John Boynton Priestley Book order (chronological)

It is spring 1945. Three men who have been serving together overseas return, demobilised, to the same village. Coming from very diff erent walks of life, the war has brought them together in unexpected friendship. Following each man as he returns home and must come to terms with what he fi nds there, the novel considers the challenges both with returning to fi nd nothing has changed and returning home to unexpected diff iculties. As the men resume civilian life, they meet again to consider their futures, and what may be in store both for themselves and wider society in a post-war world, fi nding themselves 'among the hundreds of millions wistfully looking on and wondering what next'. With an introduction from the Imperial War Museum which puts the novel in historical context, this timely reprint of a 1945 classic is published for the VE Day anniversary in 2025, bringing a forgott en gem by a prolifi c author back into print and refl ecting on the long legacy of the Second World War.

'An exquisitely-written, generous, funny, thoughtful book about the everyday joys of being alive. I love it.' Dolly Alderton 'J. B. Priestley is one of our literary icons of the 20th Century and it is time that we all became re- acquainted with his genius.' Dame Judi Dench

Disillusioned playwright Martin Cheveril, on the verge of a career change, is thrust into the past after discovering an old pamphlet about the tragic actress Jenny Villiers. As he falls asleep, he is transported to her era, becoming a witness to her life and the events leading to her untimely death. This journey reveals the lasting impact of her tragedy, intertwining the past with his present, and forcing him to confront his own disillusionment with the theatre.

Robert Caplan and his wife are entertaining her brother and sister-in-law. Because Robert insists on uncovering the truth about his brother Martin's 'suicide', many unpalatable revelations ensue which cause Robert to shoot himself. At this point, the opening scene is repeated, but this time they bypass the dangerous corner at which the truth is demanded, thus averting the disaster. Written in 1932 this forms one of the three 'time plays'.

Great Ghost Stories is a volume filled with strange sights, spirits, words and actions from beyond the grave.This rich and diverse collection brings together some of the best spooky writing of all time.

In einem verfallenen Landhaus in den Waliser Bergen suchen fünf Londoner aus der besseren Gesellschaft Schutz vor einem Unwetter. Dort treffen sie auf die seltsamen Bewohner des Hauses. Ein Klassiker des modernen Kriminalromans, der mehrfach verfilmt wurde.

Set in a crumbling mansion during a storm, five travelers encounter unsettling residents who create a tense atmosphere. As they engage in conversational games, the characters reveal their innermost thoughts, offering deep psychological insights and fostering empathy. The blend of dark humor and menacing undertones crafts a compelling narrative that explores fear and human connection, leading the reader into a shadowy realm of suspense and emotional depth.