Ross is one of literature's great heroes . . . [with] elements of Darcy, Heathcliff, Rhett Butler and Robin Hood -- Debbie Horsfield

Ross Poldark is the first novel in Winston Graham's hugely popular Poldark series, which has become a television phenomenon starring Aidan Turner. Cornwall in the 1780s - when powerful forces of revolution and reaction are at large in the world. Tired from a grim war in America, Ross Poldark returns to his land and his family. But the joyful homecoming he has anticipated turns sour, for his father is dead, his estate is derelict and the girl he loves is engaged to his cousin. But his sympathy for the destitute miners and farmers of the district leads him to rescue a half-starved urchin girl from a fairground brawl and take her home - an act which alters the whole course of his life . . . Ross Poldark is followed by Demelza, the second novel in this evocative series set in 18th century Cornwall. 'From the incomparable Winston Graham . . . who has everything that anyone else has, then a whole lot more' Guardian