Subject
Young women -- England -- Fiction Books
Best books
Charlotte Lennox
The Female Quixote; or, The Adventures of Arabella, v. 1-2
"The Female Quixote; or, The Adventures of Arabella" by Charlotte Lennox is a novel written in the early 18th century. The story follows Arabella, a young woman whose romantic notions, influenced by the romances she reads, lead her to engage in various misinterpretations and misunderstandings about love and courtship. The narrative offers a satirical exploration of female desire and social expectations through Arabella's unrealistic expectations from romance and her interactions with the men around her, including her cousin, Mr. Glanville. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Arabella, raised in isolation by her father, the Marquis, after the death of her mother. The opening chapters describe her sheltered life, her beauty, and the excessive romantic ideals fed to her by her novels, leading to her belief in overdramatic romantic scenarios. Arabella's first encounter with Mr. Hervey at church sparks her imagination, leading her to mistakenly believe he is an admirer destined to seek her hand. As her father plans to marry her off to her cousin Glanville, Arabella's confusion about love and societal norms unfolds through her comical interactions with both men and her reckless insistence on adhering to the conventions portrayed in her beloved books.
Fanny Burney
Camilla; or, A Picture of Youth
"Camilla; or, A Picture of Youth" by Fanny Burney is a novel published in 1796. It follows the romantic entanglements of the Tyrold sisters and their cousin as they navigate the treacherous path to matrimony. At its heart is Camilla's turbulent love affair with the eligible but judgmental Edgar Mandlebert, complicated by misunderstandings, family mishaps, and interfering acquaintances. Blending comedy with gothic elements, this enormously popular eighteenth-century work explores the social and emotional dilemmas facing young people, capturing the tensions between generations.
Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant
Miss Marjoribanks
"Miss Marjoribanks" by Mrs. Oliphant is a novel published in 1866. It follows Lucilla Marjoribanks, a determined young woman who takes it upon herself to improve the social life of Carlingford, a provincial English town. Through wit and careful scheming, Lucilla navigates society, manages her household, and orchestrates the town's social events. Along the way, she contends with romantic admirers, rival schemers, and the challenge of maintaining her authority while pursuing her ambitious vision for Carlingford's transformation.
Rosalind Murray
The happy tree
"The Happy Tree" by Rosalind Murray is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores themes of youth, nostalgia, and the passage of time through the reflections of the protagonist, who experiences a sense of detachment from her life as she approaches her fortieth birthday. Central to the narrative are memories of her childhood and significant relationships, particularly with key figures like Hugo and Guy, as well as their shared idyllic moments at a place called Yearsly. At the start of the novel, the protagonist observes the changing seasons and reflects on her life as she prepares to turn forty. There’s a poignant sense of loss as she realizes that her youth is irrevocably faded, yet she feels a peculiar calmness. Her thoughts drift back to her childhood at Yearsly, a cherished retreat, filled with vivid memories of family and friends, particularly Cousin Delia’s nurturing presence. As she recalls playful moments with Hugo and Guy, alongside the various activities that colored their lives, she grapples with the inevitability of change and the bittersweet nature of growing up. The opening establishes a reflective and introspective tone, drawing readers into the intricacies of personal history and the deep emotional connections that continue to influence her present.
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