Myths & Legends Books

Book SynopsisA delightfully witty and mordant modern classic from Finland: the story of a journalist who befriends an injured hare and embarks into the Finnish wilderness Kaarlo Vatanen is fed up with his life. He's sick of his job, his wife, his urban lifestyle in Helsinki. But all this changes one warm summer's evening, when he encounters an injured hare on a deserted country road. On an impulse he can't fully explain, Vatanen abruptly abandons his car, his home, his wife and his job to chase the hare into the forest. A year of comic misadventures ensues, where Vatanen and his unlikely companion battle through forest fires, pagan sacrifices, military war games and encounters with murderous bears, kept afloat by the help and understanding of other sympathetic free spirits. A much-loved classic in Finland, The Year of the Hare is a freewheeling adventure through the Finnish countryside, and a witty portrayal of one man's long detour from conventional living.Trade Review'No wonder the French have made this book into a cult. Finnish wit as sharp as the Arctic weather' - Mail on Sunday'A change-your-life novel' - New York Magazine'Sums up the Finnish culture and people' - Guardian'A fable of the joys of freedom... The hare proves to be a delightful, undemanding, and loyal companion, who can laugh, listen, and feel embarrassment' - Boston Globe'Paasilinna has been amusing Finns for thirty years and readers in twenty-five languages. He concocts situational comedy highlighted by deadpan, sometimes black humour' - New York Times

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Book SynopsisHarperCollins is proud to present its new range of best-loved, essential classics.For, said he, there never was nor is there one chaste woman upon the face of earth.'A collection of Persian, Arabian and Indian tales dating from the 9th century, Sir Richard Burton's most well-known translation of Arabian Nights brings together ancient folklore and stories passed down from generation to generation.Featuring tales about love, history, tragedy and comedy as well as fables and fairy tales, this edition remains a well-loved collection of exotic and evocative stories. Fantastical and curious customs are bought to life by Burton's translation in stories such as The Lovers of Bassorah', The Concubine of Al-Maamun' and The Hunchback's Tale'.

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Book SynopsisTHE TIMES SCIENCE FICTION BOOK OF THE MONTHHer fiction is a breath-taking piece of a cinematic art powerful and graceful' Bong Joon-ho, Oscar-winning director of Parasite'Dazzling' The TimesA stunning collection of short fiction by one of South Korea's most treasured writers, available in English for the first time.In the title story, an engaged couple working in distant corners of the galaxy plan to arrive on Earth simultaneously and walk down the aisle together. But small incidents wreak havoc on their vast journeys, pushing the date of their wedding far into the future. As centuries pass on Earth and the land and climate change, one thing is constant: the desire of the lovers to be together.Through two pairs of interlinked stories stories, Kim explores the driving forces of humanity love, hope, creation, destruction, and the very meaning of existence.Trade Review‘Her fiction is a breath-taking piece of a cinematic art itself. Reminiscent of the world we experienced in The Matrix, Inception, and Dark City, still it leads us to this entirely original structure, which is a ground-breaking, mystic literary and cinematic experience. Indeed, powerful and graceful’Bong Joon-ho, Oscar-winning director of Parasite ‘These stories will break your heart, then lovingly knit it back together again’Marina J. Lostetter, author of Noumenon ‘She created a world that Hollywood will never be able to imitate’Han Song, Yinhe Award-winning author, on The Day Nien Comes

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Book SynopsisAn inter-connected romantasy perfect for fans of Sarah J. MaasI never should have taken that loan but my aunt needed meds I couldn't afford. Now I've been sold to slavery and the Nightfall Queen's guards have found out I'm not entirely human.I guess I'm lucky they didn't kill me.The next thing I hear is that the Elf King himself has bought me, and I'm to be transferred to his castle. It will take me five years to pay off the debt but I get to be his personal assistant. Personal assistant to the king. That can't be so bad, right?Oh how wrong I was.His council has tasked me with finding him a wife before they will fund his war against the Nightfall Queen. That part should be easy: he's rich, disgustingly handsome, and smart to boot. The problem? He's rejecting every high-born female I send his way.The more time we spend together, the more we realize I'm not just some half elf. There is a deep power that runs through my veins, one that makes me a target or his solution?I enter into a fake marriage with him so that he can get the council off his back and I can get some protection.That's a great idea, as long as I don't fall in love with him.Should be simple enoughThe Broken Elf King is book TWO of FOUR in the Kings of Avalier series. It''s a full-length standalone fantasy romance about the Elf King Raife Lightstone.

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Book SynopsisVolume two of Le Morte D''Arthur, Sir Thomas Malory''s powerful and elegaic version of the Arthurian legend, recounts the adventures of Sir Tristram de Liones and the treachery of Sir Mordred, and follows Sir Launcelot''s quest for The Holy Grail, his fatally divided loyalties, and his great, forbidden love for the beautiful Queen Guenever. Culminating in an account of Arthur''s final battle against the scheming, deceitful Mordred, this is the definitive re-telling of the Arthurian myth, weaving a story of adultery, treachery and ultimately - in its tragic finale - death. Edited and published by William Caxton in 1485, Malory''s moving prose romance looks back to an idealised Medieval age of chivalry, drawing on French and English verse sources to create an epic masterpiece of passion, enchantment, war and betrayal.

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Book SynopsisTwo men who hate each other. One impossible mission. A legend in the making. Hadrian, a warrior with nothing to fight for, is paired with Royce, a thieving assassin with nothing to lose. Together they must steal a treasure that no one can reach. The Crown Tower is the impregnable remains of the grandest fortress ever built and home to the realm''s most prized possessions. But it isn''t gold or jewels that their employer is after, and if he can only keep them from killing each other, they might just get him his prize.''This epic fantasy showcases the arrival of a master storyteller'' Library Journal on Theft of SwordsThe Riyria RevelationsTHEFT OF SWORDSRISE OF EMPIREHEIR OF NOVRONThe Riyria ChroniclesTHE CROWN TOWER THE ROSE AND THE THORN

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of SOPHIE''S WORLD, a modern fairy tale with a philosophical twist.''It should be read by all'' VOGUE''My father died eleven years ago. I was only four then. I never thought I''d hear from him again, but now we''re writing a book together''To Georg Røed, his father is no more than a shadow, a distant memory. But then one day his grandmother discovers some pages stuffed into the lining of an old red pushchair. The pages are a letter to Georg, written just before his father died, and a story, ''The Orange Girl''. But ''The Orange Girl'' is no ordinary story - it is a riddle from the past and centres around an incident in his father''s youth. One day he boarded a tram and was captivated by a beautiful girl standing in the aisle, clutching a huge paper bag of luscious-looking oranges. Suddenly the tram gave a jolt and he stumbled forward, sending the oranges flying in all directions. The girl simply hopped off the tram leaving Georg''s father with arms full of oranges. Now, from beyond the grave, he is asking his son to help him finally solve the puzzle of her identity.Trade ReviewIt should be read by all * VOGUE *A whimsical, thought-provoking story, with more than one surprise in store * GOOD BOOK GUIDE *A modern fairytale * HEAT *

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Book SynopsisWELCOME TO THE INCREDIBLE WORLD OF MILDRED!When a stranger arrived at Mildred's door, she had no idea of how her life was about to change. The secretive order she was encouraged to join had many secrets. Mildred was about to find out just how dark those secrets are.Trade Review"Picks Up Where Potter Left Off, All Of The Intrigue, All Of The Darkness Without A Wand In Sight!" - Amazon.com; "Couldn't put it down, a wonderful read. Beautifully written with laugh out loud moments and tension that sends your heart racing - a must read!" - Waterstones.com; "OUT OF THIS WORLD - A great read. I was totally captivated by the fantastic world introduced in this story. I would definitely recommend this book to all Potter lovers out there. If you're looking for suspense, great characters, and want to read at the edge of your seat, then this book is most certainly for you. A real page turner."Table of ContentsChapter One: Every Cat Has A Name 9 Chapter Two: Slippery At The Sway 21 Chapter Three: Fish Paste Sandwiches 31 Chapter Four: Mr. Franks Tardis Emporium 47 Chapter Five: The Nook At The Coach And Horses 57 Chapter Six: Drive Of The Navigator 65 Chapter Seven: Word Of The Order 75 Chapter Eight: The Curator And The Watched Garden 79 Chapter Nine: The Long Haired Man 89 Chapter Ten: The Passing Of Lady Tempest 93 Chapter Eleven: The Palm Of Duat 103 Chapter Twelve: Pale Hands Of Clerics 111 Chapter Thirteen: The Arrival Of Miss Fennaway 119 Chapter Fourteen: The Reeve's First Scroll 127 Chapter Fifteen: Lady Ebonee 135 Chapter Sixteen: Behind The Gate Of Raysmau 147 Chapter Seventeen: The Stone Stairs Of The Below 157 Chapter Eighteen: Indebted To Rats 167 Chapter Nineteen: The Drawing Of The Scatterblade 173 Chapter Twenty: Talking To Cats 185 Chapter Twenty One: Dr Belloch From Castle Hollow 195 Chapter Twenty Two: Clown Nose And The Sheep Diving Contest 205 Chapter Twenty Three: Actioning The Switcharoo 215 Chapter Twenty Four: The Great Statue Of Salma 227 Chapter Twenty Five: The Keys Of Inferious 243 Chapter Twenty Six: The Serpent's Wheel 261 Chapter Twenty Seven: Welcome To The Kat Club 285 Chapter Twenty Eight: The Clear Sky Above Rocke Road 313 Chapter Twenty Nine: Walls Of Volemon 343 Chapter Thirty: Flames At The Light Of Dawn 375 Chapter Thirty One: The Scarred Comet 405

