The Great Gatsby is a 1925 novel by American writer F. Scott Fitzgerald. Set in the Jazz Age on Long Island, near New York City, the novel depicts first-person narrator Nick Carraway's interactions with mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby and Gatsby's obsession to reunite with his former lover, Daisy Buchanan.The novel was inspired by a youthful romance Fitzgerald had with socialite Ginevra King, and the riotous parties he attended on Long Island's North Shore in 1922. Following a move to the French Riviera, Fitzgerald completed a rough draft of the novel in 1924. He submitted it to editor Maxwell Perkins, who persuaded Fitzgerald to revise the work over the following winter. After making revisions, Fitzgerald was satisfied with the text, but remained ambivalent about the book's title and considered several alternatives. Painter Francis Cugat's cover art greatly impressed Fitzgerald, and he incorporated its imagery into the novel. Read more

The Complete Novels of Jane Austen (Leather-bound Classics)A Timeless Collection of Wit, Romance, and Social CommentaryJane Austen’s novels have captivated readers for generations with their sharp wit, intricate character studies, and insightful social commentary. This elegant leather-bound edition brings together her complete works, offering a treasure trove of literary brilliance. Perfect for collectors and first-time readers alike, this collection celebrates Austen’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest novelists in English literature.Included Novels: Pride and Prejudice: Follow Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in a tale of love, misunderstandings, and personal growth. Sense and Sensibility: A moving story of two sisters, Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, navigating love and heartbreak. Emma: A delightful exploration of matchmaking, self-discovery, and societal expectations through the eyes of spirited Emma Woodhouse. Northanger Abbey: A satirical take on Gothic novels and young Catherine Morland’s journey into maturity and love. Mansfield Park: The poignant story of Fanny Price, a poor girl navigating wealth, morality, and her own desires. Persuasion: A beautifully crafted narrative of second chances and enduring love featuring Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth. Lady Susan: An epistolary novella showcasing Austen’s early wit and a cunning protagonist.Why Read Jane Austen? Timeless Characters: Austen’s protagonists are richly drawn, relatable, and unforgettable. Social Insight: Explore the nuances of Regency-era England, from class dynamics to gender roles. Enduring Appeal: Austen’s wit, wisdom, and romantic plots continue to enchant readers worldwide.Delve into the world of Jane Austen with this beautifully bound collection—a must-have for lovers of classic literature. Read more

All thirteen Miss Marple mysteries in one comprehensive collection!Delight in the entire series featuring the Queen of Mystery's renowned detective, Miss Jane Marple. From the charming village of St. Mary Mead to the glamorous French Riviera and the exotic Caribbean Islands, crime is never far — but Agatha Christie's astute sleuth is always ahead of the game.Included stories:The Murder at the VicarageThe Body in the LibraryThe Moving FingerA Murder Is AnnouncedThey Do It with MirrorsA Pocket Full of Rye4.50 from PaddingtonThe Mirror Crack'd from Side to SideA Caribbean MysteryAt Bertram's HotelNemesisSleeping MurderMiss Marple: The Complete Short Stories Read more

LucaCreated from darkness and light, I face each day determined not to repeat history. My DNA is equal parts Satan and Saint. I will not allow another woman to suffer at the hands of my family.So why am I irrevocably drawn to her?This strong, determined angel deserves so much more than she’s been given. The very last person she should open her heart to…Is me.But I can’t fight the feeling, that no matter how risky this is, she’s mine.JillianMy life is a fusion of sun and storm. But I’ve learned you have to take the good with the bad.But that doesn’t mean I have to keep inviting it in.We’ve been through enough. The very last person I need in my life…Is him.But despite the secrets, the heart wants what it wants.And it wants Luca. Read more

On a cold November morning, a jogger runs through the woods in the peaceful Quebec village of Three Pines. On his run, he finds a dead man hanging from a tree. The dead man was a guest at the local Inn and Spa. He might have been looking for peace and quiet, but something else found him. Something horrible. Did the man take his own life? Or was he murdered? Chief Inspector Armand Gamache is called to the crime scene. As Gamache follows the trail of clues, he opens a door into the past. And he learns the true reason why the man came to Three Pines.This book is a quick and easy read for people on the go. Lexile Level: HL450L Read more

A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERA behind-the-scenes look at the making of the iconic musical Sunday in the Park with GeorgePutting It Together chronicles the two-year odyssey of creating the iconic Broadway musical Sunday in the Park with George. In 1982, James Lapine, at the beginning of his career as a playwright and director, met Stephen Sondheim, nineteen years his senior and already a legendary Broadway composer and lyricist. Shortly thereafter, the two decided to write a musical inspired by Georges Seurat’s nineteenth-century painting A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte. Through conversations between Lapine and Sondheim, as well as most of the production team, and with a treasure trove of personal photographs, sketches, script notes, and sheet music, the two Broadway icons lift the curtain on their beloved musical. Putting It Together is a deeply personal remembrance of their collaboration and friend - ship and the highs and lows of that journey, one that resulted in the beloved Pulitzer Prize–winning classic. Read more

