Subject
Methodists -- Fiction Books
Best books
Harold Frederic
The Damnation of Theron Ware
"The Damnation of Theron Ware" by Harold Frederic is a novel published in 1896. It follows a young Methodist pastor in upstate New York whose sheltered worldview begins to unravel through encounters with a Catholic priest, a man of science, and an artistic woman. As Theron awakens to new intellectual and cultural ideas, he questions his faith, his calling, and everything he once believed. His transformation leads to unexpected consequences that will alter the course of his life forever.
M. E. (Mary Elizabeth) Braddon
The Infidel: A Story of the Great Revival
"The Infidel: A Story of the Great Revival" by M. E. Braddon is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around William Thornton, a once-ordained clergyman turned infidel, and his daughter Antonia, who assist each other in their struggles within the literary world of London. As they navigate the challenges of their lives, themes of faith, intellect, and social aspiration become prevalent, providing a rich exploration of human character in the face of societal expectations. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to William Thornton, a prolific writer who has fallen from grace, and his daughter Antonia, who helps him in his literary endeavors. The opening chapter reveals Thornton's past as a disgraced priest, driven by practical needs to write for the market rather than for passion or belief. Through his self-pity and infidel views, we see how he shapes Antonia's upbringing, teaching her to question the beliefs held by her peers. The dynamics of their unconventional home life are further explored, leading to Antonia's perspective and longing for a life filled with the beauty she observes but feels disconnected from. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of her journey as she contemplates her identity against the backdrop of her father's secular beliefs.
Amelia E. Barr
The Hallam Succession
"The Hallam Succession" by Amelia E. Barr is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story is set in Yorkshire, England, and revolves around the lives of the Hallam family, specifically focusing on the relationships and emotional challenges faced by characters such as Squire Henry Hallam, his daughter Elizabeth, and his son Antony. The book explores themes of family loyalty, societal expectations, and the contrasting desires for change and tradition. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to the picturesque Hallam-Croft, a symbol of heritage and comfort for the Hallam family. Squire Henry, a traditional and benevolent figure, is excited about the upcoming visit from his American relatives, Richard and Phyllis Fontaine, which stirs mixed emotions in his children, particularly Elizabeth and Antony. Elizabeth is concerned about bridging cultural differences, while Antony appears disillusioned with their serene provincial life. As the family navigates these new dynamics and the arrival of their cousins, the story hints at deeper underlying tensions related to personal ambitions and inherited duties, setting the stage for conflict that promises to unfold throughout the narrative.
Morrison Heady
Burl
"Burl" by Morrison Heady is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Big Black Burl, a remarkable man of immense physical strength and bravery, who is a key figure in the wilderness of Kentucky during the period of early settlement. This work not only explores burl's exploits in defending against Native American incursions but also delves into his deep bond with a young white boy named Bushie. It portrays the themes of loyalty, bravery, and the intersection of different races in the context of frontier life. The opening of the novel establishes a vivid setting filled with tension and danger as settlers grapple with the threat posed by Native American tribes. It introduces Big Black Burl, whose imposing physique and fierce spirit make him a formidable warrior. The narrative shifts from describing Burl’s physical attributes and prowess to outlining his relationship with Bushie, particularly following a tragic event where Bushie's father is killed by Indians. This bond deepens the reader's understanding of character motivations and sets the stage for Burl’s quest for vengeance and protection of the boy in a treacherous landscape, hinting at the dramatic conflicts to come. The tone combines adventure with a poignant exploration of friendship and race relations during this tumultuous time.
Ellen Thorneycroft Fowler
Concerning Isabel Carnaby
"Concerning Isabel Carnaby" by Ellen Thorneycroft Fowler is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set in a quaint old town called Chayford and primarily revolves around the Seaton family, particularly the lives of siblings Paul and Joanna, as well as their interactions with Alice Martin and Edgar Ford. The narrative explores themes of love, ambition, societal expectations, and the complexities of human relationships through its characters, each navigating their own paths and struggles. The opening of the book introduces us to the Seaton family, particularly with emphasis on their parents, the Reverend Mark Seaton and his wife Ruth, as well as their children, Paul and Joanna. It paints a vivid picture of their upbringing influenced by Methodism and discusses the duality of their lives: Paul, ambitious and set on succeeding at Oxford, versus Joanna, who is more reflective and earnest about her duties and desires. The dynamics of their friendships, especially with Alice Martin—who harbors feelings for Paul—are also established early on, setting the stage for evolving relationships that intertwine ambition, unrequited love, and the expectations placed upon them by their families and society.
