Author
Mary Imlay Taylor
1878-1938
Mary Imlay Taylor (1878-1938) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Mary Imlay Taylor
A candle in the wind
"A Candle in the Wind" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the emotional turmoil of Diane Herford, who grapples with the loss of her beloved, Simon Overton, a heroic figure who died during an antarctic expedition. Her struggle is complicated further by the return of Arthur Faunce, a fellow explorer who survived the expedition and is now haunted by guilt and honor, as he must navigate both his feelings for Diane and the shadow of Overton's memory. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to a domestic gathering at the Herford home, where the aftermath of Overton's tragic demise looms large. Diane's internal conflict is palpable as she entertains guests, including Faunce, who expresses admiration for Overton's courage. However, Faunce himself is in distress, reflecting on his own experience during the expedition and the agony of leaving Overton behind. Their conversations reveal the depths of their emotional struggles, setting up a tension that will unfold throughout the story as both characters attempt to reconcile their past with their future while the influence of Overton's legacy shapes their lives.
The cardinal's musketeer
"The Cardinal's Musketeer" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set in 17th century France during the reign of Louis XIII, the story revolves around a young clockmaker's adopted son, Péron, who navigates life in Paris while encountering various intriguing characters, including the powerful Cardinal Richelieu. The narrative promises a blend of adventure and drama intertwined with historical events, making it a captivating read for those interested in literature that combines personal and political intrigue. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Péron, a thoughtful eight-year-old boy living in a clockmaker's shop on the Rue de la Ferronnerie. The opening scenes depict his fascination with the clocks and his imaginative play fueled by the beautiful pieces of machinery surrounding him. Péron's life is colored by his interactions with his guardians, Jacques and Madame Michel, who display both affection and strictness in their upbringing. The mystery of a forbidden attic piques Péron's curiosity, leading to a subtle journey of discovery involving hidden secrets, family dynamics, and the arrival of notable patrons, setting the stage for deeper storylines that will unfold as he grows.
An imperial lover
"An Imperial Lover" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around the character M. de Brousson, who is tasked with navigating a complex web of court intrigue in early 18th-century Russia, particularly surrounding the czar, Peter the Great. The plot unfolds against a backdrop of personal and political tensions as M. de Brousson attempts to fulfill a diplomatic mission while concurrently observing a budding romance between his secretary, M. de Lambert, and the beautiful Najine Zotof, who finds herself pursued by none other than the czar. At the start of the novel, M. de Brousson reflects on his past visit to Moscow, including his marriage to a Russian woman, Zénaïde Ramodanofsky. In 1703, he returns to Russia, now serving as a marshal and tasked with a delicate diplomatic mission, while also witnessing the social transformations instigated by Peter the Great. He quickly becomes embroiled in a romantic drama involving M. de Lambert, who is in love with Najine, a woman caught between her affections and the czar's intentions, further complicated by the jealous ambitions of the court's factions. M. de Brousson’s engagement in both political and personal realms sets the tone for the intricate conflicts and relationships that drive the narrative forward.
The wild fawn
"The Wild Fawn" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story seems to revolve around the Carter family and their complex dynamics following the unexpected marriage of their eldest son, William, to a French girl named Fanchon la Fare. The narrative explores themes of familial loyalty, social expectations, and the tensions that arise from sudden changes in relationship status, particularly as it impacts the family’s social standing. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Mrs. Carter, who is anxiously awaiting news from her son, William, who has been in Japan for over a year and is expected to return soon. The family dynamics become evident as Mrs. Carter's worries about his silence in correspondence are interspersed with her husband’s dismissive attitude. When Mrs. Carter finally receives a letter from William revealing his marriage to Fanchon, the family's reactions reveal a mix of shock, disbelief, and concern about their reputation and expectations. The story sets the stage for deeper conflicts as characters like Daniel, William's brother, grapple with their feelings about this new family member, and the social implications of William's impulsive decision. The opening chapters effectively establish a tone of familial tension and societal scrutiny that will likely unfold throughout the narrative.
