Author
Mary Roberts Rinehart
1876-1958
Mary Roberts Rinehart (1876-1958) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Mary Roberts Rinehart
The Street of Seven Stars
"The Street of Seven Stars" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story unfolds in an Austrian city, focusing on a group of American music students struggling to pursue their dreams while facing financial hardships and emotional challenges. The main character, Harmony Wells, is depicted as a talented young violinist grappling with the pressure of her aspirations and the daunting reality of her situation in a foreign land. At the start of the novel, the scene is set within an old house that evokes a sense of history and longing. Harmony is introduced as she navigates the loneliness and difficulties of her life as an aspiring musician, surrounded by friends who are also facing their own struggles. The opening describes her recent emotional turmoil, her dedication to her craft, and the camaraderie and mutual support among her peers, even as they contend with societal expectations, personal ambitions, and the lurking threats of loneliness and failure. As Harmony considers her future, she is propelled into a world where love, survival, and artistic integrity intertwine, setting the stage for a narrative rich in character exploration and emotional depth.
The Breaking Point
"The Breaking Point" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel written during the early 20th century, showcasing the complexities of love, rumor, and social dynamics in a small town. The story revolves around several characters, particularly focusing on Elizabeth Wheeler, a young girl navigating her dreams and expectations, and Doctor Dick Livingstone, a man with a mysterious past and rising affections. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Elizabeth as she participates in choir practice, reflecting on her life and romantic aspirations. She enjoys the sense of community and fulfillment that comes from being part of the choir, yet harbors secret dreams of finding love. Meanwhile, her friend Clare confides in her feelings for Doctor Dick Livingstone, revealing an undercurrent of gossip and social intrigue in their town. As Elizabeth grapples with her modest aspirations and the lives of those around her, the narrative hints at broader themes of hidden pasts and societal pressures, setting the stage for unfolding drama and personal dilemmas among the characters. The beginning of the book establishes a rich tapestry of interpersonal relationships, while alluding to the impending complexities they will face.
Long Live the King!
"Long Live the King!" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. It introduces readers to Prince Ferdinand William Otto, a young royal who is bored with his life of privilege and rules, longing for adventure and genuine connection. The narrative revolves around his desire to escape the confines of royal expectations while navigating the complexities of childhood friendships, love, and the burdens of future responsibilities. The opening of the story sets the stage at the opera house, where Prince Otto, bored and restless, subtly schemes to escape public scrutiny. His escapade leads him out into the world, offering a glimpse into the joy and excitement he craves. Through his eyes, readers experience the wonders of freedom and the simple pleasures of life, contrasting sharply with his responsibilities as a crown prince. The initial chapters highlight his youthful innocence, interactions with cousins like Princess Hedwig, and early encounters with love and duty, illustrating the tension between personal happiness and royal obligation.
The Circular Staircase
"The Circular Staircase" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a mystery novel published in 1908. When Rachel Innes rents a country house for the summer with her niece and nephew, she encounters mysterious intruders, unexplained noises, and a murder at the bottom of the titular staircase. As bodies accumulate and secrets multiply, Rachel must untangle a web of hidden identities, missing money, and family betrayals. This pioneering work established the "had I but known" mystery formula and became Rinehart's first bestseller.
Bab: A Sub-Deb
"Bab: A Sub-Deb" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel written in the early 20th century. This humorous and light-hearted work explores the experiences of a young woman navigating the challenges of adolescence and society's expectations. The book offers insights into the social dynamics and cultural norms of its time. The story centers around the titular character, Bab, who is a charmingly naive and somewhat self-absorbed young girl. Throughout the narrative, Bab deals with her friendships, romantic interests, and the pressures of growing up in a society that often places unrealistic expectations on young women. As she interacts with her peers and family, the tale provides a humorous yet poignant reflection on the trials of youth, self-discovery, and the quest for identity amidst societal constraints.
Dangerous Days
"Dangerous Days" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around Natalie Spencer, a meticulous and somewhat superficial hostess, and her husband Clayton, who seem to be living in a world of societal expectations against the backdrop of a looming war. Their dinner gatherings reveal the intricacies of their relationship and serve as a lens through which the complexities of their lives unfold, reflecting social dynamics, personal ambitions, and underlying discontent. The opening of "Dangerous Days" introduces Natalie, who is preoccupied with the details of hosting a dinner party, distracting herself from her strained marriage to Clayton, who is more introspective and aware of the deeper issues affecting their lives. As the guests engage in trivial conversations, the tension in the Spencers' relationship becomes apparent through their interactions and thoughts. Clayton is depicted as a man struggling with the weight of responsibility and conflicting desires, particularly as the world around them edges closer to involvement in the war. This initial segment sets the stage for exploring themes of duty, love, and the impact of external events on personal relationships.
