"Nella lotta" by Enrico Castelnuovo is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Roberto Arconti, a young engineer who is navigating the complexities of love, family expectations, and the harsh realities of life. The narrative begins with Roberto's happy life and burgeoning romance with Lucilla, set against the backdrop of his father's unforeseen health issues that soon alter the course of their lives. The opening of the novel introduces Roberto as an optimistic and promising young man who enjoys a pleasant relationship with Lucilla, despite their youth and the challenges presented by their families. However, this tranquility is shattered when Roberto learns of his father's serious health problems and the financial instability that follows, forcing him into a harsh reality where he must confront the responsibilities of adulthood. As the narrative progresses, Roberto experiences emotional turmoil stemming from his father's medical condition and the pressures of their family's dire situation, which he must navigate while trying to maintain his love for Lucilla amidst these challenges. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

"Carmilla" by Joseph Sheridan Le Fanu is a gothic novella written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Laura, a lonely young woman living in a secluded schloss in Styria, who encounters a mysterious and enchanting guest named Carmilla. As the narrative unfolds, the bond between Laura and Carmilla deepens, leading to an exploration of themes such as identity, desire, and the supernatural. The opening of "Carmilla" introduces the reader to Laura and the desolate yet picturesque setting of her family's castle. Laura recounts a haunting childhood experience involving a mysterious lady who visited her in her nursery and evokes both fear and fascination. The narrative quickly transitions to her father's arrival, revealing the news of the tragic death of a young woman, which foreshadows the supernatural events to come. Soon after, a carriage accident leads to Carmilla's arrival as a guest, and Laura is immediately drawn to her, albeit with an undercurrent of foreboding. The stage is set for the powerful and strange relationship that will develop between them, characterized by dreams and an intertwining fate that will challenge Laura's understanding of herself and the world around her.