Books matching: victorian society struggles
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- #1
The Odd Women by George Gissing is a novel set in the late 19th century that follows the lives of five women, each dealing with the societal limitations and expectations placed on them as unmarried individuals. The story explores themes of feminism, independence, and the struggles faced by women in a male-dominated society. The writing style is described as heavy and forceful by some readers, yet it effectively portrays the challenges and choices the characters encounter in their pursuit of personal fulfillment and autonomy.
It was the outcome of a long and intimate conversation. Alice Madden, aged nineteen, a plain, shy, gentle-mannered girl, short of stature, and in movement something less than graceful, wore a pleased ... - #2
Lilly Wilson, a dedicated lady's maid, serves the Barrett family with loyalty and care, especially to the sickly and talented Elizabeth Barrett. The story follows Wilson's journey from a shy servant to a confident woman, as she accompanies Barrett and Robert Browning on their elopement to Italy. The book delves into the complexities of class differences, the struggles of being a maid in Victorian society, and the sacrifices Wilson makes for her mistress.
'Lodon Labour and the London Poor' by Victor E. Neuburg and Henry Mayhew is a detailed exploration of the social events and extreme poverty experienced in 19th century England. The book provides firsthand accounts, in-depth descriptions, and interviews with individuals from various occupations, shedding light on the lives of the lower class in Victorian London. Mayhew's writing style is described as descriptive and keen, offering a window back in time to a period filled with sadness, suffering, and hardship.
Mayhew's work is commended for being a real eye-opener, providing a comprehensive look at the different facets of characters encountered in 19th century London, from deserving cripples to shiftless beggars. The book is considered an important resource for writers and those interested in British history, offering a detailed and non-judgmental portrayal of life in Victorian London.
But all of them being dead except Henry, who in his later years moved in rather a small circle, it was but natural that the world should regard the literary Mayhews as extinct. If the author of London...- #4
The Magpie Lord is a historical fantasy novel that follows the story of Lord Crane, who returns to England after 20 years in China to take up his title. Under a malevolent spell, Lord Crane enlists the help of magician Stephen Day, who has his own reasons to dislike Lord Crane's family. Together, they unravel mysteries, confront dark magic, and navigate a complex relationship while dealing with threats related to their sexuality. The book features elements of suspense, paranormal activities, intricate worldbuilding, and a blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and romance genres.
The grey awful misery tangled round his heart and throat, choking him, sickening him with the vileness of his own nature. The shame and self-loathing too deep for repentance, too deep for words. Too d... - #5
In "Silent on the Moor," the third book in the Lady Julia Grey series by Deanna Raybourn, readers are taken on a gothic journey to Yorkshire in 1889 where Lady Julia Grey and her sister Portia accompany Nicholas Brisbane to his new estate. The story unfolds with mysterious happenings, secrets, Egyptian antiquities, and a touch of the paranormal, all set against the backdrop of a crumbling manor house on the moors. As Lady Julia delves into cataloguing Egyptian artifacts, she uncovers a mummy that leads to questions nobody wants to answer, intertwining with a larger mystery surrounding Brisbane's origins. The plot weaves together romance, mystery investigations, family troubles, and dark secrets, culminating in a satisfying end that leaves readers eager for more.
“Julia Grey, I would rather see you hanged than watch any sister of mine go haring off after a man who will not have her,” my brother Bellmont raged. “And Portia, I am thoroughly appalled that you wou...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Lady Julia Grey ) - #6
'Infernal Devices' by K.W. Jeter is a steampunk adventure novel set in a Victorian-inspired world filled with clockwork creations and mysterious inventions. The story follows a protagonist who finds himself entangled in a world of anti-science groups, strange creatures, and complex machinery left behind by his inventor father. With elements of Lovecraftian horror and raucous adventure, the narrative unfolds through a fast-paced plot with unexpected twists and turns, all narrated in a Victorian style reminiscent of Arthur Conan Doyle and H.P. Lovecraft. Despite the fantastical elements, the book delves into themes of technology, mystery, and Victorian culture, creating a unique blend of genres and settings.
