Discover myths. folklore, fables and legends.Traditional tales often thought to have basis in historical fact.
Myths & Legends Books
Tuttle Publishing The Monkey Kings Amazing Adventures
Book Synopsis
£11.69
Headline Publishing Group King Arthur The Bloody Cup A thrilling historical
Book SynopsisThe third book in an exciting Arthurian trilogy.For many years, the people of Briton have enjoyed peace and prosperity under the reign of King Artor and the Union of Kings. Having spurned the despotism of his predecessor, Uther Pendragon, Arthur has ruled with a strong sense of duty, goodness and honour. Artor is now weakening with age, however, and the seeds of discontent are being sown. Seeking to cleanse the land of Christian belief, dissenters need a symbol with which to legitimise their pagan claim and gather malcontents together into a cohesive weapon. These shadowy, subversive elements seize upon the ancient cup of Bishop Lucius of Glastonbury as a way of fragmenting Artor''s hard-fought-for kingdom. But first, they must lay their hands on the relic and, in doing so, unleash a force for evil from which murder and violent mayhem ensue. But it emerges that the ultimate threat to Artor''s rule lies far closer to home; Artor is betrayed by kin. Celt will sTrade ReviewPraise for M. K. Hume: 'Hume brings the bloody, violent, conniving world vividly to life...will appeal to those who thrill to Game of Thrones and other tales of intersecting, ever-warring, noble lineages * Kirkus Review *Historical fiction of the most bloodthirsty and roistering kind * Australian Bookseller & Publishers Magazine *
£9.49
HarperCollins Publishers Sisters of Moonlight
Book SynopsisAnne of Green Gablesmeets Diana Wynne Jones in this whimsical fantasy adventure perfect for teen readers.Each step was like an old familiar songStill recovering from the inferno that consumed Kelseth lighthouse, apothecary Lily Knight, powerful witch Alice Blackwell, and their newfound family find refuge in a mysterious mist-wreathed castle to regroup and draw up a plan of action.Because the shadows are closing in and Hecate Winter, High Priestess of the notorious coven that almost cost Alice her life, is only getting strongerBut there are murmurings of an even more sinister threat brewing on the horizon and it has something to do with the castle.When Alice's nightmares begin to bleed into her daily reality, everything changes.Can Lily pull her back from the edge or will she finally succumb to the darkness?Here's what readers are saying:Absolutely loved it There were stories within stories like a tangled plait of hair. A plait that unravelled as certain characters' stories went off Trade Review‘Hot freaking damn guys. Sisters of Shadow was so good! Beyond addicting. I honestly couldn't put the book down until I reached the very last page’ Alaina, NetGalley ‘Full of raw, dripping magic… characters that are complex, something that I would expect to come from V E Schwab… I cannot get it out of my head. I need more, MORE, from Livesey’ Dalton, NetGalley ‘This was a gripping read, full of love, friendship, working together to overcome fears and the battle of good vs evil… should definitely be added to your TBR’ Ronni, NetGalley ‘I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The world the author created was brilliant and so immersive’ Amy, NetGalley ‘I suspect this book will have a certain Tik-Tok generation appeal… A gentle, whimsical fantasy story of best friends, first love and witches!’ Rebecca, NetGalley ‘The young adults in this book are so fierce and full of action’ Kelly, NetGalley ‘This book didn't disappoint’ Natàlia, NetGalley
£8.54
Image Comics I Hate Fairyland Volume 4: Sadly Never After
Book SynopsisWhat started as a normal, everyday, child-sucked-into-a-magical-land-to-fulfill-an-inane-quest has changed Fairyland forever. In the continuation of SKOTTIE YOUNG'S saccharine fantasy-satire, Gertrude hands over the spotlight to Larry, Duncan Dragon, and some of Fairyland's other supporting cast, misfits, and forgotten threats.Collects issues 16 through 20.
£13.49
Vintage Publishing The Story of a Nutcracker
Book SynopsisAlexandre Dumas (Author) Alexandre Dumas was a French playwright, historian and prolific novelist, penning a string of successful books including The Three Musketeers (1844), The Count of Monte Cristo (1845), and Twenty Years After(1845). His novels have been translated into a hundred different languages and inspired over two hundred films. In his day Dumas was as famous for his financial irresponsibility and flamboyant lifestyle as for his writing. Dumas died in 1870.Trade ReviewA family story that everyone can enjoy * Guardian *For all its darkness, [The Nutcracker] appeals to parents and their children because it's like one of those glowing glass globes that you can shake and see the snow swirl. It's a dream bubble, a vision of middle-class happiness and fantasy that precedes the Russian Revolution and all the horrors of the last century and this one. That world may have faded, but it is still our sweetest dream * New York Times *An enduring Christmas classic * Daily Telegraph *Like Hansel And Gretel, The Nutcracker is a slightly dark story, but it s also magical...a world of childhood imagination * Glasgow Herald *
£8.65
HarperCollins Publishers Arabian Nights Collins Classics
Book SynopsisHarperCollins is proud to present its new range of best-loved, essential classics.So he rose and lighted one lamp after another, till he had lighted the whole eighty and the palace seemed to dance with brilliancy.'Beginning with the legend of King Shahryr, whose anger at his queen's infidelity leads him to murder a new wife each day, Arabian Nights weaves together ancient folklore and magic in an anthology of fantastical and evocative stories dating from the ninth century.Rich with suspense, passion and tragedy, Sir Richard Burton's celebrated translation continues to transport readers across oceans, to mystical lands and ancient palaces in tales such as The Lovers of Bessorah', The Fellah and His Wicked Wife' and The Hunchback's Tale'.
£8.54
Flame Tree Publishing Southern African Folktales
Book SynopsisSouthern Africa is a region of impressive diversity of landscape, climate and peoples: from forests to deserts, from coasts to mountains, from subtropical to temperate, from the Zulu, Pedi and Venda peoples to the ancient San peoples whose territories span much of the entire region, with countless tribes in between. This region includes the modern countries of Angola, Botswana, Eswatini (Swaziland), Lesotho, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. The peoples' folktales share common themes and roots through their migrations across the mineral-rich lands and have been passed down orally to explain the world, guide society and entertain. This lively collection has a new introduction and contains tales from across the region, of creation and origins, of trickster animals and their lessons, and of hardship, greed and love. FLAME TREE 451: From myth to mystery, the supernatural to horror, 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.
