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The Greatest Heiress in England

By Mrs. Oliphant
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About This Book

Set in a provincial town, the narrative follows an elderly, wealthy lodger whose presence shapes the household and the lives of his relatives. Through interwoven domestic episodes the novel examines how wealth and the prospect of inheritance affect social ambition, marriage prospects, and neighborhood hierarchies. A gallery of subtly comic and resentful characters exposes tensions between duty and self-interest, with courtship, gossip, and practical concerns driving shifts in alliances and expectations. The work balances keen observation of manners with moral reflection on comfort, pride, and responsibility.

About the Author

Oliphant, Mrs. portrait

Mrs. Oliphant

Mrs. Oliphant, a prominent Scottish author of the 19th century, is known for her extensive contributions to literature, particularly in the genres of fiction and biography. Her works often explore themes of domestic life and social issues, reflecting the complexities of her time. Among her notable titles is "A Beleaguered City," which delves into the interplay between the seen and the unseen in a small French town. Oliphant's writing is characterized by its keen observation and rich character development, making her a significant figure in Victorian literature. She also authored several multi-volume novels, including "A House Divided Against Itself," showcasing her narrative depth and versatility.

More Books by This Author

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A Beleaguered City / Being a Narrative of Certain Recent Events in the City of Semur, in the Department of the Haute Bourgogne. A Story of the Seen and the Unseen cover A Beleaguered City / Being a Narrative of Certain Recent Events in the City of Semur, in the Department of the Haute Bourgogne. A Story of the Seen and the Unseen by Mrs. Oliphant A Country Gentleman and His Family cover A Country Gentleman and His Family by Mrs. Oliphant A House Divided Against Itself (Complete) cover A House Divided Against Itself (Complete) by Mrs. Oliphant A House Divided Against Itself; vol. 1 of 3 cover A House Divided Against Itself; vol. 1 of 3 by Mrs. Oliphant A House Divided Against Itself; vol. 2 of 3 cover A House Divided Against Itself; vol. 2 of 3 by Mrs. Oliphant A House Divided Against Itself; vol. 3 of 3 cover A House Divided Against Itself; vol. 3 of 3 by Mrs. Oliphant