FICTION MINIMART

Dawn of War II: Chaos Rising (PC DVD)

2010-03-01T12:37:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II – Chaos Rising features a new playable army, the traitorous Chaos Space Marines, and continues the epic journey of the Blood Ravens as they battle this new, more personal enemy. Developed by award-winning internal studio Relic Entertainment, Chaos Rising offers new single-player and co-op campaigns, a level cap increase from 20 to 30, more powerful war-gear and a suite of innovative multiplayer options.

The Hurt Locker [Blu-ray] [2008]

2010-03-01T12:35:00.000+07:00

American VI: Ain't No Grave - Johnny Cash

2010-03-01T12:33:00.000+07:00

CD Description
American VI: Ain't No Grave, is the sixth and final installment of Johnny Cash's critically-acclaimed American Recordings album series, and as with the previous five albums, American VI was produced by Rick Rubin. The songs on are drawn from all over the musical landscape and from various eras, and include Sheryl Crow's moving "Redemption Day", Kris Kristofferson's "For The Good Times", "Can't Help But Wonder Where I'm Bound" by Tom Paxton, Bob Nolan's "Cool Water," and the never before heard Cash original, "I Corinthians: 15:55", written over the last three years of his life.

LEGO Creator 626 Green Baseplate

2010-03-01T12:30:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
This green baseplate measures 10" x 10" (25cm x 25cm), so it's a great place to start building castles, skyscrapers, or what ever your imagination can come up with.

Product Description
The perfect starting point for LEGO creations! This green base plate measures 10'' x 10'' (255mm x 255mm), so it's a great place to start building castles, skyscrapers, or what ever your imagination comes up with. 4 Years +

Alvin And The Chipmunks [DVD] [2007]

2010-02-26T06:43:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
A staggering surprise success at the box office just before Christmas 2007, the reason for the popularity of Alvin and the Chipmunks soon becomes clear. Not only is it a new adventure for a popular set of characters of old, it’s also a fun, breezy family movie, that the kids in particular will enjoy.

Starring Jason Lee (of My Name Is Earl fame), Alvin and the Chipmunks mixes in live action and CGI chipmunks (Alvin, Simon and Theodore) in a story that sees that moved from their natural habitat into the midst of the big city. The plot then becomes as predictable as you’d expect, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had anyway.

For Alvin and the Chipmunks has plenty in its corner. It’s funny, first and foremost, and moves along at a good pace, never forgetting that its prime job is to entertain its audience. And that’s something it easily manages to do, wrapping everything up by remembering not to outstay its welcome, either.

Considering that Alvin and the Chipmunks enjoy a legion of fans that stretch back decades, it’s perhaps not a surprise after all that the film enjoyed the success it did. But what’s pleasing is that the spirit of the source material, in spite of its contemporary setting, is adhered to, and there’s fun for all in the end product. --Jon Foster

Napoleon: Total War - Imperial Edition (PC DVD) - Sega

2010-02-26T06:40:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
Pit yourself against history's greatest military genius or play the role of the infamous general himself in the biggest Total War game yet. Re-imagine some of the most famous battles in world history as you set out to either defend or conquer all of Europe.
With all the features of the top-rated Empire: Total War this features stunningly realistic battles on land and sea, with even more detailed graphics than ever before. Plus, you have full strategic control of your country's military, industrial and diplomatic resources - any of which can be delegated to computer control whenever you want.

Not only is the new story-orientated single-player mode the most cinematic ever in a Total War game, but this is the first in the series to feature a full multiplayer mode. Now you can play a whole campaign against a friend, not just individual battles, and find out exactly who will become the master of Europe.
Key Features

* Napoleon's story: Lead you armies in two all-new story campaigns in Italy and Egypt. Will you ensure history repeats itself or achieve what even Napoleon himself could not?
* Imperial glory: Plunge into the massive "grand campaign" with all the features and freedom of a standard Total War game, including land and sea battles and new diplomacy options.
* Instant action: Jump straight into major battles such as Waterloo, Trafalgar and Austerlitz in standalone historical scenarios where every detail, from weather to terrain, makes a difference.
* Battle joined: For the first time ever in a Total War game you can play the whole campaign mode online against friends, or have opponents drop-in for one-off battles in single player mode.
* Uniform look: Uniform editor lets you customise your own troops for the first time, plus other new features including online voice chat and an improved physics engine.

About the Developer: The Creative Assembly
With a history dating back to 1987, this developer came into their own with Shogun: Total War in 2000. Based in Horsham, West Sussex the studio has also dabbled with action games such as Viking: Battle for Asgard and their first sci-fi strategy game Stormrise. They were bought by Sega in 2005.

Product Description
Napoleon: Total War Pre-order Elite unit--This exclusive elite unit is only available when you pre-order Napoleon: Total War, delivering a new and powerful strategic option to deploy in the name of your faction. Once the game is installed and verified by Steam, you can enter a unique code and unlock your elite unit, which will then appear in single player and multiplayer games. In order to play Napoleon: Total War and unlock your exclusive unit you must connect to the internet to verify your game and code once during installation. Pre-order unit--Grand Battery of the Convention: With twice as many guns as an ordinary artillery unit, the Grand Battery is an exceptionally strong unit. Its cannons have both a long range and tremendous killing power.

Percy Jackson and the Sea of Monsters (Paperback) - Rick Riordan

2010-02-26T06:36:00.000+07:00

Review
Praise for the Percy Jackson series: 'Witty and inspired. Gripping, touching and deliciously satirical...This is most likely to succeed Rowling. Puffin is on to a winner' - Amanda Craig, The Times 'Puns, jokes and subtle wit, alongside a gripping storyline' - Telegraph 'Perfectly paced, with electrifying moments chasing each other like heartbeats' – New York Times

Product Description
You can't tell by looking at me that my dad is Poseidon, God of the Sea. It's not easy being a half-blood these days. You mortals can't even see the monsters we have to fight all the time. So when a game of dodgeball turned into a death match against an ugly gang of cannibal giants, I couldn't exactly ask my gym teacher for help. And that was just for starters. This is the one where Camp Half Blood is under attack, and unless I get my hands on the Golden Fleece, the whole camp will be invaded by monsters. Big ones. Can Percy survive the treacherous Sea of Monsters and restore order to Half-Blood Hill?

Michael Jackson's This Is It (2 Disc Collector's Edition) [DVD] [2009]

2010-02-22T10:06:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
It's hard not to watch This Is It without feeling a mixture of sorrow and elation. When he passed away in the summer of 2009, Michael Jackson was in the midst of rehearsals for his final tour, an ambitious 50-date engagement. In editing 120 hours of rehearsal footage together, Jackson producer Kenny Ortega proves that it would've been an event for the ages. Michael performs material that spans his career, from a Motown medley to multi-platinum hits from Off the Wall, Thriller, and Bad. Though he hadn't toured in 10 years, it becomes instantly apparent, despite rumours to the contrary, that Jackson was still in full possession of that unmistakable voice--high-pitched whoops and all--and that he still had the gravity-defying moves of a man half his age. Jackson and Ortega also collaborated on some real showstoppers, such as a graveyard-set "Thriller"; an imposing "They Don't Care About Us," in which several dancers appear to morph into thousands; and a film noir sequence in which the singer slides in and out of Gilda and other black-and-white classics, singing "Smooth Criminal" all the while. Not everything works, like the Jackson 5 numbers, in which he flubs a few lyrics, claiming that his earpiece isn't working properly, but as he readily acknowledges, "That's what rehearsal is for." It's a tragedy that he didn't get the chance to share this dazzling show with the world, but Ortega allows fans to feel as if it actually happened--at least onscreen. --Kathleen C. Fennessy

Alvin And The Chipmunks 2: The Squeakquel

2010-02-22T10:04:00.000+07:00

CD Description
The official soundtrack to the movie Squeakquel, where pop sensations Alvin, Simon and Theodore end up in the care of Dave Seville's twenty-something nephew Toby (Zach Levi). The boys must put aside music superstardom to return to school, and are tasked with saving the school's music program by winning the $25,000 prize in a battle of the bands. But the Chipmunks unexpectedly meet their match in three singing chipmunks known as "The Chipettes" – Brittany, Eleanor and Jeanette. Romantic and musical sparks are ignited when the Chipmunks and Chipettes square off.

I'm New Here - Gil Scott-Heron

2010-02-22T10:02:00.000+07:00

CD Description
The legendary poet and singer songwriter Gil-Scott Heron has often been cited as the Godfather of Rap and Hip Hop due to his groundbreaking social poetry. 'I'm New Here' is produced by Richard Russell, the owner of British label XL, and who blisteringly delivers Heron a bleak musical backdrop to perform against. Ranging from minimalist electronics to dark gospel, the poet's words have never sounded so poignant. This is a sublime record that evokes sadness and hope in equal measure. Features covers of artists such as Smog (the title track 'I'm New Here') and Robert Johnson ('Me And The Devil').

Bakugan Battle Pack - Spin Master

2010-02-22T09:58:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Answer the call to brawl and decide the fate of the galaxy with the Bakagun Battle Pack! Action Figures pop open from the magnetic marbles when they land on the Special Bakugan Card! This great set is ideal for two to play or as a mega boost to your current set and comes with two special collectors cards not found in other packs! Set includes 6 Bakugans, 6 Metallic Cards and 6 Ability Cards!

LEGO Star Wars 8083 Rebel Trooper Battle Pack

2010-02-22T09:56:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Build up your Rebel forces and celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back!When the Empire attacks the hidden Rebel base on the ice planet Hoth, brave Rebel troopers and pilots fight back with their combat speeder with flick-firing missiles. Includes 3 Rebel troopers in cold-weather gear and Rebel pilot Zev Senesca.Includes Rebel combat speeder vehicle, Rebel pilot Zev Sensca and 3 Rebel troopers. Launch the 2 flick-firing missiles mounted on the ice-cutting combat speeder. Rebel troopers equipped with cold-weather gear including the NEW Hoth helmet. Measures over 4'' (10cm) long. 6 Years +

Hitman: Blood Money (PC) - MAD

2010-02-20T07:01:00.000+07:00

Game Information
* Platform: Windows XP
* BBFC Rating: Suitable for 18 years and over Suitable for 18 years and over. Not for sale to persons under age 18. By placing an order for this product, you declare that you are 18 years of age or over.
* Media: Video Game

Assassin's Creed - Ubisoft

2010-02-20T06:57:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Preview
It’s easy to see why there was so much fighting amongst the console manufacturers to try and make this game a format exclusive. Where early launch titles may have disappointed this game not only looks like a next generation game but it plays like it too. Taken at face value the story casts you as an Arabic fighter in 1191, out to assassinate the nine Western leaders of the Third Crusade. There is more to the story than that though making it more than simple historical adventure it first seems.

Since it’s developed by many of the same team behind Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, it’s no surprise to find the game using many of the same ideas. With the bold claim that you can climb on or over anything in the game world that sticks out more than two inches, this allows incredible freedom of movement, with a style of acrobatics heavily influenced by Parkour/free running. The game also innovates in terms of combat, with each of the face buttons controlling a different area of the body, rather like a marionette. As such one button controls the feet, one your open hand, one your weapon hand and the other your head.

As an assassin stealth plays an important role in the game too, but here it’s often a case of hiding in plain sight as you mill around inside large crowds of people. Everyone will react to you realistically though, so if you go around pushing people out of the way, or even killing them, the crowd will react and report you. With stunning graphics and genuinely innovative gameplay this is destined to be one of the most important releases of the year.
HARRISON DENT

Product Description
Assassin's Creed is set in 1191 AD, when the Third Crusade was tearing the Holy Land apart. Shrouded in secrecy and feared for their ruthlessness, the Assassins intend to stop the hostilities by suppressing both sides of the conflict.

Gone (Hardcover) - Mo Hayder

2010-02-20T06:54:00.000+07:00

Product Description
November in the West Country. Evening is closing in as murder detective Jack Caffery arrives to interview the victim of a car-jacking. He's dealt with routine car-thefts before, but this one is different. This car was taken by force. And on the back seat was a passenger. An eleven-year-old girl. Who is still missing. Before long the jacker starts to communicate with the police: 'It's started,' he tells them. 'And it ain't going to stop just sudden, is it?' And Caffery knows that he's going to do it again. Soon the jacker will choose another car with another child on the back seat. Caffery's a good and instinctive cop; the best in the business, some say. But this time he knows something's badly wrong. Because the jacker seems to be ahead of the police - every step of the way...

About the Author
Mo Hayder has written some of the most terrifying crime thrillers you will ever read. Her first novel, Birdman, was hailed as a 'first-class shocker' by the Guardian and her follow-up, The Treatment was voted by the Times one of 'the top ten most scary thrillers ever written' Mo's books are 100% authentic, drawing on her long research association with several UK police forces and on her personal encounters with criminals and prostitutes. She now lives in England's West Country and is a full-time writer.

Gone Tomorrow (Paperback) - Lee Child

2010-02-20T06:52:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
Lee Child has steadily accrued one of the keenest groups of admirers for any contemporary thriller writer – and the reason is easy to discern. In such gritty and authoritative novels as Tripwire, Killing Floor and Die Trying, Child established his tough itinerant protagonist Jack Reacher as a key modern hero, with a taciturn, hard-boiled appeal that has not palled over many books (though some have queried Jack’s transformation from a man who triumphed -- with difficulty – over insuperable odds – into a nigh-invulnerable super-hero). But the narrative grasp of the author remains absolutely iron-clad, and there are the stunningly drawn American locales that are so notably impressive from an English author.

In the latest outing for Jack Reacher, Gone Tomorrow, Child’s resourceful hero is travelling in New York City, observing his fellow passengers on the subway. He’s aware that suicide bombers are easy to spot – they’re usually nervous, and (as he wryly notes) by definition they're first-timers. As an ex-law enforcer, Jack notices that of his five fellow travellers, one is distinctly giving out the signals that spell danger. Grand Central Station is approaching – will Jack act and save lives – including his own? But… what if he's wrong?

