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1969: The House on the Strand, by Daphne du Maurier (first ed, book club edition)
The House on the Strand by Daphne du Maurier is a thrilling work of fiction that takes readers on a journey through time. The story follows Richard Young, a man who has been given the opportunity to test a new drug that transports him back to the 14th century. As he becomes more and more engrossed in the past, Richard begins to lose touch with the present and the people around him. He finds himself drawn to the lives of the people he encounters in the past and becomes embroiled in their dramas and conflicts. As the drug’s effects become more intense, Richard must struggle to maintain his grip on reality and find a way back to his own time.
This book is a masterful blend of historical fiction and science fiction, with du Maurier’s signature suspenseful style keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The House on the Strand explores themes of time, identity, and the human desire to escape reality.
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c. 1940s: Kidnapped, by Robert Louis Stevenson, Art-Type Edition
Kidnapped by Robert Louis Stevenson is a classic adventure novel set in Scotland during the 18th century. The story follows the young protagonist, David Balfour, as he is kidnapped and sold into slavery by his greedy uncle. He manages to escape and meets a rebel named Alan Breck Stewart, who becomes his ally and helps him reclaim his inheritance. Together, they embark on a dangerous journey across the Scottish Highlands, facing various obstacles and enemies along the way.
This vintage edition of Kidnapped, published in the 1940s, features a grey hardcover cloth with printing and lettering on the cover and spine. The book shows signs of wear and fading due to age, but is in good condition overall. It is signed by a previous owner on the inner front cover, dated Christmas 1943, and includes a faded stamp of St. Andrew’s Sunday School.
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1920: La Legende de Guillaume D’Orange, by P. Tuffrau, published by L’Edition D’Art
La Legende de Guillaume D’Orange is a classic work by P. Tuffrau, published by L’Edition D’Art in Paris in 1920. This 27th edition is a beautiful hardcover volume with marbled front and back panels, and a leather spine with gilt ornamentation and lettering. Although there is some wear on the cover due to its age, the book is tightly bound, clean, and in remarkably good shape. The deckled fore-edges and marbled inner cover pages add to the book’s charm.
This book is a legendary tale of Guillaume D’Orange, a knight who fought against the Saracens in the 8th century. The book is signed on the first empty page, with the signature dating back to 1928. This antique copy of the classic work is a true collector’s item and would make a wonderful gift for anyone interested in French literature and history.
$425.00 -
c. 1888: The Black Arrow, A Tale of Two Roses, by Robert Luis Stevenson
The Black Arrow is a historical fiction novel written by Robert Louis Stevenson and published in 1888. The story is set in the late 15th century during the Wars of the Roses, a period of political turmoil in England. The novel follows the adventures of a young man named Richard Shelton, who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy to overthrow the current ruler, King Edward IV. Along the way, he falls in love with a woman named Joanna Sedley and must navigate the treacherous political landscape to protect himself and his loved ones. The book is illustrated by J.K. Maxton and is considered a collectible antique due to its soft cover burgundy leather binding with gilt lettering and ornamentation on the spine, as well as its almost pristine condition.
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Grass Beyond the Mountains: Discovering the Last Great Cattle Frontier on the North American Continent, by Richmond Hobson
Grass Beyond the Mountains by Richmond Hobson is a non-fiction book that takes readers on a journey to discover the last great cattle frontier on the North American continent. The author, an adventurer and rancher himself, shares his experiences and insights into the challenges and rewards of cattle ranching in the remote and rugged regions of British Columbia and Alberta. Through vivid descriptions of the landscape, people, and animals, Hobson paints a picture of a world that is both beautiful and harsh, where nature and human determination collide.
The book offers a unique perspective on the history and culture of the Canadian West, as well as the challenges and opportunities of ranching in a changing world. It is a tribute to the pioneers who carved out a living in this challenging environment, and a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage.
