Darkness and Daylight By: Mary Jane Holmes (1825-1907)
Darkness and Daylight by Mary Jane Holmes is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that plunges readers into a world of secrets, sacrifices, and unexpected twists. Set in the mid-19th century, this intriguing story explores the complexities of human nature against a backdrop of societal expectations and moral dilemmas. The narrative revolves around Hope Meredith, a young and virtuous woman who finds herself at the center of a web of deceit and misfortune. Forced by circumstances to leave her sheltered life, Hope must confront the harsh realities of the world beyond her comfort zone. As she encounters various characters, each with their own hidden agenda, she tries to navigate the treacherous waters of love, betrayal, and redemption. Holmes masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a tapestry of interconnected lives that keep readers guessing until the very end. The author's attention to detail and vivid descriptions transport us back in time, immersing us in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the era. From the bustling streets of New York City to the idyllic landscapes of rural America, each setting is meticulously rendered, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. The characters in Darkness and Daylight are expertly drawn, with their flaws and virtues laid bare for readers to explore. Hope, the resilient protagonist, is a compelling figure, torn between her desire for independence and her duty to her family. Her journey is both relatable and inspiring, showcasing her growth and evolution as she confronts the shadows of her past. Furthermore, the secondary characters are equally well-developed, each contributing their unique flavor to the story. Whether it is the enigmatic and brooding Richard or the compassionate and wise Aunt Jane, Holmes ensures that no character is overlooked, bringing them to life with nuance and authenticity. What sets Darkness and Daylight apart is its exploration of societal expectations and the enduring push-pull between darkness and light, both within individuals and society as a whole. Holmes delves into themes of hypocrisy, class divides, and the consequences of pursuing one's desires in a world that imposes strict norms. These aspects provide thought-provoking reflections on the timeless struggles within the human condition. While Darkness and Daylight may be considered a lesser-known classic, it certainly deserves more recognition. Mary Jane Holmes skillfully crafts a captivating tale that combines romance, mystery, and social commentary in a way that keeps readers riveted until the very last page. It is a timeless work that reminds us of the power of resilience, the complexity of human nature, and the possibility of finding light in the midst of darkness. First Page: DARKNESS AND DAYLIGHT. A Novel BY MRS. MARY J. HOLMES, AUTHOR OF "LENA RIVERS," "MARIAN GREY," "MEADOW BROOK," "HOMESTEAD," "DORA DEANE," "COUSIN MAUDE," "TEMPEST AND SUNSHINE," "ENGLISH ORPHANS," ETC. CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. COLLINGWOOD II. EDITH HASTINGS GOES TO COLLINGWOOD III. GRACE ATHERTON IV. RICHARD AND EDITH V. VISITORS AT COLLINGWOOD AND VISITORS AT BRIER HILL VI. ARTHUR AND EDITH VII. RICHARD AND ARTHUR VIII. RICHARD AND EDITH IX. WOMANHOOD X. EDITH AT HOME XI. MATTERS AT GRASSY SPRING XII. LESSONS XIII. FRIDAY XIV. THE MYSTERY AT GRASSY SPRING XV. NINA XVI. ARTHUR'S STORY XVII. NINA AND MIGGIE XVIII. DR. GRISWOLD XIX. EX OFFICIO XX. THE DECISION XXI. THE DEERING WOODS XXII. THE DARKNESS DEEPENS XXIII. PARTING XXIV. THE NINETEENTH BIRTHDAY XXV. DESTINY XXVI. EDITH AND THE WORLD XXVII. THE LAND OF FLOWERS XXVIII. SUNNYBANK XXIX. THE SISTERS XXX. ARTHUR AND NINA XXXI. LAST DAYS XXXII. PARTING WITH THE DEAD AND PARTING WITH THE LIVING XXXIII. HOME XXXIV. NINA'S LETTER XXXV. THE FIERY TEST XXXVI. THE SACRIFICE XXXVII. THE BRIDAL XXXVIII. SIX YEARS LATER DARKNESS AND DAYLIGHT... Continue reading book >>

Darkness and Daylight By: Mary Jane Holmes (1825-1907)

Darkness and Daylight by Mary Jane Holmes is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that plunges readers into a world of secrets, sacrifices, and unexpected twists. Set in the mid-19th century, this intriguing story explores the complexities of human nature against a backdrop of societal expectations and moral dilemmas.