Dan B. (Dan Brearley) Brummitt
John Wesley, Jr. The Story of an Experiment
"John Wesley, Jr." by Dan B. Brummitt is a novel written in the early 20th century. It revolves around the life of John Wesley Farwell, Jr., a young man as he undergoes significant personal and spiritual growth through a transformative experience at a church institute. The narrative explores themes of faith, community, and self-discovery, framed within the wider context of the Methodist church and its influences on youth. The opening of the story introduces us to the protagonist, John Wesley, Jr., who is at a crossroads in his life after graduating high school. Encountering his pastor, Rev. Walter Drury, and his friends at First Church in Delafield, J.W. decides to attend the Institute—a gathering meant to foster connections among young Christians and explore their faith. The narrative captures J.W.'s youthful exuberance as he navigates his newfound independence, grapples with expectations from family, and contemplates profound social issues raised during the Institute's activities. As he engages with fellow attendees, including his best friend Marty and the enigmatic Joe, the opening chapter sets the stage for a deep exploration of Christian values and the journey toward a meaningful life in service to others.
Ethel Hueston
Prudence of the Parsonage
"Prudence of the Parsonage" by Ethel Hueston is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Prudence, the eldest daughter of a Methodist minister, as she navigates her new life in Mount Mark, Iowa, alongside her four younger sisters. The narrative captures the challenges and joys of life in a parsonage, infused with humor and warmth, focusing on the dynamics of family life, community interactions, and the innocence of youth. The beginning of the novel introduces Prudence and her father as they arrive in Mount Mark, setting the stage for their new life in the parsonage. Prudence excitedly explores their home, filled with childlike wonder while juggling the responsibilities of caring for her siblings. Interactions with the locals at the train station establish the atmosphere of the town, showcasing its quirks and characters. As Prudence attempts to maintain order in the household amidst the chaos that her sisters inevitably bring, the narrative hints at the humorous misadventures to come, highlighting the love and loyalty that bind the family together.
Joseph Hocking
The Day of Judgment
"The Day of Judgment" by Joseph Hocking is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the lives of young men embarking on an adventure in the scenic landscapes of England and Scotland, with a focus on themes of love, class struggle, and the complexities of personal identity. Notable characters include Douglas Graham, a young law student poised for ambition, and Jean Lindsay, a peasant girl with her own struggles against societal expectations. The opening of the novel introduces three young men enjoying a holiday, discussing their differing perspectives on life, particularly in relation to Scottish marriage laws. As they approach the Scottish border, Douglas, who is of Scottish descent, expresses his intrigue about his heritage. The narrative then shifts to Douglas's character development as he meets Jean Lindsay, a captivating peasant girl grappling with her own familial and societal challenges. Their chance encounter leads to a burgeoning romance that encapsulates the book's exploration of love, identity, and the struggle against societal constraints. This early section sets the stage for the themes and conflicts that will unfold throughout the story.
Joseph Hocking
Tommy
"Tommy" by Joseph Hocking is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Tom Pollard, a young man from a working-class background in Lancashire, who navigates the moral complexities of life during World War I. As he grapples with the allure of a carefree life at the Thorn and Thistle pub and the steadfast commitment represented by his childhood love, Alice Lister, Tom's choices reflect the struggles faced by many soldiers of that era. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Tom Pollard, who is torn between the seductive lifestyle of the local pub and the earnest love of Alice, who encourages him toward higher aspirations. Tom's visit to the pub leads to a confrontation with Polly Powell, a girl who clearly desires affection from him, further complicating his feelings. As the chapter unfolds, it highlights his ambitions of becoming a manufacturer as well as his social interactions with others in the town, setting the stage for his eventual enlistment in the army. Through the opening, we witness Tom's internal conflict regarding duty, drink, and romantic relationships against the backdrop of impending war, hinting at his personal transformation and the broader implications of the societal impact of the Great War.
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