Fantasy Books

Book SynopsisIdolfire is an epic sapphic fantasy inspired by the fall of Rome from the author of the Frontier and Floating Hotel.

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Book Synopsis ''A complex, gorgeous and compelling tapestry of love, death, trust and betrayal'' - Daily Mail A sweeping historical fantasy saga based on the hit podcast Tumanbay ******''Immersive, rich, compelling and populated with characters who come alive on the page, it will transport you to a different world. I loved it and didn''t want it to end.'' - Sarah Lotz, author of The Three''Written with the finesse of a master-assassin''s dagger... I could not put it down!'' Christian Cameron******Tumanbay: the most magnificent city on earth. The beating heart of a vast empire. A city of dreams - where those who arrived as slaves now reside in the seat of power.But the wheel of fate is never still: from the gilded rooftops to the dark catacombs, there are secrets waiting to be uncovered.For Gregor, Master of the Palace Guard, the work of rooting out spies and traitors is never done. His brother, Trade ReviewImmersive, rich, compelling and populated with characters who come alive on the page, it will transport you to a different world. I loved it and didn't want it to end. * Sarah Lotz *Written with the finesse of a master-assassin's dagger... I could not put it down! -- Christian CameronA complex, gorgeous and compelling tapestry of love, death, trust and betrayal * Daily Mail *Immersive and engaging * SFX *Compellingly written...its urgent storytelling still allows for subtle characterisation and comprehensive world-building. Tumanbay is distinctive and irresistible. * Morning Star *Extraordinary. A triumph of the imagination, rooted in the ruthless games of political power that still echo today . . . Read this and be astonished. * Misha Glenny *

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Book SynopsisImagine The Lord of the Rings if the Fellowship had failed . . .What happens when all the heroes are dead and only the morally grey misfits are left to save the world?__________________ Tolkien meets Guardians of the Galaxy in this epic magic-filled YA fantasy series from the multimillion-copy bestselling author of the global sensation Red Queen. ''World building to rival the likes of George R.R. Martin'' GUARDIAN ''A gripping quest fantasy'' SAMANTHA SHANNON, SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER ''A true fantasy masterpiece'' SABAA TAHIR, NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER ''A new classic'' MARIE LU, NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER ''A fantasy fan''s dream'' ROSEANNE A. BROWN, NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER __________________ CLAIM THE SWORD OR BREAK IT . . . A former squire fights for hope amid blood and chaos. A grieving Trade ReviewElectrifying... World building to rival the likes of George R.R. Martin * GUARDIAN *Classic yet groundbreaking, romantic yet edgy, a rollicking adventure that carries you along at a relentless pace. A true fantasy masterpiece. -- Sabaa Tahir, #1 New York Times bestselling authorThe world is rich and built with deep care; the characters are complex and flawed; the story is filled with the kind of sweeping scale that fantasy does best. This is a new classic. -- Marie Lu, #1 New York Times bestselling authorSet in a sprawling world of warring empires and hair-raising magic that any reader would want to get lost in... A fantasy fan's dream, injected with Aveyard's trademark action, heart, and razor-sharp characters. -- Roseanne A. Brown, New York Times bestselling authorFeaturing corpse armies, otherworldly beasts, sorcerers and the kind of epic peril you'd find in a Tolkien novel, Blade Breaker is an ambitious sequel with stellar world building. Pure fantasy heaven. * CULTURELY *

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Book SynopsisImagine The Lord of the Rings if the Fellowship had failed . . .What happens when all the heroes are dead and only the morally grey misfits are left to save the world?__________________Tolkien meets Guardians of the Galaxy in this epic magic-filled YA fantasy series from the multimillion-copy bestselling author of the global sensation Red Queen.''World building to rival the likes of George R.R. Martin'' GUARDIAN''A gripping quest fantasy'' SAMANTHA SHANNON, SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER''A true fantasy masterpiece'' SABAA TAHIR, NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER''A new classic'' MARIE LU, NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER''A fantasy fan''s dream'' ROSEANNE A. BROWN, NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER__________________CHANGE YOUR FATE OR KNEEL TO IT . . .Corayne is alone, her blade broken and her allies scattered. Her only consolation is that she now has the prince consort''s sword, the last of its kind left in existence. Without it, he can''t open any more portals. Without it, he can''t rip the world apart at its seams.But the queen will not be defeated so easily. She will burn the very heavens to bring down Corayne - and bring forth her demon god, ready to claim the entire realm for his own.In the final clash between kingdoms and gods, all must rise to fight - or be destroyed.From a sprawling cast of knights, witches, monsters, gods, and dragons to an exquisitely slow-burn villain romance, Fate Breaker is an unmissable YA epic fantasy perfect for fans of the huge worlds of Sarah J Maas and the found family quests of V. E. Schwab.

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Book SynopsisA group of high schoolers get more than they bargained for when the drag show they’re attending is attacked by monsters in this funny YA graphic novel from acclaimed queer comics creator Sina Grace Marvin Matocho just wanted to have a simple night out with his friends at the local drag show. But when a mysterious pink snow starts to fall, Marvin finds himself the hero of his own story when Los Angeles suddenly becomes overrun by monsters. Now he, along with his group of friends consisting of several queer teens, a drag queen, and a 50-something bar manager, are the only folks who can prevent the complete annihilation of the city—that is, if they can sort through their personal issues before they become dead meat. As they fight for their lives through a thrilling night, the gang must work together to find out who’s behind the sinister pink snow. With the city of angels overrun with demons, these misfits will have to solve the

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Book SynopsisBook 3 of the outstanding The Hollow Gods seriesIn the aftermath of the shattering of Mirror Town, Krish has taken has rightful place as heir to the kingdom of Ashanesland, with his friends and allies ruling by his side. He''s turned his back on his divine birthright and set out to bring unity to the warring tribes and nations as no more than a man.The mysterious land once known as the Eternal Empire has opened its borders at last, and invited Krish to take his place as part of its ruling Triumvirate. But there are plots within plots in the country that once worshipped his sister, the sun, and now hates all gods.Because the sun goddess been made flesh once again and is determined to end the ancient conflict with her brother''s final defeat. And there are strange and new gods stirring in the lands - while some search for a weapon that could destroy them all.Trade ReviewFans of either Abraham or Abercrombie-fans of fantasy full stop, in fact-will find lots to like in Smiler's Fair. Its setting, its narrative, its characters... all impress immensely, developed as they are with depth and discerning detail. In truth, the only complaint I'd make about the book is that there isn't more of it. * Tor.com on Smiler's Fair *A little bit grimdark, a little bit epic, and a whole lot of incredible. If George R.R. Martin wrote The Night Circus,Smiler's Fair would be the result. Buy. It. * Staffer's Book Reviews on Smiler's Fair *This book is magnificent! * Pornokitsch on Smiler's Fair *We can judge other-world fantasy by the extent we want to return to it - and I can't wait to book my ticket back to the next episode of this outstanding, multi-stranded debut. * Daily Mail on Smiler's Fair *Little by little, as the narrative twists and turns, Levene reveals the depth and complexity of her created world and leaves the reader eager for the next instalment. * Guardian on Smiler's Fair *One of the best books this genre has to offer * Fantasy Faction on Smiler's Fair *I took it on trust that the second volume of The Hollow Gods would be brilliant. And it is! * Tor.com on The Hunter's Kind *Levene made a name for herself as a new generation fantasy writer, pulling up old tropes like weeds and planting the fresh, bright and compelling ideas that this genre needs to flourish. * Fantasy Faction on The Hunter's Kind *

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Book SynopsisFantastic tales of epic battles and dark magic

