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HISTORICAL FICTION

THE WHOLE TRUTH, EVEN WHEN IT HURTS

Cap'n Dan's Daughter

By Joseph C. Lincloln. Introduction by Colin Heston.

Cap’n Dan’s Daughter* by Joseph C. Lincoln is a heartwarming and humorous novel set in the fictional Cape Cod town of Trumet. The story follows Captain Dan Dott, a retired sea captain who now runs a struggling dry goods store, and his family, particularly his ambitious wife Serena and their clever daughter Gertrude. Captain Dan is a simple, good-natured man who finds himself increasingly overwhelmed by the pressures of domestic life and the social aspirations of his wife, who is determined to elevate the family’s status in the community. Serena’s ambitions are fueled when the family receives news of an inheritance from a wealthy relative, which she sees as their ticket to a more refined and prominent lifestyle.

As Serena pushes the family into a more genteel social circle, she becomes increasingly controlling and obsessed with appearances, dragging Captain Dan along with her plans despite his discomfort. Gertrude, however, sees through the pretensions and recognizes the strain it places on her father. She devises a clever plan to gently undermine her mother’s social climbing and restore a sense of balance and authenticity to their lives. Her scheme, while well-intentioned, nearly backfires, leading to a series of misunderstandings and comic situations that test the family’s unity and resilience.

Throughout the novel, Lincoln’s affection for Cape Cod and its people shines through. He populates the story with colorful local characters and infuses the narrative with regional dialect, humor, and a deep sense of place. The novel explores themes of family loyalty, the tension between tradition and change, and the importance of staying true to oneself. In the end, the Dott family comes to a deeper understanding of what truly matters, finding contentment not in wealth or social standing, but in love, honesty, and the enduring bonds of family.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. 222p.

Cape Cod Stories

By Joseph C. Lincoln . Designed and Edited by Colin Heston.

*Cape Cod Stories* by Joseph C. Lincoln is a charming collection of short stories that vividly captures the spirit, humor, and character of life in small-town Cape Cod at the turn of the 20th century. The stories are narrated by a local character, often Cap’n Jonadab or his friend, and revolve around the fictional town of East Wellmouth, a stand-in for the many quaint villages that dot the Cape. Each tale is steeped in the dialect, customs, and eccentricities of the region, offering a nostalgic and affectionate portrayal of New England coastal life. The collection includes stories such as “Two Pairs of Shoes,” “The Count and the Manager,” “The South Shore Weather Bureau,” “The Dog Star,” “The Mare and the Motor,” “The Mark on the Door,” “The Love of Lobelia ’Ankins,” “The Meanness of Rosy,” “The Antiquers,” “His Native Heath,” and “Jonesy.” These stories often center on humorous misunderstandings, romantic entanglements, and the clash between tradition and modernity. For example, in “The Mare and the Motor,” the arrival of a newfangled automobile causes a stir in the community, leading to a series of comic events that highlight the tension between old ways and new technologies. In “The Count and the Manager,” a visiting European nobleman becomes entangled in local affairs, revealing both the pretensions and the down-to-earth wisdom of the Cape Codders. Lincoln’s characters are often crusty but kind-hearted, with a deep sense of community and a wry sense of humor. The stories are rich in local color, with detailed descriptions of the landscape, the sea, and the rhythms of daily life. Lincoln’s prose is warm and engaging, drawing readers into a world where values like honesty, hard work, and neighborliness prevail. While the stories are light-hearted and often comedic, they also reflect deeper themes of change, identity, and the enduring strength of community bonds. Through these tales, Lincoln preserves a way of life that was already beginning to fade, offering readers both entertainment and a poignant reminder of the past.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. p.144.

Big Mogul

By Joseph Crosby Lincoln. Edited with an Introduction by Introduction by Colin Heston

The Big Mogul is a warm, character-driven novel set in a small New England town, where the rhythms of coastal life and the intricacies of human relationships unfold with gentle humor and emotional depth. The story centers on Foster Townsend, a wealthy, proud, and somewhat cantankerous man who is grappling with the loneliness that has settled over his life following the death of his beloved wife. His grand mansion, once filled with warmth and companionship, now feels hollow and cold. In an effort to fill this emotional void, he considers inviting his estranged niece, Esther, to live with him. Esther, who has been raised by her aunt Reliance after the death of her parents, represents a potential new beginning for Foster, though he is unsure how to bridge the emotional distance between them.

