Adventure / action fiction

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Book SynopsisBeing reborn in another world is a tournament sport in this hilarious, action-packed isekai series!In the not-so-distant future, isekai is a way of life. The world has perfected how to hit an average teenager with a truck to launch them into a new world for a fantasy adventure. But once that’s done, how do you keep it entertaining? Set up a televised tournament, of course! Roaring crowds can follow a chosen Hero through his death, rebirth, and quest to save another world, armed with special tech for cheat skills, stat indexes, and whatever else is needed. Surely this is all in good fun and no one would abuse this kind of reincarnation technology...!

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Book SynopsisA modern-day Lazarus is humanity’s last hope in a breathtaking novel about the absolute powers of good and evil by Dean Koontz, the #1 New York Times bestselling master of suspense. Michael Mace, head of security at a top-secret research facility, opens his eyes in a makeshift morgue twenty-four hours following an event in which everyone perished—including him and his best friend, Shelby Shrewsberry. Having awakened with an extraordinary ability unlike anything he—or anyone else—has ever imagined, Michael is capable of being as elusive as a ghost. He sets out to honor his late friend by helping Nina Dozier and her son, John, whom Shelby greatly admired. Although what Michael does for Nina is life changing, his actions also evoke the wrath of John’s father, a member of one of the most violent street gangs in Los Angeles. But an even greater threat is descending: the Internal Security Agency’s most vicious assassin, Durand Calaphas. Calaphas will stop at nothing to get his man. If Michael dies twice, he will not live a third time. From the tarnished glamour of Beverly Hills to the streets of South Central to a walled estate in Rancho Santa Fe, only Michael can protect Nina and John—and ensure that light survives in a rapidly darkening world.Trade ReviewPraise for Dean Koontz #1 New York Times Bestseller “America’s most popular suspense novelist.” —Rolling Stone “Koontz has always had near-Dickensian powers of description and an ability to yank us from one page to the next that few novelists can match.” —Los Angeles Times “Tumbling, hallucinogenic prose.” —New York Times Book Review “Dean Koontz is not just a master of our darkest dreams but also a literary juggler.” —The Times (London) “Dean Koontz writes page-turners, middle-of-the-night-sneak-up-behind-you suspense thrillers. He touches our hearts and tingles our spines.” —Washington Post Book World “Koontz has a knack for making the bizarre and uncanny seem as commonplace as a sunrise. Bottom line: the Dean of Suspense.” —People magazine “Positively twitching with suspense. Another sure-fire hit from a thriller master.” —Booklist (starred review) “If Stephen King is the Rolling Stones of novels, Koontz is the Beatles.” —Playboy “A superb plotter and wordsmith. He chronicles the hopes and fears of our time in broad strokes and fine detail, using popular fiction to explore the human condition [and] demonstrating that the real horror of life is found not in monsters but within the human psyche.” —USA Today “Far more than a genre writer. Characters and the search for meaning, exquisitely crafted, are the soul of his work. This is why his novels will be read long after the ghosts and monsters of most genre writers have been consigned to the attic. One of the master storytellers of this or any age.” —Tampa Tribune “Dean Koontz almost occupies a genre of his own. He is a master at building suspense and holding the reader spellbound.” —Richmond Times-Dispatch “Demanding much of itself, Koontz’s style bleaches out clichés while showing a genius for details. He leaves his competitors buried in the dust.” —Kirkus Reviews “Another A-plus thriller from a writer on a serious winning streak.” —Booklist (starred review)

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Book SynopsisFrom bestselling author Darcy Coates comes Dead of Winter, a remote cabin in the snowy wilderness thriller that will teach you to trust no one. There are eight strangers. One killer. Nowhere left to run.When Christa joins a tour group heading deep into the snowy expanse of the Rocky Mountains, she's hopeful this will be her chance to put the ghosts of her past to rest. But when a bitterly cold snowstorm sweeps the region, the small group is forced to take shelter in an abandoned hunting cabin. Despite the uncomfortably claustrophobic quarters and rapidly dropping temperature, Christa believes they'll be safe as they wait out the storm.She couldn't be more wrong.Deep in the night, their tour guide goes missing...only to be discovered the following morning, his severed head impaled on a tree outside the cabin. Terrified, and completely isolated by the storm, Christa finds herself trapped with eight total strangers. One of them kills for sport...and they're far from finished. As the storm grows more dangerous and the number of survivors dwindles one by one, Christa must decide who she can trust before this frozen mountain becomes her tomb.Don't have enough scary books on your shelves?More bestselling horror from Darcy Coates:From BelowGallows HillThe Haunting of Ashburn HouseThe Haunting of Blackwood HouseThe Haunting of Rookward HouseThe House Next DoorThe Folcroft GhostsHuntedThe Haunting of Gillespie HouseParasite