Middlemarch, A Study of Provincial Life is a novel by the English author Mary Anne Evans, who wrote as George Eliot. It first appeared in eight installments (volumes) in 1871 and 1872. Set in Middlemarch, a fictional English Midland town, in 1829 to 1832, it follows distinct, intersecting stories with many characters. Issues include the status of women, the nature of marriage, idealism, self-interest, religion, hypocrisy, political reform, and education. Despite comic elements, Middlemarch uses realism to encompass historical events: the 1832 Reform Act, early railways, and the accession of King William IV. It looks at medicine of the time and reactionary views in a settled community facing unwelcome change. Eliot began writing the two pieces that formed the novel in 1869–1870 and completed it in 1871. Initial reviews were mixed, but it is now seen widely as her best work and one of the great English novels. Read more

Delight in the Wit and Satire of The Importance of Being EarnestOscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest is a masterpiece of comedic brilliance, offering sharp social commentary wrapped in a tale of mistaken identities, witty banter, and romantic entanglements. First performed in 1895, this play remains one of Wilde’s most celebrated works, showcasing his unparalleled skill in satire and humor.A Comedy of MannersSet in Victorian England, the play follows Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, two young men who create fictitious identities—“Ernest”—to escape societal obligations and pursue love. Chaos ensues as their deceptions spiral out of control, leading to hilarious misunderstandings and clever revelations. Wilde’s sparkling dialogue and biting critique of social norms make this a timeless and endlessly entertaining work.Key Themes in The Importance of Being Earnest: Marriage and Romance: A satirical exploration of courtship, love, and societal expectations. Identity and Deception: The comedic consequences of living double lives. Social Critique: A witty examination of Victorian morality and class distinctions. The Nature of Truth: The absurdity of rigid adherence to social conventions.A Timeless ClassicOscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest remains a shining example of wit, humor, and insight. This play is a must-read for fans of sharp dialogue, clever storytelling, and timeless comedy. Read more

Step Into the Charming World of Jane Austen’s EmmaEmma by Jane Austen is a delightful exploration of love, class, and self-discovery. Known for its wit and keen social observations, this beloved novel is a timeless classic that continues to enchant readers with its humor and heart.The Tale of Emma WoodhouseEmma Woodhouse is beautiful, wealthy, and intelligent—but also self-assured to a fault. With no intention of marrying herself, she takes great pleasure in matchmaking for others. However, her schemes often lead to unintended consequences, and Emma must confront her own misjudgments as she navigates the complexities of relationships and social expectations.Key Themes in Emma: Love and Relationships: A humorous yet heartfelt examination of romance and the challenges of finding true love. Class and Society: A critique of social hierarchies and the roles they play in personal connections. Growth and Self-Awareness: Emma’s journey is one of maturity and learning to see beyond her own perspective. Friendship and Loyalty: The enduring bonds between characters provide depth and warmth to the story.A Literary GemWith its unforgettable characters, sparkling dialogue, and masterful storytelling, Emma showcases Jane Austen’s genius for capturing the intricacies of human nature. It is a must-read for fans of classic literature and romantic comedies.This edition preserves Austen’s original text, inviting readers to enjoy the humor, charm, and wisdom of one of her most celebrated works. Read more

For the stage. This winner of the Newbery Medal and the National Book Award features Stanley Yelnats, a kid who is under a curse. A curse that began with his no-good-dirty-rotten-pig-stealing-great-great-grandfather and has since followed generations of Yelnats. Now Stanley has been unjustly sent to a boys' detention center, Camp Green Lake, where the warden makes the boys "build character" by spending all day, every day, digging holes five feet wide and five feet deep. It doesn't take long for Stanley to realize there's more than character improvement going on at Camp Green Lake: the warden is looking for something. Stanley tries to dig up the truth in this inventive and darkly humorous tale of crime and punishment-and redemption.. Read more

