Historical romance

Book SynopsisElaine Everest was born and brought up in north west Kent, where The Woolworths Girls is set, and was once a Woolworths girl herself.Elaine has written widely for women's magazines, with both short stories and features. When she isn't writing, Elaine runs The Write Place creative writing school in Dartford, Kent, and the blog for the Romantic Novelists' Association.Elaine lives with her husband, Michael, and their Polish Lowland Sheepdog, Henry, in Swanley, Kent.Trade ReviewHeartwarming ... a must-read. * Woman's Own *A warm, tender tale of friendship and love ... sweet as a Woolies Pick 'n' Mix. -- Milly JohnsonA lovely read. * Bella *Elaine brings the heyday of the iconic high-street giant to life in her charming novel. * S Magazine *

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Book SynopsisIndependent-minded Sibylla Spencer feels trapped in nineteenth-century London, where her strong will and progressive views have rendered her unmarriageable. Still single at twenty-three, she is treated like a child and feels stifled in her controlling father’s house. When Benjamin Hopkins, an ambitious employee of her father’s trading company, shows an interest in her, she realizes marriage is her only chance to escape. As Benjamin’s rising career whisks them both away to exotic Morocco, Sibylla is at last a citizen of the world, reveling in her newfound freedom by striking her first business deals, befriending locals…and falling in love for the first time with a charismatic and handsome Frenchman. But Benjamin’s lust for money and influence draws him into dark dealings, pulling him ever further from Sibylla and their two young sons. When he’s arrested on horrible charges, the fate of Sibylla’s family rests on her shoulders, as she must decide whether she’ll leave him to his fate or help him fight for his life.

