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Jane's Open Table
제인의 오픈 테이블

당신의 취향이 곧 당신의 커리어가 되는 곳
커리어, 성장, 그리고 취향이 있는 삶에 대한 따뜻한 대화를 나눕니다.

Jane's Open Table 제인의 오픈 테이블 당신의 취향이 곧 당신의 커리어가 되는 곳 커리어, 성장, 그리고 취향이 있는 삶에 대한 따뜻한 대화를 나눕니다.

오픈테이블

El podcast de Joao Figueroa

This podcast breaks down real cybersecurity incidents to understand what actually went wrong, not in theory, but in practice. Each episode analyzes a recent attack, explains the technical mechanics in clear language, and translates them into concrete lessons for security, engineering, and business teams. The focus is on operational reality, decision making under pressure, and the controls that truly reduce risk in production environments.

Cybersecurity Under Pressure. Real Attacks, Real Lessons

熟悉的聲音《Taiwan Double Bass》台語流行音樂節目， 咱又閣佇漢聲廣播電台和逐家見面囉。 新的一年，佇咧2026年 咱用音樂來交陪，好好仔用音樂， 創作精彩的2026年。 逐禮拜六，下晡四點半至五點， 阿旻邀請逐家做伙，來聽音樂人的人生故事。 Powered by <a href="https://firstory.me/zh">Firstory Hosting</a>

熟悉的聲音《Taiwan Double Bass》台語流行音樂節目， 咱又閣佇漢聲廣播電台和逐家見面囉。 新的一年，佇咧2026年 咱用音樂來交陪，好好仔用音樂， 創作精彩的2026年。 逐禮拜六，下晡四點半至五點， 阿旻邀請逐家做伙，來聽音樂人的人生故事。 Powered by Firstory Hosting

熟悉的聲音《Taiwan Double Bass》台語流行音樂節目， 咱又閣佇漢聲廣播電台和逐家見面囉。 新的一年，佇咧2026年 咱用音樂來交陪，好好仔用音樂， 創作精彩的2026年。 逐禮拜六，下晡四點半至五點， 阿旻邀請逐家做伙，來聽音樂人的人生故事。 Powered by <a href="https://firstory.me/zh" rel="noopener noreferrer">Firstory Hosting</a>

Taiwan Double Bass

A quiet place to feel, reflect, and begin again — one BTS song at a time.  Each episode explores the hidden message behind a BTS track. Not fan theories. Not gossip. Just emotional truth. From Zero O’Clock to Spring Day, we slow down. We talk healing. Loneliness. Self-love. Hope.  If you’re tired of noise and need something gentle to hold onto, this space is for you.  New episodes every week. Breathe in. Press play. Let the music remind you: you’re gonna be happy.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

A quiet place to feel, reflect, and begin again — one BTS song at a time. Each episode explores the hidden message behind a BTS track. Not fan theories. Not gossip. Just emotional truth. From Zero O’Clock to Spring Day, we slow down. We talk healing. Loneliness. Self-love. Hope. If you’re tired of noise and need something gentle to hold onto, this space is for you. New episodes every week. Breathe in. Press play. Let the music remind you: you’re gonna be happy. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

🎧 The Serendipity Space

Elysara Xylante

Scenes of Clerical Life, published in book form in 1858 after its initial serial release, marks the debut of George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Anne Evans. This collection features three poignant novellas that delve into the lives of country clergymen and their communities. Eliots fascination with these characters stems not from their religious beliefs—having moved away from traditional Christianity—but from their deeply human experiences. In these narratives, readers can discover the early emergence of Eliots distinctive narrative voice, her humanistic perspective, and the realism that would establish her as one of the most celebrated novelists of the 19th century. (Introduction by Bruce Pirie)

