Dark fantasy

Book SynopsisIn the mining town of Goetia, the world is divided between The Fallen, descendants of demonkind, and The Virtues, the winners in an ancient war. Celeste and Mariel are two Fallen sisters, bound by blood but raised in separate worlds. Celeste grew up with their father, passing in privileged society, while Mariel stayed with their mother in Goetia’s slums. Celeste is wracked by guilt for leaving her sister behind, and when their father dies, she becomes Mariel’s fiercest protector. But their lives are upended when Mariel is arrested for the murder of a Virtue.Determined to save her sister and prove her innocence, Celeste turns to her ex-lover, a former general in the armies of Hell, for help. Soon Celeste is making her own deals with devils and angels alike to prove her sister's innocence. However the journey to discover the truth threatens to become more than Celeste ever bargained for.Trade Review‘Rebecca Roanhorse is known for her incredible worldbuilding, diverse inspirations, and complex reinterpretations of tropes, and all her talents are perfectly on display in her latest.’ -- CrimeReads‘A compelling, dark fantasy mystery’ -- BuzzFeed News

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Book SynopsisDark tales inspired by J. M. Barrie's classic stories of Neverland, Captain Hook, Tinkerbell, and of course Peter Pan, from some the masters of science-fiction, horror and fantasy including A. C. Wise, Claire North, Lavie Tidhar and more. The award-winning Marie O’Regan & Paul Kane bring together the masters of fantasy, science-fiction and horror, to spin stories inspired by J. M. Barrie’s classic tale. A murder investigation leads a detective to a strange place called Neverland; pupils attend a school for Peters; a young boy loses his shadow and goes to desperate lengths to retrieve it. These stories take the original tales of Peter & Wendy, the Lost Boys and Tinkerbell, twisting and turning them. From dystopias to the gritty streets of London, these stories will keep you reading all night and straight on ‘til morning. Featuring stories from: Lavie Tidhar Claire North Premee Mohamed Kirsty Logan Edward Cox Anna Smith Spark Alison Littlewood A. C. Wise Rio Youers Gama Ray Martinez Juliet Marillier Robert Shearman A. K. Benedict Laura Mauro Cavan Scott Guy Adams Paul Finch Muriel GrayTrade ReviewMarie O’Regan and Paul Kane have mustered an enviable crew of lost boys and girls to explore the shadowy side of Neverland, creating a new set of fables for a lost generation. Like a fistful of fairy dust, these stories transform Peter Pan into something thrillingly contemporary – take the second star to the right and read on ’til morning. - British Fantasy Award winner Dan Coxon"O’Regan and Kane have pulled the anthology together as only editors with consummate skill and experience can, and in terms of style and delivery, there really is something for everyone. It will be good to see The Other Side of Never take flight in the real world. There is certainly enough here to get anyone ‘hooked’."—The British Fantasy Society"Prepare for family secrets, crime scenes and many other tales to ponder what never growing up and Never Land really mean. I loved the collection’s ability to play with the concept and the tales all manage to run the emotions from happy to grief to fear with ease."—Runalong the Shelves"A deftly-crafted, and hugely enjoyable anthology. Probably not suitable for kids, but perfect for those adults who “never grew up”."—California ReadingPRAISE FOR CURSED: AN ANTHOLOGY, FROM THE EDITORSA magical, mythical, mystical collection that should appeal to fans of dark fables and traditional folk horror. - Den of GeekThis anthology should satisfy most fantasy readers and is well worth a look. - BooklistThese stories are by turns eerie, grotesque, and delightful... Readers won’t have to be Brothers Grimm fans to appreciate this dark mélange. - Publishers Weekly ReviewThe editors have assembled a fantastic collection here, one that offers an array of talent and is packed with stories that are all worthy of a return visit... Certainly lives up to and surpasses expectations. - Starburst Magazine RevewPuts new spins on old favorite stories and tropes, as well as offers a few completely new takes on the concept. - Book RiotSkin-crawling, tooth-grinding scary and sensuous... an excellent collection whose unforgettable, spooky images invoke the magic of daily life. - Foreword Magazine ReviewA strongly put together compilation, with very solid qualities... Really does achieve exactly what it set out to do. - The Bookbag ReviewEvery story selected for inclusion here is of incredibly high quality, delicious and moreish, provoking in the reader a compulsion to keep turning the pages until the book is complete. A compulsion strong enough to be a curse Perhaps. You’ll need to buy a copy and find out for yourself. - A Set the Tape ReviewEnchanting, spellbinding, gruesome and funny but seldom dull we give Cursed a 666/666. - Horror Hot HouseA masterpiece in its editorial storytelling. - Her CampusI enjoyed the twists and darkness in the stories and I will happily reread a few of them in the future. - A Novel Purpose ReviewA really interesting mix of fairy tale, horror, and urban fantasy... A really well put together collection! - A Cat, A Book, and a Cup of TeaA wonderful collection of stories. - Lucy’s Novel PurposeA solid collection... The overall vibe of this book is really dark & creepy, and in addition to the stories by authors I love, it was a great introduction to some new-to-me authors! - Grimdark Dad ReviewThe book is packed with great tales, and some amazing authors. Whatever style that you enjoy, or writers that you like, is sure to be met here. The book has something for everyone, and continues the tradition of Titan producing some of the best anthology books around. - Trans-scribe ReviewNo matter what your reading preference there will be something here for you... Each author really did fulfil the brief though and I very much enjoyed how diverse the ideas were, be it taken from existing mythology or through an entirely fresh approach. - Paperbacks & Pinot ReviewI really enjoyed this story collection... This anthology is defiantly for fans of fairy tales. It reaches out like a voice in the woods tempting your childhood self to step off the path and roam in the darkness for a little while. - Istoria Lit ReviewI enjoyed reading this book so much! It was so interesting... I would definitely recommend this book. It was such a quick read with you able to read a tale here and there. - Pythia Reads ReviewBeautiful, twisted, and refreshing takes on classic stories (with a few brand new fairytales thrown in the mix, too). - Howling Libraries blog tour reviewA great collection. - SciFi Movie Page reviewLike watching a amazing story teller tell a story...so much to love about this anthology. - The Misadventures of a Reader blog tour reviewA great collection of work from some great authors... has something for everyone. - Where There’s Ink There’s Paper ReviewWhat impressed me was the depth and range of stories... There’s something to delight every fantasy / fairytale / horror fan. - The Book Lover’s Boudoir ReviewDefinitely worth checking out if you enjoy the darker side of fairy tales and the curses within. - Fantastic Books & Where to Find Them ReviewAn incredible collection. A must have for any fantasy fan. - An Average Life ReviewThis book is packed with great tales, and some amazing authors. Whatever style that you enjoy, or writers that you like, you will find something to read in this book. - Reader’s Enjoy Author’s Dreams ReviewI really enjoyed reading Cursed it was perfect as I like fantasy with a dark twist... I would definitely recommend Cursed and I am sure there is something in their for everyone. - Odd Socks and Lollipops ReviewPerfect for the current state of the world. You’ll get sucked into these wonderful stories and want so much more! - mall3tg1rl blog tour reviewCURSED is a masterfully edited book from a list of highly talented authors that delivers on its promise of evil curses, dark fairy tale retellings, and twists that are sure to give you goosebumps. - The Writerly Way blog tour reviewThe cadence of the book is spot on... O’Regan and Kane have a fantastic knack for knowing how to put stories in the right order. - Novel Lives blog tour review[These] stories read quickly, but pack a real punch, landing in that sweet spot of short fiction that is often strived for but can be hard to land. - Looking Glass Reads blog tour reviewA worthy addition to the twisted fairy tales genre. - The Frumious Consortium blog tour reviewA fine collection of tales by some of the best names in fantasy... A high level of quality and some really interesting spins on the theme. - Runalong the Shelves ReviewI wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to fans of dark fairytales. - The Paperback Piano Review

