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Packed with hard-won wisdoms and gentle truths, this is Miranda’s honest exploration of the lessons she has learned on her journey from illness to recoveryTHE INSTANT SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER NOW IN PAPERBACK 'A raw and poignant account. Miranda is more of an everywoman than ever before' The Times'A bombshell, moving, inspirational... No comedian, female or male, has been so taken to the nation’s bosom since Victoria Wood' Independent'Irrepressible and joyous. Taking us affectionately by the hand, Miranda takes us through her ten-year journey to deep self-knowledge' Daily Mail‘A wonderful book, filled with treasure’ Julia Samuel'A raw and poignant account. Miranda is more of an everywoman than ever before' The Times'Miranda's account of slowly letting her guard down and being vulnerable is sweet and moving, and proof that happiness is possible even in the most trying times' Guardian--Hello to you, I am with news. I have a new book: I Haven’t Been Entirely Honest With You. I know – what an intriguing title!Basically, I have had an unexpectedly difficult decade – there have been surprising joys, but also deep revelations and challenging lows. I shall be honest about those, because what I discovered in the difficult times were my, what I call, treasures.Treasures – practical tools, values, ways, answers researched from some great scientists, neuroscientists, therapists, sociologists (all the ‘ists’) out there, that have genuinely led to a sense of freedom, joy, peace and physical recovery I never would have thought possible.Life now, amazingly, with what I will share, is – SUCH FUN! (always important to quote your own catch phrases. . .) If you fancy having a read, then I hope my story might help your story. After all, we are in this beautiful, mysterious, challenging life together. Rest assured there are funny stories along the way – we will have a laugh too, my dear reader chum.Oh, and I couldn’t possibly say if there is a love story in it . . . (There is – shush). Exciting.--MORE RAVE REVIEWS FOR I HAVEN'T BEEN ENTIRELY HONEST WITH YOU'Packed with optimism and wisdom' i'Irrepressible and joyous...[Hart] describes memorable escapades from her past and can't repress her inner funniest girl in the dorm self' Daily Mail'A wonderful book, filled with treasure' Julia Samuel, psychotherapist and bestselling authorSunday Times bestseller, October 2024

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Your complete one-volume guide to the year 2026. This fantastic and in-depth book includes month-by-month forecasts for every sign and all you need to know to find out what is in store for you in the year ahead. The only one-volume horoscope you’ll ever need. This bestselling astrological guide contains: • A personality profile for each sign • A forecast for the year ahead – what you can expect in terms of wealth, home, health, social and love life • A month-by-month forecast of your best days and worst days – the ideal days to attract love, money or success, and when it’s better to just stay in bed!

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A thrilling face-to-face encounter with animals in their own environment – their elaborate displays, intimate lives, and extraordinary behaviourDid you know that elephants give each other names, orangutans self-medicate, and rats giggle? Animal Behaviour is full of hundreds of stories that shed light on how animals navigate life in the wild.Packed with vivid wildlife photography and action sequences, every aspect of animal life and behaviour is explored and explained – from courtship rituals and birth to hunting and death. An initial overview of animal anatomy and physiology reveals the science and biomechanics that underpin animal behaviour, while later chapters thematically break down the intricacies of animal feeding, development, communication, intelligence, learning, and other behavioural characteristics. Learn about play through river otters, see socialization among parrots at the riverbank, and catch prey with a fishing spider. Feature panels throughout the book explore the biology behind these traits, introduce case studies from the field, and highlight critical conservation issues facing these animals.Animal Behaviour has been created in collaboration with internationally renowned zoologist and TV presenter Charlotte Uhlenbroek and a team of wildlife experts to ensure up-to-date and accurate information.

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A delightfully funny story about friendship and seasonal change from the multi-award-winning Julia Donaldson. Chack the blackbird and Apollo the swallow are friends. But when Apollo tells Chack that he will soon be flying to Africa – Chack doesn't believe him. And when Chack tells Apollo that the blossom on his favourite tree will one day turn into orange berries – Apollo doesn't believe him either! But as the seasons change, Chack and Apollo are both in for a big surprise … Join Chack and Apollo on a round-the-world adventure in this delightfully funny story about friendship and change. From the author of the multi-million-selling The Gruffalo, Julia Donaldson, Follow the Swallow is the perfect book for EVERY season!

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Take a road trip to remember with Road Trips Northern and Central Italy. Hilltop villages, winding Tuscan roads, dramatic alpine passes: Italy is the perfect destination for a road trip to remember. With Road Trips Northern and Central Italy, it’s yours to explore.Featuring 25 wonderful drives across the country, and packed with detailed driving instructions and practical information, this easy-to-use guide helps you discover Northern and Central Italy at its best.Inside you’ll find:- 25 easy-to-follow scenic driving tours, each lasting one to five days- A laminated pull-out road map of Northern and Central Italy, which helps you navigate with ease- Ways to see more of each area en route, including great viewpoints, delightful detours, walks through historic towns and villages, outdoor activities, and a variety of tours and trips.- Our pick of the best places to stay, eat and shop- Rules of the road, addresses for satnavs, detailed directions for easy navigation, road conditions and parking tips, and useful travel, visa and health informationLooking for more on Northern and Central Italy’s culture, history and attractions? Try our DK Italy travel guide.

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*AS RECOMMENDED BY TAYLOR JENKINS REID "FOR SOMEONE WHO NEEDS A GOOD LAUGH" ON TIME'S INSTAGRAM* ‘A darkly funny riot’ The Times, Book of the Month A GOODREADS CHOICE AWARD FOR FICTION 2024 Would you want to know what your colleagues say behind your back? Jolene certainly doesn’t. She’s riddled with anxiety, depressed, and hates her coworkers. The less she knows about them, the better. So when a catastrophic IT f*ck up grants her access to all of their emails and private messages, she’s initially horrified. The last thing she wants is to be privy to their sad discussions about dying desk plants and marital troubles. That’s until, with job cuts looming, she realises the power this new-found knowledge gives her. And soon, Jolene uncovers a lot more than she bargained for… For readers who loved The Office US and Really Good, Actually comes the awkward heroine you’re about to fall in love with 'I haven’t been a reader for a long time, however found this in the airport book shop before a recent trip and this had me glued to it. Would thoroughly recommend – had me chuckling away' READER REVIEW ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'This book caught me off guard! It made me laugh, it made me cry… it's truly incredible and the best book I've read so far this year' READER REVIEW ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Ever since I found out about this book on bookstagram I've become obsessed. Five months later, I FINALLY got my hands on a proof copy and OMG I loved this immensely!!' READER REVIEW ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Please make this into a TV series!' READER REVIEW ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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'A story-telling bonfire as enthralling in its pages as it is illuminating of our fragile and complicated humanity. Familiaris is as expansive and enlightening a saga as has ever been written' Tom Hanks'An epic novel... brilliantly interweaves history, philosophy, adventure, and mysticism to explore the meaning of love, friendship and living your life's true purpose' Oprah WinfreySpring 1919, and John Sawtelle's imagination has got him into trouble...again. Now John and his newlywed wife, Mary, along with their two best friends and their three dogs, are setting off for Wisconsin's north woods, where they hope to make a fresh start - and to live a life of meaning, purpose, and adventure. But the place they are headed for is far stranger and more perilous than they realize, and it will take all their ingenuity, along with a few new friends - human, animal, and otherworldly - to realise their dreams.By turns hilarious and heartbreaking, mysterious and enchanting, Familiaris takes readers on an unforgettable journey from the halls of a small-town automobile factory, through an epic midwestern firestorm and an ambitious WWII dog training program, examining the dynamics of love and friendship, the vexing nature of families, the universal desire to create something lasting and beautiful, and of course, the species-long partnership between Homo sapiens and Canis familiaris.PRAISE FOR FAMILIARIS'An American tour de force' Colum McCann'Impossibly wise, impossibly ambitious, impossibly beautiful' Richard Russo

