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Bride Roses   By: (1837-1920)

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In William Dean Howells' novel, "Bride Roses," readers are transported to a charming New England town in the late 19th century, where the intricacies of small-town life and social expectations take center stage. With delicate prose and a keen eye for detail, Howells weaves a story that explores love, marriage, and the pursuit of happiness.

The narrative follows the lives of three main characters: Rose, the spirited daughter of a wealthy family; Frank, a struggling artist with dreams of recognition; and Henry, a successful businessman and Rose's betrothed. As the intertwined lives of these characters unfold, Howells delves into the complexities of their relationships, exposing the restrictive nature of societal norms and the consequences of straying from them.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Howells' portrayal of the dynamics between Rose, Frank, and Henry. Through their conversations and interactions, the author explores themes of duty, desire, and the consequences of personal choices. Readers will find themselves torn between rooting for Rose to pursue her own happiness and sympathizing with the pressures she faces in adhering to convention.

Furthermore, Howells' vivid descriptions of the town itself paint a vibrant picture of the era. From the bustling streets to the grand houses, the setting becomes a character of its own, mirroring the tensions and expectations that shape the lives of its inhabitants. This attention to detail immerses readers in the world of the story and brings it to life.

Perhaps the only flaw in "Bride Roses" lies in its pacing. While the slow unfolding of the narrative allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and their motivations, it may test the patience of some readers. Nevertheless, Howells' elegant prose and insightful observations keep the story engaging, making it worth the investment of time.

Overall, "Bride Roses" is a thought-provoking novel that captures the complexities of human relationships and the inner struggles faced when societal expectations clash with personal desires. William Dean Howells' writing shines in this compelling work, offering readers a glimpse into a world that feels both familiar and distant. Anyone with an appreciation for character-driven stories and keen socio-cultural commentary will find this book a captivating read.

First Page:

BRIDE ROSES

W. D. HOWELLS

Bride Roses

A SCENE

By W. D. Howells

BOSTON AND NEW YORK

Houghton, Mifflin and Company MDCCCC

COPYRIGHT, 1893, BY HARPER & BROTHERS

COPYRIGHT, 1900, BY W. D. HOWELLS

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Bride Roses

SCENE

A Lady , entering the florist's with her muff to her face, and fluttering gayly up to the counter, where the florist stands folding a mass of loose flowers in a roll of cotton batting: "Good morning, Mr. Eichenlaub! Ah, put plenty of cotton round the poor things, if you don't want them frozen stiff! You have no idea what a day it is, here in your little tropic." She takes away her muff as she speaks, but gives each of her cheeks a final pressure with it, and holds it up with one hand inside as she sinks upon the stool before the counter.

The Florist: "Dropic? With icepergs on the wintows?" He nods his head toward the frosty panes, and wraps a sheet of tissue paper around the cotton and the flowers.

The Lady: "But you are not near the windows. Back here it is midsummer!"

The Florist: "Yes, we got a rhevricherator to keep the rhoces from sunstroke." He crimps the paper at the top, and twists it at the bottom of the bundle in his hand. "Hier!" he calls to a young man warming his hands at the stove. "Chon, but on your hat, and dtake this to Holt on! I forgot to but in the cart... Continue reading book >>




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