Subject
Impersonation -- Fiction Books
Best books
Mary Roberts Rinehart
Where There's a Will
"Where There's a Will" by Mary Roberts Rinehart is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the lives and relationships of the staff and guests at Hope Springs Sanatorium, particularly focusing on the spirited spring-house girl named Minnie Waters as she navigates intrigue, duty, and the unexpected arrival of a new owner. The opening of the story introduces us to Minnie as she reflects on her life at Hope Springs, where she has dedicated fourteen years to serving guests and tending to their needs. Following the death of the old doctor who managed the sanatorium, Minnie grapples with her responsibilities and the future of the place she considers home. Key players like Miss Patty Jennings, a frequent guest entangled in royal romance, and Mr. Richard Carter, the doctor's grandson who is expected to take charge of the establishment, begin to emerge. As excitement builds around new developments—including Miss Patty's engagement and intriguing secrets in the air—the stage is set for a mix of drama and humor, showcasing Minnie's bold personality and her connections to the unfolding storylines.
Katherine Cecil Thurston
The Masquerader
"The Masquerader" by Katherine Cecil Thurston is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story centers around John Chilcote, a member of Parliament who grapples with the pressures of his political life and personal demons, particularly his addiction to morphia. The narrative begins in a fog-laden London, where Chilcote encounters a doppelganger named John Loder, setting off a chain of events that explores themes of identity, desperation, and the façade of social appearances. At the start of the novel, a significant fog disrupts London life, and it is on this night that Chilcote's struggle with his identity and addiction becomes pronounced. He navigates the dense fog both literally and metaphorically, illustrating his self-absorbed and tumultuous state. After an unsettling encounter with a mysterious stranger who shares his striking resemblance, Chilcote experiences a blend of fascination and distress. The conversation hints at greater themes of ambition and downfall, particularly surrounding a public figure named Lexington. As this initial scene unfolds, it becomes clear that the duality of the characters and their individual struggles will play a crucial role in the unfolding narrative. Chilcote's increasing unrest foreshadows his later desperate proposal to Loder, which will shape the course of the story.
Grace Livingston Hill
The Big Blue Soldier
"The Big Blue Soldier" by Grace Livingston Hill is a novel written in the early 20th century. This charming romance explores themes of post-war heroism, relationships, and community spirit. The story primarily revolves around Miss Marilla Chadwick, who eagerly anticipates the return of her nephew, Lieutenant Richard Chadwick, from World War I, and her feelings of hope intertwined with worry. At the start of the novel, Miss Marilla is preparing a grand dinner for her nephew's return, anxiously waiting for him to arrive. As she and her friend Mary Amber discuss their hopes and fears, it becomes clear that Miss Marilla has idealized her nephew into a heroic figure. However, when he sends a telegram declining the invitation due to other commitments, Miss Marilla is heartbroken. Serendipitously, she encounters a soldier who appears to be in need, offering him dinner in place of her nephew. This act of kindness leads to an unfolding relationship that brings warmth and healing to both her and the unexpected guest, who is dealing with his own struggles from the war. As the story continues, layers of deception, personal growth, and the power of genuine connections emerge, setting the stage for unforeseen developments in their lives.
Max McConn
Mollie's Substitute Husband
"Mollie's Substitute Husband" by Max McConn is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on John Merriam, a young and somewhat innocent high school principal from Riceville, Illinois, who finds himself in a whirlwind of intrigue and romance in Chicago. Following a chance encounter with his former student and the "prettiest girl," Mollie June, now married to Senator George Norman, Merriam becomes embroiled in a plot that could significantly impact the political landscape and his own heart. The opening portion of the novel introduces John Merriam's unexpected escapade in a Chicago cabaret, where he relishes a brief escape from his mundane life in Riceville. Merriam's encounter with Mollie June, who is now married, stirs a mixture of nostalgia and longing within him. As he reminisces about their past interactions in high school, the narrative hints at a complex web of relationships and political maneuvering that Merriam will navigate. The stage is set for an adventure that intertwines personal desires with social reforms, as Merriam becomes involved in a plot orchestrated by political reformers aiming to influence the senator's decision on an important ordinance. This vivid setup creates an intriguing foundation, promising themes of love, ambition, and the quest for justice.
