A. Igoni Barrett was born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, in 1979 and lives in Lagos. He is a winner of the 2005 BBC World Service short story competition, the recipient of a Chinua Achebe Center Fellowship, a Norman Mailer Center Fellowship, and a Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Center Residency. His short story collection, Love is Power, or Something Like That, was published in 2013. In 2014 he was named on the Africa39 list of sub-Saharan African writers under 40. Blackass is his first novel.

A. Igoni Barrett

The short life of A.J.A. Symons (1900-41) was described by his biographer as an intricate and largely harmless confidence trick. His many interests included the collection of musical boxes and rare books as well as the study and practice of forgery; they left him time to edit an anthology of Edwardian verse and compose studies of H.M. Stanley and other notable figures. He is remembered for The Quest for Corvo, one of the most remarkable biographies ever written, and for co-founding the Wine and Food Society.

A. J. A. Symons

A. J. Liebling, born in Manhattan in 1904, joined the staff of the New Yorker in 1935 and contributed innumerable articles to the magazine throughout his lifetime, on subjects ranging from food to boxing and France to horse racing. As a war correspondent during the Second World War, he reported from France, England and Algeria, and participated in the Normandy landings. In later life he married the writer Jean Stafford, his third wife. He died in 1963.

A. J. Liebling

A. J. Rosen is an author of YA fantasy novels and is an ambassador for Wattpad, known as @agatharoza. Entwined is her first novel.

A. J. Rosen

A. K. Davidson

A. O. Scott has been a film critic at the New York Times since 2000. His writing has appeared in many other publications, including the New York Review of Books, Slate, the New Yorker and the Nation. A finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in criticism in 2010, Scott is currently Distinguished Professor of Film Criticism at Wesleyan University. He lives with his family in Brooklyn, New York. 
 
@aoscott

A. O. Scott

A.S. Byatt (1936-2023) was a novelist, short-story writer and critic of international renown. Her novels include Possession (winner of the Booker Prize 1990), the Frederica Quartet and The Children’s Book, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize and won the James Tait Black Memorial Prize for Fiction. She was appointed CBE in 1990 and DBE in 1999, and was awarded the Erasmus Prize 2016 for her ‘inspiring contribution to life writing’ and the Pak Kyongni Prize 2017. In 2018 she received the Hans Christian Andersen Literature Award.

A. S. Byatt

A. T. Williams won the George Orwell Prize for Political Writing in 2013 for his book A Very British Killing: The Death of Baha Mousa. He lives in Warwickshire.

A. T. Williams

A. W. Chase

Dubbed ‘The new queen of spy fiction’ by the Guardian newspaper, and ‘the real thing’ by the Washington Post, A.C. 'Ava' Glass is the CWA Dagger-shortlisted author of Alias Emma (The Chase), The Traitor and The Trap. The Traitor was a 2023 Richard and Judy Bookclub pick. Alias Emma was a Barnes and Noble book of the month. A former crime reporter and communications consultant, for five years Ava worked closely with spies. Her time in that world fascinated her, and the people she met back then inspire every book she writes.

A.C. Glass

A.E. Housman

Arthur Edward Waite was the designer and co-creator of the now famous Rider Waite Tarot deck. 
 
An American-born British poet and scholarly mystic, his strong interest in all esoteric matters - divination, magic, Kabbalism, alchemy and Freemasony - led to him penning a number of books. These include the Key to the Tarot, The Book of Ceremonial Magic and A New Encyclopedia of Freemasony.

A.E. Waite

A.E. Warren is the author of the Tomorrow's Ancestors series, which consists of Subject Twenty-One, The Hidden Base, The Fourth Species and The Final Rising. 
 
After spending eight years working as a lawyer, she began to write in the evenings and early mornings as a form of escapism from life in a very small cubicle with lots of files. She self-published her first novels in her spare time, which were picked up by Del Rey UK which is the science fiction/fantasy imprint of Penguin Random House. 
 
 She is an avid reader, occasional gamer and fair-weather runner. She lives in the UK with her husband, daughter and hopefully, one day, a wise border terrier named Austen.

A.E. Warren

A.G.D. Maran

A.J. Ayer

A.J. Cronin

A K Benedict writes crime and speculative fiction in a room filled with clowns, mannequins and Doctor Who figures. Her first novel, The Beauty of Murder, was nominated for an eDunnit award and is in development for a major 8-part TV series by Company Pictures. Her second, Jonathan Dark or The Evidence of Ghosts, came out in February 2016. She's written Torchwood audio dramas for Big Finish and her short stories have featured in anthologies including Great British Horror and Best British Short Stories. She lives in St Leonards-on-Sea with her dog, Dame Margaret Rutherford.

A.K.Benedict

A. L. Kennedy has twice been selected as one of Granta’s Best of Young British Novelists and has won a host of other awards – including the Costa Book of the Year for her novel Day. She lives in Essex.

A.L. Kennedy

A.M. Ellis is a speculative fiction author and lover of everything steeped in myth and mystery. Her stories often lean into diverse voices, not only in her identity as a Black woman, but in exploring neurodivergence and mental health. A proud introvert and nostalgic gamer, she lives in Maryland, USA, with her husband and three children.

A.M. Ellis

A.N. Wilson was born in 1950 and educated at Rugby and New College, Oxford. A Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, he holds a prominent position in the world of literature and journalism. He is an award-winning biographer and a celebrated novelist, winning prizes for much of his work. He lives in North London.

A.N. Wilson

A. T. Emerald lives with her husband and baby daughter in Nottinghamshire. She discovered her love of writing in 2020 and has not shut up about enemies to lovers ever since. She loves iced matcha, torrid love confessions with knives pressed to throats (fictional, of course) and does not accept bills for any therapy her books might incur.