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Succession meets Lucy Foley's The Guest List in this thriller with a big heart and even bigger surprises, from the author of Hidden Pictures.'Kept my heart racing and my mind reeling' Riley Sager'The best thriller I've read all year' Grady Hendrix'Rekulak knows how to keep readers glued to the page' Mary Kubica'One of the best books of the year' First Clue'A dynamite thriller with a fizzing fuse' Peterborough TelegraphThe guests are arriving, and the celebrations are starting. But there's something strange about this wedding...Frank Szatowski hasn't seen his daughter Maggie in years, and it breaks his heart every day. So when she calls him out of the blue, to tell him that she's getting married and he's invited, Frank is overjoyed.Maggie is marrying into one of the richest families in the country, and Frank finds himself overwhelmed by the social circle she now moves in. He'll do anything to reconnect, though, and arrives at their New Hampshire estate ready to bond however he can with Maggie's in-laws.But as the wedding weekend gets underway, it becomes clear to Frank that although they have spared no expense, there's something strange about Maggie's fiancé. And maybe Frank shouldn't be celebrating just yet...'I'd highly recommend for anyone looking for a highly binge-worthy thriller' ***** NetGalley Review'I loved the characters of Frank and Abigail and found the lives and drama of the mega rich family fascinating. I really didn't want this book to end, I even shed a tear or two when I had finished it' ***** NetGalley Review'A masterful blend of psychological suspense and family drama...seamlessly intertwines suspense with heartfelt storytelling' ***** NetGalley Review'This is such a fun thrilling read, you need to pick this up as soon as you can get your hands on it!' ***** NetGalley Review'Take nothing for granted in this tautly written, wonderfully blended novel with a big heart. Outstanding' ***** NetGalley Review

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'Terrific' STEPHEN KING Evil has a one track mind… Celebrated children’s author and illustrator Annie Blunt has had a dreadful year. Her husband was killed in a tragic accident, then one of her children’s books ignited a major scandal. Desperate for a fresh start, she moves with her young son Charlie to a charming small town in upstate New York where they can begin to heal. But Annie’s year is about to get worse. Bored and lonely in their isolated new surroundings, Charlie is thrilled when he finds a forgotten train set in a locked shed in the grounds of their new house. While Annie is pleased to see Charlie happy, there’s something unsettling about his new toy. Strange sounds wake Annie in the night – she’s sure she can hear a train in the middle of the night, although there isn’t an active line for miles. And then bizarre things start happening in the neighbourhood. But even stranger, Annie can’t seem to stop drawing a disturbing new character that has no place in a children’s book… Grief plays tricks on the mind, but Annie is beginning to think she’s walked out of one nightmare straight into another, only this one is far more terrifying… Sunday Times bestselling author Linwood Barclay enters new territory with a fiendishly twisted supernatural chiller. PRAISE FOR LINWOOD BARCLAY: ‘Linwood Barclay has crafted another perfect page-turner’ The Times ‘Pacy and tense, it’s a triumph from a master thriller writer. Every page makes your heart beat that little bit faster’ The Sun ‘You’ll be left speed-reading towards the end to discover answers expertly posed by the bestselling Toronto-based crime writer’ The Independent ‘Totally absorbing… brilliant stuff’ Neil Lancaster ‘A superior thriller’ Sunday Times ‘A suspense master’ Stephen King Readers are jumping on the Linwood Barclay train! 'Dark and thoroughly absorbing … A creepy and atmospheric book' (Five stars) 'Whistle is simply genius … my favourite book of [Linwood Barclay's] I've ever read' (Five stars) 'A twisty horror thriller with a Stephen King feel. Do yourself a favour and read this book' (Five stars) 'Bravo Mr Barclay – Whistle is a brilliant read, everything I want from a book was here and so much more! I enjoyed every twisted horrible brilliant minute of it' (Five stars) 'First class storytelling. I was hooked from the first page, I raced through the book in one sitting' (Five stars) 'This creepy atmospheric story does not disappoint. I absolutely loved this book' (Five stars)

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'An alluring and captivating story' ISABEL IBAÑEZ'Devastatingly romantic, with heart-stopping action and twists' AXIE OH'Everything I love in a story' MARY E. PEARSON From the New York and Sunday Times bestselling author of Six Crimson Cranes comes a new breathtaking romantic fantasy inspired by Beauty and the Beast about a girl who paints the future and a cursed dragon lord, bound by love and deception in a plot to bring down the gods. Fortune finds those who leap . . . A gifted art forger, Truyan Saigas has the unique ability to paint the future. But when her father is lost at sea, not even magic can heal her family, or save her two younger sisters from the dangerous consequences of her mother's gambling debts.Then Elang, a mysterious dragon lord, offers her a deal: in exchange for a fresh start for her mother and sisters, Tru must enter a marriage contract and join him in his desolate undersea palace.Once there, Tru will embark on her most dangerous forgery yet. To infiltrate the tyrannical Dragon King's inner circle and paint a future so treasonous, it could upend both the mortal and immortal realms . . .YOUR FAVOURITE TROPESEnemies to lovers ⚔️💗Slow burn romance ❤️‍🔥Sassy FMCS ᴗMarriage of convenience 💍He falls first (and harder) 🦵🧎‍♂️ PRAISE FOR A FORGERY OF FATE 'This romantasy delivers stunning world-building, compelling characters, and an enchanting story' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'A lush and emotionally beautiful journey' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'I gobbled this book up!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Talk about swoon worthy, C drama magic' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'The characters tug at your heart string' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/p

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THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER'A beautiful novel full of life-affirming wonder and imagination' BENEDICT CUMBERBATCH'What looks like magic is simply a part of life we don't understand yet . . .'When retired Maths teacher Grace Winters is left a run-down house on a Mediterranean island by a long-lost friend, curiosity gets the better of her. She arrives in Ibiza with a one-way ticket, no guidebook and no plan.Among the rugged hills and golden beaches Grace searches for answers about her friend's life, and how it ended. What she uncovers is stranger than she could have dreamed. But to dive into this impossible truth, Grace must first come to terms with her past.Filled with wonder and wild adventure, this is a story of hope and the life-changing power of a new beginning.

