Traditional or cultural fiction and true stories, tales and retellings

Book SynopsisSpecial unjacketed hardback edition of the prelude to J.R.R. Tolkien's epic masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings. This edition of The Silmarillion features the complete work with a unique cover design and black and red endpaper maps.The Silmarillion is an account of the Elder Days, of the First Age of Tolkien's World. It is the ancient drama to which the characters in The Lord of the Rings look back, and in whose events some of them, such as Elrond and Galadriel, took part.The tales of The Silmarillion are set in an age when Morgoth, the first Dark Lord, dwelt in Middle-Earth, and the High Elves made war upon him for the recovery of the Silmarils, the jewels containing the pure light of Valinor.This special collectors hardback' edition of the work includes a unique cover design that illustrates Telperion and Laurelin, the Two Trees of Valinor, and the three Silmarils.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 Synopsis"The poems of the Poetic Edda have waited a long time for a Modern English translation that would do them justice. Here it is at last (Odin be praised!) and well worth the wait. These amazing texts from a 13th-century Icelandic manuscript are of huge historical, mythological and literary importance, containing the lion's share of information that survives today about the gods and heroes of pre-Christian Scandinavians, their unique vision of the beginning and end of the world, etc. Jackson Crawford's modern versions of these poems are authoritative and fluent and often very gripping. With their individual headnotes and complementary general introduction, they supply today's readers with most of what they need to know in order to understand and appreciate the beliefs, motivations, and values of the Vikings."—Dick Ringler, Professor Emeritus of English and Scandinavian Studies at the University of Wisconsin–MadisonTrade Review"An excellent and entertaining work that succeeds in achieving its intended purpose: to create an accessible and readable English translation of the Poetic Edda. Crawford's knowledge of and passion for the topic is clear throughout, and he strikes an excellent balance between approachability and authenticity. I will most certainly be using this translation when I teach Norse mythology in the future and will recommend it to anyone looking for an approachable introduction to the subject."—Natalie M. Van Deusen, University of Alberta, in Scandinavian-Canadian Studies"Crawford's Edda is easy to pick up and read. Commentary is minimal but useful, and the verse itself is presented in a visually clear style. A published poet in his own right, Crawford renders his translation in a modest, cautiously elegant free verse with a rigorous consistency that gives the material fluency impossible in a translation reflecting the original Old Norse syntax. Crawford's sense of rhythm is perhaps his strongest suit here, contributing significantly to the readability of the verse. The diction is simple and clear. . . . [Crawford's verse has] a conservative sparseness that often comes close to echoing the terseness of the Old Norse Eddic metres.” —Pete Sandberg, University College London, in Saga-Book

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Book SynopsisThe classic novel of King Arthur.A beautiful paperback edition of The Once and Future King, White's masterful retelling of the Arthurian legend.T.H. White's masterful retelling of the Arthurian legend is an abiding classic. Here all five volumes that make up the story are published together in a single volume, as White himself always wished.This is the tale of King Arthur and his shining Camelot; of Merlyn and Owl and Guinevere; of beasts who talk and men who fly; of knights, wizardry and war.It is the book of all things lost and wonderful and sad; the masterpiece of fantasy by which all others are judged.Contains The Sword in the Stone, The Witch in the Wood , The Ill-Made Knight, The Candle in the Wind and The Book of Merlyn.Trade Review‘Harry's spiritual ancestor’ JK Rowling ‘As good as anything anyone has written’ Neil Gaiman ‘A sprawling masterpiece of glowing historical prose and psychological power’ Lev Grossman

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Book SynopsisAn inter-connected romantasy perfect for fans of Sarah J. MaasThe Dragon King is looking for a wifeThe news causes a frenzy for the women in my village. The king will be sending out the royal guard to bring women of childbearing age to his castle in Jade City.There is only one requirement: his wife-to-be must carry enough magic to produce an heir for him.I know I won't be chosen: I'm only human with a mere ten percent dragon magic lineage, but for some reason the magic sniffers command me to present myself to the king as a possible wife.I'm ready to go to Jade City until my mother tells me a terrifying secret. A secret that could get me killed by the king himself.The Last Dragon King is book ONE OF FOUR in the Kings of Avalier series, featuring the Dragon King, Drae Valdren.

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Book SynopsisFor the first time ever, a beautiful slipcased edition of the enchanting prelude to The Lord of the Rings, illustrated throughout with over 50 sketches, drawings, paintings and maps by J.R.R. Tolkien himself, with the complete text printed in two colours and with many bonus features unique to this edition.Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit who enjoys a comfortable, unambitious life, rarely travelling further than the pantry of his hobbit-hole in Bag End. But his contentment is disturbed when the wizard, Gandalf, and a company of thirteen dwarves arrive on his doorstep one day to whisk him away on an unexpected journey there and back again'. They have a plot to raid the treasure hoard of Smaug the Magnificent, a large and very dangerous dragonWritten for J.R.R. Tolkien's own children, The Hobbit was published on 21 September 1937. With a beautiful cover design, a handful of black & white drawings and two maps by the author himself, the book became an instant success and was reprinted shortly afterwards with five colour plates.Tolkien's own selection of finished paintings and drawings have become inseparable from his text, adorning editions of The Hobbit for more than 85 years. But the published art has afforded only a glimpse of Tolkien's creative process, and many additional sketches, coloured drawings and maps although exhibited and published elsewhere have never appeared within the pages of The Hobbit.In this unique enhanced edition of Tolkien's enchanting classic tale, the full panoply of his art is reproduced for the first time, presenting more than 50 illustrations to accompany Bilbo Baggins on his adventure there and back again'.Unique to this edition are two poster-size, fold-out maps revealing all the detail of Thror's Map and Wilderland, an illustrated 88-page booklet, and a printed art card reproducing Tolkien's original dustjacket painting.It is additionally quarterbound, with raised ribs on the spine, stamped in three foils on black cloth boards, and housed in a custom-built clothbound slipcase. The pages are edged in gold and include a ribbon marker.Trade Review‘One of the most influential books of our generation’The Times ‘Finely written saga of dwarves and elves, fearsome goblins and trolls … an exciting epic of travel, magical adventure, working up to a devastating climax’The Observer ‘The English-speaking world is divided into those who have read The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings and those who are going to read them’Sunday Times ‘One of the best loved characters in English fiction … a marvellous fantasy adventure’Daily Mail ‘A flawless masterpiece’The Times

