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Books > Fiction > Genre fiction > Adventure / thriller > Historical adventure
Set in an era of brutal conflict and turmoil, this epic adventure
is the first novel to tell the full story of the slave who became a
saint, of the man who rose to the challenge of his time and changed
the course of history. In the summer of 405AD, Irish raiders attack
the western coast of Wales, carving a fiery swathe through the
peaceful countryside. Among the survivors who are rounded up and
taken back to Ireland is Succat: an impulsive sixteen-year-old son
of a powerful Roman family. Succat is sold as a slave and put to
work tending sheep. Repeated escape attempts lead to ever more
brutal and savage beatings, until he comes to the attention of
Cormac, a young novice druid. The two strike up an unlikely
friendship and, as Succat learns the ways of the Irish people, he
is given a new name by the druid: Patrick. With a new name begins
Patrick's new life: he is married, and returns to his home to claim
his inheritance, only to find his father's estate in ruins. So
begins a calamitous journey that will lead him to Tours, see him
join the Roman Legion as a soldier, suffer the the horrors of a
plague-filled Rome; and thence back to Ireland, where he will
embark on a mission for which his name will be remembered
throughout history. In the spirit of Bernard Cornwell's Arthurian
cycle, Patrick is a gritty and unsentimental portrait of one of the
Western world's great icons, featuring an accurate and compelling
rendering of the historical period - an era full of brutal
conflict, adventure, turmoil, and visionary inspiration.
Tumanbay: Once the most magnificent city on earth - now the dark
heart of an empire which lies in ruins. Occupied by the fanatical
forces of the mysterious cult of Maya, corpses hang from the
gallows, and citizens are flogged for next to nothing. Barakat,
leader of the Inquisition, leads the purge. Gregor, former
spymaster to the Sultan, lives in fear. Madu, heir to the throne,
is opiated and installed as a puppet ruler. And Qulan, the great
general, rots in prison. But the history of Tumanbay shows that
those who can rise to power can just as easily fall. And there are
whispers of rebellion, of a reckoning - as well as rumblings of
plague on the horizon...
Their revolution would ignite a continent... An epic novel set
during one of the most savage and dramatic moments in European
history. Greece, 1824 In the wild south, the people of the Mani
have risen up against four hundred years of Ottoman rule. But
initial triumph leads to bitter feuding among the Greek victors and
the Sultan sends his vassal, Ibrahim Pasha of Egypt, to invade.
Burning everything in his path, he is on the point of victory. Only
the intervention of the Great Powers of France, Russia and Britain
can save Greece. Hara, young daughter of a Maniot chief, is the
fearless symbol of her people's spirit. When she rescues Greek
Prince Tzanis from a shipwreck, on his way to deliver secret gold
for the revolution, they fall in love but are forced apart by
events. Yet a shared resolve to wreak vengeance on Turkish rule
unites them again, and their heroism and sacrifice will ultimately
inspire an unlikely band of men and women to join them in rescuing
Greece. Will their plan to involve the Great Powers succeed before
Greece is destroyed by fire? 'Wonderful history, adventure and a
heart-breaking love story are brought thrillingly to life' - Kate
Mosse
Titus Llewellyn-Gwlynne, actor/manager of the Red Lion Theatre, has
lost a backer who was going to fund a theatrical tour - when
unexpected salvation appears. Their home theatre in the East End of
London having been bombed during the war, The Red Lion Touring
Company embarks on a tour of Britain to take a play written by
their new benefactress into the provinces. As they make their
vagabond, singing way, they remain unaware that they leave behind
in London a man consumed with thoughts of revenge. Revenge which
follows them obsessively from town to town, ending in its final act
before the last curtain. This charming series transports the reader
to a lost post-war world of touring rep theatre and once-grand
people who have fallen on harder times, smoggy streets, and shared
bonhomie over a steaming kettle. What readers are saying about LOVE
AND MISS HARRIS 'A cast of wonderful characters brings this story
of life and love, and all the troubles that brings with it to
magical fruition in this wonderful story. I highly recommend this
to anyone who likes stories that engage and entertain.' 'The
writing is smart and witty. The author describes details including
scenery, clothing and food beautifully... makes me want to be
amongst the beauty again.' 'A very pleasant and interesting story
about days gone by.'
