Subject
English fiction -- 19th century Books
Best books
George Meredith
The Amazing Marriage — Complete
"The Amazing Marriage — Complete" by George Meredith is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story begins with the colorful and scandalous elopement of the beautiful Countess of Cressett with the adventurous Old Buccaneer, Kirby, against the backdrop of societal scrutiny and family disapproval. Through this narrative, the book explores themes of love, honor, and societal expectations, primarily focusing on the characters involved in this tumultuous romance. The beginning of the novel introduces us to the intriguing world of upper-class society, where the Countess's charm captivates those around her. As the tale unfolds, Dame Gossip emerges as the narrative's chorus, chronicling the Countess's famed exploits, her close bond with her brother Lord Levellier, and the thrilling consequences of her clandestine affair with Kirby. The tension heightens as the Countess's secretive plans are revealed, leading her to execute an audacious escape, showcasing her spirit and desafío. With vivid character sketches and dramatic developments, the opening portion sets the stage for a rich exploration of human emotion intertwined with the complexities of class and reputation.
George Meredith
Complete Short Works of George Meredith
"Complete Short Works of George Meredith" by George Meredith is a collection of short stories and prose written during the late 19th century. This anthology encompasses a variety of tales that delve into themes like romance, adventure, and social commentary, showcasing Meredith's unique narrative style and rich characterizations. The opening story, “Farina,” introduces readers to rich historical settings and characters, particularly focusing on the merchant Gottlieb von Groschen and his daughter, Margarita, as they navigate the complexities of love, honor, and societal expectations. The opening of “Farina” sets the stage in Cologne during an enchanting yet dangerous time, where the fortunes of a wealthy merchant, Gottlieb, and the affections of his beautiful daughter, Margarita, become the center of youthful rivalry and chivalric exploits. The narrative unfolds with a lively depiction of the “White Rose Club,” a group of young men who vie for Margarita’s attention, resulting in humorous and competitive encounters. As the story progresses, the tension mounts with the appearance of the menacing Baron Werner’s band, indicating that love and danger are intricately woven into the fabric of this tale, foreshadowing an exciting mix of romance and adventure that characters like Farina, a brave outsider, and the young men of the club will experience.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
Alice, or the Mysteries — Complete
"Alice; or, the Mysteries — Complete" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel likely written during the mid-19th century, weaving themes of romance, societal expectations, and personal growth. The story unfolds in a tranquil Devonshire cottage where Lady Vargrave and her daughter Evelyn navigate the complexities of love, duty, and the influence of societal pressures, especially regarding Evelyn's engagement to Lord Vargrave. The opening portion establishes a serene yet contemplative atmosphere, highlighting the relationship between Lady Vargrave and Mrs. Leslie, who discuss the implications of Evelyn's impending marriage and her lack of exposure to the wider world. As the narrative shifts focus to Evelyn, we see her joyful innocence contrasted with an underlying melancholy regarding her mother's past and their relationship. The introduction of Mr. Aubrey, the kind curate, further enriches the narrative by adding depth to Evelyn's character as she grapples with her feelings about love and obligation. This opening sets the stage for themes of emotional struggle and the quest for personal identity against societal expectations, making it an intriguing read for those interested in Victorian-era literature and character-driven stories.
Charlotte M. (Charlotte Mary) Yonge
Love and Life: An Old Story in Eighteenth Century Costume
"Love and Life: An Old Story in Eighteenth Century Costume" by Charlotte M. Yonge is a historical novel set in the early 19th century. The narrative revolves around the enchanting tale of Psyche and Cupid, reimagined within the context of 18th-century English society. The central focus seems to be on the lives of the Delavie sisters, particularly Aurelia, as they navigate love, societal pressures, and familial duties amidst a backdrop of traditions and expectations. The opening of the novel introduces Major Delavie, a retired officer, as he awaits the return of his daughters from a festive outing. Through a detailed description of their home and lifestyle, we encounter the characters of the sisters—Aurelia, Harriet, and Betty—as they discuss their experiences at a syllabub party. Aunt Betty, the eldest sister, takes on a maternal role, ensuring her siblings' well-being while grappling with her feelings about societal expectations and familial honor. Amidst playful banter and fatherly affection, hints of romantic intrigue and tension surface, particularly regarding the youngest sister Aurelia, foreshadowing her future entanglements and the larger themes of love and sacrifice woven into the tale.
Thomas Ingoldsby
The Ingoldsby Legends; or, Mirth and Marvels
"The Ingoldsby Legends; or, Mirth and Marvels" by Thomas Ingoldsby is a collection of myths, legends, ghost stories, and poems first published serially beginning in 1837. Written under a pseudonym by English clergyman Richard Harris Barham, these tales blend Kentish folklore with humor and parody. The collection features memorable stories like "The Jackdaw of Rheims," about a thieving bird made saint, and "Grey Dolphin," where a horse's skull fulfills a deadly prophecy. These imaginative retellings captivated Victorian readers and influenced numerous authors for generations.
M. E. (Mary Elizabeth) Braddon
Rupert Godwin : $b A novel
No description available.