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Book Synopsis'The perfect fireside read. Veronica McCreedy will capture your heart' TRISHA ASHLEY, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Christmas Invitation'This gorgeous book has everything! Mysteries, misunderstandings, arguments, reconciliations, kindness, love and lots of PENGUINS!'CLARE POOLEY, author of The Authenticity ProjectA delightfully feel-good novel from the author of the Richard & Judy Book Club pick Away With the Penguins. _____Veronica McCreedy can't resist the promise of adventure . . .Nine-year-old Daisy and nearly ninety-year-old Veronica make an unlikely pair of friends. Fiercely independent and impeccably dressed, Veronica has lived an incredible 87 years. Most of them alone, in her huge house by the sea. But with the arrival of brave and resilient Daisy into her life, Veronica finds she has a renewed thirst for adventure - and that they both share a passion for penguins!So when Veronica and Daisy are invited to travel to the other side of the world together and visit the penguins of the southern hemisphere, they both jump at the chance.Veronica had thought her days of new friendships, family and love were over, but perhaps it's never too late for one more adventure?_____Readers are falling in love with Call of the Penguins!***** 'A life-affirming, warm, comforting book to help you feel cosy'***** 'A cockle-warming joy from start to finish'***** 'Emotional, funny, and uplifting'***** 'This story really warmed my heart'***** 'A book to lift the spirits'***** 'Light hearted and absolutely delightful'The brand-new gorgeously feel-good novel from Hazel, Life and Otter Miracles, is available to pre-order now! Trade ReviewThis gorgeous book has everything! Mysteries, misunderstandings, arguments, reconciliations, kindness, love and lots of PENGUINS! * Clare Pooley, author of The Authenticity Project *Just what the doctor ordered . . . Funny, wise, touching. I loved it. * TRACY REES, author of The Hourglass, a Richard & Judy Summer Read *The perfect fireside read. Veronica McCreedy will capture your heart. * Trisha Ashley, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Christmas Invitation *So beautifully written by a born storyteller. * Lorraine Kelly *So many readers are set to fall in love with this charming story. * Prima *Call of the Penguins sparkles with wit, courage and kindness. This is a heart-warming journey into the highs and lows of human nature. I loved it! * Celia Anderson, author of 59 Memory Lane *A wonderful story, full of twists and turns. Outstanding. * Samantha Tonge, author of Summer Secrets at Streamside Cottage *This year's Eleanor Oliphant . . . Funny, bittersweet and wholly original. * Daily Express (on Away with the Penguins) *A glorious, life-affirming story. I read it in a day. * Clare Mackintosh (on Away with the Penguins) *A touching, uplifting tale. * Jo Whiley, Radio 2 Book Club (on Away with the Penguins) *A gorgeous read full of hope, with a cast of characters who will delight! * Helen Paris, author of LOST PROPERTY *The perfect pick-me-up for right now, a warm-hearted, humorous and emotional read. * Phaedra Patrick, author of The Library of Lost and Found *

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Book SynopsisA Danish filmmaker, under the apprenticeship of three Papua New Guinean master sailors, set off from Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea, on the 30th of August 2016 on a world-record circumnavigation of the island of New Guinea in a traditional sailing canoe called the Tawali Pasana. Over the course of 13 months and 21 days - and some 6300 km of high adventure - what became known as ‘the fellowship of the Tawali Pasana' created a modern-day odyssey (on a shoestring budget) battling relentless monsoon winds, dangerous seas, pirates and crocodiles. Prevailing against all the odds, the voyage generated enormous media coverage and inspired the young people of New Guinea to celebrate their extraordinary seafaring culture. 'Sailing a traditional outrigger canoe around the vast island of New Guinea is a journey through time, across myriad cultures upon the far-flung seas of Arafura, Seram, Bismarck, and the Pacific Ocean. Thor's voyage shows that, in the 21st Century, there are still great adventures!' Peter Hillary 'The very first circumnavigation of New Guinea in a traditional sailing canoe again illustrates, as my father auspiciously once said, 'To travel, to experience and learn ... that is to live.' Norbu Tenzing Norgay 'Thor's adventure is an encouragement to anyone who - dares to do.' Sarah Outen

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Book Synopsis*THE NO.1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER*A spy is dead. A legend is born. This is how it all began.The explosive James Bond thriller from bestselling author Anthony Horowitz. ***** A British agent floats in the waters of the French Riviera, murdered by an unknown hand. Determined to uncover the truth, James Bond enters a world of fast cars, grand casinos and luxury yachts. But beneath the glamour, he soon encounters a dangerous network of organised crime. It's time for Bond to earn his licence to kill. He must find those responsible and unravel their devastating plan - before he becomes their next victim... Discover the exhilarating prequel to Casino Royale. ***** 'Exciting... 007 is back' Daily Express 'Evil villains, fast cars...and the story rips along' Guardian 'Tremendous fun... A first-class action writer' Sunday Express 'Horowitz excels at action sequences' Sunday TimesTrade ReviewThe super spy is back, with a fresh injection from novelist and screenwriter extraordinaire, Anthony Horowitz. The expert in suspense takes us back to the beginning of James Bond’s story… the story rips along with plenty of familiar Bond staples: evil villains, fast cars and women falling for young Bond’s charms. Ian Fleming would be proud. * Guardian *Horowitz is a worthy successor to Ian Fleming, putting 007 back in his true domain… This New Bond is up there with the better Old Bonds… The denouement is a very fine piece of action writing… Horowitz has done splendidly. * Scotsman *Straight away Horowitz is able to capture Fleming’s flowing style and intricate details from how Bond likes his eggs in the morning to the cars he drives... He’s just as faithfully suave as in the original novels. * Daily Express *A novel that feels very like a film… fast-paced, skilfully written… leaves you wanting more, and for serious Bond junkies [it] is the next fix in a long tale of addiction. * The Times *Even better than Trigger Mortis… it is tremendous fun. Anthony Horowitz has the discipline and skill of a first-class action writer. * Sunday Express *

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Book SynopsisFifteen year old Christopher is about to embark on an investigation...Lots of things are mysteries. But that doesn't mean there isn't an answer to them.It was 7 minutes after midnight. The dog was lying on the grass in the middle of the lawn in front of Mrs Shears' house. Its eyes were closed. It looked as if it was running on its side, the way dogs run when they think they are chasing a cat in a dream. But the dog was not running or asleep. The dog was dead.This is Christopher's murder mystery story. There are also no lies in this story because Christopher can't tell lies. Christopher does not like strangers or the colours yellow or brown or being touched. On the other hand, he knows all the countries in the world and their capital cities and every prime number up to 7507. When Christopher decides to find out who killed the neighbour's dog, his mystery story becomes more complicated than he could have ever predicted.'Outstanding... a stunningly good read' Observer'A superb achievement. He is a wise and bleakly funny writer with rare gifts of empathy' Ian McEwan**ONE OF THE GUARDIAN'S 100 BEST BOOKS OF THE 21st CENTURY**Trade ReviewWondrous...brilliantly inventive...dazzling. Not simply the most original novel I've read in years - it's also one of the best * The Times *Exceptional by any standards. Both funny and deeply moving * Sunday Telegraph *Outstanding. Heartening as well as richly entertaining. A stunningly good read * Independent *Superbly realised. A funny as well as a sad book. Brilliant * Guardian *A remarkable book. An impressive achievement and a rewarding read * Time Out *

