Margaret Ralphs

The story of the life of Nelly Ternan and Charles Dickens is a remarkable work of biography and historical revisionism. It not only returns the neglected actress to her rightful place in history, but provides a compelling and truthful portrait of the great Victorian novelist.

Richmal Crompton's William is known to generations of readers, but little is known of his creator. She remained so unobtrusive that many people, because of her unusual name, still think of her as a man. This biography provides a picture of this witty and talented writer.

A history of Venice's sea empire from its beginning in the late middle ages. Jan Morris brings her usual lucidity and perception to this remarkable empire, and brilliantly evokes the cities and states over which Venice held sway.