Author
Maria Thompson Daviess
1872-1924
Maria Thompson Daviess (1872-1924) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Maria Thompson Daviess
Blue-grass and Broadway
"Blue-grass and Broadway" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Patricia Adair, an aspiring playwright from Adairville, Kentucky, who sees her dreams of success intertwining with those of Broadway through her play "The Renunciation of Rosalind." As she steps into the bustling world of theater, she navigates both excitement and trepidation as her work is put into the hands of the seasoned producer Godfrey Vandeford, amid a backdrop of adventure and romance. At the start of this captivating tale, we witness Patricia's life dramatically shift as she learns that her play has been sold and will be produced in New York City. The opening scenes introduce us to a variety of colorful characters in the theater world, including Godfrey, a determined producer grappling with his own ambitions and challenges, and his star Violet Hawtry, who seems to both admire and envy Patricia's emerging talent. This dynamic sets the stage for a journey filled with hopes and aspirations, highlighting both the struggles and triumphs that come with chasing one's dreams in a competitive environment. As Patricia prepares to embark on her adventure, the narrative captures her vulnerability, determination, and the support of her family, particularly her brother Roger, reflecting themes of loyalty and ambition.
The Road to Providence
"The Road to Providence" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the life of Doctor Tom Mayberry and his mother, who is deeply engaged in the nurturing and care of both her family and their community. The narrative showcases themes of maternal strength and familial bonds, delving into the everyday life and relationships in a small town. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Doctor Mayberry and his mother, who showcase their warm, humorous dynamic while managing various domestic and community challenges. The scene opens with a humorous incident involving a hen, Spangles, causing distress, which highlights the lively interactions between the characters. As they navigate their duties, it becomes clear that Doctor Mayberry is both a healer and a devoted son, while his mother embodies wisdom and care for both her son and their neighbors. The engaging banter and vivid descriptions of their interactions set the tone for a rich exploration of life in Providence, filled with the charm and complexity of rural living.
The Golden Bird
"The Golden Bird" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Ann Craddock, a young woman facing sudden financial hardship after her father's loss of fortune, who embarks on a quest to establish a new life by raising chickens. As Ann navigates her newfound responsibilities with determination and a sense of adventure, the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of rural life in the Harpeth Valley, blending elements of humor, romance, and personal growth. At the start of the novel, Ann is introduced as a spirited and resourceful character, realizing that her immediate need is not just love, but also financial security. After selling her luxury items to purchase a prized rooster and a flock of hens, she finds herself returning to her family's ancestral home, Elmnest. During her journey, she encounters various characters, including her childhood friend Matthew, who proposes marriage, and Adam, a mysterious woodsman who helps her with her chickens. The opening chapters set the tone for Ann's adventures and struggles as she attempts to transform her life through poultry farming while grappling with her emotions and budding relationships.
The Heart's Kingdom
"The Heart's Kingdom" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Charlotte Powers, a strong-willed woman struggling with her identity and societal expectations. As Charlotte navigates her relationships, particularly with Nickols Powers and the Reverend Gregory Goodloe, the narrative delves into themes of love, religion, and the tensions of personal freedom versus social obligation. At the start of the novel, Charlotte returns home from a winter spent in New York, filled with inner turmoil. She is confronted by her father, who has constructed a chapel in her garden, representing an intrusion of religious sentiment into her life. Through her spirited dialogues, particularly with Nickols, who desires a romantic relationship with her, and the enigmatic Goodloe, Charlotte grapples with her fear of religion and an awakening sense of self. The chapter sets the stage for her complex relationships and foreshadows an evolving struggle between modernity and tradition as she engages with the men who challenge her views and beliefs.
The Melting of Molly
"The Melting of Molly" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the protagonist, Molly Carter, a young widow navigating her new life and the complications of love, social expectations, and self-image. As she grapples with feelings of loneliness and the pressures of her past, she sets out on a personal journey towards rediscovery and self-acceptance. At the start of the novel, we meet Molly as she reflects on her life as a widow and her aspirations to regain her former beauty and happiness. She grapples with memories of her late husband while also dealing with the return of a past crush, Alfred Bennett, who plans to visit after years abroad. With the help of the local doctor, John Moore, Molly embarks on a weight loss regimen to prepare herself for Alfred's homecoming, setting the stage for humorous and heartfelt situations. As she attempts to balance her desires and societal pressures, the dynamic between her, Alfred, and Doctor Moore hints at developing romantic tensions, leaving readers curious about how Molly will ultimately choose to navigate her complex emotional landscape.
The Daredevil
"The Daredevil" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Roberta, also known as the Marquise de Grez and Bye, a spirited young woman who embarks on a journey from war-torn France to America. As she navigates her way through personal loss and the challenges of finding her place in a new country, the narrative grapples with themes of identity, courage, and the role of women during tumultuous times. The opening of "The Daredevil" sets the stage for Roberta's transition from Europe to America, depicting her deeply emotional farewell to her ailing father and her commitment to securing a future for herself and her younger brother, Pierre. On board the ship, Roberta's strength and determination shine as she befriends Captain Count de Lasselles, who impresses upon her the importance of resilience and bravery. As she arrives in America, her complex relationship with her estranged uncle and the societal expectations placed upon her threaten to challenge her newfound independence and willingness to defy traditional gender roles. This rich beginning encapsulates Roberta as a character full of grit and heart, promising an engaging exploration of personal transformation amidst adversity.
