Subject
Spiritualism -- Fiction Books
Best books
G. Lindsay (George Lindsay) Johnson
The Weird Adventures of Professor Delapine of the Sorbonne
"The Weird Adventures of Professor Delapine of the Sorbonne" by G. Lindsay Johnson is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The book features a professor, Delapine, who is depicted as a genius with extraordinary abilities, and delves into themes of spiritualism, scientific inquiry, and the boundaries between known and unknown phenomena. The narrative suggests a fascinating exploration of the mysterious and the supernatural, providing a compelling premise for readers interested in the intersection of science and mysticism. The opening of the novel introduces Dr. Riche, a medical professional who has recently returned to Paris after working in Algeria. His initial encounter at a café with Villebois sets the stage for the novel, as Villebois invites him to meet Professor Delapine, who is rumored to possess remarkable psychic powers. This exchange highlights Riche's skepticism toward spiritual phenomena, while Villebois advocates for their authenticity based on his experiences. The conversation unfolds with mentions of other intriguing characters, including Mademoiselle Violette, who seems to possess an uncanny ability for clairvoyance. The stage is thus set for an exploration of these psychic claims, with the characters poised between belief and skepticism.
H. Rider (Henry Rider) Haggard
Stella Fregelius: A Tale of Three Destinies
"Stella Fregelius: A Tale of Three Destinies" by H. Rider Haggard is a novel published in 1904. Morris Monk, a young inventor engaged to his cousin Mary, rescues a mysterious woman named Stella from a shipwreck. As he and Stella grow close while perfecting his revolutionary communication device, Morris finds himself torn between duty and desire. Their connection leads to a spiritual marriage and supernatural consequences that transcend earthly bonds.
Charles W. (Charles Wilkins) Webber
Spiritual vampirism: The history of Etherial Softdown, and her friends of the "New Light"
"Spiritual Vampirism: The History of Etherial Softdown, and Her Friends of the New Light" by C. W. Webber is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative appears to explore themes related to spiritualism, the metaphysical, and the concept of vampirism as an allegory for emotional and spiritual exploitation, with a particular focus on the character Etherial Softdown. The book delves into the impact of these themes within the socio-cultural context of the time, possibly interconnecting the personal and the broader societal implications of such "vampirism." At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Etherial Softdown, who is depicted as a neglected and distorted child living in a bleak and uninviting landscape of Vermont. The opening illustrates her deformed and animalistic characteristics, hinting at her later development into a figure capable of spiritual manipulation. As she matures, Etherial marries a Quaker, which results in her rapid physical and spiritual transformation, awakening within her a newfound ability to absorb the life force of others, leading her to conclude that she could grow stronger at the expense of those around her. The narrative sets the stage for a dramatic exploration of her journey, shaped by her egocentric desires and interactions with various other "New-Light" characters, laying the groundwork for a tale that intertwines personal ambition with darker metaphysical forces.
Arthur Conan Doyle
The land of mist
"The land of mist by Arthur Conan Doyle" is a novel published in 1926. Reporter Edward Malone and Professor Challenger's daughter Enid investigate spiritualist phenomena and discover genuine evidence of the supernatural. As they attempt to convince the skeptical Challenger, the story explores séances and life after death. Heavily influenced by Doyle's own belief in Spiritualism following personal losses in World War I, the novel reunites characters from "The Lost World."
Tulis Abrojal
An index finger
"An Index Finger" by Tulis Abrojal is a philosophical exploration written in the late 19th century. The work delves into existential themes, centered around the idea of human suffering, the pursuit of ideals, and the quest for individuality in a society that often stifles personal growth. At the opening, readers are introduced to a profound child character who longs for understanding and connection, highlighting the author's focus on the inner life of individuals. The beginning of the book paints a vivid picture of a child under a great tree, singing and engaging in introspective musings about loneliness and the nature of existence. When a stranger enters her space, they share a moment of connection that transcends their apparent differences. The child expresses a yearning for her own kind of people, fostering a narrative that contemplates the isolation of individuals with unique visions in a mundane world. Through poetic descriptions and dialogue, the opening establishes a poignant contrast between the child's inner world and the harsh realities surrounding her, suggesting an exploration of deeper truths concerning identity, belonging, and the ideals that guide one’s life.
Marie Corelli
The Life Everlasting: A Reality of Romance
"The Life Everlasting: A Reality of Romance" by Marie Corelli is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story delves into themes of spirituality and the quest for deeper understanding of life and existence, centered around characters who grapple with the realities of human experiences, love, and the essence of the soul. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the author's prologue, wherein Corelli expresses her desire to reach into the depths of human existence and its relation to divine truths. She critiques the superficiality of societal norms and encourages deeper introspection. The narrative then introduces the heroine, who embarks on a yachting journey with the wealthy Harland family, including the ailing Morton Harland and his daughter Catherine. This setting promises to unfold as a backdrop to exploring the themes of happiness, spirituality, and personal growth, while also hinting at the complexities of their relationships and individual struggles as the story progresses.
T. S. (Timothy Shay) Arthur
The Angel and the Demon: A Tale
"The Angel and the Demon: A Tale" by T. S. Arthur is a novel written in the mid-19th century. The story centers around a fashionable mother, Mrs. Dainty, who, feeling overwhelmed by her responsibilities, seeks to hire a governess for her children. The book explores themes of authority, social class, and the moral education of children, with the main character being the young governess, Florence Harper, who faces various challenges in her new position. The opening of the novel introduces us to Mrs. Dainty, a woman struggling with her health and the demands of motherhood, leading her to seek a governess. Despite the objections of her Uncle John, she is determined to find someone who meets her high standards. When Florence Harper arrives as a potential governess, she is subjected to Mrs. Dainty's scrutiny and the skepticism of the children. The children, especially the eldest, Agnes, are initially resistant to the new authority figure, with early interactions highlighting the tension between Mrs. Dainty's expectations and the children's reactions to their new governess. The narrative sets the stage for Florence's attempts to establish her authority and the dynamics of the household, all while foreshadowing the conflicts that will develop as she navigates the challenges of educating and caring for the Dainty children.
