Audrey By: Mary Johnston (1870-1936)
Audrey by Mary Johnston is a riveting novel set in the heartlands of Virginia during the Civil War. With a backdrop of conflict, the book delves into the life of its vibrant protagonist, Audrey, a strong-willed and fiercely independent woman. Set against the social norms and expectations of the time, this historical fiction is a captivating tale of love, resilience, and self-discovery. The story unfolds as Audrey, a young and spirited woman, finds herself torn between love and duty. We witness her journey as she grapples with her emotions, navigating a treacherous path filled with personal sacrifices and societal pressures. Johnston's portrayal of Audrey is a testament to her skillful storytelling, as she brings this complex character to life, capturing her essence, thoughts, and struggles with great authenticity. One of the strengths of this novel is its vivid and immersive setting. Johnston paints a rich and detailed picture of the Virginia landscape, transporting the reader to a time of turmoil and unrest. The author's meticulous research is evident in her portrayals of the Civil War era, painting a realistic backdrop against which Audrey's story unfolds. What truly sets Audrey apart is its exploration of gender roles and expectations during a time when women's voices were often silenced. The book offers an insightful glimpse into the challenges faced by women who dared to defy societal norms, questioning their prescribed roles as wives and mothers. Audrey's strength and resilience in carving her own path amidst an oppressive society is truly inspiring. The narrative is beautifully paced, allowing readers to become fully invested in Audrey's journey. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next chapter. Johnston's writing style is elegant and evocative, skillfully capturing the emotions and inner turmoil of her characters. However, while Audrey is undoubtedly a compelling read, it does have its shortcomings. The dialogue at times feels slightly stilted and melodramatic, detracting from the overall authenticity of the narrative. Additionally, some plot developments feel rushed, with certain events lacking the necessary depth and exploration. Despite these minor flaws, Audrey is a captivating tale that will transport readers back in time. Mary Johnston's storytelling ability is commendable, and her portrayal of an empowered and tenacious female protagonist is noteworthy. Audrey is a reminder of the resilience and strength of women throughout history, making it a worthwhile read for lovers of historical fiction and those interested in exploring women's journeys during challenging times. First Page: AUDREY BY MARY JOHNSTON AUTHOR OF "TO HAVE AND TO HOLD" AND "PRISONERS OF HOPE" WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY F.C. YOHN BOSTON AND NEW YORK HOUGHTON, MIFFLIN AND COMPANY The Riverside Press, Cambridge 1902 COPYRIGHT, 1901, 1902, BY MARY JOHNSTON COPYRIGHT, 1902, BY HOUGHTON, MIFFLIN & CO. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Published February, 1902 Books by Mary Johnston. AUDREY. With Illustrations in color. Crown 8vo, $1.50 PRISONERS OF HOPE. With Frontispiece. Crown 8vo, $1.50. TO HAVE AND TO HOLD. With 8 Illustrations by HOWARD PYLE, E.B. THOMPSON, A.W. BETTS, and EMLEN McCONNELL. Crown 8vo, $1.50. HOUGHTON MIFFLIN & CO. BOSTON AND NEW YORK. [Illustration: GAZED WITH WIDE OPEN EYES AT THE INTRUDER (page 106)] TO ELOISE, ANNE, AND ELIZABETH CONTENTS CHAPTER TITLE PAGE I. THE CABIN IN THE VALLEY 1 II. THE COURT OF THE ORPHAN 16 III. DARDEN'S AUDREY 38 IV. THE ROAD TO WILLIAMSBURGH 52 V. THE STOREKEEPER 63 VI. MASTER AND MAN 73 VII. THE RETURN OF MONSIEUR JEAN HUGON 92 VIII. UNDER THE GREENWOOD TREE 106 IX... Continue reading book >>

Audrey By: Mary Johnston (1870-1936)

Audrey by Mary Johnston is a riveting novel set in the heartlands of Virginia during the Civil War. With a backdrop of conflict, the book delves into the life of its vibrant protagonist, Audrey, a strong-willed and fiercely independent woman. Set against the social norms and expectations of the time, this historical fiction is a captivating tale of love, resilience, and self-discovery.

The story unfolds as Audrey, a young and spirited woman, finds herself torn between love and duty. We witness her journey as she grapples with her emotions, navigating a treacherous path filled with personal sacrifices and societal pressures. Johnston's portrayal of Audrey is a testament to her skillful storytelling, as she brings this complex character to life, capturing her essence, thoughts, and struggles with great authenticity.

One of the strengths of this novel is its vivid and immersive setting. Johnston paints a rich and detailed picture of the Virginia landscape, transporting the reader to a time of turmoil and unrest. The author's meticulous research is evident in her portrayals of the Civil War era, painting a realistic backdrop against which Audrey's story unfolds.

What truly sets Audrey apart is its exploration of gender roles and expectations during a time when women's voices were often silenced. The book offers an insightful glimpse into the challenges faced by women who dared to defy societal norms, questioning their prescribed roles as wives and mothers. Audrey's strength and resilience in carving her own path amidst an oppressive society is truly inspiring.

The narrative is beautifully paced, allowing readers to become fully invested in Audrey's journey. The plot is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the next chapter. Johnston's writing style is elegant and evocative, skillfully capturing the emotions and inner turmoil of her characters.

However, while Audrey is undoubtedly a compelling read, it does have its shortcomings. The dialogue at times feels slightly stilted and melodramatic, detracting from the overall authenticity of the narrative. Additionally, some plot developments feel rushed, with certain events lacking the necessary depth and exploration.

Despite these minor flaws, Audrey is a captivating tale that will transport readers back in time. Mary Johnston's storytelling ability is commendable, and her portrayal of an empowered and tenacious female protagonist is noteworthy. Audrey is a reminder of the resilience and strength of women throughout history, making it a worthwhile read for lovers of historical fiction and those interested in exploring women's journeys during challenging times.

First Page:

AUDREY

BY MARY JOHNSTON

AUTHOR OF "TO HAVE AND TO HOLD" AND "PRISONERS OF HOPE"

WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY F.C. YOHN

BOSTON AND NEW YORK HOUGHTON, MIFFLIN AND COMPANY The Riverside Press, Cambridge 1902

Published February, 1902

Books by Mary Johnston.

AUDREY. With Illustrations in color. Crown 8vo, $1.50

PRISONERS OF HOPE. With Frontispiece. Crown 8vo, $1.50.

TO HAVE AND TO HOLD. With 8 Illustrations by HOWARD PYLE, E.B. THOMPSON, A.W. BETTS, and EMLEN McCONNELL. Crown 8vo, $1.50.

HOUGHTON MIFFLIN & CO. BOSTON AND NEW YORK.

[Illustration: GAZED WITH WIDE OPEN EYES AT THE INTRUDER (page 106)]

TO ELOISE, ANNE, AND ELIZABETH

CONTENTS

CHAPTER TITLE PAGE

I. THE CABIN IN THE VALLEY 1

II. THE COURT OF THE ORPHAN 16

III. DARDEN'S AUDREY 38

IV. THE ROAD TO WILLIAMSBURGH 52

V. THE STOREKEEPER 63

VI. MASTER AND MAN 73

VII. THE RETURN OF MONSIEUR JEAN HUGON 92

VIII. UNDER THE GREENWOOD TREE 106

IX... Continue reading book >>

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