Author
Mary Johnston
1870-1936
Mary Johnston (1870-1936) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Mary Johnston
The Long Roll
"The Long Roll" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, the story captures the sentiments, struggles, and moral dilemmas faced by the people of Virginia as tensions escalate between the North and South. The narrative likely follows several key characters, including Richard Cleave and Judith Cary, who navigate personal and patriotic challenges as their nation heads toward conflict. At the start of the novel, the small town of Botetourt is filled with excitement as the Botetourt Resolutions are read aloud, expressing the community’s determination to protect their rights amidst the growing sectional strife. The speech highlights Virginia's historical role and sets the stage for a burgeoning sense of conflict, with characters reflecting on their allegiances and the implications of approaching war. The contrasting perspectives of the local citizens, including young men looking toward potential enlistment, further illustrate the emotional turmoil of the time, as they ponder the weighty consequences of their decisions in this deeply divided nation.
1492
"1492" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds during a pivotal moment in Spanish history, focusing on Jayme de Marchena, a man of complex heritage caught amidst the tumult of the Spanish Inquisition and the cultural conflicts of the time. It explores themes of identity, faith, and the quest for knowledge against the backdrop of significant historical events, such as the expulsion of Jews from Spain and Columbus's journey into the unknown. The opening of the novel introduces Jayme de Marchena, who reflects on his life filled with academic pursuits and personal anguish due to his Jewish ancestry. As tensions rise in Spain, he feels the weight of danger from the Inquisition and contemplates his fate. Jayme seeks refuge at a Franciscan convent, where he meets Fray Juan Perez, with whom he discusses his precarious situation and future. The chapter sets a tone of melancholy and introspection, hinting at Jayme's internal struggles and the larger historical currents surrounding him as he prepares to take a significant step toward both survival and adventure. The chapter ends with Jayme contemplating the vast, untamed ocean, foreshadowing the exploration that lies ahead.
To Have and to Hold
"To Have and to Hold" by Mary Johnston is a novel published in 1899. Set in colonial Jamestown, it follows English soldier Ralph Percy, who purchases a bride named Jocelyn Leigh, unaware she is fleeing the King of England and a forced marriage to Lord Carnal. As her pursuer tracks them down, Ralph and Jocelyn face kidnapping attempts, pirates, shipwrecks, and an Indian uprising. Through danger and adventure, their arranged marriage transforms into something neither expected in this bestselling tale of early Virginia.
Cease firing
"Cease Firing" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel set during the tumultuous period of the American Civil War, likely written in the early 20th century. The book examines the harrowing experiences of soldiers and civilians amid the conflict, focusing on themes of duty, love, and loss. The narrative introduces the character Edward Cary, a private in the Confederate army, who navigates the challenges of war while grappling with personal emotions and relationships. The opening of the novel sets a richly detailed backdrop of the Mississippi River in December 1862, illustrating a landscape transformed by the ravages of war. Edward Cary's detachment, caught in the mud and rain, faces both physical exhaustion and emotional turmoil as they march towards the dangerous front lines. The text captures the camaraderie and humor among the soldiers amid the adversity, while also introducing Cary's thoughts of home and love, particularly centering on Désirée Gaillard, a strong-willed woman striving to protect her home and people from the floodwaters of both nature and war. This early section effectively establishes the mood and tension of the story, promising a blend of personal and historical narratives in the chapters to come.
Hagar
"Hagar" by Mary Johnston is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Hagar Ashendyne, who experiences the complexities of life within her family and society, particularly as they pertain to concepts of morality, individuality, and the constraints imposed on women. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Hagar, a dark-haired, thoughtful girl, as she travels on a packet boat with her family and engages in curious conversations about literature and the world. Through her interactions with her Aunt Serena and the other passengers, we catch glimpses of her inquisitive nature and reflections on society's restrictions, particularly concerning women’s education and freedom. As she ponders over ideas like evolution and confronts the harsh realities of her environment—including a convict she observes from the boat—Hagar's longing for knowledge and understanding shines through, setting the stage for her growth throughout the story. The atmosphere is rich with the social dynamics of her family and the changing world around them, laying a foundation for Hagar's journey towards self-discovery.
