The Devil's Motor: a Fantasy

by Marie Corelli

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. To ensure a quality reading experience, this work has been proofread and republished using a format that seamlessly blends the original graphical elements with text in an easy-to-read typeface. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

102 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1910

About the author

Marie Corelli (born Mary Mackay) was a best-selling British novelist of the Victorian and Edwardian eras, whose controversial works of the time often label her as an early advocate of the New Age movement.

In the 1890’s Marie Corelli’s novels were eagerly devoured by millions in England, America and the colonies. Her readers ranged from Queen Victoria and Gladstone, to the poorest of shop girls. In all she wrote thirty books, the majority of which were phenomenal best sellers. Despite the fact that her novels were either ignored or belittled by the critics, at the height of her success she was the best selling and most highly paid author in England.

She was the daughter of poet, journalist, author, anthologist, novelist, and songwriter Charles Mackay. Her brother was the poet Eric Mackay.

Reviews

[Osiris Oliphant]

1910. Satan drives into the world in a flaming motor coach. The book was designed to smell smokey and the pages were darkened around the borders to seem slightly fire damaged. Cool tires with black wings motif on the cover.

[Tara Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of reading a first edition illustrated copy of this, and it was divine. I'm fascinated by Marie Corelli now. She was far ahead of her time, personally and writing-wise.

[KitKat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to inherit a first edition copy of this book and I have to say, experiencing it in that format really makes all the difference. This book is much more like an art instillation to be experienced, rather than a novella to read. I think Corelli was ahead of her time in that regard.

The overall design is exquite and beautifully thought out. Mine is a dark green copy rather than the traditional red and still contained all the original illustrations which were so oftened removed historically and sold as individual art prints. Every time you turn the page, you are hit with the smell of smoke and petrol that really enhances the words on each page, and the choice of calligraphic print and illustrated initials really gives you the feeling of reading an religious manuscript to tie in with the books apocalyptic content.

The 6 illustrations by Severn have a fantastic contrast of light to them. You could stare at them for an age, it feels like drinking in colour. Go look these pieces up online if you can, I think they really do add to the feelings Corelli was trying to inspire in you the reader.

If you ever find a copy, please, enjoy it.

[Shauna · Rating 1 out of 5]

I didn't care for this novella. I am still going to read Corelli's other works. We all have bad days, I'm going to pretend this was hers.

[Zvonimir · Rating 2 out of 5]

Flamboyant writing, at moments its seems like its a imitation of Milton, but really pale, and lifeless.