Where There's a Will
"Where There's a Will" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the lives and relationships of the staff and guests at Hope Springs Sanatorium, particularly focusing on the spirited spring-house girl named Minnie Waters as she navigates intrigue, duty, and the unexpected arrival of a new owner. The opening of the story introduces us to Minnie as she reflects on her life at Hope Springs, where she has dedicated fourteen years to serving guests and tending to their needs. Following the death of the old doctor who managed the sanatorium, Minnie grapples with her responsibilities and the future of the place she considers home. Key players like Miss Patty Jennings, a frequent guest entangled in royal romance, and Mr. Richard Carter, the doctor's grandson who is expected to take charge of the establishment, begin to emerge. As excitement builds around new developments—including Miss Patty's engagement and intriguing secrets in the air—the stage is set for a mix of drama and humor, showcasing Minnie's bold personality and her connections to the unfolding storylines.
When a Man Marries
“When a Man Marries” by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a humorous novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around complicated social interactions and mishaps in a dinner setting that is intended to be festive but quickly spirals into chaos due to misunderstandings and peculiar circumstances. The protagonist, Kit, finds herself at the center of these troubles, forced to juggle her relationships with other characters like Jimmy Wilson, his ex-wife Bella, and a Japanese butler named Takahiro, all while navigating the absurdities of their social circle. The opening of the book sets the stage for a comedic whirlwind. It begins with Kit expressing her frustration over being blamed for a disastrous dinner event that she organized but could not control due to unforeseen incidents, including the unexpected arrival of an aunt and a lost butler. Kit reflects on the various characters' quirks, particularly Jimmy, whose attempts at seriousness are often undermined by his jovial nature. As the narrative unfolds, readers are introduced to Bella's jealousies and Jimmy's lingering affections, alongside the mounting tension of a mysterious illness impacting the household, culminating in a series of events that hint at further chaos and humorous entanglements ahead.
A Poor Wise Man
"A Poor Wise Man" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a city marked by stark contrasts of beauty and ugliness, where people from various backgrounds seek work and belonging. The main character, Lily Cardew, has recently returned home after her time in an army camp and navigates a complex familial landscape as she re-establishes her place in her family's rigid social structure. The opening of the book immerses the reader in the atmospheric cityscape and introduces Lily as she observes the arrival of immigrants at the railway station. Her cheerful reunion with her mother, Grace, highlights the strained dynamics within the Cardew family, particularly their relationships with the authoritative grandfather, Anthony. As they share memories, Lily grapples with the burdens of her legacy, questioning traditional values and contemplating her future. The narrative sets the stage for an exploration of class, identity, and personal growth against the backdrop of a changing society, hinted at through Lily’s evolving perspective on her family and the world around her.
The Man in Lower Ten
"The Man in Lower Ten" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a detective novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around Lawrence Blakeley, an attorney who becomes embroiled in a complex murder mystery on a Pullman car traveling between Washington and Pittsburgh. As Blakeley navigates through a series of strange occurrences, a significant crime intersects with personal drama and suspense, steering his life in unexpected directions. The opening of the novel introduces Lawrence Blakeley, who is preparing for a trip to Pittsburgh while recounting a disquieting past incident involving "the man in lower ten" that has left him weary of circumstantial evidence. Blakeley’s travels commence with his friend McKnight handing him a bag of forged notes for safekeeping, all the while expressing a sense of foreboding about his journey. As he boards the train, he finds himself in a markedly uncomfortable situation with an occupying drunk in his berth, leading to further complications when he wakes up to discover a murder in lower ten. Through a blend of mystery and developing relationships—including a potential romantic interest—the opening sets the stage for Blakeley's tumultuous and unpredictable adventure ahead.
