Author
Mary Cholmondeley
1859-1925
Mary Cholmondeley (1859-1925) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Mary Cholmondeley
The Danvers Jewels, and Sir Charles Danvers
"The Danvers Jewels, and Sir Charles Danvers" by Mary Cholmondeley is a novel written in the late 19th century. This tale combines elements of adventure and mystery, centering on Colonel Middleton, who is entrusted with a substantial legacy of jewels left to a young man named Ralph Danvers after the death of a notorious figure, Sir John. As Middleton navigates the intriguing world of the Danvers family, the story promises to explore themes of trust, inheritance, and the consequences of past actions. The opening of the novel introduces Colonel Middleton as he prepares to leave India, only to be summoned by the ailing Sir John who entrusts him with a bag of exquisite jewels and surprising backstory. After Sir John's untimely death, which is revealed to be a murder, Middleton embarks on a journey to England, burdened not only with the jewels but also with the weight of the mystery surrounding them. He encounters members of the Danvers family and also befriends a young American named Carr. The opening sets the stage for a compelling narrative of intrigue, as dark secrets and unexpected events unfold in the backdrop of familial relationships and societal expectations.
Prisoners: Fast Bound In Misery And Iron
"Prisoners: Fast Bound In Misery And Iron" by Mary Cholmondeley is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Fay, the Duchess of Colle Alto, a young Englishwoman living in Italy, grappling with both marriage and forbidden love. As she navigates her feelings for her husband and her cousin Michael, who returns to her life after years apart, she finds herself embroiled in a tragic situation that tests her loyalty and desires. The opening of the novel introduces Fay as she stands on her balcony overlooking Rome, consumed by thoughts of Michael. Despite her outward charm and innocence, she is trapped in a marriage that is failing to meet her emotional needs. As Michael re-enters her life, old feelings awaken, complicating her situation further. The narrative adeptly reveals Fay's inner conflict and her struggle between societal expectations and personal happiness, setting the stage for the melodrama that is to unfold. The tension between love, duty, and the consequences of societal norms are likely to play a significant role as the story progresses.
Red Pottage
"Red Pottage" by Mary Cholmondeley is a novel published in 1899. The story follows two friends navigating Victorian society's constraints: Rachel, a wealthy heiress who falls for a man with a hidden past, and Hester, a novelist whose writing ambitions clash with her clergyman brother's rigid disapproval. Their intertwined stories explore forbidden love, artistic suppression, and the consequences of secrets. The novel sparked scandal upon publication for its frank treatment of adultery, women's independence, and satirical portrayal of the clergy.
Notwithstanding
"Notwithstanding" by Mary Cholmondeley is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Annette, a young woman at a crossroads in her life, who grapples with despair following a betrayal by a man she loved. The novel explores themes of personal growth, love, and the struggle between hope and despair as Annette navigates her tumultuous emotions and the people around her. The opening of "Notwithstanding" introduces Annette as she stands on the Pont Neuf in Paris, contemplating her life and contemplating suicide due to her emotional turmoil. As she gazes at the turbulent Seine, her anger is palpable and she reflects on a past filled with passionate moments that have left her fragmented. A chance encounter with Dick Le Geyt, a carefree young Englishman, leads to a whirlwind decision to leave her pain behind and seek solace in Fontainebleau. However, the journey turns chaotic when Dick falls ill, forcing Annette to confront the repercussions of her earlier decisions while revealing deeper layers of her character and the resilience she will need to navigate her future.
The Romance of His Life, and Other Romances
"The Romance of His Life, and Other Romances" by Mary Cholmondeley is a collection of stories written in the early 20th century. The work begins with an exploration of the titular story, which centers around the character of Maitland, a professor who is depicted as somewhat pompous and self-involved, and whose interactions with those around him lead to unexpected romantic complications. Through the narrative, the themes of love, deception, and human folly play out against the backdrop of academic life. The opening of the book introduces us to the world of an academic setting, where young men discuss relationships while encountering Maitland, an older, self-important lecturer. The protagonist reflects on how Maitland's obliviousness and misguided self-confidence create ripples of humor and distress in the lives of those around him. As the characters navigate their interactions, their true feelings become entangled, reminiscent of classic romantic entanglements, resulting in misunderstandings and societal critiques. The beginning sets the tone for a humorous yet insightful exploration of affection, ambition, and the folly that comes with both.
The Lowest Rung Together with The Hand on the Latch, St. Luke's Summer and The Understudy
"The Lowest Rung" by Mary Cholmondeley is a fictional narrative written during the early 20th century. The work explores themes of social class and human connection through the experiences of an unnamed female protagonist who unexpectedly becomes entangled with a woman, suspected to be an escaped convict. The opening sets the stage for a poignant exploration of kindness, assumptions about morality, and the complexities of personal identity." "At the start of the story, the protagonist, a sensitive and artistic woman, is compelled to venture outdoors amidst a storm, seeking inspiration for her writing. During this excursion, she encounters a mysterious figure who reveals herself to be a fugitive in tattered clothing. Despite her initial fears and societal judgment, the protagonist chooses empathy and offers refuge to this woman, signifying her moral conflict between societal norms and her desire to help. This chance meeting leads to an intimate dialogue where the fugitive recounts her tragic past, highlighting struggles linked to addiction and exile, ultimately allowing for a deeper exploration of both characters' lives."
