Author

Emma Speed Sampson

1868-1947

Emma Speed Sampson (1868-1947) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

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Subjects

Books by Emma Speed Sampson

Mary Louise Stands the Test

"Mary Louise Stands the Test" by Edith Van Dyne is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around Mary Louise, a young woman who grapples with her grandfather Colonel Hathaway's deteriorating mental state and the strain it places on her marriage to Danny Dexter. As she navigates the complexities of familial loyalty and love, the characters' challenges and growth unfold amid the backdrop of social expectations and personal dilemmas. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Mary Louise, who is experiencing the unfathomable tension between her love for her husband, Danny, and her deep-seated affection for her increasingly irrational grandfather. The initial chapter showcases Colonel Hathaway's troubling behavior, which causes him to express unfounded disdain for Danny, leading to a rift in their relationship. Mary Louise is torn between two loves as she observes her grandfather's decline and Danny's confusion and hurt. The complex dynamics of their relationships set the stage for Mary Louise’s journey of self-discovery and resilience as she attempts to reconcile her loyalty to her grandfather with her commitment to her husband.

Mary Louise at Dorfield

"Mary Louise at Dorfield" by Emma Speed Sampson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Mary Louise and her circle of friends in the small town of Dorfield, where they navigate life changes following World War I. Themes of personal ambition, friendship, and evolving gender roles permeate the narrative, reflecting the societal shifts of the time. At the start of the story, the town of Dorfield is trying to return to its routine post-war life. Conversations between the girls highlight their feelings of restlessness and desire for purpose, particularly Elizabeth Wright, who expresses her frustrations with traditional expectations for women. A sewing bee organized to prepare Mary Louise's trousseau serves as a backdrop for these discussions, illustrating the camaraderie and support among the friends. As they work together, the dynamics of social roles, aspirations, and relationships are established, especially with the introduction of new characters like Mrs. Markle and the ongoing preparations for Mary Louise's upcoming wedding. The opening sets the stage for exploring these themes in a light-hearted and engaging way.

Josie O'Gorman

"Josie O’Gorman" by Edith Van Dyne is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character Josie O'Gorman, a clever girl detective with an unusual appearance that aids her in her investigative endeavors. As she engages in a range of activities through her business, the Higgledy Piggledy Shop, Josie finds herself embroiled in various mysteries and adventures, including the plight of Ursula Ellett, whose younger brother Philip has recently gone missing. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to Josie and her companions, who run their unique shop filled with various goods and services. The opening chapters establish Josie's quirky charm as she grapples with her physical appearance and her newfound ability to alter her look, which becomes invaluable for her detective work. Shortly into the story, the tension escalates with the revelation that Philip Ellett has vanished, prompting Josie to take charge of the situation. As details unfold, readers see Josie's resourcefulness and the deepening mystery surrounding Philip's disappearance, entwined with Ursula's troubled past and her unscrupulous stepfather, Mr. Cheatham. The elements of humor, friendship, and a dash of suspense make this novel an engaging read for those who enjoy light-hearted detective tales.

Josie O'Gorman and the Meddlesome Major

"Josie O'Gorman and the Meddlesome Major" by Emma Speed Sampson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Josie O'Gorman, a resourceful young woman who secretly works as a detective while posing as a salesgirl at Burnett & Burnett’s department store. As shoplifting becomes a pressing issue, she must navigate her dual identity while also trying to uncover the truth behind the recent thefts. The beginning of the novel introduces Josie as she starts her new job at Burnett & Burnett's, quickly establishing her clever and observant nature. Not only does she interact with her colorful co-workers, who offer a mix of humor and gossip, but she also reveals a hidden agenda: to investigate a surge of thefts in the store. Major Simpson, the store's old detective, has been called to assist but is portrayed as somewhat ineffective, leading Josie to take matters into her own hands. Her encounters with different characters and the description of her setting in Wakely provide an engaging backdrop for the unfolding mystery.

Mary Louise and Josie O'Gorman

"Mary Louise and Josie O'Gorman" by Emma Speed Sampson is a novel published in 1922. Part of the popular Bluebird Books series, this installment features two young female detectives working to solve mysteries in 1920s America. Mary Louise Burrows, the original heroine, now shares the spotlight with the tougher, more unconventional Josie O'Gorman, daughter of a federal agent. Together, they navigate dangerous investigations that challenge expectations of what young women could accomplish in the early twentieth century.

The Comings of Cousin Ann

"The Comings of Cousin Ann" by Emma Speed Sampson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the character of Cousin Ann Peyton, a once-beautiful Southern belle who is now an elderly woman traveling from one relative’s home to another, seeking hospitality in a world that seems increasingly indifferent to her presence. The story explores themes of family, aging, and social status through the lens of Cousin Ann's experiences with her relatives. The opening of the novel introduces Ryeville, a quaint town in Kentucky, and its aging residents, among whom the old veterans of the Civil War share stories on a porch. As the inhabitants gossip, they express both affection and slight derision for Cousin Ann, who is viewed as a burden by some of her more privileged relatives, like the Bucknors. The narrative sets a tone that combines nostalgia with the bittersweet nature of Cousin Ann’s visits, as she navigates the changing perceptions of kinship and the complexities of family ties. Judith, a forward and energetic young woman, appears to garner attention as well, hinting at potential interactions between the younger generation and the aging Cousin Ann amid the ongoing family dynamics.