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Household employees -- Fiction Books
Best books
Henry Fielding
Joseph Andrews, Vol. 1
"Joseph Andrews, Vol. 1" by Henry Fielding is a novel published in 1742. When virtuous footman Joseph Andrews rejects his employer Lady Booby's advances, he loses his position and sets out from London to reunite with his true love, Fanny Goodwill. Along the road, he encounters his mentor, the absent-minded Parson Abraham Adams, and together they navigate a series of comic misadventures. Fielding crafted this work as a "comic epic poem in prose," blending bawdy humor with philosophical insight while satirizing the popular literature of his day.
William Le Queux
The indiscretions of a lady's maid : $b Being some strange stories related by Mademoiselle Mariette Le Bas, femme-de-chambre
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Henry Fielding
Joseph Andrews, Vol. 2
"Joseph Andrews, Vol. 2" by Henry Fielding is a novel published in 1742. This groundbreaking work follows the virtuous footman Joseph Andrews and his absent-minded mentor, Parson Abraham Adams, on their picaresque journey home from London. Written as a "comic epic poem in prose," the novel blends bawdy humor with philosophical depth as Joseph resists temptation and seeks reunion with his true love, Fanny Goodwill. Through roadside adventures, mistaken identities, and farcical encounters, Fielding crafts a satirical response to the sentimental novels of his era while exploring themes of virtue, hypocrisy, and social pretension.
Frances Hodgson Burnett
Emily Fox-Seton : being The making of a marchioness and The methods of Lady Walderhurst
"Emily Fox-Seton: being The making of a marchioness and The methods of Lady Walderhurst" by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a novel published in 1901. Emily Fox-Seton, a penniless woman of good birth, works as a lady's companion in London. In a Cinderella-like turn, she marries a wealthy marquess twenty years her senior. But when Emily bears his child, his former heir seeks to reclaim what he believes is rightfully his, transforming her fairy tale into something darker.
William Makepeace Thackeray
The Memoirs of Mr. Charles J. Yellowplush
"The Memoirs of Mr. Charles J. Yellowplush" by William Makepeace Thackeray is a novel written in the early 19th century, characterized by satirical humor and social commentary. The narrative is presented through the voice of the protagonist, Mr. Charles James Harrington Fitzroy Yellowplush, a former footman who offers an irreverent view of society and its class distinctions, reflecting Thackeray's ingenuity in critiquing the social structures of his time. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to the life and origins of Charles Yellowplush, who recounts his childhood and early experiences with his eccentric mother and a series of jobs as a servant. He shares various anecdotes, revealing the chaotic and often absurd circumstances of his upbringing. As he describes his first position working for Mr. Bago and later for the flamboyant master, Mr. Frederic Altamont, the stage is set for a blend of humor and social observation as Yellowplush navigates the complexities of servant-master dynamics and the world of fashion and money. His reflections provide insight into the lives of both lower and upper classes, making for an engaging exploration into Victorian society.
Baillie Reynolds
The Lonely Stronghold
"The Lonely Stronghold" by Mrs. Baillie Reynolds is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of early 20th century England, this story explores the life of Olwen Innes, a young woman dissatisfied with her clerical job at a bank in a small town. As she yearns for adventure and a more fulfilling life, her journey leads her to unexpected circumstances and relationships, revealing her struggle between societal expectations and personal aspirations. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Olwen working at the Palatine Bank, where the dreary weather and her uneventful life provoke feelings of restlessness and dissatisfaction. When she visits the Holroyd family, she engages in conversations that reflect her longing for something beyond her current mundane existence. The opening chapters highlight her thoughts on potential change, fueled by an advertisement she placed seeking new opportunities. As the weather turns forbidding, Olwen finally sets off on a journey to the remote Guysewyke Pele, where she encounters Ninian Guyse, the son of the household, setting the stage for further adventures and challenges as she attempts to carve out her own identity.
Frank R. Stockton
Rudder Grange
"Rudder Grange" by Frank R. Stockton is a humorous novel written in the late 19th century that explores domestic life through the experiences of a newly married couple, Euphemia and her husband. The story centers on their quest to leave behind boarding house life and establish a home of their own, leading them to unconventional choices and amusing challenges along the way. The opening portion of the novel introduces us to Euphemia and her husband as they struggle to find a suitable house after their marriage. Disillusioned with boarding, they consider various rental options but face high prices and unsuitable accommodations. This leads them to the idea of living in a canal-boat, inspired by a visit with an oyster man who has made a comfortable life aboard his vessel. After securing an old canal-boat and setting it up as a home, they encounter further challenges, including their boarder, who complicates their domestic tranquility with unexpected suggestions. The narrative combines wit and observational comedy, setting the tone for the couple's misadventures in household management and the pursuit of happiness in their unique living situation.
