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Grey Roses   By: (1861-1905)

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Grey Roses by Henry Harland is a captivating novel that beautifully oscillates between love and tragedy. Set in the vibrant city of Paris, the story unfolds in the late 19th century, offering readers a vivid glimpse into the lives of the upper class.

The book’s main protagonist, Frederick Manton, is a young American writer who finds himself entangled in a whirlwind romance with the enchanting Madame de Beaurien. Manton becomes obsessed with this alluring yet enigmatic woman, whose beauty is only matched by her melancholy nature. As their relationship blossoms, Manton becomes increasingly determined to uncover the secrets that lie hidden beneath Madame de Beaurien’s delicate facade.

Harland's prose is mesmerizing, immersing readers in the opulence and charm of Belle Époque Paris. Through vivid descriptions and elegant language, the author effortlessly transports us to a world of extravagant parties, grand art salons, and hushed conversations in luxurious drawing rooms. The city's vibrant streets and its romantic ambiance are beautifully evoked, serving as a metaphorical backdrop to the passions and desires that drive the characters.

The book delves deep into themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice, exploring the complexities of human relationships. With each page, the tension builds, as Manton's pursuit of the truth unravels a web of secrets and introduces him to a cast of intriguing characters, each with their own hidden agenda. The author skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, adding layers of depth and intrigue to the narrative.

One of the standout elements of Grey Roses is the strength of its characters. Manton's introspective nature and his unwavering determination to understand Madame de Beaurien make him a relatable and sympathetic protagonist. Madame de Beaurien herself, with her alluring charm and underlying sadness, captivates readers. The secondary characters, including the flamboyant painter Leon D'Argent and the mysterious Russian aristocrat Prince Volkonky, add a rich layer of complexity to the story.

Henry Harland's exploration of the human psyche and the duality of love is profound. With Grey Roses, he demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the human heart, delving into its depths to unravel the complexities of desire, devotion, and longing. The emotional intensity of the book is palpable, leaving a lasting impression on readers.

While some may find the pace of the novel slow at times, the careful attention to detail and the beautifully descriptive prose make up for it. Harland invites readers into a world filled with passion and melancholy, where love ultimately defies reason.

Grey Roses is a masterfully crafted novel that paints a vivid portrait of love, loss, and the power of secrets. Henry Harland's poetic storytelling and his ability to delve deep into the complexities of human emotion make this a truly remarkable read. Whether you are captivated by tales of love or simply appreciate exquisite writing, Grey Roses promises to transport and enchant you from beginning to end.

First Page:

GREY ROSES

by

HENRY HARLAND

By the same Author

The Cardinal's Snuff Box Comedies and Errors The Lady Paramount Mademoiselle Miss

John Lane, The Bodley Head, London John Lane Company, New York Fifth Edition Presswork by the University Press John Wilson and Son · Cambridge, U.S.A.

1911

'Yes, the conception was a rose, but the achievement is a rose grown grey.' PARASCHKINE

CONTENTS

THE BOHEMIAN GIRL

MERCEDES

A BROKEN LOOKING GLASS

THE REWARD OF VIRTUE

A RE INCARNATION

FLOWER O' THE QUINCE

WHEN I AM KING

A RESPONSIBILITY

CASTLES NEAR SPAIN

I.

I woke up very gradually this morning, and it took me a little while to bethink myself where I had slept that it had not been in my own room in the Cromwell Road. I lay a bed, with eyes half closed, drowsily look looking forward to the usual procession of sober hued London hours, and, for the moment, quite forgot the journey of yesterday, and how it had left me in Paris, a guest in the smart new house of my old friend, Nina Childe. Indeed, it was not until somebody tapped on my door, and I roused myself to call out 'Come in,' that I noticed the strangeness of the wall paper, and then, after an instant of perplexity, suddenly remembered. Oh, with a wonderful lightening of the spirit, I can tell you... Continue reading book >>




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