Scenes of Clerical Life

Rosalie Vanderpoel, the daughter of a wealthy American multimillionaire, marries an impoverished English baronet and relocates to England, effectively severing ties with her family. Years later, her younger sister Bettina—striking, intelligent, and fabulously wealthy—embarks on a journey to uncover the fate of her sister. Upon her arrival, she discovers that Rosalie is worn down and dispirited, trapped in a stifling marriage marked by her husbands cruelty. Determined to change the course of her sisters life, Bettina encounters Lord Mount Dunstan, a nobleman of noble birth but dwindling means. As they fall deeply in love, he wrestles with the fear that expressing his feelings might be perceived as a pursuit of her wealth. This story weaves a tale of romance and resilience, exploring the transformative power of American ambition and affluence on a fading English aristocracy.

Shuttle

First published in serial form between 1879 and 1880, The Brothers Karamazov stands as one of the most profound masterpieces in world literature. This final and most celebrated novel of Fyodor Dostoyevsky delves into the tumultuous relationships between a cantankerous father and his adult sons, who grapple not only with their familial conflicts but also with the existential dilemmas of truth, faith, doubt, free will, guilt, and responsibility. Dostoyevskys brilliant narrative technique highlights the complexities of attaining absolute knowledge, while the psychological and philosophical richness of the story has influenced modern literary giants like Joyce, Kafka, and Woolf. The Brothers Karamazov has captivated a diverse array of readers, from Albert Einstein and Sigmund Freud to Joseph Stalin, Vladimir Putin, and Hillary Clinton. - Summary by Bruce Pirie

Brothers Karamazov (version 3)

Bernard Langdon is on the brink of completing his medical degree when unforeseen financial troubles force him to pause his studies and seek work. Leaving Boston behind, he takes a teaching position in a quaint village school, where he encounters the enigmatic Elsie Venner—a seventeen-year-old girl shunned by her classmates due to her peculiarities and fiery spirit. Despite her isolation, Elsie captivates Langdon, drawing him into the complexities of her character. Elsie Venner is one of Oliver Wendell Holmes intriguing medicated novels, delving into the psychological depths of its characters while reflecting the vibrant local culture of Boston. Written during Holmes tenure at Harvard Medical School, the story is narrated by a medical professor, adding a unique perspective to this compelling tale. Notably, this novel is where Holmes introduced the term Boston Brahmin. - Summary by Carolin

Elsie Venner

Nestled just outside Los Angeles, the countryside is a breathtaking oasis, where the land flourishes, majestic animals roam, and tranquil natural pools beckon on warm summer days. For families like the Penningtons and the Evanses, life seems idyllic and fulfilling. Yet, beneath this picturesque facade lurks a dark reality. At Rancho Ganado, the encroaching shadows of bootlegging, drugs, and murder threaten to shatter their peace. The vices of nearby Hollywood intrude upon their serene existence, spiraling their lives into chaos and turmoil. - Summary by Joseph DeNoiaProof-listened by KevinS and linny

Girl From Hollywood

In this compelling rendition of Trollopes finest work, LibriVox reader Nicholas Clifford introduces us to the deeply flawed yet fascinating character of Josiah Crawley. This proud and tormented clergyman faces the grave consequences of his human weaknesses when he stands trial for the alleged theft of a twenty-pound cheque. The trial brings turmoil to his devoted family, particularly affecting his long-suffering wife, Mary, and their daughter, Grace, the novels romantic heroine. As Crawleys plight unfolds, he increasingly evokes the tragic figure of King Lear, lost in his own despair. Join us for a poignant exploration of pride, shame, and the complexities of human relationships. (Summary by Steve Gough)

Last Chronicle of Barset (version 2)

Dive into a poignant tale of love and innocence, crafted by one of Indias most cherished novelists and poets of the 20th century, who also served as a mentor to the legendary Rabindranath Tagore. (Summary by Czandra)

Kopal-Kundala

Are you worried that, despite your best efforts, you’re messing up your kids? Help! I’m Ruining My Kids is your invitation to trade defeat and fear for hope and joy as you follow the biblical roadmap to becoming the mom you’re meant to be. In this limited-run bonus series—created exclusively for those who pre-order—I’m sitting down with trusted friends and mentors to ask them about topics surrounding the themes in this book, hear their stories and struggles, and learn from the wisdom they’ve gleaned through years of motherhood. These conversations are full of practical help and gospel hope for lasting change.

