By George Eliot (author) and Colin Heston (AI assisted editor)

This book is a substory of Tom and Maggie Tulliver featured in Eliot's "The Mill on the Floss". (1860) Tom and Maggie are the children of Mr. and Mrs. Tulliver, who own and operate Dorlcote Mill near the fictional town of St. Ogg's. From an early age, the siblings exhibit starkly different temperaments and aspirations. Tom, the elder of the two, is pragmatic, responsible, and somewhat rigid in his moral outlook. He possesses a strong sense of duty and loyalty to his family but is also unforgiving and often harsh in his judgments. He takes after his father in his belief in tradition and financial security, and he grows into a young man deeply committed to restoring the family's honor after they suffer economic ruin.

Maggie, in contrast, is deeply emotional, imaginative, and intellectually curious. She is an ardent reader with a keen mind and an inclination toward philosophical reflection. However, her passionate nature and nonconformist tendencies put her at odds with the rigid expectations of her time, particularly regarding women's roles in society. Throughout the novel, Maggie struggles with her desire for personal fulfillment while also yearning for familial love and acceptance. Her deep affection for her brother is a defining aspect of her character, yet it is also a source of great pain, as Tom's strict moral code and inability to understand her inner struggles create tension and estrangement between them. George Eliot's portrayal of Tom and Maggie Tulliver is remarkable for its depth and psychological complexity. Through them, she explores the difficulties of familial duty, the limitations imposed by rigid social structures, and the yearning for personal freedom. Their story, filled with moments of tenderness, misunderstanding, and ultimate reconciliation, continues to resonate with readers, making *The Mill on the Floss* one of Eliot's most enduring and emotionally powerful works.

Read-Me.Org Inc. 2015. 80p.

By George Eliot. Introduction by Colin Heston.

Discover the timeless classic Silas Marner by George Eliot, a heartwarming tale of redemption and the transformative power of love. Follow the journey of Silas Marner, a reclusive weaver whose life is turned upside down when he loses his treasured gold and finds an unexpected treasure in a golden-haired child named Eppie. Set in the quaint village of Raveloe, this novel beautifully explores themes of community, isolation, and the true meaning of wealth and happiness. With richly developed characters and a compelling narrative, Silas Marner is a story that will captivate and inspire readers of all ages.

First published in 1861 by William Blackwood and Sons. This edition Read-Me.Org Inc. 2025.149p.

By Joseph Lincoln

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Cape Cod, this enchanting novel introduces you to Judson Green, a lovable and eccentric character whose antics and adventures are as unpredictable as the tides. Judson, with his peculiar habits and endearing personality, becomes the heart and soul of his small coastal town. His interactions with the townsfolk, each with their own unique quirks, create a tapestry of humor, warmth, and genuine human connection. As you turn the pages, you'll find yourself laughing at Judson's comical escapades, feeling the warmth of his friendships, and rooting for him as he faces life's challenges with unwavering optimism. The story beautifully captures the essence of community spirit, the importance of kindness, and the simple joys that make life meaningful.

"Queer Judson" is more than just a tale of one man's journey; it's a celebration of the human spirit, filled with rich descriptions of Cape Cod's scenic beauty and the vibrant lives of its inhabitants. This timeless classic is perfect for readers who cherish heartwarming stories and unforgettable characters.

First published in 1925 by D. Appleton and Company.. This edition Read-Me.Org Inc. 2025.

By George Meredith

This book, first published in 1859, is a novel that explores the complexities of human nature and the consequences of rigid educational systems. The story centers around Sir Austin Feverel, who devises a strict educational plan known as "the System" to raise his son, Richard, in isolation from the corrupting influences of society. Despite Sir Austin's efforts, Richard falls in love with Lucy Desborough, a girl of lower social standing, leading to a series of tragic events. The novel delves into themes of love, passion, and the limitations of authoritarian control, offering a critical examination of contemporary attitudes toward education and sexuality.