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'The stuff of legend' MirrorIt's time to confess their sins.Steph Barker can't forget her past. A single mother, Steph runs a women's shelter for local prostitutes while coming to terms with a tragic loss. And it's people like Joseph Potter, battling with his own grief, who keep her going.When Hennie, one of her friends from the shelter, goes missing, Steph's convinced Hennie's violent pimp Artie Rogers has something to do with it. Steph and Artie go way back, but his reign of terror throughout the Medway towns is out of control and even she can't do anything to stop him. Then another prostitute disappears and it's time to find out who's guilty.Everyone has their secrets - but one of them is getting away with murder.*THE BRAND NEW NOVEL FROM MARTINA COLE - NO REGRET - IS AVAILABLE TO PRE-ORDER NOW*'The queen of crime' Woman & Home'One of the best fiction authors around . . . spectacular' Closer'Martina Cole is back and back with an unapologetic bang' 5* reader review'Well worth the wait!' 5* reader review'Phenomenal' 5* reader reviewDue to health reasons, Martina Cole has chosen to continue her collaboration with writer Jacqui Rose for her novel Guilty.

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Find out how to transform the ordinary into something extraordinary with this guide to minimalist photography. With advice on composition, balance, shape and texture, this book takes inspiration from the masters of minimalism to demonstrate how stripping a subject down to its very essence can help you craft beautifully bold and unique images.Illustrated with the finest examples of the style from the likes of Fan Ho, Imogen Cunningham, Michael Kenna, Berenice Abbott, William Eggleston and Horst P. Horst, this book guides you through the key techniques that define minimalism and provides easy-to-follow advice for how to create your own minimalist images that are visually striking in their simplicity.

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A funny rhyming adventure for preschoolers with tabs to push, pull and slide on every page. From award-winning author Ian Whybrow, and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, co-creator of The Gruffalo.Look out – there's a Ticklemonster about! And he's off to tickle all his animal friends, from the pigs on the farm to penguins at the zoo. Join Tom and Bear as they follow him on his adventures, but watch out - you might get tickled too!With a laugh-out-loud text full of witty rhymes and silly scenarios from Ian Whybrow, and illustrations by The Gruffalo illustrator Axel Scheffler that are bursting with funny details, The Tickle Book: A Push, Pull and Slide Book is perfect for sharing – and there's a fun interactive tab to push, pull or slide on every page, so children can join in the fun!Discover more interactive fun in the Tom and Bear series with The Christmas Bear: A Push, Pull and Slide Book.

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A powerful, moving adventure inspired by the extraordinary true story of the French Drummer Boy of Waterloo, COBWEB is a stunning tale of courage and kindness – a book about humanity, animals, and the heartbreak of war, from a writer at the height of his powers. 'Thank goodness for Michael Morpurgo' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Telegraph 'Moving, unique and utterly charming. This is why Michael Morpurgo is the nation's favourite storyteller' Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear “They call me Cobweb. I’ll tell you why later. I may be a dog, but I know and understand a lot more than people think I do.” Britain. 1815. After years of loss and sacrifice, the end of the war with Napoleon is approaching. Cobweb knows nothing of the war – he loves being a young puppy and playing with his owner, Bethan, exploring the countryside and chasing rabbits. But when he is taken away from Bethan and sold, Cobweb must learn to become a Drover’s Dog – herding sheep and cattle for hundreds of miles on the long, treacherous journey to London. And after the Napoleonic wars finally come to an end with the Battle of Waterloo, Cobweb meets an unexpected stranger with an incredible tale to tell on his journey home …

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The deeply romantic sequel to the bestselling Rival Darling – perfect for fans of Lynn Painter, The Summer I Turned Pretty and Powerless. 🏒 Grumpy x Sunshine Slow burn romance Secretly-in-love best friend Touch her and die Dating coach HEA 🏒 SHE’S NEVER BEEN KISSED. HE’S NEVER FELT THIS WAY ABOUT ANYONE. Paige has ticked off everything on her senior year bucket list except one tiny thing — she’s never kissed anyone. And her best friend, Grayson Darling, is to blame. Grayson is the school hockey team’s notorious enforcer, and he’s been scaring away any eligible bachelors that so much as look in Paige’s direction. With time running out, she demands that Grayson stop defending her honour. Instead, he’ll become her dating coach, training her to win the guy of her dreams. But Grayson has plans of his own. He’s been in love with Paige since they were kids, and his clock is running, too. Coaching Paige might be his last chance to show her how good they’d be together. After all, practice makes perfect. Alexandra Moody's BookTok sensation continues with Darling Devils #2: Grumpy Darling — perfect for fans of Hannah Grace, clean and wholesome low spice romance, and slow-burn fire on the ice! 🏒 Readers are DESPERATE for Grumpy Darling after reading Book 1 in the series, Rival Darling! Praise for Rival Darling: 💖💖💖💖💖 'You don't get how many times I had to stop just so I could contain my giggling. This book is a must!' 💖💖💖💖💖 'I fell in love with this book right away. The plot twists. The characters. The love story. Everything. A truly great book if you love romance!' 💖💖💖💖💖 'Read this in one day. So cute and wholesome!!! Loved the couple, and all the side characters. Can't wait for the next book!!!' 💖💖💖💖💖 'I absolutely loved this book so much. I loved the characters and the surprising ending had me laughing and crying. Can’t wait for Grumpy Darling.' 💖💖💖💖💖 'Throughout this whole book I was a grinning mess and even cackled out loud. I LOVED the humour and banter between Violet and Reed and cant wait to read the next book!' 💖💖💖💖💖 'Rival Darling is the first book I've read from Alexandra Moody, andshe knocked it out of the park. This sweet romance is the kind you sacrifice sleep to keep reading with the classic reasoning "just one more page.” '

