Author
Richard Marsh
1857-1915
Richard Marsh (1857-1915) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Richard Marsh
The Beetle: A Mystery
"The Beetle: A Mystery" by Richard Marsh is a Gothic horror novel published in 1897. A shape-shifting ancient Egyptian entity arrives in London seeking vengeance against a British politician, Paul Lessingham. Through mesmerism and terror, the creature manipulates innocent victims to further its dark purpose. Told through four different narrators, the story weaves together mystery, supernatural horror, and psychological control as the Beetle pursues its prey through Victorian London, threatening everyone connected to its target.
Confessions of a Young Lady: Her Doings and Misdoings
"Confessions of a Young Lady: Her Doings and Misdoings" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Molly Boyes, a young girl whose impulsive nature leads her into amusing yet troublesome situations as she navigates her childhood experiences. Through a series of whimsical and earnest adventures, the narrative explores themes of aspiration, identity, and the whimsical reality of growing up. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Molly as she reminisces about her precocious youth and her dream of becoming an actress, inspired by stories of child prodigies like William Henry West Betty, the "Wonderful Boy." Molly's innocent determination leads her to the local theater, where her well-intentioned attempt to help the struggling troupe by bringing them German sausage turns into a comedic disaster as she faces the harsh realities of her naivety. This opening sets the tone for a playful yet reflective narrative filled with misadventures, social class observations, and the earnestness of a young girl’s ambitions in a world filled with complexities.
The Joss: A Reversion
"The Joss: A Reversion" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Mary Blyth, who finds herself in a pinch directly after a frustrating day at work, leading her to an unexpected entanglement with a mysterious stranger and a curious series of events. As she grapples with her difficult circumstances, including her less-than-ideal job in a drapery shop and her troubled friendships, an unexpected inheritance from her late uncle Benjamin Batters sets the stage for intrigue and potential danger, opening the door to a life shrouded in mystery. The opening of the novel introduces Mary Blyth as a relatable young woman experiencing a succession of unfortunate events, setting a tone of frustration and vulnerability. After a long day working under the scrutiny of her boss, Mr. Broadley, and missing out on several sales, she heads out into the chilling streets with her friends Emily and Tom, only to be confronted by a strange man named Isaac Rudd, who pays their dinner bill and makes curious offers. Mary’s day devolves further into chaos as she and her friends navigate a series of threatening encounters, foreshadowing the darker elements tied to her uncle’s enigmatic legacy. Ultimately, when Mary learns of her inheritance, which comes with mysterious conditions involving isolation and a new home, she is faced with an unexpected twist that is sure to enchant readers with a blend of romance and suspense.
A Master of Deception
"A Master of Deception" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the early 20th century. It follows the story of Rodney Elmore, a young man whose life is marked by a web of deceit and moral conflict. As he navigates his relationships with several women and his manipulative uncle, themes of dishonesty, ambition, and familial ties unfold, suggesting a complex exploration of identity and integrity. The opening of the novel introduces Rodney Elmore as a young boy fascinated by a circus, setting the stage for his adventurous spirit. The narrative quickly chronicles his transition to adolescence, marked by small acts of theft and a developing charm that endears him to the women in his life. He experiences an invitation from his father’s brother, who presents conflicting feelings of familial loyalty against a backdrop of burgeoning moral dilemmas. As he grows older, the pressure of expectations—both from his deceased mother and his uncle—compounds his internal conflict, suggesting that much of his life will be spent balancing the truths he hides with the facades he builds.
The goddess: a demon
"The Goddess: A Demon" by Richard Marsh is a novel published in 1900. After a night of cards, John Ferguson dreams of his friend Edwin Lawrence's brutal murder—only to wake and find a blood-soaked, beautiful woman climbing through his window. When Lawrence is discovered savagely killed, Ferguson becomes entangled in a dangerous investigation involving the mysterious amnesiac woman, supernatural forces, and dark secrets. As suspects multiply and threats close in, Ferguson must uncover the truth behind a murder that defies rational explanation.
