Subject
Melbourne (Vic.) -- Fiction Books
Best books
Henry Handel Richardson
The Getting of Wisdom
"The Getting of Wisdom" by Henry Handel Richardson is a novel first published in 1910. Twelve-year-old Laura Rambotham leaves her country home for an elite Melbourne boarding school, where her imaginative nature and humble circumstances clash with the wealthy students' harsh social codes. Through humiliation and isolation, Laura navigates the rigid world of 1890s girls' education, questioning authority, morality, and her own values. Based on Richardson's own boarding school experiences, this Australian classic explores one girl's struggle for authenticity and freedom in an unforgiving environment.
Fergus Hume
Miss Mephistopheles: A Novel (Sequel to Madame Midas.)
"Miss Mephistopheles: A Novel" by Fergus Hume is a fictional work written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in Melbourne, Australia, featuring characters like Keith Stewart, a young man with literary aspirations, and Ezra Lazarus, a journalist. Their lives intersect with the complexities of the theatre scene and a woman known as "Caprice," who is both a celebrated actress and the mother of a child saved from danger by Keith. The opening of the novel introduces a dreary, rainy evening in Melbourne, emphasizing the discomfort felt by the characters but juxtaposing it with vibrant discussions between them. The beginning focuses on Keith and Ezra as they share insights into their ambitions and the women in their lives—particularly Caprice. The narrative presents their contrasting backgrounds: Keith's struggles and romantic ideals versus Ezra's more grounded perspective. As the two men contemplate their lives, a dramatic moment unfolds when Keith heroically saves a child, a pivotal event that brings him into the orbit of Caprice. This scene sets the stage for the exploration of themes like ambition, love, and the darker corners of society that the characters navigate.
Ada Cambridge
A Mere Chance: A Novel. Vol. 1
"A Mere Chance: A Novel. Vol. 1" by Ada Cambridge is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Rachel Fetherstonhaugh, a young debutante in Melbourne who unexpectedly rises to prominence in society after being introduced by her wealthy aunt, Mrs. Hardy. As Rachel navigates her new life filled with social engagements and romantic intrigue, the narrative explores her personal journey, particularly her encounters with suitors, including the wealthy Mr. Kingston, and the complexities surrounding love and class expectations. The opening of the novel introduces Rachel as she enjoys the luxuries of her new life, reflecting on her past and her desire to escape the poor circumstances of her upbringing. Mrs. Hardy's initial determination to support Rachel transforms into pride at her niece’s beauty and potential for a successful marriage. As Rachel captures the attention of the local society, especially Mr. Kingston, she grapples with feelings of contentment mixed with uncertainties about her past and her aspirations for the future. This initial setup establishes a rich social landscape in which themes of love, identity, and societal expectations are poised to unfold.
Ada Cambridge
A Mere Chance: A Novel. Vol. 3
"A Mere Chance: A Novel. Vol. 3" by Ada Cambridge is a romance novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the complex emotional entanglements of Rachel, who struggles with the implications of her marriage to Mr. Kingston amidst lingering feelings for her former fiancé, Roden Dalrymple. As the narrative unfolds, themes of love, sacrifice, and societal expectations come to the forefront, as Rachel navigates her tumultuous feelings toward both her husband and the man she never truly forgot." "The opening of the novel sets the stage about a month after Rachel’s engagement to Mr. Kingston is revived. It depicts her inner turmoil and despondency as she prepares for her impending marriage, highlighting her conflicted emotions and the societal pressures surrounding her. As Rachel grapples with feelings of despair and isolation, Mr. Kingston unexpectedly visits, offering her a sliver of comfort, which ultimately leads her to accept his proposal. The narrative establishes a backdrop of tension as Rachel’s unresolved feelings for Roden and the expectations of her new life weigh heavily on her, foreshadowing the emotional complexities that will ensue as the story progresses."
Ada Cambridge
A Mere Chance: A Novel. Vol. 2
"A Mere Chance: A Novel. Vol. 2" by Ada Cambridge is a romantic novel written in the late 19th century. This volume follows the character Rachel, who finds herself entangled in complex emotional relationships and societal expectations, particularly regarding her engagement to Mr. Kingston. The narrative explores themes of love, duty, and personal freedom as Rachel grapples with her feelings toward Mr. Dalrymple, a man she is drawn to but cannot pursue openly due to her commitments. The opening of this volume reintroduces Rachel in the aftermath of an emotionally charged encounter at a ball. She is conflicted and anxious, fighting against the constraints of her engagement to Mr. Kingston, whose possessiveness and jealousy surface in their interactions. The atmosphere is tense as Rachel navigates her affections for Mr. Dalrymple, which complicates her feelings about Mr. Kingston. The chapter sets the stage for a burgeoning romance amid societal pressures and personal dilemmas, signaling that Rachel's journey of self-discovery and emotional conflict is only just beginning.
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