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THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLERThis enchanting poetry collection serves as a compassionate guide through the journey of childhood, crafted with wisdom and warmth by No. 1 Sunday Times bestselling author Donna Ashworth."Brilliantly reflective, awakening and full of comfort. This is an offering of beauty." - Giovanna FletcherThe perfect gift for any parent to share with their child, Words Can Fly is a beautifully illustrated keepsake, adorned with a gold foiled cover.Each poem explores what's most important in young lives - family, friendships, school and the world around us - encouraging a growth mindset that fosters empathy and builds resilience. Through its heartfelt verses, children are inspired to celebrate their unique identities, embrace curiosity, and discover the transformative power of kindness and compassion.A timeless addition to any young reader's bookshelf, Words Can Fly offers a treasure trove of poems that will be cherished, revisited, and shared for years to come.[Words Can Fly was a Sunday Times bestseller w/e 7th June 2025]

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The first book in a hilarious new diary format series from Ross Welford, the bestselling author of Time Travelling with a Hamster. 'Great fun.' – The Observer Prince Kalimonka Evergreen Wildgore – Prince Kal, to you – is in big trouble. Two days ago, back in his home realm of Imaginaria, he stepped into the Anywhere Cabinet – a magical, interdimensional portal – and things did not go according to plan. He ended up here, on Planet Earth. Worse, his beloved (and extremely smelly) pet is missing, and unless he can recharge the Anywhere Cabinet, he’s stuck here forever. Unfortunately, Earthlings don’t believe in magical cabinets, stranded princes, or Imaginaria at all. So Kal starts a diary – to record his adventures, make sense of this bizarre land of soup and hairy giants, and, just maybe, figure out a way home. Incredibly funny, illustrated throughout with diary-style doodles, and with a hilarious, one-of-a-kind hero, The Unlikely Diary of Prince Kal the Alien is the first book in a brilliant and unforgettable new series from Ross Welford, perfect for fans of Tom Gates, Loki: A Bad God's Guide to Being Good, and Hercules: The Diary of a (Sort of) Hero.

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With a new afterword by the authorIn her map to loss, losing and being lost, Rebecca Solnit explores the challenges of living with uncertainty. Meandering eclectically through memory and mortality, Hitchcock movies and heartbreak, Solnit's beloved account of staying off the beaten path sheds glittering new light on the way we live now.

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Little Baby Learns: Animals is the ideal early learning set for toddlers. With a board book and 12 shaped play pieces to use inside, it is a fun way to introduce young children to the world around them.Children can learn about animals from different habitats as they go through the book and find the press-out pieces. Each of the 12 play pieces matches an image on the page and fits securely into the die-cut spaces, but can also be used separately as flash cards. This book encourages fine motor skills and problem-solving, as well as teaching core vocabulary.The book is attached to a cased board and the pieces enclosed in a clamshell so they can be stored easily making this a great gift to take on the go.Celebrate 25 years of Priddy Books! Inspiring a love of learning in over 200 million babies, toddlers and young children.

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The world’s favourite pocket travel guidesMake the most of your trip to Istanbul with this Top 10 guide. Planning is a breeze with our simple lists of ten, covering the very best that Istanbul has to offer and ensuring that you don’t miss a thing. Best of all, the pocket-friendly format is light and easily portable; the perfect companion while out and about.Inside this guide to Istanbul, you’ll find:- Top 10 lists of Istanbul's must-sees and must-dos, including visiting the Blue Mosque, shopping in the Grand Bazaar and taking a boat trip up the Bosphorus- Istanbul’s most interesting areas, with the best places for sightseeing, food and drink, and shopping- Themed lists, including the best Byzantine monuments, museums and galleries, local dishes and much more- Brand-new itineraries, perfect for a day trip, a weekend or a week- A laminated pull-out map of Istanbul, plus six full-colour area mapsDK’s Top 10 travel guides have been helping travellers to make the most of their breaks since 2002.Looking for more on Istanbul’s culture, history and attractions? Try our DK Istanbul travel guide.

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Learn all about geography on planet Earth in this jam-packed visual encyclopedia for children.Get to know the processes that shape our world through amazing facts and colourful diagrams in this fully updated edition of the popular Geography A Children’s Encyclopedia.This encyclopedia for children aged 9-12 is full of beautiful pictures that bring the natural world to life and show Earth’s most amazing features. Each concept is broken down clearly, with colourful diagrams describing geological processes, while the water cycle and the structure of a rainforest canopy are fully explained.This geography book for kids offers: All aspects of physical and human geography explained clearly with the help of maps and country factfiles.A refreshed and updated edition, including a new design and the latest facts and stats on the subject.An essential reference for children, looking at the latest topics like the effects of climate change.Learn about the processes that shape our world, from ice ages to global warming, earthquakes to tsunamis and explore the wonders of the natural world, from the peak of Mount Everest to the very bottom of the Mariana Trench.Children can carry the world wherever they go, from the deserts of Africa to the low countries of Europe, the lush forests of Brazil to the coral reefs of Indonesia and Australia. This encyclopedia expands horizons and is a fantastic resource for children interested in geography, geology, environmental science, and sociology.Explore the series!Globally, the Children’s Encyclopedia series has sold more than 4 million copies worldwide. Uncover the marvels of our world with Science, explore the deep blue with Ocean, discover our solar system and beyond with Space, understand anatomy with Human Body and get to grips with world-famous sculptures with Art.

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The world’s favourite pocket travel guidesMake the most of your trip to Florence and Tuscany with this Top 10 guide. Planning is a breeze with our simple lists of ten, covering the very best that Florence and Tuscany have to offer and ensuring that you don’t miss a thing. Best of all, the pocket-friendly format is light and easily portable; the perfect companion while out and about.Inside this guide to Florence and Tuscany, you’ll find:- Top 10 lists of Florence and Tuscany's must-sees and must-dos, including Chianti's best vineyards, the duomos of Pisa and Siena and the most beautiful Florentine churches- Florence and Tuscany’s most interesting areas, with the best places for sightseeing, food and drink, and shopping- Themed lists, including the best outdoor activities, historic churches, villas and gardens, local dishes and much more- Brand-new itineraries, perfect for a day trip, a weekend or a week- A laminated pull-out map of Florence and Tuscany, plus six full-colour area mapsDK’s Top 10 travel guides have been helping travellers to make the most of their breaks since 2002.Looking for more on Italy’s culture, history and attractions? Try our DK Italy travel guide.