The Woman with One Hand, and Mr. Ely's Engagement
"The Woman with One Hand, and Mr. Ely's Engagement" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the late 19th century. This gripping tale follows the fortunes of James Southam, who is pulled into a web of intrigue involving a mysterious advertisement, a murder, and the enigmatic figures of Mrs. Barnes and Mrs. Lascelles-Trevor. As Southam seeks to uncover the truth behind these events, he finds himself navigating a landscape fraught with danger and deception. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to James Southam, who, after a string of misfortunes, stumbles upon an advertisement in a newspaper that promises something to his advantage. Driven by desperation, he visits a dubious law firm and soon finds himself embroiled in a mystery surrounding his identity and a murder that has just taken place in the hotel where he is staying. The narrative quickly ramps up with the arrival of Mrs. Barnes, who is embroiled in her own troubles related to her missing husband and a strange connection to the victim, Duncan Rothwell. As Southam navigates his uncertain circumstances, dark secrets begin to surface, hinting at a deeper plot that intertwines the lives of the characters in unexpected ways.
The Magnetic Girl
"The Magnetic Girl" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Norah O'Brady, a young woman grappling with feelings of inadequacy and societal expectations as she navigates her life amid her more glamorous sisters. The narrative delves into themes of beauty, loneliness, and the complexities of love and relationships. The opening of the book introduces us to Norah O'Brady's tumultuous emotions as she reflects on a marriage proposal from Mr. Benjamin Morgan, a man labeled as "Crooked Ben" by her friends and family due to his deformity. Despite feeling rage and shame over the proposal, Norah is also compelled by curiosity about what it means to be desired, even if it is from someone that society deems unworthy. Her struggle with self-image is compounded by her family's constant scrutiny and invitations to marry, making her question her worth. As the chapter progresses, we see Norah's turmoil deepen, especially when dealing with her family’s dismissive attitudes and the emerging dynamics during an encounter with her admirers, hinting at further developments in her journey of self-discovery and emotional awakening.
The Crime and the Criminal
"The Crime and the Criminal" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Thomas Tennant, whose life spirals into chaos after a violent incident involving a woman on a train. As Tennant grapples with the implications of this encounter and the shadow of potential crime, he faces ominous interactions with a blackmailer who holds critical information about the event. At the start of the novel, Thomas Tennant travels alone from Brighton, leaving behind a troubled family situation. His journey takes a dark turn when a woman, who he once believed to be dead, unexpectedly confronts him in the train compartment. Their ensuing quarrel results in her falling from the moving train, leading to her tragic death. Conflicted by his chaotic emotions and a sense of fear, Tennant attempts to conceal the situation, which ignites a series of harrowing events involving blackmail and accusations as he struggles to maintain his innocence while protecting his family from the fallout.
Frivolities, Especially Addressed to Those Who Are Tired of Being Serious
"Frivolities, Especially Addressed to Those Who Are Tired of Being Serious" by Richard Marsh is a collection of humorous short stories written in the late 19th century. The stories explore various lighthearted and comedic situations that invite readers to take a break from the seriousness of everyday life. The characters are eclectic, including a clergyman, various applicants for a lost purse, and a whimsical waiter, all contributing to the comical tone of the narrative. The opening of the collection begins with an amusing scene focusing on a protagonist who has found a purse and is now dealing with a stream of eccentric characters claiming ownership over it. As several applicants arrive at his door, their increasingly desperate and often absurd attempts to describe the lost purse reveal a colorful tapestry of society's characters, from a seedy clergyman to the unemployed. The protagonist's exasperation grows as the chaotic situation unfolds, leading to humorous interactions that highlight the ridiculousness of their claims. This sets the tone for a series of amusing encounters that promise to entertain readers with lighthearted storytelling.
The Coward Behind the Curtain
"The Coward Behind the Curtain" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with Dorothy Gilbert, a young girl raised in a convent, who is unexpectedly summoned to meet her new guardian, Mr. Emmett, after her father's death. What follows is a dark tale of manipulation and fear, as Dorothy becomes entangled with Emmett, a boorish man who embodies everything she has been taught to distrust. At the start of the novel, Dorothy is introduced while enjoying the tranquil life of the convent, a stark contrast to the unsettling encounter with Emmett. Upon his arrival, Dorothy’s initial excitement quickly turns to apprehension as Mr. Emmett’s rudeness and brutish demeanor become clear. Throughout the opening chapters, Dorothy grapples with her feelings of terror and confusion, setting up a narrative filled with tension and suspense as she realizes that her new protector may not have her best interests at heart. The reader is drawn into a world of both physical and emotional entrapment, hinting at a thrilling and dark journey ahead.