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Book SynopsisFairytale is an enchanting rendering of a much-loved classic by the world's favourite storyteller, Danielle Steel.Camille Lammenais has grown up in the beauty of the Napa Valley surrounded by acres of her family’s vineyards. Her parents, Christophe and Joy, still deeply in love after two decades of marriage, have built a renowned winery and chateau modelled after Christophe’s ancient family estate in his native Bordeaux. Camille has had a perfect childhood, safe in her parents’ love. After graduating from Stanford, she returns to help manage Chateau Joy, her lifetime goal. But their fairytale ends suddenly with her mother’s death.Six months after losing his wife, the devastated Christophe is easy prey for a mysterious, charming Frenchwoman visiting the valley. Camille, still grieving for her mother, is shocked by the news that her father intends to remarry. Then she begins to see past the alluring looks, designer clothes, and elegant manners of the Countess, while her innocent father is trapped in her web . . .A wonderful, beautifully told tale from America’s favourite novelist, Fairytale is a captivating example of the truths that will always withstand even the darkest storms, and a reminder that sometimes fairytales do come true, and good prevails over evil in the end.

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Book Synopsis''A tale of fear and survival, hope and yearning and defiance, in timelessly elegant prose. It will enchant you, break your heart, and chill you to the very marrow.' Samantha Shannon on The Wolf and the WoodsmanFrom the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Wolf and the Woodsman comes a gothic retelling of The Juniper Tree, where a young witch seeks to discover her identity and escape the domination of her abusive wizard father. Perfect for fans of Angela Carter, Catherynne M. Valente and Shirley Jackson_________________________________A gruesome curse. A city in upheaval. A monster with unquenchable appetites.Marlinchen and her sisters are the last true witches in a city shifting from magic to industry. Viewed as little more than tourist traps, they spend their days treating clients with archaic remedies and nostalgic charm, while attempting to placate their tyrannical, xenophobic wizard father, who keeps his daughters locked away in their crumbling home.But at night, they sneak out to revel in the city's thrills, particularly the recently established ballet theatre, where Marlinchen meets a dancer who quickly captures her heart. But as their late-night trysts grow more fervent and frequent, so does the threat of her father's rage. And while their city flourishes, a monster lurks in its midst, borne of intolerance and resentment and suffused with old-world power.Sunday Times bestseller, June 2022 (w/c 27th June 2022)Trade ReviewA tale of fear and survival, hope and yearning and defiance, in timelessly elegant prose. It will enchant you, break your heart, and chill you to the very marrow. * Samantha Shannon, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Priory of the Orange Tree *Utterly astonishing . . . Juniper & Thorn is the dark fairytale brought to perfection: terrible, and true, and full of teeth. * Shelley Parker-Chan, Sunday Times bestselling author of She Who Became the Sun *A gothic masterpiece. Reid weaves threads of unsettling horror and abuse with astonishing empathy. * Kat Dunn, author of Dangerous Remedy *Reid expertly weaves a dark and delightful tale that packs a sting. Love, betrayal, and a heroine for our time. I absolutely loved this novel. * T. L. Huchu, author of The Library of the Dead *Thrumming with feminist power, and riveting in its worldbuilding, Juniper & Thorn is an unforgettable tale. * Ausma Zehanat Khan, author of The Bladebone *

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Book SynopsisA wicked fairy puts a curse on the king’s daughter, Aurora, that sends everyone at the palace to sleep. Thorns grow like a forest around the castle. Can anyone break the spell? Part of the beloved Fairytale Classics series.

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Book SynopsisClytemnestra's Bind is a bold and brutal first-person retelling that redefines her story, unveiling the untold depths of her soul and the legacy she forged as a mother, wife, and queen. Queen Clytemnestra''s world shatters when Agamemnon, a rival to the throne of Mycenae, storms her palace, destroys her family and claims not only the throne but Clytemnestra herself. Tormented by her loss, she vows to do all she can to protect the children born from her unhappy marriage to him. But when her husband casts his ruthless gaze towards the wealthy citadel of Troy, his ambitions threaten to once more destroy the family Clytemnestra loves. From one of Greek mythology''s most reviled charactersa woman who challenged the absolute power of mencomes this fiery tale of power, family rivalry and a mother''s burning love. Perfect for readers of Greek mythology, and fans of Costanza Casati's Clytemnestra, Madeline Miller's Circe, and Jennifer Saint's Elektra.

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Book SynopsisViking Tales is the thrilling story of Harald Fairhair. Starting at his birth it follows through his many adventures until he unites Norway as its King.As the Viking population grows their lust for adventure takes them on many brave journeys, discovering and settling foreign lands, even setting foot in America.This edition features a large font for easy reading by younger readers, and all the original images, a pronunciation guide, and teachers notes.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book Synopsis First ever publication of J.R.R. Tolkien’s final writings on Middle-earth, covering a wide range of subjects and perfect for those who have read and enjoyed The Silmarillion, The Lord of the Rings, Unfinished Tales, and The History of Middle-earth, and want to learn more about Tolkien’s magnificent world. Trade Review ‘A continuation of the many previous volumes assembled by Tolkien’s son, Christopher Tolkien, that allow readers to see the author “thinking… on paper”. For devotees, this will be a treasure.’ Publishers Weekly ‘How, given little over half a century, did one man become the creative equivalent of a people?’ Guardian

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Book SynopsisAssembling at the Tabard Inn in Southwark, twenty-nine pilgrims begin their journey to Canterbury Cathedral. To entertain themselves on their long road, their host suggests that they regale each other with stories, with the teller of the best tale set to earn a free supper. The pilgrims correspond to all sections of medieval society, from the crusading knight to the drunken cook, and their tales span a range of genres, including the comic ribaldry and deception of `The Miller's Tale' and the story of chivalry and courtly romance told by the Franklin. Unfinished at the time of his death, The Canterbury Tales are here presented in their original Middle-English. This edition contains a wealth of material and over 3,000 notes which will help all students of Chaucer's masterpiece.Trade Review…that I may dare, in wayfaring To stammer where old Chaucer used to sing. -- John Keats, Endymion

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Book SynopsisThere is something morbidly fascinating about the dark and grotesque. Although it is human nature to tiptoe around the uncomfortable (or avoid it altogether), some artists are inspired by the unsettling to create intriguing works of art that push the boundaries of normality and provoke viewers into exploring their fears and taboos. There are also others who use them as springboards of the imagination to express their innermost feelings and question the often-grim realities of existence.In conjunction with Victionary’s 20th anniversary, the new edition of ‘DARK INSPIRATION’ combines most of the projects from the first two best-selling titles of the same name along with new work into one meaty celebration of the macabre. Featuring chilling depictions of childhood reveries, folklore, mysteries, and death in a variety of styles and interpretations, each project serves unconventionally as a celebration of life in all its gruesome glory. With contributions from: Aitch, Akino Kondoh, Aleksandra Waliszewska, Alessandro Sicioldr Bianchi, Alex Garant, Alice Lin, Amandine Urruty, Audrey Kawasaki, Bene Rohlmann, Dadu Shin, Dan Hillier, Daniel Martin Diaz, Danny Van Ryswyk, David Ho, dromsjel, Eero Lampinen, Eika, Elisa Ancori, Erik Mark Sandberg, Evelyn Bencicova, Fabian Mérelle, Fiona Roberts, Francesco Brunotti, Francois Robert, Fuco Ueda, Gabriel Isak, Giacomo Carmagnola, Guim Tió Zarraluki, Hannes Hummel, Heiko Müller, James Jean, Januz Miralles, Jeff Mcmillan, Jesse Auersalo, Jim Johnson Tsang, Jon Beinart, Jules Julien, Justin Nelson, Kate Macdowell, Katy Horan, Kayan Kwok, Kim Simonsson, Kotaro Chiba, Lala Gallardo, Lola Dupre, Lostfish, Mariana Magdaleno, merve morkoç (Lakormis), Mia Mäkilo, Michael Reedy, Miranda Meeks, Nadja Jovanovic, Nicoletta Ceccoli, Oleg Dou, Olivia Knapp, Paola Rojas H & David Perez, Paul Hollingworth, Raffaello De Vito, Raul Oprea aka Saddo, Richard Colman, Ryan Oliver, Sergio Mora / Agency Rush, Tara McPherson, Till Rabus, Tim Lee, Yido, Yoshitoshi Kanemaki, Yuka Yamaguchi, Yury Ustsinau, and Zhou Fan