As the narrative unfolds, the novel explores the evolving relationship between Foster and Esther, marked by moments of awkwardness, affection, and gradual understanding. Their interactions are shaped by Foster’s brusque demeanor and Esther’s quiet resilience, and the story gently reveals how both characters begin to heal and grow through their connection. The novel also delves into the broader community dynamics of the town, where long-standing feuds, gossip, and the quirks of small-town life add texture and humor to the story. A subplot involving young love between members of two feuding families adds a layer of romantic tension and serves as a counterpoint to the more mature emotional journey of Foster and Esther.

Lincoln’s writing is imbued with a nostalgic affection for Cape Cod and its people, and he paints his characters with a blend of realism and idealism that makes them both believable and endearing. The novel resists the darker currents of contemporary naturalist literature, instead offering a comforting vision of human decency, reconciliation, and the possibility of renewal. Through its gentle pacing and focus on character over plot, The Big Mogul invites readers to reflect on the importance of family, the pain of loss, and the quiet joys of rediscovered connection.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. p.261p.

“The Story of a Lie”: The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson, Vol. 21

By  Robert Louis Stevenson. Edited by Colin Heston

“The Story of a Lie” is one of Cs earliest works of fiction, first published in 1879 and later included in Volume XXI of the Swanston Edition of his collected works. Though lesser known than his major novels, this short novella is a significant piece in Stevenson’s literary development, showcasing his early experimentation with moral themes, psychological conflict, and narrative form.

The story centers on Dick Naseby, a young man of artistic temperament and idealistic values, who becomes entangled in a web of deception involving his friend Edward Langham and Langham’s romantic interest, Esther Warriston. Langham, a man of weak character and social ambition, fabricates a noble identity to win Esther’s affection. Dick, initially complicit in the lie out of loyalty, soon finds himself morally compromised and emotionally conflicted as the consequences of the deception unfold.

At its core, The Story of a Lie is a moral fable—a study of how even well-intentioned falsehoods can spiral into destructive outcomes. Stevenson explores the psychological burden of dishonesty, the tension between personal integrity and social expectation, and the painful awakening that often accompanies disillusionment. The narrative is compact but layered, with Stevenson’s characteristic wit and insight into human nature already evident.

Stylistically, the novella reflects Stevenson’s early prose—elegant, precise, and tinged with irony. Though the plot is relatively simple, the emotional and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters give the story depth and resonance. It also anticipates themes that would recur in Stevenson’s later works, such as dual identity, moral ambiguity, and the conflict between appearance and reality. Though not as widely read as Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde or Treasure Island“The Story of a Lie” remains a compelling and thought-provoking piece, valuable for its literary craftsmanship and its exploration of timeless ethical questions.

The Swanston Edition presents The Story of a Lie with scholarly annotations and contextual commentary, situating it within Stevenson’s broader literary career and the Victorian literary landscape. As part of Volume XXI, it is accompanied by other shorter works and essays, offering readers a fuller view of Stevenson’s range and evolution as a writer. Other works included in this volume are: Olalla, A Fragment, Heathercat, The Great North Road, The Young Chevalier, and Fables  .

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Australia-Philadelphia. 2025. 190p.

St. Ives: Being the Adventures of a French Prisoner in England: Vol. 20. The Works of R. L. Stevenson.

By R. L. Stevenson. Edited by Colin Heston.

“St. Ives: Being the Adventures of a French Prisoner in England” is an unfinished historical romance by Robert Louis Stevenson, posthumously Vol. XX published and included in Volume XX of the Swanston Edition of his collected works. Begun in 1893 during Stevenson’s final years in Samoa, the novel was left incomplete at his death in 1894 and later finished by Arthur Quiller-Couch, a respected British writer and editor.

