Traditional or cultural fiction and true stories, tales and retellings

Book SynopsisInventive, excellent a pure pleasure to read' THE TIMESIn this compelling debut, an unknowable legacy passes through generations of one family living on the beautiful island of Barbados.In this compelling debut, an unknowable legacy passes through generations of one family living on the beautiful island of Barbados.There is Iapetus, a lonely soul haunted by the memory of his father; his son Atlas, dreaming of a life far removed from his reality; Atlas's daughter Calypso, struggling to find her place in an unforgiving society; and her son Nautilus, grappling with various parts of a complex identity.Each longs to escape their circumstances but find themselves trapped by a history found only in whispers and half-remembered fragments. And with every passing decade, another generation must contend with the same question: how can the things we don't know define our futures?Spanning fifty years, The Island of Forgetting is a powerful saga of family and hope that marks the arrival of a stunniTrade Review‘The Island of Forgetting works on many levels: as a family saga, as Greek myth retold and as a portrait of Barbados through the 20th century. This excellent debut is also a pure pleasure to read’ The Times Book of the Month ‘A brilliant richly absorbing tale on the repercussions of hidden familial legacies. A deeply evocative, stirring work’ IRENOSEN OKOJIE, Caine Prize-Winning author of Nudibranch ‘Clever and absorbing, this debut is a treat’Times’s 100 Best Books of the Summer ‘Jasmine Sealy’s The Island of Forgetting is an epic novel of great elegance and empathy. Her nuanced portrait of love, loss and identity on a small Caribbean island is well-poised to become a classic of the Caribbean literary canon’ CHERIE JONES, Women’s Prize for Fiction Shortlisted author of How the One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House ‘The Island of Forgetting is an engrossing saga of love, family and the undying past – gorgeous at the sentence level and sweeping in both depth and scope. Jasmine Sealy is one of the most exciting and powerful new voices in fiction, and with this stunning debut she has crafted a moving world of a book, polyphonic and sprinkled throughout with fire’ OMAR EL AKKAD, author of What Strange Paradise ‘A stunning debut.The Island of Forgetting is a bold, passionate, and razor-sharp novel, exquisitely written and deeply moving. With great empathy and nuance, Jasmine Sealy explores family bonds and secret legacies and the scarifies we make in their name. I couldn’t put this book down. Jasmine Sealy is an astonishing, fierce new talent in Canadian fiction’ AYELET TSABARI

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Book SynopsisEveryone knows the story of Rapunzel in the tower, but do you know the tale of the witch who put her there?Enter a world of dark magic, mysterious woods and evil princes. This is the truth they never wanted you to know, as only a witch might tell it. With her strange black eyes and even stranger fainting spells, Haelewise is shunned by her village, and her only solace lies in the stories her mother tells of child-stealing witches, of princes in wolf-skins, of an ancient tower cloaked in mist where women will find shelter if they are brave enough to seek it.But when her mother dies, Haelewise is left unmoored. With nothing left for her in her village, she sets out to find the tower of legend-a place called Gothel, where Haelewise meets a wise woman willing to take her under her wing.But Haelewise is not the only woman to seek refuge at Gothel. It''s also a haven for a girl named Rika, who carries with her a secret the Church striveTrade ReviewFable and history rhyme in McMyne's captivating vision of a medieval past steeped in women's magic and bound by women's love -- Jordanna Max BrodskyThe Book of Gothel is wonderfully rich with historical detail, and sparkles with the intermingled magic of gods and goddesses, seers and wisewomen. Haelewise is a memorable heroine, worthy of legend. Readers will see the story of Rapunzel in a new and refreshing light. -- Louisa MorganBoth gently and fiercely told, The Book of Gothel is a sweeping, sharp story of how history twists into fairytale and back again -- Hannah WhittenSmart, swift, sure-footed and fleet-winged, The Book of Gothel launches its magic from a most reliable source: the troubled heart. Mary McMyne is a magician -- Gregory Maguire, author of WICKEDAn inventive retelling of a classic tale that pulls you deep into the wild woods of medieval Germany. The Book of Gothel is a spell-binding debut -- Signe Pike, author of THE FORGOTTEN KINGDOMMary McMyne does more than retell a beloved fairy tale. She elevates the voice of the sacred Feminine hidden within. Certain stories endure because of their beauty, wonder, and wisdom. The Book of Gothel is such a novel-one that will hold readers in delighted thrall right to the startling end -- Ronlyn Domingue, author of THE MERCY OF THIN AIRThe Book of Gothel delivers an intelligent spin on a well-loved fairy tale, the rich historical detail deftly woven with folktale magic and thoughtful characterisation -- Rowenna Miller, author of TORN

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Book SynopsisAn adaptation of Ted Hughes's Tales from Ovid for the stage. Tim Supple is Artistic Director of the Young Vic. He has already adapted Grimm and Rushdie, and worked with Hughes on Spring Awakening and Blood Wedding.

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Book Synopsis. . . There is Balor of the evil eye, whose very glance meant death; the wicked queen Aoife who turned children into swans; and Oisin, who followed his love to her city beneath the waves . . .Featuring beautiful colour illustrations by Irish Children''s Laureate and twice Kate Greenaway winner P. J. Lynch, and a previously unpublished poem by Seamus Heaney, this is a stunning collection to cherish forever.

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Book SynopsisThe first ever dedicated collection of folk tales from the historic New Forest area

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Book SynopsisThe second book in an exciting Arthurian trilogy.Twelve long, blood-soaked years, have passed since Artor fulfilled his destiny and was crowned the High King of the Britons. Against all odds, Artor has united Celtic Britain and with a last great campaign, has banished the Saxon scourge. The legend of Camlann has begun. But even as Artor''s kingdom is at its zenith, even as he has succeeded in conquering all external threats to his rule, his kingdom is being undermined from within. Not only is Artor betrayed by the one person he should be able to trust, he has also learned of appalling perversion at the heart of his kingdom. He must make a terrible choice. Does he commit a deed that leaves him open to comparison with the despotic Uther Pendragon, or does he let evil go unchecked? The burden of leadership, of power, now rests solely - and heavily - on Artor''s shoulders for Myrddion Merlinus, master tactician, guiding light for so many years, has left Artor to Trade ReviewPraise for M. K. Hume: 'Hume brings the bloody, violent, conniving world vividly to life...will appeal to those who thrill to Game of Thrones and other tales of intersecting, ever-warring, noble lineages * Kirkus Review *Historical fiction of the most bloodthirsty and roistering kind * Australian Bookseller & Publishers Magazine *

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Book SynopsisBeautiful Sophie, with lips as red as blood, skin as pale as snow, and hair as dark as night, is about to come of age and inherit her father's throne.