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Book SynopsisAn inter-connected romantasy perfect for fans of Sarah J. MaasAxil Moon broke my heart when I was fifteen and I've dreamed of getting revenge ever since. So when he becomes the king of all Wolven and summons me to compete for his hand in marriage in the deadly Queen Trials, I gladly accept. I want nothing more than to defeat the competition and leave him cold and alone when I slam the bedroom door in his face every night. Axil Moon will regret the day he thought he could discard me and get away with it.But the Axil I expect isn't the one waiting for me. This grown Axil is different from the teenage boy I loved. This Axil begs me to believe it was never his choice to leave me, and my heart is torn.Now I have to try and stay alive in order to see what could be between us, but all the while there is an enemy in our midst and war on our border that could overturn the world as I know it, and all I can do is fight to keep that world alive.The Forbidden Wolf King is book FOUR of FOUR in the Kings of Avalier series. It''s a full-length standalone fantasy romance about the Wolf King Axil Moon.

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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 Synopsis For the first time ever, a special enhanced edition of the enchanting prelude to The Lord of the Rings, illustrated throughout with over 50 sketches, drawings, paintings and maps by J. R. R. Tolkien himself and with the complete text printed in two colours. Trade Review‘One of the most influential books of our generation’The Times ‘Finely written saga of dwarves and elves, fearsome goblins and trolls … an exciting epic of travel, magical adventure, working up to a devastating climax’The Observer ‘The English-speaking world is divided into those who have read The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings and those who are going to read them’Sunday Times ‘One of the best loved characters in English fiction … a marvellous fantasy adventure’Daily Mail ‘A flawless masterpiece’The Times

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Book SynopsisThis definitive paperback edition features nine illustrations and two maps drawn by J.R.R. Tolkien, and a preface by Christopher Tolkien.Trade Review‘One of the best loved characters in English fiction… a marvellous fantasy adventure’Daily Mail ‘Finely written saga of dwarves and elves, fearsome goblins and trolls… an exciting epic of travel, magical adventure, working up to a devastating climax’The Observer ‘A flawless masterpiece’The Times

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Book Synopsis Book 3 in the Kings of Avalier series: a full-length fantasy romance that also stands alone…

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Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. From the birth of Zeus, to Prometheus, Pandora and Helen of Troy, Odysseus and Jason and the Argonauts, the myths of the Greeks and, later, the Romans, are passionate and powerfully told. The Gods are jealous of each other's powers, subject to mighty outbursts of love and always seeking vengeance. The dark forces of the ancient world were held at bay by the resourceful and emerging civilization that formed the basis of Western culture, providing a tradition of fabulous tales that are retold here. 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 SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. Legends of the Sea, Bells, Mirrors and Tea, Japanese mythology is delightful and enigmatic, full of spirits, gods and legendary creatures. It draws on Buddhist and Shinto traditions to explain the nature of the world of the island of Japan, the mystical Mount Fuji and the heavenly status of the long line of emperors. The warrior class of the imperial court, and the natural spirits of the countryside represent parallel and interdependent aspects of Japanese society, explored through ancient legend and folklore. 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 SynopsisFrom the creation myth of Izanagi and Izanami designed to explain the origins of the island of Japan, to the hundreds of kami (gods or spirits) and monsters populating the tales, Japanese legends tell the story of the land, the nation, the people and the divine heritage of the emperors of Japan. Often bloody and fantastic, the tales are a powerful, rewarding read, gathered together in the gorgeous, deluxe hardcover binding of the Flame Tree Epic Tales series. The latest title in Flame Tree's beautiful, comprehensive series of Gothic Fantasy titles, concentrates on the ancient, epic origins of modern fantasy.

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Book SynopsisCharacter-forming moral fables, Viking and Nordic folk and fairy tales take the magic of the natural world and combine it with the practical common sense of the everyday. Good folk are rewarded for their hard work, the honest and the faithful are valued by the gods: treasured tales from Hans Christian Andersen, such as 'The Little Match Girl', and less well known stories such as 'Katie Woodencloak' (a Norwegian Version of Cinderella) by Asbjørnsen & Moe are some of the heartwarming pieces in this new selection for the modern reader. 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 SynopsisPainstakingly restored from Tolkien's manuscripts and presented for the first time as a fully continuous and standalone story, this paperback of the epic tale of The Children of Húrin will reunite fans of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings with Elves, dragons, Dwarves and Orcs, and the rich landscape and characters unique to Tolkien.It is a legendary time long before The Lord of the Rings, and Morgoth, the first Dark Lord, dwells in the vast fortress of Angband in the North; and within the shadow of the fear of Angband, and the war waged by Morgoth against the Elves, the fates of Túrin and his sister Niënor will be tragically entwined.Their brief and passionate lives are dominated by the elemental hatred that Morgoth bears them as the children of Húrin, the man who dared to defy him to his face. Against them Morgoth sends his most formidable servant, Glaurung, a powerful spirit in the form of a huge wingless dragon of fire, in an attempt to fulfil the curse of Morgoth, and destroy thTrade Review"Deserves to eclipse all his other posthumous writings, and stand as a worthy memorial to the imagination of Tolkien" The Times "I hope that its universality and power will grant it a place in English mythology" Independent on Sunday "The darkest of all Tolkien's tales. Alan Lee's illustrations complement the writing splendidly" Times Literary Supplement

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Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. The Myths of Ancient Egypt are tied intimately to the presence and natural rhythms of the Nile. With their complex and evolving mythology, the Egyptians explained the effects of famine, harvest, floods and death by creating a pantheon of gods that still holds our fascination today. This new book presents classic egyptological works, with a new introduction, and brings the stories of the ancients to life, from the birth of creation by Ra, the sun god, to the murder of Osiris, and the revenge of Horus. We gain glimpses of the underworld and the afterlife, as the rulers of Egypt claimed lineage from the Gods both worshipped and fashioned by the people of Egypt, at a time when humankind had begun to shape the world around it, 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 SynopsisLively, stark and formidable, the imagery of Norse mythology storms through this classic collection. The fierce glory of Odin, Frigga, Heimdall and their fellow gods of Asgard shines here, with all the great adventures, from Yggdrasil, the Tree of Life, to the legends of Loki. And from the fabled Bifrost to the forging of Thor’s hammer, each Viking legend is riven with a vitality that speaks to us still. Here you’ll find out how Odin lost his eye, how Tyr lost his hand and read the terrible punishment meted out to Loki. Included too is the Sigurd Saga with its sleeping warrior maidens, treasures and glorious, heroic battles. This wonderful collection finishes with The Death of Balder, the Revenge of the Gods and, fittingly, Ragnarok.The latest title in Flame Tree's beautiful, comprehensive series of Gothic Fantasy titles, concentrates on the ancient, epic origins of modern fantasy.

