ties to the labor movement. Her deep empathy for the plight of the working class was shaped by her experiences living in industrial communities and observing the struggles they faced. Gaskell's commitment to social issues is evident in her literature, and *Mary Barton*, her first novel, stands as a testament to her advocacy for the marginalized and her exploration of societal issues through the lens of personal relationships. I highly recommend *Mary Barton* to readers interested in the intersection of literature and social critique. Gaskell's masterful storytelling not only captivates but also encourages a deeper understanding of the sociocultural dynamics of her time. Her vibrant characters and heartfelt narrative invite readers to reflect on the enduring themes of compassion, justice, and humanity.

Mary Barton

Desa Kincaid set out to save her world from the machinations of a madman. She failed. Now, she finds herself a prisoner in her own city, navigating a web of political intrigue. Hope beckons in the form of the mysterious Spear of Vengeance, a weapon forged by the gods. To recover it, Desa will take a journey into the very heart of the ancient world and confront an enemy more powerful than any she has faced so far... Her own guilt.

Desa Kincaid

Bullets And Bones

David Copperfield Charles Dickens - David Copperfield is the novel that draws most closely from Charles Dickens's own life. Its eponymous hero, orphaned as a boy, grows up to discover love and happiness, heartbreak and sorrow amid a cast of eccentrics, innocents, and villains. Praising Dickens's power of invention, Somerset Maugham wrote: "There were never such people as the Micawbers, Peggotty and Barkis, Traddles, Betsey Trotwood and Mr. Dick, Uriah Heep and his mother. They are fantastic inventions of Dickens's exultant imagination...you can never quite forget them."

David Copperfield - Charles Dickens

Hilaire Belloc (1870-1953) was a prolific writer and historian of the early twentieth century. He wrote the introductory article for “The Footpath Way: An Anthology for Walkers,” published in 1911, which contains a variety of articles from prominent literati on the topic of walkers and the pleasures of traveling by foot so as to better enjoy the scenery and the peoples encountered along the way. Contributors include: George Borrow, John Brown, John Burroughs, Thomas De Quincey, Charles Dickens, William Hazlitt, Sir Walter Scott, Sydney Smith, Leslie Stephen, Robert Louis Stevenson, Henry David Thoreau, Izaak Walton, Walt Whitman, and William Wordsworth.

The Footpath Way

Adrian Milner is a doting dad, a stern college professor and a complete skeptic who just inherited part ownership in a private investigation agency that specializes in the supernatural. To make things worse, his new partner is a gorgeous, arrogant conman that Adrian can't resist. His first experience investigating a haunting might change Adrian's mind about the supernatural and maybe how he feels about his partner too.

Milner & Dunn

Milner & Dunn: The Christmas Feast (Paranormal Gay Romance)

Meg is the eldest and on the brink of love. Then there's tomboy Jo who longs to be a writer. Sweet-natured Beth always puts others first, and finally there's Amy, the youngest and most precocious. Together they are the March sisters. Even though money is short, times are tough and their father is away at war, their infectious Meg is the eldest and on the brink of love. Then there's tomboy Jo who longs to be a writer. Sweet-natured Beth always puts others first, and finally there's Amy, the youngest and most precocious. Together they are the March sisters. Even though money is short, times are tough and their father is away at war, their infectious sense of fun sweeps everyone up in their adventures — including Laurie, the boy next door. And through sisterly squabbles, their happy times and sad ones too, the sisters discover that growing up is sometimes very hard to do. Based on Louisa May Alcott's childhood, this lively portrait of nineteenth-century family life possesses a lasting vitality that has endeared it to generations of readers. A wonderful story... As a child, I strongly identified with Jo because she is a writer. —Jacqueline Wilson The American female myth. —Madelon Bedell It is an essential American novel, perhaps the essential American novel for girls… Girls come to it on their own. —Jane Smiley In "Little Women", Alcott anticipated realism by twenty or thirty years. —G. K. Chesterton

