
audiobook
HESTER A STORY OF CONTEMPORARY LIFE BY MRS. OLIPHANT
HESTER.
HESTER. - CHAPTER I. - THE YOUNG AND THE OLD.
CHAPTER II. - A FAMILY PARTY.
CHAPTER III. - CONFIDENCES.
CHAPTER IV. - ROLAND.
CHAPTER V. - WARNING.
CHAPTER VI. - DANCING TEAS.
CHAPTER VII. - THE FIRST OF THEM.
CHAPTER VIII. - A NEW COMPETITOR.
Hester moves through her world with a spring‑tied step that hints at both pride and an unguarded joy. Set in a lively English countryside, the story follows her keen mind and observant heart as she navigates the expectations of an older generation while keeping a watchful eye on the newcomers who stir the household. When the charming young Roland arrives, his fresh perspective and easy manners become a catalyst for conversation, gossip, and subtle rivalry among the family members.
The narrative unfolds through a series of warm gatherings—family parties, dancing teas, and quiet confidences—where Hester’s wit and compassion often bridge gaps between tradition and modern desire. As friendships deepen and unspoken feelings surface, listeners are invited to listen to the gentle tensions between duty and affection, and to wonder how Hester’s spirited independence will shape the lives around her. This rich, character‑driven tale offers a vivid snapshot of contemporary rural life, full of humor, tenderness, and the quiet drama of everyday choices.
Language
en
Duration
~6 hours (357K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Delphine Lettau, Dianne Nolan, and the team at Distributed Proofreaders Canada
Release date
2015-02-08
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1828–1897
A hugely productive Victorian storyteller, she wrote vivid novels of family life, small-town society, and the supernatural while supporting her family through her pen. Her work ranges from the much-loved Chronicles of Carlingford to ghost stories that still feel sharp and modern.
View all books
by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant

by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant

by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant

by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant

by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant

by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant

by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant

by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant