A Cigarette-Maker's Romance

A Cigarette-Maker's Romance is a novel by F. Marion Crawford, first published in 1890. It is a romantic and somewhat sentimental tale set in Munich, Germany, revolving around the lives of ordinary people working in a small cigarette shop. The story explores themes of love, sacrifice, and social class, blending Crawford's characteristic storytelling with a touch of melodrama.
The novel centers on Johann Schmidt, a humble and kind-hearted cigarette-maker, who is secretly in love with Countess Ludmilla, a noblewoman who has fallen into financial hardship. Despite their different social standings, Johann harbors deep affection for her, though he knows a relationship between them is unlikely.
When the Countess faces ruin, Johann makes a great personal sacrifice to help her, demonstrating his selfless love. The story examines whether true love can transcend societal barriers and whether the Countess will recognize Johann's devotion.
Crawford's writing is descriptive and emotional, with a focus on character psychology. While not as famous as some of his other works (Mr. Isaacs, The Roman Singer), A Cigarette-Maker's Romance was well-received for its tender portrayal of unrequited love and its vivid depiction of working-class life.
The novel was adapted into a silent film in 1913, directed by Frank Powell and starring stage actress Florence Nash.
About the Author
Francis Marion Crawford (1854-1909) was a prolific American writer, best known for his numerous novels and classic weird and fantastical stories. Born in Italy, he spent much of his life abroad, particularly in Italy, which became the setting for many of his works.
Crawford was born in Bagni di Lucca, Italy, the only son of American sculptor Thomas Crawford. He received a diverse education, studying at St. Paul's School, Cambridge University, the University of Heidelberg, and the University of Rome. In 1879, he traveled to India, where he studied Sanskrit and edited the Allahabad Indian Herald. Upon returning to America, he continued his Sanskrit studies at Harvard and contributed to various periodicals.
His literary career took off with the publication of his first novel, Mr. Isaacs (1882), which quickly achieved success. This was followed by Doctor Claudius (1883). In 1883, he returned to Italy, where he resided permanently, eventually purchasing and remodeling the Villa Renzi, which became Villa Crawford, in Sant'Agnello. He also wrote historical works, including Ave Roma Immortalis (1898) and The Rulers of the South (1900).
Crawford was incredibly prolific, producing some forty novels and a play. At the height of his career, his books outsold those of any other contemporary fiction writer in England or the United States. He died in 1909 in Sorrento, Italy.