'Gripping, vivid, and very, very entertaining. I loved it.' Roddy Doyle 'A star of fantasy fiction'. Eoin Colfer Sligo 1832. The cholera epidemic sweeps across Ireland like a secret, bringing with it a family of four hundred year old Vampires. Unsuspecting orphan, Valentine, is unaware of the Vampires lurking in the shadows, until he finds himself flying through the star filled sky on his way to a Vampire's Lair. Matilda, Valentine's sister, returns home from the fever hospital to discover that her brother Valentine has vanished and she will stop at nothing to find him. Valentine embarks on the adventure of a lifetime; he is shipwrecked at the foot of an ancient lighthouse, battles with a Vampire Hunter, rescues a mermaid and works as an illusionist. Valentine takes up residence in Casino Marino, an exquisite temple in Dublin with hidden rooms and secret passageways. It is a race against the clock. Will Valentine ever see Matilda again? Can he overcome the Vampire's curse? And does he have what it takes to defeat Lorenzo, a wicked Vampire, who has travelled through time to find him? The Legend of Valentine Sorrow is inspired by Bram Stoker's mother Charlotte Thornley, and her incredible eyewitness account of the Cholera epidemic in Ireland. Many believe that Charlotte Thornley influenced Bram Stoker's novel Dracula.

The second of three volumes, which were originally published in one volume as: Legends.

Reprint of the original, first published in 1875.

THE BOOK OF PIRATES brings together an unprecedented collection of over 70 adventure classics, legendary tales, and true historical accounts of the notorious buccaneers that have fascinated readers for centuries. This anthology is a testament to the rich tapestry of literary styles and narratives that define the pirate genre, from swashbuckling adventures on the high seas to intricate studies of pirate lives and the societies they interacted with. The diversity within this collection showcases the evolution of pirate-themed literature, touching upon the works of esteemed authors as well as uncovering hidden gems that provide new perspectives on piracy. The standout pieces within this anthology are not attributed to single authors, emphasizing the collective importance of the works and their shared thematic focus on the allure and danger of pirate life. The contributing authors and editors of THE BOOK OF PIRATES are luminaries from the 19th and early 20th centuries, whose careers span a range of genres but who are united in this collection by their fascination with piracy. Authors such as Jules Verne, Charles Dickens, and Arthur Conan Doyle, among others, bring their unique voices to the theme, enriching the anthology with their distinct historical, cultural, and literary perspectives. This confluence of authors aligns with various literary movements of their times, from romanticism to realism, offering readers a comprehensive view of the evolution of pirate literature and its impact on popular culture. THE BOOK OF PIRATES is recommended for readers seeking to immerse themselves in the world of maritime adventure and the notorious figures who have navigated its waters, both real and fictional. This anthology offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore a multitude of perspectives, narratives, and literary styles, all centered around the captivating theme of piracy. Through its pages, readers are invited to embark on journeys across the seven seas, engage with the multifaceted representations of pirates, and appreciate the breadth of insight and dialogue fostered among the diverse authors' works. It stands as an essential collection for educators, students, and enthusiasts of literary history, providing a comprehensive tour through the lore and legend of pirates.

DigiCat Publishing presents to you this special edition of "The Story of Valentine and His Brother" by Mrs. Oliphant. DigiCat Publishing considers every written word to be a legacy of humankind. Every DigiCat book has been carefully reproduced for republishing in a new modern format. The books are available in print, as well as ebooks. DigiCat hopes you will treat this work with the acknowledgment and passion it deserves as a classic of world literature.