Books matching: 19th century philadelphia
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- #1
Save:Gritty, classic, and surprisingly relevant, The Financier is a rich exploration of ambition and corruption - best for those ready to sink into a detailed historical epic instead of a beach read.
The Financier by Theodore Dreiser is a gripping tale set in late 19th century Philadelphia, chronicling the life of Frank Cowperwood, a ruthless businessman solely focused on amassing wealth. The story delves into Cowperwood's unethical dealings, which eventually lead to his imprisonment, and his subsequent resurgence in Chicago alongside his equally self-centered girlfriend, Aileen. Dreiser's writing style expertly weaves together elements of finance, corruption, and human nature, offering a captivating exploration of the darker side of ambition and greed in American society.
The Philadelphia into which Frank Algernon Cowperwood was born wasa city of two hundred and fifty thousand and more. It was set withhandsome parks, notable buildings, and crowded with historic memorie...1911•488 pages - #2
Save:A fast-paced, eye-opening look at a groundbreaking surgeon who helped usher medicine into the modern era. Fascinating, sometimes grisly, and perfect for anyone interested in the messy, marvelous dawn of modern surgery.
'Dr. Mutter's Marvels: A True Tale of Intrigue and Innovation at the Dawn of Modern Medicine' by Cristin O'Keefe Aptowicz is a biography chronicling the life of Dr. Thomas Dent Mutter, a pioneering American surgeon in the early 19th century. The book delves into Mutter's revolutionary contributions to modern Western medicine, including his advancements in surgical practices, aseptic techniques, and medical education. Aptowicz presents a vivid portrayal of Mutter's compassionate approach to patient care, his rivalry with colleagues, and his lasting impact on the medical field, all set against the backdrop of 19th-century Philadelphia.
The narrative style of 'Dr. Mutter's Marvels' reads like a work of fiction, making it accessible and engaging for readers with no medical background. The author skillfully weaves together historical facts and personal anecdotes to paint a lively picture of Mutter's life and the medical practices of his time. Through captivating storytelling, Aptowicz brings to light the fascinating journey of Dr. Mutter, from his innovative surgical techniques to his dedication to improving the lives of patients, ultimately highlighting his significant role in shaping modern medicine.
Even in the middle of the ocean, Mütter could not get her out of his mind. He excused himself early from dinner, stopped well-meaning conversationalists mid-sentence, and rushed down to his sleeping q...September 2014•381 pages - #3
Save:A quirky and refreshing YA blend of zombies, steampunk, and Victorian drama - with a plucky heroine you'll root for. Not quite The Walking Dead, but a delight for fans of historical paranormal adventures.
Something Strange and Deadly is a historical fiction novel set during the 1876 Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition, where the dead rise from Chapel Hill Cemetery, leading the protagonist Eleanor Fitt to seek the help of the Spirit Hunters in fighting off zombies and a necromancer. The story follows Eleanor's journey to find and save her brother, intertwining elements of mystery, romance, and steampunk contraptions in a fast-paced and fun read that incorporates a mix of science and magic.
I’d heard of corpses awakening—hungry and dangerous though still quite dead. The purpose of bells in coffins was, after all, to warn us; but if the word on the street was true, then in the last week m...2012•413 pages - #4
Save:A dazzling, challenging, and slyly funny anti-romance - perfect for readers who love their historical fiction dark, witty, and a little bit weird. Persevere past the slow start and you'll be rewarded with a one-of-a-kind literary adventure.
A Bloodsmoor Romance is a gothic novel set in the 19th century, following the Zinn sisters in the Bloodsmoor Valley. The book explores themes of repression, violence, and societal norms, all interwoven with elements of the supernatural and fantastical. Narrated in an antiquated style, the story delves into the lives of the characters, their struggles, and the intricate plot twists that keep readers engaged. The author, Joyce Carol Oates, skillfully blends satire with homage to 19th-century literature, creating a unique and captivating narrative that challenges traditional romantic tropes.
Our history of the remarkable Zinn family, to end upon the final bold stroke of midnight, December 31, 1899, begins some twenty years earlier, on that beauteous September afternoon, in the golden haze... - #5
Save:A solid, entertaining historical mystery with a smart twist of romance and self-discovery. Not the most intricate thriller, but delightful for fans of strong-minded heroines and Victorian escapades.
"And Only to Deceive" by Tasha Alexander follows the story of Lady Emily Ashton, a young widow who embarks on a journey to uncover the truth about her late husband's life and death. Through exploring her husband's interests in Greek antiquities and his mysterious past, Lady Emily finds herself entangled in a web of deceit and secrets. Set in Victorian England, the novel combines elements of mystery, romance, and historical fiction, offering readers a glimpse into upper-class society and the struggles faced by independent women during that era. The plot unfolds as Lady Emily navigates through societal expectations, uncovers art forgeries, and grapples with the complexities of love and loss.
The writing style of Tasha Alexander in "And Only to Deceive" is described as engaging, light, and entertaining by readers. features a strong and complex heroine, Lady Emily, who evolves from a seemingly shallow character to a determined investigator, challenging the norms of her time. The narrative is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers engaged as Lady Emily delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding her husband's life, ultimately leading to unexpected revelations and discoveries.
FEW PEOPLE WOULD LOOK KINDLY ON MY REASONS FOR marrying Philip; neither love nor money nor his title induced me to accept his proposal. Yet, as I look across the spans of Aegean Sea filling the view f...2005•358 pages - #6
Save:A moody, clever start to a historical mystery series that will suit fans of atmospheric, character-driven whodunnits - especially if you don’t mind a leisurely pace and a cast of suspects straight out of a Golden Age murder weekend.