£8.54
Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc A Classic Christmas Treasury: Includes 'Twas the
Book SynopsisCozy up with your favorite Christmas stories and discover new wintry tales with this keepsake holiday anthology. Just in time for the holidays, A Classic Christmas Treasury gathers together many of the season’s classics and introduces new, diverse stories from around the globe in one decorative holiday volume. This cheerful, collectible treasury of stories, poems, and carols makes a wonderful gift any time of the year and reminds us that simple gifts of the heart and memories made with loved ones truly are the most meaningful gifts of all. Experience a variety of wintry and holiday tales, including: ’Twas the Night Before Christmas A Christmas Carol The Gift of the Magi The Nutcracker and The Mouse King Christmas at Melrose The Fir Tree Babouscka Little Piccola The 12 Days of Christmas Bits Featuring a beautifully designed coverwith glittering finishes fit for the grandeur of the season, A Classic Christmas Treasury will become a beloved holiday keepsake that can be enjoyed by the whole family for years to come. Let these wonderful literary masterpieces warm your heart, and remind you of the joy and love to be discovered anew each holiday season. The Timeless Classics series from Rock Point brings together the works of classic authors from around the world. Complete and unabridged, these elegantly designed gift editions feature luxe, patterned endpapers, ribbon markers, and foil and deboss details on vibrantly colored cases. Celebrate these beloved works of literature as true standouts in your personal library collection.Table of ContentsJoy to the World: A Letter from the Editors The 12 Days of Christmas A Christmas Carol The Gift of the Mag The First Noel Hark! The Herald Angels Sing Christmas at Melrose ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Deck the Hall The Nutcracker and the Mouse King Babouscka Up on the Housetop Jolly Old Saint Nicholas Bits Little Piccola The Fir Tree The Boy With The Box
£13.49
HarperCollins Publishers The Cat that Walked by Himself and Other Cat
Book SynopsisHarperCollins is proud to present its new range of best-loved, essential classics.But the wildest of all the wild animals was the Cat. He walked by himself, and all places were alike to him.Cats have long been considered creatures of mystery and magic. Worshipped as deities in some cultures, feared as harbingers of bad fortune in others, it''s little surprise that their enigmatic charm continues to capture our imaginations today.This classic collection of the most beloved cat tales includes Saki''s Tobermory', in which a straight-talking cat leaves dinner guests aghast yet entranced; a Norse fairy tale involving a spectacular feline rescue; The Dragon Tamers' by E. Nesbit; and H. P. Lovecraft''s strange story The Cats of Ulthar'; amongst many others to enjoy for years to come.
£7.59
Daphne Press The Sun and the Void
Book Synopsis#1 Sunday Times Bestseller Enter a lush world inspired by the history and mythology of South America, where twisted family politics deceive, dark magics thrive, and fantastical creatures roam. Reina is desperate. Stuck on the edges of society, Reina's only hope lies in an invitation from a grandmother she's never met. But the journey to her is dangerous, and prayer can't always avert disaster. Attacked by creatures that stalk the mountains, Reina is on the verge of death until her grandmother, a dark sorceress, intervenes. Now dependent on the Dona's magic for her life, Reina will do anything to earn-and keep-her favor. Even the bidding of an ancient god who whispers to her at night. Eva Kesare is unwanted. Illegitimate and of mixed heritage, Eva is her family's shame. She tries to be the perfect daughter, but Eva is hiding a secret: magic calls to her. Eva knows she should fight the temptation. Magic is the sign of the dark god, and using it is punishable by death. Yet it's hard to ignore power when it has always been denied you. Eva is walking a dangerous path, one that gets stranger every day. And in the end, she'll become something she never imagined.
£15.29
Flame Tree Publishing Persian Myths
Book SynopsisFrom such texts as the Shah Nameh (the Persian Book of Kings), Masnavi-e Ma’navi, the Anvar-i Suhayli fables and works by the great poet Nizāmī, come ancient tales of a civilization that once stretched across the known world. Find here the wonderful stories of the magical bird the Simurgh, the Seven Labours of Rustem, the evil demon onager-giant Akwán Díw and the tragic romance of Laili and Majnun. Persian literature is amongst the most beautiful and inventive of all cultures, offering a joyful read of creation, love and conquest. FLAME TREE 451. From myth to mystery, the supernatural to horror, 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.
£8.65
Flame Tree Publishing Irish Fairy Tales
Book SynopsisFairy stories, especially from the rich tradition of Ireland where the supernatural grew from the legends of the Celts, are the magic stories of everyday folk seeking solutions to the challenges of the day. This spritely new collection brings together the fables and stories of banshees, kings, trembling farmers, tricksters and beloved princesses. ‘Smallhead and the King's Sons’ (a Cinderella story) and ‘The Haughty Princess’ (recalling Grimm’s ‘Kings Thrushbeard’) are amongst the many delightful tales of hope and reckless determination. Fairy tales bring the myths of ancient times into the Victorian and Modern eras, where superstition and the supernatural still exist. Rooted in the past, such fairy stories bring morals and lessons for the young, and wise words for the old. They are a reminder of the power of the natural world and offer suggestions for our inner fears of the dark and the shadows. These tales provide a link between the myths and legends of the Celts, and the modern tales of dark monsters, of vampires and bewitchment, of the dark voices hidden in the earth, and the stars. FLAME TREE 451: From myth to mystery, the supernatural to horror, 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.
£6.99
HarperCollins Publishers The Symmetry of Stars
Book SynopsisFrom the author of 2020''s astonishing The Story of Silence comes another retelling of a chivalric legend, full of magic, myth and self-discovery.Utterly enchantingPublishers WeeklyBeyond the stars, two gods vie for rule of the world.One stands for Nature the belief that everything is stamped in flesh from the start. The other, Nurture the belief that all is potential, that the true self is coaxed out through love and living.And so, they take a bet.Each immortal selects a set of twins as their champions. The twins that prevail in contest will decide which immortal rules.In a westerly valley, a girl and boy are born to a noble family, to be raised by a mysterious teacher ready to love and instruct them in everything, regardless of society's expectationsTo the east, a woman washes ashore on an island inhabited only by a sorcerer. With her final breaths, she gives birth to twins. These two are raised with careful neglect by the sorcerer surrounded not with love but with danger, magic Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR ALEX MYERS “Deftly written … original and affecting”Publishers Weekly “Remarkable.”New York Times
£8.54
HarperCollins Publishers The War at Troy
Book SynopsisPART TWO OF THE TROY QUARTETBringing ancient myth to life with passion, humour, and humanity, Lindsay Clarke vividly retells the story of Troy and of the heroes who fought there.Enraged by the betrayal of Helen and Paris, Menelaus and his brother, the High King Agamemnon, gather their allies and set out to conquer the city of Troy.Aboard their ships and behind the city's walls are figures whose names and deeds echo through history the wily strategist Odysseus, the Trojan champion Hector, and the fiercely proud, impetuous warrior Achilles.An engaging retelling of the whole story, neatly blending mythic archaism with modern psychodrama and satire'Mary Beard1 A PRINCE OF TROY2 THE WAR AT TROY3 THE SPOILS OF TROY4 THE RETURN FROM TROYTrade Review‘An engaging retelling of the whole story, neatly blending mythic archaism with modern psychodrama and satire’Mary Beard, GUARDIAN ‘I’m awed by the web you’ve spun. Not only the beautiful complexities of it but the fine texture of the threads’Ted Hughes ‘A triumph of retelling the ancient story…a readable and freshened version that keeps one turning the pages’Alan Sillitoe ‘Wonderfully clear and dramatic’OBSERVER ‘Expertly handled, drawing on the best of this classic tale and shaping it into a riveting page-turner well-suited to our times’DAILY MAIL
£8.54
HarperCollins Publishers The Kingdom is a Golden Cage