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Book SynopsisTHE REVOLUTIONS is a fantasy of the occult scene in fin de siecle London, the celestial spheres, and mystical Martian exploration. It follows two young lovers separated by the schemes and blundering of rival occultists, from the drawing rooms of spiritualist societies, through shady enterprises in Deptford warehouses, and magical war on the Isle of Dogs, and out to a hallucinatory, doomed Mars drawn from the fantasies of Edgar Rice Burroughs, the imaginings of Aleister Crowley, and the speculations of Victorian astronomers.Praise for Felix Gilman:[Gilman] takes the brutality of the wild west and twists it into an epic fantasy that left me staggered. It brings the sense of wonder back to fantasy by creating a complex and visceral world unlike anything I''ve read... stunning. Mary Robinette Kowal, author of Shades of Milk and HoneyRefreshingly unlike any other novel I''ve read. Felix Gilman writes like a modern-day Dickens drunk on rich invention and ins

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Book SynopsisThe grave threat to the tortured race of vampires is greater than ever in Kate Baxter''s THE DARK VAMPIRE. An unforgettable, intensely emotional, and hot series for fans of Bella Forrest, J.R. Ward, Nalini Singh and Lara Adrian.Centuries ago, the vampire race was almost destroyed. Now, salvation rests upon one - the last true vampire.For centuries, Jenner has been plagued by the shadows of his past. Now, a newly-turned vampire, he stalks the night like a wild predator, unable to satisfy his insatiable desires. Until a beautiful vampire sets his soul on fire...Bria is pure innocence, hidden her whole life from a merciless enemy determined to hunt her down. When things become perilous, safety comes in the form of a fearsome bodyguard - Jenner.One fateful night, Bria is saved by her vampire protector and a blazing connection is sparked. But surrendering to the powerful call of passion means breaking free from theTrade ReviewBaxter breathes new life into the vampire romance genre ... Readers aching for a romance rich with passion, intense emotion and the sweet promise of immortal love will do well to get acquainted with this series * Romantic Times *Baxter beautifully blends together vampire lore, romance and action in this fantastic book, and definitely proves that the vampire genre is by no means dead * Heroes and Heartbreakers *The pacing is fast. The action is edge-of-your-seat. The danger is real and brutal. But the love story, oh man the love story; it's beautiful * Romance At Random *Delicious, dangerous, and deadly ... a must-read series for fellow vampire groupies * San Francisco Book Review *Red-hot vampire tale filled with action and a meticulously assembled paranormal world... It was everything you could ask for in a paranormal romance * Smokin Hot Book Blog *If you like the Black Dagger Brotherhood ... pick up The Last True Vampire, you won't be disappointed * Parajunkee's View *A brilliant blend of vampire lore, sensual energy and twitchy characters ... a jackpot read for vampire lovers who like sizzle * Romance Junkies *This is the vampire book I've been waiting for ... This first book indicates her name will be spoken alongside Jeaniene Frost and Charlene Harris * T’irla’s Talk *Hot. Damn. Killer world-building, a heat level Demonica fans would appreciate, an alpha male who isn't perfect, and a heroine with some steel to her spine. We're so excited about these books * Vampire Book Club *I like the unique spin Kate Baxter puts on the vampire myth, while still including some classic elements ... In addition to the scorching romance, there are moments of danger and suspense ... Full of sexy vampires, strong women, and excitement. The romance and action in The Last True Vampire are perfectly balanced * Fresh Fiction *

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Book SynopsisThe Binding meets The Handmaid''s Tale - Discovering a book of dark and ancient power, a convent librarian must defend it with her life. Perfect for fans of dark academia and historical feminist fiction.''A wonderfully rich and absorbing tale'' Observer''Expertly crafted and beautifully told'' Jennifer Saint''All so good. I read it in two days flat, and wish I had spaced it out more'' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ READER REVIEWBeatrice is the convent''s librarian. For years, she has shunned the company of her sisters, finding solace only with her manuscripts. Then, one carnival night, two women, bleeding and stricken, are abandoned outside the convent''s walls. Moments from death, one of them presses something into Beatrice''s hands: a bewitching book whose pages have a dangerous life of their own. But men of the faith want the book destroyed, and a zealous preacher has tracTrade ReviewA wonderfully rich and absorbing tale * Observer *This novel is chillingly good. * The Book Trail *Wonderfully atmospheric, this immersive tale grips the reader to the final page. * Woman & Home *A fascinating read for any fans of historical fiction, magical realism, intrigue and mystery, dealing with themes of female power, patriarchal religion and the power of books. * Somerset Life *Enchanting. The Book of Eve draws you into its rich, unsettling world from the first page and refuses to let go until the very end. Vividly drawn characters and a totally transporting setting with timely undertones, like The Handmaid's Tale meets The Devil and the Dark Water. -- Bobby Palmer, author of Isaac and the EggExpertly crafted and beautifully told, this is an intriguing tale of ancient power and mystery with female strength and solidarity at its core. Haunting, magical and moving. -- Jennifer Saint, author of ARIADNE and ELEKTRAWhat a spellbinding tale! I can't remember the last time I was so captivated by a novel that I had to put everything else on hold to read it. Tense and claustrophobic, with a creeping sense of dread that builds throughout the story, The Book of Eve is a beautifully written, utterly enthralling read. -- Karen Coles, author of THE ASYLUMCan a book be both fast-paced and a slow-burn? I read Meg Clothier's The Book of Eve in a quick burst, enchanted by the plot, the mysterious manuscript, and the unfolding relationships between characters. Weeks later I'm still thinking about the compelling and complex treatments of themes of knowledge, community, agency and kinship. At times brutal and haunting, this is a beautiful book and one whose ideas resound long after the final page is turned. -- Melissa Fu, author of PEACH BLOSSOM SPRINGWhat an extraordinary book - rich in historical detail and full of esoteric knowledge yet wearing its learning lightly while tapping into a rage that's universal at men's endless attempts to control the doings and thinkings of women. It's an education hidden in a tense, compelling, anger-driven narrative, Beatrice and Diana both knock-out characters. No mean feat! -- Harriet Tyce, author of BLOOD ORANGE and IT ENDS AT MIDNIGHTThe Book of Eve completely captured me with its intricately and delicately woven world, filled with strange and entrancing magic. A powerful novel that grips with its compelling mystery and unforgettable heroine. -- Eleanor Shearer, author of RIVER SING ME HOMEThe Book of Eve is a dark, magical tale of women called upon to find their strength and sisterhood in order to protect an ancient power. Mysterious, bewitching and beautiful. -- Elizabeth Lee, author CUNNING WOMENA ravishing, erudite feminist hijack of Renaissance Florence and the Bonfire of the Vanities -- Alice Albinia, author of CWENA truly beautiful book, brimming with unsettling magic and the love of literature. It's erudite and bewitching, with a heroine I will never forget. Like a feminist Name of the Rose. -- Costanza Casati, author of CLYTEMNESTRA

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Book SynopsisThe Aesir are dead, and the Vanir, now uncontested in their divinity, come to claim what is left of the Nine Realms. The War Clans must oppose, or align with, these new foes.Ragnarok: The Vanir features new Godsparks that War Clans may harness to combat the marauding Vanir, as well as new scenarios, monsters, and options to further develop players' campaigns.

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Book SynopsisThe final, blistering instalment in the Miss Hatfield trilogy. Having escaped a mysterious killer at Henry VIII's court, Rebecca and Henley have fled to modern day London. But death is never far behind them . . .