Are you worried that, despite your best efforts, you’re messing up your kids? Help! I’m Ruining My Kids is your invitation to trade defeat and fear for hope and joy as you follow the biblical roadmap to becoming the mom you’re meant to be.In this limited-run bonus series—created exclusively for those who pre-order—I’m sitting down with trusted friends and mentors to ask them about topics surrounding the themes in this book, hear their stories and struggles, and learn from the wisdom they’ve gleaned through years of motherhood. These conversations are full of practical help and gospel hope for lasting change.

Are you worried that, despite your best efforts, you’re messing up your kids? Help! I’m Ruining My Kids is your invitation to trade defeat and fear for hope and joy as you follow the biblical roadmap to becoming the mom you’re meant to be. In this limited-run bonus series—created exclusively for those who pre-order—I’m sitting down with trusted friends and mentors to ask them about topics surrounding the themes in this book, hear their stories and struggles, and learn from the wisdom they’ve gleaned through years of motherhood. These conversations are full of practical help and gospel hope for lasting change.

Help! I'm Ruining My Kids

Forged in the eternal essence of bronze—aere perennius—the Odes of Horace encapsulate the pride, elegance, tragic whimsy, and epicurean tranquility of the Imperial Roman spirit. Memorizing just a few lines can serve as a powerful talisman, warding off the unwelcome clamor of the ordinary and the mundane. - John Cowper Powys (1916)

Odes and Carmen Saeculare

In the backdrop of the pivotal 1832 parliamentary election, Harold Transome, a landowner, rebels against his familys political legacy, much to his mother’s chagrin. Enter Felix Holt, a passionate radical whose ideals clash with the societal norms of the time. As tensions rise, a poignant love triangle unfolds involving Esther Lyon, the stepdaughter of a minister and the true heiress to the Transome estate. Torn between the allure of a stable life with Harold and her love for the impoverished yet sincere Felix, Esther must navigate the complexities of love and duty in an era marked by social upheaval. (Summary by Stav Nisser)

Felix Holt, The Radical

In Marrow of Tradition, Charles W. Chesnutt delves into the harrowing events of the 1898 Wilmington, North Carolina massacre, illuminating the deep-seated roots of racism in the post-Reconstruction South. Through a compelling exploration of miscegenation, caste, gender dynamics, and the pervasive ideology of white supremacy, he sheds light on the formation of Jim Crow laws. With unflinching honesty, Chesnutt revisits the horrific terror tactics of mob lynchings, prompting a critical reflection on Americas troubled history. (Introduction by James K. White)

Marrow of Tradition

Discover the enchanting world of Laurence Hope, the pseudonym of Adela Florence Nicolson, a British poet whose evocative verses were deeply inspired by her life in India. This captivating collection, first published in 1901, invites readers to explore the beauty and complexity of love, nature, and cultural richness through Hopes lyrical expressions. (summary by Newgatenovelist)

Garden of Kama

Step into the enchanting world of Deerbrook, a captivating three-volume novel from 1839 that unfolds the intricate tapestry of middle-class country life through the eyes of a heroic surgeon. Much like the renowned Middlemarch, this story paints a vivid portrait of the lives of rural inhabitants in a charming English town. At the heart of it all is the Grey family, residing in one of Deerbrooks most exquisite homes, facing impending changes that will alter their lives forever. The Ibbotson sisters, Hester and Margaret, are orphaned cousins of Mr. Grey, navigating the delicate social landscape of Victorian England where a womans prospects hinge on marriage. Will they find love and happiness, or will their aspirations lead them down a different path? Join us as we explore their journey of ambition and desire. (Summary by Stav Nisser and Wikipedia)

