Author
Louise Vescelius Sheldon
Read free books by Louise Vescelius Sheldon on Rivro. Explore public-domain classics and related works.
Books by Louise Vescelius Sheldon
Yankee Girls in Zulu Land
"Yankee Girls in Zulu Land" by Louise Vescelius Sheldon is a travel narrative written in the late 19th century. The book chronicles the experiences of American sisters who embark on a journey to South Africa for health and adventure, set against a backdrop of vibrant descriptions and cultural encounters. It offers insights into both their personal journey and the broader context of life during this period in South Africa, particularly concerning the interactions with various communities, including the indigenous Zulu people. The opening of the narrative introduces the voyage of the three sisters—Louise, Eva, and their sickly sibling Frank—who are leaving behind the dreary London winter for the warmth of South Africa. Their decision is influenced by a physician's recommendation and colorful tales from an African woman about the beauty and wealth of the land. As they set sail aboard the Trojan, chaos ensues when Louise realizes she has left her diary behind, prompting a frantic cab ride back to retrieve it just before the ship departs. The text sets the stage for an exploration of different cultures, landscapes, and the experiences that will unfold as the sisters journey deeper into the region filled with Zulus and missionaries.
An I.D.B. in South Africa
"An I.D.B. in South Africa" by Louise Vescelius Sheldon is a fictional novel written in the late 19th century. The story takes place in the richly described setting of the Kimberley Diamond Fields in South Africa, where a blend of cultures and social dynamics begins to unfold. The narrative introduces characters like Dainty Laure, a beautiful and vibrant woman with a mixed heritage, and her husband, Donald Laure, amidst the backdrop of illicit diamond dealings and personal intrigues. The opening of the book establishes an atmosphere of intrigue as it introduces a scene in a theater during an opera, where characters discuss the lower impulses of human nature and reflect on the societal implications of beauty and corruption. The conversation highlights the tension between appearances and reality, specifically through the character of Count Telfus, who later faces devastating repercussions due to a marked diamond found in his possession. As the narrative progresses, it shifts focus to Dainty Laure's domestic life, hinting at an impending storm as she embraces her friendships and navigates a world filled with both superficial glamour and deeper moral complexities. This opening effectively sets the stage for a tale interwoven with themes of identity, love, and the seductive allure of wealth in a bustling, morally ambiguous society.