This high voltage situation is the arresting curtain opener here, and the tension is screwed tighter, as Jack Reacher is pitched against the one of the most challenging threats he has come up against. Gone Tomorrow has all the dynamism of Child’s earlier work; spruced-up, super-charged and showing no sign of age. --Barry Forshaw --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

One Life Stand - Hot Chip

2010-02-19T06:34:00.002+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
Hot Chip's last couple of albums--2006's The Warning and 2008's Made In The Dark--brimmed with the quintet's quirky brand of Prince-like soul, down and dirty hip hop and infectious disco-funk, spawning singles like "Over and Over", "Ready For The Floor" and the wonderful "Boy From School". On One Life Stand, Alexis Taylor and co. have fought against some of their more excitable tendencies and produced an album that's a bit less wild at heart but ultimately more coherent and satisfying. As the exuberant "Thieves In The Night", plangent piano and potent drums of "Hand Me Down Your Love" and pounding title track show, Hot Chip's destination is still very much the dancefloor. There are a couple of slower, more somber tracks-–"Brothers", for example, and "Slush", a brave but successful 6/8 ballad-–but they soon get back to the party with "Alley Cats", the vibrant "We Have Love" and the euphoric finale "Take Me In". In many ways One Life Stand is the perfect electronic pop album. Its mix of colourful songwriting and intelligent lyrics combined with catchy hooks and a continued quest for a rump-shaking good time place Hot Chip at the very top of their game. --Danny McKenna

Up Superset (2 Blu-ray Discs + 1 DVD Disc + 1 Digital Copy Disc) [2009]

2010-02-19T06:32:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
At a time when too many animated films consist of anthropomorphized animals cracking sitcom one-liners and flatulence jokes, the warmth, originality, humor, and unflagging imagination of Up feel as welcome as rain in a desert. Carl Fredericksen (voice by Ed Asner) ranks among the most unlikely heroes in recent animation history. A 78-year-old curmudgeon, he enjoyed his modest life as a balloon seller because he shared it with his adventurous wife Ellie (Ellie Docter). But she died, leaving him with memories and the awareness that they never made their dream journey to Paradise Falls in South America. When well-meaning officials consign Carl to Shady Oaks Retirement Home, he rigs thousands of helium balloons to his house and floats to South America. The journey's scarcely begun when he discovers a stowaway: Russell (Jordan Nagai), a chubby, maladroit Wilderness Explorer Scout who's out to earn his Elderly Assistance Badge. In the tropical jungle, Carl and Russell find more than they bargained for: Charles Muntz (Christopher Plummer), a crazed explorer whose newsreels once inspired Carl and Ellie; Kevin, an exotic bird with a weakness for chocolate; and Dug (Bob Peterson), an endearingly dim golden retriever fitted with a voice box. More importantly, the travelers discover they need each other: Russell needs a (grand)father figure; Carl needs someone to enliven his life without Ellie. Together, they learn that sharing ice-cream cones and counting the passing cars can be more meaningful than feats of daring-do and distant horizons. Pete Docter (Monsters, Inc.) and Bob Peterson direct the film with consummate skill and taste, allowing the poignant moments to unfold without dialogue to Michael Giacchnio's vibrant score. Building on their work in The Incredibles and Ratatouille, the Pixar crew offers nuanced animation of the stylized characters. Even by Pixar's elevated standards, Up is an exceptional film that will appeal of audiences of all ages. Rated PG for some peril and action. --Charles Solomon

Grand Theft Auto : Episodes from Liberty City (PS3) - Take 2 Interactive

2010-02-19T06:30:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
The Lost and Damned is a dark trip through Liberty City’s seedy underbelly as outlaw biker, Johnny Klebitz, fights to keep his gang together as a rift in the gang’s leadership threatens to tear the brotherhood apart. In The Ballad of Gay Tony, players explore Liberty City’s high-end nightlife as Luis Lopez, struggling to balance the temptations of money and vice against loyalties to family and friends. Both episodes feature a slew of new vehicles and weapons, and each episode adds new activities including cage fighting, gang wars and BASE jumping.

New Moon: The Official Illustrated Movie Companion (Twilight) (Paperback) - Mark Cotta Vaz

2010-02-19T06:27:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Academy Award-nominated director Chris Weitz and his creative team have brought the second book in Stephenie Meyer's riveting vampire romance saga to the big screen. Inside this deluxe visual companion, get an intimate look at the creation of the film. With lavish, never-before-seen full-colour photographs, exclusive interviews with the cast and crew, and answers to questions about costume and set design, bestselling author Mark Cotta Vaz gives a special behind-the-scenes tour of the film millions have devoured. Inside you'll get a glimpse into the director's aesthetic inspiration, learn the secrets behind some of the film's most intense stunts, and learn just how a person can become a werewolf.

About the Author
Mark Cotta Vaz is the author of over twenty-one books, including four New York Times bestsellers. His recent works include Mythic Vision: The Making of Eragon, The Spirit: The Movie Visual Companion, and his biography, Living Dangerously: The Adventures of Merian C. Cooper, Creator of King Kong¸which was a Los Angeles Times bestseller.

Alone in Berlin (Penguin Modern Classics) (Paperback) - Hans Fallada

2010-02-19T06:24:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Berlin, 1940, and the city is filled with fear. At the house on 55 Jablonski Strasse, its various occupants try to live under Nazi rule in their different ways: the bullying Hitler loyalists the Persickes, the retired judge Fromm and the unassuming couple Otto and Anna Quangel. Then the Quangels receive the news that their beloved son has been killed fighting in France. Shocked out of their quiet existence, they begin a silent campaign of defiance, and a deadly game of cat and mouse develops between the Quangels and the ambitious Gestapo inspector Escherich. When petty criminals Kluge and Borkhausen also become involved, deception, betrayal and murder ensue, tightening the noose around the Quangels’ necks …

About the Author
Hans Fallada was one of the best-known German writers of the twentieth century. Born in 1893 in Greifswald as Rudolf Wilhelm Adolf Ditzen, he took his pen name from a Brothers Grimm fairy tale. His most famous works include the novels Little Man, What Now? and The Drinker. Fallada died from an overdose of morphine on 5 February 1947 in Berlin. Michael Hofmann is the author of several books of poems and a book of criticism, Behind the Lines, and the translator of many modern and contemporary authors. Penguin publish his translations of Kafka’s Metamorphosis and Other Stories and Irmgard Keun’s Child of All Nations.

Cutting for Stone (Paperback) - Abraham Verghese

2010-02-19T06:21:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Marion and Shiva Stone, born in a mission hospital in Ethiopia in the 1950s, are twin sons of an illicit union between an Indian nun and British doctor. Bound by birth but with widely different temperaments they grow up together, in a country on the brink of revolution, until a betrayal splits them apart. But fate has not finished with them - they will be brought together once more, in the sterile surroundings of a hospital theatre. From the 1940s to the present, from a convent in India to a cargo ship bound for the Yemen, from a tiny operating theatre in Ethiopia to a hospital in the Bronx, this is both a richly visceral epic and a riveting family story.

From the Inside Flap
Transporting the reader from the 1940s to the present, from a convent in India to a cargo ship bound for the Yemen, from a tiny operating theatre in Ethiopia to a hospital in the Bronx, Cutting for Stone is a thrilling epic of conjoined twins, doctors and patients, temptation and redemption, home and exile – and a riveting family story, irresistibly charged with strange happenings, humour and pathos, that grabs you from its harrowing opening and never lets go.

Marion and Shiva Stone, half-Indian and half-British, are twin sons of a secret union at ‘Missing’, a hospital run by nuns in Addis Ababa. Born in extraordinary circumstances, the brothers couldn’t be more different – Marion, introspective and eager to please, Shiva, a loner with fewer scruples and a photographic memory – but are bound together by a preternatural connection and a shared passion for medicine, and cricket. They come of age as Ethiopia hovers on the brink of revolution. The Italians have left behind in Addis cappuccino machines and Campari umbrellas. But they've also left a nation crippled by poverty, hunger, and authoritarian rule: Ethiopia in the 1960s and 1970s is both bolstered and trapped by its emperor, Haile Selassie. Yet it will be love, not politics – their passion for the same woman – that tears the twins apart and forces Marion to flee his homeland. He makes his way to America, finding refuge in his work as a surgical intern at an underfunded, overcrowded hospital.When the past catches up with him, in a stunning twist, Marion must trust his life to the two men he thought he trusted least in the world.

Cutting for Stone is both an unforgettable story of lives cut in half and a gripping evocation of the power, intimacy, danger and curious beauty of the art of medicine. A masterly debut novel, it is visceral in its power, heartbreaking in its tenderness.

About the Author
Born and brought up of Indian parents in Ethiopia, Abraham Verghese qualified as a doctor in Madras and is currently professor of medicine at Stanford University, California. He is the author of My Own Country, an NBCC finalist made into a film directed by Mira Nair, and The Tennis Partner, a New York Times Notable Book. His essays and stories have appeared in the New York Times, The New Yorker, Esquire, Granta, New York Times Magazine, and The Wall Street Journal. He lives in Palo Alto, California.

LEGO Creator 628 Xlarge Grey Baseplate

2010-02-18T11:41:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
This grey baseplate measures 15" x 15" (38cm x 38cm), so it's a great place to start building castles, skyscrapers, or what ever your imagination can come up with.

Glee: The Music, Volume 1 [Soundtrack] - Glee Cast

2010-02-18T11:37:00.000+07:00

CD Description
This US TV show has become both a total sensation since airing first airing in 2009. With a unique mix of twisted humour, a cast of diverse characters, a fantastic genre defying soundtrack and bursting with show-stopping musical numbers with a plot that defies any usual rules, “Glee” is a delight. The songs covered in the show are eclectic, with the cast performing songs by the likes of Amy Winehouse, Kanye West, Rhianna, Queen, Salt’n’Pepa, Heart and even tracks from "Cabaret" and "Wicked".

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy : Complete BBC Series [1979] [DVD]

2010-02-18T11:35:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy stars Alec Guinness as George Smiley, John Le Carré's familiar, ageing British Intelligence agent, called out of retirement to discover the identity of the high-ranking Russian mole who has burrowed deep into "The Circus"--codename for the British secret service. This slow-burning, complicated and ultimately rewarding BBC adaptation, dramatised by Arthur Hopcroft and directed by John Irvin, perfectly captures Le Carré's own insight into the shady underworld of spies and the political climate during the Cold War.

Le Carré's style is the antithesis of his contemporary Ian Fleming's--far from the glamorous lifestyle of Bond, with his fast cars and faster women, these agents ride around in Skodas, and Beryl Reid is the closest thing to a femme fatale, save for Smiley's elusive wife, Anne. An extraordinary cast (including Ian Bannen, Hywel Bennett and Ian Richardson), gritty realism and close attention to detail make Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy an outstanding piece of television drama. --Nicola Perry

Edge Of Darkness - The Complete Series [1985] [DVD]

2010-02-18T11:33:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
Edge of Darkness (1985) begins routinely enough. Emma Craven (Joanne Whalley in her first staring role, a year before The Singing Detective in 1986) is a young environmental activist killed in mysterious circumstances. Emma's father, Ron Craven, (Bob Peck in a star-making performance) will not be silenced and, as a police detective, is uniquely positioned to pursue his own unofficial investigation. He moves from grief to a determination to find the truth, all the while advised and/or comforted by Emma, but is she a ghost or a manifestation of his haunted psyche? Craven digs deeper, uncovering labyrinthine conspiracy in the nuclear industry and, as the body-count rises, encounters the garrulous CIA agent Darius Jedburgh (a superb Joe Don Baker) with a mysterious agenda of his own. Accompanied by a haunting musical score by Michael Kamen and Eric Clapton, Edge of Darkness builds on the legacy of Tinker Tailor, Soldier Spy and Smiley's People to become quite simply the best television thriller ever. Originally shown in six, 50-minute episodes, this tape presents the first half of the groundbreaking environmental-espionage shocker, tightening the ratchets of suspense to levels which would have turned Hitchcock himself green ... with envy. --Gary S. Dalkin

Battlefield: Bad Company 2 [PS3] - Electronic Arts

2010-02-18T11:29:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
Get ready for the most spectacular FPS multiplayer experience ever! Battlefield Bad Company 2 brings the spectacular Battlefield gameplay to the forefront of next-gen consoles and PC - featuring best-in-class vehicular combat set across 8 huge sandbox maps each with a different tactical focus. New vehicles like the All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) and the UH-60 transport helicopter allow for all-new multiplayer tactics in the warzone, extensive tuning ensures that this will be the most satisfying vehicle combat experience to date. Tactical destruction is taken to new heights with the updated DICE ‘Frostbite’ engine. Players can now take down entire buildings or create their own fire points by blasting holes through cover, thereby delivering a unique experience in every match

Players can also compete in 4-player teams in 2 exclusive squad-only game modes, fighting together to unlock exclusive team awards and achievements. Spawn on your squad to get straight into the action, and use gadgets such as the tracer dart in-conjunction with the RPG to devastating effect. Excellence in the battlefield is rewarded with an extensive range of pins, insignias and stars to unlock along with 50 dedicated ranks to achieve. Variety also extends into the range of customisable kits weapons and vehicles available. With 4 distinct character classes, 46 weapons, 15 gadgets, 13 character specializations and over 15000 kit variations to discover and master players will be able to fine-tune their preferred fighting style to give them the edge in combat.

All of these features combine to deliver spectacular and unpredictable action moments found nowhere else in the genre. Battlefield Bad Company 2 is all-out multiplayer warfare at its absolute finest!

The modern battlefield is evolving and once again "B" Company are caught on the front line. Already one of the most popular online shooters ever, this latest game adds greater variety and greater destruction than ever seen before.
For the first time you will be able to raze buildings to the ground, with almost every object on the map being completely destructible. It's not just the scenery that takes damage more realistically though, as this is the first Battlefield game since Vietnam to feature blood wounds.

Despite all the new vehicles, weapons and specialist equipment though the game is more accessible than ever with preset equipment kits that let you choose a basic style of play (assault, engineer, recon or medic) and immediately get started. With an improved single player and story mode too this is ready to take its place as one of the definitive online shooters of modern times.

Dark Tower: The Fall Of Gilead Premiere HC (Dark Tower (Marvel)) (Hardcover) - Robin Furth

2010-02-18T11:24:00.000+07:00

Product Description
A horrified Steven Deschain learns that the deadly seeing sphere called Maerlyn's Grapefruit has been stolen from his chambers! Far worse, when he enters his wife's room to arrest her for the theft, his son Roland is standing over her body with a gun in his hand. The youngest gunslinger has perhaps committed the most hideous crime of all! Continuing the epic saga based on the best-selling Dark Tower novels by the master Stephen King. Collects Dark Tower: The Fall of Gilead #1-6, and Sorcerer.

Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief (Paperback) - Rick Riordan

2010-02-18T11:22:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Look, I didn't want to be a half-blood. I never asked to be the son of a Greek God. I was just a normal kid, going to school, playing basketball, skateboarding. The usual. Until I accidentally vaporized my maths teacher. That's when things started really going wrong. Now I spend my time fighting with swords, battling monsters with my friends, and generally trying to stay alive. This is the one where Zeus, God of the Sky, thinks I've stolen his lightning bolt - and making Zeus angry is a very bad idea. Can Percy find the lightning bolt before a fully-fledged war of the Gods erupts?