Meredith's work is notable for its rich psychological analysis and lyrical prose, significantly contributing to Victorian literature. The novel's exploration of the father-son relationship and the impact of societal expectations on individual lives is both poignant and thought-provoking. "The Ordeal of Richard Feverel" was controversial at the time of its publication, with some readers finding its content prurient, leading to its ban by leading lending libraries. Despite this, it has endured as a classic, praised for its depth and literary merit.

First published by Chapman & Hall in a three-volume set. 1859. This edition Read-Me.Org Inc. 2025. 320p.

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Danielle Steel

Danielle Steel's 38th novel creates a powerful, moving portrayal of families divided, lives shattered, and a nation torn apart by prejudice during a shameful period in recent American history. On February 19, 1942, President Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, giving the military the power to remove Japanese-Americans from their communities at will. Silent Honor tells of Masao Takashimaya and his family, as they fight to stay alive amid the drama of life and death in the internment camp at Tule Lake.

Doubleday. Australia. 1996. 342p.

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Melissa Manning

"Smokehouse" is a gripping tale that follows the lives of three individuals brought together by a mysterious fire that engulfs a small town. As they navigate through loss, guilt, and secrets buried in the ashes, their paths intertwine in unexpected ways, revealing dark truths and igniting buried desires. Set against the backdrop of a hauntingly beautiful landscape, this novel weaves together elements of suspense, romance, and redemption, leaving readers on the edge of their seats until the final page. "Smokehouse" is a compelling exploration of human nature and the intricate ways in which our past can shape our present.

Brisbane. University of Queensland Press. 2021. 248p.

By Franz Kafka. Translated by David Wyllie

From Wikipedia: Metamorphosis (German: Die Verwandlung) is a novella written by Franz Kafka which was first published in 1915. One of Kafka's best-known works, Metamorphosis tells the story of salesman Gregor Samsa, who wakes one morning to find himself inexplicably transformed into a huge insect (German: ungeheueres Ungeziefer, lit. "monstrousvermin") and subsequently struggles to adjust to this new condition. The novella has been widely discussed among literary critics, with differing interpretations being offered. In popular culture and adaptations of the novella, the insect is commonly depicted as a cockroach.

With a length of about 70 printed pages over three chapters, it is the longest of the stories Kafka considered complete and published during his lifetime. The text was first published in 1915 in the October issue of the journal Die weißen Blätter under the editorship of René Schickele. The first edition in book form appeared in December 1915 in the series Der jüngste Tag, edited by Kurt Wolff.[1]

Leipzig. Kurt Wolff Verlag . 1915. 49p. CONTAINS MARK-UP

By Henry James

From Wikipedia: The Wings of the Dove is a 1902 novel by Henry James. It tells the story of Milly Theale, an American heiress stricken with a serious disease, and her effect on the people around her. Some of these people befriend Milly with honourable motives, while others are more self-interested. Plot summary:

Kate Croy and Merton Densher are two betrothed Londoners who desperately want to marry but have very little money. Kate is constantly put upon by family troubles, and is now living with her domineering aunt, Maud Lowder. Into their world comes Milly Theale, an enormously rich young American woman who had previously met and fallen in love with Densher, although she has never revealed her feelings. Her travelling companion and confidante, Mrs. Stringham, is an old friend of Maud. Kate and Aunt Maud welcome Milly to London, and the American heiress enjoys great social success…….

By Henry James

From Wikipedia: The story of Washington Square by Henry James is told with a nuanced perspective of characters with individual rationalizations and sometimes undisclosed motivations. There is a subtle ambiguity to the internal logic of the participants in the story and none are altogether depicted as outright villainous.

In 1840s New York City, naive, introverted Catherine Sloper lives with her respected physician father, Dr. Austin Sloper, in Washington Square, a then newly established neighborhood near Greenwich Village. After the deaths of his wife and son, Dr. Sloper raises Catherine with his widowed sister, Mrs. Penniman, who is charged with Catherine's education. Although never disclosed directly to Catherine, the Doctor does not hold her personality or appearance in high regard, finding her a cheap substitute for her mother. This evaluation is never challenged in the narrative and Catherine is depicted as a simple, reserved individual……

NY. Harper. 1880. 266p.

