Author
Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman
1852-1930
Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman (1852-1930) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman
The Wind in the Rose-Bush, and Other Stories of the Supernatural
"The Wind in the Rose-Bush, and Other Stories of the Supernatural" by Mary Wilkins is a collection of supernatural short stories likely written in the late 19th century. The themes center around eerie experiences, often highlighting the struggles and complexities of human emotions, set against a backdrop of uncanny events. The opening story introduces Rebecca Flint, a pale and reserved spinster who travels to Ford Village to reclaim her niece, Agnes, but soon encounters a sense of foreboding surrounding her sister-in-law, Mrs. Dent, and the unsettling atmosphere of the house. At the start of the collection, Rebecca arrives in a small village, managing an uncomfortable interaction with curious townsfolk during a ferry ride. As she comes closer to her destination and learns about her niece, the chilling interactions with Mrs. Dent hint at suspicious undertones and perhaps deeper mysteries at play. The peculiar reactions of the townsfolk, especially when Rebecca mentions her sister-in-law, suggest that there might be secrets lurking beneath the surface. The arrival of Rebecca sets in motion a series of unnerving events, foreshadowing the supernatural occurrences that will unfold in her quest to reunite with Agnes, while her own emotional state becomes intertwined with the haunting environment she steps into.
The Copy-Cat, and Other Stories
"The Copy-Cat and Other Stories" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a collection of short stories written during the late 19th century. The narratives explore themes of childhood, identity, and social dynamics through the lives of various characters, particularly focusing on the complex relationships among children in a small town setting. At the start of "The Copy-Cat," we are introduced to two little girls, Lily Jennings and Amelia Wheeler. Lily is admired for her beauty and grace, which Amelia desperately seeks to emulate despite her plainness and lack of fashionable clothing. The story captures Amelia's adoration of Lily, as well as the social challenges and insecurities she faces as a “copy-cat.” The opening presents a vivid scene of school life where children's interactions reveal their struggles for identity and acceptance. As Lilies daintily flaunts her attire and charm, Amelia yearns for connection, leading to complicated dynamics that hint at deeper themes of imitation, admiration, and self-discovery as the story unfolds.
The Yates Pride: A Romance
"The Yates Pride: A Romance" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a novel written in the late 19th century, during the Victorian era. The story revolves around themes of love, societal expectations, and personal pride, focusing on the life of Eudora Yates, a woman who, after years of solitude, considers the prospect of renewed love through the re-emergence of a past suitor, Harry Lawton. The narrative unfolds in a small New England town where gossiping women speculate about Eudora's life choices and her recent decision to adopt a baby, an act filled with both intrigue and societal critique. As the plot progresses, the long-unspoken feelings between Eudora and Harry are reignited, challenging their understanding of love, identity, and fulfillment in the face of time and personal pride. The story deftly balances the themes of romance and personal dignity with societal expectations, ultimately leading to Eudora's courageous decision to embrace both motherhood and the possibility of marriage, while acknowledging the shadows of her past.
Jerome, A Poor Man: A Novel
"Jerome, A Poor Man: A Novel" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story primarily focuses on a twelve-year-old boy named Jerome, who navigates the hardships of poverty alongside his family, dealing with both the physical struggles and the emotional complexities that arise from their position in society. Through his experiences, the themes of resilience and dignity in the face of adversity are explored, painting a vivid picture of rural life during that era. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Jerome as he enjoys a fleeting moment of warmth in his favorite hiding place on a sunny spring day while battling the lingering chill of winter. Despite his meager clothing and nagging hunger, he relishes the beauty of nature around him. In this opening portion, we also see the complex social dynamics when the affluent Lucina Merritt, a neighbor, offers him gingerbread, which he rejects defensively due to pride. The narrative hints at deeper family issues as we learn about the strife within Jerome's household, marked by his mother's demanding voice and their constant financial struggles. This introduction sets the stage for the unfolding drama, where Jerome’s innocence clashes with the harsh realities of his life.