About the Author
Rick Riordan is an award-winning mystery writer. For the past fifteen years he has taught at middle schools in the San Francisco Bay area and in Texas. Rick lives in San Antonio, Texas, with his wife and two sons.

The Pregnant Widow (Hardcover) - Martin Amis

2010-02-18T11:20:00.000+07:00

Product Description
It was summer 1970 - a long, hot summer. In a castle in Italy, half a dozen young lives are afloat on the sea of change, trapped inside the history of the sexual revolution. The girls are acting like boys, and the boys are going on acting like boys, and Keith Nearing - twenty years old, a literature student all clogged up with the English novel - is struggling to twist feminism and the rise of women towards his own ends. The sexual revolution may have been a velvet revolution (in at least two senses), but it wasn't bloodless - and now, in the twenty-first century, the year 1970 finally catches up with Keith Nearing. "The Pregnant Widow" is a comedy of manners and a nightmare, brilliant, haunting and gloriously risque. It is the most eagerly anticipated novel of the year and Martin Amis at his fearless best.

About the Author
Martin Amis is the author of ten novels, the memoir Experience, two collections of stories and six collections of non-fiction, most recently The Second Plane. He lives in London.

Sweet Little Lies: An LA Candy Novel (Hardcover) - Lauren Conrad

2010-02-18T11:18:00.000+07:00

Product Description
In TV star Lauren Conrad's deliciously entertaining novel about young Hollywood, the lies are only as sweet as the people telling them. Jane Roberts was the average girl next door until she and her best friend Scarlett Harp landed their own reality show, L.A. Candy. Suddenly they found themselves thrown into the public eye with VIP tickets to everything. But the starlets quickly discover that fame goes hand in hand with scandal when Jane finds herself the centre of attention for all the wrong reasons. Even her relationship with Scarlett is threatened. Things go from bad to worse when Scarlett falls for a guy who is strictly off limits! In reality TV nothing stays secret for long and with all this drama L.A Candy's ratings rocket. The show is a bona fide hit - but can the girls stand another season in the spotlight?

About the Author
Lauren Conrad is best known for starring in MTV's #1 show, The Hills. She has been featured on the covers of Cosmopolitan, Rolling Stone, Seventeen and Entertainment Weekly, among others. Her first novel, L.A Candy was a huge bestseller. She lives in Los Angeles.

The Sea [Digipak] [CD] - Corinne Bailey Rae

2010-02-16T11:15:00.000+07:00

CD Description
Returning after a two year hiatus, English singer-songwriter Corrine Bailey Rae's second album, 'The Sea', is definitely a progression from her debut. The album is intensely emotional, and often deals with the death of Rae's husband, who died in early 2008. 'The Sea' mixes jazz and rock influences in equal measure, being compared to the work of artists as varied as Marvin Gaye and Joni Mitchell, and includes the single 'I'd Do It All Again'.

The Hurt Locker [DVD] [2008]

2010-02-16T11:13:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
Rightly attracting major awards attention, The Hurt Locker is a supreme, tense and gripping piece of drama. And it grabs your attention from the stunning opening scene, which perfectly gets across the dangers faced by the specialist bomb disposal squad that we spend the rest of the film following.

Chief among them is Jeremy Renner’s Sergeant William James, who is the focal point for much of The Hurt Locker. The film spends some time digging into his head and why he does what he does, and his approach doesn’t always leave him eye-to-eye with the rest of his squad. Renner, in surely a star-making performance, delivers a rounded, three-dimensional portrayal of a man you could easily write off as a maverick, and the film is significantly enriched as a result.

But then with director Kathryn Bigelow behind the camera delivering her best film to date, The Hurt Locker excels still further. Her gritty, haunting visuals look superb in high definition too, evoking the down-to-earth shooting style Bigelow employs, and making the most of the assorted set-pieces she puts on film. It’s the sound that really gets you too, cleverly eating up the full breadth of a good surround-sound set-up, and carefully teasing you more and more into the film.

Not that you’re likely to need much persuading. The Hurt Locker is a terrific war movie, and a very human one. It’s also packaged on a quality Blu-ray that matches up strong presentation with interesting extra feature. It comes very highly recommended. --Jon Foster
Synopsis
Based on the personal wartime experiences of journalist Mark Boal (who adapted his experiences with a bomb squad into a fact-based, yet fictional story), director Kathryn Bigelow's Iraq War-set action thriller THE HURT LOCKER presents the conflict in the Middle East from the perspective of those who witnessed the fighting firsthand -- the soldiers. As an elite Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal team tactfully navigates the streets of present-day Iraq, they face the constant threat of death from incoming bombs and sharp-shooting snipers. In Baghdad, roadside bombs are a common danger. The Army is working to make the city a safer place for Americans and Iraqis, so when it comes to dismantling IEDs (improvised explosive devices) the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) crew is always on their game. But protecting the public isn't easy when there's no margin of error, and every second spend dismantling a bomb is another second spent flirting with death. Now, as three fearless bomb technicians take on the most dangerous job in Baghdad, it's only a matter of time before one of them gets sent to 'the hurt locker'. Jeremy Renner, Guy Pearce, and Ralph Finnes star.

God of War 3 (PS3) - Sony

2010-02-16T11:09:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
Developed exclusively for the PLAYSTATION 3 system, God of War III is the final instalment of the multi-million unit-selling trilogy. Developed by Sony Computer Entertainment's Santa Monica Studios, God of War III will bring epic battles to life with stunning graphics and an elaborate plot that puts Kratos at the centre of carnage and destruction as he seeks revenge against the Gods who have betrayed him.

Set in the realm of brutal Greek mythology, God of War III is a single-player game that allows players to take on the climatic role of the ex-Spartan warrior, Kratos, as he scales through the intimidating heights of Mt. Olympus and the dark depths of Hell to seek revenge on those who have betrayed him. Armed with double-chained blades, and an array of new weapons and magic for this iteration of the trilogy, Kratos must take on mythology's darkest creatures while solving intricate puzzles throughout his merciless quest to destroy Olympus.

With texture resolutions quadrupling since God of War II on PlayStation 2, God of War III, in its debut on the PS3 system, will feature fluid, life-like characters, as well as dynamic lighting effects, a robust weapon system, and world-changing scenarios that will truly bring unmistakable realism to Kratos' fateful quest. Players will have a chance to join battles on a grand scale that is four times larger than its predecessor.

God of War III is a single player action game, exclusive to the PlayStation 3, and the final installment of the God of War trilogy. Containing signature and addictive God of War gameplay — a combination of over-the-top action combat, exploration and puzzle-solving — along with an engrossing mythologically inspired storyline and a selection of new weapons and a new weapons system, it is a fitting conclusion to the much praised God of War franchise.

Story and Gameplay
God of War III allows players on the PlayStation 3 to take on the climatic role of the ex-Spartan warrior, Kratos, as he treads through the intimidating heights of Mt. Olympus and the dark depths of Hades once more to seek revenge on those who have betrayed him. Armed with double-chained blades, as well a selection of new weapons, Kratos must take on mythology's darkest creatures while solving intricate puzzles throughout his merciless quest to destroy Olympus and the mighty Zeus himself.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (Paperback) - Mary Ann Shaffer

2010-02-16T11:06:00.000+07:00

Product Description
It's 1946 and author Juliet Ashton can't think what to write next. Out of the blue, she receives a letter from Dawsey Adams of Guernsey - by chance, he's acquired a book that once belonged to her - and, spurred on by their mutual love of reading, they begin a correspondence. When Dawsey reveals that he is a member of the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, her curiosity is piqued and it's not long before she begins to hear from other members. As letters fly back and forth with stories of life in Guernsey under the German Occupation, Juliet soon realizes that the society is every bit as extraordinary as its name.
About the Author
MARY ANN SHAFFER was born in 1934 in Martinsburg, West Virginia. She worked as an editor, a librarian and in bookshops. She became interested in Guernsey while visiting London in 1976. On a whim, she decided to fly to Guernsey but became stranded there as a heavy fog descended and no boats or planes were permitted to leave the island. As she waited for the fog to clear, she came across a book called Jersey Under the Jack-Boot, and so her fascination with the Channel Isles began. Many years later, when goaded by her own literary club to write a book, Mary Ann naturally thought of Guernsey. Mary Ann died in February 2008. She knew that this, her only novel, was to be published in thirteen countries. Before she died she wrote, 'I must tender special thanks to my niece, Annie, who stepped in to finish this book after unexpected health issues interrupted my ability to work shortly after the manuscript was sold. Without blinking an eye, she put down the book she was writing, pushed up her sleeves, and set to work on my manuscript. It was my great good luck to have a writer like her in the family, and this book could not have been done without her.' ANNIE BARROWS is the author of the Ivy and Bean series for children, as well as The Magic Half.

LEGO Star Wars 8084 Snowtrooper Battle Pack

2010-02-15T06:41:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Build up your Imperial forces and celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back! When the Rebels' secret base is discovered on Hoth, the Empire attacks with a force of cold-weather Snowtroopers. Includes battle station with flick-firing missiles, Imperial Speeder Bike, 2 Snowtroopers, AT-AT Driver and Imperial Officer. Includes battle station, Imperial Speeder Bike, 2 Snowtroopers, AT-AT Driver and Imperial Officer! Battle station armed with rotating flick missile firing gun! Speeder bike measures over 5'' (12cm) long! Battle Station measures over 3'' (10cm) long! 6 Years +

Heligoland - Massive Attack

2010-02-15T06:39:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
It's been seven years since we heard anything from Bristol trip-hop afficionados Massive Attack. Their last outing was (for many) the underwhelming 100th Window, an album created mainly by Robert del Naja (aka 3D), as his partner-in-rhyme Daddy G was on hiatus being, well, a daddy. From the potent, claustrophobic opening track "Pray For Rain"--all tribal drums, bleak atmospheres and the contrastive rich vocals of TV On The Radio's Tumbe Adebimpe--it's clear that Heligoland is a bid for former glories. As the record unfurls through the angular, choppy post-punk of "Babel" (with Martina Topley-Bird), the lurching "Splitting The Atom" (featuring the familiar falsetto of regular Massive Attack vocalist Horace Andy) and the pounding, bass-heavy "Girl I Love You", the feeling grows that this is their strongest work since 1998’s Mezzanine. Unlike that album, the band make regular diversions here into dissonance, especially on "Flat Of The Blade", a wonky parade of bleeps and glitches matched to vocals from Elbow's Guy Garvey. But there are lighter moments too, such as the relatively weightless "Psyche" (again with Topley-Bird), the sparse "Paradise Circus" (featuring the feathery voice of Hope Sandoval) and the plaintive "Saturday Come Slow", with vocals by Damon Albarn. It might not be a Blue Lines II, but Heligoland’s thick production, superb guest performances and dense, stoned atmospheres make it exactly the stellar return to form they obviously aimed for. --Danny McKenna
CD Description
Massive Attack are a seminal group of musical innovators whose early work detonated the Bristol music scene of the early 90's and unwittingly gave birth to "trip-hop". The group formed in 1987 around their influential and legendary Dug Out club and Jamaican-style soundsystem, playing a blend of hip hop, new wave reggae, early house and techno which shaped their acclaimed 1991 debut, Blue Lines. Mezzanine, their third album released in 1998 proved to be a creative and commercial peak selling in excess of three million albums.

Four years after the release of their best of album Collected and seven years since their last studio album 100th Window, Massive Attack return with their fifth studio album. Heligoland features original band members Daddy G and 3D, long time cohort Horace Andy and guest vocals from Damon Albarn, Hope Sandoval, Martina Topley-Bird, Guy Garvey and Tunde Adebimpe.

The Ugly Truth [DVD] [2009]

2010-02-15T06:36:00.002+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
Katherine Heigl further cements her reputation as one of film's most dazzling, and go-to, romantic comedy heroines. In The Ugly Truth she brings her deft comic timing and true vulnerability to a film that avoids clichés, successfully, all the way until the surprising, quiet end. Heigl's partner in crime--and at first, in pure hatred--is the rakishly charming Gerard Butler. Heigl plays Abby, a career-bound TV producer, and Butler is Mike, an outrageous dude's dude whose public access show about what men want (one thing only) makes him so popular that he's hired to work alongside Abby, who naturally chafes at everything Mike stands for. Yet The Ugly Truth could not be more unpredictable, and men as well as women will like the refreshing story line and the crisp direction by Robert Luketic (Legally Blonde, Monster-in-Law). Both lead actors put their all into their performances, and the nuance and depth makes The Ugly Truth not just a great date-night film, but a testament on the primal human urge simply to connect. The Ugly Truth is more than a little raunchy, and it deserves its 15 rating, but there's hilarity in its crudeness. The supporting cast includes the delightful Cheryl Hines and John Michael Higgins as a tensely married couple forced to appear together on TV. And Eric Winter (Brothers & Sisters) is dreamy as Abby's potential love-match--as long as she doesn't have to be herself. The DVD includes mostly forgettable deleted and extended scenes, but also a gag reel that shows that the cast had every bit as much fun creating the film as the viewer has watching it. The Ugly Truth has never shined so brightly. --A.T. Hurley

Aliens Vs Predator - Sega

2010-02-15T06:35:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Developed at Rebellion by the team responsible for the original 1999 classic, in the all-new Aliens vs. Predator players have the chance to take the role of the three infamous species; the Colonial Marine, the Predator and the Alien.

Each of the three species has its very own distinct story-driven single-player campaign mode that interweaves with the campaigns of the other two species. Aliens vs. Predator will also feature unique 3-way online multiplayer, allowing gamers to pit the three species against each other in the ultimate battle for survival and for the right to be crowned the deadliest species.

On planet BG-386 a colonist mining group discovers an ancient pyramid containing a dark and horrible secret. Across the stars a race of warriors is alerted to the discovery of their pyramid and a hunting party is dispatched to ensure that it remains sealed at all costs, whilst deep inside the ruined pyramid a malevolent intelligence awakes from centuries of dormancy.

The Marine’s story is an incredible fight against the odds, and the horrors lurking in the dark. Beset on all sides yet armed to the teeth, the Colonial Marine represents humanity’s last stand with the firepower to fight back.

As the Alien, players will discover what it’s like to be the most murderous and lethal creature in the universe, with the ability to traverse any surface with awesome agility in order to get close enough to unleash its deadly teeth and claws.

A master of the hunt, the Predator grants the player a suite of exotic weaponry and equipment with which to stalk its unknowing prey. Earn the greatest honour by ambushing prey up-close and butchering them for a gory trophy kill.

In the all-new Aliens vs. Predator players will have the chance to take the role of the three infamous species; the Colonial Marine, the Predator and the Alien. Each of the three species has its very own distinct story-driven single-player campaign mode.

