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Originally published in serial form in 1879-80, “The Brothers Karamazov” is recognized as one of the very greatest masterpieces of world literature. It is the last and finest novel of Fyodor Dostoyevsky, who died before writing a planned sequel. The story is organized initially around the efforts of adult sons to deal with their cantankerous and exasperating father. More important, they also have to deal with the problem of how to live in a world where it is difficult to be sure of the truth — whether that be “truth” about others, about oneself, or about deep questions such as faith,...

The Mystery of the Blue Train is a classic Hercule Poirot detective novel that blends glamour, suspense, and psychological intrigue. Set aboard the luxurious Blue Train traveling from Calais to the French Riviera, the story opens with wealth, elegance, and hidden tensions among an exclusive group of passengers. When a young American heiress is found murdered in her locked compartment and her priceless rubies vanish, the journey turns deadly.Summoned to unravel the crime, the meticulous Belgian detective Hercule Poirot must navigate a web of lies, jealousy, and carefully guarded secrets. Each ...

René Descartes’ Six Metaphysical Meditations (1641) explores fundamental philosophical questions. He begins by doubting all beliefs to establish certainty (Meditation 1). He then proves his own existence (Meditation 2: "I think, therefore I am") and argues for the existence of God (Meditations 3 & 5). He distinguishes mind from body (Meditation 6), establishing dualism. His work laid the foundation for modern philosophy and rationalist thought. Summary by Dream Audiobooks

Thomas Traherne's best known work is a collection of paragraphs, divided into what he called "Centuries", meditating in a particularly intense and visionary manner on God, nature and His relationship with the life of man. - Summary by Nicole Lee

Carmilla is a Gothic novella by Joseph Sheridan le Fanu. First published in 1872, it tells the story of a young woman's susceptibility to the attentions of a female vampire named Carmilla. Carmilla predates Bram Stoker's Dracula by over twenty years, had a strong influence on Stoker's famous novel. (Summary from Wikipedia)

Beowulf was composed by an anonymous Anglo-Saxon poet. Francis Barton Gummere translates this beautiful poem. Beowulf is an epic poem. The main character, Beowulf, proves himself a hero as he battles against supernatural demons and beasts. (Summary by Tad E.)

Fisher’s treatment of the history of Finland, in the context of its relations with Russia, was released in 1899—at the start of the first attempted wave of Russification. At this time, it seems, many Finns regarded it as a misunderstanding. A mistake. Not a contrivance of Nicholas II, but a villainy emanating instead, fen-sucked, from the sinister Russian state machinery—the fief of a myopic and obdurate cadre of supremacists and absolutists. Men like the rabid anti-semite Konstantin Pobedonostsev who, by the camera's harsh testimony, seems to have died long before he stopped coming in ...

Isabella Bird began travelling while in her early twenties to help alleviate illness that had plagued her since childhood. She was a single woman in her early forties when she made her trek through the Rocky Mountains. A Lady's Life in the Rocky Mountains details this fascinating account of her travels through a series of letters written to her sister, Henrietta. These letters are filled with beautiful, vivid descriptions of the scenery, the people she encountered, the way of life, and a mountain man named Jim Nugent, that was as rough as they come, but a complete gentleman with Ms. Bird. She ...

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes: The Illuminating Diary of a Professional Lady by Anita Loos is a satirical novel following the diary of Lorelei Lee, a beautiful but naïve blonde from Little Rock. She charms wealthy men, especially the older and generous kind, using her wit and beauty to secure a lavish lifestyle. With her friend Dorothy, a sharp-witted brunette, Lorelei travels from New York to Europe, indulging in diamonds, fine dining, and high society. Despite her apparent simplicity, she masterfully manipulates men for personal gain. The novel humorously critiques gender roles, materialism, and...

This a collection of poems recorded by LibriVox volunteers during the month of January 2009.

Leo Tolstoy’s Childhood (1852) is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the innocence, joy, and emotional depth of youth. The story follows Nikolenka, a young boy from an aristocratic Russian family, as he navigates early experiences of love, loss, and self-awareness. Through vivid, nostalgic prose, Tolstoy captures the simplicity of childhood alongside its quiet sorrows, such as separation from a beloved mother and the realization of life's hardships. The novel blends keen psychological insight with lyrical descriptions, offering a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of youth ...

