In the sequel to “The Iron Duke” in the “Iron Seas” steampunk romance series by Meljean Brook, “Heart of Steel” sees the exotic and dangerous captain Yasmeen on an action packed treasure hunt across Morocco. As the mercenary captain of Lady Corsair, Yasmeen has learned to keep her heart as cold as steel, her only loyalty bound to her ship and her crew. So when a man who once tried to seize her airship returns from the dead, Yasmeen will be damned if she gives him another opportunity to take control. Treasure-hunter Archimedes Fox isn’t interested in Lady Corsair – he wants her cold-hearted captain and the valuable da Vinci sketch she stole from him. To reclaim it, Archimedes is determined to seduce the stubborn woman who once tossed him to a ravenous pack of zombies, but she’s no easy conquest. When da Vinci’s sketch attracts a dangerous amount of attention, Yasmeen and Archimedes journey to Horde-occupied Morocco – and straight into their enemy’s hands. But as they fight to save themselves and a city on the brink of rebellion, the greatest peril Yasmeen faces is from the man who seeks to melt her icy heart…Meljean Brook’s “Heart of Steel” is a fantastic steampunk adventure …with a sensuous, romantic edge.Praise for Meljean Brook: “Meljean Brook has brilliantly defined the new genre of steampunk romance”. (Jayne Ann Krentz). “A stunning blend of steampunk setting and poignant romance – smart, sexy, breathtaking and downright addictive”. (Ilona Andrews). “Engrossing steampunk adventure …a complex, gripping read”. (“Publishers Weekly”). Meljean Brook lives in Oregon with her family. She is the author of the “Iron Seas” steampunk” series which began with “The Iron Duke” and is also published by Penguin. For more information and “Iron Seas” extras, please visit our associated website.

Price : £ 5.59

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The BBC dramatisation of Tolkien’s celebrated fantasy. ; ; Widely regarded as a broadcasting classic this gripping highly-acclaimed and award-winning BBC Radio 4 full-cast dramatisation of `The Lord of the Rings’ stars Ian Holm as Frodo Michael Hordern as Gandalf and Robert Stephens as Aragorn. Tolkien’s much-loved books charting the epic struggle between good and evil have touched the hearts of young and old alike. They originated the modern fantasy genre and are often cited as people’s favourite books of all time as well as topping the bestseller charts. The phenomenal success of the recent films has prompted a rediscovery of this fantastic audiobook version. ; Adapted and dramatised by Brian Sibley and Michael Bakewell with original music by Stephen Oliver and directed by Jane Morgan and Penny Leicester. ; ; `Originally broadcast in 1981 on BBC Radio this full-cast adaptation of Tolkien’s epic trilogy is justifiably regarded as a classic. Ian Holm (who appeared as Bilbo in the films) offers a mature nuanced portrayal of Frodo that is far truer to the text than (the film’s) wide-eyed innocent approach. – ; Publishers Weekly ; ; `Brian Sibley’s adaptation cuts out all excess fat and concentrates on plot pace characters action and atmosphere. In this last respect he’s helped by composer Stephen Oliver whose dark relentless theme tune perfectly evokes danger and quest – ; Guardian Unlimited ; ; `Closest to the films though richer in detail is the BBC’s dramatisation of the trilogy. First broadcast in 26 episodes in 1981 it was adapted with exceptional skill and sympathy by Brian Sibley and Michael Bakewell and has superb music by Stephen Oliver – ; The Independent

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