Heavy Water
A masterful short story collection in which Martin Amis wields his sharp wit and dark humor to unravel the complexities of desire, loneliness, and mankind's place in the universe. In nine of his finest short stories, Martin Amis probes the absurdities of life on both sides of the Atlantic with his trademark combination of sidesplitting dark comedy and exquisite use of language. The characters in Heavy Water and Other Stories take depressing vacations and strike up dizzying affairs with their own solitude. They lie and commit crimes and prepare for alien invasions; they develop strange hobbies and wrestle desperately with professional, existential, and global crises. Across a variety of landscapes--from England and America to cruise ships and alternate universes--Amis doles out new surprises, inverting social customs and interrogating the value systems we take for granted. Heavy Water and Other Stories displays the astonishing range of Martin Amis's powers of invention, penetration, and provocation in the face of our modern world.
The Soul Anchors
The gods left a secret. Jax needs to find it before Oracle's time runs out.Returning to Dravith should have been a victory. Jax has claimed Ashen Heart, reunited with his forces, and finally understands what he's truly fighting-Xenefier, an enemy older than the gods themselves, holding Oracle and their unborn child captive.But understanding the threat and stopping it are two very different things.The gods predecessors knew they might fail in their final battle. So they hid something-knowledge, power, and secrets from those that would come after, in the hope that when the threat rose again, so too would a new hope. All of it locked away in the Library of Souls, anchored to the realm by six ancient sites scattered across multiple continents.If Jax can find and unlock those anchors, he might gain the power he needs. But the high elf city of Albens guards more than just ancient secrets-it's dying, besieged by slavers who've been murdering children. And when negotiations with fragment bearer Lisandra reveal the price of alliance, Jax discovers that sometimes the hardest battles aren't against gods or monsters.They're against the clock.Split forces. Ancient secrets. And a debt paid in blood.Book 11 of the UnderVerse series-where every choice has a cost, and Jax is running out of time.
Letti Park
In the stories of Letti Park, strangers wander into ordinary lives and change them in profound yet unknowable ways. Judith Hermann's masterful stories reveal the subtle but incontestable drama of what happens when we meet someone. Her characters have no defense against these intense and unpredictable encounters. They occur at random, without cause or provocation, and unfold beneath the threshold of comprehension. In Letti Park, Judith Hermann explores this all-important moment, our loneliness and rage and longing.
Arabesques
From an acclaimed Ukrainian author, snapshots of a city haunted by war The women, men, and children in Serhiy Zhadan's new collection of stories testify to the dignity of daily life in the war-battered Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. Through a series of powerful vignettes we witness the ordinary experiences of people in extraordinary times--weddings, love affairs, tense visits home from the battlefield, desperate deliveries of humanitarian aid.Highlighting the upheaval since the 2022 Russian invasion, characters from Zhadan's Mesopotamia and The Orphanage reappear, this time with entirely different concerns: evacuating an elderly woman after the bombardment of a residential area; finding a job for someone who returned from the front with significant disabilities; attending the funeral of a colleague who had led a combat unit on the front lines.These stories, composed shortly before the author joined the Ukrainian armed forces, give voice to the vulnerability of those whose lives have been transformed by war, who have come to accept that death lurks around every corner, in every building, and on every square.
A Pair of Blue Eyes Timeless Classics
'In "A Pair of Blue Eyes," Thomas Hardy weaves a compelling tale of love, ambition, and social constraints in 19th-century England. The novel follows the journey of Elfride Swancourt, a spirited young woman caught between two ardent suitors-ambitious architect Stephen Smith and the stable, yet dull, Mr. Philadelphus Tringham. Elfride's choices are complicated by her passion, societal expectations, and her quest for independence. As her relationships deepen, secrets emerge, testing the boundaries of trust and desire. Hardy's poignant exploration of human emotion reveals the struggles faced by those yearning for personal freedom in a world bound by tradition and class. With themes of identity, morality, and the search for true love, "A Pair of Blue Eyes" is a poignant reflection on the complexities of romantic entanglements and the societal pressures that shape them. This enduring story invites readers to ponder the delicate balance between heart and duty.
