A House in Bloomsbury (ePub)

Margaret Oliphant Wilson Oliphant, known professionally as Mrs. Oliphant, was a prolific Scottish novelist and historical writer, who usually wrote as Mrs. Oliphant. Her fictional works encompass a wide range, from tales of domestic life to supernatural narratives, characterized by keen observation and psychological insight. Born on April 4, 1828, in Wallyford, near Edinburgh, to a clerk and his wife, Oliphant's early life in a struggling family would significantly influence her literary pursuits. At the age of 21, she embarked on her literary career to support her family, owing to her father's failing business. Oliphant married her cousin, Frank Wilson Oliphant, in 1852 and would have to continue writing to support her three children after being widowed in 1859. Over the course of her life, Mrs. Oliphant wrote more than 120 works, including fiction, biography, and historical texts. Her writing style represents a blend of the realism found in the works of George Eliot with the sensationalism of Wilkie Collins. 'A House in Bloomsbury' is one of her later novels, showcasing her mature style and preoccupation with social issues and the dynamics of family life. It reflects Oliphant's interest in portraying the aspirations and challenges of middle-class society in Victorian England. Despite her relative obscurity today, during her lifetime, Mrs. Oliphant was highly regarded by readers and critics alike for her narrative prowess and contributions to literature. Mrs. Oliphant passed away on June 25, 1897, leaving behind a legacy of work that offers invaluable insights into the culture and society of her time.