Subject
Elopement -- Fiction Books
Best books
Thomas Hardy
A pair of blue eyes
"A Pair of Blue Eyes" by Thomas Hardy is a novel written during the late 19th century. This work explores themes of love and social class through the experiences of Elfride Swancourt, a young woman navigating her emotions and relationships in a rural English setting. The story is set against the backdrop of church restoration and the wild landscapes of Wessex, interweaving the intricacies of love and societal expectations. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Elfride, a twenty-year-old girl, who possesses a depth of emotion but lacks social sophistication. As her father, the parish vicar, is laid up with illness, Elfride prepares to host Stephen Smith, a young architect sent to oversee the restoration of a local church. The beginning paints a picture of Elfride's character—innocent, curious, and somewhat naive—as she contemplates the arrival of Stephen with both excitement and trepidation. Their first meeting hints at a brewing tension, setting the stage for the developing romantic intrigue amidst the constraints of their social surroundings. As Elfride grapples with her feelings in this remote part of England, Hardy begins to weave a tale that explores not just the heart, but also the complex web of class and identity in the 19th-century English society.
Mrs. Rowson
Charlotte Temple
"Charlotte Temple" by Mrs. Rowson is a novel originally published in England in 1791. It tells the story of fifteen-year-old Charlotte Temple, a schoolgirl seduced by a British officer who persuades her to run away with him to America. There, abandoned while pregnant and penniless, Charlotte faces devastating consequences. The novel became a bestseller in America, going through over 200 editions, and belongs to the seduction novel genre that captivated early American readers with its cautionary tale of youthful innocence betrayed.
Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu
The Wyvern mystery
"The Wyvern Mystery" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds around the young character Alice Maybell, who is preparing to return to her home at Wyvern after visiting her aunt, grappling with love and family dynamics within the ancestral estate. The narrative hints at underlying tensions involving Alice’s relationships with the enigmatic Squire Fairfield and her circumstances that evoke both romance and mystery. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Alice Maybell, a pretty yet troubled young woman, as she bids farewell to her aunt before embarking on her journey home. Her mixed emotions are evident through her interactions, particularly her concern about the Squire’s disposition. Alice exhibits an unspoken anxiety about her life at Wyvern, with her thoughts lingering on someone named Ry, suggesting a romantic entanglement that complicates her situation. Additionally, the arrival of Squire Fairfield's sons puts Alice in a complex position, setting the stage for a tale that encompasses passion, secrecy, and the apprehensions of a young woman navigating her world and the expectations placed upon her. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for the unfolding mystery surrounding her relationships and the dynamics of the estate.
Bert Leston Taylor
Under Three Flags: A Story of Mystery
"Under Three Flags: A Story of Mystery" by Bert Leston Taylor and Alvin T. Thoits is a mystery novel written in the late 19th century. The book revolves around a love story intertwined with a shocking murder in a small town, featuring characters such as Derrick Ames and Helen Hathaway, who find their lives disrupted by fate and crime. As the narrative unfolds, themes of love, ambition, and revenge are explored against the backdrop of a community thrown into chaos by a brutal act. The beginning of the story introduces readers to Derrick Ames and Helen Hathaway, who are lovers idling on a sunny afternoon in Vermont. They discuss their frustrations with their small-town lives, hinting at their yearning for adventure and freedom. Derrick, facing opposition from Helen's father regarding their relationship, decides to seek him out, but upon his return from this encounter, he appears shaken and urges Helen to leave town with him. This moment sets a tone of suspense as they embark on an impulsive midnight train ride just as chaos erupts back home: Helen's father is found murdered in the bank, leaving the community to grapple with the mystery of the crime and the implications of the couple’s disappearance.
Charles Neville Buck
The Beneficent Burglar
"The Beneficent Burglar" by Charles Neville Buck is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around themes of love, elopement, and a series of comedic misadventures that unfold as the protagonist attempts to secure his future with the woman he loves. Set against a backdrop of societal norms and constraints, this light-hearted narrative delves into the lengths to which individuals will go for love, featuring a mix of humor and mistaken identities. The plot follows Lewis Copewell, who is desperately trying to prevent his beloved Mary Asheton from being sent away to Europe by her family as part of their efforts to keep them apart. With the help of his friend Alexander Hamilton Burrow, Copewell concocts an elaborate plan to elope with Mary. However, complications arise as miscommunication, misunderstandings, and the antics of various characters, including the mischievous burglar Rat Connors, create chaos. The story culminates in a series of comedic events that lead to mistaken encounters and an unexpected resolution. Ultimately, the narrative explores not only the pursuit of love but also the unpredictable nature of life, making for an engaging and entertaining read.
Winston Churchill
Mr. Keegan's Elopement
"Mr. Keegan's Elopement" by Winston Churchill is a charming novella that falls into the category of fiction, likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around themes of love and adventure, depicting a young naval officer's daring attempt to elope with his beloved despite her father's disapproval. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Madeira, the narrative combines elements of humor and romance, highlighting the lengths to which the characters go for love. The storyline follows Ensign John Pennington as he prepares to leave Madeira without securing the love of Eleanor Inglefield, the woman he wishes to marry. However, his friend Dennis Keegan, who is determined to see Pennington's plans succeed, devises a scheme to facilitate the elopement. With the help of the master-at-arms, Keegan orchestrates a covert rendezvous that leads to a thrilling nighttime escape. As the characters navigate obstacles, including a skeptical father and the complexities of their social standing, the tale unfolds with engaging dialogue and clever plotting, culminating in a joyful conclusion that highlights the triumph of love over societal expectations.
