The Story of Charles Strange: A Novel. Vol. 1 (of 3)

"The Story of Charles Strange: A Novel. Vol. 1 (of 3)" by Mrs. Henry Wood is a novel written in the late 19th century. This work follows the life of Charles Strange, the son of a rector, starting from his early childhood days, highlighting the trials and tribulations he faces, including the death of his mother and his father’s subsequent remarriage. The themes of family, loss, and the challenges of growing up are central to the narrative. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to young Charles Strange living with his parents at White Littleham Rectory in Hampshire. The narrative captures a poignant moment between Charles and his fragile mother, who suffers from a mysterious illness. As she confides in him about the uncertainty of her future, Charles clings to the hope of her recovery. The opening also introduces other characters, including his father, Reverend Eustace Strange, and a few village inhabitants, indicating the young boy's close-knit community. As the chapter unfolds, the tone shifts towards the darker reality of impending loss, setting the stage for the life-altering changes that await Charles. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Ellen Price was an English novelist better known as Mrs. Henry Wood. She is best remembered for her 1861 novel East Lynne. Many of her books sold well internationally and were widely read in the United States. In her time, she surpassed Charles Dickens in fame in Australia.