Set during the Napoleonic Wars, St. Ives follows the escapades of Viscomte Anne de Keroual de St. Ives, a dashing and witty French officer who is captured and imprisoned in Scotland. The novel opens with his internment at Edinburgh Castle, from which he eventually escapes, embarking on a series of adventures across the British countryside. Along the way, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, including fellow prisoners, eccentric aristocrats, and a romantic interest, Flora Gilchrist, whose loyalty and courage become central to the story.

Thematically, St. Ives explores identity, honor, and the absurdities of war, all delivered with Stevenson’s characteristic blend of humor, irony, and narrative flair. The protagonist’s aristocratic pride and gallant demeanor are frequently tested by the unpredictable circumstances of exile and captivity, offering a light-hearted yet insightful commentary on the nature of heroism and national rivalry.

Although the novel remains incomplete in Stevenson’s hand—he wrote approximately thirty chapters before his death—Quiller-Couch’s continuation, based on Stevenson’s notes and stylistic cues, brings the story to a satisfying conclusion. The transition between authors is handled with care, though literary scholars often distinguish between the two parts in terms of tone and polish.

The Swanston Edition presents St. Ives with critical apparatus, including editorial notes and historical context, allowing readers to appreciate both the literary qualities of the work and the circumstances of its creation. As a late work, it reflects Stevenson’s enduring fascination with adventure, character, and the interplay between personal freedom and historical forces.

“St. Ives” stands as a testament to Stevenson’s narrative gifts and his ability to infuse even unfinished tales with charm, wit, and enduring appeal. It offers a unique glimpse into the author’s creative process and remains a valuable piece of his literary legacy.

This volume has been carefully edited and redesigned by Colin Heston, a renowned novelist and storyteller, to make the book more enjoyable and comprehensible to the modern reader.

Read-Me.Org Inc. Australia-New York-Philadelphia. 2025. 245p.

The Ebb-Tide: A Trio and Quartette: The Works of R.L.S. Volume XIX

By  Robert Louis Stevenson and Lloyd Osbourne, Edited by Colin Heston.

“The Ebb-Tide: A Trio and Quartette” is a dark, psychologically complex novella co-written by Robert Louis Stevenson and his stepson Lloyd Osbourne, first published in 1894. Included in Volume XIX of the Swanston Edition of Stevenson’s collected works, this tale marks one of the final literary efforts of Stevenson’s life and reflects his mature style—gritty, morally ambiguous, and deeply engaged with the human condition.

Set in the South Pacific, a region Stevenson had come to know intimately during his later years, The Ebb-Tide follows three disgraced and destitute Europeans—Herrick, Davis, and Huish—who find themselves stranded in Tahiti. When they are offered the chance to captain a cargo schooner, the Farallone, they seize the opportunity, only to discover that the ship is carrying a mysterious and morally troubling cargo. Their journey soon spirals into a tale of greed, betrayal, and existential crisis, culminating in a confrontation with Attwater, a charismatic and enigmatic missionary who lives alone on a remote island.

The novella is notable for its psychological depth and moral complexity. Each character represents a different facet of human weakness—cowardice, cruelty, and self-deception—and Stevenson explores how these traits play out under the pressures of isolation and lawlessness. The tropical setting, far from being idyllic, becomes a backdrop for moral decay and spiritual reckoning. The story’s title, The Ebb-Tide, metaphorically suggests the retreat of moral certainty and the erosion of personal integrity.

Stylistically, the work is lean and intense, with Stevenson’s prose sharpened by his collaboration with Osbourne. The narrative is driven by suspense and philosophical inquiry, raising questions about redemption, colonialism, and the nature of evil. It is often seen as a companion piece to Stevenson’s earlier South Seas fiction, such as The Beach of Falesá, but it is darker and more introspective in tone.

The Swanston Edition provides this novella with critical annotations and historical context, situating it within Stevenson’s broader literary and biographical trajectory. As one of his final works, The Ebb-Tide offers a powerful and unsettling vision of the human soul adrift—both literally and morally—on the margins of empire and civilization.

Read-Me.Org Inc. Australia-New York-Philadelphia. 2025. 216p.

