Subject
Divorce -- Fiction Books
Best books
Wilkie Collins
The Evil Genius: A Domestic Story
"The Evil Genius: A Domestic Story" by Wilkie Collins is a novel likely written in the late 19th century, set within the intricate social dynamics of the time. This story delves into the themes of intrigue, morality, and domestic life, primarily focusing on the character Roderick Westerfield, a man accused of serious crimes, and his wife, Mrs. Westerfield, as they navigate the treacherous waters of societal expectations and personal betrayal. At the start of the novel, the story opens with a courtroom scene where jurors deliberate on the case against Roderick Westerfield, charged with wrecking a ship and stealing valuable diamonds. As the jurors voice their opinions, it becomes evident that their discussions are laced with humor, irony, and personal quirks. The narrative transitions to Mrs. Westerfield, who is presented as a showy woman, seemingly detached from her daughter during the trial. After the trial concludes with a guilty verdict, we witness the emotional toll this takes on the couple, particularly Roderick as he faces his impending fate. The beginning sets an engaging, complex stage for the unfolding drama centered on deception, familial relationships, and the consequences of personal choices.
William John Locke
Idols
"Idols" by William John Locke is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the complex relationships between three main characters: Irene Merriam, her husband Gerard, and his close friend Hugh Colman. As the narrative begins, it explores themes of love, loyalty, jealousy, and the societal pressures that accompany personal choices. At the start of the novel, two men commit a crime that sets off a chain of events affecting four seemingly unrelated lives. We are introduced to Irene Merriam, a content woman reflecting on her happy life with Gerard and Hugh, both of whom share a deep connection with her. As they engage in conversation and display their differing natures, tensions begin to emerge, particularly with Irene's compassionate concern for a Jewish girl named Minna Hart, who quickly becomes tied to them as her character unfolds. The early chapters lay the groundwork for dramatic developments and moral conflicts rooted in love, friendship, and societal constraints, hinting at deeper struggles to come.
Kathleen Thompson Norris
The Heart of Rachael
"The Heart of Rachael" by Kathleen Thompson Norris is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a well-to-do social setting, detailing the intricate lives and relationships of its characters, particularly focusing on Rachael Breckenridge, a woman navigating the complexities of marriage, motherhood, and societal expectations amidst the backdrop of a golf club in Long Island. The opening of the book sets a picturesque scene at the Long Island Country Club during a vibrant April day filled with players and social interactions. We are introduced to various characters, including Rachael and her stepdaughter Billy, and learn about Rachael's marriage to Clarence Breckenridge. The narrative hints at Rachael's struggles with her complacent husband, Clarence, and her responsibilities as a stepmother, compounded by the gossip and scrutiny of their social circle. This initial chapter establishes the backdrop of a glamorous yet unfulfilling world, marked by Rachael's inner conflict of wanting more from life than just social acceptance and domesticity. The complexity of her emotions foreshadows a deeper examination of her character and her relationships as the story progresses.
Frank H. (Frank Hamilton) Spearman
Robert Kimberly
"Robert Kimberly" by Frank H. Spearman is a novel written in the early 20th century. It explores the social dynamics and tensions amongst a wealthy family, particularly focusing on Robert Kimberly, a character bound by duty and business interests rather than personal relationships. The narrative appears to delve into themes of love, ambition, and the sacrifices made for familial obligations. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Robert Kimberly, his family, and their social circle against the backdrop of a dance at a local pavilion. The characters engage in lively conversation, hinting at their complex relationships and dynamics. Among them is Alice MacBirney, who navigates her new life among the Kimberlys, drawing the interest of Robert. Dialogues between characters suggest an array of tensions, expectations, and secrets, laying the ground for conflict and development as the characters interact within the sphere of social, business, and familial pressures.
Grazia Deledda
After the Divorce: A Romance
"After the Divorce: A Romance" by Grazia Deledda is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Giovanna Era, a young woman embroiled in sorrow after her husband, Costantino, is sentenced to prison for a crime he claims he did not commit. Set against a backdrop of traditional and social pressures, the narrative explores Giovanna's emotional turmoil and societal expectations following her husband's conviction. At the start of the novel, Giovanna is found in desperate grief, lamenting her husband's fate as he faces a potentially long prison term for the murder of his uncle. The opening scene depicts her in a dark room, overwhelmed with despair, while various family members attempt to console her. As the story unfolds, we meet a cast of characters including her supportive but practical mother, Aunt Bachissia, and the opportunistic student Paolo, who hints at the prospect of Giovanna finding freedom through divorce if her husband's sentence is upheld. The narrative captures the complexity of relationships, societal expectations, and the longing for love and justice as it delves into the emotional landscape of the characters.
Joseph Medill Patterson
Rebellion
"Rebellion" by Joseph Medill Patterson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores the tumultuous life of Jim Connor, a ward heeler struggling with his alcoholism, strained marriage, and the political dynamics of his job. Through Jim's perspective, it delves into themes of personal failure, the complexities of relationships, and the socio-political environment of the time. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Jim Connor, enjoying camaraderie in a bar while trying to keep promises to his wife, Georgia. It becomes clear that Jim is trapped in a cycle of drinking, regret, and the fear of confronting Georgia over his late return home for supper. As he reflects on their past and the evolution of their relationship, it is revealed that Jim's alcoholism is a recurring issue that strains their marriage. The opening scenes establish the tone of desperation and discontent that pervades Jim's life, giving readers insight into his conflicted character and the challenges he faces both at home and in the political arena.
