The Mary Elizabeth Braddon Library
Books & Literature
About
Welcome, dear listener, to The Mary Elizabeth Braddon Library. A chamber of secrets, a gallery of restless hearts, and a lantern-lit corridor of whispered confessions. Here, behind the drawn curtain and within the quiet walls of respectable houses, you shall find what polite society would rather leave undiscovered: hidden marriages, perilous affections, fortunes won and lost, and heroines whose beauty is rivalled only by their resolve. In these pages, love is seldom safe, innocence is not always pure, and the past is never so thoroughly buried as one might wish.
Episodes
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 32 - Ways and Means
Chapter 32 of Phantom Fortune details the transformation of Lady Maulevrier's spirit, leading to a close bond with Mary Haselden and hope for Mary's marriage to Mr. Hammond. The episode touches upon trust, simple living, and the lingering…
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 31 - Kind is My Love To-day, To-morrow Kind'
Chapter 31 follows Mary's engagement to John Hammond, detailing the gentle unfolding of her family's hopes and disappointments. Lady Maulevrier shares tender confidences with Mary, reflecting on love and societal changes.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 33 - By Special Licence
Chapter 33 of Phantom Fortune details Lady Maulevrier organizing Mary and John Hammond’s wedding. John’s true identity and family treasures are revealed as Mary reflects on love and duty before the ceremony.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 30 - Roses Choked Among the Thorns and Thistles'
Chapter 30 of Phantom Fortune follows Lady Lesbia as she navigates social demands and mounting debts, receiving counsel to conceal her financial issues during London's season. She contemplates her position and the cost of maintaining appea…
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 29 - Swift, Subtle Post, Carrier of Grisly Care'
Chapter 29 of Phantom Fortune sees Lesbia Haselden dealing with societal expectations and family affairs. Her composure is challenged by the sudden discovery of her substantial debts.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 28 - Clubs, Diamonds, Hearts, in Wild Disorder Seen'
Chapter 28 follows Lesbia as she is drawn into social events, where she meets admirers and experiences whispered intrigues. Despite the glamorous setting, financial anxieties begin to affect her.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 26 - Proud Can I Never Be of What I Hate'
In Chapter 26 of Phantom Fortune, Lady Lesbia Haselden contemplates societal pressures and romantic illusions during an afternoon at Hurlingham. She considers her ideals against the practicalities of social ambition, influenced by Lady Kir…
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 27 - Lesbia Crosses Piccadilly
In Chapter 27 of "Phantom Fortune," Lady Lesbia and Lady Kirkbank attend a social gathering at Mr. Smithson's residence. The episode features a tense exchange that suggests underlying family secrets and social ambitions.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 25 - Carte Blanche
In Chapter 25, Lady Kirkbank introduces the wealthy Lady Lesbia Haselden to London society, navigating its social intricacies and admirers. Despite the dazzling events and the attention of Mr. Smithson at Ascot, Lady Lesbia's heart remains…
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 23 - A Young Lamb's Heart Among the Full-Grown Flocks'
In Chapter 23, Mary enjoys the warmth of new love and anticipates a reunion, while subtle hints of future challenges emerge. Her time at Fellside is marked by an encounter with an enigmatic old man.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 24 - Now Nothing Left to Love or Hate'
In Chapter 24, a kind young lady finds and befriends a lonely elderly relative living in her household, overcoming the objections of a strict steward.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 22 - Wiser than Lesbia
In Chapter 22, Lady Mary returns from a dangerous journey and announces her engagement to Mr. Hammond. Despite her grandmother's disapproval, she receives consent, setting the stage for their future.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 20 - Lady Maulevrier's Letter-Bag
Chapter 20 details Lady Maulevrier's entrustment of her granddaughter Lesbia's societal introduction to Lady Kirkbank, amid anxieties over family secrets and Lesbia's entry into London's high society.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 19 - The Old Man on the Fell
Chapter 19 details Maulevrier's reformed life and Mary's country pursuits. Hammond becomes intrigued by a mysterious old man on the Fell, prompting a search for his backstory.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 21 - On the Dark Brow of Helvellyn
Chapter 21 follows Lady Mary as she experiences happiness with friends and undertakes a challenging ascent of Helvellyn with Mr. Hammond. Their bond deepens on the mountain amidst developing suspense and shifting elements.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 17 - And the Spring Comes Slowly Up this Way'
Chapter 17 of Phantom Fortune finds Lady Maulevrier in lonely contemplation of her life and losses. Meanwhile, her granddaughter Lesbia thrives in Cannes. The dowager, trusting James Steadman, faces the end of her life with acceptance as n…