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling Richard and Judy Book Club pickThe Sunday Times Bestseller and BBC Radio 2 Book Club Pick‘Dark, dramatic and full of danger’ - Daily MailFor readers of Circe and The Handmaid’s Tale, Kiran Millwood Hargrave's The Mercies is inspired by real historical events.The storm comes in like a finger snap . . .1617. The sea around the remote Norwegian island of Vardø is thrown into a vicious storm. A young woman, Maren, watches as the men of the island, out fishing, perish in an instant.Vardø is now a place of women . . .Eighteen months later, a sinister figure arrives. Absalom Cornet has been summoned to bring the women of the island to heel. With him travels his young wife, Ursa. In her new home, and in Maren, Ursa encounters something she has never seen before: independent women. But where Ursa finds happiness, even love, Absalom sees only a place flooded with a terrible evil, one he must root out at all costs . . .A story about how suspicion can twist its way through a community, about a love that could prove as dangerous as it is powerful.‘Gripping’ - Madeline Miller, author of Circe‘Took my breath away’ - Tracy Chevalier, author of Girl With a Pearl Earring‘A beautifully intimate story of friendship, love and hope’ - Douglas Stuart, author of Shuggie Bain ‘Something rare and beautiful’ - Marian Keyes, author of Again, Rachel‘Chilling and page-turning’ - The TimesTrade ReviewThe Mercies is among the best novels I’ve read in years. In addition to its beautiful writing, its subject matter is both enduring and timely * New York Times Book Review *A gripping novel . . . [Kiran Millwood Hargrave's] most vital insights are about the human heart: how terrifyingly quickly prejudices can turn into murder, and how desperately we need love and courage to oppose it. Beautiful and chilling -- Madeline Miller, author of CirceThis is a powerful story that gathers ever more momentum as it moves towards its conclusion * Sunday Times *The most interesting historical fiction speaks of the time of writing as much as of its subject . . . The Mercies shows us the patriarchal fear of women's strength and reason -- Sarah Moss, GuardianHistorical fiction fans looking for a Handmaid's Tale-style twist will love this novel . . . A story of danger, love and power - with Big Offred Energy * Cosmopolitan *The Mercies is storytelling at its most masterful. This is an exquisite tale of sisterhood, of love, of courage and of what happens when communities turn on each other . . . I raged, I laughed, I cried. I urge you to read this novel -- Elizabeth Macneal, author of The Doll FactoryExtraordinary! -- Jo Whiley, BBC Radio Book ClubA book for our times . . . Millwood Hargrave is a whirlwind, storm-building talent -- Daisy Johnson, Man Booker Prize shortlisted author of Everything UnderThe Mercies took my breath away . . . Kiran Millwood Hargrave has masterfully built up an incredible claustrophobic atmosphere, shot through with delicate intimacy. On finishing it I pressed the book to me, hoping to absorb some of her skill -- Tracy Chevalier, author of Girl With a Pearl EarringRead if you like Circe by Madeline Miller and Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel -- Sunday Times Style, 'Best New Books for 2020'Spun from real-life events, this lyrical novel charts the aftermath of a fatal storm in a 17th century Norwegian fishing village: a town almost exclusively composed of women and girls, and the violent witch-burning newcomer hell-bent on their conversion * Vanity Fair *Based on real events, this is a stunning, intensely told story about sisterhood, superstition and prejudice * Good Housekeeping *The Mercies is a gripping tale of love and obsession, inspired by the real events of a storm on the Norwegian island of Vardø in 1617 that prompted witch trials. Absalom Cornet, the man used to bring the women to submission, is a creepy creation by Millwood, in her debut adult novel * i-news *Elegant and chilling . . . an absorbing account of women finding power and grace and love even under the most harrowing circumstances * USA Today *A dark read filled with suspicion and fear * Psychologies *A mesmerising, heartwrenching novel which had me desperate for the women of Vardø to win through. A perfect book club choice -- AJ Pearce, author of Dear Mrs BirdPassionate, stirring and conveying a terrifying atmosphere of claustrophobic oppression, Hargrave’s gripping tale of courageous women facing overwhelming odds is helped along no end by the vividness of her bleak island location and her depiction of the dynamics of a God-fearing fishing village as opposing factions struggle for control * The Herald *Kiran Millwood Hargrave illuminates one of the darkest chapters of our history. -- Samantha Shannon, author of The Bone Season and The Priory of the Orange TreeBoth harrowing and beautiful. Through mesmerizing prose, Kiran Millwood Hargrave depicts the brutality of life for women on an isolated island in 1620 Norway during the witch trials. Yet amidst this horror and within the punishing landscape, she creates a set of brilliant characters and a moving love story full of tenderness and hope. This is a book to be savoured and read time and again. -- Jenny Quintana, author of The Missing GirlAbsolutely stunning. The Mercies is a very special book. -- Louise O'Neill, author of Asking For ItI loved The Mercies. It opened up a completely new chapter of history to me, and I loved the way it told its story in such beautiful language. I won't forget this story of these women in a Norway I knew little about. A searing historical novel -- Naomi Wood, author of Mrs HemingwayEvery once in a while, a modern day parable, perfectly told, reflects all that could happen in a world gone mad. Kiran Millwood Hargrave has written a novel for our times with artistry and skill. Maren's story is powerful, at turns, it is disturbing, and ultimately illuminating. You will ponder it long after you finish this magnificent work -- Adriana Trigiani, author of Lucia, LuciaBased on the real-life witch trials of 1621, this is an immersive and beautifully written tale. Highly recommended -- Alice O'Keeffe * Bookseller, Editor's Choice *Kiran Millwood Hargrave effortlessly transports us across hundreds of years and thousands of miles to a tiny Norwegian Island in the early seventeenth century and throws us into the lives and passions of an extraordinary cast of characters . . . deeply unsettling, entirely pertinent to our contemporary lives, and a completely addictive read. I cannot recommend it enough -- Sarah Butler, author of Jack and BetThis chilling tale of religious persecution is served up with a feminist bite -- Kirkus (starred review)Caught me from the very first page and held me right to the end. A vivid evocation of time and place and utterly believable, absorbing characters - I felt I breathed the same air . . . The Mercies is a story that will stay with me -- Helen Walmsley-Johnson, author of Look What You Made Me DoDark and menacing, retelling the story of a witch hunt on the isolated island of Vardo, off the coast of Norway . . . Millwood Hargrave slowly builds an atmosphere of suspicion and superstition as new loyalties and old rivalries rear up. * Express *

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Book SynopsisIn this epic and haunting love story set on the Oregon Trail, a family and their unlikely protector find their way through peril, uncertainty, and loss. The Overland Trail, 1853: Naomi May never expected to be widowed at twenty. Eager to leave her grief behind, she sets off with her family for a life out West. On the trail, she forms an instant connection with John Lowry, a half-Pawnee man straddling two worlds and a stranger in both. But life in a wagon train is fraught with hardship, fear, and death. Even as John and Naomi are drawn to each other, the trials of the journey and their disparate pasts work to keep them apart. John’s heritage gains them safe passage through hostile territory only to come between them as they seek to build a life together. When a horrific tragedy strikes, decimating Naomi’s family and separating her from John, the promises they made are all they have left. Ripped apart, they can’t turn back, they can’t go on, and they can’t let go. Both will have to make terrible sacrifices to find each other, save each other, and eventually…make peace with who they are.Trade ReviewA 2020 Goodreads Choice Awards Semifinalist: Best Historical Fiction “The genuine bond between John and Naomi will keep readers turning the pages.” —Publishers Weekly “Harmon brings the tribulations of the vast westward migration to life in this sweeping, majestic narrative…filled with tension and honest reflection, as well as missteps and disappointments, all of which add a rich realism to this sumptuous historical novel.” —Booklist (starred review) “Where the Lost Wander is as much a perilous story…as it is an enduring tale of harmony, friendship, love, and hope.” —Historical Novel Society “If you’re a fan of historical fiction, you’ll find Where the Lost Wander by Amy Harmon, a wonderful read…this story is one of courage in the face of the unknown and the importance of perseverance when all feels lost.” —Barbara Delinsky, New York Times bestselling author

