Author
Florence Marryat
1833-1899
Florence Marryat (1833-1899) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Florence Marryat
The blood of the vampire
"The Blood of the Vampire" by Florence Marryat is a Gothic novel published in 1897. The story follows Harriet Brandt, a mixed-race woman who leaves a Jamaican convent to start a new life in Victorian Europe. Unbeknownst to her, Harriet is a psychic vampire who drains the life from those around her. As she attempts to integrate into society and falls in love, those closest to her begin to sicken and die, leading to devastating revelations about her family's dark past.
There is No Death
"There is No Death" by Florence Marryat is a philosophical account written in the late 19th century that delves into the realm of Spiritualism and the existence of the afterlife. The book captures the author's personal experiences and observations while investigating spiritual phenomena, asserting that death is merely a transition rather than an end. Marryat eagerly seeks to share credible accounts of spirit interactions, grounding her narratives in the extraordinary events she has witnessed. The opening portion introduces the author's intent to document her encounters with the supernatural, highlighting her family's history with ghostly experiences. Marryat discusses her father's belief in spirits and recounts uncanny occurrences from her own life, such as seeing apparitions and having premonitions about the deaths of others. She provides vivid anecdotes, including her father's compelling tale of seeing his deceased brother before receiving news of his death, setting the tone for her exploration of Spiritualism. The narrative encourages readers to open their minds to the phenomena of existence beyond the physical world, preparing them for the stories and insights that follow.
A moment of madness, and other stories (vol. 1 of 3)
"A Moment of Madness" by Florence Marryat is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The opening tale introduces the struggles of Roland Tresham, a man ensnared in the difficulties of adulthood, marriage, and financial woes while juggling the expectations of societal norms and familial duties. As he interacts with his affluent sister and reflects on the relentless burdens posed by his responsibilities, the central theme appears to revolve around the conflicts between desire, duty, and the search for escape. At the start of the book, the narrative focuses on Roland Tresham's visit to his sister, Mrs. Carnaby-Hicks, in her elegantly adorned drawing-room amidst the lively London season. Through their conversation, we gauge Roland's turmoil stemming from his discontented marriage to Juliet, whom he feels trapped by, exacerbated by financial strain as a father of six children. The interactions at Mrs. Carnaby-Hicks' drawing-room set the stage for a profound exploration of family dynamics, societal pressures, and personal crises, compelling the reader to ponder the fragility of happiness amidst the pursuit of wealth and social standing.
A moment of madness, and other stories (vol. 3 of 3)
"A Moment of Madness, and Other Stories" (Vol. 3 of 3) by Florence Marryat is a collection of fictional short stories written during the late 19th century. The narratives often revolve around intense emotional situations, relationships, and societal observations, portraying the complexities of human behavior and interactions. The stories likely feature a variety of characters navigating the intricacies of life, love, and morality in Victorian society. The opening of the collection introduces us to Ethel Dunstan, who is currently unsettled in a castle with her young daughter, Katie, due to unsettling behavior from their servants, which Ethel perceives as madness. Ethel expresses bitterness over her husband’s absence, fearing his infidelity with a flirtatious acquaintance, Mrs. Lawless. As tensions rise, Ethel faces mysterious events surrounding her child's care and hears unsettling ghost stories about the castle’s past, including a tale of a murdered English woman and her child. This suspenseful beginning establishes themes of jealousy, fear, and the supernatural that likely permeate the subsequent stories in the volume.
The Hampstead mystery: a novel. Volume 2 (of 3)
"The Hampstead Mystery: A Novel. Volume 2" by Florence Marryat is a fictional novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the tragic events following the mysterious death of Jane Emily Walcheren, exploring themes of love, guilt, and societal judgment through the lives of the characters connected to her. Central characters include Frederick Walcheren, the bereaved husband, who is grappling with grief and accusations surrounding his wife's tragic fall, and Philip Walcheren, his supportive cousin attempting to shield him from overwhelming suspicions. The beginning of the novel opens with an intense court scene where Frederick Walcheren is under questioning regarding the last moments he spent with his wife before her untimely death. The tension escalates as the coroner and jury express skepticism over Frederick’s alibi and the circumstances leading to Jane’s fall from the cliffs. Through vivid portrayals of Frederick's distress and the courtroom's harsh scrutiny, readers witness his deep anguish as he faces potential accusations of foul play. This sets the stage for a gripping narrative that delves into the psychological turmoil and societal pressures confronting those left in the aftermath of a tragedy shrouded in mystery.
