Contemporary fiction titles are those which focus on the present or near past. Stories rooted in the current cultural, social, and political landscape which feature characters we can all recognise.
Contemporary Fiction Books
Hodder & Stoughton The Little Village School
Book Synopsis''[Gervase Phinn is] a worthy successor to James Herriott, and every bit as endearing.'' - Bestselling author Alan Titchmarsh She was wearing red shoes! With silver heels!Elisabeth Devine causes quite a stir on her arrival in the village. No one can understand why the head of a big inner city school would want to come to sleepy little Barton-in-the-Dale, to a primary with more problems than school dinners. And that''s not even counting the challenges the mysterious Elisabeth herself will face: a bitter former head teacher, a grumpy caretaker and a duplicitous chair of governors, to name but a few.Then there''s the gossip. After all, a woman who would wear red shoes to an interview is obviously capable of anything . . .Warm, funny and poignant, Gervase Phinn''s first novel creates a fictional world that''s as real as can be. It will delight all his fans, and win him many more.Readers are loving THE LITTLE VILLAGE SCHOOTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR GERVASE PHINN:A worthy successor to James Herriott, and every bit as endearing. * bestselling author Alan Titchmarsh *When Gervase Phinn receives his peerage for services to good-heartedness, this will be the motto on his coat of arms: "Ex silvis sed non supra montem." . . . This entertaining and moving homework earns a good few merit marks. Gervase Phinn is not going downhill yet, by a long chalk on a blackboard. * Independent *Good old-fashioned yarn-spinning * The Bookbag *This heartwarming tale makes ideal holiday reading * News of the World *As Yorkshire's favourite school inspector turns to fiction you can enjoy memorable characters and turns of phrase. * Choice *Written with all the humour and warmth one has come to expect from this master storyteller. * Countryman *Packed with delightful and authentic characters, juicy gossip, precarious romance and good old-fashioned village drama, this is a warm-hearted and hilarious account of a struggling school in a small community * The Good Book Guide *Written with all the humour and warmth one has come to expect from this master storyteller. * Countryman *This heartwarming tale makes ideal holiday reading * News of the World *As Yorkshire's favourite school inspector turns to fiction you can enjoy memorable characters and turns of phrase. * Choice *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Trouble at the Little Village School
Book Synopsis''[Gervase Phinn is] a worthy successor to James Herriott, and every bit as endearing.'' - Bestselling author Alan Titchmarsh Elisabeth Devine certainly rocked the boat when she arrived in Barton-in-the-Dale to take over as head teacher of the little primary school. Now it''s a new term, and after winning over the wary locals, she can finally settle in to her role. Or so she thinks . . . For the school is hit by a brand-new bombshell: it''s to be merged with its arch rival, and Elisabeth has to fight for the headship with Urebank''s ruthless and calculating headmaster. She has her work cut out for her.But add in some gossip and a helping of scandal, not to mention various newcomers bringing good things and bad to Barton, and that''s not the only trouble that''s brewing in the village.Readers are loving TROUBLE AT THE LITTLE VILLAGE SCHOOL!''I love this man''s style and humour.'' - 5 STARS''A really lovely Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR GERVASE PHINN:A worthy successor to James Herriott, and every bit as endearing. * bestselling author Alan Titchmarsh *When Gervase Phinn receives his peerage for services to good-heartedness, this will be the motto on his coat of arms: "Ex silvis sed non supra montem." . . . This entertaining and moving homework earns a good few merit marks. Gervase Phinn is not going downhill yet, by a long chalk on a blackboard. * Independent *Good old-fashioned yarn-spinning * The Bookbag *This heartwarming tale makes ideal holiday reading * News of the World *As Yorkshire's favourite school inspector turns to fiction you can enjoy memorable characters and turns of phrase. * Choice *Written with all the humour and warmth one has come to expect from this master storyteller. * Countryman *Packed with delightful and authentic characters, juicy gossip, precarious romance and good old-fashioned village drama, this is a warm-hearted and hilarious account of a struggling school in a small community * The Good Book Guide *Packed with delightful and authentic characters, juicy gossip, precarious romance and good old-fashioned village drama, this is a warm-hearted and hilarious account of a struggling school in a small community * The Good Book Guide *This heartwarming tale makes ideal holiday reading * News of the World *As Yorkshire's favourite school inspector turns to fiction you can enjoy memorable characters and turns of phrase. * Choice *Written with all the humour and warmth one has come to expect from this master storyteller. * Countryman *There's gossip in the village shop, and the new curate is raising eyebrows. It's all classic Gervase Phinn * Choice magazine *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The School Inspector Calls
Book Synopsis''[Gervase Phinn is] a worthy successor to James Herriott, and every bit as endearing.'' - Bestselling author Alan TitchmarshSummer has arrived in Barton-in-the-Dale and as a new term begins at the little primary school, it''s not just the warm weather that''s getting people hot under the collar.Meetings with the teachers from Urebank School to discuss the merger are producing more than a few fireworks, a disruptive new pupil arrives, set to cause trouble, and a surprising staff love affair is exposed. There''s also a big school production of The Wizard of Oz to organise as well as an impending visit from the Minister of Education. Headteacher Elisabeth Devine certainly has her work cut out for her.And that''s just some of the drama set to shake-up the village. Throw in a sprinkling of secrets, shocking revelations, old flames, new liaisons, psychics, weddings and misfortune . . .There''s plenty to gossip about this term.Readers aTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR GERVASE PHINN:Packed with delightful and authentic characters, juicy gossip, precarious romance and good old-fashioned village drama, this is a warm-hearted and hilarious account of a struggling school in a small community * The Good Book Guide *This heartwarming tale makes ideal holiday reading * News of the World *As Yorkshire's favourite school inspector turns to fiction you can enjoy memorable characters and turns of phrase. * Choice *Written with all the humour and warmth one has come to expect from this master storyteller. * Countryman *There's gossip in the village shop, and the new curate is raising eyebrows. It's all classic Gervase Phinn * Choice magazine *A worthy successor to James Herriott, and every bit as endearing. * bestselling author Alan Titchmarsh *When Gervase Phinn receives his peerage for services to good-heartedness, this will be the motto on his coat of arms: "Ex silvis sed non supra montem." . . . This entertaining and moving homework earns a good few merit marks. Gervase Phinn is not going downhill yet, by a long chalk on a blackboard. * Independent *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Peach Keeper
Welcome to Walls of Water, North Carolina, a place where secrets run thicker than the town's famous fog.Once upon a time, Willa Jackson's family owned the beautiful house on the top of the ridge. Now it symbolises her family's ruin and a legacy Willa longs to escape from.Paxton Osgood also yearns to break free, especially from her parents' expectations, and the heartbreak of unrequited love. Desperate for a distraction, she decides to restore the empty mansion to its former glory.But the discovery of a long-buried secret, a friendship that defies time, and a touch of magic, will transform both women's lives in ways they would never have expected.