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Book Synopsis'Awe-inspiring. Prepare to fall in love with epic fantasy all over again.' ANNA SMITH SPARK, author of The Court of Broken KnivesThe thrilling opening chapter in an epic new fantasy from the author of The Malazan Book of the Fallen...Many years have passed since three Teblor warriors brought carnage and chaos to Silver Lake. Now the tribes of the north no longer venture into the southlands. The town has recovered and yet the legacy remains. Indeed, one of the three, Karsa Orlong, is now revered as a god, albeit an indifferent one. In truth, many new religions have emerged and been embraced across the Malazan world. There are those who worship Coltaine, the Black-Winged Lord, and the cult of Iskar Jarak, Guardian of the Dead, is popular among the Empire's soldiery.Responding to reports of a growing unease among the tribes beyond the border, a legion of Malazan marines marches towards Silver Lake. They aren't quite sure what they're going to be facing, but, while the Malazan military has evolved and these are not the marines of old, one thing hasn't changed: they'll handle whatever comes at them. Or die trying.And in those high mountains, a new warleader has risen amongst the Teblor. Scarred by the deeds of Karsa Orlong, he intends to confront his god even if he has to cut a bloody swathe through the Malazan Empire to do so. But further north, a new threat has emerged and now it seems it is the Teblor who are running out of time. Another long-feared migration is about to begin and this time it won't just be three warriors. No, this time tens of thousands are poised to pour into the lands to the south. And in their way, a single company of Malazan marines . . . It seems the past is about to revisit Silver Lake, and that is never a good thing . . .Trade ReviewAwe-inspiring. Prepare to fall in love with epic fantasy all over again. -- ANNA SMITH SPARK, author of The Court of Broken KnivesAs good as I expected it to be . . . Erikson continues to showcase his talents as an impressive wordsmith . . . mesmerising and memorable. Add to this intense battles, witty banter, advanced warfare, new curses, new gods, and escapades with warrens and this world's supernatural and you'll see why I had such a good time. * GRIMDARK magazine *It is beautiful, it is captivating and utterly enthralling . . . Erikson is unparalleled in both the scope of his imagination and the talent of his prose, but more importantly, he is as insightful and funny as Terry Pratchett ever was. * FANTASY BOOK REVIEW *If The God Is Not Willing lacks the physical weight of the earlier Malazan books, it certainly doesn't lack the emotional heft . . . [this] is Erikson still at the top of his game, a lean, sharply honed and powerful addition to what is already in my mind the pre-eminent fantasy universe of the last few decades. * TOR.COM *A determined, focused, well-paced and immensely rich novel of war, peace, hubris, consequence, sorcery and compassion . . . The God is Not Willing is Steven Erikson bringing his A-game, turned up to 11, and delivering what is comfortably one of his three or four best novels to date. * THE WERTZONE *

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Book Synopsis'Dark, strange, thick with mystery and twists Book of Night is everything delicious and frightening I've come to expect from Holly Black.' Leigh Bardugo, Sunday Times bestselling author of Ninth House'Black is a master at world-building.' The New York Times Book Review_______________________________________________________________________#1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Black makes her stunning adult debut with Book of Night, a modern dark fantasy of shadowy thieves and secret societies.Charlie Hall has never found a lock she couldn't pick, a book she couldn't steal, or a bad decision she wouldn't make. She's spent half her life working for gloamists, magicians who manipulate shadows to peer into locked rooms, strangle people in their beds, or worse. Gloamists guard their secrets greedily, creating an underground economy of grimoires. And to rob their fellow magicians, they need Charlie.Now, she's trying to distance herself from past mistakes, but going straight isn't easy. Bartending at a dive, she's still entirely too close to the corrupt underbelly of the Berkshires. Not to mention that her sister Posey is desperate for magic, and that her shadowless and possibly soulless boyfriend has been keeping secrets from her. When a terrible figure from her past returns, Charlie descends back into a maelstrom of murder and lies. Determined to survive, she's up against a cast of doppelgängers, mercurial billionaires, gloamists, and the people she loves best in the world - all trying to steal a secret that will allow them control of the shadow world and more.'I will never forget my first time reading Holly Black . . . Such a beautiful writer.' Daisy Johnson, Man Booker Prize finalist and author of SistersBook of Night, Sunday Times bestseller w/e 15th May 2022.Trade ReviewWith a gripping, perfectly paced story and a killer ending, this dark fantasy feels like an instant classic * Guardian *Dark, strange, thick with mystery and twists -- a story so believable in its magic, you'll be keeping one eye on your shadow as you turn the pages. * Leigh Bardugo, Sunday Times bestselling author of Ninth House *If Neil Gaiman channelled Stephen King, the result might be this book . . . scintillating prose, whiplash twists, and a voice of character that demands to be heard from again. * James Rollins, New York Times bestseller of The Starless Crown *Holly Black is a master of fantasy with the Midas touch -- there is no story she cannot turn to gold. * V.E. Schwab, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue *Superb, entangling magic and mystery around the gritty horrors of human nature, neglectful parenting and the scourge of severe income inequalities . . . Will have you frantically turning pages and finishing in less time than you thought possible. Everything you could want from a modern fantasy. * SFX *A gripping ride from start to finish. Book of Night invites you to reckon with the shadows of your past. * Olivie Blake, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Atlas Six *Fuelled by Holly Black's wonderfully limitless imagination, Book of Night is a whip-smart and mysterious novel * CultureFly *Heart, soul, and a bit of kink -- Book of Night is smart, decadent fun. * Kelly Link, Pulitzer Prize Finalist *A delicious, dark, adrenaline rush of a book. I'm already dying to see Charlie Hall's next con. * Alix E. Harrow, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Once and Future Witches *A deliciously clever page-turner. * Paolo Bacigalupi, New York Times Bestselling author of The Water Knife *A dark romp full of danger and shadows with a razor-sharp heroine and vivid magic. * Zoraida Córdova, bestselling author of The Inheritance of Orquídea Divina *Black is a master at world-building. * The New York Times *The many mysteries keep the suspense sizzling as Charlie guides readers through this slippery world. Black's adult fans and readers looking for dark urban fantasy will be thrilled. * Publishers Weekly *Book of Night delivers hot sex, a breathless plot, perfect characters, and some of the most gorgeous writing I've read in years, sharp as a razor blade, clear as a one-way glass. * Ellen Kushner, award-winning author of Swordspoint *...[T]he story builds to an exciting climax that will certainly leave you crossing your fingers for a sequel. * Paste Magazine *

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Book SynopsisThe third volume, part one of A Song of Ice and Fire, the greatest fantasy epic of the modern age. GAME OF THRONES is now a major TV series from HBO, featuring a stellar cast.Trade Review‘Nobody does fantasy quite like George R.R. Martin’Sunday Times ‘Colossal, staggering… all the intoxicating complexity of the Wars of the Roses or Imperial Rome’SFX ‘The sheer mind-boggling scope of this epic has sent other fantasy writers away shaking their heads… Its ambition: to construct the Twelve Caesars of fantasy fiction, with characters so venomous they could eat the Borgias’Guardian

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Book SynopsisThe first volume of a thrilling fantasy adventure trilogy filled with necromancy and bone-chilling magic from the bestselling US author of the Nightrunner series.Trade Review'A fantasy that does not flinch from its premise all the way to a satisfying conclusion … The story pulled me under and carried me off with it.' ROBIN HOBB ‘The Bone Doll's Twin is a thoroughly engrossing new fantasy. It got its hooks into me on the first page, and didn't let loose until the last. I am already looking forward to the next instalment.’ GEORGE RR MARTIN ‘Original, well-written, and totally absorbing … by turns poignant, spooky, and earthy … a moving and thoroughly recommended read’ STARBURST

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Book SynopsisThe eagerly-awaited sequel to Shadowmagic.Having returned to the real world from Tir Na Nog at the end of the last book, our hero Conor finds himself arrested for the murder of his father.When he explains to the cops that his dad is safe and well and enjoying life as king of a land of elves, imps and banshees they understandably think he is a nutcase.That is until he is rescued by Celtic warriors on horseback and taken back to Tir Na Nog, accidentally bringing a policeman with him.Once safely back in The Land, Conor finds that all is not well. His father is dying, the girl he loves is betrothed to another and a rather confused American cop is wandering around causing havoc.It falls to our young hero, and his band of friends, to find a cure for the king. On their epic journey they encounter one of the most mystical and dangerous races in The Land, the shapeshifting Pooka, and find their fates linked in ways they could never have imagined.The Prince of Hazel and Oak is a stunning fantasyTrade Review‘If Percy Jackson were to be hurled across dimensions into Middle Earth, you might hope to see a story like this one evolve.’ Mark Robson, author of the Dragon Orb and Imperial Spy books