The Hampstead mystery: a novel. Volume 1 (of 3)
"The Hampstead Mystery" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the complex relationships and societal expectations surrounding Jenny Crampton, a spirited and beautiful young woman, as her father, Mr. Crampton, vehemently opposes her budding romance with Frederick Walcheren, a man of disreputable habits and Catholic faith. The narrative explores themes of love, parental control, and individual desire set against the backdrop of a rigid social structure. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Mr. Crampton's authoritarian stance regarding his daughter Jenny's interactions with Mr. Walcheren. A heated discussion ensues between Mr. Crampton and his family regarding Jenny's alleged romantic interest in Walcheren. Despite her father's strict prohibitions, Jenny's affection for Walcheren remains steadfast, leading her to contemplate elopement. As tensions rise, the dynamics between love and duty become palpable, foreshadowing the conflicts that will challenge the characters throughout the unfolding drama.
A moment of madness, and other stories (vol. 2 of 3)
"A Moment of Madness and Other Stories (Vol. 2 of 3)" by Florence Marryat is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The narratives likely combine elements of the supernatural, drama, and human emotion, as demonstrated by the compelling ghostly experiences and the intricate relationships explored in the opening tale. The collection delves into themes of grief, love, and the complexities of human connections, featuring characters such as Dolly and Bessie, alongside the haunted figure of Mrs. Graham. The opening of the tale titled "Sent to His Death" introduces us to Dolly, who is staying in a seemingly haunted house, and her anxious companion, Bessie. Their nighttime encounter with a mysterious apparition evokes both fear and curiosity, compelling Dolly to confront the ghost rather than retreat. The atmosphere transitions from fear to empathy when they discover the nurse, Mrs. Graham, who suffers from the torment of grief over her husband’s tragic fate at sea. Drawing their fears together, it becomes clear that Mrs. Graham's emotional turmoil intertwines with the haunting presence and evokes themes of loss and redemption that are prevalent throughout the collection. As the narrative unfolds, it promises a poignant exploration of the characters grappling with their pasts against the backdrop of unfolding drama and supernatural elements.
A bankrupt heart, Vol. 3 (of 3)
"A Bankrupt Heart, Vol. 3 (of 3)" by Florence Marryat is a romance novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds through the complex relationships and emotional turmoil of its characters, primarily focusing on the lives of Nora, Lady Ilfracombe, and Nell Llewellyn. Central to the narrative is the tension and secrecy surrounding past loves, honor, and the societal expectations of the time. At the start of the volume, the reader is immersed in a dramatic encounter between Nora and Nell after a near-accident involving runaway horses, which raises tensions between their distinctly different social classes. Following the incident, Nora expresses her gratitude toward Nell, who casually downplays her bravery and refuses to accept any form of compensation, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of class differences and personal pride. The chapter also introduces the looming presence of Lord Ilfracombe, through whose past connections with Nell further complicate the dynamics as the narrative progresses. The opening establishes a rich context of emotion, unspoken histories, and the complexities of love and duty that permeate the text.
The Hampstead mystery: a novel. Volume 3 (of 3)
"The Hampstead Mystery" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Hannah Hindes as she navigates the tumultuous changes in her husband Henry's behavior, shaped by a tragic incident and his growing dependence on morphia. With themes of family, mental health, and the intricacies of marital duty, the narrative explores both the personal struggles of the characters and the societal expectations of the time." "The opening of the novel introduces us to Hannah Hindes, who is grappling with her husband Henry's deteriorating mental state, exacerbated by his increasing use of morphia for his neuralgia. Captain Arthur Hindes, Henry's brother, expresses concern over his sibling's health, hinting at the underlying issues at play. As they converse, it's revealed that Henry's behavior has changed dramatically since the tragic death of a family friend, leading to a growing tension within his family, particularly as Hannah tries to manage his irritability and protect their children's wellbeing. The opening establishes a poignant scenario, as Hannah's fear for her husband's wellbeing collides with the harsh reality of his condition and their family’s disarray."