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Dolores Claiborne
Book SynopsisKing''s Number One bestselling suspense novel, ''a compelling masterpiece'' (Sunday Telegraph) about a housekeeper with a long-hidden secret from her past, now with a stunning new cover look.The sheets . . . had to be hung perfectly. She''d go to that window, year in and year out and yell at me: ''Six pins, now, Dolores! You mind me, now . . . I''m counting, and my eyes are just as good now as they ever were!When Vera Donovan is found dead at the bottom of the stairs, the police want to question her housekeeper Dolores Claiborne. And Dolores does have a confession to make. But it''s not what the police are expecting to hear as they listen to her life story - a story which hearkens back to her abusive marriage and the suspicious death of her husband in the small Maine community of Little Tall Island.Dolores Claiborne has a story to tell. And you''d better pay attention or else.Trade ReviewOnly a novelist of the very first rank could combine comedy and tragedy so judiciously * SUNDAY TELEGRAPH *
£10.44
Hodder & Stoughton The Stag and Hen Weekend
Book SynopsisThe Stag and Hen Weekend is the story of Phil and Helen, a couple in their thirties about to commit their lives to one another . . . that is of course if they can just manage to get through their respective stag and hen weekends (his: Amsterdam; hers: a country house and day spa in the Peak District) without falling apart. Told in the unique form of two separate stories that have common characters as well as themes and conclusion, The Stag and Hen Weekend can be read from front to back or from back to front putting the reader in the driver''s seat as to which story they wish to read first. Feisty, fun and thought provoking.Trade ReviewGayle at his best * Sun *A unique story, filled with quirky off-beat characters . . . An addictive read from start to finish . . . Filled to the brim with vibrant characters and one-liners, Mike Gayle brings a breath of fresh air to the chick-lit genre. * Handwritten Girl *Innovative new book from chick-lit king Mike Gayle . . . it's hilarious * Now *Praise for THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING A BACHELOR:'This is Mike Gayle at his best - funny, charming, and life-affirming' * Daily Mirror *Unique, funny and full of drama, we loved this story's twist - you can read the hen's tale first, or read from the back and check out the stag's trip. Genius! * Closer *'The Brummie author is particularly adept at depicting male and female characters with equal conviction . . . He affords his characters patience, and his plots all move along swimmingly on the back of his clear and comfy prose . . . The execution is pretty damn smart' Book of the Week **** * Daily Mirror *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton LAuberge
Book SynopsisLes Anglais are in the kitchen and the French are up in armsTrade Review'Entertaining drama in small-town France.' Best new paperbacks * Woman and Home *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Seeing Other People
Book SynopsisFrom My Legendary Girlfriend to Turning Forty, Mike Gayle''s bestselling novels have taken his millions of readers through many key times for the modern man - friendship, courtship, stag weekends, marriage, work, holidays, significant birthdays - but SEEING OTHER PEOPLE is perhaps his most heart-warming, heart-stopping, heartbreaking novel yet.Joe Clarke is about 78% sure he''s just had an affair. Well, that is the beautiful office intern in bed next to him...But, if Joe really has just cheated, why can''t he remember anything about it? Confused but mortified Joe vows to be a better husband and father. Until his wife Penny puts two and two together and leaves him.Devastated, Joe will do anything to win his family back. But when he realises that the key to saving his marriage lies in the hands of the mean-spirited ghost of his least favourite ex-girlfriend, Joe knows he''s in real trouble. SEEING OTHER PEOPLE is a hilariouTrade ReviewPraise for Mike Gayle * - *Praise for Mike Gayle * - *Wise, witty and wonderful . . . a triumph! * Jenny Colgan *Wise, witty and wonderful . . . a triumph! * Jenny Colgan *Not just readable, fresh and witty, but sophisticated in execution . . . funny but also poignant. * Independent on Sunday *Not just readable, fresh and witty, but sophisticated in execution . . . funny but also poignant. * Independent on Sunday *Unique, funny and full of drama . . . Genius! * Closer *Unique, funny and full of drama . . . Genius! * Closer *A funny and frank account of a hopeless romantic. * The Times *A funny and frank account of a hopeless romantic. * The Times *Mike Gayle has carved a whole new niche out of the male confessional novel. * Evening Standard *Mike Gayle has carved a whole new niche out of the male confessional novel. * Evening Standard *Wise, witty and with endearing characters, this is a feel-good-read with lots of laughs. * Woman *Wise, witty and with endearing characters, this is a feel-good-read with lots of laughs. * Woman *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Men at Work Quick Read
Book SynopsisIan Greening loves his job at the Department of Work and Pensions. It might not be the best paid job in the world but it gives him lots of scope for fun. He loves his girlfriend, Emma, too.But when Emma is made redundant, and gets a temping job in Ian''s office, he doesn''t like it at all. Emma only knows Home Ian - and Work Ian is a different kettle of fish. Spending twenty-four hours a day together is too much of a good thing. But how can he tell her that without hurting her?Ian comes up with a plan to get things back the way they were. But it puts his relationship at risk and forces Ian to decide which really matters most: the job, or Emma.A sweet, funny novel about love and work.Trade ReviewMike Gayle is brilliantly funny * Daily Mail *Mike Gayle creates real, ordinary people with real ordinary lives who are so real and so believable that you mourn for them from the moment you finish reading. * Lisa Jewell *What I love about Mike Gayle is the way he seamlessly blends humour and sensitivity - his books are always rip-roaringly funny, yet so humane too. * Freya North *
£9.86
Hodder & Stoughton The Love Detective
Book SynopsisA hilarious, escapist romcom from the author of CONFESSIONS OF A FORTY-SOMETHING F##K UP!Love is the greatest mystery of all . . .Meet Ruby Miller: a writer who makes happy-ever-afters happen. Until she discovers her fiancé is a lying cheat, and loses her faith in love. When her sister invites her on a beach holiday to Goa to forget about him, Ruby jumps on a plane . . . and headfirst into an extraordinary adventure.Stolen bags, a runaway sister and a handsome American stranger sweep Ruby into a magical mystery tour across India. Amid fortresses and fortune tellers, and a whirlwind of weddings, she uncovers fascinating stories of love, lost and found.But as the mysteries deepen, secrets are revealed that turn Ruby''s life upside down. And what started as a journey to find her sister, becomes a journey to find herself - and love - again.Trade ReviewMagical, fun and romantic, this feel-good read is guaranteed to lift your January mood * Closer *A romantic love story, with the right amount of glamour, sprinkled with magic! * I Heart Chick Lit *Praise for Alexandra PotterFunny, light and a great summer read - whether you're lying on a sunlounger or sitting on the train to work. A fab modern-day love story with a touch of magic * Fabulous *Yet again Alexandra Potter has written an upbeat, quirky piece of chick lit that can't help but bring a smile to your face * Novelicious *Fantastically funny * Elle *Feel-good fiction full of unexpected twists and turns * OK! Magazine *A touching, funny love story * Company *Always perceptive, often funny, never dull * Heat *Magical, fun and romantic, this feel-good read is guaranteed to lift your January mood. **** * Closer *This book is something special; it's real, funny and magical, taking you on a whirlwind adventure through India . . . It would make the perfect holiday read at any time of the year. * onemorepage.co.uk *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Thornyhold
Book Synopsis''A comfortable chair and a Mary Stewart: total heaven. I''d rather read her than most other authors.'' Harriet EvansThe rambling house called Thornyhold is like something out of a fairy tale. Left to Gilly Ramsey by the cousin whose occasional visits brightened her childhood, the cottage, set deep in a wild wood, has come just in time to save her from a bleak future. With its reputation for magic and its resident black cat, Thornyhold offers Gilly more than just a new home. It offers her a chance to start over. The old house, with it tufts of rosy houseleek and the spreading gilt of the lichens, was beautiful. Even the prisoning hedges were beautiful, protective with their rusty thorns, their bastions of holly and juniper, and at the corners, like towers, their thick columns of yews.Trade ReviewIn this 1940s rural scene you glimpse the shadow behind all things bright and beautiful. * Daily Mail *Anyone who enjoys a gentle, modern love story will find a cracker in THORNYHOLD * Woman's World *Skeins of sentences are woven into a tale of sweet magic, witchcraft and suspense . . . which will perpetuate Mrs Stewart's bestsellerdom and confirm her status as a literary phenomenon * Scotland on Sunday *She set the bench mark for pace, suspense and romance - with a great dollop of escapism as the icing * Elizabeth Buchan *A comfortable chair and a Mary Stewart: total heaven. I'd rather read her than most other authors. * Harriet Evans *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Edge of Nowhere
