Contemporary Fiction Books

Book SynopsisA beautiful, compelling, utterly original new novel from one of the most important American writers of our time, and winner of the National Book Award for Fiction, 2012Pluto, North Dakota, is a town on the verge of extinction. Here, everybody is connected by love or friendship, by blood, and, most importantly, by the burden of a shared history.Growing up on the reservation is Evelina Harp, witty and ambitious, and prone to falling hopelessly in love. Listening to her grandfather''s tales, she learns of a horrific crime that has marked both Ojibwe and whites. Nobody understands it better than Judge Antone Bazil Coutts, who keeps watch over Pluto''s inhabitants and recounts their lives with compassion and rare insight.Louise Erdrich''s sense of the comic and the tragic sweeps readers along to the surprising conclusion of this stunning novel, a portrait of the complex allegiances, passions and drama of a haunting land and its all-too-human people.Trade Review‘Louise Erdrich’s imaginative freedom has reached its zenith – ‘The Plague of Doves’ is her dazzling masterpiece.’ Philip Roth 'A masterly new novel … Writing in prose that combines the magical sleight of hand of Gabriel Garcia Marquez with the earthy, American rhythms of Faulkner, Ms. Erdrich … has written what is arguably her most ambitious – and in many ways, her most deeply affecting – work yet.' Michiko Kakutani, New York Times ‘Confirms her reputation as a writer able to combine the apocalyptic with the mundane world whose inhabitants are set loose to roam the heavens in spirit but are ballasted always by their defiantly human bodies.' Observer 'You could read Louise Erdrich's latest book for its wisdom … Or you could read ‘The Plague of Doves’ for its poetry … in the end, you’ll read this book for its stories … The stories told by her characters offer pleasures of language, of humor, of sheer narrative momentum, that shine even in the darkest moments of the book.' Boston Globe 'Wholly felt and exquisitely rendered tales of memory and magic … By the novel’s end, and in classic Erdrich fashion, every luminous fragment has been assembled into an intricate tapestry that deeply satisfies the mind, the heart, and the spirit.' O magazine

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Book SynopsisA gutsy, heartfelt novel' Sunday Times[Shriver's] best novel yet' Independent on SundayA surprising sledgehammer of a novel' The TimesShriver is brilliant on the novel shock that is hunger glorious, fearless, almost fanatically hard-working prose' GuardianLionel Shriver''s Big Brother has the muscle to overpower its readers. It is a conversation piece of impressive heft' New York TimesShriver is wonderful at the things she is always wonderful at. Pace and plot. . . . Psychology' IndependentThe latest compelling, humane and bleakly comic novel from the author of We Need to Talk about Kevin' Evening StandardHer best work presents characters so fully formed that they inhabit her ideas rather than trumpet them' New RepublicWhen Pandora picks up her older brother Edison at her local Iowa airport, she literally doesn't recognize him. The once slim, hip New York jazz pianist has gained hundreds of pounds. What happened?Soon Edison's slovenly habits, appalling diet, and know-it-all monologues Trade Review‘Glorious, fearless … possibly her very best’ OBSERVER ‘Her best novel yet’ INDEPENDENT ‘A brilliant writer. She has a strong, clear and strangely seductive voice. The characters are strong . . . so moving it will make you want to gasp or cry’ SUNDAY TIMES ‘Piercingly bleak in tone and formally original in execution . . . reminding us, not a moment too soon, that Shriver is a novelist as well as a polemicist’ DAILY TELEGRAPH ‘From the start I was gripped. Once again, Shriver has provided much food for thought’ DAILY MAIL ‘Lionel Shriver’s Big Brother has the muscle to overpower its readers. It is a conversation piece of impressive heft’ NEW YORK TIMES ‘Big Brother finds the funny – and the pathos – in fat’USA TODAY ‘Brilliantly done’ EVENING STANDARD ‘Pandora is a masterly creation’ NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW

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Book SynopsisSometimes what you want isn't always what you needWhen Matt decides to uproot his family and move to Ireland, his wife Hope has no choice but to go with him. But their move is a far cry from the rustic romantic life that he promised with Matt spending every day at the local arts centre, Hope has to look after the children on her own in their small run-down cottage, miles away her friends. It''s not long before she''s desperately lonely and she''s got nowhere to turn.Back in London, her sister Sam is completely different. Brittle and sharp, she''s a mover and a shaker, with a fantastic job as the managing director of a major record label. Having decided she''s never going to be anybody''s accessory, she oozes a well-practiced unapproachable air.But just as Hope is having to reassess her life and learn to be stronger and more independent, so Sam is forced to reshuffle the pieces of her world . . .Wild child Nicole Turner reckoned that she'd still be going for wild party nights with the Trade ReviewPraise for Cathy Kelly ‘Warm, lyrical, fascinating and comforting…genius!’ Marian Keyes 'Vintage Kelly territory – it's a book for those who believe in love' Evening Herald 'Entertaining, moving and as vivid as a screenplay – presents a picture of the lives of Irish women which, like all good fiction, brings the truth into sharp relief' Irish Independent

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Book SynopsisWhen Joss, an adopted child, discovers that her real mother has left the beautiful family home, Belheddon Hall, to her, she is thrilled, until she discovers that the Hall is haunted by a presence which will not tolerate husbands or sons living in the house.Joss Grant is eager to begin a new life when she inherits Belheddon Hall. She brings her husband, Luke, and their small son, Tom, to the dilapidated house, and sets about discovering her family roots.But not long after they move in, Tom wakes screaming at night. Joss hears echoing voices and senses an invisible presence watching her from the shadows. Are they spirits from the past? As she learns, with mounting horror, of Belheddon's tragic history, she realises that both her family and her own sanity are at the mercy of a violent and powerful energy that seems beyond anyone's control.Readers LOVE Barbara Erskine:Atmospheric' ?????Enthralling' ?????Spellbinding' ?????Another fabulous read from the mistress of the genre' ?????ImmenselyTrade Review'Her forte is mood, atmosphere and the toe-curling frisson.' Sunday Times ‘Readers of Barbara Erskine are held in thrall’Woman’s Realm ‘Stephen King meeting Ruth Rendell’Frank Delaney 'Barbara Erskine's storytelling talent is undeniable' The Times

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Book SynopsisA terrifying vision of the future from one of the twentieth century's most renowned writers J. G. Ballard, author of Empire of the Sun' and Crash'.Following the energy crisis of the late twentieth-century America has been abandoned. Now, a century later, an expedition from Europe returns to the deserted continent. But America is unrecognisable the Bering Strait has been dammed and the whole continent has become a desert, populated by isolated natives and the bizarre remnants of a disintegrated culture.The expedition sets off from Manhattan on a cross-continent journey, through Holiday Inns and abandoned theme parks. They will uncover a shocking new power in the heart of Las Vegas in this unique vision of our world transformed.This edition is part of a new commemorative series of Ballard's works, featuring introductions from a number of his admirers (including Ned Beauman, Ali Smith, Neil Gaiman and Martin Amis) and brand-new cover designs.Trade Review‘Mordant and inventive, Ballard at his best’ New Statesman ‘It is futile to have expectations of Ballard: he will inevitably subvert them. All we know for certain is that the novels he will write could not be written, could not even be guessed at, by anyone else’ Martin Amis, Observer ‘Enter Mr Ballard’s worlds and you become entranced in a séance difficult to break out of, so powerful is his method’ The Times ‘This is a very clever fiction, and – yes – another amazing improvisation on Ballard's basic theme’ Guardian

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Book SynopsisIt''s official. Angela Clarke is in love with the mostfabulous city in the world.Fleeing her cheating boyfriend and clutching little more than a crumpled bridesmaid dress, a pair of Louboutins and her passport, Angela jumps on a plane, destination New York.Holed up in a cute hotel room, Angela gets a NYC makeover from her NBFJenny and a whirlwind tour of the city that never sleeps. Before she knows it, Angela is dating two sexy guys. And, best of all, she gets to write about it in her new blog (Carrie Bradshaw eat your heart out). But it''s one thing telling readers about your romantic dilemmas, it''s another figuring them out for yourself.Angela has fallen head over heels for the big applebut does she heart New York more than home?Trade ReviewPraise for Lindsey Kelk: 'A hilarious must read for Sex and the City fans.' Closer ‘When it comes to hilarious romcoms, nobody does it better – I heart Lindsey Kelk!’ The Sun ‘Witty, funny, warm and wise’ Marian Keyes ‘Fun, feisty and fabulous…effortlessly comic’ Press Association ‘This fresh, romantic comedy has a smart and truthful voice and some entertainingly outrageous moments’ Sunday Mirror ‘Witty, hilarious, sexy, pacy… a smart, laugh-out-loud triumph. Just brilliant!’ Heat