The rebellion of the Princess
"The Rebellion of the Princess" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative likely explores themes of intrigue, power struggles, and romance beneath the backdrop of 17th-century Russia, particularly focusing on the political landscape surrounding the ascension of Peter the Great. At the center of the tale is the captivating Princess Daria, whose beauty and defiance may play a crucial role in the unfolding drama. The opening of the story introduces us to a lively scene in a Moscow palace yard, where a major-domo's cruel reprimand of a serf is interrupted by the antics of a dwarf who cleverly mocks the steward. This chaotic but vivid ambiance sets the tone for the main character, Jéhan de Marle, a French nobleman who finds himself in Moscow under the guise of an apprentice goldsmith. With a recent past marked by trouble at the French court, Jéhan's boredom soon turns into intrigue when he encounters the spirited Princess Daria incognito, engaging him in a dangerous game that intertwines with the rising tensions of court politics amidst the looming rebellion of the Streltsi. As the story unfolds, hints of deeper motivations and political machinations suggest a tale ripe with both personal and historical conflict.
The house of the wizard
"The House of the Wizard" by M. Imlay Taylor is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds during the reign of King Henry VIII and centers on the Carew family of Devon, particularly Mistress Betty Carew, as she navigates the complexities of court life and her role amid political intrigue and personal struggles. The narrative hints at themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the challenging position of women in a patriarchal society. The opening of the novel introduces the affluent Carew family living in a grand estate during a turbulent time in English history. It begins on Shrove Tuesday in 1535, showcasing a vibrant scene of hospitality as Sir William Carew and his guest, Master Raleigh, witness a tragic event involving Sir Thomas Carew, William's brother, who dies in a drunken accident. This incident sets off a chain reaction leading to the introduction of Betty, an orphaned cousin, who is brought into the Carew household. The chapter hints at her emerging beauty and strong-willed character, suggesting that her journey will involve encounters with the tumultuous court and enigmatic figures such as the wizard, while foreshadowing the personal sacrifices she will need to make as she finds her place amid the royal intrigues surrounding her.
My Lady Clancarty : $b being the true story of the Earl of Clancarty and Lady Elizabeth Spencer
"My Lady Clancarty: Being the True Story of the Earl of Clancarty and Lady Elizabeth Spencer" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story is likely centered around Lady Elizabeth "Betty" Clancarty, the daughter of an influential earl, who grapples with her complex marital situation regarding her husband, the Earl of Clancarty, who has been exiled as a Jacobite and is largely unknown to her. Themes of love, loyalty, and societal pressures emerge as Lady Betty navigates her life amidst family obligations and her husband’s political turmoil. The opening of the novel introduces Lady Betty taking a leisurely stroll in her family’s estate at Althorpe, accompanied by her handmaid Alice. The two share a candid friendship, tackling Betty’s feelings of sadness over her husband’s absence due to his exile. Despite Lady Betty’s youthful exuberance and vivacity, there’s an underlying melancholy regarding her unknown future as she reflects on her peculiar marital bond. As Lady Betty candidly discusses her husband and her family's political affiliations with Alice, tensions surrounding her loyalty to Clancarty emerge, setting the tone for the dramatic, romantic, and political conflicts that will unfold throughout the novel. The characters' witty dialogues hint at the complexities of their emotions as they navigate their roles in a politically charged environment.
The reaping
"The Reaping" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around political intrigue and personal relationships, primarily focusing on the complex dynamics between characters such as William Fox, a brilliant yet contentious political figure, and his cousin Robert Allestree, a talented portrait artist. Themes of ambition, love, and societal expectations unfold within the backdrop of Washington's political landscape. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the Capitol, where characters discuss the formidable presence of William Fox, noted for his sharp wit and rhetorical skills. The narrative paints a vivid picture of the setting, juxtaposing political life with the personal lives of those involved. Through conversations among characters like Allestree and other members of Congress, along with glimpses of their social circles, we encounter not only Fox’s genius but also the tensions he creates due to his ego and ambitions. The scene is set for a story woven with romance, ambition, and the intersection of public and private lives, hinting at deeper conflicts and relationships to develop throughout the narrative.