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1909: The Foreigner, A Tale of Saskatchewan, by Ralph Connor
The Foreigner, A Tale of Saskatchewan by Ralph Connor, published in 1909 by The Westminster Company in Toronto. The book is set in Saskatchewan and follows the story of a foreigner who comes to settle in the area. The red hardcover cloth volume has some wear, rubbing, and fading due to use and the passage of time. The book contains an old note from D. A. Scott, General Merchant and Produce Dealer, made out to a Mrs. J. Foster by Gladys S. for the purchase of dog bread, brown sugar, and other items. The inside cover is inscribed in black ink “To Grandpa From [?] Hackett, Xmas 1959.”
The book is a classic Canadian novel that provides a glimpse into the early settlement of Saskatchewan. The novel explores themes of immigration, identity, and belonging. The book is a valuable piece of Canadian literature that captures the spirit of the time and provides insight into the experiences of early settlers in Canada.
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1969: Doctor Zhivago, by Boris Pasternak, International Collectors Library
Doctor Zhivago is a classic Russian novel by Boris Pasternak set during the tumultuous times of 1903 to 1943 in Russia. The novel follows the life of Dr. Zhivago as he tries to maintain his humanity and spiritual integrity in a society that is divided by class, family, love, and ultimately, man’s own inner struggles. Pasternak’s portrayal of the social and moral dilemma faced by the characters is both convincing and brilliant.
This edition of Doctor Zhivago is part of the Classical Russian Novels series of the International Collectors Library. The book is beautifully bound in wine red and stamped with handsome gilt foil, replicating the design found on a rare old volume in the library of Czar Alexander II. The binding was executed by the distinguished American artist Rafael Palacios and includes a matching ribbon marker. This collectible edition is new and unread, with only a minor bent on the top cover corner. The deckled fore-edges and original inlay from ICL with presentation of the work and its binding make this edition a must-have for any collector of classic literature.
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1969: Ivanhoe, by Sir Walter Scott, International Collectors Library
Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott is a historical novel that has become a classic in English literature. The book is set in the 12th century and tells the story of the eponymous hero, a Saxon knight who is caught up in the conflict between the Normans and the Saxons. Ivanhoe is in love with Lady Rowena, but she is betrothed to another man. Meanwhile, the evil Prince John is plotting to take the throne from his brother, King Richard the Lionheart. Ivanhoe must use his courage and wit to fight against Prince John and his allies, including the cruel Templar knight, Brian de Bois-Guilbert. Along the way, Ivanhoe meets a cast of memorable characters, including the wise Jewish moneylender, Isaac of York, and the beautiful and brave Rebecca, who becomes Ivanhoe’s ally and love interest.
This edition of Ivanhoe is a collectible item from the International Collectors Library, with a beautiful binding designed by French master bookbinder Emile Mercier and recreated by contemporary American designer Rafael Palacios. The book has deckled fore-edges and a matching ribbon marker. The replica edition closely follows the conception of Mercier’s design, with a slate blue cover and genuine gold filigree on the front and spine. This edition is new, unopened, and unread, making it a perfect addition to any collector’s library.
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1940 First Edition: Oliver Wiswell, by Kenneth Roberts
Oliver Wiswell is a historical novel written by Kenneth Roberts and published in 1940. The book tells the story of Oliver Wiswell, a young man from Massachusetts who joins the British army during the American Revolution. As the war progresses, Wiswell becomes disillusioned with the British cause and begins to sympathize with the American rebels. He eventually defects to the American side and becomes a spy for the Continental Army.
The novel is known for its detailed portrayal of the American Revolution from the perspective of a loyalist. Roberts, who was known for his meticulous research, used primary sources to create a historically accurate account of the war. The book was well-received upon its release and was praised for its vivid characters and realistic depiction of the era. Today, Oliver Wiswell is considered a classic of historical fiction and a valuable resource for anyone interested in the American Revolution.