Book SynopsisA magical, classic fairytale reimaginedOnce upon a time there was a princess, locked in a tower, forced to bend to her father's willBut Celine is no ordinary princess, and she has no intention of being a damsel in distress.Celine has a lover, Hugo, whose cunning plan to rescue her is tied up in his own ambition to reclaim the lands and title that are his birthright. If only they can break the spell that binds him to the body of a cat, they will free the kingdom from the grasp of a cruel witch and live happily ever afterFor the plan to succeed, they must rely on Hugo's cousin, Philippe, to whom Celine must bind herself in marriage until Hugo can be reinstated. It's a risk to trust him, but it soon becomes clear that this is the least of their problems, because this is a land of shapeshifters, magic, and illusion, where nothing is as it seems, even the truth.This is Puss in Boots with the intrigue and backstabbing of Game of Thrones. A fairytale, but not as you know itPraise for Lilly In
£9.49
HarperCollins Publishers The Island of Forgetting The unforgettable moving
Book SynopsisInventive, excellent a pure pleasure to read' THE TIMESIn this compelling debut, an unknowable legacy passes through generations of one family living on the beautiful island of Barbados.In this compelling debut, an unknowable legacy passes through generations of one family living on the beautiful island of Barbados.There is Iapetus, a lonely soul haunted by the memory of his father; his son Atlas, dreaming of a life far removed from his reality; Atlas's daughter Calypso, struggling to find her place in an unforgiving society; and her son Nautilus, grappling with various parts of a complex identity.Each longs to escape their circumstances but find themselves trapped by a history found only in whispers and half-remembered fragments. And with every passing decade, another generation must contend with the same question: how can the things we don't know define our futures?Spanning fifty years, The Island of Forgetting is a powerful saga of family and hope that marks the arrival of a stunniTrade Review‘The Island of Forgetting works on many levels: as a family saga, as Greek myth retold and as a portrait of Barbados through the 20th century. This excellent debut is also a pure pleasure to read’ The Times Book of the Month ‘A brilliant richly absorbing tale on the repercussions of hidden familial legacies. A deeply evocative, stirring work’ IRENOSEN OKOJIE, Caine Prize-Winning author of Nudibranch ‘Clever and absorbing, this debut is a treat’Times’s 100 Best Books of the Summer ‘Jasmine Sealy’s The Island of Forgetting is an epic novel of great elegance and empathy. Her nuanced portrait of love, loss and identity on a small Caribbean island is well-poised to become a classic of the Caribbean literary canon’ CHERIE JONES, Women’s Prize for Fiction Shortlisted author of How the One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House ‘The Island of Forgetting is an engrossing saga of love, family and the undying past – gorgeous at the sentence level and sweeping in both depth and scope. Jasmine Sealy is one of the most exciting and powerful new voices in fiction, and with this stunning debut she has crafted a moving world of a book, polyphonic and sprinkled throughout with fire’ OMAR EL AKKAD, author of What Strange Paradise ‘A stunning debut.The Island of Forgetting is a bold, passionate, and razor-sharp novel, exquisitely written and deeply moving. With great empathy and nuance, Jasmine Sealy explores family bonds and secret legacies and the scarifies we make in their name. I couldn’t put this book down. Jasmine Sealy is an astonishing, fierce new talent in Canadian fiction’ AYELET TSABARI
£9.49
HarperCollins Publishers Harris and Grace
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 Uncle Claude surprises Harris and Grace with a mystery trip, it doesn't go quite as planned and things take a turn for the spooky. Do witches really exist? Do you believe in ghosts?This thrilling graphic novel is written and illustrated by John Chalmers and Sandra Marrs.Sapphire/Band 16 books offer longer reads to develop children''s sustained engagement with texts and are more complex syntactically.Pages 54 and 55 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.
£10.69
HarperCollins Publishers Little Red and the NotSoBad Wolf
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.Adam doesn't know if he's dreaming when he finds himself plunged into the fairytale world of Little Red Riding Hood. When he meets the sinister wolf and realises that Red is in danger, he has a choice to make. Does he have what it takes to be a hero?Topaz/Band 13 books offer longer and more demanding reads for children to investigate and evaluate.Pages 30 and 31 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.
£10.23
HarperCollins Publishers Parade of the Pipers
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.
£10.46
HarperCollins Publishers The Princess and the Prick
Book SynopsisThe Princess and the Prick is a feminist humour and gift book for adults.May I kiss you, he said.She didn''t answer. She was asleep.So he kissed her anyway.SLEEPING BEAUTYRevisit childhood classics, but not as you remember them. Familiar fables are turned on their heads as your beloved heroines finally have their say.In a similar vein to the Ladybird for Grown-Ups and Enid Blyton spoof series, The Princess and the Prick flips fairy tales, nursery rhymes and children's books on their head. Retold through a feminist lens as one liners, verses and rhyming couplets, and highlighting the sexism endemic in stories we grew up with, these classic tales will never be read in the same way againI hate this book. It makes me look like a right prick.'Prince CharmingA real wake-up call.'Sleeping BeautyPerfect for fans of Gill Sims, Caroline Hirons and Alix E. Harrow!Trade ReviewThis is brilliant. I lost my morning to reading it. Catherine Mayer
£9.49
Little, Brown Book Group The Book of Gothel
Book SynopsisEveryone knows the story of Rapunzel in the tower, but do you know the tale of the witch who put her there?Enter a world of dark magic, mysterious woods and evil princes. This is the truth they never wanted you to know, as only a witch might tell it. With her strange black eyes and even stranger fainting spells, Haelewise is shunned by her village, and her only solace lies in the stories her mother tells of child-stealing witches, of princes in wolf-skins, of an ancient tower cloaked in mist where women will find shelter if they are brave enough to seek it.But when her mother dies, Haelewise is left unmoored. With nothing left for her in her village, she sets out to find the tower of legend-a place called Gothel, where Haelewise meets a wise woman willing to take her under her wing.But Haelewise is not the only woman to seek refuge at Gothel. It''s also a haven for a girl named Rika, who carries with her a secret the Church striveTrade ReviewFable and history rhyme in McMyne's captivating vision of a medieval past steeped in women's magic and bound by women's love -- Jordanna Max BrodskyThe Book of Gothel is wonderfully rich with historical detail, and sparkles with the intermingled magic of gods and goddesses, seers and wisewomen. Haelewise is a memorable heroine, worthy of legend. Readers will see the story of Rapunzel in a new and refreshing light. -- Louisa MorganBoth gently and fiercely told, The Book of Gothel is a sweeping, sharp story of how history twists into fairytale and back again -- Hannah WhittenSmart, swift, sure-footed and fleet-winged, The Book of Gothel launches its magic from a most reliable source: the troubled heart. Mary McMyne is a magician -- Gregory Maguire, author of WICKEDAn inventive retelling of a classic tale that pulls you deep into the wild woods of medieval Germany. The Book of Gothel is a spell-binding debut -- Signe Pike, author of THE FORGOTTEN KINGDOMMary McMyne does more than retell a beloved fairy tale. She elevates the voice of the sacred Feminine hidden within. Certain stories endure because of their beauty, wonder, and wisdom. The Book of Gothel is such a novel-one that will hold readers in delighted thrall right to the startling end -- Ronlyn Domingue, author of THE MERCY OF THIN AIRThe Book of Gothel delivers an intelligent spin on a well-loved fairy tale, the rich historical detail deftly woven with folktale magic and thoughtful characterisation -- Rowenna Miller, author of TORN
£20.81
Faber & Faber Tales from Ovid
Book SynopsisAn adaptation of Ted Hughes's Tales from Ovid for the stage. Tim Supple is Artistic Director of the Young Vic. He has already adapted Grimm and Rushdie, and worked with Hughes on Spring Awakening and Blood Wedding.