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Book SynopsisAngrboda's story begins where most witch tales end: with being burnt. A punishment from Odin for sharing her visions of the future with the wrong people, the fire leaves Angrboda injured and powerless, and she flees into the furthest reaches of a remote forest. There she is found by a man who reveals himself to be the trickster god Loki, and her initial distrust of him-and any of his kind-grows reluctantly into a deep and abiding love. Their union produces the most important things in her long life: a trio of peculiar children, each with a secret destiny, whom she is keen to raise at the edge of the world, safely hidden from Odin's all-seeing eye. But as Angrboda slowly recovers her prophetic powers, she learns that her blissful life-and possibly all of existence-is in danger. Angrboda must choose whether she'll accept the fate that she's foreseen for her beloved family-or rise to remake it.

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Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. From the legends of Odin, Thor, Loki, Freya and all the gods of Asgard come the 'The Treasure of the Dwarf King', 'Ragnarok' and many other thrilling tales of the Vikings and their Norse gods fighting a constant battle with nature. Their landscape, with its stark mountains and long nights, created a particularly robust mythology, with profound contrasts and unforgettable heroes, great gods who leap out from the movies, streaming services and comics, to great fiction and epic poetry. This fabulous new book offers all the main stories with an introduction to the characters and the land that inspired them. 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 SynopsisFairy stories, especially from the fertile landscape 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. 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 SynopsisThreatened by drug dealers who stalk his mother's home, 14-year-old Nick is saved by a strange and compelling boy named Peter. Now this wild boy with flaming hair and pointy ears wants Nick to follow him into a strange and unsettling mist, to a faraway land filled with fearies and monsters. Wary, yet with nowhere safe to go, Nick agrees.Trade Review"Ancient magics combine with feral logic to culminate in Brom's The Child Thief. A retelling of Peter Pan spanning America's earliest, magically rich beginnings to today's bare whispers of belief. Wickedly poetic, The Child Thief makes me want to believe." -- Kim Harrison "Brom has always been an artist who gave us his nightmares fully realized, but with THE CHILD THIEF, he paints in words. A wonderfully nasty Peter Pan reboot that stands on its own as a dark, twisted adventure." -- Christopher Golden "A gruesome and darkly fantastical twist on a classic tale. Brom injects pure horror into fantasy." -- Holly Black, New York Times bestselling author of Ironside and The Spiderwick Chronicles "Beautiful and authentically dark." -- Sci-Fi " [A] fascinating work of dark epic fantasy that blends elements of the Peter Pan story with characters from Celtic and Norse mythologies." -- Tulsa World

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Book SynopsisScottish folk and fairy tales are full of mischief and malevolence, with spirits and goblins, bogles, witches, kelpies and mer-folk lurking in every corner of the land, behind every tree and craggy rock at midnight. In these pages lurk the Fairy queen, and the Sith, or silent folk, who mingle with animals that speak of prophesy and lore, and enchantments that rule the twilight. 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 SynopsisIn this volume, Johnny Mains dives into the archives to unearth a hoard of twenty-one enthralling tales imbued with elements of Celtic folklore, ranging from the 1820s to the 1980s and including three weird lost gems translated from Gaelic.

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Book SynopsisTraditional Japanese folktales come to life alongside contemporary illustration in this luxurious edition.

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Book SynopsisThe mythic invasions of Ireland, the mystical kingdoms, warriors, giants, creatures of the underworld and magic, these are the fantastic ingredients of Celtic legend. Because they told their own stories in the ancient way, by word of mouth, we understand the traditions of these proud people through the records of their mortal enemies, the Romans, but still they thrive, so bright and strong today. In these pages you’ll find stories of giants, ancient spells, ghosts and fairies, of sea-folk and tree-folk. All the main legends of the Irish invasions, the Ulster cycle and the Fenian cycle sit alongside the tales of the Mabinogion and the secret stories of Scottish folk and fairy tales. From the Tragedy of the Children of Lir to the Coming of Finn mac Cumail, The Fiddler of Gord to The Fox, the Wolf and the Butter you’ll discover an enchanting world from the past that connects to the landscapes and traditions of today. The latest title in Flame Tree's beautiful, comprehensive series of Gothic Fantasy titles, concentrates on the ancient, epic origins of modern fantasy in the myths and legends of the Celts.

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Book SynopsisFeaturing 211 classic tales from the Brothers Grimm, including favorites such as "Hansel and Gretel," "Cinderella," "The Frog Prince," "Rapunzel," "Snow White," and "Rumpelstiltskin," The Complete Grimm’s Fairy Tales is accompanied by 40 color plates and 60 black-and-white illustrations from award-winning English illustrator Arthur Rackham, whose books and prints are now highly sought-after collectibles. Originally titled Children’s and Household Tales, The Complete Grimm’s Fairy Tales contains what have been the essential bedtime stories for children worldwide for over two centuries. The Brothers Grimm, Jacob and Wilhelm, were German linguists and cultural researchers who gathered legendary folklore and aimed to collect the stories exactly as they heard them. The fourth book in the Timeless Classics series from Rock Point has nearly 800 pages of classic fairy tales to enjoy and features a gorgeous deckled edge, ribbon marker, and foil and deboss details on a vibrantly colored case—a standout for your personal library collection. 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. Other titles in the series include: The Complete Novels of Jane Austen, The Complete Sherlock Holmes, The Complete Tales & Poems of Edgar Allan Poe, The Complete Tales of H.P. Lovecraft, and The Complete Works of William Shakespeare. Trade ReviewAdults and young readers alike have enjoyed these stories for more than two centuries, and in this volume the 211 classic tales from the German linguists Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm include favorites such as “Hansel and Gretel” and “Cinderella,” and are accompanied by 40 color plates and 60 black-and-white illustrations from the English illustrator Arthur Rackham. * Mountain Times *