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Book Synopsis For the first time ever, a beautiful slipcased edition of the forerunner to The Lord of the Rings, illustrated throughout in colour by J.R.R. Tolkien himself, with the complete text printed in two colours and with many bonus features unique to this edition. Trade Review‘How, given little over half a century of work, did one man become the creative equivalent of a people?’The Guardian ‘Demanding to be compared with English mythologies… at times rises to the greatness of true myth’Financial Times ‘A creation of singular beauty… magnificent in its best moments’Washington Post ‘A grim, tragic, brooding and beautiful book, shot through with heroism and hope… its power is almost that of mysticism’Toronto Globe & Mail

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Book SynopsisIn the Tale of The Fall of Gondolin are two of the greatest powers in the world. There is Morgoth of the uttermost evil, unseen in this story but ruling over a vast military power from his fortress of Angband. Deeply opposed to Morgoth is Ulmo, second in might only to Manwë, chief of the Valar.Central to this enmity of the gods is the city of Gondolin, beautiful but undiscoverable. It was built and peopled by Noldorin Elves who, when they dwelt in Valinor, the land of the gods, rebelled against their rule and fled to Middle-earth. Turgon King of Gondolin is hated and feared above all his enemies by Morgoth, who seeks in vain to discover the marvellously hidden city, while the gods in Valinor in heated debate largely refuse to intervene in support of Ulmo''s desires and designs. Into this world comes Tuor, cousin of Túrin, the instrument of Ulmo''s designs. Guided unseen by him Tuor sets out from the land of his birth on the fearful journey to Gondolin, and in one of the most arresting Trade Review‘Never did [Tolkien] write a more sustained account of battle. With dragons and fiery balrogs galore, the attack on Gondolin makes Peter Jackson’s souped-up cinema battles look like tabletop games.’The Times ‘The text is rife with references to characters and creatures that come to play a role in The Lord of the Rings… one passage in particular seems to set up one of the most famous scenes from the LOTR trilogy.’Time ‘It’s a load-bearing pillar in the grander narrative that eventually came to encompass better-known works. Tolkien explicitly expressed his wish later in life that the three Great Tales of Middle-earth’s early days — The Children of Húrin, Beren and Lúthien, and The Fall of Gondolin — along with The Lord of the Rings and other writings, should be considered as “one long Saga of the Jewels and the Rings”.’Entertainment Weekly

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Book SynopsisIn the Tale of The Fall of Gondolin are two of the greatest powers in the world. There is Morgoth of the uttermost evil, unseen in this story but ruling over a vast military power from his fortress of Angband. Deeply opposed to Morgoth is Ulmo, second in might only to Manwë, chief of the Valar.Central to this enmity of the gods is the city of Gondolin, beautiful but undiscoverable. It was built and peopled by Noldorin Elves who, when they dwelt in Valinor, the land of the gods, rebelled against their rule and fled to Middle-earth. Turgon King of Gondolin is hated and feared above all his enemies by Morgoth, who seeks in vain to discover the marvellously hidden city, while the gods in Valinor in heated debate largely refuse to intervene in support of Ulmo''s desires and designs. Into this world comes Tuor, cousin of Túrin, the instrument of Ulmo''s designs. Guided unseen by him Tuor sets out from the land of his birth on the fearful journey to Gondolin, and in one of the most arresting Trade Review‘Never did [Tolkien] write a more sustained account of battle. With dragons and fiery balrogs galore, the attack on Gondolin makes Peter Jackson’s souped-up cinema battles look like tabletop games.’The Times ‘The text is rife with references to characters and creatures that come to play a role in The Lord of the Rings… one passage in particular seems to set up one of the most famous scenes from the LOTR trilogy.’Time ‘It’s a load-bearing pillar in the grander narrative that eventually came to encompass better-known works. Tolkien explicitly expressed his wish later in life that the three Great Tales of Middle-earth’s early days — The Children of Húrin, Beren and Lúthien, and The Fall of Gondolin — along with The Lord of the Rings and other writings, should be considered as “one long Saga of the Jewels and the Rings”.’Entertainment Weekly

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Book Synopsis*A TIMES CRIME CLUB PICK OF THE WEEK*This book had a bit of everything! Suspense, intrigue, action, murder, mystery, a few crazy twistsa great whodunnit!' Reader review, ????Everyone in this town has a secret. But who holds the key to the loch?Twenty years ago, three young women disappeared, never to be found. The rumour to this day is that their bodies are still hidden deep within the murky Loch Aven.When Eleanor, Clio and Michaela find themselves rained out of a camping trip in the Scottish countryside, they have no option but to book the mysterious house nestled on the banks of the lake. But little do they know that history has a way of repeating itself.As secrets in the tightknit community begin to surface, and Michaela suddenly disappears, it becomes clear that something sinister is at play. And now it's a race against time to unravel the mystery before the dark waters claim their next victimA claustrophobic, eerie and atmospheric thriller perfect for fans of Lucy Foley and Sarah Trade Review Praise for Fran Dorricott: ‘A brilliant page-turner.’CLOSER ‘Charming, old-fashioned and eerily atmospheric.’ DAILY MAIL ‘A spooky rollercoaster of a book. A great set of interesting characters whose dark backstories reveal themselves as the story develops. Lots of twists and turns. I loved it. Highly recommended.’ SIMON McCLEAVE ‘Such a strong sense of place that you will be genuinely confused when you look up and realise you’re reading on a train and not on the bleak, isolated island that the author paints so vividly and beautifully.’ CAROLINE CORCORAN ‘Claustrophobic and eerie – it kept me guessing!’ NELL PATTISON ‘Creepy, tense and so, so atmospheric – The Lighthouse is a wonderfully satisfying story with layers and layers of suspicion and intrigue.’ ANDREA MARA ‘The Lighthouse has a claustrophobic atmosphere, mounting suspense and twists and turns that will keep you hooked. I couldn’t put it down.’ VICKI BRADLEY

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Book Synopsis This is the definitive collection of Tolkien’s five acclaimed modern classic ‘fairie’ tales in the vein of The Hobbit, fully corrected and reset for this edition and all beautifully illustrated in pencil by the award-winning artist, Alan Lee. Trade ReviewRoverandom:‘An old-fashioned story, yet it still speaks freshly today… would leap to life when read aloud to a child’ Independent Farmer Giles of Ham:‘A fabulous tale of the days when giants and dragons walked the kingdom’ Sunday Times Leaf by Niggle:‘A haunting and successful demonstration of the qualities of faerie’ New York Times The Adventures of Tom Bombadil:‘Something close to genius’ The Listener Smith of Wootton Major:‘Whoever reads it at eight will no doubt still be going back to it at eighty’ New Statesman