Little Women

Aphra Behn's "Oroonoko" is a compelling narrative that intertwines themes of love, freedom, and the brutal realities of slavery, set against the backdrop of colonialism in the 17th century. Behn's innovative prose, characterized by its eloquent diction and emotional depth, challenges the prevailing literary norms of her time. The novella serves as a profound commentary on the moral dilemmas faced by its titular character, an African prince enslaved in Surinam, as it navigates the complexities of identity and autonomy amid colonial oppression. Written in a style that blends elements of both tragedy and adventure, it stands as one of the earliest English novels that discusses race and human rights, influencing future generations of writers.

Oroonoko

In "Stephen Hero," James Joyce embarks on a semi-autobiographical exploration of the formative years of a young artist named Stephen Dedalus. This novel, written in Joyce's characteristic stream-of-consciousness style, offers a rich tapestry of vivid imagery and intricate character development, delving into themes of identity, self-discovery, and the clash between individual aspiration and societal expectation. Although ultimately abandoned in favor of its more polished successor, "A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man," this work presents an essential glimpse into the evolution of Joyce's literary voice and his philosophical inquiries regarding art and existence. James Joyce, born in Dublin in 1882, was deeply influenced by his own experiences in a city fraught with political, cultural, and religious tensions. His upbringing in a Catholic environment and exposure to the complexities of Irish nationalism are evident throughout "Stephen Hero," revealing the forces that shaped his worldview and narrative style. Joyce's innovative literary techniques, as seen in this early work, would continue to inform his later masterpieces and solidify his status as one of the preeminent authors of the 20th century. I highly recommend "Stephen Hero" to readers interested in the genesis of modernist literature and the intricate journey of self-actualization. Joyce's ability to capture the nuances of thought and emotion invites readers to engage with the struggles of the artist, making it not only a compelling read but also a profound commentary on the nature of creativity and identity.

Stephen Hero

In the sweeping narrative of "The Rutherfurd Trilogy," Anna Buchan embarks on an ambitious journey that encapsulates the evolution of a Scottish family through the tumultuous tapestry of history. Divided into three interconnected stories, the trilogy masterfully weaves themes of love, loyalty, and the struggle against societal change within a richly textured setting. Buchan's literary style is characterized by evocative prose and a keen psychological insight into her characters, embodying the spirit of early 20th-century Scottish fiction while expanding its horizons through complex narratives that resonate with universal truths. Anna Buchan, sister of the renowned author John Buchan, draws upon her deep-seated understanding of Scottish culture and her personal experiences to create this compelling work. Her position within a literary family provided her with a unique perspective on her homeland's historical currents and societal shifts which informed her characters and their journeys, making the trilogy not just a tale of one family but a microcosm of Scotland itself. "The Rutherfurd Trilogy" is a remarkable blend of history and fiction that captures the reader's heart and imagination. Those who seek to explore the rich and tumultuous layers of Scottish identity will find in Buchan's trilogy a profound and engaging exploration that resonates across generations. It is a must-read for enthusiasts of historical fiction and anyone eager to understand the intricacies of family legacy within a broader societal framework.

The Rutherfurd Trilogy

In "Henry James: Complete Novels," readers are invited to traverse the intricate landscapes of human psychology and social dynamics that characterize James's literary oeuvre. This comprehensive collection showcases his mastery of narrative, notable for its sophisticated prose and often ambiguous characterizations. Spanning his entire career, the compilation reflects the evolution of James's thematic interests, from the innocence of American expatriates in Europe to the deep moral complexities that arise in interpersonal relationships, delivering a rich tapestry that invites both reflection and analysis. Henry James (1843-1916) was a transformational figure in American literature, known for his innovative approaches to character and narrative form. Born into an intellectually vibrant family, James's experiences in both America and Europe profoundly shaped his worldview and literary voice. His works often explore the dichotomy between the two continents, illuminated by his nuanced observations of society. This collection not only encapsulates James's thematic preoccupations but also serves as a testament to his role as a bridge between classic and modern literature. For scholars, students, and casual readers alike, "Henry James: Complete Novels" is an essential addition to any literary library. It offers a profound exploration of the complexities of human experience, inviting readers to engage critically with its multifaceted characters and themes. Dive into the rich nuance of James's work and discover the timeless relevance of his insights into human nature.