The compelling, groundbreaking guide to creative writing that reveals how the brain responds to storytelling, based on the wildly popular creative writing class. Stories shape who we are. They drive us to act out our dreams and ambitions and mold our beliefs. Storytelling is an essential part of what makes us human. So, how do master storytellers compel us? In The Science of Storytelling, award-winning writer and acclaimed teacher of creative writing Will Storr applies dazzling psychological research and cutting-edge neuroscience to our myths and archetypes to show how we can write better stories, revealing, among other things, how storytellers—and also our brains—create worlds by being attuned to moments of unexpected change. Will Storr’s superbly chosen examples range from Harry Potter to Jane Austen to Alice Walker, Greek drama to Russian novels to Native American folk tales, King Lear to Breaking Bad to children’s stories. With sections such as “The Dramatic Question,” “Creating a World,” and “Plot, Endings, and Meaning,” as well as a practical, step-by-step appendix dedicated to “The Sacred Flaw Approach,” The Science of Storytelling reveals just what makes stories work, placing it alongside such creative writing classics as John Yorke’s Into the Woods: A Five-Act Journey into Story and Lajos Egri’s The Art of Dramatic Writing.  Enlightening and empowering, The Science of Storytelling is destined to become an invaluable resource for writers of all stripes, whether novelist, screenwriter, playwright, children’s writer, or writer of creative or traditional nonfiction. “If you want to write a novel or a script, read this book. It is clear, compelling, and tightly shaped.” ―Sunday Times (London) Read more

I’m in love with my best friend’s widow.The only person I’ve cared more for is gone.There’s no doubt he knew yet never let on.It was just the kind of man Jake was.I’ve worn my guilt like a second skin since we were teens,worshipping her from afar.But time has done me no favors.Under the surface, resentment grows.A rage no one else sees.But now she’s asked me to do the unthinkable…To grant her the comfort she needs.I’m helpless to say no to Mel.I’d give her anything.Even if doing this will ultimately destroy me when it’s over. Read more

In the shadows of a neon-lit city, Italia Rossi reigns as the queen of the night, dancing not just for survival but for her son’s future. Beneath the glitz and allure of the Velvet Viper, Italia juggles life as a single mother, protector, and avenger, determined to shield her family from the darkness she knows all too well. When tragedy strikes, Italia steps onto a dangerous path, where power, loyalty, and love collide in a high-stakes battle for redemption. Dive into a tale of resilience and retribution where every move could be her last. Read more

Step Into the Charming World of Jane Austen’s EmmaEmma by Jane Austen is a delightful exploration of love, class, and self-discovery. Known for its wit and keen social observations, this beloved novel is a timeless classic that continues to enchant readers with its humor and heart.The Tale of Emma WoodhouseEmma Woodhouse is beautiful, wealthy, and intelligent—but also self-assured to a fault. With no intention of marrying herself, she takes great pleasure in matchmaking for others. However, her schemes often lead to unintended consequences, and Emma must confront her own misjudgments as she navigates the complexities of relationships and social expectations.Key Themes in Emma: Love and Relationships: A humorous yet heartfelt examination of romance and the challenges of finding true love. Class and Society: A critique of social hierarchies and the roles they play in personal connections. Growth and Self-Awareness: Emma’s journey is one of maturity and learning to see beyond her own perspective. Friendship and Loyalty: The enduring bonds between characters provide depth and warmth to the story.A Literary GemWith its unforgettable characters, sparkling dialogue, and masterful storytelling, Emma showcases Jane Austen’s genius for capturing the intricacies of human nature. It is a must-read for fans of classic literature and romantic comedies.This edition preserves Austen’s original text, inviting readers to enjoy the humor, charm, and wisdom of one of her most celebrated works. Read more

New York Times Bestseller: From the Broadway legend, a “charmingly idiosyncratic, surprisingly endearing and ruthlessly entertaining autobiography” (The Wall Street Journal).Andrew Lloyd Webber has reigned over the musical theatre world for half a century. Here, in his own inimitable, quirky voice, the revered composer takes stock of his achievements, the twists of fate that brought both success and disappointment, and what inspires and sustains him. He reveals his artistic influences and reminisces about his bohemian London youth and the happiest place of his childhood: his homemade Harrington Pavilion—a make-believe world of musical theatre in which he created his earliest entertainments.A record of several exciting and turbulent decades of British and American musical theatre, Unmasked is ultimately a chronicle of artistic creation. Lloyd Webber looks back at the development of some of his most famous works and his collaborations with such luminaries as Tim Rice, Robert Stigwood, Harold Prince, Cameron Mackintosh, and Trevor Nunn. He reveals fascinating details about each of his productions: the cast of characters involved with making them, the creative and logistical challenges, and the artistic political battles.He recalls writing songs for a school production that would become his first hit, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; finding the performers for his rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar; developing his first megahit, Evita, which would win seven Tony Awards; staking his reputation and fortune on the groundbreaking Cats; and making history with the dazzling The Phantom of the Opera.Reflecting a life of many passions (from architecture to Turkish Swimming Cats), full of witty and revealing anecdotes, and featuring cameos by many celebrities—Elaine Paige, Sarah Brightman, David Frost, Julie Covington, Judi Dench, Richard Branson, A.R. Rahman, Mandy Patinkin, Patti LuPone, Richard Rodgers, Norman Jewison, Milos Forman, Plácido Domingo, Barbra Streisand, Michael Crawford, Gillian Lynne, Betty Buckley, and more—Unmasked at last reveals the true face of the extraordinary man behind the legend. Read more