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Tales and Stories Now First Collected
"Tales and Stories" by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The volume brings together her lesser-known narratives, showcasing her distinctive voice and imaginative style. While many readers may be familiar with her iconic novel "Frankenstein," this collection aims to reveal Shelley's versatility as a storyteller, exploring themes of love, loss, and the human experience through various characters and settings. At the start of the collection, the introduction delves into Mary Shelley's literary reputation, suggesting it is often overshadowed by her husband Percy Bysshe Shelley’s fame. It highlights her creative journey and the blend of personal experiences within her writing. Following this, the opening story, "The Sisters of Albano," unfolds a poignant narrative about two sisters, Maria and Anina, who are deeply affected by societal expectations and family tragedy. Their tale, shaped by love and sacrifice amidst the backdrop of romantic Italy, introduces readers to the emotional depth and dramatic circumstances that will permeate the subsequent stories in the collection.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
Pelham — Complete
"Pelham — Complete" by Baron Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton is a novel published in 1828. This breakthrough silver fork novel follows the adventures of Henry Pelham, a young dandy, through Paris, London, and Cheltenham's fashionable society. Beginning as a light-hearted tale of high society life, the story transforms dramatically into a Gothic murder mystery when Pelham's friend faces execution for murder. Pelham must find the true killer to save him, pioneering elements that would later define the detective genre.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
Lucretia — Complete
"Lucretia — Complete" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel written in the early 19th century that explores complex themes surrounding human nature, ambition, and the moral impact of society and upbringing. The narrative centers on Lucretia Clavering, an heiress raised in a household marked by pride and ambition, and examines her intricate relationships with her uncle, Sir Miles St. John, as well as with potential suitors who embody contrasting societal standings. The beginning of the novel establishes a dark and atmospheric setting, beginning with a scene during the Reign of Terror in Paris, where a father observes his son’s fascination with a spider's web as they head to witness an execution—foreshadowing themes of violence and moral corruption. This somber tension shifts to a family setting in England several years later, where Lucretia is introduced alongside characters like the ambitious Mainwaring, who struggles with his feelings for her and the shadow of her lineage, and her tutor Dalibard, who grapples with the ramifications of their ambitions. The prologue and opening chapters set up a rich psychological exploration of Lucretia's character, her upbringing, and the complex interplay between personal desires and societal expectations, hinting at the turbulent journey that lies ahead for her and those around her.
M. E. (Mary Elizabeth) Braddon
The day will come : $b a novel
"The Day Will Come" by M. E. Braddon is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a young couple, Juanita Dalbrook and Sir Godfrey Carmichael, as they embark on their honeymoon in the idyllic setting of Cheriton Chase, a manorial estate steeped in history and familial connections. The opening sets the stage for themes of social status, personal ambition, and the weight of legacy, hinting at underlying tensions and emotional complexity among the characters. The opening of the book introduces a vibrant celebration in the village of Cheriton, marking the marriage of Juanita and Godfrey. As the couple arrives amid the joyful ringing of church bells and festive villagers, we learn about their backgrounds, including Lord Cheriton's self-made rise to nobility and Juanita's delicate beauty and familial expectations. Although joyful, the narrative hints at Juanita's concerns over her family's history and her father's aspirations for a male heir, establishing a backdrop of personal conflict. The introduction of Theodore Dalbrook, Juanita’s cousin who harbors unrequited feelings for her, adds another layer of emotional tension, foreshadowing potential challenges the couple may face as they navigate their new life together in the old manor house.
Charles Reade
Hard Cash
"Hard Cash" by Charles Reade is a novel published in 1863. This matter-of-fact romance exposes the poor treatment of patients in Victorian insane asylums. When bankrupt banker Richard Hardie defrauds sea-captain David Dodd of £14,000, both men's lives spiral into madness and confinement. Hardie's son Alfred, who loves Dodd's daughter Julia, discovers his father's crime and faces a harrowing consequence: imprisonment in an asylum among the insane. Reade's reformist work combines maritime adventure, courtroom drama, and a penetrating analysis of mental illness and institutional abuse.
Edward Bulwer Lytton Lytton
A Strange Story — Complete
"A Strange Story — Complete" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a novel likely written in the mid-19th century. It explores the intricate relationships between science, philosophy, and the supernatural through the experiences of its protagonist, Dr. Allen Fenwick, a physician who grapples with profound moral and existential questions as he embarks on a journey influenced by ambition and romantic entanglements. The novel is set against a backdrop of societal expectations and personal ambition, promising a complex interplay of human emotions and intellectual debates. The opening of the novel introduces us to Dr. Fenwick, who moves to a wealthy English town to establish his medical practice. A chance encounter with a renowned physician, Dr. Julius Faber, sets the stage for Fenwick’s rapid rise in reputation as he becomes Faber's partner. The narrative delves into Fenwick’s character, revealing a man of ambition, intellectual pride, and a healthy skepticism of the supernatural. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he finds himself in a controversial conflict over the emerging ideas of mesmerism and its implications, particularly as it relates to Dr. Lloyd, Fenwick's rival. This professional rivalry intertwines with Fenwick’s personal life as he becomes captivated by Lilian Ashleigh, setting up a battle between his rational beliefs and the emerging supernatural influences around him.
Recently surfaced classics