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Book SynopsisThe world has become a battleground in a war which no side is winning. But for those determined to retain power, the prolonged stalemate cannot be tolerated so desperate measures must be taken.Max Halloran has no idea. He''s living the brief and glorious life of a hunter-killer pilot. He''s an ace in the air, on his way up through the ranks, in love, and with his family''s every need provided for in thanks for his service, Max has everything . . .. . . right up until he hears something he shouldn''t have, and refuses to let it go. Suddenly he''s risking his life and the lives of all those he cares about for a secret which could expose corruption at the highest levels, and change the course of the war.One man, one brief conversation . . . a whole world of trouble . . .Trade ReviewBarclay is one of our story-telling gems; he's given us a hard-biotech future set in an all-too believable worn out world, where exotic part-alien creatures have replaced military hardware. Intense action scenes with dogfighting dragons flown by elegantly flawed pilots, and manipulated by devious politicians meant I read this in one sitting. And best of all is the Heart Of Granite itself, an astonishing battle behemoth that would make Godzilla run away with his tail between his legs. * Peter F. Hamilton *a stunning blend of fantasy and scifi... I cannot recommend this book highly enough. * PARMENION BOOKS *Barclay does dragons the way dragons should be: fire-breathing death-from-above terror machines; the only things more badass are the people who ride them * Stephen Deas *Pure pulp nonsense, but utterly compelling. * SFX *If you're looking for fast-paced dragon-flavoured action with a whole heap of heart, then look no further. * THE ELOQUENT PAGE *A book with heart that lovers of futuristic action-stories will love. * SFF WORLD *A real treat, a new series you really can't afford to miss. * FALCATA TIMES *Barclay writes novels that you want to read again and again * David Gemmell *James Barclay is the Sergio Leone of the genre * SFX *Truly excellent heroic fantasy * SciFi Now *An intelligent read, with all the depth and detail you could ever want! * ALWAYS TRUST IN BOOKS *Has all the action of a war movie and the intrigue of a thriller. Fine, fine entertainment! * Edward Cox *With Heart of Granite, Barclay presents us with an original character driven, action packed adventure with an intriguing premise. It is the summer blockbuster that you wish they'd make. * Gavin G Smith *

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Book SynopsisIn the 1970s, Michael Moorcock, a writer of genre fiction, attempts to save his failing marriage by taking his wife and daughters to Paris. One night in a bar he is amazed to find himself drinking with heroes of story and history. The next day he awakens aboard a sailing ship, kidnapped into another reality by a French highwayman and the four Musketeers, who know Moorcock well from adventures in London''s Alsacia...but that was another Moorcock, from another world. Soon after they reach Africa, the company are rescued from ambush by Antara, a poet-adventurer who offers to lead them across the desert and through several realities to the estate of Lord and Lady Blackstone. The trip is full of wonders Moorcock has read, dreamed, or written: an underground civilization of nonhuman creatures; a magical oasis where the lion lies down with the lamb; a lush garden inhabited by miniature dinosaurs. They are pursued by the notorious Jacob Nixer, who also remembe

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Book SynopsisGripping and action-packed fantasy with a historical twist.

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Book SynopsisThe prophecy has come to pass. The London Stone has been stolen and the Dark King rules the Nowhere. Only Mona and the new Seer dare to stand against him, leading an underground rebellion in the frozen wasteland . . . but what chance do they have, against both the Army of the Mad and Arnold Mather''s soldiers? There is still hope: if they can recruit a banished race to their cause, maybe Fin and his friends can force a final battle against the Dark King. But that aid will be hard-won, through an almost impossible quest, and even then there are no guarantees.It will come down to three friends, standing together against all odds. And fulfilling their destinies, whatever the cost . . .Trade ReviewI loved it. It's magical, rich, and very compelling, with credible young characters and enough darkness to add a touch of adult foreboding, too. I found it a genuine page-turner * Michael Marshall Smith *The folkloric history of the two worlds and the mystery of Fin's origins are well balanced, keeping us intrigued and constantly wanting to know more. A great urban fantasy with interesting and engaging characters and a relentless pace * Total Sci Fi *A rich and magical tale that is utterly compelling. [Fin's] journey is a long and very dark one that's full of foreboding but brilliantly told. This is a book that will remain etched in your memory long after you've finished it * lovereading.com *London, friendship and a sense of the magical - that one line sums up the story brilliantly. Well almost . . . it doesn't mention the great characters, the edge-of-your-seat tension, the frenetic action scenes or the wonderful Nowhere - an alternate London that exists in a sort of parallel universe * booksforboys *

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Book SynopsisFour sides. Two battles. One War. As the world begins to learn how divided it really is, a small group of immortals must come together to save... everything.

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Book SynopsisFantasy just got a new anti-hero.Trade ReviewAri Marmell has a remarkable flair for the sinister - Scott LynchTHE CONQUEROR'S SHADOW offers twists of humour to leaven this story of desperate people in dangerous times. A great mix of character and action - Robin HobbAn amusing adventure pitting an only somewhat amoral sociopath and his legion of morally compromised friends against an army set on conquest and a genuinely evil villain whose ambitions threaten the world itself - PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

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Book SynopsisFirst came THE CONQUEROR'S SHADOW, now make way for the second darkly humorous adventure- and character-driven Corvis Rebaine novel.Trade Review'Ari Marmell has a remarkable flair for the sinister' - Scott Lynch'Twists of humour leaven this story of desperate people in dangerous times. A great mix of character and action' - Robin Hobb'THE CONQUEROR'S SHADOW is jammed with action, repercussions, a tender love story, and a most humorously intriguing conclusion' - L. E. Modesitt, Jr'Superior storytelling and deft dialog make this a top-notch choice' - LIBRARY JOURNAL

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Book SynopsisA magical love story between two circus performers, for fans of Angela Carter and Erin Morgenstern by Costa-shortlisted author Jess Richards.Trade ReviewUtterly transporting. * The Pool *What a rich sensory experience Jess creates for us. What a full and fascinating world. Her exploration of self and grief will resonate with many who have struggled to find the quiet sense of themselves in a busy, confusing world. * Ros Barber, author of Desmond Elliot Prize-winning The Marlowe Papers *Fans of Angela Carter and Erin Morgenstern will love this latest book from the Costa-shortlisted author. Enthralling love story about two circus performers, City of Circles is mesmerizing and vividly imagined. * Storgy, Summer Reads *Her writing reminds me of Anna Smaill's The Chimes. It is lyrical and sensual, at times dense with wordplay and mythologising. * Landfall Review *Mind-blowing to read. * Sophie Elaina blog *I quickly found myself immersed in the enchanting world of magic, runes, tarot cards and hexes, as well as the powerfully evoked atmosphere of the circus - I could almost smell the sawdust! I loved the poetic, mystical and ethereal nature of the author's prose and frequently found myself reflecting on the ideas and observations she introduced into the story... such an original, wonderfully fantastic story, containing so many layers of meaning which would offer fertile ground for lively discussion. Anyone who enjoys magical realism will be in for a treat with this thought-provoking story. * nudge *The author's exploration of grief and of a young woman's search for herself was one of the most emotionally affecting pieces of writing I have ever read. She captured so vividly and sensitively how it is possible to feel numb and alone, even when surrounded by people who love and care for you... I loved the poetic, mystical and ethereal nature of the author's prose and frequently found myself reflecting on the ideas and observations she introduced into the story. * BookGeek *