Book SynopsisBecca King and her mother are on the run from her stepfather who has used Becca''s talent for hearing ''whispers'' to make a large and illegal sum of money. Now their options for safety are running out. In the town of Langley on Whidbey Island, Becca finds refuge in the home of her mother''s childhood friend while her mother continues on to Canada in search of safety.But on her first day in town Becca meets sixteen years old Derric Mathieson, a Ugandan orphan who was adopted as a ten-year-old by the town''s Deputy Sheriff. Derric has a secret that no one on Whidbey Island knows. Derric and Becca form an un-severable bond. Becca is convinced that she''s the only person who can truly help him, and just maybe Derric can convince Becca that life is too short to live on the run.Trade ReviewAction-packed, mysterious, and somewhat creepy . . . Raising the bar when it comes to today's YA fiction. * Suspense Magazine *In combining her skills in crime writing with an obvious flair for the supernatural this award-winning author creates a wonderful tale. * My Weekly *The author writes brilliantly and has an incredible ability to set a scene and create characters you want to know more about. * Sun *Presses all the buttons to make us hoover her stuff up. * Daily Telegraph *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Parisians Return
Book SynopsisFurther tales of village life in the French Pyrenees. A Parisian comes to Fogas to modernise the village shop and it is baguettes at dawn!Trade ReviewA humorous insight into French living * Tatler Ireland *Praise for L'AUBERGE:'Following in the footsteps of "Chocolat", this is an ideal holiday read.' * www.beachtomato.com *'Entertaining drama in small-town France.' Best new paperbacks * Woman and Home *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Lost Wife
Book SynopsisSeparated by war and each believing the other dead, a couple meet again decades later...Trade ReviewThis beautifully written, heart-rending, evocative novel explores the power of first love and the resilience of the human spirit. * Life & Living *'The reader is taken back to an age of innocence in pre-war Prague as the young couple fall in love. In Richman's fourth novel, the use of language is highly imaginative.' * The Daily Telegraph *The Sophie's Choice of this generation. * John Lescroart, New York Times bestselling author *'If you're a fan of Paulina Simon's The Bronze Horseman trilogy, this is right up your alley. Have the tissues near as the story of how they come to find one another again unfolds.' * GRAZIA *A lyrical tale of the ravages of war, lost and the human quest for redemption. * The Good Book Guide *Tragedy and hope, love and loss, and the strength to endure are expressed through Richman's graceful writing and powerful characters, many based on actual Holocaust victims and survivors. * Booklist *Heart-wrenching . . . a genuinely moving portrait. * Publisher's Weekly *Daringly constructed . . . Richman writes with the clarity and softness of freshly-fallen snow. * Loring Mandel, Emmy winning playwright *Begins with a chilling revelation and had me hooked throughout. A love story wrapped in tragedy and survival, I read THE LOST WIFE in one sitting. Tense, emotional and fulfilling: a great achievement by Alyson Richman. * Martin Fletcher, Special Correspondent NBC News, Winner of the Jewish National Book Award *This is one of those rare books that will stay in my imagination for a long time. * New Books *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton East of the West
Book Synopsis* WINNER OF THE BBC INTERNATIONAL SHORT STORY AWARD 2012 *Prepare to discover a fascinating country; a land buffeted for centuries by power-struggles and revolts, lorded over by Turks, carved up by its neighbours, and subsumed into the Soviet Union. Yet also a land of proud and resilient people, of crawfish hunters and bagpipe makers, shepherds and gypsies, in which daily life goes on. So meet the teenager who swims by night across a border river to steal a kiss from his girlfriend, the ageing man who finds a cachet of loveletters his wife has kept for sixty years, and the post-Communist girl, an avowed thief with a heart of gold.Here are Miroslav Penkov''s beguiling, surprising and moving visions of his home country, Bulgaria: stories of people who mourn the way things were and long for what will never be, who wrestle with the weight of history, the debt to the family and the pangs of exile. And here is a remarkable new writer, who combines an eye for the absurd witTrade ReviewWINNER OF THE BBC SHORT STORY AWARD 2012. * . *Bulgaria past and present, its magical fables, absurdist realities and political exigencies, are presented through the eyes of homesick emigr?s and those who have remained. Penkov's stories combine toughness, vulnerability and bravado...he applies humour and compassion in equal measure: this is a sparkling collection. * Guardian *Humour, poignancy, tenderness and a deep sense of European history suffuse these lovely stories by a young Bulgarian writer of whom more will surely be heard. * Sunday Telegraph *His splendid prose can be fleet, leisurely, colloquial, or formal... These stories are not the promising work of a first-time author. They are already a promise fulfilled--wise, bright, and deep with sympathy. * Alec Solomita, The New Republic *There is a kind of magic at work in East of the West, a beautiful alchemy that combines wisdom and imagery, soul and story to render, finally, the pure gold of these tales. Miroslav Penkov is an extraordinary writer. May many books follow this one. * Bret Lott, author of Jewel and A Song I Knew by Heart *Miroslav Penkov unpacks his stories with great skill, drawing the reader so deeply into the world he has created that when the magic comes - a father wrapping his son's eyelash in a handkerchief - it knocks the wind right out of you. EAST OF THE WEST captures the moments that prove we are truly living. * Hannah Tinti, author of The Good Thief *Miroslav Penkov has successfully trapped two elusive creatures: the absurd beauty of Eastern Europe, and the emotional paradox of self-exile from that absurdity. His sense of history, his sense of humor, and his ability to create lasting characters make this book a dark yet hilarious pleasure. * Elizabeth Kostova, author of The Historian *I suspect that Miroslav Penkov would be a wonderful writer in any language, but lucky for us, it happens to be English, and what funny, tender, tragic, and soulful stories he spins from his adopted tongue. EAST OF THE WEST is, simply put, one of the best collections I have read in years, ambitious and accomplished enough in scope to encompass east, west, and all stations in between. * Ben Fountain, author of Brief Encounters with Che Guevara *Miroslav Penkov spins magical tales. There is wonderful humor here, and characters you will never forget. You will love this book. I cannot recommend it highly enough. * Ellen Gilchrist, National Book Award-winning author of A Dangerous Age and I Cannot Get You Close Enough *Every once in a while, but no more often than that, a first book by a young writer comes along to restore a reader's faith in things. I mean big, serious things which matter, ones like memory, imagination, words, creativity and moral judgement...Rarely has such an intriguingly disparate cast been so deftly and dryly assembled...Penkov's stories are ironic without being trite, melancholic, but with a whiff of whimsy, revealing that they remain distinctly eccentric. He is a considerable, quirky, new talent. * Canberra Times *a series of superb tales of love and hate, home and homesickness, passion, exile, violence, history and humour. * Bendigo Advertiser *These eight stories play with dimensions of Bulgaria's beleaguered past and Turkish occupation through the eyes of an endearing set of appealing and convincing characters. Exile, betrayal, courage, hope, joy, death and anguish flow through these stories. * Sunday Territorian *Bulgaria past and present, its magical fables, absurdist realities and political exigencies, are presented through the eyes of homesick emigrés and those who have remained. Penkov's stories combine toughness, vulnerability and bravado...he applies humour and compassion in equal measure: this is a sparkling collection. * Guardian *There is a kind of magic at work in East of the West, a beautiful alchemy that combines wisdom and imagery, soul and story to render, finally, the pure gold of these tales. Miroslav Penkov is an extraordinary writer. May many books follow this one. * Bret Lott, author of Jewel and A Song I Knew by Heart *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Tigers Curse
Book SynopsisTIGER'S CURSE is the exciting first volume in a truly addictive epic fantasy-romance.Trade Review'I was wrapped up in the sweet romance and heart-pounding adventure of Tiger's Curse. I found myself cheering, squealing and biting my nails - all within a few pages. In short, it was magical.' * Becca Fitzpatrick, author of Hush Hush *'One of the best books I have ever read. An ultimate thrill ride. A roller-coaster ride from beginning to end, this book has action, history, poetry, romance, magic -- everything you could ever want. It is a book J.K. Rowling wishes she wrote, one with so much passion and thrills you won't be able to put it down. This saga is going to be one of the best yet.' * Meera Patel Romantic Times *'Sweeps you into a world of adventure and romance. The characters and places you meet are fascinating and hold your attention from start to finish. It's a magical book and like Kelsey, you're not sure what is real and what is your imagination.' * The Epoch Times *'Entrenched in the rich culture, history, mythology, and imagery of India. The exotic setting only enhances the deliciously romantic scenes. The book is as romantic as it is adventurous. . . it could easily be the next big thing.' * evesfangarden.com *'A smart, vibrant adventure romance wrapped in a quest . . . takes the protagonists through adventures that would make Steven Spielberg proud . . . Full of danger, dash, allegory, and love under the banana tree.' * Kirkus Reviews *'Entrenched in the rich