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Book Synopsis'Crichton's most compulsive novel' Sunday Telegraph'Crichton's dinosaurs are genuinely frightening' Chicago Sun-Times'Breathtaking adventure. . . a book that is as hard to put down as it is to forget' Time Out-------------------------------On a remote jungle island, genetic engineers have created a dinosaur game park.Now one of mankind's most thrilling fantasies has come true. Creatures that have been extinct for millions of years roam Jurassic Park, and all the world can visit them - for a price.But when a catastrophe destroys the park's defence system, what was once a scientific dream becomes a living nightmare. . .Now scientists and tourists alike are left fighting for their lives.-------------------------------More praise for Jurassic Park'Full of suspense' New York Times'Wonderful. . . powerful' Washington Post'Frighteningly real. . . compelling. . . it'll keep you riveted' The Detroit NewsTrade ReviewCrichton's most compulsive novel to date * Sunday Telegraph *Breathtaking adventure... a book that is as hard to put down as it is to forget * Time Out *Wonderful ... powerful * Washington Post *Full of suspense * New York Times *

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Book SynopsisDays after winning OASIS founder James Halliday's contest, Wade Watts makes a discovery that changes everything.Hidden within Halliday's vaults, waiting for his heir to find it, lies a technological advancement that will once again change the world and make the OASIS a thousand times more wondrous - and addictive - than even Wade dreamed possible.With it comes a new riddle, and a new quest: a last Easter egg from Halliday, hinting at a mysterious prize.And an unexpected, impossibly powerful, and dangerous new rival awaits, one who'll kill millions to get what he wants.Wade's life and the future of the OASIS are again at stake, but this time the fate of humanity also hangs in the balance.Lovingly nostalgic and wildly original as only Ernest Cline could conceive it, Ready Player Two takes us on another imaginative, fun, action-packed adventure through his beloved virtual universe, and jolts us thrillingly into the future once again.______________'Delving back into the universe of OASIS is a nostalgic delight... fans will love returning to Cline's virtual world.' Press Association'Living up to the smash hit Ready Player One - turned into a film by Steven Spielberg - was never going to be easy, but Ernest Cline's wry and savage sequel shows how it should be done... A wild ride. Make this into a movie now.' The Times 'Ernest Cline takes Ready Player One, gives it a software update, adds some more nostalgia and delivers sheer joy in Ready Player Two.' Phil Williams, Times Radio 'A stunning, futuristic thrill-ride, full of nostalgia and wonderful set-pieces. Ready Player Two improves on everything from its predecessor.' Daily Express

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Book SynopsisThe first official Minecraft novel by bestselling author, Max BrooksA SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLERA NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERBe immersed in the Minecraft universe for the first time in a thrilling new adventure like no other!Minecraft: The Island will tell the story of a new hero stranded in the world of Minecraft, who must survive the harsh, unfamiliar environment and unravel the secrets of the island.Washed up on a beach, the lone castaway looks around the shore. Where am I? Who am I? And why is everything made of blocks? But there isn't much time to soak up the sun. It's getting dark, and there's a strange new world to explore!The top priority is finding food. The next is not becoming food. Because there are others out there on the island . . . like the horde of zombies that appear after night falls. Crafting a way out of this mess is a challenge like no other. Who could build a home while running from exploding creepers, armed skeletons, and an unstoppable tide of hot lava? Especially with no help except for a few makeshift tools and sage advice from an unlikely friend: a cow.In this world, the rules don't always make sense, but courage and creativity go a long way. There are forests to explore, hidden underground tunnels to loot, and undead mobs to defeat. Only then will the secrets of the island be revealed.From bestselling author Max Brooks also comes the long-awaited epic conclusion to the Minecraft trilogy, Minecraft: The Village, coming out in October 2023.Trade ReviewBe immersed in the Minecraft universe for the first time in a thrilling new adventure like no other! Minecraft: The Island will tell the story of a new hero stranded in the world of Minecraft, who must survive the harsh, unfamiliar environment and unravel the secrets of the island.Minecraft: The Island by Max Brooks, bestselling author of World War Z, is the first official Minecraft novel. * Publisher's Description *If your game-loving son doesn’t already know about this book, they will do once their friends start reading it…An adventurous page-turner * Sun *A genius idea. My son is going to love this. Fantastic -- Ben Shephard, Good Morning Britain

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Book SynopsisEver had a bad day? Try having one on the moon...'Fascinating' Tim Peake, Sunday Times bestselling author of Ask an Astronaut______________________WELCOME TO ARTEMIS. The first city on the moon.Population 2,000. Mostly tourists.Some criminals.Jazz Bashara is one of the criminals. She lives in a poor area of Artemis and subsidises her work as a porter with smuggling contraband onto the moon. But it's not enough.So when she's offered the chance to make a lot of money she jumps at it. But though planning a crime in 1/6th gravity may be more fun, it's also a lot more dangerous.When you live on the moon, of course you have a dark side...______________________Andy Weir's new stunning science-based thriller PROJECT HAIL MARY is available now.______________________What everyone's saying about the follow-up to The Martian: 'A smart, fun, fast-paced adventure that you won't be able to put down' Ernest Cline, bestselling author of Ready Player One'What a page turner!' Milda on Goodreads, 5 stars'Fast paced, high octane and highly entertaining' Chrys on Netgalley, 5 stars'Artemis does for the moon what The Martian did for Mars' Guardian'A first rate thriller, this had me hooked from beginning to end' Robert on Netgalley, 5 stars'An absolute must read' Lauren on Goodreads, 5 stars'A clever and action-fuelled story' Culturefly'For those who loved The Martian, you won't be disappointed' Liz on Netgalley, 5 starsTrade ReviewArtemis does for the moon what The Martian did for Mars. His second novel concerns a likeable protagonist in peril, saved by her own resourcefulness, in a tale that leaves readers better informed about science than they were before they read it...Plus the narrator has real charm. There's no question that this novel is going to be a hit * The Guardian *Jazz, Weir’s main character, is a moon-born version of Stieg Larsson’s Lisbeth Salander. She is young, rebellious and a petty criminal...Weir’s great strength, as he showed in The Martian, is to make us believe. His future society living inside massive domes built not far from where Armstrong set foot in 1969 is utterly plausible. * The Times *Weir has done it again: he’s created a diverse and fantastic new world, filled with eclectic and memorable characters, and woven them into a dazzling work of contemporary science fiction – one that’s chock-full of actual science. Artemis is everything you could hope for in a follow-up to his smash debut The Martian: another smart, fun, fast-paced adventure that you won’t be able to put down, featuring a heroine who’s equal parts Ellen Ripley, Arya Stark, and Jyn Erso. I can’t recommend it enough! -- ERNEST CLINE * bestselling author of Ready Player One *All the things I loved about The Martian are here in spades—the hard science Weir somehow makes accessible and riveting, the masterful, never-see-it-coming plotting, but most of all the voice of his new protagonist, Jazz Bashara—an irreverent, witty, vulnerable heroine, who, just like Mark Watney, is exactly the kind of character you’ll want to spend a book with. With Artemis, Andy Weir has done the impossible—he’s topped The Martian with a sci-fi-noir-thriller set in a city on the moon. What more do you want from life? Go read it! -- BLAKE CROUCH * bestselling author of Dark Matter *Weir's great skill, as he already proved with The Martian, is his attention to detail. Artemis is a triumph of imagination * ESQUIRE *