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Book SynopsisA special illustrated edition of The Monarch of the Glen by bestselling storytelling legend, Neil Gaiman. This American Gods world novella will thrill Games of Thrones devotees and Terry Pratchett fans alike. Illustrations by celebrated artist Daniel Egnéus.''Original, engrossing, an endlessly entertaining'' George R.R Martin on American GodsHe was not sure what he had been looking for. He only knew that he had not found it.Shadow Moon has been away from America for nearly two years. His nights are broken with dangerous dreams. Sometimes he almost believes he doesn''t care if he ever returns home. In the Highlands of Scotland, where the sky is pale white and it feels as remote as any place can possibly be, the beautiful and the wealthy gather at a grand old house in the glen. And when the strange local doctor offers him work at the party, Shadow is intrigued. He knows there is Trade Reviewtold with a rare understanding of all that makes us human, and shows the power of stories to reveal and shelter us from the darkness inside and out. * Mid-West Times *

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Book Synopsis ''Stories that start like delicate webs and finish like unbreakable wire traps'' Neil Gaiman Naomi Ishiguro''s fresh, magical and delightfully speculative short story collection merges the inventiveness of David Mitchell and the fairy-tale allure of Angela Carter to form its own powerful magic.Witness what happens when a space-obsessed child conjures up a vortex in his mother''s airing cupboard in Shearing Season. Watch unexpected possibilities open up in The Flat Roof when a musician makes friends with a flock of birds. Get lost in the world of The Rat Catcher where, finding himself potentially out of his depth when he is summoned to a decaying royal palace, a rat catcher is plunged into a battle for the throne of a ruined kingdom. In this stunning debut collection, the characters yearn for freedom and flight, and find their worlds transformed beyond their wildest imaginings.''NaoTrade ReviewAn imaginative collection full of wide eyed wonder and millennial wit * Sharlene Teo *Escape Routes sees Ishiguro find inventive and unexpected new ways to explore her themes of freedom, flight and individuality * Netgalley Reader Review, Shelf Indulgent Reader website *Ishiguro, daughter of the 2017 Nobel Laureate, is already being touted as a writer of rare talent herself * RTÉ Guide *A wide-ranging speculative short story collection from a striking new voice in fiction * Rabeea Saleem, ‘Fabulous February Books Out In The UK’, BookRiot website *All the emotional power comes from how these tired, stressed, anxious characters could be people that you pass on the street. They could be us * Chloe Walker, Culturefly website *It's whimsical, often melancholy tales are populated by people you feel you've met * Kimberley Ballard, SFX Magazine *

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Book Synopsis From the creative genius of Jostein Gaarder, author of modern classic Sophie''s World, comes a novel about loneliness and the power of words Jakop is a lonely man. Divorced from his wife, with no friends apart from his constant companion Pelle, he spends his life attending the funerals of people he doesn''t know, obscuring his identity in a web of improbable lies. As his addiction spirals out of control, he is forced to reconcile his love of language and stories with the ever more urgent need for human connection. An Unreliable Man is a moving and thought-provoking novel about loneliness and truth, about seeking a place in the world, and about how storytelling gives our lives meaning.Decades after his global bestseller Sophie''s World, Jostein Gaarder has written a poignant and funny book for our times - full of life and hope.Praise for Sophie''s World''ATrade ReviewSOPHIE'S WORLD is set to become a unique popular classic: a wonderfully engaging mystery story that also forms a completely accessible and lucid introduction to philosophy and philosophers - The Times on SOPHIE'S WORLDA marvellously rich book - Guardian on SOPHIE'S WORLDAn Alice in Wonderland for the 90s . . . a simply wonderful, irresistible book - Daily Telegraph on SOPHIE'S WORLDA modern fairytale - Heat on THE ORANGE GIRLIt should be read by all - Vogue on THE ORANGE GIRL

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Book SynopsisIn a magical ancient Britain, bards sing a story of treachery, love and death. This is that story. For fans of Madeline Miller's Circe, Lucy Holland's Sistersong retells the folk ballad ‘The Twa Sisters.''A beautiful reimagining of an old British folklore ballad, Sistersong weaves a captivating spell of myth and magic' – Jennifer Saint, author of AriadneKing Cador’s children inherit a land abandoned by the Romans, torn by warring tribes. Riva can cure others, but can’t heal her own scars. Keyne battles to be seen as the king’s son, although born a daughter. And Sinne dreams of love, longing for adventure. All three fear a life of confinement within the walls of the hold, their people’s last bastion of strength against the invading Saxons. However, change comes on the day ash falls from the sky – bringing Myrdhin, meddler and magician. The siblings discover the power that lies within them and the land. But fate also brings Tristan, a warrior whose secrets will tear them apart. Riva, Keyne and Sinne become entangled in a web of treachery and heartbreak, and must fight to forge their own paths. It’s a story that will shape the destiny of Britain.Sistersong is a powerfully moving story, perfect for readers who loved Naomi Novik’s Uprooted and Katherine Arden’s The Bear and the Nightingale.

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Book SynopsisDid they break the curse, or begin one? Sleeping Beauty's dark sorceress reclaims her story in this sequel to Malice________________________________________________The Dark Grace is dead. Feared and despised for the sinister power in her veins, Alyce has spent 100 years wreaking her revenge on the kingdom that made her an outcast. Once a realm of decadence and beauty, Briar is now wholly Alyce's wicked domain. No one escapes the consequences of her wrath. Not even the one person who holds her heart. Princess Aurora saw through Alyce's thorny facade, earning a love that promised the dawn of a new age. But that love came with a heavy price: Aurora now sleeps under a curse that even Alyce's vast power cannot seem to break, and their dream of the world they would have built together is nothing but ash. Alyce vows to do anything to wake the woman she loves, even if it means descending into the monster Briar believed her to be. But could Aurora ever love the villain Alyce has become? Or is true love only for fairy tales?

