Julia Kavanagh Books

Sir Frederick Ashton, Britain's greatest choreographer, was a major figure on the cultural landscape of the twentieth century and his influence extended far beyond the world of dance.

Born on a train in Stalin's Russia, Rudolf Nureyev was ballet's first pop icon. No other dancer of our time has generated the same excitement - both on and off stage. Nureyev's achievements and conquests became legendary- he rose out of Tatar peasant poverty to become the Kirov's thrilling maverick star; slept with his beloved mentor's wife; defected to the West in 1961; sparked Rudimania across the globe; established the most rhapsodic partnership in dance history with the middle-aged Margot Fonteyn; reinvented male technique; gatecrashed modern dance; moulded new stars; and staged Russia's unknown ballet masterpieces in the West. He and his life were simply astonishing.

Rudolf Nureyev stands out as an iconic figure in dance, celebrated for his extraordinary beauty, genius, and magnetic charm. His passionate performances captivated audiences and evoked strong reactions from both men and women, making him a legendary presence in the world of ballet. This biography delves into the life and artistry of a dancer whose allure and talent transformed the stage and left a lasting impact on the art form.

A brilliant work of historical true crime charting a pivotal event in the l9th century that gripped the world and forever altered the course of Irish history.

The book highlights the lives of extraordinary women throughout history, showcasing their character, intellect, and contributions to society, all nurtured by the Christian faith. Spanning from the New Testament era to the mid-19th century, it serves as a pioneering collection that celebrates female figures known for their piety and charitable acts. Julia Kavanagh's work provides a unique lens on the influence of Christianity on women's roles and achievements, making it a significant contribution to both literature and women's history.

The biography delves into the extraordinary life of a Normandy girl who became a prominent courtesan in 1840s Paris after escaping her abusive father. Renowned for her elegance and charm, she inspired literary and operatic works, including Dumas' "The Lady of the Camellias" and Verdi's "La Traviata." Her tragic death at just twenty-three from tuberculosis sparked widespread public mourning, even capturing the attention of Charles Dickens, who noted the profound impact of her passing on the cultural landscape of the time.

Focusing on a significant 19th-century event, this historical true crime narrative delves into the Phoenix Park murders in Dublin, an incident that captivated global attention and reshaped Irish history. Authored by acclaimed journalist and Costa Biography Award finalist Julie Kavanagh, the book offers a meticulous exploration of the circumstances surrounding the murders and their lasting impact on Ireland.

Explore the lives and works of some of France's most celebrated female writers with this fascinating collection of biographical sketches. From Colette to Simone de Beauvoir, Julia Kavanagh sheds light on the triumphs and struggles of these remarkable women, situating their literary achievements in the context of French cultural history.

Set in rural England, this novel follows the life of Daisy Burns, a young woman who is determined to make a better life for herself and her family. Along the way, she faces a series of obstacles and hardships that put her strength and perseverance to the test.