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Book SynopsisThe Teashop Girls is a warm and moving tale of friendship and love in wartime, by the bestselling author of the Woolworths series, Elaine Everest.It is early 1940 and World War Two has already taken a hold on the country. Rose Neville works as a Lyon’s Teashop Nippy on the Kent coast alongside her childhood friends, the ambitious Lily and Katie, whose fiancé is about to be posted overseas in the navy. As war creates havoc in Europe, Rose relies on the close friendship of her friends and her family.When Capt. Benjamin Hargreaves enters the teashop one day, Rose is immediately drawn to him. But as Lyon’s forbids courting between staff and customers, she tries to put the handsome officer out of her mind.In increasingly dark and dangerous times, Rose fears there may not be time to waste. But is the dashing captain what he seems?Praise for Elaine Everest:'Heartwarming . . . a must read' - Woman's Own'A warm, tender tale of friendship and love' - Milly Johnson'A lovely read' - BellaTrade ReviewHeartwarming . . . a must-read * Woman's Own *A warm, tender tale of friendship and love . . . sweet as a Woolies pick’n’mix -- Milly Johnson on The Woolworths GirlsA lovely read -- Bella on The Woolworths GirlsElaine brings the heyday of the iconic high-street giant to life in her charming novel -- S Magazine on The Woolworths Girls

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Book SynopsisTHE THIRD NOVEL IN THE BESTSELLING CHOCOLAT SERIES''Expertly crafted, typically mouthwatering'' DAILY MAILWhen Vianne Rocher receives a letter from beyond the grave, she allows the wind to blow her back to the village in south-west France where, eight years ago, she opened up a chocolate shop. But Lansquenet is different now: women veiled in black, the scent of spices and peppermint tea, and, on the bank of the river Tannes, facing the church: a minaret.Nor is it only the incomers from North Africa that have brought change. Father Reynaud, Vianne''s erstwhile adversary, is disgraced and under threat. Could it be that Vianne is the only one who can save him now?''A brave and grippingly confected story'' SUNDAY TIMES''Like Chocolat, this book is a feast for the senses. Every page is steeped in scents, colours and tastes'' LITERARY REVIEW''Prepare to be transported by Joanne Harris as she revisits the characters and setting of her first bestseller, Chocolat'' GOOD HOUSEKEEPINGTrade ReviewVianne - unconventional, good-hearted, slightly magical - blows in like a refreshing breeze, forcing people to question their prejudices. A delight * The Times *Expertly crafted, typically mouthwatering * Daily Mail *A delightful jumble of the sensuous sights, sounds and smells the author describes so well * Glamour *Her characteristic love affair with texture – scents, smells and sounds – immerses the reader in a bath of seductive imagery in a brave and grippingly confected story * The Sunday Times *Prepare to be transported by Joanne Harris as she revisits the characters and setting of her first bestseller, Chocolat...Deftly tackling the subject of religious intolerance, this bewitching novel stirs the senses * Good Housekeeping (Book of the Month) *

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Book SynopsisPower, politics and closely guarded secrets abound in INTO TEMPTATION, the third and final novel of Sunday Times bestselling author Penny Vincenzi''s Spoils of Time trilogy. ''Like an illicit lover, I have been sloping off all week to snatch another hour''s pleasure with ... Penny Vincenzi''s terrific new novel'' Jilly Cooper. The Lytton family past is full of secrets, and only Lady Celia knows them all. There''s her daughter Adele''s difficult, dark past; the dreadful cruelty of a truth her son Kit had to confront; even the shadows of Celia''s own life, and that of Barty Miller, the child she rescued from the slums in babyhood who now owns more than half of the Lytton publishing house. Some secrets are more dangerous than others, some shared with Celia''s family, some entirely her own. And all absolutely safe in her keeping. Until something threatens to reveal them all...Trade ReviewLike an illicit lover, I have been sloping off all week to snatch another hour's pleasure with ... Penny Vincenzi's terrific new novel -- Jilly CooperI defy any reader, once they've taken the smallest nibble, not to gobble it all down -- Sunday ExpressReading Penny Vincenzi is an addictive experience -- Elizabeth Buchan

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Book SynopsisWith Meg Cabot’s signature “dazzling,” (Romantic Times Book Review) prose, this Victorian romance follows a young woman looking for lessons in love.Lady Caroline Linford is horrified to discover her fiancé, the Marquis of Winchilsea, in the arms of another woman. Unfortunately, for the rest of Victorian society, this sort of extracurricular activity is par for the course for most men and certainly not reason enough cancel the upcoming wedding. But Caroline is determined to make sure that the man she is to marry will desire only her, so she enlists the best teacher in the art of romance: London’s most notorious rake, Braden Granville. As their passionate tutelage begins, sparks fly and the lines between teacher and student get increasingly blurred. Now there is just one last lesson to learn: on the subject of true love, the heart chooses its own unpredictable ways.