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Perfect for fans of The Vampire Diaries and Shadow and Bone.**Sprayed edge edition available while stocks last - edition may vary**'The romance sizzles in this spooky paranormal world of witches, curses, and brooding gray characters. A delight for the fans of adult paranormal and gothic romances!' - RuNyx, New York Times bestselling author of Gothikana“Your destiny is not to do what is right. Your destiny is to destroy us all.”Willow Madizza never thought she’d accept a place at Hollow’s Grove University, the secret and prestigious institution where the best and brightest of her fellow witches learn to wield their magic.But Willow has reasons for being at Hollow’s Grove beyond the education it offers. Raised to be a weapon against the Coven that presides over the University, she must find the bones of her ancestors in order to reclaim the magic that is her destiny.Her only obstacle is Alaric Grayson Thorne, the University’s beautiful and infuriating Headmaster. Gray is ruthless, manipulative, dangerous – he represents everything Willow has been taught to despise. But despite their mutual loathing, Gray understands Willow better than anyone, and he might just be the key to unlocking her full power . . .-Readers devoured The Coven!'A gripping, sexy, atmospheric read''A deliciously dark, enemies to lovers, forbidden romance set in an academy for witches''Something just hits different when vampires are involved''The twists and turns this story took had me speechless!''Loved this book from start to finish . . . the author really had me on the edge of my seat with the cliffhanger!''The chemistry is off the charts'Featuring all your favourite tropes!- Witches, vampires, demons- Delicious spice payoff- Morally grey MMC- Forbidden romance- Dark academia- Forced proximityThe Coven is book one in the Coven of Bones series and ends on a cliffhanger. This is a gothic, dark academia paranormal romance and includes elements that may be triggering to some readers. For a full list of content warnings, please see the author's website.

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In Plek van die bittermaan besluit die beeldskone Tessa , ’n ongetroude enkelma, om met haar seuntjie stad toe te vlug waar sy “anoniem” sal kan wees. Maar dis nie nie so maklik nie en sy word voor hartverskeurende keuses gestel. In Kamer van die stormwind moet die jong Jessica afskeid neem van haar man wat ná ’n rugbybesering al maande in ’n koma is. Maar ten spyte van die hartseer, bly sy steeds deel van die stroom van die lewe.

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WHO JUDGES A JUDGE? A corrupt judge is getting away with murder. Lacy Stoltz investigates judicial misconduct in Florida. When she meets Greg Meyers, an indicted lawyer, he tells her a secret that will put her in the firing line.Myers has dirt on a judge in league with organised crime who had forced through legislation to build a casino on a Native American reservation. Anyone who opposed the crooked scheme is dead. Now, Myers wants Lacy to make the judge's crimes public.But if she does, Lacy will be gambling with her life... 💥350+ million copies, 45 languages, 10 blockbuster films: JOHN GRISHAM IS THE MASTER OF THE LEGAL THRILLER💥 Praise for The Whistler: 'A real page turner' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 'I was captivated from beginning to end' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 'If I could have given this book 10 stars I would've done!'⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 'Grisham never disappoints - a great story'⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

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THE LAW HAS FAILED THEM. SEBASTIAN RUDD WILL NOT. Sebastian Rudd take the cases no one else wants. As a result, his last office was firebombed - either by drug dealers or cops. And things are about to get even more complicated.Arch Swanger is a criminal lowlife and the prime suspect in the abduction and presumed murder of the daughter of the assistant chief of police. When Rudd agrees to represent him, Swanger lets him in on a terrible secret.It's a secret Rudd wishes he never heard - and one that will threaten everything he holds dear. 💥350+ million copies, 45 languages, 10 blockbuster films: JOHN GRISHAM IS THE MASTER OF THE LEGAL THRILLER💥 Rogue Lawyer is a hit with readers: 'Brilliant and blistering!' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 'John Grisham at his very best' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 'A BRILLIANT book' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 'Fantastic!'⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐

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This book offers a fresh perspective on the reign of Alexander the Great. It re-examines Alexander’s military victories and personality, while also exploring the impact of his campaigns on the people he conquered. Alexander’s story, Stephen Harrison argues, is one that includes the vital roles that other figures played in historical events. By considering the social and intellectual currents of the last two decades, Harrison highlights how changing contemporary experiences shape historical interpretations. Moving beyond polarized debates about Alexander, he provides a nuanced discussion of Alexander’s achievements and impact. The book presents an Alexander for the twenty-first century, offering new insights into how and why historical interpretations of him have changed.

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Ideal for independent travellers, this guidebook to Italy, written by destination experts, combines must-see sights with hidden gems and offers essential tips for both planning and on-the-ground adventures. It's sustainably printed to ensure environmental responsibility.Inside this Italy travel book, you'll find:- Regional deep dive - coverage of key regions, offering a rich selection of places and experiences, and honest reviews of each one- Itinerary samples - designed for various durations and interests- Practical information - tips on how to get there and get around, use public transport, beat the crowds, save time and money, travel responsibly and more- Expert recommendations - insider advice on where to eat, drink, and stay, alongside tips for nightlife and outdoor activities- Seasonal tips - when to go to Italy, climate details, and festival highlights to plan your perfect trip- Must-See pick - a curated selection of not-to-miss sights as chosen by our authors - Amalfi coast, the Uffizi in Florence, Neapolitan pizza, Vatican museums, Sicily's Greek ruins, hiking in the Dolomites, Basilica di San Francesco, Baroque architecture in Lecce, Lake Como, frescoes in Padua, agiturismi- Navigational maps - colour-coded maps highlighting essential spots for dining, accommodation, shopping and entertainment- Cultural insights - engaging stories delve into the local culture, history, arts and more, enriching your understanding of Italy- Language essentials - a handy Italian dictionary and glossary to help you communicate and connect with locals- Inspiring travel photography - full-colour pictures capture the essence of Italy, bringing each location to life and fuelling your wanderlust- Bonus eBook - Free download with purchase, offering digital access to our comprehensive guide- Coverage includes: Rome, Tuscany, Venice, Lombardy, Liguria, Umbria, Puglia, Sicily, Sardinia, the Lakes, Calabria, Piemonte

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Young artists will embark on an exciting artistic journey full of friends, incredible superheroes, fast race cars, brave explorers and much more!This 144-page how to draw book includes favourite characters from Mickey Mouse & Friends, Winnie the Pooh, The Lion King, Toy Story, Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, Cars, Moana and more. Just grab a pencil and a piece of paper, then flip through the pages of beloved Disney characters to find the one you want to draw.Build your artistic confidence as you learn to draw Disney’s and Pixar’s most-loved characters:Features drawing tips and instructions from professional Disney animators Learn about art tools and materials with a series of drawing exercises to teach young artists basic techniquesEasy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions guide budding artists through the drawing process to help them bring to life their favourite Disney and Pixar charactersA wonderful gift for aspiring artists and young Disney fans!Learn to draw all your favourite Disney characters and discover fun facts about them as you watch your creations come to life on this exciting artistic adventure!© 2025 Disney/Pixar

