First the Blade - Enriched edition A Comedy of Growth

Clemence Dane

Casa editrice: Good Press

Sinossi

In "First the Blade," Clemence Dane weaves a captivating narrative that explores the tumultuous intersection of love, ambition, and betrayal. Set against the backdrop of the aftermath of World War I, the novel deftly blends psychological insight with poignant prose, revealing the inner struggles of its complex characters. Dane's literary style, marked by lyrical language and evocative imagery, enhances the thematic exploration of human resilience and vulnerability, making it a noteworthy addition to the early 20th-century literature canon often concerned with the disillusionment of the post-war era. Clemence Dane, a pioneering figure in early 20th-century literature, was influenced by her experiences as a writer and playwright in a changing world. Her keen observations of societal norms and the shifting roles of women during her time converge in "First the Blade," as she examines themes of agency and self-discovery through her characters. Dane's background and upbringing, steeped in the theatrical arts, inform her vivid storytelling and rich character development, allowing readers to engage deeply with her work. "First the Blade" is a must-read for those who appreciate intricate character studies and historical narratives that resonate with contemporary issues. Dane's masterful storytelling invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships and the enduring impact of societal change, making this novel both timeless and profoundly relevant.

In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Disponibile da: 05/11/2021.

Lunghezza di stampa: 242 pagine.

Narrativa

Altri libri che potrebbero interessarti

Christmas Miracles at Hedgehog...

Jessica Redland

Prepare to fall in love with MILLION-COPY BESTSELLER Jessica Redland's treasured Hedgehog Hollow series.
'I loved my trip to Hedgehog Hollow. An emotional read, full of twists and turns' Heidi Swain
It's the countdown to Christmas at Hedgehog Hollow Wildlife Rescue Centre, and everyone is gearing up for a festive season to remember...
It should be the most wonderful time of the year for Samantha and Josh as they prepare for the arrival of their first baby. But life at Hedgehog Hollow rarely goes to plan and the pair are faced with adversaries, old and new, and unexpected challenges to overcome.
Fizz's job at the heart of the rescue centre is a dream come true but her personal life is more like a nightmare. With her love life a disaster and her past about to dramatically catch up with her, she needs the love and support of her Hedgehog Hollow family more than ever.
As the snow falls over Hedgehog Hollow, will Samantha and Fizz find the Christmas miracle they need to overcome their heartache and find happiness?
Million-copy bestseller Jessica Redland welcomes you back to Hedgehog Hollow for the final time in this series for a heartfelt story of love, family, friendship - and hedgehogs of course!
Praise for the Hedgehog Hollow series:
'The Hedgehog Hollow series is a tonic I'd recommend for everyone. There is so much to make you smile in Jessica's stories and they are always uplifting reads, which will make you really glad you decided to pick up a copy.' Jo Bartlett
‘An emotional, romantic and ultimately uplifting read. Jessica always touches my heart with her sensitive handling of difficult subjects. The gorgeous community she has built around Hedgehog Hollow is one I hope to visit again and again.’ Sarah Bennett
'A beautifully written series that offers the ultimate in heartwarming escapism.' Samantha Tonge
'Hedgehog Hollow is a wonderful series that has found a special place all of its own deep in the hearts of readers, including mine.' Jennifer Bohnet
'A warm hug of a book. I never wanted to leave Hedgehog Hollow. Very highly recommended.' Della Galton
'A wonderful, warm series full of family, friends and romance.' Katie Ginger
Praise for Jessica Redland:
'Jessica Redland writes from the heart, with heart, about heart' Nicola May
'Redland takes you on a heart-warming ride that navigates broken hearts and painful secrets, but ultimately restores your faith in the power of love. I absolutely adored it.' Jenni Keer on Healing Hearts at Bumblebee Barn
'I fell in love with this story from page one.' Helen Rolfe on Snowflakes Over The Starfish Café
'A tender love story, full of sweet touches and beautiful characters.' Beth Moran on Snowflakes Over The Starfish Café
'A warm-hearted and beautiful book. Jessica Redland doesn’t shy away from the fact that life can be very difficult, but she reminds us that we all can find love, hope and joy again.' Sian O'Gorman on Snowflakes Over The Starfish Café
'Achingly poignant, yet full of hope - You will fall in love with this beautiful Christmas story' Sandy Barker
'A delightful read that highlights the reality of many aspects of love, life, loss and illness. Add a huge bear hug of romance and comedy to create a winning formula for a cracking read. I loved it!' Nicola May on All You Need Is Love
’I enjoyed a wonderful escape to the Lake District in this tale of loss, love and rediscovery.’ Gillian Harvey on The Start of Something Wonderful