Henry James: Complete Novels

Don’t miss this chance to escape to stunning Cornwall for a heartwarming new standalone novel about secrets and second chancesThey say a single moment can change your life… For Cornish artist Sennen Kellow that moment comes with the discovery of her late gran’s epic love story – a story that happened years before she ever met Sennen’s grandfather. Now, as Sennen digs into her grandmother’s past and discovers a forgotten beach, a hidden poem, and a love that blazed brightly before Fate intervened, her search for answers leads her on a fated journey of her own. One which sees history repeating itself, and Sennen faced with a chance at the kind of once-in-a-lifetime love her gran experienced…but only if she’s willing to risk everything. Readers LOVE The Forgotten Beach:‘A true love story…curl up in a comfy chair and be transported by this talented author’ Brenda ‘A beautiful love story that spans generations…I loved how the old house slowly got renovated and came back to life plus I could picture the steps down to the private beach with the cave’ Muriel ‘Complex characters, with a simple love story and a heartstopping final arc but the ending we all wanted!’ Ritu ‘The author does a wonderful job of describing the beauty of Cornwall … a good beach read’ Sarah ‘Perfect escapism and I read it in almost one sitting…so much more than just a romance’ Helen ‘A heartwarming love story…My eyes were a bit teary at the end’ Anne ‘I have always been an avid fan of Amanda James, a truly talented author who strives to write a beautiful story for others to enjoy time after time’ Joan ‘Delightful story with the past gently woven into the present.…a joy to read’ Judy

Cornish Escapes Collection

The Forgotten Beach

"As a heatwave engulfs New York in the summer of 1889, the city’s top models begin turning up dead, one by one, suggesting the work of a single killer. Society-girl-turned-investigative-journalist Genevieve Stewart is drawn into the case when Beatrice Holler, one of her friend Callie’s fellow models, is found with her throat cut. Genevieve and her compatriot, wealthy Daniel McCaffrey, are joined by Callie to seek out the suspects, which leads them to search for answers from the members of the elite, notorious gangsters, and the city's most prominent painters. In an era when London’s Jack the Ripper murders have everyone on edge, the police want to keep the killings quiet. But the bodies are piling up as fast as the suspects—and unless the killer is found, the simmering New York summer could boil over into madness."

Gilded Gotham Mystery Series

Treachery on Tenth Street

"Lord Rowles Haywind has always shied away from the spotlight of the dukedom, worried it would bring too much attention to the family secret. Now that he is the new Duke, he has more responsibility than he ever dreamed of. He needs help, but he's not sure he can trust anyone enough. But then he reconnects with Lady Joan Morgan... Lady Joan's penetrating insights reassure Rowles as no one ever has. But she has a secret of her own that would cause a terrible scandal. She longs to tell Rowles the truth about her work for the war office, but she's afraid it'll ruin the connection they've rekindled. But the longer she waits to tell him, the worse the outcome could be for them both once the truth is out."