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Book SynopsisA peerless AZ guide to the names, places and events in the world of J.R.R. Tolkien, fully illustrated in colour throughout by acclaimed Tolkien artist, Ted Nasmith.J.R.R. Tolkien's works of epic adventure and fantasy, The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion have delighted many millions of fans since they were first published, and are now more popular than ever before.The Complete Guide to Middle-earth has been compiled to enhance the reader's enjoyment of Tolkien's books by bringing together in an A-Z sequence all the key facts and information about names, places, languages and events from The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion.Accompanied with numerous genealogical tables and a unique Chronology of the First Age, it will provide an indispensable aid to every reader's discovery of Tolkien's world.The first, and definitive, encyclopedia, The Complete Guide to Middle-earth is now reissued to complement the illustrated hardbacks of The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales, and is lavishly illustrated with more than 50 full-colour paintings by acclaimed Tolkien artist, Ted Nasmith, with many appearing exclusively in this edition.Trade Review‘Middle-earth is the country of J.R.R. Tolkien’s tales – the territory of Sauron, Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf and Sam Gamgee – whose legends, history, geography and inhabitants combine to make a unique fictional world. This Guide is a comprehensive reference work to every name and event in Tolkien’s books, from The Hobbit to The Silmarillion.’Daily Telegraph ‘Mr Robert Foster’s Complete Guide to Middle-earth supplies, as I have found through frequent use, an admirable work of reference.’CHRISTOPHER TOLKIEN

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Book SynopsisA revelatory new annotated edition of the most translated Italian book in the world--the basis for two new major motion pictures: a Netflix animated version co-directed and co-written by Guillermo del Toro and voiced by Ewan McGregor, Cate Blanchett, and Tilda Swinton, and a Disney Plus live-action version directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Tom Hanks, Cynthia Erivo, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Lorraine Bracco, and Keegan-Michael KeyA Penguin Classic Carved from a piece of wood by the old carpenter Geppetto, the puppet Pinocchio comes to life and immediately starts to misbehave. But while this beloved character has achieved literary immortality, the novel has been widely misunderstood. Pinocchio has a penchant for lying, to be sure, but it’s when he avoids going to school that he repeatedly gets into trouble. The Adventures of Pinocchio is thus not a cautionary tale about lying but an unusually timely fable for our increasingly authoritaTrade Review“A zingy new translation.” ―The Economist“Perfectly timed. The translators . . . do justice to the story with their insightful annotations and cogent introduction. . . . Who can’t love a story as wildly inventive as [this]? Children certainly love it—and have so for nearly 150 years. But Pinocchio can also grab the interest of any adult willing to engage with the story’s rich tapestry of symbolism, archetypes, and layers of meaning. . . . Should you find yourself watching all or none of the recent and upcoming film adaptations of Pinocchio, this new translation from Penguin Classics is a terrific way to get reacquainted with one of the world’s most popular and important stories.” ―PopMatters“Very lively . . . A fine translation in many ways, and I love the way it brings out the Italianness, and I do like the punch of it. It’s great.” ―Ann Hallamore Caesar, The TLS Podcast“A complex, unsettling novel—miles away from the morality tale that Pinocchio’s story has become . . . Pinocchio harbors a strain of systemic injustice and deep betrayal. . . . Imbued with social criticism and pessimistic humor, [it] can be read, among other things, as an irreverent attack on established authority. . . . As the translators John Hooper and Anna Kraczyna note in a recent critical edition published by Penguin, it’s no coincidence that the utterance ‘Pazienza!’ occurs 15 times throughout the novel. . . . It’s a quintessentially Italian admission of defeat . . . that, as Hooper and Kraczyna note, ‘echoes centuries of unwilling yet unavoidable resignation.’ ” —The Atlantic“An effort to reclaim the spirit of the original, particularly as something distinct from the animated Disney cartoon that most are familiar with . . . Their goal . . . is not dissimilar to that of Matteo Garrone in his wonderfully dark film adaptation: to demonstrate, once again, that Pinocchio is far more than just a children’s story.” ―The Week in Italy

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Book SynopsisThe dead wreak revenge on the living, paintings come alive, spectral brides possess mortal men and a priest devours human flesh in these chilling Japanese ghost stories retold by a master of the supernatural. Lafcadio Hearn drew on the phantoms and ghouls of traditional Japanese folklore - including the headless 'rokuro-kubi', the monstrous goblins 'jikininki' or the faceless 'mujina' who stalk lonely neighbourhoods - and infused them with his own memories of his haunted childhood in nineteenth-century Ireland to create these terrifying tales of striking and eerie power. Today they are regarded in Japan as classics in their own right. Edited with an introduction by Paul MurrayTrade ReviewThe particular value of Murray's collection is that it leads us in chronological order through a much greater breadth of Hearn's writings on the supernatural in Japan, with ghostly tales selected from 11 of his books ... This book insightfully shows how Hearn filtered Japanese ghostly originals through the prism of his own expansive imagination and traumatized experience to create works that were distinctly, and chillingly, his own * Japan Times *What makes these stories, preserved from ancient times, especially readable today is the preternaturally postmodern form they are given in Hearn's deeply idiosyncratic telling * New Yorker *The overarching mood is of wonder . . . the stories occupy the reverie world our mind projects onto the backs of our eyelids, where the ordinary mingles with the supernatural * The Wall Street Journal *An extraordinary author . . . Paul Murray, a former Irish diplomat, has been hooked since a 1970s posting in Japan. His Penguin compilation includes 34 selections, a chronology of Hearn's peripatetic life, some intriguing background information about the sources of the stories, and a number of evocative woodblock prints. Murray's introduction is exceptionally useful to contextualize the man and his oeuvre, tracing the powerful influence of Irish folktales and ghost stories on Hearn's take on Japanese counterparts * Los Angeles Review of Books *

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Book Synopsis''The Stardust Thief will transport you, enchant you, and revive your belief in the magic of storytelling'' Shelley Parker-Chan, author of She Who Became the SunInspired by stories from One Thousand and One Nights, The Stardust Thief weaves the gripping tale of a legendary smuggler, a cowardly prince and a dangerous quest across the desert to find a magical lamp.Neither here nor there, but long ago...Loulie al-Nazari is the Midnight Merchant: a criminal who, with the help of her jinn bodyguard, hunts and sells illegal magic. When she saves the life of a cowardly prince, she draws the attention of his powerful father, the sultan, who blackmails her into finding an ancient lamp.With no choice but to obey or be executed, Loulie journeys with the sultan''s oldest son to find the artefact. Aided by her bodyguard, who has secrets of his own, they must survive ghoul attacks, outwit a vengeful jinn queen and confront Trade ReviewYou'll be charmed immediately by the characters and pulled in by this exploration of how the stories we hear and the stories we tell ourselves - beautiful and heartbreaking alike - shape us. Perfect for fans of S.A. Chakraborty's City of Brass -- C.L. Clark, author of THE UNBROKENA thrilling adventure about found families, ancient magic and stories that linger -- S. A. Chakraborty, author of THE CITY OF BRASSThe Stardust Thief is a dream written upon a page - absorbing, lingering and poignantly told. Abdullah weaves a sweeping adventure of tales within tales, while laying bare the ways those we love can both uplift us and break our hearts -- Andrea Stewart, author of THE BONE SHARD DAUGHTERAbdullah has created a sumptuous feast of richly layered classic tales, and characters who will have you hungering to unravel their mysteries. The Stardust Thief will transport you, enchant you, and revive your belief in the magic of storytelling. -- Shelley Parker-Chan, author of SHE WHO BECAME THE SUNSizzling with action and secrets, The Stardust Thief is a grand adventure with unforgettable characters, enchanting magic, and plenty of heart -- Melissa Caruso, author of THE TETHERED MAGEThe sun-baked sands of Abdullah's imagination teem with colour, danger and excitement -- SFXAbdullah is a gifted storyteller. . . [bringing] to life a rich world, rife with magic, where anything that can be dreamed up can happen -- BOOKLISTThis powerful, intriguing adventure will leave readers eager for more -- PUBLISHERS WEEKLYA marvellous plunge into a beautifully crafted adventure -- KIRKUSAbdullah transports readers into this rich world and literary heritage -- LIBRARY JOURNAL

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Book SynopsisA traditional Russian folk tale with glowing illustrations from an award-winning artist will warm your heart and fill you up with the joyful, generous spirit of Christmas.