Mostra libro

The Thrill of the Chase

Ellie Thomas

Adrian Lethbridge temporarily exchanges his quiet country home in leafy Dorset for fashionable Regency Cheltenham to support his aunt as she introduces her three daughters into polite society. As he is fond of his younger cousins, Adrian is happy to escort them and even bestow advice on fashion and manners as they attract new friends and admirers. But the last thing he expects is to make a match of his own.


When he meets handsome Captain Guy Ransome at an evening assembly, he is overwhelmed by his unexpected feelings and can't believe that they might be reciprocated. However, Guy seems more interested in the thrill of passing pleasure than a meeting of hearts and minds.


In the heat of the chase, Guy impatiently regards Adrian's hesitance as time-wasting game playing, not realising his tried and tested seduction techniques send shy Adrian fleeing in the opposite direction. Can these contrasting characters reach a romantic compromise? And will the hunter discover his heart has been caught after all?

Mostra libro

Eugénie Grandet

Honoré de Balzac

Honoré de Balzac's Eugénie Grandet is a masterful portrait of love, greed, sacrifice, and quiet resilience set against the backdrop of provincial France in the early nineteenth century. As one of the most celebrated works in Balzac's monumental series La Comédie Humaine, this powerful novel offers an intimate and penetrating exploration of human character, social ambition, and the corrosive effects of avarice.

At the heart of the story is Eugénie Grandet, a gentle and innocent young woman living in the small town of Saumur. She is the only daughter of Félix Grandet, a former cooper who has amassed a vast fortune through shrewd investments and relentless frugality. Though immensely wealthy, Grandet lives in near poverty by choice, ruling his household with rigid authority and obsessive control over every coin spent. His miserliness casts a long shadow over the lives of his wife and daughter, shaping their existence with silence, sacrifice, and emotional restraint.

Eugénie's sheltered world changes forever with the unexpected arrival of her cousin, Charles Grandet, a refined and charming young man from Paris. Raised in luxury and accustomed to elegance, Charles brings with him a glimpse of a broader, more vibrant world beyond the gray walls of Saumur. As affection blossoms between Eugénie and Charles, she experiences the awakening of love and hope—feelings that challenge her father's cold calculations and strict dominance.

Balzac masterfully contrasts innocence and ambition, generosity and greed, love and self-interest. Through Eugénie's quiet strength and moral integrity, the novel reveals the dignity of selfless devotion in a society driven by money and social advancement. As fortunes rise and fall, promises are tested, and loyalties strained, Eugénie must confront betrayal, heartbreak, and the harsh realities of adulthood.

With keen psychological insight and vivid realism, Balzac paints an unforgettable portrait of provincial life—its rigid social hierarchies, economic maneuverings, and unspoken tensions. His meticulous attention to detail gives the novel a powerful authenticity, while his deep understanding of human motivation makes each character strikingly real.

Both a poignant love story and a sharp social critique, Eugénie Grandet remains one of Balzac's most enduring and moving works. It is a timeless examination of the human heart in conflict with material obsession, and a profound reflection on sacrifice, endurance, and the quiet heroism found in compassion.

Mostra libro

Until There Was You

Heatherly Bell

Falling for your brother's best friend can be tricky . . . and fun! 
 
