Pop star, TV star, movie star, wife & mother, Cher has remained at the top of the entertainment tree for over 30 years and shows no signs of slowing down. Her extraordinary popularity was stunningly confirmed in 1998, when her No.1 hit 'Believe' became the UK's biggest-selling single of the year. In The First Time, she talks about the many other defining moments of her life, from her first memories of her mother to the eulogy to her former husband and singing partner, Sonny Bono, whose death in 1997 affected her deeply. She reflects upon her fluctuating pop career, which began as a backing singer in Phil Spector's recording studio, the stupendous success of Sonny and Cher's 'I Got You Babe',meetings with Andy Warhol, The Rolling Stones and Brian Wilson, and the move to Hollywood which brought her an Oscar for 'Moonstruck'. Told in her own inimitable style with dozens of her own photographs, THE FIRST TIME is the true story of the events that shaped the life of a luminous star.

This book acts as a window into 18th-century life in France and England and presents the period extraordinary. The witty dialogues, mixed with a suspenseful story of vengeance, great characters, and the ability to break the genre rules, makes this work stand out. Heyer writes vivid, opinionated characters; although she makes her side characters just as vibrant and delightful as her central ones. Fortune favors Justin Alastair, the shallow, bored and infamous Duke of Avon, casting in his way, during one night in Paris, the means to take revenge from his enemy, the Comte de Saint-Vire. Avon encounters an abused boy, Léon Bonnard, whose red hair, deep blue eyes, and black eyebrows somewhat indicate him to be the child of Comte. But the question about who Léon really is gets answered later in this outstanding novel. The Duke of Avon is portrayed as an unfriendly man who has never truly cared or loved anyone or anything, nor has he ever received love.

"No one has ever matched Georgette Heyer for charm and wit."—LISA KLEYPAS, New York Times bestselling author "You're in for a treat."—NORA ROBERTS, New York Times bestselling author A fresh celebration of a legendary author who has charmed tens of millions of readers with her rapier wit, brilliant characterizations, and unique take on Regency romance. Now, get three full-length novels featuring some of Heyer's most splendid heroes, plus a delightful bonus novella from the Queen of Regency Romance's little known short story collection. About the books in this bundle: Venetia: Venetia Lanyon lives an independent but secluded life running her family's estate, until she meets her notorious neighbor: Jasper, Lord Damerel. Exiled at his country estate for his rakish ways, Damerel never expects to find a hidden gem like Venetia so far from London. What begins for him as a harmless flirtation becomes much more, and the two are on the verge of a damaging scandal. For meeting Damerel has awakened in Venetia desires she never dreamt she possessed, and she'll be drawn out of her reclusive existence by the very type of man a well-bred lady should avoid. These Old Shades: Justin Alistair, His Grace the Duke of Avon, is a dangerous man to cross. Nicknamed "Satanas" for his wild and unscrupulous ways, he has waited 20 years to get revenge on his arch-enemy. The means to do so falls serendipitously into his hands in the person of a fiery red-head whose nobility is scarcely disguised by a harsh and abusive upbringing. First the Duke's servant, and later his ward, Leonie Bonnard adores, challenges, and provokes the Duke, never guessing that she's going to be at the center of a public confrontation that will shock the world. Set in the years before Prinny became Regent, Heyer delivers an unusual hero you will never forget. Devil's Cub: The acclaimed sequel to These Old Shades delivers non-stop action and the delight of seeing just what happened to Leonie Bonnard and the Duke of Avon. Mary Challoner tried to trick fiery Dominic Alistair, Marquis of Vidal, to prevent him from running off with her sister. Now he's discovered her subterfuge, and he's not one to take this kind of thing lightly. A kidnapping ensues, but Mary has a few more shocking stratagems up her sleeve, and it seems that Dominic, the Devil's Cub, may have finally met his match. Pistols for Two (novella): Two best friends at odds over plain little Marianne Treen, who is no longer plain and has grown into a stunning young lady. A spilled drink and a squashed toe, and Jack and Tom find themselves facing each other with pistols at dawn. Brimming with characteristic wit and colorful characters, Heyer brings to life all the romance, intrigue, gallantry, villainy and grace of the Regency period.

The 'Regency Romance Novels - Book Set' stands as a monumental collection that encapsulates the rich tapestry of early 19th-century society, the nuances of romantic endeavors, and the intricate dynamics of social stratification. This anthology presents an astonishing range of literary styles, from the pioneering realism of Jane Austen's wit to the Gothic romanticism of George MacDonald, and the moral introspection of Leo Tolstoy. Each work, meticulously selected for this collection, underscores the versatility and depth of regency romance as a genre, championing its evolution and enduring appeal. The inclusion of notable pieces such as Pierre Choderlos de Laclos's exploration of manipulation in love and Mary Wollstonecraft's advocacy for women's rights adds a layer of societal critique and feminist thought that enriches the collection. The contributing authors and editors, hailing from diverse geographical and philosophical backgrounds, collectively bring to life the era's zeitgeist, marked by its unique socio-political challenges and cultural shifts. The anthology aligns with major historical and cultural movements of the time, including the Enlightenment's aftermath, the burgeoning of romanticism, and early feminist thought. These varied voices, with their distinct narrative styles and thematic concerns, coalesce to offer a comprehensive overview of the regency period, illuminating its complexities and contradictions. 'Regency Romance Novels - Book Set' is an essential addition to the library of anyone fascinated by the regency period, romance literature, or the evolution of socio-cultural norms through the prism of fiction. This collection offers readers the unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in a world where love, class, and morality are interwoven with historical accuracy and literary brilliance. It invites scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike to explore the multifaceted perspectives encapsulated within, fostering a deeper appreciation for the era and its literary output. Through its comprehensive scope and the dialogue it generates among the diverse works included, this anthology serves as both an educational tool and a treasure trove of literary delight.

