Traditional or cultural fiction and true stories, tales and retellings

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

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Book Synopsis'A page-turning retelling . . . so interesting and thought-provoking' JENNIFER SAINT'A fresh and original take on the myth of Perseus . . . I was gripped by the human drama at the novel's heart' ELODIE HARPERMyth remembers Perseus as one of its greatest heroes. A slayer of monsters. A rescuer of damsels.But the women who knew him best have a different story to tell. His mother, Danae.His trophy, Medusa.His wife, Andromeda.As Perseus becomes obsessed with the promise of his own destiny, his heroic journey casts a shadow of violence and destruction across all three women's lives.It takes strength to survive a legend. Perfect for fans of Jennifer Saint, Elodie Harper and Natalie Haynes, author of Daughters of Sparta Claire Heywood returns with an imaginative reinterpretation of the myth of the great hero Perseus, bringing to life the voices of three women who are side-lined in the traditional version, and whose stories reveal a man who might not, in fact, be a hero at all.Readers LOVE The Shadow of Perseus:'I absolutely adored this book, I devoured it.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'The book is a real page turner.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'This was such a compelling and wonderful read! I genuinely loved every minute of this book and cannot recommend it highly enough!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'A beautifully written, unique, approach to the myth of Perseus. Just gripping' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'A masterful voice in the popular new wave of feminist reworkings of Greek mythology . . . A must-read for fans of Madeline Miller and Natalie Haynes' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'As someone who loves Greek Mythology retelling, I absolutely loved reading this book' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Trade ReviewHeywood tells her story vividly, setting it convincingly in the period * Sunday Times on Daughters of Sparta *A fresh and original take on the myth of Perseus . . . I was gripped by the human drama at the novel's heart. -- Elodie HarperA beautifully woven tale, Heywood triumphantly reclaims the stories of three of Greek Mythology's most deserving women. With brilliant, confident writing, The Shadow of Perseus has illuminated the stories of ladies too often relegated to the role of villain or damsel. -- Claire M. Andrews, author of the Daughters of Sparta trilogyRe-energizes the Perseus myth . . . By re-interpreting the familiar characters in human terms, Claire Heywood gives new life and a startling new perspective to an old tale. Original and engrossing -- Margaret George, bestselling author of Helen Of Troy

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Book SynopsisIn the beginning, everything was fine.* And then along came Zeus. *more or lessAhh Greek myths. Those glorious tales of heroism, honour and... petty squabbles, soap-opera drama and more weird sex than Fifty Shades of Grey could shake a stick at! It's about time we stopped respecting myths and started laughing at them. Did you know Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, was born of some discarded genitals? Or that Hera threw her own son off a mountain because he was ugly? Or that Apollo once kidnapped a boat full of people while pretending to be a dolphin? And let's not even get started on Zeus - king of the gods, ruler of the skies and a man who's never heard of self-control. In fact, if there's one thing most Greek myths have in common, it's that all the drama could have been avoided if SOMEONE could keep it in their toga...Horrible Histories writer Susie Donkin takes us on a hilarious romp through mythology and the many times the gods (literally) screwed everything up! Stephen Fry's Mythos by way of Drunk History, Zeus is a Dick is perfect for those who like their myths with a heavy dollop of satire.'Who knew mythology was so bonkers? I am grateful - it had me laughing from the first page to the last.' - Miranda Hart'It's about time someone called him out on all this' - Hera, goddess of marriage, wife of Zeus'Worst. Father. Ever.' - Artemis, goddess of the hunt, daughter of Zeus'Oh yeah, focus on him. I never did anything wrong. Nothing to see here' - Poseidon, god of the seas, brother of Zeus'Just a real dick, honestly' - Many, many peopleTrade ReviewWho knew mythology was so bonkers? I am grateful - it had me laughing from the first page to the last. -- Miranda Hart