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Book SynopsisHBO's hit series A GAME OF THRONES is based on George R. R. Martin's internationally bestselling series A SONG OF ICE AND FIRE, the greatest fantasy epic of the modern age. A GAME OF THRONES is the first volume in the series.Kings and queens, knights and renegades, liars, lords and honest men all will play the GAME OF THRONES.Summers span decades. Winter can last a lifetime. And the struggle for the Iron Throne has begun.It will stretch from the south, where heat breeds plot, lusts and intrigues; to the vast and savage eastern lands; all the way to the frozen north, where a 700-foot wall of ice protects the kingdom from the dark forces that lie beyond. The Game of Thrones. You win, or you die.Book One of A Song of Ice and Fire begins the greatest fantasy epic of the modern age.Winter is comingTrade Review‘Colossal, staggering… Martin captures all the intoxicating complexity of the Wars of the Roses or Imperial Rome in his imaginary world … one of the greats of fantasy literature’SFX ‘This is one of those rare and effortless reads’ ROBIN HOBB ‘George R.R. Martin is one of our very best writers, and this is one of his very best books’ RAYMOND E. FEIST ‘Such a splendid tale. I read my eyes out – I couldn’t stop till I’d finished and it was dawn’ ANNE MCCAFFREY ‘George Martin is assuredly a new master craftsman in the guild of heroic fantasy’ KATHARINE KERR ‘Few created worlds are as imaginative and diverse’ JANNY WURTS

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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 SynopsisRachel Morgan is back and there are more sexy bounty-hunting witches, cunning demons and vicious vampires than ever before. WHITE WITCH, BLACK CURSE is the seventh instalment of Kim Harrison’s New York Times bestselling series.Trade Review‘Action packed chick-lit with a supernatural twist‘The Times ‘A spellbinding blend of sharp wit and vivid imagination. A wonderfully fun romp through the supernatural world’Kelley Armstrong ‘Discovering a new series like this is like finding buried treasure’Diana Gabaldon ‘I wouldn’t miss a Kim Harrison book for anything’Charlaine Harris, author of the Sookie Stackhouse novels

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Book SynopsisThe eight stirring instalment of the urban fantasy-thriller series starring Rachel Morgan. A pacey and addictive novel of sexy bounty-hunting witches, cunning demons and vicious vampires.Trade Review‘Action packed chick-lit with a supernatural twist‘The Times ‘A spellbinding blend of sharp wit and vivid imagination. A wonderfully fun romp through the supernatural world’Kelley Armstrong ‘Discovering a new series like this is like finding buried treasure’Diana Gabaldon ‘I wouldn’t miss a Kim Harrison book for anything’Charlaine Harris, author of the Sookie Stackhouse novels

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Book SynopsisThe third novel in the bestselling Serpentwar Saga.The ultimate darkness approaches . . .As the Emerald Queen's shadow lengthens once more across the land of Midkemia, her forces stand ready to launch a devastating invasion.Come the battle's dawn, the magician Pug and his life-long friend Tomas will discover that something far worse than the Queen's sorcery is afoot. For an insatiable nightmare creature has entered their world, seeking to own and corrupt the source of life itself.When the final conflict is joined, reptile will stand against man and magician against demon; and those who battle for good must be victorious . . . or all is doomed.Trade ReviewPraise for Raymond E. Feist: ‘Fantasy of epic scope, fast-moving action and vivid imagination’ Washington Post ‘A fine yarn . . . vivid . . . suspenseful . . . the action is non-stop’ Booklist ‘File under guilty pleasure’Guardian ‘Well-written and distinctly above average… intelligent… intriguing.’Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisHe is a shape-shifter. He is as old as time. He kills without mercy. 20th anniversary edition of the acclaimed debut novel, with an introduction by Mark Millar.Trade Review‘Written with incredible vigour… thuggish, gory, sentimental, cosy. It grips’Daily Mail ‘Very good indeed… Gray tells her tale with immense elan. A smashing debut that’s gutsier than most authors could ever be’Time Out ‘A chilling epic’Daily Express

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Book SynopsisA KINGWith a score to settleA DEMONDriven to rebelA GIRLWho holds the power of the godsArrah has sacrificed almost everything in her battle with the Demon King.Now, forced to give up the gift of magic she'd sought for so long, she has finally found the survivors of the demons' attack on the tribal lands. But when she arrives without the power of the chieftain's kas to protect them, the new tribal leaders are suspicious of Arrah's motives, and her unmistakable connection to the Demon King.While her heart is loyal to Rudjek, Arrah cannot deny that her soul is bound to Daho through her past life as the orisha Dimma, the years they spent together, and the child the orishas destroyed. And as the ruthless Efiya regains her strength and begins to sow rebellion in the demons' ranks, Arrah, the Demon King and the orishas must form and uneasy alliance to restore peace to their worlds. But peace may require the ultimate sacrificeThe epic conclusion to the fantasy trilogy set in a world of magic Trade Review‘I couldn’t get enough of KINGDOM OF SOULS. Wonderfully written, and full of dark magic and danger, it was a story I couldn’t wait to escape into. Highly recommended!’Kendare Blake, #1 NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of the Three Dark Crowns seriess ‘Magnetic and addictive, Kingdom of Souls turns ambition into sacrifice and blood into power. Magic is always worth the price—and the pain—and this book is black girl magic at its finest’Dhonielle Clayton, NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of THE BELLES ‘A tough-as-nails protagonist overcomes odds stacked heavily against her in this captivating debut’BOOKLIST

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Book SynopsisThe incredible finale of the page-turning, high-octane Sandman Slim series filled with an explosive ending and intense kick-ass action from New York Times bestselling author Richard Kadrey.It's been three months since Stark stopped a death cult and a potential ghost apocalypse, and he's at loose ends. His personal life is a mess. His professional life isn't much better. And the worldwell, the world is going to shit. L.A. is gripped by a viral epidemic that has everyone wearing masks and keeping their distance from each other. But what's even more frightening is the Shoggot gang and their leader, King Bullet, who revels in the city's collapse.Who is King Bullet? No one knows. He seemingly came from nowhere with nothing but a taste for mayhem and an army of crazed killers who follow his every command. What king wants seems simple on it face: Chaos. Destruction. A city in flames. But there's more to the king and his plans for L.A. and what Stark discovers will change Heaven, Earth, and StTrade ReviewPraise for SANDMAN SLIM: ‘The best B movie I’ve read in at least twenty years. An addictively satisfying, deeply amusing, dirty-ass masterpiece, SANDMAN SLIM swerves hell-bent through our culture’s impacted gridlock of genres…it’s like watching Sergio Leone and Clive Barker co-direct from a script by Jim Thompson and S. Clay Wilson’William Gibson ‘If Simon R. Green wrote an episode of Dog the Bounty Hunter, it would read much like SANDMAN SLIM – violent, vivid, non-stop action of the supernatural kind. I couldn’t put it down’Charlaine Harris

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Book SynopsisA whirlwind fantasy classic set in the richest world imaginable, with unforgettable characters and the highest stakes The Time of the Dark is the first book in Barbara Hambly's epic Darwath Trilogy.Gil Patterson is a woman familiar with dark stories.As a student of medieval history, she knows the Crusades, the Black Death, and the horrors of life in the Middle Ages. But it is another kind of darkness has begun to stalk her dreams: when she falls asleep she sees forces of evil assaulting a beleaguered kingdom, whose kind people are on the brink of annihilation, and awakes each morning in a cold sweat.Gil dismisses the dreams until a wizard appears in her apartment. He has crossed into her dimension, passing through the fraying fabric of the universe, to ask her help. For mankind to survive he must protect an infant prince, whom he plans to hide in Gil''s world. The student of history is about to get much closer to evil than she ever imagined.Trade ReviewPraise for Barbara Hambly: ‘Wondrous’Brandon Sanderson ‘This is literary alchemy of the highest order, and it confirms Hambly’s place as one of the best new fantasists’Locus ‘An enviable and intricate talent’Janny Wurts

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Book SynopsisA whirlwind fantasy classic set in the richest world imaginable, with unforgettable characters and the highest stakes The Walls of Air is the second book in Barbara Hambly's epic Darwath Trilogy.Once upon a time, Gil and Rudy lived simple lives.Until they met Ingold, Gil was an ordinary PhD candidate and Rudy was a drifter, whiling away his life riding motorcycles under the California sun. But wizards have a way of complicating things. Ingold brought them across the Void, where an evil known as the Dark threatened to devour civilization whole.Civilization's hopes rested on an infant prince, and to protect him Gil and Rudy had to draw on newfound powers she as a warrior, he as a wizard. With Ingold's help they escaped the Dark, and led a hardy band of survivors to a far-away keep, where humanity could be safe for a time.But now that time is past, they have been found, and there is nowhere to hide from the Dark.Trade ReviewPraise for Barbara Hambly: ‘Wondrous’Brandon Sanderson ‘This is literary alchemy of the highest order, and it confirms Hambly’s place as one of the best new fantasists’Locus ‘An enviable and intricate talent’Janny Wurts