The days are long, but the years are short. No matter if it’s your child’s first step, first day of school, or first night tucked away in a new dorm room away from home, there comes a moment when you realize just how quickly the years are flying by. Christian music artist Nichole Nordeman’s profound lyrics in her viral hit “Slow Down” struck a chord with moms everywhere, and now this beautiful four-color book will inspire you to celebrate the everyday moments of motherhood. Filled with thought-provoking writings from Nichole, as well as guest writings from friends including Shauna Niequist and Jen Hatmaker, practical tips, and journaling space for reflection, Slow Down will be a poignant gift for any mom, as well as a treasured keepsake. Take a few moments to reflect and celebrate the privilege of being a parent and getting to watch your little ones grow—and Slow Down. Nichole Nordeman has sold more than 1 million albums as a Christian music artist and has won 9 GMA Dove Awards, including two awards for Female Vocalist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year. Nichole released a lyric video for her song “Slow Down,” and it struck a chord with parents everywhere, amassing 14 million views in its first five days. She lives in Oklahoma with her two children.

If all the world’s a stage, then are all the men and women really merely players? For Sakuya, it all started out as an innocent game: "Why don’t you pretend to be a girl and approach my brother?" Yuuki said. "That’s a great idea!" responded Sakuya who unbeknownst to him would begin to discover he and Yuuki’s brother shared not only many things in common but mutual feelings for each other. Known as Sakura to Yuuki's brother, Sakuya finds himself caught between a rock and a hard place as his feelings for Yuuki's brother continue to increase. Will Sakuya have the courage to confess his real identity and feelings to Yuuki’s brother and will Yuuki’s brother be able to accept Sakuya for who he really is? Find out in "You Haven’t Seen the Best of Me," a light-hearted rom-com sure to make you smile.

In this #1 New York Times bestselling novel of first love and second chances, former high school sweethearts confront the painful truths of their past to build a promising future—together. "Everyone wanted to believe that endless love was possible. She'd believed in it once, too, back when she was eighteen." In the spring of 1984, high school students Amanda Collier and Dawson Cole fell deeply, irrevocably in love. Though they were from opposite sides of the tracks, their love for one another seemed to defy the realities of life in their small town in North Carolina. But as the summer of their senior year came to a close, unforeseen events would tear the young couple apart, setting them on radically divergent paths. Now, twenty-five years later, Amanda and Dawson are summoned back home for the funeral of Tuck Hostetler, the mentor who once gave shelter to their high school romance. Neither has lived the life they imagined . . . and neither can forget the passionate first love that forever changed their lives. As Amanda and Dawson carry out the instructions Tuck left behind for them, they realize that everything they thought they knew—about Tuck, about themselves, and about the dreams they held dear—was not as it seemed. Forced to confront painful memories, the former lovers will discover undeniable truths about the choices they have made. And in the course of a single, searing weekend, they will ask of the living, and the dead: Can love truly rewrite the past?

In this delightfully witty, provocative book, literature professor and psychoanalyst Pierre Bayard argues that not having read a book need not be an impediment to having an interesting conversation about it. (In fact, he says, in certain situations reading the book is the worst thing you could do.) Using examples from such writers as Graham Greene, Oscar Wilde, Montaigne, and Umberto Eco, he describes the varieties of "non-reading"-from books that you've never heard of to books that you've read and forgotten-and offers advice on how to turn a sticky social situation into an occasion for creative brilliance. Practical, funny, and thought-provoking, How to Talk About Books You Haven't Read-which became a favorite of readers everywhere in the hardcover edition-is in the end a love letter to books, offering a whole new perspective on how we read and absorb them.

Based on a Navy SEAL's inspiring graduation speech, this #1 New York Times bestseller of powerful life lessons "should be read by every leader in America" (Wall Street Journal). If you want to change the world, start off by making your bed. On May 17, 2014, Admiral William H. McRaven addressed the graduating class of the University of Texas at Austin on their Commencement day. Taking inspiration from the university's slogan, "What starts here changes the world," he shared the ten principles he learned during Navy Seal training that helped him overcome challenges not only in his training and long Naval career, but also throughout his life; and he explained how anyone can use these basic lessons to change themselves-and the world-for the better. Admiral McRaven's original speech went viral with over 10 million views. Building on the core tenets laid out in his speech, McRaven now recounts tales from his own life and from those of people he encountered during his military service who dealt with hardship and made tough decisions with determination, compassion, honor, and courage. Told with great humility and optimism, this timeless book provides simple wisdom, practical advice, and words of encouragement that will inspire readers to achieve more, even in life's darkest moments. "Powerful." --USA Today "Full of captivating personal anecdotes from inside the national security vault." --Washington Post "Superb, smart, and succinct." --Forbes