Showing results by author "Mary Elizabeth Braddon" in All Categories

From the author of The Christmas Hirelings comes this Audible Exclusive production of Mary Elizabeth Braddon’s classic sensation novel Lady Audley’s Secret. English actress Olivia Poulet gives an assured and captivating narration; a cornerstone of the genre and a scandal at the time of its publication, Lady Audley’s Secret is an entertaining and shocking tale of high drama and shifting perceptions.

If you drive through the Lady's Mile, the most fashionable district in London, you will see people whose most distinguished ambition was to be known in that circle. A novelist, a painter, and some aristocrats, willing to prove themselves to the world. But what happens behind closed doors? Is the Lady's Mile as respectable as it seems? - Summary by Stav Nisser.

This is one of the Victorian “Sensationist” Mary Elizabeth Braddon's many novels (best known among them: “Lady Audley’s Secret”). It is extremely well written, fluid, humorous and, in places, self-mocking: one of the main characters is a Sensation Author. The motifs of the-woman-with-a-secret, adultery, and death are classic “sensationist” material. Yet this is also a self-consciously serious work of literature, taking on various social themes of the day. Specifically, Braddon presents the psychological struggle and cognitive dissonance which are the inevitable plight of the ...

A heartwarming festive tale of redemption and cheer, The Christmas Hirelings is the story of a lonely widower who reluctantly invites a group of children to his manor for Christmas. It showcases the benefits of opening your doors and hearts during the holiday season.

Mary Elizabeth Braddon was one of the most important and influential female novelists of the 19th Century, and the founder (alongside Wilkie Collins) of the popular 'sensation fiction' genre. This collection features her best-known novel, Lady Audley's Secret, a thrilling tale of bigamy, murder and arson that outraged Victorian society on its first release—and was an instant bestseller. Also included are two atmospheric short stories and an edition of Sensational Women exploring her life and work.

Only 15-years-old, Eleanor Vane is very happy with her lot: educated in an expensive finishing school in Paris, the apple of her father's eye, and disposed to be kind. Of course there are things missing: she does not remember her mother who died when she was young. But at least she has her father... Until he unexpectedly dies. Now Eleanor is at the mercy of her half-siblings who were never in touch with her, and the rest of the world who would consider her an orphaned beggar. Sent to work as a lady's companion to an old friend of her late father's, Eleanor might, just might, be able to win a ...

Aurora Floyd is the spoiled, impetuous, but kind hearted daughter of Archibald Floyd, a wealthy banker and his wife, an actress who died shortly after Aurora's birth. As a teenager she is sent away to finishing school in Paris. This is volume two of the story which tells of Aurora's life with her husband John Mellish. This is a story of love, murder and the search for justice. - Summary by Michele Eaton

A selection of 17 classic stories of horror and the supernatural by some of the greatest writers in the genre. This compilation includes a mix of well-known classics by authors such as Charles Dickens and M. R. James, alongside several unjustly overlooked gems by less familiar names who were hugely popular and prolific in their day.

Cunning. Corrupt. Charismatic. The degenerate characters in this collection shun conventional morality, and will stop at nothing to get what they want... These five sensational dramas, set in locations ranging from 16th century Venice to Victorian England, revolve around their unscrupulous actions – and the devastating consequences of the choices they make.

A chilling collection of classic gothic horror and ghost stories adapted or written by women In this breathtaking collection of gothic horror and eerie tales, draw the curtains and pull the blankets close for two classic Victorian horror tales in new adaptations, Dracula starring Nicky Henson...

Sir John Penlyon is planning to spend Christmas at his estate with his niece and his friend Danby, the closest thing he has to family since disowning his daughter years ago. (She eloped with the parson, who was, of course, penniless.) Danby suggests that at Christmastime the estate needs the presence of small children, and offers to find some - the “hirelings” - despite Sir John’s skepticism. Three children duly arrive, and the youngest, precocious four year-old Moppet, quickly endears herself to Sir John.

This story revolves around Gilbert Fenton, a very talented middle class businessman from London, who falls in love with a beautiful country woman far below his station. He decides to marry her anyway. But is she all that she seems? (Summary by Stav Nisser.)

Sybil, a gentlewoman who has to work for a living, finally finds employment as her rich uncle's house keeper. Nothing could be better: she would finally have an easy job in which she is treated well, and inherit her uncle's money after his death. But then she falls in love with the wrong man. When her uncle is poisoned, suspicion falls upon her. How would she be able to clear her name? What really happened to her uncle? This is a first rate murder mystery, for fans of Wilkie Collins. Yet it is also a story about love: family love, romantic love, and the love we bear for our community. - ...

A novel written in three volumes. In the golden age of steam, the London train wends its way across the Tamar into the strange and mystic land that is Cornwall, having left most of its length at Plymouth. A weary doctor gazes at the countryside, when the train grinds to a halt and his professional attention is demanded. A young woman. An apparent suicide. Who was she? What brought her to Cornwall? What drove her to kill herself? Or did she? - Summary by Lynne Thompson

It is June 1857, and young and beautiful Lucy Graham is about to marry Sir Michael Audley. But who exactly IS Lucy, that's what Sir Michael's nephew, Robert, wants to know. She was a governess to Mr. Dawson, true. And prior to that, she was in service with Mrs. Vincent. But who is she? - Summary by Mark Leder

John Traverton goes to visit his uncle Jasper. Jasper wishes John to marry his adopted daughter, Laura. If he does so within one calendar year, he will inherit everything. Sounds simple? Guess again. To say "complications" and "obstacles" are put in the way would be a gross understatement. - Summary by Mark Leder

Dive into a captivating tale crafted by one of the foremost authors of the Victorian sensational novel. This story seamlessly weaves together elements of murder, greed, madness, secrets, and romance, ensuring a thrilling experience. The characters are intricately connected, each bringing their own unique flavor to the narrative. With Braddons expertly layered plot, youll find just the right amount of suspense to keep you engaged until its gratifying conclusion. - Summary by Celine Major

As you journey through the prestigious Ladys Mile, Londons most fashionable district, youll encounter individuals driven by the desire to shine within this elite circle. A novelist, a painter, and some aristocrats are all eager to make their mark on the world. But what secrets lie behind the façade of respectability? Is Ladys Mile as glamorous as it appears? - Summary by Stav Nisser.

In the heart of a county rife with gossip and hidden truths lies Darnel Park, home to the enigmatic Darnel family, whose secrets run deep. When an assassination attempt on Sir Allan Darnel sets off a chain of misunderstandings and unexpected revelations, the family finds itself grappling with the return of an estranged son and the arrival of a mysterious fiancée. As they scramble to keep these developments under wraps, they must also contend with the relentless Scotland Yard detective brought in to uncover the truth. - Summary by Adrienne Prevost.

Step into a captivating Victorian world where romance intertwines with mystery and murder. This classic sensation novel, richly infused with passion and intrigue, promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. - summary by Celine Major