Author
Rhoda Broughton
1840-1920
Rhoda Broughton (1840-1920) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Rhoda Broughton
Doctor Cupid: A Novel
"Doctor Cupid: A Novel" by Rhoda Broughton is a work of fiction likely written in the late 19th century. This novel introduces readers to the lives of the Lambton sisters, especially focusing on Peggy and Prue, who navigate their experiences and interactions while living in a small residence in the shadows of a larger estate. The themes of social observation, youthful aspirations, and romantic entanglements appear to be at the forefront of this narrative. At the start of the story, we are immersed in the charming yet complicated world of the two sisters and their reflections on life within the constraints of societal expectations and personal desires. The opening section features their wry assessments of what they owe to the "Big House"—the larger estate nearby—and the culture around them. Through playful dialogue, we see the sisters' personalities come to life, with Peggy displaying a blend of practicality and introspection, while Prue embodies youthful exuberance. This charming glimpse into their lives sets the stage for a narrative filled with humor, growing pains, and the pursuit of love, making it a compelling read for those intrigued by societal norms and the intricacies of relationships in a bygone era.
Red as a Rose is She: A Novel
"Red as a Rose is She: A Novel" by Rhoda Broughton is a romantic novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the lives and loves of characters in a Welsh valley, with a particular focus on Esther Craven, a young woman navigating the complexities of affection and societal expectations. As the narrative begins, readers are invited into the lives of Esther and those around her, exploring themes of love, desire, and the trials of youth. At the start of the novel, the author sets the stage with a charming and humorous tone, introducing Esther Craven, who reflects on life in Wales and her recent proposal from Robert Brandon, a local suitor. Although initially taken aback, she navigates her feelings with a mix of amusement and irritation, revealing her strong attachment to her brother Jack. The dialogue showcases Esther's wit and reluctance toward traditional romance, as she enjoys the freedom of her young adulthood while grappling with the expectations of love. This opening chapter establishes a light-hearted yet poignant exploration of romance and character dynamics, engaging readers to ponder Esther's journey ahead.
Alas! A Novel
"Alas! A Novel" by Rhoda Broughton is a work of fiction written in the late 19th century. The narrative introduces the readers to James Burgoyne, who is drawn into a complicated social situation involving his college friend and an unexpected encounter with figures from his past, particularly a woman named Elizabeth Le Marchant. The story seems to explore themes of memory, nostalgia, and the emotional challenges of rekindling connections after years apart. The opening of the novel sets the stage on a wet night in Oxford, where Burgoyne reluctantly attends an event for the "Oxford Women's Provident Association" at the request of his friend. While his friend reads aloud from a Charles Dickens work, Burgoyne's mind drifts to his own past, specifically a mysterious woman whose face he recognizes but whose identity eludes him. As the evening unfolds, the reader senses Burgoyne's internal struggles with his past relationships, the melancholy of lost years, and the anticipation of what may come next when he finally identifies Elizabeth. The narrative expertly blends elements of comedy and pathos, offering a glimpse of the character's emotional depth and setting the tone for the relationships that will evolve throughout the story.
Nancy: A Novel
"Nancy: A Novel" by Rhoda Broughton is a work of fiction written in the late 19th century. The novel introduces the reader to the lives of the Grey family, particularly focusing on Nancy, who navigates the trials of family dynamics and the complexities of youthful relationships, all while facing the reality of her potential match with the elderly Sir Roger Tempest, a family friend. At the start of the story, we are thrust into the lively household of the Greys, where Nancy and her siblings engage in a chaotic yet heartwarming scene as they attempt to make taffy in their schoolroom. Through playful banter, personality clashes, and a mix of earnestness and humor, the reader gets a glimpse of the family’s dynamics. The arrival of Sir Roger Tempest introduces an element of tension and curiosity, as Nancy grapples with the implications of their relationship and her feelings toward him, setting the stage for her inner conflict regarding marrying a much older man who was once a contemporary of her father. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for a tale filled with humor, family antics, and the exploration of love across generations.
Tales for Christmas Eve
"Tales for Christmas Eve" by Rhoda Broughton is a collection of stories written in the late 19th century. The opening portion introduces readers to a lively exchange of letters between two friends, Mrs. De Wynt and Mrs. Montresor, as they navigate social situations in London and hint at supernatural elements. The discussions revolve around their experiences in a new residence and the eerie happenings associated with the house, setting a tone that combines humor with a hint of suspense. At the start of the collection, the characters exchange letters filled with anecdotal observations and personal woes. Mrs. De Wynt eagerly finds a beautiful but suspiciously cheap home for her friend and her husband, while Mrs. Montresor recounts chilling occurrences that suggest their new dwelling may be haunted. The main tension builds around the haunting implications of the house when one of the characters experiences a supernatural phenomenon, leaving her in utter distress. This opening effectively sets the stage for a blend of light-hearted communication and an underlying sense of dread, alluring readers who enjoy a combination of wit and the supernatural.
A waif's progress
"A Waif's Progress" by Rhoda Broughton is a Victorian novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young woman, Bonnybell Ransome, who finds herself in a precarious situation after the death of her mother, Claire. Without a family to turn to, she becomes thrust into the lives of the Tancred family, dealing with issues of class, morality, and the complexities of human relationships. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to the Tancred couple, who engage in a witty, yet somewhat strained, breakfast conversation about Bonnybell's arrival. Through their dialogue, we learn about Bonnybell's past, including the dubious reputation of her mother and her own uncertain future. Mr. and Mrs. Tancred exhibit a mix of curiosity and reluctance as they consider the moral implications of taking Bonnybell into their home. This sets the stage for a story that will explore themes of redemption, the social dynamics of the period, and the struggles faced by a young woman navigating a world laden with judgment and assumptions.
Lavinia
"Lavinia" by Rhoda Broughton is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Lavinia Carew and the tumultuous relationships she navigates with her friends and family, particularly concerning Féodorovna Prince's unorthodox declaration of love to a general, which stirs scandal and intrigue. The book explores themes of love, societal expectations, and the complexities of female friendships within a historical setting. At the start of the novel, Lavinia visits her friend Mrs. Prince, who is in distress over her daughter Féo's recent actions. Féo has boldly professed her love to a general, and the conversation unfolds with Lavinia and Mrs. Prince grappling with the embarrassment and societal implications of Féo's behavior. The dialogue reveals insights into Lavinia's character as someone who balances sympathy with a deep-seated incredulity at Féo's pursuit of the general. The mix of excitement and dread about Féo's unconventionality sets the stage for a broader exploration of love and reputation that promises to weave a complex web of social dynamics throughout the story.