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Dynasties and State Formation in Early Modern Europe (Early Modern Court Studies)
by Liesbeth Geevers Harald GustafssonIn state formation research, princely houses have been a blind spot. The development of states has been discussed from many perspectives, like interstate competition, internal social conflicts, fiscal-military developments, etc., but at the centre of most European states, there was a princely house. These ruling houses have been overlooked in studies about state formation. What’s more, when discussing such dynasties, the vertical chronological perspective (grandfather-father-son) is all dominating, for instance in the focus on dynastic continuity, dynastic culture and representation, and the like. This collection of essays highlights the horizontal perspective (ruler, all children, siblings, cousins), in asking how the members of a princely family acted as a power network. The quest is to develop an understanding how this family network interplayed with other factors in the state formation process. This volume brings together existing knowledge of the topic with the aim of exchanging insights and furthering knowledge.
Engaged Humanities: Rethinking Art, Culture, and Public Life
by Aagje Swinnen Amanda Kluveld Vall, Renée van deWhat is the role of the humanities at the start of 21st century? In the last few decades, the various disciplines of the humanities (history, linguistics, literary studies, art history, media studies) have encountered a broad range of challenges, related to the future of print culture, to shifts in funding strategies, and to the changing contours of culture and society. Several publications have addressed these challenges as well as potential responses on a theoretical level. This coedited volume opts for a different strategy and presents accessible case studies that demonstrate what humanities scholars contribute to concrete and pressing social debates about topics including adoption, dementia, hacking, and conservation. These “engaged” forms of humanities research reveal the continued importance of thinking and rethinking the nature of art, culture, and public life.
David Gorlaeus: An Enigmatic Figure in the History of Philosophy and Science (History of Science and Scholarship in the Netherlands)
by Christoph LüthyWhen David Gorlaeus (1591-1612) passed away at 21 years of age, he left behind two highly innovative manuscripts. Once they were published, his work had a remarkable impact on the evolution of seventeenth-century thought.,However, as his identity was unknown, divergent interpretations of their meaning quickly sprang up. Seventeenth-century readers understood him as an anti-Aristotelian thinker and as a precursor of Descartes. Twentieth-century historians depicted him as an atomist, natural scientist and even as a chemist. And yet, when Gorlaeus died, he was a beginning student in theology. His thought must in fact be placed at the intersection between philosophy, the nascent natural sciences, and theology.,The aim of this book is to shed light on Gorlaeus’ family circumstances, his education at Franeker and Leiden, and on the virulent Arminian crisis which provided the context within which his work was written. It also attempts to define Gorlaeus’ place in the history of Dutch philosophy and to assess the influence that it exercised in the evolution of philosophy and science, and notably in early Cartesian circles. Christoph Lüthy is professor of the history of philosophy and science at Radboud University Nijmegen, the Netherlands. Toen David Gorlaeus (1591-1612) op 21 jarige leeftijd overleed, liet hij twee baanbrekende manuscripten na. Na de postume publicatie in 1620 en 1651 hadden zijn werken een opmerkelijke invloed.,Doordat Gorlaeus’ identiteit onbekend was, ontstonden al snel zeer uiteenlopende interpretaties van de publicaties. Lezers uit de zeventiende eeuw dachten met een anti-aristotelische denker en een voorloper van Descartes van doen te hebben. Twintigste-eeuwse historici schilderden hem af als een atomist, natuurwetenschapper en zelfs als chemicus. Gorlaeus was echter 'slechts' beginnend theologiestudent en zijn werk bevindt zich op het kruispunt van filosofie, de ontluikende natuurwetenschappen en theologie.Dit boek beoogt inzicht te geven in de familieomstandigheden van Gorlaeus, zijn opleiding aan de universiteit van Franeker en Leiden en de historische context waarin hij zijn werk schreef. Ten slotte probeert de auteur te bepalen welke plaats Gorlaeus’ werken innemen in de geschiedenis van de Nederlandse filosofie en wat hun invloed was op de ontwikkelingen in filosofie en wetenschap.