The Gossip
BRAND NEW utterly heart-pounding thriller from BESTSELLING author Rona HalsallA must-read for fans of Freida McFadden, Shari Lapena, and Lisa Jewell.The smaller the town, the bigger the secrets...When a young widow named Nia moves with her little boy to the picturesque village of Talysarn - with its lakes, woodlands and soaring mountains - she believes she's finally found the fresh start she needs.At first, it seems perfect. Until a vicious rumour begins to spread: that Nia is having an affair with an older man who lives nearby. The gossip quickly spirals out of control, eventually reaching the ears of his wife - the fierce head teacher at the local primary school.Before Nia realises what's happening, her dream of a new beginning turns into a nightmare. She must uncover who started the rumour before everything falls apart. Because nobody can know the real reason she moved to Talysarn.Everyone in this village has secrets. Including Nia.And someone will kill to keep theirs...Bestselling authors love Rona Halsall: 'Wow. Wow. Wow. A fantastic read. Just my sort of thriller - twisty, fast-paced, and impossible to put down.' Diana Wilkinson'A thrillingly twisty rollercoaster of a read!' Valerie Keogh'OMG THIS BOOK!!! A masterful, heart-pounding thriller - I had no idea who to trust until the very end.' Samantha Hayes'Unputdownable... the twists just keep rolling.' Karen King'A gripping, fast-paced thriller that ramps up the tension with every chapter.' AJ McDine'Wow - what a totally gripping thriller. I was on the edge of my seat!' Ruby SpeechleyReaders are gripped too: 'WOW WOW WOW - brilliant, with twists you'd never guess!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'So many twists and turns - I devoured this in one sitting!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'Once you start, you won't be able to put it down. A fantastic thriller.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The New Neighbour
BRAND NEW FROM THE NUMBER ONE BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF THE WIVES AND THE NURSE! Don't miss this new pulse-pounding psychological thriller from Valerie Keogh Must-read for fans of Freida McFadden and Lisa Jewell! A quiet street holds deadly secrets... Chloe Tomson wants a quiet life. A new home, a new street, and no more drama - she's had more than her share. But the moment she steps in to help her elderly neighbour during a violent altercation, the peace she craves begins to crumble.The street seems friendly at first. Until the questions start. Who exactly is Chloe? Why did she move here? And what really happened in the house she lives in before she arrived?As some neighbours become friends and others become enemies, it isn't always certain which is which. Because Chloe isn't the only neighbour keeping secrets...and someone knows the truth about her past. Someone who wants her gone.But as whispers turn to threats, Chloe realises she's been here before. And last time, not everyone made it out alive...Praise for Valerie Keogh: 'Keogh is the queen of compelling narratives and twisty plots' Jenny O'Brien'A wonderful book, I can't rate this one highly enough. If only there were ten stars, it's that good. Valerie Keogh is a master story-teller, and this is a masterful performance.' Anita Waller'Keogh is no. 1 for a reason, and this is another perfect slice of domestic noir. A definite 5 stars.' Keri Beevis'I was blown away with this book!' ★★★★★ Reader Review'I didn't see the twist coming at all!' ★★★★★ Reader Review'A rollercoaster of a story!' ★★★★★ Reader Review
Finders Keepers
"Dear Diary. Today I'm going to kill her. Love, Rose."When Rose discovers her troubled past splashed across the pages of a bestselling book, she knows her carefully constructed life is about to unravel.The author, Emily Harper, claims the story is fiction, but Rose knows better. Desperate to find out how Emily discovered her deepest secrets, Rose ingratiates herself into the author's life, posing as an eager assistant and adoring fan.But as Rose gets closer to the truth, long-buried memories resurface. Slowly, the horrifying events of her teenage years come into focus, revealing that sometimes, the people you trust the most are the ones you should be most afraid of.
The Soul Anchors
The gods left a secret. Jax needs to find it before Oracle's time runs out.Returning to Dravith should have been a victory. Jax has claimed Ashen Heart, reunited with his forces, and finally understands what he's truly fighting-Xenefier, an enemy older than the gods themselves, holding Oracle and their unborn child captive.But understanding the threat and stopping it are two very different things.The gods predecessors knew they might fail in their final battle. So they hid something-knowledge, power, and secrets from those that would come after, in the hope that when the threat rose again, so too would a new hope. All of it locked away in the Library of Souls, anchored to the realm by six ancient sites scattered across multiple continents.If Jax can find and unlock those anchors, he might gain the power he needs. But the high elf city of Albens guards more than just ancient secrets-it's dying, besieged by slavers who've been murdering children. And when negotiations with fragment bearer Lisandra reveal the price of alliance, Jax discovers that sometimes the hardest battles aren't against gods or monsters.They're against the clock.Split forces. Ancient secrets. And a debt paid in blood.Book 11 of the UnderVerse series-where every choice has a cost, and Jax is running out of time.
The Gossip
BRAND NEW utterly heart-pounding thriller from BESTSELLING author Rona HalsallA must-read for fans of Freida McFadden, Shari Lapena, and Lisa Jewell.The smaller the town, the bigger the secrets...When a young widow named Nia moves with her little boy to the picturesque village of Talysarn - with its lakes, woodlands and soaring mountains - she believes she's finally found the fresh start she needs.At first, it seems perfect. Until a vicious rumour begins to spread: that Nia is having an affair with an older man who lives nearby. The gossip quickly spirals out of control, eventually reaching the ears of his wife - the fierce head teacher at the local primary school.Before Nia realises what's happening, her dream of a new beginning turns into a nightmare. She must uncover who started the rumour before everything falls apart. Because nobody can know the real reason she moved to Talysarn.Everyone in this village has secrets. Including Nia.And someone will kill to keep theirs...Bestselling authors love Rona Halsall: 'Wow. Wow. Wow. A fantastic read. Just my sort of thriller - twisty, fast-paced, and impossible to put down.' Diana Wilkinson'A thrillingly twisty rollercoaster of a read!' Valerie Keogh'OMG THIS BOOK!!! A masterful, heart-pounding thriller - I had no idea who to trust until the very end.' Samantha Hayes'Unputdownable... the twists just keep rolling.' Karen King'A gripping, fast-paced thriller that ramps up the tension with every chapter.' AJ McDine'Wow - what a totally gripping thriller. I was on the edge of my seat!' Ruby SpeechleyReaders are gripped too: 'WOW WOW WOW - brilliant, with twists you'd never guess!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'So many twists and turns - I devoured this in one sitting!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'Once you start, you won't be able to put it down. A fantastic thriller.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Gossip