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Book Synopsis Between the years of 1886 and 1939, the world saw the first automobiles, rapid urbanization, the decay of empires, vast economic inequality, the first airplanes and the terrifying secrets of the atom. It was a time of cataclysmic cultural and technological transformation, and spawned the rise of the literary genres of science fiction, fantasy and horror. This work assembles gems of late nineteenth and early twentieth century genre literature, including stories by such literary giants as H.P. Lovecraft, Robert E. Howard, C. L. Moore, A. Merritt and E. M. Forster, as well as smaller authors like Clare Winger Harris, Marie Corelli, William Hope Hodgson and others. An array of incisive nonfiction pieces on cultural and scientific advances of the time period provides a context for the anthology''s stories.Trade ReviewAn excellent anthology for a number of reasons: the spread of stories and authors draws from seemingly disparate backgrounds, but in a way that cuts across generic markers which have become a bit too pat. Here we have science fiction, horror, and fantasy presented together, rather than rolled back into their now conventional stalls; the arbitrary divides between 'popular' and 'literary' fiction are questioned by way of the editors' discussion of the work in terms of Modernism. For course use, this anthology would be great in both genre and general fiction contexts. But most importantly, it is a great collection of stories, some fairly common, but many less well known."—Jamie Williamson, author of The Evolution of Modern Fantasy: From Antiquarianism to the Ballantine Adult Fantasy Series"The Spark of Modernism explores how turn-of-the-century American and British speculative authors used tales of other worlds and times as funhouse mirrors to engage some of the most pressing scientific and social issues of their day—many of which are still with us in the contemporary moment. Editors Bill Gillard, James Reitter, and Robert Stauffer have curated a lively and comprehensive volume that features science fiction, fantasy, and horror stories by genre luminaries alongside pieces from writers more often thought of as scientists, philosophers, political activists, and journalists. Complete with detailed biographies that make the authors and their works come alive for modern audiences, this book is a must-read for science fiction scholars and fans alike. Highly Recommended!"—Lisa Yaszek, Regents Professor of Science Fiction Studies at Georgia Tech"A wonderful, indeed sense-of-wonder-full, collection of classic speculative fiction: some famous pieces, some less well known to day, but all brilliantly readable and illuminating. There's not a dud in the whole. Not only is this anthology a delight to read, it also establishes a fascinating and original throughline into Modernism as such, reframing how we think about that movement. Highly recommended."—Adam Roberts, author of The History of Science Fiction"Editors Gillard, Reitter, and Stauffer should be commended for assembling an anthology that offers a fresh look at an important era in the history of science fiction and fantasy. In addition to classic stories by W. E. B. Du Bois, E. M. Forster, and Rudyard Kipling...their collection is both enlightening and entertaining"—Gary Westfahl, author of The Rise and Fall of American Science Fiction, from the 1920s to the 1960sTable of Contents Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroduction"The Comet" by W.E.B. Du Bois"Enoch Soames: A Memory of the ­Eighteen-nineties" by Max Beerbohm"The Striding Place" by Gertrude Atherton"Haïta the Shepherd" by Ambrose Bierce"Luella Miller" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman"The ­Ash-tree" by M.R. James"The Bowmen" by Arthur Machen"The Decay of the Ghost in Fiction" by Olivia Howard Dunbar"The Miracle of the Lily" by Clare Winger Harris"With the Night Mail" by Rudyard Kipling"From Beyond" by H.P. Lovecraft"The Machine Stops" by E.M. Forster"Rust" by Joseph E. Kelleam"The Rhythm of the Spheres" by A. Merritt"The Death of a Saint" by Evelyn Underhill"The Electric Creed" by Marie Corelli"The Searcher of the End House" by William Hope Hodgson"What Pragmatism Means" by William James"Spear and Fang" by Robert E. Howard"The Black God's Kiss" by C.L. MooreFor Further ReadingIndex

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Book SynopsisWhen a prophesy brings war to the Land of the Black Hills, Keeley Smythe must join forces with a clan of mountain warriors who are really centaurs in a thrilling new fantasy romance series from New York Times bestselling author G.A. Aiken.   The Old King Is Dead   With the demise of the Old King, there’s a prophesy that a queen will ascend to the throne of the Black Hills. Bad news for the king’s sons, who are prepared to defend their birthright against all comers. But for blacksmith Keeley Smythe, war is great for business. Until it looks like the chosen queen will be Beatrix, her younger sister. Now it’s all Keeley can do to protect her family from the enraged royals.   Luckily, Keeley doesn’t have to fight alone. Because thundering to her aid comes a clan of kilt-wearing mountain warriors called the Amichai. Not the most socially adept group, but soldiers have never bothered Keeley, and rough

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Book SynopsisWe See England, We See Xanth, We See Mels's Underpanth. In fact, Gwenny Goblin, Che Centaur and Jenny Elf are just about the only creatures on Xanth who have been spared the sight of Mela Merwoman's undergarment—preoccupied as they are with helping Gwenny beat out her awful half-brother Gobble for chiefship of the goblin horde. But first they must master space and thyme . . . and find the fabulous egg that sits between the Roc and the hard place. While Mela—who would gladly relinquish her oft-viewed undies for a new husband -- joins the Adult Conspiracy . . . and quickly discovers the power of a perfect pair of panties!Praise for Piers Anthony “Piers Anthony is one of those authors who can perform magic with the ordinary. . . . [He] is a craftsman.” —A Reader’s Guide to Science Fiction “Anthony’s unflagging sparkle, verve and wordplay spin everyday trials of Mundane life into storytelling gold.” —Publishers Weekly

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Book SynopsisA sparkling magical adventure from a Hugo Award-winning author. In Zen Cho's The True Queen we travel to Regency London, Fairyland and an enchanted island. Sisters are separated, plots thicken and there's a new contender for the throne of Fairy.‘A sheer delight from beginning to end' – Samantha Shannon, author of The Bone Season.Fairyland’s future lies in doubt . . .The enchanted island of Janda Baik, in the Malay Archipelago, has long been home to witches. And Muna and her sister Sakti wake on its shores under a curse, which has quite stolen away their memories. Their only hope of salvation lies in distant Britain, where the Sorceress Royal runs a controversial academy for female magicians. But the pair travel via the formidable Fairy Queen’s realm, where Sakti simply disappears.To save her sister, Muna must learn to navigate Regency London’s high society and trick the English into believing she’s a magical prodigy. But when the Sorceress Royal’s friends become accidentally embroiled in a plot – involving the Fairy Queen’s contentious succession – Muna is drawn right in. She must also find Sakti, break their curse and somehow stay out of trouble. But if fairyland’s true queen does finally return, trouble may find her first . . .'A joyous mash-up of Jane Austen and high fantasy’ – M. R. Carey, author of The Girl with All the Gifts.This standalone adventure is set in the same world as Zen Cho's award-winning novel - The Sorcerer to the Crown.Trade ReviewTotally immersive, an utterly enjoyable experience . . . A story full of humour, heartbreak, and hope — Cho captivates once more -- Karen LordI sat up all night racing to finish it (again). Another magnificent outing from Zen Cho . . . Clever, funny, and compulsively readable - I loved it! -- Lavie TidharA joyous mash-up of Jane Austen and high fantasy -- M. R. CareyA sheer delight from beginning to end. Cho perfectly conjures the opulence, absurdity and conflict of the period -- Samantha ShannonJust finished this beauty – intricate, inventive and joyful. What a five-star treat! -- Vic JamesComplex and rich – the sort of book that if it was a MasterChef dish, all the judges would be asking for more -- Genevieve CogmanA delightful follow-up to Sorcerer to the Crown! Cho applies her characteristic wit and charm to a tale of cursed sisters – a story I found as enchanting as her Faerie Court -- S. A. ChakrabortyA captivating debut . . . tells an entertaining story with wit and consummate skill -- Guardian on The Sorcerer to the CrownAn enchanting cross between Georgette Heyer and Susannah Clarke, full of delights and surprises. Zen Cho unpins the edges of the canvas and throws them wide -- Naomi Novik on The Sorcerer to the CrownA winning combination of magic and thrill -- Washington Post on Sorcerer to the Crown

