E. F. Benson Livres

Contains three Lucia stories: Queen Lucia, Miss Mapp, and Lucia in London. číst celé

Lucia Victrix: Mapp and Lucia, Lucia's Progress, Trouble for Lucia.

Set in the vibrant social scene of 1920s London, the story follows Lucia as she transitions from her quaint town of Riseholme to the bustling city. With her characteristic determination, she navigates the complexities of urban social dynamics, eager to assert her influence and establish her dominance among the city's elite. This comic novel, part of the beloved Mapp and Lucia series, explores themes of rivalry, ambition, and the intricacies of social status in a humorous and engaging manner.

E. F. Benson’s beloved Mapp and Lucia novels are sparkling, classic comedies of manners set against the petty snobberies and competitive maneuverings of English village society in the 1920s and 1930s. The third and fourth novels in the series, Lucia in London (1927) and Mapp and Lucia (1931) continue the adventures of Benson’s famously irrepressible characters, and bring them into hilarious conflict. Both Mrs. Lucia Lucas and Miss Elizabeth Mapp are accustomed to complete social supremacy, and when one intrudes on the other’s territory, war ensues. Lucia sees herself as a benevolent—if ruthless—dictator, while Miss Mapp is driven by an insatiable desire for vengeance against the presumptuous interloper. Their skirmishes—played out on a battlefield composed of dinner parties, council meetings, and art exhibits—enliven the plots of Benson’s maliciously witty comedies.

E. F. Benson showcases his expertise in supernatural tales through this captivating collection of 19th-century ghost stories. Each narrative is crafted with skill and memorable detail, appealing to enthusiasts of the genre. The book also includes a new introductory biography, providing insights into Benson's life and work, enriching the reading experience for both new and returning fans of his hauntingly beautiful prose.

E. F. Benson's collection offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of notable figures from the Victorian era, enriched by his own experiences within high society. The authentic anecdotes reveal the eccentricities and social norms of the time, while Benson's keen observations provide insight into the evolution of societal attitudes. Each chapter delves into various themes, including family dynamics, scandals, and influential women, presenting a vivid portrait of an era marked by change. This modern edition includes a new prefatory biography of the author.

Set in the 1920s and '30s, this series follows the humorous escapades of upper-middle-class characters navigating the snobbish social landscape. Central to the narrative are the sophisticated Lucia and the frumpy Miss Mapp, who engage in a comedic rivalry for social status. Their antics lead to a series of entertaining mishaps, showcasing the absurdities of their world and the lengths they go to maintain their social standing.

Outrageously pretentious, hypocritical and snobbish, Queen Lucia, 'as by right divine' rules over the toy kingdom of 'Riseholme' based on the Cotswold village of Broadway. Her long-suffering husband Pepino is 'her prince- consort', the outrageously camp Georgie is her 'gentleman-in-waiting', and the village green is her 'parliament'.

Look out for the new BBC adaptation starring Anna Chancellor, Miranda Richardson and Mark Gatiss! But Mapp will not relinquish her supremacy in local society so easily, and battle is joined between these two indomitable queens and their rather fickle allies.

The rivalry between Lucia and Mapp intensifies as they both vie for a position on the Town Council in this engaging tale. Amidst their political ambitions, Lucia's foray into gold shares adds a layer of intrigue. The plot thickens when Lucia uncovers the remnants of a Roman Villa while redecorating Miss Mapp's home, leading to a series of unexpected events and excitement in their quaint town of Tilling.