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Book Synopsis_________________________A survival story for the 21st century and the international bestseller behind the major film from Ridley Scott, starring Matt Damon and Jessica Chastain.I'm stranded on Mars.I have no way to communicate with Earth.I'm in a habitat designed to last 31 days.If the oxygenator breaks down, I'll suffocate. If the water reclaimer breaks down, I'll die of thirst. If the hab breaches, I'll just kind of explode. If none of those things happen, I'll eventually run out of food and starve to death.So yeah. I'm screwed.Andy Weir's second novel Artemis is now available, and his latest novel Project Hail Mary is now available for preorder._________________________'A saga of courage, ingenuity and humour... utterly convincing' STEPHEN BAXTERTrade ReviewAndy Weir's masterpiece! -- Tom Hanks * Twitter *Watney's gallows humour and his brushes with death as he uses every ounce of his intelligence and astronaut's training to claw his way out of the pit will have you laughing and gasping by turns. I read this book in a weekend. I didn't think I'd have the time to - but Andy Weir's edge-of-the-seat storytelling didn't leave me any choice. -- Richard Madeley, Richard and Judy Book ClubAndy Weir's terrific 'lost in space' novel is an absolute page turner from first to last ... Tautly-written, full of extraordinary and fascinating detail about life in a frozen red desert so far from home, The Martian is one of the best thrillers either of us has read in years. Highly recommended. -- Judy Finnigan, Richard and Judy Book ClubThe best book I've read in ages. Clear your schedule before you crack the seal. This story will take your breath away faster than a hull breech. Smart, funny, and white-knuckle intense, The Martian is everything you want from a novel. -- Hugh Howey * New York Times bestselling author of Wool *Accomplished…believable but suspenseful as [Watney] battles against the odds for survival * The Guardian *like Gravity meets Robinson Crusoe – utterly nail-biting and memorable. -- James Lovegrove * FT *A book I just couldn’t put down! It has the very rare combination of a good, original story, interestingly real characters and fascinating technical accuracy…reads like MacGyver meets Mysterious Island. -- Astronaut Chris Hadfield * Commander of the International Space Station and author of An Astronaut’s Guide to Life on Earth *The amount of research here is astounding. We’re suckers for well-grounded fiction, and on the technical side, The Martian is exemplary ... witty ... funny * SFX *The Martian kicked my ass! Weir has crafted a relentlessly entertaining and inventive survival thriller, a MacGyver-trapped-on-Mars tale that feels just as real and harrowing as the true story of Apollo 13. -- Ernest Cline * New York Times bestselling author of Ready Player One *Weir’s debut is easily the best SF novel of the year so far * Financial Times *An impressively geeky debut novel ... the technical details keep the story relentlessly precise and the suspense ramped up * Entertainment Weekly *Strong, resilient, and gutsy. It's Robinson Crusoe on Mars, 21st century style. Set aside a chunk of free time when you start this one. You're going to need it because you won't want to put it down. -- Steve BerryThink Apollo 13 ... on Mars! ... A saga of courage, ingenuity and humour - and utterly convincing thanks to superb research. The best space disaster story since Clarke's A Fall of Moondust. -- Stephen Baxterjaw-clenchingly gripping ... a modern-day Apollo13 * Stuff Magazine *Brilliant…a celebration of human ingenuity [and] the purest example of real-science sci-fi for many years…Utterly compelling. * Wall Street Journal *Don’t be put off thinking this is a sci-fi book – it’s so much more than that. Utterly brilliant. * Bella *One of the best thrillers I’ve read in a long time, an incredible story about an astronaut marooned on Mars. This is no science fiction tale: the technology is beautifully researched and based on what is currently envisioned for a manned flight to Mars. It feels so real it could almost be nonfiction, and yet it has the narrative drive and power of a rocket launch. This is Apollo 13 times ten. I could not put this book down. -- Douglas Preston * #1 New York Times bestselling author of Impact and Blasphemy *Gripping…shapes up like Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe as written by someone brighter. -- Larry Niven, multiple Hugo and Nebula Award-winning author of the Ringworld series and Lucifer’s HammerThe tension simply never lets up, from the first page to the last, and at no point does the believability falter for even a second. You can't shake the feeling that this could all really happen. -- Patrick Lee, New York Times bestselling author of The Breach and Ghost CountryWeir has fashioned in Mark Watney one of the most appealing, funny and resourceful characters in recent fiction ... gripping * Huffington Post *one of the best survival stories you’ll ever read (think Robinson Crusoe on Mars only more extreme). -- Martin Sorenson * Publishers Weekly *Sharp, funny and thrilling, with just the right amount of geekery. * Kirkus *Apollo 13-meets-Robinson-Crusoe-on-Mars, and I guess for those who enjoyed the films Gravity or Moon, this one will be a literary equivalent ... I was, in the end, totally won over by this book in its celebration of how humans can deal with anything the harshness of science and extreme environments can pose, and it kept me reading longer than I meant to * SFFworld.com *one of the most thrilling and absorbing novels I have ever read * Sfcrowsnest *Riveting...a tightly constructed and completely believable story of a man's ingenuity and strength in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. * Booklist *Weir combines the heart-stopping with the humorous in this brilliant debut novel... the perfect mix of action and space adventure. * Library Journal (starred) *An exciting, insightful science- based tale [that] kept me turning the pages to see what ingenious solution our hero would concoct to survive yet anotherimpossible dilemma * Terry Brooks *