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Book SynopsisNot all books should be opened. In this thrilling fantasy debut, meet the family tasked with guarding a trove of magical but deadly books, and the shadowy organisation that will do anything to get them back.* The instant Sunday Times bestseller ** Good Morning America's June book club pick ** Apple Book of the Year in Audio *'A bold, new novel from an extraordinary new voice.' Marlon James'Simply a delight from start to finish.' New York Times'A spectacularly spellbinding debut.' The Fantasy Hive'A magnificent debut.' The Bookseller'A delight from start to finish.' Chloe Benjamin____________Joanna Kalotay lives alone in the woods of Vermont, the sole protector of a collection of rare books; books that will allow someone to walk through walls or turn water into wine. Books of magic.Her estranged older sister Esther moves between countries and jobs, constantly changing, never staying anywhere longer than a year, desperate to avoid the deadly magic that killed her mother. Currently working on a research base in Antarctica, she has found love and perhaps a sort of happiness.But when she finds spots of blood on the mirrors in the research base, she knows someone is coming for her, and that Joanna and her collection are in danger.If they are to survive, she and Joanna must unravel the secrets their parents kept hidden from them - secrets that span centuries and continents, and could cost them their lives ...* New York Times Notable Book for 2023 ** Best Book of 2023 by NPR! *____________Readers can't get enough of Ink Blood Sister Scribe . . .***** 'THIS BOOK DESTROYED ME AND MADE ME LOSE FEELING IN MY HANDS WITH HOW ANXIOUS IT MADE ME FIVE OUT OF FIVE STARS BEST 2023 RELEASE BY A THOUSAND MILES'***** 'Amazing!! Couldn't put it down.'***** 'This has be one of the most enjoyable fantasies I've read in a long time.'***** 'Dark and gripping, magic books written in blood, a shedload of mystery and intrigue, I loved it!'***** 'Absolutely brilliant!'____________'A fantastic magical adventure, not to be missed.' Kirkus Starred Review'No boxes go unticked in this fabulous page-turner, a searing debut about two sisters with very different powers.' Daily Mail'This debut novel is an absolute delight, weaving a convincing occult underground into real-world settings.' Guardian'Downright irresistible' Washington Post'Spellbinding... This is a must-read.' Publishers Weekly'A twisty and thrilling fantasy.' Kelly Link, Get in Trouble'An adventure, a puzzle, a twisty thriller, and a tender romance.' Alix E Harrow, The Once And Future Witches'Chilling and charming ... Törz's debut is a love letter to stories everywhere.' Roshani Chokshi, The Last Tale of the Flower Bride'A magical book, brimming with all the elements that make a story sing ... A gorgeously satisfying read.' Lesley Nneka Arimah, What It Means When a Man Falls from the SkySunday Times bestseller, July 2023Trade ReviewFollow where this novel leads and you will be lost in a bewitching spell, a book of magic about books of magic, and the people who reel from reading them. Go beyond the magic and you're left with a heartbreaking tale of family where truth blurs with lies, and blood isn't thick enough. A bold, new novel from an extraordinary new voice. * Marlon James, Sunday Times bestselling author of Black Leopard, Red Wolf *Ink Blood Sister Scribe is so many things at once: an adventure, a puzzle, a twisty thriller, and a tender romance. It's a magical book about the magic of books; I adored it. * Alix E. Harrow, New York Times bestselling author of The Once and Future Witches *A twisty and thrilling fantasy in which both the magic and the characters have real complexity, real shadows. If, like me, you're a fan of Holly Black and Leigh Bardugo, pick up this book at once. * Kelly Link, author of Get in Trouble *This edge-of-your-seat fantasy thriller sees two estranged sisters tasked with guarding their family's collection of rare and dangerous magical books. To survive, they have to unravel the secrets their parents kept hidden. * Press Association *The best kind of books do not simply expand our world, they let in light from new ones. Törz's spellbinding Ink Blood Sister Scribe embodies that completely. Chilling and charming in equal parts, Törz's debut is a love letter to stories everywhere. * Roshani Chokshi, New York Times bestselling author of The Last Tale of the Flower Bride *

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Book SynopsisA fallen regime. A missing child. A chance at freedom.By the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Divergent, Poster Girl is a haunting adult dystopian mystery that explores the expanding role of surveillance on society - an inescapable reality that we welcome all too easily.WHAT'S RIGHT IS RIGHT. Sonya Kantor knows this slogan - she lived by it for most of her life. For decades, everyone in the Seattle-Portland megalopolis lived under it, as well as constant surveillance in the form of the Insight, an ocular implant that tracked every word and every action, rewarding or punishing by a rigid moral code set forth by the Delegation.Then there was a revolution. The Delegation fell. Its most valuable members were locked in the Aperture, a prison on the outskirts of the city. And everyone else, now free from the Insight's monitoring, went on with their lives. Sonya, former poster girl for the Delegation, has been imprisoned for ten years when an old enemy comes to her with a deal: find a missing girl who was stolen from her parents by the old regime, and earn her freedom. The path Sonya takes to find the child will lead her through an unfamiliar, crooked post-Delegation world where she finds herself digging deeper into the past - and her family's dark secrets - than she ever wanted to.Praise for Veronica Roth 'Poster Girl cements Veronica Roth's status as a superstar' Gregg Hurwitz, #1 International bestselling author of the Orphan X series'Veronica Roth's latest outing will draw you into its broken world, and make you think more deeply of our own' Karin Slaughter, New York Times bestselling author of Girl, Forgotten'Roth weaves a tale of redemption and regret that kept me riveted and guessing until the last page' Hugh Howey, New York Times bestselling author of Wool and Across the Sand'Veronica Roth is the cure for all those humdrum 'one true saviour' narratives' Charlie Jane Anders, Hugo and Nebula Award-winning author of THE CITY IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT, on CHOSEN ONES'Roth has pulled off a virtuoso performance' Blake Crouch, bestselling author of DARK MATTER and RECURSION on CHOSEN ONES'Roth somehow manages to make universe-building look easy' Charles Yu, bestselling author of INTERIOR CHINATOWN on CHOSEN ONESTrade ReviewHighly recommended for readers of dystopian fiction, lovers of Philip K. Dick's thought-police science fiction, and anyone who wants to see how far "If you see something, say something" can be led astray * Library Journal, starred review *Poster Girl is a captivating story full of twists and turns-and no easy answers. Veronica Roth's latest outing will draw you into its broken world, and make you think more deeply of our own. I couldn't put it down * Karin Slaughter, New York Times bestselling author of Girl, Forgotten *Roth weaves a tale of redemption and regret that kept me riveted and guessing until the last page * Hugh Howey, New York Times bestselling author of Wool and Across the Sand *Veronica Roth's Poster Girl is a carbonated noir, a thrilling dystopian page turner, and a novel that pushes at the ideas of justice and compliance. Poster Girl is a rare book that is deeply entertaining while making readers consider deep moral issues * Megan Giddings, author of Lakewood and The Women Could Fly *Someone is always watching, private secrets breed public power, and polite behavior and careful thoughts will not be enough to save everyone from their complicity. This is a smart, propulsive thriller set in a cleverly constructed world, full of tough questions I won't soon forget * Matt Bell, author of Appleseed *This is a story of deep complexity, full of love and loss and hard-won hope * Marissa Levien, author of The World Gives Way *An intelligent, raw, emotional dystopian thriller that asks deep questions about human nature, society, and freedom. With searing prose, deft world building, and a layered, propulsive plot that will keep you turning the pages, the supremely talented Veronica Roth is at the top of her game in Poster Girl. Don't miss this! * Lisa Unger, New York Times bestselling author of Secluded Cabin Sleeps Six *Poster Girl cements Veronica Roth's status as a superstar. It's not just her prose, lyrical and precise. Not just her characters, complex and enchanting. It's that she manages to keep her feet planted in the thunderous present while setting her narrative gaze on a looming Orwellian future. Not a word of this fine novel is dogmatic or reductive as Sonja Kantor, onetime true believer, peels back the pristine façade of her life's ideology to reveal the churning human chaos beneath. Her story is timeless in all the best ways, as contoured and mysterious as the poster girl herself * Gregg Hurwitz, #1 International bestselling author of the Orphan X series *Roth isn't interested in easy victories or happily-ever-afters. Instead, Sonya grapples with the inevitable failure of even the most optimistic governments, the risk that exciting and helpful new technologies can be used for evil, and the responsibility she still bears for who she was and what she did during the Delegation's heyday. The novel manages to be an elegant social commentary without resorting to preachiness, and even the most cynical readers will be as surprised as Sonya when they reach Roth's big reveals about the depths of the Delegation's depravity. A wonderfully complex and nuanced book * Kirkus Reviews (starred review) *It's an unflinching look at the dangers of spyware and propaganda through a dystopian lens. * Stylist *Remember the Divergent series? My teenage self definitely does. If you do too, then get excited, because the author is back with a brand new (and much more grown up) speculative fiction mystery about a dystopian world under constant surveillance. * Cosmopolitan *Exciting and thought provoking * Peterborough Telegraph *A classy, pleasingly self-contained mystery that scores all the right points * SFX Magazine *Poster Girl does not just feature the unravelling of old ideas but the building of new ones. Every detail of this story proves that there are still new approaches to be found in dystopian science fiction. While fans of this genre and Roth's previous work will be delighted by this, there is thematic depth here for those who may never have read anything like it before * The National *