£10.44
Faber & Faber The Names upon the Harp
Book Synopsis. . . There is Balor of the evil eye, whose very glance meant death; the wicked queen Aoife who turned children into swans; and Oisin, who followed his love to her city beneath the waves . . .Featuring beautiful colour illustrations by Irish Children''s Laureate and twice Kate Greenaway winner P. J. Lynch, and a previously unpublished poem by Seamus Heaney, this is a stunning collection to cherish forever.
£17.00
The History Press Ltd New Forest Myths and Folklore
Book SynopsisThe first ever dedicated collection of folk tales from the historic New Forest area
£13.49
Headline Publishing Group King Arthur Warrior of the West King Arthur
Book SynopsisThe second book in an exciting Arthurian trilogy.Twelve long, blood-soaked years, have passed since Artor fulfilled his destiny and was crowned the High King of the Britons. Against all odds, Artor has united Celtic Britain and with a last great campaign, has banished the Saxon scourge. The legend of Camlann has begun. But even as Artor''s kingdom is at its zenith, even as he has succeeded in conquering all external threats to his rule, his kingdom is being undermined from within. Not only is Artor betrayed by the one person he should be able to trust, he has also learned of appalling perversion at the heart of his kingdom. He must make a terrible choice. Does he commit a deed that leaves him open to comparison with the despotic Uther Pendragon, or does he let evil go unchecked? The burden of leadership, of power, now rests solely - and heavily - on Artor''s shoulders for Myrddion Merlinus, master tactician, guiding light for so many years, has left Artor to Trade ReviewPraise for M. K. Hume: 'Hume brings the bloody, violent, conniving world vividly to life...will appeal to those who thrill to Game of Thrones and other tales of intersecting, ever-warring, noble lineages * Kirkus Review *Historical fiction of the most bloodthirsty and roistering kind * Australian Bookseller & Publishers Magazine *
£9.49
Hodder & Stoughton The Drowned Woods
Book SynopsisThe right cause can topple a kingdom . . .Once upon a time, the kingdoms of Wales were rife with magic and conflict - and eighteen-year-old Mererid ''Mer'' is well-acquainted with both. As the last living water diviner, she can manipulate water with magic - a unique elemental power many would kill to possess.For years, Mer has been running from the prince who bound her into his service - and forced her to kill thousands with her magic. Now, all Mer truly wants is a safe, quiet life, far from power and politics.But then Mer''s old handler - the king''s spymaster - returns with a proposition: use her powers to bring down the very prince that abused them both.Part heist novel, part dark fairy tale, and rich with Welsh legends, The Drowned Woods is an ethereal fantasy, perfect for fans of Kristin Cashore and Maria V. Snyder.Trade ReviewLloyd-Jones weaves a wondrous tale, one that feels timeless and divine * BuzzFeed *There's magic, faeries, a heist plot, a warmongering ruler to destabilise and so much more to enjoy over the course of this fantasy adventure * Culturefly *Infused with Welsh folklore and mythology, this beautifully written, otherworldly, stand-alone fantasy packs a punch as it examines topics relating to power, agency, and accountability . . . A gorgeous, intricate fantasy * Kirkus *Tense romantic entanglements, intricate lore, and Trefor's well-timed comic relief elevate this moody, ethereal read * Publishers Weekly *This adventurous quest and its unlikely crew will provide an enjoyable escape for readers of all types of fantasy novels * School Library Journal *A gripping story * ParSec *For fans of Little Thieves and Six of Crows I would strongly recommend this addictive fantasy that I'm still thinking about long after closing the book * My London *
£13.49
Hot Key Books Poisoned
Book SynopsisBeautiful Sophie, with lips as red as blood, skin as pale as snow, and hair as dark as night, is about to come of age and inherit her father's throne.