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 16 - Her Face Resigned to Bliss or Bale'
In Chapter 16 of Phantom Fortune, Lady Mary cares for her grandmother, Lady Maulevrier, who has become physically paralyzed but mentally resolute after a sudden illness. The household adapts to this somber new reality with quiet attentiven…
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 18 - And Come Agen, Be it Night or Day'
Chapter 18 of Phantom Fortune details Lady Mary Haselden's attempts at distraction through study and walks. The arrival of Lord Maulevrier and Mr. Hammond, along with an eerie old man on the fells, adds mystery and unease to the countrysid…
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 15 - Of All Men Else I Have Avoided Thee'
Chapter 15 of Phantom Fortune features Lady Maulevrier being confronted by a mysterious Rajah concerning past accusations and disputed heritage, stirring deep emotions.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 13 - Since Painted or Not Painted All Things Shall Fade'
Chapter 13 of Phantom Fortune finds Lesbia melancholic after a seaside trip. As love and duty complexities unfold at Fellside, the arrival of Lady Kirkbank introduces external perspectives on youth and the passage of time.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 14 - Not Yet'
Chapter 14, "Not Yet," follows Lesbia's arrival at Kirkbank Castle and her grandmother's warnings about society. It also details Lady Maulevrier's quiet reflections and steadfast dignity as she observes her family from seclusion.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 10 - O Bitterness of Things Too Sweet'
Chapter 10 of Phantom Fortune reveals Lady Maulevrier's inner turmoil after a nighttime cry, while John Hammond and Lady Lesbia share a tender declaration of love amidst rural beauty, exploring themes of duty and desire.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 11 - If I Were to Do as Iseult Did'
Chapter 11 of Phantom Fortune details Lady Maulevrier's disapproval of Mr. Hammond due to his social standing, leading her granddaughter Lesbia to reluctantly end the courtship.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 12 - The Greater Cantle of the World is Lost'
Chapter 12 of Phantom Fortune details a gentleman's failed romantic quest, leading to reflection as social prudence clashes with affection.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 9 - A Cry in the Darkness
Chapter 9 of Phantom Fortune, set in the Lake District, explores youthful affection and social dynamics amidst scenic beauty. A sudden cry in the night disrupts the tranquility, suggesting hidden dangers.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 8 - There is Always a Skeleton
Chapter 8 of Phantom Fortune follows two friends as they discuss family secrets and inherited scandal during a reflective stroll through a literary village. Guarded social exchanges at Fellside highlight a subtle tension between youthful c…
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 7 - In the Summer Morning
Chapter 7 of Phantom Fortune details John Hammond's exploration of Lady Maulevrier's estate, noting its picturesque beauty and the intriguing family and household dynamics. An invitation to explore local literary heritage adds a layer of s…
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 4 - The Last Stage
Chapter 4 of Phantom Fortune details the sudden illness of Lord Maulevrier, who is confined to his chamber during a bleak winter. His wife, Lady Maulevrier, makes a midnight departure through the snow-covered hills due to the severity of h…
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 6 - Maulevrier's Humble Friend
Chapter 6 of Phantom Fortune introduces a stranger at Fellside whose humble origins and scholarly demeanor stir unease and intrigue among the residents, subtly disrupting the household's peace.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 5 - Forty Years After
Chapter 5 of Phantom Fortune details the secluded lives of two sisters at a Lake District estate, shaped by their grandmother's expectations. Their quiet world is stirred by the arrival of a brother and his companion.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 3 - On the Wrong Road
Chapter 3 of Phantom Fortune finds Lady and Lord Maulevrier on a difficult journey north. They are forced to stop at a remote inn due to a snowstorm, where Lady Maulevrier reflects on their shadowed future.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 1 - Penelope
Chapter 1 of Phantom Fortune introduces a London evening at Lord Denyer's residence, filled with guests discussing scandal and colonial intrigues. Lady Maulevrier is central as societal splendor contrasts with hidden disgrace.
- Phantom Fortune Chapter 2 - Ulysses
Chapter 2 of Phantom Fortune finds Lady Maulevrier at the Dolphin Hotel, anticipating her husband's arrival as scandal and financial ruin loom. The couple faces a strained reunion, dealing with past accusations and hoping for privacy at th…
- All Along the River Chapter 28 - Though Love And Life And Death Should Come And Go
Chapter 28 follows Isola as she grapples with duty and passion, recalling a significant event in Rome and facing a dangerous journey marked by inner turmoil and a search for safety.