On just such a morning as this, when the threat of rain hangs over London in the manner of a sentence neither stayed nor pardoned, but rather perpetually executed, Creff, my factotum, interrupted the ... - #7
Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey is a historical fiction novel set in 1800's England, revolving around Violet Willoughby, the daughter of a fraudulent medium. The story follows Violet as she unexpectedly inherits the gift of mediumship and starts seeing ghosts, particularly a murdered girl seeking justice. As Violet navigates her newfound ability and unravels the mystery behind the ghost's death, she also delves into the social norms and deceptions of Victorian England. The book combines elements of romance, mystery, and the paranormal, immersing readers in a captivating storyline filled with intrigue and historical details.
I was usually hungry enough to eat what I was given without comment, but if the earl served boiled tongue or calves’ foot jelly, I fully intended to wrap it in my napkin and hide it in the nearest umb... - #8
The Railway Detective by Edward Marston is a historical fiction novel set in 1851 England, revolving around the character of Inspector Robert Colbeck and his assistant Sergeant Leeming from Scotland Yard. The plot follows the investigation of a train robbery involving a mail train being derailed, resulting in a significant loss of gold and mail. The book delves into the early Victorian era, showcasing the advancements in railway systems, the challenges faced by the police agency in solving crimes related to trains, and the intricate details of the industrial society of the time. The writing style incorporates historical details, steam locomotive knowledge, and a focus on the protagonist's detective work, although some readers find the plot to be weak in terms of the actual investigative process.
Inspector Colbeck is portrayed as a knowledgeable and well-dressed detective who stands out in the landscape of Victorian crime-solving. The book presents a mix of historical facts about the British railways, insights into the early Metropolitan police detective division, and a well-constructed plot that engages readers with the challenges faced by the characters. Despite some cliches in character portrayal, such as the officious superior and the plucky love interest, the novel effectively captures the essence of the era and provides an entertaining read for those interested in period fiction and railway history.
Euston Station was one of the architectural marvels of the day. Even the most regular passengers on the London and North Western Railway could still be impressed by the massive portico with its four D... - #9
In "Oscar Wilde and the Candlelight Murders," author Gyles Brandreth introduces readers to a captivating world where the murder mystery takes a backseat to Wilde's witty remarks and investigations. The series delves into the life of Oscar Wilde, showcasing his complex character and his unexpected role as a sleuth alongside notable figures like Arthur Conan Doyle. The narrative weaves together historical facts with fictional elements, creating an engaging plot that spans across Great Britain and Paris, all while shedding light on Wilde's enigmatic personality and relationships with his contemporaries.
The book cleverly combines elements of Sherlock Holmes stories with the charm of Oscar Wilde, offering a unique and entertaining reading experience. Through the eyes of narrator Robert Sherard, readers are taken on a journey filled with intrigue, humor, and unexpected twists, making "Oscar Wilde and the Candlelight Murders" a delightful blend of Victorian murder mystery and literary homage.
- #10
'Lark Rise to Candleford' by Flora Thompson is a semi-fictional memoir that transports readers to rural England in the late 19th century. Through the eyes of Laura, the author provides a detailed and authentic view of daily life in hamlets like Lark Rise and villages like Candleford. The narrative captures the essence of rural poverty, working-class struggles, social dynamics, and the transition of English countryside during a time of significant change.
The writing style of 'Lark Rise to Candleford' is described as a mix of autobiography and social commentary, offering a poignant and nostalgic look at a disappearing way of life. Flora Thompson's narrative is rich in detail, providing vivid descriptions of the habits, celebrations, social structure, and traditions of the villagers. serves as a time capsule that chronicles the minutiae of daily lives, from the games children played to the importance of the pig, painting a picture of Victorian rural England that is both informative and picturesque.
The hamlet stood on a gentle rise in the flat, wheat-growing north-east corner of Oxfordshire. We will call it Lark Rise because of the great number of skylarks which made the surrounding fields their...