Jabez's rise to commercial success mirrors the rise of the city at the heart of the industrial revolution. Mrs George Linnaeus Banks (nee Isabella Varley) weaves a web of historical fact and fiction in a fast-paced story built around the rivalry between the Jabez and his nemesis Laurence Aspinall, and the fate of Augusta Ashton, who is loved by both but loves only one. An entertaining fictional journey through the early 19th century history of the city of Manchester, the book also has serious points to make about women's choices and domestic violence. (Summary by Phil Benson)

    First published in the 1870s, this guidebook offers essential advice for men on how to heighten and maintain their appearances, and allow modern readers to glimpse a bygone era. The Gentleman’s Art of Dressing, with Economy takes readers back to fashionable London West End clubs in Piccadilly and Pall Mall where appearance was everything. From there, the author distills the essential characteristics of true gentlemanly dress into practical advice on achieving the same look on a less generous budget. Consideration is given to dealing with a wet top hat, as well as to the enduring importance of caring for high-quality clothes.