Uncle Tom's Cabin brought the evils of slavery to the hearts and
minds of the American people by its moving portrayal of slave
experience. Part of the Macmillan Collector's Library; a series of
stunning, clothbound, pocket sized classics with gold foiled edges
and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a
treat for any book lover. This edition has an afterword by Pat
Righelato. Harriet Beecher Stowe shows us, in scenes of great
dramatic power, the human effects of a system in which slaves were
property. When a Kentucky farmer falls on hard times he is forced
to sell his slaves, and among them is Uncle Tom, who's bought by a
brutal plantation owner. The novel describes the horror of
plantation labour and Tom's fight for his freedom and his life. A
rallying cry to end slavery in America and one of the most
influential American novels, Uncle Tom's Cabin remains, to this
day, controversial and abrasive in its demand for change.
You can't turn your back on RomeIn the bloodied mountains of
Pannonia, the Roman army struggles to put down a brutal rebellion.
Corvus is now the standard bearer of the Eighth Legion, which has
borne the brunt of the fighting. The famed soldier has lost one
comrade after another, and now his oldest friend, Marcus, has
betrayed him, shaking him to his core. Sick of the conflict, Corvus
deserts his legion and rides for home to end his days in peace. But
there is no escaping Rome, or its vengeance. Corvus might want a
simple life, but when tragedy strikes, he is hauled back into the
savage war. And this time, he won't be fighting on the Roman
side... The compelling second novel in the Raven and the Eagle
series, perfect for fans of Ben Kane and Simon Scarrow. Praise for
Geraint Jones'Blood and guts, but also a clever exploration of the
moral ambiguity of war and loyalty to a flag' Mail on Sunday
'Brutal, audacious, and fast paced' Anthony Riches, author of the
Empire series. 'Historical fiction written by a real war veteran
who knows all there is to know about blood and bonding in battle'
Weekend Sport
'In Stockwin's hands the sea story will continue to entrance
readers across the world' - Guardian 1808. With the Peninsula in
turmoil, Napoleon Bonaparte signs a treaty to dismember Portugal
and put his brother, Joseph, on the throne of Spain. Meanwhile,
Nicholas Renzi, the Lord Farndon, undertakes a deadly mission to
stir up partisan unrest to disrupt this Napoleonic alliance with
Spain. Thrust into the crucible of the uprising, Captain Sir Thomas
Kydd is dismayed to come up against an old foe from his past - now
his superior and commander - who is determined to break him. Kydd
will soon face the greatest decision of his professional career.
Bonaparte, incensed by the reverses suffered to his honour, gathers
together a crushing force and marches at speed into Spain. After
several bloody encounters the greatly outnumbered British
expedition have no option other than make a fighting retreat to the
coast. Only the Navy can save them. But the flame of insurrection
has been lit - and the Peninsular War has begun. More Praise for
Julian Stockwin and the Thomas Kydd Series 'Paints a vivid picture
of life aboard the mighty ship-of-the-line' Daily Express 'This
heady adventure blends fact and fiction in rich, authoritative
detail' Nautical Magazine on VICTORY 'Fans of fast-paced adventure
will get their fill with this book' Historical Naval Society on THE
ADMIRAL'S DAUGHTER
PART ONE OF THE TROY QUARTET Bringing ancient myth to life with
passion, humour, and humanity, Lindsay Clarke vividly retells the
story of Troy and of the heroes who fought there. When the mortal
Paris settles a contest between the gods, he is promised the love
of Helen, the most beautiful woman in the world. But Helen is
already married, to the powerful Menelaus of Sparta, and the kings
of many cities have sworn to defend their union. Paris's divine
gift threatens to set his world aflame. 'An engaging retelling of
the whole story, neatly blending mythic archaism with modern
psychodrama and satire' Mary Beard 1 - A PRINCE OF TROY 2 - THE WAR
AT TROY 3 - THE SPOILS OF TROY 4 - THE RETURN FROM TROY
The Roman Empire, AD 108. When emperor Trajan sets sail for his
province of Egypt, his mind is on sightseeing and the acquisition
of art and antiques to adorn the city of Rome. Little does he
imagine that he is heading toward his own potential doom...Deep in
the western desert, a sinister cult plans to return Egypt to its
past glory, and Rome and its empire stand in the way...Traveling
with Trajan are lovers Quintus and Rufio, along with his mother
Junilla and younger brother Cato. Together, they encounter fabled
wonders of the past, the quirks and threats of the natives both
human and animal--and repeated attempts to assassinate the
emperor...Amid the dangers, exotic erotic encounters keep Rufio and
Quintus busy even as they strive to avert the disastrous wrath of
the god Seth.