An Alabaster Box
"An Alabaster Box" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman and Florence Morse Kingsley is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a small village, Brookville, where a young minister, Wesley Elliot, struggles to pay his bills and establish his place in the community amidst the backdrop of a church fair designed to raise funds for his salary. The novel explores themes of love, ambition, and the clash between tradition and modernity through its rich characters, including the determined Mrs. Solomon Black and the mysterious newcomer Lydia Orr. The opening of the novel introduces us to Wesley Elliot, who is facing financial difficulties while trying to fulfill his ministerial duties. As he navigates his responsibilities in the church and the expectations of his congregants, he is drawn into a church fair led by Mrs. Black, aimed at raising funds for him. Wesley's internal dilemmas about his ambitions and the emotional pull he feels toward Fanny Dodge, a local girl seemingly interested in him, create tension. Notably, the arrival of Lydia Orr brings intrigue to the small town, as she unexpectedly purchases the entire church fair, raising questions about her background and intentions. This intriguing mix of personal struggles and communal dynamics sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the characters' lives.
'Doc.' Gordon
"Doc. Gordon" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around James Elliot, a young medical graduate, who embarks on a journey to become an assistant to the local physician in Alton, Doctor Thomas Gordon. The narrative introduces themes of ambition, youthful exuberance, and the complexities of human relationships, especially through the lens of James's interactions with the enigmatic figures in his new environment. The opening of the novel follows James as he walks to Alton, filled with optimism and excitement about starting his medical career. Along the way, he encounters various characters, including a workingman and a young woman named Clemency, who elicits both intrigue and protectiveness from him. As he arrives in Alton and meets Doctor Gordon, a mix of joviality and melancholy pervades their conversations, hinting at deeper issues surrounding the doctor’s family, particularly his sister, Mrs. Ewing, whose health appears to be a source of concern. James quickly becomes entangled in the complex dynamics of the Gordon household, characterized by secrets and unspoken struggles, particularly regarding Mrs. Ewing's mysterious ailment and Clemency's own predicament of being sheltered from the outside world.
Once Upon a Time, and Other Child-Verses
"Once Upon a Time and Other Child-Verses" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a collection of children's verses likely written in the late 19th century. The book captures the enchantment of childhood through playful and whimsical poetry, offering a variety of themes ranging from fairies and adventures to moral lessons. Each verse weaves a rich tapestry of imagery that is likely to resonate with both children and adults who appreciate nostalgia and the innocence of youth. At the start of the collection, the author introduces readers to a meadow filled with fairies, vividly painting a picture of delightful scenes where children discover a fairy nest. The verses describe the fairies flitting among the violets until they vanish, leaving the children to seek them in vain. This opening sets the tone for the remaining poems, which explore themes of innocence and wonder through charming characters, such as a little girl yearning for a doll, a sick fairy, and an enchanted tale of bravery. The whimsical imagery and simple, rhythmic language invite readers to reminisce about their own childhood experiences and the magic of storytelling.
By the Light of the Soul: A Novel
"By the Light of the Soul: A Novel" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Maria Edgham, a sensitive and introspective young girl, as she navigates the complexities of her family’s life, particularly dealing with her mother’s illness and her father's potential remarriage. The narrative delves into themes of childhood innocence, familial bonds, and the emotional turmoil arising from loss and change. The opening of the novel introduces Maria sitting in a church vestry during a prayer meeting, where she is preoccupied with her thoughts about the people around her, including a grieving mother and a young man she admires. As the prayer meeting unfolds, Maria's innocence is palpable; she is caught between the world of childhood fantasies and the harsh realities of adult life, particularly her mother's illness and the implications of her father's emerging relationship with a local schoolteacher, Miss Slome. As the narrative progresses, we glimpse Maria's internal struggles with her identity, her longing for acceptance, and her troubled reflections on her family's dynamics during a profound period of transition. The opening effectively sets the stage for the emotional challenges Maria will face as the story unfolds.
The Heart's Highway: A Romance of Virginia in the Seventeenth Century
"The Heart's Highway: A Romance of Virginia in the Seventeenth Century" by Mary E. Wilkins is a historical novel set in the late 19th century. The book explores themes of romance and social dynamics through the experiences of its main characters, focusing on the young Mistress Mary Cavendish and her tutor, Harry Maria Wingfield, a man carrying the weight of his past disgrace as a convict. The story is steeped in the period's rich cultural and social contexts, particularly regarding class structures and race relations. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the characters as they ride to church in Jamestown. Wingfield, despite his low standing as a convict, reflects on his deep-seated feelings for Mary, who is vibrant and beautiful. Their journey becomes a mix of appreciation for the Virginia landscape and a tension stemming from Wingfield's status, compounded by Mary's youthful impulsivity and fondness for the unpredictable, such as seeking out her family's ship post-voyage and her flouting of societal expectations. As they encounter sailors and delve into both personal and broader societal matters, the opening sets the stage for their complex relationship and hints at impending challenges rooted in both external conflicts and the intricacies of love.