China-Russia Strategic Alignment in International Politics
by Alexander KorolevPost-Cold War China-Russia strategic cooperation has displayed significant development and become an increasingly important factor in contemporary international politics. However, there has been no theory-grounded framework and corresponding measurements that would allow an accurate and systematic assessment of the level of China-Russia alignment and its progress over time. How closely aligned are China and Russia? How to define and measure strategic alignments between states? This book bridges area studies and International Relations literature to develop a set of objective criteria to measure and explain the development of strategic alignment in post-Cold War China-Russia relations. China-Russia Strategic Alignment in International Politics establishes that on a range of criteria, China-Russia alignment has been moving towards a full-fledged alliance, showing a consistent incremental upward trend. There are strong structural incentives for furthering the China-Russia alignment. The alignment framework developed in the book is applicable to other cases of interstate strategic cooperation and enables systematic comparisons of different strategic alignments.
Traitor (Raven and the Eagle series)
by Geraint JonesYou can’t turn your back on RomeIn the bloodied mountains of Pannonia, the Roman army struggles to put down a brutal rebellion.Corvus is now the standard bearer of the Eighth Legion, which has borne the brunt of the fighting. The famed soldier has lost one comrade after another, and now his oldest friend, Marcus, has betrayed him, shaking him to his core. Sick of the conflict, Corvus deserts his legion and rides for home to end his days in peace.But there is no escaping Rome, or its vengeance. Corvus might want a simple life, but when tragedy strikes, he is hauled back into the savage war. And this time, he won’t be fighting on the Roman side…The compelling second novel in the Raven and the Eagle series, perfect for fans of Ben Kane and Simon Scarrow.Praise for Geraint Jones‘Blood and guts, but also a clever exploration of the moral ambiguity of war and loyalty to a flag’ Mail on Sunday‘Brutal, audacious, and fast paced’Anthony Riches, author of the Empire series.‘Historical fiction written by a real war veteran who knows all there is to know about blood and bonding in battle’ Weekend Sport
Who All Die: An Imperial Assassins Novella (Imperial Assassin)
by Alex GoughA devastating disease threatens the might of Rome...Marcus Oclatinius Adventus, later Spymaster to Emperor Caracalla, was once but a mere soldier, fighting for the Empire against the Parthians.Upon their journey back home, the men slowly but surely begin to weaken, hounded by some strange and deathly sickness.As the Parthians close in, and Oclatinius’ legion gets weaker and weaker by the day, he must show the cunning and strength that would define his later years, in order to escape alive.A scintillating novella in the Imperial Assassin series, ideal for fans of Simon Scarrow, Conn Iggulden and Bernard Cornwell.Also includes the first six chapters of Emperor’s Sword, the first book in the Imperial Assassin series.
One Good Lie: A gripping psychological thriller
by Jane IsaacEven the littlest lies can have the biggest consequences… On the night of her mother’s wake, only one thing brings Ruby comfort; the knowledge that her mother’s killer is safely behind bars. But guilt is eating away at fragile younger sister Sophie, who brought their mother’s killer into their lives.This is why Ruby is glad that Sophie is with her supportive boyfriend Ewan, despite Ruby’s doubts about him. He’s been Sophie’s rock, not only taking care of her, but her little kids, too. So what if he doesn’t like talking about his past?But when news of another woman’s murder spreads through their town like wildfire, Ruby is shocked to find herself with reason to suspect Ewan of the crime. And with one good lie driving a wedge between the sisters, it’s hard for Ruby to get Sophie to see what she sees. Ewan is keeping dangerous secrets. But he’s not the only person close to home who has something shocking to hide… A gripping and unputdownable thriller that will keep you reading into the early hours of the morning.Read what everyone is saying about One Good Lie:‘Oh my GOODNESS!! I absolutely loved this… It got to the point where I was suspecting every single character in the book… The ending was twisty, thrilling, scary and, best of all, satisfying. Truly a wonderful psychological thriller that kept me captivated throughout!’ Shalini Boland, author of The Secret Mother, *****‘I can honestly say that this is psychological fiction at its best. Cleverly written and packed full of chilling suspense… With lots of delicious twists and clashes of personality that could set the pages on fire, One Good Lie ticks all the boxes for me. A hugely satisfying read and one I would highly recommend.’ Sheryl Browne, author of My Husband’s Girlfriend, *****‘A clever, creepy and compulsive psychological thriller’ Diane Jeffrey, author of The Silent Friend, *****‘Jane Isaac never lets us down; this is fast-paced storytelling at its best. One Good Lie is a chilling, unputdownable read, packed with menace and suspense… Highly recommended!’ Linda Huber, author of Baby Dear, *****‘One Good Lie had me on the edge of my seat! Every time I thought I had the plot figured out the carpet was pulled from under my feet! Twisty and full of surprises. Highly recommended! 5/5.’ NetGalley Reviewer, *****‘An exciting psychological thriller that will appeal to fans of Ruth Ware, Greer Hendricks, and Sarah Pekkanen… Excellently-written, well-plotted… I sped through this book and finished it in a day… If you're a fan of the thriller genre, you won't regret checking out this book’ Goodreads Reviewer, *****‘5 Stars! Highly recommend. It was hard to put this book down. It was a fast-paced story full of suspense. I was hooked from the first chapter… I absolutely loved this story of two sisters.’ NetGalley Reviewer, *****‘I was invested straight away; it was fast-paced and I couldn't put it down.’ NetGalley Reviewer,*****‘Book drought over! Hooked from page one, didn't stop reading until silly o'clock, had a few hours’ sleep, walked the dog then dived back in to finish.’ Goodreads Reviewer ‘Absolutely kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t wait to find out what happened. The ending didn’t disappoint. I highly recommend this one.’ NetGalley Reviewer, *****‘This is a brilliant read… The characters are likeable, even the villainous ones, and it just shows you can never really trust anyone who you think you know.’