The Black Arrow: A Tale of the Two Roses

By R. L. Stevenson. Edited by Colin Heston

"The Black Arrow: A Tale of the Two Roses" is a historical adventure novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, first published in 1888. Set during the tumultuous period of the Wars of the Roses in 15th-century England, the story follows the young protagonist, Richard Shelton. Richard is caught in the conflict between the houses of York and Lancaster, and his journey is marked by themes of loyalty, betrayal, and revenge. The novel begins with Richard discovering that his guardian, Sir Daniel Brackley, is involved in treacherous activities. As Richard seeks justice for his father's murder, he joins forces with a band of outlaws known as the Black Arrow. The leader of the outlaws, John Amend-All, becomes a key ally in Richard's quest. Throughout the narrative, Richard faces numerous challenges, including battles, escapes, and romantic entanglements with Joanna Sedley, a young woman disguised as a boy. Stevenson's vivid descriptions and fast-paced plot make "The Black Arrow" a captivating read. The novel seamlessly combines elements of adventure, romance, and historical fiction, offering readers a thrilling portrayal of medieval England and its intricate political landscape.

Volume VIII of the Swanston Edition of "The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson" continues to showcase Stevenson's literary versatility. This volume typically includes a mix of his essays, short stories, and other writings, reflecting his wide-ranging interests and talents. The Swanston Edition is renowned for its comprehensive and authoritative compilation of Stevenson's works, providing readers with an in-depth exploration of his literary contributions. Each volume in this series highlights Stevenson's ability to engage readers with his storytelling prowess across various genres and styles. This volume has been carefully edited and redesigned by Colin Heston, a renowned novelist and storyteller, to make the book more enjoyable and comprehensible to the modern reader.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York, Philadelphia, Australia. 2025. 178p.

Prince Otto

by Robert Louis Stevenson (Author), Colin Heston (Editor)

Volume VII of the Swanston Edition of "The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson" continues to present a diverse collection of Stevenson's literary output. This volume typically includes a mix of his essays, short stories, and other writings, reflecting his wide-ranging interests and talents. The lead piece, "Prince Otto", was first published in 1885. The story is set in the fictional Germanic principality of Grünewald and follows the titular character, Prince Otto Johann Friedrich. Otto is a well-meaning but somewhat ineffectual ruler, whose reign is marked by political intrigue and personal dilemmas. The novel explores themes of power, responsibility, and personal growth as Otto grapples with his duties as a prince and his relationships with those around him, including his wife, Princess Seraphina, and his scheming ministers. "Prince Otto" is notable for its blend of romance, adventure, and political satire, showcasing Stevenson's versatility as a writer.

This volume has been carefully edited and redesigned by Colin Heston, renowned novelist and story writer, to make the book more comprehensible to the present-day reader.

The Body Snatcher

By R.L. Stevenson. Edited by Colin Heston

Volume 3 of the works of Robert Louis Stevenson is a fascinating collection that showcases his versatility as a writer. This volume includes the chilling short story "The Body Snatcher" and the insightful essays in "Familiar Studies of Men and Books."

"The Body Snatcher" is a macabre tale that delves into the dark world of grave robbing and medical ethics. Set in 19th-century Scotland, the story follows Fettes, a medical student, and his involvement with the unscrupulous Dr. Wolfe Macfarlane. The duo engages in the illegal practice of body snatching to supply cadavers for anatomical study. Stevenson's narrative is rich with suspense and horror, exploring themes of guilt, morality, and the consequences of one's actions. The story's climax is particularly haunting, leaving readers with a lingering sense of dread and contemplation about the darker aspects of human nature.

"Familiar Studies of Men and Books" is a collection of essays in which Stevenson examines the lives and works of various literary figures and thinkers. Through these essays, Stevenson offers his reflections on the personalities and contributions of individuals such as Victor Hugo, Robert Burns, and Walt Whitman. His writing is characterized by a blend of critical analysis and personal insight, revealing his deep appreciation for literature and the human condition. Stevenson’s essays are not merely biographical; they are thoughtful explorations of the impact these figures had on their respective fields and on Stevenson himself. The essays are marked by Stevenson's eloquent prose and his ability to connect with readers on an intellectual and emotional level.

