astoria, founded in 2010 by Monica Randi and acquired by Guanda in 2018, champions authors proudly free from the shackles of fleeting trends and with the ability to paint life’s hues with levity, poignancy, and strength. It does so without spatial or temporal constraints, thus rediscovering literary gems that still resonate with the contemporary world and seeking out new, original, and stimulating voices. Its aim is to spark a connection between the hearts and minds of readers and ignite the pleasure of reading.
From the intelligent and ironic mysteries of M.C. Beaton to the refined romantic comedies of Georgette Heyer, from the sharp wit of Dorothy Parker to the intense gaze of Barbara Pym, astoria has consistently cast a discerning eye on the world of women, both reviving unjustly forgotten female authors and looking for new, exhilarating ones. Among the most distinguished astoria authors are: Irene Bignardi, Frances Hodgson Burnett, Margaret Drabble, Annik Emdin, Stella Gibbons, Laura Lanza, Dorothy Strachey, Vita Sackville-West, Margery Sharp, Angela Thirkell, and Dorothy Whipple.