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Book SynopsisThree complete radio dramas featuring writer-cum-amateur detective Paul Temple, plus bonus archive material. When it comes to classic crime partnerships, Paul Temple and his wife Steve are the crème de la crème. Between 1938 and 1968 their glamorous exploits enthralled generations of radio listeners around the world. Here, presented in chronological order, are some of the amateur detective's earliest adventures. 'Send for Paul Temple' (1940) is an early remake of the now-lost original 1938 BBC production. 'Paul Temple Intervenes' (1942) finds Paul and Steve investigating a series of celebrity murders, whilst 'Paul Temple and the Vandyke Affair' (the original 1950 production, presented here for the very first time) concerns the strange disappearance of the Desmond baby and her sitter. Hugh Morton, Bernard Braden, Carl Bernard and Peter Coke play Paul in these episodes, with Bernadette Hodgson, Peggy Hassard and Marjorie Westbury as Steve. A bonus disc features rare archive material from otherwise lost productions, including the final episodes of 'Send for Paul Temple' (1938) and 'Paul Temple and the Front Page Men' (1938). Duration: 11 hours approx.

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Book Synopsis"My masters will follow the example of Rome... our mighty empire bestraddling the whole of civilization!"It is AD 79, and the TARDIS lands in Pompeii on the eve of the town's destruction. Mount Vesuvius is ready to erupt and bury its surroundings in molten lava, just as history dictates. Or is it?The Doctor and Donna find that Pompeii is home to impossible things: circuits made of stone, soothsayers who read minds and fiery giants made of burning rock. From a lair deep in the volcano, these creatures plot the end of humanity - and the Doctor soon finds he has no way to win...Trade ReviewThis is so much more than merchandise...these novels are connecting us together even now. All the way across time and space -- Russell T DaviesTarget books offered much more than just a window into Doctor Who: they were a formative part of my reading experience -- Alastair ReynoldsTarget writers performed quite a invaluable service in 'saving' these stories...so don't think of this book as just another novel. It's a slice of Who history -- Stephen BaxterIt became a ritual, saving pocket money, then deciding which Target book to go for. I devoured them -- Mark Gatiss

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Book Synopsis"Why is your first impulse to reach for your swords and never a screwdriver?"The Doctor and Romana's search for the fourth segment of the all-powerful Key to Time leads them to the planet Tara, where courtly intrigue and romantic pageantry employ the most sophisticated technology.Within hours of arriving, Romana is mistaken for a powerful princess and the Doctor forced to dally with robotic royalty - and both are quickly embroiled in the scheming ambitions of the wicked Count Grendel. Finding the segment of the Key is easy enough, but escaping with it in one piece will prove an altogether more colourful affair...Trade ReviewThis is so much more than merchandise...these novels are connecting us together even now. All the way across time and space -- Russell T DaviesTarget books offered much more than just a window into Doctor Who: they were a formative part of my reading experience -- Alastair ReynoldsTarget writers performed quite a invaluable service in 'saving' these stories...so don't think of this book as just another novel. It's a slice of Who history -- Stephen BaxterIt became a ritual, saving pocket money, then deciding which Target book to go for. I devoured them -- Mark Gatiss

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Book Synopsis"To protect a muddy little hillside, you doomed your whole world!"The Doctor takes Bill and Nardole back to 2nd century Scotland to learn the fate of the 'lost' Ninth Legion of the Imperial Roman Army. 5,000 soldiers vanished without explanation - how?The search for the truth leads the Doctor and his friends into a deadly mystery. Who is the Guardian of the Gate? What nightmare creature roams the wildlands, darkening the sky and destroying all in its path? A threat from another dimension has been unleashed on the Earth, and only a terrible sacrifice can put things right...Trade ReviewThis is so much more than merchandise...these novels are connecting us together even now. All the way across time and space -- Russell T DaviesTarget books offered much more than just a window into Doctor Who: they were a formative part of my reading experience -- Alastair ReynoldsTarget writers performed quite a invaluable service in 'saving' these stories...so don't think of this book as just another novel. It's a slice of Who history -- Stephen BaxterIt became a ritual, saving pocket money, then deciding which Target book to go for. I devoured them -- Mark Gatiss

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Book Synopsis"We won't find Dracula hanging around the Manor. But we may find something equally disturbing..."The Doctor is delighted when his quest for the Key to Time leads him to his favourite planet, Earth. But his friends are less enchanted: Romana is nearly lured to her death by a sinister apparition, and K9 is all but destroyed by a belligerent boulder with the power to move - and a thirst for blood.An ancient stone circle becomes a battleground as the Doctor must outwit the deadliest alien criminal this side of hyperspace - and her bloodthirsty silicon servants...Trade ReviewThis is so much more than merchandise...these novels are connecting us together even now. All the way across time and space -- Russell T DaviesTarget books offered much more than just a window into Doctor Who: they were a formative part of my reading experience -- Alastair ReynoldsTarget writers performed quite a invaluable service in 'saving' these stories...so don't think of this book as just another novel. It's a slice of Who history -- Stephen BaxterIt became a ritual, saving pocket money, then deciding which Target book to go for. I devoured them -- Mark Gatiss

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Book Synopsis"Water is patient... water just waits. Water always wins!"November 21st 2059, and Bowie Base One - the first human colony on Mars - is destined for destruction in a nuclear explosion. This tragedy is a fixed point in history. The Laws of Time dictate that it cannot - must never - be changed.The Doctor arrives just as a viral life-form escapes from the Martian ice into the base's water supply. A single drop can transform a human into a terrifying monster with the power to infect others. History records that the threat is destroyed along with the base and every human in it. But as his darkest hour comes calling, the Doctor resolves to break the rules as he never has before...

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Book SynopsisDing Dong!The TARDIS is invaded. A plea for help delivered by robot summons the Doctor and her friends Yaz, Graham and Ryan to Kerblam - the biggest retailer in the galaxy. Posing as new recruits among the thousands of human workers, the TARDIS crew uncover a deadly plot that threatens the life of every person in the warehouse - and beyond.Who has sent for the Doctor? What is the dark secret at the heart of Kerblam's operations? And who will escape the merciless Postmen...?