By Henry James

From Wikipedia: The Portrait of a Lady is a novel by Henry James, first published as a serial in The Atlantic Monthly and Macmillan's Magazine in 1880–81 and then as a book in 1881. It is one of James's most popular novels and is regarded by critics as one of his finest.

The Portrait of a Lady is the story of a spirited young American woman, Isabel Archer, who, "affronting her destiny,"[1] finds it overwhelming. She inherits a large amount of money and subsequently becomes the victim of Machiavellian scheming by two American expatriates. Like many of James's novels, it is set in Europe, mostly England and Italy. Generally regarded as the masterpiece of James's early period,[2] this novel reflects James's continuing interest in the differences between the New World and the Old, often to the detriment of the former. It also treats in a profound way the themes of personal freedom, responsibility, and betrayal.

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  Isabel Archer, from Albany, New York, is invited by her maternal aunt, Lydia Touchett, to visit Lydia's rich husband, Daniel, at his estate near London, following the death of Isabel's father. There, Isabel meets her uncle, her friendly invalid cousin Ralph Touchett, and the Touchetts' robust neighbor, Lord Warburton. Isabel later declines Warburton's sudden proposal of marriage. She also rejects the hand of Caspar Goodwood, the charismatic son and heir of a wealthy Boston mill owner. Although Isabel is drawn to Caspar, her commitment to her independence precludes such a marriage, which she feels would demand the sacrifice of her freedom…….

By Charles Dickens

From Wikipedia: “The story concerns Paul Dombey, the wealthy owner of the shipping company of the book's title, whose dream is to have a son to continue his business. The book begins when his son is born and Dombey's wife dies shortly after giving birth. Following the advice of Mrs Louisa Chick, his sister, Dombey employs a wet nurse named Mrs Richards (Toodle). Dombey already has a six-year-old daughter Florence, but, bitter at her not having been the desired boy, he neglects her continually. One day, Mrs Richards, Florence, and her maid, Susan Nipper, secretly pay a visit to Mrs Richards' house in Staggs's Gardens so that Mrs Richards can see her children. During this trip, Florence becomes separated from them and is kidnapped for a short time by Good Mrs Brown, before being returned to the streets. She makes her way to Dombey and Son's offices in the City and there is found and brought home by Walter Gay, an employee of Mr Dombey, who first introduces her to his uncle, the navigation instrument maker Solomon Gills, at his shop The Wooden Midshipman. The child, named Paul after his father, is a weak and sickly child….”

London. Bradbury & Evans. 1848.

By Mrs. Craik.

The action is centred on the town of Tewkesbury, scarcely disguised by the fictional name Norton Bury, in Gloucestershire. The story is narrated by Phineas, a friend of the central character. John Halifax is an orphan, determined to make his way in the world through honest hard work. He is taken in by a tanner, Abel Fletcher, who is a Quaker, and thus meets Phineas, who is Abel's son. John eventually achieves success in business and love, and becomes a wealthy man. (Wikipedia)

London: Ward, Lock and Co. 1856. 449p.

By Oliver Goldsmith.

“When Dr Primrose loses his fortune in a disastrous investment, his idyllic life in the country is shattered and he is forced to move with his wife and six children to an impoverished living on the estate of Squire Thornhill. Taking to the road in pursuit of his daughter, who has been seduced by the rakish Squire, the beleaguered Primrose becomes embroiled in a series of misadventures–encountering his long-lost son in a travelling theatre company and even spending time in a debtor’s prison. Yet Primrose, though hampered by his unworldliness and pride, is sustained by his unwavering religious faith. In The Vicar of Wakefield, Goldsmith gently mocks many of the literary conventions of his day–from pastoral and romance to the picaresque – infusing his story of a hapless clergyman with warm humour and amiable social satire.”

J.C. Krieger and Company, 1828 300p.