Showing results by author "Charles Reade" in All Categories

The Cloister and the Hearth, a masterpiece by Charles Reade published in 1861, is a captivating picaresque novel set against the backdrop of 15th century Europe. It weaves the poignant tale of Gerard Eliason, an artist turned priest, and Margaret Brandt, the daughter of a humble scholar, exploring the tumultuous conflict between family loyalty and religious devotion that plagued many lives during the medieval era. Reades meticulous research offers readers an unparalleled glimpse into the lifestyles and morals of the time, enriched by vivid character portrayals—many inspired by real ...

Dive into the 15th century with Cloister and the Hearth, a gripping tale of Gerald Eliassoen, a young scribe and illuminator. Fleeing from persecution by a ruthless burgomaster, Gerald embarks on a harrowing journey across seven countries, searching for a means to support his family. After the tragic loss of his parents and betrayal by his brothers, who falsely claim that his beloved wife, Margaret, has died, despair drives him to the brink of suicide. Yet, in a moment of revelation, he chooses a different path and embraces life as a friar. Join Gerald as he navigates love, loss, and ...

Ships at anchor reared their tall masts, here and there; and the broad stream was enlivened and colored by junks and boats of all sizes and vivid hues, propelled on the screw principle by a great scull at the stern, with projecting handles for the crew to work; and at times a gorgeous mandarin boat, with two great glaring eyes set in the bows, came flying, rowed with forty paddles by an armed crew, whose shields hung on the gunwale and flashed fire in the sunbeams.

Written in 1861 but taking place in the fifteenth century, this picturesque historical novel by Charles Reade follows the story of a young scribe and illuminator named Gerard Eliason. In order to escape persecution, Gerard sets out on a journey from Holland to Rome, leaving behind the woman he loves, Margaret. Along the road Gerard meets a colorful cast of characters—including various historical figures—and explores the conflict between a person’s obligation to family versus the church.

"The Box Tunnel" tells the story of a bet between two soldiers, travelling on a train across Britain, in the spring of 1847, that one of them will not manage to kiss one of the two other ladies travelling in the carriage. One of these ladies is pretty, the other rather unattractive. The young soldier takes up the bet, and when the train reaches the box tunnel, just after Swindon, he commits the outrage on the delicious young Miss Haythorne. This ungentlemanly conduct cannot be allowed to go unpunished....

A wonderful collection of classic stories on the theme of love. A must-listen for the incurable romantic.

It Is Never Too Late to Mend is an action-packed novel blending adventure, romance, and social commentary. When an English squire conspires against a young farmer, the latter flees to Australia’s gold fields, where he faces frontier hardships, prison cruelty, and the struggle for justice.