The Boys Volume 5: Herogasm (Paperback) - Garth Ennis

2010-02-15T06:32:00.000+07:00

Product Description
An evil so profound it threatens all mankind! The mightiest heroes on the planet uniting to defend us all! A secret crisis of such utter finality that a countdown to civil or infinite war seems unavoidable! The Seven, Payback, Teenage Kix, Fantastico, and every other super on Earth team-up for an annual event like no other. Where they go, can a certain "five complications and a dog" be far behind?
About the Author
Garth Ennis is the award-winning writer of Preacher, Hellblazer, Hitman and Judge Dredd. Much in demand for his hard-edged, wickedly humorous style, he is now writing a new Authority: Kev series for DC/WildStorm, as well as Marvel's Punisher. Darick Robertson is the critically acclaimed artist and co-creator of Transmetropolitan.

One Day (Paperback) - David Nicholls

2010-02-15T06:29:00.000+07:00

'It's rare to find a novel which ranges over the recent past with such authority, and even rarer to find one in which the two leading characters are drawn with such solidity, such painful fidelity, to real life that you really do put the book down with the hallucinatory feeling that they've become as well known to you as your closest friends. Hard to imagine anyone encountering characters as well drawn as this and not recognizing the extraordinary talent of the writer who has created them.' (Jonathan Coe Guardian Books of the Year 20090621)

Monogamy - Creative Conceptions

2010-02-14T12:50:00.000+07:00

Monogamy – A Hot Affair…With Your Partner!
Recently awarded adult board game of the year ‘Monogamy’ offers the promise of "A Hot Affair ... With Your Partner". ‘Monogamy’ will provide many a great evening at home with the one you love. Explore new experiences together, have fun and take each other on a sexual adventure.

This hot relationship game is a fun way to improve communication between couples and allow them to try new and exciting intimate actions. After the first few years of romance, couples tend to find that naughty lingerie and nights exploring each other's erogenous zones can be forgotten and replaced by arguments over whose turn it is to put the bin out or buy the frozen peas. Neither of you need to be the instigator as ‘Monogamy’ will guide you through bringing back the art of seduction, laughter and lust. It really does lead to the exciting feeling that you are having an affair... but with your own partner! The game is very adaptable as it can be played on a number of different levels, depending on how you both feel. If you just feel like a romantic and fun night, you can play with the first two levels; if you are both feeling horny, just shuffle the fantasy cards and go for it! With over 400 ideas at three progressive levels and fifty fantasies, the game can be enjoyed over and over again!

Monogamy gives many, a great evening at home with the one you love! Explore new experiences together, have fun and take each other on a sexual adventure. Described by players as "addictive" and a beautiful well thought out game.Turn the lights down low. take the phone off the hook and get ready for some truly passionate encounters. play Monogamy and your relationship will never be the same again.It all begins with a loving gaze into each other's eyes. the last to blink throws the dice to start the game. As you progress around the board the questions become more intimate and the challenges more steamy, opening up sexy, wild and sometimes deep conversations.The perfect beginning to an affair&.with your partner! Whatever level you play Monogamy, you'll be laughing one minute and lusting after each other the next. The game climaxes with the winner choosing to make real one of 50 breathtaking fantasies but then, there are no losers in Monogamy.

Soldier of Love - Sade

2010-02-14T12:47:00.000+07:00

Soldier Of Love is Sade’s first official studio album since the multi-platinum release of Lovers Rock in 2000.

# Audio CD (8 Feb 2010)
# Number of Discs: 1
# Label: Sony Music
# ASIN: B002YIGI52

Track Listings
1. The Moon and the Sky
2. Soldier of Love
3. Morning Bird
4. Babyfather
5. Long Hard Road
6. Be That Easy
7. Bring Me Home
8. In Another Time
9. Skin
10. The Safest Place

Up (1 Disc) [DVD] [2009]

2010-02-14T12:44:00.000+07:00

Monster Hunter Tri (Wii) - Capcom

2010-02-14T12:42:00.000+07:00

Monster Hunter Tri allows Western Wii owners to join the hunt for the first time, as one of Capcom’s leading franchises makes its debut on the system.

Monster Hunter Tri depicts a living, breathing ecosystem where man co-exists with the fantastic beasts that roam both the dry land and the brand new sub-aqua environment - a first for the series.

With an expansive story mode, Monster Hunter Tri sees players taking on the role of a hunter, who is tasked by the Village Chief to investigate the constant earthquakes that threaten the everyday life of Moga village. Players will hunt monsters that range from small annoyances to towering terrors in a bid to restore peace and tranquility.

A bustling and vibrant town, Moga is home to the hunter and includes a Blacksmith for forging weapons and armor, a shop where items can be purchased and an expanded farm with cat-like Felynes acting as laborers and tending the crops.

The incentive to complete quests is now no longer limited to the collection of items and money with which the hunter can create or upgrade armor and weapons. Successful hunts have a real and visible impact on the status of Moga Village as on returning home quest items are used to repair damage caused by the earthquakes resulting in happier and more active villagers.

Living the life of a hunter need never be a solitary experience with the option of split-screen mode where two players can hunt co-operatively on select quests or form a team of up to four hunters via the game’s custom online Wi-Fi mode. Even solo players do not have to face Monster Hunter Tri’s challenging quests alone as they will be accompanied by Cha-Cha, an AI computer driven hunting partner whose skills will prove invaluable.

Complementing the new creatures and quests that Monster Hunter Tri introduces to the series, hunters will also have the benefit of new weapons, armor sets and items. These include an all new weapon class, the Switch Axe and a Torch that not only illuminates the darkest caves but will fend off certain creatures to assist them as they embark on the most epic Monster Hunter adventure to date.

Believe - Katherine Jenkins

2010-02-14T12:40:00.000+07:00

'Believe' is the seventh album by Welsh cross-over opera superstar Katherine Jenkins. Renowned for her heavenly and original interpretations of opera and pop standards, this effort is produced by David Foster (Josh Groban, Michael Buble) and sees the songstress take a more mature and bold approach for this release. Covering more contemporary tracks such as Evanescence's 'Bring Me To Life' and Sarah Maclachlan's 'Angel', shows off Jenkins' versatility and talent as an artist.Includes the title track featuring Andrea Bocelli.

The Intimate Adventures Of A London Call Girl (Paperback) - Belle de Jour

2010-02-14T12:38:00.000+07:00

Review
'this is a no-holds-barred account of the high-class sex trade, and an insight into the secret life of an extraordinary woman.' SUNDAY TELEGRAPH (11.9.05) 'Belle is wickedly witty and you'll pick up a kinky trick or three on the way.' COSMOPOLITAN (October) **** 'Belle's tamer anecdotes would make Graham Norton choke. But it does possess a raw emotional intimacy, which is surprising given that it started off as an internet blog...it is Belle's portrayal of city-life alienation that is so candid.' -- Isobel Shirlaw TELEGRAPH (24.9.05) 'Insight into life as a high-class hooker. Shocking but funny.' HEAT (1-7 October) **** 'A good diarist draws you in through intrigue or through empathy. Belle does both...Everyday middle-class London is caught with its trousers down.' GOOD BOOK GUIDE (1.1.06)

The Return: Nightfall (The Vampire Diaries) (Paperback) - L J Smith

2010-02-14T12:36:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Elena Gilbert is alive - again.
When Elena sacrificed herself to save the two vampire brothers who love her she was consigned to a fate beyond death. Until a powerful supernatural force pulled her back.
Now Elena is not just human. She has powers. What's more, her blood pulses with a unique force that makes her irresistible to any vampire.
Both brothers still want Elena to be theirs, but something bigger and more powerful than all of them may want her more...
About the Author

L J Smith is the globally best-selling author of more than 20 books for young adults, including the cult phenomenon the Night World sequence. Since childhood she has been fascinated by the night and the way the ordinary world changes when darkness falls. She lives in Northern California in a rambling house in a small town.

Bananagrams

2010-02-13T07:59:00.000+07:00

Product Features

* Bananagrams is a word game without the need for a board, pencil or paper
* Perfect gift for crossword and word game lovers
* The Bananagram pouch measures approx 6 cm x 21 cm x 6 cm and has a zip
* The plastic tiles measure approx 2 cm x 2 cm each
* One hand can be played in as little as five minutes

Toy Safety
Manufacturer's minimum age: 5 years

Bananagrams is a fast and fun word game that requires no pencil, paper or board. All you need is a table. One hand can be played in as little as five minutes. It is great for family fun as well as being educational. Bananagrams' portability makes it perfect for travel. Just grab the pouch and go.

Charity Single For The Haiti Earthquake Appeal "Everybody Hurts" [Single] [Maxi]

2010-02-13T07:55:00.000+07:00

Some of the biggest names in UK and American music have joined forces to record an emotive cover of the REM classic “Everybody Hurts”, to raise money for charities supporting the relief efforts in Haiti. The line up of featured artists is; Mariah Carey, Jon Bon Jovi, Robbie Williams, Kylie, Rod Stewart, Leona Lewis, Alexandra Burke, Miley Cyrus, Take That, Joe McElderry, Cheryl Cole, JLS, Mika, Michael Bublé, James Blunt, James Morrison, Susan Boyle, and Westlife.

Fireflies - Owl City

2010-02-13T07:52:00.000+07:00

# Original Release Date: 8 Jan 2010
# Release Date: 8 Jan 2010
# Label: Universal-Island Records Ltd.
# Copyright: (C) 2009 Universal Republic Records, a division of UMG Recordings, Inc.
# Duration: 3:14 minutes

The Time Traveler's Wife [DVD] [2009]

2010-02-13T07:47:00.001+07:00

A Chicago librarian suffers from a rare genetic disorder that sends him hurtling through time whenever he is under extreme duress; despite the fact that he vanishes at inordinately frequent and lengthy intervals, he attempts to build a stable future with the beautiful young heiress he loves. Eric Bana (CHOPPER, MUNICH) and Rachel McAdams (SHERLOCK HOLMES, RED EYE) star in this dramatic fantasy, which is directed by acclaimed German filmmaker Robert Schwentke (FLIGHTPLAN) and based on the best-selling book by author Audrey Niffenegger.

Final Fantasy XIII - Square Enix

2010-02-13T07:45:00.000+07:00

Take Part in a Gaming Experience that Sets New Standards – The first in the series developed for a simultaneous release on multiple high-definition consoles, FINAL FANTASY XIII pushes new boundaries in cinematic presentation, sound and gameplay.; Experience the Unity of Speed and Strategy with the Ultimate Active Time Battle system – The familiar system has evolved, granting players the freedom of executing numerous commands in a single turn with the multi-slot ATB gauge. Whether inputting singular commands in each slot for consecutive attacks, or expending multiple slots at once to activate a devastating blow, it’s up to the players to respond effectively to the battle conditions at hand.; Adapt to the Ever-Changing Tide of Battle with Paradigms – A brand-new game mechanic enabling players to assign roles to their party members at any time during battle, shifting between combat paradigms. Consisting of various combinations of the game's six roles, ranging from Commando, the offensive specialist, to Medic, the quintessential healer, paradigms allow players to respond and adapt instantly to any given situation to turn the tide and seize victory.; Witness the Battle Scene Transform with an All-New Summon System – Introducing Gestalt Mode, a powerful dimension of the summon system that elevates the action to a whole new level. In Gestalt Mode, characters and their transformed Eidolons fight as one, dealing massive damage to enemies through simple button commands.; Delve into an Emotional Experience – An immersive storyline connects players to an intriguing cast of characters. Will they have the strength to confront their cursed fates, or will destiny prevail over all that they believe in?

From the creative minds behind FINAL FANTASY VII and FINAL FANTASY X comes the latest installment in the critically acclaimed series. As FINAL FANTASY VII was for PlayStation, and FINAL FANTASY X for PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, FINAL FANTASY XIII will be the first numbered FINAL FANTASY title for the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360, and will look to once again reestablish the series as the RPG brand. Players will follow Lightning, Snow, and the other heroes who are dealt a hand of fate by the god-like fal'Cie. Cursed and regarded as enemies of society, they have the world against them and nobody to rely on but each other. Will they find the strength within themselves to break free of their curse and determine their own fates, or will they succumb to this higher power? With a story that is sure to connect with players' hearts, diverse new characters from world-renowned creator and character designer Tetsuya Nomura, and exciting new gameplay features centered around an evolved Active Time Battle system, FINAL FANTASY XIII will be the pinnacle in gaming experiences.

Tenor - Rolando Villazon

2010-02-13T07:42:00.000+07:00

On Tenor, world-renowned tenor Rolando Villazón showcases some of the leading arias, as popularised by operatic legends including The Three Tenors: Pavarotti, Domingo and Carreras. The great arias on this album vary from sophisticated Handel, emotional operatic greats by Verdi and Puccini, through to 20th Century classics from Bernstein’s West Side Story and Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera.

Bolt [DVD] [2008]

2010-02-11T09:10:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
Ostensibly a funny animated film about a dog who thinks he has superpowers, Bolt is also a movie about friendship, perseverance, and the power of believing in oneself. Everyone knows that superheroes on television are not real, but TV star super dog Bolt (John Travolta) is a canine star who was carefully raised to believe that he really possesses superpowers. In true loyal canine style, Bolt is completely devoted to his human co-star Penny (Miley Cyrus). When Penny is captured by the evil Dr. Calico (Malcolm McDowell) in their latest television episode and Bolt gets accidentally let loose in the real world, he sets off on a journey to save her. Bolt is confounded when his super powers are suddenly ineffective, but inspiration strikes and Bolt quickly discovers the mysterious, power-stealing effects of Styrofoam packing peanuts. An encounter with alley cat Mittens (Susie Essman) gives Bolt some eye-opening lessons about being a real dog in the real world, while star-struck, ball-enclosed hamster Rhino (Mark Walton) revels in the opportunity to serve as Bolt's sidekick in the quest to rescue Penny. The trio traverses the United States from waffle house to waffle house on a hysterical quest to find Penny and prove that the relationship between Penny and Bolt is real. In the end, Bolt, Mittens, and Rhino learn that everyone is special in their own way and they discover the true power of believing in oneself and one's friends. Selected cinemas showed Bolt in 3-D, but the film is probably equally enjoyable in the traditional format. A fun film with a nice message and a huge dose of cute, Bolt is good entertainment for the entire family. --Tami Horiuchi

The Taking of Pelham 123 [DVD] [2009]

2010-02-11T09:06:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
John Godey's 1973 novel The Taking of Pelham One Two Three boasts a suspense situation so surefire that even the directorial bad habits of Tony Scott can't ruin this latest movie version. Four armed men seize a New York City subway train, isolate one car, and threaten to start killing passengers if a ransom isn't paid within the hour. The ransom was a million dollars in the book and also in Joseph Sargent's solid 1974 movie, in which Robert Shaw played the mercenary leading the hostage takers and Walter Matthau was the growling transit cop trying to outsmart him. In 2009, the title has gone digital--The Taking of Pelham 123--and inflation has jumped the asking price to $10 million. Where Shaw's menace was steely, John Travolta opts for manic, and shamelessly has a blast in the master villain role. His adversary, cagily underplayed by Denzel Washington, has been upgraded in civil-service rank but also demoted on suspicion of taking a bribe. This colors the dynamics of the dialogue between Washington at his control-center console and Travolta on the motorman's microphone aboard the stalled train.