Cambridge Brotherhood

My Dearest Duke

‘I have devoured this in one sitting, Ashcroft has pulled me into the pages and made me desperate to see what was going to play out. I am a sucker for a love story and was rooting for the characters... Definitely a five star read which I highly recommend.’ Little Miss Book Lover 87 Evie Stuart is playing it safe. She lives on her family’s remote farm in the Scottish Highlands and never ventures beyond the local village of Lockton. The most unpredictable events in her life are the antics of Miss Daisy, her grandmother Agnes’s pygmy goat. She’s learned that bad things happen when she’s impulsive, and she’s determined not to get burned again. Callum Ryder is exactly the opposite of what Evie wants in her ordered world. Six foot two of reckless energy with twinkling eyes and a dangerously charming smile, he’s a thrill-seeking American firefighter with no idea how to slow down. Callum enters Lockton like a whirlwind, fleeing his problems in New York City in search of the truth about his Scottish family. Yet the pair might have more in common than they think... When the well-meaning Agnes persuades her to help Callum find his grandfather, Evie finds herself being challenged more than she has in years: from swimming in the fabled Bonnie Lochan to exploring an ancient castle and even entering the village jam-making championships. Turns out it’s easy for Evie and Callum to connect when they let go of their fears and enjoy the most surprising summer of their lives. But getting close to Callum so quickly soon starts to look like it might ruin everything for Evie: she’s heading for a disaster exactly like the one that destroyed her a year ago when she fell for the wrong man and let him change her life. Maybe a fresh start isn’t going to be so simple after all... Is the safe haven Evie’s built about to crumble down around her? A totally charming and moving story about being true to yourself, the power of new beginnings, and one magical summer that changes everything. Perfect for fans of Debbie Johnson, Carolyn Brown and Phillipa Ashley. Readers love The Little Village of New Starts: ‘Filled with interesting and likeable characters, this book grabbed me from the very beginning... An absolutely wonderful story of love and laughs which will warm your heart completely!! Highly recommended!!’ Stardust Book Reviews ‘If you’re looking for a lovely, heart-warming contemporary romance, grab yourself a copy of this delightful story... This is such a superb read, a great story to escape into with all the trials and tribulations... I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending it’ Splashes Into Books ‘What a fantastic book, I couldn't stop reading it and was sorry when I got to the end – I wanted more... I would have no hesitation in recommending.’ NetGalley Reviewer. Donna Ashcroft has sold over 100,000 books since she started publishing with Bookouture in October 2018 Donna spent a couple of decades writing bad horror stories and worse poetry until she gave up and accidently fell into publishing. After many years of working on other people’s books, she began to write her own romantic comedies and hasn’t looked back. When Donna isn’t lost in her latest love affair, she works for a website where she indulges her other passion – buying moisturiser. Donna lives in Hertfordshire with her own romantic hero, two gorgeous teenagers and a couple of cantankerous cats.

The Little Village of New Starts

In "Diana of the Crossways," George Meredith presents a compelling exploration of societal norms and the complexities of personal identity through the character of Diana, an independent and intellectual woman navigating a patriarchal society. Set against the backdrop of Victorian England, the narrative employs Meredith's characteristic wit and a rich, lyrical prose style, which intricately intertwines philosophical musings and sharp social commentary. The novel's innovative structure, combining realism with elements of psychological depth and satirical elements, reflects the burgeoning modernist sensibilities of the era, making it a cornerstone in the evolution of the novel form. George Meredith, an influential figure in Victorian literature, was deeply shaped by his experiences of personal turmoil and social critique. His own tumultuous relationships and advocacy for women's rights inform the novel's themes, allowing him to craft a protagonist that resonates with readers seeking both emotional authenticity and intellectual engagement. Meredith's literary career spans poetry and prose, positioning him as a bridge between classic Victorian literature and modernism. "Diana of the Crossways" is a must-read for those interested in feminist literature, Victorian society, or the evolution of the novel. Through Diana's journey, Meredith invites readers to question the constraints of gender and societal expectations, making it an essential and thought-provoking text that continues to inspire contemporary discussions.

