Linda Condon   By: Joseph Hergesheimer (1880-1954)

Linda Condon by Joseph Hergesheimer is an exquisite piece of literature that delves into the complex nature of human desires and the inevitable consequences that arise from giving in to these desires.

Set in the early 1900s, the story revolves around the eponymous protagonist, Linda Condon, a beautiful and captivating woman who seems to effortlessly attract the attention and devotion of men. However, Linda is not merely a shallow temptress; she is a multi-faceted character with her own ambitions and desires. Hergesheimer masterfully explores her inner turmoil, as Linda grapples with the allure of wealth, social status, and power, while also yearning for true love and genuine connection.

The novel is rich in its portrayal of early 20th-century American society, with its opulent parties, extravagant lifestyles, and the social conventions that people adhered to. Hergesheimer's descriptive imagery creates a vivid atmosphere, transporting readers to a bygone era where societal pressures and expectations often dictated people's choices and actions.

One of the most compelling aspects of this novel is the depth and complexity of its characters. Linda herself is a captivating blend of vulnerability and strength, constantly torn between following her heart and succumbing to societal pressures. The supporting characters, such as her suitors and family members, are equally well-developed, each bringing their own unique perspectives and motivations to the story.

Hergesheimer's prose is as captivating as Linda herself. His writing style is lyrical and poetic, painting a vivid picture of both the external beauty of the world and the internal struggles of his characters. The author's insightful observations and psychological nuance add layers of depth to the narrative, making it a truly compelling and thought-provoking read.

However, it is worth noting that Linda Condon may not be everyone's cup of tea. The pacing of the story is deliberate, allowing readers to savor the intricate details and explore the inner workings of the characters' minds. Some may find this slow pace detracting from their enjoyment of the book, preferring a faster and more action-packed storyline.

Overall, Linda Condon is a masterful exploration of human desires, the complexities of relationships, and the pressures of society. Hergesheimer's exquisite prose and compelling characters breathe life into this early 20th-century tale, leaving readers mesmerized long after the final page.

First Page:

Her mother was gay for them both, and, therefore, for the entire family. No father was in evidence; he was dead and never spoken of, and Linda was the only child. Linda's dresses, those significant trivialities, plainly showed two tendencies the gaiety of her mother and her own always formal gravity. If Linda appeared at dinner, in the massive Renaissance materialism of the hotel dining room, with a preposterous magenta hair ribbon on her shapely head, her mother had succeeded in expressing her sense of the appropriately decorative; while if Linda wore an unornamented but equally "unsuitable" frock of dark velvet, she, in her turn, had been vindicated... Continue reading book >>