BRAND NEW utterly heart-pounding thriller from BESTSELLING author Rona HalsallA must-read for fans of Freida McFadden, Shari Lapena, and Lisa Jewell.The smaller the town, the bigger the secrets...When a young widow named Nia moves with her little boy to the picturesque village of Talysarn - with its lakes, woodlands and soaring mountains - she believes she's finally found the fresh start she needs.At first, it seems perfect. Until a vicious rumour begins to spread: that Nia is having an affair with an older man who lives nearby. The gossip quickly spirals out of control, eventually reaching the ears of his wife - the fierce head teacher at the local primary school.Before Nia realises what's happening, her dream of a new beginning turns into a nightmare. She must uncover who started the rumour before everything falls apart. Because nobody can know the real reason she moved to Talysarn.Everyone in this village has secrets. Including Nia.And someone will kill to keep theirs...Bestselling authors love Rona Halsall: 'Wow. Wow. Wow. A fantastic read. Just my sort of thriller - twisty, fast-paced, and impossible to put down.' Diana Wilkinson'A thrillingly twisty rollercoaster of a read!' Valerie Keogh'OMG THIS BOOK!!! A masterful, heart-pounding thriller - I had no idea who to trust until the very end.' Samantha Hayes'Unputdownable... the twists just keep rolling.' Karen King'A gripping, fast-paced thriller that ramps up the tension with every chapter.' AJ McDine'Wow - what a totally gripping thriller. I was on the edge of my seat!' Ruby SpeechleyReaders are gripped too: 'WOW WOW WOW - brilliant, with twists you'd never guess!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'So many twists and turns - I devoured this in one sitting!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'Once you start, you won't be able to put it down. A fantastic thriller.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Not All Magic is Black Magick
What does it mean to follow a spiritual path in a place built to crush the soul?In a system designed to control bodies, silence voices, and sever people from their sacred rhythms, choosing to practice witchcraft becomes an act of resistance. Not All Magic is Black Magick gathers the words, art, spells, and stories of imprisoned witches and Wiccans who continue to seek connection to spirit, earth, and self, against all odds.Through poetry, essays, comics, rituals, and reflections, this anthology maps the many ways magic survives behind bars. These pieces speak of longing and power, ritual and rebellion, offering a glimpse into what it means to cultivate sacred space where none is given.You do not need to be Wiccan or pagan to enter these pages. You need only curiosity, an open heart, and a willingness to witness the fierce beauty of belief under confinement. Whether you are seeking guidance in your own practice or simply wondering what becomes of faith when freedom is taken, this book holds something for you.
The Legend of Fast Eddie
What happens when old school meets new school-and a man running from his past is forced back onto the road?After losing his wife in a tragic accident, Eddie McVane-a self-exiled trucker and former race car driver-has retreated from life, convinced his best days are behind him. Three years later, he's barely surviving, until his brilliant best friend and longtime partner offers him an unexpected opportunity: test-drive the truck of the future on a cross-country run.What begins as a simple job quickly becomes something far more complicated.As Eddie crisscrosses the country, he encounters an unforgettable cast of characters and a series of events that challenge everything he believes about loss, purpose, and second chances. With every mile, Eddie is forced to confront the truth he's been avoiding-his life isn't over, and his legacy is still being written.The Legend of Fast Eddie is a fast-paced, heartfelt road-trip adventure filled with humor, insight, and surprises around every curve. Equal parts entertainment and inspiration, this first book in the series by H. L. Griffen proves that redemption can arrive when you least expect it-and that sometimes the open road is exactly where healing begins.Buckle up.Driving a truck has never been this much fun.
Lucky Guy (Large Print Edition)
"A deep and compelling dive into a question seldom answered: How lucky am I?" Jerry Spinelli, Newbery MedalistWhat if you believed fate was on your side-even when the stakes are life and death? "A compelling tale of passion, poker, and unrealized dreams, a dizzying roulette wheel of chaos and happenstance. Irwin writes tight prose with sharp edges, and his newest novel is a stark reminder that choices almost always have consequences." Dinty W. Moore, author of Between Panic & Desire Matt Martinez is not having a good day. He's nearly burned through his poker stake, his girlfriend is threatening to leave him over his gambling, his father is dying in hospice, and he can't seem to get along with his sister. To top it off, he accidentally murders two people, and it isn't even lunch time yet."Concisely written and propulsive... There's a lot of Patricia Highsmith's Tom Ripley in Matt, though Matt imagines himself a moral creature until, like Ripley, he blows right past all moral boundaries. Along the way, we get consistently fun dialogue. It's part of the book's strength that by the end, you understand the title is both ironic and fitting." Michael Backus, author of The Vanishing Point and The Heart is Meat: An 80s MemoirFrom a writer the Los Angeles Times called "witty and ingenious," Lucky Guy is a gripping psychological thriller about a would-be professional poker player whose faith in his own luck is as unshakable as it is seemingly unfounded. As Matt's world teeters on the edge of disaster, his belief in his own invincibility is put to the ultimate test. Haunted by secrets and feeling harassed on all sides, he must outwit the police, his own conscience, and a cunning rival obsessed with pushing Matt to the edge."Matt is a complex antihero whose fanatic belief in his own luck leads him into increasingly perilous situations. The skill with which Jim Irwin crafts this multi-layered character is one of the book's great pleasures, and the fast-paced narrative alternates between dark suspense and dark comedy." Lori Robbins, Amazon bestselling author of the On Pointe and Master Class mystery seriesDarkly comic and relentlessly suspenseful, Lucky Guy is a sharp exploration of superstitions, fixations, and the stories we tell ourselves to survive. Will Matt's luck finally run out? Or is he destined to beat the odds one last time?