A bankrupt heart, Vol. 1 (of 3)
"A Bankrupt Heart, Vol. 1" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on Miss Ellen Llewellyn, the housekeeper for Lord Ilfracombe, who navigates her complicated feelings for him as she grapples with social status, love, and family ties. The opening chapters introduce her inner conflicts and the arrival of unexpected visitors from her past, which set the stage for the emotional turbulence to come. The beginning of the novel presents Miss Llewellyn in her opulent surroundings, drawn into a reverie about her rural roots in Wales. As she reflects on her relationship with Lord Ilfracombe, a letter from him sparks anxiety about his intentions, particularly regarding his mention of Mr. Sterndale, a man she dislikes. Her emotional state is further complicated by the visit of her sister and brother-in-law, who represent her nostalgic past, and by the unnerving presence of Mr. Portland, a friend of Ilfracombe's who embodies the societal pressures that challenge her bond with the earl. Through vibrant characterization and rich inner dialogue, Marryat sets the stage for a conflict between personal desire and societal expectations, encapsulating a young woman's struggle for autonomy and love.
A bankrupt heart, Vol. 2 (of 3)
"A Bankrupt Heart, Vol. 2 (of 3)" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story primarily follows the character Nell Llewellyn, who awakens from a severe illness to a harsh reality, grappling with her past and the consequences of her choices. The novel delves into themes of love, loss, and redemption as Nell interacts with her family and the kind-hearted Hugh Owen, who has been deeply affected by her plight. At the start of the novel, Nell Llewellyn slowly regains her consciousness after weeks teetering between life and death due to a fever. As she rouses, she is haunted by memories of her disgrace and the life she has left behind. Her mother is overjoyed by her recovery and reveals the support of Hugh Owen, who has been a steadfast figure during her illness. As Nell navigates her feelings of shame and despair, especially regarding her past relationship, where she was seduced by a gentleman who ultimately abandoned her, she struggles with the desire to live amidst her grief. The opening chapters set a poignant and intense atmosphere, establishing Nell's complicated emotions as she begins to confront her future.
The ghost of Charlotte Cray, and other stories
"The ghost of Charlotte Cray, and other stories" by Florence Marryat is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The tales lean toward the supernatural and domestic melodrama, exploring jealousy, guilt, and the persistence of wronged affections beyond the grave. Early standouts feature a complacent publisher haunted by a former lover he mistreated, and a London doctor whose rural retreat turns into a study in uncanny repetition and family tragedy. The opening of this collection follows Mr. Sigismund Braggett, a newly married publisher who once encouraged the hopes of an eager “authoress,” Charlotte Cray. After Charlotte dies, Braggett’s clerks, his household, and finally his wife encounter her presence; the apparition appears in his office before dissolving, prompting him to abandon business, knowing Charlotte has kept her vow to “see” his wife. The next story begins with a physician seeking rest at the isolated Rushmere, where he, his wife Jane, and their servants hear creeping footsteps, sobs, and the phantom crack of a gun; terror drives them to an inn. There, the landlord’s wife reveals the house’s past: an asthmatic master, Greenslade, shot his estranged daughter Emily on the stairs and hanged himself, and the nightly sounds are the fatal scene replaying itself.
A broken blossom, vol. 3 of 3
"A broken blossom, vol. 3 of 3" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. Told in the first person by Hilda Marsh, it blends romance, social tension, and questions of trust and independence as she navigates life with her indebted guardian in the French town of St. Pucelle. Key figures include the proud yet penitent Baron de Nesselrode, the volatile Cave Charteris, steadfast Tessie, impulsive Ange, and Hilda’s loyal friend Charlie Sandilands. The opening of the novel follows Hilda as she firmly redefines her relationship with Charlie, seeks his pragmatic counsel on her mismanaged trust, and writes to Mr. Warrington to regain control of her income. She collides with household discontent—overhearing the cook’s scorn and learning from Charteris that Mr. Lovett is deeply in debt and has even borrowed in Hilda’s name—while parrying Charteris’s attempt to rekindle past sentiment. A tense evening walk leads to a fright with a wolfish sheep-dog and a rescue by Baron de Nesselrode, who then confides his fall from wealth through grief, gambling, and betrayal, revealing years of enforced austerity ahead; Hilda responds with compassion and practical hope. As they return, they encounter Ange walking with Charteris, and the section closes with a “black cloud” settling over the house—Lovett’s froideur, Tessie’s avoidance, and Charteris’s sulks—hinting at mounting strain and entanglements to come.
A crown of shame, volume 2 (of 3)
"A Crown of Shame, Volume 2" by Florence Marryat is a novel written during the late 19th century. This volume continues the story of Lizzie, who is grappling with the sudden death of her father and the burden of caring for an infant left in their charge, amid growing suspicions from the community that she is the child's mother. The narrative extends themes of honor, reputation, and the complexities of female friendships as Lizzie's life becomes ensnared in scandal. The opening of this volume finds Lizzie in a profound state of grief over her father's passing while also facing the troubling rumors circulating about her relationship to the child she has taken in. As she interacts with Quita, her adopted sister, Liz reveals the weight of her secret, a binding oath taken in silence over their shared past. As she contemplates asking Quita to confess the child’s true parentage, tension arises as Quita grapples with her own fears and desires, leading to a complex interplay of loyalty, love, and the desire to protect one another even amidst a precarious situation. The strong emotional currents and moral dilemmas set up a gripping narrative that invites readers to reflect on societal pressures and personal integrity.
