Mary Elizabeth Braddon Books

A 19th-century novel about a woman who, when confronted by treachery and deceit is forced to use all her ingenuity and courage to preserve her integrity.

When beautiful young Lucy Graham accepts the hand of Sir Michael Audley, her fortune and her future look secure. But Lady Audley's past is shrouded in mystery, and to Sir Michael's nephew Robert, she is not all that she seems. When his good friend George Talboys suddenly disappears, Robert is determined to find him, and to unearth the truth.

Exploring Victorian anxieties surrounding the domestic sphere, the narrative delves into themes of deception and identity. It draws parallels to the infamous Constance Kent case of 1860, which captivated the public's attention. The story intricately weaves suspense and societal commentary, highlighting the complexities of gender roles and moral dilemmas in a rapidly changing society.

The beauty of the child-like Lady Audley would suggest that she has no secrets. Combining the elements of the detective novel, the psychological thriller and the romance of upper class life, this sensation novel uncovers the truth about the heroine in a plot involving bigamy, arson and murder

With Lady Audley's Secret, Mary Elizabeth Braddon had established herself, alongside Wilkie Collins and Mrs Henry Wood, as one of the ruling triumvirate of `sensation novelists'. Aurora Floyd, following hot on its heels, achieved almost equal popularity and notoriety. P.D. Edwards's introduction evaluates the novel's leading place among `bigamy-novels' and Braddon's treatment of the power struggle between the sexes, as well as considering the similarities between the author and her heroine.

The narrative centers on Isabel Sleaford, a woman married to a devoted but dull physician. Her contentment is disrupted when she encounters a literary figure who matches her intellectual interests. As Isabel navigates the complexities of her emotions and desires, the story explores her journey toward maturity, paralleling the dramatic elements found in her beloved literature. First published in 1864, this reimagining of Madame Bovary employs a layered storytelling approach, blending themes of love, ambition, and self-discovery.

Set in the atmospheric backdrop of flickering candlelight, this collection features chilling stories from renowned Victorian writers such as Sheridan Le Fanu, Catherine Crowe, and Mary Elizabeth Braddon. Each tale captures the eerie essence of the era, showcasing the authors' mastery in crafting suspenseful narratives that delve into the supernatural and the uncanny. These haunting stories reflect the Victorian fascination with the mysterious and the macabre, inviting readers into a world of ghostly encounters and psychological intrigue.

This volume offers a faithful reprint of the original 1867 edition, preserving the quality and content of the early work. It provides readers with a glimpse into the historical perspectives on birds of prey, showcasing the author's insights and observations from that time. The book is ideal for enthusiasts of ornithology and history alike, reflecting the enduring fascination with these majestic birds.

Delve into a collection of ghostly tales crafted by some of the most celebrated authors from the 19th and 20th centuries. This anthology offers a diverse array of eerie narratives that explore themes of the supernatural and the unknown, providing readers with hours of captivating and chilling reading experiences. Each story showcases the unique style and imagination of its author, ensuring a rich and haunting literary journey.