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THE NO. 1 BESTSELLERWINNER OF THE WILLIAM HILL SPORTS BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD 2024'As elegant and powerful as a Federer backhand ... It’s Kitchen Confidential for tennis.' Ed Caesar'Well worth a read if you want the inside track on life on the lower rungs of the tennis circuit. Warts and all.' Judy Murray----When Conor Niland was 16, he was chosen to hit with Serena Williams at Nick Bollettieri's famed tennis academy. Conor, the Irish junior number one, was feeling a bit homesick. Serena, also 16, already owned her own house beside the academy.Conor Niland knows what it's like when Roger Federer walks into the dressing room ('Ciao, bonjour, hello!'), and he has had the exquisitely terrible experience of facing Novak Djokovic in the world's biggest tennis stadium - while suffering from food poisoning. But he never reached the very top.The Racket is the story of pro tennis's 99%: the players who roam the globe in hope of climbing the rankings and squeaking into the Grand Slam tournaments. It brings us into a world where a few dozen super-rich players - travelling with coaches and physios - share a stage with lonely touring pros whose earnings barely cover their expenses. Painting a vivid picture of the social dynamics on tour, the economics of the game, and the shadows cast by gambling and doping, The Racket is a witty and revealing underdog's memoir and a unique look inside a fascinating hidden world.----'Conor Niland may only have managed a career-high ranking of 129 – only? that is some achievement in itself! – but The Racket, his account of how he managed this, is up there with the best half-dozen books on tennis ever written.' Geoff Dyer'Blending a passion for his chosen sport with a realistic study of the traumas of the tour, The Racket offers a brilliant insight from Ireland’s greatest ever tennis player.’ John Boyne'A brilliant, unvarnished look at a brutal sporting life.' Michael Foley, Sunday Times‘One of the best Irish sports books of the last decade’ Kieran Shannon, Irish Examiner'This will rightly join the list of The Best Irish Sports Books Ever Written. A superb insight into professional tennis from the ground up' Paul Howard'I ate this book up ... reveals the sacrifices, commitment and decidedly unglamorous side of life on the tennis circuit' Sinéad Moriarty'A really wonderful read ... Conor Niland has delivered an all-timer for tennis and sports journalism' Ashlee Vance‘Genuinely such a brilliant book, a brilliant read’ Ciarán Murphy, Second Captains‘Unsparing in his depiction of the drudgery of tennis’ Mike Jakeman, Spectator‘Compelling’ Tennis365.com'Brilliant book, I inhaled it' Jonathan Drennan, Sydney Morning Herald'Devoured it in a day ... I've read many tennis autobiographies: this is one of the very best' Charles Arthur'If it's not a contender for Sports Book of the Year, the world has gone mad.' Fionn Davenport, Off The Ball'Sure to become a must read of the tennis literature canon' Paul Perry‘Witty and insightful … an homa

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A naughty beginner’s guide to introducing bondage to your bedroom.Featuring step-by-step instructions and illustrations for 31 beginner, intermediate, and advance knots, ties, and harnesses, The Bondage Playbook helps you and your partner live out your hottest BDSM fantasies. Fun and instructive, this naughty little book features clear guidance, inclusive language, and steamy full-color illustrations that celebrate couples of all kinds. Learn how to create artful, erotic ties and harness like:Necktie Sex HarnessArm BinderMen’s Chest HarnessHip Harness and Leg WeaveFinger and Toe TiesRope CorsetAnd more!The book also features helpful information on communication, safety, and aftercare so you can break out the silk ties with confidence. Perfect for your next date night, anniversary, or weekend away, The Bondage Playbook is a practical primer on all things bondage that’s guaranteed to get you and your partner tied up in knots.

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As head phoenix keeper at a world-renowned zoo for magical creatures, Aila's childhood dream of conserving critically endangered firebirds seems closer than ever. There's just one glaring caveat: her zoo's breeding program hasn't functioned for a decade. When a tragic phoenix heist sabotages the flagship initiative at a neighbouring zoo, Aila must prove her derelict facilities are fit to take the reins.But saving an entire species from extinction requires more than stellar animal handling skills. Carnivorous water horses, tempestuous thunderhawks, mischievous dragons... Aila has no problem wrangling beasts. Inspiring zoo patrons? That's another story. Mustering the courage to ask for help from the hotshot griffin keeper at the zoo's most popular exhibit? Virtually impossible.Especially when that hotshot griffin keeper happens to be her arch-rival from college: Luciana, an annoyingly brooding and insufferable know-it-all with the grace of a basilisk and the face of a goddess who's convinced that Aila's beloved phoenix would serve their cause better as an active performer rather than as a passive conservation exhibit.With the world watching and the threat of poachers looming, Aila's success is no longer merely a matter of keeping her job... She is the keeper of the phoenix, and the future of a species now rests on her shoulders. There's just one thing she has to remember: she is also not alone.Against an epic fantasy backdrop teeming with all your favourite mythical beasts from dragons and unicorns to kelpies and krakens, The Phoenix Keeper combines the cozy fantasy stakes of TJ Klune and Travis Baldree with the heartwarming contemporary romance of Alice Oseman and Casey McQuiston.

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How to bring less stress and more calm into your everydayThe wisdom of Buddhism is relevant now more than ever before – the teachings have the power to give us a new sense of perspective and are essentially tools for life.Drawing from the greatest masters throughout history, Buddhist scholars and practitioners Pema Sherpa and Brendan Barca provide you with a daily dose of Buddhism to support you throughout every day of the year. You’ll find out:How to manage difficult emotionsWhy cultivating compassion leads to happinessHow to tame your inner criticWhy you are not your thoughtsHow to become more adaptable to changeBy the end of the year, you’ll see the world and yourself in a different light and know how to work towards lasting happiness, self-mastery and inner freedom.

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The first book of its kind, Parenting Psychoanalysed: Letters to a Parent collates the musings of a thoughtful group of psychoanalysts with a series of candid letters, each addressing the aspect of parenthood they most want to share and what they wish they knew before becoming a parent.Written in the simplest of terms, each contributor shares a letter that reflects both personally and professionally on parenthood, sharing their feelings, insights and psychoanalytic reflections with the parent-reader. Drawing on their deep understanding of the mind and the personal work done on themselves, each writer digests what it really means to be a parent, what they didn’t expect when they were expecting, the pleasures and anxieties of parenting, the ordinary ambiguities and ambivalence evoked by their children at various life stages, as well as many other gems that no other parenting books are talking about. This international collection begins an important conversation with mothers, fathers and caregivers; encouraging them to consider how their inner worlds, worries and wishes matter deeply and hold important clues about how to parent in an open and authentic way. Each letter shows how understanding this dynamic is key to raising a healthy, balanced family and living more freely.This thought-provoking book connects parents through personal stories and profound psychoanalytic insights, and is an essential read for every mother, father and caregiver.