So far, so reasonably good. But the director's trademark tactics keep getting between, well, everything. From the get-go, the visuals are subjected to pointless and irritating stutter effects, speeding-up/slowing-down, gratuitous camera movement, and the interposition of dirt- or light-smeared panes of glass between the camera and people we'd appreciate a clear look at. The 1974 movie settled for one police car being wrecked as the ransom is rushed uptown; Scott requires multiple collisions, each the occasion for police cruisers taking Lethal Weapon-style flight. The hostages in the earlier film were wittily individuated, a multicultural group portrait of the city at that mid-'70s moment; the ones on Scott's train--and also Travolta's fellow perpetrators, including that wonderful character actor Luis Guzmán--barely register. On the upside, John Turturro and James Gandolfini shine as two guys who (like the actors themselves) are very good at their jobs—respectively playing a hostage negotiator and His Honour, the mayor. The screenplay by Brian Helgeland (L.A. Confidential, Mystic River) strives intelligently, if formulaically, to add new dimensions to the main characters and to offer its own gloss on the current economic meltdown. --Richard T. Jameson

Charlie Cook's Favourite Book [Illustrated] (Paperback) - Julia Donaldson

2010-02-11T09:00:00.000+07:00

Product Description

Charlie Cook is reading a book about a pirate captain, who is reading a book about Goldilocks, who is reading about a knight, who is reading about a frog . . . From kings and queens to aliens and ghosts, there's something for everyone in Charlie's amazing book! Entertaining and original – another winner from the best picture book team in the world.
About the Author

Julia Donaldson is one of the UK's most popular children's authors. In addition to the modern classic, THE GRUFFALO (0 333 71093 2), her most recent collaborations with Axel Scheffler include THE SNAIL AND THE WHALE (0 333 98224 X) and THE GRUFFALO'S CHILD (1 405 02046 6). Julia is also the author of the young fiction series, PRINCESS MIRROR-BELLE, and is much in demand for her brilliant events for children at schools, libraries and literary festivals.

Monkey Puzzle [Illustrated] (Paperback) - Julia Donaldson

2010-02-11T08:58:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Can Butterfly help Little Monkey find his mum? Yes, but only after a lot of trial and error as Butterfly misunderstands Monkey's descriptions and leads him to all kinds of unsuitable animals.

The Smartest Giant in Town [Illustrated] (Paperback) - Julia Donaldson

2010-02-11T08:56:00.000+07:00

Product Description

George wished he wasn’t the scruffiest giant in town. So when he sees a new shop selling giant-sized clothes, he decides it's time for a new look: smart trousers, smart shirt, stripy tie, shiny shoes. Now he’s the smartest giant in town . . . until he bumps into some animals who desperately need his help – and his clothes!
About the Author

Julia Donaldson’s many books for Macmillan include the best-selling THE GRUFFALO (0 333 71092 4), ROOM ON THE BROOM (0 333 90337 4) and MONKEY PUZZLE (0 333 90337 4), all illustrated by Axel Scheffler, and THE MAGIC PAINTBRUSH (0 333 90337 4), illustrated by Joel Stewart. Julia is also much in demand for her brilliant events for children at schools, libraries and literary festivals.

Twilight - 1 Disc Edition [DVD] [2008]

2010-02-07T06:12:00.000+07:00

Synopsis
TWILIGHT, based on the acclaimed novel by Stephenie Meyer, is the highly-anticipated movie of the ultimate forbidden love affair between a vampire and mortal. Boasting a whole host of bright young talent including Robert Pattinson (Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire), Kristen Stewart (Into The Wild, What Just Happened) and Cam Gigandet (Never Back Down, The O.C.), the screenplay is written by Melissa Rosenberg (Step Up, The O.C.) and directed by the Award-winning filmmaker Catherine Hardwicke (Lords of Dogtown, Thirteen).

Bella Swan (Kristen Stewart) has always been a little bit different, never caring about fitting in with the trendy girls at her Phoenix high school. When her mother remarries and sends Bella to live with her father in the rainy little town of Forks, Washington, she doesn’t expect much of anything to change. Then she meets the mysterious and dazzlingly beautiful Edward Cullen (Robert Pattinson), a boy unlike any she’s ever met. Intelligent and witty, he sees straight into her soul.

Soon, Bella and Edward are swept up in a passionate and decidedly unorthodox romance. Edward can run faster than a mountain lion, he can stop a moving car with his bare hands – and he hasn’t aged since 1918. Like all vampires, he’s immortal. But he doesn’t have fangs, and he doesn’t drink human blood, as Edward and his family are unique among vampires in their lifestyle choice. To Edward, Bella is that thing he has waited 90 years for – a soul mate. But the closer they get, the more Edward must struggle to resist the primal pull of her scent, which could send him into an uncontrollable frenzy. But what will they do when Laurent (Edi Gathegi) and James (Cam Gigandet), the Cullens’ mortal vampire enemies, come to town, looking for Bella?

Bioshock 2 - Take 2 Interactive

2010-02-07T06:09:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
The original shocked the video gaming world by not only being a great first person shooter, but also an intelligent one. Now one of the greatest stories in interactive fiction is getting another chapter, with a sequel set ten years later.

You play the original Big Daddy - a more independently minded prototype to the giant deep sea divers from the first game. The undersea world of Rapture has been taken over by the mysterious Big Sister, who has begun to kidnap children from coastal cities around the world.

A much larger range of plasmid powers are now available, as well as more standard weapons and the Big Daddy's iconic rivet gun and drill. The game's real conflict is emotional though, as you are once again forced to make a decision between sacrificing Little Sisters or protecting them and making your task even harder. Bioshock 2 will make you think, and not just about tactics.
Key Features

* Atlas shrugged: The award-winning story-telling of Bioshock continues with a new hero and a new threat in the underwater dystopia of Rapture.
* Evolve yourself: New plasmids, including new dual-wielded attacks, let you unleash amazing powers but at the cost of your humanity.
* Cry Little Sister: As the first Big Daddy you are far faster than the other lumbering giants, but equipped with the same weapons and the ability to venture onto the ocean floor.
* Big boss: Defend yourself against the constant attacks of Big Sister by setting up traps and ambushes, but always making sure you have an escape route!
* Separate lives: For the first time Bioshock has its own multiplayer mode - featuring a completely different story and created by developer Digital Extremes (Unreal Tournament 2004).

About the Developer: 2K Marin
Although founded in 2007 specifically to create new, original games the first release from this Californian developer will be Bioshock 2. The studio is relatively small and designed to work with Take-Two's other developers, such as 2K Boston and 2K Australia in the case of Bioshock.
Product Description
The original shocked the video gaming world by not only being a great first person shooter, but also an intelligent one. Now one of the greatest stories in interactive fiction is getting another chapter, with a sequel set ten years later.

Bioshock 2 - Collectors Edition (Xbox 360) - Take 2 Interactive

2010-02-07T06:07:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
Follow-up to BioShock, 2K Games' critically acclaimed and commercially successful 2007 release, BioShock 2 is a first-person shooter set in the fictional underwater city of Rapture. As in the original game, BioShock 2 features a blend of fast-paced action, exploration and puzzle-solving as players follow varying paths through the overarching storyline based on the decisions that they are forced to make at points in the game. In addition to a further fleshing out of the franchise's popular storyline, players can look forward to new characters, game mechanics, weapons, locations and a series first, multiplayer game options. Finally, bonus items included with the BioShock 2 Special Edition (see contents list below), provide the most complete BioShock 2 experience available and are destined to become collectors items.

The Story
Set approximately 10 years after the events of the original BioShock, the halls of Rapture once again echo with sins of the past. Along the Atlantic coastline, a monster — somehow familiar, yet still quite different from anything ever seen — has been snatching little girls and bringing them back to the undersea city. It is a Big Sister, new denizens of Rapture who were once one of the forgotten little girls known as Little Sisters, known to inhabit the city's dank halls. No longer a pawn used to harvest ADAM, the dangerously powerful gene-altering lifeblood of Rapture, from the bodies of others and in turn run the risk of being harvested herself, the Big Sister is now the fastest and most powerful thing in Rapture. You, on the other hand are the very first Big Daddy, in fact the prototype, that for some reason has reactivated. You are similar to the Big Daddies familiar from the original BioShock, but also very different in that you possess free will and no memory of the events of the past ten years. The question is, as you travel through the decrepit and beautiful fallen city beneath the waves, hunting for answers and the solution to your own survival, are you really the hunter, or the hunted?

Gameplay and Multiplayer
In BioShock 2 players will take on the role of the original Big Daddy, not that of game one protagonist, Jack. As a Big Daddy you will have access to all the strengths and weapons of a standard Big Daddy, including the drill and rivet gun. More importantly you also possess free will and the ability to use plasmids and gene tonics — genetic modifications allowed for through ADAM, a stem cell harvested from conquered enemies, or sea slugs outside the Rapture air lock, and powered by the in-game injectable serum known as EVE, which can be found, captured or purchased. Plasmids and gene tonics provide a wide range of aggressive and passive abilities which can be upgraded and arranged for quick use. The ability to use plasmids and tonics gives you a decided edge over other Big Daddies and most other denizens of Rapture, excluding the powerful Big Sisters. In addition, due to their role as a Big Daddy, players will experience a new relation to the Little Sisters. Upon defeating standard Big Daddys you are given the familiar choice as to whether to harvest or adopt them. Harvesting gains you ADAM immediately, but could alter your path through the game, while adopting makes you responsible for Little Sisters, who then accompany you through Rapture, but also provide aid and warning in times of danger. Additional gameplay features include: new plasmids, weapons and the ability to combine these two.

The game also features the anticipated multiplayer modes. Several of these are team-based, allowing up to 10 players. Within these players are provided with a rich prequel experience that expands the origins of the BioShock fiction, and allows you to play as one of several characters pulled from Rapture's history before the events of the first game.

Worst Case: A Detective Michael Bennett Novel (Hardcover) - James Patterson

2010-02-07T06:03:00.000+07:00

Product Description
The son of one of New York's wealthiest families is snatched off the street and held hostage. His parents can't save him, because this kidnapper isn't demanding money. Instead, he quizzes his prisoner on the price others pay for his life of luxury. In this exam, wrong answers are fatal. Detective Michael Bennett leads the investigation. With ten kids of his own, he can't begin to understand what could lead someone to target anyone's children. As another student disappears, one powerful family after another uses their leverage and connections to turn the heat up on the mayor, the press, anyone who will listen, to stop this killer. Their reach extends all the way to the FBI, who send their top Abduction Specialist, Agent Emily Parker. Bennett's work life - and love life - suddenly get even more complicated. Before Bennett has a chance to protest the FBI's intrusion on his case, the mastermind changes his routine. His plan leads up to the most devastating demonstration yet - one that could bring cataclysmic devastation to every inch of New York.
About the Author
JAMES PATTERSON is one of the best-known and biggest-selling writers of all time. He is the author of some of the most popular series of the past decade: the Women's Murder Club, the Alex Cross novels and Maximum Ride, and he has written many other number one bestsellers including romance novels and stand-alone thrillers. He lives in Florida with his wife and son. James is passionate about encouraging both adults and children alike to read. This has led to him forming a partnership with the National Literacy Trust, an independent, UK-based charity that changes lives through literacy.

The Snail and the Whale [Illustrated] (Paperback) - Julia Donaldson

2010-02-07T06:00:00.000+07:00

Product Description

One tiny snail longs to see the world and hitches a lift on the tail of a whale. Together they go on an amazing journey, past icebergs and volcanoes, sharks and penguins, and the little snail feels so small in the vastness of the world. But when disaster strikes and the whale is beached in a bay, it's the tiny snail who saves the day.

A Touch of Dead (Sookie Stackhouse Vampire Myst) (Hardcover) - Charlaine Harris

2010-02-07T05:57:00.000+07:00

Review
"The most interesting character is Sookie, which is lucky as she's the main one, the fact that she can read minds and how she does it is brilliantly illustrated in the opening 'Fairy Dust' and 'Lucky'. A brilliant example of how an author should do a short story collection." (NEXTREAD.CO.UK )

"The tales are appealingly fast-paced, lighthearted and sexy (though there's nowhere near the level of sex and violence of the TV series), and the Sookie of these stories is, in her own straightforward way, just as winning as the Sookie of True Blood." (James Skipp TOTAL SCI FI )

I really enjoyed that Harris told each story 'how it was'. Sookie may have her issues but the emphasis is always on the plot at hand and what's going on. It's also refreshing to see how Harris treats her otherworldly characters; while they're powerful enough they're also susceptible to human failings (and I'm not just talking about sex!) that make them more endearing to the reader and easier to get into." (GRAEME'S FANTASY BOOK REVIEW )
Product Description
Sookie Stackhouse enjoys her job as a cocktail waitress in Merlotte's, a small-town bar in small-town Bon Temps, deep in Louisiana. She's funny and pretty and, thanks to her grandmother, she's very well-mannered - but since not many people truly appreciate her ability to read their minds, the guys haven't exactly been beating down her door . . . And then along came Bill, tall, dark and handsome - and Sookie couldn't 'hear' a word he was thinking. He was exactly the type of guy she'd been waiting all her life for. Of course, Bill had a disability of his own: fussy about his food, not into suntans, bit of a night person: yep, Bill was a vampire. But at least now Sookie nows there *are* guys she can date who won't worry about her catching them thinking about other women . . . And that's going to make Sookie's life really interesting!

The Inbetweeners - Series 1-2 - Complete [DVD] [2008]

2010-02-05T06:02:00.000+07:00

Synopsis
Combine the juvenile smut of SUPERBAD with the cringing embarrassment of PEEP SHOW, against the 'stylish' backdrop of GRANGE HILL, and what do you get? E4's hilarious comedy THE INBETWEENERS. A super sharp, one-liner packed celebration of the highs and lows of being a teenager. Perfectly capturing the relentless disappointment of suburban adolescence, the show's four main characters yearn for sex, booze and cheap thrills, without the emotional maturity, money or ID to get them. Briefcase-carrying nerd Will (Simon Bird) has recently left the relative sophistication of private school to join Rudge Park Comprehensive, where he befriends Simon (Joe Thomas), Jay (James Buckley) and Neil (Blake Harrison); a group precariously straddling the social gulf between the in-crowd and the outcasts. This release contains the complete first and second series.