Robert Grant
The Orchid
"The Orchid" by Robert Grant is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around Lydia Arnold, a clever and poised young woman navigating the complexities of love and social expectations within an affluent hunting community. At the story's outset, she is at the center of speculation regarding her potential engagement to Herbert Maxwell, a wealthy suitor, while also being the object of admiration and curiosity from various members of the Westfield Hunt Club. The opening portion of the novel introduces Lydia Arnold as a perceptive and astute character, whose personal attitudes and choices stir interest among her peers. As the hunt season progresses, there’s rising speculation about her relationship with Maxwell and the implications of their engagement. The reader witnesses Lydia's intricate dynamics with the members of her social circle, including her close friend Mrs. Walter Cole, who both supports and questions Lydia's decisions. The narrative hints at underlying tensions and themes of love, societal norms, and individual aspirations, primarily shown through Lydia's interactions and observations on the hunt, her aspirations for a luxurious life, and the unexpected arrival of a dashing newcomer, Harry Spencer, complicating matters further. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of relationships and self-discovery that unfolds throughout the novel.
Robert Grant
The Undercurrent
"The Undercurrent" by Robert Grant is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores the complexities of love, ambition, and societal expectations through the story of Constance Forbes, a young woman who marries Emil Stuart, a man striving for success in a rapidly growing city. As they navigate their relationship and their individual ambitions, the story delves into themes of disillusionment and the challenges faced in a changing societal landscape. The opening of the narrative presents the wedding of Constance and Emil, highlighting Constance's mixed feelings about her choice to marry, reflecting on the sacrifices she makes for love and her aspirations in the field of education. The couple's dynamic is established through their conversation and interactions, revealing Emil's ambition and Constance's support as they settle into married life. However, as Emil confronts the harsh realities of business and eventually faces failure, the strain on their relationship becomes apparent, setting the stage for deeper conflicts around personal aspirations and societal pressures. This beginning hints at the tumultuous journey the couple will face as they grapple with their dreams and the realities of life together.
Anthony Hope
Mrs. Maxon Protests
"Mrs. Maxon Protests" by Anthony Hope is a novel written in the early 20th century. This engaging story centers on Winnie Maxon, a woman struggling with her incompatible marriage to Cyril Maxon, a successful barrister. As she grapples with her feelings and the constraints of societal expectations, Winnie seeks liberation from a life characterized by emotional suppression. The opening of the novel introduces us to Mrs. Maxon and her friend Hobart Gaynor in a legal office, where she expresses her frustrations with her marriage. She humorously coins the term "inkpat" to describe her deep-seated sense of incompatibility with Cyril, hinting at the myriad of small grievances that have built up over time. As they converse, it becomes clear that Winnie feels trapped and discontented in her marriage, leading her to contemplate separation. Her desire for independence is further complicated by her past affection for Cyril and the societal expectations of marriage in their time. This complex emotional landscape sets the stage for her internal conflict and the potential upheaval in her life.
Edith Wharton
Autres Temps... 1916
"Autres Temps..." by Edith Wharton is a poignant novel written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of memory, societal change, and personal identity through the character of Mrs. Lidcote, who is returning to New York after years of living abroad. As she navigates a society that has transformed in her absence, the story delves into her reflections on the past and her complex relationship with her daughter, Leila, who mirrors her own troubled romantic history. The narrative follows Mrs. Lidcote on her emotional journey as she confronts the consequences of her past choices, which now seem to resurface in her daughter's life. As she arrives in New York, Mrs. Lidcote grapples with feelings of isolation and anxiety, especially in the face of her daughter's recent divorce and remarriage. Through quiet introspection and conversations with old friends, she begins to realize the depth of her own loneliness and the changing social dynamics that influence her standing in this new era. Ultimately, the novel captures the struggle of reconciling personal history with the present, and the quest for a renewed sense of belonging in a world that has moved on.
F. Marion (Francis Marion) Crawford
A Rose of Yesterday
"A Rose of Yesterday" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds around the character of Sylvia, who is navigating her feelings towards her guardian, Colonel Wimpole, amidst themes of love, loss, and social expectations. The story explores the complexities of their relationship as Sylvia, an impressionable young woman, grapples with emotions that intertwine affection with the looming specter of age and societal constraints. The opening of the novel introduces Sylvia in a personal moment with Colonel Wimpole, as they discuss an etching depicting a noble knight and the deeper meanings it may hold. Their dialogue hints at Sylvia's infatuation with the ideals of heroism and love, while Colonel Wimpole reflects on his past and the unfulfilled promises rooted in his experiences of war and honor. As the narrative develops, the emotional tension between them is palpable, with themes of unreciprocated love and the weight of societal norms coming into play, especially as Sylvia mistakes Wimpole’s fatherly affection for something more. The delicate balance between youth and age, destiny, and the longing for love sets the stage for a compelling exploration of human relationships and the challenges of defining true passion within societal confines.
Georgie Sheldon
Redeemed
"Redeemed" by Mrs. George Sheldon Downs is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the tumultuous relationship of Helen and John Hungerford as they navigate the complexities of marriage, infidelity, and personal aspirations. The narrative opens with tension as Helen confronts her husband about his request for a divorce, laying bare the emotional stakes concerning their daughter, Dorothy, and revealing underlying issues of love, betrayal, and societal expectations. At the start of the novel, readers witness a heated conversation between Helen and John, where Helen calmly accepts the impending divorce but firmly insists on retaining custody of their daughter, Dorothy. John's character emerges as self-absorbed and irresponsible, displaying little regard for the implications of his actions on his family. As Dorothy enters, her youthful innocence contrasts sharply with the fraught atmosphere, and it becomes evident that she is caught in the struggle between her parents. The opening chapters establish a foundation of conflict, guilt, and emotional resilience, setting the stage for the characters’ ongoing battle for redemption and personal fulfillment amidst societal judgment.
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