Pioneers of the Old South: A Chronicle of English Colonial Beginnings
"Pioneers of the Old South: A Chronicle of English Colonial Beginnings" by Mary Johnston is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century. The book chronicles the English colonization efforts in the Americas, focusing on the early settlers' journeys and challenges, particularly around Virginia, and depicts the interactions between the colonists and Indigenous peoples. At the start of the narrative, the reader is introduced to the political backdrop of early 17th century England, where colonization is reignited after a peace treaty with Spain. The book details the launch of three ships—Susan Constant, Goodspeed, and Discovery—in search of a prosperous venture in Virginia, filled with hopes of wealth and opportunity. As the ships set sail, we meet several key figures, including Captain Newport and adventurers like John Smith, who would play pivotal roles in establishing the colony. The tone combines poetic elements with a sense of adventure, promising a blend of historical facts and engaging storytelling as the ships journey from England to the New World, setting the stage for the trials and events to come.
Lewis Rand
"Lewis Rand" by Mary Johnston is a novel written during the early 20th century that explores themes of ambition, identity, and the socio-political landscape of post-Revolutionary America. The story follows the life of Lewis Rand, a young boy from a humble background, who dreams of becoming a lawyer despite his father's wishes for him to follow in the family tradition of tobacco-rolling. The opening of the book establishes the setting and introduces key characters, specifically Lewis Rand and his father, Gideon, who are traveling to Richmond with a tobacco cask. Through vivid descriptions of nature and the nuances of their daily lives, it highlights Lewis's inner conflict between his aspirations and his father's expectations. As he meets Adam Gaudylock, a hunter who embodies a carefree lifestyle, Lewis dreams of adventure beyond his father's tobacco fields. The interactions between Lewis, his father, and the hunter set the stage for the boy’s transformative journey, revealing his struggles against familial pressure and his desire to pursue a life of knowledge and influence.
The Old Dominion
"The Old Dominion" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book is set in 17th-century Virginia and revolves around the lives of its residents, particularly focusing on Colonel Verney and his daughter, Patricia, as they navigate the social intricacies and challenges of colonial life during a time of unrest and changing dynamics. The opening of the novel introduces us to Patricia Verney, who eagerly awaits her father's return from Jamestown on a sloop. Accompanied by her cousin, Sir Charles Carew, they engage in light-hearted banter while discussing her father's cargo from England, which includes her extravagant dress for an upcoming party. The scene is set against the backdrop of a lush Virginia plantation, characterized by flourishing gardens and a lively household. As they await the ship's arrival, characters share humorous and familiar exchanges, revealing both their privilege and the complications of their colonial existence. The introduction serves to highlight the contrast between the genteel lifestyle of the plantation and the darker realities of slavery and convict labor stirring within the colony.
The Witch
"The Witch" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, it explores themes of power, gender, and societal expectations. The story introduces readers to Gilbert Aderhold, a physician navigating the complex political and social landscape of England, where suspicion and intrigue often lead to dire consequences. At the start of the book, the dying Queen Elizabeth is central to the unfolding events as citizens reflect on her reign filled with triumph and tragedy. Contrastingly, Gilbert Aderhold, an outsider newly returned to England, finds himself embroiled in the tension of the times. The narrative captures Aderhold's first interactions with the court and commonfolk alike, as he grapples with personal and societal conflicts while trying to establish himself amid rumors, a changing monarchy, and the witch hunts that loom over the public consciousness. Throughout these early chapters, the atmosphere is charged with a sense of foreboding as both the Queen's reign and Aderhold's future hang in the balance, making for a rich and engaging introduction to this historical fiction.
The Wanderers
"The Wanderers" by Mary Johnston is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens with a vivid depiction of an ancient forest inhabited by primitive beings known as the tree-folk, exploring their daily lives, struggles, and the beginnings of self-awareness. The main character, a tree-folk woman with a young one, demonstrates a growing consciousness and curiosity about her surroundings, setting the stage for significant themes of survival and the evolution of human understanding. The opening of the novel intricately portrays the life of a tree-folk woman who navigates the complexities of her forested world, filled with trees, wildlife, and fellow tree-folk. As she encounters various challenges, such as finding food and evading dangers like thunderstorms and predatory animals, her experiences spark a shift in her awareness. The narrative captures her dual feelings of isolation and critical observation of her society while introducing her instinctual protectiveness towards her young one. This blend of elements hints at broader themes of discovery, evolution, and the quest for belonging that are likely to unfold throughout the rest of the narrative.