Batman: Year One - Deluxe Edition [Special Edition] (Paperback) - Frank Miller

2010-02-05T05:58:00.000+07:00

Product Description
From master storyteller Frank Miller ("Batman: The Dark Knight Returns", "Sin City") comes the most incredible Batman story of all...and the inspiration for the worldwide smash-hit movie "Batman Begins!" Lieutenant James Gordon takes up a new post in the crime-ridden and corrupt city of Gotham, while billionaire Bruce Wayne returns to the scene of his parents' deaths, intent on avenging their memory. Each faces trials and challenges of their own, only for their lives to become irrevocably and potentially tragically intertwined...This all-new, deluxe edition features new introductions by Miller and Mazzuchelli, pencils, promotional and unseen art, script pages and much more.
About the Author
Frank Miller has won numerous awards and critical acclaim for his work, which includes Batman: The Dark Knight Returns and its sequel The Dark Knight Strikes Again, Martha Washington Goes to War, Hard Boiled, Ronin, 300 and Sin City. David Mazzuchelli previously collaborated with Frank Miller on the hugely acclaimed Daredevil story arc, 'Born Again'.

The Complete Maus (Paperback) - Art Spiegelman

2010-02-05T05:55:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Combined for the first time here are Maus I: A Survivor's Tale and Maus II - the complete story of Vladek Spiegelman and his wife, living and surviving in Hitler's Europe. By addressing the horror of the Holocaust through cartoons, the author captures the everyday reality of fear and is able to explore the guilt, relief and extraordinary sensation of survival - and how the children of survivors are in their own way affected by the trials of their parents. A contemporary classic of immeasurable significance.
About the Author
Art Spiegelman is a contributing editor and artist for the New Yorker. His drawings and prints have been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Maus, and a Guggenheim fellowship. It was also nominated for the National Book Critics Award. He lives in New York.

The Last 10 Seconds (Hardcover) - Simon Kernick

2010-02-05T05:50:00.000+07:00

Product Description
The Undercover Cop - Having worked undercover the last ten years, Sean Egan is used to life on the edge. He's recently infiltrated one of London's most dangerous criminal gangs, and they've just informed him that they want him for a very special job: the daring abduction from police custody of a serial killer known as The Night Creeper. The Killer - Brutally violent yet highly intelligent, The Night Creeper has earned his reputation by torturing five young women to death. Arrested the previous night, he claims that he has a cast-iron alibi for one of the murders, and some highly important information that can prove his innocence - and implicates someone else. The Policewoman Di - Tina Boyd has an instinct for trouble, and a past that continues to haunt her. She was the policewoman who charged The Night Creeper. Now he's been kidnapped, and it's Tina's task to find him. And find him fast, because it's clear that some very dangerous people want to silence him permanently. A man, a woman and a sadistic killer. As they race towards a terrifying confrontation only one thing is certain: they're all going to have to fight very hard just to stay alive.

Blacklands (Paperback) - Belinda Bauer

2010-02-05T05:48:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Review
Thought-provoking and utterly original. --MO HAYDER

A very special debut thriller, and a clear-eyed depiction of ordinary people under extraordinary stress. This is something quite new. --ANN CLEEVES (CWA Gold Dagger Winner 2006)

Exceptional debut . . . A new UK crime writer to shout about.
--Bookseller

Thought-provoking and utterly original
--MO HAYDER

`With this extraordinarily powerful and provocative debut, Belinda Bauer has shifted the boundaries of what makes a truly gripping, terrifying thriller. Imagine Thomas Harris crossed with Kate Atkinson and you still won't be close... top-notch, absolutely terrifying suspense... Right from the start you know you are reading something both new and with real guts --Daily Mirror

This astonishingly assured debut...for once lives up to the hype... a psychological tour-de-force about the cruelty of hope and, ultimately, the triumph of innocence
--Guardian
Product Description
Twelve-year-old Steven Lamb digs holes on Exmoor, hoping to find a body. Every day after school, while his classmates swap football stickers, Steven goes digging to lay to rest the ghost of the uncle he never knew, who disappeared aged eleven and is assumed to have fallen victim to the notorious serial killer Arnold Avery. Only Steven's Nan is not convinced her son is dead. She still waits for him to come home, standing bitter guard at the front window while her family fragments around her. Steven is determined to heal the widening cracks between them before it's too late. And if that means presenting his grandmother with the bones of her murdered son, he'll do it. So the boy takes the next logical step, carefully crafting a letter to Arnold Avery in prison. And there begins a dangerous cat-and-mouse game between a desperate child and a bored serial killer ...

The Ultimate Bourne Collection [Blu-ray] [2002]

2010-02-03T22:15:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
Finally making its Blu-ray bow, The Ultimate Bourne Collection defies the convention for how these things are supposed to work. The theory runs that a trilogy’s best film is the first, and it’s a case of diminishing returns from that point onwards. The Bourne movies? They just keep getting better and better.

Things kick off well with The Bourne Identity, which introduces Matt Damon as Jason Bourne. When we meet him, he’s no idea who he is, but he quickly learns that he’s in possession of some quite extraordinary, and lethal, skills. The film is slap bang on the money for the first two thirds, before a slightly muddled last act. Yet it still gets the franchise off to a good start.

The directorial reigns passed over from Doug Liman (of Swingers and now Mr and Mrs Smith fame) to Paul Greengrass (United 93, Bloody Sunday) for The Bourne Supremacy, and it proved to be a wise choice. Supremacy is a faster, more intense film, that this time sees Jason Bourne framed for murder, and gradually closing in on the secrets of his part. It’s pulsating stuff.

The icing on the proverbial cake though is the superb The Bourne Ultimatum, arguably one of the finest blockbuster movies of the past decade or two. Effectively a two-hour chase movie, it’s a staggering achievement that returning director Greengrass manages to keep the momentum going right the way through. Damon, by this point, utterly owns the role, and it’s a film that demands to be re-watched time and time again.

As you’d hope and expect, high definition is both kind and effective where the Bourne films are concerned, with the fast action looking quite superb in 1080p. Backed up by a vibrant, brilliant surround sound mix, all three of the films benefit from the upgrade, and ultimately leave you salivating for the much-rumoured fourth installment. A terrific trilogy. --Simon Brew
Synopsis
Features the action-packed Jason Bourne thrillers THE BOURNE IDENTITY, THE BOURNE SUPREMACY, and THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM.
In THE BOURNE IDENTITY, a man who may or may not be Jason Bourne is found floating in the Mediterranean Sea and is hauled onto a fishing boat. When the ship's doctor examines the unconscious castaway, he discovers two bullet wounds and an implanted device that displays a Swiss bank account number. With nothing but this code, the amnesiac Bourne travels to Zurich and gains access to a safe-deposit box containing a gun, thousands of dollars in various currencies, and valid passports from numerous countries--each listing a different identity. Within minutes, Bourne is on the run from a seemingly ever-present agency.
In THE BOURNE SUPREMACY, Bourne is forced out of hiding as the result of an attempt on his life and fulfills his earlier promise to wreak vengeance on his former CIA employers, some of whom may be in league with murderous Russians.
In THE BOURNE SUPREMACY, Jason Bourne searches for his own identity after a bout of amnesia, leading him on a globe-trekking trip in which he must avoid the zinging bullets of cops and assassins who are out to stop him before he uncovers the truth.

The Matrix/Matrix Reloaded/Matrix Revolutions [Blu-ray] [1999]

2010-02-03T22:10:00.002+07:00

DVD Description
The Complete Matrix Trilogy features all three films in the trilogy together for the first time in mind-blowing high definition, with a newly re-mastered picture and sound for The Matrix.

The Matrix:

Neo (Keanu Reeves) seeks the truth about the Matrix. Only one man has the answer, an elusive dangerous man who is known as Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne). A stranger called Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss) invites Neo to follow a white rabbit which guides him into a parallel world. Reality is a world run by artificially intelligent machines who control the human slaves in a simulated 20th Century...

Matrix Reloaded:

Neo (Keanu Reeves), Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss), and Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne) continue their battle against the machines in The Matrix Reloaded, the second chapter of Larry and Andy Wachowski's Matrix Trilogy. As Matrix Reloaded begins, Neo, Trinity, and Morpheus arrive in Zion with new crew member Link (Harold Perrineau), and discover that 250,000 dreaded sentinels are close to launching a massive attack on the underground haven for the liberated minds of humanity. When Neo seeks advice from the prophetic Oracle (the late Gloria Foster), their meeting leads to a sorely outnumbered fight with Neo's old nemesis, Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving). While the sentinels advance on Zion, various battles within the Matrix continue to escalate, culminating in an extended highway chase sequence involving Morpheus, Trinity, more imposing agents, and two new adversaries--the relentless white-clad Twins (Adrian and Neil Rayment).

Matrix Revolutions:

The final movie in Larry and Andy Wachowski's Matrix Trilogy is Matrix Revolutions. Neo (Keanu Reeves) is trapped in limbo between reality and the Matrix, while Zion, the last human city, is attacked by hordes of machines. Meanwhile, Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne), Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss), and Seraph (Collin Chou) confront the ruthless Merovingian (Lambert Wilson) to secure Neo's release. As the fight for Zion grows more dire, Neo and Trinity embark on a perilous journey into the heart of the machine city, while Morpheus and Niobe (Jada Pinkett Smith) rush to Zion's aid. Eventually, Neo must face the increasingly powerful Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving) in a last battle for the fate of humanity.

Aliens Vs Predator - Sega

2010-02-03T22:08:00.000+07:00

Bioshock 2 - Take 2 Interactive

2010-02-03T22:06:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
The original shocked the video gaming world by not only being a great first person shooter, but also an intelligent one. Now one of the greatest stories in interactive fiction is getting another chapter, with a sequel set ten years later.
You play the original Big Daddy - a more independently minded prototype to the giant deep sea divers from the first game. The undersea world of Rapture has been taken over by the mysterious Big Sister, who has begun to kidnap children from coastal cities around the world.

A much larger range of plasmid powers are now available, as well as more standard weapons and the Big Daddy's iconic rivet gun and drill. The game's real conflict is emotional though, as you are once again forced to make a decision between sacrificing Little Sisters or protecting them and making your task even harder. Bioshock 2 will make you think, and not just about tactics.
Key Features

* Atlas shrugged: The award-winning story-telling of Bioshock continues with a new hero and a new threat in the underwater dystopia of Rapture.
* Evolve yourself: New plasmids, including new dual-wielded attacks, let you unleash amazing powers but at the cost of your humanity.
* Cry Little Sister: As the first Big Daddy you are far faster than the other lumbering giants, but equipped with the same weapons and the ability to venture onto the ocean floor.
* Big boss: Defend yourself against the constant attacks of Big Sister by setting up traps and ambushes, but always making sure you have an escape route!
* Separate lives: For the first time Bioshock has its own multiplayer mode - featuring a completely different story and created by developer Digital Extremes (Unreal Tournament 2004).

About the Developer: 2K Marin
Although founded in 2007 specifically to create new, original games the first release from this Californian developer will be Bioshock 2. The studio is relatively small and designed to work with Take-Two's other developers, such as 2K Boston and 2K Australia in the case of Bioshock.
Product Description
The original shocked the video gaming world by not only being a great first person shooter, but also an intelligent one. Now one of the greatest stories in interactive fiction is getting another chapter, with a sequel set ten years later.

Sacred Hearts (Paperback) - Sarah Dunant

2010-02-03T22:03:00.000+07:00

Product Description
1570 in the Italian city of Ferrara, and the convent of Santa Caterina is filled with noble women who are married to Christ because many cannot find husbands outside. Enter sixteen-year-old Serafina, ripped by her family from an illicit love affair, howling with rage and hormones and determined to escape. While on the other side of the great walls, counter-reformation forces in the Church are pushing for change, inside, Serafina's spirit and defiance ignite a fire that threatens to engulf the whole convent. SACRED HEARTS is a novel about power, creativity and passion - both of the body and of the soul. Hidden history brought alive by a wonderful storyteller, renowned for her Italian Renaissance novels.
About the Author
Sarah Dunant is a cultural commentator, award-winning thriller writer and author of a trilogy of novels set in renaissance Italy exploring women's lives through art, sex and religion.

The Catcher in the Rye (Paperback) - J. D. Salinger

2010-02-03T21:59:00.000+07:00

From Amazon.co.uk
Since his debut in 1951 as The Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield has been synonymous with "cynical adolescent". Holden narrates the story of a couple of days in his 16-year-old life, just after he's been expelled from prep school, in a slang that sounds edgy even today and keeps this novel on banned book lists. It begins:

If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you'll probably want to know is where I was born and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all before they had me, and all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I don't feel like going into it, if you want to know the truth. In the first place, that stuff bores me, and in the second place, my parents would have about two haemorrhages apiece if I told anything pretty personal about them.

His constant wry observations about what he encounters, from teachers to phonies (the two of course are not mutually exclusive), capture the essence of the eternal teenage experience of alienation. --Amazon.com
Amazon.co.uk Review
Since his debut in 1951 as The Catcher in the Rye, Holden Caulfield has been synonymous with "cynical adolescent". Holden narrates the story of a couple of days in his 16-year-old life, just after he's been expelled from prep school, in a slang that sounds edgy even today and keeps this novel on banned book lists. It begins:

If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you'll probably want to know is where I was born and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all before they had me, and all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I don't feel like going into it, if you want to know the truth. In the first place, that stuff bores me, and in the second place, my parents would have about two haemorrhages apiece if I told anything pretty personal about them.

His constant wry observations about what he encounters, from teachers to phonies (the two of course are not mutually exclusive), capture the essence of the eternal teenage experience of alienation. --Amazon.com

LEGO Star Wars 8014 Clone Walker Battle Pack

2010-02-02T08:58:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Build up your Clone Trooper army! March across the battlefields of the Clone Wars launching flick-firing missiles from this tough two-man walker! Piece together Lego bricks to create the Star Wars Clone Walker! This cool Clone Walker Battle Pack by Lego comes with 3 Clone Trooper mini figures and an all-new Clone Trooper gunner! Lego Star Wars - Clone Walker Battle Pack 8014 is a great way to develop roleplay! Collect the whole series! Perfect for any Star Wars fan!

Orchard Toys Shopping List by Orchard Toys

2010-02-02T08:55:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
Be the first to collect all of the items on your shopping list and fill your trolley, in this colourful and updated version of our best-selling memory game.

Orchard Toys are made in Britain from durable recycled board and have a wipe-clean finish so they offer years of enjoyment and great value for money. Our range is developed, designed and illustrated with care by our in-house team, then rigorously tested in playgroups, schools and at home by teachers and parents. This ensures that our innovative games and puzzles stimulate young minds and make learning fun!