Tish : $b The chronicle of her escapades and excursions
"Tish: The Chronicle of Her Escapades and Excursions" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a work of fiction likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Tish Carberry, a spirited middle-aged woman who, along with her aunts, embarks on a series of amusing, and often chaotic, adventures that reflect her zest for life and independence. The book delves into themes of friendship, societal norms, and the antics that arise from Tish's exuberant personality. The opening of the story introduces Tish and her two companions, Lizzie and Aggie, as they embark on an excursion to Morris Valley. It sets a humorous tone outlining the trio’s characters and hints at Tish's disruptive and adventurous spirit. The inciting incident occurs when Tish is asked to look after her friend's daughter, Bettina, who has strong opinions about life, marriage, and independence. As the dynamics between Tish, her companions, and the younger generation unfold, the narrative teases various mishaps, including an encounter with Jasper, a local young man, and hints at Tish's unorthodox ways of addressing challenges, like using a racing car to assert her independence. The opening portion sets the stage for both comedic and possibly romantic entanglements as Tish navigates her world without conventional restrictions.
The After House
"The After House" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a mystery novel penned in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character Leslie, who finds himself on a yacht named Ella shortly after recovering from a serious illness. As the narrative unfolds, readers are drawn into a web of suspense surrounding the ship and its crew, highlighting both personal ambitions and darker human emotions, culminating in a series of tragic events. At the start of the novel, Leslie introduces himself as a newly graduated medical student who, after enduring a bout of typhoid fever, is drawn to the adventurous life at sea. With a background as a deck-steward and an ambition for adventure, he is introduced to the Ella, a transformed coasting-vessel now serving as a yacht. His time on board showcases not only his interactions with the crew, including the enigmatic Miss Lee, but also hints at a brewing conflict that suggests an ominous undercurrent aboard the ship. As tensions rise, occurrences hinting at mystery and danger begin to emerge, setting the stage for a suspenseful voyage that promises intrigue and peril in equal measure.
The Confession
"The Confession" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a psychological thriller written in the early 20th century that delves into themes of fear, obsession, and the complexities of human emotion. The narrative follows Agnes Blakiston, a woman who retreats to the Benton house in the countryside, only to find herself embroiled in a web of unsettling occurrences and secrets stemming from the house and its last resident, Miss Emily Benton. The opening of the story establishes a tone of unease as Agnes begins her summer in the isolated Benton house, remarking on its peculiarities and the long history that seems to haunt it. She is accompanied by her loyal servant Maggie, who expresses her discomfort about the house. Unseen tensions arise as Agnes receives an enigmatic letter from Miss Emily, urging her to occupy the house, suggesting that something is amiss. As unsettling events unfold, including strange telephone calls and an inexplicable fear that grips Agnes, the stage is set for a psychological unraveling. The dynamics between Agnes, Miss Emily, and Maggie suggest a deeper story involving past violence, as a hidden confession is gradually revealed, setting the plot in motion for a complex exploration of fear and its manifestations.
Sight Unseen
"Sight Unseen" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story explores themes of psychical research and the deep intricacies of the human mind through the lens of a peculiar investigation into the death of Arthur Wells, conducted by a group referred to as the Neighborhood Club, comprised of neighbors and friends. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a mysterious investigation initiated by the Neighborhood Club, highlighting the allure and complexities of psychical phenomena. The narrator, a participant in these investigations, reflects on the group’s recent séance involving a medium named Miss Jeremy, who appears to have made eerily accurate revelations about Arthur Wells's demise. The gathering of characters, including skeptical but engaged participants such as Sperry, the heart specialist, and Mrs. Dane, who acts as the gracious host, creates an atmosphere filled with tension and curiosity about the supernatural. As the narrative unfolds, the members of the club delve deeper into their inquiry, wrestling with both the psychological implications and the factual details surrounding Wells's tragic end, setting the stage for a rich blend of mystery and human emotion.
The Amazing Interlude
"The Amazing Interlude" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel written during the early 20th century, specifically around the time of World War I. The story focuses on Sara Lee Kennedy, a young woman in Pennsylvania, who, amid the turmoil of the Great War, grapples with her sense of duty, personal dreams, and the harsh realities faced by women and families during wartime. As her life in a quiet, uneventful city is disrupted by the conflict raging across the ocean, Sara Lee feels compelled to help, leading her on a journey of courage and self-discovery. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Sara Lee, who is living a settled yet uneventful life, far removed from the chaos of war. As she reflects on the war and the loss of loved ones, she becomes increasingly troubled by the suffering in Europe and embarks on the ambitious plan to volunteer overseas. Sara Lee’s character is fleshed out through her interactions with her family members and her quiet musings, revealing her growing restlessness and desire to make a difference despite societal expectations. Her resolve crystallizes as she prepares to leave her home and venture into the unknown, setting the stage for an extraordinary transformation wrought by the experiences that await her in wartime Europe.