DARK TIDE RISING is the 24th compelling mystery in the William Monk
series, from the master of Victorian crime, New York Times
bestselling author Anne Perry. 'Anne Perry's Victorian mysteries
are marvels of plot construction...truly remarkable' New York
Times. When Kate Exeter is kidnapped on the shore of the Thames,
Commander William Monk is enlisted by her desperate husband to save
her. Kate's captors are demanding a ransom for her safe return and
Monk and his most trusted men must arrange a secret handover in the
dark slums of Jacob's Island. But on the night someone betrays them
and a brutal skirmish breaks out, leaving death and destruction in
its wake . . . Who is to blame for what went wrong? Monk senses
tensions mount and no one knows who to trust. Then a whistle blower
claims that the ransom money was embezzled funds that incriminate
Kate's husband, and the case takes on a whole new meaning...
Inspired by true events... 'Moving and authentic' Dinah Jefferies
'Vivid, heart-rending and so, so beautiful' Jenny Ashcroft 'A
beautiful, tender and fascinating story' Sinead Moriarty 'Deeply
moving. Be prepared - have handkerchiefs on standby at the end'
Antonia Senior, The Times 'An inspiring novel about the power of
determination, courage and unity' Woman's Own China, 1941. With
Japan's declaration of war on the Allies, Elspeth Kent's future
changes forever. When soldiers take control of the missionary
school where she teaches, comfortable security is replaced by
rationing, uncertainty and fear. Ten-year-old Nancy Plummer has
always felt safe at Chefoo School. Now the enemy, separated
indefinitely from anxious parents, the children must turn to their
teachers - to Miss Keny and her new Girl Guide patrol especially -
for help. But worse is to come when the pupils and teachers are
sent to a distant internment camp. Unimaginable hardship,
impossible choices and danger lie ahead. Inspired by true events,
this is the unforgettable story of the life-changing bonds formed
between a young girl and her teacher, in a remote corner of a
terrible war. Shortlisted for the Irish Book Awards for Popular
Fiction Book of the Year USA Today bestseller Published in the USA
and Canada under the title When We Were Young and Brave.
A mighty warrior A faithful friend An immortal love As Arthur
forges a union in Britain, across the sea a royal son is denied his
birthright. The Romans are gone and war is coming to Gaul. In an
age of cruelty and barbarism, Lancelot - known as Clothar - has
been raised to champion justice and righteousness, but as his
boyhood world in Gaul disintegrates, he seeks sanctuary in a new
home: Britain. There he finds Arthur Pendragon, newly crowned High
King, who, dreams, like Clothar himself, of living in a better
world. The friendship of these men, and the love they share for a
woman, will grow into Britain's most enduring legend. Discover the
most authentic telling of the Arthurian legend ever written
The Vinland Viking Saga: Book 1 History set her fate in stone...
Murderer. Mercenary. Temptress. Trickster. Traitor. Thief. But
under a hammer that falls like thunder, stone will always shatter.
So with her voice she lights the forge. The Voyage of Freydis sings
the silenced tale of Freydis Eiriksdottir, the first and only woman
to lead a Viking voyage across the Atlantic in this tempestuous
retelling of an ancient Icelandic saga set at the dawn of the 11th
century. Content notice: spousal abuse. Praise for The Voyage of
Freydis: 'Anyone who loves Vikings and historical fiction
definitely should pick up this book' Emily, NetGalley reviewer
'Very lyrically written, I felt as if I was reading a song'
Tiffany, NetGalley reviewer 'As a lover of mythology and historical
fiction I knew immediately I was going to like this book - and I'm
pleased to say I not only liked it but I LOVED it!' Libby,
NetGalley reviewer 'Tamara Goranson's writing really shines here. I
felt the cold, heard the wind, flinched with the blows - that takes
a lot of skill' Dawn, NetGalley reviewer 'Took me on a
rollercoaster of emotions' Charlotte, NetGalley reviewer
Scandal, murder and treason... Athelstan and Cranston are back with
a bang.Winter, 1379. French privateers are attacking the southern
coast and threaten London itself, the very heart of the nation. The
situation becomes dire when an English flotilla of warships, with
the colossal God's Bright Light among them, drops anchor in the
Thames; during the first night, the entire watch of the ship
disappears without a trace. The series of murderous and strange
incidents leads to Sir John and Brother Athelstan being summoned to
resolve the mysteries on board the ill-omened warship. Their
investigations uncover some shocking truths - and they find
themselves in the thick of a bloody battle on the Thames. A
gripping and suspenseful historical mystery with plenty of action,
perfect for fans of Michael Jecks, S. G. MacLean and Susanna
Gregory.