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Book Synopsis'A dazzling fairytale' Stephanie Garber, on Six Crimson CranesA dragon's kingdom. A star-crossed love. And a cursed pearl with the power to mend the world, or break it . . .Shiori's quest continues in the soaring sequel to the New York Times bestselling young adult fantasy Six Crimson Cranes.Princess Shiori made a deathbed promise to return the dragon's pearl to its rightful owner, but keeping that promise is more dangerous than she ever imagined. She must journey to the kingdom of dragons, navigate political intrigue among humans and dragons alike, fend off thieves who covet the pearl for themselves and will go to any lengths to get it, all the while cultivating the appearance of a perfect princess to dissuade those who would see her burned at the stake for the magic that runs in her blood. The pearl itself is no ordinary cargo; it thrums with malevolent power, jumping to Shiori's aid one minute, and betraying her the next - threatening to shatter her family and sever the thread of fate that binds her to her true love. It will take every ounce of strength Shiori can muster to defend the life and the love she's fought so hard to win.PRAISE FOR ELIZABETH LIM'Magic leaps from every page of Lim's exquisite fairytale' Axie Oh'An amazing creation!' Tamora Pierce'The perfect blend of whimsy and ferociousness, with twists and turns that will tug at your heartstrings' Chloe Gong'This is a gem for all lovers of whimsical fantasy!' Natasha Ngan'Lim is a master storyteller which is apparent with every magical turn of the page' Kerri Maniscalco'This book is magic!' Kristin Cashore'Elizabeth Lim takes readers on a captivating and wholly original journey' Melissa BashardoustTrade Review** PRAISE FOR ELIZABETH LIM **Magic leaps from every page of Lim's exquisite fairytale. Teeming with romance and adventure, The Dragon's Promise is a poignant conclusion to one of my favorite stories of all time * Axie Oh, New York Times-bestselling author of The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea *A riveting conclusion to Shiori's splendid tale of courage and heart! Elizabeth Lim's masterful storytelling immersed me in a vivid world full of magic and romance, and had me rooting for the star-crossed lovers at every turn * June CL Tan, author of Jade Fire Gold *A perfect conclusion. The Dragon's Promise continues a tale of intrigue and adventure, with a love story that will feel like a warm hug. I absolutely adore Shiori and Takkan * Chloe Gong, bestselling author of These Violent Delights *Every bit as gorgeous, romantic and dazzling as its predecessor, The Dragon's Promise is the perfect end to a stunning duology * Sangu Mandanna, author of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches *A dazzling fairy tale full of breathtaking storytelling * Stephanie Garber, New York and Sunday Times bestselling author of Once Upon a Broken Heart on Six Crimson Cranes *An amazing creation! * Tamora Pierce, New York Times bestselling author of Tempests and Slaughter on Spin the Dawn *The perfect blend of whimsy and ferociousness, with twists and turns that will tug at your heartstrings * Chloe Gong, New York Times bestselling author of These Violent Delights on Six Crimson Cranes *This is a gem for all lovers of whimsical fantasy! * Natasha Ngan, New York Times bestselling author of Girls of Paper and Fire on Six Crimson Cranes *Lim is a master storyteller which is apparent with every magical turn of the page * Kerri Maniscalco, New York Times bestselling author of Kingdom of the Wicked on Six Crimson Cranes *This book is magic! * Kristin Cashore, New York Times bestselling author of Graceling on Six Crimson Cranes *Elizabeth Lim takes readers on a captivating and wholly original journey * Melissa Bashardoust, author of Girl, Serpent, Thorn on Six Crimson Cranes *A beautiful novel about standing up for your beliefs, making peace with the past and fighting for those you love, all with the added excitement of enchantments, mythical creatures and a romance to truly believe in. The Dragon's Promise delivers a strong conclusion to the story that was begun in Six Crimson Cranes and fantasy fans will find a lot to love about it too * Culturefly *The author of the bestselling Six Crimson Cranes returns with the magical new saga of a cursed pearl and true love truly tested, set in an evocative land full of dragons and political intrigue * Waterstones *