Maniac
In a quiet town in Ontario, a grisly murder rocks the community to its core. And sitting at the centre of the violence is the killer-Jacob Dorrit.Dorrit willingly turns himself in. But why? When Detectives Steve Warner and his partner, Mark Bonisteel, confront him, Dorrit laughs ominously. He knows much more than he lets on-he's holding the strings, and some of them lead directly to Steve. Is Steve hiding something from his past-something that, if exposed, could destroy his career?Meanwhile, reporters Leanne Walsh and Spencer Haines team up to break the story. With police keeping details under wraps, the pair plan a major expos矇 on the murder and the victim. At the same time, Mark follows a lead of his own-one that could shatter more than just the community.Before he's swept up in the madness, Steve must uncover Dorrit's motive-all the while competing against a pair of relentless journalists and his own partner. Who will uncover the truth first? And what will happen to Steve-or the community, or beyond-when they do?A gripping, high-stakes thriller, Maniac takes the reader on a twisted journey through good and evil, love and duty, and the fickleness of fate.
Pierce Brown's Red Rising: Sons of Ares Omnibus
From the world of the best-selling YA series Red Rising comes a story of love and loss and rage! Containing all three original graphic novel in the Red Rising series in one amazing volume. In the future, when mankind has spread across the stars, the hierarchy of man is dictated by the color of one's caste. The Golds rule all, but what will happen when one falls for a lowly Red? See how a forbidden love will set the course of events for the future and lead to the formation of the formidable Sons of Ares! Written by author Pierce Brown (The Red Rising Trilogy) and Rik Hoskin comes the in-continuity prequel story of revolution and Red Rising!
Queen Sonja Omnibus Vol. 2
Collects three fantastic Red Sonja stories for one great price in one amazing omnibus. QUEEN SONJA VOL 4: SON OF SET - Thulsa Doom, Sonja's hated nemesis, has been rotting in the stygian darkness and nursing his enmity for the flame-haired queen since Sonja cast him down there many years ago. Set, Thulsa's evil god, calls out to him, promising him vengeance if Doom will free his god from an ancient prison. You can be sure Thulsa is up to the task, and when Set is free, all hell breaks loose in Sogaria. But what about the mysterious plans Set is hiding from Thulsa Doom? And what about Red Sonja? She's not giving up her kingdom without a fight! QUEEN SONJA VOL 5: ASCENDANCY - Ever since she took the throne of Sogoria, Sonja's journey has been leading to something greater still. Her small kingdom threw off the shackles of an empire only to see terrorism, revolt, and finally the brutality of Thulsa Doom. Starved, shocked, and near desperation, Sonja's people now openly revolt against her rule. She turns to the only wealthy Baron to levy taxes and feed the people, but he has a better idea - attack the empire! Open assault on the Emoran Empire is suicide, but to Sonja war is a form of art. QUEEN SONJA VOL. 6: HEAVY IS THE CROWN- Heavy sits the crown of Emora, as Empress Sonja is a target for plots, schemes, and assassinations. Her new enemy is within her walls, wears no flag, and knows no mercy. How can she rule when the Wizard Koliostri and his suicidal cult of fanatical worshippers terrorize her people? By sending her captains Xander and Melea to infiltrate the cult, Sonja may have signed their death warrants. There is only one way for this to end - in fire and blood! Collecting issues 16 thru 35
Beirut Extraction
Beirut Extraction is a tense, contemporary espionage thriller from Nick Irving, set in the shadowed world of modern intelligence and covert operations.A Compromised AssetWhen a senior Lebanese intelligence officer is quietly marked for extraction, the directive from London is intentionally sparse: remove him from Beirut without incident, exposure, or trace. The fewer who know, the better. A Fractured OperationBut Beirut is a city where information leaks, loyalties fracture, and every movement is observed. As former operatives, officials, and civilians are drawn into the operation, competing agendas emerge, professional, political, and deeply personal. And the margin for error narrows with every delay. A Narrow Escape What begins as a controlled intelligence manoeuvre becomes a race against time across embassies, checkpoints, and open water. With surveillance tightening and trust eroding, those involved must decide what lengths they are willing to go to ensure the mission succeeds.If you like gritty heroes, intricate plots, and high-octane action, then you'll love Nick Irving's Beirut Extraction. Get your copy to dive headfirst into danger today!
Nothing But Ghosts
A short-story collection following several women whose respective relationships are all on the turn in some way and have passed their first flush of romantic love. The brilliant second collection of stories from Germany's answer to Zadie Smith. Judith Hermann's first collection, Summerhouse, Later, sold over 250,000 hardcovers in Germany and was short-listed for both the IMPAC award and the Independent Foreign Fiction Prize. In Nothing but Ghosts, she portrays a generation in a new and precarious stage--she describes relationships with painstaking honesty, filling in the silences where communication has begun to falter and the gaze begins to turn elsewhere.
Tales from the Hitopadesha
About the BookA VIBRANT COMIC RETELLING OF HITOPADESHA-INDIA'S TIMELESS FABLES OF WIT, WISDOM AND WONDER, WITH A MORAL TWIST.Hitopadesha, literally meaning 'Book of Good Counsel', is a timeless collection of fables and moral tales from ancient India. Written in Sanskrit by Narayan Pandit around the ninth or tenth century CE, these stories of wit, courage and wisdom continue to inspire even today.Featuring both animals and humans, the tales hold universal truths that never fade. Sometimes funny, sometimes dark, they explore friendship, strategy, leadership and morality through unforgettable characters-a lion luring his prey, a vulture blinded by pride, a fearless woman chasing a mysterious sound.Retold with sharp text and vivid illustrations, this comic edition brings ancient wisdom to life-fresh, engaging and full of insight for today's readers.About the SeriesThese contemporary graphic narratives breathe new life into the epics and classics, bringing them alive in full colour with compelling visuals and a fresh format. A must-read for comic book enthusiasts and lovers of good storytelling.
