Showing results by author "John William" in All Categories

Agricola, also known as The Life and Character of Julius Agricola, serves as the main historical source for information about this notable Roman general. His son-in-law, the historian Tacitus, authored the text. He writes not just about his father-in-law’s military career and conquest of Britain, but also about cultural and geographic forces at work during this time. The portion of the original text that survives today remains an important reference for historians and history buffs alike.

From mid-August to mid-September 1863, Union major general William S. Rosecrans's Army of the Cumberland maneuvered from Tennessee to north Georgia in a bid to rout Confederate general Braxton Bragg's Army of Tennessee and blaze the way for further Union advances. Meanwhile, Confederate reinforcements bolstered the numbers of the Army of Tennessee, and by the time the two armies met at the Battle of Chickamauga, in northern Georgia, the Confederates had gained numerical superiority.

Simon Cliffe reads some of the greatest Christmas poems for the 12 days of Christmas. Day 1 - Merry Christmas by Louise May Alcott. Day 2 - Christ's Nativity by Henry Vaughan. Day 3 - Ceremonies for Christmas by Robert Herrick. Day 4 - New Prince, New Pomp by Robert Southwell. Day 5 - Christmas Cheer by Thomas Tusser. Day 6 - Ring Out, Wild Bells by Lor Alfred Tennyson. Day 7 - The Oxen by Thomas Hardy. Day 8 - Nativity by John Donne. Day 9 - A Christmas Carol by G.K. Chesterton.

William E Simon - quintessential American figure of the American century: Wall Street wunderkind, Treasury Secretary under Presidents Nixon and Ford, successful entrepreneur, US Olympic Committee president, best-selling author, pioneering philanthropist, and devout Catholic. Simon's insightful and often humorous autobiography, A Time for Reflection, includes a diverse cast of characters whose lives intersected with his own.

After the loss of her family, Olivia embarks on a quest for adventure and new experiences. She rents her home to the enigmatic Blaise Olifant, who is soon joined by his intriguing friend, Alexis Triona. Moving to London, Olivia immerses herself in the vibrant society of the city, only to cross paths with Triona once more. As Triona pens a book chronicling his mysterious past, it becomes an instant sensation, weaving together their complex relationship and the unexpected twists that follow. (Summary by Simon Evers)

Set against the enchanting backdrop of a summer in Geneva, Study in Shadows explores the deepening bonds of friendship and love among a diverse group of individuals at a charming pension. Felicia, a spirited 20-year-old, forges a close friendship with the more worldly Katherine, age 30. Their tranquil summer is disrupted by the arrival of Mr. Chetwynd, an elderly gentleman, and his dashing son Raine, whose Oxford charm captivates both women. As Felicia and Katherine find themselves drawn to Raine, the story beautifully unravels the complexities of love and relationships, revealing the shadows ...

Martin Overshaw and Corinna Hastings find themselves leading mundane lives in Paris after escaping the dullness of England. Their fortunes change when they encounter Fortinbras, a self-proclaimed Marchand de Bonheur, who foretells a bright future. He invites them on an adventurous journey through France, filled with unexpected twists and colorful characters. As they navigate their path, the shadow of the First World War looms over them, adding complexity to their experiences. Despite the challenges they face, the story culminates in a heartwarming conclusion for all involved.

In this gripping tale, Mother Elizabeth Sawyer stands as a symbol of societal injustice—a poor, lonely old woman shunned by her community. Frank, a struggling farmer, is torn between his love for the pregnant Winnifred and the pressures of marrying Susan, the wealthy daughter of a yeoman. Young Cuddy Banks, a hapless clown, yearns for a love that remains unreturned. When Mother Sawyer is wrongfully accused of witchcraft, she turns to dark magic, summoning a talking devil-dog named Tom, her only ally in a world that has forsaken her. As she seeks revenge, she discovers that many around her ...

Ramfiram: Imlod Nir is a young man caught up in a resurging conflict between primordial forces. Apprenticed to his sister - the self-styled Queen of Earth - in the dark art of necromancy, he hunts the wilds beyond the city of Ramfiram for those who would deny her rule. But with each passing day he becomes less sure of his role and more unable to cope with his past deeds. Is he destined to play the pawn in his sister's game until the end, or does fate have something else in store?

I should be whispering this because Halloween is almost upon us. A time of Witches, Ghouls and Hauntings and all kinds of scary things that come out the evening before All Saints Day to wreak havoc... I'm glad you're listening so let us begin.