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1982: Island of Love, by Yuri Nagibin
Island of Love by Yuri Nagibin is a Russian novel published by Progress Publishers in Moscow. The book is a romantic tale that takes place on a remote island in the Black Sea during World War II. The story follows a young soldier named Alyosha who is sent to the island to guard a military base. While there, he meets a beautiful young woman named Nadya and they fall in love. However, their relationship is complicated by the war and the fact that Nadya is engaged to another man. The novel explores themes of love, duty, and sacrifice as Alyosha and Nadya navigate their feelings for each other in the midst of a tumultuous time.
The book is beautifully written and filled with vivid descriptions of the island and its inhabitants. The characters are well-developed and the reader is drawn into their world, feeling their joys and sorrows as they struggle to make sense of their feelings and the world around them.
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1932: The Path of the King, by John Buchan
The Path of the King by John Buchan is a historical fiction novel set in the 6th century, following the story of a young man named Colgrim who rises to power and becomes a king. The novel explores themes of leadership, loyalty, and sacrifice as Colgrim navigates the treacherous political landscape of his time. Along the way, he encounters a cast of memorable characters, including a wise old monk and a fierce warrior princess.
This vintage edition of the book is a beautiful miniature hardcover volume, complete with gilt ornamentation and lettering on the cover and spine. Despite some wear and tear, it remains in good condition and would make a wonderful addition to any book collection.
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1975: A Farewell to Arms, by Ernest Hemingway, The John Player Special Collection
A Farewell to Arms, by Ernest Hemingway, is a classic novel set during World War I. The story follows an American ambulance driver named Frederic Henry, who falls in love with a British nurse named Catherine Barkley. As the war rages on, Frederic and Catherine struggle to maintain their relationship amidst the chaos and destruction around them. The novel explores themes of love, war, and the human condition, and is considered one of Hemingway’s greatest works.
The John Player Special Collection edition of A Farewell to Arms, published in 1975, features a black hardcover volume with silver lettering on the cover and spine. The book is in very good condition, with only slight wear on the dustjacket around the edges and corners. The pages have yellowed over time, but the volume is tightly bound and contains no writing or markings.
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1924: Hans Brinker or The Silver Skates, by Mary Mapes Dodge
Hans Brinker or The Silver Skates is a classic children’s novel by Mary Mapes Dodge, first published in 1865. The story is set in the Netherlands and follows the adventures of Hans Brinker, a young boy who dreams of winning a pair of silver skates in a local skating race. Along the way, Hans and his family face many challenges, including poverty, illness, and the loss of a loved one. Despite these obstacles, Hans remains determined to achieve his goal and help his family. The novel is a heartwarming tale of perseverance, family, and the power of hope.
This early edition of Hans Brinker features many drawings by Louis Rhead and is in a very good condition for its age. The cloth hardcover volume has a paper illustration on the cover, and while there is some wear and rubbing present on the cover, including the corners, there is no writing in the book. Some minor foxing, as well as fading/yellowing to pages due to age is present, as well occasional vintage fingerprints throughout the book. The thick, quality paper and top edges painted yellow add to the charm of this classic novel.
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Vintage Book Bundle Early Editions Zane Grey, G. A. Henty, Ralph Connor, Ames Thompson, Frank Gree Patchin
This vintage book bundle includes early editions of novels by popular authors such as Zane Grey, G. A. Henty, Ralph Connor, Ames Thompson, and Frank Gree Patchin. The books show signs of wear and tear consistent with their age, such as fading pages, cover and spine wear, and staining. Some of the books also contain beautiful ink inscriptions or are signed by previous owners, adding to their charm and history.
Despite their age and wear, these books are fully readable and make a beautiful vintage decorative set. The bundle includes titles such as The Pony Rider Boys In Texas, The Adventure Boys and the River of Emeralds, The Golden Canon, The Sky Pilot in No Man’s Land, Wanderer of the Wasteland, and The Mysterious Rider.
