The black Flemings

"The Black Flemings" by Kathleen Thompson Norris is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with David Fleming as he returns to Wastewater, a familial estate that carries both memories and a haunting atmosphere. The narrative suggests a complex family dynamic revolving around David, his Aunt Flora, and the anticipated arrival of his cousin Gabrielle, as they confront not only the dilapidated grandeur of their home but also the shadows of the past that linger in their present lives. At the start of the novel, David Fleming approaches the old estate of Wastewater, reminiscing about his childhood and feeling a mixture of apprehension and nostalgia. The setting is vividly described, capturing the estate's oppressive beauty and the wild coastal landscape. As David reunites with his aunt Flora and prepares for the arrival of his cousin Gabrielle, there are hints of underlying tensions and unresolved emotions related to family history. The opening establishes the atmosphere of the house, which seems to echo with the complexity of the characters' relationships as they navigate the changing nature of their lives and the expectations that come with their heritage.