Showing results by author "William Locke" in All Categories

In Stella Maris, we meet a young girl named Stellamaris, who finds herself confined to her bed in the Channel House, overlooking the majestic English Channel. Cared for by her devoted elderly uncle and aunt, Sir Oliver and Lady Blount, her world brightens with the visits of two young men, journalist John Risca and actor Walter Herold. They enchant her with tales of an imaginary castle and fantastical lands, weaving dreams that momentarily transport her beyond her limitations. As time passes, Stellamaris begins to regain the use of her limbs, and the narrative unfolds the evolving relationships...

http://www.adfreebooks.com - 1000+ audiobooks, all ad free!The novel centres around four people: Gerard and Irene Merriam, their inseparable friend Hugh Colman who once saved Gerard’s life, and Minna, a Jewess. Minna throws common sense and caution to the winds in order to ensure her inheritance and the lives of all four become inextricably bound up in a story of love and ultimate tragedy.

http://www.adfreebooks.com - Explore 100's of Audiobooks ad freeViviette, a determined young woman, finds herself entangled in the affections of two brothers: Austin, a worldly and assertive barrister in London, and Dick, the quieter sibling who dutifully tends to the family estate and cares for their mother. This concise tale unravels the complexities of their relationships, culminating in an unexpected conclusion.

Three irritable curmudgeons, each successful in their respective fields, find themselves thrown together on a comically arduous journey - all at the behest of a mysterious host. Arriving at their destination, the three men find their cantankerous hearts melting in the presence of a newborn infant.

This selection of stories relates the many experiences and complexities of womanhood; sometimes joyful, sometimes sad but always enriching. With stories by Edith Wharton, Katherine Mansfield and Elizabeth Gaskell - it includes 'Ladies in Lavender' by William J. Locke, the inspiration for the film of the same name starring Judi Dench and Maggie Smith.  

A glorious collection of some of the finest British short stories ever written. The Dog – Arnold Bennet, Not On The Passenger List – Barry Pain, The Old Man’s Tale About The Queer Client – Charles Dickens, The Half Brothers – Elizabeth Gaskell, The Veiled Portrait – James McGovan, Markheim – Robert Louis Stevenson, The Bottle Imp – Robert Louis Stevenson, The Adventures Of The Kind Mr. Smith – William J. Locke, The Man Of Mystery – Barry Pain, The Brazilian Cat – Sir. Arthur Conan Doyle.

Martin Overshaw and Corinna Hastings find themselves leading mundane lives in Paris after escaping the dullness of England. Their fortunes change when they encounter Fortinbras, a self-proclaimed Marchand de Bonheur, who foretells a bright future. He invites them on an adventurous journey through France, filled with unexpected twists and colorful characters. As they navigate their path, the shadow of the First World War looms over them, adding complexity to their experiences. Despite the challenges they face, the story culminates in a heartwarming conclusion for all involved.

After the loss of her family, Olivia embarks on a quest for adventure and new experiences. She rents her home to the enigmatic Blaise Olifant, who is soon joined by his intriguing friend, Alexis Triona. Moving to London, Olivia immerses herself in the vibrant society of the city, only to cross paths with Triona once more. As Triona pens a book chronicling his mysterious past, it becomes an instant sensation, weaving together their complex relationship and the unexpected twists that follow. (Summary by Simon Evers)

When Simon de Gex, a wealthy and influential MP, learns he has a terminal illness, he resolves to make the most of his remaining months by using his power and resources for good. His primary focus becomes steering his protégé and close friend, Dale, away from a precarious relationship with the enigmatic Lola Brandt, a woman with a questionable past. This compelling narrative not only chronicles Simons noble quest but also explores the unexpected twists that arise when a medical miracle restores his health. (Summary by Simon Evers)

Set against the enchanting backdrop of a summer in Geneva, Study in Shadows explores the deepening bonds of friendship and love among a diverse group of individuals at a charming pension. Felicia, a spirited 20-year-old, forges a close friendship with the more worldly Katherine, age 30. Their tranquil summer is disrupted by the arrival of Mr. Chetwynd, an elderly gentleman, and his dashing son Raine, whose Oxford charm captivates both women. As Felicia and Katherine find themselves drawn to Raine, the story beautifully unravels the complexities of love and relationships, revealing the shadows ...