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Book SynopsisI Heart series book 2. Celebs, sunshine and beautiful boysenough to lead a girl astray?Angela Clark can't believe her luck she's an English girl living in New York with a dream job at hip magazine The Look and a sexy boyfriend.Her latest assignment takes her to Hollywood to interview hot actor and fellow Brit James Jacobs.Thrown in at the deep end she heads west with best friend Jenny dreaming of Rodeo Drive and Malibu beach.Soon Angela discovers that celebrity life in Hollywood is not all glamour, gloss and sunshine. Despite his lady-killer reputation, the only person who seems genuine is James.Then a paparazzi snaps them in an uncompromising position and suddenly Angela is thrust into the spotlight for all the wrong reasonsCan she convince all those close to her especially her boss and her boyfriend not to believe everything they read? And will Hollywood ever win Angela's heart?Trade ReviewPraise for I heart Hollywood: 'Perfect for those wishing to escape from the reality of cold winter nights. ****' Heat ‘Littered with plenty of laughs and surprises, this superb sequel won’t fail to satisfy your expectations.’ Closer 'Chicklit fans will put a big shiny star on this deliciously entertaining wander through tinseltown!' Scottish Daily Record Praise for I heart New York: 'A hilarious must read for Sex and the City fans.' Closer

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Book SynopsisAngela is in the city of love but romance is taking a nose-diveWhen Angela Clark's boyfriend Alex suggests a trip to Paris at the same time as hip fashion mag Belle asks her to write a piece, she jumps at the chance.But even as she's falling for the joie de vivre of Paris, someone's conspiring to sabotage her big break. And when she spots Alex having a tête-à-tête with his ex in a local bar, Angela's dreams of Parisian passion all start crashing down around her.With London and her old life only a train journey away, Angela can't decide if should stay and face the music or run away homeTrade ReviewPraise for I heart Paris: ‘More down-to-earth and enjoyable girly fodder from rising chick-lit star Kelk’ Heat ‘Fun, romantic and warm, this is a perfect summer read.’ Closer Praise for the I Heart… series: 'A hilarious must read for Sex and the City fans.' Closer ‘This is a humbling, girly read, perfect for those wishing to escape from the reality of cold winter nights.’ Heat 'A fun read…leaves you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside' Company 'Chicklit fans will put a big shiny star on this deliciously entertaining wander through tinseltown!' Daily Record 'Littered with plenty of laughs and surprises, this superb sequel won't fail to satisfy your expectations' Closer

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Book SynopsisStunning repackage of the story of a woman trapped in the wrong time. Abandoned by her twentieth century lover, she plots a terrible revenge on him and his family.Adam Craig is fourteen when he meets Brid near an isolated Celtic stone in the wild Scottish Highlands he is fascinated by her. They become friends, and, in time, passionate lovers. She leads him, unsuspecting, into the sixth century, where she has mastered the ancient mysteries and dangerous magic of the Druids.In her obsession with Adam, Brid is seen as a traitor by her people, only escaping death by following Adam to Edinburgh, when he leaves home to study medicine.As the years pass he makes new friends and finds new love. But Brid is consumed by jealousy and haunts him like an evil shadow, until, fifty years on, Adam's granddaughter helps him discover the secret that will free them from the terror of Brid's curse.Readers LOVE Barbara Erskine:Atmospheric' ?????Enthralling' ?????Spellbinding' ?????Another fabulous read froTrade ReviewPraise for Barbara Erskine The Warrior’s Princess: ‘An engrossing race against time’ Woman and Home ‘This is one of the most gripping page-turners I’ve read’ Sun Barbara’s many bestsellers: ‘A riveting timeslip novel’ Fanny Blake ‘Her forte is mood, atmosphere and the toe-curling frisson’ Elizabeth Buchan, Sunday Times ‘Stephen King meets Ruth Rendell’ Frank Delaney ‘Barbara Erskine’s storytelling talent is undeniable’ The Times

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Book SynopsisAn exciting new talent, shortlisted for the 1997 Booker Prize, hailed as a triumph' by The Times, and a poignant observer of human hearts, foibles and follies. 'There isn't a false note in the book, nothing but ravishing grace, wit and tender feelings.' Mail on SundayNicola's problems began when she is finally told by her partner, Jonathan, that we should part'. She nips out to the off-licence to buy cigarettes and returns to find a stranger in her living room. The stranger looks like Jonathan, talks like Jonathan, yet Nicola did not recognise him as the man he was before. Jonathan had always been predictable, but now Nicola wondered where was the man she loved? How did he become such a mystery all of a sudden? Since when did a solicitor have hidden depths? Friends gather round, always ready to offer encouragement or insult her ex-husband, yet Nicola must face up to the adjustments of Life After Jonathan. It is not the experience of liberation, empowerment and excitement it is meant toTrade Review‘An astute observation of English manners’ Independent on Sunday ‘The touch is light, the dialogue crisp and funny, and the strength to be gained from friendships shines like a beacon’ Sunday Times ‘Delivered with humour and her dialogue is so real, you could almost believe she’s been eavesdropping in lots of west London households.’ She

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Book SynopsisA powerful story of love, shocking secrets and malignant forces from the No. 1 bestselling author Josephine Cox.All Jack''s life, the nightmares had haunted him, dragging him back to a place where it was always midnightMolly and Jack are deeply in love but their relationship is being torn apart by Jack''s nightmares. Trapped in a place where he is taunted by eyes in the gloom, it is becoming harder for Molly to pull him free, and even when daylight comes the haunting visions remain.Realising that Jack is being driven close to the edge, Molly urges him to seek help, and with their relationship faltering, Jack decides to hunt for answers.Trade ReviewPraise for Blood Brothers: 'Thanks to her near faultless writing, sympathies will lurch from one character to another, and as events reach their dramatic conclusion readers will find it impossible to tear themselves away.' News of the World 'Another hit for Josephine Cox' Sunday Express Praise for Josephine Cox’s previous novels: ‘Cox's talent as storyteller never lets you escape the spell' Daily Mail

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Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE BETTY TRASK AWARD LONGLISTED FOR THE ORANGE PRIZEGRANTA BEST OF YOUNG BRITISH NOVELISTS 2013For fans of Half of a Yellow Sun, a stunning novel set in 1930s Somalia spanning a decade of war and upheaval, all seen through the eyes of a small boy alone in the world.Aden,1935; a city vibrant, alive, and full of hidden dangers. And home to Jama, a ten year-old boy. But then his mother dies unexpectedly and he finds himself alone in the world.Jama is forced home to his native Somalia, the land of his nomadic ancestors. War is on the horizon and the fascist Italian forces who control parts of East Africa are preparing for battle. Yet Jama cannot rest until he discovers whether his father, who has been absent from his life since he was a baby, is alive somewhere.This story of one boy''s long walk to freedom is also the story of how the Second World War affected Africa and its people; a story of displacement and family.Trade Review‘Mixing startling lyricism and sheer brutality, Mohamed plunges into the chattering, viscous heat and 'hyena darkness' of Aden…this is a significant, affecting book’ Guardian ‘The most exciting, original new fiction is coming out of Africa. Nadifa Mohamed has produced a first novel of elegance and beauty…Watch out for this one during prize season; it’s a stunning debut’ The Times ‘Just as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's Half of a Yellow Sun drew out the little documented dramas of the Biafran war, Mohamed describes an East Africa under Mussolini's rule…such an accomplished first novel’ Independent ‘Loved Black Mamba Boy. Utterly compelling, an assured debut. An incredible insight into a slice of recent African history that is so rarely given light’Alex Wheatle, award-winning author of East of Acre Lane and Brixton Rock Amazon Vine reviews: ‘A great read, colourful and powerful’ ‘One of the most wonderful things I have ever read…I was held spellbound by this book’ ‘Rich description and a fascinating story’ ‘Nadifa Mohamed's writing is emotional and evocative and as well as lyrical landscape descriptions or relationship revelations she does not flinch from the harrowing reality of a cruelly chaotic part of the world. This is a 5-star book deserving similar acclaim and success to “The Kite Runner”’

