Elinor Wyllys, Volume 2   By: Susan Fenimore Cooper (1813-1894)

Elinor Wyllys, Volume 2 by Susan Fenimore Cooper is an enchanting continuation of the captivating tale introduced in the first volume. This sequel takes readers on a journey filled with love, mystery, and personal growth.

One of the novel’s strengths lies in the development of its characters. Elinor Wyllys, the protagonist, continues to shine as a strong and independent woman, navigating the complexities of her relationships and facing challenges with grace and determination. Cooper masterfully depicts Elinor’s growth throughout the story, allowing readers to witness her maturation as she confronts various obstacles and learns valuable life lessons.

The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each playing a crucial role in Elinor’s journey. Cooper skillfully weaves together their individual storylines, creating a tapestry of distinct personalities that adds depth and richness to the overall narrative. Whether it is the mischievous Henry Hubbard, the enigmatic Walter Madden, or the steadfast Mary Van Alstyne, every character feels authentic and contributes to the development of the plot.

Cooper’s storytelling abilities are commendable. With her eloquent prose, she paints vivid descriptions of the settings, allowing readers to effortlessly immerse themselves in the world she has created. From the bustling streets of New York City to the serene countryside, each location is meticulously portrayed, enhancing the reading experience.

The mystery element in this novel adds another layer of intrigue. As Elinor uncovers secrets and unravels the truth behind certain events, readers are kept on their toes, eager to uncover the revelations alongside her. Cooper masterfully balances the suspense, leaving breadcrumbs throughout the narrative to maintain tension and engagement until the very end.

Moreover, Cooper effortlessly captures the essence of the time period in which the story is set. Through her well-researched historical details and authentic dialogue, she transports readers back to early nineteenth-century America, providing an immersive experience that is as entertaining as it is educational.

However, one aspect that could have been strengthened in this novel is the pacing. At times, the narrative unfolds at a leisurely pace, with certain scenes and conversations feeling slightly drawn out. While this allows for a deeper exploration of the characters and their relationships, it might deter some readers looking for a faster-paced storyline.

In conclusion, Elinor Wyllys, Volume 2 is an exceptional novel that effortlessly blends romance, mystery, and historical fiction. Susan Fenimore Cooper’s well-drawn characters, immersive descriptions, and engaging storytelling make for a truly enjoyable reading experience. This sequel will undoubtedly satisfy fans of the first volume and leave readers eagerly anticipating future installments.

First Page:

{Text and note are by Hugh C. MacDougall (jfcooper@wpe.com). Notes are enclosed in curly brackets { }; these include identification of epigraphs and other quotations and allusions, explanations of obsolete word usage, and translations of foreign words and expressions. Quotations from Shakespeare are cited to the Riverside Edition (adopted as standard for the MLA approved Cooper Edition of the works of James Fenimore Cooper). Spelling and punctuation, including the author's idiosyncratic use of colons and semi colons, inconsistent use of single quotation marks for "thoughts," and combinations of dashes with other punctuation, have not been changed (except for occasional silent insertion of missing quotation marks). First instances of some unusual spellings (whether or not in accordance with the author's usual practise), and obvious typographical errors, are followed by {sic} to indicate that there has not been a mistake in transcription. Because of the limitations of the .TXT format, italicized foreign words (mostly French) are transcribed in ordinary type, and accents are omitted; words italicized for emphasis, or to emulate dialect or incorrect pronunciation, are transcribed as capitals... Continue reading book >>