A.T. Emerald

A.W. Priest

A.B.C. Merriman-Labor was a barrister, writer and munitions worker born in Freetown, Sierra Leone in 1877. His published works include A Series of Lectures on the Negro Race and The Story of the African Slave in a Nutshell. He also edited two editions of the Handbook of Sierra Leone. He arrived in the UK in 1904 to study law. In 1907, he organised a centenary commemoration of the abolition of the slave trade in Westminster Abbey. He later embarked on an 'entertainment-lecture' tour called Life and Scenes in Britain, travelling across thousands of miles of West, South West and Central Africa, which he expanded on to create Britons Through Negro Spectacles.

ABC Merriman-Labor

AJ Cronin

AJ Molloy

Aabria Iyengar is an American actress and author.

Aabria Iyengar

Aaliya Jaleel is a freelance illustrator, designer, and visual development artist, currently majoring in Animation at the University of Texas at Dallas. She is also the illustrator of Under My Hijab and Muslim Girls Rise. You can visit her online at www.aaliyamj.com.

Aaliya Jaleel

Aaron Allston

After more than fifteen years of experience as a clinical psychotherapist, Dr Aaron Balick has taken the amazing insights from psychology and psychotherapy out of the consultation room and made them accessible to the wider world. 
 
He has been an ‘agony uncle’ for many years for both CBBC and BBC Radio 1, as well as on television, including BBC Worldwide, BBC 3 and BBC Learning.

Aaron Balick

Aaron Carroll

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Mary Jane Staples

Perfect for fans of Georgette Heyer and Netflix hit Bridgerton, a dashing Regency romance from multi-million copy seller Mary Jane Staples. 
 
READERS ARE LOVING A SISTER'S SECRET! 
 
"Mary Jane Staples is a genius! The storyline was amazing. I could not put the book down. Her characterization was wonderful and her intertwining of her characters with some famous historical characters is nothing short of genius." - 5 STARS 
 
"Mary Janes Staples is one of my favourite authors - loved her Adams Family series. This is such a lovely book: emotional, serious and funny in all ways. Read this book in one night." - 5 STARS 
 
"Enjoyed this book from start to finish." - 5 STARS. 
"I couldn't put this down - it was brilliant." - 5 STARS. 
 
************************************ 
 
WILL SHE PROTECT HER SISTER AND LEARN TO LOVE AGAIN? 
 
A disastrous marriage has left the young and beautiful Lady Caroline widowed and vowing never to marry again. 
 
When she sees her younger sister, Annabelle, falling for a man who is notoriously unfaithful, she determines to intervene and save Annabelle from a similar fate, hiring the handsome and witty adventurer Captain Burnside to distract her. 
 
But all does not go to plan... 
 
A Sister's Secret was previously published as A Professional Gentleman.

A Sister's Secret

A heart-warming and uplifting Regency romance from bestseller Mary Jane Staples

Jo Thomas

From the bestselling author of Escape to the French Farmhouse comes a deliciously feel-good story about making your dreams come true, set in sun-kissed southern Italy. 
 
'A tale full of wonderful characters, sunshine, food and romance. A winning recipe!' Katie Fforde 
 
-------------------------- 
 
A summer escape she'll never forget . . . 
 
Lucia has worked hard as a lawyer in Wales, aiming for a big promotion she hopes will shortly come her way. Finally taking a well-earned break at her grandparents' house in southern Italy, the sunshine, lemon trees and her nonna's mouth-watering cooking make her instantly feel at home. 
 
But she's shocked to learn that her grandfather is retiring from the beloved family pizzeria and will need to sell. Lucia can't bear the thought of the place changing hands - especially when she discovers her not-quite-ex-husband Giacomo wants to take it over! 
 
Then bad news from home forces Lucia to re-evaluate what she wants from life. Is this her chance to carry on the family tradition and finally follow her dreams? 
 
Perfect escapism from the author of Escape to the French Farmhouse and The Honey Farm on the Hill. 
 
----------------------------- 
 
Readers have fallen sure with Chasing the Italian Dream 
'The perfect escape' 
'This book is like summer on a page' 
'I loved getting whisked away to Italy' 
 
If you love Jo's books, her newest summer novel, Summer at the Ice Cream Cafe, is out now!

Chasing the Italian Dream

Catherine Cookson

'Catherine Cookson soars above her rivals' Mail on Sunday 
'Her characters have the grit of real life' Sunday Times 
'Queen of raw family romances' Telegraph 
 
 
After making his money as a respected manufacturer of an array of shoes, Samuel Fairbrother decides to find a new home for his business and family. When a grand mansion becomes available Samuel buys it - and with it, inherits the servants. 
 
But when his butler, Maitland, makes it clear he prefers Samuel's predecessor, a conflict between the classes begins to emerge. Maitland, believes Samuel is nothing more than an upstart and because Samuel knows his well-educated but troublesome butler is indispensable - they reach a stalemate. Until Samuel's eldest daughter, Janet, tries to reconcile the impossible; but can she bring the uneasy truce to an end? 
 
From bestselling saga author Catherine Cookson, this forgotten classic captures the conflicts of class in the society of the late nineteenth century. If you like Dilly Court, Katie Flynn or Donna Douglas, you'll love Catherine Cookson. 
 
Previously published as The Upstart.

The Cobbler's Daughter

Marcia Willett

'A warm and engaging read' Trisha Ashley 
'Lovely... Made me long for a long hot summer by the sea' Jo Thomas 
 
A sweeping story about family and buried secrets set in Devon, perfect for fans of Erica James and Veronica Henry. 
 
