Subject
Adoptees -- Fiction Books
Best books
Jane Austen
Mansfield Park
"Mansfield Park" by Jane Austen is a novel first published in 1814. Ten-year-old Fanny Price is sent from her impoverished home to live with her wealthy aunt and uncle at Mansfield Park, where she endures years of mistreatment. As she grows into adulthood, Fanny navigates complex family dynamics, romantic entanglements, and moral dilemmas. When the charming Henry Crawford pursues her, Fanny must decide between social advancement and her own principles, while those around her make choices that will test their values and reshape their lives.
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Falkner: A Novel
"Falkner: A Novel" by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is a novel published in 1837. When six-year-old orphan Elizabeth Raby saves Rupert Falkner from suicide, he adopts her and raises her as his own. Years later, she falls in love with Gerald Neville—the son of a woman Falkner unintentionally drove to her death. As past tragedies resurface and accusations of murder emerge, Elizabeth must reconcile the two men she loves while navigating the destructive forces of their shared history.
Meredith Nicholson
The Proof of the Pudding
"The Proof of the Pudding" by Meredith Nicholson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces readers to a social gathering at the Country Club, focusing on the complex life of a young woman named Nan Farley. The narrative delves into her attempts to navigate the expectations of society while grappling with her personal relationships and the lingering influence of her foster-father, Timothy Farley. At the start of the novel, the scene is set at a lively luncheon where Nan captivates her audience with her mimicry, showcasing her talent for entertainment. However, despite the laughter and applause, she feels an unease and soon escapes to the solitude of the riverbank, reflecting her internal struggles. The encounter with Jeremiah Amidon, a young man from her past who is now a commercial traveler, adds another layer to her character, highlighting themes of social class and personal ambition. The opening establishes a foundation for the exploration of Nan's past, her relationships with the people around her, and the impact they have on her future.
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