Diana of the Crossways — Complete

As the cold winter nights draw in, escape to the sleepy town of Wrenwick, where the streets sparkle with snow and a lonely young widow is about to find that true love really can strike twice... As Christmas cheer fills Sparrow Street with excitement, grieving Nina is having a hard time. December is always a difficult month to face without her beloved husband Gray, the days feel long and bleak, and to cap it all, she’s just lost her job. So when Nina hears that Sparrow Street’s Community Garden, one of Gray’s favourite places, is to be put up for sale she knows she must do something. Filled with purpose, she gathers the residents of Sparrow Street around her to turn the neglected patch of land into a Garden of Memories. Working with her neighbours, single mum Kelly and eighty-year-old Ada, Nina soon finds that she’s not the only lonely soul on Sparrow Street. And as the community comes together and the garden flourishes, Nina can’t help but be drawn to Irish gardener Colm with his sparkling blue eyes and kind heart, finding herself confiding in him about all her recent troubles. But just as Colm and Nina grow closer and he opens up to her about his own secret loss, Colm’s estranged wife returns from Scotland, wanting to try again. Nina knows she should let the man she’s falling for go – it’s the right thing to do. But what if fate has other plans in store? Will the beautiful garden on Sparrow Street have brought two people together only for Nina’s cautious heart to push them apart? If you love an uplifting, moving love story, then The Garden on Sparrow Street is the perfect romantic read to curl up with on a winter’s afternoon. Fans of Josie Silver and Carole Matthews will love this book! Readers are falling in love with The Garden On Sparrow Street: ‘A lovely, lovely, book. I picked it up cuddled into my chair and started reading, I did not get up for hours. I left my world, entered the town, met the characters, loved every page and was sorry to reach the end of this story, say goodbye to all the characters.’ Netgalley Reviewer ‘Another gorgeous novel by Tilly! It's like an old friend giving you a warm hug! Lovely characters and a gorgeous front cover, I really loved this novel and it's perfect for the winter season ahead. I smiled all the way through this one.’ NetGalley Reviewer ‘I always love a Tilly Tennant book. They are always like a big warm hug in book form. They are full of joy, romance and happiness. This book was absolutely beautiful.’ Goodreads Reviewer. Top 20 Amazon CA and top 30 Amazon UK author. Tilly has sold over 280,000 copies From a young age, Tilly Tennant was convinced that she was destined for the stage. Once she realised she wasn’t actually very good at anything that would put her on the stage, she started to write stories instead. There were lots of terrible ones, like The Pet Rescue Gang (aged eight), which definitely should not see the light of day ever again. Thankfully, her debut novel, Hopelessly Devoted to Holden Finn was not one of those, and since it hit the Amazon best seller lists she hasn’t looked back. Born in Dorset, she currently lives in Staffordshire.

The Garden on Sparrow Street

In the future, human survival is increasingly threatened by pollution and environmental damage. The light ship Altares sets out for mankind's first intergalactic mission to the stars. But the crew finds itself in mortal jeopardy almost immediately...

Into Infinity

The Day After Tomorrow - Into Infinity, Pt. 1 (Unabridged)

August Strindberg belongs to the same generation of authors as the Russian Chekhov and the Norwegian Ibsen. Strindberg stands at the crossroads of such decisive influences as those of Schopenhauer, Nietzsche, Kierkegaard, Schiller, Zola, Byron, or Freud's precursors such as Bernheim. He absorbed the aesthetic trends of his time, particularly naturalism. He is also a virtuoso painter, closely related to Edward Munch.  All his writings bear witness to his life and bear the traces of his crises, his struggles, his revolts against a society of rigid conformism. Through his struggles, he extracts from himself a dark work that explores the distress of modern man. Kafka, the expressionists, and many contemporary authors strongly claim his legacy. Franz Kafka: "I feel better because I read Strindberg. I don't read him to read him, but to snuggle up to his chest... The huge Strindberg. This rage, these pages won with the strength of the fist... " Four of his short stories are presented in this audiobook : The German Lieutenant; Unwelcome; Over-refinement; Paul & Peter.

The German lieutenant and other stories

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