After the death of her father, El moves into his home just outside Tavistock in Devon. Fresh out of university and dangling on the precipice of adulthood she questions what it is she really wants from life. Although her childhood friend, Will, is there to help her through her grief she soon realises there were things her father was hiding from her... 
 
Jules is also mourning Martin, but they thought best to keep their relationship secret, she must now grieve entirely alone. All she has to remember her love are the memories of their time spent at a beautiful community garden and teashop nearby. The Garden House is where they met, fell in love and where their secret affair will inevitably be uncovered. 
 
As El and Will begin to piece together her father's secrets they are brought closer and closer to both Jules and a truth that is difficult to face. 
 
***** 
 
Praise for Marcia Willett: 
'A beautifully woven tale of families and their secrets...' Liz Fenwick 
'Riveting, moving and utterly feel-good' Daily Mail 
'Sweeping powers of description transport her readers to another time and place' Rosanna Ley 
 
***** 
 
Readers are loving The Garden House: 
'Oh Marcia, yet another wonderful book!' 
'I have read all the books Marcia has written. She never disappoints' 
'Like putting on a favourite old sweater or comfy pair of slippers... I try to ration when I read so I don't finish it all in one go'

The Garden House

A sweeping escapist read that’s full of family secrets, forgiveness and hope

A beautiful, feel-good story for the new year

Emma Hornby

A gritty and page-turning historical saga from the bestselling author of A Shilling for a Wife, perfect for fans of Dilly Court and Rosie Goodwin. 
 
Manchester, 1842 
 
Phoebe Parsons is a liar...a shameless harlot with unscrupulous morals... 
 
Phoebe Parsons is destitute, disgraced, and alone. After her mistress tragically dies, Phoebe is forced back onto the poverty-ridden streets of Manchester by her unforgiving new master. Desperately searching for work as a domestic maid, Phoebe soon discovers her reputation is in ruins. 
 
Fearing for her future and haunted by the harshness of her abandonment, Phoebe finds herself living with thieves and drunks in the smog and squalor - until she meets Victor Hayes. An officer removed from his duty and shamed by a cruel lie, Mr Hayes is a kind face among the uncertain threats of living in the alleyways. But Phoebe soon realises the sacrifices she must make to rebuild from the ground up... 
 
As their two worlds collide, can they make a new life from the wreckage? Or will the judgement of their peers make a pauper of Phoebe?

The Maid’s Disgrace

A gripping and romantic Victorian saga from the bestselling author

Andy McNab

'One of the great all-action characters of recent times. Like his creator, the ex-SAS soldier turned uber agent is unstoppable.' Daily Mirror 
 
The Channel Tunnel. Your worst fears are about to come true... 
____________________ 
 
Deep beneath the English Channel, a small army of vicious terrorists has seized control of the Eurostar to Paris, taken 400 hostages at gunpoint - and declared war on a government that has more than its own fair share of secrets to keep. 
 
One man stands in their way. An off-duty SAS soldier is hiding somewhere inside the train. Alone and injured, he's the only chance the passengers and crew have of getting out alive. Meet Andy McNab's explosive new creation, Sergeant Tom Buckingham, as he unleashes a whirlwind of intrigue and retribution in his attempt to stop the terrorists and save everyone on board - including Delphine, the beautiful woman he loves. 
____________________ 
 
Hurtling us at breakneck speed between the Regiment's crack assault teams, Whitehall's corridors of power and the heart of the Eurotunnel action, RED NOTICE is McNab at his devastatingly authentic, pulse pounding best.

SAS: Red Notice

The electrifying thriller from the No. 1 bestseller, now a major Sky film

Natalie Daniels

*NOW A MAJOR THREE-PART ITV1 DRAMA, STARRING EMILY WATSON AND DENISE GOUGH* 
 
'Too Close is a fantastically compelling, brilliantly scripted whydunnit' Guardian 
 
'A gripping psychological thriller with a Killing Eve twist' Radio Times 
 
'Seriously brilliant - quality writing, three dimensional characters and a sharp wit.' Emma Curtis, author of the bestselling One Little Mistake 
 
***** 
 
Connie has woken up in a psychiatric hospital. She's been accused of a terrible crime, but she says she can't remember a thing. 
 
Forensic psychiatrist Dr Emma Robinson is assigned to the case. Her assessment will determine Connie's fate: prison, life in hospital - or freedom. 
 
Emma hopes the high-profile case will make her career but their sessions quickly become a cat-and-mouse game of manipulation and exploitation. 
 
Emma must get close enough to her patient to uncover the truth. But when dealing with someone as potentially dangerous as Connie, how close is too close? 
 
***** 
 
AUTHORS LOVE TOO CLOSE: 
 
'Wonderfully suffocating . . . Natalie Daniels is one to watch!' Phoebe Morgan 
'Subtle, deep and chilling . . . I couldn't put it down.' Rosanna Ley 
'A tremendous, powerful, audacious novel - full of scathing insight ; full of raw, compelling feeling.' William Boyd 
 
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING: 
 
'I truly am astounded with this novel' 
'Utterly absorbing, a real page turner' 
'Full of twists and turns, enjoyed from beginning'

Too Close

Now a major three-part ITV drama

Louisa Leaman

Love can happen when you least expect it . . . 
 
After a spate of terrible boyfriends, Jess is sure she's found her perfect man in dependable - but occasionally dull - Tim. But when her grandmother, tasks her with retrieving a family heirloom from a local auction she finds herself face to face with a charming stranger, Guy. 
 