£8.54
Headline Publishing Group The Monarch of the Glen
Book SynopsisA special illustrated edition of The Monarch of the Glen by bestselling storytelling legend, Neil Gaiman. This American Gods world novella will thrill Games of Thrones devotees and Terry Pratchett fans alike. Illustrations by celebrated artist Daniel Egnéus.''Original, engrossing, an endlessly entertaining'' George R.R Martin on American GodsHe was not sure what he had been looking for. He only knew that he had not found it.Shadow Moon has been away from America for nearly two years. His nights are broken with dangerous dreams. Sometimes he almost believes he doesn''t care if he ever returns home. In the Highlands of Scotland, where the sky is pale white and it feels as remote as any place can possibly be, the beautiful and the wealthy gather at a grand old house in the glen. And when the strange local doctor offers him work at the party, Shadow is intrigued. He knows there is Trade Reviewtold with a rare understanding of all that makes us human, and shows the power of stories to reveal and shelter us from the darkness inside and out. * Mid-West Times *
£17.00
Headline Publishing Group Escape Routes
Book Synopsis ''Stories that start like delicate webs and finish like unbreakable wire traps'' Neil Gaiman Naomi Ishiguro''s fresh, magical and delightfully speculative short story collection merges the inventiveness of David Mitchell and the fairy-tale allure of Angela Carter to form its own powerful magic.Witness what happens when a space-obsessed child conjures up a vortex in his mother''s airing cupboard in Shearing Season. Watch unexpected possibilities open up in The Flat Roof when a musician makes friends with a flock of birds. Get lost in the world of The Rat Catcher where, finding himself potentially out of his depth when he is summoned to a decaying royal palace, a rat catcher is plunged into a battle for the throne of a ruined kingdom. In this stunning debut collection, the characters yearn for freedom and flight, and find their worlds transformed beyond their wildest imaginings.''NaoTrade ReviewAn imaginative collection full of wide eyed wonder and millennial wit * Sharlene Teo *Escape Routes sees Ishiguro find inventive and unexpected new ways to explore her themes of freedom, flight and individuality * Netgalley Reader Review, Shelf Indulgent Reader website *Ishiguro, daughter of the 2017 Nobel Laureate, is already being touted as a writer of rare talent herself * RTÉ Guide *A wide-ranging speculative short story collection from a striking new voice in fiction * Rabeea Saleem, ‘Fabulous February Books Out In The UK’, BookRiot website *All the emotional power comes from how these tired, stressed, anxious characters could be people that you pass on the street. They could be us * Chloe Walker, Culturefly website *It's whimsical, often melancholy tales are populated by people you feel you've met * Kimberley Ballard, SFX Magazine *
£10.99
Orion Publishing Co An Unreliable Man
Book Synopsis From the creative genius of Jostein Gaarder, author of modern classic Sophie''s World, comes a novel about loneliness and the power of words Jakop is a lonely man. Divorced from his wife, with no friends apart from his constant companion Pelle, he spends his life attending the funerals of people he doesn''t know, obscuring his identity in a web of improbable lies. As his addiction spirals out of control, he is forced to reconcile his love of language and stories with the ever more urgent need for human connection. An Unreliable Man is a moving and thought-provoking novel about loneliness and truth, about seeking a place in the world, and about how storytelling gives our lives meaning.Decades after his global bestseller Sophie''s World, Jostein Gaarder has written a poignant and funny book for our times - full of life and hope.Praise for Sophie''s World''ATrade ReviewSOPHIE'S WORLD is set to become a unique popular classic: a wonderfully engaging mystery story that also forms a completely accessible and lucid introduction to philosophy and philosophers - The Times on SOPHIE'S WORLDA marvellously rich book - Guardian on SOPHIE'S WORLDAn Alice in Wonderland for the 90s . . . a simply wonderful, irresistible book - Daily Telegraph on SOPHIE'S WORLDA modern fairytale - Heat on THE ORANGE GIRLIt should be read by all - Vogue on THE ORANGE GIRL
£8.54
Pan Macmillan Sistersong
Book SynopsisIn a magical ancient Britain, bards sing a story of treachery, love and death. This is that story. For fans of Madeline Miller's Circe, Lucy Holland's Sistersong retells the folk ballad ‘The Twa Sisters.''A beautiful reimagining of an old British folklore ballad, Sistersong weaves a captivating spell of myth and magic' – Jennifer Saint, author of AriadneKing Cador’s children inherit a land abandoned by the Romans, torn by warring tribes. Riva can cure others, but can’t heal her own scars. Keyne battles to be seen as the king’s son, although born a daughter. And Sinne dreams of love, longing for adventure. All three fear a life of confinement within the walls of the hold, their people’s last bastion of strength against the invading Saxons. However, change comes on the day ash falls from the sky – bringing Myrdhin, meddler and magician. The siblings discover the power that lies within them and the land. But fate also brings Tristan, a warrior whose secrets will tear them apart. Riva, Keyne and Sinne become entangled in a web of treachery and heartbreak, and must fight to forge their own paths. It’s a story that will shape the destiny of Britain.Sistersong is a powerfully moving story, perfect for readers who loved Naomi Novik’s Uprooted and Katherine Arden’s The Bear and the Nightingale.
£15.29
Pan Macmillan Eden
Book Synopsis‘No one is better . . . Eden sees Crace at the top of his game’ - TelegraphTrouble has come to the garden. Its inhabitants live an eternal and unblemished life, tending to the bountiful fields, orchards and lakes, and serving their angelic masters. But now one of the gardeners has escaped, breaching the walls and making her way into the world beyond; a land of poverty, sickness and death - as well as liberty. The angels know there are those who would go to the ends of the earth to find her. Perhaps another fall is coming . . .‘Vivid and poetic . . . Crace writes with great flair and inimitable imagination’ - Financial Times‘Since announcing his retirement in 2013, Jim Crace has had more comebacks than Kanye West, something for which we should all be thankful’ - SpectatorTrade ReviewNo one is better at lending imaginative life to archetypes like this; he remains one of the most pleasurable stylists alive . . . [Eden] sees him at the top of his game * Telegraph *One of our most original and inventive novelists * Observer *A fabulist, an open heart, an imagination in full flight . . . Crace is, quite simply, one of the great writers of our time -- Colum McCann, author of ApeirogonCrace's world-building is rigorous - he blends his talents as a fabulist with his love of writing about a natural world * Financial Times *Exquisite . . . Much of the book's pleasure lies in the sheer vigour with which he conveys the physicality of its ethereal elements * Daily Mail *Powerful . . . the world-buidling in eden is impressive . . . Acclaimed for his stylish writing, Crace does not disappoint in his new book. The rhythmic, limpid prose, the easy cadence, seem particularly well suited to depictions of paradise * Irish Times *Since announcing his retirement in 2013, Jim Crace has had more comebacks than Kanye West, something for which we should all be thankful * Spectator *Crace exults in the art of storytelling * Guardian *Jim Crace writes with great flair and inimitable imagination * Financial Times *
£9.49
Cornerstone Misrule: Book Two of the Malice Duology
Book SynopsisDid they break the curse, or begin one? Sleeping Beauty's dark sorceress reclaims her story in this sequel to Malice________________________________________________The Dark Grace is dead. Feared and despised for the sinister power in her veins, Alyce has spent 100 years wreaking her revenge on the kingdom that made her an outcast. Once a realm of decadence and beauty, Briar is now wholly Alyce's wicked domain. No one escapes the consequences of her wrath. Not even the one person who holds her heart. Princess Aurora saw through Alyce's thorny facade, earning a love that promised the dawn of a new age. But that love came with a heavy price: Aurora now sleeps under a curse that even Alyce's vast power cannot seem to break, and their dream of the world they would have built together is nothing but ash. Alyce vows to do anything to wake the woman she loves, even if it means descending into the monster Briar believed her to be. But could Aurora ever love the villain Alyce has become? Or is true love only for fairy tales?