The Pot of Gold, and Other Stories
"The Pot of Gold, and Other Stories" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a collection of children's short stories published in 1892. Set in New England villages, these sixteen tales follow young protagonists through magical adventures involving giants, princesses, enchanted animals, and mysterious strangers. Beneath their child-friendly surface, the stories offer commentary on post-Civil War village life and women's experiences. From quests for treasure to lessons in proper behavior, each story weaves moral themes with fantastical elements that captivated both young readers and adults of the era.
The Butterfly House
"The Butterfly House" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the fictional village of Fairbridge, New Jersey, which is presented as a quaint yet provocatively petty place, consumed by its own self-importance. The narrative introduces various characters, including the elegant and ambitious Mrs. Wilbur Edes and the mysterious Alice Mendon, whose lives intertwine amidst the village's social dynamics. The opening of the novel meticulously describes Fairbridge, a town rife with contradictions, where the citizens are proud of their small lives while being tragically ignorant of their limitations. We meet key characters like Mrs. Edes, who struggles with her ambitions within the confines of village life, and Alice Mendon, who exudes beauty and charm but remains somewhat detached and enigmatic. As these women navigate the social landscape—highlighted by their interactions at the Zenith Club—the stage is set for exploring themes of ambition, identity, and the impact of societal norms on individual lives. The narrative richly evokes the intricacies of small-town dynamics, hinting at deeper conflicts that may unfold as the story progresses.
The Portion of Labor
"The Portion of Labor" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Ellen Brewster, a delicate young girl caught in a tumultuous family dynamic marked by conflict and emotional strain. As Ellen navigates her home life, which involves her parents and her aunt, she grapples with feelings of love and rejection, ultimately leading her to run away in a moment of distress. The opening of the novel paints a vivid picture of Ellen’s world, characterized by her imaginative beliefs about the surrounding trees and her complex relationships with family members, especially her mother, Fanny, and her grandmother, Mrs. Zelotes Brewster. Tension mounts within the household as her parents argue fervently, leaving Ellen feeling unwanted. This emotional turmoil culminates in her decision to flee, feeling a mix of love for her family and sorrow that they perceive her as a burden. The narrative introduces themes of familial love, societal expectations, and the search for identity within the confines of social class, setting the stage for Ellen’s poignant journey.
Young Lucretia and Other Stories
"Young Lucretia and Other Stories" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a collection of thirteen short stories published in 1892. Originally appearing in literary magazines between 1887 and 1892, these tales follow children who face moral dilemmas and learn important lessons through their misbehavior. From a girl who deceives her strict aunts about Christmas presents to a six-year-old's anxious errand to the store, each story explores childhood struggles with temptation, honesty, and the consequences of poor choices in late nineteenth-century New England.
The Debtor: A Novel
"The Debtor: A Novel" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The story is set in the small village of Banbridge, which is influenced by the wealth and activity of the nearby city. It focuses on the lives of its residents, particularly the socially conscious women who navigate the complexities of propriety and class, setting the stage for themes of social class, wealth, and human interaction. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Banbridge, a village where societal norms dictate behavior and social interactions. The opening chapter follows Mrs. Henry Lee and Mrs. William Van Dorn as they navigate a spring afternoon of making fashionable social calls in a private coach. Their visit leads to awkward encounters and a significantly humorous mishap when they discover that the new residents, the Carrolls, are not at home and have left their door ajar. The scene is filled with rich descriptions of the characters, the village life, and the tensions between social expectations and human behavior, hinting at deeper themes of aspiration, societal norms, and the traps of curiosity that will unfold throughout the narrative.
Pembroke: A Novel
"Pembroke: A Novel" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a novel published in 1894. Set in 1830s Massachusetts, it follows the aftermath of a broken engagement between Barney Thayer and Charlotte Barnard, sparked by a political argument. Their stubborn refusal to reconcile ripples through the small town, affecting family members and neighbors in unexpected ways. Through intertwining stories of forbidden courtships, family conflicts, and tragic misunderstandings, Freeman crafts a portrait of New England life where pride and principle collide with matters of the heart.
