Showing results by author "Hugh Walpole" in All Categories

A collection of 50 of the world's great creepy stories. "Creepy" does not necessarily mean ghost or horror stories but rather stories that literally make our flesh creep by shaking our false sense of security and comprehension of the world.

In The Golden Scarecrow, Sir Hugh Seymour Walpole blurs the lines between reader and narrator, author and character, imagination and reality. This captivating collection unfolds across nine chapters, each weaving a unique tale about nine children, all connected by a shared setting, albeit in varying degrees. A tenth story, framed by a Prologue and Epilogue, introduces an intriguing layer of unity. These enchanting yet unsettling narratives delve into the realm of the bizarre, making them equally suitable for young readers and those with a taste for the uncanny. (Summary by Cynthia Moyer)

A wonderful collection of 50 of the best classic ghost stories ever written. 'The Missing Model' by Lettice Galbraith, 'Pomegranate Seed' by Edith Wharton, 'The Screaming Skull' by F. Marion Crawford, 'The Ghost in the Cupboard Room' by Wilkie Collins, 'The Shadow on the Blind' by Louisa Baldwin, 'A Ghost's Revenge' by Lettice Galbraith, 'The Lost Ghost' by Mary Wilkins-Freeman, 'On the Northern Ice' by Elia W. Peattie, 'The Cold Embrace' by Mary E. Braddon, 'The Dust Cloud' by E. F. Benson, and many more.

Step back into 1919, a time when the world is slowly emerging from the shadows of World War I, and the promise of peace hangs in the air. At Hortons, an elegant building of luxury flats nestled off Piccadilly in London, the fabric of society is unraveling. Expectations clash with a new reality, leaving residents grappling with confusion and uncertainty. Each story unfolds the life of a unique individual connected to Hortons, revealing their struggles and resilience as they navigate the profound changes of the post-war era. Immerse yourself in twelve captivating tales from the acclaimed early ...

A wolf howls through the forests of Transylvania, the murky graveyards of H.P. Lovecraft, the mythic marshes of Count Stenbock and the ghostly vaults of English cathedrals in these timeless stories read by award-winning actors from The Story Circle company.

1730. Driven by a wild romantic impulse, Francis Herries uproots his family from Doncaster to the lakeland valley of Borrowdale. Accompanied by his housekeeper/mistress, Alice, they settle in his tumbledown ancestral home, Herries, in the shadow of the Cumberland fells. Proud, stubborn and temperamental, Francis cuts himself off from his brother, spurns his long-suffering wife and becomes embroiled in drink and debauchery. When he sells Alice at Keswick Fair, his reputation is ruined, and the locals dub him 'Rogue' Herries.

In his debut novel, *The Wooden Horse* (1909), Walpole weaves the tale of the Trojan family, who have long embraced the notion that they are the chosen people of the world. The story takes a transformative turn when Harry Trojan returns home after twenty years in New Zealand, bringing with him the rich ideals of democracy learned through hard work. He becomes the wooden horse, ushering in a wave of foreign concepts that challenge the familys egotism and foster a deeper sense of humanity among them. With vivid imagery of the old Trojan house perched on the windswept Cornish cliffs, surrounded ...

Immerse yourself in The Secret City, a gripping first-person narrative that unfolds across three captivating parts. Journey through the tumultuous landscape of post-World War I Russia, where our hero embarks on a voyage in 1916, only to be swept into the heart of the Revolution. Amidst the chaos of Civil War and economic despair, haunting memories of a more luxurious life linger in his mind, painting a poignant backdrop to his struggles and discoveries.

In Hjalmar Johansons captivating 1926 novel, we meet Harmer John, a young, idealistic Swedish bodybuilder drawn to the enchanting cathedral town of Polchester. Simplified by the locals, his name becomes a symbol of hope and transformation. Envisioning a healthier, more beautiful community, Harmer John opens a gym to inspire the townsfolk to embrace fitness and well-being. However, his ambitious dreams clash with the interests of greedy slumlords who profit from the impoverished residents. As he faces xenophobia, jealousy, and hostility, Harmer John emerges as a modern-day Francis of Assisi—a...