The Garden of Little Rose (Welcome to Thorndale)
by Suzanne SnowFor love to grow, Flora will have to first dig up the past.At a hen party on the remote Scottish island of Alana, Flora is dared to ask a handsome stranger to be her plus-one for the wedding. When the gorgeous Mac accepts her invite, she assumes he’s joking and thinks nothing more of it… Until he turns up at the church on the wedding day.But Mac has an agenda. He wants to hire her skills as a horticulturist to restore the gardens at Róisín House, his home back on Alana. Flora knows she should refuse – Mac has ‘heartbreaker’ written all over him – but she can’t resist uncovering the tragic truth behind the garden at Róisín.A heartwarming romance for fans of Victoria Walters, Trisha Ashley and Julie Houston.What readers are saying about The Garden of Little Rose:'The story got off to a really quick start and has a bit of everything; romance, mystery and friendship. This was a lovely read for a weekend!' **** NetGalley reviewer'I love this book. Funny, heartbreaking, uplifting and excellent.' ***** NetGalley reviewer'Snow did a wonderful job with visualization. I felt like I was there in the gardens, on the beach with the sand between my toes, dinner with the family, all of it.' **** NetGalley reviewer
The West End Nannies: An emotional, uplifting 1960s saga (The West End Nannies)
by Pam WeaverJenny starts her training as a nanny, but does she have what it takes – and will her family survive without her? It is 1962 and 17-year-old Jenny is finally able to train for her dream job as a nanny. The residential training is tough – Matron takes no prisoners but Jenny bonds with her two roommates, Bernice and Rita, and loves helping the children. If only her family life could be so happy – her brother, Maurice, is a wrong'un and seems to have some hold over her father, and Jenny has never got over the sudden disappearance of her mother. Finally, Jenny gets her first nanny job, heading for the bright lights of London at the dawn of the Swinging Sixties. Suddenly she is thrust into the lifestyle of the rich at a household in the affluent West End, working for a family whose busy lifestyle means that their child is neglected. Can Jenny heal their family - and her own?
The Secret Sister: A compelling suspense novel about family and secrets
by M. M. DelucaHow far would you go for family?Anna’s done bad things before. Neglected and unloved as a child, she had to do whatever it took to keep herself and her little sister, Birdie, safe. But the worst thing she’s ever done is let her sister walk out of a diner when they were teenagers. She would never see her sister again.Years later, and Anna is a new person. After a whirlwind romance, she’s married handsome, successful, and generous Guy. She has a steady job and a new life of comfort. Things seem perfect. But she hasn’t told her husband about her dark past or about Birdie, that she’s still looking for her. It’s not about his too-perfect veneer, or her suspicion that he flirts with other women. It’s that he has a complicated past and family secrets, too. Secrets that might be more entwined with hers than he knows.After all this time, one thing about Anna remains the same. There’s nothing she wouldn’t do for her sister. And when she finds out who’s kept them apart for all these years, there will be hell to pay.A completely addictive, dark and eye-opening novel about what people hide behind closed doors, perfect for your next book club pick. Fans of Megan Miranda and Shari Lapena will loveThe Secret Sister.Read what everyone is saying about The Secret Sister… ‘Okay, I was totally blown away by this book. I thought it was going to be your run-of-the-mill mystery… Wow, I was wrong. This is an amazingly written book. If you think you can figure it out, well good luck to you… I will be bringing this book up every chance I get. Great story!!!!’ NetGalley Reviewer, *****‘A heart-wrenching clash of past and present which is not for the faint-hearted. It is rare for a book to make you feel so many strong emotions… Captivating and intriguing… I couldn't put the book down… This has been the most memorable book I have read in a long time.’ Goodreads Reviewer, *****‘This novel is one you cannot put down! I put aside all my work so I could binge it in a day. A gripping story… With many twists and turns, this novel kept me on edge and guessing till the end.’ NetGalley Reviewer, *****‘Crazy good. This story tells of an incredible bond between twin sisters who end up in the care system. Ups and downs throughout and an absolutely heartbreaking ending. I loved it.’ NetGalley Reviewer, *****‘Utterly compulsive reading. I found the subject matter harrowing but so well written and well researched… The story of Anna and her twin sister Birdie broke my heart… I can highly recommend it.’ NetGalley Reviewer, *****‘Ooo this one definitely had a twist that I was not expecting! Go ahead and read this one for yourself because trust me it will keep you guessing until the very end. I loved it! Writing style was fantastic as well.’ NetGalley Reviewer, *****‘This book had such a raw storyline. I really enjoyed it. Would recommend this to every person who asked me.’ NetGalley Reviewer, *****‘Really enjoyed this quick read… It did not end how I expected which left me both surprised and satisfied…. Would recommend!’ Goodreads Reviewer, *****‘This book is a very good read… The author builds tension that grows throughout the book and you find yourself unable to put the book down. I would definitely recommend this book.’ Goodreads Reviewer, *****
Under Her Roof: A gripping, twisty thriller that you won't be able to put down
by A.A. Chaudhuri‘Intense, intricate and packed with intrigue...a thrilling and addictive read.’ B.A. Paris It seems too good to be true… When struggling writer Sebastian finds a room to let in a palatial Hampstead residence he cannot believe his luck. The rent is ridiculously cheap and he immediately feels a connection with his beautiful widowed landlady, Adriana. It is. Things take a dark turn when he finds out what happened to the last lodger. Could this be why the house is a fortress of security, and why Adriana seems so fragile? Adriana doesn’t want to talk about the death and sadness that seem to follow her wherever she goes and Sebastian has secrets of his own. Now someone is watching their every move and there is nowhere to hide. This house of light becomes a dark nightmare as the threat ramps up - what does the watcher want? And how far will they go to get it? A gripping, twisty thriller perfect for fans of B.A. Paris, Shari Lapena and Lucy Foley. If you were hooked by Netflix series You or The Watcher then you will love this. Readers are gripped by Under Her Roof: 'Taut and intricately plotted with such exquisite writing.' Imran Mahmood 'A masterclass in suspense - I couldn’t put it down, and the twists will absolutely floor the reader.' Lisa Hall ‘A dark, twisty, unputdownable thriller that will send your mind spinning. Truly sublime.' B P Walter 'A compulsive thriller that crackles with a sense of menace. Tense, twisty and gorgeously atmospheric.' Kia Abdullah ‘Another spectacular triumph ...this is a taut, gripping page-turner with an unguessable twist.’ Lucy Martin 'A nail biting, claustrophobic thriller with a plot that will give you shivers, and a twist that will blow your mind.’ Sarah Clarke ‘A gripping, voyeuristic page-turner...from a hugely talented crime writer at the very top of their game.’ Howard Linskey 'A taut, edgy thriller.' Marion Todd ‘A spine-tingling, cerebral thriller packed with real psychological depth and a final twist that hits you like a gut-punch.’ Chris Merritt ‘A razor-sharp thriller...Beautifully dark and utterly compelling.’ Victoria Dowd ‘A darkly addictive and unputdownable thriller. It kept me guessing; I loved it!’ Jane Isaac ‘Perfectly plotted and with a brilliant twist.’ Catherine Cooper ‘A deliciously horrible sensation of being watched...grippingly twisty.’ Greg Mosse ‘Even though I was waiting for the twists, they still blindsided me.’ David Beckler ‘Simmering with tension and an underlying sense of danger...an addictive thriller with a jaw-dropping twist.’ Michael Wood 'A compelling psychological thriller...And when the twists came - wow!' Joy Kluver ‘ Made me lock the door twice.’ Jacqueline Sutherland ‘A taut, intelligent and thought-provoking thriller!’ Louise Beech ‘Dark, gripping and smouldering…Intricately plotted and the twist floored me.’ Ruth Kelly ‘A compelling and terrifying psychological thriller with a twisty, dark plot, guaranteed to shock the reader with its spine-chilling denouement.’ Danielle Ramsey ‘I was gripped from start to explosive finish.’ Christie Newport
20/20: A totally gripping detective novel packed with suspense (DI Eva Harris detective series)