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Book Synopsis"Here on Saturn, it literally rains diamonds."For over fifteen years the crew of Kollo-Zarnista Mining Facility 27 has been extracting diamonds from deep within the atmosphere of Saturn, diamonds that help to fund the ever-expanding Human Empire. But when a mining operation goes wrong, a rescue mission must be launched to save a worker lost overboard, a worker who claims that he has seen something amongst the swirling clouds. Something that can't possibly exist.When the Doctor and Bill arrive, they immediately find themselves caught between hostile miners, suspicious security guards and corrupt company officials as they face accusations of sabotage and diamond theft.And below them, in the crushing atmosphere of the gas giant, something is starting to rise.An original novel featuring the Twelfth Doctor and Bill as played by Peter Capaldi and Pearl Mackie.

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Book Synopsis"The Ood came from a distant world, they voyaged across the stars, all for one purpose... to serve."The TARDIS lands on the Ood-Sphere in the year 4126. Here, human profiteers have subjugated the Ood: the gentle creatures are forced into servitude and sold across the galaxy as the perfect slaves. But now, some are fighting back. Their eyes turn red as they throw off their chains and kill their oppressors... The Doctor and Donna soon learn that the planet of the Ood holds cruel and awesome secrets. As they battle for justice and survival, the fate of the entire Ood race hangs in the balance. Will the outcome be salvation - or extinction?

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Book SynopsisA sinister toyshop. The Earth erupting in violence. Shockwaves travelling through history. With old friends powerless to help, the Doctor is drawn into a deadly duel against an old nemesis who can bend reality to his will – and change the Doctor’s future for ever…Based on a script by Russell T Davies, this thrilling third adventure for Doctor Who’s 60th anniversary features David Tennant as the Fourteenth Doctor and Catherine Tate as Donna Noble, as well as introducing Ncuti Gatwa as the Fifteenth Doctor.

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Book SynopsisA ship at the edge of space. A robot with a secret. A sinister presence.The Doctor and Donna are trapped on board a mysterious spacecraft. Fate of the crew: unknown. Fate of the universe if what’s on board gets out: terminal.Based on a script by Russell T Davies, the spectacular second adventure for Doctor Who’s 60th anniversary features David Tennant as the Fourteenth Doctor and Catherine Tate as Donna Noble.

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Book Synopsis_____________________AN UNEXPECTED QUEST. TWO WORLDS AT STAKE. ARE YOU READY? Days after winning OASIS founder James Halliday's contest, Wade Watts makes a discovery that changes everything. Hidden within Halliday's vaults, waiting for his heir to find, lies a technological advancement that will once again change the world and make the OASIS a thousand times more wondrous- and addictive- than even Wade dreamed possible. With it comes a new riddle, and a new quest- a last Easter egg from Halliday, hinting at a mysterious prize. And an unexpected, impossibly powerful, and dangerous new rival awaits, one who'll kill millions to get what he wants. Wade's life and the future of the OASIS are again at stake, but this time the fate of humanity also hangs in the balance. Lovingly nostalgic and wildly original as only Ernest Cline could conceive it, Ready Player Two takes us on another imaginative, fun, action-packed adventure through his beloved virtual universe, and jolts us thrillingly into the future once again. _____________________Praise for Ready Player One:'Enchanting . . . Willy Wonka meets The Matrix.' USA Today'An addictive read . . . part intergalactic scavenger hunt, part romance, and all heart.' CNN'Delightful . . . the grown-up's Harry Potter.' HuffPost'As one adventure leads expertly to the next, time simply evaporates.' Entertainment Weekly'Gorgeously geeky, superbly entertaining, [and] spectacularly successful.' Daily Mail'A smart, funny thriller that both celebrates and critiques online culture.' San Francisco Chronicle'A geek fantasia, '80s culture memoir and commentary on the future of online behavior all at once.' Austin American-Statesman

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Book SynopsisBrought to you by Penguin. Reacher never backs down from a problem.And he's about to find a big one, on a deserted road in Arizona, where a car has crashed into the only tree for miles around.Minutes later, Reacher is heading into town. To introduce himself to the shadowy crew who made it happen.Their boss has a terrifying reputation and the stakes are high. Just to get in and meet him, Reacher is going to have to achieve the impossible.To get answers will be even harder. There are people in this hostile, empty place who would rather die, than reveal their secrets.But then, if Reacher is coming after you, you might be better off dead.© Lee Child, Andrew Child 2021 (P) Penguin Audio 2021Trade ReviewClassic Reacher, great story. Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant. * Conn Iggulden on THE SENTINEL *Thoroughly entertaining . . . it's good to have some of Reacher's brutal certainties back. * The Times on THE SENTINEL *The one man revenge machine seems revitalised. Great stuff. * Sun on THE SENTINEL *The coolest continuing series character. * Stephen King *Jack Reacher is today's James Bond, a thriller hero we can't get enough of. * Ken Follett *

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Book SynopsisBrought to you by Penguin.M's funeral.One man missing from the graveside.The traitor accused of his murder.Bond.Behind the Iron Curtain, a group of former Smersh agents want to use the British spy in an operation that will change the balance of world power. Bond is smuggled into the lion's den - but whose orders is he following, and will he obey them when the moment of truth arrives?In a mission where treachery is all around and one false move means death, James Bond must grapple with the darkest questions about himself. But not even he knows what has happened to the man he used to be.Discover the latest chapter in the world of 007, brought thrillingly to life by Sunday Times bestselling author Anthony Horowitz.© Anthony Horowitz 2022 (P) Penguin Audio 2022Trade ReviewThe super spy is back, with a fresh injection from novelist and screenwriter extraordinaire, Anthony Horowitz. The expert in suspense takes us back to the beginning of James Bond’s story… the story rips along with plenty of familiar Bond staples: evil villains, fast cars and women falling for young Bond’s charms. Ian Fleming would be proud. * Guardian *Daring, exciting, and also superbly plotted, it shows Bond questioning his loyalties at the end of his career. It marks a fitting end to a trilogy from Horowitz that Fleming would surely have approved of -- Jon Coates * Sunday Express *In many ways, Horowitz has now surpassed Fleming and the final book in his Bond trilogy is a masterpiece. It's a literary thriller writing at its page-turning finest.' * Daily Express *Horowitz is a worthy successor to Ian Fleming, putting 007 back in his true domain… This New Bond is up there with the better Old Bonds… The denouement is a very fine piece of action writing… Horowitz has done splendidly. * Scotsman *Horowitz is a worthy successor to Ian Fleming, putting 007 back in his true domain… This New Bond is up there with the better Old Bonds… The denouement is a very fine piece of action writing… Horowitz has done splendidly. * Scotsman *

