Author
E. Burke Collins
1848-1902
E. Burke Collins (1848-1902) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by E. Burke Collins
Her Dark Inheritance
"Her Dark Inheritance" by Mrs. E. Burke Collins is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the life of Beatrix Dane, a young girl with a complex past, who becomes entangled in a web of dark family secrets, legacy, and unexpected circumstances. The narrative is rich with dramatic tension, centering on themes of identity, love, and the struggle against malevolent forces. The opening portion introduces us to a stormy night in Chester, Massachusetts, where the lonely and burdened physician, Doctor Frederick Lynne, is surprised by a mysterious visitor who brings in a dying woman and her child. After this shocking event, he discovers a letter commanding him to raise the child, Beatrix, with the promise of wealth if he does not pursue her background. As the story unfolds, we see Beatrix grow into a young woman who is forced to navigate through familial tensions, her own unresolved feelings about her real parents, and the oppressive influence of Bernard Dane, who has ulterior motives for her future. The dynamics between Beatrix, her adopted family, and the enigmatic Keith Kenyon create a compelling web of relationships that drive the narrative forward.
A bitter reckoning; $b or, Violet Arleigh
"A Bitter Reckoning; or, Violet Arleigh" by Mrs. E. Burke Collins is a melodramatic novel written in the late 19th century. The tale revolves around the tumultuous lives of Rosamond and her daughter, Violet Arleigh, as they navigate through dark secrets and impending doom, threatened by the unscrupulous Gilbert Warrington, who wields power over Rosamond due to a scandalous past. As the story unfolds, themes of betrayal, love, and the fight for survival emerge, with a focus on the relationship between Rosamond and Violet. The opening of the novel sets a foreboding tone as Rosamond receives a telegram from Warrington, signaling a "bitter reckoning" that looms over her and her daughter on Violet's eighteenth birthday. Despite the festive atmosphere of Violet's first ball, Rosamond is haunted by the impending danger that Warrington represents, revealing her desperation and fear for her child's future. As she interacts with Violet, whose innocence and joy starkly contrast Rosamond's anguish, the tension builds. This emotional turmoil culminates when a shocking confrontation occurs, leading to Rosamond's apparent death, but not without foreshadowing the dark twists that await both mother and daughter in their fight against the malevolent forces at play. The gripping opening sets the stage for a tragic yet thrilling journey filled with suspense and dreadful secrets.
Lillian's vow : $b or, The mystery of Raleigh House
"Lillian's Vow; or, The Mystery of Raleigh House" by Mrs. E. Burke Collins is a novel written in the late 19th century. It’s a sensational mystery-romance set in urban high society, beginning with the murder of Gilbert Leigh and his daughter Lillian’s vow to unmask the killer. Drawn into the orbit of the powerful Raleigh family, Lillian crosses paths with jealous heiress Rosamond, her menacing brother Richard, noble journalist Jack Lyndon, and the poised yet secretive Lenore Van Alstyne, as intrigue, class cruelty, and even a possible haunting gather around Raleigh House. The opening of the story launches with the nighttime assault and strangulation of Gilbert Leigh, the theft of his memorandum-book, and Lillian’s chilling vow over his body to find the murderer. Soon after, Rosamond Raleigh’s orphaned maid Noisette dies at her work, the family quietly suppresses any inquest, and Lillian—seeking refuge and employment—becomes Rosamond’s “companion,” only to be mistreated and menaced by Richard. At a Raleigh reception, a clairvoyant announces that Gilbert’s killer is present, the lights fail, and Lenore Van Alstyne collapses, hinting at buried secrets. Jack Lyndon protects Lillian from Richard’s advances, while Rosamond’s jealousy spikes; later, Lillian and Rosamond witness what seems to be Noisette’s ghost painting in the “round room.” The section closes with Lillian receiving an anonymous summons promising a clew to her father’s killer, while Lenore faces her domineering husband and the ominous question of “C. F.,” deepening the sense of mystery and scandal.