Guy has already bought her grandmother's precious necklace and whilst Jess desperately tries to buy it back from him, he somehow convinces her to go out on a date instead. 
 
Ridiculous. But Guy has the necklace and Jess's grandmother's health is declining rapidly. Jess has no choice but to indulge Guy and go on a date with - if only to get the necklace back. 
 
Will saving the necklace risk disrupting Jess's happily-ever-after? And will she care if it does? 
 
******* 
 
Readers are loving Meant to Be: 
 
'Charming, romantic and written with a depth that made it a joy to read.' 
'I adored this. Was not able to put it down, read it in one sitting.' 
'I honestly didn't want it to end. Perfect reading for a cozy night in.' 
'I loved the descriptions of all the jewellery, you could almost see them as you were reading.'

Meant to Be

A heart-warming romance about finding love in unexpected places

Shari Lapena

The latest unputdownable bestseller from Shari Lapena, the No.1 Sunday Times bestselling author of THE COUPLE NEXT DOOR and EVERYONE HERE IS LYING. 
 
'The queen of the one-sit read' Linwood Barclay 
 
'Shari Lapena is one of the best thriller writers in the business' Steve Cavanagh 
 
******* 
 
It starts with a shocking accusation . . . 
 
Stephanie and Patrick are recently married, with new-born twins. While Stephanie struggles with the disorienting effects of sleep deprivation, there's one thing she knows for certain - she has everything she ever wanted. 
 
Then a woman from his past arrives and makes a horrifying allegation about his first wife. He always claimed her death was an accident - but she says it was murder. 
 
He insists he's innocent, that this is nothing but a blackmail attempt. But is Patrick telling the truth? Or has Stephanie made a terrible mistake? 
 
How will it end? 
 
******* 
 
Praise for Shari Lapena: 
 
'A masterful whodunnit, perfectly paced and expertly plotted, that had me guessing all the way through. I loved it and couldn't put it down.' C L Taylor 
 
'No-one does suburban paranoia like Shari Lapena - this slowly unfurling nightmare will have you biting your nails until the end' Ruth Ware 
 
'Shari Lapena just gets better and better' Cara Hunter 
 
 
Shari Lapena, Number 1 Sunday Times bestseller, April 2024

The End of Her

A must read for fans of Katie Flynn, Fiona Valpy and Kristin Hannah - this is an enthralling and gripping romantic adventure from the multi-million copy seller Mary Jane Staples. 
 
READERS ARE LOVING LOVE FOR A SOLDIER! 
"As with all books by this author it is a top quality read..." - 5 STARS 
"What a great book - had a job to put it down. Recommend this book: 5 stars and more..." - 5 STARS 
"Excellent, thrilling and exciting." - 5 STARS 
 
**************************** 
 
SHOULD SHE STAY LOYAL TO HER COUNTRY, OR THE MAN SHE LOVES? 
 
France, 1918: When Sophia, the rebellious daughter of a distinguished German general, witnesses a dramatic battle in the skies that leaves an English pilot without a plane and under the misapprehension that Sophia is on his side, she finds she has no choice but to agree to assist him in his attempt to avoid capture. 
 
He joins her in the family car she has stolen, trailed by both the German Army and a staff officer under strict instructions from Sophia's father to bring her home. With their pursuers hot on their heels, how will Sophia explain her behaviour, protecting a man she is supposed to hate? 
 
And after sharing so many adventures, will she be able to turn the flying officer in when the time comes?

Love for a Soldier

A captivating romantic adventure set in WW1 that you won’t want to put down

Holly McCulloch

'Hilarious, heart-warming and real. You will absolutely fall in love with Bea, a witty and wonderfully flawed protagonist. You have to read this book!' 
Lucy Foley, author of The Hunting Party and The Guest List. 
 
___ 
 
It's easy to put someone in the friend zone. But what happens if you change your mind? 
 
Bea isn't happy. Desperate for a change, she looks to her friends for inspiration. Every single one of them is paired off, perhaps that's what she needs too. 
 
So, she starts dating again. But everywhere she goes - amid the hilarious and scarring dates - there's Peter. Good old, oddball Peter, her closest friend from university. He's always been firmly in the friend zone but something's happened lately - he seems taller, more handsome and suddenly making him smile is Bea's favourite thing. 
 
But how can Bea possibly risk their friendship? And how do you even go about taking someone out of the friend zone? What if Bea and Peter were only ever meant to be just friends... 
___ 
 
Readers are falling in love with Just Friends: 
 
***** 'This book is funny, warm and cheeky - perfect' 
***** 'I fell completely in love with this book . . . so witty and keenly observed and FUN' 
***** 'I snorted and laughed all the way through - but the emotional pull was also brilliant, and I found myself rooting for Bea'

Just Friends

Jack Sheffield

The year is 1969 and Jack Sheffield is a young teacher in need of a job. 
 
In a room full of twenty-nine other newly qualified teachers, he's overjoyed when he's appointed to Heather View Primary. Jack is excited to start his first year there and to begin shaping young minds in a beautiful new location on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. 
 
But Heather View isn't as idyllic as it first sounds. In fact, it looks more like a prison than a primary school. With less than adequate funding and a head teacher who doesn't seem to care, it's no easy task to give the kids the education they deserve. But Jack's determined to do just that. 
 