culture, history, mythology, and imagery of India. The exotic setting only enhances the deliciously romantic scenes. The book is as romantic as it is adventurous. . . it could easily be the next big thing.' * http://evesfangarden.com *'Young women yearn for romance, for prince charming, and sometimes for more than one suitor. Charged with action and stolen kisses . . .' * Clarion *Oh how I loved this book! So much so, that I got withdrawal symptoms when I had finished it. * serendipityteacher.blogspot.com *I have fallen deeply in love (and lust) with Prince Dhiren (Ren). * eatingyabooks.blogspot.com *'I was wrapped up in the sweet romance and heart-pounding adventure of Tiger's Curse. I found myself cheering, squealing and biting my nails - all within a few pages. In short, it was magical.' * Becca Fitzpatrick, author of Hush Hush *'Twilight meets Ringling Bros . . . Houck has an excellent sense of story and paints a vivid picture.' * LA Times *'A smart, vibrant adventure romance wrapped in a quest . . . takes the protagonists through adventures that would make Steven Spielberg proud . . . Full of danger, dash, allegory, and love under the banana tree.' * Kirkus Reviews *'Oh how I loved this book! So much so, that I got withdrawal symptoms when I had finished it.' * serendipityteacher.blogspot.com *'I have fallen deeply in love (and lust) with Prince Dhiren (Ren).' * eatingyabooks.blogspot.com *'I can't wait to get my hands on this book!!' * themidnightreaders.blogspot.com *'Epic fantasy-romance? I'm so there.' * www.flutteringbutterflies.com *'An engaging and fast paced storyline, a gorgeous young man to swoon over and a wonderfully rich world built up around the main characters that kept me hooked until the last page. The thing that makes this book so wonderfully different from anything else I have read YA was its setting . . . All in all a refreshing different take on the paranormal romance / adventure genre which I really enjoyed.' * www.overflowinglibrary.com *'Every now and again there comes a book that makes me wish I could read things more slowly so that I could savour every page . . . within a couple of chapters I felt like I had fallen inside the book, I was so swept up in the story. . . Houck weaves mythology into the plot seamlessly.' * http://junipersjungle.com *'I found this book so delicious... (it) is like catnip (pun intended) and I want the sequel, Tiger's Quest, at once. If you are a fan of Stephenie Meyer or Amy Plum, you will love Colleen Houck!' * thepewterwolf.blogspot.com *'This book's got serious bite.' * Dolly *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Tigers Quest
Book SynopsisBack in Oregon, Kelsey tries to pick up the pieces of her life and push aside her feelings for Ren. But danger lurks around the corner, forcing her to return to India where she embarks on a second quest-this time with Ren''s dark, bad-boy brother Kishan, who has also fallen prey to the Tiger''s Curse. Fraught with danger, spellbinding dreams, and choices of the heart, TIGER''S QUEST brings the trio one step closer to breaking the spell that binds them.Trade Review'One of the best books I have ever read. An ultimate thrill ride. A roller-coaster ride from beginning to end, this book has action, history, poetry, romance, magic -- everything you could ever want. It is a book J.K. Rowling wishes she wrote, one with so much passion and thrills you won't be able to put it down. This saga is going to be one of the best yet.' * Meera Patel Romantic Times *'Colleen Houck is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors although the wait for the next book may just kill me after that cliffhanger ending! If you haven't started this series yet then it's one I would highly recommend.' * feelingfictional.com *'I was wrapped up in the sweet romance and heart-pounding adventure of Tiger's Curse. I found myself cheering, squealing and biting my nails - all within a few pages. In short, it was magical.' * Becca Fitzpatrick, author of Hush Hush on TIGER'S CURSE *'Sweeps you into a world of adventure and romance. The characters and places you meet are fascinating and hold your attention from start to finish. It's a magical book and like Kelsey, you're not sure what is real and what is your imagination.' * The Epoch Times *'Entrenched in the rich culture, history, mythology, and imagery of India. The exotic setting only enhances the deliciously romantic scenes. The book is as romantic as it is adventurous. . . it could easily be the next big thing.' * http://evesfangarden.com *'Young women yearn for romance, for prince charming, and sometimes for more than one suitor. Charged with action and stolen kisses . . .' * Clarion *'I was wrapped up in the sweet romance and heart-pounding adventure of TIGER'S CURSE. I found myself cheering, squealing and biting my nails - all within a few pages. In short, it was magical.' * Becca Fitzpatrick, author of Hush Hush *'Twilight meets Ringling Bros . . . Houck has an excellent sense of story and paints a vivid picture.' * LA Times *'A smart, vibrant adventure romance wrapped in a quest . . . takes the protagonists through adventures that would make Steven Spielberg proud . . . Full of danger, dash, allegory, and love under the banana tree.' * Kirkus Reviews *'Oh how I loved this book! So much so, that I got withdrawal symptoms when I had finished it.' * serendipityteacher.blogspot.com *'I have fallen deeply in love (and lust) with Prince Dhiren (Ren).' * eatingyabooks.blogspot.com *'I can't wait to get my hands on this book!!' * themidnightreaders.blogspot.com *'Epic fantasy-romance? I'm so there.' * www.flutteringbutterflies.com *'An engaging and fast paced storyline, a gorgeous young man to swoon over and a wonderfully rich world built up around the main characters that kept me hooked until the last page. The thing that makes this book so wonderfully different from anything else I have read YA was its setting . . . All in all a refreshing different take on the paranormal romance / adventure genre which I really enjoyed.' * www.overflowinglibrary.com *'Every now and again there comes a book that makes me wish I could read things more slowly so that I could savour every page . . . within a couple of chapters I felt like I had fallen inside the book, I was so swept up in the story. . . Houck weaves mythology into the plot seamlessly.' * http://junipersjungle.com *'I found this book so delicious... (it) is like catnip (pun intended) and I want the sequel, Tiger's Quest, at once. If you are a fan of Stephenie Meyer or Amy Plum, you will love Colleen Houck!' * thepewterwolf.blogspot.com *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Tigers Voyage
Book SynopsisTIGER'S VOYAGE is the thrilling third volume in an epic fantasy-romance that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.Trade ReviewEpic, grand adventure rolled into a sweeping love story . . . * Sophie Jordan, author of Firelight *'Not since the Twilight books has a series gripped me so intensely. Colleen Houck is a natural storyteller, who binds you into her web of adventure, keeping your interest locked all the way through until the end. This book is just as well paced and original as the first two in the series. I don't think you can read this series without falling under this author's spell.' * Serendipity Reviews *Not since the Twilight books has a series gripped me so intensely. Colleen Houck is a natural storyteller, who binds you into her web of adventure, keeping your interest locked all the way through until the end. This book is just as well paced and original as the first two in the series. I don't think you can read this series without falling under this author's spell. * Serendipity Reviews *This suspenseful tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption is not to be missed. * overflowinglibrary.com on TIGER'S QUEST *Colleen Houck is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors . . . If you haven't started this series yet then it's one I would highly recommend. * feelingfictional.com on TIGER'S QUEST *There is so much going on within each chapter which keeps you rooted to your seat. * serendipityteacher.blogspot.com on TIGER'S QUEST *I have fallen deeply in love (and lust) with Prince Dhiren (Ren). * eatingyabooks.blogspot.com on TIGER'S CURSE *If you are a fan of Stephenie Meyer or Amy Plum, you will love Colleen Houck! * thepewterwolf.blogspot.com on TIGER'S CURSE *It's been a while since I've been THIS excited about a book or a series, but Tiger's Curse really just has it all. * flutteringbutterflies.com *'I was wrapped up in the sweet romance and heart-pounding adventure of Tiger's Curse. I found myself cheering, squealing and biting my nails - all within a few pages. In short, it was magical.' * Becca Fitzpatrick, author of Hush Hush *'Entrenched in the rich culture, history, mythology, and imagery of India. The exotic setting only enhances the deliciously romantic scenes. The book is as romantic as it is adventurous. . . it could easily be the next big thing.' * evesfangarden.com on TIGER'S CURSE *An epic love triangle that kept me eagerly turning the pages! * Alexandra Monir, author of Timeless *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Outlaw Album
