Subject
Aunts -- Fiction Books
Best books
Alex. McVeigh Miller
Dainty's Cruel Rivals; Or, The Fatal Birthday
"Dainty's Cruel Rivals; Or, The Fatal Birthday" by Mrs. Alex. McVeigh Miller is a romantic novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Dainty Chase, a charming and innocent girl, who faces jealousy from her cousins Olive and Ela as they all navigate their way through society, love, and rivalry, particularly concerning their wealthy relative Lovelace Ellsworth. As the plot unfolds, themes of ambition, deceit, and the complexities of young love take center stage against a backdrop of family dynamics. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Dainty, who is preparing for a summer trip to her aunt's country home where she hopes to charm Lovelace, who has just returned from Europe. Meanwhile, her cousins plot to undermine her, revealing their jealousy over her beauty and potential to attract Lovelace's attention. Dainty's sweet and trusting nature is contrasted sharply with the deviousness of Olive and Ela, setting the stage for a tale rife with tension and romantic entanglements. The opening chapters focus on establishing these characters and their differing motivations, while hinting at the emotional and dramatic conflicts that are sure to arise as they all converge at the family estate.
Frances Boyd Calhoun
Miss Minerva and William Green Hill
"Miss Minerva and William Green Hill" by Frances Boyd Calhoun is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around the life of Miss Minerva, a proper, unmarried woman, and her newly arrived nephew, William Green Hill, a young boy with a wild spirit. The narrative explores the challenges and humorous interactions that arise as Miss Minerva attempts to instill discipline and propriety in her nephew while he navigates his new surroundings. The opening of the book introduces us to the quirky characters with vivid dialogue that highlights the stark contrast between Miss Minerva's strict upbringing and William's carefree, mischievous nature. As William arrives at Miss Minerva's house, he reveals his colorful background and relationships with various characters from his previous life, leading to amusement and horror from his aunt. Their initial interactions set a tone of conflict and affection, indicating the evolution of their relationship as Miss Minerva grapples with her role as a guardian. The sweet yet chaotic world of William, coupled with Miss Minerva’s rigid expectations, foreshadows a story filled with both humor and heartwarming moments.
Mary C. E. Wemyss
The Professional Aunt
"The Professional Aunt" by Mary C. E. Wemyss is a fictional work likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the experiences and reflections of the main character, who adopts the role of a professional aunt in a family dynamics where her duties and interactions with nieces and nephews are humorously and poignantly depicted. The opening of the book introduces us to the concept of the "professional aunt" through the lens of the protagonist, who humorously recounts her responsibilities as an aunt, as set by her sisters-in-law, especially Zerlina. She delves into the expectations placed on a professional aunt, from remembering birthdays to understanding the evolving tastes of her nephews and nieces. The whimsical tone conveys her struggles and triumphs, highlighting the nuanced relationships within family structures. The narrative quickly transitions to the protagonist’s musings on more profound themes, such as love, duty, and the innocence of childhood, all while showcasing her unique perspective and character quirks.
J. C. (John Collis) Snaith
Araminta
"Araminta" by J. C. Snaith is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around an elderly, formidable woman named Caroline Crewkerne, who is preparing to celebrate her seventy-fourth birthday amidst a gathering of eccentric characters and social nuances. The narrative sets the stage for the introduction of her neice, Araminta, whose arrival may bring about unexpected changes in Caroline's meticulously structured life. The opening portion of the novel introduces readers to the cantankerous yet charming old lady, Caroline, showcasing her sharp wit and disdain for societal pretensions. As she contemplates her own discontent, her thoughts turn to the arrival of her niece, Araminta, who is unknowingly stepping into a humorous and chaotic family dynamic. The character of Miss Perry, Araminta’s first appearance as she arrives in a mismatched outfit, sets a lively tone for the narrative and emphasizes themes of class absurdity and familial tensions. The stage is cleverly set for the ensuing conflicts and comedic situations that arise as Miss Perry’s presence disrupts Caroline’s established order.