Turn It Up - Pixie Lott

2010-02-02T08:52:00.000+07:00

CD Description
After the surprise success of her debut single 'Mama Do (UhOh Uh Oh)', Kent-born starlet Pixie Lott's debut album deals in the same brand of sassy teen-pop. Most of the songs here are potential singles, and all have Lott's signature bouncy pop sensibility. Most notable aside from her chart-toppingdebut release are 'Here We Go Again' (produced by the legendary RedOne) and the singles 'Boys And Girls' and 'Cry Me Out'. Lott herself shares writing credits on many of the songsthat make up this first foray.

The Twilight Saga: New Moon (1 Disc) [DVD] [2009]

2010-02-02T08:50:00.000+07:00

DVD Description
This next instalment of The Twilight Saga sees Bella Swan devastated by the abrupt departure of her vampire love, Edward Cullen, but her spirit is rekindled by her growing friendship with Jacob Black. Suddenly she finds herself drawn into the world of werewolves, the ancestral enemies of the vampires, and finds her loyalties tested.

With more of the passion, action and suspense that made Twilight a smash hit, The Twilight Saga: New Moon is a spellbinding follow-up to the international box office phenomenon.

What the critics say:
"Superb. This is the moment that the Twilight saga comes of age” News of the World
“Breathtaking” New!
“Unmissable, our pulses are still racing” Company
5 stars from Look, Now Magazine and New!
4 stars from Heat, Grazia, the Sunday Mirror and News of the World
Special Features
Special features include Director Chris Weitz's commentary.

Only Revolutions - Biffy Clyro

2010-02-02T08:49:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
Only Revolutions, the fifth long-player from Biffy Clyro, is a far cry from this Ayr trio’s earlier, reliably embittered emissions. Long gone is the abrasive post-grunge that characterised albums like 2002’s The Vertigo Of Bliss, replaced by polished production, uplifting melodies and a grand, orchestral palette. This doesn’t meant Biffy have succumbed to the sort of blanding out that afflicts so many bands that clean up their act, though--indeed, in many ways they’ve become a more complex, idiosyncratic musical force, touting big anthems laced with creative eccentricity. The likes of "The Golden Rule" and "Born On A Horse" take their cue from Muse, fitting up songs with progressive twists and turns, not to mention some curiously elliptical wordplay. "I pronounce it aluminium/'Cause there’s an I next to the U and M", spits Simon Neil on the latter, over an offbeat keyboard groove. Elsewhere, "The Golden Rule" hitches hectic riffage and gang vocals to an unashamedly epic symphonic outro, while "Shock Shock" channels relationship angst into something cosmically terrifying: "You scratch and you scratch 'til your face comes away, replaced by a hole or a vortex", sings Neil, over an bracing barrage of guitars. --Louis Pattison
CD Description
Fifth album, following 2007's 'Puzzle', from the Scots progressive indie rockers. Here they forgo the overt commercialism of 'Puzzle' in favour of a return to their classic style welding emo-style structures to technically complex math- and jazzcore elements. Named for the novel by Mark Danielewski, produced once again by Garth Richardson (Gallows) and withstriking cover artwork shot by the legendary Storm Thorgerson, the album includes the singles 'Mountains', 'The Captain' and 'That Golden Rule'.

The Element of Freedom - Alicia Keys

2010-02-02T08:47:00.000+07:00

CD Description
Twelve-time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys' The Element of Freedom includes single, “Doesn’t Mean Anything”, written and produced by Alicia and her longtime production partner Kerry “Krucial” Brothers. Alicia describes The Element of Freedom as a dichotomy of strength and vulnerability with the music really strong, drums aggressive, yet her voice vulnerable and delicate.
The album includes "Empire State Of Mind (Part II)", a sequel to the hometown anthem and her second collaboration with hip-hop superstar Jay-Z. It’s her own version and includes a new verse from Jay-Z. In addition to Brothers, the singer/songwriter/producer enlists the production talents of Jeff Brasker (Kanye West, Keri Wilson).

The Twilight Saga: New Moon - 2 Disc Special Edition [DVD] [2009]

2010-01-31T22:52:00.000+07:00

Napoleon: Total War (PC DVD) - Sega

2010-01-31T06:08:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
The Napoleonic era was a time of political unrest and epic battles played out on an unprecedented scale. It revolutionized the organization and size of European armies through the use of levée en masse (mass conscription). But the strength of an army finds its roots within every soldier’s individual skills.
Grand Battery of the Convention:
With twice as many guns as an ordinary artillery unit, the Grand Battery is an exceptionally strong unit. Its cannons have both a long range and tremendous killing power.

Napoleon: Total War Pre-order Elite unit Information:

This exclusive elite unit is only available when you pre-order Napoleon: Total War, delivering a new and powerful strategic option to deploy in the name of your faction. Once the game is installed and verified by Steam, you can enter a unique code and unlock your elite unit, which will then appear in single player and multiplayer games. In order to play Napoleon: Total War and unlock your exclusive unit you must connect to the internet to verify your game and code once during installation.

Product Description
Napoleon: Total War Pre-order Elite unit--This exclusive elite unit is only available when you pre-order Napoleon: Total War, delivering a new and powerful strategic option to deploy in the name of your faction. Once the game is installed and verified by Steam, you can enter a unique code and unlock your elite unit, which will then appear in single player and multiplayer games. In order to play Napoleon: Total War and unlock your exclusive unit you must connect to the internet to verify your game and code once during installation. Pre-order unit--Grand Battery of the Convention: With twice as many guns as an ordinary artillery unit, the Grand Battery is an exceptionally strong unit. Its cannons have both a long range and tremendous killing power.

Final Fantasy XIII - Collectors Edition (PS3) - Square Enix

2010-01-31T06:04:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
A tale of souls from a futuristic civilization illuminated by the Light of the Crystal, the newest addition to the Final Fantasy series is worthy of the title "next generation." Developed by Square Enix, the eagerly anticipated Final Fantasy XIII features the latest in cutting-edge technology and provides tangible, intuitive controls while delivering seamless transitions between real-time gameplay and stunning in-game cinematics.

Take Part in a Gaming Experience that Sets New Standards – The first in the series developed for a simultaneous release on multiple high-definition consoles, FINAL FANTASY XIII pushes new boundaries in cinematic presentation, sound and gameplay.; Experience the Unity of Speed and Strategy with the Ultimate Active Time Battle system – The familiar system has evolved, granting players the freedom of executing numerous commands in a single turn with the multi-slot ATB gauge. Whether inputting singular commands in each slot for consecutive attacks, or expending multiple slots at once to activate a devastating blow, it’s up to the players to respond effectively to the battle conditions at hand.; Adapt to the Ever-Changing Tide of Battle with Paradigms – A brand-new game mechanic enabling players to assign roles to their party members at any time during battle, shifting between combat paradigms. Consisting of various combinations of the game's six roles, ranging from Commando, the offensive specialist, to Medic, the quintessential healer, paradigms allow players to respond and adapt instantly to any given situation to turn the tide and seize victory.; Witness the Battle Scene Transform with an All-New Summon System – Introducing Gestalt Mode, a powerful dimension of the summon system that elevates the action to a whole new level. In Gestalt Mode, characters and their transformed Eidolons fight as one, dealing massive damage to enemies through simple button commands.; Delve into an Emotional Experience – An immersive storyline connects players to an intriguing cast of characters. Will they have the strength to confront their cursed fates, or will destiny prevail over all that they believe in?

From the creative minds behind FINAL FANTASY VII and FINAL FANTASY X comes the latest installment in the critically acclaimed series. As FINAL FANTASY VII was for PlayStation, and FINAL FANTASY X for PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, FINAL FANTASY XIII will be the first numbered FINAL FANTASY title for the PlayStation 3 computer entertainment system and Xbox 360, and will look to once again reestablish the series as the RPG brand. Players will follow Lightning, Snow, and the other heroes who are dealt a hand of fate by the god-like fal'Cie. Cursed and regarded as enemies of society, they have the world against them and nobody to rely on but each other. Will they find the strength within themselves to break free of their curse and determine their own fates, or will they succumb to this higher power? With a story that is sure to connect with players' hearts, diverse new characters from world-renowned creator and character designer Tetsuya Nomura, and exciting new gameplay features centered around an evolved Active Time Battle system, FINAL FANTASY XIII will be the pinnacle in gaming experiences.

The Book Thief (Paperback) - Markus Zusak

2010-01-31T06:01:00.000+07:00

Amazon.co.uk Review
The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak was the best-selling debut literary novel of the year 2007, selling over 400,000 copies. The author is a prize-winning writer of children's books, and this, his first novel for adults, proved to be a triumphant success. The book is extraordinary on many levels: moving, yet restrained, angry yet balanced -- and written with the kind of elegance found all too rarely in fiction these days. The book's narrator is nothing less than Death itself, regaling us with a remarkable tale of book burnings, treachery and theft. The book never forgets the primary purpose of compelling the reader's attention, yet which nevertheless is able to impart a cogent message about the importance of words, particularly in those societies which regard the word as dangerous (the book is set during the Nazi regime, but this message is all too relevant in many places in the world today).

Nine-year-old Liesel lives with her foster family on Himmel Street during the dark days of the Third Reich. Her Communist parents have been transported to a concentration camp, and during the funeral for her brother, she manages to steal a macabre book: it is, in fact, a gravediggers’ instruction manual. This is the first of many books which will pass through her hands as the carnage of the Second World War begins to hungrily claim lives. Both Liesel and her fellow inhabitants of Himmel Street will find themselves changed by both words on the printed page and the horrendous events happening around them.

Despite its grim narrator, The Book Thief is, in fact, a life-affirming book, celebrating the power of words and their ability to provide sustenance to the soul. Interestingly, the Second World War setting of the novel does not limit its relevance: in the 20th century, totalitarian censorship throughout the world is as keen as ever at suppressing books (notably in countries where the suppression of human beings is also par for the course) and that other assault on words represented by the increasing dumbing-down of Western society as cheap celebrity replaces the appeal of books for many people, ensures that the message of Marcus Zusak’s book could not be more timely. It is, in fact, required reading -- or should be in any civilised country. --Barry Forshaw

Operation Mincemeat (Hardcover) - Ben Macintyre

2010-01-31T05:58:00.000+07:00

Product Description
One April morning in 1943, a sardine fisherman spotted the corpse of a British soldier floating in the sea off the coast of Spain and set in train a course of events that would change the course of the Second World War. Operation Mincemeat was the most successful wartime deception ever attempted, and certainly the strangest. It hoodwinked the Nazi espionage chiefs, sent German troops hurtling in the wrong direction, and saved thousands of lives by deploying a secret agent who was different, in one crucial respect, from any spy before or since: he was dead. His mission: to convince the Germans that instead of attacking Sicily, the Allied armies planned to invade Greece. The brainchild of an eccentric RAF officer and a brilliant Jewish barrister, the great hoax involved an extraordinary cast of characters including a famous forensic pathologist, a gold-prospector, an inventor, a beautiful secret service secretary, a submarine captain, three novelists, a transvestite English spymaster, an irascible admiral who loved fly-fishing, and a dead Welsh tramp. Using fraud, imagination and seduction, Churchill's team of spies spun a web of deceit so elaborate and so convincing that they began to believe it themselves. The deception started in a windowless basement beneath Whitehall. It travelled from London to Scotland to Spain to Germany. And it ended up on Hitler's desk. Ben Macintyre, bestselling author of "Agent Zigzag", weaves together private documents, photographs, memories, letters and diaries, as well as newly released material from the intelligence files of MI5 and Naval Intelligence, to tell for the first time the full story of Operation Mincemeat.

Aliens Vs Predator - Sega

2010-01-29T06:05:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Developed at Rebellion by the team responsible for the original 1999 classic, in the all-new Aliens vs. Predator players have the chance to take the role of the three infamous species; the Colonial Marine, the Predator and the Alien.

Each of the three species has its very own distinct story-driven single-player campaign mode that interweaves with the campaigns of the other two species. Aliens vs. Predator will also feature unique 3-way online multiplayer, allowing gamers to pit the three species against each other in the ultimate battle for survival and for the right to be crowned the deadliest species.

On planet BG-386 a colonist mining group discovers an ancient pyramid containing a dark and horrible secret. Across the stars a race of warriors is alerted to the discovery of their pyramid and a hunting party is dispatched to ensure that it remains sealed at all costs, whilst deep inside the ruined pyramid a malevolent intelligence awakes from centuries of dormancy.

The Marine’s story is an incredible fight against the odds, and the horrors lurking in the dark. Beset on all sides yet armed to the teeth, the Colonial Marine represents humanity’s last stand with the firepower to fight back.

As the Alien, players will discover what it’s like to be the most murderous and lethal creature in the universe, with the ability to traverse any surface with awesome agility in order to get close enough to unleash its deadly teeth and claws.

A master of the hunt, the Predator grants the player a suite of exotic weaponry and equipment with which to stalk its unknowing prey. Earn the greatest honour by ambushing prey up-close and butchering them for a gory trophy kill.
Product Description
In the all-new Aliens vs. Predator players will have the chance to take the role of the three infamous species; the Colonial Marine, the Predator and the Alien.

The Children's Book (Paperback) - A.S. Byatt

2010-01-29T06:02:00.000+07:00

Review
`Easily the best novel Byatt has written since Possession ... displays enormous reach and tremendous grip' --Sunday Times

`wonderfully enjoyable' --The Times

`enjoyable' --Irish Times

`Byatt's first book for seven years takes on the artistic themes of the day in exhilarating detail'
--Observer

'magnificent, intricate novel... Byatt is an enchanter' --Daily Telegraph

The Five Greatest Warriors (Hardcover) - Matthew Reilly

2010-01-29T05:59:00.000+07:00

Product Description
This brilliant sequel to SIX SACRED STONES picks up the action at a terrifying juncture. Captain West and his small team of elite misfits are on the trail of the six ancient pillars that can prevent the arrival of the 'dark star' a deadly celestial event that could bathe the globe in lethal radiation. But not only have the Ancients have hidden their secrets well, but also the huge potential to whomever locates and uses the pillars has attracted the attentions of the powerful all around the world. Jack West must now fight off crack mercenaries and special forces soldiers whilst preserving his entire team to figure out the secrets of the past...

About the Author
Matthew Reilly wrote his first book, CONTEST, in 1994 whilst attending the University of New South Wales. It was rejected by every major publishing company. This caused Reilly to self-publish 1,000 copies using money borrowed from his family. One copy was read by Pan Macmillan, who immediately signed Reilly up to write ICE STATION, which became an international bestseller. Since then, he has been published in more than 15 countries. His latest work is a novel called THE SIX SACRED STONES, the sequel to SEVEN ANCIENT WONDERS.