Full of warmth and good humour, Back to School is like taking a nostalgic walk through the past to a simpler time... 
_____________________ 
 
What readers are saying: 
 
***** 'I felt I was transported back in time. This was a joy to read.' 
***** 'By chapter 3 I loved this book so much that I ordered two other titles by this author!' 
***** 'So uplifting and joyous.' 
_____________________ 
 
Praise for Jack Sheffield: 
 
 'Wry observation and heartwarming humour in equal measure.' Alan Titchmarsh 
 'Overflowing with amusing anecdotes.' Daily Express 
 'Amusing adventures at the North Yorkshire village school.' Choice 
 'Jack Sheffield's in a class of his own.' York Press

Back to School

The delightful, feel-good novel from the author of the Teacher series

Susan Sallis

By the Sunday Times bestselling author and multi-million copy seller Susan Sallis, this is a beautiful and moving novel perfect for fans of Maeve Binchy, Lucinda Riley and Rosamunde Pilcher. 
 
READERS ARE LOVING SEA OF DREAMS! 
"A wonderful story. Highly recommend." - 5 STARS 
"A story that kept me wanting to turn the pages...I was hooked..." - 5 STARS 
"The story has great pace and I couldn't put it down." - 5 STARS 
 
********************** 
 
AS ONE MILLENNIUM ENDS, CAN THEY LOOK FORWARD TO A NEW AND BETTER WORLD? 
 
Somerset, Christmas 1999. Holly and Mark Jepson find themselves looking after an assortment of guests at Mark's uncle's holiday chalets. 
 
Each guest is fascinating in their own way - from the eccentric artist and his pretty daughter to the young married couple expecting their first baby and the wife escaping from a violent past. 
 
Each will have a part to play in the events - unexpected and shattering - which take place before the new millennium dawns...

Sea Of Dreams

A heart-warming, beautiful and magical novel guaranteed to keep you turning the page…

Sam Lloyd

Elijah has lived in the Memory Wood for as long as he can remember. It's the only home he's ever known. 
 
Elissa has only just arrived. And she'll do everything she can to escape. 
 
When Elijah stumbles across thirteen-year-old Elissa, in the woods where her abductor is hiding her, he refuses to alert the police. Because in his twelve years, Elijah has never had a proper friend. And he doesn't want Elissa to leave. 
 
Not only that, Elijah knows how this can end. After all, Elissa isn't the first girl he's found inside the Memory Wood. 
 
As her abductor's behaviour grows more erratic, chess prodigy Elissa realises that outwitting strange, lonely Elijah is her only hope of survival. Their cat-and-mouse game of deception and betrayal will determine both their fates, and whether either of them will ever leave the Memory Wood . . .

The Memory Wood

the chilling, bestselling Richard & Judy book club pick – this year’s must-read thriller

'It's Christmas in a book!' Katie Fforde 
'Sprinkled with Christmas magic!' Milly Johnson 
'A scrumptious seasonal treat!' Heidi Swain 
 
------------------------------ 
 
Residential-home caterer Connie has had one online-dating disaster too many. Hurt in the past and with her son to consider, now she's feeling hesitant. Then one of Connie's residents sets her up on a date at a beautiful German Christmas market - with the promise she'll take a mini-bus full of pensioners along with her... 
 
Amongst the twinkling lights and smell of warm gingerbread in the old market square, Connie heads off on her date with a checklist of potential partner must-haves. Baker Henrich ticks all the boxes, but when Connie meets Henrich's rival William, she starts to wonder if ticking boxes is the answer. 
 
Will Connie's wish for love this Christmas come true, and if so - with who? 
 
------------------------------- 
 
Readers are feeling enchanted by Finding Love at the Christmas Market: 
 
'This book was a hot chocolate on a cold day, warming and satisfying.' 
'I could smell the gingerbread and spices, a real hug of a book.' 
'A beautiful book about finding what matters most at Christmas . . . such a heart-warming story.'

Finding Love at the Christmas Market

They say before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves. 
 
For James Mercer, the financial ruin of his family by the institutions they trusted can never be undone. It shattered everyone, leaving him with a burning need to right the wrongs they suffered. He will stop at nothing to recoup what they are owed. It’s not theft, it’s payback. 
 
Until his solo crusade falls foul of the very people he seeks to rob – the one per centers, the people who own the bulk of the world’s wealth. Soon he is putting together a crew to carry out one last robbery, to undertake one last job. Success will restore his family’s fortunes, but failure will destroy them forever. 
 
Packed with relentless action and the sort of riveting authenticity only Andy McNab can provide, Whatever it Takestells the story of one man’s extraordinary pursuit of justice against devastating odds, a story as hard and real and controversial as any of today’s headlines, which will show the world as it really is...

Whatever It Takes

The thrilling new novel from bestseller Andy McNab

'Humour, toughness, resolution and generosity are Cookson virtues . . . In the specialised world of women's popular fiction, Cookson has created her own territory.' - Helen Dunmore, The Times 
 
Just two years after the death of their mother, Hector Stewart tells his children he plans to remarry and has chosen a distant relative from Ireland to be his bride. Money is tight and the only thing the children remember about Moira Connelly is that she lives in a castle; they suspect that her apparent wealth is the reason their father is so keen to remarry. 
 
But Moira has also been far from forthcoming about her own circumstances – thinking she’s about to marry into landed gentry, she expects a lifestyle to match this title. So when she arrives in rural Fellburn she is surprised to find a rundown farm as her new home… 
 
Can a marriage based on deception survive? 
 
Catherine Cookson was the original and bestselling saga writer, selling over 100 million copies of her novels. If you like Dilly Court, Katie Flynn or Donna Douglas, you'll love Catherine Cookson. 
 
Previously published as The Desert Crop

An Unsuitable Match

Lauren North

'A gripping psychological thriller that pulls the reader through the story at a terrific pace, not giving them a moment to draw breath' Nikki Smith, author of All in Her Head 
 
Jenna is a wife, a mother, a doctor. She's also the victim of a stalker. 
 
