Employing a wide range of scholarly approaches, such as reception studies, feminist studies, racial studies and posthumanism studies, this volume examines the classical influence on the character of Wonder Woman. In particular, the contributors look at the cultural phenomenon of this female superhero across comic books and film. The result is an in-depth study that examines the influence ancient Greek mythology has on popular culture and, reversely, how modern media shapes contemporary views of the ancient Mediterranean world. Introduced to the world via Sensation Comics in 1941, Wonder Woman remains one of the most identifiable superheroes today, and her narratives that frequently involve love, inclusion and empathy continue to speak to readers and viewers around the world. Engaging with her long and complex history, the chapters examine the history of this influential character and her associates, alongside her relevance within the field of classical reception, and her gender identity. As such, this book presents Wonder Woman as the complex heroine that she is, and one who has both influenced and been influenced by our understanding of the ancient world.

A policeman's wife dies in an unexplained fall from her flat. As journalist Cherry Magraw digs deeper, whistleblowing, corruption and her own past are exposed in this gripping crime thriller. The second Cherry Magraw novel picks up the story on from her near death clifftop chase in Between The Lies. Recurring themes of deceit and domestic abuse remain at the heart of Cherry's fearless reporting, this time leading her into the centre of the very organisation who should be policing the crime.

This book analyzes blockchain in the metaverse ecosystem and its future, starting with clear definitions of AI, blockchain, and Metaverse. It discusses the evolution of the blockchain and addresses government involvement, virtual real estate, and emerging security concerns.

A playfully macabre and utterly thrilling tale about orphaned twins on the run from their murderous uncle who find refuge in a bizarre travelling carnival, from one of the masters of literary horror It's 1915 and the world is transforming, but for thirteen-year-old Bolt and Eleanor-twins so close they can literally read each other's minds-life is falling apart. When their mother dies, they are forced to leave home under the care of a vicious con man who claims he's their long-lost uncle Charlie, the only kin they have left. When, during a late-night poker game, one of his rages ends in murder, they decide to flee.Salvation arrives in the form of Mr. Jengling, founder of the Emporium of Wonders, and father to its many members. He adopts Bolt and Eleanor, and the twins travel by train across the vast, sometimes brutal American frontier with their new family, watching as the exhibitions spark amazement wherever they go. There's Minnie the three-legged lady, and Dr. Chui who stands over seven feet tall; Thistle Britches, the clown with no nose, and Rosalie, who can foretell the death of anyone she meets. After a lifetime of having only each other, Eleanor and Bolt are finally part of something bigger. But as Bolt falls in deeper with their new clan, he finds Eleanor pulling further away from him. And when Uncle Charlie picks up their trail, the twins find themselves facing a peril as strange as it is terrifying, one which will forever alter the trajectory of their lives.An ode to the misfits and the marginalized, One of Us is a riotous and singularly creepy celebration of the strange and the spectacular and of family in its many forms.

This open access book provides a Mediterranean perspective on digital societies, focusing on core issues such as cultural heritage, tourism, smart city development, migration, humanitarian action management, maritime security, health data sharing, and the Mediterranean data space. The Mediterranean Sea is not just a geographical place; it is a crossroads of cultures, economies, and political trends which are now intertwined with data-driven technologies. Neither a national nor an EU versus non-EU perspective can fully grasp the variety and complexity of the resulting space and legal issues. This book takes a multidisciplinary approach to Mediterranean digital societies by analysing the legal, societal, and technical dimensions of the Mediterranean digital environment, with contributions by scholars and experts in this area. The book is a key resource for scholars who want to better understand these under-explored topics and do so from a Mediterranean, rather than an EU-centric perspective. It also supports policy makers designing their digital strategies - both sectoral and general - in the Mediterranean region, and considering the impact of data-driven technologies on society and their geo-political dimension.The ebook editions of this book are available open access under a CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 licence on bloomsburycollections.com.

This book provides the first in-depth scholarly analysis of fraud, the highest volume crime in England and Wales, addressing the challenges faced in building a principled criminal law response by presenting an innovative normative analysis. The UK is now in a pandemic of fraud. There were 4.6 million fraud offences recorded in the year ending March 2021, accounting for 42% of all crime committed against individuals. Fraud is now the highest volume crime in England and Wales; its incidence in the first half of 2021 was described by UK Finance as a 'national security threat'. The book provides the answers to key questions, such as: - How can the rapidly changing nature of fraud be understood and mapped by criminal lawyers? - How does fraud connect to economic crime more broadly? - Is the current landscape for criminalising fraud fit for purpose, in the light of changes to the nature and complexity of wrongdoing? - What are the principled limits to using Artificial Intelligence technologies to detect and to penalise fraud? - Which principles should inform fraud criminalisation and governance following the COVID-19 pandemic, to meet the challenges of a digital age and a stretched criminal justice system?

Nature wants to heal, and we are finally understanding the best ways to help.We know that when Earth's ecosystems fall out of harmony, the damage can spiral out of control. But what if we could help nature to regain its balance?As a leading ecologist, Professor Thomas Crowther studies not just how species work individually but how whole complex ecosystems work to regulate themselves. When we set the right conditions for nature to thrive, each species helps to support the life of every other species. This means not just planting trees, but taking into account the fascinating role of fungi and soil bacteria, as well as the free movement of wild animals.By revealing how the feedback loops that generate sustainable ecosystems give rise to the stars, planets, and life; economic inequality and privilege; and the way we see the world, Restore shows how we can do our part so that nature can begin the vital process of healing itself.