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Book SynopsisA spellbinding and haunting literary fable of loss, perfect for fans of The Binding and The Night Circus.'This beautiful and beguiling book tells a poignant and haunting story rich in slow-burning intrigue and tender emotion' Jennifer Saint, Sunday Times bestselling author of Ariadne.'A transporting, delicious fairytale about loss, beauty, and love.' Kiran Millwood Hargrave, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Mercies.________________________How do you heal a broken house?First you unlock its secrets.Alone on an island, surrounded by flowers that shine as dusk begins to fall, sits an old, faded house. Rooms cannot be rented here and visits are only for those haunted by the memory of loss.When Liddy receives an invitation, she thinks there must be some mistake - she's never experienced loss. But with her curiosity stirred, and no other way to escape a life in which she feels trapped, she decides to accept.Once there, she meets Vivienne, a beautiful, austere woman whose glare leaves Liddy unsettled; Ben, the reserved gardener; and Raphael, the enigmatic Keymaker. If Liddy is to discover her true purpose in the house, she must find the root of their sorrow - but the house won't give up its secrets so easily . . .________________________'A haunting journey of self-discovery, bursting with metaphor, and with the feel of a classic fairytale. Prepare to get lost in this spellbinding world.' Ava Reid, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Wolf and the Woodsman.'Haunting, surreal, and intricate, Cartwright has deftly crafted a story about what we find when we believe we are lost.' Heather Walter, author of the Malice duology.'Enchanting, poetic prose that enriches a beautiful fairytale world.' A. E. Warren, author of the Tomorrow's Ancestors series.Trade ReviewThis beautiful and beguiling book tells a poignant and haunting story rich in slow-burning intrigue and tender emotion * Jennifer Saint, author of Ariadne *A transporting, delicious fairytale about loss, beauty, and love. * Kiran Millwood Hargrave *A haunting journey of self-discovery, bursting with metaphor, and with the feel of a classic fairytale. Prepare to get lost in this spellbinding world. * Ava Reid, Sunday Times bestselling author of The Wolf and the Woodsman *The House of Sorrowing Star is like a dream poured onto a page. Haunting, surreal, and intricate, Cartwright has deftly crafted a story about what we find when we believe we are lost. * Heather Walter, author of Malice. *Enchanting, poetic prose that enriches a beautiful fairytale world. * A. E. Warren, author of the Tomorrow’s Ancestors series *

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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 Synopsis'An enchanting treasury of magical tales handed down through the ages. Infectious and soul-stirring, these are stories crying out to be shared.' - Ben Hoare, award winning wildlife journalist and nature nerdHave you heard the tale of Black Annis, the witch-demon that lurks beneath a Leicester housing estate? Do you know the legend of the Hunting of the Great Bear, or how the crow brought daylight? Why should you be careful to never insult the moon?Star stories and creature tales, good-old-fashioned ghost stories together with traditional narratives about how the night became kindle the fires of our imagination and deepen our acquaintance with the dark in this compendium of stories to tell out loud.Filtered through the wild imaginations and indigenous tongues of storytellers from all over the world, this collection is rewritten and re-presented here by a master storyteller from the UK, who has been spinning nocturnal narratives around the campfire for three decades. This is a delicious midnight feast of 'tales from the dark side’ to fascinate, terrify, enchant and inform about the night-time realm.Trade ReviewHere’s a companion volume to Chris Salisbury’s ‘Wild Nights Out’. These are wonderful stories to tell by firelight or under the stars, drawn from many cultures and exploring the mysteries of the night-time and all it holds. And they're retold by a storyteller who knows just what he’s doing, Chris has for many years made traditional tales a key part of his practice as an outdoor educator -- Hugh LuptonThese beautiful stories are a bundle of stars that light up not just the darkness of the night but the darkness within us, within our culture. -- Martin Shaw * Foreword *An enchanting treasury of magical tales handed down through the ages. Infectious and soul-stirring, these are stories crying out to be shared. -- Ben Hoare, award-winning wildlife journalist and nature nerdWith Chris Salisbury you are in safe, wise hands. This is the perfect companion to his essential 'Wild Nights Out', a glittering selection of tales to honour the collective consciousness of what held us and our ancestors together. -- Ashley Ramsden Founder of School of Storytelling (UK)A rich collection about the importance of a dark skies, cycles of the moon, and stories of the stars. These stories come from Chris's long relationship with the natural world and respect for traditional cultures. Enjoy them at bedtime, around the campfire and underneath the stars. -- Sally Pomme ClaytonThis book honours the richness of the dark hours, drawing together a constellation of stories that language the mystery, wonder, terror and necessity of night. A wonderful resource for any storyteller - the stories call to be spoken aloud in the company of others and the firelight. A vibrant legacy of a life lived in deep apprenticeship and companionship with the wild, Chris has created a guide rich in dreaming and practical knowledge. -- Dr Jo Blake, storyteller and theatre-makerWhat an absolute gem this book is. * Cotswold Life *

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Book SynopsisA new title in the series created for the modern reader, introducing the heroes, cultures, myths and religions of the world. The tale of the legendary Mongol General Genghis Khan is as phenomenal as the man himself. Probably the greatest conqueror in history, he ruled vast swathes of land in the early 1200s, vanquishing people across Asia and Europe, so that by the mid-1200s the Mongol Empire covered over 12 million square miles of land. From myth to mystery, the supernatural to horror, fantasy and science fiction FLAME TREE 451 offers tales, myths and epic literature from the beginnings of humankind, through the medieval era to the stories of imagination and dark romance of today.

