Deadham Hard By: Lucas Malet (1852-1931)
Deadham Hard by Lucas Malet is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of society, family, and the human condition. Set in late 19th century England, the story follows the lives of its characters, each connected through their ties to Deadham Hard, an ancestral home burdened with a tragic history. The narrative is brilliantly crafted, weaving together multiple storylines that seamlessly intertwine, providing a rich and multi-layered reading experience. Malet's writing style is captivating, effortlessly transporting readers back in time and immersing them in the intricacies of the era. The vivid descriptions of the setting and the character's emotions evoke a strong sense of time and place, making the story all the more enchanting. The protagonist, Rachel West, is a fiercely independent and unconventional woman for her time. She comes to Deadham Hard in search of answers about her family's past, only to be confronted with dark secrets and hidden truths. Rachel's journey of self-discovery is deeply compelling, as she navigates the complexities of her family's history and grapples with her own desires and ambitions. The supporting cast of characters is equally well-developed and engaging. Each character is intricately drawn, with their own distinctive personalities and motivations. From the enigmatic and brooding Henry Radworth to the endearing and courageous Victorian governess, Miss Verinder, the characters bring depth and nuance to the story, adding layers of complexity and intrigue. What sets Deadham Hard apart is its exploration of themes that are as relevant today as they were during the Victorian era. The novel delves into the struggles of women seeking independence and liberation in a society that seeks to confine and control them. It navigates the class divide, exposing the stark disparities between the wealthy and the working-class. Through its examination of societal norms and expectations, the novel prompts readers to question their own beliefs and prejudices. While the pacing of the story may feel slow at times, the meticulous attention to detail and the gradual unraveling of the plot create an irresistible sense of suspense. Malet masterfully builds tension, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final pages. The twists and turns are unexpected, making the novel a satisfying and unpredictable read. Overall, Deadham Hard is a compelling and masterfully written novel that explores the intricacies of human nature and society. Lucas Malet's ability to transport readers to another time and place while dealing with timeless themes is a testament to their skill as a writer. Any fan of historical fiction or those intrigued by complex characters and societal dynamics will find great pleasure in this remarkable literary work. First Page: DEADHAM HARD A Romance BY LUCAS MALET (MARY ST. LEGER HARRISON) Author of "Sir Richard Calmady," "The Wages of Sin," etc. 1919 "Youth has no boundaries, age has the grave." BULGARIAN PROVERB TO MY DEAR FRIEND ACROSS THE OCEAN C. E. O. VEVEY 1899 LONDON 1919 CONTENTS BOOK I THE HOUSE OF THE TAMARISKS CHAPTER I. TELLING HOW, UNDER STRESS OF CIRCUMSTANCES, A HUMANIST TURNED HERMIT II. ENTER A YOUNG SCHOLAR AND GENTLEMAN OF A HAPPY DISPOSITION AND GOOD PROSPECTS III. THE DOUBTFULLY HARMONIOUS PARTS OF A WHOLE IV. WATCHERS THROUGH THE SMALL HOURS V. BETWEEN RIVER AND SEA VI. IN WHICH THE PAST LAYS AN OMINOUS HAND ON THE PRESENT VII. A CRITIC IN CORDUROY BOOK II THE HARD SCHOOL OF THINGS AS THEY ARE I. IN MAIDEN MEDITATION II. WHICH CANTERS ROUND A PARISH PUMP III. A SAMPLING OF FREEDOM IV. OUT ON THE BAR V. WHEREIN DAMARIS MAKES SOME ACQUAINTANCE WITH THE HIDDEN WAYS OF MEN VI. RECOUNTING AN ASTONISHING DEPOSITION VII. A SOUL AT WAR WITH FACT VIII. TELLING HOW TWO PERSONS, OF VERY DIFFERENT MORAL CALIBRE, WERE COMPELLED TO WEAR THE FLOWER OF HUMILIATION IN THEIR RESPECTIVE BUTTONHOLES IX... Continue reading book >>

Deadham Hard By: Lucas Malet (1852-1931)

Deadham Hard by Lucas Malet is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of society, family, and the human condition. Set in late 19th century England, the story follows the lives of its characters, each connected through their ties to Deadham Hard, an ancestral home burdened with a tragic history.