A love that cannot be strangled by the rubber tube of an enema bulb is immortal.Bookish and idealistic Vladimir is tormented with love for Olga; he brings her flowers when other men bring her flour and millet. Olga eventually agrees to marry him, as her building's central heating will be out of service all winter and at least with two in the bed they'll be warmer. When she decides she'd like to serve the revolution, he introduces her to his brother Sergei, a Bolshevik who manages the waterways. Thus begins an excruciating love triangle, measured in ration coupons and black market goods.Described by the poet Joseph Brodsky as "one of the most innovative novels in Russian literature," Mariengof's Cynics is a pitch-black comedy set during the wild and savage years of War Communism and the New Economic Policy. Cinematic in its style and collagist in its aesthetic, it establishes Marienhof as a true formal radical. It is a bawdy, savage, lavishly emotional portrayal of working for the revolution (and trying to ignore it)

Exclusive Cruises by Kiki Baron showcases 25 luxurious cruise routes worldwide, featuring detailed insights into unique suites, amenities, and harbor recommendations, making it an inspiring guide for both seasoned travelers and first-time cruisers seeking an elegant way to explore the world.Exclusive Cruises takes you into the world of the most beautiful and luxurious cruises worldwide. In this book, the experienced journalist and sailor's daughter Kiki Baron presents 25 fascinating routes that take extraordinary ships around the globe - from the majestic ocean liners of the Cunard Line to the exclusive yachts of Explora. Each chapter offers detailed insights into the unique suites, luxurious amenities and special offers on board. All rounded off with exclusive tips on the best harbors to visit during the voyage - from the historic coastal cities of Europe to the exotic islands of the Pacific. Exclusive Cruises is not just an illustrated book, but a source of inspiration for anyone who wants to explore the world in an elegant way. Aimed at both experienced cruise lovers and those planning their first trip at sea, the book offers a wealth of information and inspiration for an unforgettable experience on the high seas.

Affirmations for Artists is designed to inspire and motivate creatives on their artistic journey. Combining powerful affirmations with reflective prompts and resonant quotations, it offers readers the chance to reconnect with their creative essence and reinforce their unique visions.Each affirmation is crafted to cultivate confidence, banish self-doubt, and renew a sense of purpose, helping artists of all mediums—painters, writers, musicians, craftspeople—to overcome creative blocks and embrace their work with resilience and joy. Readers receive a wellspring of inspiration through these intentional, carefully-crafted affirmations that can be used for daily renewal and positive focus.The book addresses core artistic challenges, like managing rejection, cultivating discipline, and discovering self-worth beyond external validation. Readers are encouraged to pause, absorb each affirmation, and consider how it resonates with their current journey.Accompanied by inspirational quotes and thoughtful exercises, Affirmations for Artists is an empowering resource for both seasoned creatives and those just beginning to explore their potential. With regular use, artists can cultivate a mindset of positivity and possibility, transforming their doubts into fuel for growth and exploration.This book is a classic companion on the journey to fully realizing creative potential—supporting artists not only in what they create but in the courage that it takes to keep creating. Each affirmation speaks to the heart of an artist’s experience, from the thrill of creation to the vulnerability of self-expression, making this powerful book a transformative tool for anyone engaged in the creative process.

Once the hammer comes down, there's no getting out...

Moving beyond perpetrator-centred questions, this open access book explores how everyday objects such as kitchen knives and vans become lethal weapons, and how a new materialist approach can further our understanding of terror events and could be used to prevent future violence. Despite varied restrictions, explosives, guns, knives, and vehicles are readily available and kill thousands of people every year, yet thus far have played a marginal role in publications in security and terrorism studies. Katharina Karcher approaches terrorism as a 'material-discursive' phenomenon that comes into being through repeated boundary-drawing practices involving both human and non-human agencies. Case studies from across Europe, the US and the Middle East offer critical insights into the material and cultural evolution of the objects involved in mass shootings, suicide bombings, stabbings, and vehicle rammings. Drawing on data from court files, press coverage and interviews, this study offers the first in depth analysis of the material and discursive practices that create terrorist weapons, and that exclude other objects from this category. Karcher also shows how educational campaigns and policy measures that consider the agency of objects and promote a more-than-human ethic of care can be used to save lives beyond the contentious area of counter-terrorism.The eBook editions of this book are available open access under a CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 licence on bloomsburycollections.com.

The twentieth-century masterpiece, the authoritative new edition.

From actor and writer Felcicia Day, a sapphic graphic novel about the forgotten sister of Helen of Troy, for fans of Lore Olympus and Girl Goddess Queen.​ Helen. Clytemnestra. Timandra. Three famous sisters and one shared curse – that each will betray their husband.​ As the youngest sister, Philonoe is desperate not to follows in their footsteps. After pleading with the gods, Philonoe is sent on a quest by Aphrodite, to retrieve three impossible objects. She's expecting battle, but instead encounters women who have already lost everything to the gods. Every step of the way she’s accompanied by Artemis, who doesn’t understand exactly why she’s so drawn to Philonoe’s quest. Will Philonoe become a victim of her own fate, or does she have the power to change it?

The stunning new novel from the author of Lives Like Mine and In Bloom, Them Girls is raw, bold and immediate and deals with themes of identity, class and the corruption of power, in particular in the music industry.