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Book SynopsisThis powerful novel from the award-winning author of Richard and Judy pick Eve Green' is a tale of love and the lore of the sea.The islanders of Parla are still mourning the loss of one of their own. Four years since that loss, and a man un-named, unclothed is washed onto their shores. Some say he is a mythical man from the sea potent, kind and beautiful; others suspect him. For the bereft Maggie, this stranger brings love back to the isle. But as the days pass he changes every one of them and the time comes for his story to be toldTender, lyrical and redemptive, The Silver Dark Sea' is the dazzling new novel from the author of Eve Green' (winner of Whitbred First Novel award). It is a story about what life can give and take from us, when we least expect it and how love, in all its forms, is the greatest gift of all.Trade Review‘Quietly beautiful…poetic, dreamlike prose’ Sunday Times ‘Susan Fletcher’s prose shimmers like light on water, and she’s equally adept at charting the emotions of her memorable characters … Old resentments are revisited, dark secrets are revealed, while barricaded, shut-away hearts let in the possibility of love’ Marie Claire ‘Fletcher is a powerful storyteller – full-blooded, a bit old-fashioned and with a knack for combining sensual narratives with a feel for ancient myth and natural landscape… Delicious, briny writing’ Metro ‘Smooth, flowing and feminine, Fletcher's prose lulls you with its lyricism and emotional resonance… [a] fishy, mythical tale of love and loss and the depths that grief can reach’ Herald

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Book SynopsisThe first in Robert Wilson's Seville series, featuring the tortured detective Javier Falcon.The man is bound, gagged and dead in front of his television.The terrible self-inflicted wounds tell of his violent struggle to avoid some unseen horror. On the screen? In his head? What could make a man do that to himself?It''s Easter week in Seville, a time of passion and processions. But detective Javier Falcón is not celebrating. Appalled by the victim''s staring eyes he is inexorably drawn into this disturbing, mystifying case. And when the investigation into the dead man''s life sends Javier trawling though his own past and into the shocking journals of his late father, a famous artist, his unreliable memory begins to churn. Then there are more killings and Falcón finds himself pushed to the edge of a terrifying truthTrade ReviewPraise for The Blind Man of Seville ‘Crime writing at its very best, but it is also something more. It observes no limits, it begs no one’s pardon. It excites, it surprises and it satisfies.This is a fine important novel’ Literary Review ‘Admirably paced and enthrallingly elaborate’ Sunday Times 'The Blind Man of Seville is an ingenious and compelling thriller’ Daily Telegraph 'This is powerful evocative stuff' Observer 'As an evocation of the emotional labyrinth of postwar Tangiers and as a tale of artistic drift, it's rather brilliant – a detective story Paul Bowles never wrote' Guardian A wonderful, if dark and disturbing, literary detective novel' Time Out ‘To call Robert Wilson's ‘The Blind Man of Seville’ a thriller is to do a grave injustice to an utterly stunning achievement.The central narrative of the detective on the verge of a nervous breakdown is a psychological thriller of real profundity. Wonderful!’ Paul Preston, author of ‘Franco’

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Book SynopsisEscape to Vegas with this hilarious and feel good rom-com from the bestselling I Heart series. Angela Clark loves her life in New York. She a Brit who's conquered the Big Apple. Unfortunately, she's also a Brit who's lost her job. And when, just a couple of weeks before Christmas, the immigration department gets wind of this, Angela needs to find a new job urgently. Or a husband. And she doesn't think her boyfriend Alex will be keen.A girls' weekend in Vegas with her best friend Jenny seems the perfect way to forget her troubles. From the minute they arrive Angela is swept up in a whirl of cocktails, outrageous outfits, late nights and brushes with the chapel of love. But rather than escaping trouble, Angela is up to her neck in it.But what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas right?Readers love Lindsey:Fun, romantic and warm' CloserWitty, funny, warm and wise' Marian KeyesLindsey is the queen of cracking one-liners hilarious and energetic' Alex BrownTrade ReviewPraise for the I Heart… series: ‘More down-to-earth and enjoyable girly fodder from rising chick-lit star Kelk’ Heat ‘Fun, romantic and warm, this is a perfect summer read.’ Closer 'A hilarious must read for Sex and the City fans.' Closer ‘This is a humbling, girly read, perfect for those wishing to escape from the reality of cold winter nights.’ Heat 'A fun read…leaves you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside' Company 'Chicklit fans will put a big shiny star on this deliciously entertaining wander through tinseltown!' Daily Record 'Littered with plenty of laughs and surprises, this superb sequel won't fail to satisfy your expectations' Closer

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Book SynopsisDon't miss this laugh out loud romantic comedy!Rachel Summers loves a to-do list: boyfriend, flat, great job.NOT on the list: being dumped.Best friends Emelie and Matthew ride to her rescue with an entirely new kind of list The Single Girl's To-Do List. Rachel doesn't know it, but it will take her on all kinds of wild adventures and get her in some romantic pickles too. And then it won''t be a case of what but who she decides to tick off: Mr. bendy yoga instructor, Mr. teenage sweetheart, Mr. persistent ex, Mr. deeply unsuitable.The Single Girl's To-Do List gives Rachel the perfect heartbreak cure and proves love is out there if you're willing to take a chance.Praise for Lindsey KelkWitty, funny, warm and wise' Marian Keyes, bestselling author of Grown UpsSo funny, so romantic, so charming' Beth O'Leary, bestelling author of The FlatshareAn absolute joy! Genuinely funny, engaging and sparkly' Jane Fallon, bestselling author of Worst Idea EverSwoops you up and fills your heart with such joy' Giovanna Fletcher, bestselling author of Some Kind of WonderfulSparkles on the page like champagne in the glass' Milly Johnson, Sunday Times bestselling author of My One True NorthTrade Review Praise for Lindsey Kelk ‘Utterly brilliant: super smart, achingly funny and just impossible to put down’ Rosie Walsh, bestselling author of The Man Who Didn’t Call ‘Touching, hugely enjoyable and properly laugh-out-loud funny’ Sophia Money-Coutts, bestselling author of What Happens Now? ‘An absolutely enchanting book … The perfect balance between sparkly escapism and big-hearted realness’ Sophie Ranald, author of Sorry, Not Sorry ‘As warm as a hug but as funny as a night out with the girls’ Laura Jane Williams, author of The Lucky Escape ‘Pure joy. Full of Lindsey’s trademark warmth and wit’ Alex Brown, bestselling author of A Postcard from Paris

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Book SynopsisA very funny, energetic, wonderfully engaging novel about where we’re from and where we’d like to get to…Trade Review'”Utterly Monkey” is an extraordinarily accomplished novel, by a confident and eloquent voice, filled with humour and insights.' Sunday Times 'Fluently written, ebulliently implausible, Nick Laird's fiction debut is an entertaining mix of thriller and comedy of misfortunes.’ Independent on Sunday 'Funny, good-humoured and deftly written.' Daily Telegraph '”Utterly Monkey” is the real thing; a novel rich in both achievement and promise, by a writer who can actually write.' The Times 'Exquisitely written and extremely entertaining.' Mail on Sunday 'A fine, amusing writer.' Daily Mail 'Laird has earned his place on the writers' catwalk. Expect to hear much more from this season's smash hit.' Belfast Telegraph 'Laird paces the story well, and shows his poetry roots with some arresting imagery.This is a debut with humour and a heart.' Marie Claire 'A sharp and funny debut.' Eve