The strange transfiguration of Hannah Stubbs
"The strange transfiguration of Hannah Stubbs" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. It blends domestic realism with occult intrigue, following an exiled Italian aristocrat in London, a pragmatic young doctor, and a country maid whose uncanny mediumship draws them into séances and supernatural tests. Expect a tale of jealousy, guilt, and the thirst for answers beyond the veil, with the title character’s latent powers promising unsettling transformations. The opening of the novel introduces Signor Ricardo, a reserved Italian language teacher in a Soho lodging-house, secretly using a black-draped room for occult experiments. Visited by Dr. Karl Steinberg, he confesses he is Paolo, Marchese di Sorrento, who killed his wife Leonora in a jealous rage and now longs to learn if she was guilty or innocent by summoning her spirit. After an unnerving séance that spooks Steinberg, the men discover their landlady’s new maid, Hannah Stubbs, an ingenuous village girl whose presence triggers poltergeist-like activity. They strike a deal to “treat” her, hold sittings, and hear a controlling voice called James speak through her, promising guidance and hinting that Leonora is near; soon Hannah herself reports seeing a veiled, black-eyed lady on the stairs and by her bed, setting the stage for deeper—and riskier—experiments.
A crown of shame, volume 1 (of 3)
"A Crown of Shame, Volume 1" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in San Diego during a time of disease and turmoil, focusing on the life of Elizabeth "Liz" Fellows, the devoted daughter of a doctor, as she navigates the challenges of her profession amidst a deadly epidemic. Liz is portrayed as a compassionate and capable woman, dedicating herself to caring for the sick and confronting issues of social stigma, especially as she witnesses the struggles of the local community. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Liz as she contemplates the oppressive heat and mounting despair in her surroundings. As she interacts with the local population—particularly the grieving mothers affected by the fever—Liz's resilience and empathy shine through. Her relationship with her father, Dr. Fellows, is both supportive and complicated by his own melancholy. The tension escalates further when Liz is confronted with scandal and the secrets of her father's past, hinting at a deeper theme of shame that intertwines with the personal and societal struggles present in their lives. As Liz grapples with love and loyalty amidst turmoil, the narrative sets the stage for a rich exploration of personal sacrifice and societal judgment.
Driven to bay, Vol. 1 (of 3)
"Driven to Bay, Vol. 1 (of 3)" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Vernon "Jack" Blythe, a young sailor, and weaves together threads of love, ambition, and the challenges of personal honor. The narrative introduces various characters whose lives intersect en route to new beginnings, particularly through the vessel Pandora and a voyage to New Zealand, touching on themes of romance, betrayal, and social mobility. The opening of the novel introduces Jack Blythe, a good-natured and spirited sailor living with his widowed mother in Southsea, who is seeking employment as a ship's officer and is romantically attached to Alice Leyton. Jack’s relationship with his mother is close, though complicated by her skepticism about his engagement to Alice and hints of a previous heartbreak. The narrative then shifts to the troubled marriage of Godfrey Harland, a man burdened by vice and misfortune, who is plotting to desert his wife Iris by joining the wealthy Vansittart family on a voyage to New Zealand and starting a new life under a false identity. Iris, upon uncovering her husband’s intentions, steels herself to confront or follow him, highlighting her desperate situation and resolve. Alongside these personal dramas, the story surveys the wealthy but socially awkward Vansittarts and sets in motion the convergence of these characters aboard the Pandora, establishing stakes of love, escape, and the search for belonging.
A crown of shame, volume 3 (of 3)
"A Crown of Shame, Volume 3" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. This concluding volume follows the intertwining lives of several characters within a plantation society, focusing particularly on Rosa, who is left behind on Maraquita's wedding day, and Maraquita herself, who grapples with the consequences of her choices amidst rising tensions and conflicts in San Diego. The narrative delves into themes of betrayal, love, and societal expectations. At the start of the novel, Rosa is seen discontented and reluctant to care for Maraquita's baby while all others, including her love interest Juan, attend the wedding festivities. The scene introduces a complex backdrop where characters like Judy, who conspires with Henri de Courcelles, and Lizzie, who acts as a caretaker, emerge into focus. As Rosa relinquishes her ambitions for a semblance of social acknowledgment, parallel tensions evolve with Maraquita's marriage that promises both glory and regret. This section sets the stage for deeper explorations of love, identity, and rebellion as the lives of these characters are further intertwined against the backdrop of impending upheaval in their community.