Death at the Carnival: riddle, ritual and murder Shrove Tuesday,
1783. While the nobility dance at a masked ball, beautiful Lady
Martesen is murdered. Daniel Clode is found by her body, his wrists
slit and his memories nightmarish. What has he done? Harriet
Westerman and Gabriel Crowther race to the Duchy of Maulberg to
save Daniel from the executioner's axe. There they find a
capricious Duke on the point of marriage, a court consumed by
luxury and intrigue, and a bitter enemy from the past. After
another cruel death, they must discover the truth, no matter how
horrific it is. Does the answer lie with the alchemist seeking the
elixir of life? With the automata makers in the Duke's fake rural
idyll? Or in the poisonous lies oozing around the court as the
elite strive for power?
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The Backstabbers
(Paperback)
William W Johnstone, J. A Johnstone
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R195
R185
Discovery Miles 1 850
Save R10 (5%)
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'Paints a vivid picture of life aboard the mighty ship-of-the-line'
- Daily Express Napoleon's forces are poised to invade Britain, and
Commander Thomas Kydd's ship is at the forefront of the fleet
defending the English coast. His honour restored after temporary
disgrace in the Channel Islands, and reunited with his ship Teazer,
Kydd seizes the chance to fight for his country. Then Kydd is
abruptly withdrawn from the fleet and sent back to Dover on a
secret mission to guard a mysterious American inventor. Having
worked his way up from press-ganged seaman to captain of his own
ship, Kydd is furious to find he will miss his opportunity to prove
himself in battle. And Kydd's baffled superiors are equally angry
to lose Kydd and his ship at such a dangerous time. Yet Kydd's role
in the approaching war may be the most crucial part he has ever
played. ********************* What readers are saying about
INVASION 'Excellent in all respects' - 5 stars 'Very compelling
reading!' - 5 stars 'I read ALL of the books by Julian Stockwin, he
is an amazing author' - 5 stars 'Yet another top-notch tale from
the grand master of the age of fighting sail' - 5 stars 'Julian
Stockwin knows his craft . . . I lose myself in his books' - 5
stars
Life is sweet for Flavia Albia and her soon-to-be husband Faustus.
But his new job as a building contractor runs into a problem: At
the Garden of the Hesperides a barmaid went missing years before;
now the workmen start unearthing her bones. Albia takes on the task
of finding out what happened. Five more skeletons are discovered.
Despite the fact that nobody seems to know or care who died,
violent attempts are made to stop her enquiries. Soon Albia is
exploring the world of Roman streetlife, where bars are brothels,
workers lead brutal lives, foreigners are muscling in on the
gambling syndicates, and extortion is commonplace. What's more
there's little time to solve the mystery before the wedding day
when Albia is expected to show Rome that her affair with Manlius is
a much more than a casual fling. The gods, however, have other
ideas...
PART TWO OF THE TROY QUARTET Bringing ancient myth to life with
passion, humour, and humanity, Lindsay Clarke vividly retells the
story of Troy and of the heroes who fought there. Enraged by the
betrayal of Helen and Paris, Menelaus and his brother, the High
King Agamemnon, gather their allies and set out to conquer the city
of Troy. Aboard their ships and behind the city's walls are figures
whose names and deeds echo through history - the wily strategist
Odysseus, the Trojan champion Hector, and the fiercely proud,
impetuous warrior Achilles. 'An engaging retelling of the whole
story, neatly blending mythic archaism with modern psychodrama and
satire' Mary Beard 1 - A PRINCE OF TROY 2 - THE WAR AT TROY 3 - THE
SPOILS OF TROY 4 - THE RETURN FROM TROY
'In Stockwin's hands the sea story will continue to entrance
readers across the world' - Guardian Thomas Kydd has dragged
himself up in the navy from press-ganged seaman to captain of his
own ship. Now he faces disgrace. After losing favour with his
superiors, and suffering terrible personal tragedy, Kydd and his
ship are sent to guard the Channel Islands from Napoleon's forces.
When he is brutally betrayed off the Normandy Coast and removed
from command, only his old friend Renzi is willing to stick by him.
Kydd is determined to clear his name, but soon finds himself
fighting yet another battle he seems to have no chance of winning.
Can he defeat his enemies on both sides, and win back the glory
taken from him? ************* What readers are saying about
TREACHERY 'Another enthralling story of our hero' - 5 stars 'I'm a
fan for life' - 5 stars 'Stockwin does it once again! A spell is
cast over the reader to haul them into the world of Thomas Kydd' -
5 stars 'Excellent in all respects' - 5 stars 'A thrilling read, as
usual' - 5 stars
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