Edgar Rice Burroughs (1875 - 1950)This is the fifth of Burroughs' Tarzan novels.Tarzan finds himself bereft of his fortune and resolves to return to the jewel-room of Opar, leaving Jane to face unexpected danger at home. (Summary written by Sarah Jennings.)

The d'Artagnan Romances, Vol 1: The Three Musketeers (version 3)Alexandre Dumas (1802 - 1870)Translated by William Robson (1785 - 1863)The d'Artagnan Romances are six volumes that intertwine exciting events (real and fictionalized) from 17th-century Europe and the life of the most adored French musketeer of that period, Charles de Batz-Castelmore d'Artagnan. Volume 1 introduces d’Artagnan as a young man, seeking to earn the glory of serving in the King’s Musketeers. While in pursuit of this aim, d’Artagnan befriends three musketeers – Athos, Porthos, and Aramis – who aid him in ...

Bram Stoker (1847 - 1912)Dracula is an 1897 Gothic horror novel by Irish author Bram Stoker. It introduced Count Dracula, and established many conventions of subsequent vampire fantasy. The novel tells the story of Dracula's attempt to move from Transylvania to England so that he may find new blood and spread the undead curse, and of the battle between Dracula and a small group of men and a woman led by Professor Abraham Van Helsing. - Summary by Wikipedia

Carlo Collodi (1826 - 1890)Translated by Carol Della Chiesa (1887 - 1972)Do today's children still learn what a "marionette" is? The beloved story of Pinocchio may represent a last lingering picture of a world not dominated by plastic or electronic toys.Pinocchio is a puppet made from a piece of wood that curiously could talk even before being carved. A wooden-head he starts and a wooden-head he stays - until after years of misadventures caused by his laziness and failure to keep promises he finally learns to care about his family - and then he becomes a real boy.For those who have seen the ...

Beowulf is an Early English legendary sonnet that recounts the tale of its gallant hero, Beowulf, a champion from Geatland. He goes to Denmark to help Lord Hrothgar, whose mead corridor is threatened by a beast named Grendel. Beowulf routs Grendel in fight and later kills Grendel's vindictive mother. He gets back a legend and ultimately becomes lord of the Geats. Years after the fact, Beowulf faces his last test: a furious mythical beast undermining his realm. However he kills the winged serpent, Beowulf is mortally injured and bites the dust. His kin grieve him, regarding his dauntlessness ...

Fairy Tales from Brazil by Elsie Spicer Eells is a collection of Brazilian folktales filled with magic, adventure, and moral lessons. Inspired by Indigenous, African, and Portuguese traditions, the stories feature enchanted creatures, clever heroes, and supernatural events. Tales like How Night Came, The Jabuti That Cheated the Man, and The Adventures of a Tortoise showcase Brazil’s rich storytelling heritage. Themes of kindness, wit, and justice prevail, as characters outsmart foes and overcome challenges. Eells preserves the oral tradition with vivid, engaging prose, making the book a ...

Women of Versailles: The Court of Louis XIV explores the influential women who shaped the Sun King’s reign. From Queen Maria Theresa to powerful mistresses like Madame de Montespan and Madame de Maintenon, these women played key roles in politics, culture, and intrigue. The book delves into courtly life, scandals, and the rigid etiquette of Versailles. It highlights the influence of women in diplomacy, patronage of the arts, and even governance. Through detailed portraits, it reveals their ambitions, rivalries, and impact on Louis XIV’s rule. A fascinating glimpse into the opulent yet ...

"William Blake" by G.K. Chesterton is a thoughtful exploration of the life and works of the iconic poet, artist, and mystic William Blake. Chesterton delves into Blake’s unique vision, profound spirituality, and rebellious creativity that defied conventions of his time. With sharp wit and deep admiration, Chesterton examines Blake's artistic philosophy, his vivid imagery, and his impact on art and literature. The audiobook captures Blake’s genius and his struggles, offering insights into his revolutionary ideas about imagination, religion, and the human spirit. A timeless tribute to an ...

The Life of Buddha by A. Ferdinand Hérold presents a graceful and accessible retelling of the story of Siddhartha Gautama, the prince who renounced luxury to seek truth and enlightenment. Written with clarity and reverence, this work explores his spiritual journey, the trials he endured, and the wisdom he shared, which continues to inspire millions worldwide. Hérold’s account balances historical insight with timeless lessons, offering readers both an introduction to Buddhist philosophy and a moving portrait of the Buddha’s compassionate path. Description by Dream AudioBooks