£9.49
Cornerstone The House of Sorrowing Stars
Book SynopsisA spellbinding and haunting literary fable of loss, perfect for fans of The Binding and The Night Circus.'This beautiful and beguiling book tells a poignant and haunting story rich in slow-burning intrigue and tender emotion' Jennifer Saint, Sunday Times bestselling author of Ariadne.'A transporting, delicious fairytale about loss, beauty, and love.' Kiran Millwood Hargrave, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Mercies.________________________How do you heal a broken house?First you unlock its secrets.Alone on an island, surrounded by flowers that shine as dusk begins to fall, sits an old, faded house. Rooms cannot be rented here and visits are only for those haunted by the memory of loss.When Liddy receives an invitation, she thinks there must be some mistake - she's never experienced loss. But with her curiosity stirred, and no other way to escape a life in which she feels trapped, she decides to accept.Once there, she meets Vivienne, a beautiful, austere woman whose glare leaves Liddy unsettled; Ben, the reserved gardener; and Raphael, the enigmatic Keymaker. If Liddy is to discover her true purpose in the house, she must find the root of their sorrow - but the house won't give up its secrets so easily . . .________________________'A haunting journey of self-discovery, bursting with metaphor, and with the feel of a classic fairytale. Prepare to get lost in this spellbinding world.' Ava Reid, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Wolf and the Woodsman.'Haunting, surreal, and intricate, Cartwright has deftly crafted a story about what we find when we believe we are lost.' Heather Walter, author of the Malice duology.'Enchanting, poetic prose that enriches a beautiful fairytale world.' A. E. Warren, author of the Tomorrow's Ancestors series.Trade ReviewThis beautiful and beguiling book tells a poignant and haunting story rich in slow-burning intrigue and tender emotion * Jennifer Saint, author of Ariadne *A transporting, delicious fairytale about loss, beauty, and love. * Kiran Millwood Hargrave *A haunting journey of self-discovery, bursting with metaphor, and with the feel of a classic fairytale. Prepare to get lost in this spellbinding world. * Ava Reid, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Wolf and the Woodsman *The House of Sorrowing Star is like a dream poured onto a page. Haunting, surreal, and intricate, Cartwright has deftly crafted a story about what we find when we believe we are lost. * Heather Walter, author of Malice. *Enchanting, poetic prose that enriches a beautiful fairytale world. * A. E. Warren, author of the Tomorrow’s Ancestors series *
£9.49
Quercus Publishing In the Heart of Hidden Things
Book SynopsisEveryone knows that if you fall afoul of the People, you must travel the miles to Gyrford, where uncounted generations of fairy-smiths have protected the county with cold iron, good counsel and unvarnished opinions about your common sense.But shielding the weak from the strong can make enemies. Ephraim Brady has money and power, and the bitter will to hurt those who cross him. And if he can't touch elder farrier Jedediah Smith, he can harm those the Smiths care about. The Smiths care about Tobias Ware, born on a night when the blazing fey dog Black Hal roared past the Wares' gate. Tobias doesn't understand the language or laws of men, and he can't keep away from the Bellame woods, where trespass is a hanging offence. If Toby is to survive, he needs protection. It should be a manageable job. Jedediah Smith has a head on his shoulders, and so too (mostly) does his son Matthew. Only Matthew's son John has turned out a little . . . uncommon. But he means well. It wasn't his fault the bramble bush put on a berry-head and started taking offence. Or that Tobias upset it. But John's not yet learned that if you follow the things other folk don't see, they might drag those you love into the path of ruin.Trade ReviewAn impressive debut * TANANARIVE DUE, author of AFRICAN IMMORTALS, on BAREBACK *Resonates with real issues of power, responsibility and blame * LISA TUTTLE, THE TIMES on BAREBACK *A powerfully intelligent novel * INDEPENDENT on IN GREAT WATERS *Whitfield shows undoubted powers of imagination and talent * DAILY MAIL on IN GREAT WATERS. *Whitfield is a criminally under-appreciated world-building master * EVERY BOOK A DOORWAY *Takes a traditional genre and changes it into something extraordinary * KATE ATKINSON on BAREBACK *It's warm, witty, compassionate, filled with People, with a village and woods in which it's sweet to get lost. Fellow Good Folk aficionados, I know you're out there, I know you should get this book the minute it's out * FRANCESCO DIMITRI, award-winning author of The Book of Hidden Things, on IN THE HEART OF HIDDEN THINGS *Engaging, believable characters who draw us into a world of walking bramble bushes and spectral, fire-breathing hounds . . . stands out for its depiction of a family deeply connected to a community, helping those who need it the most, regardless of the danger to themselves * THE GUARDIAN on IN THE HEART OF HIDDEN THINGS *A beautiful exploration of masculinity, of what it means to . . . potentially have control over others, and how a person accepts responsibility * SFX on IN THE HEART OF HIDDEN THINGS *As tart, dark and juicy as a summer pudding . . . combines power and poetry to serve up the perfect slice of folk Gothic * DAILY MAIL on IN THE HEART OF HIDDEN THINGS *Kit drew heavily on her own experience of being part of a neurodiverse family, and as someone whose own family mirrors this, it's really brilliant to see inclusion at play in commercial fiction; this is how we change minds and make our children accepted. Bravo. * Dulwich Diverter *Power struggles, violence, mistakes and responsibility are threaded throughout the story. John is a strong, nuanced protagonist whose sound heart gives this book its warmth, even when things start to go wrong. Whitfield's world-building is detailed, the magic of this story is enticing and I found plenty to enjoy in this book. * BETH O'BRIEN, DISABLED TALES, on IN THE HEART OF HIDDEN THINGS *I really loved In The Heart of Hidden Things * TERRI WINDLING, winner of the World Fantasy Award for Lifetime Achievement, on IN THE HEART OF HIDDEN THINGS *As powerfully intelligent as it is entertaining, Whitfield's marvellously assured fantasy debut leads the reader into a mysterious world of fairy-smiths, weaving a gripping tale of trespass, revenge and responsibility * WATERSTONES on IN THE HEART OF HIDDEN THINGS *A very engaging novel * SFCROWSNEST on IN THE HEART OF HIDDEN THINGS *One of 2022's more enjoyable discoveries . . . Whitfield studs the tale with artful digressions, which provide useful backstory without really interrupting the story. The prose is skilful and appropriate to a fairy tale * ISN'T LIFE STRANGE on IN THE HEART OF HIDDEN THNGS *
£10.44
Galen Steffen The Passage of Galloway
Book Synopsis
£15.75
Starfish Bay Children's Books The Salmon of Knowledge: An Irish Folktale Retold
Book SynopsisA creative illustrated retelling of a traditional Irish legend about an enchanted salmon that will impart all the knowledge in the world to the first person who eats it. Finnegas, a wise, eldery poet, spends his days fishing for the Salmon of Knowledge. He meets Fionn, a young boy who hopes to become a brave warrior, but who must first find a poet to instruct him. Follow the story of a young boy who sets out to become a warrior but, in an unexpected twist, acquires far more knowledge than he had ever expected to gain.
£999.99
Pushkin Children's Books Legendary Creatures: Mythical Beasts and Spirits
Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated, imaginative picture book featuring mythological creatures drawn from diverse cultural traditions. From the fearsome three-headed Chimera of ancient Greece and the peaceful Navagunjara of Indiato the awe-inspiring dragons of Europe and East Asia, this vibrantly illustrated collection celebrates wondrous creatures from cultures across the globe. Featuring a vast array of fierce monsters, powerful spirits, ancient gods, and helpful beasts, Legendary Creatures is the perfect introduction to the fascinating world of mythology.Trade Review'Bookish kiddos will delight in poring over each fact and anecdote in the pages... A fantastical feast for the brain and eyes. A perfect afternoon distraction for daydreamers' - School Library Journal
£13.49
Templar Publishing Enchanted Tales: A spell-binding collection of
Book SynopsisA treasury of spellbinding stories that sparkle and glitter with magic. This stunning collection brings together a selection of enchanted tales from all over the world - from North America to West Africa, France, Ukraine, Peru, India, Japan, Vietnam, New Zealand and more! Get lost in tales of imaginary worlds, enchanted animals, fantastical creatures, wishes and wizards. Retold by storyteller and vocal performer Laura Sampson, with beautifully detailed artwork by Taiwanese duo Quang and Lien.A beautifully illustrated story collection to treasure, Enchanted Tales is the perfect gift to open up a world of magic to readers of all ages.
