Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

Mistress and Maid   By: (1826-1887)

Book cover

Mistress and Maid by Dinah Maria Mulock Craik is a timeless novel that delves deeply into the complex dynamics between the classes in Victorian society. With her exceptional storytelling skills, Craik weaves together a poignant narrative that explores themes of love, loyalty, and personal growth.

Set in mid-19th century rural England, the story revolves around the equally compelling lives of its two central characters: Octavia and Dorcas. Octavia is the daughter of a wealthy family, accustomed to a life of privilege and ease. On the other hand, Dorcas is the daughter of a poor widow and works as a maid in Octavia's household. The stark contrast between their backgrounds underscores the social barriers that separate them, making their friendship seem unlikely at first.

Despite the disparities in their social positions, Octavia and Dorcas strike up an extraordinary bond, one characterized by mutual understanding and respect. This relationship becomes the driving force of the narrative, as the encounters between the mistress and the maid reveal the vulnerabilities and strengths of both women. Through thought-provoking conversations and shared experiences, they challenge societal norms and inspire each other to grow beyond the confines of their prescribed roles.

Craik possesses a remarkable ability to breathe life into her characters, making them feel authentic and relatable. Both Octavia and Dorcas are multifaceted and evolve throughout the book, shedding light on the complexity of their circumstances. The author's vivid descriptions transport the reader to a bygone era, drawing attention to the stark realities faced by women of different social classes.

What truly distinguishes Mistress and Maid is Craik's astute exploration of complex human emotions. As readers accompany Octavia and Dorcas on their emotional journeys, they are confronted with themes of identity, sacrifice, and the pursuit of happiness. The author skillfully navigates the challenges faced by women in a rigidly stratified society, imbuing her narrative with subtle feminist undertones.

While at times the story may seem predictable, Craik's masterful storytelling ensures that the journey itself becomes the highlight. She artfully constructs a narrative that keeps readers engaged, unveiling unexpected twists and turns along the way. Mistress and Maid is a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the human spirit.

In conclusion, Mistress and Maid by Dinah Maria Mulock Craik is a compelling portrayal of the intricate social dynamics and personal struggles of women in Victorian society. Through her captivating prose and well-drawn characters, Craik provides a thought-provoking examination of the bonds that can transcend social boundaries. This novel not only serves as a window into an era gone by, but also as a reminder of the human capacity for growth and the pursuit of genuine connections.

First Page:

This ebook was formatted and edited by Robin Eugene Escovado

MISTRESS AND MAID. A Household Story.

BY

MISS MULOCH, AUTHOR OF "JOHN HALIFAX, GENTLEMAN," "OLIVE," "THE OGILVIES," "THE HEAD OF THE FAMILY," "NOTHING NEW," "AGATHA'S HUSBAND," &c,, &c.

RICHMOND: WEST & JOHNSTON, PUBLISHERS. 1864. Printed at the Lynchburg "Virginian" Book and Job Office.

MISTRESS AND MAID.

CHAPTER I.

She was a rather tall, awkward, and strongly built girl of about fifteen. This was the first impression the "maid" gave to her "mistresses," the Misses Leaf, when she entered their kitchen, accompanied by her mother, a widow and washer woman, by name Mrs. Hand. I must confess, when they saw the damsel, the ladies felt a certain twinge of doubt as to whether they had not been rash in offering to take her; whether it would not have been wiser to have gone on in their old way now, alas! grown into a very old way, so as almost to make them forget they had ever had any other and done without a servant still.

Many consultations had the three sisters held before such a revolutionary extravagance was determined on. But Miss Leaf was beginning both to look and to feel "not so young as she had been;" Miss Selina ditto; though, being still under forty, she would not have acknowledged it for the world... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books