Two Sides of the Face: Midwinter Tales

"Two Sides of the Face: Midwinter Tales" by Arthur Quiller-Couch is a collection of short stories written in the early 20th century. The opening story, "Stephen of Steens," introduces a historical tale set in the rugged landscape of Cornwall and revolves around the character Roger Stephen, a pewterer burdened by his complicated family relations and dark legacy. As he grapples with themes of injustice and the struggle for identity, the narrative promises a blend of action and moral dilemmas. At the start of the tale, readers are introduced to the foreboding house named Steens, which holds a mysterious and violent past. Roger’s sour disposition stems from a tyrannical father and familial discord. As Roger learns of his father's death and the appearance of a stepmother, tension builds between him and various characters, leading to a complex web of conflict that touches on themes of legacy, justice, and rebellion. The story hints at impending confrontations, both personal and societal, foreshadowing a charged atmosphere of drama and historical intrigue.