Stanley John Weyman
Starvecrow Farm
"Starvecrow Farm" by Stanley John Weyman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds around Henrietta, a young woman who has eloped with her lover, Stewart, and is evading pursuit while on their way to a new life. However, their journey becomes fraught with unexpected dangers and revelations that challenge Henrietta’s romantic ideals and ultimately threaten her happiness. The beginning of the novel introduces us to Henrietta and Stewart traveling in a postchaise as they navigate through the perilous quicksands on the Lancashire coast. Their interactions reveal a mix of youthful excitement and underlying tension as Henrietta grapples with the weight of their choices and the uncertainty of their future together. As they approach the inn where they plan to stay, hints of danger loom, not just from possible pursuers but also from secrets that Stewart harbors. This sets the stage for a story filled with romance, conflict, and social commentary against the backdrop of early 19th-century England, leaving readers eager to discover how Henrietta's adventure unfolds and what challenges she will face.
Henry Bordeaux
The will to live (Les Roquevillard) : $b A novel
"The Will to Live (Les Roquevillard)" by Henry Bordeaux is a novel written in the early 20th century." The narrative centers around the Roquevillard family, particularly focusing on the patriarch, Mr. Francis Roquevillard, and the significant events surrounding the family estate La Vigie, set against the backdrop of their vineyard and personal conflicts. The book explores themes of tradition, family legacy, and the complexities of love and betrayal. "At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the picturesque vineyard of La Vigie and the grape harvest, where Mr. Roquevillard oversees his workers with a benevolent yet authoritative demeanor." His interactions reveal his deep connection to the land and the traditions of his family, steeped in a rich history of honor and labor. The opening vividly portrays the laborers' efforts as they gather grapes, highlighting the atmosphere of community and camaraderie. However, beneath this idyllic surface, tensions simmer in the form of emerging romantic entanglements and a foreshadowing sense of conflict, particularly concerning Mr. Roquevillard's son, Maurice, and his involvement with the enigmatic Mrs. Frasne, which sets the stage for the unfolding drama within the family and their relationships.
Emma Dorothy Eliza Nevitte Southworth
Love's labor won
"Love's Labor Won" by Mrs. E.D.E.N. Southworth is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. Set against the backdrop of early American society, the story centers around the captivating and beautiful Marguerite De Lancie as she navigates the complexities of love, societal expectations, and personal ambition in a world filled with influential figures, events, and romantic pursuits. The narrative promises a blend of drama, romance, and the exploration of rich character dynamics. The opening of the story introduces us to Marguerite De Lancie during a memorable social event in Philadelphia, where she is the object of admiration due to her striking beauty and musical talent. Esteemed guests, including foreign ambassadors and local gentlemen, are spellbound by her presence and artistry at the harp. The scene sets the stage for her interactions with characters like the earnest suitor Lord William Daw and the poised but proud Philip Helmstedt, foreshadowing the entangled relationships and emotional struggles that will develop as the story unfolds. Marguerite's complex character, marked by both personal pride and vulnerability, offers a compelling start to her journey through love, societal pressures, and self-discovery in an evolving America.
Maria Louise Pool
Friendship and Folly: A Novel
"Friendship and Folly: A Novel" by Maria Louise Pool is a fiction work written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds at the Ffolliott family home in Savin Hill, Massachusetts, where we meet the central characters, including siblings Carolyn and Leander, as well as their cousin Prudence. The book explores themes of family relationships, youthful adventures, and romantic entanglements, particularly focusing on the dynamics between these vibrant personalities. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Leander, a spirited boy who claims to have found a valuable ring belonging to his cousin Rodney. His sister Carolyn, a composed figure lost in her reading, reluctantly joins him to investigate the find. This whimsical opening showcases the playful yet complex relationship between the siblings as they navigate their interactions with family and friends. The arrival of Prudence sets the stage for potential romantic developments and further adventures, hinting at the underlying tensions and emotions that will unfold as the story progresses.
Ann S. (Ann Sophia) Stephens
Norston's Rest
"Norston's Rest" by Ann S. Stephens is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the Hurst family, particularly Sir Noel Hurst and his relationship with his ward, Lady Rose, amidst a backdrop of English tradition and class dynamics. As various characters navigate through love, societal expectations, and personal struggles, the narrative unfolds significant themes of romance and class conflict. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to "Norston's Rest," a grand estate owned by the Hurst family, filled with historical significance. The opening chapter depicts a festive atmosphere as the household prepares for the first day of the hunt, highlighting the elegance of the guests and the anticipation surrounding Lady Rose's arrival. The narrative introduces a young man named Walton Hurst, who seems to hold a significant role in the unfolding drama, as well as Richard Storms, a farmer’s son eager to align himself with higher social standing while becoming enamored with a local girl named Judith. The interplay of emotions, expectations, and social class sets the stage for a rich exploration of relationships and ambitions in the chapters to come.
Anthony Hope
The Great Miss Driver
"The Great Miss Driver" by Anthony Hope is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the character Jenny Driver, the daughter of a wealthy man who had a complex relationship with his daughter and the world around him. As she inherits his fortune after his death, Jenny navigates her newfound position in society, amidst various interactions with men who have their sights on her and her wealth. The opening of the novel establishes the backdrop of Jenny's life post her father's death, detailing not only her transition into wealth but also her complicated feelings regarding her father and her past. Personal anecdotes and discussions among characters about her father’s legacy set the stage for her challenges ahead. We see her confronted with the responsibilities of wealth and societal expectations, while also encountering Mr. Nelson Powers, a character tied to a troublesome part of her past. Jenny’s dynamic with those around her, particularly her relationship with her father's solicitor and a rising figure of concern, sets the tone for her journey of self-discovery and agency in a world that expects her to play various roles.
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