Every time she leaves her house, she sees him. Disturbing gifts are left at her door. Cruel emails are sent to her colleagues. She has no idea who this man is but she feels powerless against him. 
 
Until the day he is brought into her hospital after a serious accident, and Jenna is given the chance to find out once and for all why this man is tormenting her. Now, the power is all hers. 
 
But how many lines is she willing to cross to take back control of her life? 
 
***** 
 
'I absolutely adored this disturbingly twisty tale of stalking, obsession and control' Emma Curtis, author of The Night You Left' 
 
A really gripping rollercoaster of a read - I absolutely loved it, and read it in one sitting' Lisa Hall, author of Between You and Me 
 
'Lauren North really knows how to reel you in. Absolutely brilliant' Lesley Kara, author of The Rumour 
 
***** 
 
READERS CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF ONE STEP BEHIND: 
 
'Wow oh wow! There is nothing negative I can say about this book' 
'Twisty and compelling . . . One Step Behind is actually one step forward in psychological thrillers' 
'So many twists and turns and OMG moments!' 
'A thrilling read that will leave you breathless' 
'Lauren North is really developing into a must-read author for me' 
'This book is deserving of more than five stars'

One Step Behind

The twisty and compelling thriller that will leave you breathless

For fans of Katie Flynn &amp; Fiona Valpy, this is an exhilarating romantic journey across war-torn Europe from the multi-million copy seller Mary Jane Staples. 
 
READERS ARE LOVING A WARTIME MARRIAGE! 
"Couldn't put it down." -- 5 STARS 
"Once again she had me hooked." -- 5 STARS 
"Each page kept you guessing to the end." -- 5 STARS 
"An excellent read for a cold damp day in front of the fire." -- 5 STARS 
 
**************************************************** 
WILL THEY FIND HAPPINESS? 
 
1918: the Kaiser's empire is about to fall and Captain Harry Phillips, a prisoner of war in a Romanian hospital, has had a very hard time of it. Then, out of the blue, comes an offer he can't refuse: a ticket home to his beloved England and to the arms of his much missed fiancée Elizabeth. 
 
But this ticket comes with a heavy price to pay; Harry must marry beautiful, headstrong Princess Irena of Moldova, who's only hope of survival is to leave the country and he must risk both their lives by escorting her back to England. 
 
As they set off on their long and treacherous journey with enemies at every turn, Harry begins to realise that Irena is not only dangerous but extremely precious cargo.

A Wartime Marriage

A glorious, romantic wartime adventure - the perfect dose of escapism

Rob Hart

'Engrossing ... Big Brother meets Big Business - that pretty much nails it' Stephen King 
'A gripping read, a literary blockbuster with brains. Horribly compelling' The Observer 
'A triumph' The Guardian 
___________________ 
In a world ravaged by bankruptcy and unemployment, Cloud is the only company left worth working for. But what will it cost you? 
 
Amidst the wreckage of America, Cloud reigns supreme. Cloud brands itself not just as an online storefront, but as a global saviour. Yet, beneath the sunny exterior, lurks something far more sinister. 
 
Paxton never thought he’d be working Security for the company that ruined his life, much less that he’d be moving into one of their sprawling live-work facilities. But compared to what’s left outside, perhaps Cloud isn’t so bad. Better still, through his work he meets Zinnia, who fills him with hope for their shared future. 
 
Except that Zinnia is not what she seems. And Paxton, with his all-access security credentials, might just be her meal ticket. 
 
As Paxton and Zinnia’s agendas place them on a collision course, they’re about to learn just how far the Cloud will go to make the world a better place. 
 
To beat the system, you have to be inside it. 
 
What people are saying about The Warehouse: 
'Literary blockbuster’ Observer 
‘A triumph’ Guardian 
‘Brilliantly imagined’ BBC Culture 
‘Inventive, addictive’ Paul Tremblay 
‘Thrilling’ Blake Crouch 
‘An Orwellian thriller’ Publisher’s Weekly 
‘Wildly imaginative yet terrifyingly real’ Riley Sager 
‘Taut, tense and masterful’ Chuck Wendig 
'One of the breakout books of the year' Barnes &amp; Noble 
'Holds up a dark mirror to our times' San Francisco Chronicle 
'A jet black satire of modern consumerism' Waterstones 
'A thriller of ideas ... taut action, incisive cultural commentary ... shades of Fahrenheit 451 and Jurassic Park.' USA Today

The Warehouse

A brilliantly imagined, thought-provoking and exciting Orwellian thriller

'You smell the lavender, you feel the sun on your face, this book is pure joy!' Katie Fforde 
 
'Uplifting and full of warmth, this novel is the next best thing to jetting off to France on a relaxing break away.' My Weekly 
 
Can Del find her recipe for happiness? 
 
Del and her husband Ollie moved to a beautiful village in Provence for a fresh start after years of infertility struggles. But six weeks after they arrive, they&rsquo;re packing the removal van once more. As Del watches the van leave for England, she suddenly realises exactly what will make her happier&hellip;a new life in France &ndash; without Ollie. 
 
Now alone, all Del has is a crumbling farmhouse, a mortgage to pay and a few lavender plants. What on earth is she going to do? After discovering an old recipe book at the market run by the rather attractive Fabian, Del starts to bake. But can her new-found passion really help her let go of the past and lead to true happiness? 
 
A heart-warming tale about reclaiming your life, set amongst the lavender fields of Provence. Perfect escapism from the author of Late Summer in the Vineyard and The Honey Farm on the Hill. 
 