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Book SynopsisJeremy Poldark is the third novel in Winston Graham's hugely popular Poldark series, which has become a television phenomenon starring Aidan Turner.Cornwall 1790. Ross Poldark faces the darkest hour of his life. Accused of wrecking two ships, he is to stand trial at the Bodmin Assizes. Despite their stormy married life, Demelza has tried to rally support for her husband. But there are enemies in plenty who would be happy to see Ross convicted, not least George Warleggan, the powerful banker, whose personal rivalry with Ross grows ever more intense.Jeremy Poldark is followed by the fourth book in this evocative series, Warleggan. 'From the incomparable Winston Graham.. who has everything that anyone else has, then a whole lot more.' GuardianTrade ReviewRoss is one of literature's great heroes . . . [with] elements of Darcy, Heathcliff, Rhett Butler and Robin Hood -- Debbie HorsfieldFrom the incomparable Winston Graham.. who has everything that anyone else has, then a whole lot more. * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisWinston Graham was the author of more than forty novels, including The Walking Stick, Angell, Pearl and Little God, Stephanie and Tremor. His novels have been widely translated and his famous Poldark series has been developed into two television series shown in twenty-four countries. Many of Winston Graham's books have been filmed for the big screen, the most notable being Marnie, directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Winston Graham was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and in 1983 was awarded the OBE. He died in July 2003.Trade ReviewRoss is one of literature's great heroes . . . [with] elements of Darcy, Heathcliff, Rhett Butler and Robin Hood -- Debbie Horsfield

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Book SynopsisDemelza is the second book in Winston Graham's hugely popular Poldark series, which has become a television phenomenon starring Aidan Turner.Demelza Carne, the impoverished miner's daughter Ross Poldark rescued from a fairground rabble, is now his wife. But in the events of these turbulent years test their marriage and their love. Demelza's efforts to adapt to the ways of the gentry - and her husbane - bring her confusion and heartache, despite the joy in the birth of their first child. Ross begins a bitter struggle for the rights of the mining communities - and sows the seed of an enduring enmity with powerful George Warleggan.Demelza is followed by Jeremy Poldark, the third title in this evocative series set in 18th century Cornwall. 'From the incomparable Winston Graham...who has everything that anyone else has, then a whole lot more' GuardianTrade ReviewRoss is one of literature's great heroes . . . [with] elements of Darcy, Heathcliff, Rhett Butler and Robin Hood -- Debbie HorsfieldFrom the incomparable Winston Graham . . . who has everything that anyone else has, then a whole lot more. * Guardian *

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Book Synopsis''An author who makes history come gloriously alive'' The Times ''Meticulous research and strong storytelling'' Woman & Home ''A sumptuous ride'' Toby Clements, Daily Telegraph ********************** Eleanor of Aquitaine A loving mother. A betrayed wife. A queen beyond compare. 1154Eleanor of Aquitaine, one of the most powerful women in Europe, is crowned queen of England beside her young husband Henry II. While Henry battles their enemies and lays his plans, Eleanor is an adept acting ruler and mother to their growing brood of children. But she yearns for more than this - if only Henry would listen. Instead, Henry pushes Eleanor to the sidelines, involving himself with a young mistress and denying Eleanor her rightful authority. As matters reach a crisis, Eleanor bTrade ReviewUnputdownable. Elizabeth Chadwick weaves a gripping story. Her characters live and breathe and have distinct personalities of their own. The pace keeps the reader turning the pages, and the sadness of reaching the final page is only offset by the knowledge that there is another book to come. - Historical Novel SocietyI have been an ardent fan of this author for many years and look forward with keen anticipation to the third book in this trilogy. Highly recommended. - Historical Novel Society

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Book Synopsis''One of the best!'' Julia Quinn, Sunday Times bestselling author of the Bridgerton series Humphrey Wescott, Earl of Riverdale, has died, leaving behind a fortune and a scandalous secret that will forever alter the lives of his family - sending one daughter on a journey of self-discovery.With her parents'' marriage declared bigamous, Camille Westcott is now illegitimate and without a title. Looking to eschew the trappings of her old life, she leaves London to teach at the Bath orphanage where her newly discovered half-sister lived. But even as she settles in, she must sit for a portrait commissioned by her grandmother and endure an artist who riles her every nerve.An art teacher at the orphanage that was once his home, Joel Cunningham has been hired to paint the portrait of the haughty new teacher. But as Camille poses for Joel, their mutual contempt soon turns to desire. And it is only theTrade ReviewMary Balogh's ability to create interesting characters and plotlines shines through, and her great strength in exploring the emotions and motivations of those characters is much evidence. * Allaboutromance.com *Balogh pens an enchanting Cinderella story, touching readers with the sincerity of the characters and the mature depth of their relationships... the novel gifts the readers with an understanding of both character and plot that an accomplished writer, like Balogh, can carry off with aplomb. * RT Book Reviews *Ms Balogh is a veritable treasure, a matchless storyteller who makes our hearts melt with delight. * Romantic Times *Balogh is truly a find. * Publishers Weekly *A grand mistress of the genre. * Romantic Times *A new Mary Balogh book is a gift every woman should give herself. * Teresa Medeiros *Ms Balogh is a favourite of readers everywhere! * Affaire de Coeur *[Mary Balogh] has established reputation for unsurpassed originality and excellence. * Romantic Times *