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An updated edition of Colette Baron-Reid's best-selling book on the power of metaphor for personal transformation and partnering with Spirit to manifest your destiny.Intuitive counselor Colette Baron-Reid is renowned for helping people create the purposeful and authentic lives they desire. In this fascinating book, Colette hands you the “magic wand” of your own awareness so that you can begin to perceive your life as a wonderful adventure, and see yourself as a powerful mapmaker.Enter a profound journey as you travel through and explore your inner landscapes. Meet the imaginary beings that hold the keys to the wisdom hidden in your subconscious: the Wizard of Awareness, the Gentle Gardener, the Bone Collector, and the Spirits of the psychological terrain you traverse, who know where to find the treasure in each experience. Discover how to tame the mischievous trickster Goblin, who locks you into old habits. Each of these aspects of your psyche has lessons for you, and each responds to your directions, for you are in charge of your own map.You don’t have to feel lost or disoriented in this time of global transformation, or be at the mercy of the winds of change. The Map invites you to boldly claim your power to direct your journey so that you may find meaning, purpose, true prosperity, and joy. Step into the magic, and harness the extraordinary power within you to shape your destiny.

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From actor, comedian, writer, and host of the hit history podcast SNAFU, Ed Helms brings you an absurdly entertaining look at history's greatest screwups, complete with lively illustrations. History contains a plethora of insane screwups-otherwise known as SNAFUs. Coined during World War I, SNAFU is an acronym that stands for Situation Normal: All F*cked Up. In other words, "things are pretty screwed up, but aren't they always?"Spanning from the 1950's to the 2000's, Ed Helms steps in as unofficial history teacher for a deep dive into each decade's craziest SNAFUs. From planting nukes on the moon to training felines as CIA spies to weaponizing the weather, this book will unpack the incredibly ironic decision-making and hilariously terrifying aftermath of America's biggest mishaps.Filled with sharp humor and lively illustrations, SNAFU is a wild ride through time that not only entertains but offers fresh insights that just might prevent history from repeating itself again and again.

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Claris is off to Paris Fashion Week in this delightful second adventure from the best-selling series by acclaimed fashion illustrator Megan Hess.'But oh no!' Claris cried, and her heart gave a tug.Madame's invitation was still on the rug!   Without it she would be declined at the door.  She'd miss out on Chanel, and perhaps even more ...   When Claris's family leaves behind their invite to Paris Fashion Week, this brave little mouse has only one choice: an exciting dash through the streets of Paris in a race against the clock! Compassion is always in fashion in this beloved series by acclaimed children's author and fashion illustrator Megan Hess. These stunning stories are told in delightful rhyme and feature an abundance of adorable animal characters. With more than a million children's books in print, Megan Hess's beautiful rhyming picture books are adored worldwide. She is the creator of three best-selling picture-book series for children: Claris, World of Claris and the Young Queens Collection.  Perfect for:  Readers aged 3-6 who love dress-ups, gentle adventure and friendship stories  Readers of all ages who love all things fashion and style!  Fans of sparklingly fun picture books such as Eloise and Olivia.  Gift-buyers looking for a dazzlingly beautiful, rhyming picture book  Discover the world of Claris with more gorgeous adventures: The Chicest Mouse in Paris Fashion Show Fiasco Bonjour Riviera Holiday Heist Palace Party The Secret Crown Pasta Disaster Magnificent Mess 

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A gripping thriller by the master of adventureProfessor Denise ‘Doc’ Rado is South Africa’s expert on pangolins, busting poachers and freeing the endangered anteaters in elaborate undercover stings.After a risky operation backfires, Doc’s life is shattered, but she still has to lead an eclectic group of donors on a wildlife tour of southern Africa. But there’s a target on her back.As the safari ventures deep into Africa, Doc fears they’re being followed and she will do anything to keep them all safe – especially Ian Laidlaw, a handsome Australian businessman turned accidental philanthropist. Is Doc being hunted by the poachers she once fought, or is there some other bloodthirsty predator prowling the wilderness?

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All winter long, people in the Green Hollows have prepared for a final battle with Gnag the Nameless and the Fangs of Dang. Janner, Kalmar, and Leeli are ready and willing to fight alongside the Hollowsfolk. But when the Fangs make the first move and invade Ban Rona, the children are separated. Janner is alone and lost in the hills; Leeli is fighting the Fangs from the rooftops of the city; and Kalmar, who carries a terrible secret, is on a course for the Deeps of Throg. Monsters and Fangs and villains lie between the children and their only hope of victory in the epic conclusion of The Wingfeather Saga.

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Janner, Tink and Leeli thought they were normal children, but now they know they're really the lost Jewels of Anniera, heirs to a legendary kingdom across the sea, and suddenly everyone wants to kill them. In order to survive they must flee to the safety of the Ice Prairies. First, however, they have to escape the monsters of Glipwood Forest, the thieving Stranders of the East Bend and the dreaded Fork Factory. But even more dangerous are the jealousy and bitterness that threaten to tear them apart, and Janner and his siblings must learn the hard way that the love of a family is more important than anything else.

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More than 1 million copies sold worldwide. Discover the world of the Wingfeather Saga.NOW AN ANIMATED SERIES Watch now on, Prime Video, Angel Studios App or Apple TV.Janner Igiby, his brother, Tink, and their sister, Leeli, are gifted children as all children are, loved by their noble mother and ex-pirate grandfather.After living for years under the occupation by the evil Fangs of Dang, the Igiby children find a map rumoured to lead to the lost Jewels of Anniera - the one thing the Fangs will do anything to find. The family is thrown headlong into a perilous adventure, uncovering truths that will change their world forever.On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is a tale children of all ages will cherish, families can read aloud, and readers' groups are sure to enjoy discussing for its many layers of meaning.Extra features include new interior illustrations from Joe Sutphin, funny footnotes, a map of the fantastical world, and inventive appendices.Get this volume for your children and for yourself. It's the kind of story that belongs on a shelf alongside the Chronicles of Narnia and The Hobbit. є є є є є Reader reviewMy eldest enjoyed this series immensely, and I just finished reading it aloud to my younger three; the eldest listened in for most of it. What a well-written, exciting tale with plenty of mystery. Page turning, edge-of-your-seat reading that had our whole family spellbound. We dive into North or be Eaten tomorrow! є є є є є Reader reviewThe first book in the Wingfeather Saga. It grabs you and never lets go. I highly recommend this book by a seriously good author. є є є є є Reader reviewIt was the front cover that attracted me to this book and I'm glad it did. The story is set in a magical world that felt so real. It manages to be both humorous and scary. The characters were well built and described so well that I felt I was in an RPG computer game! є є є є є Reader reviewThis is the beginning of a fantastic series of books. When you read this volume, you might find the creatures outlandish and the names of things silly, but there are deeper details at work. The three children and their adults are about to embark on a tremendous adventure while learning about sacrifice, perseverance, and love. є є є є є Reader review

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‘An absolute page-turner’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reader review ‘Impossible to put down’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reader review ‘So many turns and twists’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reader review 'Master of the pager turner' – Daily Mail 'Compelling' – David Baldacci Selected as one of Waterstones’ Best Books for 2024 *** Two deaths. Continents apart. A shocking murder in the most luxurious city on earth. An unexpected death that sends shockwaves through the British establishment. To the world they’re unconnected. But to a master criminal, they’re the key to revenge. Can the Met’s finest detective connect the dots before it’s too late?