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Book SynopsisGrimm’s Fairy Tales contains 59 of the best-loved bedtime stories for children worldwide, enjoyed for the better part of two centuries. Originally collected by the Brothers Grimm, Jacob and Wilhelm, these German linguists and cultural researchers gathered legendary folklore and aimed to share the stories exactly as they heard them. This volume features all of your favorite tales, including: Cinderella Rapunzel Hansel and Grethel Snow White Rumpelstiltskin Little Red Riding Hood The Golden Goose This elegantly designed jacketed hardcover edition features an introduction by fantasy literature scholar Lori Campbell, a timeline of the life and times of the Brothers Grimm, and over 100 illustrations by Arthur Rackham. Essential volumes for the shelves of every classic literature lover, the Chartwell Classics series includes beautifully pre

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Book SynopsisBrought to you by Penguin.Following the bestselling retellings of the Greek myths in Mythos and Heroes, Stephen Fry''s bewitching third volume Troy - concerning love and war, passion and power - is now ready for ordering.The story of Troy speaks to all of us - the kidnapping of Helen, a queen celebrated for her beauty, sees the Greeks launch a thousand ships against the city of Troy, to which they will lay siege for ten whole and very bloody years.It is Zeus, the king of the gods, who triggers the war when he asks the Trojan prince Paris to judge the fairest goddess of them all. Aphrodite bribes Paris with the heart of Helen, wife of King Menelaus of the Greeks, and, naturally, nature takes its course.It is a terrible, brutal war with casualties on all sides as well as strained relations between allies. The Greek''s most fearsome warrior, Achilles, argues with King Agamemnon, his commander, over another woman, the TrTrade ReviewAn amiable meander through the historic sources . . . Fry's light and graceful tone helps to ease the unfamiliar reader through the complicated genealogies * The Times *An inimitable retelling of the siege of Troy . . . Fry's narrative, artfully humorous and rich in detail, breathes life and contemporary relevance into these ancient tales * Observer *Fry's lively writing certainly conveys his lifelong passion for Greek myths . . . It's a rollicking good read * Independent *Perfect for the 21st Century. Ebullient, funny, Fry retells the Greek myths with elegance * The Times *Lively, humorous and intimate, this retelling has real charm * Guardian *A wondrous new immersion in ancient stories we only thought we knew. Brilliant, funny, erudite, inventive, surprising and enthralling -- Richard North PattersonTragedy and passion abound as Fry retells the epic siege of Troy * Metro *Stephen Fry takes the reader into the heart of a story both mythical and grounded in history * Northern Life Magazine *This pacy, witty retelling is beautifully illustrated, with an epilogue explaining the myths and historical reality of Troy * Daily Mail *Astonishing . . . an excellent read * The Oldie *Curl up on your sofa as Stephen brings to life the legendary . . . passionate and powerful story of Troy * The List *Fry is a genial guide to Greek mythology * Daily Telegraph *Fry's knowledge of the world - ancient and modern - bursts through at the seams . . . The reader will find themselves on a fun romp through the world's greatest story * Daily Telegraph *Full of heroism, desire and drama * Eastern Daily Press *Fry really brings the tale to life, adding his own wry humour to the mix . . . Well worth a read * The Hunsbury Handbook *A story thousands of years old, only Fry could rewrite this so captivating as ever * School House *Fry takes us from the founding myth of Troy, through its most famous inhabitants and the infamous war, to the razing of the city by the vengeful and victorious Achaeans * Times *

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Book SynopsisTHE INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER SHORTLISTED FOR THE INDIE BOOK AWARDS 2023 SHORTLISTED FOR THE GOLDSBORO GLASS BELL AWARD 2023 _______________ ‘Superb’ - Susan Stokes-Chapman, bestselling author of PANDORA ‘Bewitching’ - Stacey Halls, bestselling author of THE FAMILIARS _______________ SHE IS AWAKE... Norfolk, 1643. Reluctant soldier Thomas Treadwater has been summoned home by his young sister in a letter accusing their new servant of improper conduct with their widowed father. By the time Thomas reaches the family farm, his father is on the verge of death, Esther is near hysterical and their new servant is in prison, facing charges of witchcraft. Thomas prides himself on being a rational, modern man. He is confident that he can free their servant, a beautiful if peculiarly self possessed young woman, and reassure his sister that there is nothing further to fear, now he has returned. But as he begins to unravels the mystery of what has happened to his family, he uncovers a tale, not of witchcraft, but of something dark and ancient, linked to a shipwreck many years before... Something has awoken, and now it will not rest. Richly atmospheric and deliciously unsettling, The Leviathan is a tale of family and loyalty, superstition and sacrifice, but most of all it is a spellbinding mystery and a story of impossible things. _______________ ‘Outstanding... a seething, haunting delight’ - Beth Underdown, award-winning author of THE WITCHFINDER'S SISTER ‘Thoroughly gripping and utterly absorbing’ - Jennifer Saint, author of ARIADNE *ROSIE ANDREWS’ new novel, The Puzzle Wood, is coming in 2024* _______________Trade ReviewIt’s hard to believe that such an accomplished novel could be a debut - The Leviathan is a gloriously dark story that sweeps you along to its harrowing yet satisfying conclusion. Superb -- Susan Stokes-Chapman, number one bestselling author of PANDORAHugely atmospheric debut ... Gloriously dark and brimful of gothic-infused dread, this is an eerie tale of age-old evil * Daily Mail *Darkly compelling and dripping with atmosphere, The Leviathan is a bewitching tale of good, evil and all the shades in-between -- Stacey Halls, author of THE FAMILIARSThe plot is as surprising and sinuously twisting as the legendary sea monster of its title … More than just an entertaining fantasy, the novel offers a lesson about the importance of accepting responsibility * Guardian *Infused with creepy gothic dread and gorgeously written. Fantastic -- Amy McCulloch, author of BREATHLESSAn original and compelling page-turner, beautifully told -- Annie Kirby, author of THE HOLLOW SEAThis debut oozes quality. I wanted to savour the incredible language, by turns lyrical and earthy, and the beautifully researched historical detail ... The Leviathan is a sumptuous treat that positively thrums with tension. A story that does not shy away from questions of religion, personal choice and responsibility, good versus evil ... Great to read at any time, but especially when the night is dark with howling wind and lashing rain. I absolutely loved it -- Lianne Dillsworth, author of THEATRE OF MARVELSA beautifully written, slow-burning Gothic mystery * Heat *A sinister, twisting tale, thoroughly gripping and utterly absorbing -- Jennifer Saint, author of ARIADNEAn outstanding historical debut, which blends emotional resonance with the chill factor of an M R James story. Utterly compelling from start to finish, The Leviathan is a seething, haunting delight -- Beth Underdown, author of THE WITCHFINDER'S SISTERA confident and accomplished debut, which skilfully blends historical detail, myth, faith and the fantastic into a dark and compelling story of huge imagination -- Anita Frank, author of THE LOST ONESChilling and beguiling, The Leviathan is a novel to be devoured greedily. Vivid and original, I was utterly captivated from the first page until the last -- Joanne Burn, author of THE HEMLOCK CUREThe Leviathan is a haunting, thrilling debut as strange and slippery as the mythical beast itself: at once a supernatural adventure that writhes and twists as you turn the pages but also a very human story about love, loss and faith in the unnerving time of the Civil War. A monster achievement -- Miranda Malins, author of THE PURITAN PRINCESSSpectacular – deliciously creepy, immensely atmospheric and exquisitely written. Rosie Andrews in a phenomenal new voice in historical fiction -- Lizzie Pook, author of the MOONLIGHT AND THE PEARLER'S DAUGHTERA subtle, spooky tale with some spine-tingling moments * Best *Gloriously dark and packed full of Gothic-infused dread * Daily Express *

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Book SynopsisThe Aeneid – thrilling, terrifying and poignant in equal measure – has inspired centuries of artists, writers and musicians.Part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library; a series of stunning, clothbound, pocket sized classics with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover. This edition is translated by J. W. Mackail and has an afterword by Coco Stevenson.Virgil’s epic tale tells the story of Aeneas, a Trojan hero, who flees his city after its fall, with his father Anchises and his young son Ascanius – for Aeneas is destined to found Rome and father the Roman race. As Aeneas journeys closer to his goal, he must first prove his worth and attain the maturity necessary for such an illustrious task. He battles raging storms in the Mediterranean, encounters the fearsome Cyclopes, falls in love with Dido, Queen of Carthage, travels into the Underworld and wages war in Italy.Trade ReviewThe Aeneid is suffused with a fascinating, upending sense that most of what goes gravely wrong on earth isn’t imputable to human agency -- Brad Leithauser * New York Times *Generally viewed as the pre-eminent masterpiece of the Western literary tradition -- Michael Dirda * Washington Post *