Deerbrook

Ellen Wood (1814-1887), known to many as Mrs. Henry Wood, was a prolific English novelist who penned over 30 works, with her most famous being East Lynne, a Victorian bestseller that continues to capture audiences on stage today. The story revolves around Lady Isabel Carlyle, a stunning and cultured young woman who abandons her devoted yet indifferent lawyer husband and their infant children to pursue a passionate affair with an aristocratic lover. When he ultimately betrays her, leaving her to raise their illegitimate child alone, Lady Isabel adopts a new identity and becomes a governess in the home of her estranged husband and his new wife.

East Lynne

Delve into the world of Thomas Hardys Far From The Madding Crowd, his fourth novel that intricately weaves together the lives of five unforgettable characters Gabriel Oak, Bathsheba Everdene, Mr. Boldwood, Sgt. Troy, and Fanny Robin. This compelling narrative explores themes of love, loyalty, betrayal, and the inevitability of death, all portrayed in Hardys masterful prose. The vivid imagery of both character and nature brings the story to life, while Hardys innovative use of the Greek chorus adds a unique blend of humor and momentum to the plot. Join us on this literary journey, beautifully narrated by Tadhg Hynes, with the support of proof-listeners Joy Easton and Betty M.

Far From The Madding Crowd, version 2

In the captivating tale of Guy Mannering, we meet a young astrologer fresh from Oxford, whose journey through the rugged landscapes of Scotland takes an unexpected turn. When he arrives at Ellangowan, he witnesses the birth of Godfrey Bertrams son. Using his astrological skills, Mannering glimpses a future fraught with peril for the newborn. Rather than alarm the new parents, he seals his ominous predictions in a letter, instructing Bertram to read it when the child turns five. Little does he know that his fate will become intricately entwined with that of the Bertram family, leading to a story rich with unforeseen twists and connections. - Summary by Carolin

Guy Mannering, or, The Astrologer

Set against the backdrop of early twentieth-century England, Howards End intricately weaves the lives of three families, each embodying different facets of the Edwardian middle class. The wealthy Wilcoxes, who built their fortune in the Colonies, encounter the idealistic Schlegel siblings—Margaret, Tibby, and Helen—who reflect the intellectual bourgeoisie and share a kinship with the real-life Bloomsbury Group. Meanwhile, the struggling Basts represent the lower-middle class. As the Schlegel sisters endeavor to aid the Basts and challenge the prejudices of the Wilcoxes, the poignant motto of the book, Only connect..., resonates throughout their interconnected lives.

Howards End

"Mary Barton: A Tale of Manchester Life" was Mrs Gaskell's first full-length novel. It was published anonymously in that tumultuous year of political change, 1848 - only a few months after the Communist Manifesto co-authored by her fellow Manchester-resident, Friedrich Engels. Engels's experience as agent in his father's cotton-spinning factory motivated him to write "The Condition of the Working Class in England", a classic account of the sufferings of the poor under the factory-system. Elizabeth Gaskell's own personal contact with the plight of the poor cotton workers of Lancashire also compelled her to a compassionate examination of their lives; but as a middle-class woman, married to a Unitarian minister, her approach to her subject took on a more emotionally complex significance; influenced by religious faith but also by more personal considerations. In the brief preface to the novel, Mrs Gaskell hints at her initial impulse. The loss of a beloved child in infancy led her to seek a therapeutic outlet, but one which left her uncertain of her capacity to contextualize her public, writerly response to the tragedies occurring in the surrounding society of Manchester's poorest classes: "I know nothing of Political Economy, or the theories of trade..." She was, however, determined to portray, in novelistic form, the intimate connection between the private experience of her characters and the social forces of her time. The success of the novel led her to proclaim her authorship and move on to further works of fiction, which have secured her in our times a mounting reputation as one of the leading novelists of the mid-Victorian period. Certainly the novel features numerous death-scenes, all conveyed with a depth of sympathy that contrasts with the queasy iambics with which Dickens orchestrated the notorious demise of Little Nell. Mrs Gaskell was not, like Dickens, a London-based novelist observing the sufferings of the provincial poor with a journalistic detachment - as evidenced in his own admirable, Lancashire-based novel "Hard Times". Gaskell lived among the people whose attenuated lives she chronicled - and however hesitantly, as a début novelist, she rendered their experience in literary terms, her writing presents us with a true insight into the sufferings of individuals at a point in history when the mass of human beings fell casualty to the forms of economic progress following upon the Industrial Revolution. Most impressively she called into question the political and social cost of creating a resentful proletariat despairing of survival in (to quote Karl Marx) a "heartless world". Our reader Tony Foster is a resident of Manchester and a near-neighbour of Mrs Gaskell (allowing for their separation in time). His superb narration renders the native speech of her characters with an authenticity which ideally conveys the spirit of this book. A truly moving experience awaits everyone who gives ear to this 'Tale of Manchester Life'. (Summary by Martin Geeson)