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It's been another memorable year on Diddly Squat Farm - will the chickens finally come home to roost?Welcome back to Clarkson’s Farm . . .Where the spring barley crop has failed. Just like the oil seed rape. And the oats turned the colour of a hearing aid. The mushrooms went mouldy. While the sheep, pigs and cows cost more than they earned. At least, the farm shop’s doing a roaring trade in candles – even if they smell like Jeremy’s knacker hammock.So never mind the rain, the skirmishes with the local planning department and the gargantuan hole in Jeremy’s wallet. Because it’s hard to feel too gloomy about life when there’s a JCB telehandler, a crop-spraying hovercraft and a digger waiting in the barn.For any man with several metric tons of powerful machinery at his fingertips must be doing something right . . .Number 1 Sunday Times bestseller, October 2024

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'MacBride is a masterful storyteller with a terrific eye for detail and razor-sharp wit. This House of Burning Bones is an absolute must-read.' – Karin Slaughter, author of This Is Why We LiedThe Granite City is ready to burn, and all it takes is a single spark . . .In the heat of a blistering summer, Aberdeen’s police are struggling: half the force is off sick, leave has been cancelled, someone’s firebombed a hotel full of migrants, and there’s a massive protest march happening this Saturday.With officers dropping like flies, Detective Inspector Logan McRae is forced to juggle cases and run a major murder investigation with a skeleton staff of misfits, idiots and malingerers until the top brass can arrange back-up from other divisions.It doesn’t help that the Aberdeen Examiner has just been bought by Natasha Agapova, a tabloid media tycoon hell-bent on blaming local police for everything. And she’s more than happy to fan the flames.But, as bad as everything seems, it’s all about to get much, much worse . . .* * *Praise for Stuart MacBride:'Stuart MacBride is an automatic must-read for me . . . always fast, hard, authentic – and different' – Lee Child, author of the Jack Reacher series'Dark and brilliantly written' – Linwood Barclay, author of I Will Ruin You'MacBride is a damned fine writer' – Peter James, author of Picture You Dead'Crime fiction of the highest order' – Mark Billingham, author of The Last DanceThis House of Burning Bones was a Sunday Times bestseller w/c 19/05/25

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**A Sunday Times Bestseller****An Economist Best Book of the Year**The celebrated historian and journalist uncovers the networks trying to destroy the democratic worldAll of us have in our minds a cartoon image of what an autocratic state looks like, with a bad man at the top. But in the 21st century, that cartoon bears little resemblance to reality. Nowadays, autocracies are run not by one bad guy, but by sophisticated networks composed of kleptocratic financial structures, security services and professional propagandists. The members of these networks are connected not only within a given country, but among many countries. The corrupt, state-controlled companies in one dictatorship do business with corrupt, state-controlled companies in another. The police in one country can arm, equip, and train the police in another. The propagandists share resources—the troll farms that promote one dictator’s propaganda can also be used to promote the propaganda of another—and themes, pounding home the same messages about the weakness of democracy and the evil of America.Unlike military or political alliances from other times and places, this group doesn’t operate like a bloc, but rather like an agglomeration of companies: Autocracy, Inc. Their relations are not based on values, but are rather transactional, which is why they operate so easily across ideological, geographical, and cultural lines. In truth, they are in full agreement about only one thing: Their dislike of us, the inhabitants of the democratic world, and their desire to see both our political systems and our values undermine.That shared understanding of the world—where it comes from, why it lasts, how it works, how the democratic world has unwittingly helped to consolidate it, and how we can help bring it down—is the subject of this book.

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BLOOD, BETRAYAL, AND THE BATTLE FOR ROME’S SOUL: THE DARK AND TWISTED JOURNEY OF NERO’S ASCENT TO POWER --A MARRIAGE BLESSED IN BLOOD . . .On the wedding day of Emperor Claudius to Agrippina, a senator lies dying in his own home. Yesterday, this senator was betrothed to Octavia, Claudius’s daughter. Now blood gushes from his slit wrists.Agrippina’s elevation to empress changes so many things. Claudius is convinced to adopt her thirteen-year-old son Nero, naming him his new heir.And those angered by his wife’s presumption? They face dashed hopes, endure terrible accusations, or suffer a merciless death.Yet Nero – still a boy – is vulnerable. Tutored by Seneca, he vies with his brother and fellow heir Britannicus for their father’s favour. He learns to fight. He learns to love. So what if his mother wants him to marry his sister-cousin Octavia? Rome has been scandalised before.But those who have survived Agrippina, and the families of those who didn’t, have long memories and short knives. They seek chances to get close – to taste the blood of this ruthless plotter and her son.Rome has always been dangerous.To rise there, as Nero is to discover, others must fall – even emperors . . .–PRAISE FOR CONN IGGULDEN'Breathtakingly good’ Bernard Cornwell‘Deft and robust storytelling, that whips through the history with plenty of blood, guts and plot-twists’ The Times'Pacy and propulsive, cracking with energy, violence and stirring speeches, Iggulden chronicles power struggles, political machinations and the bloodthirsty ravages of up-close combat' Daily Mail‘A master of the historical novel’ Washington PostReaders love Nero'Iggulden draws you into Rome, its brutality and its glory, and brings it back to life with such seamless ease' ***** Reader Review'Absolute quality from first to last page, atmospheric with a real feel for time and place' ***** Reader Review'It was fascinating to see the seeds being planted that will lead to the Nero becoming the tyrant we know through the ancient historians, but told in such a contemporary and accessible way' ***** Reader Review'An absolutely immersive experience throughout that throws you into the politics of Ancient Rome' ***** Reader Review‘Another gripping page turner from the peerless master of historical fiction’ ***** Reader ReviewConn Iggulden, Sunday Times bestseller, June 2024

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