Subject
British -- Norway -- Fiction Books
Best books
Edna Lyall
A Hardy Norseman
"A Hardy Norseman" by Edna Lyall is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the adventures and emotional journeys of young English siblings, Roy and Cecil Boniface, as they embark on a trip to Norway, seeking change and clarity in their lives. Central to the narrative is Cecil's struggle with her sense of identity and longing for deeper connections, as well as the encounters they have with the charming Norwegian, Frithiof Falck, which suggest a blossoming romance intertwined with cultural observations and personal growth. At the start of the novel, the Bonifaces are aboard a steamer headed toward Bergen, where Cecil expresses her desire to escape the company of English tourists and instead immerse herself in the beauty of Norway. The siblings' contrasting personalities vividly unfold, with Roy teasing Cecil about her misanthropy while she gazes at the stunning fjords with an air of dissatisfaction regarding her life in England. As they arrive in Bergen, they meet Frithiof, whose energetic demeanor and engaging manners awaken Cecil's curiosity and a sense of potential change in her life. The themes of longing, cultural differences, and romantic prospects begin to emerge, setting the stage for the unfolding drama and exploration of love and identity in this picturesque setting.
Beatrice Harraden
Katharine Frensham: A Novel
"Katharine Frensham: A Novel" by Beatrice Harraden is a late 19th-century novel that explores complex family dynamics, love, and personal identity. The story primarily revolves around the characters of Clifford and Marianne Thornton, along with their son Alan, as they navigate the turbulent waters of their faltering marriage. As tensions rise and tragedy strikes, the book delves into themes of regret and the consequences of unfulfilled aspirations. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Clifford and Alan, who discuss the unhappy state of Clifford's marriage with Marianne. The emotional weight of their confrontation reveals the strains within the family, culminating in the abrupt and tragic death of Marianne after a heated exchange. Following this devastating loss, the focus shifts to both father and son grappling with their grief and guilt. Alongside this, we see the tender moments of their companionship, the interventions of their old Danish governess, Knutty, and the emotional void left by Marianne's passing, setting the stage for potential change and healing in their lives as they embark on a journey to Japan.
Frances Mary Peard
The Swing of the Pendulum
"The Swing of the Pendulum" by Frances Mary Peard is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story begins on a crowded ship making its way to Norway, highlighting the discomfort of the passengers as they anticipate their arrival. The focus shifts to a mother and daughter, Mrs. Ravenhill and Millie, who are determined to explore their destination despite their unpleasant journey. The narrative hints at a developing relationship between Millie and a fellow traveler, Dick Wareham, while also introducing the mysterious Anne Dalrymple, adding complexity to their interactions. The opening of the novel establishes a backdrop of travel and discomfort, with characters who are slowly revealing their personalities and relationships. As the ship approaches the harbor of Stavanger, Millie expresses her eagerness to explore Norway, contrasting with her mother’s more artistic disposition. The passengers aboard share a mix of camaraderie and tension, particularly as tensions arise from unspoken connections and histories—such as Wareham’s dislike for Miss Dalrymple, who is indirectly tied to his friend Hugh's romantic troubles. Their interactions promise an intricate web of emotions and social dynamics that will unfold as the characters navigate their new surroundings in Norway.
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