Mary Barton-  A Tale of Manchester Life (Version 2)

After a tumultuous youth and a bitter estrangement from his father, John Caldigate embarks on a journey to Australia with his friend Dick Shand, eager to strike it rich in the goldfields of New South Wales. During the voyage, he encounters the captivating Euphemia Smith, and their passionate affair unfolds aboard the ship. After facing numerous trials, Caldigate finally hits the jackpot and returns to England, where he marries the familiar Hester Bolton and welcomes a son into the world. Life seems idyllic as he positions himself as his fathers heir. However, the unexpected return of Euphemia, who claims they wed in Australia, threatens to unravel his world, branding him a bigamist and casting doubt on his sons legitimacy. (Summary by Simon Evers)

John Caldigate

Dive into the enchanting world of “The Jolly Parisiennes” by Émile Zola, a captivating romance woven with threads of political intrigue and societal commentary. This clever tale follows the lively heroines, Louise Neigeon and Berthe Gaucheraud, who embody the spirit of Parisian elegance and vivacity. Their charm and grace shine brightly as they navigate the complexities of love and friendship, leaving the young provincial hero, George de Vaugelade, utterly mesmerized. Alongside memorable characters such as a socialite Countess, the jaded Felix Budin, the rotund politician Gaucheraud, and the enigmatic Monsieur Neigeon, this novel is a delightful exploration of a unique Parisian milieu. With several additional novelettes showcasing Zolas signature style, this collection promises to engage and entertain readers from all walks of life.

Jolly Parisiennes and Other Novelettes

At just eleven years old, Jude Fawley is inspired by his teacher, Mr. Phillotson, who leaves their small village of Marygreen to pursue a university degree in Christminster. Determined to follow in his footsteps, Jude studies diligently with the help of old Latin and Greek texts gifted by his mentor. He trains as a stonemason to support himself while striving for higher education. However, upon arriving in Christminster, he quickly realizes that opportunities are scarce for someone of his humble background. As he falls in love with his cousin Sue Bridehead, Judes life becomes a tumultuous journey that challenges his moral, religious, and social beliefs. Upon its release, this novel sparked considerable controversy in late Victorian England due to its frank discussions of marriage and religion. Critically panned at the time, it ultimately prompted Hardy to shift his focus from novels to poetry for the remainder of his career. Today, it stands as one of Hardys greatest achievements and a pinnacle of English literature. Summary by T.Hynes.