The narrative revolves around Hope Meredith, a young and virtuous woman who finds herself at the center of a web of deceit and misfortune. Forced by circumstances to leave her sheltered life, Hope must confront the harsh realities of the world beyond her comfort zone. As she encounters various characters, each with their own hidden agenda, she tries to navigate the treacherous waters of love, betrayal, and redemption.

Holmes masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a tapestry of interconnected lives that keep readers guessing until the very end. The author's attention to detail and vivid descriptions transport us back in time, immersing us in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the era. From the bustling streets of New York City to the idyllic landscapes of rural America, each setting is meticulously rendered, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.

The characters in Darkness and Daylight are expertly drawn, with their flaws and virtues laid bare for readers to explore. Hope, the resilient protagonist, is a compelling figure, torn between her desire for independence and her duty to her family. Her journey is both relatable and inspiring, showcasing her growth and evolution as she confronts the shadows of her past.

Furthermore, the secondary characters are equally well-developed, each contributing their unique flavor to the story. Whether it is the enigmatic and brooding Richard or the compassionate and wise Aunt Jane, Holmes ensures that no character is overlooked, bringing them to life with nuance and authenticity.

What sets Darkness and Daylight apart is its exploration of societal expectations and the enduring push-pull between darkness and light, both within individuals and society as a whole. Holmes delves into themes of hypocrisy, class divides, and the consequences of pursuing one's desires in a world that imposes strict norms. These aspects provide thought-provoking reflections on the timeless struggles within the human condition.

While Darkness and Daylight may be considered a lesser-known classic, it certainly deserves more recognition. Mary Jane Holmes skillfully crafts a captivating tale that combines romance, mystery, and social commentary in a way that keeps readers riveted until the very last page. It is a timeless work that reminds us of the power of resilience, the complexity of human nature, and the possibility of finding light in the midst of darkness.

First Page:

DARKNESS AND DAYLIGHT.

A Novel

MRS. MARY J. HOLMES,

AUTHOR OF "LENA RIVERS," "MARIAN GREY," "MEADOW BROOK," "HOMESTEAD," "DORA DEANE," "COUSIN MAUDE," "TEMPEST AND SUNSHINE," "ENGLISH ORPHANS," ETC.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I. COLLINGWOOD II. EDITH HASTINGS GOES TO COLLINGWOOD III. GRACE ATHERTON IV. RICHARD AND EDITH V. VISITORS AT COLLINGWOOD AND VISITORS AT BRIER HILL VI. ARTHUR AND EDITH VII. RICHARD AND ARTHUR VIII. RICHARD AND EDITH IX. WOMANHOOD X. EDITH AT HOME XI. MATTERS AT GRASSY SPRING XII. LESSONS XIII. FRIDAY XIV. THE MYSTERY AT GRASSY SPRING XV. NINA XVI. ARTHUR'S STORY XVII. NINA AND MIGGIE XVIII. DR. GRISWOLD XIX. EX OFFICIO XX. THE DECISION XXI. THE DEERING WOODS XXII. THE DARKNESS DEEPENS XXIII. PARTING XXIV. THE NINETEENTH BIRTHDAY XXV. DESTINY XXVI. EDITH AND THE WORLD XXVII. THE LAND OF FLOWERS XXVIII. SUNNYBANK XXIX. THE SISTERS XXX. ARTHUR AND NINA XXXI. LAST DAYS XXXII. PARTING WITH THE DEAD AND PARTING WITH THE LIVING XXXIII. HOME XXXIV. NINA'S LETTER XXXV. THE FIERY TEST XXXVI. THE SACRIFICE XXXVII. THE BRIDAL XXXVIII. SIX YEARS LATER

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