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Book SynopsisFrom the SUNDAY TIMES bestselling historical fantasy author of THE SHADOW IN THE GLASS comes a tour-de-force of faerie bargains, perfect for fans of THE INVISIBLE LIFE OF ADDIE LA RUE, MEXICAN GOTHIC, and TEN THOUSAND DOORS OF JANUARYA dance with the fae will change everything1919. In a Highland village forgotten by the world, the young people who remain after war and flu will soon head south to make something of themselves.Moira Jean and her friends venture to the forest for a last nightof laughter before parting ways. Moira Jean is being left behind. She too planned to leave once but her lover died in France and, with him, her future. The friends light a fire and dance. But, with every twirl about the flames, strange new dancers thread between them, music streaming from the trees.The Fae have joined the dance.Suddenly Moira Jean finds herself all alone, her friends spirited away.For the Fae feel left behind and forgotten too. Led by the darkly handsome Lord of the Fae, they are out Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR HARWOOD ‘An un-put-downable historical fantasy drawn from border ballads and myths of the fae… The author has a knack for building tension, keeping the pages flying throughout. This is not to be missed.’PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, starred review ‘Deliciously dark’WOMAN MAGAZINE ‘A gothic twist on Cinderella that is truly exquisite. Chilling and beautiful – I devoured it in one sitting’Katie Lowe, bestselling author of THE FURIES ‘A thought-provoking take on a classic’SFX ‘An impresive debut’DUNDEE COURIER

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Book SynopsisTHE INSTANT NO. 1 SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLERA wonderful, gritty, explosively violent, and beautifully realised debut'DAILY MAILGODKILLERwill have you in its grasp from the first pages'Samantha Shannon, bestselling author of PRIORY OF THE ORANGE TREEYou are not welcome here, godkiller Kissen's family were killed by zealots of a fire god. Now, she makes a living killing gods, and enjoys it. That is until she finds a god she cannot kill: Skedi, a god of white lies, has somehow bound himself to a young noble, and they are both on the run from unknown assassins.Joined by a disillusioned knight on a secret quest, they must travel to the ruined city of Blenraden, where the last of the wild gods reside, to each beg a favour.Pursued by demons, and in the midst of burgeoning civil war, they will all face a reckoning something is rotting at the heart of their world, and only they can be the ones to stop it.Trade Review A COSMOPOLITAN and INDEPENDENT best book of 2023 ‘A wonderful, gritty, explosively violent, and beautifully realised debut built around a mismatched trio’s classic quest’ DAILY MAIL ‘Kaner’s debut offers all the bloodshed, demons, and magic a fantasy fan could want, while championing contemporary values such an inclusivity’FINANCIAL TIMES ‘Fantasy lovers like me can’t wait for this one!’ COSMOPOLITAN ‘A fascinating and engaging dark fantasy adventure reminiscent of Sapkowski’s THE WITCHER’ GRIMDARK ‘Dark, gritty and highly immersive’THE FANTASY HIVE ‘Violent, bawdy, beautifully imagined, and intensely felt, GODKILLER is a bone-rattling fantasy thriller that flies by in a breathtaking rush’Joe Hill, #1 NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of HEART-SHAPED BOX and HORNS ‘Holy heck, this book isso good. A disabled bisexual mercenary heroine who murders gods, a former solider turned baker with a troubled past, a noble child linked to the god of white lies… You need this story in your life!’Katee Robert, NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of THE DARK OLYMPUS series ‘A fresh and confident debut, GODKILLER will have you in its grasp from the first pages. Led by a cast of spirited characters, it leaps and bounds to the beat of its own golden heart, building to an epic clash of wills. Hannah Kaner has taken her first great strides in what is sure to be an extraordinary journey’Samantha Shannon, SUNDAY TIMES bestselling author of PRIORY OF THE ORANGE TREE ‘Full of fire, each page scalding, Hannah Kaner's GODKILLER is an explosive debut that will leave you reeling’Saara El-Arifi,SUNDAY TIMES bestselling author of THE FINAL STRIFE ‘Epic and intimate, tender and sharp, GODKILLER is a triumph of storytelling and the beginning of a story that I can’t wait to follow’Hannah Whitten, NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of FOR THE WOLF

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Book Synopsis From the Sunday Times bestselling historical fantasy author of THE SHADOW IN THE GLASS comes a tour-de-force of faerie bargains, perfect for fans of THE INVISIBLE LIFE OF ADDIE LA RUE, MEXICAN GOTHIC, and TEN THOUSAND DOORS OF JANUARY Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR HARWOOD ‘An un-put-downable historical fantasy drawn from border ballads and myths of the fae… The author has a knack for building tension, keeping the pages flying throughout. This is not to be missed.’PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, starred review ‘Deliciously dark’WOMAN MAGAZINE ‘A gothic twist on Cinderella that is truly exquisite. Chilling and beautiful – I devoured it in one sitting’Katie Lowe, bestselling author of THE FURIES ‘A thought-provoking take on a classic’SFX ‘An impresive debut’DUNDEE COURIER

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“The Queen of Days is a fun and fast-paced novel that fans of high-stakes fantasy heists are sure to enjoy." — Genevieve Gornichec, national bestselling author of The Witch's Heart "Incredible worldbuilding takes Bal across realities, fast-paced action makes the story move quickly...Kelly writes a fantasy heist novel filled with interesting characters, a vivid world, and protagonists trying to find their way through." — Library Journal “Complex worldbuilding and fascinating characters propel the intricate plot to a deeply satisfying climax. Sword-and-sorcery fans won’t be able to put down this gripping tale of female solidarity and triumph.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) on The Seventh Queen “Kelly’s plotlines fit together like an intricate puzzle, and the hints of romance and in-your-face betrayals keep the pages turning... A satisfying conclusion that showcases intriguing characters, epic worldbuilding, and all the political and personal scheming a reader could want.” — Library Journal on The Seventh Queen “The satisfying conclusion to the story launched in The Frozen Crown features incisive prose, along with a plot that continues to defy fantasy tropes.” — BookPage on The Seventh Queen “Filled with magic, war, and intrigue, this thrilling high fantasy questions how much a ruler should be willing to sacrifice for the sake of duty. Vivid worldbuilding, high stakes, and just a hint of romance propel the twisty plot to a cliffhanger finale. Readers will be on the edges of their seats as they await the next installment.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) on The Frozen Crown “Kelly’s debut is a vivid epic fantasy of high political and personal stakes. Fans of Jennifer Estep’s Crown of Shards series will find much to love in the first of a duology.” — Library Journal (starred review) (Debut of the Month, Jan 2021) on The Frozen Crown

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Book SynopsisIn Titus Awakes the 77th Earl of Groan leaves the crumbling castle of Gormenghast and finds the larger world even stranger than his birthplace. Confronted by elemental and human threats - snowstorms, shipwrecks and attempts on his life - Titus'' bravery is tested and he must fight to free himself from the claims of his past. Peake began this fourth and final volume of the Gormenghast stories but he died having only written a few pages. Using notes and the fragments he left behind, his wife, the painter and writer Maeve Gilmore, has created a richly imagined sequel that fans of The Gormenghast Trilogy will delight in.Trade ReviewTitus Awakes is a treasure salvaged from the ruins * New Statesman *Peake does not, as some have said, defy classification; rather, he is beyond classification in any single genre, and therein perhaps lies his genius. In his centenary year it is to be hoped that the latest surge of interest in his enormous range of work will finally help to place him in his rightful position as one of Britain's most brilliant, original and creative figures * Times Literary Supplement *A century after his birth, the gothic surrealism of Peake's fantasy world still attracts new fans * Independent *