Jane Field: A Novel
"Jane Field: A Novel" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a work of fiction written in the late 19th century. The novel centers around the lives of Mrs. Jane Field and Amanda Pratt as they navigate personal struggles and dilemmas in a rural community. The narrative explores themes of familial obligations, societal expectations, and the simple yet profound aspects of community life. The opening of the story introduces Amanda Pratt and her cottage, setting a vivid scene of her home and her personality through her interactions with Mrs. Babcock. The dialogue reveals their contrasting perspectives on work and life, particularly regarding Amanda's dedication to sewing braided rugs, which seems to symbolize her need for stability and control amidst the unfolding drama in their lives. Meanwhile, the concern about Lois Field, Jane's daughter, hints at deeper family struggles, foreshadowing personal trials that the characters will face. The dynamics between neighbors, the daily routines, and the undercurrents of worry and care establish a foundation for a poignant exploration of loneliness, illness, and resilience in the face of life's challenges.
The Shoulders of Atlas: A Novel
"The Shoulders of Atlas: A Novel" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Henry Whitman, a middle-aged man burdened by the weight of his life's disappointments and financial struggles, alongside his delicate yet industrious wife, Sylvia. The narrative captures their struggles with debt, the melancholy of unfulfilled dreams, and the impact of a potential inheritance that forces them to confront their deepest desires and resentments. The opening portion of the novel introduces us to Henry, who reflects on the early spring beauty of his surroundings as he walks home from his job at a shoe shop. Despite the blossoming life around him, Henry is consumed by bitterness over his financial difficulties and the burdens of debt. His inner turmoil is further explored through his interactions with Sylvia, who works hard to supplement their income by taking in a boarder and creating goods for sale. Their lives are disrupted by news of an ailing relative, Abrahama White, whose imminent death promises to change the couple's financial status dramatically. The stage is set for a story that examines the complex interplay between prosperity, morality, and personal contentment.
Giles Corey, Yeoman: A Play
"Giles Corey, Yeoman: A Play" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a dramatic work written in the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the Salem witch trials, the narrative revolves around Giles Corey, his family, and their tumultuous lives in a community gripped by fear and superstition. The play explores themes of witchcraft, social dynamics, and the profound impact of hysteria on relationships, particularly focusing on the character of Olive Corey, Giles's daughter. The beginning of the play introduces the audience to the household of Giles Corey in Salem Village, where tension brews amid the fearful atmosphere surrounding witchcraft accusations. Characters such as Olive Corey and her friend Ann Hutchins exhibit a mix of curiosity and fear about the supernatural as they interact with each other, while Giles displays a protective yet sometimes irrational concern for his family amidst the chaos. The dialogue is infused with local color and superstition, as characters grapple with the unseen threats around them. As the act unfolds, hints of deeper tensions regarding relationships and the societal implications of witchcraft begin to emerge, setting the stage for a gripping exploration of the consequences of fear and misunderstanding in a tightly-knit community.
The Jamesons
"The Jamesons" by Mary E. Wilkins is a novel published in 1899. When the wealthy Jameson family arrives from New York City to spend summer in the small New England village of Linnville, their presence disrupts the peaceful community. Mrs. Jameson attempts to "improve" the townspeople by changing how they eat, dress, and decorate their homes, creating tension with her superior attitude and disregard for local traditions. Her meddling eventually extends to matters of the heart when romance blooms between families of different social standings.
The Adventures of Ann: Stories of Colonial Times
"The Adventures of Ann: Stories of Colonial Times" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. This book delves into the life of a young girl named Ann Ginnins, who is bound as an apprentice in Colonial New England. The stories explore themes of childhood, mischief, and personal growth against the backdrop of the Puritan society of the time. The tales follow Ann as she navigates her challenges and adventures in the household of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Wales. From her early struggles as a bound girl and the mischief she gets into, to her eventual adoptive relationship with Mrs. Polly Wales, each story captures Ann's spirited personality. Important characters in her life include her friend Hannah French, her compassionate grandmother, and the formidable Mrs. Dorcas Wales. The stories highlight Ann's journey toward maturity, her sense of loyalty, and her ability to learn from her mistakes. Overall, "The Adventures of Ann" paints a vivid picture of a young girl's life and the values of perseverance and family in a historical context.