Nightshade
A gorgeous, Gothic, Romany coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of the 1980s Southern Ontario tobacco belt--with a dash of magic realism. Longing for glamour and riches and freedom, Zelda is a young woman who chafes against her Romany identity and her family's poverty. Everything changes when she's lured away from working alongside her mother and aunts and other migrant workers in the tobacco fields and is hired as an assistant and good luck charm to the charismatic Trixie Tormentine. What starts out as a summer of ease and access to the unfettered wealth of the Tormentines--Trixie's husband Jack owns the tobacco farm that employs Zelda's family and friends--unspools into dangerous displays of power and manipulation. One of the Romany family's puppets, grandmother Puri Dai, acts as Zelda's confidante and mentor, and warns her about the devil of the tobacco fields, a harbinger of destruction. As Zelda struggles with her simmering feelings toward the Tormentines, the devil appears to her one night in a motel parking lot. Can Puri Dai's love pull Zelda back from the brink and into a new future? The fate of her family depends on it.
Jerry and Rodrigo Go to War
A sharp yet honest caricature of the neocolonial, uncritical right on American college campuses.Rodrigo Suarez's Coyote Road is a veritable smash hit. Anyone who's anyone is reading it, and the accolades and speaking invitations are pouring in. There is just one problem: Rodrigo didn't write it. Jerry Turley did. And no one believes him.Thus, Jerry--an unimpressive professor at an Appalachian university--embarks on an obsessive, self-destructive crusade to prove his authorship and expose Rodrigo as a thief and an impostor. It doesn't take much Googling to discover that "Rodrigo" is not the man he claims to be. Convincing people to care about it proves much harder.In this uncomfortable campus farce, Steven Salaita holds a mirror to the nagging questions of authenticity and appropriation that occupy academia and literary institutions alike, daring to ask us who really stands to benefit from our era of sensitivity and self-regard.
Moon Tiger
"A powerful, moving and beautifully wrought novel about the ways in which lives are molded by personal memory and the collective past."--Boston GlobeWinner of the Booker Prize - Shortlisted for the Golden Man Booker PrizeThe masterpiece of one of the century's finest novelists--a deftly crafted journey through memory and across decades, between England and Egypt--now featuring a new forewordElderly, uncompromising Claudia Hampton lies in a London hospital bed with memories of life fluttering through her fading consciousness. An author of popular history, Claudia proclaims she's carrying out her last project: a history of the world. This history turns out to be a mosaic of her own life and the lives of those important to her. At its center is Tom--her one great love, found and lost in war-torn Egypt.Always the independent woman, often with contentious relationships, Claudia's personal history is complex and fascinating. As people visit Claudia, they shake and twist the mosaic, changing speed, movement, and voice to reveal themselves and Claudia's impact on their world.A classic of the late 20th century, Moon Tiger is a haunting, evocative, and dazzlingly original story of loss and desire.
Simultaneity Betrayed
A novel weighing the consequence of privacy, influence of observation, spirit of resistance, and risk of thinking for yourself.A writer endeavors to determine his fate as he begrudgingly enters the exclusive and dangerous world of literature.Reduced to being your best and only customer is not a success story. Except for a writer.A story about a cat in a box.And a book."There is no avoiding the reality of our awareness." On artificial writing and its realization.Following in the theme of the author's first novel Walking on Stones, the second book in the series continues the story of the writing experience within the spaces outside the lines.Though part of a series, the books may be read unordered or standalone.Chris Handrahan is an author from Canada with three published books.Categories: Dystopian FictionVisionary and MetaphysicalSpeculative FictionSoft Science Fiction
The Ghost Files 2
At seventeen years old, Mattie Hathaway has survived her mother attempting to kill her, multiple foster homes, and a serial killer. Oh, and she sees ghosts on a regular basis too. You'd think Fate would give her a break right? Umm...nope, not Mattie. Dan Richards is the only person in the entire world Mattie trusts, but then the boy goes and breaks her heart. Mattie does what she does best, she runs and lands herself slap in the middle of a haunted house full of ghosts turned vengeful that want Mattie to join their ranks. Only bright spot on all this? Eli Malone - the gorgeous boy with the beautiful aqua eyes that makes her feel things she's never even imagined before. She's not sure what to do with him, especially when Dan shows up glowering at him. She'll figure Eli out if she can survive the house. The ghosts are bound and determined to kill her so she'll be one of them. Now if she can just figure out how to survive them and the demon stalking her, she might be able to decide what to do about her feelings for Dan and Eli. That is if she can survive the night in the house.
Nasruddin Hodja
About the BookNasruddin Hodja (also known as Mullah Nasruddin or Nasreddin Hodja) is a legendary folk character celebrated across India, Turkey, Persia, Central Asia and the Middle East-a beloved figure known for his wit, wisdom and humour.His clever twists, quick wit and upside-down way of thinking make every story a laugh and a lesson. In this vibrant comic collection, revisit his timeless adventures as he outsmarts the smartest, questions the obvious and turns everyday life into pure wisdom and fun!About the SeriesThese contemporary graphic narratives breathe new life into the epics and classics, bringing them alive in full colour with compelling visuals and a fresh format. A must-read for comic book enthusiasts and lovers of good storytelling.