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewFull of magic and intrigue, House of Marionne is perfect escape for fans of fantasies that straddle the edge of our world and transport readers to dazzling, deceptive, and unexpected places. * Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Ballad of Never After *With House of Marionne, J.Elle lures you through a portal and into an elaborate, enthralling world of magic and monsters and mayhem, where the twists and turns take you-and her characters-places you never expected to go. * Sabaa Tahir, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the An Ember in the Ashes series *Inventive, evocative, and epic. House of Marionne is a dazzling magical thrill ride. * Karen M. McManus, #1 New York Times bestselling author of One of Us Is Lying *House of Marionne is one of the most original fantasies I've ever read. J. Elle has created a lush and beautifully romantic world that is as magical as it is dangerous. * Nicola Yoon, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Sun is Also a Star *From the first page, House of Marionne feels like stepping into an intoxicating dream of magic, beauty, and shadowy secrets, one that's as dazzling as it is imaginative. With a must-read blend of romance, loveable characters, and suspense, this story is a glittering triumph. * Alexandra Bracken, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Lore *An absolute delight. House of Marionne is the book I always looked for and never found as a young Black girl. Elle crafts a series opener that interweaves sparkling romance, dynamic characters, and a bracing plot to tell a story that is both vivid and heartfelt. * Ayana Gray, New York Times-bestselling author of the Beasts of Prey trilogy *House of Marionne glitters with magic, deception, and betrayal. Readers will be swept away by Elle's glamorous world in this enchanting series opener. * Rachel Griffin, New York Times bestselling author of The Nature of Witches *The forbidden love story of my wildest dreams. House of Marionne is going to delight not only fantasy readers, but romance lovers of all ages! * Ali Hazelwood, New York Times bestselling author *A sweeping fantasy brimming with magic, secrets, and romance. House of Marionne gripped me from the first page, and never let go. An enchanting, mesmerizing gem of a book you don’t want to miss * Alex Aster, #1 New York Times Best Selling author of Lightlark *House of Marionne is a captivating contemporary fantasy that’s sure to enchant readers from the start. Perfect for fans of magical boarding schools, dark secrets, and books with glittering atmosphere * Kerri Maniscalco, #1 New York Times bestselling author *House of Marionne is both a page-turner and a story that takes its time to build a rich, magical world and sympathetic characters. I held my breath from page one. J. Elle has outdone herself * Marie Lu, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Legend series *House of Marionne is bloodthirsty, magical, and an absolute blast. Once you're inside its glittering world of dangerous deals and wonderfully tactile magic, you won't want to leave. * Melissa Albert, New York Times bestselling author of the Hazel Wood series *A darkly tantalizing tale of intrigue, glamor, and romance * Amélie Wen Zhao, New York Times bestselling author of Song of Silver, Flame Like Night *Elle interweaves threads of loneliness, love, and pride to compose an intriguing tapestry of a loyal girl aching for someplace to belong. The magic system and worldbuilding feel both classic and surprising, lending the narrative an air of familiarity and delivering unexpected plot twists that will excite readers up to the very last page * Publishers Weekly *An undeniably rich sense of magic pervades this fantasy that treads familiar territory with aplomb... A strong atmosphere marks this series opener that will draw in genre fans * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisAN INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER PHENOMENON . . .''Full of magic and intrigue . . . the perfect escape for fans of fantasies that straddle the edge of our world and transport readers to dazzling, deceptive, and unexpected places'' STEPHANIE GARBER--ARE YOU READY TO ENROL INTO THE HOUSE OF MARIONNE?Quell Marionne has lived her entire life on the run, all in order to hide the deadlymagic that flows through her veins.She was born cursed with Toushana - a perilous dark magic.And the sentence for having it? Death . . .When her secret is discovered by a merciless assassin, Quell fears time is running out.There is only one place that can save her: The House of Marionne. Run by her estranged grandmother, the school trains their students to enter The Order, a society of magical elites. Quell knows this may be the key to burying her forbidden magic forever.But if her Toushana is discovered, she will be killed.Soon Quell realises that hiding who you are is even harder, especially when she meets the handsome, brooding Jordon.And it isn''t long before she''s forced to choose between her true nature and everyone she''s grown to love.Brimming with ballgowns and betrayal, magic and mystery, decadence and darkness, House of Marionne is perfect for readers who crave morally grey characters, irresistible romance and dark academia.Instant Sunday Times bestseller, September 2023New York Times bestseller, September 2023Trade ReviewFull of magic and intrigue, House of Marionne is perfect escape for fans of fantasies that straddle the edge of our world and transport readers to dazzling, deceptive, and unexpected places. * Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Ballad of Never After *With House of Marionne, J.Elle lures you through a portal and into an elaborate, enthralling world of magic and monsters and mayhem, where the twists and turns take you-and her characters-places you never expected to go. * Sabaa Tahir, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the An Ember in the Ashes series *Inventive, evocative, and epic. House of Marionne is a dazzling magical thrill ride. * Karen M. McManus, #1 New York Times bestselling author of One of Us Is Lying *House of Marionne is one of the most original fantasies I've ever read. J. Elle has created a lush and beautifully romantic world that is as magical as it is dangerous. * Nicola Yoon, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Sun is Also a Star *From the first page, House of Marionne feels like stepping into an intoxicating dream of magic, beauty, and shadowy secrets, one that's as dazzling as it is imaginative. With a must-read blend of romance, loveable characters, and suspense, this story is a glittering triumph. * Alexandra Bracken, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Lore *An absolute delight. House of Marionne is the book I always looked for and never found as a young Black girl. Elle crafts a series opener that interweaves sparkling romance, dynamic characters, and a bracing plot to tell a story that is both vivid and heartfelt. * Ayana Gray, New York Times-bestselling author of the Beasts of Prey trilogy *House of Marionne glitters with magic, deception, and betrayal. Readers will be swept away by Elle's glamorous world in this enchanting series opener. * Rachel Griffin, New York Times bestselling author of The Nature of Witches *The forbidden love story of my wildest dreams. House of Marionne is going to delight not only fantasy readers, but romance lovers of all ages! * Ali Hazelwood, New York Times bestselling author *A sweeping fantasy brimming with magic, secrets, and romance. House of Marionne gripped me from the first page, and never let go. An enchanting, mesmerizing gem of a book you don’t want to miss * Alex Aster, #1 New York Times Best Selling author of Lightlark *House of Marionne is a captivating contemporary fantasy that’s sure to enchant readers from the start. Perfect for fans of magical boarding schools, dark secrets, and books with glittering atmosphere * Kerri Maniscalco, #1 New York Times bestselling author *House of Marionne is both a page-turner and a story that takes its time to build a rich, magical world and sympathetic characters. I held my breath from page one. J. Elle has outdone herself * Marie Lu, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Legend series *House of Marionne is bloodthirsty, magical, and an absolute blast. Once you're inside its glittering world of dangerous deals and wonderfully tactile magic, you won't want to leave. * Melissa Albert, New York Times bestselling author of the Hazel Wood series *A darkly tantalizing tale of intrigue, glamor, and romance * Amélie Wen Zhao, New York Times bestselling author of Song of Silver, Flame Like Night *Elle interweaves threads of loneliness, love, and pride to compose an intriguing tapestry of a loyal girl aching for someplace to belong. The magic system and worldbuilding feel both classic and surprising, lending the narrative an air of familiarity and delivering unexpected plot twists that will excite readers up to the very last page * Publishers Weekly *An undeniably rich sense of magic pervades this fantasy that treads familiar territory with aplomb... A strong atmosphere marks this series opener that will draw in genre fans * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book Synopsis Concluding the story of The Hobbit, this is the final part of Tolkien’s epic masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings, featuring a striking black cover based on Tolkien’s own design, the definitive text, and a detailed map of Middle-earth. Trade Review‘The story moves on with a tremendous narrative rush to its climax… extraordinary imaginative work, part saga, part allegory, and wholly exciting.’The Times ‘A triumphant close… a grand piece of work, grand in both conception and execution. An astonishing imaginative tour de force.’Sunday Telegraph ‘His astonishing inventiveness remains to the end and is continued in a series of appendices.;The Guardian

