Stories By English Authors: Italy By: Laurence Oliphant (1829-1888)
Stories By English Authors: Italy by Laurence Oliphant is a captivating collection of short stories that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the beautiful country of Italy. This anthology offers a diverse range of stories, each providing a unique perspective on the country and its people. The book opens with an intriguing tale titled "A Girl's Story" by Miss Thackeray. Set in Naples, this story follows a young English girl named Laniska as she embarks on a journey to find her lost father. The narrative beautifully captures the charm and mystique of Naples, while also delving into the complexities of family bonds. Another notable story in this collection is "In Extreme Winter" by W. E. Norris. This narrative takes readers to the enchanting region of Tuscany, where London barrister Robert Leicester finds himself entangled in a mysterious web of secrets and deceit. The author masterfully portrays the picturesque landscape of Tuscany, complementing the thrilling plot. Laurence Oliphant, the compiler of this anthology, contributes his own story titled "The Treasure Chamber of San Pietro." Through the eyes of the protagonist, we are transported to the Vatican, where a hidden secret lies within the catacombs beneath St. Peter's Basilica. Oliphant's narration creates an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue, evoking a sense of awe for the grandeur and history of Rome. One of the strengths of this collection is the variety of themes explored. From romance and betrayal to mystery and adventure, these stories encompass a wide range of emotions, ensuring that there is something for every reader. The authors also skillfully intertwine elements of Italian culture, history, and folklore, further enriching the reading experience. The writing style throughout the book is vivid and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the Italian landscape and its people. The characters are well-developed, with their hopes, dreams, and flaws laid bare for the readers to empathize with. The stories are engaging and paced deftly, maintaining a sense of suspense that keeps readers hooked until the very end. In summary, Stories By English Authors: Italy is a remarkable anthology that brings the beauty and allure of Italy to life through captivating storytelling. Laurence Oliphant has meticulously curated a collection that showcases the richness of Italian culture, while also captivating readers with intriguing narratives. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction, mystery, or simply a lover of Italy, this book is sure to transport you to the magical land of vineyards, ancient ruins, and captivating tales. First Page: STORIES BY ENGLISH AUTHORS ITALY CONTENTS A FAITHFUL RETAINER James Payn BIANCA W. E. Norris GONERIL A. Mary F. Robinson THE BRIGAND'S BRIDE Laurence Oliphant MRS. GENERAL TALBOYS Anthony Trollope A FAITHFUL RETAINER, By James Payn When I lived in the country, which was a long time ago, our nearest neighbours were the Luscombes. They were very great personages in the country indeed, and the family were greatly "respected"; though not, so far as I could discern, for any particular reason, except from their having been there for several generations. People are supposed to improve, like wine, from keeping even if they are rather "ordinary" at starting; and the Luscombes, at the time I knew them, were considered quite a "vintage" family. They had begun in Charles II.'s time, and dated their descent from greatness in the female line. That they had managed to keep a great estate not very much impaired so long was certainly a proof of great cleverness, since there had been many spend thrifts among them; but fortunately there had been a miser or two, who had restored the average, and their fortunes. Mr. Roger Luscombe, the present proprietor, was neither the one nor the other, but he was inclined to frugality, and no wonder; a burnt child dreads the fire, even though he may have had nothing to do with lighting it himself, and his father had kicked down a good many thousands with the help of "the bones" (as dice were called in his day) and "the devil's books" (which was the name for cards with those that disapproved of them) and race horses; there was plenty left, but it made the old gentleman careful and especially solicitous to keep it... Continue reading book >>

Stories By English Authors: Italy By: Laurence Oliphant (1829-1888)

Stories By English Authors: Italy by Laurence Oliphant is a captivating collection of short stories that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through the beautiful country of Italy. This anthology offers a diverse range of stories, each providing a unique perspective on the country and its people.

The book opens with an intriguing tale titled "A Girl's Story" by Miss Thackeray. Set in Naples, this story follows a young English girl named Laniska as she embarks on a journey to find her lost father. The narrative beautifully captures the charm and mystique of Naples, while also delving into the complexities of family bonds.

Another notable story in this collection is "In Extreme Winter" by W. E. Norris. This narrative takes readers to the enchanting region of Tuscany, where London barrister Robert Leicester finds himself entangled in a mysterious web of secrets and deceit. The author masterfully portrays the picturesque landscape of Tuscany, complementing the thrilling plot.

Laurence Oliphant, the compiler of this anthology, contributes his own story titled "The Treasure Chamber of San Pietro." Through the eyes of the protagonist, we are transported to the Vatican, where a hidden secret lies within the catacombs beneath St. Peter's Basilica. Oliphant's narration creates an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue, evoking a sense of awe for the grandeur and history of Rome.

One of the strengths of this collection is the variety of themes explored. From romance and betrayal to mystery and adventure, these stories encompass a wide range of emotions, ensuring that there is something for every reader. The authors also skillfully intertwine elements of Italian culture, history, and folklore, further enriching the reading experience.

The writing style throughout the book is vivid and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the Italian landscape and its people. The characters are well-developed, with their hopes, dreams, and flaws laid bare for the readers to empathize with. The stories are engaging and paced deftly, maintaining a sense of suspense that keeps readers hooked until the very end.

In summary, Stories By English Authors: Italy is a remarkable anthology that brings the beauty and allure of Italy to life through captivating storytelling. Laurence Oliphant has meticulously curated a collection that showcases the richness of Italian culture, while also captivating readers with intriguing narratives. Whether you are a fan of historical fiction, mystery, or simply a lover of Italy, this book is sure to transport you to the magical land of vineyards, ancient ruins, and captivating tales.

First Page:

STORIES BY ENGLISH AUTHORS

ITALY

CONTENTS

A FAITHFUL RETAINER James Payn BIANCA W. E. Norris GONERIL A. Mary F. Robinson THE BRIGAND'S BRIDE Laurence Oliphant MRS. GENERAL TALBOYS Anthony Trollope

A FAITHFUL RETAINER, By James Payn

When I lived in the country, which was a long time ago, our nearest neighbours were the Luscombes. They were very great personages in the country indeed, and the family were greatly "respected"; though not, so far as I could discern, for any particular reason, except from their having been there for several generations. People are supposed to improve, like wine, from keeping even if they are rather "ordinary" at starting; and the Luscombes, at the time I knew them, were considered quite a "vintage" family. They had begun in Charles II.'s time, and dated their descent from greatness in the female line. That they had managed to keep a great estate not very much impaired so long was certainly a proof of great cleverness, since there had been many spend thrifts among them; but fortunately there had been a miser or two, who had restored the average, and their fortunes.

Mr. Roger Luscombe, the present proprietor, was neither the one nor the other, but he was inclined to frugality, and no wonder; a burnt child dreads the fire, even though he may have had nothing to do with lighting it himself, and his father had kicked down a good many thousands with the help of "the bones" (as dice were called in his day) and "the devil's books" (which was the name for cards with those that disapproved of them) and race horses; there was plenty left, but it made the old gentleman careful and especially solicitous to keep it... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Short stories

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Wikipedia – Laurence Oliphant
Wikipedia – Stories By English Authors: Italy

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