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Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. Many medieval writers, especially from France and Wales, wrote stories about the great British leader, King Arthur. Legends, folklore and myths from this period come together to paint a picture of who he was with some describing him as a great warrior, defending Britain from its enemies, while others suggest Arthur had magical qualities. Throughout this mystery, King Arthur has become an iconic figure, known for his court and knights and his chivalric adventures. This collection offers a selection of myths, featuring Arthur’s knights of the round table, his love for Queen Guinevere and of course the ultimate betrayal by his most trusted knight, Sir Lancelot. 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 SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. From 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 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 Synopsis 'Jennifer Makumbi is a genius storyteller.' Reni Eddo-Lodge An intoxicating mix of Ugandan folklore and modern feminism, from a multi-award-winning author As Kirabo enters her teens, questions begin to gnaw at her – questions which the adults in her life will do anything to ignore. Where is the mother she has never known? And why would she choose to leave her daughter behind? Inquisitive, headstrong, and unwilling to take no for an answer, Kirabo sets out to find the truth for herself. Her search will take her away from the safety of her prosperous Ugandan family, plunging her into a very different world of magic, tradition, and the haunting legend of 'The First Woman'. 'In Jennifer Makumbi, we have a giant of literature living among us.' Peter Kalu, Jhalak Prize Judge A SUNDAY TIMES, OBSERVER, DAILY MAIL, BBC CULTURE & IRISH INDEPENDENT BOOK OF THE YEAR Trade Review'The First Woman by Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi is the feminist coming-of-age story we've been waiting for. With the timeless quality of a story shared from lips to ears, this novel is a page-turner and a mind-blower.' Tayari Jones, author or An American Marriage‘Ugandan literature can boast of an international superstar in Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi.’ Economist'The genius of this novel is in its subtlety: home truths about the treatment of women throughout history are hidden like gems within the utterly engaging tale of a single girl... So, I’m calling it now: The First Woman will soon be considered a coming-of-age classic. And rightly so.' Stylist'Makumbi balances heartbreak with humour… The novel is also a discourse on power (whether political, social or sexual), but executed with a beautifully light touch.' Daily Telegraph'A beautiful coming-of-age story...steeped in folklore and feminism, rebellion and longing.' Evening Standard'Fantastic... Packed with passion and drama — and in possession of sharp political elbows — The First Woman finally becomes a moving and resonant celebration of sisterhood.' Daily Mail'A novel bursting with resilience and warmth... Mixing the mythic and the modern, happily ignoring formal neatness to encompass Uganda's miscellaneousness, it's an enthralling achievement.' The Sunday Times'At turns rapturous and devastating... Makumbi's writing uplifts and inspires, evoking the grand tradition of folklore and stories passed down, one woman to the next.' Refinery29'Superb. An intoxicating tale that combines mythic and modern elements to make the headiest of feminist brews.' Irenosen Okojie, author of Nudibranch 'A powerful coming-of-age tale… Kirabo is a fantastic character – headstrong and curious – and the way Ugandan myths are woven through the story is mesmerising.' Good Housekeeping'Kirabo's odyssey makes for a riveting, exuberant novel, a coming-of-age like no other.' O, The Oprah Magazine, 'Best Books of 2020''Joyful and intimate... Makumbi revels in the female perspective of this unusual, richly detailed coming-of-age story.' Times Literary Supplement'Captivating, wise, humorous and tender: Makumbi has come back stronger than ever... A riveting read.' Maaza Mengiste, author of The Shadow King'A lively, engaging read... Its energy derives from its considerable wit and the charm of its central character.' Guardian'The First Woman is a wonder... Clear, vivid, moving, powerful, and captivatingly unpredictable... With wry wisdom, great humour, and deep complexity, Makumbi has created a feminist coming-of-age classic for the ages.' Namwali Serpell, author of The Old Drift'Bursting with resilient humour, the novel is as engaging as it is informative.' The Times, 'Best Books of 2020''Makumbi's prose is irresistible and poignant, with remarkable wit, heart and charm... The First Woman rewards the reader with one of the most outstanding heroines.' New York Times

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Book SynopsisA chilling fantasy retelling of the Snow White fairy tale by bestselling creators Neil Gaiman and Colleen Doran. A not-so-evil queen is terrified of her monstrous stepdaughter and determined to repel this creature and save her kingdom from a world where happy endings aren''t so happily ever after. From the Hugo, Bram Stoker, Locus, World Fantasy, Nebula Award-winning and Sunday Times-bestselling writer Neil Gaiman (American Gods) comes this graphic novel adaptation by Colleen Doran (Troll Bridge). ''Like Ray Bradbury before him, [Neil Gaiman] writes lovely little horror stories, fairy tales and fantasies which are as familiar as they are fabulous, stories that are never quite what the reader expects...'' A.V. ClubTrade ReviewThis sumptuous, adults-only comic book adaptation brings the acclaimed writer's short story to vivid life . . . [Doran] creates imagery and visuals that'll linger in your mind's eye long after you close the book . . .Snow, Glass, Apples is a combination of a superb script, with Gaiman at his evocative, inventive best, and masterful artwork from Doran. * Starburst *A must for any fan of American Gods or the work of Neil Gaiman... [sitting] alongside the TV series and the novel as another way to tackle and understand Gaiman's deep, rich narrative * Starburst *

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Book Synopsis'A gorgeous read. The sort of book one reads again and again' – Genevieve CogmanRumours have drawn unexpected attention – and now her life hangs in the balance. From the author of the award-winning Uprooted, Naomi Novik's Spinning Silver is a rich, original tale inspired by the folktale of Rumpelstiltskin.Will dark magic claim their home?Miryem is the daughter and granddaughter of moneylenders, but her father is too kind-hearted to collect his debts. They face poverty, until Miryem hardens her own heart and takes up his work in their village.Her success creates a rumour that she can turn silver into gold, attracting the fairy king of winter himself. He sets her an impossible challenge – and if she fails, she will die. Yet if she triumphs, it may mean a fate worse than death. And, in her desperate efforts to succeed, Miryem unwittingly spins a web which draws in the unhappy daughter of a lord . . .Irina’s father schemes to wed her to the tsar – he will pay any price to achieve this goal. However, the dashing tsar is not what he seems. And the secret he hides threatens to consume the lands of mortals and winter alike.Torn between deadly choices, Miryem and Irina embark on a quest that will take them to the limits of sacrifice, power and love.'I loved this book so much' – Laini Taylor, author of the Daughter of Smoke and Bone series'I couldn’t put it down'– Katherine Arden, author of the Winternight trilogyTrade ReviewCool and clever and warm and satisfying and dire and wonderful; I loved this book so much -- Laini Taylor, author of Daughter of Smoke and BoneA book as cool and mysterious as a winter’s night, with two marvelous heroines at its heart. Spinning Silver pits the cold of endless winter against the fires of duty, love and sacrifice. I couldn’t put it down -- Katherine Arden, author of the Winternight TrilogyDauntless women, cruel lords and wayward fairies come together in a beautifully realised world. Brimming over with fairy-tale magic, SPINNING SILVER proves Naomi Novik to be a master fantasist at the top of her game -- Zen Cho, author of Spirits AbroadLovely, intricate and strong. A gorgeous read. The sort of book one reads again and again -- Genevieve Cogman, author of the invisible Library seriesEnchanting, in every sense of that fine old word. A charming and inviting story that looks unflinchingly at the strangling roots of hurt and revenge -- Robin Hobb, author of the Farseer trilogy, on UprootedI didn't know how much I wanted to read a book like this until it was already in my hands. Uprooted has everything I love about Novik's writing style, with the added bonus of some old world magic and the flavor of a dark faerie story -- Patrick Rothfuss, author of the Kingkiller Chronicle, on UprootedThe magic in Uprooted, with its realistic moral dimension, is so vividly believable that it almost seems you could work the spells. But the book will do that for you -- Ursula K. Le Guin, author of the Earthsea series, on UprootedUprooted has everything I love: a great heroine, new takes on old myths and legends, and surprising twists and turns. A delight -- Cassandra Clare, author of Sword Catcher on UprootedThis gorgeous, complex, and magical novel . . . rises well above a mere modern re-imagining of classic tales . . . This is the kind of book that one might wish to inhabit forever -- Publishers Weekly, Starred ReviewA remarkable achievement . . . Confirms a huge step forward for Novik -- SFX Magazine, 5 StarsNovik has created something that deserves to be a sure fire hit - a tale that's ancient, contemporary, traditional and yet forward thinking -- The Bookbag, 5 StarsNovik outdoes herself in Spinning Silver . . . A fairy tale in the most epic of ways, but one with a strong, proud and beautiful heart at the centre of it -- The Bookbag, 5 Stars

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Book SynopsisCharged with possibility and power, this memorable collection is an extraordinary immersion into the bodies and voices, mindscapes and landscapes, of the shapeshifting women of our native folklore. Drawing on myth and fairy tales found across Europe from Croatia to Sweden, Ireland to Russia, these stories are about coming to terms with our animal natures, exploring the ways in which we might renegotiate our fractured relationship with the natural world, and uncovering the wildness and wilderness within.Trade Review"A deeply evocative and haunting collection... Part rally cry, part warning, part manifesto and all parts enchanting, Sharon Blackie's Foxfire, Wolfskin is a deeply evocative and haunting collection. I want to press this powerful book into the hands of everyone I know and say listen." -- Holly Ringland, author of The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart

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Book SynopsisMyths and legendary tales from around the world are packed with gigantic rivalries; gods, monsters and giants compete for supremacy over the land, the creatures within and the universe beyond. Zeus clashes with the all-powerful Typhon, Odin is destined to face the great wolf Fenrir during Ragnarok. And yet monsters such as the Minotaur, and giants of all kinds, dragons even, are monsters only to those too fearful to understand them, while others such as the Sirens, or the weird sisters, are malevolent without remorse. Such mythical gods and their foes, make great adventures for the modern reader tracing the roots of The Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings and The Witcher, where good and evil are morphed into real avatars and creatures of vivid imagination. In these pages you'll find the gods of the heavens and mountains, and the spirits and demons of the deep sea, the dark woods and the burning sands. From the gods of Babylon and Ancient Egypt to the Norse Aesir, from the pantheon of mighty Greek deities to the gods of the earth and the sky in Pacific legends, most of the great traditions are featured here, with monsters galore: Anansi the trickster spider, the chaos serpent Apep, the Wendigo (or Windegoo spirits), the Greek Sphinx, the drought demon dragon Vritra and the Chimera to name a few. The Flame Tree Gothic Fantasy, Classic Stories and Epic Tales collections bring together the entire range of myth, folklore and modern short fiction. Highlighting the roots of suspense, supernatural, science fiction and mystery stories the books in Flame Tree Collections series are beautifully presented, perfect as a gift and offer a lifetime of reading pleasure.

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Book SynopsisGorgeous Collector's Edition. With its powerful tradition of storytelling, the myths of the continent of Africa have survived colonialism and slavery, bringing together a rich diversity of cultures from Ethiopia to Tanzania, from the Xhosa people to the Yoruba. This collection offers tales of the gods, creation stories, trickster adventures, animal fables and stories which amuse and teach from 'The Tortoise and the Elephant', from the Akamba of Kenya, to 'Why the Moon Waxes and Wanes', from Southern Nigeria, providing an insight into the boundless and vibrant world of African myth. 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 NO.1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER, AND COMPANION NOVEL TO AMERICAN GODS.HIGHLY ANTICIPATED TELEVISION SERIES JUST ANNOUNCED - COMING ON AMAZON PRIME VIDEO.''Neil could never have known that he was writing for a confused Jamaican kid who, without even knowing it, was still staggering from centuries of erasure of his own gods and monsters'' MARLON JAMES''A warm, funny, immensely entertaining story about the impossibility of putting up with your relations - especially if they happen to be Gods'' SUSANNA CLARKE ''It''s virtually impossible to read more than ten words by Neil Gaiman and not wish he would tell you the rest of the story'' OBSERVER---''People think that funny and serious are mutually exclusives. They think they''re opposites, and that''s not actually true'' NEIL GAIMAN---Everything changes for Fat Charlie Nancy, the South London boy so called by his father, the Trade ReviewTo give him his full title: Neil Gaiman, Architect of Worlds, Svengali of Plot, Shaman of Character, Exploder of Cliche, Master Craftsman of Style, Dreamer, Laureate of the Republic of Letters -- David MitchellBeyond all the borders that divide us, there is a place of infinite possibilities and pure magic. I think of Neil Gaiman as a writer who wears the key to that land around his neck - the key to Storyland -- Elif ShafakGaiman is, simply put, a treasure-house of story -- Stephen KingA god in the universe of story -- Stephen FryA tonic for these turbulent times * Irish Times *Much too clever to be caught in the net of a single interpretation -- Philip PullmanIntimate, erudite and illuminating -- Guillermo del ToroWhile we might come to his writing for gods and monsters, actually all human life is here * Independent *A very fine and imaginative writer * The Times *'Gaiman has a rich imagination...and an ability to tackle large themes' * Philip Pullman *

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Book SynopsisFascinating for Latin learners and for Tolkien fans of all ages, The Hobbit has been translated into Latin for the first time since its publication 75 years ago.Trade Review‘One of the best loved characters in English fiction… a marvellous fantasy adventure’Daily Mail ‘Finely written saga of dwarves and elves, fearsome goblins and trolls… an exciting epic of travel, magical adventure, working up to a devastating climax’The Observer ‘A flawless masterpiece’The Times

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Book Synopsis 'Ugandan literature can boast of an international superstar in Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi' Economist An award-winning debut that vividly reimagines Uganda’s troubled history through the cursed bloodline of the Kintu clan In this epic tale of fate, fortune and legacy, Jennifer Makumbi vibrantly brings to life this corner of Africa and this colourful family as she reimagines the history of Uganda through the cursed bloodline of the Kintu clan. The year is 1750. Kintu Kidda sets out for the capital to pledge allegiance to the new leader of the Buganda kingdom. Along the way he unleashes a curse that will plague his family for generations. Blending oral tradition, myth, folktale and history, Makumbi weaves together the stories of Kintu’s descendants as they seek to break free from the burden of their past to produce a majestic tale of clan and country – a modern classic.Trade Review'It seethes with energy and teems with memorable characters.' * Sunday Times, Best Books of the Year *‘Kintu is an important book. It is also a very good one...inventive in scope, masterful in execution, [Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi] does for Ugandan literature what Chinua Achebe did for Nigerian writing.’ * Guardian *‘Ugandan literature can boast of an international superstar in Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi, whose debut novel Kintu is a multi-generational saga that ties oral myth to a recognisable present.’ * Economist *‘A highly ambitious, dense and tightly written narrative… Makumbi succeeds in making us feel the emotional importance of uncovering family history. Often faced with agonisingly difficult legacies and situations, her characters don’t just want but need explanations.’ * Times Literary Supplement *‘Immediately engaging…as gruelling vignettes of gender injustice jostle with hallucinatory dream sequences.’ * Observer *‘Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi's Kintu has been called a Ugandan One Hundred Years of Solitude.’ * Salman Rushdie, New York Times *‘Kintu is a triumph of east African literature and one that delights in the pliant nature of storytelling itself, the ways in which family lore is passed down and the impact of variations on it... This rich drama examines the power of such legacies, and the potential for even the most far-flung, estranged families to unite in the face of ages-old evil.’ * Financial Times *‘Epic both in intention and execution, Kintu contains a vast number of characters, avenging ghosts and portentous visions...the final coming together of the entire Kintu clan, arrived at with precision and intricacy, makes for a satisfying and thoughtful denouement.’ * Spectator *'A Ugandan masterpiece that traces a family curse across the generations.' * TLS, 'Looking back: 2010-2019' *‘A soaring and sublime epic. One of those great stories that was just waiting to be told.’ * Marlon James, Man Booker Prize-winning author of A Brief History of Seven Killings *‘Kintu is an entertaining, engrossing, and, crucially, intimate read... an extraordinary novel that is unafraid and beautifully unashamed to examine Uganda’s rich culture. It is a novel that is proudly Ugandan; it is a novel that deserves to be widely read.’ * Irish Times *‘A family saga that reaches back into that country’s history with an assurance and readability that makes its historical depth feel light as water.’ * LA Review of Books *‘A multi-character epic that emphatically lives up to its ambition.’ * Sunday Times *'[Makumbi writes] with the assurance and wry omniscience of an easygoing deity...' * New York Times *‘The most important book to come out of Uganda for half a century.’ * Giles Foden, author of The Last King of Scotland *‘Magisterial…epic... The great Africanstein novel.’ * New York Review of Books *‘A great, big, roaring Ugandan epic.’ * Jackie Kay, Observer *‘I recommend Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi’s Kintu, a sprawling, striking epic...It reminded me of some of my favorite long novels from the past few years, including Marlon James’s A Brief History of Seven Killings, Eka Kurniawan’s Beauty Is a Wound, and Annie Proulx’s Barkskins.’ * Gabe Habash, author of Stephen Florida *‘With crisp details and precise prose, Makumbi draws us into the dynamic and vast world of Uganda – its rich history, its people’s intricate beliefs, and the collective weight of their steadfast customs.’ * World Literature Today *'Two books that immediately come to mind, in trying to make sense of Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi's ambitious new novel Kintu, are Christos Tsiolkas's The Slap and Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart... That said, the overwhelming scale and sweep of Makumbi's effort stands in dramatic contrast with these novels.' -- Randy Boyagoda * New Statesman *‘Kintu is a masterpiece, an absolute gem, the great Ugandan novel you didn't know you were waiting for.’ * The New Inquiry *‘Epic in every sense of the word.’ * Emerald Street *‘A lush and epic story.’ * Los Angeles Times *‘A masterpiece of cultural memory, Kintu is elegantly poised on the crossroads of tradition and modernity.’ * Publishers Weekly (Starred Review) *‘Impressive... Reminiscent of Chinua Achebe's Things Fall Apart, this work will appeal to lovers of African literature.’ * Library Journal (Starred Review) *‘Kintu got me through many a quiet evening... It’s an epic read, best taken at a steady pace, which begins in 1750 and culminates in the present day, simultaneously exploring the role of family bonds, ancestral legacies, and the state of modern Uganda. It deserves hefty British sales when it comes out here in January.’ * Michela Wrong, journalist and author *‘In this captivating multigenerational family saga, Makumbi has gifted us with an exquisite and powerful debut. Written in delightful prose, bold and ambitious, Kintu is easily one of the best novels I have read this year.’ * Chika Unigwe, author of On Black Sisters' Street *‘A bold, sweeping epic, ambitious and very well crafted. The kind of book you hope everyone will read.’ * Tendai Huchu, author of The Hairdresser of Harare *‘A work of bold imagination and clear talent.’ * Ellah Wakatama Allfrey, editor of Africa39 *‘This is an extraordinary novel about a family bound together by love, betrayal, and an age-old curse, told in gripping language that continually surprises. A literary triumph.’ * Maaza Mengiste, author of Beneath the Lion's Gaze *‘Makumbi takes a sniper’s aim at the themes of virility and power across time. Over the course of six rich sections, she fires not a single gratuitous shot.’ * Public Books *‘Powerful, vibrant and deeply engrossing, this is a thoroughly rewarding read – and we’re sure, a worthy new entry to the African literature canon.’ * Pride *‘Passionate, original, and sharply observed... This critically acclaimed modern classic is expansive in its scope and range. A bold and multilayered novel which is at once Uganda’s national narrative as well as a compelling tale of family and blood ties.’ * Book Riot *‘History in the form of an unrelenting curse pervades the present in this epic novel that questions if we can ever fully recover from the wounds of the past.’ * Bookbag *‘Makumbi’s characters are compelling as individuals, but it is their shared past and journey toward a shared future that elevate the novel to an epic and enigmatic masterpiece.’ * The Riveter *‘Some authors set the bar high with their debut work. Then there are authors like Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi whose first novel succeeds on such a stratospheric level it’s nearly impossible to imagine – or wait for – what she’ll write next.’ * Iowa Gazette *‘Kintu is by far my favorite book of the year (perhaps of the past several)…absolutely unforgettable.’ * BookBrowse *‘Makumbi is clearly a creative genius.’ * Tope Salaudeen-Adegoke, Wawa Book Review *‘An ambitious modern epic that takes in family saga and the history of Uganda, fusing the urgency of the present with the timelessness of myth.’ * Jamal Mahjoub, author of The Drift Latitudes *‘Kintu is not just the story of a family, but a story of Uganda, a country whose history begins before colonization and encompasses far more than just that chapter.’ * Mary Pappalardo, New Delta Review *‘Our histories and our names have stories that we cannot afford to keep quiet about.’ * Nyana Kakoma, Africa In Words *‘Postcolonial literature is often thought of as a conversation between a native culture and a Western power that sought to dominate it... Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi’s marvellous Ugandan epic, Kintu, explodes such chauvinism.’ * Guernica *‘Jennifer Makumbi’s Kintu is a charming fable, a wide-ranging historical fiction, and a critical historiography...fresh, intelligent, critical, and ambitious.’ * Bookwitty *