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Book Synopsis''Hanrahan''s outstanding first outing in the Lands of the Firstborn series will thrill fantasy readers'' Booklist, starred reviewTHE SWORD CARES NOT WHO IT CUTSMany years ago, Sir Aelfric and his nine companions saved the world, seizing the Dark Lord''s cursed weapons, along with his dread city of Necrad. That was the easy part. Now, when Aelfric - keeper of the cursed sword Spellbreaker - learns of a new and terrifying threat, he seeks the nine heroes once again. But they are wandering adventurers no longer. Yesterday''s eager heroes are today''s weary leaders - and some have turned to the darkness, becoming monsters themselves.If there''s one thing Aelfric knows, it''s slaying monsters. Even if they used to be his friends.Set in a world of dark myth and dangerous prophecy, The Sword Defiant launches an epic tale of daring warriors, living weapons and bloodthirsty vengeance.''The front runner for myTrade ReviewThe front runner for my book of the year . . . The Sword Defiant is a love letter to roleplaying games, to Tolkien, to what epic fantasy has been about for me through my whole life. I adored this book from the first page to the last. Hanrahan has taken the best of the old, the best of the last two decades, and then brought it screaming into the modern era. Fans of Gemmell and Abercrombie need this on their shelves. -- Ed McDonald, author of BLACKWINGHanrahan's outstanding first outing in the Lands of the Firstborn series will thrill fantasy readers -- BOOKLIST (starred review)A gloriously gritty adventure through Hanrahan's astonishing imagination -- Peter McLean, author of PRIEST OF BONESHanrahan's RPG roots are clear, but it's the incredible depth of his imagination that make his world and story unique. He takes traditional characters and settings, throws in his own unique and monstrous creations and builds something completely fresh. Simultaneously familiar and completely original, The Sword Defiant is a treat for all fantasy fans, and especially for RPG players. It's an absolute blast. -- Justin Lee Anderson, author of THE LOST WARI loved every page. With The Sword Defiant, Hanrahan takes all of my favourite fantasy tropes and infuses them with creativity and vigour. The characters were unforgettable. Best of all, by the final page, I felt like I'd been on a true adventure -- Brian Naslund, author of BLOOD OF AN EXILEA slow-burning epic of faith and betrayal that explores what happens to heroes when the adventures are over and the lines between good and evil are no longer so clear-cut . . . This novel has the potential to become a fan-favourite among those who appreciate vast and eloquent epic fantasy. Readers will enjoy the unique twists, absorbing intrigue and endearing characters -- LIBRARY JOURNALIn the tradition of Tolkien and Eddings, with a richly detailed narrative, well-drawn characters, epic battles, and political and religious intrigues, Hanrahan's outstanding first outing in the Lands of the Firstborn series will thrill fantasy readers - who will anxiously await the next book -- BOOKLISTGritty and rousing . . . Hanrahan creates fully realized environments with rich histories -- BOOKPAGE (starred review)Hanrahan is one of the best in the business at creating fantasy worlds that feel alive . . . It's a world that takes familiar fantasy archetypes, and turns them into cool characters with big personalities . . . I'll say it again - I'll read any book that Gareth Hanrahan writes -- THE FANTASY INNBoth a love letter and evolution of the epic fantasy novel . . . The Sword Defiant is an epic tale of how no world stands still forever . . . Highly recommended! -- RUN ALONG THE SHELVESHanrahan is a stellar world builder . . . I tore through The Sword Defiant in a few sittings despite its enormous size. The plot and world are exciting and beg to be explored . . . It is a fever dream adventure fantasy that begs you to take a look at it -- THE QUILL TO LIVE

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Book Synopsis''Hannah Whitten is my new favourite obsession'' Jodi Picoult, New York Times-bestselling author''Sinister, deadly and so seductive you won''t be able to tear yourself away from this dark gem of a book'' Stephanie Garber, New York Times-bestselling authorIn this gilded, gothic, and romantic new epic fantasy series from New York Times-bestselling author Hannah Whitten, a young woman''s secret power to raise the dead plunges her into the dangerous world of the Sainted King''s royal court.Lore has been living by her wits since she was a child, running poisons for the cartel that took her in, avoiding the attention of the law, and keeping her illicit affinity for death magic a secret. When a job goes wrong and Lore is captured by the Sainted King''s warrior-monks, she expects death. But King August has a different plan. Entire villages on the outskirts of the country have been dying overnight, seemingly at random. Lore can either use her magic to find out what''s happening - or face the pyre.Thrust into a lavish court where no one can be believed and even fewer can be trusted, Lore must navigate an intricate web of politics, religion, and forbidden romance and solve the King''s mystery. A mystery more dangerous and twisted than Lore can even imagine.''The Foxglove King is beautifully written, lushly cinematic, unsettling, mysterious - an unputdownable story'' Ali Hazelwood, New York Times-bestselling author of The Love Hypothesis''Dripping with dark opulence and sizzling intrigue, The Foxglove King proves Hannah Whitten is a force to be reckoned with. Never before have I been so completely captivated'' Erin A. Craig, New York Times-bestselling author of House of Salt and Sorrows''Darkly sumptuous and beautifully dangerous, The Foxglove King wraps you up in a velvet gown and then holds a knife to your throat'' Ava Reid, Sunday Times-bestselling author of The Wolf and the Woodsman''The Foxglove King is a decadent and deadly feast of a novel, brimming with romance, intrigue, and twisted magic'' C. L. Herman, New York Times-bestselling author of All of Us Villains ''I am obsessed with this book! Hannah Whitten just keeps getting better and better'' Katee Robert, New York Times-bestselling authorTrade ReviewHannah Whitten is my new favourite obsession -- Jodi Picoult, NEW YORK TIMES-bestselling authorThe Foxglove King is a delicious fantasy. Sinister, deadly and so seductive you won't be able to tear yourself away from this dark gem of a book -- Stephanie Garber, SUNDAY TIMES-bestselling author of CARAVALThe Foxglove King is beautifully written, lushly cinematic, unsettling, mysterious - an unputdownable story of humans and gods. Hannah Whitten has built a world that is dark, fascinating, romantic and disturbing -- Ali Hazelwood, NEW YORK TIMES-bestselling author of THE LOVE HYPOTHESISDripping with dark opulence and sizzling intrigue, The Foxglove King proves Hannah Whitten is a force to be reckoned with. Never before have I been so completely captivated -- Erin A. Craig, NEW YORK TIMES-bestselling author of HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWSDarkly sumptuous and beautifully dangerous, The Foxglove King wraps you up in a velvet gown and then holds a knife to your throat -- Ava Reid, SUNDAY TIMES-bestselling author of THE WOLF AND THE WOODSMANI am obsessed with this book! Hannah Whitten just keeps getting better and better -- Katee Robert, NEW YORK TIMES-bestselling authorThe Foxglove King is a decadent and deadly feast of a novel, brimming with romance, intrigue, and twisted magic -- C. L. Herman, NEW YORK TIMES-bestselling author of ALL OF US VILLAINSA perfect concoction of intrigue, magic, thwarted love, and writing as delicate and deeply affecting as the petals of a poisonous plant -- Jodi Picoult, NEW YORK TIMES bestselling authorAn intriguing beginning to a series that effortlessly balances character development with plot and atmosphere. A perfect blend of shadowy gods, forbidden romance and political court drama -- KIRKUSAn unputdownable fairy tale that traces the boundaries of duty, love and loss. A masterful debut from a must-read new voice in fantasy -- KIRKUS on FOR THE WOLFBy the time you reach The Foxglove King's thrilling final pages, you'll be desperate to see where the story goes next - and a likely full convert to the Hannah Whitten Fan Club. This is, without doubt, destined to be named one of the best fantasies of the year -- PASTE MAGAZINEStunning fantasy . . . the fascinating magic system and ever-present danger keep the pages flying. Readers won't want to miss this -- PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

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Book Synopsis''STRIKINGLY INTENSE. . . IMMERSIVE AND THOROUGHLY COMPELLING'' SFXThe war is over but peace can be hell.Demons continue to burn farmlands, violent mercenaries roam the wilds and a plague is spreading. The country of Eidyn is on its knees.In a society that fears and shuns him, Aranok is the first mage to be named king''s envoy. And his latest task is to restore and exiled foreign queen to her throne. The band of allies he assembles each have their own unique skills. But they are strangers to one another, and at every step across the ravaged land, a new threat emerges, lies are revealed and distrust could destroy everything they are working for. Somehow, Aranok must bring his companions together and uncover the conspiracy that threatens the kingdom - before war returns to the realms again. A fast-paced epic fantasy, filled with swashbuckling action and expansive worldbuilding, The Lost War is perfect for fans of Trade Review'Compelling and entertaining. . . inventive and fun.' -- SciFiNow'Strikingly intense. . . immersive and thoroughly compelling' -- SFX'Genuinely surprised and delighted me' -- Anna Stephens, author of GODBLIND'Outstanding. . . The Lost War is easily one of the biggest surprises of the year' -- NOVEL NOTIONSAn exciting, action-packed fantasy -- Mark LawrenceRich in action and intrigue, this fantasy adventure with a Scottish flavour is sure to please fans of David Gemmell -- Anthony Ryan, NEW YORK TIMES bestselling authorExcellent - full of great characters, tense action scenes and truly surprising twists. A highly recommended read -- James Islington, author of THE SHADOW OF WHAT WAS LOSTJustin's book reads like you've been dropped in the middle of a classic fantasy adventure, full of familiar elements twisted to be terrifying. . . Exquisite -- Gareth Hanrahan, author of THE SWORD DEFIANTA fantastic read. . . an exceptional book and I can't recommend it enough -- Steve McHugh, author of THE LAST RAVEN