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Readers are falling in love with Escape to the French Farmhouse 
&lsquo;It&rsquo;s simply amazing . . . has you hooked and makes you feel are in the sunshine in France.&rsquo; 
&lsquo;A refreshing, feel-good story, just perfect for sitting and reading in the sun.&rsquo; 
&lsquo;A love story at its best. You can smell the lavender.&rsquo;

Escape to the French Farmhouse

Nick Cook

'A highly original, electrifying read' The Times 
'A stylish, riveting thriller' Daily Mail 
'An assured page-turner ... it combines action and foreign locations with big ideas a la Dan Brown' Sunday Times 
 
The US President Thompson has been dreaming of his own death. A repeating nightmare that hounds him night after night that he can't ignore: something tells him it's not just a dream, it feels too real. 
 
Thompson's doctor, military psychiatrist Josh Cain, is summoned to a church tower near the White House. He thinks he is there to talk down another suicidal ex-Marine. But the man he finds tells him of a plot to kill Thompson, revealing secrets he can't possibly have known - just seconds before a sniper's bullet takes him out . . . 
 
Battles have been fought man to man, then machine to machine, and even in cyberspace. But now there is a different battlefield emerging: human consciousness and the fight for our minds. 
 
What readers are saying: 
 
***** 'A classy, intelligent and reflective investigative thriller.' 
***** 'A layered plot, engaging characters and a spine chilling ring of truth to the plot, which lured me in and kept me trapped until the final page.' 
***** 'A real page turner with plenty of surprises and twists. Great read.' 
***** 'THE BEST BOOK THAT I'VE READ ALL YEAR!'

The Grid

Minnie Darke

A feel-good romance by the author of Star-crossed, perfect for anyone who loves David Nicholls, Marian Keyes and Jojo Moyes. 
 
Arie and Diana were destined to be together. 
 
Arie falls for Diana in a heartbeat. Their love creates a life for them, a marriage and a home. Pianist Diana wants to capture this in a song for Arie. 
 
But that’s not where the story ends… 
 
After Diana debuts their song to a room full of strangers, tragedy strikes and Arie never gets to hear it. 
 
There’s still a verse to come. 
 
Diana’s melody lives beyond her and the lost love song begins to find its way back home. Can it help Arie to find new hope, and a new love? 
 
 Readers love Minnie Darke 
'Witty, mischievous and intelligent... if you enjoy Marian Keyes or Mhairi McFarlane, you'll enjoy this. 
'A clever and witty comedy' 
'Warm, funny, addictive, I couldn’t put it down.' 
'A smart and funny novel' 
'Beautifully written with warmth and wit... a truly delightful read.' 
'Uplifting, romantic and fabulous... I loved this charming book.'

The Lost Love Song

The beautiful and romantic new book from the author of Star-Crossed

Lesley Kara

Someone knows Astrid's darkest secret. And they're going to have fun with it . . . 
 
Prepare to feel paranoid with this addictive new stand alone psychological thriller from the Sunday Times bestselling author of The Rumour. 
 
It's been 192 days, seven hours and fifteen minutes since her last drink. Now Astrid is trying to turn her life around. 
 
Having reluctantly moved back in with her mother, in a quiet seaside town away from the temptations and painful memories of her life before, Astrid is focusing on her recovery. She's going to meetings. Confessing her misdeeds. Making amends to those she's wronged. 
 
But someone knows exactly what Astrid is running from. And they won't stop until she learns that some mistakes can't be corrected. 
 
Some mistakes, you have to pay for . . .

Who Did You Tell?

From the bestselling author of The Rumour

She thought she was finally safe. But a roof over her head comes with a price to pay... 
Laura Cannock is on the run. Suspected of killing her bullying husband, his family are on a merciless prowl for revenge. Fleeing from her beloved home of Bolton to Manchester, Laura seeks refuge with her coal merchant uncle. But it soon becomes clear that a roof over her head comes with a price - of the type so unbearable she must escape once more. 
 
Destitute and penniless, a stench-ridden housing court in the back streets of the factories is Laura's only hope of a dwelling - a place where both the filth and the kindness of neighbours overwhelm. Here people stick together through the odds, leading Laura to true friendship, and possibly love. But with the threat of her past still hanging over her, there's still one battle she must fight - and win - alone... 
 
A gritty and page-turning historical saga set in Northern England in the late 1800s, perfect for fans of Dilly Court and Rosie Goodwin.

A Daughter's Price

A gritty and gripping saga romance from the bestselling author of A Shilling for a Wife

'I thoroughly enjoyed this... it's an utterly charming and sigh-worthy romance.' Josie Silver, author of One Day in December and The Two Lives of Lydia Bird 
___ 
 
Fran’s wedding dress shop is utterly unique. A treasure trove of vintage lace, silk and satin, every single one of Fran’s gowns is destined to be the perfect match for a different bride. But not as you might expect… 
 
Something bold for the shy and retiring. 
Something simple for the woman who is unafraid to stand out. 
And something dazzling for the bride who wouldn’t normally dare to be different. 
 
Your own perfect dress could be a complete surprise! But not to Fran … wisdom is whispered from bride to bride through their wedding dresses and Fran knows exactly who needs to hear each dress’s secrets! 
 
When Fran finds her very own perfect dress she can’t wait to unravel its history. But first, she has to get to know the mysterious son of the previous owner… 
 
___ 
 
Readers love The Perfect Dress 
 
***** ‘A wonderful read that let me escape into a world of love and wedding dresses. What more could I want!’ 
***** ‘Loved this book . . . could not put it down, such a wonderful feel good story.’ 
***** ‘What an absolutely lovely book this is.’