Moth and Rust; Together with Geoffrey's Wife and The Pitfall
"Moth and Rust; Together with Geoffrey's Wife and The Pitfall" by Mary Cholmondeley is a collection of stories written in the early 20th century. The work features themes of social class, relationships, and the various perceptions of wealth and morality through the lives of its characters. The central figure, Janet Black, is portrayed as a young woman of notable beauty and a complex character, navigating societal expectations and her romantic entanglements within the context of a traditional English setting. The opening of this collection introduces us to a village church service where the vicar's sermon resonates with the congregation, highlighting the contrast between their simple lives and the affluent Squire's family seated nearby. Janet, engaged to George Trefusis, is depicted as beautiful yet self-conscious about her social standing, particularly in relation to George's family. Their courtship, portrayed with innocence and quiet reflection, sets the stage for the tensions that arise from class differences and societal expectations. As the narrative unfolds, we see early glimpses of Janet's struggles to fit into George's world, alongside the conflicting views of those around her, including the elder Trefusis family members who harbor their own judgments about her background and worthiness. This rich tapestry of personal and social dynamics draws the reader into a story that promises to explore love, class, and identity.
Diana Tempest, Volume I
"Diana Tempest, Volume I" by Mary Cholmondeley is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Colonel Tempest, who, along with his son Archie, embarks on a journey to their ancestral home, Overleigh, to visit his dying brother. As Colonel Tempest reflects on his tumultuous past, particularly his estrangement from his brother over a woman, the narrative delves into themes of memory, familial ties, abandonment, and the complex nature of love. The opening of the novel paints a vivid picture of Colonel Tempest and his son in a train carriage on a cold April morning. As they travel, the Colonel is preoccupied with memories of his marital woes and the fallout from his choice to marry for love rather than family sentiment. He recalls the happy yet fleeting moments with his late wife, Di, and their troubled marriage that ultimately led to estrangement. The narrative swiftly shifts to the present, where the Colonel's internal struggles manifest as he anticipates a difficult reunion with his brother. This initial chapter sets the stage for the exploration of regret and the weight of familial expectations, defining themes that will resonate throughout the novel.
Diana Tempest, Volume II
"Diana Tempest, Volume II" by Mary Cholmondeley is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the lives of Diana Tempest and her friends, touching on themes of love, societal expectations, and the struggles faced by women within the constraints of their time. The characters navigate their interpersonal relationships amidst the backdrop of British high society, exploring the contrast between wealth and poverty. At the start of the novel, the setting is established in the sweltering heat of July, where Diana, affectionately referred to as Di, laments their financial limitations while dreaming of wealth and the luxuries it could bring, such as seaside holidays and indulgent meals. Di's close relationship with her grandmother, Mrs. Courtenay, highlights their shared struggles, yet also their resilience and wit. The opening chapters introduce a potential romance between Di and John Tempest, illuminating Di's complex feelings towards love and marriage, contrasting with her observations of mundane societal expectations around her. Di's introspection about her desires and the nature of true love sets the stage for her journey throughout the novel.
A Devotee: An Episode in the Life of a Butterfly
"A Devotee: An Episode in the Life of a Butterfly" by Mary Cholmondeley is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on Sibyl Carruthers, a beautiful yet fragile heiress, who harbors deep emotional turmoil connected to her feelings for Mr. Loftus, an older man with a complex past. As the narrative unfolds, readers will witness Sibyl's yearning and desperation, set against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal sacrifice. At the start of the story, the cathedral resounds with music, stirring emotions within Sibyl as she grapples with her desires. After a musical performance, she experiences overwhelming affection for Mr. Loftus, confessing her love amid the uncertainty of whether it will be reciprocated. Their subsequent interactions reveal the age gap and their differing perspectives on love and life, with Sibyl's impulsive nature contrasting with Mr. Loftus’s more tempered demeanor. Significantly, the opening portion sets the stage for themes of unrequited love, emotional vulnerability, and societal pressures that will likely resonate throughout the novel.
Diana Tempest, Volume III
"Diana Tempest, Volume III" by Mary Cholmondeley is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around John Tempest, who grapples with his ambitious aspirations while being deeply entangled in his feelings for Di, the woman he loves. As the narrative opens, John reflects on the tension between his desires and the obstacles he faces, including societal expectations and personal uncertainty. At the start of the book, John is determined to act on his ambitions following a transformative year, feeling the weight of his aspirations pressing on him. His thoughts frequently return to Di, suggesting that his personal aspirations are intertwined with his romantic pursuits. He invites her and her family to an upcoming hunt ball, hoping to clarify their relationship, yet the moment is overshadowed by the harsh winter and the vibrant atmosphere of an ice carnival at Overleigh. Amidst these festivities, tensions arise, revealing the complexities of their interactions. John's internal struggles become more pronounced when faced with a sudden and violent confrontation, which turns their social gathering into a night of chaos and heartache, setting the stage for the ensuing drama. The opening portion sets the tone for a deep exploration of love, ambition, and the consequences of choices, promising a rich emotional journey ahead.