Paschal Beverly Randolph
The Wonderful Story of Ravalette
"The Wonderful Story of Ravalette" by Paschal Beverly Randolph is a novel written in the late 19th century. This work weaves together elements of fantasy, magic, and mysticism, centering around the character Beverly, a melancholic figure burdened by his past and a curse linked to Rosicrucian lore. As the story unfolds, it explores themes of sorrow, the quest for understanding one's existence, and the intersection of humanity with the supernatural. The opening of the narrative introduces readers to Beverly, a man stricken by grief and disappointment, overwhelmed by the weight of his past experiences, including the tragic loss of his mother and a life of betrayal. He reflects deeply on his loneliness and the trials he has faced, which have shaped his introspective nature. As he meets a group that includes a mysterious girl named Evlambéa, they share a connection that hints at deeper, mystical associations. The dialogue between them reveals the intertwining of fate and the potential for future happiness amidst despair, setting the stage for a journey filled with complex emotions and supernatural elements stemming from the ancient Rosicrucian beliefs.
Elizabeth Stuart Phelps
Beyond the Gates
"Beyond the Gates" by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story intricately weaves themes of life, death, and the space beyond, focusing on a middle-aged woman in Massachusetts who, after suffering from a debilitating illness, finds herself navigating the experiences of the afterlife. Through her journey, the novel explores concepts of faith, love, and the connections we carry with us beyond death, particularly emphasizing her relationship with her father, who appears to guide her. The opening of the narrative introduces us to the main character, a woman reflecting on her life as she recovers from brain fever. She paints a portrait of her past, describing her family dynamics, professional life, and struggles with faith. As she begins to regain consciousness, she notes the presence of her family, particularly her young brother, Tom, during a pivotal moment of realization about her impending death. Gradually, she experiences an encounter with her father, who invites her to transcend her illness and venture into the unknown world beyond life, creating a foundation for her exploration of the afterlife, where she soon discovers profound lessons about existence and the nature of love. Through this framework, the opening encapsulates both her human vulnerabilities and a glimpse of the transformative journey that lies ahead.
Wells Hastings
The Professor's Mystery
"The Professor's Mystery" by Wells Hastings and Brian Hooker is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the main character, Mr. Crosby, whose summer begins in a mundane fashion but swiftly alters as he encounters Miss Tabor, a charming woman from his past. Their unexpected meeting on a train leads to an intriguing adventure full of mysterious occurrences, personal revelations, and evolving relationships. The opening portion of the novel introduces the reader to Crosby’s delayed train journey and his encounter with Miss Tabor, rekindling fond memories from a previous Christmas they shared. As they converse, tension and hints of deeper troubles surface when Crosby senses that Miss Tabor is concealing something significant about her current situation. Their train ride culminates in an accident that leaves them in an idyllic meadow, where complications arise involving an injured stranger and the revelation of Miss Tabor's gold chain, coupled with a wedding ring. From here, the plot thickens as Crosby finds himself drawn into the enigmatic atmosphere surrounding Miss Tabor and her family, suggesting layers of mystery and intrigue that will shape the course of the narrative.
David Belasco
The Return of Peter Grimm Novelised From the Play
"The Return of Peter Grimm" by David Belasco is a novel that appears to be adapted from a play, written in the early 20th century. The book explores themes of afterlife, love, and the interrelations within family dynamics, centering around the character of Peter Grimm, a bachelor and owner of a botanical garden, and his close-knit relationships with the people around him, including his young wards and employees. The opening of the tale introduces us to the setting of Grimm Manor through the eyes of a young boy named Willem, who is delivering flowers on behalf of Peter Grimm. We learn about Peter's tradition of giving flowers to train passengers, which serves to illustrate his character as a generous and beloved figure in the community. As Willem interacts with the passengers and reflects on his longing for companionship and family, we see hints of deeper tensions, particularly regarding relationships and expectations surrounding love and marriage. The dynamic between Peter, Willem, and other residents, such as the young secretary Jim Hartmann and the alluring Kathrien, sets the stage for exploring Peter's inevitable fate and the bonds of love that transcend life itself.
Sue Greenleaf
Don Miguel Lehumada: discoverer of liquid from the sun's rays an occult romance of Mexico and the United States
"Don Miguel Lehumada: Discoverer of Liquid from the Sun's Rays" by Sue Greenleaf is an occult romance set in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around Don Miguel Lehumada, the titular character, as he explores the scientific and metaphysical implications of a remarkable substance that transforms memories, referred to as "Memory Fluid." This work intertwines elements of science, spirituality, and reincarnation, establishing a backdrop that crosses between Mexican and American contexts. The opening of the book introduces us to significant characters, including the scientist Señor Guillermo Gonzales and the Governor Don Miguel Lehumada, who is portrayed as both a political figure and a man deeply invested in the moral and scientific dilemmas surrounding their discoveries. We learn about Julio Murillo, an assistant to Gonzales, who is examining properties derived from sunlight using chemical instruments. The stage is set for a journey through memory and past lives, hinting at the exploration of justice and retribution related to an infamous character known only as "The Plunger from Kansas." As these characters engage with the profound ramifications of their scientific pursuits, the narrative promises a complex interplay of personal and societal transformations.
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