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Book SynopsisIn ancient Rome (753 BC – 476 AD) mythology was integral to various aspects of society, from religion, to politics, to the founding of the city. Today, we may encounter the legacy of these stories before we encounter the stories themselves, whether this is in day-to-day speech, the 18th century art on display at the Louvre, or the works of William Shakespeare. The Roman tendency to accept their mythology as part of history creates a degree of uncertainty around the historical basis of the figures featured in these legendary tales. Truth, fiction, or both, the significance of mythology to this people is palpable. From Romulus and Remus and the founding of Rome to Lucretia and the Republic; from Livy and the Dii Consentes to Virgil’s Aeneid; from Dis Pater in the underworld to Jupiter, god of the sky. Illustrated with 180 colour and black-and-white photographs, artworks, and maps, Roman Myths is an engaging and informative book, offering an introduction to Roman mythology, its roots, and its ongoing importance.Table of ContentsIntroduction Roman mythology before Greek influence and how Roman mythology built on the Greek pantheon. 1: The History and Mythology of Rome Aeneas – (Virgil’s Aenid) a hero of the Trojan War and Anchises and Venus’ son, he led Trojan refugees to Italy at the end of the war to become the founder of the Roman culture. Romulus and Remus (400BC) – the children of Rhea Silvia and Mars, the twin brothers and demi-gods are known for being the founders of Rome. Abandoned at birth because of a prophecy that told of them overthrowing their great-uncle Amulius, they were brought up by a she-wolf and then the shepherd Faustulus. Eventually they killed Amulius, established Rome and reinstated Numitor (Silvia’s father) in power. However, Romulus ended up killing Remus, which was later taken to represent a history of political dispute in Rome. 2: The Primary Deities Archaic Triad – Jupiter, Mars, Quirinus Capitoline Triad – Jupiter, Juno, Minerva Plebian/Aventine Triad – Ceres, Liber, Libera The Dii Consentes – the twelve major deities of the Ancient Roman pantheon; Juno, Vesta, Minerva, Ceres, Diana, Venus, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Neptune, Vulcan, Apollo. Greek influence (Greek gods compared with their Roman counterparts) – the development of Roman mythology from spirits to the pantheon; Roman people originally worshipped numina as gods and goddesses, but they had few distinctive qualities; e.g. Janus, god of doorways and archways and Terminus, god of boundaries. Being inspired by the Greek deities, they started to adapt their gods into Greek equivalents, giving them different names; Aphrodite became Venus, Cronus became Saturn etc. Cybele was known as Magna Mater (‘Great Mother’). The Roman state adopted and developed a particular form of her cult after the Sibylline oracle recommended her conscription as a key religious ally in Rome’s second war against Carthage. Roman mythographers reinvented her as a Trojan goddess, and thus an ancestral goddess of the Roman people by way of the Trojan prince Aeneas. With Rome’s eventual hegemony over the Mediterranean world, Romanized forms of Cybele's cults spread throughout the Roman Empire. The meaning and morality of her cults and priesthoods were topics of debate and dispute in Greek and Roman literature, and remain so in modern scholarship. 3: Lesser Deities & Magical Beings Along with the Dii Consentes, eight additional gods and goddesses made up the Dii Selecti. All aspects of daily life and state endeavour were governed by these or a host of lesser gods, and other supernatural beings also feature in Roman mythology. These include monsters, magical creatures and semi-divine heroes. 4: Roman Writings Ovid’s Metamorphoses – a collection of Near Eastern and Greek myths that the Romans had adopted, documenting from creation to the pinnacle of Julius Caesar’s reign. Ovid’s Fasti – describes Roman myths about the gods according to the festivals in their calendar. 5: The Mundane & the Mythological Rape of the Sabine women – after the founding of Rome by Romulus, there was a dearth of women to populate the city and so he abducted the Sabine women, resulting in a war with the Caeninenses. Horatius at the bridge – Publius Horatius Cocles, an army officer of ancient Rome, defended the Pons Sublicius from the Etruscans during the Roman and Clusium war. Raising the sun – Goddess Angerona is said to have known a spell to raise the sun in midwinter, on December 21st; the shortest day of the year. On that day, the days began to lengthen and spring returned. She also held the secret name of Rome, which would doom the people if she told it. Gaius Mucius Scaevola – a mythical assassin who, when captured, thrust his hand into the fire without showing any pain. His intended victim, Porsena, was shocked at the youth’s bravery, and dismissed him from the Etruscan camp, free to return to Rome, saying ‘Go back, since you do more harm to yourself than me’. At the same time, the king also sent ambassadors to Rome to offer peace. Servius Tullius – was the legendary sixth king of Rome, and the second of its Etruscan dynasty. He reigned 575–535 BC. Several traditions describe Servius’s father as divine. 6. The Legacy of Rome How Roman myths and legends changed throughout the existence of the Roman Republic and Roman Empire. Later, how the myths and legends survived after the Fall of the Roman Empire, how they were adapted during the Dark Ages and revived during the Renaissance. Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisOur worldwide storytelling heritage is vast and varied and yet contains common threads, themes and motifs running throughout the many legends, whether they hail from the dusty plains of Africa or the cherry-blossom-blanketed hills of Japan. This astonishing anthology, in Flame Tree’s covetable series of myths and tales, gathers together the most iconic and entertaining tales of adventure and daring from around the world. From Perseus the Gorgon-Slayer of Greek myhology, and the exploits of Frithiof the Bold of Norse saga fame, to the tragic tale of Irish heroine Deirdre, these exciting stories vibrate with the heart and soul of age-old narrative. An extended introduction is followed by four main sections, with mythic stories from Mexico, Egypt, India and more: Tales of Warriors, Travel & Adventure; Heroes & Heroines in Literature & Poetry; Legends of the Gods, Demigods & Culture Heroes; Leading Ladies & Affairs of the Heart.

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Book Synopsis'The boldest of English women writers' LORNA SAGE 'Her writing is pyrotechnic - fuelled with ideas, packed with images and spangling the night with her starry language' OBSERVER 'She can glide from ancient to modern, from darkness to luminosity, from depravity to comedy without any hint of strain and without losing the elusive power of the original tales' THE TIMES 'This crazy world whirled around her, men and women dwarfed by toys and puppets, where even the birds are mechanical and the few human figures went masked . . . She was in the night once again, and the doll was herself.' One night Melanie walks through the garden in her mother's wedding dress. The next morning her world is shattered. Forced to leave her rural home, she is sent to London to live with relatives she has never met: gentle Aunt Margaret, mute since her wedding day; and her brothers, Francie, whose graceful music belies his clumsy nature, and the volatile Finn. Brooding over all is Uncle Philip, who loves only the puppets he creates in his workshop, which are life-sized - and uncannily lifelike.Trade ReviewThe boldest of English women writersHer writing is pyrotechnic - fuelled with ideas, packed with images and spangling the night sky with her starry language * Observer *She can glide from ancient to modern, from darkness to luminosity, from depravity to comedy without any hint of strain and without losing the elusive power of the original tales * The Times *Beneath its contemporary surface, this novel shimmers with blurred echoes-from Lewis Carroll, from 'Giselle' and 'Coppelia,' Harlequin and Punch . . . It leaves behind it a flavor, pungent and unsettling * New York Times *The boldest of English women writers * Lorna Sage *Her writing is pyrotechnic - fuelled with ideas, packed with images and spangling the night with her starry language * Observer *

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Book SynopsisDo ghosts exist, do supernatural beings walk the land and do creatures linger in the shadows. Are legends of blood-sucking creatures based on some truth found on the edges of reality? Within these pages Tony Locke will take you on a journey through the magical land of Erin. You will explore castles and graveyards, and be introduced to banshees, warlocks, spectres, poltergeists and the Undead. You will read about the spirit of a child that possesses a doll, the vengeful druid who guards a tomb and the ghost of a cannibal woman who enjoyed eating children. Based on the myths and legends of Ireland, these tales have been collected and retold by professional storyteller Tony Locke. So why not pull up a chair and sit awhile? You know you’re never too old for a story.