£15.29
Headline Publishing Group Heroines of Olympus: The Forgotten Women of Greek
Book SynopsisCunning, monstrous, virtuous. Rediscover the overlooked women of Greek myth.Goddesses and mortals, warriors and muses, women are at the heart of ancient Greek folklore, but their stories have long been eclipsed by those of men. Heroines of Olympus tells the tales of fifty of these enthralling women, including majestic Athena, goddess of war; vengeful Nemesis, goddess of retribution; and gladiatorial Hippolyta, queen of the Amazon.With beautifully written retellings of Greek myths and a fascinating dive into their place in history, alongside exquisite illustrations, celebrate the dazzling and diverse heroines of ancient Greece.Table of ContentsIncludes: Aphrodite, Artemis, Circe, Echo, Erinyes, Hebe, Iris, Minthe, Nemesis, Persephone, Thetis, Andromache, Cassandra, Chryseis, Daphne, Hermione, Iphigeneia, Naucissa, Maia, Penthesilea and more.
£10.44
The History Press Ltd Folk Tales of the Night: Stories for Campfires,
Book Synopsis'An enchanting treasury of magical tales handed down through the ages. Infectious and soul-stirring, these are stories crying out to be shared.' - Ben Hoare, award winning wildlife journalist and nature nerdHave you heard the tale of Black Annis, the witch-demon that lurks beneath a Leicester housing estate? Do you know the legend of the Hunting of the Great Bear, or how the crow brought daylight? Why should you be careful to never insult the moon?Star stories and creature tales, good-old-fashioned ghost stories together with traditional narratives about how the night became kindle the fires of our imagination and deepen our acquaintance with the dark in this compendium of stories to tell out loud.Filtered through the wild imaginations and indigenous tongues of storytellers from all over the world, this collection is rewritten and re-presented here by a master storyteller from the UK, who has been spinning nocturnal narratives around the campfire for three decades. This is a delicious midnight feast of 'tales from the dark side’ to fascinate, terrify, enchant and inform about the night-time realm.Trade ReviewHere’s a companion volume to Chris Salisbury’s ‘Wild Nights Out’. These are wonderful stories to tell by firelight or under the stars, drawn from many cultures and exploring the mysteries of the night-time and all it holds. And they're retold by a storyteller who knows just what he’s doing, Chris has for many years made traditional tales a key part of his practice as an outdoor educator -- Hugh LuptonThese beautiful stories are a bundle of stars that light up not just the darkness of the night but the darkness within us, within our culture. -- Martin Shaw * Foreword *An enchanting treasury of magical tales handed down through the ages. Infectious and soul-stirring, these are stories crying out to be shared. -- Ben Hoare, award-winning wildlife journalist and nature nerdWith Chris Salisbury you are in safe, wise hands. This is the perfect companion to his essential 'Wild Nights Out', a glittering selection of tales to honour the collective consciousness of what held us and our ancestors together. -- Ashley Ramsden Founder of School of Storytelling (UK)A rich collection about the importance of a dark skies, cycles of the moon, and stories of the stars. These stories come from Chris's long relationship with the natural world and respect for traditional cultures. Enjoy them at bedtime, around the campfire and underneath the stars. -- Sally Pomme ClaytonThis book honours the richness of the dark hours, drawing together a constellation of stories that language the mystery, wonder, terror and necessity of night. A wonderful resource for any storyteller - the stories call to be spoken aloud in the company of others and the firelight. A vibrant legacy of a life lived in deep apprenticeship and companionship with the wild, Chris has created a guide rich in dreaming and practical knowledge. -- Dr Jo Blake, storyteller and theatre-makerWhat an absolute gem this book is. * Cotswold Life *
£13.49
The History Press Ltd The Magpie's Nest: A Treasury of Bird Folk Tales
Book SynopsisFrom crowded train stations to quiet woods and from city centres to our own back gardens, birds remind us that nature is everywhere. But do you know which is the king of the birds? Has anyone ever told you how the brave swallow got its forked tail? And what of the owl, who was really a baker’s daughter?Take a look inside The Magpie’s Nest, where a hoard of stories, riddles and rhymes is waiting for you.Suitable for all ages and charmingly illustrated by Lakeland artist Becca Hall, this is an essential collection of stories for all who love the natural world.
£11.69
Flame Tree Publishing Genghis Khan: Epic and Legendary Leaders
Book SynopsisA new title in the series created for the modern reader, introducing the heroes, cultures, myths and religions of the world. The tale of the legendary Mongol General Genghis Khan is as phenomenal as the man himself. Probably the greatest conqueror in history, he ruled vast swathes of land in the early 1200s, vanquishing people across Asia and Europe, so that by the mid-1200s the Mongol Empire covered over 12 million square miles of land. From myth to mystery, the supernatural to horror, fantasy and science fiction FLAME TREE 451 offers tales, myths and epic literature from the beginnings of humankind, through the medieval era to the stories of imagination and dark romance of today.
