Love and Hatred

Name: Love and Hatred
Author: Marie Belloc Lowndes

The narrative unfolds around the complex relationships between Laura Pavely, her husband Godfrey, and Oliver Tropenell, a close family friend. Laura, feeling trapped in her marriage, grapples with her emotions after Oliver confesses his love for her. This revelation disrupts their previously platonic friendship, leading to a painful confrontation where Laura expresses her disappointment and disdain for the idea of love, which she associates with degradation and disappointment. As the story progresses, the dynamics between the characters become increasingly strained. Godfrey, who is unaware of the depth of Laura's feelings for Oliver, becomes suspicious of their friendship, especially after receiving anonymous letters hinting at gossip surrounding Laura and Oliver. These letters exacerbate Godfrey's insecurities and lead to tension in his marriage. Laura's brother, Gillie Baynton, returns from Mexico, adding another layer of complexity. His arrival stirs up old family tensions, particularly between him and Godfrey, who have a history of conflict. Gillie's desire to reconnect with Laura clashes with Godfrey's possessiveness, leading to a confrontation that reveals the underlying animosities and misunderstandings among the characters. Throughout the narrative, themes of love, betrayal, and societal expectations are explored. Laura's struggle with her feelings for Oliver and her loyalty to Godfrey creates a poignant tension, as she navigates her role as a mother and wife while yearning for emotional fulfillment. The story culminates in a series of confrontations that force the characters to confront their true feelings and the consequences of their choices. Ultimately, the work delves into the complexities of human relationships, the nature of love, and the societal pressures that shape individual destinies, leaving the characters to grapple with their intertwined fates.

By Marie Belloc Lowndes · First published 1917 · Genre: Psychological Thriller, Drama, Romance · 29 chapters · 130,842 words

First lines

"Oh, but this is terrible -- -- "

Laura Pavely did not raise her voice, but there was trembling pain, as well as an almost incredulous surprise, in the way she uttered the five words which may mean so much -- or so little.

What this Textopian page supports

Love and Hatred is listed on Textopian as a novel by Marie Belloc Lowndes, dated 1917 CE.

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Work type: Novel
Author: Marie Belloc Lowndes
Date: 1917 CE
Language: English
Genres: Psychological Thriller, Drama, Romance, Mystery, Literary Fiction
Length: 130,842 words
Structure: 29 chapters, 2,072 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

Psychological Thriller — The book explores complex emotions and the duality of love and hatred, creating tension and suspense.
Drama — The narrative delves into intense personal relationships and emotional conflicts.
Romance — The themes of love are central to the plot, examining romantic relationships.
Mystery — Elements of intrigue and the exploration of hidden motives contribute to a sense of mystery.