In "This Side of Murder" by Anna Lee Huber, the story follows Verity Kent, a war widow and former Secret Service agent, who receives an invitation to an engagement party on an isolated island with her late husband's friends. As the party progresses, mysterious deaths occur, leading Verity to uncover wartime secrets and murders while navigating a web of deception and betrayal. The plot is filled with tension, suspense, and historical details, offering a thrilling mystery set in post-WWI England.
The narrative is engaging with a complex plot that keeps readers guessing until the end. The character of Verity Kent is well-developed, portraying a strong and determined heroine who faces challenges and uncertainties while unraveling a sinister mystery. The writing style combines elements of romance, intrigue, and historical fiction, creating a compelling read that delves into themes of trust, loyalty, and the aftermath of war.
You might question whether this is all a ruse, whether I truly have anything to reveal. But I know what kind of work you really did during the war. I know the secrets you hide. Why shouldn’t I also kn...September 2017•302 pages - #7
Save:A smart, atmospheric, and engaging historical whodunit with a memorable heroine and just the right touch of romance - perfect if you like your mysteries with emotional depth, even if the ending isn't pitch-perfect. Great start to a series!
In "The Anatomist's Wife," Lady Kiera Darby, a talented artist haunted by scandal, finds herself entangled in a murder investigation at her sister's estate in Scotland. As suspicions swirl around her, she teams up with Sebastian Gage, an inquiry agent, to uncover the truth behind the mysterious death of a houseguest. The book weaves together historical details, romance, and a complex mystery set against the backdrop of 19th-century high society, showcasing Lady Darby's resilience and investigative skills alongside Gage's charm and expertise.
The story unfolds with Lady Darby navigating societal scorn and her own troubled past, all while delving into the intricacies of the murder case alongside Gage. Through Lady Darby's voice and observations, readers are drawn into a tale of intrigue, courage, and budding romance, as the duo races against time to solve the murder before official authorities arrive at the remote estate, blending elements of forensic detection and historical mystery in a captivating narrative.
The scream froze me in my tracks, but the shout that followed propelled me out of my indecision and around the hedge line of the maze. Lady Lydia Perkins continued to shriek at ear-piercing levels whi...November 2012•366 pages - #8
Save:A lively, clever Victorian mystery with a boldly unconventional heroine - delightful for fans of snark and slow-burn partnerships, but might feel over-the-top to historical purists. Worth a try if you like your sleuths smart, sassy, and a little bit wild.
In 'A Curious Beginning', we follow Veronica Speedwell, an independent and bold Victorian adventuress with a passion for collecting butterflies. After the death of her guardians, Veronica finds herself entangled in a mystery surrounding her parentage. With the help of a cast of unique characters like the enigmatic Stoker, Veronica navigates through danger, murder, and intrigue in Victorian England while unraveling the secrets of her past. The book is a mix of historical fiction, mystery, and adventure, with a fast-paced plot that keeps readers engaged and entertained.
The writing style in 'A Curious Beginning' is described as witty, humorous, and engaging, drawing readers into Veronica's world of scientific quests, daring escapades, and unexpected twists. The characters, especially Veronica and Stoker, are well-developed and dynamic, with their evolving relationship adding depth to the narrative. The book offers a fresh take on the Victorian mystery genre, blending elements of romance, suspense, and humor to create an enjoyable and captivating story for readers.
I stared down into the open grave and wished that I could summon a tear. Violent weeping would have been in exceedingly poor taste, but Miss Nell Harbottle had been my guardian for the whole of my lif...September 2015•377 pages - #9
Save:An immersive, atmospheric start to a Victorian mystery series with memorable characters and plenty of heart - perfect for historical fiction and cozy mystery fans alike.
'Death Below Stairs' by Jennifer Ashley is the first book in the 'Kat Holloway Mysteries' series, set in 1881 London. The story follows Kat Holloway, a skilled cook who takes a position in the household of Lord Rankin. When her assistant is found murdered, Kat delves into the mystery with the help of her friend Daniel McAdam, uncovering secrets, espionage, and a plot against Queen Victoria. The book combines elements of daily life in Victorian England, class commentary, a murder mystery, and a touch of romance, all set against the backdrop of a grand house with intriguing characters.
I must say I was not shocked that such a thing happened, because when a woman takes on the dress and bad habits of a man, she cannot be surprised at the disapprobation of others when she is found out....January 2018•350 pages - #10
Save:A must-read for anyone craving thoughtful, diverse romance with a strong sense of history - short, sharp, and full of heart.
In "Let Us Dream" by Alyssa Cole, readers are transported to 1917 Harlem, where Bertha Hines, a strong-willed nightclub owner and suffragette, falls in love with Amir Chowdhury, an Indian Muslim chef. The book delves into the challenges faced by women during the suffragette movement, the social dynamics of the time, and the struggle for equality and empowerment. The writing style is described as well-researched, feminist, and engaging, with a focus on the romantic relationship between Bertha and Amir that blossoms amidst societal upheaval and personal growth.
“Hold your ear down, ‘less you wanna get burnt again.” Nell’s accent, cultivated in the rich soil of the Deep South, slipped through the racket of the hair salon on a Saturday afternoon. Her voice was...February 2017•178 pages