The Story of Sai Baba
About the BookA CAPTIVATING RETELLING OF SAI BABA'S LIFE, WHERE FAITH, COMPASSION AND MIRACLES COME ALIVE IN THE HUMBLE LANES OF SHIRDI.Long ago, in the quiet town of Shirdi, a fakir arrived-barefoot, humble and glowing with inner calm. No one knew where he came from but soon people discovered he was no ordinary being. He stilled storms with his words and healed hearts with just a glance.Step into the divine world of Sai Baba, where a humble fakir transformed the lives of all who crossed his path. The Story of Sai Baba is a spellbinding graphic retelling of the saint's life, inspired by the Sai Satcharita, the sacred chronicle penned by his devotee, Hemadpant, who met villagers, seekers and sceptics and discovered stories of how Sai Baba transformed their lives. From small acts of kindness to miracles that defied reason, Sai Baba's grace touched rich and poor alike.This comic book brings to life Baba's teachings of faith, compassion and unity beyond religion. A timeless tale of wisdom, wonder and the power of belief.About the SeriesThese contemporary graphic narratives breathe new life into the epics and classics, bringing them alive in full colour with compelling visuals and a fresh format. A must- read for comic book enthusiasts and lovers of good storytelling.
The Story of Ayyappan
About the BookFROM DIVINE BIRTH TO LEGENDARY DEEDS-THE BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED EPIC STORY OF AYYAPPAN.When the buffalo-headed demon Mahishi unleashed chaos upon the heavens, the devas sought the combined strength of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. From their union was born a child unlike any other-the valiant Ayyappan, destined to restore dharma and defeat Mahishi.Raised as a prince among mortals, Ayyappan's journey was one of courage, wisdom and unshakable compassion. As he grew, so did his powers-enough to command the universe itself-while those blinded by greed failed to see the divine light in their midst. Told through stunning illustrations and masterful storytelling, this book is perhaps the most comprehensive retellings of Ayyappan's life in a comic book format. A timeless tale of unity beyond caste, creed and birth, it invites readers of all ages to explore a vibrant chapter of their heritage.About the SeriesThese contemporary graphic narratives breathe new life into the epics and classics, bringing them alive in full colour with compelling visuals and a fresh format. A must-read for comic book enthusiasts and lovers of good storytelling.
The Life of Chanakya
About the BookTHE STORY OF CHANAKYA, THE BRILLIANT MIND WHO TRANSFORMED A COWHERD INTO AN EMPEROR AND BUILT THE MIGHTY MAURYAN EMPIRE!Discover the extraordinary story of Chanakya, the brilliant mind who turned destiny on its head. Insulted and underestimated by Nanda king, King Dhanananda, this sharp-witted scholar, also known as Vishnugupta, made a bold vow-to replace a weak king with a ruler worthy of the throne.From humble beginnings, he spotted potential in a young cowherd, Chandragupta, and with clever strategy, daring plans and unmatched wisdom, transformed him into the emperor of a mighty kingdom. This comic brings to life Chanakya, the scholar and politician, who always managed to be two steps ahead of his enemies. It follows a man who starts from nothing and details how he went on to write the ground-breaking Arthashastra, as well as lay the foundations of a kingdom that threatened even Alexander the Great. It's the story of the strategist, teacher and thinker whose ideas shaped history.Packed with thrilling schemes, clever manoeuvres and larger-than-life intelligence, each page of this comic book celebrates Chanakya's genius, showing how one mind can change the fate of a nation. Richly illustrated and engagingly told, it's a tale of brilliance, ambition and the power of intellect that inspires readers young and old.About the SeriesThese contemporary graphic narratives breathe new life into the epics and classics, bringing them alive in full colour with compelling visuals and a fresh format. A must- read for comic book enthusiasts and lovers of good storytelling.
Sheikh Chilli
About the BookLAUGH OUT LOUD AS SHEIKH CHILLI'S CRAZY IDEAS TURN ORDINARY MOMENTS INTO EPIC COMIC MISADVENTURES! A dreamer with his head always in the clouds, Sheikh Chilli had a knack for turning even the simplest task into a comic disaster. When his mother told him not to shout, he stood still and watched robbers sneak away. When someone told him to plant an egg, he patiently waited for horses to hatch! But beneath all the silliness lay a heart full of innocence and wisdom.Each tale, in this collection of short, fun stories, brims with laughter, mischief and life lessons hidden in the most unexpected moments. With lively storytelling and vibrant illustrations, this comic brings to life the timeless adventures of the ever-bumbling, ever- charming Sheikh Chilli-a reminder that sometimes, it's the simplest minds that see the world most beautifully.About the SeriesThese contemporary graphic narratives breathe new life into the epics and classics, bringing them alive in full colour with compelling visuals and a fresh format. A must- read for comic book enthusiasts and lovers of good storytelling.
The Life of A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
About the BookSCIENTIST. DREAMER. PRESIDENT. LEGEND.From a small town in Rameswaram to the highest office in the country, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam soared on the wings of science, determination and vision. This inspiring comic book traces the life of the 'Missile Man of India'-a brilliant aerospace scientist, a beloved teacher and the People's President.Follow Kalam's extraordinary journey as he fuels rockets, mentors minds and reminds a nation to dream big. With vibrant illustrations and powerful storytelling, this is the unforgettable story of a boy who looked to the skies and never stopped reaching for the stars.About the SeriesThese contemporary graphic narratives breathe new life into the epics and classics, bringing them alive in full colour with compelling visuals and a fresh format. A must-read for comic book enthusiasts and lovers of good storytelling.
Going to Zossen
"A timely revelation." BookLife"Gripping." Kirkus Reviews"Will embrace even readers who held little prior familiarity with and interest in Soviet affairs." Midwest Book ReviewsThe year is 1993. In a collapsing post-Soviet town, a former serviceman, Vasily Mikhailovich, accepts work as the director of a remote juvenile prison colony. Determined to bring order and empathy to a brutal system, he starts a programme of rehabilitation for the young boys. But he is soon thwarted by the corruption around him; as he watches the people nearby prosper through deceit and cruelty, he is forced to make a choice: to uphold his principles and risk everything, or surrender them to save his family.Based on the real accounts of educational colonies during the Russian free-market transition, Going to Zossen is an exploration of the bargains ordinary people make under oppressive systems -a necessary read in today's political climate. Ideal for fans of Claire Keegan's Small Things Like These and Colson Whitehead's The Nickel Boys.
