Tales and Novels — Volume 05   By: Maria Edgeworth (1767-1849)

"Tales and Novels — Volume 05" by Maria Edgeworth is a delightful collection of short stories that showcase the author's wit, humor, and keen insight into human nature. Each story is unique and engaging, drawing the reader in from the very first sentence.

Edgeworth's characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their lives and dilemmas. The themes explored in these tales are timeless and thought-provoking, touching on issues such as love, morality, class, and societal norms.

What sets this collection apart is Edgeworth's ability to blend moral lessons with entertaining storytelling. The stories are not preachy or didactic, but instead offer subtle reflections on human behavior and the consequences of our actions.

Overall, "Tales and Novels — Volume 05" is a charming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of classic literature and those interested in exploring the intricacies of human relationships. Maria Edgeworth's storytelling talent shines through in this collection, making it a must-read for lovers of the genre.

First Page:

"I am more grieved than I can express, my dearest Miss Walsingham, by a cruel contre temps , which must prevent my indulging myself in the long promised and long expected pleasure of being at your fête de famille on Tuesday, to celebrate your dear father's birthday. I trust, however, to your conciliating goodness, my kind young friend, to represent my distress properly to Mr. Walsingham. Make him sensible, I conjure you, that my heart is with you all, and assure him that this is no common apology. Indeed, I never employ such artifices with my friends: to them, and to you in particular, my dear, I always speak with perfect frankness and candour. Amelia, with whom, entre nous , you are more a favourite than ever, is so much vexed and mortified by this disappointment, that I see I shall not be restored to favour till I can fix a day for going to you: yet when that may be, circumstances, which I should not feel myself quite justified in mentioning, will not permit me to decide... Continue reading book >>