Elizabeth Stoddard
Lemorne Versus Huell
"Lemorne Versus Huell" by Elizabeth Stoddard is a novel written during the mid-19th century. The story encompasses themes of family dynamics, societal expectations, and the intricacies of legal battles revolving around inheritance and financial stability. Set primarily in Newport, the narrative delves into the life of Margaret Huell as she navigates her complex relationship with her wealthy aunt and her growing feelings toward Mr. Uxbridge, a lawyer entangled in a family lawsuit. The plot unfolds as Margaret visits her aunt, Eliza Huell, who is embroiled in a protracted legal dispute over an inherited property. The tension between the characters is steeped in class distinction, with Margaret feeling the weight of her financial limitations compared to her aunt's wealth. As the summer progresses, Margaret experiences a burgeoning romance with Mr. Uxbridge, whose connection to the lawsuit complicates their relationship. Throughout the tale, themes of love, ambition, and moral integrity are examined, leading to a profound climax where Margaret must confront her feelings about wealth, love, and loyalty amidst the legal turmoil and familial obligations surrounding her aunt's situation. The closing moments hint at a dramatic revelation that challenges Margaret's perception of her future and the man she loves.
Ruth Belmore Endicott
Carolyn of the Corners
"Carolyn of the Corners" by Ruth Belmore Endicott is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story introduces Carolyn May Cameron, a young girl who has just lost her parents and is sent to live with her uncle, Joseph Stagg, in a small town called Sunrise Cove. The narrative explores themes of family, loss, and the adjustment to a new home, as Carolyn navigates her relationship with her stern uncle and the enchanting yet challenging world of rural life. At the start of the book, Carolyn arrives at her Uncle Joe's hardware store, accompanied by her beloved dog, Prince. As she meets her uncle for the first time, there is an awkwardness stemming from their unfamiliarity, which is contrasted with the warmth of her genuine affection for Prince. Carolyn's introduction to the town and her uncle's home life unfolds with moments that reveal her innocent perspective. She begins to adjust to her new environment, encountering characters like the aloof Aunty Rose and the rather stern Mr. Stagg, providing the groundwork for the relationships and adventures that will develop throughout the novel. Carolyn's resilience and hope serve as a bright contrast to the sadness of her past, setting the stage for a charming yet poignant tale of healing and belonging.
Constance Fenimore Woolson
The Ancient City
"The Ancient City" by Constance Fenimore Woolson is a work of fiction written in the late 19th century. Set in St. Augustine, Florida, the story revolves around a group of diverse characters who embark on a journey filled with historical insights, personal connections, and lively explorations of the city and its surroundings. Central to the narrative are Aunt Diana, her niece Iris Carew, and Niece Martha, along with several other companions who each bring their own perspectives and motivations to the journey. At the start of the novel, the ensemble of characters is introduced as they travel from New York to St. Augustine during a snowstorm. Their journey unfolds through descriptions of the ship, their interactions, and expectations for their Florida adventure. The personalities of Aunt Diana, Iris, and the other travelers are established, providing glimpses into their relationships and individual quirks. The opening scenes also detail the beauty and history of St. Augustine, including references to its significant past, local folklore, and the tension between the different social classes present in the city. Overall, the beginning sets the stage for a story steeped in charm and the exploration of the human experience against a backdrop of rich history.
Eden Phillpotts
From the Angle of Seventeen
"From the Angle of Seventeen" by Eden Phillpotts is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the life of a young boy named Corkey Major, who is on the brink of adulthood. As he transitions from school to the world of work, the narrative explores his thoughts, ambitions, and the challenges he faces as he secures a clerkship at the Apollo Fire Office in London. The opening of the book introduces us to Corkey, who is summoned to the Doctor's study and learns that he must leave school for a job. Despite his heady ambitions and dreams of a bright future, he feels a mix of excitement and reluctance as he prepares for this new chapter in his life. He grapples with the mixture of pride in securing a clerkship and the sorrow of leaving behind the familiarity of school and friends. The narrative sets the stage for Corkey's journey through London, revealing the bustling city life and the many eccentric characters he encounters, highlighting his naiveté and the harsh realities of adulthood as he navigates this pivotal time in his life.
Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant
Ombra
"Ombra" by Mrs. Oliphant is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around Katherine Courtenay, an only child and heiress raised in a lonely, uncaring environment, deprived of familial love and connection, leading to her impulsive and rebellious nature. The book explores her struggles with isolation and her complicated relationship with her guardian, Mr. Courtenay, as well as her budding interactions with the local villagers and the potential for friendship and love. The opening of "Ombra" introduces us to Kate's challenging upbringing in the desolate Langton-Courtenay estate, where her uncle, Mr. Courtenay, deliberately keeps her emotionally distant from anyone who might form a sentimental bond with her. Despite the lack of affection in her life, Kate possesses a vibrant spirit and strong opinions that result in her meddling and gossiping about the people around her. As she navigates her fifteenth year, she exhibits a lively curiosity about the world, often at odds with her guardian’s plans for her independence. The chapter culminates in the arrival of a letter from her Aunt Anderson, expressing a desire to reconnect, which presents Kate with a potential escape from her solitary existence and hints at the unfolding challenges of her journey toward finding love and acceptance.
Grace Livingston Hill
Cloudy Jewel
"Cloudy Jewel" by Grace Livingston Hill is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Julia Cloud, a middle-aged woman facing uncertainty and loneliness after her mother's passing. As Julia contemplates her future, her life unexpectedly brightens when her youthful nephew and niece, Leslie and Allison, arrive, inviting her to become a mother figure for them as they begin their journey in college. The opening of the book introduces Julia Cloud's struggles with the expectations and responsibilities placed upon her by family, particularly her domineering sister, Ellen. Julia is torn between her long-standing duty to others and the longing for independence and love. Her internal conflict is presented vividly through her interactions with Ellen, who insists that Julia should come live with her, offering little empathy for Julia’s grief and needs. This dilemma is compounded by Julia's surprise at receiving a telegram from her niece and nephew, which brings a rush of joyful memories from her past. Their arrival becomes a turning point in Julia's life as they propose a plan that could open a new chapter of love, companionship, and belonging.
Grace Livingston Hill
Aunt Crete's Emancipation
"Aunt Crete's Emancipation" by Grace Livingston Hill is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Aunt Crete, a gentlewoman of modest means whose life drastically changes when her long-lost cousin, Donald Grant, unexpectedly visits. The narrative explores themes of family dynamics, societal expectations, and personal redemption as Aunt Crete steps out of her self-imposed limitations and embraces new experiences with Donald. The opening of the book introduces us to Aunt Crete and her overbearing relatives, Luella and her mother, who are less than thrilled with the prospect of Donald's visit. While they decide to flee to the shore to avoid the intrusion of their Western cousin, Aunt Crete's reaction is one of joy and longing. The initial tension between their desire to escape and Aunt Crete's hidden eagerness highlights the contrasting attitudes within the family. Aunt Crete, who has always been the dutiful, unappreciated family member, finds hope in receiving Donald and begins to dream of a life beyond her mundane obligations. This opening sets the stage for Aunt Crete's transformation and adventure as she dares to follow her happiness, defying her family's expectations.
Jeanne Judson
The Stars Incline
"The Stars Incline" by Jeanne Judson is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story centers around Ruth Mayfield, a young art student who navigates her ambitions in the vibrant yet challenging world of New York City while grappling with personal loss and family dynamics. The novel explores themes of artistry, identity, and the specter of familial expectations against the backdrop of an evolving life in a bustling metropolis. At the start of the narrative, we meet Ruth as she reflects on her life and the impact of her parents' marriage on her own views about love and relationships. Following the death of her father, her mother prepares her for a life dependent on a reluctant aunt. Ruth's journey takes her from Indianapolis to New York, where her dreams of becoming a great painter collide with the complexities of living with her glamorous, seemingly carefree aunt, Gloria. The opening establishes Ruth's inner conflicts and ambitions, hinting at romantic complications with theater figures like Terry Riordan and challenges in maintaining her artistic integrity amidst her aunt's influential lifestyle. As Ruth adjusts to her new surroundings, the narrative sets the stage for her artistic and personal growth, amidst the distractions and allure of her new life.
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