Author
Robert Neilson Stephens
1867-1906
Robert Neilson Stephens (1867-1906) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Robert Neilson Stephens
A Gentleman Player; His Adventures on a Secret Mission for Queen Elizabeth
"A Gentleman Player; His Adventures on a Secret Mission for Queen Elizabeth" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in the late 16th and early 17th centuries and centers around Hal Marryott, a struggling actor who stumbles into a secretive world of intrigue involving Queen Elizabeth I and the events surrounding the performance of Shakespeare's “Hamlet.” The narrative captures the vibrant atmosphere of the Globe Theatre, deftly blending historical context with the art of performance and personal ambition. The opening of the novel invites readers into the bustling Globe Theatre on the day of the first performance of "Hamlet." Hal Marryott, nervous about his debut in a significant role, encounters Shakespeare and other actors as they prepare for the show. Amidst the excitement and tension, audiences are introduced to the various characters and dynamics within the theatre as Hal grapples with his own insecurities. Following the play's successful premiere, Hal's fortunes take an unexpected turn when he finds himself in the Queen's garden, leading to a shocking revelation regarding a dangerous mission tasked to him by Queen Elizabeth herself. This sets the stage for an intertwining of personal aspirations and political intrigue as Hal's journey evolves.
Tales from Bohemia
"Tales from Bohemia" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The narratives explore the lives, struggles, and friendships of individuals within a close-knit community of aspiring writers and artists, primarily centered around Stephens himself and those he encountered in the literary world. This tapestry of stories captures the spirit of bohemian life, delving into themes of love, ambition, and the hardships of the creative process. The opening portion introduces readers to a pivotal friendship formed between the narrator and Robert Neilson Stephens, a young private secretary with literary aspirations. Their camaraderie develops against the backdrop of a newspaper office where they share their ambitions and thoughts on the literary scene of their time. As they engage in discussions about writers and artistic influences, the narrative hints at the tales to come, drawing on their experiences and the colorful personalities that populate their world. This engaging introduction sets the stage for a journey filled with humor, nostalgia, and the essence of artistic endeavor.
Captain Ravenshaw; Or, The Maid of Cheapside. A Romance of Elizabethan London
"Captain Ravenshaw; Or, The Maid of Cheapside" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the Elizabethan era, it explores the lives of ordinary Londoners, focusing on the titular character, Captain Ravenshaw, a soldier who navigates the complexities of his reputation as a swaggering braggart while seeking a meaningful life. The novel immerses readers in a rich tapestry of the time, blending adventure and romance against the backdrop of 16th-century London. At the start of the story, we find Captain Ravenshaw at the Windmill tavern, drinking with a group of young gentlemen. Despite his bravado and tales of past exploits, Ravenshaw's status as a "roaring boy" draws scorn from one of the gentlemen present, leading to a humorous altercation over supper. As he storms out, the narrative shifts focus to a scholar named Ralph Holyday, who inadvertently captures a roast fowl flung in the heat of the argument. This chance encounter sets in motion the intertwining stories of various characters, including Captain Ravenshaw, as they navigate love, reputation, and the bustling life of Elizabethan London. The opening captures the lively spirit of the time and introduces themes of camaraderie, conflict, and the quest for personal redemption.
The Mystery of Murray Davenport: A Story of New York at the Present Day
"The Mystery of Murray Davenport: A Story of New York at the Present Day" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a novel set in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around a young writer named Thomas Larcher, who becomes embroiled in a quest to uncover the life and circumstances of a man named Murray Davenport, as requested by a mysterious young woman named Edna. This quest unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of contemporary New York, blending themes of ambition, love, and the artistic struggle. The opening of the story introduces Thomas Larcher on a rainy August night in New York, where he receives an unexpected telegram from Edna, inviting him for a meeting that reveals her unusual interest in Murray Davenport, an artist and writer whose circumstances she wishes to explore. As Larcher prepares to delve into the life of Davenport, he navigates the bustling city and its eclectic characters, starting with a consultation with a friend who has connections in the art community. The beginning effectively sets the stage for a mystery intertwined with personal ambitions and complex relationships, while hinting at deeper challenges awaiting both Larcher and Davenport in their respective journeys.
The Road to Paris: A Story of Adventure
"The Road to Paris: A Story of Adventure" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The book follows the early life of Richard Wetheral, a young man of adventurous spirit, beginning with his childhood in Pennsylvania during the mid-18th century. It promises a blend of exploration, the challenges faced by settlers, and an overarching theme of longing for distant lands, particularly Paris. At the start of the story, we are introduced to the Wetheral family, who live on the frontier during a turbulent period marked by Indian uprisings and settler conflicts. Young Dick Wetheral exhibits an adventurous nature from a young age, which sets the stage for his later ambitions. The opening chapters detail his family’s life, the setting in the wilderness, and Dick’s early experiences, including a notable episode where his curiosity leads him astray into the woods. These elements establish the foundation for Dick's character development and set up the narrative of adventure and discovery that unfolds as he grows.