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Book Synopsis*An Oprah Magazine Most Anticipated Book of 2021**A Woman & Home Top Four Literary Read**A lovereading.co.uk Star Book* And they lived happily ever after . . . didn't they?Cinderella married the man of her dreams - the perfect ending she deserved after diligently following all the fairy-tale rules. Yet now, two children and thirteen-and-a-half years later, things have gone badly wrong. One night, she sneaks out of the palace to get help from the Witch who, for a price, offers love potions to disgruntled housewives. But as the old hag flings the last ingredients into the cauldron, Cinderella doesn't ask for a love spell to win back her Prince Charming. Instead, she wants him dead. Endlessly surprising and wildly inventive, The Charmed Wife is a sophisticated literary fairy tale for the twenty-first century that weaves together time and place, fantasy and reality, to conjure a world unlike any other. Nothing in it is quite what it seems, and the twists and turns of its magical, dark, swiftly shifting paths take us deep into the heart of romance, marriage and the very nature of storytelling.'Dark and dreamy. Inside the plot, magic comes and goes. But inside the reader, it's all magic - all of us happily caught in Grushin's hypnotic spell.' - Karen Joy Fowler, author of We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves and The Jane Austen Book Club'Fall under its charms, I dare you' - Gregory Maguire, author of WickedA powerful, provocative and quite wonderful modern literary fairy tale. I danced through the deep dark magic of The Charmed Wife - long live the fairy tale that lives beyond "happily ever after".' - lovereading.co.uk'Surprising, darkly comedic and enchanting' - CNN'Genre-bending and darkly comic, Grushin's fourth novel is a weird and wonderful triumph.' - Oprah MagazineTrade ReviewDoes for fairy tales what Bridgerton has done for Regency England * Mail on Sunday *Pure escapism * Sun *The comedy is devastating in this autopsy of a marriage that dies of "happily ever after" syndrome. Seldom has such emotional realism been spied in the precincts of wild magic. This alumna of the Cinderella marriage is overwhelmed, over-enchanted, and so over it. Fall under its charms, I dare you. * Gregory Maguire, author of WICKED *Different and compelling * Daily Mail *Dark and dreamy. Inside the plot, magic comes and goes. But inside the reader, it's all magic - all of us happily caught in Grushin's hypnotic spell. * Karen Joy Fowler, author of We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves *Surprising, darkly comedic and enchanting * CNN *THE CHARMED WIFE is a thought-provoking, wickedly clever, and beautifully written fairy tale character study that enchants at every turn. Olga Grushin dissects fairy tales, marriage, and the messy human heart with a pen as sharp as any scalpel. * Melissa Bashardoust *Lush and powerful, The Charmed Wife is brimful of magic and the seething darkness that lies beneath the glittering surface of every good fairy tale. * Leife Shallcross, author of The Beast's Heart *In The Charmed Wife, Olga Grushin turns the fairy tale romance on its head, and then just keeps turning it, playfully, subversively, brilliantly: a feat of fierce imagination. * Jess Walter, author of Beautiful Ruins *A powerful, provocative and quite wonderful modern literary fairy tale, but if you enter expecting 'happily ever after' you'll be sorely disappointed. Rather than sugar and spice and all things nice, you'll instead find a novel brimming with exquisitely sharp and pointed attitude. Thirteen and a half years after Cinderella married the man of her dreams and she's had enough, she wants out. The prologue pierces love, and binds hate, firmly setting the tone, yet wicked humour and gentle observations also tickle the page. The echoes of well known fairy tales make themselves felt, adding to the enchantment. There is much to take delight in, yet beware, all magic is paid for and you'll need to be on the look out for hidden snares. I adore the tale that runs alongside the main story, of the two mice that accompanied Cinderella and live in a world circling through an entire civilisation. How easy it is to view what you want to see, rather than what is actually there. As the fairy tale splinters and a shimmer of reality breaks through, I found my thoughts tossed high in the air, and where they will land, I still don't know. So bright, so clever, and thought-provoking this just had to sit as a Liz Pick of the Month. I danced through the deep dark magic of The Charmed Wife, long live the fairy tale that lives beyond 'happily ever after'. * Lovereading.co.uk *

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Book Synopsis'Wild and thrilling' Adalyn GraceA fierce revolutionary. A desperate prince. Together they will face the Storm, or be swept away . . .Prince Dalca was born for one purpose: to protect his home from the Storm, a deadly force that surrounds his city and curses everyone it touches. Vesper Vale is the daughter of failed revolutionaries. Since the Queen sentenced her mother to death by the Storm, she and her father have been on the run. So when the queen's soldiers - led by Prince Dalca - catch up to Vesper's father, she will do whatever it takes to save him from sharing her mother's cruel fate. Even arm herself with her father's book of dangerous experimental magic.Even infiltrate the prince's elite squad of soldier-sorcerers. Even cheat her way into his cold heart. But when Vesper learns that there's more to the story of her mother's death, and that her home is in dire peril, she has little choice: trust the devious prince with her family's secrets, or follow her mother's footsteps into the Storm . . .'Enchanting and wildly clever' Ayana Gray, New York Times bestselling author of Beasts of PreyTrade ReviewA world that will ensnare you from the first page. The Darkening is at once a grand epic and an intimate adventure, following a brave band of heroes fighting their innermost curses * Chloe Gong, New York Times bestselling author of These Violent Delights *A thrilling, fast-paced adventure by an exciting new voice. Mara has crafted a brutal, richly-woven world balanced by the most lush and beautiful prose. The Darkening is a wild and thrilling ride, with twists and turns that will have you on the edge of your seat and an ending that'll have you begging for the sequel * Adalyn Grace, New York Times bestselling author of All the Stars and Teeth *An enchanting and wildly clever debut, Mara's The Darkening delivers on every promise. From its storm-tossed world, to its lyrical prose, to its propulsive, electrifying plot, readers will find themselves utterly ensnared by this book - it is a true masterclass in young adult fantasy * Ayana Gray, New York Times-bestselling author of Beasts of Prey *Sunya Mara's gripping debut is a delight: fast-paced, wildly creative and captivating. The world of The Darkening is wonderfully atmospheric - a ringed city ravaged by an endless cursed storm. It's the perfect backdrop for a brilliantly twisting plot that links the daughter of failed revolutionaries with a prince of the royal family they tried to overthrow. The Darkening is the best kind of read: a rollercoaster of adventure and romance. * Vanessa Len, author of Only a Monster *Okay, so picture the storm in Fortnite, only it's a YA Fantasy novel. I thoroughly enjoyed it, but was left wanting more detail about ikonomancy, the Great King and the world * Book(ish) Magazine *Fresh and viciously clever, Mara's debut offers a world brimming with fury, characters you'd follow into any storm, and twists that'll keep you guessing to the very last page - where you'll promptly demand the sequel * Kate Dylan, author of Mindwalker *The Darkening is a thrilling adventure that will draw readers in like the enchanted storm threatening Vesper's world * Emily Thiede, author of This Vicious Grace *The plot is thrilling and emotionally charged * Culturefly *

