R. D. Blackmore Lorna Doone
(Sampson Low, 1869)
C.59.g.1

Rejected as morally unsuitable by the Cornhill Magazine, Lorna Doone was a complete failure when first published in three volumes in 1869. It was only when Sampson Low, much against their better judgement, agreed to produce a cheap one-volume edition that the novel captured the public imagination. It went on to become one of the best-selling titles of the 19th century, with a range of editions - many illustrated - to suit all sectors of the market.