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Book SynopsisA reclusive earl's life is turned upside down when a stranger shows up on his doorstep with an astonishing proposal in this swoony, witty, feminist Regency rom com for fans of Bridgerton and Lex Croucher.

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Book SynopsisMarch 1941. As the war rages on, the Buckingham Hotel has become a microcosm of the world. Its ballroom and restaurant are peopled with exiled royal families, politicians and dignitaries, but the beating heart of the Buckingham remains its hardworking, talented staff.  With the heroic Raymond de Guise away fighting in North Africa, his beloved wife Nancy must balance her new position in life- as Head of Housekeeping at the Buckingham, but also as a new mother to their child.  And all the while, mysterious new figures are beginning to take centre stage: a secretive new bandleader from across the Atlantic, an unknown thief pilfering luxury goods from the Buckingham's larders, and a charismatic ghost from Raymond's past, stirring up old memories from his time on the circuit in 1920s Paris. As tensions flare and dark secrets rise to the surface, it's all the Buckingham staff can do to retain their trademark elegance a

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Book SynopsisFrom the moment he spies Lady Morgan Bedwyn across the glittering ballroom, Gervase Ashford, Earl of Rosthorn, knows he has found the perfect instrument of his revenge. But wedlock is not on the mind of the continent''s most notorious rake. Nor is it of interest to the fiercely independent Lady Morgan herselfuntil one night of shocking intimacy erupts in a scandal that could make Gervase''s vengeance all the sweeter. There is only one thing standing in his way: Morgan, who has achieved the impossible -she''s melted his coolly guarded heart. For Gervase, only the marriage bed will do, but Morgan simply will not have him. Thus begins a sizzling courtship where two wary hearts are about to be undone by the most scandalous passion of all: all-consuming love. Slightly Tempted is part of Mary Balogh''s Regency-set Slightly series, following the adventures of the Bedwyn family.Trade ReviewExceptionally entertaining...impeccable plotting and memorable characters, Balogh's book raises the bar for Regency romances - Publisher's Weekly

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Book SynopsisA man controlled by his desires . . .Infamous for his wild, sensual needs, Lazarus Huntington, Lord Caire, is searching for a savage killer in St. Giles, London''s most notorious slum. Widowed Temperance Dews knows St. Giles like the back of her hand - she''s spent a lifetime caring for its inhabitants at the foundling home her family established. Now that home is at risk . . . A woman haunted by her past . . .Caire makes a simple offer - in return for Temperance''s help navigating the perilous alleys of St. Giles, he will introduce her to London''s high society so that she can find a benefactor for the home. But Temperance may not be the innocent she seems, and what begins as cold calculation soon falls prey to a passion that neither can control - one that may well destroy them both.A bargain neither could refuse.Trade ReviewBestseller Hoyt brings steamy sensuality to the slums of early 18th century London in this engaging series launch. Readers will enjoy the unusual pairing of an aristocratic man and a poor but educated widow, enhanced by earthy, richly detailed charactisations and deft historical touches * PUBLISHERS WEEKLY *

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Book Synopsis ''Nothing gets me to a bookstore faster than Eloisa James'' Julia Quinn, Sunday Times bestselling author of the Bridgerton series The first book in Eloisa James''s dazzling new series set in the Georgian period glows with her trademark wit and charm. Things are about to get Wilde . . . Lord Alaric Wilde, son of the Duke of Lindow, is the most celebrated man in England, revered for his dangerous adventures and rakish good looks.Arriving home from years abroad, he has no idea of his own celebrity until his boat is met by mobs of screaming ladies. Alaric escapes to his father''s castle, but just as he grasps that he''s not only famous but notorious, he encounters the very private, very witty, Willa Ffynche.Willa presents the façade of a serene young lady to the world. Her love of books and bawdy jokes is purely for the delight of her intimate friends. She wants nothing to do with a maTrade ReviewEloisa James is extraordinary. * People Magazine *Nothing gets me to a bookstore faster than Eloisa James. * Julia Quinn *A charming, romantic, and unexpectedly funny start to a very promising new series. A must for James fans and a sure bet for everyone else * Kirkus Reviews (starred review) *If you enjoy witty repartee, you will likely find plenty to love in Wilde in Love * All About Romance *