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Book SynopsisTender, funny and romantic' Marie ClaireChristine Rose is crossing the Ha'penny Bridge in Dublin late one night when she sees a stranger, Adam, poised to jump. Desperate to help, she talks him into a reckless deal: if he gives her two weeks till his 35th birthday she'll prove that life is worth living.But as the clock ticks and the two of them embark on late-night escapades and romantic adventures, what Christine has really promised seems impossibleA novel to make you laugh, cry and appreciate life, this is Cecelia Ahern at her thoughtful and surprising best.Trade Review‘The Irish queen of romance has a quick wit and a way of bouncing through a story with humour but also a sharp eye for realism.’ Daily Express ‘Brilliantly vivid characters and a story to fall in love with; one of our favourite Cecelia Ahern novels yet’ Heat ‘A life affirming read … a heart-warming romance’ Essentials ‘A great life-affirming read that wisecracks its way from dark to light’ Glamour ‘A tender, funny and romantic drama with a dash of darkness and desperation’ Marie Claire ‘Laced with dry wit that keeps the characters real and likeable, this is another poignant, romantic and very readable tale’ Hello ‘Written with Ahern’s trademark humour and light touch, this Dublin-set romance is an enjoyable, easy read’ Sunday Mirror

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Book SynopsisA warm, witty and wise debut about the ups and downs of life as a TV presenterChristie Lynch's life is about to change for ever.A journalist and single mother of two, she can't believe her luck when she is spotted by a talent agent during an appearance on daytime TV show, Tart Talk.Soon the nation's sweetheart, Christie can't help but love her new job and, for the first time in years, she can mend her leaking roof and buy her kids, Libby and Freddie, a few treats. But as her career soars, Christie's forced to spend more and more time away from her kids and from Richard the gorgeous single dad she recently met at the school gate.Can Christie find a way to balance her role as a mother with her increasingly demanding job? And will she make it in the cut-throat world of TV? Whatever happens, Christie''s going to give it all she''s gotWarm, witty and wise, New Beginnings is a behind-the-scenes look at the ups and downs in the life of a daytime TV presenter.Trade ReviewPraise for New Beginnings ‘Complicated friendships and tales of a chaotic love life make this a must-read.’ Woman ‘A light-hearted, fun read that perfectly captures the sights and smells of village life.’ Heat ‘Fern Britton has transferred her fun and friendly charm to the page’ Good Housekeeping 'Full of warmth and charm with characters that quickly feel like old friends.' Alexandra Brown

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Book SynopsisYou will love this best-selling novel by Sunday Times best-selling author Fern Britton. The perfect escape to Cornwall, for fans of Katie Fforde and Celia Imrie.Helen Merrifield decides to start afresh and put her old life behind her in the picture-postcard Cornish village of Pendruggan. Throwing herself into the local scene, Helen finds herself at the mercy of the rather desperate Vicar, but she is secretly drawn to the brooding local historian, Piran.Meanwhile, Helen's best friend, Penny, decides that the village is the perfect setting for her new TV series. When the cast and crew descend, the village is thrown into a tizzy, but Helen has her hands full fending off her philandering ex-husband, who seems determined to charm his way back into her bed.Should Helen hold on to the past? Or will Cornwall give her something new to treasure?Pendruggan: A Cornish village with secrets at its heartTrade ReviewPraise for Fern Britton ‘Complicated friendships and tales of a chaotic love life make this a must-read.’ Woman ‘A light-hearted, fun read that perfectly captures the sights and smells of village life.’ Heat ‘Fern Britton has transferred her fun and friendly charm to the page’ Good Housekeeping Full of warmth and charm with characters that quickly feel like old friends.' Alexandra Brown

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE, a collection of stories about memory: the source of meaning and coherence in our lives, the fragile thread that connects us to ourselves and to others.In the luminous title story, a young boy in South Africa comes to possess an old woman's secret, a piece of the past with the power to redeem a life. In The River Nemunas', a teenaged orphan moves from Kansas to Lithuania, and discovers a world in which myth becomes real. And in Afterworld,' a woman who escaped the Holocaust is haunted by visions of her childhood friends in Germany, yet finds solace in the tender ministrations of her grandson.The stories in Memory Wall show us how we figure the world, and show Anthony Doerr to be a master of the form.Trade Review‘It's fair to say that Anthony Doerr is doing things with the short story that have rarely been attempted and seldom achieved. The stories in Memory Wall have such scope and depth that they hit as hard as novels three times their length. Doerr has set a new standard, I think, for what a story can do.’ Dave Eggers ‘Ambitiously wide-ranging and inventive, Doerr’s six stories movingly investigate the ways in which we are nothing without memory.’ Sunday Times ‘Doerr is a lusciously good stylist.’ Guardian ‘If this book's wisdom can be summed up in a single line it is this one, from ‘Afterworld’: ‘Within the wet enclosure of a single mind a person can fly from one decade to the next, one country to another, past to present, memory to imagination.’ That thought informs Memory Wall many times.’ Janet Maslin, Scotsman

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Book SynopsisA wonderful, warm novel from a major new American voice.Henry Skrimshander, newly arrived at college, shy and out of his depth, has a talent for baseball that borders on genius. But sometimes it seems that his only friend is big Mike Schwartz who champions the talents of others, at the expense of his own. And Owen, Henry's clever, charismatic, gay roommate, who has a secret that could put his brilliant college career in jeopardy.Pella, the 23-year-old daughter of the college president, has returned home after a failed marriage, determined to get her life in order. Only to find her father, a confirmed bachelor, has fallen desperately in love himself.Then, one fateful day, Henry makes a mistake misthrows a ball. And everything changesTrade Review‘It's left a little hole in my life the way a really good book will’ Jonathan Franzen ‘This is an outstanding novel about sport and, in Henry Skrimshander, Harbach has created a character who will keep sports psychologists in conversation for years’ Mike Atherton, The Times ‘Charming, warm-hearted, addictive’ Guardian ‘Once started The Art of Fielding is a book you want to read and read. It is deliciously old-fashioned: it simply gets on with the business of creating vivid, layered characters and telling a good, engrossing story’ Daily Telegraph ‘An intricate, poised, tingling debut … leaves you longing, lingering, and a baseball convert long after the last page’ Téa Obreht, author of The Tiger’s Wife, winner of the Orange Prize ‘Chad Harbach has hit a game-ender with The Art of Fielding. It’s pure fun, easy to read, as if the other Fielding had a hand in it — as if Tom Jones were about baseball and college life.’ John Irving Steeped in American tradition, this moving debut hits a home run…What in less skilled hands might have been a light comic novel evolves into a debut of great warmth and weight… This is a charming, moving and slyly profound novel. You might even say Chad Harbach hit this one out of the park’ Sunday Telegraph ‘Every bit as good as billed. A big, beautiful blowout of a book, sure and generous, it reads like a throwback to the mid-20th century, when American literature was in its pomp… an exceptional debut’ Guardian ‘A terrifically engaging novel… you will be rewarded by a page-turning, beguiling and wonderfully warm-hearted read’. Sunday Times ‘The baseball sequences are terrific… Harbach captures precisely the strangely becalmed grace that sets sportsmen like Henry apart…Very good indeed’ Independent

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Book SynopsisHow does one talk about love?We are all beginners when it comes to love, from those tentative first dates to learning how to live with, or without, someone. But how does one describe love? How does one chart its delights and pleasures, its depths and desolations? Do we even have the right words to describe something that can be both utterly mundane and completely transcendent, pulling us out of our everyday lives and making us feel a part of something greater than ourselves? David Levithan''s The Lover''s Dictionary starts where we all once started with the alphabet.Constructing the story of a relationship as a dictionary, Levithan explores the intimacies and workings of love through his nameless narrator, to paint a moving portrait of love through everyday words. Cleverly using the confines of language to provide an intimate window into the great events and quotidian trifles of being part of a couple, Levithan gives us an indelible and deeply moving portrait of love in our time.Trade Review‘Teasing, intriguing and easy to devour in one go.’ Cosmopolitan ‘Romantic, quick, clever, funny. Read it in one sitting.’ Sunday Times Style ‘Like all good love stories, this one is both unique and universal; it’s impossible not to nod along in recognition…It is a refreshingly grown-up story of a love affair between adults… Levithan is a generous, warm-hearted writer, and his conceit feels original… A Valentine’s gift? What could be better?’ Observer ‘Covers everything from delight to desolation’ Time Out