Book SynopsisFrom the author of WINTER'S BONE, twelve timeless Ozarkian tales of those on the fringes of society, by the 'least known major writer in the country today' (Denis Lehane, USA Today)Trade ReviewHis language is complex, poetic, strange and beautiful, conjuring up the misty fields and woods of the Ozarks, and the fiercely independent people who live there. * Josh Lacey, Guardian *wonderful, savage narratives...remarkable even by Woodrell's soaring standards * Irish Times *tales of horror and desperation that'll leave you reeling. In a good way. * Shortlist *'Woodrell is a marvellous writer' * Roddy Doyle *In a tight navigation of narrative voice, Woodrell manages to turn candid detachment into a form of rough poetic truth, even though the lives of his characters remain far removed from the world of literary sentiment. * TLS *'Woodrell writes in an almost biblical idiom, which makes the brutality of his stories shocking... These are timeless tales of humans capable of compassion but also monumental violence.' * Leyla Sanai, Independent *'gripping...Woodrell's folk are as separate in their rituals and customs as any of Tolkein's mythical creations...Woodrell whittles his stories into shape with a serrated knife, and while the language of his characters is a constant surprise with those oblique turns-of-phrase...the curious sideways progression of his plots is what I find most enrapturing.' * George Pendle, Financial Times *Woodrell writes about violence and dark deeds better than almost anyone in America today, in compact, musical prose that doesn't dwell on visceral detail. An unerring craftsman...Every story is loaded with gems...Most of the stories deal with the darkest recesses of the human heart, and once you start reading them you can't stop. * Donald Ray Pollock, New York Times *Woodrell writes a striking prose that lopes from clause to clause like William Faulkner's...he recalls writers such as Cormac McCarthy, Flannery O'Connor and the Faulkner of Sanctuary in his ability to transform crime into literature. * John Dugdale, Literary Review *Each story is a stylized dark allegory...The language is sparse yet majestic, deftly describing mountains, canyons and creek beds. * Theresa Munoz, Scottish Sunday Herald *He has moved beyond the noir of his earlier work into something that encompasses a greater spectrum of understanding. He has cemented his role as one of America's greatest writers...THE OUTLAW ALBUM is an idiosyncratic, lyric, stunning collection of stories. It is one of the most important collections of short fiction produced in this country in over fifty years. * William Hastings, Industrial Worker Book Review *...It's a terrific book...If you can cope with macabre and shop-soiled side of life, then this is 21st-century short story writing of the highest calibre. * Telegraph online *Delivered in a voice as rich and thick with authenticity as any found this side of William Faulkner, Woodrell unfurls a parade of small people and their half-broke lives, each one shaped, and usually cracked, by the aftermath of some tragedy, but enduring, keeping on, as if breath itself, or simple existence, is its own reward... * Irish Examiner *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Song Collector
Book SynopsisBy the author of Mr Rosenblum''s List, this is a captivating tale of passion and music, ancient songs and nostalgia, of the ties that bind and the ones we are prepared to sever.''A delightful, moving, utterly believable family saga'' The TimesFox, as the celebrated composer Harry Fox-Talbot is known, wants to be left in peace. His beloved wife has died, he''s unable to write a note of music, and no, he does not want to take up some blasted hobby. Then one day he discovers that his troublesome four-year-old grandson is a piano prodigy. The music returns and Fox is compelled to re-engage with life - and, ultimately, to confront an old family rift.Decades earlier, Fox and his brothers return to Hartgrove Hall after the war, determined to save their once grand home from ruin. But on the last night of 1946, the arrival of beautiful wartime singer Edie Rose tangles the threads of love and duty, which leads to a shattering Trade ReviewA delightful, moving, utterly believable family saga -- Kate Saunders * The Times *A tender, lyrical novel of family and fame * Katherine McMahon, Sunday Express *Moving and engaging, it's a captivating story that stays with you. * Book of the Month, Choice *Natasha Solomons brings her characters to life with sympathy and understanding for their flaws and shortcomings . . . a profound story of love, loss and reconciliation -- Lyndsy Spence * Lady *Solomons could make a bin sound beautiful; her writing is divine, and I was pleased to see a return to the style of her earlier work, The Novel in the Viola. There is an innocence about her novels which is simply lovely and a welcome foil to the outside world. Her turns of phrases are startlingly unique, comparing magnolia flowers to "fat, tarty girls in ball gowns" and memories to "dandelion clocks in the wind". -- Amy Pirt * We Love This Book *
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Hodder & Stoughton The Wicked Day
Book SynopsisMordred is the son of King Arthur, bastard child of his union with his half-sister Morgause. Prophesied by Merlin to kill Arthur, Mordred is stolen away from his mother and raised in secrecy by a kind couple on an isolated Orkney island in the hopes that he will defy his fate.Mordred, known to history as a traitor and a murderer, is no villain, but a quick-witted young man, with hopes and dreams of his own. But try as he might, Mordred cannot escape Merlin''s prophecy.For his mother, Morgause, has plans of her own. She tracks her son down and takes him back, then feeds the flames of Mordred''s ambition, setting into motion a chain of events that will go down in history - and legend - as father and son are finally forced to confront each other one last time: on the wicked day of destiny, when Arthur''s final battle will be fought.Mary Stewart''s stunning Arthurian Saga began with The Crystal Cave, The Hollow Hills, The Last Enchantment and The WiTrade ReviewAnyone fascinated by that magical, mythical world of Arthurian legend will be hooked from the first paragraph. * Good Housekeeping *The old magic never fails. * Sunday Telegraph *Magical * The Times *Highly enjoyable . . . a provocative recast legend. * New York Times Book Review *Colourful and entertaining . . . Mary Stewart is as skilled as ever in weaving myth and history into a single thread of credible fiction * Publishers Weekly *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton A Proper Family Holiday
Book SynopsisThe first in a laugh-out-loud chick lit series by bestselling author Chrissie Manby, perfect for your beach bag.Trade ReviewPraise for WHAT I DID ON MY HOLIDAYS * - *'Manby's novels are made for holidays - light enough to pick up and put down, but entertaining enough to keep you happy by the pool.' * Glamour *'Smart and entertaining, beach reading doesn't get much better than this!' **** * Closer *'A gloriously delicious read! ... Packed with warm characters and hilarious situations' * www.handwrittengirl.com *An absolute beaut for the deckchair . . . Manby's writing is effortlessly funny, but it's the warmth behind the comedy that kept me glued * Saga *'The perfect summer escapist read' * www.chicklitcentral.com *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Calico Joe
Book Synopsis''No one does it better than Grisham'' - Telegraph A father''s guilt. A son''s redemption. Thirty years have passed since eleven-year-old Paul Tracy watched his troubled father, Warren, a pitcher for the New York Mets, clash with his childhood hero, the Cubs'' golden-boy Joe Castle, in a contest from which no winners emerged.Now the news that his father is dying brings the memory of that day flooding back. Deciding that it''s time to face up to what really happened on that baseball field in 1973, father and son make their way to Calico Rock, Arkansas, where either redemption or rejection awaits them.What readers are saying about CALICO JOE''Hooked from start to finish'' - 5 STARS''Riveting'' - 5 STARS''A delicious meal of a book!'' - 5 STARS 350+ million copies, 45Trade ReviewThe best thriller writer alive -- Ken FollettNo one does it better than Grisham * Daily Telegraph *A superbly written book which . . . deserves a place on any family bookshelf' * Sunday Express *An enjoyable, heartwarming read * USA Today *
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Hodder & Stoughton There is a Happy Land
Book Synopsis''Among the few great writers of our time'' Independent''An exceptionally talented novelist'' Sunday Times''Remarkable for the deep and unwavering insight it gives into child behaviour'' The TimesSeen through the eyes of a young boy living on a council estate in a northern town, a pre-war childhood emerges that is universal in its everyday adventures, shifting allegiances, mysteries and occasional tragedy. Yet it is also one that is rooted firmly in a bygone era of innocence. Acclaimed on its first publication, There is a Happy Land marked the debut of a brilliant new talent and is now seen as a much-loved classic.Trade ReviewHe gets into the mind of his eleven-year-old, sees the world from a height of three foot six, trembles with him, is defeated in a fight . . . The book is vivid, accurate, perceptive . . . how brilliant - and how honestly - the author makes his original effect * Observer *Remarkable for the deep and unwavering insight it gives into child behaviour . . . the candour of his vision and the cunning of his art are such that he captures the very essence of the eleven-minus mind * The Times *An exceptionally talented novelist * The Sunday Times *Among the reasons for counting Keith Waterhouse among the few great writers of our time is his ability to relate even the wildest manifestations of modern culture to a previous experience of life which was entirely different * Independent *
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John Murray Press The Shadow Doctor
Book SynopsisThe Shadow Doctor isn''t your usual kind of doctor. Sure, you can bring him your problems - but the chances are his solutions will blow your mind. This man can see into your soul, and the cures he prescribes don''t come from the pharmacy. If you have fears you just cannot face, wounds you can''t even bear to remember - if you''ve been abused, ignored, damaged by all life throws at you - the Shadow Doctor is here to help.But the Shadow Doctor has shades of his own, and the work of helping others may be the only thing keeping him afloat. Can he stay ahead of the demons that torment him long enough to help those who need him?