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Book SynopsisThree magical gowns. Two kingdoms on the brink of war. One chance to save them all.Maia Tamarin proved her skill as a tailor when she wove the dresses of the sun, the moon, and the stars, but it will take more than a beautiful gown to hide the darkness rising up within her, in the stunning sequel to Spin the Dawn. Maia Tamarin's journey to sew the dresses of the sun, the moon and the stars has taken a grievous toll. She returns to a kingdom on the brink of war, while Edan, the boy she loves, is gone - perhaps forever. No sooner does she set foot in the Autumn Palace than she is forced to don the dress of the sun and assume the place of the emperor's bride-to-be. But the emperor's rivals learn of her deception, and there is hell to pay - yet the war raging around Maia is nothing compared to the battle within. Ever since she was touched by the demon Bandur, she has been changing: losing control of her magic, her body and her mind. It's only a matter of time before Maia loses herself completely, but until then she will stop at nothing to find Edan, protect her family, and bring lasting peace to her home. The stakes are higher than ever in this breathtaking sequel to Spin the Dawn.** Praise for Elizabeth Lim **'Your next big YA series' Entertainment Weekly'A stunning tapestry of adventure' Washington Post'What an amazing creation!' Tamora PierceTrade Review** Praise for Elizabeth Lim **Your next big YA series . . . We've got our eye on this stylist blockbuster * Entertainment Weekly *Romance, artistry, and deep enchantment * Gregory Maguire, NYTimes bestselling author of Wicked *What an amazing creation! Every time I thought I knew where it was going, I was wrong. This is a white-knuckle read! * Tamora Pierce, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Tempests and Slaughter *Part epic adventure, part fairy tale, and part Project Runway, Spin the Dawn is a thrilling tale as rich as velvet and as exquisite as fine embroidery * Heidi Heilig, author of The Girl from Everywhere *A stunning tapestry of adventure * Washington Post *A fabulous fantasy . . . Sure to delight even the most jaded of fantasy readers * NPR *Lim weaves an enchanting narrative, with all the magic of a fairytale and the guts and grit of an epic adventure. Diverse folklore, imaginative worldbuilding and a brilliant lead character who wields creativity as skillfully as a weapon - this is a gem for all lovers of whimsical fantasy! * Natasha Ngan, NYTimes bestselling author of Girls of Paper and Fire *Beautifully written with a can't-wait-for-the-sequel ending, this breathtaking and fast-paced Silk-road inspired fantasy from the author of Mulan-retelling Reflection (2018) is sure to enchant readers beginning to end * Booklist *With strong storytelling and characterization and a pleasing romance, this will have broad appeal * Kirkus *

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Book Synopsis'Sexy, surprising, and full of secrets' Stephanie Garber, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of the Caraval seriesA heart is a dangerous thing to steal.AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTELLER Cruel Prince meets A Court of Thorns and Roses in this sexy, action-packed fantasy about a girl who is caught between two treacherous faerie courts and their dangerously seductive princes.Brie would do anything before making a deal with the Fae; death is better than their vicious schemes. But when her sister is taken by the sadistic king of the Unseelie court, there is nothing Brie wouldn't do to get her back-including making a deal with the king himself to steal three magical relics from the rival Seelie court.Gaining unfettered access to the Seelie court is easier said than done. Brie's only choice is to pose as a potential bride for the Seelie Prince, Ronan-a prince who's not quite as wicked as she once thought. Unwilling to let her heart distract her, she accepts help from a band of Unseelie misfits with their own secret agenda. But as Brie spends time with their mysterious leader, Finn, she finds herself struggling to resist his seductive charm.Caught between two dangerous courts, Brie must decide who to trust with her loyalty . . . and with her heart.'Beautifully broken and epic . . . A must read for fans of Sarah J Maas and Jennifer L Armentrout' Carrie Ann Ryan, New York Times bestselling Author of the Elements of Five Series'A sexy new take on fae fantasy . . . prepare to fall for your newest book boyfriend' Lisa Maxwell, New York Times bestselling author of The Last Magician'An enchanting story of magic, adventure, and the lengths we will go to for the ones we love' Catherine Cowles, author of the Wrecked seriesTrade ReviewSexy, surprising, and full of secrets. These Hollow Vows is a lot like the world of Faerie - seductive, enthralling, and dangerous. With two very different love interests, lots of heated moments, and a spectacular ending, this is the fantasy romance I have been craving * Stephanie Garber, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of the Caraval Series *Engaging writing and worldbuilding . . . Compelling * School Library Journal Starred Review *A beautifully broken and epic fantasy that completely blew me way. Complete with twisted fae, love triangles that make my heart pound, and exceptional world building, These Hollow Vows is a must read for fans of Sarah J Maas and Jennifer L Armentrout. I highly recommend and am in dire need for the next book! * Carrie Ann Ryan, NYT Bestselling Author of the Elements of Five Series *Tight plotting, efficient worldbuilding, and escalating stakes * Publishers Weekly *The final pages heavily hint at a sequel, which will undoubtedly find favour with avid faery/romance readers! * Armadillo Magazine *Will keep you up at night ... After THAT ending we can't wait to see what further chaos Lexi has planned and in the meantime we'll be rereading These Hollow Vows until the pages fall out * The Tempest *A sexy new take on fae fantasy, These Hollow Vows swept me away from the very first page and left me breathless and impatient for the next instalment . . . Prepare to fall for your newest book boyfriend * Lisa Maxwell, New York Times bestselling author of The Last Magician *An enchanting story of magic, adventure, and the lengths we will go to for the ones we love. Lexi Ryan takes readers on a rollercoaster ride we won't forget and leaves us begging for more of this story and world * Catherine Cowles, author of the Wrecked series *