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Book Synopsis''Hannah Whitten is my new favourite obsession'' Jodi Picoult, New York Times-bestselling author''Sinister, deadly and so seductive you won''t be able to tear yourself away from this dark gem of a book'' Stephanie Garber, New York Times-bestselling authorIn this gilded, gothic, and romantic new epic fantasy series from New York Times-bestselling author Hannah Whitten, a young woman''s secret power to raise the dead plunges her into the dangerous world of the Sainted King''s royal court.Lore has been living by her wits since she was a child, running poisons for the cartel that took her in, avoiding the attention of the law, and keeping her illicit affinity for death magic a secret. When a job goes wrong and Lore is captured by the Sainted King''s warrior-monks, she expects death. But King August has a different plan. Entire villages on the outskirts of the country have been dying overnight, seemingly at random.Trade ReviewHannah Whitten is my new favourite obsession -- Jodi Picoult, NEW YORK TIMES-bestselling authorThe Foxglove King is a delicious fantasy. Sinister, deadly and so seductive you won't be able to tear yourself away from this dark gem of a book -- Stephanie Garber, SUNDAY TIMES-bestselling author of CARAVALThe Foxglove King is beautifully written, lushly cinematic, unsettling, mysterious - an unputdownable story of humans and gods. Hannah Whitten has built a world that is dark, fascinating, romantic and disturbing -- Ali Hazelwood, NEW YORK TIMES-bestselling author of THE LOVE HYPOTHESISDripping with dark opulence and sizzling intrigue, The Foxglove King proves Hannah Whitten is a force to be reckoned with. Never before have I been so completely captivated -- Erin A. Craig, NEW YORK TIMES-bestselling author of HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWSDarkly sumptuous and beautifully dangerous, The Foxglove King wraps you up in a velvet gown and then holds a knife to your throat -- Ava Reid, SUNDAY TIMES-bestselling author of THE WOLF AND THE WOODSMANI am obsessed with this book! Hannah Whitten just keeps getting better and better -- Katee Robert, NEW YORK TIMES-bestselling authorThe Foxglove King is a decadent and deadly feast of a novel, brimming with romance, intrigue, and twisted magic -- C. L. Herman, NEW YORK TIMES-bestselling author of ALL OF US VILLAINSA perfect concoction of intrigue, magic, thwarted love, and writing as delicate and deeply affecting as the petals of a poisonous plant -- Jodi Picoult, NEW YORK TIMES bestselling authorAn intriguing beginning to a series that effortlessly balances character development with plot and atmosphere. A perfect blend of shadowy gods, forbidden romance and political court drama -- KIRKUSAn unputdownable fairy tale that traces the boundaries of duty, love and loss. A masterful debut from a must-read new voice in fantasy -- KIRKUS on FOR THE WOLFBy the time you reach The Foxglove King's thrilling final pages, you'll be desperate to see where the story goes next - and a likely full convert to the Hannah Whitten Fan Club. This is, without doubt, destined to be named one of the best fantasies of the year -- PASTE MAGAZINEStunning fantasy . . . the fascinating magic system and ever-present danger keep the pages flying. Readers won't want to miss this -- PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

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Book Synopsis''A spell of a book, with romance, betrayal, and mystery smoldering on every page. Readers will burn with Penny every step of the way'' Heather Walter, author of the Malice duologyA thorn witch with the power to walk between the realms of Life and Death finds herself at the centre of a magical rebellion - and a dangerous romance - that could destroy her coven and her soul in this dark and decadent debut.Thorns, Tides, Embers, Storms, and Ores. All five covens are bound in servitude to the tyrant High Warden of Halstett. Penny Albright is a daughter of the thorn coven, forced to patrol the veil between the realms of Life and Death. Each night, one thorn witch - and only one - must cross the veil by burning at the stake. Each morning, that witch draws on their magic to return. Failure to follow the rules risks the veil and risks them all.But one morning, Penny''s favourite sister Ella doesn''t return. And that night, determined to find her, Penny breaks the rules. She burns in secret. And she discovers that all isn''t as it seems in Life or Death.Her journey leads her to Malin, a devastating lord with too many secrets; to Alice, a mysterious captive prophet; and to a rebellion brewing in the shadows beneath the city. And as Penny''s world splits, she''ll face a devastating choice. Because it''s not just her sister''s life that hangs in the balance. It''s the fate of all magic.All it takes is one witch - and one spark - to set the world ablazePraise for Tonight, I Burn:''With polyamory and a strong, queer main character, this is a breathtaking must-read for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout'' Library Journal (Starred Review)''I absolutely loved the witchcraft of TONIGHT, I BURN. The magic, secrets, and sisterhood of the Thorn Witch Coven ensnared me immediately, and I was quickly drawn into the plot of deathscapes and spinners of fate. Highly recommended for all lovers of magical fantasies'' Kendare Blake, New York Times bestselling author of the Three Dark Crowns series''Tonight, I Burn kept me turning pages with fascinating magic, compelling dark fairytale vibes, and heart-wrenching plot twists. I can''t wait for the next one!'' Melissa Caruso, author of the Swords and Fire and Rooks and Ruin series''Readers will find themselves at the center of a magical rebellion and delight in the power of many kinds of love. A hard-fought ending sets the stage for a sequel that impatient readers will crave'' Kirkus''[A] gripping debut....Penny''s wry voice brings some fun to Adams''s dark but impactful worldbuilding, while plenty of twists keep the pages turning. Fans of gothic fantasies will be hooked'' Publishers WeeklyTrade ReviewDark and atmospheric . . . Tonight, I Burn reads like a gothic horror of old, chilling, tense, and full of shocking reveals, but with a reinvented burn-the-witch-at-the-stake trope and a strong, queer heroine readers can't help but root for -- BooklistWith polyamory and a strong, queer main character, this is a breathtaking must-read for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout * Library Journal (Starred Review) *I absolutely loved the witchcraft of TONIGHT, I BURN. The magic, secrets, and sisterhood of the Thorn Witch Coven ensnared me immediately, and I was quickly drawn into the plot of deathscapes and spinners of fate. Highly recommended for all lovers of magical fantasies * Kendare Blake, New York Times bestselling author of the Three Dark Crowns series *Wickedly enchanting. Katharine J. Adams has crafted a spell of a book, with romance, betrayal, and mystery smoldering on every page. Readers will burn with Penny every step of the way * Heather Walter, author of the Malice duology *Tonight, I Burn kept me turning pages with fascinating magic, compelling dark fairytale vibes, and heart-wrenching plot twists. I can't wait for the next one! * Melissa Caruso, author of the Swords and Fire and Rooks and Ruin series *Katharine J. Adams weaves a captivating debut out of life and death, darkness and light, and truth and lies. Romance, rebellion, and a twisting and turning plot will keep readers engaged to the last page of Tonight, I Burn! * Rowenna Miller, author of The Fairy Bargains of Prospect Hill *Readers will find themselves at the center of a magical rebellion and delight in the power of many kinds of love. A hard-fought ending sets the stage for a sequel that impatient readers will crave * Kirkus *[A] gripping debut....Penny's wry voice brings some fun to Adams's dark but impactful worldbuilding, while plenty of twists keep the pages turning. Fans of gothic fantasies will be hooked * Publishers Weekly *Readers will be captivated by the beautiful, evocative prose that draws you into Penny's chaotic world of burning witches, a Spinner weaving murky fates, nightly forays to the cool grey sands of Death and dangerous plots to oust a tyrant from power. With creative worldbuilding, tantalising mysteries and interesting, ever-shifting relationship dynamics, Tonight, I Burn is a delightful dark romantic fantasy that will enchant you from the first page * Nerd Daily *

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Book SynopsisEvery now and then, the best person to be the hero . . . is a criminalFrey is the captain of the Ketty Jay, leader of a small and highly dysfunctional band of layabouts. An inveterate womaniser and rogue, he and his gang make a living on the wrong side of the law, avoiding the heavily armed flying frigates of the Coalition Navy. With their trio of ragged fighter craft, they run contraband, rob airships and generally make a nuisance of themselves. So a hot tip on a cargo freighter loaded with valuables seems like a great prospect for an easy heist and a fast buck. Until the heist goes wrong, and the freighter explodes. Suddenly Frey isn''t just a nuisance anymore - he''s public enemy number one, with the Coalition Navy on his tail and contractors hired to take him down. But Frey knows something they don''t. That freighter was rigged to blow, and Frey has been framed to take the fall. If he wants to prove it, he''s going to have to catch the real culprit

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Book SynopsisDelving deep into the sub-genre of Dark Fantasy, fiction expert Mike Ashley has gathered an unsettling mixture of twisted tales, encounters with logic-defying creatures and nightmarish fables certain to perplex, beguile and of course, entertain.