This insightful collection features two essays, each penned by a distinguished author, exploring the rich histories of Hinduism and Islam. Delving into the contrasts with Christianity, these essays provide a thought-provoking examination of these major world religions. Originally part of the early 1900s curriculum for the C.L.S.C. (Chautauqua Literary and Scientific Circle), this book remains a valuable resource for understanding faith and culture. (Summary by Scientila)

Join the eccentric bohemian Paragot, a wandering scholar with a shadowy past, as he adopts a London street urchin named Asticot, purchasing him from his mother for just half a crown. Together, they embark on thrilling adventures across 19th century Europe, ultimately finding themselves in the vibrant streets of Paris. But as they navigate the citys charm, Paragots dark romantic history begins to resurface, threatening to change their lives forever. (Summary by Simon Evers)

Dive into the captivating world of Septimus, where the intertwining lives of four unique characters unfold. Meet Zora, a young widow in search of purpose; Septimus Dix, an eccentric yet warm-hearted inventor of whimsical creations; Clem Sypher, a flamboyant businessman convinced his dubious remedy will change the world; and Emmy, Zora’s spirited younger sister and aspiring actress. Their stories intersect in unexpected ways, revealing the complexities of hope, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. (Summary by Simon Evers)

In Stella Maris, we meet a young girl named Stellamaris, who finds herself confined to her bed in the Channel House, overlooking the majestic English Channel. Cared for by her devoted elderly uncle and aunt, Sir Oliver and Lady Blount, her world brightens with the visits of two young men, journalist John Risca and actor Walter Herold. They enchant her with tales of an imaginary castle and fantastical lands, weaving dreams that momentarily transport her beyond her limitations. As time passes, Stellamaris begins to regain the use of her limbs, and the narrative unfolds the evolving relationships...

In Rough Road, we follow the journey of Doggie Trevor, a privileged young man shielded from the realities of life. As World War I erupts, Doggies world is turned upside down when he takes a commission in the Army—leading to near disastrous outcomes. Faced with the harsh truths of war, he reevaluates his life and ultimately enlists as a humble English Tommy. Through his experiences in the trenches, alongside loyal friends, Doggie navigates the challenges of combat and the complexities of love as he becomes engaged to the equally snobbish Peggy. This poignant tale captures his transformation ...

Twenty years ago, John Balthazar, a brilliant mathematician from Cambridge, abruptly left England, driven by an overwhelming love for a woman who was not his wife. Presumed dead, he retreats to China, immersing himself in its rich culture. Two decades later, he returns incognito with his Chinese pupil, Quong Ho, to a remote farmhouse, blissfully unaware of the turmoil of the First World War. When a German zeppelin crashes nearby, shattering his peaceful existence, Balthazar is thrust back into reality. He discovers his wife has passed away, leaving behind a son—a soldier he never knew ...

Join Clementina Wing, a gifted artist in her 30s with a penchant for awkwardness, and Ephraim Quixtus, a reserved gentleman whose tranquil existence is turned upside down. Though their paths have crossed before, an unexpected twist of fate draws them together, leading to a journey filled with adventure and emotional depth. - Summary by Simon Evers

Step into the vibrant world of the 1890s with At the Gate of Samaria, where Clytie Davenant, a determined young woman, breaks free from the confines of her familys restrictive country life to pursue her passion for art in London. Sharing a studio off the iconic King’s Road, she immerses herself in the lively bohemian scene and forms connections with an eclectic circle of creatives. However, her pursuit of independence leads her into a hasty marriage, revealing the profound challenges faced by women in late Victorian society. This debut novel by the author poignantly explores the struggles ...

In the heart of Londons elite society, Norma Hardacre finds herself irresistibly captivated by Jimmie Padgate, a struggling artist with a passion for life. Torn between her feelings for Jimmie and her engagement to Morland King—a wealthy man who sees her merely as a trophy for his ambitions—Norma faces a tumultuous choice. Morland, who harbors a dangerous secret and is also Jimmies close friend, complicates the situation further. As Jimmies star begins to rise in the art world, his reputation comes crashing down, threatening everything he holds dear. Will love triumph in the end? - Summary...

Set against the backdrop of World War I in a quaint English town, The Red Planet unfolds through the eyes of Major Duncan Meredyth, a disabled veteran of the Boer Wars. As he navigates the challenges of life and strives to maintain harmony for himself and those he loves, he is burdened by a dark secret linked to one of the villages beloved figures. This captivating narrative was a bestseller in the United States in 1917, offering a poignant exploration of duty, sacrifice, and the complexity of human relationships. (Summary by Miss Stav)