 
 
Genevieve Hannigan has longed for her brother's best friend Wallace as long as she can remember. When she couldn't have the man of her dreams, she married his Doppelganger. But Genevieve quickly finds that substitutes are never as good as the real thing. 
 
 
 
Now, with a disastrous two-month marriage behind her, she's back in town and about to go after studly, hard-bodied contractor Wallace—the only man who's ever put the cream in her pie. As his best friend's little sister, Genevieve has always been strictly off-limits to Wallace. Just one taste of gorgeous Gen, and he may have discovered the secret ingredient missing in all his serial dating. But when Gen's ex-husband shows up in town with hopes to reconcile, Wallace's life is about to get turned upside down . . .

Mostra libro

Dagon

H. P. Lovecraft, Alder Woods

Lovecraft's earliest work introducing the Cthulhu mythos, in which a lost sailor wakes to a terrifying new world. Adrift, the narrator takes us on a journey into their reality, or their madness.

Mostra libro

For Blood (A Morgan Cross FBI...

Blake Pierce

This recording has been digitally produced by Blake Pierce, using a synthesized version of an audiobook narrator’s voice under license. When echoes of the past bleed into the present, FBI Agent Morgan Cross stands between justice and vengeance as she unravels a killer's blueprint—a replica of unresolved crimes from twenty years ago. With the lives of former witnesses on the line, Cross must confront her own demons to stop history's deadly repeat.

“A masterpiece of thriller and mystery.”
—Books and Movie Reviews, Roberto Mattos (re Once Gone)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

FOR BLOOD is book #15 in a long-anticipated new series by #1 bestseller and USA Today bestselling author Blake Pierce, whose bestseller Once Gone (a free download) has received over 7,000 five star ratings and reviews.

Superstar FBI Agent Morgan Cross was at the height of her career when she was framed, wrongly imprisoned, and sent to do 10 hard years in prison. Finally exonerated and set free, Morgan emerges from jail as a changed person—hardened, ruthless, closed off to the world, and unsure how to start again. When the FBI comes knocking, desperately needing Morgan to return and hunt down a killer who seems to be obsessed with drowning, Morgan is torn.

Morgan is not the same person, no longer willing to play by the rules, and will stop at nothing this time. In a non-stop thriller, it will be a deadly cat and mouse chase between a diabolical killer and an ex-con FBI agent who has nothing left to lose—with a new victim’s fate riding on it all.

A page-turning and harrowing crime thriller featuring a brilliant and tortured FBI agent, the Morgan Cross series is a riveting mystery, packed with non-stop action, suspense, twists and turns, revelations, and driven by a breakneck pace that will keep you flipping pages late into the night. Fans of Rachel Caine, Teresa Driscoll and Robert Dugoni are sure to fall in love.

Future books in the series are now available!

“An edge of your seat thriller in a new series that keeps you turning pages! ...So many twists, turns and red herrings… I can't wait to see what happens next.”
—Reader review (Her Last Wish)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A strong, complex story about two FBI agents trying to stop a serial killer. If you want an author to capture your attention and have you guessing, yet trying to put the pieces together, Pierce is your author!”
—Reader review (Her Last Wish)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A typical Blake Pierce twisting, turning, roller coaster ride suspense thriller. Will have you turning the pages to the last sentence of the last chapter!!!”
—Reader review (City of Prey)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Right from the start we have an unusual protagonist that I haven't seen done in this genre before. The action is nonstop… A very atmospheric novel that will keep you turning pages well into the wee hours.”
—Reader review (City of Prey)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Everything that I look for in a book… a great plot, interesting characters, and grabs your interest right away. The book moves along at a breakneck pace and stays that way until the end. Now on go I to book two!”
—Reader review (Girl, Alone)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Exciting, heart pounding, edge of your seat book… a must read for mystery and suspense readers!”
—Reader review (Girl, Alone)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Mostra libro