The Fortunes of Garin
"The Fortunes of Garin" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The book is set in a medieval landscape, taking readers through the life of a young squire named Garin de Castel-Noir as he grapples with significant life choices and the pursuit of honor. Themes of chivalry, ambition, and the dichotomy between religious duty and martial aspiration underpin Garin's journey. At the start of the story, Garin finds himself in a cathedral bathed in both physical and spiritual light, contemplating his future. He is influenced by different voices in his life—his brother Foulque, the Abbot of Saint Pamphilius who offers him a path to the clergy, and his feudal lord, Raimbaut the Six-fingered, who represents the knightly path. This inner turmoil is mirrored by his unexpected encounter with a knight whom he nobly rescues from a bandit, showcasing Garin's emerging sense of agency and honor. As the narrative unfolds, Garin must navigate the complex interplay of duty, love, and ambition that defines his fate in a richly depicted medieval world.
By order of the company
"By Order of the Company" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative is set in the early 17th century during the colonial era of Virginia, focusing on themes of love, conflict, and adventure. The main character, Ralph Percy, finds himself navigating the complexities of life as a soldier and now a husband, amid rising tensions with Indigenous peoples and the looming threat of Spanish forces. At the start of the story, Ralph Percy reflects on his home in Virginia and the stillness of the landscape at dusk. As he engages in a conversation with his friend, John Rolfe, they discuss the arrival of a ship bringing women to the colony and the implications it holds. The atmosphere shifts from light-hearted banter to a more serious tone as Ralph considers the native peoples’ relationships with the colonists. He is soon swept into a whirlwind of events that lead him to a hasty marriage to a mysterious woman, Jocelyn Leigh. Their initial interaction is tinged with conflict, loyalty, and the strong will of both characters, setting the stage for their tumultuous journey. This opening portion introduces readers to the intricate world of colonial America, where both personal and political stakes run high.
Audrey
"Audrey" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book is set in a time marked by exploration and the settlement of America, following the lives of early colonists as they navigate the wilderness and their relationships. The central character appears to be a young girl named Audrey, who finds herself amidst a world of adventure, danger, and the complexities of human interaction, particularly highlighted by the dramatic circumstances surrounding her family. The beginning of "Audrey" introduces readers to an idyllic valley scene in the wilderness where a pioneer family lives in a cabin, described with rich, evocative imagery. The narrative shifts quickly as the tranquility is interrupted by the arrival of a well-armed group of gentlemen, led by the Governor, eager for adventure. The initial harmony of nature is contrasted with the foreboding presence of potential danger, foreshadowing tumultuous events ahead. Soon, an attack from Native Americans leads to tragedy for the family, which brings young Audrey to the forefront as she survives and faces a new perilous reality, setting the stage for her journey and the challenges she must confront in this unforgiving world.
Silver Cross
"Silver Cross" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set during the reign of Henry VII, the story unfolds in the towns surrounding the Abbey of Silver Cross, exploring themes of faith, ambition, and the struggle for prestige between rival religious institutions. The narrative hints at conflicts arising from the rising fame of Saint Leofric and his miracles, which threaten the standing of the Abbey of Silver Cross and its Abbot Mark. The opening of the novel introduces the setting—Middle Forest and its castle, as well as the nearby Abbey of Silver Cross. It describes the existing harmony between the Abbey and the local power structure, which is disturbed by the emergence of Prior Hugh and the miracles associated with Saint Leofric. We meet Morgen Fay, a captivating woman tied to the local elite, revealing her inner turmoil and longing for something more in life. The tensions between the two religious factions foreshadow a struggle for influence, with characters contemplating their desires and loyalties against the backdrop of a changing society. This initial chapter sets the tone for a story rich in character complexity and historical depth, appealing to readers interested in medieval themes of faith and rivalry.
Sweet Rocket
"Sweet Rocket" by Mary Johnston is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with two women, Marget Land and her visitor, Miss Darcy, traveling down a serene, picturesque country road called Sweet Rocket Road, which evokes a strong sense of nostalgia and beauty related to their pasts. The narrative seems to delve into themes of memory, connection, and the tranquility found in nature, suggesting a profound exploration of the characters' relationships and emotional depths. At the start of the novel, Marget and Miss Darcy share a heartfelt conversation filled with reminiscences that evoke vivid imagery of their surroundings. Marget reflects on her deep attachment to Sweet Rocket, the place where she was born, as they travel through lush woodlands and across a charming stream. The introduction also hints at Marget's lives intertwined with her father, family's history, and her current life working with a blind poet, Richard Linden, at Sweet Rocket—a place steeped in their shared stories. As they drive along the road, the characters express their feelings about life, the magic of memories, and the beauty of the rural landscape, setting a contemplative tone for the unfolding narrative.