In White Dove, we follow Sylvester Lanyon, a grieving doctor struggling with the loss of his beloved wife. His young daughter, Dorothy, finds solace living with her grandfather, Matthew, in their expansive country home. A visit to his father reignites old flames as Sylvester reconnects with Ella, a childhood friend. However, while caring for a dying friend, Sylvester uncovers a shocking secret that shatters his world. In a moment of turmoil, he decides to leave his daughter and Ella behind to pursue his research in London. Meanwhile, Ellas path intertwines with Roderick, another of Sylvesters ...

In Morals of Marcus Ordeyne, we follow the life of Sir Marcus Ordeyne, a middle-aged bachelor and schoolmaster who enjoys the privileges of both wealth and title, allowing him a life of leisure. His world is turned upside down when he encounters a young girl in a London park, who has fled a Turkish harem only to find herself abandoned and destitute after her rescuers sudden death. With no clear path forward, Sir Marcus takes her into his home, leading to a series of unexpected and profound consequences. (Summary by Simon Evers)

Join the eccentric bohemian Paragot, a wandering scholar with a shadowy past, as he adopts a London street urchin named Asticot, purchasing him from his mother for just half a crown. Together, they embark on thrilling adventures across 19th century Europe, ultimately finding themselves in the vibrant streets of Paris. But as they navigate the citys charm, Paragots dark romantic history begins to resurface, threatening to change their lives forever. (Summary by Simon Evers)

In Jaffery, we delve into the intertwined lives of Hilary, the reflective narrator, and three friends he met at Cambridge. Tragedy strikes with the death of one friend, while another, Adrian, finds fame with a bestselling novel and marries the enchanting Doria. Enter Jaffery, a charismatic figure who falls head over heels for Doria at first sight. The narrative also features Liosha, a spirited Albanian widow saved from a life of servitude through Jafferys compassion, and Barbara, Hilary’s unwavering wife. As Adrian grapples with the pressure of writing his second novel, the story unfolds, ...

Dive into the captivating world of Septimus, where the intertwining lives of four unique characters unfold. Meet Zora, a young widow in search of purpose; Septimus Dix, an eccentric yet warm-hearted inventor of whimsical creations; Clem Sypher, a flamboyant businessman convinced his dubious remedy will change the world; and Emmy, Zora’s spirited younger sister and aspiring actress. Their stories intersect in unexpected ways, revealing the complexities of hope, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. (Summary by Simon Evers)

In Rough Road, we follow the journey of Doggie Trevor, a privileged young man shielded from the realities of life. As World War I erupts, Doggies world is turned upside down when he takes a commission in the Army—leading to near disastrous outcomes. Faced with the harsh truths of war, he reevaluates his life and ultimately enlists as a humble English Tommy. Through his experiences in the trenches, alongside loyal friends, Doggie navigates the challenges of combat and the complexities of love as he becomes engaged to the equally snobbish Peggy. This poignant tale captures his transformation ...

Meet Paul, a young boy from Londons gritty streets, raised by his mother and stepfather. His quest for greatness unfolds in this captivating tale, revealing that the path to success often comes with a steep price. (Summary by Stav Nisser)

Step into the enchanting world of Andrew Lackaday, an English orphan raised in the vibrant atmosphere of a French circus. As a masterful mimic and juggler, he travels the country with his spirited assistant, Elodie, a Marseillaise. However, the arrival of the Great War transforms Andrews life dramatically, propelling him to the rank of Brigadier General. After the war, he finds himself grappling with the changes that have swept through his profession. This captivating tale explores his rollercoaster journey of triumphs and challenges as he navigates a world forever altered. - Summary by Simon ...

Twenty years ago, John Balthazar, a brilliant mathematician from Cambridge, abruptly left England, driven by an overwhelming love for a woman who was not his wife. Presumed dead, he retreats to China, immersing himself in its rich culture. Two decades later, he returns incognito with his Chinese pupil, Quong Ho, to a remote farmhouse, blissfully unaware of the turmoil of the First World War. When a German zeppelin crashes nearby, shattering his peaceful existence, Balthazar is thrust back into reality. He discovers his wife has passed away, leaving behind a son—a soldier he never knew ...

Join Clementina Wing, a gifted artist in her 30s with a penchant for awkwardness, and Ephraim Quixtus, a reserved gentleman whose tranquil existence is turned upside down. Though their paths have crossed before, an unexpected twist of fate draws them together, leading to a journey filled with adventure and emotional depth. - Summary by Simon Evers