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Book SynopsisA stunning debut YA novel, destined to blow the dystopian genre wide open The Handmaid's Tale for a new generation. This edition will contain a sneak preview of Fever, and a brand new short story by Lauren DeStefano: The First Bride.Sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery has only four years left to live when she is kidnapped by the Gatherers and forced into a polygamous marriage. Now she has one purpose: to escape, find her twin brother, and go home before her time runs out forever.What if you knew you exactly when you would die?In our brave new future, DNA engineering has resulted in a terrible genetic flaw. Women die at the age of 20, men at 25. Young girls are being abducted and forced to breed in a desperate attempt to keep humanity ahead of the disease that threatens to eradicate it.16-year-old Rhine Ellery is kidnapped and sold as a bride to Linden, a rich young man with a dying wife. Even though he is kind to her, Rhine is desperate to escape her gilded cage and Linden's cruel father.Trade ReviewA ‘harrowing debut . . . DeStefano has an observant and occasionally pitiless eye, chronicling the cruelties, mercies, and inconsistencies of her young characters. . . . It will be intriguing to see how DeStefano develops [the larger world] as this promising trilogy progresses.’– Publisher’s Weekly starred review ‘Lauren DeStefano crafts an all too believable future. I loved the world, the romance, the writing – exactly the kind of book I've been craving to read.’–Carrie Ryan, New York Times bestselling author of THE FOREST OF HANDS AND TEETH ‘Wither is an exceptional novel that begins with a bang and doesn't let you go–it's gut-wrenching, shocking, incredible, and completely and utterly absorbing all at once…. DeStefano is a fearless writer, and though it is firmly its own book, Wither will remind readers of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale.’—TheCompulsiveReader.com

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Book Synopsis*If you love The Butlers, meet QUEENIE! Kimberley Chambers' new No.1 bestseller and prequel to The Butler series is out now!*The Butlers are the kings of the East End.Vinny and Roy Butler are the apple of their mum's eye and although Queenie knows they can play dirty, when it comes to family they look after business and make her proud. Nothing and no one can bring the Butler's down.But Vinny seems to have crossed the wrong person and his cards are marked. And with the brothers joined at the hip, Roy may just be in the firing line tooOne bloody night sets Vinny on the path of desperate vengeance, but will the Butlers emerge stronger than ever, or is the East End code of honour as good as dead?The first book in the Butler family saga. The series continues with Payback, The Wronged and Tainted Love.Trade ReviewPraise for Kimberley Chambers: ‘Easily as good as Martina Cole’ News of the World ‘Brilliantly delivers a story of violence, treachery and family ties… Easy to read and hard to put down’ News of the World ‘[a] faced-paced tale with gritty authenticity’ The Guardian

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Book SynopsisThe third book in the classic Martin Beck detective series from the 1960s the novels that shaped the future of Scandinavian crime writing.Hugely acclaimed, the Martin Beck series were the original Scandinavian crime novels and have inspired the writings of Stieg Larsson, Henning Mankell and Jo Nesbo.Written in the 1960s, 10 books completed in 10 years, they are the work of Maj Sjöwall and Per Wahlöö a husband and wife team from Sweden. They follow the fortunes of the detective Martin Beck, whose enigmatic, taciturn character has inspired countless other policemen in crime fiction; without his creation Ian Rankin's John Rebus or Henning Mankell's Kurt Wallander may never have been conceived. The novels can be read separately, but are best read in chronological order, so the reader can follow the characters' development and get drawn into the series as a whole.The Man on the Balcony' balances the most inhuman of crimes with the humanity of the men who must solve it resulting in a poliTrade Review‘Authentic seeming, grim, but fascinating.’ Sunday Telegraph ‘A well-told, documentary-type tale of how the Stockholm police slog away…There is something of Ed McBain's “87th Precinct” novels about it, but with less of a factory finish.’ Spectator ‘They changed the genre. Whoever is writing crime fiction after these novels is inspired by them in one way or another.’ Henning Mankell ‘If you haven’t read Sjöwall/Wahlöö, start now.’ Sunday Telegraph ‘Pick up one book…and you become unhinged. You want to block out a week of your life, lie to your boss, and stay in bed, gorging on one after another.’ Observer

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Book SynopsisThe sixth book in the classic Martin Beck detective series from the 1960s the novels that shaped the future of Scandinavian crime writing.Hugely acclaimed, the Martin Beck series were the original Scandinavian crime novels and have inspired the writings of Stieg Larsson, Henning Mankell and Jo Nesbo.Written in the 1960s, 10 books completed in 10 years, they are the work of Maj Sjöwall and Per Wahlöö a husband and wife team from Sweden. They follow the fortunes of the detective Martin Beck, whose enigmatic, taciturn character has inspired countless other policemen in crime fiction; without his creation Ian Rankin's John Rebus or Henning Mankell's Kurt Wallander may never have been conceived. The novels can be read separately, but are best read in chronological order, so the reader can follow the characters' development and get drawn into the series as a whole.When Viktor Palmgren, a powerful industrialist, is casually shot during an after-dinner speech, the repercussions both on the Trade Review Praise for Sjowall & Wahloo: ‘The writing is elegant and surprisingly humorous – if you haven’t come across Beck before, you’re in for a treat’ – Guardian ‘One of the most authentic, gripping and profound collections of police procedurals ever accomplished’ – Michael Connelly ‘This Swedish husband-and-wife collaboration, specialising in the police novel, has gone from strength to strength. Plots are interesting as well as realistic, the various homicide men are admirably characterised, and the amused, sarcastic comments on modern Sweden are a delight’ – Sunday Times ‘Their mysteries don’t just read well; they reread even better. Witness, wife, petty cop or crook – they’re all real characters even if they get just a few sentences. The plots hold, because they’re ingenious but never inhuman’ – New York Times

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Book SynopsisThe eighth book in the classic Martin Beck detective series from the 1960s and 70s the novels that shaped the future of Scandinavian crime writing.Hugely acclaimed, the Martin Beck series were the original Scandinavian crime novels and have inspired the writings of Stieg Larsson, Henning Mankell and Jo Nesbo.In one part of town, a woman robs a bank. In another, a corpse is found shot through the heart in a room locked from within, with no firearm in sight. Although the two incidents appear unrelated, Detective Inspector Martin Beck believes otherwise, and solving the mystery acquires the utmost importance. Haunted by a near-fatal bullet wound and trying to recover from the break-up of his unhappy marriage, Beck throws himself into the case to escape from the prison that his own life has come to resemble.Trade Review‘I have never read a finer police story.’ Los Angeles Times ‘If you haven’t read Sjowall/Wahloo, start now.’ Sunday Telegraph ‘Their mysteries don’t just read well; they reread even better. Witness, wife, petty cop or crook – they’re all real characters even if they get just a few sentences. The plots hold, because they’re ingenious but never inhuman.’ New York Times ‘They changed the genre. Whoever is writing crime fiction after these novels is inspired by them in one way or another.’ Henning Mankell ‘Pick up one book…and you become unhinged. You want to block out a week of your life, lie to your boss, and stay in bed, gorging on one after another.’ Observer ‘The godparents of Scandinavian crime fiction’ Jo Nesbo 'Some of the most gripping crime fiction ever written' Michael Connelly ‘If you haven’t come across Beck before, you’re in for a treat.’ Guardian

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Book SynopsisHow much would you sacrifice for true love? The second novel in Paullina Simons'' stunning End of Forever saga continues the heartbreaking story of Julian and Josephine, and a love that spans lifetimes.Julian has travelled from the heights of joy to the depths of despair and back again. Having found his love twice and lost her twice, he is resolved to continue his search and find her in the past again. Perhaps this time he can save her.But the journey is never so simple and Julian will have to decide just how much one man can sacrifice. He is willing to give up everything but he must learn what that truly means, and how much more can be taken from you than you ever believed possible.Trade ReviewPraise for Paullina Simons ‘Pick up this book and prepare to have your emotions wrung so completely you’ll be sobbing your heart out one minute and laughing through your tears the next… Read it and weep – literally’ Company ‘This has everything a romance glutton could wish for: a bold, talented and dashing hero, a heart-stopping love affair! It also has… .a welcome sense of humor…..’ Daily Mail ‘This gorgeous book is much more than a conventional thriller … After finishing the novel, readers will only want one thing: more Paullina Simons.’ (Booklist)