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Book Synopsis'Sexy, surprising and full of secrets' Stephanie GarberMy night. My darkness. My power.THE SPELLBINDING CONCLUSION TO THE STUNNING FANTASY ROMANCE THESE HOLLOW VOWS. After Abriella's sister was sold to the fae, she thought life couldn't get any worse. But when she suddenly finds herself caught in a web of lies of her own making ­- loving two princes and trusting neither - things are not quite as clear as she once thought. As civil war wages in the Court of Darkness, Brie finds herself unable to choose a side. How can she know where she stands when she doesn't even know herself anymore? In this darkly romantic thrill ride, the more Faerie is torn apart from the inside, the clearer it becomes that prophecies don't lie and Brie has a role to play in the fate of this magical realm - whether she likes it or not.READERS LOVE LEXI RYAN'An amazing conclusion' Netgalley - five star review'A beautifully broken and epic fantasy' Carrie Ann Ryan'I adored this. It literally had me crying, not because I was sad but because I was so happy when reading it' Netgalley - five star review'Prepare to fall for your newest book boyfriend' Lisa Maxwell'All in all ACOTAR vibes and will definitely read again' Netgalley - five star reviewTrade Review** Praise for Lexi Ryan **Sexy, surprising, and full of secrets. These Hollow Vows is a lot like the world of Faerie - seductive, enthralling, and dangerous. With two very different love interests, lots of heated moments, and a spectacular ending, this is the fantasy romance I have been craving * Stephanie Garber, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of the Caraval Series *Engaging writing and worldbuilding . . . Compelling * School Library Journal *A beautifully broken and epic fantasy that completely blew me way. Complete with twisted fae, love triangles that make my heart pound, and exceptional world building, These Hollow Vows is a must read for fans of Sarah J Maas and Jennifer L Armentrout. I highly recommend and am in dire need for the next book! * Carrie Ann Ryan, NYT Bestselling Author of the Elements of Five Series *Nobody writes unbridled desire and tender pining quite like Lexi Ryan. So, whilst These Twisted Bonds isn't quite the epic conclusion some readers would have been hoping for, it will still keep you pinned to those pages like your mortal life depends on it * Culturefly *