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Book SynopsisA chilling, haunting ghost story that delves into the dark past of the 16th century Essex witch trials. To find the truth, she’ll risk her life… Sadie Asquith has been fascinated by the Essex Witch Trials for as long as she can remember. And for good reason too: between 1560 and 1680, hundreds of innocent women were tried for witchcraft. She begins researching the subject, but soon starts to experience strange, ghostly visions. Dark shadows haunt her every step, sobbing sounds wake her in the night, and black moths appear from nowhere. It’s as if by digging up history, she has opened an unearthly connection to the women who were tortured and killed centuries before. And when a long-buried secret entwines Sadie’s own past with what she has discovered, she’ll risk everything – even her life – to uncover what really happened all those years ago… A haunting and atmospheric read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Perfect for fans of The Lost Notebook and The Familiars. Trade Review‘Moore's merging of horror, ghost story, detective fiction and psychogeography is a heady addition to Jeanette Winterson's book about the witches of Pendle and increasingly popular genre mash-ups.’ Guardian ‘Thrilling, chilling … An intriguing read for lovers of history, the supernatural, detective fiction and horror.’ Lancashire Evening Post Praise for The Drowning Pool: ‘A stunning reinvention of the ghost story and an exploration of a 19th-century Essex witch hunt.’ Guardian ‘A goose-pimply old-fashioned ghost story.’ Christopher Fowler, author of the Bryant and May series ‘A must for any intelligent Essex girls out there and a gripping ghosty read for everyone. Hurry up and write the next one please Syd…’ The Women’s Room Blog

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Book SynopsisHaving heard and learned stories of Sgiath over the past many years, I felt that the time was right to put them down in print lest they be lost. GEORGE MACPHERSON Long ago in ancient Skye, a queen is born in a storm… From the depths of Scottish folklore emerges Sgiath, an ancient warrior queen of Skye. Also known as Scáthach or Sgathaich, Skye and Dunscaith Castle – her home on the island all those years ago – are said to have been named after her. Follow her incredible journey as she turns from ordinary village girl to leader of a great army of warriors, conquering her opponents and bringing education to all. Magic and myth interweave with history in this epic tale of ancient oral storytelling that is inspirational for our modern times.

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Book SynopsisFull of beautiful text and illustrations, this lively story, originally created by Charlie Mackesy and now in a Welsh translation by Mererid Hopwood, will certainly strike a chord with readers. Its tender life lessons will remind us of friendship in the midst of a topsy-turvy world.

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New York magazine columnist Joy Gibson was searching for the answer to the eternal question: why are all the wrong people falling in love? After all, love is a choice surely… but what if it wasn’t your choice? Unbeknown to Joy, hers and other mortals choice is not an act of free will, but a will of the Gods. Or more importantly, one very vengeful God… Cupid. Trapped in a prison in the bowels of Hades for thousands of years by an ancient curse, Cupid remains captive until one special broken-hearted mortal shall set him free. Unfortunately, when Joy is dumped by her fiancée and has her heart broken… Joy becomes the very key to unlocking Cupid’s prison. On the rampage now, Cupid vows merciless vengeance upon mankind whom he blames for his incarceration and sets out to not only cleanse their hearts from the scourge of love with his poison arrows but to destroy their entire world they live on by turning the most powerful arrows that humans possess against themselves… nuclear weapons. Armed with only a bow and arrows borrowed from Cupid’s brother Eros, Joy hunts Cupid through the riot-torn city of New York whilst hunted herself by gangs of armed Hells Angels who are all baying for her blood. The fate of all mankind’s happiness and the lives of millions about to be incinerated by nuclear Armageddon all lie in Joy's hands, as she races against the clock to recapture a demon before he turns Earth into Hades. On her nightmare quest to unlock the alchemy of love, Joy encounters obese reality T.V. stars, psychotic Soviet Majors, randy royals in sex clubs and she finally finds out what the Hokey Cokey is really all about.

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Book Synopsis"You see me at my worst, you see me at my best I have been used, I have been abused I have been broken, I have been mended, I have been lied to. I have been called all sort of names I have been the cause of everything broken, so they claim Who am I? I am the one that catches you when you fall" Love has many layers. This heartfelt collection of original poetry explores the ups and downs of life's relationships. A beautiful study of the power of personal connection.Trade ReviewPraise for Beverley Gordon: "I wanted to saviour every word and pace my way through, but I couldn’t put it down ... this collection is relevant and thought provoking, I laughed I smiled and I thought it was deep ... what a great little read" ~ 5 stars

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

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Book SynopsisA special hardback edition of Neil Gaiman''s internationally bestselling novel with stunning new contemporary artwork by Monet Alyssa. **Highly anticipated television adaptation of Anansi Boys coming soon to 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---Fat Charlie Nancy never knew his dead dad was a god - Anansi the trickster. He never knew he had a brother either.Now brother Spider is on his doorstep, about to make life more interesting . . . and a lot more dangerous.It''s a meeting that will take Fat Charlie from his London home to Florida, the Caribbean, and the very beginning of the world itself. Or the end of the world, depending on which way you''re looking.**Includes black and white chapter artworTrade 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 *