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Book SynopsisTwo sisters parted. Two women blamed. Two stories reclaimed.'Required reading for fans of Circe . . . a remarkable, thrilling debut' - Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Lions of Fifth AvenueFor millennia, two women have been blamed for the fall of a mighty civilisation - but now it's time to hear their side of the story . . .As princesses of Sparta, Helen and Klytemnestra have known nothing but luxury and plenty. With their high birth and unrivalled beauty, they are the envy of all of Greece.Such privilege comes at a high price, though, and their destinies are not theirs to command. While still only girls they are separated and married off to legendary foreign kings Agamemnon and Menelaos, never to meet again. Their duty is now to give birth to the heirs society demands and be the meek, submissive queens their men expect.But when the weight of their husbands' neglect, cruelty and ambition becomes too heavy to bear, they must push against the constraints of their sex to carve new lives for themselves - and in doing so make waves that will ripple throughout the next three thousand years.Perfect for readers of Circe and Ariadne, Daughters of Sparta is a vivid and illuminating retelling of the Siege of Troy that tells the story of mythology's most vilified women from their own mouths at long last.Helen of Troy and her sister Klytemnestra are reimagined in this gorgeous retelling of the classic Greek myth - not as women defined by their husbands and lovers but as battle-weary survivors of a patriarchal society who take control of their own destiny. Absolutely riveting!' - Alka Joshi, New York Times bestselling author of The Henna ArtistTrade ReviewThe story of the Trojan War has been told for close to three millennia and writers are still finding ways to refashion it . . . Seen through the eyes of Klytemnestra and her sister Helen, the war proves very different from the Homeric conflict with which we are familiar . . . [Heywood] tells her story vividly, setting it convincingly in the period. * Sunday Times *Fluent and persuasive. I admire the ambition with which Heywood tackles the subject, to which she brings freshness and verve. I enjoyed it very much -- Elizabeth BuchanDaughters of Sparta has such a compelling narrative; it is utterly absorbing from beginning to end. I found it both captivating and poignant; an enthralling and powerful tale of family politics, gender constraints, love, betrayal and revenge, with a masterful handling of feelings and emotions that truly resonates down the ages. -- Laura CarlinHelen of Troy and her sister Klytemnestra are reimagined in this gorgeous retelling of the classic Greek myth - not as women defined by their husbands and lovers but as battle-weary survivors of a patriarchal society who take control of their own destiny. Absolutely riveting! * Alka Joshi, New York Times bestselling author of The Henna Artist *'Heywood's wondrous retelling of the lives of two ancient princesses struggling for independence and agency in a patriarchal society resonates deeply in today's imperfect world. Required reading for fans of Circe, and a remarkable, thrilling debut.' * Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Lions of Fifth Avenue *Brilliantly compelling . . . the perfect balance between historical authenticity and characters who I really connected with -- Sarah BonnerAn immersive, intimate take on a well-known tale. By focussing on the diverging fates of two sisters, Heywood reveals the private lives of these women to be just as compelling as the epic events unfolding around them. -- Amanda BlockIf you love epic books about Greek mythology and the often misunderstood or misinterpreted women within these tales, Daughters of Sparta should be right at the top of your reading list. It's a vividly written and compelling retelling that brings the Spartan princesses to life with all the human fortitude and foibles you'd expect from flesh and blood people. I'm already impatiently awaiting the reveal of the next set of female perspectives from the ancient world that Claire Heywood will be writing about in her second novel. * CultureFly *

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Book SynopsisIf you've been gripped by Pat Barker's The Women of Troy and The Silence of the Girls, then For the Most Beautiful is a must-read for you . . .Three thousand years ago a war took place that gave birth to legends - to Achilles, the greatest of the Greeks, and Hector, prince of Troy. It was a war that shook the very foundations of the world. But what if there was more to this epic conflict? What if there was another, hidden tale of the Trojan War?Now is the time for the women of Troy to tell their story.Thrillingly imagined and startlingly original, For the Most Beautiful reveals the untold story of Krisayis, daughter of the Trojans' High Priest, and of Briseis, princess of Pedasus, who fight to determine the fate of a city and its people in this ancient time of mischievous gods and mythic heroes.In this novel full of passion and revenge, loyalty and betrayal, bravery and sacrifice, Emily Hauser breathes exhilarating new life into one of the greatest legends of all - in a tale that has waited millennia to be told.'Brings ancient Troy wildly, raucously, passionately alive' Manda Scott, author of BoudicaTrade ReviewOnce in a while something comes along that’s so utterly right, so necessary for now, that you wonder why nobody thought of it before. Emily Hauser’s stunning debut novel . . . brings ancient Troy wildly, raucously, passionately alive and tells at last the stories of those who really mattered. -- MANDA SCOTT, bestselling author of Boudica and Into the FireA feast for the senses, richly described and effortlessly easy to read. It brings to life an ancient world long gone, and in so doing reminds us of the traumas and costs of war, which are sadly still so much a part of our world today. -- MICHAEL SCOTT, presenter of Rome's Invisible CityA delight from start to finish. Hauser’s fresh perspective on one of the great archetypal epics, in focusing on the marginalised women’s stories, makes for fascinating reading . . . a clever premise and a thoroughly enjoyable. -- ELIZABETH FREMANTLE, author of Sisters of TreasonIn her sparkling debut novel classicist Emily Hauser offers a fresh take on the old but living legend spun so artfully in Homer's Iliad . . . tells a ripping good story. -- PAUL CARTLEDGE, Professor of Ancient History at CambridgeA brilliant re-imagining of the Iliad, faithful to the original yet completely accessible . . . the two young women at the centre of the drama are faithfully representative of their time and place yet feel compellingly contemporary . . . Emily Hauser has given us a lively new take on a classic. -- TERRY HAWKINS, author of The Rage of AchillesFascinating . . . highly convincing . . . a familiar tale told in an unfamiliar way. Presenting the story from the point of view of the women, rather than the warriors, gives Hauser's novel real edge and originality. -- Nick Rennison * BBC HISTORY MAGAZINE *Intensely described . . . there is no doubting Hauser's passionate involvement with, and knowledge of, her subject. -- Elizabeth Buchan * DAILY MAIL *Breathing life into these bit-part characters . . . written with energy and passion. -- Antonia Senior * THE TIMES *A new, feminine perspective on the events of the Iliad . . . a colourful tale of gods and mortals. * SUNDAY TIMES *This elegant, warm novel moves between two great Trojan beauties . . . through their stories, we witness both sides of this titanic war while feminine beauty and masculine martial prowess compete for the attention of the reader and the gods. * SUNDAY EXPRESS *Hauser’s characters are brave, wilful, sometimes foolish, impulsive, and utterly relatable, and her portrayal of the manipulative, capricious gods is particularly wonderful . . . this quick-paced, enthralling retelling will attract readers who loved Madeline Miller’s The Song of ­Achilles * LIBRARY JOURNAL *Colourful and entertaining . . . a very different story when seen through female eyes. -- Nick Rennison * BBC HISTORY magazine *Colourful and entertaining tale of gods and mortals, war and love. * History Today *

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Book SynopsisBabylonian myths, inherited in Mesopotamia from Sumeria, influenced by the ancient Assyrians represent a pinnacle of human achievement in the period around 1800 BC. Here we find humankind battling with the elements in their Flood myth, a grim creation story and the great Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the earliest recorded literary treasures. Babylon, a powerful city state at the time of the ancient Egyptians was a centre of profound spiritual, economic and military power, themes all represented in the fragments and myths of this book of classic tales. FLAME TREE 451: From mystery to crime, supernatural to horror and myth, fantasy and science fiction, Flame Tree 451 offers a healthy diet of werewolves and mechanical men, blood-lusty vampires, dastardly villains, mad scientists, secret worlds, lost civilizations and escapist fantasies. Discover a storehouse of tales gathered specifically for the reader of the fantastic.