- All Along the River Chapter 29 - I, You and God Can Comprehend Each Other
Chapter 29 of 'All Along the River' depicts the quiet suffering and tender watchfulness surrounding a fading life in Rome. Gentle conversations about ghosts and memories bridge love and loss, as patient care and reflections accompany the a…
- All Along the River Chapter 27 - Gone Deeper Than All Plummets Sound
Chapter 27 features Isola's confession of past loneliness and betrayal to her husband, profoundly affecting their marriage. As forgiveness is offered, a servant returns, and the episode explores somber reflections and a quest for peace.
- All Along the River Chapter 26 - So, Full Content Shall Henceforth Be My Lot
Chapter 26 details a Roman wedding shadowed by a resigned figure whose secret sorrow impacts the joyful gathering. Unspoken truths and mixed emotions weigh on the attendees.
- All Along the River Chapter 25 - We'll Bind You Fast In Silken Cords
Chapter 25 of 'All Along the River' features a household dealing with illness finding moments of hope and discussing love. Isola Disney encourages Captain Hulbert to expedite his marriage to Allegra.
- All Along the River Chapter 23 - Seek Shelter In The Shadow Of The Tomb
Chapter 23 of "All Along the River" features a meeting between Mrs. Disney and Father Rodwell near Roman tombs, where she reveals hidden sorrows and sins. The priest encourages her toward truth and forgiveness.
- All Along the River Chapter 22 - Ecco Roma
Chapter 22 follows Colonel Disney's family as they settle in Rome. Isola experiences the city's springtime beauty and finds comfort and solace while visiting the grave of the poet Shelley.
- All Along the River Chapter 24 - Oh Old Thoughts, They Cling, They Cling
In Chapter 24 of "All Along the River," the Disneys are guided through Rome by Father Rodwell. They find comfort and contemplation amidst the city
- All Along the River Chapter 19 - I Have You Still, The Sun Comes Out Again
Chapter 19 of 'All Along the River' follows Isola and Allegra's experiences on the Italian Riviera at their San Remo villa. They explore the villa's surroundings, enjoy Carnival festivities, and find comfort in poetry and each other's comp…
- All Along the River Chapter 21 - The Woods Are Round Us, Heaped And Dim
Chapter 21 of 'All Along the River' details Isola's solitary experience after a storm during an excursion. Her subsequent illness and the quiet concern of others are highlighted.
- All Along the River Chapter 20 - Thou Paradise Of Exiles, Italy
Chapter 20 of "All Along the River" sees Isola recover under the Italian sun and landscape. Allegra experiences love's uncertainties, a visitor arrives, and a Roman adventure beckons.
- All Along the River Chapter 17 - The Year Of The Rose Is Brief
Chapter 17 of "All Along the River" details Colonel Disney's efforts to improve his wife's health with expert advice and a planned trip to San Remo. The episode explores the characters' quiet hopes, anxieties, and reflections on love and d…
- All Along the River Chapter 16 - Sorrow That's Deeper Than We Dream, Perchance
Chapter 16 of All Along the River details subtle shifts in Isola's health, causing quiet anxieties among her loved ones. The episode contrasts domestic affection and social interactions with the looming uncertainty surrounding her delicate…
- All Along the River Chapter 18 - No Sudden Fancy Of An Ardent Boy
Chapter 18 depicts a Christmas Eve filled with quiet hopes and preparations for emigration. Allegra and Captain Hulbert share tender engagements, their affection deepened by a year's trial, while family bonds and past sorrows subtly influe…
- All Along the River Chapter 15 - My Life Continues Yours, And Your Life Mine
Chapter 15 follows Colonel and Mrs. Disney's quiet journey to London, marked by unspoken tensions and a fragile reconciliation. Their interactions with Mrs. Hazelrigg highlight the contrast between polite society and underlying personal st…
- All Along the River Chapter 13 - Under The Pine-Wood, Blind With Boughs
Chapter 13, titled 'Under The Pine-Wood, Blind With Boughs,' describes emerging affections and village disputes over a footpath, alongside tender domestic moments between mother and child.
- All Along the River Chapter 14 - Say The False Charge Was True
Chapter 14 features a strained dinner party where Colonel Disney confronts Mr. Crowther. Later, Disney questions his wife about her past while planning a trip to London.