A Witch of the Hills, v. 1 [of 2]

by Florence Warden

"A Witch of the Hills, v. 1 [of 2]" by Florence Warden is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds around the life of Henry Lyttleton Maude, a man reflecting on his past and his romantic entanglements, particularly involving Lady Helen Normanton, against a backdrop of wealth and societal expectations. The novel appears to explore themes of love, identity, and the consequences of one's life choices, as Maude grapples with the transformation of his circumstances and the impressions of those around him. The opening of the novel introduces Henry Lyttleton Maude as he reminisces about his life and the changes that came with a sudden rise in wealth following his brother's death. He reflects on his earlier frivolous lifestyle filled with societal obligations and the newfound seriousness that love for Lady Helen brought him. Throughout this portion, we see his emotional evolution from a self-absorbed young man to someone who begins to recognize the depth of his feelings and the implications of his actions. A turning point occurs through an unfortunate accident during a shooting party, leading to a profound disfigurement that alters Maude's perspective on love and life, as he questions his place in society and the affection of those around him.