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of THE UNSEEING comes a sizzling, period novel of folk tales, disappearances and injustice set on the Isle of Skye, sure to appeal to readers of Hannah Kent''s BURIAL RITES or Beth Underdown''s THE WITCH FINDER''S SISTER.Longlisted for the 2018 Highland Book Prize''A wonderful combination of a thrilling mystery and a perfectly depicted period piece'' Sunday MirrorAudrey Hart is on the Isle of Skye to collect the folk and fairy tales of the people and communities around her. It is 1857 and the Highland Clearances have left devastation and poverty, and a community riven by fear. The crofters are suspicious and hostile to a stranger, claiming they no longer know their fireside stories. Then Audrey discovers the body of a young girl washed up on the beach and the crofters reveal that it is only a matter of weeks since another girl disappeared. They believe the girls are the victims of the restless dead: spirits Trade ReviewBleary-eyed this morning as I stayed up late to finish Anna Mazzola's The Story Keeper. Was it worth it? Hell yes -- James OswaldRich in character and description, this is a riveting Gothic flavoured story that is shaped by local folklore, myths and legends * Woman & Home *A twisty, atmospheric crime story * Daily Mail *An atmospheric and eerie read * Prima *Gripping Gothic thriller * BBC History Magazine *The book has the wonderfully creepy flavour of the work of Victorian suspense novelists like Sheridan Le Fanu and even some of the dark, mysterious magic of the folk stories Audrey loves * Sunday Express *Dripping in atmosphere, with powerful characters... this creepy tale of drowned maidens, shape-shifting spirits, changelings and bad fairies, casts its own powerful brand of dark magic * Sunday Mirror *Filled with narrative drive and energy * The Sunday Times *As eerie and atmospheric as it is enthralling and beautiful * Heat *Wonderfully eerie and atmospheric mystery that keeps the reader enthralled from the first page right to the very last...[Anna] weaves tales of suspense and intrigue that the story keepers in the title would be proud of * Daily Express *Chilling and atmospheric novel about the power of stories and survival * CultureFly *A chilling and refreshingly inventive Gothic novel that constantly subverts the reader's expectations -- Andrew TaylorFairies, folklore and a dose of historical realism - and one you'll want to get through in a single sitting * Image *A fierce and poignant novel, about superstitions & everything they conceal. For the last few chapters I was holding my breath... -- Beth Underdown, author of THE WITCHFINDER'S SISTERThe Story Keeper is brilliant. The imagery, the folklore, the sense of place, all of it combined is so intoxicating, creepy and compulsive. I loved it! -- Ali Land, author of GOOD ME, BAD MEA dark, mesmerising tale. This is a raw, unflinching portrait of nineteenth century Skye: brutal, bleak and beautiful. There is so much here to love - the beautiful prose, the sense of place, the exploration of the power of stories to warn and to comfort. But above all, this is a powerful, unputdownable story that had me turning the pages deep into the night. A beautiful and eerie page-turner -- Antonia Senior, author of TREASON'S DAUGHTERA beautifully written, and spellbinding story which took us back to the 19th century Isle of Skye, capturing the atmosphere, mystery - and menace - of an impoverished and divided island community, riddled with superstition and driven by fear. The raw measures taken to survive, and the beliefs held to make sense of a brutal and unforgiving landscape were woven magically into this extraordinary thriller -- Mary ChamberlainA deliciously Gothic read, Mazzola entwines sinister fairy tales with the dark side of Victorian history. Daphne Du Maurier fans will be hugging this to their chests. A compelling mystery drenched with atmosphere, The Story Keeper will sweep you away in a cloud of black birds * Laura Purcell, author THE SILENT COMPANIONS *I read The Story Keeper in a single sitting and am very glad it is still light because I have rarely encountered such a creepy and unsettling story. With echoes of The Wicker Man, the remote and desolate setting adds to the sense of threat but also gives it a timeless quality, like the folkloric stories it evokes -- Elizabeth FremantleA captivating, haunting mystery set in Skye that will keep you turning the pages through mist and sea spray. Loved this book -- Elisabeth GiffordWith The Story Keeper Anna Mazzola expertly weaves a chilling web of menace and intrigue that utterly ensnared and beguiled me. Beautifully written and compelling. I was glued to every page -- Rowan ColemanThe Story Keeper paints a beautiful but sinister picture of an isolated island community. Set against a complex and convincing historical backdrop, it is wonderfully dark, atmospheric and utterly captivating; at once a compelling tale of twisted secrets and superstitions, and a contemplation on the stories we all tell ourselves to survive -- Katherine ClementsStunning writing, steeped in folklore, brooding landscapes and whispering villagers, and a chilling mystery cloaked with a dark and creepy atmosphere -- Manda JenningsA stunningly unique tale. Intensely creepy and pulsating with atmosphere. A dark and deadly treat -- Angela ClarkeNothing is quite as it seems in this slippery Hebridean tale of a young woman's search for the truth in a shadowy world of lost rights, vanishing ritual, and hidden abuse. The Story Keeper is as provocative as it is evocative, and Anna Mazzola's enticing blend of historical record and gothic unease offers unpredictable insights into the nature of story-telling and power alike -- Lydia SysonSuch a beautiful, atmospheric book -- Sarah Day, author of MUSSOLINI'S ISLANDA hauntingly beautiful story of loss in all its forms -- Catherine HokinDarkly Gothic and soaked in atmosphere -- Rachel RhysA beautifully written, meticulously researched, atmospheric book that draws you into a brooding world of folklore and social conflict -- Adam HamdyLaced with murder, mystery and folklore. . . drenched in stormy Scottish atmosphere -- Jason HewittThe folklore of an isolated Scottish island is skilfully threaded through this chilling Victorian story of corruption and abuse. Anna Mazzola brings the landscape to vivid life -- Essie FoxAnna Mazzola is a brilliant writer and, with The Storykeeper, has crafted a Gothic mystery of superb spookiness. A novel to be savoured -- William Ryan

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Book SynopsisTo marry is madness.To escape is impossible.The Darlings of the Asylum by Noel O'Reilly grips like a vice' Nicola CornickIn 1886, a respectable young woman must acquire a husband. But Violet Pring longs to be a professional artist and live on her own terms.When she turns down a desirable marriage proposal from an eligible Brighton gentleman, her family have had enough of her independent streak. Against her wishes, they lock her away in Hillwood Grange Lunatic Asylum.Now at the mercy of the sinister Dr Rastrick, she must keep her wits about her if she has any hope of escaping.This tantalizing Gothic novel from Noel O'Reilly tells a thrilling story of duty and desire, madness and sanity, truth and delusion from within a Victorian asylum.Praise for The Darlings of the Asylum:Always engaging and readable' Sunday TimesThe narrative rattles along irresistibly all the way to its suitably gothic climax' Readers' DigestThis darkly atmospheric psychological thriller oozes menace' Women's OwnWow!Trade Review Praise for The Darlings of the Asylum: ‘Always engaging and readable’ Sunday Times ‘The narrative rattles along irresistibly all the way to its suitably gothic climax’ Readers’ Digest ‘This darkly atmospheric psychological thriller oozes menace’ Women’s Own ‘Wow! I have been on the edge of my seat with this one! The Darlings of the Asylum… grips like a vice. I was totally invested in Violet's struggle in this chilling Gothic novel’ Nicola Cornick, author of The Winter Garden ‘Gripping’ Alison Stockham, author of The Cuckoo Sister Praise for Noel O’Reilly: ‘Written with a blazing energy and a Gothic edge’ Daily Mail ‘Full of secrets, suspicions and rumour’ Woman & Home ‘Perfect prose, a fast-paced, intricate plot’ My Weekly ‘A gripping historical tale … I loved it’ Liz Fenwick, author of The River Between Us ‘Noel O’Reilly’s lyrical writing brilliantly evokes the struggles of life in such a dramatic setting, as well as the hypocrisy and jealousy of society’ Sunday Express ‘With echoes of Du Maurier… a tangled web of fallen faiths, of sins, seductions and deceits’ Essie Fox, author of The Last Days of Leda Grey

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Book SynopsisThe Shah Nameh (The Book of Kings), The Rubaiyat, The Divan, and The Gulistan (The Flower Garden) are amongst the greatest works of Persia, containing some of the most beautiful, rich and diverse language in the literary world. They rival Dante's Divine Comedy, India's Mahabharata, Sumeria's Epic of Gilgamesh and China's Dream of Red Mansions in their cultural impact, bringing to life the tales, myths and philosophy of ancient and high-medieval Persia. A fabulous concoction of verse and prose, these classical Persian texts offer stories of creation, love, conquest and the simple joy of life. 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 SynopsisThe Myths of Ancient Egypt are tied intimately to the presence and natural rhythms of the Nile. With their inventive 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 of classic tales 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 451: From mystery to crime, supernatural to horror and myth, fantasy and science fiction, Flame Tree 451 offers a healthy diet of werewolves and mechanical men, blood-lusty vampires, dastardly villains, mad scientists, secret worlds, lost civilizations and escapist fantasies. Discover a storehouse of tales gathered specifically for the reader of the fantastic.

