
In the sun‑kissed village of Arden, life moves to the gentle rhythm of blooming gardens and the occasional toll of church bells. When the young squire finally returns home after a long absence, the whole community buzzes with curiosity and whispered speculation. The opening scenes introduce a cast of warm, earthy characters—elderly Simon, his diligent daughter Sarah, and a host of neighbours whose daily routines paint a vivid portrait of rural England.
The squire, described as bright as a May morning, carries an air of mystery that hints at untold stories behind his sudden arrival. As old friendships and rivalries stir, listeners are invited to explore the delicate balance between tradition and change in this close‑knit parish. The narrative’s gentle humor and keen observation promise an engaging journey into the heart of a timeless village.
Language
en
Duration
~6 hours (384K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by Chuck Greif and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images available at The Internet Archive)
Release date
2017-02-04
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1828–1897
A hugely popular Victorian novelist and critic, she wrote with remarkable range and speed, turning out fiction, essays, biographies, and supernatural tales across a long career. Her work often brings everyday family life into vivid focus while also making room for mystery, history, and sharp social observation.
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