Overall. Volume 3 of Stevenson's works is a testament to his literary prowess, combining the eerie and gripping narrative of "The Body Snatcher" with the reflective and scholarly essays in "Familiar Studies of Men and Books." This volume highlights Stevenson's ability to traverse different genres and themes, offering readers a rich and varied reading experience. Through his storytelling and essays, Stevenson continues to captivate and provoke thought, making this collection a valuable addition to his oeuvre.

Read-Me.Org. Australia. 2025. 185p.

Plain Living: A Bush Idyll

By Rolf Boldrewood

Plain Living: A Bush Idyll is a captivating tale that delves into the simple yet profound world of rural life. Written in exquisite detail, the novel follows the journey of Sarah, a young woman who leaves the hustle and bustle of the city to seek solace in the peaceful countryside. As she immerses herself in the beauty of nature and the warmth of community, Sarah discovers a deeper connection to the land and its inhabitants.

Through lyrical prose and vivid descriptions, the author paints a rich portrait of life in the bush, intertwining themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Plain Living invites readers to slow down, appreciate the small moments, and find joy in the quietude of rural living. A poignant and heartfelt narrative, this book is a celebration of simple pleasures and the enduring spirit of the human heart.

Macmillan, 1898, 316 pages

Bethel and Aurora: An Experiment in Communism as Practical Christianity

By Robert J. Hendricks

A FEW families near the then struggling town of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in 1844 went to the wilderness of Missouri and began building Bethel, founded upon the principle of property and labor in common. They adopted a constitution. They brought into community use money, livestock, machinery, implements and tools to the value of $30,802.75. Most came empty handed. They held to- gether under their original leader slightly more than thirty-three years. In that time they built four towns; they sent five covered wagon companies across the plains, and about a hundred members by way of Panama. They paid back in money the original amounts contributed, and they had left to divide among themselves about 23,500 acres of land and the mills, shops, stores and other personal property of three towns, worth at present day prices about three million dollars. They paid their taxes

The Press of the Pioneers: New York, 1933, 353p.

Characters of the Inquisition

By William Thomas Walsh

This book is on the Inquisition, particularly the Spanish Inquisition as opposed to the Roman Inquisition in the years following the Spanish Reconquista. Walsh delves into the Inquisition, its practice, purpose, history and personalities. The Inquisition was not a bloodthirsty BDSM fest gone wild. It was a reasoned response to infiltration of the Catholic Church by enemies of the Christian Faith who pretended to be Christians in order to pervert worship, doctrine and weaken Christendom. Anyone wishing to understand the Inquisition would to well to read Characters and learn of the heroes of the Faith, Cardinal Ximenes, Torquemada, and others who fought the good fight for Jesus Christ and his Church, After reading Characters, you will never look at the Inquisition in the same way

P. J. KENEDY & SONS: PUBLISHERS NEW YORK, 2016, 312p.

Americanized Socialism: A Yankee View of Capitalism'

By James MacKaye

Socialists differ about the philosophy and the tactics of socialism, but they agree about its program. Adherence to the program therefore is the test of a socialist. Morris Hillquit, probably the best authority on orthodox socialism in America, is fully in agreement with this position, as shown by the following quotation from an article in the Metropolitan Magazine for July, 1912:

Boni and Liverright, 1918, 199p.

Devils, Demons, Death and Damnation

By Ernst and Johanna Lehner

"Throughout history, artists have grappled with the problem of depicting clearly and forcefully the principles of evil and suffering in human existence." With this view, the Lehners have collected 214 representations, symbols, and manuscript pages of devils and death from Egyptian times to 1913. Reproductions from Dürer, Holbein, Cranach, Rembrandt and many other lesser known or unknown artists illustrate the fascinating history. The 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries are stressed.

THE DOVER PICTORIAL ARCHIVES SERIES, 1971, 191p.