The Continental Dragoon A Love Story of Philipse Manor-House in 1778
"The Continental Dragoon" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set during the American Revolutionary War, specifically in the year 1778, the story revolves around Elizabeth Philipse, a young woman navigating the dangers of war as she embarks on a journey to the family manor house. Joined by Major John Colden and her young black servant Cuff, the characters must confront the perils that come with their quest for safety and familiarity in a war-torn landscape. The opening of the novel introduces the main characters as they travel northward along the Albany post-road in an autumn setting filled with tension and uncertainty. Elizabeth, defying her family's wishes, is determined to reach the manor, showcasing her strong will and independence. Major Colden, displaying a moody discontent, shadows her out of a mix of duty and affection, highlighting the dynamics of their relationship. As they ride, historical context is woven into the narrative, painting a vivid picture of the precarious situation in New York and the surrounding areas, where dangers from British forces and loyalist raiders loom. The initial chapter sets the stage for both the character-driven narrative and the broader themes of love, loyalty, and survival amidst the backdrop of an evolving nation.
The Bright Face of Danger Being an Account of Some Adventures of Henri de Launay, Son of the Sieur de la Tournoire
"The Bright Face of Danger" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Henri de Launay, a young man who embarks on a perilous journey to Paris after being taunted by a young lady, Mlle. Celeste, about his scholarly pursuits and his rival, Brignan de Brignan. Driven by a mix of pride and youthful folly, Henri vows to confront Brignan by cutting off his moustaches, a task that serves as the impetus for his adventure. The opening of the novel introduces us to Henri de Launay, a thoughtful, bookish youth with a strong inclination toward literature over physical confrontations. As he grapples with his feelings for the capricious Celeste, he finds himself unexpectedly motivated to prove his courage. After a heated exchange with her regarding bravery, he rashly resolves to travel to Paris to confront his rival, Brignan. This decision, despite the absurdity of the vow, marks the beginning of a journey filled with danger, self-discovery, and the complexities of love and honor. As Henri's adventure unfolds, the reader is drawn into a richly portrayed world of early 17th-century France, setting the stage for the trials he will face ahead.
The Flight of Georgiana: A Story of Love and Peril in England in 1746
"The Flight of Georgiana: A Story of Love and Peril in England in 1746" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Georgiana Foxwell, a young lady returning to her family estate after an education away from home, as well as the complicated dynamics with her uncle, Mr. Foxwell, and the tension surrounding local figures like Squire Thornby. The book weaves themes of love, social conflict, and danger during a tumultuous period in English history. At the start of the story, we are introduced to various characters that set the stage for the unfolding drama. A gentleman's servant arrives at an inn, revealing the imminent return of his master, Mr. Foxwell, and his niece, Georgiana. Their arrival is contrasted with the unsettled atmosphere in the town, where discussions about the repercussions of recent uprisings hint at the underlying tension of the era. As conversations reveal personal histories and social rivalries, the narrative builds anticipation for Georgiana's homecoming, her relationship with her uncle, and the inevitable conflicts that will arise, suggesting that her return may not be the peaceful reunion she hopes for.
Philip Winwood A Sketch of the Domestic History of an American Captain in the War of Independence; Embracing Events that Occurred between and during the Years 1763 and 1786, in New York and London: written by His Enemy in War, Herbert Russell, Lieutenant in the Loyalist Forces.
"Philip Winwood" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in the backdrop of the American War of Independence, focusing on the life and experiences of Captain Philip Winwood, as recounted by his childhood friend, Herbert Russell, who offers a unique perspective as both a rival in love and an enemy in war. The novel explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the complexities of love against the historical events impacting their lives. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the protagonist, Philip Winwood, as he arrives in New York in 1763. A young boy astounded by his new surroundings, he quickly encounters the Faringfield family, including their playful daughter Margaret, who captivates both Philip and Herbert. As the children navigate their early friendships, we witness Philip's struggles with his place in the Faringfield household and the socio-political tensions of the time. The opening sets the stage for a tale woven with personal connections and the broader historical landscape, hinting at the challenges that will shape the lives of these characters in the years to come.
An Enemy to the King From the Recently Discovered Memoirs of the Sieur de la Tournoire
"An Enemy to the King" by Robert Neilson Stephens is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Ernanton de Launay, Sieur de la Tournoire, a young Huguenot gentleman who embarks on a journey to Paris filled with ambition and dreams of adventure, excitement, and romance amid the political intrigues of the late 16th century. The narrative is deeply rooted in the historical context of civil strife in France, particularly the tumultuous rivalry between Huguenots and Catholics, with significant figures like the Duke of Guise and King Henri III playing prominent roles. At the start of the book, we meet Ernanton as he sets out from his childhood home in Anjou to explore the bustling and vibrant life of Paris. In his quest for exploration, he encounters a mysterious gentleman and has a tense confrontation with Bussy d’Amboise, a renowned swordsman, showcasing his youthful bravado. Throughout these early chapters, Ernanton's motivations are not solely political; he is also driven by the desire for love and adventure. His romantic aspirations lead him to cross paths with various notable characters, including the enigmatic Mlle. d'Arency, who remains central to his growing obsession. As he navigates through challenges, duels, and encounters, readers can sense a brewing conflict that will shape both his destiny and the historical tensions of the era.