Ethelyn's Mistake   By: Mary Jane Holmes (1825-1907)

I recently had the pleasure of reading a captivating novel, authored by Mary Jane Holmes, titled Ethelyn's Mistake. The book beautifully weaves together a tale of love, betrayal, and redemption that kept me engaged from beginning to end.

The story follows the life of Ethelyn Percival, a young woman from a privileged background who finds herself torn between two equally charming suitors. As the plot unfolds, we witness Ethelyn's journey of self-discovery, as she grapples with the consequences of a grave mistake that forever alters the course of her life.

What impressed me most about Ethelyn's Mistake was the author's ability to create vivid and complex characters who felt incredibly real. Ethelyn, in particular, is a deeply flawed protagonist who faces the consequences of her actions with remarkable resilience and growth. Holmes takes great care in showcasing Ethelyn's personal growth, allowing readers to empathize with her while highlighting the significance of second chances.

The writing style employed by Mary Jane Holmes is elegant and evocative. Her descriptions transport readers to the lush landscapes of 19th-century America, immersing them in the societal conventions and expectations of the time. The author's attention to detail adds depth to each scene, creating a tapestry of emotions that resonated with me long after I finished the book.

The novel also explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the transformative power of love. Through Ethelyn's trials and tribulations, Holmes reminds us of the importance of learning from our mistakes, forgiving both ourselves and others, and embracing the opportunity to grow into better versions of ourselves.

One aspect of the book that left a lasting impression on me was the unexpected plot twists and turns. Just when I thought I had the story figured out, Holmes skillfully introducing new elements that kept me on the edge of my seat. These surprises not only added excitement to the narrative but also challenged the characters to confront their own flaws and make difficult choices.

In conclusion, Ethelyn's Mistake is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged novel that delves into the complexities of human nature. Mary Jane Holmes showcases her talent for storytelling and creates a tale that is both entertaining and enlightening. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a compelling read that explores the intricacies of love, redemption, and the power of forgiveness.

First Page:

I. ETHELYN. II. THE VAN BUREN SET. III. RICHARD MARKHAM. IV. THE BRIDAL. V. THE HONEYMOON. VI. MRS. MARKHAM'S WAYS. VII. GETTING HOME. VIII. ANDY. IX. DINNER, AND AFTER IT. X. FIRST DAYS IN OLNEY. XI. CALLS AND VISITING. XII. SOCIETY. XIII. GOING TO WASHINGTON. XIV. THE FIRST DAY OF RICHARD'S ABSENCE. XV. ANDY TRIES TO FIND THE ROOT OF THE MATTER. XVI... Continue reading book >>