by Carl GoodmanPuts the thrill in thriller…Definitely one of the best reads of the year.' ***** Reader ReviewCan you see a killer before it's too late?On the first day of her new job, D.I. Eva Harris is called to the scene of a brutal murder at the heart of Surrey society. A shocking crime by a meticulous killer – who escaped with the victim's eyes.With the body drained of blood and no forensic evidence left at the scene, Harris' efforts to find the killer becomes desperate. But as her investigation is complicated by corruption at the heart of the police, she doesn't know who to trust on her own team.As the pressure mounts, Eva realises the murder is even more horrific than it seems, and her own dreadful history threatens to be drawn out with it…A dark and compulsive detective novel, for fans of Chris Carter and M.W Craven.Readers are hooked by 20/20:'Wow!...Strap yourself in, take a deep breath, as you'll be going at warp speed…Intelligently plotted with well-crafted characters. An excellent read.' ***** Reader Review'Suspenseful and gripping and a terrific page-turner!...I fully recommend it if you enjoy a fast-paced thriller with twists and turns galore!' Reader Review'A fast paced, exhilarating and really exciting read…will capture the interest of readers right from the first page.' ***** Reader Review'I absolutely loved it!... gripped me from the start and the pace never let up...I would happily recommend this to crime thriller readers!' Reader Review'If you want thrills and chills by the bucket load then you seriously can't go wrong with this book…A thrilling read that doesn't let go until the very last page!' Reader Review'DI Eva Harris is one hell of a character… I can only hope that this is the first in a long series.' ***** Reader Review'This is a mindbending thriller…I enjoyed it immensely and highly recommend it.' ***** Reader Review'Unputdownable…I ended up finishing the book in a few hours…Eva is such a great character and very easy to root for.' ***** Reader Review'If you love reading gritty, slightly disturbing, murder mysteries or police dramas…like Line of Duty and Silent Witness, definitely give this book a chance.' Reader Review
The Allotment on Willow Tree Lane: A sweet, uplifting rural romance (Foxmore Village)
by Lilac MillsWhen a local meadow is turned into a bee-friendly allotment, will romance also blossom? New teacher Ceri has enough on her plate trying to keep her class in line and get them excited for her Foxmore wildlife efforts. Then she meets the mysterious – and occasionally grumpy – Damon, whose orchard she’d like to explore. Rock star Damon has moved to Foxmore to escape the hounding paparazzi following the tragic death of his bandmate. Relocating to somewhere quiet and isolated is just what he needs to recover. Ceri is a ray of sunshine, but he’s not ready to share his dark secrets with her. As love blooms, will Damon’s hidden past get in the way of their happiness? And can he bring himself to give up his music for love? A gorgeously tender, uplifting romance in the heart of Wales, perfect for readers of Mandy Baggot, Suzanne Snow and Sue Moorcroft. Praise for The Allotment on Willow Tree Lane ‘This was a lovely love story. One of those reads that leaves you feeling happy.’ ***** Reader review ‘I was engrossed after the first few pages. The characters were brilliant and the setting was stunning… I really felt like I was there. A beautiful romantic story with some bittersweet moments.’ ***** Reader review ‘Another great instalment from Foxmore village… I can’t wait to visit again.’ ***** Reader review
Storms Gather Between Us: A gripping and emotional historical novel (Across the Seas)
by Clare FlynnLife can change in a single moment...Living under the watchful eye of her controlling and abusive father, Hannah Dawson’s hopes for freedom and happiness seem a distant dream. Her mother, passive and ashamed of her self-preservation, refuses to challenge her husband. It is the mysterious circumstances of her long-lost Aunt Lizzie’s disappearance in the 1920s that inspires Hannah to seek a better life. Since escaping his family’s notoriety in Australia Will Kidd has spent a decade sailing the seas, never looking back. Content to live the life of a wanderer, everything changes in a single moment when he comes face to face with a ghost from his past on a cloudy beach in Liverpool.Hannah and Will are thrown together by fate and bonded by secrets from long ago. Now, they discover a love like no other. But with Hannah’s father determined to see her wed to a man of his choosing they must fight against a tyrant who has ruined many lives. Even if they succeed, can they escape the chains of their histories? And will their plans for a future be possible when the whole world is changing forever…? A compelling tale of family secrets and undeniable love against the odds, perfect for fans of Susanne Goldring and Fiona Valpy.Praise for Storms Gather Between Us 'Another great book by Clare Flynn’ Reader Review‘A really gripping and moving pre WWII story’ Reader Review‘I would recommend this book without hesitation’ Reader Review‘Very descriptive, immersive and well written. This book is guaranteed to make you turn each and every page.’ Reader Review‘I was totally gripped from the first page’ Reader Review'Although this novel follows Flynn’s A Greater World, it can stand alone, since the characters’ backstories are introduced non-intrusively. Will’s exploits on the seas and in coastal regions, notably Zanzibar and Naples, and Hannah’s confined life and mannerisms in pre-WWII Liverpool are presented vividly, displaying the author’s talent and extensive research. The descriptions of the sea voyages and locales are undoubtedly based on Flynn’s travels. The novel’s skillful plot elucidates the harsh treatment of some women during the period. Readers will look forward to the sequel. Recommended.' Historical Novel Society