Ernest Oldmeadow
Susan
"Susan" by Ernest Oldmeadow is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Gertrude, a young woman who is both conflicted and protective regarding her maid, Susan, who is caught in the emotional turmoil of an unexpected romantic overture from a suitor. As the narrative unfolds, it showcases the intricacies of class distinctions, personal sacrifice, and the challenges of navigating relationships during a time dictated by societal norms. The opening portion of the novel introduces us to Gertrude and highlights her relationship with Susan, especially in light of Susan's recent preoccupation with a romantic letter she received from a man identifying himself as "Lord Ruddington." While Gertrude initially wrestles with her own feelings of annoyance and possessiveness over Susan, she soon discovers the depth of Susan's emotional struggles and fears regarding love and marriage. As their lives begin to intertwine with the prospect of Susan's potential engagement, Gertrude’s protective instincts kick in, leading to various contemplations about duty, affection, and societal expectations. The details vividly portray their daily lives, establishing a strong foundation for both characters, while laying the groundwork for the ensuing conflicts and comedic elements.
Emma Gellibrand
J. Cole
"J. Cole" by Emma Gellibrand is a heartwarming and poignant children's novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young boy named J. Cole who seeks employment as a page-boy after writing a charmingly naive letter in response to an advertisement. The novel explores themes of childhood, innocence, responsibility, and the unexpected trials that J. Cole faces in his journey, highlighting both his struggles and resilience. The narrative follows J. Cole as he navigates his new life in service with a kind but somewhat apprehensive employer. Despite his small stature and perceived inadequacies, he earns the affection and trust of the household with his earnestness, good heart, and genuine desire to learn. However, the story takes a dark turn when a burglary occurs, leading to a series of unfortunate events where J. Cole is wrongly suspected of collusion with the criminals. Through a harrowing experience involving danger and sacrifice, the novel ultimately reaffirms the values of trust, loyalty, and the bonds of love, culminating in a touching reunion with his beloved brother. The book encapsulates a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences, making it a timeless tale of growth and redemption.
Hugh Fraser
Giannella
"Giannella" by Mrs. Hugh Fraser is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a little orphaned girl named Giannella and explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the kindness of strangers in a setting that traverses from the bohemian lives of struggling Scandinavian artists in Rome to the nurturing environment of a convent school. The opening of the novel introduces the reader to a tragic event: the death of two parents, leaving behind their infant daughter, Giannella. Two young painters, Carl and Hans, alongside a devoted woman named Mariuccia, ponder what to do with the child, ultimately deciding against abandoning her at a foundling hospital. Instead, Mariuccia offers to care for Giannella, planning to bring her to her brother’s home where she can be raised properly. This moment sets the stage for Mariuccia’s strong commitment to nurturing and educating Giannella, framing the foundation of their relationship as they navigate the challenges that come with caring for a child amidst financial struggles and societal expectations.
Charles Battell Loomis
Minerva's Manoeuvres: The Cheerful Facts of a "Return to Nature"
"Minerva's Manoeuvres: The Cheerful Facts of a 'Return to Nature'" by Charles Battell Loomis is a light-hearted novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Minerva, a cook from New York City, who is compelled to move to a more rustic environment when her employer, Mrs. Vernon, invites her to Clover Lodge in the countryside after their original cook falls ill. The narrative highlights the amusing culture clash Minerva experiences as she grapples with her new rural lifestyle. The opening of the book introduces readers to the charm and humor of the situation, particularly through the dynamic between Minerva and her employers. As Minerva reluctantly agrees to leave the city for the countryside, she portrays a mix of comedy and exasperation, often lamenting about her aversion to rural life. The scenes that unfold during their journey to Clover Lodge, including Minerva’s comical interactions with a noisy cat, set the stage for a series of misadventures. Loomis's engaging tone and vibrant characterizations promise a delightful exploration of themes around adaptation, identity, and the quirks of transitioning from city to country life.
John Kendrick Bangs
A House-Boat on the Styx
"A House-Boat on the Styx" by John Kendrick Bangs is a fantasy novel written in 1895. When a mysterious houseboat arrives on the river Styx, it becomes a meeting place for history's most famous dead souls. Charon, the ancient ferryman, finds himself demoted to janitor as legendary figures from history and mythology gather aboard. Each chapter presents a new encounter, mixing historical personalities in unexpected conversations—though questions about who really wrote Shakespeare's plays keep arising.
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