Author
Frances Mary Peard
1835-1923
Frances Mary Peard (1835-1923) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Frances Mary Peard
The Swing of the Pendulum
"The Swing of the Pendulum" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story begins on a crowded ship making its way to Norway, highlighting the discomfort of the passengers as they anticipate their arrival. The focus shifts to a mother and daughter, Mrs. Ravenhill and Millie, who are determined to explore their destination despite their unpleasant journey. The narrative hints at a developing relationship between Millie and a fellow traveler, Dick Wareham, while also introducing the mysterious Anne Dalrymple, adding complexity to their interactions. The opening of the novel establishes a backdrop of travel and discomfort, with characters who are slowly revealing their personalities and relationships. As the ship approaches the harbor of Stavanger, Millie expresses her eagerness to explore Norway, contrasting with her mother’s more artistic disposition. The passengers aboard share a mix of camaraderie and tension, particularly as tensions arise from unspoken connections and histories—such as Wareham’s dislike for Miss Dalrymple, who is indirectly tied to his friend Hugh's romantic troubles. Their interactions promise an intricate web of emotions and social dynamics that will unfold as the characters navigate their new surroundings in Norway.
Thorpe Regis
"Thorpe Regis" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds in the village of Thorpe Regis, a once-thriving place now marked by decline, where the past glories of the old highway and the London coaches contrast sharply with its current stagnation. Central to the story are the Mannering brothers, former London lawyers, and their interactions with the local population, particularly the younger generation, including the energetic and ambitious Anthony Miles and his sister Marion. The opening of "Thorpe Regis" establishes a rich backdrop of social dynamics and changes affecting the village. It introduces the decline of Thorpe as it loses its former importance to the neighboring village of Underham, which benefits from the arrival of the railway. The narrative showcases the daily life and interactions among the characters, such as a humorous exchange between the Mannering brothers about gardening, revealing their personalities, sibling relationship, and local ties. As the story progresses, themes of nostalgia, personal ambition, and the shifting nature of community life in the face of modernization emerge, setting the stage for the characters' development and the unfolding plot revolving around love and social obligations.
Prentice Hugh
"Prentice Hugh" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in the late 13th century and follows a spirited young boy named Hugh Bassett, who faces challenges and adventures during a fair in Stourbridge and dreams of becoming a soldier. The narrative explores themes of bravery, friendship, and the dynamics of social class in medieval England. The opening of the book introduces us to Hugh, a courageous lad of about eleven who fights off a group of boys bullying him for defending a monkey from their cruel intentions. Following the conflict, Hugh meets a Franciscan friar and Edgar, an older boy, who are amused by his grit. As the story unfolds, we learn about Hugh's family background, including his deceased mother and father, Stephen Bassett, who is a wood-carver striving to secure a future for his son. The scene transitions from a lively fair to the intimate dynamics of their home life, sharing their aspirations and concerns, ultimately setting the stage for their journey to Exeter in search of new opportunities. Throughout this beginning, the reader is drawn into a vivid historical setting, filled with rich descriptions of the period, and the personal ambitions of the characters.
Donna Teresa
"Donna Teresa" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Donna Teresa, a young widow navigating life in Rome after leaving a stifling marriage. She experiences newfound freedom, eagerly engaging with her surroundings and forming plans for her future while grappling with the conflicting emotions of her past, including a sense of guilt and social expectations. The opening of "Donna Teresa" introduces us to the setting of Rome during a sirocco, as Teresa and her sister Sylvia walk through the streets, revealing a stark contrast between their characters. Teresa's vibrant spirit shines as she delights in the little things around her, showcasing her energetic nature. In contrast, her sister Sylvia appears reserved and timid. Shortly after entering a church, Teresa experiences a theft that leads her to confront a young man named Cesare, who is embroiled in a larger social and personal tragedy that piques Teresa's interest and compassion. This encounter sets the stage for a deeper exploration of societal judgments and personal redemption, while the contrasting dynamics between the sisters capture the nuances of sisterly love and familial duty.
The Career of Claudia
"The Career of Claudia" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. This story primarily follows the life of a young woman named Claudia Hamilton, who arrives at the home of her three cousins after the death of her mother. As she embarks on this new chapter of her life, she contemplates her ambitions and the potential for independence in a society that often restricts women's opportunities. The opening of the novel introduces Claudia, who is initially surprised not to be met at the train station by her cousins. Dismissing her momentary disappointment, she reflects on her decision to live with them as a choice driven by curiosity and a desire for independence, rather than familial obligation. As she settles into her new environment, her fresh ambitions for a career in landscape gardening begin to surface. The interactions with her cousins reveal dynamics of both admiration and skepticism towards her unconventional aspirations, setting the stage for developments in her character and relationships with the people around her, including her cousin Harry Hilton and the critical Miss Emily, as well as Captain Fenwick, who hints at a budding romantic subplot.