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Book SynopsisPower always wins.Imagine Camelot but in Gotham: a city where Arthurian knights are the celebrities of the day, riding on motorbikes instead of horses and competing in televised fights for fame and money.'Arthurian legend meets urban fantasy in a brilliant, bloody wild ride' Jay Kristoff, Sunday Times bestselling author of Aurora BurningImagine a city where a young, magic-touched bastard astonishes everyone by becoming king - albeit with extreme reluctance - and a girl with a secret past trains to become a knight for the sole purpose of vengeance.The boldest, smartest, most adventurous fantasy I've read in ages' Krystal Sutherland, author of Our Chemical HeartsImagine a city where magic is illegal but everywhere, in its underground bars, its back-alley soothsayers - and in the people who have to hide what they are for fear of being tattooed and persecuted.Imagine a city where electricity is money, power the only game worth playing, and violence the most fervently worshipped religion.'King Arthur as you've never seen him before. The coolest thing you'll read this year' Samantha Shannon, author of The Bone Season and The Priory of the Orange TreeIn this dark, chaotic, alluring place, any dream can come true if you want it hard enough - and if you are prepared to do some very, very bad things to get it . . .Trade ReviewThis is an outstandingly well-crafted and absorbing urban/epic/alt-reality/mythic fantasy read * JULIET MCKENNA, author of the No.1 bestselling The Green Man's Heir *Arthurian legend meets urban fantasy in a brilliant, bloody wild ride * JAY KRISTOFF, No.1 New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author *King Arthur as you've never seen him before. Eve doesn't just capture lightning, but commands it, in a riveting tragedy of blood and desire. A masterwork of urban fantasy - and the coolest thing you'll read this year * SAMANTHA SHANNON, author of The Bone Season and The Priory of the Orange Tree *The screaming neon of Bladerunner meets the medieval steel of Arthurian legend in a world that's dizzying in scope and imagination. The boldest, smartest, most adventurous fantasy I've read in ages - and it's really f**ing fun * KRYSTAL SUTHERLAND, author of Our Chemical Hearts [movie out this year!] *This rocks! * FANTASY BOOK CRITIC *Prepare for a politically charged, addictive read * THE FANTASY HIVE *Blackheart Knights takes these familiar stories and makes them into something that is new and inventive - a gritty, grimdark take on a futuristic London. Well-written, compelling and packaged in a way that keeps the reader guessing. Think of this as an old-school thrash metal gig like Slayer or Metallica at their heyday - loud, fast, fun and satisfying as f*** * GRIMDARK MAGAZINE *Fun, gritty and imaginative twist on an Arthurian legend, it's an urban fantasy retelling where knights ride bikes rather than horses and compete in gruesome fights in an attempt to win money and fame. I haven't read anything like Blackheart Knights previously and I don't think I ever will again, it's a very unique contemporary take on a well-loved tale * LIBRARY LOOTER *This book is AMAZING! Honestly, everyone needs to read this. It blends the Arthurian legend we all know and love with an intricate and amazingly built urban fantasy world, and I completely devoured it. This has easily made its way onto my favourite books of the year! * CROOKS BOOKS *This book was a brilliant read, and I'd recommend it to people who are interested in slow-paced, character-focused fantasy with a lot of grittiness. I also loved how there's a lot of casual queerness in this book. It's always great to see this kind of casual representation. Now to wait not-so-patiently for the next one . . . * LUMINOSITY LIBRARY *I was sucked into this world of knights and magic. I loved the way the politics of the world was introduced and how Art's history fed into Red's journey. * CURIOSITY KILLED THE BOOKWORM *Book of the Month at READS RAINBOW * READS RAINBOW *A powerful and moving urban fantasy that I found myself completely immersed in * MUSE’S BOOK JOURNAL *Eve has created a rounded political fantasy novel that has all the twists and turns you would expect from a Le Carré novel. The bonus is that you also get cool fights, cool bikes, and cool leathers * SF Book Reviews *A vibrantly reimagined urban fantasy * PAR SEC MAGAZINE *The concept already had me desperate to get my hands on a copy, but the execution was so immaculate that I know I'll be reading Blackheart Knights over and over again. A fresh and fascinating retelling that manages to make Arthurian myth modern, bloody, and pretty darn sexy * Nia’s Book Fort *The most I've enjoyed an Arthurian retelling in a long time. I never felt like I knew exactly where we were going, which meant I stayed hooked * A Medievalist Reads *There's a wealth of imagination on show here * Cheryl Morgan, Salon Futura *A brilliant world not quite like anything I've ever seen before. It's strange, and delightfully different, and it's so beautifully cohesive. I loved every moment of it. It's unquestionably one of the best books of the year * Every Book a Doorway *

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Book SynopsisA half-drowned stranger turns up at the door of Garad Gaheris, retired King's Champion, with a hell of a story to tell. The ex-knight may have uncovered a conspiracy involving the very highest echelons of London's elite.'A riveting tragedy of blood and desire. A masterwork of urban fantasy - and the coolest thing you'll read this year' - SAMANTHA SHANNON on Blackheart KnightsCurrent King's Champion Si Wyll, a master illusionist, still reeling from the betrayal of his lover and the death of his mentor, is poised to become the most dangerous man in London. Then a figure from his past surfaces, determined to blackmail him into a plot to change the balance of power for good. 'A brilliant, bloody wild ride' - JAY KRISTOFF on Blackheart KnightsAnd the city's godchildren, those born with illegal magical abilities, have had enough of being put down - but who must die to ensure their ascension?Trade ReviewKing Arthur as you've never seen him before. Eve doesn't just capture lightning, but commands it, in a riveting tragedy of blood and desire. A masterwork of urban fantasy - and the coolest thing you'll read this year * Samantha Shannon, author of The Bone Season and The Priory of the Orange Tree *The screaming neon of Bladerunner meets the medieval steel of Arthurian legend in a world that's dizzying in scope and imagination. The boldest, smartest, most adventurous fantasy I've read in ages - and it's really f**ing fun * Krystal Sutherland, author of House of Hollow *Arthurian legend meets urban fantasy in a brilliant, bloody wild ride * JAY KRISTOFF, No.1 New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author of Empire of the Vampire *Outstandingly well-crafted and absorbing urban/epic/alt-reality/mythic fantasy read * JULIET MCKENNA, author of the No.1 bestselling The Green Man’s Heir *

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Book SynopsisShould you find yourself in need of a discreet investigation into any sort of mystery, call on Jesperson and Lane . . . 'Arthur Conan Doyle would have approved,' says George R.R. MartinMiss Lane is puzzled by Jasper Jesperson's interest in what seems a very minor theft -possibly even a prank - from the storerooms at the British Museum. But London in the 1890s is rife with secret organisations, cults and individuals eager to acquire some of the legendary magic of ancient Egypt. The deeper the two detectives dig, the more hidden crimes they uncover, and the higher the death toll mounts. And at the centre of it all is the 'Mystery Mummy' recently acquired by the museum. 'Tuttle does a lovely job of putting us back in the foggy streets of Victorian London' George R.R. Martin, author of The Game of ThronesAre the deaths and madness truly caused by a mummy's curse? Or is there a scheming, living villain to be apprehended? 'A most engaging detective duo' Mark Douglas Home, author of The Sea Detective and The Woman Who Walked Into The SeaJesperson and Lane, with their experience of past investigations involving psychic phenomena and supernatural events as well as ordinary human criminality, are surely best placed to find the truth.Jesperson and Lane, at your service.Trade ReviewLisa Tuttle has quietly been writing remarkable, chilling short stories and powerful, haunting novels for many years now, and doing it so easily and so well that one almost takes it, and her, for granted. This would be as big a mistake as not reading Lisa Tuttle * NEIL GAIMAN *This John W. Campbell Award-winning author remains one of fantasy's best * PUBLISHERS WEEKLY *Whether fantasy or science fiction, Tuttle's stories generally centre on derangements within family units. Her touch is deft, chilly, exact * JOHN CLUTE, co-author of The Encyclopedia of Science Fiction *'One of the SF and fantasy & horror field's most urbane - and much under-appreciated - writers * MAXIM JAKUBOWSKI, LOVE READING *Sleepwalkers, psychics, and the spirits of the dead (or are they?) make for a heady stew in Lisa Tuttle's The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief, the first full-length novel about Jasper Jesperson and Miss Lane, a dauntless duo of Victorian detectives first introduced in her stories for Down These Strange Streets and Rogues. They're an entertaining pair, and it's great to see them back in action in a longer work. Here's hoping this is only the first in a long series of Lane and Jesperson adventures. Tuttle does a lovely job of putting us back in the foggy streets of Victorian London in this lively, entertaining blend of murder mystery and supernatural adventure. Arthur Conan Doyle would have approved * GEORGE R.R. MARTIN on The Somnambulist and the Psychic Thief *A cleverly constructed, swiftly moving and absorbing plot * ParSec Magazine *Great fun * Concatenation *A delightful Victorian detective thriller with more than an air of magic and mysticism * SciFi Now *A well-designed crime story with an interesting premise and enough potential suspects to keep the reader guessing * SFBook Reviews *

