In Evelyn; or A Heart Unmasked, Anna Cora Mowatt Ritchie weaves a captivating tale of love, deceit, and redemption. The protagonist, Evelyn, is a complex character torn between duty and desire, her inner turmoil driving the narrative forward with a sense of urgency.

Ritchie's writing is eloquent and evocative, drawing the reader into the world of high society and the struggles faced by women in the 19th century. The themes of identity and self-discovery are expertly explored, making Evelyn a relatable and sympathetic character.

The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping the reader engaged and eagerly turning the pages to see how Evelyn's story will unfold. The climax is satisfying and poignant, wrapping up the story in a way that is both surprising and emotionally resonant.

Overall, Evelyn; or A Heart Unmasked is a beautifully written novel that delves into the complexities of love, betrayal, and the search for true happiness. Anna Cora Mowatt Ritchie has crafted a timeless story that will stay with readers long after they have finished the final page.

Book Description:
Evelyn is a two-volume novel told in an epistolary style – alternating between letters from the point of view of a trusted, unmarried female friend of the young, naïve heroine of the novel and those of the feckless adventurer who decides that he must seduce the beautiful Evelyn. The author, actress/novelist/playwright Anna Cora Mowatt, was a fan of the works of Fredericka Bremer . This narrative is heavily influenced by that writer’s style. Like Mowatt’s hit comedy, “Fashion,” the plot centers on the misadventures of nouveau riche family social climbing in New York society of the late 1830’s. Whereas the play was comedy, the novel turns towards tragedy. The author still spices her narrative with strong doses of social satire, however, and gives us many revealing glimpses of everyday life of New Yorkers of the early 19th century. - Summary by Kelly S. Taylor