A broken blossom, vol. 2 of 3
"A broken blossom, vol. 2 of 3" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. Set in and around the small town of St. Pucelle, it follows Hilda Marsh, her guardian Mr. Lovett, his daughters Tessie and Ange, and the impoverished Baron de Nesselrode as domestic kindness, hidden vices, and romantic entanglements intersect. The return of Hilda’s former admirer, Cave Charteris, stirs old feelings and new tensions amid talk of gambling, social standing, and hope for better fortunes. The opening of this volume finds Hilda visiting the Baron’s decayed château, where a broken Venetian glass, a tame wolf, and a dusty chapel with an organ reveal both faded grandeur and fragile pride. Hilda later secretly witnesses the Baron and Mr. Lovett gambling, receives a delicate Venetian vase from the Baron, and hears town gossip linking the flirtatious Miss Markham to a young spendthrift, Arthur Thrale. As Ange’s birthday approaches, Hilda secures silver earrings for her, while the household prepares for a mysterious “change” that proves to be the arrival of a paying guest—Cave Charteris—whose sudden appearance unsettles Hilda. A strained but civil dinner, plans for forest hunting with the Baron, and Hilda’s private resurgence of grief for her mother close this opening movement.
Driven to bay, Vol. 2 (of 3)
“Driven to Bay, Vol. 2 (of 3)” by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers on a diverse group of passengers aboard the long-distance passenger ship, "Pandora", as it sails toward New Zealand. The story explores the lives and emotional entanglements of these characters, focusing on themes of love, social status, personal secrets, and the transformative experience of sea travel. Among the principal characters are Maggie Greet, Will Farrell, Iris Hetherley (also known as Miss Douglas), Vernon Blythe, Alice Leyton, and Captain Lovell, whose intersecting relationships and personal dilemmas drive the narrative. The opening of the novel immerses readers in life aboard the "Pandora" as passengers settle into their routines after the initial excitement of departure fades. Social dynamics quickly become apparent, with flirtations and gossip flourishing in the confined setting. The narrative first revolves around Maggie and Will Farrell, revealing Maggie’s troubled past and Will’s proposal, which she struggles to accept due to her sense of unworthiness. Meanwhile, the novel introduces Iris Hetherley’s secret identity and troubled circumstances as she reunites, under a new name, with the earnest officer Vernon Blythe, whose feelings for her have remained unchanged. Parallel to these threads is the complicated romance between Alice Leyton, her fiancé Vernon, and the attentive Captain Lovell, culminating in a dramatic man-overboard rescue that tests loyalties and deepens emotional bonds. The opening portion sets the scene for a dramatic voyage filled with personal confessions, romantic uncertainty, and the ever-present challenges of life at sea.
Driven to bay, Vol. 3 (of 3)
"Driven to Bay, Vol. 3 (of 3)" by Florence Marryat is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story is centered on a group of passengers aboard the ship "Pandora", drawing together themes of interpersonal relationships, deception, marital conflict, and the moral consequences of betrayal and love. Main characters include Miss Vere, a talented actress; Harold Greenwood, a conceited passenger; Iris Harland, a woman hiding her identity; and her estranged husband, Godfrey Harland, whose duplicity and criminal past drive the central suspense. The novel focuses on emotional struggles and looming revelations as the characters near the end of their voyage. The opening of the novel immediately immerses the reader in the vibrant life aboard the "Pandora", beginning with preparations for amateur theatricals led by Miss Vere. Character interactions are quickly established: the clever and warm-hearted Miss Vere supports the ostracized Harold Greenwood, who foolishly misinterprets her kindness as romantic interest, setting him up for humiliation. The focus then shifts to the secretive and tense relationships among other passengers, particularly Iris (travelling under an assumed name) and her husband Godfrey Harland, whose intentions to marry another woman are overheard by undercover Iris. The early chapters also provide a vivid depiction of life aboard ship, the strained dynamics between Godfrey and Iris as she confronts his betrayal, and the inner turmoil faced by those wronged. The stage is set for a dramatic unmasking—both literal and figurative—as longstanding secrets threaten to erupt amidst the enclosed, restless world of the voyage.