Subject
Europe -- Description and travel -- Fiction Books
Best books
Marietta Holley
Samantha in Europe
"Samantha in Europe" by Marietta Holley is a humorous novel written in the late 19th century. This whimsical tale follows the adventures of Samantha, a lively and outspoken woman, as she embarks on a journey to Europe with her husband, Josiah. The story promises to explore the couple's experiences abroad, filled with Samantha's reflections on their life, travels, and the various eccentric characters they encounter along the way. At the start of the narrative, Samantha finds herself on an ocean voyage, deep in thought about her previous life in Jonesville. As she takes in the vastness of the Atlantic and reflects on the changes that brought her here, she reminisces about her family and their relationships, particularly with her cousin, P. Martyn Smythe. The preface features a playful dialogue between Samantha and Josiah, showcasing their dynamic and hinting at the humorous tone of the book. Their backstory is woven into the opening as they prepare for their trip to Europe, all while charmingly navigating domestic life and the challenges of travel.
Pierre de Coulevain
Ève victorieuse
"Ève victorieuse" by Pierre de Coulevain is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Hélène Ronald, a fashionable and artistic woman in New York society, who desires to escape from the superficialities of her affluent lifestyle. Throughout the opening portion, the dynamics between Hélène, her husband Henri, and her friend Dora Carroll hint at deeper themes of love, ambition, and the conflicts between personal desires and societal expectations. The opening of the novel introduces Hélène Ronald as an authority on interior decoration and a collector of fine objects. As she prepares for a night at the opera, her dialogue with her husband Henri reveals a contrast between her enjoyment of social events and his intellectual pursuits in the field of science. Their conversation touches on themes such as the perception of love through a scientific lens and hints at Hélène's growing restlessness with her luxurious yet shallow existence. The chapter also introduces Dora Carroll, whose self-centered nature and capriciousness complicate the narrative, particularly regarding her romantic relationship with Jack, creating a tension that suggests potential developments in their respective paths and character growth throughout the story.
Pierre de Coulevain
Voittoisa nainen
"Voittoisa nainen" by Pierre de Coulevain is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around the life and challenges of the main character, Helena Ronald, a woman navigating the complex social dynamics of America, particularly in the art and social elitist circles of New York. As a prominent figure in these settings, Helena grapples with her aspirations and the relationships around her as she prepares for a transformative trip to Europe. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Helena, a talented and ambitious woman, who is deeply engaged in the world of art collection and social gatherings. As she prepares for an opera outing, her husband Henrik Ronald's presence brings a mix of affection and tension, revealing underlying themes of duty and personal desire. The discussions between Helena and Henrik highlight their differing perspectives on science, art, and societal norms, adding depth to their characters as they confront their expectations and emotional connections. The opening sets the stage for Helena’s subsequent journey to Europe, which promises to challenge her views on life, luxury, and her aspirations for personal freedom.
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