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Book SynopsisA wedding. A murder. A 200-year-old curse: Ishmael Jones is plunged into a baffling investigation when he answers an old friend''s call for help.Although he hasn''t seen Robert Bergin for 40 years, Ishmael feels duty bound to respond when his old friend calls for help. Robert''s daughter Gillian is about to be married, and he is afraid she''ll fall prey to the ancient family curse. Arriving in rural Yorkshire, Ishmael and his partner Penny learn that the vicar who was to perform the ceremony has been found dead in the church, hanging from his own bell rope. With no clues, no evidence and no known motive, many locals believe the curse is responsible. Or is someone just using it as a smokescreen for murder? With the wedding due to take place the following day, Ishmael has just a few hours to uncover the truth.But his investigations are hampered by sudden flashes of memory: memories of the time before he was human. What is it Ishmael''s former self

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Book Synopsis''The Gormenghast Trilogy is one of the most important works of the imagination to come out of [this] age'' Anthony BurgessBOOK TWO OF THE GORMENGHAST TRILOGYEnter the world of Gormenghast...the vast crumbling castle to which the seventy-seventh Earl, Titus Groan, is Lord and heir. Gothic labyrinth of roofs and turrets, cloisters and corridors, stairwells and dungeons, it is also the cobwebbed kingdom of Byzantine government and age-old rituals, a world primed to implode beneath the weight of centuries of intrigue, treachery, manipulation and murder.Gormenghast is more than a sequel to Titus Groan - it is an enrichment and deepening of that book.The fertility of incident, character and rich atmosphere combine in a tour de force that ranks as one of the twentieth century''s most remarkable feats of imaginative writing.Trade ReviewMervyn Peake is a master of the macabre and a traveller through the deeper and darker chasms of the imagination * The Times *Mervyn Peake is a finer poet than Edgar Allan Poe, and he is therefore able to maintain his world of fantasy brilliantly through three novels. [The Gormenghast Trilogy] is a very, very great work...a classic of our age[Peake's books] are actual additions to life; they give, like certain rare dreams, sensations we never had before, and enlarge our conception of the range of possible experience

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Book Synopsis''Gormenghast is, to my mind and to my taste, a perfect creation'' Neil GaimanWelcome to the world of Gormenghast, the classic fantasy series from the imagination of Mervyn Peake As the first novel opens, Titus, heir to Lord Sepulchrave, has just been born: he stands to inherit the miles of rambling stone and mortar that stand for Gormenghast Castle. Inside, all events are predetermined by a complex ritual, lost in history, understood only by Sourdust, Lord of the Library. There are tears and strange laughter; fierce births and deaths beneath umbrageous ceilings; dreams and violence and disenchantment contained within a labyrinth of stone.''A gorgeous volcanic eruption... A work of extraordinary imagination'' New YorkerTrade ReviewMr Peake's first novel holds one with its glittering eye - It has a genuine plot in the strictest sense, and it persuades you to read on simply in order to know what will happen - its gallery of characters is wonderful * Nation *A gorgeous volcanic eruption... A work of extraordinary imagination * New Yorker *The Gormenghast Trilogy is one of the most important works of the imagination to come out of [this] age * Spectator *[An] extraordinary story bursting with grotesque characters, madness and mayhem. Fantasy writers of today owe his wild imagination a massive debt * Mail on Sunday *

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Book SynopsisThe global bestselling series that inspired the hit musical phenomenon.The final book in Gregory Maguire''s Wicked quartet - the series that inspired the major movie and record-breaking box office sensation.The marvellous land of Oz is knotted with social unrest. The Emerald City is mounting an invasion of Munchkinland, Glinda is under house arrest, and the Cowardly Lion is on the run from the law. And look who''s knocking at the door. It''s none other than Dorothy. Yes, that Dorothy. Amid all this chaos, Elphaba''s granddaughter has come of age. Now, Rain will take up her broom in an Oz wracked by war.

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Book SynopsisWhen you are all out of heroes, all that’s left are the villains.Trade Review“Cameron Johnston is an exciting new voice in fantasy.""Like Kings of the Wyld smooshed together with Suicide Squad into a glorious, gory, sweary melee.""A go-big-or-go-home delight.""fans of grimdark fantasy will find plenty to enjoy.""The Maleficent Seven is dark, bloody, and the most fun I’ve had in ages.”“A fun, thrilling, and bloody novel filled with interesting characters and a unique world”"Fans of dark fantasy that enjoy gallows humor alongside over-the-top blood and gore action will find this group of misfits perfectly awful""Soaring and magical""A fun romp of a novel. Recommended."

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Book SynopsisJ. R. Dawson is a writer and educator with shorter works in places such as F&SF, The Year's Best Science Fiction and Fantasy 2018, and Lightspeed. Dawson lives in Omaha with a loving spouse and three dogs. Having earned a BFA from The Theatre School at DePaul and an MFA in Creative Writing from Stonecoast, Dawson works as a teaching artist with assorted nonprofits that bring the power of the performing arts to children in the Midwest. They are the author of The First Bright Thing.Trade ReviewMesmerizing and magical, The First Bright Thing gives friendship, love and found family top billing, puts the audacity of optimism on center stage and delivers a voice with artistry and flair worthy of the Ringmaster herself -- Rowenna Miller, author of TornIf this circus were real, I’d be in the front row; it’s the found family so many of us crave. Richly imagined and vividly depicted, The First Bright Thing shows both the joys and costs of power -- Sarah Pinsker, author of A Song for a New DayThis magical novel will invite you into an astounding circus and carry you along on its wild journey through time, struggling to survive in the shadow of world wars and the sinister threat of their greatest competitor. The cast of colorful, endearing characters will make you glad to know that, as the Ringmaster says, ’Circus people never say goodbye’ -- Louisa Morgan, author of A Secret History of WitchesThe First Bright Thing will break your heart and stitch it back together, again and again. A nearly perfect amalgam of Mrs. Peregerine’s Home for Peculiar Children and The X-Men, this story is inhabited by beautiful and imperfect characters. It is a delicious tale of magical outsiders, determined to find love and light, beauty and family, in a world that fears and often hates them. It is a wonderful tale of hope and heart and perseverance -- Rita Woods, author of The Last Dreamwalker

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Book SynopsisIf you knew how dark tomorrow would be, what would you do with today?The First Bright Thing by J. R. Dawson is a spellbinding debut for fans of The Night Circus and The Invisible Life of Addie La Rue.Welcome to the Circus of the Fantasticals.Ringmaster – Rin, to those who know her best – can jump to different moments in time as easily as her wife, Odette, soars from bar to bar on the trapeze. With the scars of World War I feeling more distant as the years pass, Rin is focusing on the brighter things in life. Like the circus she’s built and the magical misfits and outcasts – known as Sparks – who’ve made it their home. Every night, Rin and the Fantasticals enchant a Big Top packed full with audiences who need to see the impossible.But while the present is bright, threats come at Rin from the past and the future. The future holds an impending war that the Sparks can see barrelling toward thTrade ReviewMesmerizing and magical, The First Bright Thing gives friendship, love and found family top billing, puts the audacity of optimism on center stage and delivers a voice with artistry and flair worthy of the Ringmaster herself -- Rowenna Miller, author of TornIf this circus were real, I’d be in the front row; it’s the found family so many of us crave. Richly imagined and vividly depicted, The First Bright Thing shows both the joys and costs of power -- Sarah Pinsker, author of A Song for a New DayThis magical novel will invite you into an astounding circus and carry you along on its wild journey through time, struggling to survive in the shadow of world wars and the sinister threat of their greatest competitor. The cast of colorful, endearing characters will make you glad to know that, as the Ringmaster says, ’Circus people never say goodbye’ -- Louisa Morgan, author of A Secret History of WitchesThe First Bright Thing will break your heart and stitch it back together, again and again. A nearly perfect amalgam of Mrs. Peregerine’s Home for Peculiar Children and The X-Men, this story is inhabited by beautiful and imperfect characters. It is a delicious tale of magical outsiders, determined to find love and light, beauty and family, in a world that fears and often hates them. It is a wonderful tale of hope and heart and perseverance -- Rita Woods, author of The Last Dreamwalker

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