Subject
British -- Switzerland -- Fiction Books
Best books
Elizabeth Von Arnim
In the Mountains
"In the Mountains" by Elizabeth Von Arnim is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows an unnamed female protagonist who returns to her mountain home after years away, seeking solitude after experiencing profound losses due to war. The themes of loneliness, healing, and the beauty of nature permeate her reflections as she grapples with her painful memories while attempting to rejuvenate her spirit in the peaceful mountain setting. The opening of the book presents the protagonist's return to her mountain retreat, where she expresses a deep sense of weariness and solitude. She lies on the grass, contemplating the beauty surrounding her—the brilliant colors of the delphiniums, the expansive sky, and the gentle quietness of nature—while grappling with feelings of loss and emptiness. The narrative reveals her thoughts about her previous life filled with love and companionship, now stripped away. As days pass, she observes the simple yet profound beauty of her surroundings, reflecting on her painful memories and the arduous path to healing, while also experiencing moments of hope and the desire to reconnect with joy.
E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung
No Hero
"No Hero" by E.W. Hornung is a novel written in the early 20th century, likely around the turn of the century. It explores themes of duty, relationships, and the complexities of personal history. The story centers around Duncan Clephane, a man returning from war, who unexpectedly reconnects with Catherine Evers, an old acquaintance, and her son Bob. The narrative unfolds as Duncan becomes embroiled in a web of emotions that span from love to duty as he navigates their lives and the potential complications that arise from Bob's growing infatuation with a mysterious widow, Mrs. Lascelles. The opening of "No Hero" sets the stage for a tale intertwined with past relationships and unspoken tensions. It begins with Duncan receiving a letter from Catherine, prompting memories and reflections on their shared history. As he prepares to visit her, he confronts his physical limitations from war injuries while reminiscing about the past. Upon arrival, Duncan finds Catherine unchanged yet different, concerned about her son Bob's attachment to Mrs. Lascelles, a woman whose reputation causes unease. This initial interaction establishes a sense of duty within Duncan to protect Bob, setting up for a deeper exploration of relationships against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal sacrifice. The complexity of these connections hints at the challenges Duncan will face as he seeks to steer Bob away from potential heartbreak, revealing the layered intricacies of love and friendship.
Recently surfaced classics