Far from the Madding Crowd

Thomas Hardy

Summary

Far from the Madding Crowd (1874) is Thomas Hardy's fourth published novel and his first major literary success. It was published on 23 November 1874.
The novel is set in Thomas Hardy's Wessex in rural southwest England, as had been his earlier Under the Greenwood Tree. It deals in themes of love, honour and betrayal, against a backdrop of the seemingly idyllic, but often harsh, realities of a farming community in Victorian England. It describes the life and relationships of Bathsheba Everdene with her lonely neighbour William Boldwood, the faithful shepherd Gabriel Oak, and the thriftless soldier Sergeant Troy.

Available since: 04/26/2024.

Other books that might interest you

A Versailles Christmas Tide

Mary Stuart Boyd

Step into the opulent world of Versailles during Christmastime with Mary Stuart Boyd’s charming holiday tale, The Versailles Christmas Tide. Set against the luxurious backdrop of the French palace, this story brings to life the festive celebrations, historical elegance, and enchanting customs of a bygone era. Boyd captures the wonder of the season, blending vivid descriptions of holiday decor with the timeless spirit of togetherness and joy. 
Narrated by Tiffany Perdue, this audiobook transports listeners to a magical Versailles, where Christmas comes alive with warmth and sophistication. Perdue’s narration enhances the rich atmosphere and historical details, inviting audiences into a celebration that is both lavish and heartwarming. 
Perfect for fans of classic literature, historical settings, and holiday tales, The Versailles Christmas Tide offers an immersive journey into the splendor of the season, making it an ideal listen for those who cherish timeless holiday traditions.

Show book

The Satyricon

Petronius

Petronius’ Satyricon is a rampant and vivacious Roman adventure dating back to the first century, during the reign of Nero. It follows the exploits of Encolpius, an impoverished ex-gladiator, and his boy-lover Giton. The action is fleet and the narrative sweeping: over the course of their journey we meet a host of lewd and comical rogues, including beggars, prostitutes, poets, sodomites and pedants, and witness many strange and curious events, including a remarkably vulgar multi-course feast, hosted by the pompous nouveau riche Trimalchio. Considered the Odyssey of the illicit and debaucherous, the Satyricon is an exhilarating look at the underbelly of Roman society.

Show book

The Danger Trail

James Oliver Curwood

Engineer and our hero, Jack, is directed into the depths of the Canadian wilderness to construct a train route where all of the other previous men have failed or inexplicably disappeared... From one of the masters of the adventure and western genres comes a stunning and suspenseful tale that even manages to throw in a nice all be it mysterious romance into the mix!

Show book

Sense & Sensibility

Jane Austen

"Sense and Sensibility" is a classic novel written by Jane Austen, first published in 1811. The novel is set in the early 19th century and follows the lives of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, as they navigate love, societal expectations, and financial challenges. The story unfolds when the sisters, along with their mother, find themselves in reduced circumstances after the death of their father. Due to the laws of inheritance at the time, the family estate passes to a half-brother, leaving the Dashwood women in a precarious financial situation. This change in circumstances forces the sisters to confront the realities of a society where marriage is often a woman's primary means of financial security.
Elinor Dashwood is characterized by her "sense," representing practicality and restrained emotions. In contrast, Marianne Dashwood embodies "sensibility," emphasizing emotion and romantic ideals. The novel explores how these differing approaches to life and love shape the sisters' experiences and relationships.

As the Dashwood sisters navigate the complex social landscape, they encounter a cast of characters, including potential suitors and friends. The novel delves into themes such as love, class, societal expectations, and the limitations placed on women in the early 19th century. Austen's writing is known for its wit, irony, and social commentary. "Sense and Sensibility" is no exception, as it offers a satirical portrayal of the manners and conventions of the time while providing keen insights into human nature. The novel is a delightful exploration of romance and societal norms, and it remains a beloved classic that continues to captivate readers with its timeless themes and engaging characters.

Show book

The Torrents of Spring

Ivan Turgenev

The story follows a young Russian landowner named Dimitry Sanin who falls deliriously in love for the first time while visiting the German city of Frankfurt. It is widely held as one Turgenev's greatest novels as well as being highly autobiographical in nature.

Show book

The Adventures of Huckleberry...

Mark Twain

All modern American literature comes from one book by Mark Twain called Huckleberry Finn. It's the best book we've had. - Ernest Hemingway 
A nineteenth-century boy from a Mississippi River town recounts his adventures as he travels down the river with a runaway slave, encountering a family involved in a feud, two scoundrels pretending to be royalty, and Tom Sawyer's aunt who mistakes him for Tom. 
In this unforgettable adventure for all ages, Twain delves into issues such as racism, friendship, war, religion, and freedom with an uncanny combination of lightheartedness and gravitas. 
This was the first major American novel to be written in the vernacular, a dark and funny satire that exposes the bigotry and hypocrisy of provincial America during Mark Twain's lifetime. A rite of passage for ever young reader, this book continues to delight readers around the world and remains as fresh and as funny as ever. 
The Legend Classics series:Around the World in Eighty DaysThe Adventures of Huckleberry FinnThe Importance of Being EarnestAlice's Adventures in WonderlandThe MetamorphosisThe Railway ChildrenThe Hound of the BaskervillesFrankensteinWuthering HeightsThree Men in a BoatThe Time MachineLittle WomenAnne of Green GablesThe Jungle BookThe Yellow Wallpaper and Other StoriesDraculaA Study in ScarletLeaves of GrassThe Secret GardenThe War of the WorldsA Christmas CarolStrange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr HydeHeart of DarknessThe Scarlet LetterThis Side of ParadiseOliver TwistThe Picture of Dorian GrayTreasure IslandThe Turn of the ScrewThe Adventures of Tom SawyerEmmaThe TrialA Selection of Short Stories by Edgar Allan PoeGrimm Fairy TalesThe AwakeningMrs DallowayGulliver’s TravelsThe Castle of OtrantoSilas MarnerHard Times

Show book