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Book SynopsisThey were ready for anything except the end. The must-read conclusion to Paullina Simons'' epic End of Forever saga.Julian has lost everything he ever loved and is almost out of time. His life and death struggle against fate offers him one last chance to do the impossible and save the woman to whom he is permanently bound.Together, Julian and Josephine must wage war against the relentless dark force that threatens to destroy them.This fight will take everything they have and everything they are as they try once more to give each other their unfinished lives back.As time runs out for the star-crossed lovers, Julian learns that fate has one last cruel trick in store for themand even a man who has lost everything still has something left to lose.Trade ReviewPraise for Paullina Simons ‘Pick up this book and prepare to have your emotions wrung so completely you’ll be sobbing your heart out one minute and laughing through your tears the next… Read it and weep – literally’ Company ‘This has everything a romance glutton could wish for: a bold, talented and dashing hero, a heart-stopping love affair! It also has… .a welcome sense of humor…..’ Daily Mail ‘This gorgeous book is much more than a conventional thriller … After finishing the novel, readers will only want one thing: more Paullina Simons.’ (Booklist)

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Book SynopsisThe master storyteller's legacy continues. An elusive and shadowy killer is on the prowl, codenamed the Angel of Death.When an elderly multimillionaire is found brutally murdered in Hollywood, and his young wife raped and beaten, the police assume the motive is robbery.A decade later, in different cities around the globe St Tropez, London and Hong Kong three almost identical killings take place within 5 years of each other. In all cases the victim is male, wealthy, elderly and newly married, and his wife is found at the scene either raped or assaulted.It soon becomes clear that this is one killer.Codenamed Angel of Death by the police, is she avenging some long-forgotten misdeed, or does she have other motives? Who will be her next victim, and how can the Angel of Death be prevented from striking again?Trade Review‘ Suspense could hardly be greater’ Daily Telegraph ‘ What a pleasure to have Papa’s books live on through Tilly Bagshawe. How he would have delighted in her plot twists and characters. And she’s young and beautiful to boot – a Sidney Sheldon heroine come to life!’ Mary Sheldon ‘ She seemed to catch that inner voice… she was one of his characters. I could feel Sidney smiling down on me, saying “this is perfect”.’ Alexandra Sheldon

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Book SynopsisThe best-selling novel about the queen who founded the Tudor dynasty. A bewitching first novelalive with historical detail' Good Housekeeping.Her beauty fuelled a war.Her courage captured a king.Her passion would launch the Tudor dynasty.When her own first child is tragically still-born, the young Mette is pressed into service as a wet-nurse at the court of the mad king, Charles VI of France. Her young charge is the princess, Catherine de Valois, caught up in the turbulence and chaos of life at court.Mette and the child forge a bond, one that transcends Mette's lowly position.But as Catherine approaches womanhood, her unique position seals her fate as a pawn between two powerful dynasties. Her brother, The Dauphin and the dark and sinister, Duke of Burgundy will both use Catherine to further the cause of France.Catherine is powerless to stop them, but with the French defeat at the Battle of Agincourt, the tables turn and suddenly her currency has never been higher. But can Mette protecTrade ReviewPraise for Joanna Hickson ‘Thoroughly engrossing’ The Lady A gripping and emotional story’ Woman ‘Joanna Hickson’s writing is superb’ Shropshire Post ‘You’ll love The Tudor Bride…a thrilling story’ Take a Break

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Book SynopsisThe thrilling story of the French princess who became an English queen, from the best-selling author of The Agincourt Bride. Perfect for fans of The White Queen.Even the greatest of queens have rules to break them would cost her dearlyKing Henry V's new French Queen, Catherine, dazzles the crowds in England but life at court is full of intrigue and her loyal companion, Mette, suspects that the beautiful Eleanor Cobham, protégée of the Duke of Gloucester, is spying for him.Catherine believes herself invincible as she gives birth to an heir, then tragically King Henry is struck down by fever. Unable to outwit those who seek to remove the new king from her care, Catherine retires from court, comforted by the King's Harper, Owen Tudor.At the secluded manor of Hadham a smouldering ember bursts into flame and Catherine and Owen Tudor become lovers. But their love cannot remain a secret forever, and when a grab for power is made by Gloucester, Catherine and those dearest to her face mortalTrade ReviewPraise for Joanna Hickson ‘Thoroughly engrossing’ The Lady A gripping and emotional story’ Woman ‘Joanna Hickson’s writing is superb’ Shropshire Post ‘An enthralling blend of fact and fiction, drama and danger, passion and politics’ Lancashire Evening Post

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Book SynopsisA scalpel sharp political satire from the Orange Prize winning writer of We Need to Talk about Kevin.A superbly witty political satire' THE TIMESEdgar Kellogg has always yearned to be popular. Leaving his lucrative career as a lawyer for the sexier world of journalism, he's thrilled to be offered the post of foreign correspondent in a Portuguese backwater with a home-grown terrorist movement. Barrington Saddler, the disappeared larger-than-life reporter he's been sent to replace, is exactly the outsize character Edgar longs to emulate.The Daring Soldiers of Barba' have been blowing up the rest of the world for years in order to win independence for Barba, a province so dismal, backward and windblown that you couldn't give the rat hole away. So why, with Barrington vanished, do the terrorist incidents suddenly dry up?Trade ReviewPraise for THE NEW REPUBLIC: ‘It takes guts to write a satire about terrorism – and Lionel Shriver has guts. Shriver is an incisive social satirist with a clear grip on the ironies of our contemporary age’ LA TIMES ‘Shriver has the kind of cojones few English-language novelists possess, male or female’ GLOBE & MAIL ‘The New Republic stands at the confluence of a number of fine comic traditions . . . we can only be thankful that Shriver got round to dusting down this comic tour de force for the outing it richly deserves’ SUNDAY TIMES ‘Written with intelligence, wit and pizzazz’ DAILY MAIL ‘She is one of the most magnetically compelling writers working today. Witty, caustic and worldly’ WALL STREET JOURNAL

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Book SynopsisA gritty and compelling family drama from the author of The Street. Perfect for fans of Kitty Neale.The toughest street in London, Campbell Road, is due for demolition. One of the last residents remaining, Matilda Kiever, born and bred on the street, remembers many things about the past, not least what really happened to Christopher Wild's mum, Pamela. Christopher thought she was dead, but it turns out she is very much alive.Meanwhile, Coronation Day is just around the corner and the street will be having the biggest party it has ever seen. But Christopher is about to get drawn into one hell of a ding dong and Campbell Road is going to have one last knees up that no one will ever forget.Trade ReviewPraise for Kay Brellend from five-star reviews onAmazon.co.uk: Brilliant read! Really takes you through a journey of hardship love hate etc. Was gripped from beginning to end!!!By Woo This book was excellent, I didn't want it to end. Reading it made me feel like I was living in the era the book was set in.By Amanda Bicknell What a wonderful read…having been born near this area l could see the places and people as described, could not wait to read a few more chapters each night but was so sad when l finished it.By LondonSue loved this book the sort you pickup and can’t put back down, the setting and characters really come to life, it's as if you can see it and breath it. Wonderful.By K