Two Studios
"Two Studios" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story explores the lives of artists, specifically focusing on the contrasting experiences within two different studios in London. The book opens with Charles Everitt, a painter who cherishes his independence and artistic integrity, and delves into his interactions with various characters, including friends and would-be models, set against the vibrant yet challenging backdrop of the art world. The beginning of the novel presents a richly detailed description of Everitt's studio, where he finds solace from the chaotic city life outside. Introduced are elements of his character, such as his reluctance to produce simplistic works for commercial success and his eventual commitment to a peculiar situation when he volunteers to disguise himself as a model for a young artist, Kitty Lascelles. The narrative sets up a playful tension as Everitt navigates the repercussions of his choice, creating a blend of humor and introspection, while hinting at deeper explorations of identity and artistic passion as the story unfolds.
Cartouche
"Cartouche" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book follows the journey of Jack Ibbetson, a young Englishman, as he navigates life in Italy, particularly his interactions with his aunt, Miss Cartwright, and the mischievous dog, Cartouche. The narrative blends elements of personal relationships, cultural backdrops, and the complexities of love, as Jack's feelings about engagement and responsibility come to the forefront. At the start of the novel, Jack arrives at his aunt's charming Italian home, where he is greeted by the exuberant dog, Cartouche. The opening chapter introduces the warmth of familial ties through Jack's interactions with his aunt, who is overly concerned about the antics of the dog. As the story unfolds, Jack grapples with his recent engagement to Phillis Grey while also forming connections with captivating characters in his new surroundings, including a beautiful local girl, Bice. The tranquil setting of Florence and the companionship of Cartouche serve as the backdrop for themes of love, loyalty, and personal growth, setting the stage for Jack's evolving feelings and the emerging conflicts that will shape his future.
An Interloper
"An Interloper" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the Beaudrillart family, particularly focusing on the young heir, Leon, and the various challenges faced by the family, including financial troubles and societal expectations. The opening introduces readers to Monsieur Raoul, who appears to have a prominent yet ambiguous role as he explores the estate, setting the stage for the familial dynamics and conflicts. The opening of the novel presents a picturesque but fragile world at the Beaudrillart estate, where we meet Monsieur Raoul embarking on an inspection of the lands, which reveal the family's affluent past. A sense of unease permeates as the narrative shifts focus to the inner workings of the household, where Leon's carelessness and financial burdens begin to surface. This is compounded by the reactions of family members to his reckless behavior, particularly the stern expectations of his mother and sister, Claire. Amidst the ever-present anxiety regarding their declining fortunes, the familial ties and contrasting personalities emerge, foreshadowing deeper conflicts to unfold as the story progresses.
Unawares: A Story of an Old French Town
"Unawares: A Story of an Old French Town" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. Set in the quaint town of Charville, the story delves into the intertwined lives of its inhabitants, showcasing their curiosities, gossip, and romantic entanglements surrounding the unfortunate events affecting Monsieur Moreau and his family. The narrative hints at themes of societal dynamics, the quest for information, and personal relationships amid a backdrop of charming old-world scenery. The opening of the story introduces the bustling market atmosphere in Charville, as a group of townsfolk gathers around Madame Angelin—an elderly woman known for her knowledge of local happenings—to discuss a mysterious incident involving the old gentleman, Monsieur Moreau, and the beautiful young demoiselle Therese. As their conversation unfolds, we meet key characters such as the inquisitive townsfolk, the enigmatic Madame Angelin, and the somber doctor M. Deshoulieres, who takes upon himself the unexpected responsibility of managing Affairs after Moreau’s death. As tension rises with each revelation, the vivid portrayal of the town's social fabric establishes an intriguing premise brimming with rumors and unanswered questions surrounding Therese and her future after the passing of her uncle.
Rakkaus
"Rakkaus" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. Set among English gentry and a village school, it centers on Dorothy Flemyng, a schoolmaster’s warm-hearted daughter, and Sir Jasper Harrington, whose ardor collides with class expectations and his commanding mother’s plans. The likely focus is a love-vs.-duty struggle, with Dorothy’s integrity and loyalty to her family tested against Jasper’s romantic impetuosity. The opening of the novel sketches Herra Flemyng’s austere school and brings Dorothy vividly to life as a kind, spirited protector of the weak, adored by her pupils, including young Stephen Harrington. Sir Jasper encounters Dorothy on a country road and impulsively confesses his love; she admits her feelings but refuses to accept him, foreseeing Lady Harrington’s disapproval. Jasper pleads with his mother, who softens yet proposes hard terms: Dorothy must sever ties with her background and her father should leave the district—conditions Dorothy firmly rejects. The rift deepens as Stephen is withdrawn from the school, and Dorothy endures quiet heartbreak, culminating in a tense church encounter that underscores the social divide.