Locked Doors
"Locked Doors" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a crime fiction novel set in the early 20th century, reflecting the author's characteristic blend of mystery and psychological suspense. The story revolves around a young nurse who becomes embroiled in a peculiar case at the Reed household, where strange happenings unfold, raising suspicions around a possible crime. The tension escalates as the nurse navigates her responsibilities to care for two small children while uncovering the unsettling secrets of their family's life. In this gripping detective narrative, the protagonist, Anne Adams, is hired to look after the Reed children during a mysterious crisis in their home. The previous nurse has fled in fear, leading her to believe that some malevolent force resides within the house. As Anne settles in, she discovers locked doors, strange behaviors from Mr. and Mrs. Reed, and the unsettling presence of a locked-up governess. With relentless curiosity, she embarks on an investigation, ultimately revealing a shocking connection to a plague-related incident involving escaped rats and the troubling atmosphere of dread suffusing the family home. The narrative deftly intertwines themes of fear, duty, and discovery, culminating in a dramatic resolution that ties together the threads of mystery and human vulnerability.
Tish plays the game
"Tish Plays the Game" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a humorous novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the spirited and determined character Letitia "Tish" Carberry as she embarks on her various escapades, often involving her friends Aggie and Lizzie. Tish's unconventional perspective on life leads her into amusing predicaments, especially as she engages in a golf tournament with the aim of helping the lovesick Bobby Anderson win over the champion golfer Nettie Lynn. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the dynamic among Tish, Aggie, and Lizzie, who are concerned about Tish's eccentric behavior, highlighted by her obsession with golf and its social implications. The trio discusses Tish's various schemes and quirks while recounting the history of her interactions with both the members of the community and her friends. Conflicts arise as Tish's actions, driven by her desire to see the two young lovers happily united, lead to unforeseen complications, all exposed with Rinehart's signature wit and charm.
Love Stories
"Love Stories" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a collection of fictional short stories likely written in the early 20th century. The stories in this volume revolve around themes of romance and personal growth, with an emphasis on the complexities of love and human connections. The opening story introduces N. Jane Brown, a young nurse, and Mr. Middleton, a wounded man in her care, setting the stage for exploring their developing relationship amidst their struggles. The beginning of the book presents the initial meeting between N. Jane Brown, a probationary nurse, and Mr. Middleton, who is recovering from a severe injury in the hospital due to a warehouse accident. As Jane tends to him, they engage in light banter while he invents a backstory involving a fictional love, Mabel, to impress her, reflecting his insecurities and desire for connection. Meanwhile, Jane grapples with the realities of her nursing duties, including coping with the death of a patient, which adds depth to her character. This exploration of their interactions hints at a potential romance while highlighting their personal challenges and responsibilities within the hospital setting.
The Case of Jennie Brice
"The Case of Jennie Brice" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a murder mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set against the backdrop of a devastating flood in Pittsburgh, where the main character, a landlady named Pitman, becomes embroiled in a perplexing case involving her boarders, the Ladleys, particularly focusing on the disappearance of Jennie Brice, a local actress. As the floodwaters rise and tensions mount, Pitman finds herself uncovering secrets that suggest something sinister might have occurred. The opening of the novel introduces us to Pitman, who recounts the recent flooding and the return of memories from a prior flood five years earlier, intertwining them with the troubling dynamics between her tenants, Mr. Ladley and his wife, Jennie Brice. The narrative swiftly establishes an atmosphere of impending doom as we learn of the Ladleys' fights and the mysterious presence of a visitor on the night Jennie disappears. Clues quickly pile up, including a slipper belonging to Jennie and a knife from Pitman's belongings, heightening the intrigue and tension. The reader is drawn into the unfolding drama filled with questions about Jennie's fate, further complicated by the unsettled lives of the characters around her.
