The House by the River

"The House by the River" by A. P. Herbert is an early 20th-century novel focusing on the inhabitants of Hammerton Chase, where the Whittakers host gatherings dedicated to discussions about life, art, and home. The story centers around Stephen Byrne, a celebrated poet whose perfect world shatters after a disastrous encounter with their maid, Emily Gaunt. The novel opens with the regular Wednesday gathering at the Whittakers' home, where conversation flows freely among the attendees, and Stephen Byrne arrives home elated. The atmosphere takes a sharp turn when an argument with Emily results in her accidental death. In desperation, Stephen enlists the help of his friend, John Egerton, and together they attempt to conceal the crime. The beginning of the story presents a striking contrast between the everyday routines of the community and the grim circumstances that put Stephen's ethics and stability to the ultimate test.