£10.44
Hachette Books Ireland After the Wedding What happens after you say I do
Book SynopsisMaeve Binchy fans will love THE NO. 1 BESTSELLER Roisin Meaney''s warm storytelling and unforgettable characters. The residents of Roone are getting ready for a summer of love, secrets and drama. After a bumpy start, Nell and James have finally said ''I do'' and everything seems to be falling into place. Nell is getting comfortable in her new role as stepmother to James'' sixteen-year-old son Andy, she''s finally mending fences with her father and she''s ready to look to the future.Then Nell''s ex-fiancé Tim - her husband James'' brother - comes back to Roone, a place he''s never liked, and she begins to feel uneasy. As the summer days roll by, and Tim seems in no hurry to return to his wife and daughter, Nell is finding it more and more difficult to enjoy her new beginning.But when the little island of Roone is rocked by the disappearance of a young child, Nell realises that life can change in a single moment. Will happiness be restored before Trade ReviewMeaney is a formidably skilful storyteller * Irish Independent *Meaney weaves wonderful, feelgood tales of a consistently high standard. And that standard rises with each book she writes. * Irish Examiner *
£9.25
Hodder & Stoughton The Creeps
Book SynopsisSamuel Johnson is not in a happy place. He is dating the wrong girl, demons are occupying his spare room, and the town in which he lives appears to be cursed.But there is some good news on the horizon. After years of neglect, the grand old building that once housed Wreckit & Sons is about to reopen as the greatest toyshop that Biddlecombe has ever seen, and Samuel and his faithful dachshund Boswell are to be guests of honour at the big event. A splendid time will be had by all, as long as they can ignore the sinister statue that keeps moving around the town, the Shadows that are slowly blocking out the stars, the murderous Christmas elves, and the fact that somewhere in Biddlecombe a rotten black heart is beating a rhythm of revenge.A trap has been set. The Earth is doomed. The last hope for humanity lies with one young boy and the girl who''s secretly in love with him. Oh, and a dog, two demons, four dwarfs and a very polite monster.Trade ReviewA demonic, darkly comic tale ... satisfyingly peppered with science, history and amusing footnotes on everything from St Thomas Aquinas to quantum theory, and will go down well with readers of Eoin Colfer and Lemony Snicket. * Daily Telegraph *Brilliant. I loved every word of it. John has found a voice that compares favourably with Stephen King and Monty Python which is not an easy trick. -- Eoin ColferDestined to be another runaway success appealing to both young adults and their parents alike. * Sunday Independent *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Crossing
Book Synopsis***Pre-order Andrew Miller''s new novel THE LAND IN WINTER now - coming October 2024***''ANDREW MILLER''S WRITING IS A SOURCE OF WONDER AND DELIGHT'' Hilary Mantel ''ONE OF OUR MOST SKILFUL CHRONICLERS OF THE HUMAN HEART AND MIND'' Sunday Times ''Enthralling'' Financial Times ''Remarkable'' Guardian ''Hypnotic'' Mail on Sunday An extraordinary portrait of modern love and motherhood, the lure of the sea and the unknowability of others, from the critically acclaimed author of Pure Who else has entered Tim''s life the way Maud did? This young woman who fell past him, lay seemingly dead on the ground, then stood and walked. That was where it all began. As magnetic as she is inscrutable, Maud defies expectations and evades explanation - a daughter, girlfriend and mother who, in the wake of a tragedy, embarks on a dangerous voyage aTrade ReviewTold in his usual exquisite prose, the story centres on the strangely reticent character of Maud, who leaves the West Country after a tragedy and bravely attempts to single-handedly sail across the Atlantic. You know you're going to like a character when, in the first few pages, she falls 20ft in a boatyard, then gets up and tries to walk. Infused with nautical detail and the cool brine of the sea, this is perfect summer reading -- Sarah Hall * Observer *We readers have a most fabulous time . . . Maud, and questions about Maud, will linger in your mind long after you close this remarkable novel * Guardian *Hypnotic . . . Andrew Miller has a poet's ear but he can also write white-knuckle passages that will leave you winded by towering waves. Most surprising of all, you'll find yourself rooting for Maud as she confronts the limits of her own detachment * Mail on Sunday *Visceral and exquisitely written . . . few characters are so neutrally, impassively masterful. In her silence she is magnificent . . . Miller, wisely, hardly analyses Maud. But the portrayal of this practical, disconcerting figure is wildly emotional * Lady *Achieves a kind of hallucinatory strangeness, simultaneously intriguing and disturbing * Spectator *Part relationship study, part sailing yarn, this odd yet enthralling book lingers long in the mind -- Books of the Year * Financial Times *A beautiful novel; moving, funny, mysterious and compelling. Maud is a stunning creation - a great modern heroine with a pure ancient heart -- Patrick Marber, author of CloserHis structure - perfectly linear yet radically fragmented - tests the extremes to which one character's trajectory can lead, and each half is strangely gripping in very different ways . . . deeply intriguing -- Francesca Wade * Financial Times *Whether he sets a story in the 18th century or the present, and no matter his subject, [Miller's] prose is highly distinctive in its detached precision. He writes like a scientist, utterly shorn of sentimentality, patient and clear-eyed * New York Times Book Review *
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Hodder & Stoughton House Rules
Book SynopsisTHE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER''A national favourite . . . touching and emotive'' Sunday ExpressEmma Hunt has spent fifteen years raising her two sons Theo and Jacob on her own, and has created what she sees to be a happy and stable life for them, despite the challenges of Jacob''s Asperger''s syndrome. Jacob''s behaviour has sometimes frustrated Emma, but she has never doubted her son''s good heart. Yet when his tutor is found dead, suspicion begins to surround Jacob and the Hunt family, who have never fitted in. Now, as more and more evidence links Jacob to the crime, Emma is determined to prove her son''s innocence. Can she believe in it?MAD HONEY, the stunning and compelling Sunday Times bestseller by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan is available nowTrade ReviewA national favourite . . . touching and emotive. * Sunday Express *A national favourite ... touching and emotive. * Sunday Express *It's impossible not to get immersed in this intricate and fascinating drama. * Cosmopolitan Book of the Month *It's impossible not to get immersed in this intricate and fascinating drama. * Cosmopolitan Book of the Month *Brilliant. Absolutely gripping, insightful and very sad. * SHE Book of the Month *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Sing You Home
Book SynopsisTHE INTERNATIONALLY BESTSELLING AUTHOR ''Jodi Picoult takes a controversial and provocative subject and uses it as a backdrop to a touching and emotional drama'' Sunday Express Zoe and Max Baxter spent ten years trying to get pregnant, until the heartbreak of their failure finally broke their marriage apart.After the dissolution of their marriage, each seems on their own path to healing, as Max turns himself towards an evangelical church whilst Zoe finds solace in a new relationship with a woman, Vanessa. But when Zoe and Vanessa approach Max to ask to use the frozen embryos left from their marriage, these paths come hurtling face to face. In Max''s eyes, Zoe and Vanessa''s desire to raise a child together is an aberration. And Zoe is not prepared to let her desire for a child go without a fight. International bestselling author Jodi Picoult draws a touching and sensitive portrait of what it truly means to be a family in Trade ReviewShe is a master of her craft and humanity is what Picoult does best * Telegraph *She is a master of her craft and humanity is what Picoult does best * Telegraph *Picoult gives her readers all the virtuosic plotting, cliffhangers and twists they've come to expect * Daily Mail *Picoult gives her readers all the virtuosic plotting, cliffhangers and twists they've come to expect * Daily Mail *Jodi Picoult takes a controversial and provocative subject and uses it as a backdrop to a touching and emotional drama * Sunday Express *
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Hodder & Stoughton Salem Falls
Book SynopsisTHE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER''Gripping - you''ll be riveted by this multi-layered tale of small-town intrigue.'' GlamourTall and handsome, Jack St. Bride has everything going for him, until a string of lies resulting from a student''s crush leaves his reputation in tatters and forces him to leave his hometown. Arriving in the town of Salem Falls, he is ready to seize the chance of a new life, until the malicious interest of a group of bored teenage girls drag him back into the same situation he was forced to flee from. Jack knows he''s innocent. But in a small town, even the best-hidden secrets have a way of coming to light. . .MAD HONEY, the stunning and compelling Sunday Times bestseller by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan is available nowTrade ReviewGripping - you'll be riveted by this multilayered tale of small-town intrigue * Glamour *Gripping - you'll be riveted by this multilayered tale of small-town intrigue * Glamour *A chilling tale of covens and corruption * Cosmopolitan *A chilling tale of covens and corruption * Cosmopolitan *
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Hodder & Stoughton Lone Wolf
Book SynopsisTHE INTERNATIONALLY BESTSELLING AUTHORRead what everyone''s saying about LONE WOLF Compulsive reading. ?????Probably Jodi''s best book! ?????Yet another masterpiece from Picoult. ?????The end had me in tears. ?????When Luke Warren is involved in a car accident which leaves him in a coma, his family are gathered together against the odds; they face an impossible dilemma.His daughter Cara is praying for a miracle: she will fight everything and everyone to save her father''s life.His son Edward can''t imagine that a man who once ran with wolves could ever be happy with a different life.Somehow, they must choose:Do they keep Luke alive?Or do they let him go?Trade ReviewSuperior literary fiction in a gripping human story * Mail on Sunday *Superior literary fiction in a gripping human story * Mail on Sunday *There are many aspirants to her throne, but nobody in commercial fiction cranks the pages more effectively than Jodi Picoult * USA Today *There are many aspirants to her throne, but nobody in commercial fiction cranks the pages more effectively than Jodi Picoult * USA Today *
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Hodder & Stoughton Keeping Faith