Building Musical Culture in Nineteenth-Century Amsterdam: The Concertgebouw
by Darryl CressmanWhen people attend classical music concerts today, they sit and listen in silence, offering no audible reactions to what they're hearing. We think of that as normal-but, as Darryl Cressman shows in this book, it's the product of a long history of interrelationships between music, social norms, and technology. Using the example of Amsterdam's Concertgebouw in the nineteenth century, Cressman shows how its design was in part intended to help discipline and educate concert audiences to listen attentively - and analysis of its creation and use offers rich insights into sound studies, media history, science and technology studies, classical music, and much more.
Anticipating Sin in Medieval Society: Childhood, Sexuality, and Violence in the Early Penitentials (Knowledge Communities)
by Erin Vanessia AbrahamComposed between the sixth and ninth centuries, penitentials were little books of penance that address a wide range of human fallibility. But they are far more than mere registers of sin and penance: rather, by revealing the multiple contexts in which their authors anticipated various sins, they reveal much about the ways those authors and, presumably, their audiences understood a variety of social phenomena. Offering new, more accurate translations of the penitentials than what has previously been available, this book delves into the potentialities addressed in these manuals for clues about less tangible aspects of early medieval history, including the innocence and vulnerability of young children and the relationship between speech and culpability; the links between puberty, autonomy, and moral accountability; early medieval efforts to regulate sexual relationships; and much more.
Fantasia of Color in Early Cinema (Framing Film)
by Joshua Yumibe Tom Gunning Jonathon Rosen Giovanna FossatiWe normally think of early film as being black and white, but the first color cinematography appeared as early as the first decade of the twentieth century. In this visually stunning book, the editors present a treasure trove of early color film images from the archives of EYE Film Institute Netherlands, bringing to life their rich hues and forgotten splendor., Carefully selecting and reproducing frames from movies made before World War I, Fossati, Gunning, Rosen, and Yumibe share the images here in a full range of tones and colors. Accompanying essays discuss the history of early film and the technical processes that filmmakers employed to capture these fascinating images, while other contributions explore preservation techniques and describe the visual delights that early film has offered audiences, then and now. Featuring more than 300 color illustrations for readers to examine and enjoy, Fantasia of Color in Early Cinema will engage scholars and other readers of all ages and backgrounds.
Environmental Movements of India: Chipko, Narmada Bachao Andolan, Navdanya (Environment and Society in Asia)
by Krishna MallickIn her detailed retelling of three iconic movements in India, Professor Emerita Krishna Mallick, PhD, gives hope to grassroots activists working toward environmental justice. Each movement deals with a different crisis and affected population: Chipko, famed for tree-hugging women in the Himalayan forest; Narmada, for villagers displaced by a massive dam; and Navdanya, for hundreds of thousands of farmers whose livelihoods were lost to a compact made by the Indian government and neoliberal purveyors of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Relentlessly researched, Environmental Movements of India: Chipko, Narmada Bachao Andolan, Navdanya presents these movements in a framework that explores Hindu Vedic wisdom, as well as Development Ethics, Global Environment Ethics, Feminist Care Ethics, and the Capability Approach. At a moment when the climate threatens populations who live closest to nature – and depend upon its fodder for heat, its water for life, and its seeds for food – Mallick shows how nonviolent action can give poor people an effective voice.