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Book Synopsis1910. Anna Garvey arrives in Caernoweth, Cornwall with her daughter and a secret. Having come from Ireland to take up an inheritance of the local pub, she and her eighteen year-old daughter Mairead are initially viewed with suspicion by the close-knit community.Anna soon becomes acquainted with Freya Penhaligon, a vulnerable girl struggling to keep her family business afloat in the wake of her grandmother''s death, and starts to gain the trust of the locals. As their friendship deepens, and Freya is brought out of her shell by the clever and lively Mairead, even Freya''s protective father Matthew begins to thaw.But when a part of Anna''s past she''d long tried to escape turns up in the town, she is forced to confront the life she left behind - for her sake and her daughter''s too . . .

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Book SynopsisAmanda Quick, the bestselling author of ''Til Death Do Us Part, transports readers to 1930s California, where glamour and seduction spawn a multitude of sins . . .When Hollywood moguls and stars want privacy, they head to an idyllic small town on the coast, where the exclusive Burning Cove Hotel caters to their every need. It''s where reporter Irene Glasson finds herself staring down at a beautiful actress at the bottom of a pool . . . The dead woman had a red-hot secret about up-and-coming leading man Nick Tremayne, a scoop that Irene couldn''t resist - especially since she''s just a rookie at a third-rate gossip rag. But now Irene''s investigation into the drowning threatens to tear down the wall of illusion that is so deftly built around the famous actor, and there are powerful men willing to do anything to protect their investment.Seeking the truth, Irene finds herself drawn to a master of deception. Oliver Ward was once a worlTrade Review[A] top-drawer historical romance that delivers the perfect fusion of witty dialogue, intriguing characters, and seductive passion - BooklistOne of the most creative, inventive storytellers in the field, Quick infuses her own addictive brand of breathless, sexy adventure with dashes of vengeance, greed and violence and a hefty splash of delectable, offbeat humour - Library JournalStellar plotting, exquisite dialogue, and impeccable characterisation - Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisA classic historical romance from #1 New York Times bestselling author Johanna Lindsey. Abducted and sold into slavery, Chantelle Burke has been brought to the palace of the mighty Pasha. Vowing never to bow to this ruthless master''s will, the young Englishwoman weakens within the silken splendor of his chambers, and after on glance into his piercing emerald eyes.The stunningly handsome Pasha is a powerful, muscular figure yet he caresses the lovely addition to his harem with a fond tenderness that only succeeds in driving her wild. But beneath his exotic eastern garb, the cryptic Pasha shrouds his true identity -- one that he finds difficult to conceal when he wants so much to surrender his hearty and soul to the irresistible Chantelle.Trade ReviewThere are currently no reviews for this title/product

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Book SynopsisSensual. Seductive. Emotional. No one stirs the heart and imagination like Mary Balogh. In this classic novel, the New York Times bestselling author weaves a spellbinding tale of two people haunted by desire, unable to resist the love that has become their most passionate obsession.…When James Purnell walks into the London drawing room and sees Lady Madeline Raine, time stops. Once she had been his for the taking. Now she is an aloof, beautiful stranger, determined to keep the devilishly handsome nobleman from seducing her again. But after four years apart, desire reignites—swift, hot, irresistible—culminating in a night of reckless lovemaking. Suddenly Madeline is faced with an unbearable choice: marry with no hope of love or risk certain ruin. Her decision will have consequences she never imagined, as she makes a shocking discovery about the man she secretly loves. What she doesn’t know is how far James will go to right the wrongs

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Book SynopsisFrom New York Times bestselling author Mary Balogh comes the first installment of the beloved Bedwyn saga. Meet the Bedwyns: six brothers and sisters—men and women of passion and privilege, daring and sensuality. Enter their dazzling world of high society and breathtaking seduction, where each will seek love, fight temptation, and court scandal—and where Aidan Bedwyn, the marriage-shy second son, discovers that matrimony may be the most seductive act of all. Like all the Bedwyn men, Aidan has a reputation for cool arrogance. But this proud nobleman also possesses a loyal, passionate heart—and it is this fierce loyalty that has brought Colonel Lord Aidan to Ringwood Manor to honor a dying soldier’s request. Having promised to comfort and protect the man’s sister, Aidan never expected to find a headstrong, fiercely independent woman who wants no part of his protection—nor did he expect the feelings this beguiling