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Book SynopsisMy night. My darkness. My power.The #1 New York Times bestselling thrilling conclusion to These Hollow Vows. After Abriella's sister was sold to the fae, she thought life couldn't get any worse. But when she suddenly finds herself caught in a web of lies of her own making ­- loving two princes and trusting neither - things are not quite as clear as she once thought. As civil war wages in the Court of Darkness, Brie finds herself unable to choose a side. How can she know where she stands when she doesn't even know herself anymore? In this darkly romantic thrill ride, the more Faerie is torn apart from the inside, the clearer it becomes that prophecies don't lie and Brie has a role to play in the fate of this magical realm - whether she likes it or not.PRAISE FOR LEXI RYAN'Sexy, surprising and full of secrets' Stephanie Garber'A beautifully broken and epic fantasy' Carrie Ann RyanTrade Review** Praise for Lexi Ryan **Sexy, surprising, and full of secrets. These Hollow Vows is a lot like the world of Faerie - seductive, enthralling, and dangerous. With two very different love interests, lots of heated moments, and a spectacular ending, this is the fantasy romance I have been craving * Stephanie Garber, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of the Caraval Series *Engaging writing and worldbuilding . . . Compelling * School Library Journal *A beautifully broken and epic fantasy that completely blew me way. Complete with twisted fae, love triangles that make my heart pound, and exceptional world building, These Hollow Vows is a must read for fans of Sarah J Maas and Jennifer L Armentrout. I highly recommend and am in dire need for the next book! * Carrie Ann Ryan, NYT Bestselling Author of the Elements of Five Series *Nobody writes unbridled desire and tender pining quite like Lexi Ryan. So, whilst These Twisted Bonds isn't quite the epic conclusion some readers would have been hoping for, it will still keep you pinned to those pages like your mortal life depends on it * Culturefly *

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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 *

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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 *

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Book SynopsisJedediah's father walked out of his life forty years ago. Now he's back. He won't apologise, he doesn't explain - and, impossibly, he hasn't aged a day. If you asked the folks of Gyrford, they'd tell you Jedediah Smith looked up to his father. After all, Corbie Mackem was the Sarsen Shepherd: the man who saved the Smith clan from Ab, the terrifyingly well-meaning fey who blighted a whole generation with unwanted gifts. Corbie was a good fairy-smith. And if he wasn't a good father, well, that isn't something Jedediah likes to talk about. Especially since no one knows where Corbie's body lies: the day of his son's wedding, forty-odd years ago, he set off to travel and was never seen again.These days Jedediah is a respectable elder, more concerned with his wayward grandson John than with his long-buried past, and he has other problems on his mind. There's the preparations for Saint Clement's Day, and the odd fact that birds all over the county have taken to hiding themselves, and the misbehaviour of Left-Lop the pig - which has grown vegetation all over its back, escaped its farm and taken to making personal remarks at folks in alarmingly alliterative verse.But then disaster strikes. Ab is back. And Corbie, thought long dead, returns to Gyrford - younger than his son . . ."Prepare to be utterly enchanted!" Alison Littlewood, author of The Crow GardenTrade ReviewIt's a joy to return to the world of Gyrford and its fairy-smiths, where magic stalks the hillsides and encounters with the fey can be as perilous as their gifts. Settle in with this book and prepare to be enchanted! * Alison Littlewood, author of THE CROW GARDEN *A gripping multi-generational family saga of surreal folk magic, with memorable characters, detailed worldbuilding and a satisfying plot * Fiona Moore, author of "Jolene" *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 *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 *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 *An immersive and rewarding read. * ParSec Magazine *Warm and dark and wonderful * Francis Spufford, author of LIGHT PERPETUAL *Enthralling reading! * Juliet E. McKenna, author of The Green Man's Quarry *Kit Whitfield has the unique gift of transporting the reader, body and mind, to another world; like one of the People. And book after book, she is building a world in which it is delightful to lose ourselves. This is a story of magic and human yearnings, a story which has something of the oral tradition, something of the written one. It is a spell * Francesco Dimitri *A gripping multi-generational family saga of surreal folk magic, with memorable characters, detailed worldbuilding and a satisfying plot * Fiona Moore, author of "Jolene" *An immersive and rewarding read * ParSec Magazine *

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Book SynopsisGert finally realizes that being such a murderous maniac might be the reason she’s not been able to find her way out of the candy-coated world of Fairyland that has been her nightmare for over forty years. She sets off on a new quest to redeem herself and tries to earn her way back home with good deeds and kindness and love an whatever other mushy, touchy-feely things she can manage. The epic and hilarious fantasy quest continues from fan favorite cartoonist SKOTTIE YOUNGCollecting issues 11 through 15.

