A Terrible Temptation A Story of To-Day By: Charles Reade (1814-1884)
A Terrible Temptation: A Story of To-Day by Charles Reade is a thought-provoking and gripping novel that delves into the complexities of human temptation and the moral dilemmas one faces in the modern world. Set in the late 19th century, this novel captures the essence of societal norms and challenges them, making it a timeless read even in today's context. Reade spins a tale that explores the conflict between love, duty, and desire, highlighting the internal struggles faced by each character. The protagonist, Amos Bartley, is portrayed as an upright and moral man whose life is turned upside down when he falls prey to a grave temptation. Throughout the story, Reade masterfully examines Bartley's moral journey, drawing the reader into his tormented world while captivating them with splendid storytelling. The character development in this novel is truly exceptional. Reade brings each character to life with their distinct and complex personalities. From Bartley's internal turmoil to the manipulative and alluring Marion Beechey, every character is intricately crafted and adds depth to the narrative. Reade successfully delves into the human psyche, exploring the innate flaws and vulnerabilities that make us susceptible to temptation. One of the standout aspects of this book is the author's ability to address sensitive topics with sensitivity and realism. Reade fearlessly tackles issues of infidelity, societal stigma, and the consequences of immoral actions. Instead of moralizing or passing judgment, he weaves a nuanced and empathetic narrative that allows readers to reflect upon their own ethical choices. The pacing of the novel is steady, with each chapter leaving the reader eager to delve further into the lives of the characters. Reade skillfully interweaves moments of emotional intensity with quieter, introspective scenes, creating a balanced reading experience. Moreover, his vivid descriptions of the era in which the story takes place transport the reader to a bygone era, immersing them in the characters' world. While the narrative is undeniably compelling, there are moments where the dialogue feels overly dramatic and unrealistic. Although this might be a slight drawback, it does not detract from the overall impact of the story. In fact, these intense dialogues serve to heighten the emotional stakes and add a layer of tension to the narrative. A Terrible Temptation is a captivating novel that delves into the deepest recesses of human morality, highlighting the terrible consequences of giving in to temptation. Charles Reade skillfully explores the complexities of human nature, challenging societal norms and asking the reader to question their own ethical boundaries. With its compelling characters, realistic portrayal of temptation, and timeless themes, this novel is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intricacies of human behavior. First Page: A TERRIBLE TEMPTATION A STORY OF TO DAY By Charles Reade CHAPTER I. THE morning room of a large house in Portman Square, London. A gentleman in the prime of life stood with his elbow on the broad mantel piece, and made himself agreeable to a young lady, seated a little way off, playing at work. To the ear he was only conversing, but his eyes dwelt on her with loving admiration all the time. Her posture was favorable to this furtive inspection, for she leaned her fair head over her work with a pretty, modest, demure air, that seemed to say, "I suspect I am being admired: I will not look to see: I might have to check it." The gentleman's features were ordinary, except his brow that had power in it but he had the beauty of color; his sunburned features glowed with health, and his eye was bright. On the whole, rather good looking when he smiled, but ugly when he frowned; for his frown was a scowl, and betrayed a remarkable power of hating. Miss Arabella Bruce was a beauty. She had glorious masses of dark red hair, and a dazzling white neck to set it off; large, dove like eyes, and a blooming oval face, which would have been classical if her lips had been thin and finely chiseled; but here came in her Anglo Saxon breed, and spared society a Minerva by giving her two full and rosy lips... Continue reading book >>

A Terrible Temptation A Story of To-Day By: Charles Reade (1814-1884)

A Terrible Temptation: A Story of To-Day by Charles Reade is a thought-provoking and gripping novel that delves into the complexities of human temptation and the moral dilemmas one faces in the modern world. Set in the late 19th century, this novel captures the essence of societal norms and challenges them, making it a timeless read even in today's context.

Reade spins a tale that explores the conflict between love, duty, and desire, highlighting the internal struggles faced by each character. The protagonist, Amos Bartley, is portrayed as an upright and moral man whose life is turned upside down when he falls prey to a grave temptation. Throughout the story, Reade masterfully examines Bartley's moral journey, drawing the reader into his tormented world while captivating them with splendid storytelling.

The character development in this novel is truly exceptional. Reade brings each character to life with their distinct and complex personalities. From Bartley's internal turmoil to the manipulative and alluring Marion Beechey, every character is intricately crafted and adds depth to the narrative. Reade successfully delves into the human psyche, exploring the innate flaws and vulnerabilities that make us susceptible to temptation.

One of the standout aspects of this book is the author's ability to address sensitive topics with sensitivity and realism. Reade fearlessly tackles issues of infidelity, societal stigma, and the consequences of immoral actions. Instead of moralizing or passing judgment, he weaves a nuanced and empathetic narrative that allows readers to reflect upon their own ethical choices.

The pacing of the novel is steady, with each chapter leaving the reader eager to delve further into the lives of the characters. Reade skillfully interweaves moments of emotional intensity with quieter, introspective scenes, creating a balanced reading experience. Moreover, his vivid descriptions of the era in which the story takes place transport the reader to a bygone era, immersing them in the characters' world.

While the narrative is undeniably compelling, there are moments where the dialogue feels overly dramatic and unrealistic. Although this might be a slight drawback, it does not detract from the overall impact of the story. In fact, these intense dialogues serve to heighten the emotional stakes and add a layer of tension to the narrative.

A Terrible Temptation is a captivating novel that delves into the deepest recesses of human morality, highlighting the terrible consequences of giving in to temptation. Charles Reade skillfully explores the complexities of human nature, challenging societal norms and asking the reader to question their own ethical boundaries. With its compelling characters, realistic portrayal of temptation, and timeless themes, this novel is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intricacies of human behavior.

First Page:

A TERRIBLE TEMPTATION

A STORY OF TO DAY

By Charles Reade

CHAPTER I.

THE morning room of a large house in Portman Square, London.

A gentleman in the prime of life stood with his elbow on the broad mantel piece, and made himself agreeable to a young lady, seated a little way off, playing at work.

To the ear he was only conversing, but his eyes dwelt on her with loving admiration all the time. Her posture was favorable to this furtive inspection, for she leaned her fair head over her work with a pretty, modest, demure air, that seemed to say, "I suspect I am being admired: I will not look to see: I might have to check it."

The gentleman's features were ordinary, except his brow that had power in it but he had the beauty of color; his sunburned features glowed with health, and his eye was bright. On the whole, rather good looking when he smiled, but ugly when he frowned; for his frown was a scowl, and betrayed a remarkable power of hating.

Miss Arabella Bruce was a beauty. She had glorious masses of dark red hair, and a dazzling white neck to set it off; large, dove like eyes, and a blooming oval face, which would have been classical if her lips had been thin and finely chiseled; but here came in her Anglo Saxon breed, and spared society a Minerva by giving her two full and rosy lips... Continue reading book >>

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Literature

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