K
"K" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story is centered around the lives of its main characters, Joe Drummond and Sidney Page, as they navigate youth, love, and life's responsibilities in a close-knit neighborhood. The novel involves various dynamics of love and ambition, particularly highlighting Sidney's desire for independence against the backdrop of Joe's unrelenting affection. At the start of the novel, the narrative unfolds in a charming yet modest street, where Joe Drummond finds himself waiting for Sidney Page, a girl he adores. As they engage in conversations under the moonlight, Joe grapples with his feelings and aspirations, hoping for a future with Sidney, while she contemplates her desire to break free from the confines of her life and pursue a path of purpose as a nurse. The arrival of a new roomer, K. Le Moyne, introduces further tension and possibility into Sidney's world, as she begins to forge her own identity while at the same time feeling the weight of expectations from those around her. The opening chapters beautifully depict this delicate balance between youth, love, and the journey toward self-discovery.
Twenty-three and a half hours' leave
"Twenty-three and a half hours' leave" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a humorous short story written in the early 20th century during a time of global conflict, specifically World War I. The book focuses on the light-hearted, yet poignant reflections and experiences of Sergeant Gray, a young soldier anticipating leave from military duties. The narrative revolves around themes of camaraderie, mischief, and the challenges faced by soldiers as they navigate military life and personal desires while preparing for war. In this story, Sergeant Gray is motivated by the hope of a short leave from his military duties, eager to enjoy his limited time off and win a wager about having breakfast with a general. As he interacts with his fellow soldiers and grapples with the realities of life in the military, comedic misadventures ensue, including an unplanned fight and a series of misunderstandings that lead him into a precarious situation. Ultimately, the narrative balances humor with the seriousness of being on the brink of war, as Gray finds himself in unexpected troubles while trying to maintain a sense of normalcy and connection to a girl he meets. The story concludes on a light note, underscoring the absurdities of military life and the resilience of youth amidst uncertainty.
Affinities, and Other Stories
"Affinities, and Other Stories" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The opening story, titled "Affinities," introduces a group of friends discussing the complexities of marriage and friendships with the opposite sex while engaging in a seemingly light-hearted affair. The main character, Fanny, finds herself embroiled in the dynamics of a unique picnic that may challenge the boundaries of her marriage and social reputation. The beginning of "Affinities" sets the stage for a social gathering at a country club where Fanny and her friends entertain the idea of having romantic encounters outside their marriages. The story quickly evolves from casual banter to the planning of a risky moonlit picnic with other couples, where old friendships and new affections intertwine. The interactions reveal a mix of humor, tension, and underlying complexities as Fanny navigates her feelings toward her husband, Day, and her friend, Ferd, ultimately leading the reader into an exploration of fidelity and desire. This opening effectively hooks readers into the mix of romance and social commentary that will likely pervade the collection.
More Tish
"More Tish" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a humorous novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the spirited character Tish, along with her friends, as they embark on a comical adventure sparked by her capricious ideas and whimsical plans, such as a walking tour with a donkey. Set against a backdrop of middle-aged camaraderie, the narrative explores themes of friendship, adventure, and the often amusing misadventures that accompany Tish's bold escapades. The opening of the novel introduces Tish and her friends, Aggie and Lizzie, as they discover Tish’s plan to acquire a donkey and journey on a walking tour, inspired by reading Stevenson’s "Travels with a Donkey." The lively dialogue showcases their personalities, particularly Tish’s enthusiastic nature and Aggie’s more cautious perspective. As they prepare for the trip, the trio faces an unexpected series of events, including a mishap with Tish’s firearms practice. The initial chapters set the stage for a journey filled with humor and the inevitable chaos that follows Tish, promising an entertaining read for those who enjoy character-driven comedy with a touch of adventure.
Tenting To-night A Chronicle of Sport and Adventure in Glacier Park and the Cascade Mountains
"Tenting To-night" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a chronicle of sport and adventure written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds the experiences of the author and her family as they embark on an ambitious journey through Glacier Park and the Cascade Mountains, ultimately seeking a deeper connection with nature and adventure. The story revolves around a family of predominantly males, alongside the author, as they tackle the complexities of wilderness travel, fishing, and camping, revealing their trials and triumphs. The opening of the piece introduces readers to the narrow and rugged trails that beckon adventurers in the wilderness. The author reflects on her transition from city life to the call of the wild, as she prepares for a summer of exploration over the hidden side of Glacier Park with her family and their camping companions. Through vivid descriptions, she outlines the varied landscapes they encounter, from dusty paths to challenging mountain streams, setting the stage for the adventures that await them. As plans develop for their journey—filled with optimism and enthusiasm—the chapter promises a blend of both humor and the challenges inherent in outdoor life while engaging the reader's imagination about the untamed beauty of nature.