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE MAN BOOKER PRIZE 2008.An epic chronicle of the last twenty years of British life from the Booker shortlisted and Granta Best of Young British novelist, Philip Hensher.Beginning in 1974 and ending with the fading of Thatcher''s government in 1996, The Northern Clemency' is Philip Hensher''s epic portrait of an entire era, a novel concerned with the lives of ordinary people and history on the move.Set in Sheffield, it charts the relationship between two families: Malcolm and Katherine Glover and their three children; and their neighbours, the Sellers family, newly arrived from London so that Bernie can pursue his job with the Electricity Board. The day the Sellers move in there is a crisis across the road: Malcolm Glover has left home, convinced his wife is having an affair. The consequences of this rupture will spread throughout the lives of both couples and their children, in particular ten-year-old Tim Glover, who never quite recovers from a moment of his mother''sTrade Review‘Lovingly rooted in 1970s and 1980s Sheffield, “The Northern Clemency” effectively reclaimed a lost genre of politically astute, richly decorated provincial family saga for modern readers.’ Boyd Tonkin, Independent (Book of the Year) ‘A tremendous book. Against an unfashionable 1970s background Philip Hensher has composed not so much a condition-of-England as a condition-of-humanity novel, which is gripping and surprising and shocking in all kinds of unpredictable ways, and enormously wide in psychological and moral scope. What a writer he is!’ Philip Pullman ‘Wise and strong and unputdownable.’ A.S. Byatt, Financial Times (Book of the Year) Alex Clark, Sunday Telegraph (Book of the Year) ‘A remarkable novel…a cumulative effect of luminous richness, like a perfect piece of orchestration…something more than brilliant cleverness makes this novel extraordinary.’ Jane Shilling, Sunday Times Philip Hensher’s new book shows that the epic, exciting, deeply engaged novel of society is not dead in England. The book has all the blessings of art, with the pulse of what Henry James called ‘felt life’ at the centre of its moral adventures.” Andrew O’Hagan

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Book SynopsisThe perfect London read for this summer! Angela’s back on home turf – and in her biggest romantic scrape yet…Trade Review‘Girlie, romantic and entertaining, this sparkling read is a real giggle’ Closer ‘Kelk has a hilarious turn of phrase and a sparkling writing style … A frothy and fun read’ Daily Express

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Book SynopsisYou will love this wonderfully warm and witty novel from Fern Britton, the Sunday Times bestselling novelist.When the residents of the Cornish seaside town of Trevay discover that their much-loved theatre is about to be taken over by coffee chain, Café au Lait, they are up in arms. It is up to Penny Leighton, hotshot producer and now happily married Cornish resident, to come up with a rescue plan. Armed with only her mobile phone and her contacts book, she starts to pull in some serious favours.The town is soon deluged by actors, all keen to show their support and take part in a charity season at the theatre. One of the arrivals is Jess Tate, girlfriend to TV heartthrob Ryan Hearst. His career is on the rise while hers remains resolutely in the doldrums. But when opportunity comes calling, it isn't just her career prospects that are about to change. Trevay is about to put on the show of its life but can the villagers, and Jess, hold on to the thing they love the most?Pendruggan: A CorTrade ReviewPraise for A Seaside Affair: “A light-hearted, fun and easy read that captures the essence of a family holiday in Cornwall and will make you yearn for a staycation in the West Country… You’ll gulp this down in a day at the beach.” – Daily Mail “Another ripping good read from Fern Britton” – Good Housekeeping “Charming and fun” – OK Praise for Fern Britton ‘Complicated friendships and tales of a chaotic love life make this a must-read.’ Woman ‘A light-hearted, fun read that perfectly captures the sights and smells of village life.’ Heat ‘Fern Britton has transferred her fun and friendly charm to the page’ Good Housekeeping Full of warmth and charm with characters that quickly feel like old friends.' Alexandra Brown

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Book SynopsisAn expansive, heartbreaking novel from the internationally bestselling author of The Joy Luck Club'.In turn-of-the-century Shanghai, Violet Minturn is raised by her American mother, the mistress of the city's most renowned courtesan house. When the revolution comes, a cruel deception forces Violet to become a virgin courtesan.The Valley of Amazement' is the story of three women, bound by blood and betrayal. But, as she struggles to understand her heritage, it is Violet's determination to forge her own destiny that propels this bittersweet tale of family secrets, changing identities and lost love.Trade ReviewPraise for ‘The Valley of Amazement’: ‘Tan explores, sensitively, the edges of some thorny topics … Chinese-Americans are among the most dynamic, and socially cohesive, ethnic groups in the US … Tan is one of their leading voices … Tan’s fiction is, as always, hugely readable.’ Sunday Times ‘Tan, who was born in the US to Chinese immigrant parents, is a gifted storyteller … Just as Violet is a complex character beyond her Asian and white ethnic roots, Tan’s large-hearted, florid and ragged tale goes beyond casual stereotypes. This is one writer’s particular idiom and vision of the world – and within that she offers us a rich cast of characters who both repel and compel.’ Financial Times ‘Admirers of Amy Tan will love her latest blockbuster … a warm, expansive story, examining the subtle bonds between mothers and daughters.’ Mail on Sunday ‘The characters are wonderful. You can’t help but fall in love with people who are named Cracked Egg or Magic Cloud …For fans of historical fiction, ‘The Valley of Amazement’ offers a fascinating insight into a hidden world belonging to a bygone era, as it flits from harrowing to humorous.’ Stylist Magazine ‘Expansive, poised and, at times, heartbreaking, this delicately-spun tale, which has the grace of a courtly dance and the subtleties of a thousand chess moves, will be loved by fans of Tan’s bestseller “The Joy Luck Club”.’ Sunday Express ‘She has surpassed herself … She has by no means exhausted her supply of fictional women who pass to each other, through the generations, a determination not to be broken, no matter what.’ Independent on Sunday ‘Packs enough drama to keep readers going till the end.’ Guardian ‘Historic sweep mixes with erotic candour in a heady mix, brought to an excellent bake by the skillful Amy Tan.’ Daily Mail ‘A lush historical epic.’ Vogue ‘A vivid portrait of life in 19th Century China, with some rather saucy Fifty Shades-style sex scenes thrown in.’ Good Housekeeping

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Book SynopsisLonglisted for the 2013 Man Booker Prize, the overlapping lives of five newcomers to China's most dynamic city are the subject of this kaleidoscopic novel.Welcome to Shanghai. A restless metropolis where old traditions collide with new ambitions a place where anything can happen and anyone can become Somebody.Golddigger, property magnate, pop star, entrepreneur and guru: five newcomers are lured by the promise of making fortunes and remaking identities. But they find their lives converging in unpredictable ways, as the Five Star Billionaire's lessons for success wreak havoc. For in a land where dreams may come true, nothing is ever quite as it seemsTrade Review‘Aw's tale of five migrant workers carving out lives in a modernising Shanghai is the stuff of a hit TV miniseries … the reading experience it offers is coolly engrossing’ Adam Mars-Jones, Observer ‘A brilliant, sprawling, layered and unsentimental portrayal of contemporary China’ Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie 'A fascinating cast of characters … a panoramic, expertly detailed painting of contemporary Shanghai' Sunday Times ‘“Five Star Billionaire” opens with a bang, not a whimper … Aw is a master storyteller and “Five Star Billionaire” can be read as “The Way We Live Now” for our times’ Aminatta Forna, Guardian ‘[Aw] is unmatched at evoking the smells and sounds of the land and cityscapes, the figures of speech and shifting cultural mores of that finger-like peninsula that pokes into the South China Sea …Their tales are told chapter by chapter, the characters slowly drawing closer together like flotsam in a vortex, before the stunning finale …There is wit here, and plenty of acute observation and characterisation’ Independent on Sunday ‘A new kind of immigrant novel. One that takes place in our increasingly mutlipolar world and is …a challenge to the old narrative’ Sunday Telegraph ‘The five characters are distinct, and Aw manages to bring them together well … Aw brilliantly recreates the intonations and vocabulary of someone educated only in Chinese’ Independent ‘Highly topical, sharply observed but affecting portmanteau novel’ Independent, ‘Books of the Year’ ‘A splendid achievement. The narrative … is brilliantly designed, a puzzle whose pieces click satisfyingly into place – Aw’s book could scarcely be bettered’ Independent on Sunday ‘Aw’s style – terse but tender, lightly ironic without being snide – is fresh, bracing and, above all, compassionate. His characters … form profound impressions on the reader. One simply cares deeply what happens to them, and this skilled writer never makes that an easy matter to predict’ Scotsman