Phyllis
"Phyllis" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a coming-of-age novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Phyllis Forsythe, the wealthy daughter of a businessman, who struggles with loneliness and the perception of her wealth in the small town of Byrdsville. The narrative captures her feelings of isolation as she yearns to connect with others, particularly with the kind and charming Roxanne Byrd, who embodies the warmth and simplicity of life that Phyllis craves. At the start of the novel, Phyllis finds herself uprooted from her city life and living in the countryside due to her mother's health. She feels out of place and alienated from her peers, who view her wealth with suspicion. The opening portion introduces Phyllis's reflections on her loneliness and her admiration for Roxanne, who lives in a modest cottage behind her family's estate. As Phyllis begins to interact with Roxanne and her brother Lovelace, she experiences moments of joy and friendship, stirring a desire for genuine connections that transcend social barriers. This struggle against the stigmas attached to wealth and her journey toward acceptance and belonging set the stage for the unfolding story.
Rose of Old Harpeth
"Rose of Old Harpeth" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Rose Mary Alloway, a young woman lovingly managing her family's homestead in Sweetbriar while navigating the complexities of life, love, and community. The book deeply explores themes of resilience, familial duty, and the intrinsic beauty of rural life, drawing readers into an idyllic yet challenging environment where both personal and collective aspirations unfold. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to Rose Mary and her interactions with Everett, a guest recovering from a serious illness, as they share domestic tasks and engage in light banter. Through their conversations, we learn about Rose Mary's dedication to her family, her dreams for the future, and the underlying tensions related to the mortgage on their ancestral home. The scene elegantly portrays Rose Mary's importance to her family, a tight-knit community of quirky characters, and the pastoral beauty of Harpeth Valley. As she skillfully balances her responsibilities and personal ambitions, the reader is drawn into her world, inviting a deeper exploration of both her character and the supporting cast as the narrative progresses.
The Tinder-Box
"The Tinder-Box" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a novel published in the early 20th century that explores themes of love, independence, and the evolving role of women in society. The story follows Evelina Shelby, a recently graduated architecture student returning to her hometown, Glendale, Tennessee, where she grapples with her newfound aspirations for personal freedom and the societal expectations surrounding marriage and gender roles. The opening of the novel introduces the protagonist, Evelina, as she reflects on her emotional landscape and her relationships with her friends, particularly Jane Mathers, who encourages her to assert herself in love and life. Evelina is posed with a challenge: to navigate her feelings for Richard Hall and Polk Hayes while also being urged to take responsibility for guiding other young women in their romantic choices. Throughout these early pages, we see Evelina's internal conflict between traditional societal roles and her desire for independence, setting the stage for her journey of self-discovery and empowerment amidst the complexities of familial and romantic expectations.
Andrew the Glad
"Andrew the Glad" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Andrew Sevier, a man known for his charm and poetic sensibility, and the relationships that surround him, particularly his interactions with David Kildare and Phoebe Donelson, as well as the major and Mrs. Matilda. The story delves into themes of love, longing, and emotional turmoil, hinting at Andrew's past struggles and the impact of those struggles on his present life. The opening of the novel introduces a lively discourse between David Kildare and the major about Andrew, who has just returned from a traumatic experience in Panama that has left him physically injured but emotionally complex. David expresses jealousy over the attention Andrew receives from Phoebe, who is drawn to poetic figures like him. Meanwhile, the major reflects on Andrew's tragic past, hinting at the shadow of gambling and loss that looms over him. This foundation sets a tone of emotional depth and interpersonal drama, revealing not just the characters' connections but also the complexities of their desires and affections. As the story unfolds, readers are likely to find themselves immersed in a narrative filled with humor, warmth, and heartfelt exploration of the human condition.
Over Paradise Ridge A Romance
"Over Paradise Ridge" by Maria Thompson Daviess is a romance novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the character Betty and her relationship with Samuel Foster Crittenden, who has chosen a life of farming over his promising ambitions in the city. With themes of love, sacrifice, and the clash between rural and urban life, the narrative explores Betty's struggle to reconcile her feelings for Sam, her own aspirations, and her loyalty to her friends, particularly Peter Vandyne, a poet. The opening of the novel introduces us to Betty's internal conflict as she grapples with her feelings for Sam, who now leads a humble life as a farmer. Their childhood friendship has evolved into something deeper, yet Sam's life choices leave Betty feeling torn between her affection for him and her societal expectations. As she reflects on their shared past and the decisions they have both made, we see a glimpse of Betty’s desire to lead a meaningful life defined by her own choices. The first chapter sets the stage for a poignant exploration of love and personal ambition amidst the backdrop of pastoral life, ultimately encouraging the reader to ponder the sacrifice that often accompanies heartfelt decisions.