Books in Comic Book History series

Meet more than one hundred of the oddest supervillains in comics history, complete with backstories, vintage art, and colorful commentary.This collection affectionately spotlights the most ridiculous, bizarre, and cringe-worthy criminals ever published, from fandom favorites like MODOK and Egg Fu to forgotten weirdos like Brickbat (choice of weapon: poison bricks) and Animal-Vegetable-Mineral Man. Casual comics readers and diehard enthusiasts alike will relish the hilarious commentary and vintage art from obscure old comics.

In History Comics: The Great Chicago Fire, writer Kate Hannigan and illustrator Alex Graudins tell the true story of how a city rose up from one of the worst catastrophes in American history, and how this disaster forever changed how homes, buildings, and communities are constructed.A deadly blaze engulfs Chicago for two terrifying days! A brother, a sister, and a helpless puupy must race through the city to stay one step ahead of the devilish inferno. But can they reunite with their lost family before it’s too late? With History Comics you can travel back in time to the launchpad at Cape Canaveral, the deserts of the American southwest, the riot at the Stonewall Inn, and beyond! In this new nonfiction graphic novel series from First Second, the past comes alive!

In History Comics: The Roanoke Colony, Chris Schweizer investigates one of America's oldest and most intriguing mysteries.Over a hundred years before the pilgrims, the very first English settlers arrived on Roanoke Island. But without warning, these colonists abandoned their new home and disappeared without a trace.What happened to the colonists? To figure it out, we’ll need to investigate how these missing settlers got to Roanoke in the first place, and what the people already living there thought about these strange foreigners. It’s a case filled with brutal battles, perilous pirate ships, ruthless queens, scheming businessmen, and enough skeletons to fill a graveyard.With History Comics you can travel back in time to the launchpad at Cape Canaveral, the deserts of the American southwest, the riot at the Stonewall Inn, and beyond! In this new nonfiction graphic novel series from First Second, the past comes alive!

In History Comics: The Roanoke Colony, Chris Schweizer investigates one of America's oldest and most intriguing mysteries.Over a hundred years before the pilgrims, the very first English settlers arrived on Roanoke Island. But without warning, these colonists abandoned their new home and disappeared without a trace.What happened to the colonists? To figure it out, we’ll need to investigate how these missing settlers got to Roanoke in the first place, and what the people already living there thought about these strange foreigners. It’s a case filled with brutal battles, perilous pirate ships, ruthless queens, scheming businessmen, and enough skeletons to fill a graveyard.With History Comics you can travel back in time to the launchpad at Cape Canaveral, the deserts of the American southwest, the riot at the Stonewall Inn, and beyond! In this new nonfiction graphic novel series from First Second, the past comes alive!

In History Comics: The Great Chicago Fire, writer Kate Hannigan and illustrator Alex Graudins tell the true story of how a city rose up from one of the worst catastrophes in American history, and how this disaster forever changed how homes, buildings, and communities are constructed.A deadly blaze engulfs Chicago for two terrifying days! A brother, a sister, and a helpless puppy must race through the city to stay one step ahead of the devilish inferno. But can they reunite with their lost family before it’s too late? With History Comics you can travel back in time to the launchpad at Cape Canaveral, the deserts of the American southwest, the riot at the Stonewall Inn, and beyond! In this new nonfiction graphic novel series from First Second, the past comes alive!