The Goddess of Reason: A Drama in Five Acts
"The Goddess of Reason: A Drama in Five Acts" by Mary Johnston is a historical drama written in the early 20th century. Set during the tumultuous era of the French Revolution, the play explores themes of class struggle, loyalty, and the complexities of power dynamics between nobles and peasants. The narrative centers around René-Amaury de Vardes, the new Baron of Morbec, and the struggle between his noble lineage and the revolutionary fervor of his peasant subjects, particularly focusing on a character named Yvette, who embodies the passions and resentments of the oppressed. The opening of the drama introduces a luxurious yet decaying world, where Rémond Lalain, a Deputy, seeks an audience with Baron René de Vardes, who has just inherited the château following his cousin’s death. As discussions unfold among the guests about the political turmoil and peasant uprisings, hints of discontent among the lower classes become evident. Lalain’s fervor for revolutionary ideals clashes with the grandeur and entitlement represented by the nobility. The narrative also introduces Yvette, a peasant girl, believed to have a significant role in the unfolding revolution, as she grapples with her identity and feelings toward her noble oppressor. This opening sets the stage for the characters' conflicts and the larger societal struggles that will permeate the narrative.
Prisoners of Hope: A Tale of Colonial Virginia
"Prisoners of Hope: A Tale of Colonial Virginia" by Mary Johnston is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The book transports readers to colonial Virginia and revolves around the lives of its characters who navigate the complexities of plantation life, class distinctions, and the arrival of new indentured servants. The story appears to introduce a cast of characters including the spirited young Patricia Verney and her cousin, Sir Charles Carew, as they prepare for an upcoming social event while confronting the darker realities lurking beneath the surface of colonial society. At the start of the novel, the central character Patricia eagerly anticipates the arrival of her father from Jamestown, bearing gifts and news. As she converses with her cousin about the luxurious items he brings, underlying themes of colonial life, including the institution of slavery and social hierarchy, begin to surface. The narrative hints at a more sinister aspect of this prosperous plantation life, particularly through conversations regarding the new arrivals: slaves and convicts from England. This section sets the stage for a larger exploration of the characters' interactions, societal expectations, and the personal challenges they face as they navigate a world imbued with both hope and despair.
Sir Mortimer: A Novel
"Sir Mortimer: A Novel" by Mary Johnston is a historical adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Sir Mortimer Ferne, a young and charismatic captain preparing for an expedition to the Spanish Main, filled with themes of honor, adventure, and the complexities of ambition amid the backdrop of Elizabethan England. The opening of the novel introduces us to Sir Mortimer as he raises a toast in a lively tavern, surrounded by fellow adventurers, discussing their upcoming voyage. He demonstrates his strong resolve and passionate spirit, proclaiming the nobility of their perilous endeavors. As they share tales of bravery and treasures to be won, a duel is abruptly triggered by a slur against Mortimer's honor, setting the stage for tensions that may unfold later in the narrative. The interactions among captains, particularly with the proud and arrogant Captain Baldry, illustrate the fierce rivalry and camaraderie typical of the era's explorers. Throughout this engaging beginning, there is an anticipation of the adventures that await these men at sea, balanced by personal conflicts and relationships that will likely shape their fates.
Foes
"Foes" by Mary Johnston is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the tumultuous world surrounding Scotland in the early 18th century, focusing on the lives and relationships of the Jardine family, particularly the bond between Alexander Jardine and Ian Rullock. The narrative delves into the political tensions stemming from the Jacobite uprisings, set against a rich backdrop of the Scottish landscape. The opening of the novel introduces the character of English Strickland, a tutor at Glenfernie House, as he converses with Mother Binning, a local woman gifted with the second sight. Their discussion reflects the deeply rooted traditions and portents that linger in rural Scottish life. Amidst this setting, Strickland contemplates the enigmatic Alexander Jardine, who possesses a complexity that intrigues both Mother Binning and the tutor himself. The narrative then establishes Alexander's relationships with his family and friends, hinting at the conflicts and emotional depth that will shape the course of their lives as they approach a turning point in Scottish history. Overall, the opening sets the stage for a story of growth, friendship, and the struggle against a backdrop of cultural upheaval.