Violet Forster's Lover
"Violet Forster's Lover" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows Sydney Beaton, an officer entangled in a gambling scandal, who faces disgrace and poverty. Set against a backdrop of social turmoil, the story revolves around his tumultuous relationships, particularly with Violet Forster, a woman devoted to him amidst his downfall. The opening of the novel introduces us to Sydney Beaton in a tense poker game where he is accused of cheating. This moment escalates into chaos when Beaton, struggling with his dwindling finances and reputation, reacts aggressively to the accusation. As the scene unfolds, we learn more about his character and circumstances, including his strained relationship with his brother and his desperation for financial aid. After a series of unfortunate events leads him to leave the barracks in disgrace, Beaton’s life steadily declines, culminating in a dramatic encounter in Hyde Park that sets the stage for the complexities of his relationship with Violet and the challenges he will face moving forward.
A Hero of Romance
"A Hero of Romance" by Richard Marsh is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a group of boys at Mecklemburg House Collegiate School, particularly a young lad named Bertie Bailey, who grapples with authority and the educational shortcomings of a dilapidated institution. Through Bertie's interactions with his punishing teacher, Mr. Till, and his subsequent adventures, the narrative promises a blend of youthful rebellion and the search for excitement outside the constraints of a conventional education. The opening of the novel sets a dreary tone, depicting a dismal atmosphere within the school as Bertie faces punishment for insolence. The gloomy weather mirrors Bertie's mood as he sits at his desk, marked for punishment, reflecting his disdain for authority and academic obligations. The text introduces a cast of characters, including the ineffectual Mr. Till and Bertie's peers, who share a bond of mischief and rebellion against the school's repressive environment. As the chapter unfolds, it becomes evident that Bertie's defiance is not merely a personal struggle, but a commentary on the educational systems of the time, hinting at a desire for a more adventurous and fulfilling life.
Under One Flag
"Under One Flag" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the early 20th century. This book opens with a dramatic introduction to the lives of its characters, particularly focusing on Lizzie Emmett, a young woman in the ballet struggling with her modest means and aspirations. As the story unfolds, themes of ambition, rivalry, and societal expectations begin to emerge as Lizzie crosses paths with other key figures, including a mysterious foreign gentleman and a renowned actress. The opening portion introduces Lizzie as she grapples with her financial difficulties, epitomized by her worn-out ballet shoes, and creates an intriguing setting filled with her thoughts and interactions. The arrival of Philippe Rossignol, a dapper stranger with unclear intentions, and the unexpected visit from the famous Agnes Graham introduce complex emotions of envy, aspiration, and desperation as they navigate the intricate dynamics of love, jealousy, and class. As Lizzie dismisses the foreigners with disdain, the unfolding interactions set the stage for intense exploration of the characters' connections, desires, and conflicts within the backdrop of the performing arts world.
The Chase of the Ruby
"The Chase of the Ruby" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around Guy Holland, who is thrust into a peculiar situation following the death of his uncle, George Burton. With a will that hinges on the retrieval of a ruby signet ring from an actress named May Bewicke, Guy must navigate a web of intrigue, personal relationships, and unexpected complications. At the start of the tale, Guy Holland receives an unexpected letter notifying him of his uncle's death, leading him back to London from Africa and unraveling a haunting vision he believes was linked to his uncle's demise. As he meets with Letty, his betrothed, he confesses to a strange connection with his uncle's fate. The narrative quickly evolves with Guy learning that his inheritance is contingent on reclaiming a ring from an old flame, Miss Bewicke, which sparks tension between him and his fiancé. The opening sets the stage for a gripping chase through personal rivalries, unfulfilled romances, and moral dilemmas that challenge Guy's character as he embarks on a quest that may ultimately put him at odds with his own values.
The Twickenham Peerage
"The Twickenham Peerage" by Richard Marsh is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around a dramatic mystery surrounding the character Montagu Babbacombe, who undergoes an extraordinary thirty-day sleep, prompting various characters to question his identity and the implications of his awakening. The central character, Douglas Howarth, is deeply entangled in his relationships with the families of Babbacombe and the elusive Twickenham, raising stakes concerning love, wealth, and the perils of the aristocracy. At the start of the novel, Babbacombe is showcased in a sideshow at the Westminster Aquarium, where onlookers are captivated by his uncanny ability to remain in a deep sleep without food or drink for an extended period. Douglas Howarth, who stumbles upon this spectacle, is struck with disbelief when he sees Babbacombe's resemblance to Leonard Sherrington, the missing Marquis of Twickenham. As the plot unfolds, Howarth is faced with the consequences of this uncanny resemblance, alongside the looming question of Twickenham's fate and the financial ruin that could follow upon his potential return. Themes of identity, deception, and fate are interwoven in this intricate opening, introducing readers to a world ripe with intrigue and potential revelations.