Book SynopsisTHE SUNDAY TIMES NUMBER ONE BESTSELLERWhen Mariah White catches her husband with another woman, her life starts to fall apart. And when her daughter, Faith, begins to confide in an imaginary friend, Mariah''s own brush with insanity starts to take on a darker meaning.Then Faith appears to start performing miracles, and all at once the situation is spiralling beyond Mariah''s control. Is Faith truly seeing God? Or is she just a troubled young girl seeking refuge from her parents'' divorce?When it comes to matters of faith, it''s hard to know who to believe . . .MAD HONEY, the stunning and compelling Sunday Times bestseller by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan is available now.Trade ReviewSlick and pacey . . . If you like a brisk read with a soft centre, this is the novel for you * The Sunday Times *Slick and pacey . . . If you like a brisk read with a soft centre, this is the novel for you * The Sunday Times *An emotional and powerful book * Woman's Weekly *An emotional and powerful book * Woman's Weekly *
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Hodder & Stoughton Change of Heart
Book SynopsisTHE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER ''True to form, Picoult keeps you guessing to the end in this morality tale . . . an edge-of-your-seat thriller'' Sunday ExpressWith one terrible, senseless act, Shay Bourne transformed the life of the Nealon family forever, leaving June Nealon widowed and alone to care for her daughter Claire.Now, as he sits on death row, Shay has one final request. He wishes to donate his heart to Claire and save the young girl''s life. To June, accepting such an offer would mean allowing Shay to stay with them forever.But refusing means risking the life of the only person she has left.From internationally bestselling author Jodi Picoult comes this brilliantly thought-provoking novel, beautifully written and impossible to put down.MAD HONEY, the stunning and compelling Sunday Times bestseller by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan is available nowTrade ReviewAn involving, page-turning mixture of emotional upheaval and reasoned argument * Daily Mail *An involving, page-turning mixture of emotional upheaval and reasoned argument * Daily Mail *Switch off your phone before you settle down with this page-turner . . . It's utterly gripping * Eve *Switch off your phone before you settle down with this page-turner . . . It's utterly gripping * Eve *
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Hodder & Stoughton Handle with Care
Book SynopsisTHE SUNDAY TIMES NUMBER ONE BESTSELLER''Superb, many stranded and grimly topical'' The TimesFive years ago, Charlotte O''Keefe had everything she could want: a loving husband, a wonderful daughter and another child on the way. But when Willow was born with brittle bone disease, this perfect life shattered before her eyes. Now, as the years have gone by and the costs to care for Willow have mounted up, the family has begun to falter under the pressure of caring for their sick child. In Charlotte''s eyes, only one person could have stopped this from happening: Piper, her obstetrician and best friend, who didn''t advise Charlotte that she might want to terminate the pregnancy. Now, as she stands in court, she must defend the unthinkable. That she would have chosen for her daughter to not be born. International bestselling author Jodi Picoult explores the complexities of a mother''s love in this topicTrade ReviewEnthralling family drama . . . seasoned with medicine, law and love * Woman & Home *Enthralling family drama . . . seasoned with medicine, law and love * Woman & Home *Picoult's pitch and pace are masterly and hardly conducive to a good night's sleep * Financial Times *Picoult's pitch and pace are masterly and hardly conducive to a good night's sleep * Financial Times *Impossible to put down and stayed in my mind long after I had finished * Observer *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Supremes at Earls AllYouCanEat
Book Synopsis''Absolutely, positively an incredible read!!!! I found myself laughing out loud, yet also feeling pain for the Supremes as they faced life''s challenges... I am now a #1 fan!'' Reader review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐NOW A MAJOR MOTION PICTURE Pull up a chair by the window table at Big Earl''s diner and meet the Supremes: three women from Plainview, Indiana, who''ve been best friends since their high school days in the 1960s. Through life''s ups and down the Supremes are always by each other''s side... There''s Clarice, a pious wife and mother who is struggling with her husband''s infidelity; Barbara Jean, who must confront the tragic reverberations of a youthful love affair; and Odette, whose fearlessness has saved her friends many times, but who now faces a terrifying situation of her own.Over iced tea and pecan pie, through forty years of marriage, children, happiness and the blues,
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Hodder & Stoughton In Honour Bound
Book SynopsisBarney Crispin, a Captain in the SAS, is as tough as they come. He is sent on an urgent mission to the Afghanistan border: to destroy one of the Soviet Mi-24 helicopters, a highly sophisticated and virtually invulnerable piece of military equipment, and retrieve the hardware. In order to do so, he needs the help of the Mujahidin resistance and must first train them in the ways of stealth and sabotage.But the guerillas he trains are ill-equipped and disorganised. Their attempt fails and several of them are killed in the process. Against orders and with only eight missiles and a local boy as his guide, Barney decides to undertake the mission alone, his own solitary battle for vengeance...Trade ReviewA riveting battle of wits * Evening Standard *Action is what Mr Seymour does best... genuinely exciting * The Times *His novels read like tomorrow's papers * Daily Express *Not since John Le Carre has the emergence of an international suspense novelist been as stunning as that of Gerald Seymour * Los Angeles Times *Solid action * Kirkus Reviews *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Nine Days
Book SynopsisMulti-generational story about two families and the love affair that brings them together, told in the voices of nine people and the day that changes their life forever.Trade ReviewThe suspense is frequently nail-biting... beautifully constructed * Daily Mail *Neither previous work could have prepared us for the ambition and achievement of Jordan's brilliant third novel, NINE DAYS . . . a triumph. Another signal career in Australian fiction is well under way. * Australian *Rare and wonderful ... Each of the nine voices is distinct and brimming with personality and by the finish every part of the jigsaw fits perfectly and you see the whole sweep of this romantic, thoughtful, heartbreaking story * New Zealand Herald on Sunday *Jordan is clear that what binds us to one another and to a meaningful life is simply valuing the life you have been given and the family that is yours and yours alone. Reading NINE DAYS, you will laugh, even cry, but you will be in no doubt that Toni Jordan uses the modern novel to reflect those tensions that exist for many of us between duty and desire. * Australian Book Review *A brilliant piece of writing...compelling, engaging and will bring tears to the eyes * Sunday Star Times (New Zealand) *Intelligent romantic comedy at its deft best * The Age on FALL GIRL *For ADDITION:'Bringing a quirky humour and a sympathetic view of diversity to her story, the author sustains the momentum to the end of this engaging romantic comedy' * The Times *An unusual and intriguing novel, written with a very light touch * Daily Mail *Brimming with sarcastic humour * Guardian *Toni Jordan's debut is mature, witty and entertaining * Irish Times *It's laugh-out-loud funny and painfully sad in turns . . . It is a quick read and extremely hard to put down, as you get addicted to Grace's addictive personality * Amanda Ross, Richard & Judy Summer Read *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton A Kind of Intimacy
Book SynopsisAnnie is obese, lonely and hopeful. Armed with self-help books, her cat and a collection of cow-shaped milk jugs, she moves into her new home and sets about getting to know the neighbours, especially the man next door. She ignores her neighbour''s inconvenient girlfriend, but it''s not quite as easy for Annie to dismiss her own past. As Annie''s murky history of violence, secrets and sexual mishaps catches up with her, she cannot see that she has done anything wrong. She''s just doing what any good neighbour would do, after all...Trade ReviewAn intense and intriguing novel that never quite lets the reader get comfortable. It understands about the fuzzy boundary between the normal and the strange, and weaves them together in a gripping, ever-darkening narrative * Jenny Diski *who wouldn't kill for a comic gift like Jenn Ashworth's? * Guardiana hugely readable debut novel...about the inability to know others and ourselves * Independent *evokes a damaged mind with the empathy and confidence of Ruth Rendell * The Times *extremely intense and powerfully intriguing * Waterstone's *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton A Fete to Remember
Book SynopsisLove and war in the French Pyrenees - the fourth novel of life in the small village of FogasTrade ReviewFabulous descriptions of life in a gorgeous village in rural France . . . uplifting, entertaining, witty and a rollicking great read! * thegoodlifefrance.com *Praise for THE PARISIAN'S RETURN: 'A humorous insight into French living' * Tatler Ireland *Praise for L'AUBERGE: 'Entertaining drama in small-town France.' Best new paperbacks * Woman and Home *Following in the footsteps of "Chocolat", this is an ideal holiday read. * www.beachtomato.com *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Constant Rabbit
Book SynopsisJasper Fforde's Sunday Times bestselling new fantastical satire: what happens when a family of human-sized, human-like rabbits moves in next door?Trade ReviewA serious minded comedy * Mail on Sunday *A political satire cloaked in Fforde's trademark bizarre whimsy, the novel reads like a crazed cross between Watership Down and Nineteen Eighty-Four. * Guardian *Fforde's engaging writing has created a story that is a clever blend of the biting allegorical satire we expect from Orwell's greatest hits and the good-natured adventures of Michael Bond's naïve and kind-hearted Paddington Bear. * SciFi Now *Jasper Fforde's most chilling and realistic book yet * Guardian *The Constant Rabbit is designed to shake readers out of that complacency: to recognise that merely holding liberal values is not enough to prevent the quickening advance of racism and xenophobia in this country. * Financial Times *It's huge fun too, with all the inventive wordplay, impeccable worldbuilding and fiendish plotting that Fforde's "Constant Readers" have come to expect. * SFX *Fuelled by Fforde's trademark wit, imagination and brilliantly bizarre world-building... You won't read anything quite like this in 2020 - or beyond that too. * CultureFly *Sheer inventiveness, wit, complexity, erudition, unexpectedness and originality * The Times *A born wordsmith of effervescent imagination * Independent *Forget all the rules of time, space and reality; just sit back and enjoy the adventure * Telegraph *Brilliantly funny . . . His relentless imagination and his affection for his characters are contagious and irresistible * New York Times *True literary comic genius * Sunday Express *Reading a Fforde novel feels like taking off on a magic carpet, only to be picked up by another and another and taken on new flights of fantasy . . . you just sit back and enjoy the ride * Scotsman *Jasper Fforde's entertaining, surprisingly thoughtful yet fleet-footed new book-a standalone novel with a climax so dramatic, irrevocable, perfect yet unpredictable that it seems impossible to extend the book to a series-is the comedic master's foray into this thematic realm. It is, as one might expect, by turns droll and hilarious, poignant and cruel, hopeful and despairing. In other words, a true comedy in depth, a form that is not mere mindless japes and slapstick, but one which counsels us that if we don't laugh, we must cry. * Locus *An astonishingly well-crafted work of social and political satire * Kirkus Reviews *Lovely little satire...wonderfully imaginative and very funny. * Spectator *