"A page-turner . . . This peek behind the walls of the seraglio will seduce lovers of large-scale historical fiction." - BooklistHE COULD HAVE HAD ANY WOMAN IN THE EMPIRE. HE WANTED ONLY ONE. Suleiman the Magnificent ruled an empire of thirty million people; his army conquered all who stood against him; he rebuilt Istanbul in marble and made it one of the greatest cities in the world. In his personal harem he kept three hundred of the empire’s most beautiful women.But his greatest danger lay not outside the walls - but within.Despite its luxury, his harem was virtually a prison. For his concubines, the only way to a better life was to find a way into his bed and bear him a son. But the young Sultan gave all his attention to his favorite, Gulbehar.Until one day, when a new arrival from Russia takes fate into her own hands. She is clever and she is ruthless. And she has a plan to displace her - and become queen.What will happen if he forsakes his harem for the love of just one woman, and marries her in defiance of his pashas, his nation and the centuries-old code of his people?This is the astonishing story of Suleiman, the one they called the Magnificent, and the woman he loved.From medieval Venice to the slave markets of Algiers, from the mountains of Persia to the forbidden seraglio of the Ottoman's greatest sultan, this is a tale of passion and intrigue in a world where nothing is really as it seems.HAREM has been a megaseller right across Europe. It was a runaway hit in Germany and has since been sold into 18 languages.*THIS 2019 EDITION INCLUDES EDITORIAL REVISIONS What readers and reviewers are saying about HAREM"...masterfully written and you find yourself entered into the worlds and lives of the characters. I couldn’t put this book down!! If you enjoy historical fiction, this is of a time, era and culture that I have not seen frequently written about.” Susan L.Carrier *****If you haven’t read one of Colin Falconer’s novels, then I promise you are in for a real roller-coaster ride of never ending intrigue ... a spectacular, haunting tale of malice, obsession, and zeal set in the magnificent Harem of Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent ...” – History and Women "... an epic tale on a grand scale. I could not put it down." - Paul Fields.*****"Fantastic storytelling. loved this. the characters were so real." - Connie B*****DISCOVER MORE COLIN FALCONER HISTORICAL FICTIONCLASSIC HISTORY:Book 1: SILK ROADBook 2: HAREMBook 3: A VAIN AND INDECENT WOMANBook 4: CLEOPATRA: Daughter of the NileBook 5: AZTECBook 6: STIGMATABook 7: EAST INDIABook 8: A GREAT LOVE OF SMALL PROPORTIONISABELLA: Braveheart of France (published by LAKE UNION)20TH CENTURY STORIES:Book 1: ANASTASIABook 2: MY BEAUTIFUL SPYBook 3: SLEEPING WITH THE ENEMYBook 4: LIVE FOR METHE UNKILLABLE KITTY O’KANE (published by LAKE UNION)LOVING LIBERTY LEVINE (published by LAKE UNION)COLIN FALCONER CRIME:VENOMLUCIFER FALLS (published by Little, Brown London)INNOCENCE DIES (published by Little, Brown London)

Let this graphic novel be your time machine! In History Comics, the new nonfiction graphic novel series from First Second, the past comes alive!In History Comics: The Challenger Disaster, we turn the clock back to January 28, 1986. Seven astronauts boarded the space shuttle Challenger on what would be a routine mission. All eyes and cameras were on crew member Christa McAuliffe, a high school teacher, who was set to become the first private citizen in space. Excitement filled the air as the clock counted down to liftoff. But at T-plus seventy-three seconds after launch, the unthinkable happened . . .What caused the midair explosion? In Pranas T. Naujokaitis's imaginative tale, set in a far-off future, a group of curious kids investigate the hard questions surrounding the Challenger explosion. Inspired by the legacy and sacrifice of the Challenger seven, they continue in their footsteps, setting out toward the stars and into the great unknown!

For lovers of classic historical fiction, a sumptuous and enthralling novel about history’s most intriguing queen from internationally bestselling author, Colin Falconer."This is the riveting story of Egypt's last and greatest queen ... creating a vivid portrait of an unforgettable woman who thrived and triumphed in a world ruled by men." - Publishers WeeklyCleopatra is barely more than a girl when she inherits an empire stretching from the scorched deserts of lower Egypt to the shining Mediterranean metropolis of Alexandria, with its famed library and lighthouse.But it is Rome, not Egypt, that rules the world. Her rule is constantly imperilled by court conspiracies and Roman treachery. She survives through her alliances with the great Julius Caesar, a wily politician and battle-hardened general with a weakness for women; and the charismatic but reckless Marc Antony. The love affair between Antony and Cleopatra remains one of the ancient world's greatest love affairs. But when the tide finally turns against her, she plots a last, spectacular manoeuvre to save her children and her empire. Perfect for fans of Margaret George, Colleen McCullough and Wilbur Smith.Cleopatra was originally published in the US as When We Were Gods, and has since been translated into seven languages. It was a bestseller in Brazil, Australia and Germany.*THIS 2019 EDITION INCLUDES EDITORIAL REVISIONS What reviewers are saying about CLEOPATRA, Daughter of the Nile“Falconer’s Cleopatra is vulnerable, intelligent and liberated, defined by her wit as much as her beauty.” - Publishers Weekly"A wonderful story … not just a rehash of history but rather a refreshing look at this clever and charismatic leader … pulsating with the passion of a woman." – Womens Weekly Book of the Month“Makes dry history into a real rip-roaring read. In Falconer’s hands, Cleopatra is a smart, sexy and sassy heroine.” - Australian Womens Forum Book of the Month“Spectacular historical fiction blazing with intrigue, romance and dramatic action." – Booklist"Falconer paints an enthralling fictional portrait of the one of the most powerful and beguiling women of all ages.’ - Margaret Flanagan, American Library AssociationDISCOVER MORE COLIN FALCONER HISTORICAL FICTIONCLASSIC HISTORY:Book 1: SILK ROADBook 2: HAREMBook 3: A VAIN AND INDECENT WOMANBook 4: CLEOPATRA: Daughter of the NileBook 5: AZTECBook 6: STIGMATABook 7: EAST INDIABook 8: A GREAT LOVE OF SMALL PROPORTIONISABELLA: Braveheart of France (published by LAKE UNION)20TH CENTURY STORIES:Book 1: ANASTASIABook 2: MY BEAUTIFUL SPYBook 3: SLEEPING WITH THE ENEMYBook 4: LIVE FOR METHE UNKILLABLE KITTY O’KANE (published by LAKE UNION)LOVING LIBERTY LEVINE (published by LAKE UNION)COLIN FALCONER CRIME:VENOMLUCIFER FALLS (published by Little, Brown London)INNOCENCE DIES (published by Little, Brown London)