Dive into the unsettling world of a father whose sanity teeters on the edge of sadism, a man trapped within a dark spirit of malevolence. This compelling 1925 novel by a keen observer intricately navigates the complexities of human nature and morality. – Summary by David Wales

Dive into Hugh Walpoles captivating 1927 novel, the final installment in the Jeremy series, following the adventures of young Jeremy as he navigates life at a boarding school. Set in the fictional English cathedral town of Polchester, this story explores the complexities of adolescence—the blend of mischief and heroism that defines boyhood. Walpole himself acknowledged the challenges of writing a school story, emphasizing the unique sentiments that only those who experience this tumultuous time can truly express. Join Jeremy as he faces the trials of growing up, friendships, and his one ...

Dive into the poignant tale of alienation and entrapment as experienced by a young woman whose seemingly ordinary life is abruptly upended. Journey with her through a maze of restrictive social circles and unfulfilled romantic dreams, all while grappling with the shadows of her upbringing. (Summary by Peter Tucker)

In the vibrant world of early 20th-century London high society, spirited Rachel finds herself torn between two very different suitors her disowned cousin Francis Breton, whose unpredictable nature challenges her, and the reliable yet dull Roddy Seddon, who comes from wealth and privilege. After choosing Roddy, their marriage quickly begins to unravel, forcing Rachel to confront her feelings for Francis once more. Looming over their lives is the formidable Duchess, Rachels grandmother, who has her own plans for the family and favors Roddy. Adding to the complexity is Lizzie Rand, the secretary ...

This is an annotated verison of the originsal book and includes the author's biography as well as a study guide. Welcome to the 2019 historical review of The Thirteen Travellers. This edition is produced as the original title is outside of copyright. Please enjoy in the spirit in which is it produced.

Vanessa Paris is besotted with Benji, the devil-may-care son of John and Elizabeth Herries. Despite returning her all-consuming passion, Benji will not commit himself to marriage because he fears he can never remain constant and will eventually betray her. Benji's actions finally prompt Vanessa to leave Cumbria and seek a life in London. She stays at Hill Street with the ever persistent Ellis, who worships her.

Rogue Herries tells the story of the larger-than-life Francis Herries, who uproots his family from Yorkshire and brings them to live in Borrowdale, where their life is as dramatic as the landscape surrounding them.

Proud, violent, and impetuous, he despises his first wife, sells his mistress at a county fair, and forms a great love for the teenage gypsy Mirabell Starr. Alongside this turbulent story, runs that of his son David, with enemies of his own, and that of his gentle daughter, Deborah.

Join young Jeremy and his loyal dog Hamlet in this charming exploration of life in a quaint English cathedral town. Published in 1923, this is the second installment of Hugh Walpole’s semi-autobiographical trilogy. As Jeremy navigates childhood alongside his two sisters, Helen and Mary Cole, the narrative captures the warmth and humor of youth. One commentator beautifully described the first books appeal it not only evokes nostalgia for adults but also offers children a heartfelt experience with relatable characters and delightful moments. Dive into this enchanting tale that resonates with ...

This captivating 1926 collection features sixteen thought-provoking essays on religion by prominent figures of the early 20th century, primarily authors. Originally published in The London Daily Express, the anthology includes the insights of notable writers such as Arnold Bennett, Hugh Walpole, and Rebecca West, alongside esteemed personalities like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Israel Zangwill. Join us on a reflective journey through their diverse perspectives on faith and spirituality, as compiled by David Wales.

Dive into the world of Mr Perrin and Mr Traill, a gripping tale set in a grim, old-fashioned boarding school in Cornwall. The story unfolds the intense rivalry between the seasoned master, Mr. Perrin, and the fresh-faced Mr. Traill, whose arrival sparks a series of unfortunate events. As their animosity escalates, it leads to devastating consequences that reveal the haunting realities of life in a repressive educational environment. Experience the authors vivid portrayal of the stifling atmosphere that affects not only the teachers but the students and the entire community. - Summary by Simon ...

In Green Mirror, the Trenchard family, led by the formidable Mrs. Trenchard, enjoys a seemingly idyllic life together. However, their tranquil existence is disrupted when Katherine, the cherished daughter, falls for Philip, a man with a mysterious past who has just returned from Russia. His intentions to marry Katherine threaten to unravel the delicate fabric of their family dynamic. To buy time, Philip and Katherine agree to delay their wedding for a year, but as secrets emerge and tensions rise, the family begins to fracture. With wit and warmth, this story explores the complexities of love,...