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Book SynopsisPenelope. Immortalised in legend and myth as the devoted wife of the glorious Odysseus, silently weaving and unpicking and weaving again as she waits for her husband's return.Now Penelope wanders the underworld, spinning a different kind of thread: her own side of the story - a tale of lust, greed and murder.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 ReviewAtwood takes Penelope's part with tremendous verve . . . she explores the very nature of mythic story-telling -- MARY BEARD * * Guardian * *As potent as a curse * * Sunday Times * *Fabulous . . . Determinedly irreverent * * New York Times * *A witty desecration . . . Atwood plays with vigour and ingenuity * * Observer * *Pragmatic, clever, domestic, mournful, Penelope is a perfect Atwood heroine * * Spectator * *Half Dorothy Parker, half Desperate Housewives * * Independent * *Atwood and all authors named above are able to grasp the female experience perfectly in myths dominated by men, creating beautifully rounded and realistic characters from those created as ornaments and prizes by Homer * * The Courier * *Nothing short of genius * * Week * *

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Book SynopsisReturn to Sue Lynn Tan?s highly acclaimed, bestselling Celestial Kingdom fantasy romance duology with this new compilation of stories from before, during, and after the events inDaughter of the Moon GoddessandHeart of the Sun Warrior.Each chapter is illuminated with black and white illustrations by acclaimed artist, Kelly Chong, and the cover features foil accents that make this a truly special collection.Journey once more to the Immortal Realm, a world of gods, magic, and legendary creatures?and embark upon new adventures of valor, danger, and love.Tales from the Celestial Kingdom collects nine spellbinding stories?two previously published, seven original, including the epilogue to the duology?set in the enchanting world of Sue Lynn Tan?s stunning debut. Filled with magic and mythology, friendship and love, these stories intertwine through the past, present, and future of the two novels, told from the perspectives of multiple characters, including Chang?e, Shuxiao, Liwei, and Wenzhi.With beautiful illustrations from Kelly Chong throughout, these wondrous tales make the perfect complement to Sue Lynn Tan?s breathtaking series.

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Book SynopsisWoods play an important role in horror, fantasy, the gothic and the weird. They are places in which strange things happen, where you often can't see where you are or what is nearby. This new collection showcases the best supernatural stories from the real forests of Britain, and notes on the folklore which inspired these deliciously sinister tales.