Jude the Obscure (Version 2)

In this captivating volume, youll discover true stories of courage and resilience, meticulously arranged in chronological order to enhance your understanding of the historical context surrounding each tale. While many names featured here can be found in any encyclopedia, the remarkable stories of Peter Williamson and John Tanner stand out. Peter Williamson, kidnapped at the tender age of eight in Glasgow, Scotland, endured a harrowing journey that led him to the Cherokee Indians in 1745. His incredible life took a turn as he became a prominent figure in England, advocating for justice and even introducing Indian war dances to British audiences. Meanwhile, John Tanner, the son of a clergyman, found himself kidnapped by Indians after a troubled childhood. Rather than escaping, John embraced his new life, remaining with the tribe until old age. His extraordinary story was dictated to others, as he never learned to read or write. Together, these accounts provide invaluable insights into early life among Native Americans. - Summary by the author

Junior Classics Volume 7-  Stories of Courage and Heroism

King Coal, penned by Upton Sinclair and first published in 1917, shines a stark light on the grim working conditions faced by coal miners in the western United States during the 1910s. Like his earlier masterpiece, The Jungle, Sinclair articulates his socialist beliefs through the eyes of Hal Warner, a protagonist ensnared in the relentless machinations of an oppressive capitalist system. This compelling narrative draws inspiration from the real-life Colorado coal strikes of 1914-1915, revealing the harsh realities of labor struggles and the fight for justice. (Summary by Wikipedia) Readers note In Book 4, there is no chapter numbered Section 16 in the public domain Gutenberg e-text. However, no actual text from the book appears to be missing.

King Coal

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.

Ladys Mile

In Legacy of Cain, sisters Eunice and Helena lead a seemingly idyllic life under the care of their father, the Reverend Abel Gracedieu. However, their world is turned upside down when buried secrets from their past begin to emerge. One sister, adopted, grapples with the haunting legacy of a mother executed for her husbands murder. As the mistress and brother of the slain man enter their lives, a gripping chain of events unfolds, forcing one sister to confront the painful truths of her heritage. Who will rise to face the darkness that looms over them? - Summary by Carolin

Legacy of Cain

Dive into the rich tapestry of human expression with The Library of the Worlds Best Literature, Ancient and Modern. This monumental collection aims to provide American households with a treasure trove of exceptional reading. Curated by dedicated editors, it spans 45 volumes—plus an index-guide—featuring the finest works from various eras and genres. Each chapter is not only a selection of poems, letters, and short stories but also includes insightful essays on the authors and themes presented. Explore diverse literary traditions, from Accadian-Babylonian tales to the enchanting world of the Holy Grail, alongside iconic figures such as Abelard, Dante, and Lord Byron. As Charles Dudley Warner aptly put it, this collection is designed not just as a reference library but as a delightful experience meant to be read. This seventeenth volume showcases chapters ranging from Greeley to Hawthorne. (Summary by Leni)

Library of Great Literature, Ancient & Modern Vol. 17

Set against the backdrop of the industrial revolution, this poignant novel sheds light on the harsh realities faced by child laborers in the cotton mill factories. It chronicles the struggles of Michael Armstrong, a young boy thrust into a world of grueling work and exploitation. Aimed at raising awareness about the plight of countless infant laborers in northern mill towns, this powerful narrative is both a brave and honest portrayal of a dark chapter in history. Though it faced its share of criticism, it remains a forgotten gem that will resonate with fans of classics like Oliver Twist and North and South. Prepare for a heartfelt journey that may challenge the faint-hearted. - Summary by Stav Nisser.

Life and Adventures of Michael Armstrong, the Factory Boy

Join Nicholas Nickleby on a captivating journey through the pages of Dickenss third novel, following his adventures after the beloved Pickwick Papers and Oliver Twist. This tale is filled with a vibrant cast of characters, including the villainous Wackford Squeers, whose tyrannical rule over his Yorkshire school leads to the tragic fate of many orphaned children. Meet Mr. Vincent Crummles and his hilariously clumsy touring company, the generous Cheeryble brothers, and Ralph Nickleby, Nicholas’s avaricious uncle consumed by irrational hatred for his nephew. Encounter Smike, a boy cruelly mistreated by Squeers, and Mrs. Nickleby, Nicholass overbearing mother with her genteel pretensions. With its richly drawn characters and intertwining love stories, this novel transcends genres, offering a delightful blend of comedy and romance that will continue to enchant readers today. (Summary by Peter Keeble)

Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (Version 3)

Dive into the world of Little Dorrit, one of Charles Dickens’ most profound novels, published in monthly installments between 1855 and 1857. Drawing inspiration from his fathers imprisonment in Marshalsea Prison for debt, Dickens weaves a tale that explores the depths of human experience and societal struggles. The story unfolds in the notorious Marshalsea, where we meet Mr. Dorrit, a long-term inmate, and his daughter Amy, affectionately known as Little Dorrit, who was born within the prison walls. As she grows, her kindness and resilience earn her the respect and love of her fellow inmates. Enter Arthur Clennam, who befriends the Dorrits and suspects that Mr. Dorrits imprisonment is a grave injustice linked to his own familys past. As the narrative shifts to life after Mr. Dorrits release, Arthurs journey intertwines with the fates of the Dorrit family and others, leading to unexpected twists that challenge their fortunes forever. Join us for a captivating exploration of love, loyalty, and the quest for freedom. (Summary by Mil Nicholson)

Little Dorrit (Version 2)

In Main Street, we follow the journey of Carol Milford, a spirited and progressive young woman from the vibrant city of Minneapolis. After marrying Will Kennicott, a devoted doctor with small-town roots, she relocates to the conservative and unrefined Gopher Prairie, Minnesota. Faced with the towns physical and cultural limitations, Carols initial shock transforms into a fierce determination to bring about change and challenge the status quo. Will she succeed in her quest to reshape her new home, or will the towns traditions prove too strong?

Main Street

Dive into the intriguing world of Wilkie Collins 1870 novel, Man and Wife. Set against the backdrop of a peculiar Scottish law that recognized verbal or written assertions of marriage, the story follows Arnold and Geoffrey as they navigate a tangled web of relationships. Both men inadvertently find themselves entangled with Anne, who is desperately trying to secure her reputation amidst their conflicting intentions—one is bound to another woman, while the other seeks a wealthier match. With stakes high and hearts in turmoil, Anne must find a true husband before it’s too late. Join us for a captivating exploration of love, law, and societal expectations. - Summary by Carolin and Wikipedia

Man and Wife

Martin Eden (1909) is a powerful novel by American author Jack London that delves into the life of a struggling young writer yearning for success. Originally serialized in the Pacific Monthly magazine from September 1908 to September 1909, it was later published as a book by The Macmillan Company in September 1909. This story resonates with many writers, particularly in its poignant reflection on the submission process, where Martin wonders if his manuscripts are treated by mere machines rather than human hands, often returning with rejection slips. While some readers see parallels between London and his protagonist, a key distinction lies in Martins rejection of socialism, which he critiques as slave morality, opting instead for a Nietzschean individualism. In a candid note to Upton Sinclair, London expressed that one of his aims in crafting this narrative was to challenge individualism, a theme that seems to have eluded many reviewers.

Martin Eden

In a moment of frustration and intoxication, a wayward farm-worker makes a life-altering decision by selling his wife and child to a stranger. This marks the beginning of The Mayor of Casterbridge, a poignant tale set against the backdrop of rural England in the mid-1800s. Hardy referred to this narrative as the story of a man of character, and the protagonist, Michael Henchard, stands out as one of the most compelling figures in English literature. Henchards complex personality and his tragic flaws mirror the essence of a Greek or Shakespearean hero—his fierce determination matched only by his profound failures. The novel explores the tensions between personal ambition, the shadows of the past, and the inexorable forces of circumstance within a transforming society. (Summary by Bruce Pirie)

Mayor of Casterbridge (version 2)

