Ouida 
Folle-Farine 

Ouida’s ‘Folle-Farine’ is a captivating novel set in the midst of the French Revolution, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the clash of social classes. The book is filled with vivid descriptions and complex character development, immersing the reader in the turbulent historical period. Ouida’s lyrical writing style elevates the narrative, creating a sense of elegance and sophistication that sets her apart in the literary landscape of her time. ‘Folle-Farine’ is a timeless work that continues to resonate with readers due to its powerful storytelling and emotional depth. Ouida’s exploration of the human experience in the face of adversity is both poignant and thought-provoking, making ‘Folle-Farine’ a must-read for fans of classic literature and historical fiction enthusiasts. Ouida, known for her romantic and melodramatic writing style, drew inspiration from her own travels and observations of society, infusing her work with a unique perspective that still captivates readers today.

About the author

Ouida, the pen name of Maria Louise Ramé, was a prolific English novelist known for her opulent romantic novels and children’s stories during the latter half of the 19th century. Born on January 1, 1839, in Bury St. Edmunds, England, Ouida was reputed for her flamboyant lifestyle as much as her writing. She developed an unmistakable literary style characterized by melodramatic narratives and a compassionate outlook towards social issues including women’s rights and animal welfare. Her work ‘Folle-Farine’ illustrates her narrative style, which engages with themes of passion, beauty, and the less privileged. With over 40 novels to her credit, Ouida’s lavish tales often reflected her own indulgent life, yet they offered a critical look at the disparities of Victorian society. Despite falling into relative obscurity in modern times, Ouida’s tales provided commentary on the aspirations and follies of the era, making her an important, if not entirely mainstream, figure within 19th-century English literature. Her work has been both critiqued for sentimental excess and praised for its daring social observation. But it is in the rich storytelling and timeless scrutiny of social norms that her literary legacy endures.