The Perfect Dress

a feel-good romance that will sweep you off your feet

Jenny Holmes

**Don't miss Jenny Holmes's latest wartime series, The Air Raid Girls. Part 3 - The Air Raid Girls: Wartime Brides - is available now!** 
 
---------------------------- 
 
Planes to deliver. A war to be won. 
 
Bobbie Fraser, Mary Holland and Jean Thornton are Atta Girls - part of the Air Transport Auxiliary team flying planes between bases. Taking to the air in anything they're given, their work is dangerous but their courage always comes through. 
 
Now there's a new girl joining the ranks - Canadian Viv Robertson, who is bright, brash and brave. But can Viv settle into her new home with the other girls? And when life on the ground leaves them as vulnerable as in the air, can they stick together through the tough times ahead and ultimately fly to victory? 
 
A heart-warming, romantic story of friendship, camaraderie and triumph over adversity that fans of Donna Douglas, Nancy Revell and Elaine Everest will adore. 
 
---------------------------- 
 
Readers love Jenny Holmes 
 
'A delight to read' 
'I highly recommend this book, great job Jenny!' 
'Really enjoyed this book cant wait to read the next one' 
'Lovely historical drama' 
'I love reading these books on life in WW2' 
'A book you can't put down'

The Spitfire Girls Fly for Victory

An uplifting wartime story of hope and courage (The Spitfire Girls Book 2)

'Riveting, moving and utterly feel-good' Daily Mail 
 
Cara, Cosmo and Sam learn that for everything lost, there is something to be gained . . . 
 
After her husband dies, Cara no longer wishes to live in their London home. On impulse, she sells it and goes to stay with her brother in Salcombe, Devon, while she plans her next move. There, she begins to look back at her life and reflect on the choices that have led her to this moment. 
 
Cosmo has also escaped – temporarily – from his life in the city, finding the south-west a relaxing and appealing fit, especially when he meets local girl, Amy. But is he being entirely truthful about what he’s left behind? 
 
Just out of uni, Sam has passed the Admiralty Interview Board and is set to follow in his naval father’s footsteps. His future is secure – but he feels cast adrift. With doubts and loosening family connections worrying him, an impartial new friend could be just the thing he needs. Forging a bond across the generations, can he and Cara help each other find the way to a new, happy chapter? 
 
Praise for Marcia Willett: 
 
'A beautifully woven tale of families and their secrets...' Liz Fenwick, bestselling author of The Cornish House 
 
'Sweeping powers of description transport her readers to another time and place' Rosanna Ley

Reflections

A summer full of secrets spent in Devon

'The queen of the one-sit read' Linwood Barclay 
 
'Shari Lapena is one of the best thriller writers in the business' Steve Cavanagh 
 
'A masterful whodunnit, perfectly paced and expertly plotted, that had me guessing all the way through' C L Taylor 
 
****** 
 
The gripping new thriller from the No. 1 bestselling author of The Couple Next Door. 
 
It can be hard keeping secrets in a tight-knit neighbourhood. 
 
In a tranquil, leafy suburb of ordinary streets - one where everyone is polite and friendly - an anonymous note has been left at some of the houses. 
 
'I'm so sorry. My son has been getting into people's houses. He's broken into yours.' 
 
Who is this boy, and what might he have uncovered? As whispers start to circulate, suspicion mounts. 
 
And when a missing local woman is found murdered, the tension reaches breaking point. Who killed her? Who knows more than they're telling? And how far will all these very nice people go to protect their secrets? 
 
Maybe you don't know your neighbour as well as you thought you did . . . 
 
****** 
 
Readers are obsessed with Shari Lapena: 
 
'I was reading with my mouth open as I raced towards the final page.' 
'I read it in one sitting, as I simply could not put it down.' 
'An incredibly gripping read.' 
'Fantastic book, from the first page I was hooked, couldn't put it down!' 
'An excellent atmospheric thriller, full of intrigue and suspense.' 
 
COMING SOON: the gripping new novel from Shari Lapena: EVERYONE HERE IS LYING. Available to pre-order now!

Someone We Know

Charlene Allcott

Mother: a woman considered in relation to her child or children. 
 
Wife: a woman considered in relation to her spouse. 
 
Shouldn’t there be more? 
 
Alison has built her life around her family. Every day she packs lunches, rushes to work, and breaks up her daughter’s squabbles. She’s bored, restless and hungry for some excitement. 
 
Perhaps the charismatic Frank could be what she’s missing. But is Frank all he makes out to be? And what if a new, glamorous life isn’t quite what she needs? 
 
Praise for Charlene Allcott: 
 
'One of the freshest, funniest, most exciting new voices I've read for a long time.' Jane Fallon 
 
'Fresh and funny and REAL...' Veronica Henry 
 
'Very funny and delightfully relatable - this was a real treat.' Trisha Ashley

More Than a Mum

A Private Thriller

A series of children's modern classic novels by renowned 20th century children's writers. All the titles in this series have the A Puffin Book logo, contemporary-style covers, and child-friendly endnotes.

A Puffin Book

A Ripley Novel

A Slice of the Moon

A Victorian Mystery

A Walk in...

A Women’s Murder Club Thriller

A chef Paul Delamare Mystery

Aberrations

Across the Universe

Actiphons

Adelia Aguilar

Adrian Mole

Adventures in Time

Aftermath

Against War

Age of X

Agent 21

Agent Z

Detective Aidan Waits is a troubled junior detective haunted by his past. Facing an uncertain future, and disconnected from his history, DC Waits and his partner, Detective Inspector Peter 'Sutty' Sutcliffe work on Manchester's streets to uncover the city's worst criminals among the grime of the underworld.

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