Foes By: Mary Johnston (1870-1936)
Foes by Mary Johnston is an enthralling historical novel set during the American Revolutionary War. The story follows a wide range of characters, both fictional and real, as they navigate the complex landscape of loyalty and betrayal in this tumultuous period. One of the strengths of this novel is Johnston's meticulous attention to detail. The author clearly conducted extensive research, as the historical backdrop feels authentic and vividly portrayed. Whether it's the descriptions of idyllic colonial life or the gritty realities of war, Johnston brings each scene to life with precision and elegance. From the bustling streets of Philadelphia to the blood-soaked fields of battle, the reader is transported back in time, experiencing the tension and uncertainty of the era. Moreover, Johnston's character development is exceptional. The central figures are multi-dimensional, facing moral dilemmas and wrestling with conflicting loyalties. The protagonist, in particular, undergoes a remarkable transformation, as his initial beliefs are challenged, and he grapples with the line between right and wrong. This exploration of human nature adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making the reader truly invested in the outcome. Additionally, the pacing in Foes is expertly managed. The story effortlessly weaves together multiple plotlines, each one as captivating as the next. The suspense builds gradually, keeping the reader engaged throughout. Johnston strikes a balance between action-packed sequences and reflective moments, ensuring that the story never stagnates. While Johnston's prose is elegant and evocative, there are instances where the narrative becomes overly descriptive, slowing the pace unnecessarily. However, this minor flaw does not overshadow the novel's overall brilliance. Ultimately, Foes is a captivating historical novel that seamlessly blends fact and fiction. Mary Johnston's meticulous research, compelling characters, and expert storytelling combine to create a riveting tale of love, loss, and loyalty during one of the most significant periods in American history. This book is highly recommended for history enthusiasts and fiction lovers alike. First Page: Books by Mary Johnston Foes Sir Mortimer Harper & Brothers, New York [Established 1817] FOES A Novel by MARY JOHNSTON Author of "To Have and to Hold" "Audrey" "Lewis Rand" "Sir Mortimer" "The Long Roll" Harper & Brothers Publishers New York and London 1918 [Illustration] CHAPTER I Said Mother Binning: "Whiles I spin and whiles I dream. A bonny day like this I look." English Strickland, tutor at Glenfernie House, looked, too, at the feathery glen, vivid in June sunshine. The ash tree before Mother Binning's cot overhung a pool of the little river. Below, the water brawled and leaped from ledge to ledge, but here at the head of the glen it ran smooth and still. A rose bush grew by the door and a hen and her chicks crossed in the sun. English Strickland, who had been fishing, sat on the door stone and talked to Mother Binning, sitting within with her wheel beside her. "What is it, Mother, to have the second sight?" "It's to see behind the here and now. Why're ye asking?" "I wish I could buy it or slave for it!" said Strickland. "Over and over again I really need to see behind the here and now!" "Aye... Continue reading book >>

Foes By: Mary Johnston (1870-1936)

Foes by Mary Johnston is an enthralling historical novel set during the American Revolutionary War. The story follows a wide range of characters, both fictional and real, as they navigate the complex landscape of loyalty and betrayal in this tumultuous period.

One of the strengths of this novel is Johnston's meticulous attention to detail. The author clearly conducted extensive research, as the historical backdrop feels authentic and vividly portrayed. Whether it's the descriptions of idyllic colonial life or the gritty realities of war, Johnston brings each scene to life with precision and elegance. From the bustling streets of Philadelphia to the blood-soaked fields of battle, the reader is transported back in time, experiencing the tension and uncertainty of the era.

Moreover, Johnston's character development is exceptional. The central figures are multi-dimensional, facing moral dilemmas and wrestling with conflicting loyalties. The protagonist, in particular, undergoes a remarkable transformation, as his initial beliefs are challenged, and he grapples with the line between right and wrong. This exploration of human nature adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making the reader truly invested in the outcome.

Additionally, the pacing in Foes is expertly managed. The story effortlessly weaves together multiple plotlines, each one as captivating as the next. The suspense builds gradually, keeping the reader engaged throughout. Johnston strikes a balance between action-packed sequences and reflective moments, ensuring that the story never stagnates.

While Johnston's prose is elegant and evocative, there are instances where the narrative becomes overly descriptive, slowing the pace unnecessarily. However, this minor flaw does not overshadow the novel's overall brilliance.

Ultimately, Foes is a captivating historical novel that seamlessly blends fact and fiction. Mary Johnston's meticulous research, compelling characters, and expert storytelling combine to create a riveting tale of love, loss, and loyalty during one of the most significant periods in American history. This book is highly recommended for history enthusiasts and fiction lovers alike.

First Page:

Books by

Mary Johnston

Foes Sir Mortimer

Harper & Brothers, New York [Established 1817]

FOES

A Novel

MARY JOHNSTON

Author of "To Have and to Hold" "Audrey" "Lewis Rand" "Sir Mortimer" "The Long Roll"

Harper & Brothers Publishers New York and London

1918

[Illustration]

CHAPTER I

Said Mother Binning: "Whiles I spin and whiles I dream. A bonny day like this I look."

English Strickland, tutor at Glenfernie House, looked, too, at the feathery glen, vivid in June sunshine. The ash tree before Mother Binning's cot overhung a pool of the little river. Below, the water brawled and leaped from ledge to ledge, but here at the head of the glen it ran smooth and still. A rose bush grew by the door and a hen and her chicks crossed in the sun. English Strickland, who had been fishing, sat on the door stone and talked to Mother Binning, sitting within with her wheel beside her.

"What is it, Mother, to have the second sight?"

"It's to see behind the here and now. Why're ye asking?"

"I wish I could buy it or slave for it!" said Strickland. "Over and over again I really need to see behind the here and now!"

"Aye... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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Wikipedia – Mary Johnston
Wikipedia – Foes

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