The cobbler of Nîmes
"The Cobbler of Nîmes" by M. Imlay Taylor is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the early 18th century, the story revolves around the lives of Huguenots struggling for their rights amidst persecution in France. The narrative introduces the hunchbacked cobbler Charlot, who is sympathetic to the plight of the Huguenots, and a young man named François d’Aguesseau, who is trying to navigate his own dangers after the execution of his sister. At the start of the novel, the scene is set in a lively market in Nîmes during a fair, where a showman is exhibiting the body of a damned Huguenot woman. Amidst the chaos, Charlot, the cobbler, observes the crowd and its reactions, and eventually encounters François, who is distraught over the death of his sister. Recognizing the danger François faces, Charlot offers him shelter in his shop. The opening chapters encapsulate the stark realities of life for Huguenots in this period while also introducing key themes of kindness, danger, and the moral dilemmas faced by those caught between loyalties and fears.
Caleb Trench
"Caleb Trench" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces the central character, Caleb Trench, a shopkeeper and aspiring lawyer, whose strong moral compass sets him apart in a small southern community navigating social class tensions and political strife. The narrative focuses on his interactions with the well-bred yet conflicted Diana Royall, establishing a dynamic that suggests deeper themes of honesty, social status, and potential romance. At the start of the novel, we find Diana Royall in her elegant drawing room, discussing an unexpected visit from Caleb Trench, who is honest to a fault, returning six cents in change. This encounter reveals Diana's haughty attitude, foreshadowing her struggle with her feelings towards Trench, whose straightforwardness challenges her perceptions. As the story unfolds, we see glimpses of Trench’s life and character, particularly in his kindness towards a struggling young mother and the friendship he shares with his dog. The initial chapters weave together themes of class disparity, personal integrity, and burgeoning attraction, setting the stage for the developing tension between individual desire and societal expectations.
On the red staircase
"On the Red Staircase" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set against the turbulent backdrop of early Russian history, the narrative unfolds around the politically charged climate following the death of Czar Feodor. The story introduces various central figures including the Patriarch Joachim, who is overseeing the election of a new czar, the ambitious Czarevna Sophia, and Zénaïde, the young daughter of a recently murdered boyar, caught in a web of court intrigue and familial conflict. At the start of the novel, the reader is thrust into the Grand Square of the Kremlin, where a crowd has gathered for the election of a new ruler amidst cries for justice and shifting loyalties. The protagonist, a Frenchman named Philippe de Brousson, becomes entwined in the unfolding drama, witnessing the manipulations and power plays of the nobility, particularly focusing on the rise of Peter Alexeivitch against the backdrop of the milieux of the Streltsi and the Miloslavsky faction. Philippe's interest piqued by the beautiful Zénaïde and her perilous situation leads him to navigate the dangerous political landscape of Russia in search of justice and love, while ominous foreshadowing hints at the darker forces at play within the Kremlin.
The long way
"The Long Way" by Mary Imlay Taylor is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves primarily around Rachel Leven, who grapples with her turbulent emotions and the complexities of family loyalty after her sister Eva's reckless actions compromise their honor and lead to dire consequences. As Rachel prepares to marry Belhaven to save her sister's reputation, the narrative delves into themes of sacrifice, deceit, and the societal pressures women faced during this era. At the start of the novel, Rachel feels a disorienting sense of unreality as she navigates a lavish gathering at her sister Eva's extravagant home. There is an undertone of tension related to Eva's recent scandal, which threatens to unravel their lives, especially as rumors swirl about a young man's life being in jeopardy due to a love triangle involving Eva and Belhaven. The opening scenes draw the reader into Rachel's inner conflict as she desperately tries to maintain her composure amid societal expectations, ultimately leading to her heart-wrenching decision to marry Belhaven to shield her sister from scandal. The intricate dynamics among the characters set the stage for a deeply emotional exploration of loyalty and sacrifice.