Man's Fate

By Andre Malraux

Both as an artist and as a man, Andre Malraux has iden- tified himself with the revolutionary forces of our time. His novels, now internationally famous, are integrated in a deliberate pattern—the epic of revolution. The ever- recurring motif of his works is that heroism and courage ennoble man and are the means by which he will ulti- mately conquer hatred and achieve beauty and peace. Born in Paris on November 3, 1901, Malraux went to Indo-China in 1921 and from there made an archeological expedition to Cambodia and Siam. In the 1925-1927 upris- ing in China he became Commissioner of Propaganda for the revolutionary government of the South. A member of the Committee of Twelve, he was active in the Canton insurrection and participated in hand-to-hand fighting. His novel of revolutionary China, Man's Fate, won the Goncourt Prize. In t933, he flew across the Great Arabian Desert and announced the discovery of the legendary city of Sheba. Since his return to France, Malraux has allied himself with the cause of the extreme Left. His last novel, Days of Wrath, turns to the European scene and deals with the terror in Nazi Germany.

Random House, 1934, 357p.

Imperial Twilight: The Story of Karl and Zita of Hungary

By Bertita Harding

*Imperial Twilight* by Bertita Harding is a historical biography that delves into the decline of the Austro - Hungarian Empire, focusing on the personal lives and political struggles of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth ("Sisi"). Harding paints a vivid portrait of the Habsburg d ynasty during its final years, capturing the grandeur and turmoil of an empire on the brink of collapse. With a rich narrative style, the book explores court intrigues, shifting alliances, and the personal tragedies that shaped the fate of one of Europe's most powerful ruling families. Harding's storytelling brings history to life, offering readers both a compelling biography and an insightful study of the forces that led to the fall of the empire.

The Bobbs-Merrill Company, 2007, 366 pages

For the Rights of Men

By Carl Carmer

We Americans are proud that the Pilgrim Fathers and the Puritans who soon followed them dared the Atlantic for the chance to worship God in their own way. Every Fourth of July, every Decoration Day, every Pioneer Picnic Day, and on the birthdays of Washington and Lincoln, our speechmakers repeat the story with a good deal of eloquent embroidery. Usually they try to give us the idea that we have had freedom of worship and the other freedoms that go with it— freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly— ever since. We are willing to cheer but we are not fooled. When we get down to brass tacks we know that the Pilgrims were human and likely at times to get excited and forget the very things they stood for—just like many of us.

Hinds, Hayden & Eldredge, 1947, 69 pages

Fool's Gold

By “The Senator from Alaska”

THE glittering particles of worthless mica found in the sands of the many streams in the West and Alaska deceived innumerable untrained prospectors who had gone out, full of hope and ambition, to locate Nature’s hidden stores of real gold. Posting their location notices and believing that they were rich beyond even the fondest dreams of avarice, they hastened to the nearest mining camp there to celebrate their good fortune in days and nights of riotous spending. When they had exhausted their available cash and much of the credit they had gained by telling of their discovery, they retired to sleep off the debauch. Upon awakening, they were informed by some old-timer that what they had found was nothing but worthless fools gold.

MADISON & MARSHALL, INC. 1936, 242p.

Farces: The Dictator, The Galloper

By Richard Harding Davis

Farces: The Dictator; The Galloper; Miss Civilization is a collection of three short plays written by American author Richard Harding Davis. Each play is a comedic farce that satirizes different aspects of society.The first play, The Dictator, is set in a fictional South American country and follows the bumbling attempts of an American journalist to overthrow the corrupt dictator and install a democratic government. The play pokes fun at American imperialism and the idea of spreading democracy through force.The second play, The Galloper, is set in a military camp during the Spanish-American War and follows the misadventures of a young officer who is more interested in impressing his girlfriend than in fighting the enemy. The play satirizes the military and the idea of war as a romantic adventure.The third play, Miss Civilization, is set in a small town in the American West and follows the arrival of a sophisticated New York socialite who tries to bring culture and refinement to the rough and tumble frontier. The play pokes fun at the idea of cultural superiority and the clash of cultures.Overall, Farces: The Dictator; The Galloper; Miss Civilization is a humorous and lighthearted collection that provides a snapshot of American society and culture at the turn of the 20th century.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.

CHARLES SCRIBNER'S SONS: NEW YORK 1906, 357p.

Tom and Maggie Tulliver

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.