The narrative is brilliantly crafted, weaving together multiple storylines that seamlessly intertwine, providing a rich and multi-layered reading experience. Malet's writing style is captivating, effortlessly transporting readers back in time and immersing them in the intricacies of the era. The vivid descriptions of the setting and the character's emotions evoke a strong sense of time and place, making the story all the more enchanting.

The protagonist, Rachel West, is a fiercely independent and unconventional woman for her time. She comes to Deadham Hard in search of answers about her family's past, only to be confronted with dark secrets and hidden truths. Rachel's journey of self-discovery is deeply compelling, as she navigates the complexities of her family's history and grapples with her own desires and ambitions.

The supporting cast of characters is equally well-developed and engaging. Each character is intricately drawn, with their own distinctive personalities and motivations. From the enigmatic and brooding Henry Radworth to the endearing and courageous Victorian governess, Miss Verinder, the characters bring depth and nuance to the story, adding layers of complexity and intrigue.

What sets Deadham Hard apart is its exploration of themes that are as relevant today as they were during the Victorian era. The novel delves into the struggles of women seeking independence and liberation in a society that seeks to confine and control them. It navigates the class divide, exposing the stark disparities between the wealthy and the working-class. Through its examination of societal norms and expectations, the novel prompts readers to question their own beliefs and prejudices.

While the pacing of the story may feel slow at times, the meticulous attention to detail and the gradual unraveling of the plot create an irresistible sense of suspense. Malet masterfully builds tension, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the final pages. The twists and turns are unexpected, making the novel a satisfying and unpredictable read.

Overall, Deadham Hard is a compelling and masterfully written novel that explores the intricacies of human nature and society. Lucas Malet's ability to transport readers to another time and place while dealing with timeless themes is a testament to their skill as a writer. Any fan of historical fiction or those intrigued by complex characters and societal dynamics will find great pleasure in this remarkable literary work.

First Page:

DEADHAM HARD

A Romance

BY LUCAS MALET

(MARY ST. LEGER HARRISON)

Author of "Sir Richard Calmady," "The Wages of Sin," etc.

1919

"Youth has no boundaries, age has the grave." BULGARIAN PROVERB

TO MY DEAR FRIEND ACROSS THE OCEAN C. E. O. VEVEY 1899 LONDON 1919

CONTENTS

BOOK I THE HOUSE OF THE TAMARISKS

CHAPTER

I. TELLING HOW, UNDER STRESS OF CIRCUMSTANCES, A HUMANIST TURNED HERMIT

II. ENTER A YOUNG SCHOLAR AND GENTLEMAN OF A HAPPY DISPOSITION AND GOOD PROSPECTS

III. THE DOUBTFULLY HARMONIOUS PARTS OF A WHOLE

IV. WATCHERS THROUGH THE SMALL HOURS

V. BETWEEN RIVER AND SEA

VI. IN WHICH THE PAST LAYS AN OMINOUS HAND ON THE PRESENT

VII. A CRITIC IN CORDUROY

BOOK II THE HARD SCHOOL OF THINGS AS THEY ARE

I. IN MAIDEN MEDITATION

II. WHICH CANTERS ROUND A PARISH PUMP

III. A SAMPLING OF FREEDOM

IV. OUT ON THE BAR

V. WHEREIN DAMARIS MAKES SOME ACQUAINTANCE WITH THE HIDDEN WAYS OF MEN

VI. RECOUNTING AN ASTONISHING DEPOSITION

VII. A SOUL AT WAR WITH FACT

VIII. TELLING HOW TWO PERSONS, OF VERY DIFFERENT MORAL CALIBRE, WERE COMPELLED TO WEAR THE FLOWER OF HUMILIATION IN THEIR RESPECTIVE BUTTONHOLES

IX... Continue reading book >>

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