Gran Turismo 5 (PS3) - Sony

2010-01-22T07:18:00.000+07:00

Manufacturer's Description
This is no demo or spin-off, this is the game every car enthusiast has been waiting for as the legendary real driving simulator finally rolls off the production line. The result of four years work by a team of hundreds, this is the game the PlayStation 3 was made for.

It goes without saying that the new game looks astonishing - far better even than Gran Turismo 5 Prologue - but as ever the beauty of Gran Turismo is that it drives as realistically as it looks. With the 950 different cars modelled to a higher degree of accuracy than ever before this also features more manufacturers than any other game - including, for the first time ever, Lamborghini and Bugatti.

Other fan demands that have finally been met too, including fully realistic damage-modelling, a 16-player online mode, dynamic weather changes and night racing. Any more realistic than this and you'd be knocked out by the petrol fumes.
Key Features

* Real simulator - The definitive version of the most realistic driving game ever finally hits the PlayStation 3 with more cars, tracks and features than ever before.
* Virtual showroom - Photorealistic graphics simulate hundreds of cars in exacting detail - from the smallest nuts and bolts to the unique handling of every model.
* Stig friendly - New official licenses include Ferrari, WRC and NASCAR - as well as the test track from the BBC's Top Gear show.
* Damage control - For the first time new damage modelling lets you see the damage your car - and your opponents' - endures throughout the race.
* Gran Turismo Live - Race online with fans around the world in the brand new 16-player multiplayer mode.

About the Developer: Polyphony Digital
One of Sony's most important in-house developers, this studio is run almost as a separate company after the huge success of the Gran Tursimo driving simulator. They've made few other games but did find time for motorbike spin-off Tourist Trophy and shoot 'em-up Omega Boost.

Twenties Girl (Paperback) - Sophie Kinsella

2010-01-22T07:06:00.000+07:00

Review
Sophie's latest tome is a wise, funny ghost story that will have you gripped from the first page. Perfect summer reading. Heat Best read with a cold glass of wine at sunset (with tissues). The Times Wonderfully witty tale...You'll love this quirky read - it's just as girly, exciting and fabulously funny as Sophie's other gems ***** Heat This is Kinsella at her quirkiest and best, and Lara's gradual appreciation of the fact that there's a bright young thing trapped inside every ageing body adds real pathos to this otherwise light-hearted and sweetly comic novel Daily Telegraph Kinsella's latest offering is a classic chick-lit read: light, entertaining and often funny too. This is essential reading for anyone looking for a dose of escapism this summer. Sunday Express

Product Description
Lara has always had an overactive imagination. Now she wonders if she is losing her mind. Normal twenty-something girls just don't get visited by ghosts! But inexplicably, the spirit of Lara's great aunt Sadie - in the form of a bold, demanding Charleston-dancing girl - has appeared to make one last request: Lara must track down a missing necklace Sadie simply can't rest without. Lara's got enough problems of her own. Her start-up company is floundering, her best friend and business partner has run off to Goa, and she's just been dumped by the love of her life. But as Lara spends time with Sadie, life becomes more glamorous and their treasure hunt turns into something intriguing and romantic. Could Sadie's ghost be the answer to Lara's problems and can two girls from different times end up learning something special from each other?

Juliet, Naked (Paperback) - Nick Hornby

2010-01-22T07:03:00.000+07:00

Product Description
Nick Hornby returns to his roots - music and messy relationships - in this funny and touching new novel which thoughtfully and sympathetically looks at how lives can be wasted but how they are never beyond redemption. Annie lives in a dull town on England's bleak east coast and is in a relationship with Duncan which mirrors the place; Tucker was once a brilliant songwriter and performer, who's gone into seclusion in rural America - or at least that's what his fans think. Duncan is obsessed with Tucker's work, to the point of derangement, and when Annie dares to go public on her dislike of his latest album, there are quite unexpected, life-changing consequences for all three. Nick Hornby uses this intriguing canvas to explore why it is we so often let the early promise of relationships, ambition and indeed life evaporate. And he comes to some surprisingly optimistic conclusions.

About the Author
Nick Hornby was born in 1957. He has written five previous novels (including the YA novel Slam), two of which have been made into highly successful films - About a Boy and High Fidelity, and three works of non-fiction including the classic Fever Pitch. He recently scripted the immemsely successful film An Education

The Time Traveler's Wife (Paperback) - Audrey Niffenegger

2010-01-22T06:59:00.000+07:00

Some reviews from Amazon.co.uk

Brilliant, moving, original

Bought this after browsing through people's book lists on this site (a great place to find new books!) and finally started reading it yesterday. And finished reading it. It's a massive book so that should give an indication of how much I enjoyed it!

Reading other reviews here should have already given you an idea of the story's content, so I suggest you do what I did and just buy it. I tried not to let myself be too influenced by the reviews here, other than by being convinced that I would enjoy it - and I was right. I really, really enjoyed it and read it on the outward and return journeys on the train (3 hours each way).

The story is highly original and told from the points of view of Clare and Henry at different points in their lives. This is quite confusing at times but you soon get used to it. What's different and intricate is that you're reading the story out of synch, because Henry can exist in different times as he time travels through his own history. This in itself makes for an intriguing read.

But for me - the crux of the story is about love. Call me an old (young actually) romantic but I just loved this aspect of the story. Before you assume anything, I'm not your typical chick-lit reader - in fact I avoid it like the plague - but this is not typical chick-lit. It's so moving and beautifully told that I had to try not to cry on the train, and spent a long time thinking about it after I'd finished.

I know this review doesn't really say much about the plot but that's because I really think you should buy it and read it with an open mind. Prepare to be entertained - you'll laugh, wonder, and probably cry.

One of the best books I've read in ages
By "e_bruton"
This review is from: The Time Traveler's Wife (Hardcover)
At first glance, this book might seem like a gimmick book - the idea of a man who time travels to various parts of his own, his wife's, and other's lifetimes seems like a plot gimmick that won't hold up beyond the first chapter, but it's not! In fact, the whole time-travelling thing is just a vehicle for one of the most moving, tragic love stories I have read in quite a while.

The Time Traveler's Wife tells the intruiging story of Clare and Henry, who meet when Claire is 6 and Henry is 36 but marry when Claire is 20 and Henry 28. It describes in dramatic detail, their unusual meeting, and their lives together and not. Their story is full of up and downs - Clare can never be sure when Henry will disappear next, where to, or when he will come back. This adds a certain fleetingness and intensity to their relationship, particularily the earlier parts. As the book continues, it adds more flesh and detail to the two central characters; their friends, family, and relationships before and after they met each other. This ensures that the characters are well developed and described - not just reflections of each other.

This book is beautifully written, poignant and incredibly moving - I would recommend it highly.

Eat, Pray, Love: One Woman's Search for Everything (Paperback) - Elizabeth Gilbert

2010-01-21T05:21:00.000+07:00

Review
'It's what I'm giving all my girl friends' Julia Roberts 'Every woman should read it' Elle Macpherson 'I adore it' Sophie Dahl 'I loved it ... I could understand her wanting to write the book and her desire to heal' Meg Ryan

New York Times
`If a more likable writer than Gilbert is currently in print, I
haven't found him or her ... irresistible'

The Little Stranger (Paperback) - Sarah Waters

2010-01-21T05:16:00.000+07:00

Review
'It's a gripping story, with beguiling characters ... As well as being a supernatural tale, it is a meditation on the nature of the British and class, and how things are rarely what they seem. Chilling' Kate Mosse, The Times, Summer Read 'Waters writes with a firm, confident hand, deftly building an atmosphere that begins in a still, hot summer and gradually darkens and tightens until we are as gripped by the escalating horror as the Ayres are. She is particularly good at depicting Hundreds, the dilapidated Georgian pile that dazzles ... Waters' persistent picking apart of class is fascinating' Tracy Chevalier, Observer 'By now readers must be confident of her mastery of storytelling ... While at one turn, the novel looks to be a ghost story, the next it is a psychological drama ... But it is also a brilliantly observed story, verging on the comedy, about Britain on the cusp of modern age ... The writing is subtle and poised' Joy lo Dico, Independent on Sunday 'Displaying her remarkable flair for period evocation, Waters recreates backwater Britain just after the Second World War with atmospheric immediacy ... Acute and absorbing' Peter Kemp, Sunday Times 'Waters is often described as a brilliant storyteller, and so she is. But she is also an artist compelled to experiment ... Waters gives herself a sort of handicap with the dull doctor's narration. This indirectness, which in cruder hands might have led to yawning insurrection in the reader, becomes essential to the novels unsettling power' Claudia Fitzherbert, Daily Telegraph 'It would be unfair to reveal very much about The Little Stranger: enough to say that this reader, left along one night in her boxy Seventies ex-council house ? about as unspooky a place as you can image ? had to stop reading for fright. This is an effective, gripping book. Sarah Waters' ability to evoke the 1940s shows the same mastery she displaying in The Night Watch, and her descriptive powers are nearly unparalleled ... Waters has sat herself down in front of a roaring fire and determined to scare the pants off her rightly devoted audience. In that she succeeds unequivocally. You'll want to sleep with the light on' Erica Wagner, The Times 'Alongside episodes of memorable horror, class is the most interesting element of The Little Stranger ... Waters stages a superb depiction of the menace of inanimate objects ... Ambitious and original' Sean O'Brien, TLS 'The horrors are brilliantly orchestrated, and rise effortlessly in scale and explicitness ... Waters knows what she is about, and the novels interests are only partly in the supernatural and the ghost story ... Waters has used the formal and conventional tactics of fiction ? the stiffer, the better ? to examine a read human situation ...The fascination of The Little Stranger lies in its unnerving evocation of place and time. It is a beautiful and expert divertissement' Philip Hensher, Spectator 'Water serves up a truly frightening scene in the deserted nursery ... As I lay in bed after finishing reading it, running the various elements through my mind, a fox screamed outside my window and I nearly had a heart attack' Suzi Feay, Literary Review 'Sarah Waters has, quite singlehandedly, at this late date, renewed the whole genre of the spooky gothic novel. Quite a feat' David Sexton, Evening Standard 'The knowledge that something nasty is around the corner lends the narrative a compelling sense of unease. At the same time, the richness of Waters' writing ensures that the air of thickening dread is very thick indeed ... Waters is a brave writer. The Little Stranger is an engrossing, hugely enjoyable read with set pieces guaranteed to make anyone with a pulse gibber in fright' John Preston, Sunday Telegraph 'Sarah Waters' masterly novel is a perverse hymn to decay, to the corrosive power of class resentment as well as the damage wrought by war ... (Waters has) a perfect understanding of her period ... She deploys the vigour and cunning one finds in Margaret Atwood's fiction, the same narrative ease and expansiveness, and the same knack of twisting the tension tighter and tighter within an individual scene ... The Little Stranger operates in the queasy borderlands between the supernatural and the psychopathological, and it is territory in which Waters moves with an air of supreme ease ... It is gripping, confident, unnerving and supremely entertaining ... Its allusions, its implications softly gather and fold themselves into the space in the mind that the book has made for itself, falling into place with a soft hiss, a rustle like phantom silks' Hilary Mantel, Guardian 'A spine-tingler ... Waters skilfully ratchets up the suspense as events at Hundreds grow ever more highly charged ? even downright chilling' Amber Pearson, Daily Mail 'This is more than a detective and/or ghost story. It is also a study of post-war Britain ... Social document; intriguing detective yarn; chilling ghost story, romance or thriller, The Little Stranger is a marvellous read on so very many levels' Christine Dwyer Hickey, Irish Times

Bioshock 2 - Take 2 Interactive

2010-01-20T21:57:00.000+07:00

Forever Vienna [CD+DVD] - Andre Rieu

2010-01-20T21:53:00.000+07:00

Some reviews from Amazon.co.uk

Andre the Virtuoso - Fantastic!, 30 Dec 2009
By Martin Belcher (Hampshire, United Kingdom)
I saw Andre being interviewed on BBC Breakfast over the Christmas holiday and I couldn't wait to go out and buy his album! I have a passion for anything Strauss and I confess that The Blue Danube by Strauss is one of my all time favourite pieces and never fails to motivate me. Andre Rieu's version is just amazing, passionate and enchanting.

The whole album is gorgeous, filled with uplifting music. Even if you're not a big fan of classical, buy this album, its a CD to cure those winter blues and better than an anti-depressant! Andre you are a brilliant, well done!

PS: It comes with disc two which is a DVD of a concert at the Royal Albert Hall in London - magnificent!

Why so narrow-minded?
By D. H. Johnson (Newcastle upon Tyne UK)
Please do not be put off by biased, narrow-minded criticism of Andre Rieu's music by members of the "establishment" There should be room in music for all tastes and while I myself occasionally enjoy traditional classical music by established orchestras that doesn't mean to say that no-one else has a right to listen to whatever music they wish. Strauss himself played what at the time was popular music for the masses and while I can understand (and would defend) the wish of the "classic purists" for each note to be lovingly preserved, others have a right to disagree. Also is it so bad for the members of the orchestra to be seen to be enjoying their performance rather than sitting like black and white zombies?

I am unashamedly an Andre Rieu fan and very much look forward to the day when he and his orchestra perform at venues around the UK as they do in Europe and the rest of the world.

Do You Want The Truth Or Something Beautiful [CD] - Paloma Faith

2010-01-20T21:48:00.000+07:00

CD Description
Hackney-born 25-year-old singer Paloma Faith has been collecting critical acclaim throughout 2009, and it’s easy to see why. Her songs shine with soulful pop perfection and the unmistakable stamp of her inimitable persona. She draws on influences as diverse as Billie Holiday, Etta James, P J Harvey and Edith Piaf. Like her music, Paloma’s story never fails to thrill. In the lead up to her becoming a singer, she has been a magician’s assistant, trained contemporary dancer, St. Martin’s alumni with an MA in theatre direction, a performer in burlesque shows, and an actress. Paloma wrote her debut album in the UK, Sweden and America and recorded it entirely in London. The album features writing collaborations with Ed Harcourt, Jodi Marr (Mika), Greg Kurstin (Lily Allen, Kylie), Steve Robson (Take That) and Jorgen Elofsson.

Contra - Vampire Weekend

2010-01-18T21:43:00.000+07:00

CD Description
New York City's Vampire Weekend made a huge impact on the indie music scene in early 2008 with the release of their self-titled debut album. Seamlessly blending afro-pop with indie rock, they return with 'Contra', a record bursting with a refreshing enthusiasm for experimentation, forward thinking and, above all, talent. Surf guitar is scattered around the record, while single 'Cousins' shows off the bands liking for up-tempo quirkiness and clever lyrics.