£8.99
Hodder & Stoughton The Universe versus Alex Woods
Book SynopsisA tale of an unexpected friendship, an unlikely hero and an improbable journey... This novel might just strike you as one of the funniest, most heartbreaking novels you've ever read.Trade Review'This is a story that will have you smiling through your tears, a story that touches on the most potentially devastating of human dilemmas, without an ounce of sentimentality. It is also enormously uplifting. Perfectly crafted and beautifully written, the voice of this novel is true and clear and brings to life the human condition with insight, tenderness and humour. Which is to say the quality of style matches the quality of content. The Universe versus Alex Woods may be a debut novel but it is an outstanding novel by any standards. Unforgettable.' * Red *'It's Mark Haddon meets Kurt Vonnegut' * Observer *'An eccentric young protagonist meets his match in a compelling comic debut' * The Bookseller *'One of the year's most anticipated debuts' * Time Out *'One of the funniest and most heartbreaking double acts in ages . . . an exceptionally good debut novel 5*' * Heat *'Fans of quirky tales will love this debut novel' * Bella *'This is an extraordinary debut novel. For me, Gavin Extence has produced in his narrator and hero Alex one of the most intriguing literary young people since Mark Haddon's Christopher. He's reminiscent of a better behaved Just William as an 11-year-old, combining a hyper-intelligence with naiveté that's as quirky as his upbringing' * The Bookbag *'The debate around assisted suicide is eternally controversial but, when it comes to an argument for allowing sick people of mind the right to die, The Universe Versus Alex Woods trumps any Dignitas spokesman . . . Where this novel shines is in its characterisation: the brittle outer layers of socially awkward people are unpeeled to reveal big hearts and raw emotions. The sparring between Alex and Mr Peterson is a joy to read . . . With wit and warmth, Gavin Extence shines a light on one of the darkest, most difficult subjects of our time.' * Sunday Express *'Warm and funny and tragic and uplifting all in one. Extence should be on everyone's radar' * Jasper Fforde *'Extence's plotting is astute, and he handles the theme of euthanasia with an affecting delicacy' * Financial Times *'This funny, touching first novel... Extence unfolds his offbeat tale with skill but his real triumph lies in providing such a memorable voice' * Sunday Times *'Extence masters the difficult combination of comedy and tragedy and his lovingly drawn central characters provoke deep-thought. Like his mother's colleague, emo-esque Ellie, readers will become increasingly fond of Alex, the naïve - yet insightful - narrator. Here's hoping Extence plans a sequel' * We Love This Book *'Sensitive, intelligent and articulate' * Joe Thomas, from The Inbetweeners *'When the material darkens towards the end, Extence skilfully manages to keep the narrative engaging and surprising. Mr Peterson, in particular, is a welcome antidote to those endless depictions of wise old men who know everything, being a spiky, contradictory figure raging against the dying of the light with impressive and stirring verve. After it finds its voice, this is a hugely enjoyable and even wise book, with plenty to say about life and death, and Vonnegut fans, in particular, will absolutely love it'. * Obersver *This is a genuinely hilarious read, but also a deeply moving story about childhood, neurology and mortality. * Daily Telegraph *'The Universe Versus Alex Woods is a great book that had me utterly charmed. I had read many positive reviews of this one, and noted that it made it onto this summer's Richard and Judy Book Club list, but had no idea just how much I would enjoy it...Extence makes absolutely sure that from the first page you are not going to want to put this book down.' * girlvsbookshelf.co.uk *'Poignant and hilarious' * Daily Mirror *'The Universe Versus Alex Woods is a great book that had me utterly charmed. I had read many positive reviews of this one, and noted that it made it onto this summer's Richard and Judy Book Club list, but had no idea just how much I would enjoy it...Extence makes absolutely sure that from the first page you are not going to want to put this book down.' * girlvsbookshelf.co.uk *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Red Side Story
Book SynopsisJasper Fforde, the acclaimed SUNDAY TIMES NUMBER ONE BESTSELLER, invites you to imagine a world where your position in society depended on what bit of the colour spectrum you could see...It''s the UK, but not as we know it: civilisation has rebuilt after an unspoken ''Something that Happened'' five hundred years before. Society is now colour-based, the strict levels of hierarchy dictated by the colours you can see, and the economy, health service and citizen''s aspirations all dominated by visual colour, run by the shadowy National Colour in far-off Emerald City.Out on the fringes of Red Sector West, Eddie Russett and Jane Grey have discovered that all is neither fair nor truthful within their cosy environment, and currently face trumped up charges that will see them die of the fatally soporific tones within the Green Room.Negotiating the narrow boundaries of the Rules within their society, Jane and Edward must find out the truth of their world:
£17.00
Hodder & Stoughton Last Chance in the Pyrenees
Book SynopsisThe fifth and final novel in the Fogas Chronicles: the battle is on to save the little village of Fogas in the French Pyrenees, and this time the stakes are higher than ever.Trade ReviewA well written, witty and absorbing read * Press Association on A FETE TO REMEMBER *You'll be longing for a getaway in the French mountains after just a few pages. * Gloucester Echo on A FETE TO REMEMBER *Praise for THE PARISIAN'S RETURN: 'A humorous insight into French living' * Tatler Ireland *Praise for L'AUBERGE: 'Entertaining drama in small-town France.' Best new paperbacks * Woman and Home *Following in the footsteps of "Chocolat", this is an ideal holiday read. * www.beachtomato.com *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Last Victim
Book SynopsisThe first in a red-hot new paranormal romantic thriller series by New York Times bestselling author Karen Robards.Trade ReviewTop-notch ... Suspense mixed with heart-pounding sensual tension. * Kirkus Reviews *Filled with gritty thrills and featuring a psychopathic madman, this suspense tale will truly have you on the edge of your seat! * RT Book Reviews *Thrilling ... A fun and sexy read. * Booklist *
£8.99
Hodder & Stoughton The Storyteller
Book SynopsisTHE INTERNATIONALLY BESTSELLING AUTHOR ''An emotional and compelling tale'' Sun After a tragic accident which left her deeply scarred, Sage Singer retreated into herself, allowing her guilt to govern her life. When she befriends kindly retired teacher Josef, it seems that life has finally offered her a chance of healing.But the gentle man Sage thinks she knows is in fact hiding a terrible secret. Josef was an SS officer during the Holocaust and now he wishes to die - and he wants Sage to help him. As Josef begins to reveal his past to her, Sage is horrified. Does this past give her the right to kill him? A compelling tale about the line between justice and mercy from the internationally bestselling author Jodi Picoult.MAD HONEY, the stunning and compelling Sunday Times bestseller by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan is available now.Trade ReviewThis is as harrowing as it is readable with powerful scenes in Auschwitz * Independent *This is as harrowing as it is readable with powerful scenes in Auschwitz * Independent *Picoult is an expert at keeping you turning the pages * The Lady *Picoult is an expert at keeping you turning the pages * The Lady *An emotional and compelling tale * Sun *An emotional and compelling tale * Sun *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Shiver
Book SynopsisWhen she swore off love, he was the last man she imagined would steal her heart.If driving a tow truck through the seediest part of town with a gun beside her means putting a roof over her son''s head, then single mother Samantha is going to be the best repossession woman on the books. But when she hooks her truck up to a flashy BMW, the last thing she expects is to find a beaten, bloody man in the trunk - or to be catapulted into a terrifying fight to survive.Daniel knows the drug runners who kidnapped him from protective custody will stop at nothing to see him dead. With his life on the line, his only option is to take his pretty saviour hostage and force her to help him. Sam and her four-year-old son are in too deep. With ruthless killers on their trail, she must reluctantly trust this handsome, menacing stranger. And as Sam relinquishes control, she feels an unmistakable desire. But what is the price of falling for a man who operates on the edge of dangerTrade ReviewRobards is one of the most reliable thriller-romance writers in the world. * Daily Mail *Thrilling ... A fun and sexy read. * Booklist *Top-notch ... Suspense mixed with heart-pounding sensual tension. * Kirkus Reviews *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton Olivers Story
Book Synopsis'It takes someone very special to forget the love of your life.' The poignant and unforgettable sequel to the international literary and major motion picture phenomenon, LOVE STORY.Trade ReviewAn expertly crafted novel that will delight the vast audience that enjoyed its predecessor. * Cosmopolitan *A very pleasurable and believable sequel to LOVE STORY that every reader of the first book and every viewer of the film will enjoy. * Publisher's Weekly *Reading OLIVER'S STORY, you'll forget everything else until you've finished the last page. What a rare storyteller. * Detroit News *
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