My childhood sweetheart is now my sworn enemy. I either resist the billionaire next door… or surrender everything. I should hate Theo Roberts.But his smoldering eyes make me melt.His touch sets my body on fire.Those hands… No! Focus, Mia.I inherited my grandmother’s beach house, and I’m not selling.Theo may have built an empire next door, but this place is my heart.And the cocky billionaire isn’t playing fair.We clash, we fight—every argument ending with me pinned against the wall, craving more.He’s ruthless, relentless, and utterly irresistible.I should walk away.But instead, I let him in. Again.His lips on my skin, making me lose control.Then I get an eviction letter from his partner letting me know that I’m just a pawn in his game.The walls around my heart crumble.Either he’s the jerk I thought, or I am falling into his trap.This time, when he leaves, he might burn me to the ground.Or maybe, just maybe, our love will ignite an eternal flame. Read more

Egri's treatise The Art of Dramatic Writing was first published in 1946 and remains today one of the best creative writing how-to books ever written. Read more

'So funny -- Nabokov meets Spinal Tap.' - Stephen Merchant'Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant.' - Tim Key'Absolutely miraculous.' - Jesse Eisenberg'A brain-swirlingly funny quest.' - Robert PopperRichard Ayoade's fictional quest to rescue Harauld Hughes - the almost mythical mid-century playwright - from obscurity. The gifted filmmaker, corduroy activist and amateur dentist, Richard Ayoade, first chanced upon a copy of The Two-Hander Trilogy by Harauld Hughes in a second-hand bookshop. At first startled by his uncanny resemblance to the author's photo, he opened the volume and was electrified. Terse, aggressive, and elliptical, what was true of Ayoade was also true of Hughes's writing, which encompassed stage, screen, and some of the shortest poems ever published. Ayoade embarked on a documentary, The Unfinished Harauld Hughes, to understand the unfathomable collapse of Hughes's final film O Bedlam! O Bedlam!, taking us deep inside the mind of the most furious British writer since the Boer War. This is the story of the story of that quest. Read more

The “Me” in the title is a comparatively unknown Marx named Julius (1895-1977), who, under the nom de plume of Groucho, enjoyed a sensational career on Broadway and in Hollywood with such comedy classics as Animal Crackers, Monkey Business, Horse Feathers, Duck Soup, A Night at the Opera, and A Day at the Races. His solo career included work as a film actor, television game show emcee, and author of The Groucho Letters, Memoirs of a Mangy Lover, and his classic autobiography, Groucho and Me.With impeccable timing, outrageous humor, irreverent wit, and a superb sense of the ridiculous, Groucho tells the saga of the Marx Brothers: the poverty of their childhood in New York’s Upper East Side; the crooked world of small-time vaudeville (where they learned to carry blackjacks); how a pretzel magnate and the graceless dancer of his dreams led to the Marx Brothers’ first Broadway hit, I’ll Say She Is!, how the stock market crash in 1929 proved a godsend for Groucho (even though he lost nearly a quarter of a million dollars); the adventures of the Marx Brothers in Hollywood, the making of their hilarious films, and Groucho’s triumphant television series, You Bet Your Life!. Here is the life and lunatic times of the great eccentric genius, Groucho, a.k.a. Julius Henry Marx.“The book is never less than readable and its glimpses of American show business at its least glamorous are simple, true and sometimes rather touching.”—Times Literary Supplement“My advice is to ration yourself to a chapter a night—it’s that delectable.”—Chicago Sunday Tribune Read more

When you hear the word ‘clown’, what is the first thing that comes to mind? It probably isn’t giant, bloodthirsty predators who ruled over humanity after usurping all the earthly kingdoms of an antediluvian age. Likewise, when one imagines Nephilim, it would be absurd to conjure up a scene of white-faced circus performers honking their horns and making fools of themselves in colourful costumes, right? The half-divine, half-mortal offspring of the watchers have been a contentious field of study for theologians and Christian contrarians for a long time. However, while most have focused their efforts on proving the existence of these beings, (until now) no researcher of the Nephilim has ever stopped to ask themselves earnestly, “What did these monsters really look like?” With respectful observation of ancestor spirit worship cultures, historical facts and a tongue-in-cheek passion, this book series bridges the gap between the seemingly disparate words: Nephilim and Clown. After reading this book, you will know that circuses are no joke; they are occult rituals. You will recognise that the clown, as we know it today, is a purposefully crafted caricature of a much more ancient and fearfully colourful predator, still hunting us today... You will understand that The Nephilim Looked Like Clowns. Read more