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Book SynopsisAthens lost the war to Crete. Now, they pay tribute to King Minos by sacrificing their best citizens to his unearthly labyrinth. Conspirators believe Theseus can be the hero they need, who can end the mad king’s bloody reign... but no one on this world has ever encountered anything like the savage minotaur.Chris Pasetto, Christian Cantamessa (Red Dead Redemption) and Lukas Ketner (WITCH DOCTOR) reinvent the most fearsome beast in all of mythology with this horrific tale of heroism.Collects KILL THE MINOTAUR #1-6.

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Book SynopsisHow do you deal with a broken heart? Junk food? Excessive drinks? Dubious contracts with ancient gods? When it comes to Lauren Thomas, the queen of bad decisions, the answer is always the worst possible choice. She finds herself in a rare opportunity to have her broken heart patched up by the highest rated god of desire. The problem is, it’s a contested title. Join us in this tale of gods and mortals, love lust and death and one woman's bad choice that starts it all with a simple bite on a golden apple.

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Book SynopsisWhat if you learn that everything you have been taught about happiness is false? What if you realize that happiness is not a goal and therefore it cannot be achieved? What if you discover that it is the ordinary path that leads to extraordinary treasure?This is a story about how two men from different walks of life learn that neither robes of honor nor the total renunciation of worldly life is required to enjoy the most fundamental human desire - happiness. Happiness is not a philosophical enigma but an attainable state of the mind and everyone can cherish the greatest joys through the simplest and smallest acts of daily life.

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Book SynopsisLondon, 1832: Isabelle Lira may be in distress, but she's no damsel. Since her father's death, his former partners have sought to oust her from their joint equity business. Her only choice is to marry-and fast-to a powerful ally outside the respected Berab family's sphere of influence. Only finding the right spouse will require casting a wide net. So she'll host a series of festivals, to which every eligible Jewish man is invited.Once, Aaron Ellenberg longed to have a family of his own. But as the synagogue custodian, he is too poor for wishes and not foolish enough for dreams. Until the bold, beautiful Isabelle Lira presents him with an irresistible offer . . . if he ensures her favoured suitors have no hidden loyalties to the Berabs, she will provide him with money for a new life.Yet the transaction provides surprising temptation, as Aaron and Isabelle find caring and passion in the last person they each expected. Only a future for them is impossible-for heiresses don't marry orphans, and love only conquers in children's tales. But if Isabelle can find the courage to trust her heart, she'll discover anything is possible, if only she says yes.

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Book SynopsisA classic fairy tale gets a sexy, edgy twist. Jackson “The Beast” Boudreaux is rich, gorgeous, and unbelievably rude to the staff at Chef Bianca Hardwick’s New Orleans restaurant. Bianca would sooner douse herself in hot sauce than cook for Jackson again, but when he asks her to cater his fund-raiser, Bianca can’t refuse, knowing the cash will help pay her mother’s medical bills. Then Jackson makes another outrageous request: Marry me. The unconventional offer includes an enormous sum—money Bianca desperately needs, even if it does come with a contract—and a stunning ring. The heir to a family bourbon dynasty, Jackson knows the rumors swirling around him. The truth is even darker. Still, he needs a wife to secure his inheritance, and free-spirited, sassy Bianca would play the part beautifully. Soon, though, their simple business deal evolves into an emotional intimacy he’s built walls to avoid. As the passion heats up between them, Bianca and Jackson struggle to define which feelings are real and which are for show. Is falling for your fake fiancé the best happy ending…or a recipe for disaster?

