Subject
Suburbs -- England -- London -- Fiction Books
Best books
Edgar Wallace
The Duke in the Suburbs
"The Duke in the Suburbs" by Edgar Wallace is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the characters of the Duke de Montvillier, an American nobleman with a mysterious past, and his friend Hank as they navigate life in a modest suburb of London, Kymott Crescent. Their arrival disrupts the quiet suburban routine, leading to humorous encounters and social interactions with the eccentric neighbors, particularly with the intriguing Miss Alicia Terrill. The opening of the novel introduces the suburban setting and the initial speculation surrounding the new tenants at No. 64, who are revealed to be the Duke and Hank. The arrival of these two men, dressed in a manner that signals their unconventional backgrounds, raises curiosity among the residents, especially young Willie Outram. The narrative unfolds with introductions to the local directory of residents, presenting a colorful array of characters and hints of potential conflicts as they exert their neighborhood norms. As the Duke interacts with Alicia, who is drawn to him despite her initial indignation regarding a mishap involving her cat, the stage is set for a blend of romance and comedy. The dynamics between the Duke and the residents promise an engaging exploration of class, identity, and the peculiarities of suburban life.
E. F. (Edward Frederic) Benson
Arundel
"Arundel" by E. F. Benson is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book primarily focuses on the life of Colonel Fanshawe, who grapples with the pressures of his military position in British India while reflecting on his family life, especially his relationship with his daughter, Elizabeth, and his wife. The story appears to explore themes of duty, familial bonds, and the contrast between the vibrancy of life in India and the emotional undercurrents within his domestic sphere. At the start of "Arundel," Colonel Fanshawe is introduced as he rides home from a long day of military inspections, eagerly anticipating a social dinner and dance. However, despite the festivity on the horizon, he feels a mix of pride and apprehension regarding his daughter’s early departure for England, which weighs heavily on his heart. The opening also presents Elizabeth, a passionate young woman on the brink of adulthood, who expresses a yearning for adventure and a deeper understanding of life beyond her sheltered existence. As the narrative unfolds, we see family dynamics at play, revealing both the affection and tensions that exist within their relationships, setting the stage for further exploration of these themes.
E. W. (Ernest William) Hornung
Witching Hill
"Witching Hill" by E. W. Hornung is a collection of short stories first serialized in 1912 and published in 1913. The eight tales follow estate clerk Gillon and resident Delavoye as they investigate strange occurrences plaguing the Witching Hill housing estate. From mysterious tunnels to unexplained behavioral changes among respectable neighbors, the pair confronts seemingly supernatural events that Delavoye attributes to his wicked ancestor's curse—while the skeptical Gillon searches for rational explanations in this atmospheric mystery series.
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