Every Body Has a Secret
A single picture exposes a truth deadly enough to kill for.Disgraced photojournalist Shari Catalano built her new life on a lie. There's a reason she can't trust her instincts or her friends. Because someone close to her found what she keeps sealed in a hidden room, and they're using it to torment her. When her neighbor vanishes and the evidence points to Shari, finding her stalker becomes a matter of life or... life in prison. From behind her vintage camera lens, she watches the quiet suburban street that suddenly feels staged, every resident a suspect. Then a stranger turns up in her picturesque town of Doomwood Falls, so she snaps a picture and develops the film. What she discovers in her darkroom chills her to the bone. Exposing it could be deadly. Because Shari has a secret too, one that explains why she never allows her own picture to be taken, and why she refuses to speak her husband's name. Now someone is watching Shari. They discovered what she's done. And they'll kill to keep her silent. She's taken one photograph too many."Put on a neck brace before reading, because the twists are so good you're guaranteed to get whiplash!" - reader review ★★★★★
Mfkz Vol. 5: V
Based on the Netflix film of the same name! This award-winning comic book series has taken the US by storm with a magazine and multiple spin-offs! DMC is drained of blood after the Machos Blitzkrieg, vicious entities born from the dark matter of the universe. Humanity has no choice but to join forces to resist, failing any attempt at counterattacking. The unified gangs of DMC side with the military in one last shot at survival. But just as the situation seems hopeless and Angelino is caught up in his demons, the first snowflakes of the season fall on the city . . .
Dystopian
During the late moments of the 21st century, an unseen fascist putsch manifested across continental North America. Overnight, the vast democracy quickly descended to become a totalitarian police state, now referred to as The Nation.In 2267, The Nation is at its height of power, at the height of rosy prosperity. All enemies, foreign and domestic, are gone from the last remaining civilization. The rituals of democracy have been replaced by the petty whims of a secretive 1% cadre who believe themselves to represent the Nation's interests. At this date, one soul (Jion Wurnars) of the Nation toils away as a seemingly low-class nonentity who will be thrown into events leading to deciding the destiny of the many billions.As 2276 edges closer to 2277, The Nation's unseen gallery of clandestine caretakers introduces plans to initiate its entire populace into an infinite, unending plane of higher consciousness. To which the forces behind Jion and his friends will be thrown into the ensuing events, which will come to mark the destiny of The Nation's path forever.For fans of the eternal, celebrated authoritarian Orwellian nightmare, Dystopian is the first book of a posthuman new saga. One designed to remind the world as we venture into our possible fates that the darkness should not affect our path to transcendence.
Nevaeh
Beyond death lies a place unlike anything imagined. Is this heaven... or something else? Three strangers awaken in a realm that defies reason. They find themselves guided by an enigmatic figure who claims to be Jesus. He offers peace, solace, answers, and the tantalizing promise of something greater.Told through raw dialogue and emotional depth, Nevaeh is a genre-bending speculative mystery thriller, that will take you on a psychological and philosophical journey-twisting through suspense, belief, identity, horror and the fragile echoes of paradise. When the afterlife becomes a question, the only way forward... is through the unknown. Welcome to Nevaeh Where truth is a lie and the afterlife is a perpetual mystery "With stakes higher than ever, this novel redefines control and manipulation-An original story which will flip the narrative in a way that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew." "Nevaeh is an unparalleled tale of suspense and intrigue. From the very first page, its mystery pulls you in and refuses to let go, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the final reveal." Nevaeh isn't just a story-it's an immersive experience. Crafted in a narrative style that's both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, it invites readers to unravel layered mysteries while contemplating profound philosophical questions. With each page, Nevaeh challenges assumptions, stirs reflection, and leaves a lingering sense of unease. Blending genres with bold originality, it stands apart as a novel that doesn't just entertain-it provokes, unsettles, and stays with you long after the final chapter.Twisted Storylines Publishing'sMission StatementUnravel the untold. Experience the unexpected.At Twisted Storylines Publishing, we are devoted to delivering original, imaginative experiences that defy convention.Our mission is to unearth untold stories with twisted plotlines, genre-bending narratives, and characters that collide in unexpected ways.We embrace the chaos of creativity-where fantasy meets realism, and the familiar is turned on its head-to craft epic, human stories that resonate deeply with readers.Through every book we publish, we challenge norms, ignite curiosity, and celebrate the art of storytelling that dares to be different
Love in the Time of Nudie Mags
I couldn't read the first time I found my dad's secret stash of mags, but things were never the same. By 1986, when I turned fourteen, it was everywhere I looked, but nowhere I went.I kept a journal that year: the lunatics I called a family, a soul-crushing state school, glorious Soho, casual humiliation, and the things kids weren't meant to notice.And then something happened that I didn't have the words for. It felt like learning to read all over again - only this time it hurt.Love in the Time of Nudie mags is a coming-of-age tale flayed open and left twitching.Funny, observant, revolting, and unflinching.Actually, spare me the blurb. This book is probably not for you.Love in the Time of Nudie Mags reached #1 in Amazon Kindle New Releases on Amazon.com and entered the Top 100 in British & Irish Literary Fiction.
