A House-Party Don Gesualdo and A Rainy June   By: Unknown (1839-1908)

A House-Party Don Gesualdo and A Rainy June is a collection of two lesser-known works by an unknown author. Despite the lack of information about the creator, these stories prove to be intriguing reads.

The first story, A House-Party Don Gesualdo, transports the readers to a lavish mansion where an extravagant party is taking place. The author skillfully creates a vivid atmosphere, immersing readers in the luxurious setting and painting a detailed picture of the opulence surrounding the attendees. However, the plot is slightly convoluted, making it challenging to follow at times. The complex web of relationships and hidden agendas keeps the reader guessing until the very end. While some may find this intricate narrative style engaging, others may find it confusing. Although the characters lack depth, the author manages to capture the essence of their personalities effectively.

In contrast, A Rainy June focuses on a single protagonist's internal struggles and self-reflection. The author beautifully captures the melancholic ambiance of a rainy day, mirroring the protagonist's emotional state. Through elegant prose, the author delves into the character's mind, exploring themes of love, loss, and existential questions. The story's introspective nature prompts readers to contemplate their own journey of self-discovery.

Despite being written by an unknown author, this collection possesses a distinct charm. The writing style is refined and eloquent, carrying the reader effortlessly through the narratives. The stories, although different in tone and plot, complement each other well, showcasing the author's versatility.

A House-Party Don Gesualdo and A Rainy June may not be widely recognized works, but they hold their own within the realm of literary fiction. Although the lack of information about the author leaves us yearning for more, this collection is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring beauty of literature. Whether you are drawn to intricate plotlines or introspective musings, this collection offers a satisfying reading experience.

First Page:

It is an August morning. It is an old English manor house. There is a breakfast room hung with old gilded leather of the times of the Stuarts; it has oak furniture of the same period; it has leaded lattices with stained glass in some of their frames, and the motto of the house in old French, "J'ay bon vouloir," emblazoned there with the crest of a heron resting in a crown. Thence, windows open on to a green, quaint, lovely garden, which was laid out by Monsieur Beaumont when he planned the gardens of Hampton Court. There are clipped yew tree walks and arbors and fantastic forms; there are stone terraces and steps like those of Haddon, and there are peacocks which pace and perch upon them; there are beds full of all the flowers which blossomed in the England of the Stuarts, and birds dart and butterflies pass above them; there are huge old trees, cedars, lime, hornbeam; beyond the gardens there are the woods and grassy lawns of the home park... Continue reading book >>