For lovers of epic historical fiction, a novel in the tradition of Conn Iggulden, Wilbur Smith and Bernard Cornwell from internationally bestselling author, Colin Falconer.FIVE HUNDRED MEN AGAINST AN ARMY OF ONE MILLION WARRIORS. ONE WOMAN THREW THE ODDS IN THEIR FAVOUR Hernan Cortes is sent with a handful of men to explore the new lands to the west of Cuba. His orders: go no further than the beach and report back.But though penniless and landless Cortes knew he was destined to be a king. All he needed was a country. He takes prisoner a young Mayan princess, Malinali. Her father was murdered by the country’s overlords, the Aztecs. What she wanted was – revenge.Their meeting changes the course of Mexican history.She becomes Cortes’ lover, devoting herself to the man she believes to be a living god. And she shows him how to achieve the impossible – but at what cost?‘AZTEC’ IS A STORY OF IMPOSSIBLE ODDS, UNIMAGINABLE CRUELTY, BREATH-TAKING COURAGE AND RUTHLESS GENIUS, AN ADVENTURE THAT STILL RESONATES THROUGHOUT HISTORY.The legendary Aztec civilization is here brought to life in blazing color, as the author traces the story of one of the most extraordinary love affairs of history.While Cortes is all but forgotten in the country he conquered, the controversy about Malinali - la Malinche - rages even today; when 'Aztec' was published in Mexico, it spent four months on the bestseller lists.What readers are saying about AZTEC“A fast-paced read, Aztec fascinated me from start to finish. As with all of Colin Falconer’s novels, his characters have depth and credibility, moving the story forward through their often unpredictable actions. His work takes the reader through a never-ending labyrinth of twists and turns that grips and entertains. Get this book. It is a magnificent piece of work!” History and Women *****“Once you read Colin Falconer, you’ll want to read everything he has ever written.” Crystal Book Reviews.DISCOVER MORE COLIN FALCONER HISTORICAL FICTIONCLASSIC HISTORY:Book 1: SILK ROADBook 2: HAREMBook 3: A VAIN AND INDECENT WOMANBook 4: CLEOPATRA: Daughter of the NileBook 5: AZTECBook 6: STIGMATABook 7: EAST INDIABook 8: A GREAT LOVE OF SMALL PROPORTIONISABELLA: Braveheart of France (published by LAKE UNION)20TH CENTURY STORIES:Book 1: ANASTASIABook 2: MY BEAUTIFUL SPYBook 3: SLEEPING WITH THE ENEMYBook 4: LIVE FOR METHE UNKILLABLE KITTY O’KANE (published by LAKE UNION)LOVING LIBERTY LEVINE (published by LAKE UNION)COLIN FALCONER CRIME:VENOMLUCIFER FALLS (published by Little, Brown London)INNOCENCE DIES (published by Little, Brown London)