£6.99
Andrews UK Limited Stories from Norway
Book Synopsis
£7.59
Amber Books Ltd Roman Myths: Gods, Heroes, Villains and Legends
Book SynopsisIn ancient Rome (753 BC – 476 AD) mythology was integral to various aspects of society, from religion, to politics, to the founding of the city. Today, we may encounter the legacy of these stories before we encounter the stories themselves, whether this is in day-to-day speech, the 18th century art on display at the Louvre, or the works of William Shakespeare. The Roman tendency to accept their mythology as part of history creates a degree of uncertainty around the historical basis of the figures featured in these legendary tales. Truth, fiction, or both, the significance of mythology to this people is palpable. From Romulus and Remus and the founding of Rome to Lucretia and the Republic; from Livy and the Dii Consentes to Virgil’s Aeneid; from Dis Pater in the underworld to Jupiter, god of the sky. Illustrated with 180 colour and black-and-white photographs, artworks, and maps, Roman Myths is an engaging and informative book, offering an introduction to Roman mythology, its roots, and its ongoing importance.Table of ContentsIntroduction Roman mythology before Greek influence and how Roman mythology built on the Greek pantheon. 1: The History and Mythology of Rome Aeneas – (Virgil’s Aenid) a hero of the Trojan War and Anchises and Venus’ son, he led Trojan refugees to Italy at the end of the war to become the founder of the Roman culture. Romulus and Remus (400BC) – the children of Rhea Silvia and Mars, the twin brothers and demi-gods are known for being the founders of Rome. Abandoned at birth because of a prophecy that told of them overthrowing their great-uncle Amulius, they were brought up by a she-wolf and then the shepherd Faustulus. Eventually they killed Amulius, established Rome and reinstated Numitor (Silvia’s father) in power. However, Romulus ended up killing Remus, which was later taken to represent a history of political dispute in Rome. 2: The Primary Deities Archaic Triad – Jupiter, Mars, Quirinus Capitoline Triad – Jupiter, Juno, Minerva Plebian/Aventine Triad – Ceres, Liber, Libera The Dii Consentes – the twelve major deities of the Ancient Roman pantheon; Juno, Vesta, Minerva, Ceres, Diana, Venus, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Neptune, Vulcan, Apollo. Greek influence (Greek gods compared with their Roman counterparts) – the development of Roman mythology from spirits to the pantheon; Roman people originally worshipped numina as gods and goddesses, but they had few distinctive qualities; e.g. Janus, god of doorways and archways and Terminus, god of boundaries. Being inspired by the Greek deities, they started to adapt their gods into Greek equivalents, giving them different names; Aphrodite became Venus, Cronus became Saturn etc. Cybele was known as Magna Mater (‘Great Mother’). The Roman state adopted and developed a particular form of her cult after the Sibylline oracle recommended her conscription as a key religious ally in Rome’s second war against Carthage. Roman mythographers reinvented her as a Trojan goddess, and thus an ancestral goddess of the Roman people by way of the Trojan prince Aeneas. With Rome’s eventual hegemony over the Mediterranean world, Romanized forms of Cybele's cults spread throughout the Roman Empire. The meaning and morality of her cults and priesthoods were topics of debate and dispute in Greek and Roman literature, and remain so in modern scholarship. 3: Lesser Deities & Magical Beings Along with the Dii Consentes, eight additional gods and goddesses made up the Dii Selecti. All aspects of daily life and state endeavour were governed by these or a host of lesser gods, and other supernatural beings also feature in Roman mythology. These include monsters, magical creatures and semi-divine heroes. 4: Roman Writings Ovid’s Metamorphoses – a collection of Near Eastern and Greek myths that the Romans had adopted, documenting from creation to the pinnacle of Julius Caesar’s reign. Ovid’s Fasti – describes Roman myths about the gods according to the festivals in their calendar. 5: The Mundane & the Mythological Rape of the Sabine women – after the founding of Rome by Romulus, there was a dearth of women to populate the city and so he abducted the Sabine women, resulting in a war with the Caeninenses. Horatius at the bridge – Publius Horatius Cocles, an army officer of ancient Rome, defended the Pons Sublicius from the Etruscans during the Roman and Clusium war. Raising the sun – Goddess Angerona is said to have known a spell to raise the sun in midwinter, on December 21st; the shortest day of the year. On that day, the days began to lengthen and spring returned. She also held the secret name of Rome, which would doom the people if she told it. Gaius Mucius Scaevola – a mythical assassin who, when captured, thrust his hand into the fire without showing any pain. His intended victim, Porsena, was shocked at the youth’s bravery, and dismissed him from the Etruscan camp, free to return to Rome, saying ‘Go back, since you do more harm to yourself than me’. At the same time, the king also sent ambassadors to Rome to offer peace. Servius Tullius – was the legendary sixth king of Rome, and the second of its Etruscan dynasty. He reigned 575–535 BC. Several traditions describe Servius’s father as divine. 6. The Legacy of Rome How Roman myths and legends changed throughout the existence of the Roman Republic and Roman Empire. Later, how the myths and legends survived after the Fall of the Roman Empire, how they were adapted during the Dark Ages and revived during the Renaissance. Bibliography Index
£16.99
Andersen Press Ltd Alberta: A Cautionary Tale
Book SynopsisAlberta does dreadful things, and she always gets her own way. So when she doesn’t listen to her mother’s good advice and enters the wild and dangerous woods, it’s no surprise that she tricks a kind stranger and eats their delicious cake. But this stranger is a wolf, wearing a red cape and hood, and she doesn’t take kindly to being double-crossed... Will Alberta learn a lesson she will very much regret?
£11.69
Flame Tree Publishing Heroes & Heroines Myths & Tales: Epic Tales
Book SynopsisOur worldwide storytelling heritage is vast and varied and yet contains common threads, themes and motifs running throughout the many legends, whether they hail from the dusty plains of Africa or the cherry-blossom-blanketed hills of Japan. This astonishing anthology, in Flame Tree’s covetable series of myths and tales, gathers together the most iconic and entertaining tales of adventure and daring from around the world. From Perseus the Gorgon-Slayer of Greek myhology, and the exploits of Frithiof the Bold of Norse saga fame, to the tragic tale of Irish heroine Deirdre, these exciting stories vibrate with the heart and soul of age-old narrative. An extended introduction is followed by four main sections, with mythic stories from Mexico, Egypt, India and more: Tales of Warriors, Travel & Adventure; Heroes & Heroines in Literature & Poetry; Legends of the Gods, Demigods & Culture Heroes; Leading Ladies & Affairs of the Heart.
£17.00
Little, Brown Book Group The Magic Toyshop
Book Synopsis'The boldest of English women writers' LORNA SAGE 'Her writing is pyrotechnic - fuelled with ideas, packed with images and spangling the night with her starry language' OBSERVER 'She can glide from ancient to modern, from darkness to luminosity, from depravity to comedy without any hint of strain and without losing the elusive power of the original tales' THE TIMES 'This crazy world whirled around her, men and women dwarfed by toys and puppets, where even the birds are mechanical and the few human figures went masked . . . She was in the night once again, and the doll was herself.' One night Melanie walks through the garden in her mother's wedding dress. The next morning her world is shattered. Forced to leave her rural home, she is sent to London to live with relatives she has never met: gentle Aunt Margaret, mute since her wedding day; and her brothers, Francie, whose graceful music belies his clumsy nature, and the volatile Finn. Brooding over all is Uncle Philip, who loves only the puppets he creates in his workshop, which are life-sized - and uncannily lifelike.Trade ReviewThe boldest of English women writersHer writing is pyrotechnic - fuelled with ideas, packed with images and spangling the night sky with her starry language * Observer *She can glide from ancient to modern, from darkness to luminosity, from depravity to comedy without any hint of strain and without losing the elusive power of the original tales * The Times *Beneath its contemporary surface, this novel shimmers with blurred echoes-from Lewis Carroll, from 'Giselle' and 'Coppelia,' Harlequin and Punch . . . It leaves behind it a flavor, pungent and unsettling * New York Times *The boldest of English women writers * Lorna Sage *Her writing is pyrotechnic - fuelled with ideas, packed with images and spangling the night with her starry language * Observer *
£11.69