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Book SynopsisAs the bombs rain down in the Second World War, one young girl is evacuated to the English countryside. Struggling to make sense of her new wartime life, she is given a copy of a book of ancient Norse myths and her inner and outer worlds are transformed.Linguistically stunning and imaginatively abundant, Byatt's mesmerising tale - inspired by the myth of Ragnarok -is a landmark piece of storytelling from one of the world's truly great writers.The Myths series brings together some of the world's finest writers, each of whom has retold a myth in a contemporary and memorable way. Authors in the series include Karen Armstrong, Margaret Atwood, A.S. Byatt, David Grossman, Natsuo Kirino, Alexander McCall Smith, Philip Pullman, Ali Smith and Jeanette Winterson.Trade ReviewLyrical and urgent * * The Times * *Brilliant, highly intelligent, fiercely personal . . . Gorgeous -- Ursula K. Le GuinByatt has made . . . an entire world, compressed but energetically alive in all its details. When we have artists like this, who needs gods? * * Observer * *Byatt's prose is majestic, the lush descriptive passages - jewelled one minute, gory the next - a pleasure to get lost in * * Sunday Telegraph * *Byatt's writing, impassioned and liberated from the strictures of the novel, has never been so beautiful * * Telegraph * *Byatt's prose, compact and lyrical, treats the gods with dignity . . . Ragnarok is a clever, lucid, lovely book * * Guardian * *Surely among the most beautiful and incisive pages Byatt has ever written * * Independent * *Byatt enters with gusto and an almost Ted Hughes-like relish for savagery into this primitive world of sorcery and trickery * * Sunday Times * *Byatt peels back the cover of the book that the girl reads and takes us deep inside it as she delights in reimagining the twilight of the gods and the destruction of the world . . . Like Wagner before her, she dares to dream how the world might end . . . this rewriting of the Ragnarok is a story for our time of overpopulation and anthropomorphic climate change, and of all time * * Financial Times * *Byatt's retelling of Ragnarok is permeated with the loving familiarity of long acquaintance * * Evening Standard * *

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Book SynopsisPerfect for storytime, this collection of ten traditional and much-loved stories includes The Princess and the Pea, Jack and the Beanstalk, Goldilocks and the Three Bears and Little Red Riding Hood. Beautifully designed pages with Richard Johnson's enchanting illustrations bring each tale to life. Includes an introduction to the stories and notes on where they came from.

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Book SynopsisWith a new introduction, this collection of Slavic tales is based on the oral storytelling traditions of the peoples of Eastern Europe, from the Polish and the Slovaks to the Macedonians, Czechs and Serbians, with roots in pagan folklore and influenced by the Viking traders who settled in Kiev in the early middle ages. Stories abound with mountains, magic palaces and temples and such incredible tales as 'The King of the Toads', 'Vassilissa the Cunning', and 'The Tsar of the Sea' and 'The Feather of Bright Finist the Falcon'. FLAME TREE 451: From mystery to crime, supernatural to horror and myth, fantasy and science fiction, Flame Tree 451 offers a healthy diet of werewolves and mechanical men, blood-lusty vampires, dastardly villains, mad scientists, secret worlds, lost civilizations and escapist fantasies. Discover a storehouse of tales gathered specifically for the reader of the fantastic.

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Book SynopsisLittle treasures, the FLAME TREE COLLECTABLE CLASSICS are chosen to create a delightful and timeless home library. Each stunning, gift edition features deluxe cover treatments, ribbon markers, luxury endpapers and gilded edges. The unabridged text is accompanied by a Glossary of Victorian and Literary terms produced for the modern reader. The fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen are renowned the world over, having inspired generations of children’s writers ever since their first translation into English. This classic collection includes some of his most famous stories, such as ‘The Ugly Duckling’, ‘The Little Mermaid’, ‘The Emperor’s New Suit’, and ‘The Red Shoes’. Characteristic and captivating, Andersen’s tales offer up a world of enchantment, ingenuity and complex morality, and are a real treat for children and adults alike.

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Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. India, one of the great, ancient civilizations, spawned a fascinating canon of myths and legends. With multiple gods, and a riot of colour and character, this fantastic new book, Indian Myths & Legends, explores the themes and landscapes that created the tales, and reveals the boundless energy that brought us the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, retelling the stories of Krishna, Buddha and Shiva, and some of the many different versions of creation. Flame Tree Collector's Editions present the foundations of speculative fiction, authors, myths and tales without which the imaginative literature of the twentieth century would not exist, bringing the best, most influential and most fascinating works into a striking and collectable library. Each book features a new introduction and a Glossary of Terms.

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Book SynopsisThe never-before-seen history of Westeros and the lands beyond. With hundreds of pages of all-new material from George R.R. Martin.If the past is prologue, then George R.R. Martin's masterworkthe most inventive and entertaining fantasy saga of our timewarrants one hell of an introduction. At long last, it has arrived with THE WORLD OF ICE AND FIRE.George R.R. Martin, in collaboration with Elio M. García, Jr. and Linda Antonsson, has written a comprehensive history of the Seven Kingdoms, featuring the epic battles, bitter rivalries, and daring rebellions that lead up to the events in the bestselling A Song of Ice and Fire series.Collected within this volume is the accumulated knowledge, scholarly speculation, and inherited folk tales of maesters and septons, maegi and singers, including over 170 full-colour illustrations and maps, family trees for the Houses Stark, Lannister and Targaryen, and in-depth explanations of the history and culture of Westeros.This is the definitive companion volume to George R.R. Martin's dazzlingly conceived universe; THE WORLD OF ICE AND FIRE is indeed proof that the pen is mightier than a storm of swords.Trade Review‘Of those who work in the grand epic fantasy tradition, George R.R. Martin is by far the best’Time Magazine ‘Colossal, staggering… Martin captures all the intoxicating complexity of the Wars of the Roses or Imperial Rome in his imaginary world … one of the greats of fantasy literature’SFX ‘The sheer-mind-boggling scope of this epic has sent other fantasy writers away shaking their heads … Its ambition: to construct the Twelve Caesars of fantasy fiction, with characters so venomous they could eat the Borgias’Guardian

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Book SynopsisThis fascinating new book reveals the origins of the Vikings—from Thor and Leif Erikson to Loki and the Valkyries—and the tales that have influenced our own lives.For thousands of years, Vikings have held a storied place in our culture—their distinct appearance, their mighty longships, their reputation for causing death and destruction. But who were these strange and mysterious folk? The Book of Viking Myths retells the stories of the Viking people, with myths of their gods and goddesses, monsters, and great heroes. From tales of the beautiful and powerful Freyja, to the gold-toothed Heimdallr, to the wolf Fenrir, Peter Archer explores all the figures and tales that make up Norse mythology. Along with these legends of seafaring, dwarves, giants, and the exploits of Thor, you will also discover the influences that Viking culture has had on our own lives. It’s a true exploration of Nordic culture—and a glimpse into the history and lore of these fabled Nordic warriors.

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Book SynopsisClassic hardback edition of the second volume of The Lord of the Rings, featuring Tolkien's original unused dust-jacket design. Includes special packaging and the definitive edition of the text, with fold-out map.Frodo and the Companions of the Ring have been beset by danger during their quest to prevent the Ruling Ring from falling into the hands of the Dark Lord by destroying it in the Cracks of Doom. They have lost the wizard, Gandalf, in the battle with an evil spirit in the Mines of Moria; and at the Falls of Rauros, Boromir, seduced by the power of the Ring, tried to seize it by force. While Frodo and Sam made their escape the rest of the company were attacked by Orcs.Now they continue their journey alone down the great River Anduin alone, that is, save for the mysterious creeping figure that follows wherever they go.This classic hardback features Tolkien's original unused dust-jacket design, and its text has been fully restored with almost 400 corrections with the full co-operation of Christopher Tolkien making it the definitive version, and as close as possible to the version that J.R.R. Tolkien intended. Also included is the original red and black map of the Shire as a foldout sheet.Trade Review‘An extraordinary book. It deals with a stupendous theme. It leads us through a succession of strange and astonishing episodes, some of them magnificent, in a region where everything is invented, forest, moor, river, wilderness, town and the races which inhabit them.’The Observer ‘Among the greatest works of imaginative fiction of the twentieth century.’Sunday Telegraph ‘The English-speaking world is divided into those who have read The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit and those who are going to read them.’Sunday Times ‘A story magnificently told, with every kind of colour and movement and greatness.’New Statesman ‘Masterpiece? Oh yes, I’ve no doubt about that.’Evening Standard

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Book SynopsisThe world first publication of a previously unknown work by J.R.R. Tolkien, which tells the epic story of the Norse hero, Sigurd, the dragon-slayer, the revenge of his wife, Gudrún, and the Fall of the Nibelungs.In the Lay of the Völsungs is told the ancestry of the great hero Sigurd, the slayer of Fáfnir most celebrated of dragons, whose treasure he took for his own; of his awakening of the Valkyrie Brynhild who slept surrounded by a wall of fire, and of their betrothal; and of his coming to the court of the great princes who were named the Niflungs (or Nibelungs), with whom he entered into blood-brotherhood. In that court there sprang great love but also great hate, brought about by the power of the enchantress, mother of the Niflungs, skilled in the arts of magic, of shape-changing and potions of forgetfulness.In scenes of dramatic intensity, of confusion of identity, thwarted passion, jealousy and bitter strife, the tragedy of Sigurd and Brynhild, of Gunnar the Niflung and Gudrún hTrade Review“Will appeal strongly to readers already haunted by the deeper, more sombre musics of Middle-earth” The Times “This is the most unexpected of Tolkien’s many posthumous publications; his son’s ‘Commentary’ is a model of informed accessibility; the poems stand comparison with their Eddic models, and there is little poetry in the world like those” Times Literary Supplement “The compact verse form is ideally suited to describing impact… elsewhere it achieves a stark beauty” Telegraph