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Book SynopsisCan she find the courage to defy a king?In seventeenth-century France, Louis XIV rules with flamboyant ambition. In his domain, wealth and beauty are all; frivolity begets cruelty; science and alchemy collide. From the Hall of Mirrors to the vermin-infested attics of the Chateau at Versailles, courtiers compete to please the king, sacrificing fortune, principles, and even sacred family bonds.'A wonderful book! Adventure, love, history, magic - it's an engrossing story with magnificent characters, balanced perfectly on the edge between,' says DIANA GABALDONBy the fiftieth year of his reign, Louis XIV has made France the most powerful state in the western world, but the Sun King's appetite for glory knows no bounds. In a bold stroke, he sends his natural philosopher on an expedition to seek the source of immortality: the mythical sea monster. For the glory of his God, his country, and his king, Father Yves de la Croix returns with his treasures: one heavy shroud packed in ice . . . and in a covered basin, an imprisoned sea-creature.Marie-Josephe de la Croix has been looking forward to assisting her brother Yves in the scientific study of the sea monster, until she makes a discovery that will threaten everything her brother, the court and the King believe.'The finest alternate history ever, light-hearted and wise - a luminous, radiant novel,' said URSULA K. LE GUINBut in the decadent court of King Louis, where morality is skewed and corruption reigns, will anyone listen to a single voice? Somehow, she must find the courage to follow her heart and her convictions - even at the cost of changing her life forever.Trade ReviewThe finest alternate history ever, lighthearted and wise - a luminous, radiant novelA dazzling and spirited evocation of the passions, intrigues and preconceptions of the age: an enchanting slice of what-if historical speculation * KIRKUS *Successfully melds fantasy and alternate history to create a charming, well-written and meticulously researched novel * FANTASY BOOK REVIEW *McIntyre has done her historical homework, as is evident in a superbly realised setting, and she executes the plot with superior skill. A splendid historical fantasy that shows sf star McIntyre admirably opening new territory * BOOKLIST *A wonderful book! Adventure, love, history, magic - it's an engrossing story with magnificent characters, balanced perfectly on the edge between * DIANA GABALDON *The story thrives in the details . . . gives it a thematic richness and resonance that made me care deeply about the story * EYRIE *McIntyre vividly re-creates a Versailles poised on the cusp between alchemy and modern science. Her imaginings enliven her history with wonder, but, as in the best fantasy, they serve less to dazzle by their inventiveness than to illuminate brilliantly real-world truths - here, humanity's responses, base and noble, when confronting the unknown * PUBLISHERS WEEKLY *Fans of McIntyre, or simply alternate history fans and romantics who love an intelligent, compassionate heroine will devour this book, yelling in outrage at the men who belittle our heroine and sighing with delight when she finds love * FEMSCIFI *One of the most enjoyable and well-written novels I have read in a long time. The novel has got splendid characterisation, a tightly-woven plot, and a fascinating story. It's also obviously meticulously researched, and full of intricate details about the historical era in which it takes place. Read the book. It is a marvellous, fascinating, uplifting experience * JOHN WALTERS, author of ADRIANA’S FAMILY *An excellent alternative history * ARTSANDWINE *

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Book SynopsisMiss Lydia Bennet may be the youngest, but what she lacks in maturity and responsibility, she more than makes up for in energy, fun - and magic. In this exuberant reimagining of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, Lydia Bennet puts pen to paper to relate the real events and aftermath of the classic story from her own perspective. Some facts are well known: Mrs. Bennet suffers from her nerves; Mr. Bennet suffers from Mrs. Bennet, and all five daughters suffer from an estate that is entailed only to male heirs. But Lydia also suffers from entirely different concerns: her best-loved sister Kitty is really a barn cat, and Wickham is every bit as wicked as the world believes him to be, but what else would you expect from a demon? And if you think Mr. Darcy was uptight about dancing etiquette, wait till you see how he reacts to witchcraft. Most of all, Lydia has yet to learn that when you're a witch, promises have power . . . Full of enchantment, intrigue, danger, and boundless magic, The Scandalous Confessions of Miss Lydia Bennet, Witch, has all the irreverent wit, strength, and romance of Pride and Prejudice - while offering a highly unexpected redemption for the wildest Bennet sister.Trade ReviewWildly inventive and utterly addictive. I never thought I'd say this, but I'm now 100% Team Lydia * Julia Quinn, author of the Bridgerton series *This book is pure joy. Absolutely rollicking and thoroughly delightful. Melinda Taub peered directly into my soul and gave me the adventure I needed, plus feisty witches in empire waist dresses and the Kitty of my dreams. I'll be over here, swooning on my fainting couch * Samantha Bee *A romping, lively retelling with surprises galore! It's a delight to see Lydia Bennet receive her due * Tamora Pierce *Witty, magical, romantic and altogether brilliant! There's so much more to Pride and Prejudice than we ever knew * Lev Grossman, author of The Magicians *What a delicious book this is - like Lydia, it's headlong, a little wicked, and irrepressibly fun. And if that weren't enough, it gave me an entirely new lens through which to appreciate Jane Austen's Bennet family. Melinda Taub writes with a forensic wit and understanding of the desire to be loved and understood, even when those two things stand in seeming opposition. And like Georgette Heyer at her best, or, indeed, Austen, she has the alchemist's touch which turns this exploration into something delightful * Kelly Link *Funny and fierce as Lydia Bennet herself, this book mixes witchcraft lore with Austen's story to make its own unique magic. I'll never look at Kitty the same way again..." * Claudia Gray *A delightfully rendered redemption of the much-maligned youngest Bennet daughter, Lydia; whose ill-advised actions that once threatened the Bennett sisters' futures is finally proven to be less a girlish folly and more the result of a sacrifice made meant to save them all. Filled with magic, mayhem and manners, Melinda Taub has crafted a world both familiar and strange, faithful and fantastic * Amiee Gibbs, The Carnival of Curiosities *Clever twist on Jane Austen's classic * Country Living *This is a masterpiece and a treat for any Austen fan * All About Romance *A delight for both Austen lovers and fans of magical adventure stories * Kirkus *Cleverly inserts Lydia's magical misadventures into the original story, creating something wholly original and utterly charming * Booklist *Infused with elements of English folk horror, this Regency-era comedy of manners makes for a lively, delightful adventure * Guardian *It's smart, it's in dialogue with the past but not bound by it, and it's trying to do a lot of interesting things at once * Concatenation *Infused with elements of English folk horror, this Regency-era comedy of manners makes for a lively, delightful adventure * Guardian *

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