Chess Story, also known as The Royal Game, is the Austrian master Stefan Zweig’s final achievement, completed in Brazilian exile and sent off to his American publisher only days before his suicide in 1942. It is the only story in which Zweig looks at Nazism, and he does so with characteristic emphasis on the psychological. Travelers by ship from New York to Buenos Aires find that on board with them is the world champion of chess, an arrogant and unfriendly man. They come together to try their skills against him and are soundly defeated. Then a mysterious passenger steps forward to advise them and their fortunes change. How he came to possess his extraordinary grasp of the game of chess and at what cost lie at the heart of Zweig’s story. This new translation of Chess Story brings out the work’s unusual mixture of high suspense and poignant reflection.

When it is discovered that the reigning world chess champion, Mirko Czentovic, is on board a cruiser heading for Buenos Aires, a fellow passenger challenges him to a game. Czentovic easily defeats him, but during the rematch a mysterious Austrian, Dr B., intervenes and, to the surprise of everyone, helps the underdog obtain a draw. When, the next day, Dr B. confides in a compatriot travelling on the same ship and decides to reveal the harrowing secret behind his formidable chess knowledge, a chilling tale of imprisonment and psychological torment unfolds.Stefan Zweig's last and most famous story, 'The Game of Chess' was written in exile in Brazil and explores its author's anxieties about the situation in Europe following the rise of the Nazi regime. The tale is presented here in a brand-new translation, along with three of the master storyteller's most acclaimed novellas: 'Twenty-four Hours in the Life of a Woman', 'The Invisible Collection' and 'Incident on Lake Geneva'.

Reproduction of the original: The Countess of Lowndes Square and Other Stories by E.F Benson

Prepare to be inspired by tales of valor, sacrifice, and heroism in "The Hero of Kargil & Other Stories" by Lt Gen Yashwant Mande, a riveting collection that pays homage to the brave men and women who have served their country with unwavering courage and dedication. Step into the shoes of extraordinary individuals as they face extraordinary challenges, from the harrowing heights of Kargil to the treacherous terrains of counter-insurgency operations. Through these gripping narratives, readers are transported to the front lines of conflict, where the true meaning of bravery is put to the test. Themes of resilience, patriotism, and the indomitable human spirit resonate throughout these captivating stories, offering readers a glimpse into the hearts and minds of those who have answered the call of duty in the face of adversity. From tales of battlefield heroics to acts of selfless sacrifice, each story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our armed forces. Delve into the rich tapestry of characters that populate these pages, from fearless soldiers to compassionate caregivers, each one a testament to the strength and courage that defines the human experience. Through their trials and tribulations, readers are reminded of the enduring power of hope and the importance of standing up for what is right. With its gripping prose and vivid imagery, "The Hero of Kargil & Other Stories" brings to life the harrowing realities of war and the profound impact it has on those who serve. From the chaos of the battlefield to the quiet moments of reflection, each story is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our brave men and women in uniform. Since its release, "The Hero of Kargil & Other Stories" has garnered widespread acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling and powerful message of courage and resilience. Its ability to honor the sacrifices of our armed forces while celebrating the human spirit makes it a must-read for readers of all ages. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a patriot, or simply someone who appreciates a well-told tale, "The Hero of Kargil & Other Stories" promises to captivate and inspire. So, join Lt Gen Yashwant Mande on a journey of courage, sacrifice, and honor, and discover the true meaning of heroism. Don't miss your chance to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served their country with honor and valor. Grab your copy of "The Hero of Kargil & Other Stories" today and join countless readers who have been moved by the courage and sacrifice of our armed forces.

This collection of Chekhov's finest early writing reveals a young writer mastering the art of the short story. 'The Steppe', which established his reputation, is the unforgettable tale of a boy's journey to a new school in Kiev, travelling through majestic landscapes towards an unknown destiny. 'Gusev' depicts an ocean voyage, where the sea takes on a terrifying, primeval power; 'The Kiss' portrays a shy soldier's failed romantic encounter; and in 'The Duel' two men's enmity ends in farce. Haunting and highly atmospheric, all the stories in this volume show a writer emerging from the shadow of his masters - Tolstoy, Turgenev and Gogol - and discovering his own voice. They also illustrate Chekhov's genius for evoking the natural world and exploring inner lives.

Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

This volume contains 33 short stories written by H. G. Wells. The stories were specially chosen by Wells as those that he most wanted to reflect his legacy in short story form. The collection includes the title story - his most well-known - and other masterpieces including the chilling revenge story "The Cone" and "The New Accelerator", a masterful example of his early comedic style. Contents include: "The Jilting Of Jane", "The Cone", "The Stolen Bacillus", "The Flowering Of The Strange Orchid", "The Avu Observatory", "Aepyornis Island", "The Remarkable Case Of Davidson's Eyes", "The Lord Of The Dynamos", "The Moth", "The Treasure In The Forest", "The Story Of The Late Mr. Elvesham", et cetera. Herbert George Wells (1866 - 1946) was a prolific English writer who wrote in a variety of genres, including the novel, politics, history, and social commentary. Today, he is perhaps best remembered for his contributions to the science fiction genre thanks to such novels as "The Time Machine" (1895), "The Invisible Man" (1897), and "The War of the Worlds" (1898). Many vintage books such as this are becoming increasingly scarce and expensive. We are republishing this book now in an affordable, modern, high-quality edition complete with a specially commissioned new biography of the author.

In 'The Strange Adventures of Mr Andrew Hawthorn' and the other stories in this collection, peculiar worlds of temptation, adventure or iniquity are perilously close at hand. Mr Hawthorn himself steps outside to allow his porridge to cool and disappears for five years and more, a Glasgow grocer is shipwrecked and ultimately worshipped as a god, a young mathematician discovers an entirely new aspect of reality and becomes terrified by what he finds there, and an ageing sinner clings grimly, weakly to a hard-won life of decency: John Buchan in each demonstrating his abilities as a gripping writer of short stories. In his introduction, Giles Foden explores Buchan's innate sense of the fascination held by sudden jeopardy and vanished comfort, and the themes of the will and fate in his work.

"In the country of the blind, the one-eyed man is king." Or is he? In H. G. Wells' acclaimed tale, a stranded mountaineer encounters an isolated society in which his apparent advantage, sight, since all the people are blind, proves less than valuable.