Eric Chappell Book order

The story follows a myopic and lonely ex-boxer named Spinks, who, along with his alcoholic friend Kingsley, navigates life’s challenges. In a bid for attention, he feigns winning the National Lottery, attracting unsolicited generosity from others. Amidst this chaos, Dawn Pringle, who genuinely cares for Spinks, cautions him about her seductive twin sister, Donna. As Spinks becomes entangled with both women, he ultimately uncovers a significant truth about his relationships and what he truly values.

The book features two one-act plays centered around office dynamics and personal conflicts. In "We Don't Want To Lose You," Rex grapples with the moral dilemma of firing a colleague, leading to an unexpected resignation. The second play, "Cut and Dried," explores the cutthroat competition for Rex's position, highlighting Harry's strategic maneuvering to secure favor with management. Together, these plays delve into themes of loyalty, ambition, and the complexities of workplace relationships.

Set in a private nursing home, the story unfolds as Frank Cook, recovering from an illness, meets Reverend Paul Latimer, who is grappling with the aftermath of a heart transplant. Paul's peculiar behavior raises concerns for his wife, Sarah, while Tracey, a young woman linked to the deceased Melvin, believes Paul's heart may have inherited Melvin's traits. This intriguing scenario explores themes of identity and the connections between love, loss, and the human heart, involving three women and two men in a complex emotional landscape.

Amidst the chaos of a party conference, Philip Conway, the Deputy Prime Minister, faces a precarious situation as he vies for leadership. With rival politicians and conspirators lurking, plus the ever-watchful media and student protests outside, tension escalates. The narrative unfolds with a mix of political intrigue and personal stakes, as Philip navigates threats, alliances, and the looming possibility of assassination. The unfolding drama promises unexpected twists and the potential for retribution among the key players—two women and five men.

Memory plays a pivotal role as Malcolm, a bachelor and market trader, takes his friend Clive, a hospital porter posing as a doctor, to a singles' evening. Clive is reeling from his recent divorce, while Malcolm navigates his own reluctance for commitment. In a quiet hotel bar, they encounter two divorcees: ambitious Julie and the cynical Liz. The interactions among these four characters explore themes of love, loss, and the complexities of starting anew in the aftermath of failed relationships.

Nell, an intelligent and attractive woman, navigates the emotional turmoil of being abandoned by her husband and embroiled in a secretive affair with a married teacher, George. Their relationship, fraught with frustration, takes a dramatic turn with the arrival of Jim Grant, igniting new passions and complications. The story explores themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for self-discovery, featuring a dynamic cast of three women and two men who influence Nell's journey at this pivotal moment in her life.

Set in a luxurious Spanish villa, the story unfolds with a mix-up involving two matching holdalls belonging to Sam and actor Howard Booth. Their vacation takes a wild turn when a third identical bag filled with money attracts the attention of the sinister Raynor. The play cleverly blends farcical humor with thrilling plot twists, featuring two women and four men caught in a web of assumed identities and comedic mishaps.

The story follows Nigel Burke, an agoraphobic playwright struggling with writer's block, much to the frustration of those around him. His life takes a turn when a mysterious man presents him with a goblet once used by Lord Byron. Drinking from it sparks newfound confidence and leads to the unexpected arrival of Byron himself. This whimsical comedy explores themes of creativity and self-discovery, featuring a cast of two women and four men, and is penned by the author of Natural Causes.

Set in a men's surgical ward, the story follows three contrasting characters: a cynical and defensive man, a young and anxious one, and a weary hypochondriac. Their differing personalities create an uneasy alliance as they navigate the challenges and absurdities of hospital life, highlighting themes of friendship, vulnerability, and resilience in the face of adversity. The comedic narrative reflects the author's unique perspective, bringing humor to the often daunting experience of being in a medical environment.

The story revolves around Kevin, an estate agent, and his wife Valerie, who must host her brother Victor, a recently released con artist. Victor sees an opportunity to exploit their situation, particularly by charming wealthy widow Lucy with a diamond bracelet he has on loan. As he manipulates those around him, tension builds among the characters, showcasing themes of deception and greed in a comedic setup involving two women and five men.