$75.00 -
Set of 2: Show Boat, and Cimarron, by Edna Ferber International Collectors Library
Show Boat, by Edna Ferber, is a classic novel that tells the story of the lives of performers on a Mississippi River show boat. The novel explores themes of love, race, and the changing times of the early 20th century. The story follows the lives of the performers, including Magnolia, the daughter of the boat’s owner, and her romance with a gambler named Gaylord Ravenal. The novel also delves into the lives of the African American performers on the boat, and the challenges they face in a society that is still grappling with issues of race and equality. Show Boat is a timeless tale that has been adapted into a successful Broadway musical and several films.
Cimarron, also by Edna Ferber, is a sweeping historical novel that tells the story of the settling of Oklahoma in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The novel follows the life of Yancey Cravat, a newspaper editor and lawyer who moves to Oklahoma with his wife, Sabra, to start a new life. The novel explores themes of ambition, love, and the clash of cultures as the settlers of Oklahoma try to build a new society. Cimarron is a powerful novel that offers a vivid portrait of a time and place in American history, and is considered one of Ferber’s greatest works.
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1883: The Virginians, by William Makepeace Thackeray, volume V of 12 volumes of The Works
The Virginians is a classic work of literature by William Makepeace Thackeray, published as the fifth volume in a collection of 12 volumes known as The Works. The novel follows the lives of two brothers, George and Henry Warrington, who are born and raised in Virginia during the 18th century. The story explores their experiences during the American Revolution, as well as their relationships with family members, friends, and romantic interests. Thackeray’s writing style is characterized by his use of satire and wit, as well as his commentary on social class and morality.
$135.00 -
1948: Raintree County, by Ross Lockridge, Jr
Raintree County by Ross Lockridge Jr. is a historical fiction novel set in the titular Raintree County, Indiana, during the mid-19th century. The story follows John Shawnessy, a young man who dreams of writing a great American novel, as he navigates his way through love, war, and the complexities of life in a rapidly changing America. The novel spans over 1000 pages and includes illustrations and maps to help readers visualize the setting and characters.
Raintree County is a sweeping epic that captures the spirit of America during a time of great change and upheaval. Through the eyes of its protagonist, Lockridge explores themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of the American dream, all set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing country.
$90.00 -
1948: The Golden Warrior, by Hope Muntz, Chatto and Windus, London
The Golden Warrior by Hope Muntz is a historical fiction novel set in post-World War II England. The story follows the lives of two families, the aristocratic Chalfonts and the working-class Smiths, as they navigate the changing social and political landscape of the time. Against the backdrop of the impending wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip, the characters grapple with issues of class, love, and loyalty. The novel offers a vivid portrayal of the era, with detailed descriptions of fashion, music, and societal norms.
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SIGNED: Andrew Connington, by Grace Irwin, 1995
This volume of Andrew Connington is a reprint of Grace Irwin’s 1953 novel, which tells the story of a young man named Andrew Connington who is struggling to find his place in the world. The novel is set in Toronto and explores themes of love, family, and self-discovery. The book is signed by the author and is in excellent condition, with only minor wear on the cover.
Andrew Connington is a compelling work of fiction that is sure to resonate with readers who are interested in coming-of-age stories and exploring the complexities of human relationships. Irwin’s writing is engaging and insightful, and her characters are well-developed and relatable.
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1925: The Great Pandolfo, by William J. Locke
The Great Pandolfo is a novel by William J. Locke that tells the story of Pandolfo, a talented musician who is forced to leave his home country of Italy and seek refuge in England due to a scandal. In England, Pandolfo struggles to make a living as a musician and ends up working as a waiter in a restaurant. However, his talent is eventually discovered by a wealthy woman named Lady Millingham, who becomes his patron and helps him achieve success as a musician. The novel explores themes of love, friendship, and the pursuit of artistic excellence.