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Book SynopsisTroll Bridge, a tale from the mind of Sunday Times bestselling writer Neil Gaiman, has been beautifully adapted for the first time by Eisner Award-winning writer/artist Colleen Doran. This striking graphic novel will delight fans of Alan Moore, Dave McKean and beyond. Young Jack''s world is full of ghosts and ghouls, but one monster - a ravenous and hideous troll - haunts him long into manhood. As the beast sups upon a lifetime of Jack''s fear and regret, Jack must find the courage within himself to face the fiend once and for all.Trade ReviewA rich imagination...and an ability to tackle large themesA quirky delightFunny, scary and perverse by turns - Time Out on SMOKE AND MIRRORS

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Book Synopsis'Charming lessons in life, death and kindness . . . Hugely moving' ObserverThis is the story of Mary, a young girl born in a beautiful city full of rose gardens and fluttering kites. When she is still very small, Mary meets Lanmo, a shining golden snake, who becomes her very best friend.The snake visits Mary many times, he sees her grow and her city change, as bombs drop and war creeps in. Lanmo wonders, can having a friend possibly be worth the pain of knowing you will lose them?Trade ReviewIncredibly moving, yet joyful. It made me cry * * Guardian * *Charming lessons in life, death and kindness . . . This heartwarming fable is a reassuring read for anyone, young or old, coming to terms with mortality . . . Hugely moving * * Observer * *After entering Kennedy's world, it's hard to find a way out . . . In The Little Snake, the swift emotional slippages click along, one after another, sentence after sentence, like an intricate concatenation of rainbow-bright dominoes. Funny, surprising and unexpected . . . Kennedy's prose - like the endlessly unreeling speculations of her most interesting characters - is simultaneously logical and illogical, sad and funny, simple and profound, turning over and over in endless permutations, like an elegant small snake wrestling against the constraints of its own shiny and menacing skin * * New York Times * *Teaches its protagonists lessons about cruelty, mortality and above all, love . . . [An] enchanting modern fairy tale . . . A fable for our time . . . Kennedy's humour and lightness of touch serves to underscore her serious intent: an urgent reminder of the small and great things that actually give life its meaning * * Financial Times * *A miniature fable . . . In this bitter age of broken borders, this timely, timeless story's large helping of sugar is not unwelcome * * Sunday Times * *As for brave, kind heroines, you can't do better than A.L. Kennedy's The Little Snake, about a girl who one day finds a handsome, vain snake wrapped round her ankle. It brings death, but they become friends. A lovely story, and good for readers of any age * * Spectator * *An homage to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's The Little Prince, this fairytale novella is a simple but sumptuous read * * The Telegraph * *A beautiful, deceptively-simple read that delves into the human condition . . . Gorgeous turn of phrase . . . The result is a brief read that is poetic, life-affirming and saddening - and you don't want the end to come * * Herald * *Playful . . . sweet, sad but always a hairsbreadth away from whimsy, it's told in a soothing tone that, for better or worse, makes you feel as if you're sitting cross-legged on a classroom carpet * * Daily Mail * *Kennedy offers a gentle, clear-sighted and deeply moving commentary on what humanity really means * * Scotsman * *

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Book SynopsisA darkly scattered fable told with beauty, magic, love but also heart-wrenching realism Fans of The Familiars and The Binding will love this' MY WEEKLYIt's fabulous, we should all have copies' Simon Mayo, Scala RadioA glorious love story, a spellbinding fable' Adele ParksWomen imprisoned by superstition, chained by guilt.Perched on a mountain in a land of ancient forests is a village, rife with secrets. Cut off from the outside world it is run by the elders, men to whom tradition is all.Edith lives alone with her alcoholic father who is forcing her to marry the village butcher. But she is in love with a shepherd who promised to return to her.As the village becomes isolated in a sea of snow, Edith loses her power of speech. And it is this enchantment that will have far-reaching consequences, not only for Edith but for the whole village.An enchanting and timeless feminist fable' Mail on SundayA gorgeous love story with more than a touch of magical realism' IndependentTrade Review‘A richly spun folk tale of fellowship and insurgence … an enchanting and timeless feminist fable’ Mail on Sunday ‘A glorious love story, a spellbinding fable’ Adele Parks, Platinum ‘A riveting fairy tale for adults, weaving magic among harsh inequality and prejudice, but at the same time a powerfully descriptive tale of resilience and hope – tissues at the ready…’ Candis ‘A darkly scattered fable told with beauty, magic, love but also heart-wrenching realism … Fans of The Familiars and The Binding will love this’ My Weekly ‘A gorgeous love story … with more than a touch of magical realism’ Independent ‘A beautiful, haunting book … an atmospheric tale that will stay with you long after the pages are closed’ SFX ‘A truly enchanting fairy tale that pulled me into another world and kept me there long after reading the last word. An utterly bewitching story about the strength and power of women and their voices’ Jessica Ryn ‘I loved this thought-provoking fable. A story of love, courage and rebellion, perfect for book groups’ Anita Frank Praise for Sally Gardner: ‘An imaginative novel with a vivid backstage world of intrigue and romance … Original and rich' Sunday Times Book of the Week. ‘With shades of Sarah Waters … irresistable’ Guardian ‘Arresting and original and written in a singular voice’ Telegraph ‘This heartbreaking, brilliantly written novel is the most original publication for years’ The Times 'The prize-winning Gardner is [a] dab hand at literary world-creation' Observer ‘Beautiful, twisted and dark. A masterpiece’ Big Issue ‘With elements of magical realism, plenty of sexy scenes, and a good dollop of drama, this is one hell of a read’ Sun ‘This is an inspirational piece of writing’ New Statesman ‘A truly original voice … a thrilling read’ Spectator

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Book SynopsisTricksters and animals play an important role in West African folklore with stories that entertain but serve a moral purpose. Traditions and local tales revel in the antics of these characters: from Nigeria to Benin, from the cunning spider god Anansi to the equally crafty Tortoise, animals teach humans to farm, to love, to survive and thrive, and offer inspiration for moral purpose. This collection gathers these vital animal stories alongside tales of origin, life, death and human folly. FLAME TREE 451: From mystery to crime, supernatural to horror and myth, fantasy and science fiction, Flame Tree 451 offers a healthy diet of werewolves and robots, mad scientists, secret worlds, lost civilizations and escapist fantasies. Discover a storehouse of tales, ancient and modern gathered specifically for the reader of the fantastic.