Dive into the intricate world of Middlemarch A Study of Provincial Life, a timeless novel by George Eliot, the pen name of Mary Anne Evans. Written during a period of personal turmoil, this is Eliots seventh novel, which she began in 1869 and later revived after a brief hiatus. Serialized between 1871 and 1872, it became an immediate sensation upon its first one-volume release in 1874. Set in the imaginative Midlands town of Middlemarch during the early 1830s, the novel weaves together multiple narratives and a rich tapestry of characters. It explores profound themes such as the status of women, the complexities of marriage, the tension between idealism and self-interest, as well as the challenges of political reform and education. With its leisurely pace and subtly didactic tone, Eliots narrative invites readers to reflect deeply on the social fabric of their time. (Summary by Wikipedia)

Middlemarch (version 2)

In Mr Hogarths Will, sisters Jane and Elsie Melville grow up under the guidance of their kind-hearted yet quirky uncle, Mr Hogarth. Believing in the equality of the sexes, he provides them with a boys education. However, upon his passing, they are stunned to discover that their entire inheritance has gone to a previously unknown son, leaving them with only a modest allowance. With no choice but to carve out their own futures in a society that expects them to settle for roles as governesses, will these determined young women be able to thrive and challenge the norms that seek to confine them? (summary by Karen Savage)

Mr Hogarths Will

In the wake of his wifes abandonment, Sir Austin Feverel is determined to raise his son, Richard, under a rigid educational regime that influences every facet of his life. Yet, Richard yearns for independence, craving the freedom to make his own choices, experience love, and ultimately chart his own path. This compelling narrative explores the tumultuous conflict between a fathers controlling nature and a sons desire for autonomy. Once deemed too candid and sexually explicit for its time, this novel has garnered admiration from literary giants such as E. M. Forster, Oscar Wilde, and Virginia Woolf, solidifying its place as a significant work in literary history. - Summary by Stav Nisser and Wikipedia

Ordeal of Richard Feverel

Charles Dickens final complete novel, published serially between 1864 and 1865, opens with a captivating twist of fate for John Harmon, heir to a fortune left by his wealthy dust contractor father. To inherit this wealth, John must marry Bella Wilfer, a woman he has never met. As he returns from a forced exile, he confides in a shipmate who has sinister intentions, resulting in a deadly encounter that leaves John presumed dead. With the fortune now in the hands of Mr. Boffin, Harmons former foreman, John assumes the identity of John Rokesmith and takes a job working for Boffin. Bella initially dismisses John, but through Boffin’s well-meaning schemes, she begins to learn the true value of life beyond money and ultimately falls for her suitor disguised as Rokesmith. Meanwhile, a subplot unfolds around Eugene Wrayburn and his affection for Lizzie Hexam, intertwined with rivalries and deadly threats. With a richly diverse cast of characters and social commentary, Dickens masterfully weaves together these narratives of love, identity, and morality. (Summary written by Alan Chant).

Our Mutual Friend

Dive into Our Mutual Friend, the final novel completed by the illustrious Charles Dickens. This intricate tale, rich with plots, twists, and vivid characters, unfolds against the backdrop of the murky Thames and the opulence of high society. The story begins with a shocking discovery—a body pulled from the river by the Hexhams. From there, we follow the Boffins, a naive couple who unexpectedly inherit wealth, and their enigmatic secretary, John Rokesmith. We meet the Veneerings, eager newcomers to society, hosting lavish dinner parties for guests they barely know. Bella and Lizzie, hailing from different backgrounds, find love in surprising places, while the Lammles, a scheming couple, manipulate relationships for their gain. Two hapless lawyers, Mortimer Lightwood and Eugene Wrayburn, become entwined in dangerous intrigues, and the devious Riderhood engages in a dark plot with teacher Bradley Headstone. Betty Higden, a fiercely independent elderly woman, inspires us with her unwavering love. Dickens masterfully intertwines humor with drama, delivering a narrative full of unexpected surprises right up to the conclusion. (Summary by Mil Nicholson)

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