The Datchet Diamonds
"The Datchet Diamonds" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a complex interplay of relationships and intrigue following the theft of valuable diamonds from the Duchess of Datchet. The characters include Mr. Cyril Paxton, a man with a troubled past and uncertain future, who, after a series of misadventures, comes into possession of the stolen diamonds, setting the stage for a moral dilemma that will put his character to the test. At the start of the novel, we meet Miss Strong, who reflects on her uneasy encounters with Mr. Lawrence, whom she met during a chance meeting at Devil's Dyke. Their relationship grows as they navigate societal expectations and romantic tensions, with Cyril Paxton looming on the periphery. The narrative swiftly pulls in themes of love, ambition, and duplicity, as Mr. Paxton overhears critical information regarding the robbery of the Datchet diamonds while on a train, complicating his already precarious financial situation. As he grapples with the allure of suddenly acquired wealth, the intertwining fates of the characters promise a gripping exploration of ethics, desire, and the dire consequences of ambition.
Between the Dark and the Daylight
"Between the Dark and the Daylight" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds through a series of stories featuring unique characters and engaging situations, exploring themes of social interactions and the unpredictability of human nature. The book introduces various characters, including an aunt on an excursion, her hapless nephew, and an assortment of diverse companions, suggesting a whimsical exploration of their escapades in London. The opening of the novel presents a comical excursion led by the narrator's aunt, who unexpectedly visits him with nine companions from Cornwall. As they plan their day of sightseeing, a series of humorous interactions reveals the eccentricities and quirks of each character, such as a "parish idiot," a converted drunkard, and a curious make-shift tour guide intent on blending education with entertainment. The chaos of managing the mismatched group and the aunt's misguided sense of adventure sets the tone for a light-hearted examination of their adventures in the bustling city, hinting at further misadventures to come.
Amusement Only
"Amusement Only" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens with a gripping and peculiar incident involving the Duke of Datchet and the apparent kidnapping of his wife, the Duchess. This dramatic series of events is characterized by a sense of mystery and urgency, as the Duke attempts to navigate a bizarre situation in which his wife's identity is undermined by the actions of an unknown assailant. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a frantic Duke as he learns that the carriage meant to bring his wife home is empty, despite their servants insisting that she had entered it. Soon after, the Duke receives a threatening letter demanding a ransom for the Duchess's safe return, along with a lock of her hair as proof of her abduction. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that the Duke's world is turned upside down by this extraordinary turn of events, blending elements of suspense and dark humor. Through vivid characterizations and engaging dialogue, Marsh sets the stage for a tale that promises bewildering twists and complexities as the characters grapple with the unfolding mystery.
Miss Arnott's Marriage
"Miss Arnott's Marriage" by Richard Marsh is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story centers around Violet Arnott, a young woman grappling with the shame of her husband Robert Champion's conviction and subsequent imprisonment. As she navigates the fallout of his actions, Violet rediscovering her identity underscores themes of shame, societal expectation, and the quest for independence. At the start of the novel, Violet witnesses her husband's sentencing, which leaves her feeling utterly humiliated and alone. As she transitions from being Robert Champion's wife to living independently as Miss Arnott, she confronts her new reality marked by financial strain and societal judgment. The opening chapters introduce additional characters, including Mr. Gardner, a solicitor's clerk, who bears news of a potential inheritance, shifting Violet's prospects dramatically. Her chance encounter with Hugh Morice, a neighboring landowner, hints at evolving relationships in her life, setting up a complex web of emotion as she seeks to escape the shadow of her husband's disgrace.