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewPraise for Anne Gracie's THE AUTUMN BRIDE~Chosen as one of the best romances of 2013 by NPR and Library Journal ~~Shortlisted for the American Library Association's 2014 RUSA Reading List~“Gracie charms and entices with this launch of the Regency-era Chance Sisters series. Orphaned governess Abigail Chantry receives the astonishing news that her younger sister, Jane, has been abducted and is captive in a brothel. Abby rescues Jane with the assistance of housemaid Daisy and fellow captive Damaris; the four bond together but struggle to make ends meet. Desperate, Abby breaks into a house—and meets ailing, charming Lady Beatrice Davenham, who has nothing worth stealing but could use some company. She takes in the four “Chance” sisters as her purported nieces, but the deception falters upon the return from overseas of her handsome nephew, Max. Abby’s warmth and caring nature shine from the first moment, and Max’s dedication to his family and friends make him worthy of her love. Layers of secrets and deft characterization make for a deep, rich story that will leave readers starry-eyed.” –Publishers Weekly (starred review)"A complex, charming heartwarmer that celebrates love, brave heroines and the miracle of second chances." --Kirkus Reviews"Abigail Chantry sprints across London rooftops and into the window of an abandoned mansion in search of something to sell in order to save her sister and friends from a life on the streets. What she doesn’t expect is to be greeted by an elderly lady asking, “Have you come to kill me?” and then being taken in by the woman. ... Delightful Jane Austen quotes introduce each chapter and add to the fun. VERDICT With a pair of beautifully matched protagonists and some particularly despicable villains, this funny, dangerously addictive page-turner is a hands-down Regency winner; the rest of the series can’t come fast enough. –Library Journal"I honestly can't remember the last time I've enjoyed a book quite this much.... I predict The Autumn Bride is going to be “THE” book to add to the TBR list of Historical Romance fans everywhere." --Night Owl"Readers will want to take a chance on this delightful, heartwarming series about sisters of the heart, family, friends, and the fun and passion of romance. Gracie lifts readers' spirits, creating a delightful cast of characters, tender moments and lighthearted repartee designed to tug at the heart. Keep a hankie handy for tears of laughter and joy." --Romantic Times"A warm and well-crafted romance novel, perfectly setting the stage for the stories to follow in Anne Gracie’s new “Chance Sisters Romance” series....Heartfelt, charming and wonderfully paced, The Autumn Bride is full of emotionally rich characters, witty conversation and Anne Gracie’s characteristic expert storytelling, guaranteed to leave readers with this story stamped on their hearts." --Reader to Reader"There is nothing more enjoyable then a beautifully written, sweet romance where you watch two people fall in love—and The Autumn Bride is precisely that. –Heroes and Heartbreakers "I loved this romp through the nineteenth century, an entertaining rags to riches story….. I suggest you pick up THE AUTUMN BRIDE and laugh and cheer. I did. –Fresh Fiction “I loved everything about this book—the “sisters” who create a family out of affection and need, the hero as disillusioned boy and as honorable man, and the gallant, all together wonderful Lady Beatrice, who almost steals the book from the lovers. From page one, I was engaged with this story. When Abby assures the three younger girls that “It doesn’t hurt to dream,” and the four share their dreams of what they want from life, I was in up to my heart. …. I didn’t allow a small thing like the need to sleep keep me from the story. I finished it in the wee hours, knowing that Anne Gracie had created another world that I would want to visit again and again. I can’t wait for Book 2." --JustJanga"What an absolutely enchanting story!!" --EBookObsessed

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Book SynopsisThe exquisitely-researched standalone prequel series to Dorothy Dunnett''s revered Lymond Chronicles, following the ancestors of Francis Crawford of Lymond in Continental Europe.Niccolo Rising is Book One in The House of Niccolo series.----------------------------- ''It began with sea, and September sunlight, and three young men lying stripped to their doublets in the Duke of Burgundy''s bath . . .''Meet Caes - Nicholas vander Poele - an eighteen-year-old orphan and dyer apprentice''s working for the widow Marian de Charetty in Bruges. After fetching up in jail for accidentally sinking a lighter and breaking the leg of a nobleman, his young life seems over before it is even begun.However, fate and the fifteenth century have great expectations for Nicholas and he soon finds himself leading the Charetty company into adventures and intrigues both mercantile and military, even as enemies plot their downfall.Through cunning, bravery, wit and an unexpected wisdom, Nicholas begins to lay the foundations for the House of Niccolo . . .''As brilliant and interesting as Lymond. A generous feast'' Daily Telegraph''A series that will give us our fill of high Renaissance adventure and espionage'' GuardianTrade ReviewPraise for Dorothy Dunnett -- - * - *A storyteller who could teach Scheherazade a thing or two about pace, suspense and imaginative invention -- - * New York Times *Marvellous, breathtaking -- - * The Times *A masterpiece of historical fiction -- - * Washington Post *One of the greatest tale-spinners since Dumas -- - * Cleveland Plain Dealer *Lashings of excitement, colour and subtlety -- - * The Times *Vivid, engaging, densely plotted - are almost certainly destined to be counted among the classics of popular fiction -- - * New York Times *