For lovers of epic historical fiction, a novel in the tradition of Shogun, Hawaii and River God.'A magisterial tale.' - UK Daily MailA templar knight, on an impossible embassy from the Holy Island to the legendary X’anadu. The mission: to save Europe from the Mongol horde.The Holy Land, 1260. Josseran Sarrazini is chosen to escort the Pope’s emissary to meet Khubilai Khan and make a peace that will turn back the Tatar invasion threatening all Christendom.To do it he must do what no other Christian has done – travel the Silk Road, from Palestine, across the endless deserts of Persia, through the black hurricanes of the Taklimakan, over the Roof of the World to Cathay – China.Death invites at every turn. The emissary, a fanatical Dominican priest, hinders every move he makes. And then there is the Tatar princess, and her gift for prophesy, who tells him that he is fated never to return homer What is it that waits for him at the end of the journey – death, or love?From the Storehouse of Winds to the Palace of Myriad Tranquilities, over the Pamirs and Hindu Kush to the legendary Shang’tu and the dazzling court of Khublai Khan. This is romance and adventure on a breath-taking scale. Perfect for fans of Clavell, Michener and Follett.From internationally bestselling author Colin Falconer, SILK ROAD has so far been translated into eight languages and has topped bestseller lists in Germany and Spain. This is historical fiction that will keep yout turning pages.What reviewers are saying about 'Silk Road'.“It’s wonderfully written, the characters gripping and with an epic story to unfurl within, it’s one that keeps you going from the start to the end.” – Falcatta Times.“A rich tale covering an iconic route within a tumultuous historical period, told in a lively and engaging voice. Thoroughly recommended.’ - Bookbag"...provides action, romance, and beautifully descriptive writing by the cartload." – Des Greene, Novel Suggestions“It is living history at its best, fictionalized yet immensely believable.’ - Alan Gold, Good Reading."With several twists to keep the reader engaged until the very last, Silk Road is sure to find its way onto the bookshelves of lovers of a thrilling tale.” – Liverpool Daily Post (UK)"Utterly absorbing and captivating!” – Mirella Patzer, History and WomenDISCOVER MORE COLIN FALCONER HISTORICAL FICTIONCLASSIC HISTORY:Book 1: SILK ROADBook 2: HAREMBook 3: A VAIN AND INDECENT WOMANBook 4: CLEOPATRA: Daughter of the NileBook 5: AZTECBook 6: STIGMATABook 7: EAST INDIABook 8: A GREAT LOVE OF SMALL PROPORTIONISABELLA: Braveheart of France (published by LAKE UNION)20TH CENTURY STORIES:Book 1: ANASTASIABook 2: MY BEAUTIFUL SPYBook 3: SLEEPING WITH THE ENEMYBook 4: LIVE FOR METHE UNKILLABLE KITTY O’KANE (published by LAKE UNION)LOVING LIBERTY LEVINE (published by LAKE UNION)COLIN FALCONER CRIME:VENOMLUCIFER FALLS (published by Little, Brown London)INNOCENCE DIES (published by Little, Brown London)

A medieval romance set in Seville and the last days of the Alhambra from internationally bestselling author, Colin Falconer.Diego Sanchis is Seville's most famous painter; his glorious art fills every church in the famous city. But for all the beauty in his soul, Diego himself is no oil painting. He sees beauty everywhere, but what beauty will ever look at him?Until one day he is asked to take on a new student.Mercedes Goncalvez is the most desired young woman in the city, and her father is rich and powerful. They are so utterly different – but they discover their souls are the same.But these are dangerous days to defy convention. Beyond the dungeons of the Inquisition, to overcome betrayal and torture; even as the Christian cannons are turned towards the heavenly gardens of the Alhambra, can Diego and Mercedes cling to true beauty among the ashes of last hope?A story of love, art and genius, perfect for fans of Philippa Gregory and Alison Weir“History and romance combine in this highly entertaining novel. I fell in love with Diego and his biting sarcasm and propensity to be bluntly honest. He is real, loveable, and easy to sympathize with. Likewise is Mercedes who struggles to break through the norms of the era to become an artist by her own right. Another winning novel by Colin Falconer that is filled with wit and suspense! Beautifully rendered and highly recommended!” History and Women *****DISCOVER MORE COLIN FALCONER HISTORICAL FICTIONCLASSIC HISTORY:Book 1: SILK ROADBook 2: HAREMBook 3: A VAIN AND INDECENT WOMANBook 4: CLEOPATRA: Daughter of the NileBook 5: AZTECBook 6: STIGMATABook 7: EAST INDIABook 8: A GREAT LOVE OF SMALL PROPORTIONISABELLA: Braveheart of France (published by LAKE UNION)20TH CENTURY STORIES:Book 1: ANASTASIABook 2: MY BEAUTIFUL SPYBook 3: SLEEPING WITH THE ENEMYBook 4: LIVE FOR METHE UNKILLABLE KITTY O’KANE (published by LAKE UNION)LOVING LIBERTY LEVINE (published by LAKE UNION)COLIN FALCONER CRIME:VENOMLUCIFER FALLS (published by Little, Brown London)INNOCENCE DIES (published by Little, Brown London)

Turn back the clock with History Comics, First Second's new nonfiction graphic novel series! In this volume The Wild Mustang written by Chris Duffy, featuring illustrations by Falynn Koch, learn how wild mustangs were first introduced to America and how they still roam free today.On the North American plains, wild mustangs have roamed for generations . . . shaping human history and struggling to survive it. For the Spanish, they were a tool of conquest. For Native Americans, they brought on a new way of life where horsemanship and horse-trading were central. And for the entire world, wild mustangs became a renowned wonder of the American West. There are still thousands of mustangs in the wild today, but they struggle to survive in an ever-changing landscape and their future is by no means guaranteed.