Contesting Austerity: Social Movements and the Left in Portugal and Spain (2008-2015) (Protest and Social Movements)
by Tiago CarvalhoContesting Austerity compares the contentious responses to austerity in Portugal and Spain between 2008 and 2015. While in Spain a sustained wave of mobilisation lasted for three years and led to a transformation of the party system, in Portugal social movements mobilised only in specific instances, trade unions dominated protest and institutional change was limited. Contesting Austerity shows that trajectories and outcomes in these countries are linked to the nature and configurations of the players in the mobilisation process.
Feng Xiaogang’s New Year Films: Industry, Regulation, Humour and Authorship (Asian Visual Cultures)
by Qi AiThis book offers not only an in-depth study of Feng Xiaogang as a cinematic auteur but also a comprehensive and informative discussion of the industrial transformation of mainstream Chinese cinema under party-state regulation from the 1990s to the 2010s. It argues that Feng is not simply a commercially and artistically successful auteur but also a strategist who manages to achieve such success by his ability to negotiate governmental and market expectations. The negotiation facilitates his New Year filmmaking and dynamically affects the textual form of the resulting works. Feng engages in this textual construction, through which he delivers his own interpretations of the Chinese film industry’s state-led commercialisation, cultural policy, film regulation, and even political campaigns, establishes his authorship and restores his creative authority. Through this book, readers will comprehend the edges and limitations of auteur studies in order to understand the current cultural landscape of the film industry.
War of Words: Dutch Pro-Boer Propaganda and the South African War (1899-1902)
by Vincent KuitenbrouwerBetween 1899 and 1902 the Dutch public was captivated by the war raging in South Africa between the Boer republics and the British Empire. Dutch popular opinion was on the side of the Boers: these descendants of the seventeenth-century Dutch settlers were perceived as kinsmen, the most tangible result of which was a flood of propaganda material intended as a counterweight to the British coverage of the war. The author creates a fascinating account of the Dutch pro-Boer movement from its origins in the 1880s to its persistent continuation well into the twentieth century. Kuitenbrouwer offers fascinating insights into the rise of organisations that tried to improve the ties between the Netherlands and South Africa and in that capacity became important links in the international network that distributed propaganda for the Boers. He also demonstrates the persistence of that stereotypes of the Boers and the British in Dutch propaganda materials had lasting effects on nation building both in the Netherlands and South Africa of the period.
European Women's Letter-writing from the 11th to the 20th Centuries
by David Garrioch Barbara Caine Carolyn James Clare MonagleThis book reveals the importance of personal letters in the history of European women between the year 1000 and the advent of the telephone. It explores the changing ways that women used correspondence for self-expression and political mobilization over this period, enabling them to navigate the myriad gendered restrictions that limited women’s engagement in the world. Whether written from the medieval cloister, or the renaissance court, or the artisan’s workshop, or the drawing room, letters crossed geographical and social distance and were mobile in ways that women themselves could not always be. Women wrote to govern, to argue, to plead, and to demand. They also wrote to express love and intimacy, and in so doing, to explain and to understand themselves. This book argues that the personal letter was a crucial place for European women’s self-fashioning, and that exploring the history of their letters offers a profound insight into their subjectivity and agency over time.
A Tiny Spot on the Earth: The Political Culture of the Netherlands in the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries
by Piet RooyIn this survey of the Dutch political culture of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, Piet de Rooy reveals that the 'polder model' often used to describe economic and social policymaking based on consensus is a myth. Instead, modern political culture in the Dutch Low Countries began with a revolution and is rife with rivalries among political and ideological factions. De Rooy argues that because of its extremely open economy, the country is vulnerable to external political, cultural, and economic pressures, and Dutch politics is a balancing act between profiting from international developments and maintaining sovereignty. The sudden rise of populism and Euroscepticism at the turn of the millennium, then, indicated a loss of this balance. Shining new light on the political culture of the Netherlands, this book provides insights into the polder model and the principles of pillarization in Dutch society. The Dutch edition of this book, Ons stipje op de wereldkaart, was awarded the Prinsjesboekenprijs for the best book on Dutch national politics in 2014.(.Survey of the Dutch political culture of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries).