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Book SynopsisThe summer bestseller from the immensely popular Lindsey KelkTess Brookes has always been a Girl with a Plan. But when the Plan goes belly up, she's forced to reconsider.After accidently answering her flatmate Vanessa's phone, she decides that since being Tess isn't going so well, she might try being Vanessa. With nothing left to lose, she accepts Vanessa's photography assignment to Hawaii she used to be an amateur snapper, how hard can it be? Right?But Tess is soon in big trouble. And the gorgeous journalist on the shoot with her, who is making it very clear he'd like to get into her pants, is an egotistical monster. Far from home and in someone else's shoes, Tess must decide whether to fight on through, or fess up and runTrade Review‘Fans of the I Heart series will instantly fall for this gorgeously funny and romantic read’ Closer ‘Perfect for your summer holiday!' Bella ‘Kelk has a hilarious turn of phrase and a sparkling writing style …’ Daily Express

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Book SynopsisPraise for Lindsey Kelk:So uplifting and wildly romantic' MARIAN KEYESI fell head over heels in love' BEATH O'LEARYThe kind of book you can't put down, but also want to last forever' EMILY HENRYThe literary equivalent to opening a glass of wine with your best friend' MHAIRI MCFARLANEBeing arrested in your own bedroom is never a good start to the day. Tess Brookes really needs to sort out her back-stabbing flatmate and her life.Should she gamble all on the new photography job she's landed, or snap up the offer from long-time crush and best friend Charlie to start up on their own in more ways than one? There's just one small thing she hasn't mentioned. Or rather, one tall thing. He's handsome, infuriating and called NickFor the first time, Tess has to choose between the life she always dreamed of and a future she never imagined possible. From London to Milan, with high fashion and low behaviour thrown in, she's going to have to make up her mind what a girl really wantsTrade Review‘Should Tess stick it out with longtime crush Charlie, or accept a YOLO job in Milan that comes with the possibility of running into gorgeous Nick? This sounds like the sort of #FirstWorldProblem we want in on!’ Now ‘A bouncy, sexy and LOL-littered gem of a novel’ Heat ‘Funny, cringe-worthy and fast paced… A perfect summer read’ Closer ‘Properly funny’ Fabulous Praise for Lindsey Kelk: ‘Outrageous, witty, exciting and romantic, we simply adored this sparkling read’ Closer ‘Leaves you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside' Company ‘Kelk has a hilarious turn of phrase and a sparkling writing style’ Daily Express

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Book SynopsisA box of possessions.A father with no memory.A daughter with just one day to piece together the past.When Sabrina Boggs stumbles upon a mysterious collection of her father's belongings, her seemingly uneventful life suddenly alters and shifts.In the single day she has to search for answers about the man she thought she knew, a man who can no longer remember his own story, Sabrina uncovers far bigger secrets than she could have imagined. And discovers that sometimes it's the people closest to us that we know the least.Trade Review‘Cleverly constructed, full of flavour and moving’ Daily Mail ‘An illuminating and touching father/daughter story about memory, childhood and secrets’ Woman & Home ‘Beautiful and unexpected … both thought-provoking and life-affirming’ Sunday Express ‘Intricate and emotional … really completely lovely’ Grazia ‘Brilliant characters, piles of pathos and intrigue…quite simply fantastic’ Heat ‘Both moving and thought-provoking’ Irish Independent ‘A must read’ Marie Claire ‘Enchanting’ Good Housekeeping ‘Really touching, quite, quite beautiful’ Lovereading.co.uk ‘A unique read’ Closer ‘Another hit!’ Essentials Praise for Cecelia Ahern: ‘A wry, dark drama’ Daily Mail ‘Ahern cleverly and thoughtfully turns the tables, providing thought-provoking life lessons.’ Sunday Express ‘An unusual and satisfying novel’ Woman ‘Life-affirming, warm and wise’ Good Housekeeping ‘Cecelia Ahern is an undisputed master when it comes to writing about relationships…Moving, real and exquisitely crafted.’ Heat

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Book SynopsisFrom Terry Goodkind, author of the Sword of Truth series, comes a sweeping new novel of Richard Rahl, Kahlan Amnell, and their world.From the far reaches of the D''Haran Empire, Bishop Hannis Arc and the ancient Emperor Sulachan lead a vast horde of Shun-Tuk and other depraved half-people' into the Empire''s heart, raising an army of the dead in order to threaten the world of the living.Meanwhile, far from home, Richard Rahl and Kahlan Amnell must defend themselves and their followers from a series of terrifying threats, despite a magical sickness that depletes their strength and which, if not cured, will take their livessooner rather than later.Trade Review‘Few writers have Goodkind’s power of creation’Publishing News ‘Goodkind’s greatest triumph: the ability to introduce instantly identifiable characters. His heroes, like us, are not perfect. Instead, each is flawed in ways that strengthen rather than weaken their impact.’SFX ‘Outstanding … Characters who actually behave like adults. Highly recommended’ San Diego Union Tribune ‘A real born storyteller'Anne McCaffrey 'Everything one could ask for in an epic fantasy'Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisA stunning novel from the SUNDAY TIMES bestselling author of THE KASHMIR SHAWLLondon 1919Born into a down-at-heel family, Nancy Wix is more than her past dictates more ambitious than the daughter of a faded showman, more original than a woman who will be confined by polite conventions. The end of the Great War has left a stricken London on the brink of an uncertain future, and with their hard-won freedoms now in doubt Nancy and her fellow suffragettes must strive all over again for the right to control their own destinies.At a time when shattered families are struggling to let go of their dead, Nancy discovers she has a gift that offers hope to the loved ones of the lost generation, and a chance encounter reveals a way in which she might use it for her own ends.As Nancy struggles to break free from the rigid bonds of society and find her place in the world, the only thing that could hold her back is her love for an unattainable manTrade Review‘Wonderful…a spellbinding, romantic story’ WOMAN AND HOME ‘Vintage Thomas, with all her trademark richness and depth … The thinking woman’s popular novelist’ SAGA ‘An atmospheric tale of a woman breaking boundaries in early 20th-century London’ GOOD HOUSEKEEPING ‘Lush and satisfying … Brimming with magic, love and brilliantly realized characters’ SUNDAY MIRROR ‘Heartfelt, poignant and moving’ LOVEREADING ‘A gorgeous glimpse of the 1920s’ BELLA Praise for THE ILLUSIONISTS: ‘Love, seduction, magic and illusion collide as Rosie Thomas takes us on a spellbinding journey through an extremely shadowy world’ Daily Express ‘A brilliant Gothic mix of glitter and grime and so atmospheric you can almost see the pea-soupers’ Daily Mail ‘Always engaging: a beautifully written novel that will magic you away to the seedy streets of turn-of-the-century London’ Stylist Praise for The Kashmir Shawl: ‘A superbly researched and vivid evocation of wartime Kashmir and Ladakh’ Daily Mail ‘A spellbinding tale. Beautifully written, honest and compassionate…a delight from start to finish’Daily Express ‘An epic tale…A complicated entanglement of family secrets, love during wartime and dangerous liaisons. For fans of Maggie O’Farrell’Red

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Book SynopsisFrom the Sunday Times bestselling author comes an epic tale of love, passion and heartbreak.In the summer of 1940, eyes are focussed on the skies above the South of England: the Battle for Britain has just begun. But Evie Lucas has eyes for no-one but a dashing young pilot called Tony. Evie has a glittering career as an artist ahead of her but seems only to be fascinated in sketching portraits of himSeventy years later, recently widowed art historian Lucy is putting the pieces of her life back together, and to do that she needs to uncover the mystery surrounding a painting in her home. As Lucy ties up the loose ends of one lifetime, she stirs up a hornet's nest of history in another. Suddenly, Lucy finds herself in danger from people past and present who have no intention of letting an untold truth ever surface.Some stories are buried in the darkness forever. Some are just waiting to be toldReaders LOVE Barbara Erskine:Atmospheric' ?????Enthralling' ?????Spellbinding' ?????Another fabuTrade ReviewPraise for Barbara Erskine: ‘Her forte is mood, atmosphere and the toe-curling frisson’ Elizabeth Buchan, Sunday Times ‘Barbara Erskine’s storytelling talent is undeniable’ The Times‘ ‘Marvellous escapist stuff’ Woman and Home

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