Frederick Orin Bartlett
The Prodigal Pro Tem
"The Prodigal Pro Tem" by Frederick Orin Bartlett is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young artist named Barnes, who has left behind his affluent but stifling life in New York to venture into a more liberating existence. In the early chapters, he encounters a young woman, Miss Van Patten, who reveals that her brother Joe is estranged and unable to return home at a critical time, prompting an emotional situation that drives the plot forward. The opening of the novel sets up a picturesque rural scene where Barnes is reflecting on his life as he climbs a hill. His contemplative mood is interrupted when he discovers Miss Van Patten in distress over a letter about her brother. This meeting leads to a heartfelt discussion where Barnes offers to impersonate Joe to spare the family's feelings, particularly their blind father, who longs for a reunion with his son. The dynamics among the characters, particularly the tension filled with both urgency and tenderness, form the crux of the story as Barnes gets entwined in their lives, portraying themes of familial obligation, sacrifice, and the complexities of human relationships.
L. T. Meade
The Time of Roses
"The Time of Roses" by L. T. Meade is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Florence Aylmer, a young woman adjusting to life after school, and her interactions with her unconventional mother, Mrs. Aylmer, and an old acquaintance, Bertha Keys. As the characters grapple with independence, familial expectations, and powerful acquaintances, readers are drawn into a narrative filled with both personal and societal challenges. At the start of the book, we meet Mrs. Aylmer, who anxiously awaits the return of her daughter Florence and her friend Kitty Sharston. The novel sets the stage in a quaint cottage at Dawlish, revealing the dynamics between the characters as they navigate their new lives after school. Tension arises with the return of Bertha, who previously harmed Florence's standing in society. As Bertha insinuates herself into Florence's current life, the reader senses an impending conflict, particularly around themes of loyalty and integrity, as Florence wrestles with the decision of whether to accept Bertha’s tempting offer of financial assistance, which could potentially entangle her in a web of moral ambiguity. The opening chapters hint at a rich exploration of relationships and character development, setting a compelling tone for the rest of the story.
Ambrose Pratt
First Person Paramount
"First Person Paramount" by Ambrose Pratt is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows Agar Hume, a talented mimic who becomes a valet to the wealthy and enigmatic Sir William Dagmar. As Agar navigates the challenges of his new position, he uncovers a web of mysteries surrounding Dagmar and his circle of aristocratic friends, all of whom share a peculiar bond tied to their illnesses and a macabre gambling society. The opening of the novel introduces Agar's difficult upbringing and his struggles as he finds himself in London, desperate for work. After securing a position as Sir William's valet, he quickly learns the peculiar habits of his employer, who suffers from consumption. As Agar acclimates to his role, he grows increasingly intrigued by the secretive gatherings of Dagmar and his friends, which involve dark humor and fatal wagers regarding their declining health. The opening chapters set the stage for a deeper exploration of themes such as ambition, morality, and the complexities of human interaction in a society where life and death are treated with morbid levity.
Katherine Cecil Thurston
Max
"Max" by Katherine Cecil Thurston is a novel published in the early 20th century, likely around the 1910s. The story is set in Europe, beginning with a night train traveling from Cologne to Paris and centers on the titular character, Max, a young Russian boy on the cusp of adventure. He embodies the spirit of a born adventurer, filled with dreams and aspirations as he navigates his way through life, seeking more than just mere pleasure or money; he desires life and fame. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a weary but restless atmosphere on the north express train. Amidst the dream-like quality of the night journey, Max is initially portrayed as a solitary figure, lost in his thoughts and memories of Petersburg. His reverie is interrupted as he awakens and grapples with a sense of purpose and an exciting unknown awaiting him in Paris. He encounters other passengers, including three men who engage in somewhat dismissive banter, contrasting sharply with Max’s intense and vibrant ambition. His experiences culminate in his arrival in a stark, cold Paris where he searches for a hotel, eager to dive into a new chapter of his life, while carrying the weight of a mysterious packet that hints at deeper complexities within his journey. This establishes not only the tone of the narrative but also Max's restless spirit and determination to chase after his dreams.
Sylvain Maréchal
La Femme Abbé
"La Femme Abbé" by Sylvain Maréchal is a novel written in the early 19th century. The narrative revolves around Agathe, a young woman deeply enamored with a priest named Saint-Almont, who struggles with his own past love. The story unfolds through a series of letters, showcasing Agathe's emotional turmoil and her unconventional quest for love in a world where societal norms strictly separate women from the clergy. The opening of the novel introduces Agathe as she writes to her friend Zoé, expressing her anticipation for attending the first mass of Saint-Almont. She is captivated not only by his priestly duties but also by the personal struggles he faces due to unrequited love. Agathe’s fascination with Saint-Almont leads her to attend his masses regularly, revealing her growing affection for him and her desire for a connection that transcends their respective societal roles. Through her letters, readers gain insight into Agathe's inner thoughts, her conflicts, and the challenges posed by her passionate yet unattainable love, setting the stage for a compelling exploration of emotions, faith, and societal constraints.
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