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Book SynopsisTalented young pickpocket, Michael Violet, is now working for a government intelligence agency and on the right side of the law for the first time in his adult life. When the agency set their sights on bringing down Miami drug lord, Lenny Tripps, Michael is deemed the perfect agent for the job. Tripps is a Howard Hughes style recluse who hasn’t left his heavily-guarded penthouse in years – only a man with Michael’s talents could even think about getting inside. However, once inside Lenny Tripp’s world, nothing is what it seems. Michael soon finds himself out of depth as he desperately tries to save the life of an innocent young boy caught in the middle of a vicious drugs war.

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Book SynopsisWas it really an iceberg that sunk the Titanic? Or is that just what they want you to think? On Sunday 15 April 1912, the 'unsinkable' RMS Titanic sinks on her maiden voyage to New York. But the truth is quickly suppressed.On board she carries three men scheming to create a new military alliance between the USA and Germany. Their goal – war with Great Britain and the destruction of the British Empire. Alex Tremayne and his American colleague Maria Weston are sent by British Intelligence to stop the spies, and with them the greatest war in history.On a voyage bristling with intrigue, Alex and Maria have one aim: to stop the conspirators from reaching America – at any cost…From Sunday Times bestseller James Becker, The Titanic Secret is perfect for fans of Dan Brown, Clive Cussler and James Rollins.

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Book SynopsisTo find the truth, one must first uncover the lies...When a Catholic priest hangs himself at the Pope’s inauguration in St. Peter’s Square, his friend, Professor Alex Harker, is dragged into a secret war. The suicide sets into motion a timetable of terrifying events that will irrevocably change the world as we know it. With the clock ticking, pursued by a deadly assassin, Harker must track down and decipher pieces of a puzzle laid down by the dead priest.Harker finds himself in an epic battle – one that has been playing out on the fringes of society since the birth of Christ. It threatens to reveal a truth so shocking that it could enslave and transform mankind's destiny forever. A rip-roaring crypto-thriller fuller of twists and action, perfect for readers of Dan Brown, Scott Mariani and Chris Kuzneski.

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Book SynopsisMany truths lie hidden beneath the desert sands… You are an orphan with a strange gift for magic. Hunted by the church, you have fled south to the desert lands of Khitesh, lured by tales of exotic adventure and fabulous riches. However, a simple treasure-seeking mission quickly turns sour, plunging you into the heart of a criminal underworld, where shady dealings and poisoned blades hide a deadly secret. Do you have what it takes to survive on the cut-throat tides of the Dune Sea? You decide in this epic fantasy adventure – one where you make the decisions.

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Book SynopsisHe''s known as the class clown - the kid with a lot of nerve. And some believe thirteen-year-old Jack Mathias is too confident for his own good. His audacious practical jokes and impulsiveness frequently land him in hot water and growing up seems a world away. However, a sudden wild adventure with his unlikely companions, Gene (the nerd) and Edgar (the shy outcast), thrusts Jack towards maturity with more of a shove than normal life would ever have managed. Will he meet the challenge?The trio''s illicit and desperate quest to find long-hidden treasure leads them into great danger, challenging their collective wits and testing the limits of their physical and mental endurance. Will Jack, the natural, fearless leader, discover the ancient jewels and a different version of himself in the process? Or will he avoid personal responsibility for the rest of his life?

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Book Synopsis'Compelling, disturbing, entertaining, this is a bloody riot from start to finish. In every good sense' Theodore Brun, author of A Burning SeaConflict flares once more in Saxony...March, AD 773. Bjarki Bloodhand is now Fire Born – a legendary berserker inhabited by the ferocious spirit of a bear in battle. Yet he has sworn never again to allow that sacred rage to possess him, lest he for ever lose himself in the madness like his father.Tor Hildarsdottir yearns to save pagan Saxony from the grip of the Christian Franks, who now occupy half the region. But she also has serious problems closer to home with her fast-growing pet bear cub, Garm, and, worse, she seems to be falling in love.Widukind, new lord of the Saxons, is on a mission to reconquer the lands of his fathers from the Franks. He will stop at nothing to win the hearts of the men and women of the North, and bind them to his cause. But will they follow the Saxon Wolf in an unwinnable war? And will Bjarki join them?The epic second novel in the Fire Born saga, perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell, Giles Kristian, and Matthew Harffy.Praise for The Saxon Wolf 'Donald has spun another terrific yarn, skilfully interweaving heart-thumping action sequences with a compelling plot... his writing is original and completely convincing. The Saxon Wolf is another step forward and a step up in the Fire Born series. Compelling, disturbing, entertaining, this is a bloody riot from start to finish. In every good sense' Theodore Brun, author of A Burning SeaPraise for The Last Berserker, Volume One in the Fire Born series‘Donald has taken the legendary berserkers, those frothing-at-the-mouth shield-biters, and made them human, which once again proves that Donald is a writer not only at the top of his game, but of the game ... It is a wonderful, rich and violent brew. I welcome Angus Donald to the shield wall of Viking fiction like a thirsty man welcomes a mead-brother to the feast ... A tale worthy of the skalds’ Giles Kristian, author of the Raven series‘With The Last Berserker, Donald has given us the first cut of some serious Dark Age beef. By turns heart-racing, intriguing, and touching, this is not a book for the faint-hearted – I can’t wait for more’ Theodore Brun, author of A Burning Sea‘The Last Berserker strikes with the thundering power of Thor's hammer... rich with the earthy depth, historical detail, intrigue, violence and adventure that we expect from Donald. But it is Bjarki and Tor that make The Last Berserker stand out... Donald's masterful creations will live on in the imagination long after the final page’ Matthew Harffy, author of the Bernicia Chronicles'A wonderful, blood-soaked tale of redemption and revenge, set amidst the eighth century clash of civilisations between Pagan Vikings and Christian Franks, by a master of the genre’ Saul David, author of Zulu Hart'Loved this tale of a berserker facing up against the tidal wave of Charlemagne’s expansion. Great characters, brilliantly paced and explosive, gritty battle-scenes. Highly recommended' John Gwynne, author of Malice‘Well researched detail and stunning battle scenes make The Last Berserker a white knuckle ride. A thrilling, up-all-night read’ C. R. May, author of The Day of the Wolf'I loved it. Bjarki and Tor are great characters, instantly relatable. The depth of the immersion in their world and their values gives the book authenticity and weight' Cecelia Holland, author of The Soul Thief