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Book SynopsisThis book is your ultimate guide to Japan's scariest creatures!Yokai come in every imaginable shape and form—from frightening ghosts and cruel demons to cute fairies and enchanted animals. They can be evil monsters, harmless tricksters or prophets of doom, depending on their inclination.This book profiles 100 of the most fascinating Yokai, including: Tengu: A powerful Yokai that often takes human form with wings and a large nose who lives in mountains and forests Kappa: A deadly Yokai that lives near rivers and drags passersby into the water to drown Peroritaro: A grotesque Yokai that looks like blubbering child and has an appetite for greedy children Baku: A monstrous Yokai with an elephant's head, a bear's body, a rhino's eyes, an ox's tail and a tiger's legs that aids humans by devouring their nightmares And many more! Yokai expert Masami Kinoshita has been documenting Yokai in folklore, and in real life, for many years. This book presents her most interesting findings and has over 175 full-color illustrations that vividly depict the appearances of these weird creatures. No matter their origins, each Yokai has a strange and wonderful story that is sure to amaze you!Trade Review**Featured in ComicsBeat.com list of "45 Best Manga of Fall 2023""Impressively illustrated, exceptionally informative, thoroughly 'reader friendly'" —Midwest Book Review

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Book SynopsisMultimillion-copy bestselling author Gregory Maguire brings us the enchanting second novel in the series Another Day, returning to the world he first created in Wicked.The Oracle of Maracoor, the second in the trilogy called Another Day, continues the story of Elphaba’s green-skinned granddaughter, Rain.Trade Review“Rain’s story—begun in The Brides of Maracoor and finished, last month, in The Witch of Maracoor—felt like a gift. . . . The series is odd and dreamy, amnesiac and inventive, and full of what Maguire calls ephrarxis, which he defines as ‘nostalgia for something that had never been.’” — Tor.com “Gregory Maguire once again has created an awe-inspiring work of fantasy that takes on the Oz stories and improves on them through expansion of new characters, places and ideas. It all makes for an engaging read and welcome time spent in a place that feels simultaneously strange and eerily familiar.” — BookReporter on The Oracle of Maracoor “A decade after she flew Out of Oz in Maguire’s Wicked series, Elphaba’s granddaughter crash-lands on an island inhabited by seven sacrificial virgins. The arrival of the green-skinned teen (and her talking goose) upends their enclave. An exquisitely crafted introduction to a new fantasy trilogy.” — People on The Brides of Maracoor “Fans will look forward to reading more about the interaction of Oz, Rain and the strange society of Maracoor.” — Wall Street Journal on The Brides of Maracoor “Wonderful attention to detail. . . . [Maguire] does excellent character work. . . . The larger world of Maracoor Abiding . . . has echoes of Greek mythology and looks to be fertile ground as a setting for more books. An expertly crafted introduction to a new series of magic and adventure.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) on The Brides of Maracoor “The Brides of Maracoor once again shows Maguire’s rich, mesmerizing world building, full of small, frustrating human absurdities. . . . It also shows off his gift for crafting compelling characters. . . . It’s an intriguing, witty start to a fantastical proposed trilogy.” — Booklist “With its rich character development and a healthy dash of Maguire’s humor, this latest Oz tale is as satisfying a read as the Wicked Years quartet.” — Buzzfeed on The Brides of Maracoor “[A] complex, enticing fantasy. . . . Maguire cleverly teases out the characters’ motivation and desires, turning what at first appears to be a straightforward tale into a gripping page-turner. Fans will revel in this triumphant return to the world of Wicked.” — Publishers Weekly on The Brides of Maracoor

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Book Synopsis''One of those rare nights in the theatre when some strange alchemy takes place in the dark and as a shiver runs down your spine and a bubble of laughter rises in your throat, you remember why theatre really matters and can be such a transforming experience.'' GuardianIncludes the following dramatisations/stories:Blue BeardThe Husband Who Was to Mind the HouseThe Three WishesBeauty and the BeastThe Emperor''s New ClothesToby and the WolfThe Juniper TreeThe Girl and the North WindBeasts and Beauties premiered at the Bristol Old Vic in April 2004.

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Book SynopsisThe first in an epic trilogy charting the legend of Merlin.The legend begins...In the town of Segontium, a fugitive is washed ashore. He brutally rapes the granddaughter of the king of the Deceangli tribe, leaving her to bear his son, Myrddion Merlinus. Spurned as a demon seed, the boy is raised by his grandmother and he is apprenticed to a skilled healer who hones his remarkable gift. Meanwhile, the High King of the Celts, Vortigern, is rebuilding the ancient fortress at Dinas Emrys. According to a prophecy, he must use the blood of a demon seed to make the towers stand firm. Myrddion''s life is in jeopardy. But the boy has a prophecy of his own and a richer destiny to fulfil. Soon Vortigern shall be known as the harbinger of chaos, and Myrddion must use his gifts for good in a kingdom besieged by evil. So begins the healer''s journey to greatness...Trade ReviewPraise for M. K. Hume's Arthurian trilogy: 'Historical fiction of the most bloodthirsty and roistering kind * Australian Bookseller & Publishers Magazine *Exciting, violent and bloody... Up there with Conn Iggulden and Bernard Cornwell * www.lovereading.co.uk *

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Book SynopsisAri, Merlin and her Rainbow knights must pull off a heist thousands of years in the past – to save humanity’s future. The battle against the tyrannical Mercer corporation may have been won, but the war has only just begun. Now Ari and her cursed wizard Merlin must travel back in time to the unenlightened Middle Ages and steal King Arthur’s Grail – the very definition of impossible. But the time travellers have to tread carefully. If they come face-to-face with the original Arthurian legend, it could produce a ripple effect that changes the course of history. It’s a risky game where the past can be even more dangerous than the future.Trade Review'Empowering and boisterously modern.' * Booklist *Praise for Once and Future: ‘When I read Once and Future, a bold unexpected re-telling of King Arthur as an immigrant teenage girl, I knew it had all the same thrilling elements that would make the legend…a modern favourite once again.’ James Patterson ‘The inclusive, gender-bent King Arthur retelling that your bookshelf has been missing... An adventure of epic scale.’ B & N Teen Blog ‘A marvelous mythology remix for teens who enjoy action-packed speculative fiction and genderqueer romance.’ Publishers Weekly (starred review) ‘All hail this worthier-than-ever, fresh and affirming reincarnation of the legendary king and her round table of knights, which dazzles with heroic flair, humour and suspense.’ Kirkus (starred review)

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