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Book SynopsisRafael De La Cruz, an immortal Carpathian, is determined to possess the fiercely independent and mortal Colby Jansen as his own.Trade ReviewPraise for Christine Feehan and her Carpathian novels“The queen of paranormal romance! The one who started it all! The erotic, gripping series that has defined an entire genre. I love everything she does.”—J. R. Ward, #1 New York Times bestselling author “After Bram Stoker, Anne Rice and Joss Whedon (who created the venerated Buffy the Vampire Slayer), Christine Feehan is the person most credited with popularizing the neck gripper.”—Time“Feehan has a knack for bringing vampiric Carpathians to vivid, virile life in her Dark Carpathian novels.”—Publishers Weekly“Red-hot romance and great storytelling...a treat you can’t refuse...Thrill-a-minute fantasy with complex characters and a story that captivates from beginning to end.”—Fresh Fiction

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Book SynopsisWinston Graham is the author of more than forty novels, which include Cordelia, Marnie, The Walking Stick and Stephanie as well as the highly successful Poldark series. His novels have been translated into seventeen languages and six have been filmed. Six of Winston Graham's books have been filmed for the big screen, the most notable being Marnie directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Two television series were made of the Poldark novels which were broadcast in twenty-two countries. Winston Graham was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and in 1983 was awarded the OBE. He died in July 2003Trade ReviewRoss is one of literature's great heroes . . . [with] elements of Darcy, Heathcliff, Rhett Butler and Robin Hood -- Debbie Horsfield

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Book SynopsisShe will keep her head held high, no matter whatWhen Helen Merling, a happy girl with a loving heart, is seduced by a travelling actor, her life is turned upside down. The two are forced to marry by her strict clergyman father but this isn't enough to stop Helen's family from disowning her.Helen and her husband escape to Europe, but their fortunes take a turn for the worse and Helen is left alone, responsible for both herself and their son.Two years later, in the picturesque Italian town of Serugia, Helen meets Charles Carnforth. He falls deeply in love with her but he's not the only one trying to win Helen's heart. Can a new romance find its way into her complicated life?An emotional saga about one woman's fight for her independence. Perfect for fans of Dilly Court, Rosie Goodwin and Mary Mackie.

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Book SynopsisBefore George R. R. Martin there was Dorothy Dunnett . . . PERFECT for fans of A Game of Thrones.''She is a brilliant story teller, The Lymond Chronicles will keep you reading late into the night, desperate to know the fate of the characters you have come to care deeply about.'' The Times Literary SupplementThe Disorderly Knights is the third book in the series-----------------------------''The trouble about Mr Crawford is that he puts up with his enemies and plays merry hell with his friends''Summer, 1551, and Francis Crawford of Lymond is in Malta to assist the Knights of St John defend the island from an invading Turkish fleet. But under a weak leader there is dissension in the ranks of the Knights - and the chances of repelling invasion look slim.Here Lymond meets Knight Grand Cross Graham Reid Malett - known as Gabriel - a fellow Scot famed for hiTrade ReviewPraise for Dorothy Dunnett * - *A storyteller who could teach Scheherazade a thing or two about pace, suspense and imaginative invention * New York Times *Marvellous, breathtaking * The Times *A masterpiece of historical fiction * Washington Post *One of the greatest tale-spinners since Dumas * Cleveland Plain Dealer *Lashings of excitement, colour and subtlety * The Times *Vivid, engaging, densely plotted - are almost certainly destined to be counted among the classics of popular fiction * New York Times *

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Book SynopsisA stunning book set in the Edwardian era about a seamstress working at Buckingham Palace. Full of drama, betrayal and compelling historical detail, perfect for fans of Lucinda Riley and Tracy Rees.It is 1914 and Maria, a shy teenager, is appointed to Buckingham Palace as a seamstress for the royal family.There, she is lucky enough to meet the Prince of Wales and is soon captivated by his glamour and intensity. But theirs is a doomed love affair and before long Maria's life takes a tragic turn.Torn between passion and integrity, she makes a choice that has devastating consequences Can a beautiful quilt, discovered many years later reveal the truth behind what happened to Maria?Trade ReviewPraise for Liz Trenow: ‘Extraordinary, fascinating …deeply rooted in history’ Midweek, Radio 4 “Liz Trenow sews together the strands of past and present as delicately as the exquisite stitching on the quilt which formsthe centerpiece of the story.”Lucinda Riley ‘An assured debut with a page-turning conclusion.’ Daily Express “An intriguing patchwork of past and present, upstairsand downstairs, hope and despair.” Daisy Goodwin, ‘A novel about the human spirit – Liz Trenow paints with able prose a picture of the prejudices that bind us and the love that sets us free … Splendid.’ Pam Jenoff, author of The Kommandant’s Girl ‘This absorbing novel delves into the secrets of wartime silk production and makes them totally fascinating … Tremendously atmospheric and convincing in its details, with characters that touch the heart. A book to savour.’ Kate Furnivall, author of The Russian Concubine

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