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Book SynopsisFrom the critically-acclaimed author of PRINCE OF FOOLS comes the second volume of the brilliant new epic fantasy series, THE RED QUEEN'S WAR.''If you like dark you will love Mark Lawrence. And when the light breaks through and it all makes sense, the contrast is gorgeous'' ROBIN HOBBThe Red Queen has set her players on the boardWinter is keeping Prince Jalan Kendeth far from the luxuries of his southern palace. And although the North may be home to his companion, the warrior Snorri ver Snagason, he is just as eager to leave.For the Viking is ready to challenge all of Hel to bring his wife and children back into the living world. He has Loki's key now all he needs is to find the door.As all wait for the ice to unlock its jaws, the Dead King plots to claim what was so nearly his the key into the world so that the dead can rise and rule.Trade Review‘There are special rewards in store here for readers of the Broken Empire series. Highly recommended’ ROBIN HOBB ‘Marks an unbroken and steady ascent to the top of my favourite-fantasy pile. Lawrence gets better with each book he writes’ MYKE COLE ‘Reminds me of when I first discovered Gemmell and Hobb and I can't wait for the next instalment’ DAVID CHADWICK ‘The brisk adventure and black magic will leave readers eager for the next chapter in the series’ Publisher’s Weekly ‘Lawrence improves with every book he writes and if he keeps on like this, we may have to turn the ratings system up to eleven. Magnificent, and highly recommended’ Starburst Magazine ‘Mark Lawrence should be commended on another excellent book of The Red Queen’s War trilogy that gives enough information to make the reader want more’ Impulse Gamer ‘The dialogue is a humorous, frightening lullaby that flawlessly depicts this dark, disturbing universe and its meticulously constructed characters, both friends and fiends’ RT Book Reviews

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Book SynopsisA glittering rush of sugar-sweet enchantment' Stephanie Garber, Sunday Times bestselling author of A Curse for True LoveIn the darkness of night, magic awaitsNottingham, 1906Marietta Stelle longs to be a ballerina but, as Christmas draws nearer, her dancing days are numbered she must marry and take up her place in society in the New Year. But, when a mysterious toymaker, Dr Drosselmeier, purchases a neighbouring townhouse, it heralds the arrival of magic and wonder in Marietta's life.After Drosselmeier constructs an elaborate theatrical set for her final ballet performance on Christmas Eve, Marietta discovers it carries a magic all of its own a magic darker than anyone could imagine. As the clock chimes midnight, Marietta finds herself transported from her family's ballroom to a frozen sugar palace, silent with secrets, in a forest of snow-topped fir trees. She must find a way to return home before she's trapped in Everwood's enchanting grip forever.In the darkness of night, magic awaits and you will never forget what you find hereTropes:?? Finding the magic of Christmas?? True love?? Festive fun!Your favourite authors have fallen under the magical spell of Midnight in Everwood:The perfect winter fairy tale' Sarah Morgan, The Christmas EscapeA deliciously dark retelling of The Nutcracker' Jennifer Saint, AtalantaSumptuous and spellbinding' Heidi Swain, Underneath the Christmas TreeBeautifully spun and wildly imagined' Cari Thomas, ThreadneedleEnchanting! The perfect Christmas treat' Veronica Henry, Christmas at the Beach HutReaders LOVE Midnight in Everwood:Transported me to a magical world' ??????????A great winter read' ??????????A story in which you can lose yourself' ??????????I was drawn into this book from the very first page' ??????????A must-read for the Christmas season' ??????????Enchanting and full of wonderful adventure' ??????????Will sweep you off your feet' ??????????A fairy tale for grown-ups and absolutely perfect for Christmas' ??????????Trade Review Praise for Midnight in Everwood: ‘Perfect autumnal reading in this enchanting and fantastical retelling of The Nutcracker. A show-stopping book’ Woman & Home ‘A glittering rush of sugar-sweet enchantment laced with sparkling prose and bewitching storytelling. Beware of entering this magnificent world; Everwood will dazzle and seduce you and then steal you away’ Stephanie Garber, Sunday Times bestselling author of Once Upon A Broken Heart ‘An absolute dream of a read. A magical, enchanting retelling of The Nutcracker’ LoveReading, Book of the Month ‘Magical and evocative, the perfect winter fairy tale’ Sarah Morgan, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Christmas Escape ‘This retelling of The Nutcracker will transport you to a fairy tale world where magic happens’ Good Housekeeping ‘The perfect Christmas treat, with every word a jewel. You will fall under its spell from the first page to the last. Enchanting’ Veronica Henry, Sunday Times bestselling author of Christmas at the Beach Hut ‘A sumptuous and spellbinding read’ Heidi Swain, Sunday Times bestselling author of Underneath the Christmas Tree ‘Deliciously dangerous and darkly enchanting’ Sophie Anderson, The Girl Who Speaks Bear ‘I ADORED this adult retelling of The Nutcracker. A lyrical winter fairy tale full of snow, magic and whimsy. So beautifully written – every page was a delight’ Alex Bell, The Winter Garden ‘Whisks us away in its sugar spun dance of enchantment. For fans of The Night Circus, as delicious as its sweetest confection, it’s a real delight’ Nydia Hetherington, A Girl Made of Air ‘A magical and dark story told like a beautiful fairy tale’ Fabulous ‘A quintessential Christmas read’ Culturefly

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Book SynopsisIn a fallen kingdom, one girl carries the key to discovering the secrets of her nation''s past and unleashing the demons that sleep at its heart. An epic new fantasy duology inspired by Chinese mythology.Once, Lan had a different name. Now, she goes by the one the Elantian colonizers gave her. She spends her days scavenging for remnants of the past. For anything that might help her understand the strange mark burned into her arm by her mother, in her last act before she died.No one can see the mysterious mark until the night Zen appears at the teahouse and saves her life.Zen is a practitioner, one of the fabled magicians of the Last Kingdom, whose abilities were rumoured to be drawn from the demons they communed with. Magic believed to be long lost. Magic to be hidden at all costs.Both Lan and Zen have secrets buried deep within. Fate has connected them, but their destiny remains unwritten. Both hold the power to liberate their land. And both hold the power to destroy the world.A ferTrade Review‘Devastatingly gorgeous. From the bustling, conquered port city to the mysterious school waiting in the mountains, each page of Song of Silver, Flame Like Night unfolds with a deliberate, skilled hand. Amélie Wen Zhao writes with a direct line to my heart’ Chloe Gong, #1 New York Times bestselling author of These Violent Delights “A gloriously rendered tale of power and what we’ll do to protect. Zhao serves the action, stunning visuals, and philosophical underpinnings of the xianxia genre in high style. Perfect for fans of The Untamed. I loved it!” —Shelley Parker-Chan, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of She Who Became the Sun ‘Lyrical and richly imagined, Song of Silver, Flame Like Night brims with pure magic. Zhao has woven together a story of self-discovery, slow-burning romance, and heart-pounding revelations. I was swept away from the first page!’ Rebecca Ross, internationally bestselling author of A River Enchanted ‘Zhao weaves, within the pages of Song of Silver, Flame Like Night, an epic, masterfully rendered tale of reckoning and heritage that draws its readers into a world as rich as it is nuanced, and as intriguing as it is magical’ Ayana Gray, New York Times bestselling author of Beasts of Prey ‘Gorgeous, evocative, and thrilling, Song of Silver, Flame Like Night completely entranced me. The combination of the lush prose, intricate world building, and an utterly compelling plot kept me gripped from the very first page to the last. This is a delicious, decadent feast of a book full of magic, romance, and vengeance. I absolutely loved it’ Katherine Webber, author of Twin Crowns

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Book SynopsisCollins Big Cat supports every primary child on their reading journey from phonics to fluency. Top authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that children love to read. Levelled for guided and independent reading, each book includes ideas to support reading. Teaching and assessment support and eBooks are also available.When a group of Travelling recyclers agree to tidy up a town, their methods of working, their music and stories have a huge impact on the residents making them examine their lives.Emerald/Band 15 books provide a widening range of genres including science fiction and biography, prompting more ways to respond to texts.Pages 46 and 47 allow children to re-visit the content of the book, supporting comprehension skills, vocabulary development and recall.Ideas for reading in the back of the book provide practical support and stimulating activities.

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