Author
Ellen Douglas Deland
1860-1923
Ellen Douglas Deland (1860-1923) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Ellen Douglas Deland
A successful venture
"A Successful Venture" by Ellen Douglas Deland is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the Starr sisters—Honor, Katherine, Victoria, and the youngest, Sophy—as they navigate a significant change in their lives after the death of their father and the arrival of their formidable Aunt Sophia. Faced with the prospect of leaving their beloved home and agreeing to Aunt Sophia's plans, the sisters must find their own way to support themselves amidst financial struggle. The opening of the novel sets a poignant and reflective tone, introducing the Starr sisters in their quaint dining room as they prepare for their aunt's visit, unaware of the drastic changes she intends to impose on their lives. As Aunt Sophia arrives amidst a stormy day, her authoritative demeanor and unexpected announcement about relocating the sisters to Boston leads to an immediate family dialogue filled with resistance and disbelief. This tumultuous family dynamic highlights their struggle against societal expectations, and the sisters' determination to maintain their autonomy becomes evident as they contemplate a life of self-sufficiency while adhering to their father's legacy.
Oakleigh
"Oakleigh" by Ellen Douglas Deland is a novel written in the late 19th century. Set in a Massachusetts household, it follows the Franklin children—earnest Edith, spirited Cynthia, enterprising Jack, and the younger Janet and Willy—as they cope with loss, responsibility, and the upheaval of their father’s remarriage to Hester Gordon. Domestic comedy, small-town social life, and youthful schemes (notably Jack’s poultry-incubator enterprise) shape a warm, gently humorous family story. The opening of Oakleigh introduces the Franklins’ home and rhythms: motherless Edith manages the house, while twins Jack and Cynthia debate Jack’s plan to raise prize chickens with an incubator. Aunt Betsey Trinkett breezes in, funds the scheme, and unwittingly inspires Cynthia’s prank—an impersonation that leads to a gossip-fueled revelation that Mr. Franklin is likely to remarry. A disastrous meddling by the little ones ruins the first hatch, and Mr. Franklin confirms his engagement to Hester Gordon. The marriage soon follows; Cynthia embraces the kind new stepmother while Edith resists, even as Hester brings practical help (a new horse and cart) and cheer. A village tennis tournament, the arrival of Hester’s outspoken brother Neal, and his partnership with Jack on the poultry venture set the stage for family adjustments and future complications.