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Book SynopsisSome promises should never be broken.AD 1055. With the crisis of 1051 long behind them and finally coming to terms with the death of Sweyn, the Godwin family’s influence across England is growing. Harold enjoys a position of trust with King Edward and the country is at peace, but Edward knows that he needs an heir before it is too late.In Hungary, there is one potential heir with royal blood running through his veins, but before he can be contacted another king, much closer to home, rises to power, and Harold finds himself torn between diplomacy and violence to maintain the peace.With King Edward relying on him more and more, Harold travels to Normandy to find the two hostages still missing after many years. But while there, he uncovers a situation far more dangerous than any threat from the Welsh king...With England now being torn apart by internal politics, can Harold forge unity amongst his fellow nobles before it is too late?The gripping next step along the road to Hastings, perfect for fans of Conn Iggulden.

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Book SynopsisThe king is dead. The fight to replace him begins...1066 dawns on a fractious England. The death of Edward the Confessor has set in motion a chain of events that can no longer be stopped.In London, Harold Godwinson, anointed king by Edward on his deathbed, girds the nation for war.Across the channel in Normandy, Duke William prepares his invasion fleet to sail, supported by Harald’s treacherous brother, Tostig, who has promised to help William strike at the very heart of England.Battle shall be joined in Hastings, and the future of the country decided with sword, lance and bow.K. M. Ashman delivers the epic showpiece finale to the Road to Hastings trilogy, perfect for fans of Conn Iggulden and David Gilman.

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Book Synopsis1274 AD. War is brewing between Wales and England.Henry III is dead. His son, Edward Longshanks, is on his way back from the Crusades to claim the crown and impose his iron will on a weakened country.In South Wales, two young brothers, Garyn and Geraint, attempt to rebuild their lives after a terrifying ordeal in Acre. Desperate to heal old wounds and provide for their futures, the appearance of an old enemy tears them apart once more and forces them onto different paths.The nobles of North Wales, nervous and frustrated at the inaction of their leader, make a daring pact to replace him with a figurehead to unite the warring factions against the English prince.The compelling second novel in the Medieval Sagas, perfect for fans of Christian Cameron, David Gilman and Ben Kane.

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Book SynopsisBeyond help. Beyond redemption?In a Soviet prison camp near Murmansk is an old man, bowed but not broken, identified only by a number. Were his name known, his fellow inmates would kill him.For this old man is Stepan Povin, former KGB general, now disgraced but kept alive for the sake of the secret that he has retained through two years of interrogation.Povin’s secret is the final link in a chain, the completion of which would make his former masters very happy indeed – a secret which draws British Intelligence ever closer to the camp in the Arctic Circle...The gripping conclusion to the General Povin trilogy, perfect for fans of Robert Harris, John le Carré and Martin Cruz Smith.Praise for John Trenhaile‘Trenhaile has written a stunning and remarkable novel of treachery and betrayal... brilliantly conceived’ Booklist on The Man Called Kyril‘Does for the KGB what le Carré does for the British Intelligence Service’ Philadelphia Inquirer on The Man Called Kyril‘Kept me guessing to the very end...if you like Gorky Park you’ll like Kyril’ Newsday on The Man Called Kyril

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Book SynopsisAt age fifty, Graeme and Candy have a mid-life crisis! Abandon their comfortable Edinburgh life and move to Tanzania where they rent a cottage on a deserted beach near an old friend who tragically dies and they have to bury. Out of the blue they accept a job to manage a luxury safari lodge in the middle of the wild African bush. Surrounded by witch doctors and an array of eccentric and exotic friends they set out on a new career while surviving bouts of malaria, scorpion stings and encounters with lions. As the years pass, their life becomes an exciting rollercoaster of emotions and madcap adventures as they are submerged into the local culture and gradually become respected members of the Maasai community. Floating on the surface like swans, they paddle furiously below water as they cater to their international guests'' every whim. Life is not dull. Each tale is told with a touching blend of humour, tragedy, gratitude and joy. Graeme and Candy fell in love with Africa. Reading this book, it is impossible not to do the same.

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Book SynopsisTahira longs for one thing: freedom. But as she is a slave in the land of Typeg, she knows she is doomed to work, be beaten, and sold to other Masters until she dies. Freedom is impossible for her, even when her Mistress takes her on an indefinite ocean voyage. But a few weeks into the voyage, a pirate ship attacks. Tahira is taken aboard, but the mysterious Captain Haefen refuses to tell her where he''s taking her. Now forced to live among dangerous pirates, Tahira wonders if she will ever be free.

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Book Synopsis"The tank mounted on the converted DC-10 holds 12,000 gallons. The mixture is one part crystal to nine parts water. The crystals are placed in the tank first, then the water is added. At that point, the sarin crystals dissolve into a solution. That''s the lethal combination. Picture a DC-10 air tanker over a wildfire. When the plane is over the target, the pilot releases the fire retardant. The drop itself takes eight seconds and covers a path 300 feet wide by one mile in length. But we''re not dropping a fire retardant. When our mixture is released, the water evaporates in the atmosphere, leaving sarin gas." Read this engaging tale of espionage that will set your heart racing. William Congdon''s prose is immersive, sharp, and to-the-point. Violence, radicalism, class struggle, and self-annihilation are only a few of the themes that the novel explores in a crisp manner.

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