The Powerpuff Girls Vol. 1
SUGAR! SPICE! AND EVERYTHING NICE! These are the ingredients you need to make the perfect little girl! But one day in the lab, Professor Utonium accidentally added a little something extra to the recipe: CHEMICAL X! And lo, the POWERPUFF GIRLS were born! Since that fateful day, BLOSSOM, BUBBLES, and BUTTERCUP have dedicated their lives to fighting evil in every form -- tirelessly defending their idyllic city from petty criminals, destructive monsters, and diabolical super-villains alike. Now, this titanic trio returns for more feats of ultra-powered do-goodery, courtesy of the A-list team of writer KELLY THOMPSON (Birds of Prey, Scarlett, Black Widow) and artist PAULINA GANUCHEAU (Wonder Woman, She-Ra), with a bold and adorable (boldorable?) new take on the Heroes of Townsville. Contains issues 1 thru 3 of Dynamite's Powerpuff Girls series. Plus the Halloween special.
The Terminator Vol. 1
The plans to kill Sarah Connor and her son John have failed, but the genocidal Skynet isn't out of options yet. There are still a few more avenues into the past that will allow it to destroy the human resistance that is poised to smash its processors into silicon shrapnel -- it just needs to expand its theater of operations. Opening a new front in the war, Terminators are dispatched across the globe and throughout time to target current resistance fighters, their ancestors, and anyone else unlucky enough to be in the strike zones. And while none of these secondary assignments are as straightforward as the missions of the first T-800 and T-1000, time is literally on the machines' side. When all of history becomes a war zone, nowhere -- and nowhen -- is safe! Acclaimed creator DECLAN SHALVEY (ThunderCats, Old Dog) returns to the present for another blockbuster Dynamite series, joining rising star artist LUKE SPARROW (Star Trek) for all-new tales of Skynet and its nigh-unstoppable mechanical assassins! Contains issues 1 through 5 of the Dynamite series.
Kill Your Darlings
At this mystery conference, murder is more than just another plot twist...Nobody likes conferences, but they're part of the job.Millbrook House senior editor Keiran Chandler has spent years curating the best voices in crime lit, but when an unsolicited manuscript is handed to him at the Noir at the Shore mystery conference, truth collides with fiction. I Know What You Did is more than just another slush pile submission-it's a direct threat. U.N. Owen seems to know what really happened in Steeple Hill all those years ago. Who is Owen? How does he know these things? Clearly the mysterious author is after more than a book deal. But what? With a potentially career-ending publishing merger on the horizon, the end of his affair with bestselling author and former homicide detective Finn Scott, and not so subtle threats from someone in his past, Keiran has a lot bigger problems than coming up with something witty to say on discussion panels.
Speak Softly Among Icebergs
A grief-wrought creature comes to terms with the suicide of his only child and a subsequent marital demise. He tries any and nearly every aid possible to buoy his sanity: drugs, sex, talk therapy and family gossip; travel near and far (real+imagined?), church and family traditions; other occupations and more schooling; literary therapy: writing to vent and better understand the world he wonders, wanders should he live in--Recalling his own childhood, the man settles on those formative years with the lesbian/gf Berry--what nearly ended with a pregnancy unresolved. A child born and given away.MEANWHILE, he happens upon an inheritance, a trunk containing a long-dead family member's unpublished travelogue: centering largely on that man's own secrets, we explore the dead relation's escapades in the former Constantinople, a continent-straddling city of many names and conflicting histories....IF "1" place can be so many, perhaps there's hope for me, our Main Man reasons in confession.
Maniac
In a quiet town in Ontario, a grisly murder rocks the community to its core. And sitting at the centre of the violence is the killer-Jacob Dorrit.Dorrit willingly turns himself in. But why? When Detectives Steve Warner and his partner, Mark Bonisteel, confront him, Dorrit laughs ominously. He knows much more than he lets on-he's holding the strings, and some of them lead directly to Steve. Is Steve hiding something from his past-something that, if exposed, could destroy his career?Meanwhile, reporters Leanne Walsh and Spencer Haines team up to break the story. With police keeping details under wraps, the pair plan a major expos矇 on the murder and the victim. At the same time, Mark follows a lead of his own-one that could shatter more than just the community.Before he's swept up in the madness, Steve must uncover Dorrit's motive-all the while competing against a pair of relentless journalists and his own partner. Who will uncover the truth first? And what will happen to Steve-or the community, or beyond-when they do?A gripping, high-stakes thriller, Maniac takes the reader on a twisted journey through good and evil, love and duty, and the fickleness of fate.
The Walls Are Closing In On Us
"I'm deader'n hell," he said out loud. He said it like a realization that you can't do much with other than live with the truth of it. Like a shrug.Circus performers. Mountain lions. A fight to the death. A half deer/half man. Love and death. A cabin in the woods. A fictional retelling of a mysterious ancestor. The Walls Are Closing In On Us is a Southern odyssey that follows George, a dying Choctaw and white man, reckoning with the ghosts of his past as he bleeds out beside a cold North Carolina river, hundreds of miles from home. His heart was a mess of scars, so thick he wondered how it kept pumping.Starting with his childhood in Mississippi, The Walls Are Closing In On Us travels across the southeast - by car, foot, and train - along with George on his search for love, anonymity and a quiet life. Only by reexamining a lifetime of flight, grief and the haunting consequences of a teenage act of survival, can George be allowed some version the solitude he's been searching for.Based ever so slightly on a true story, this Southern odyssey explores what it means to be anyone at all, and how even the simple act of reading someone's name is enough to bring them back to life - no matter if they wish to remain forgotten.