Evelina's Garden
"Evelina's Garden" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a novel written in the late 19th century, specifically during the Victorian era. The book explores themes of love, seclusion, and the passage of time, centered around the life of Evelina Adams, a woman who lives a reclusive existence while tending to her beautiful garden, which becomes a metaphor for her unfulfilled desires and emotions. The story unfolds in a small village where Evelina Adams, the daughter of a wealthy squire, lives a life marked by solitude and mystery. After the death of her father, she retreats further into her own world, communicating little with the townspeople and hoping to preserve her father's legacy. As the years pass, the beauty of her garden mirrors her inner life, flourishing yet unfulfilled, much like Evelina herself. When a young cousin, also named Evelina, arrives, both young women find themselves entwined in a romantic narrative with Thomas Merriam, the village minister. The novel culminates in a transformative act where the young Evelina refuses to allow her inheritance to come between her and her love, leading to a surprising resolution that intertwines themes of personal sacrifice and enduring love amidst societal expectations.
Madelon: A Novel
"Madelon: A Novel" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman is a fictional work written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a small village during winter, drawing the reader into the complex lives of its main characters, particularly focusing on Madelon Hautville, a young woman caught in a tumultuous love triangle involving Burr Gordon and Dorothy Fair. The narrative explores themes of love, betrayal, and societal expectations, hinting at deeper conflicts that will arise as the story progresses. At the start of the novel, the serene beauty of a snow-covered village is sharply contrasted with the emotional turmoil of its inhabitants. Burr Gordon is introduced as he walks towards the Hautville house, drawn by the enchanting music of Madelon and her family. However, tensions quickly surface as Burr interacts with his cousin Lot, who expresses his own interest in Madelon, complicating Burr's feelings for Dorothy Fair. Madelon's passionate musical performances reveal her inner struggles and the expectations placed upon her, while the complexities of family relationships and social status simmer beneath the surface. The opening sets the stage for a tale of love lost, ambition unfulfilled, and the poignant struggles of its characters against the backdrop of a harsh winter landscape.
Silence, and other stories
"Silence, and other stories" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book gathers New England local-color tales that probe women’s inner lives under social and spiritual strain; the opening piece centers on Silence Hoit and her lover David Walcott amid a frontier raid and its aftermath. Expect historical settings, moral tension, and keen psychological realism. The opening of the collection follows Silence in wintry Deerfield as her forebodings are fulfilled by a French and Indian attack: households barricade doors, women melt pewter into bullets, Goodwife Sheldon and her child are found slain, and captives—among them David—are driven toward Canada. Left behind, Silence’s mind fixates on him, calling his name over the north meadow through months of rebuilding and rescue attempts; when David finally escapes home, she cannot recognize him until the ostracized Goody Crane contrives a moonlit sign that breaks her trance. The book then turns to “The Buckley Lady,” introducing Persis Buckley, a beautiful coastal girl whose family, after a visit from grand strangers, begins grooming her for gentility—freeing her from toil, dressing her finely, and teaching her polite accomplishments—while the household quietly sacrifices to elevate her.
Comfort Pease and her Gold Ring
"Comfort Pease and her Gold Ring" by Mary Eleanor Wilkins Freeman is a short story written in the late 19th century. This charming tale explores themes of childhood innocence, desire, and the lessons learned through experiences. It chronicles the life of a young girl, Comfort Pease, who grapples with the joy and burdens of her cherished gold ring gifted to her by her aunt. The story follows Comfort as she navigates school life, dealing with teasing and the pressure of not being able to wear her beautiful gold ring until her fingers grow larger. Despite feeling proud of her inheritance, she faces ridicule from her classmates and even ends up disobeying her mother's wishes to wear it at school, which leads her to a series of guilt-ridden events when the ring goes missing. After a worrying search and heartfelt confessions, Comfort learns valuable lessons about honesty and responsibility, ultimately culminating in the joy of receiving a new ring that fits her. This richly detailed narrative encapsulates the struggles of childhood while imparting moral lessons, making it a relatable and heartfelt read for both young and adult audiences.