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Book Synopsis*A scorchingly hot modern retelling of Eurydice and Orpheus and Charon.*Eurydice Dimitriou has always been the innocent sister, but she's finally ready to step out of the long shadow cast by her powerful family...and the ex who shattered her heart. Perhaps rough hands on soft skin are exactly what she needs to forget her heartbreak once and for all?Charon Ariti has been Hades's right-hand man for years. He's given everything to the lower city, but now he's ready to take something for himself. He's only too happy to give Eurydice a special kind of education...but is her heart really free enough to be claimed?Orpheus Makos will do whatever it takes to make things right. Once the golden boy of the upper city, he's now a shadow of his former self. He'll do anything to get Eurydice back...even if it means she's not coming into his arms alone. Three hearts. Three futures. Countless ways to get it wrong.But with enemies slipping through Olympus's faltering barrier to lay siege on the lower city, a trio of broken hearts will be the least of these would-be lovers' worries..."Deliciously inventive...Red-hot."-Publishers Weekly STARRED Review for Neon Gods"I get shivers just thinking of their interactions. SHIVERS."-Mimi Koehler for The Nerd Daily for Neon GodsThe World of Dark Olympus:Neon Gods (Hades & Persephone)Electric Idol (Eros & Psyche)Wicked Beauty (Achilles & Patroclus & Helen)Radiant Sin (Apollo & Cassandra)Cruel Seduction (Aphrodite & Hephaestus & Adonis & Pandora)Midnight Ruin (Eurydice & Orpheus & Charon)

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Book Synopsis** Longlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction 2023 **In Stone Blind, the instant Sunday Times bestseller, Natalie Haynes brings the infamous Medusa to life as you have never seen her before.'Witty, gripping, ruthless' - Margaret Atwood via Twitter'Beautiful and moving' - Neil Gaiman via Twitter'So to mortal men, we are monsters. Because of our flight, our strength. They fear us, so they call us monsters.’Medusa is the sole mortal in a family of gods. Growing up with her Gorgon sisters, she begins to realize that she is the only one who experiences change, the only one who can be hurt. And her mortal lifespan gives her an urgency that her family will never know.When the sea god Poseidon commits an unforgivable act in the temple of Athene, the goddess takes her revenge where she can – and Medusa is changed forever. Writhing snakes replace her hair, and her gaze now turns any living creature to stone. The power cannot be controlled: Medusa can look at nothing without destroying it. She is condemned to a life of shadows and darkness.Until Perseus embarks upon a quest to fetch the head of a Gorgon . . .Praise for Natalie Haynes, the Women’s Prize-shortlisted author of A Thousand Ships:‘With her trademark passion, wit, and fierce feminism… her thoughtful portraits will linger with you long after the book is finished’ - Madeline Miller, author of The Song of Achilles and Circe‘Haynes combines a wide-ranging knowledge of the original myths with a gift for compelling narrative’ - The Times‘Natalie Haynes is both a witty and an erudite guide. She wears her extensive learning lightly and deftly drags the Classics into the modern world’ - Kate Atkinson, author of Life After Life‘Haynes is master of her trade . . . She succeeds in breathing warm life into some of our oldest stories’ - Telegraph‘Haynes is the nation’s greatest muse’ - Adam RutherfordTrade ReviewWitty, gripping, ruthless -- Margaret Atwood via TwitterBeautiful and moving -- Neil Gaiman via TwitterThe rollicking narrative voice that energises Stone Blind . . . is a voice that feels at once bitingly (post)modern and filled with old wisdom . . . The Gorgon’s head will take on a new and powerful resonance as a symbol of the way stories can be warped by time. Stone Blind acts as a brilliant and compellingly readable corrective. * The Observer *Stone Blind is an exceptionally powerful retelling of Medusa's story, an emotional gut punch of a novel. Haynes brilliantly pulls off the feat of seamlessly alternating humour and heartbreak, creating characters that stay with you long after the novel's end. It is a dazzling achievement -- Elodie Harper, author of The Wolf Den trilogyWith this, her third novel based on ancient myth, [Haynes] has found a way of using all her classical erudition and her vivid sense of the ambiguous potency of the ancient stories, while being simultaneously very, very funny * Guardian *A fierce feminist exploration of female rage, written with wit and empathy. Haynes makes the classics brutally relevant, and we reckon this one is going to be huge * Glamour *It is no exaggeration to say that Haynes is the modern embodiment of the best of Homer. She is a proper, classic storyteller, whose linguistic skills and wit will have you hanging on every word * Radio Times *Stone Blind is inventive and playful . . . [and] very funny -- Antonia Senior * The Times *Pat Barker, Margaret Atwood and Madeline Miller have all successfully picked at the seams of the traditionally male take on these fantastic tales. But Natalie Haynes’s genius, this time with Stone Blind, her third Greek myth novel, is to not just focus on the female experience of Greek myth but also to add zest, humour and more than a little mischief . . . The ride is gripping, funny and heartbreaking. Love, sorrow, adventure and humour - Stone Blind has it all * Metro *What makes a monster is the central question in Natalie Haynes’ wry, spry feminist take on the Medusa myth . . . an earthy, playful yet rage-filled upending of the Greek hero trope * Mail Online *With wit, humanity and extraordinary imagination, Haynes breathes life and meaning into myths as she has done so brilliantly before (most famously with A Thousand Ships). She also shows that monsters can be divine or mortal. Not all heroes wear capes – and not all villains have snakes * The i *Haynes’ clever, empathetic writing transforms Medusa from Gorgon into a girl, who’s a victim of the cruel machinations of the gods and of circumstance -- Sarra Manning * Red Magazine *Natalie Haynes has made a contemporary classic out of a classic . . . and it should win prizes -- Monique Roffey, author of The Mermaid of Black ConchThere’s real tenderness in Haynes’s portrait of Medusa, a mortal abomination born into a family of divinities, and the efforts of her immortal Gorgon sisters to protect her from herself -- Daisy Dunn * The Spectator *Haynes is [a] master of her trade . . . She succeeds in breathing warm life into some of our oldest stories * Telegraph *Haynes is the nation’s great muse -- Adam Rutherford * The Week *Natalie Haynes is swiftly becoming this generation’s Mary Renault * Observer *With her trademark passion, wit and fierce feminism, Haynes gives much-needed voice to the silenced women of the Trojan War. Her thoughtful portraits will linger with you long after the book is finished -- Madeline Miller on A Thousand ShipsHaynes is a rock-star mythologist -- Washington Post on A Thousand Ships

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