Withered Hill: A dark and unsettling British folk horror novel
by David Barnett'A terrific, unexpected twist' Guardian 'Withered Hill is the ultimate nightmare destination' Laird Barron Inside A year ago Sophie Wickham stumbled into the isolated Lancashire village of Withered Hill, naked, alone and with no memory of who she is. Surrounded by a thick ring of woodland, its inhabitants seem to be of another world, drenched in pagan, folklorish traditions. As Sophie struggles to regain the memories of her life from before, she quickly realises she is a prisoner after multiple failed escape attempts. But is it the locals who keep her trapped, with smiles on their faces, or something else, lurking in the woods? Outside In London, Sophie leads a chaotic life, with too many drunken nights, inappropriate men and boring temp jobs. But things take a turn as she starts to be targeted by strange messages warning her that someone, or something, is coming for her. With no idea who to trust, or where to turn for help, the messages become more insistent and more intimidating, urging Sophie to make her way to a place called Withered Hill… An utterly bewitching, dual timeline folk horror novel, with a truly devastating twist you have to read to believe. Praise for Withered Hill ‘Eerie, erotic and engrossing, David Barnett’s Withered Hill is a masterpiece of folkloric horror, one I suspect shall henceforth be mentioned in the same breath as The Wicker Man, as it well and truly deserves to be’ Kealan Patrick Burke, Bram Stoker Award winning author of Sour Candy ‘A bloody masterpiece … Black Mirror meets The Wicker Man’ Mark Stay, author of The Witches of Woodville series 'Haunting, shocking and beautifully written, Withered Hill lures you into a strange town where everything is slightly off-kilter, and then invites you to try and escape. But you can't. And neither will you escape the draw of this brilliant, almost hypnotic novel, which is one of my favourites of the year' Tim Lebbon 'Midsommar, Evil Dead and Stepford Wives all in one, this twisted dark fairytale rooted in the modern world had me too scared to walk my dog in broad daylight. Masterful storytelling, sinister, sick and funny – if you're as warped as this folklore horror gem' Lisa Rookes, author of The Vanishing of Joni Blackwood 'Withered Hill gets into you as the best folk horror tends to: the woods grow ever-deeper, the villagers more smilingly hostile as the escape routes shrink tighter than a keyhole. But there's much delight in being trapped in the hands of such an agile, clever, and knowing storyteller' Nick Cutter, author of The Troop 'Beguiling, bewitching and brilliant. Withered Hill gets under your skin like some long-forgotten pagan spell and keeps you turning the pages late into the night.' Jeremy Dyson, from the League of Gentlemen
The Returned: A gripping Irish crime thriller
by Amanda CassidyFrom the CWA John Creasey New Blood Dagger shortlisted author ‘A dark, haunting tale with an emotional gut punch that stays with you long after the final page. Amanda Cassidy is an unflinching storyteller.’ Lisa Jewell, author of The Family Upstairs When she re-lives this night, over and over, Nancy will wonder if she’d just gone upstairs a few minutes earlier, what might have been… A devastating fire. A grieving mother. A picture-perfect village full of dark secrets. And now, a son who has seemingly come back from the dead. A detective called back to her hometown, back to the memories she thought she’d left behind… An electrifying novel from a compelling new voice in Irish crime fiction, perfect for fans of Liz Nugent and Claire Mackintosh. Praise for The Returned ‘A richly layered, intricate plot, wonderfully nuanced characters, and absolutely stunning writing, The Returned packs an incredible emotional punch. One of the best books I’ve read this year.’ Andrea Mara, author of All Her Fault ‘A powerfully emotive and carefully layered story about old secrets, motherhood and demons from the past. Amanda’s lyrical and evocative writing underpins a whip cracking plot that simply swept me away!’ Lizzy Barber, author of Out of Her Depth ‘Vivid, pacy and gripping, with characters who have real heart, Amanda Cassidy is a brilliant new voice in crime fiction.’ Sam Blake, author of The Mystery of Four ‘An emotionally-charged page-turner that won't let you go. I'm still reeling from that stunning ending. I loved it.’ Glenn Meade, author of The Devil's Disciple ‘A tightly-woven, well-balanced mystery. Dark, emotive and intricate, The Returned marks an exciting step forward for Cassidy in the Irish crime fiction genre’ Business Post What reader's are saying about The Returned ‘When I say my heart was pounding reading this book, I mean it was POUNDING! The Returned is unputdownable and took me on an emotional rollercoaster! Superb, a must read.’ ***** Reader review ‘This book packs a powerful, emotional punch. The writing is excellent with realistic characterisation and full of tension.’ ***** Reader review ‘I did not want this book to end. The storyline, characters and emotion of this novel are seriously unmatched. I recommend this book and this author… You will not be disappointed. Bravo!’ ***** Reader review