A Woman Perfected
"A Woman Perfected" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the characters Donald Lindsay, who suffers a sudden stroke, and his daughter Nora, who is left to navigate the aftermath of her father's condition and the mysteries of their family life. As events unfold, the narrative delves into themes of male paternal control, the complications of wealth and social standing, and the complexities of personal relationships. At the start of the book, we witness a poignant scene where Donald Lindsay collapses after exhibiting unusual behavior, sparking concern among his daughter Nora and her friend, Elaine. The gravity of the situation escalates as they discover he is incapacitated in his study, having been engaged in mysterious, secretive activities before his collapse. The opening establishes a sense of foreboding as Nora becomes increasingly aware of her father's hidden life and the lack of communication about his affairs, primarily concerning the wealth and security he is supposed to provide her. From this point, the story hints at deeper secrets entwined with Donald's character, foreshadowing a narrative rich in suspense and intrigue surrounding family dynamics and social expectations.
Tom Ossington's Ghost
"Tom Ossington's Ghost" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers on Madge Brodie, a music teacher who encounters a mysterious and seemingly troubled young man seeking lessons, as well as a woman claiming to be connected to the spirit of a previous occupant of the house, Tom Ossington. The narrative emerges with elements of intrigue, suspense, and a hint of the supernatural as it explores themes of loneliness and the spectral remnants of past lives. At the start of the novel, Madge is deeply engrossed in her writing when an unexpected visitor arrives—a man claiming he wants music lessons despite his obvious discomfort and hidden fears. Their tense interaction is disrupted by an unsettling figure lurking outside. Shortly afterward, an eccentric woman bursts into Madge's life, asserting that she is the ghost's wife and revealing dark tales of her past entwined with a tragic history linked to Tom Ossington. The chapter sets the stage for an unfolding mystery, laden with ghostly implications and emotional turbulence, as Madge grapples with her newfound reality in Clover Cottage, where unsettling secrets and eerie connections promise to emerge.
A Duel
"A Duel" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with Isabel discovering the harsh realities of her marriage to Gregory Lamb shortly after their honeymoon, revealing deep financial struggles and the revelations about her husband’s deceit. As tensions rise, Isabel's desperation leads her to make impulsive decisions, ultimately finding herself in an unexpected marriage with a dying man named Cuthbert Grahame, who she believed would be dead shortly after their union. The opening of the book finds Isabel grappling with the shattering news from her husband’s mother, revealing their dire financial circumstances and prompting her to seek freedom from an unfulfilling marriage. In a moment of impulsivity, she steals money from her landlady and attempts to leave but injures her ankle, ultimately being rescued by a doctor. This leads her to Cuthbert Grahame’s bedside, where she is presented with an outrageous proposal to marry him in order to secure a financial inheritance, which she reluctantly accepts. This initial twist sets the stage for a story that explores themes of desperation, marriage, and cunning survival as Isabel navigates her complex new reality of being a wife to an ailing man.
En adelig Opdager
"En adelig Opdager" by Richard Marsh is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character of Count August Campnell, a renowned detective who is brought into various perplexing cases, including thefts and mysterious circumstances in high society settings. The narrative promises an intriguing mix of mystery, investigation, and aristocratic drama. The opening of the story sets the stage at the Glenlean estate, where the elderly lord is in distress over a missing letter of critical importance. In a state of panic, he summons Count Campnell, who arrives with an air of confidence and keen observation skills. As Campnell begins to piece together the events surrounding the disappearance, he investigates the reactions of those involved, including the lord's wife and the household staff, leading to a whirlwind of speculation about who may have taken the letter. This initial chapter introduces a blend of suspense and character dynamics as Campnell utilizes his intelligence to uncover the truth behind the theft.
A Second Coming
"A Second Coming" by Richard Marsh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores a thought-provoking scenario in which a character named Hugh Chisholm claims to have witnessed the Second Coming of Christ in modern-day London. Through its discussions, the book delves into themes of faith, doubt, and societal norms as it questions how a contemporary world would react to such a miraculous event. The opening of the novel captures a dinner party atmosphere where Chisholm makes a startling entrance, announcing that Christ has returned. The guests are initially bewildered, treating Chisholm's insistence with skepticism. However, he recounts a dramatic encounter in which he saw Christ revive a deceased man after a cycling accident. Chisholm’s passionate claim rattles the party, leading to mixed reactions ranging from curiosity to disbelief. This sets the tone for the rest of the narrative, focusing on how individuals grapple with the intersection of the miraculous and the mundane, and how society reacts to challenges of faith and truth.