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Book SynopsisFairy tales tell us the stories we need to hear, the truths we need to be aware of. Arising from oral narrative, born of imagination, they are constantly being adapted to fit new cultural contexts. They shapeshift just like their characters. Their plots, motifs, and elements often serving as warnings. Over the Rainbow: Folk and Fairy Tales from the Margins is a collection of adult stories that invite us to imagine new possibilities for our contemporary times. And much is happening in these times! Cultural diversification and increased societal awareness of personal differences is allowing voices that tend to be silenced by mainstream society to come to the forefront. Collected by seven-time Prix Aurora Award-winning editor Derek Newman-Stille, these are edgy stories, tales that invite us to walk out of our comfort zone and see what resides at the margins. Over the Rainbow is a gathering of modern literature that brings together views and perspectives of the underrepresented, from the fringe, those whose narratives are at the core of today's conversations—voices that we all need to hear.

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Book SynopsisLewis Carroll explored childlike wonder and the bewildering realm of adult rules and status, which clashed in bizarre ways. And although it seems we all know something about Alice and Wonderland, we-like Alice herself upon her first reading of Jabberwocky-find “It fills my head with ideas, but I don’t know what they are.” So as each new generation falls under Carroll’s word spells, each in turn must attempt to understand what Alice and Wonderland might mean in the context of their world and in their time. This collection of twenty-first century speculative fiction stories is inspired by Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, Alice Through the Looking Glass, The Hunting of the Snark, and to some degree, aspects of the life of the author, Charles Dodgson, and the real-life Alice (Liddell). Enjoy our wild ride down into and back up out of the rabbit hole! Preface by David Day Authors: Patrick Bollivar, Mark Charke, Christine Daigle, Robert Dawson, Linda DeMeulemeester, Pat Flewwelling, Geoff Gander and Fiona Plunkett, Cait Gordon, Costi Gurgu, Kate Heartfield, Elizabeth Hosang, Nicole Iversen, J.Y.T. Kennedy, Danica Lorer, Catherine MacLeod, Bruce Meyer, Dominik Parisien, Alexandra Renwick, Andrew Robertson, Lisa Smedman, Sara C. Walker, James Wood

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Book SynopsisMedea betrayed her father and left her homeland for the love of Jason. Then when he abandoned her, she murdered her children. But did she? And what of Clytemnestra, the conniving adulteress? For ten years she plotted the murder of her husband Agamemnon, King of Mycenae and Conqueror of Troy. How would she have told her story? The Greek myths as we know them were told for men by men. Yet they were the culmination of a long oral tradition in which both men and women shared. Using extant ancient literary sources as her guide, including the works of Homer, Aeschylus, Euripides and Apollodorus, Jane Cahill reconstructs the stories as they might have been told to women by women. These are stories of wronged women, inspired women, determined women, tender women. Medusa tells how it is to know that one look at her face will turn a man to stone, to be hated and feared all the time. Jocasta, Queen of Thebes, confesses her love for the young man who came to save her city from the Sphinx—her son, Oedipus. Each story is accompanied by extensive notes which discuss the ancient sources, explain relevant Greek concepts and customs, and serve as a guide to further reading.Trade Review“For people who know the stories, Cahill has sly surprising insights in store. For those who don’t, this book could show how it is possible to reconnect with tradition by retelling it, for ourselves.” — Margaret Visser, Toronto“In this engaging book Jane Cahill draws on her knowlege of the ancient sources to let women in Greek myth speak for themselves about their experiences. Her narratives are provocative, informative, and eerily persuasive.” — Professor Mary R. Lefkowitz, Wellesley College“In order for the western tradition to survive, it must continually be reinvented. Professor Cahill’s reinvention of the myths is brilliant and salutory: if women did not really tell the tales she tells, they should have—and now they can, and so can we all.” — Professor David Ball, Smith CollegeTable of ContentsPrefaceIntroductionPhilomela’s storyClytemnestra’s storyJocasta’s storyMedusa’s storyEriphyle’s storyIno’s storyProcris’ storyAlthaea’s storyMyrrha’s storyHypermnestra’s storyDanaë’s storyThetis’ storyMedea’s storyAppendix:Adapting stories fororal telling: Medusa revisited

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