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The Shadow of the Past   By:

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The Shadow of the Past by F.E. Mills Young is a captivating and beautifully written novel that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through time and history. Set in a small English village, the story follows a young and ambitious journalist, Amelia, who stumbles upon a mysterious hidden diary while researching an old case.

What starts as a simple investigation quickly spirals into a complex web of secrets, scandals, and long-forgotten memories. Young masterfully weaves together different narrative threads, seamlessly jumping between the present and the past. As Amelia delves deeper into the diary's contents, she becomes entangled in the lives of the village's inhabitants, unearthing long-buried rivalries and suppressed emotions.

The author's vivid descriptions bring the village and its inhabitants to life, painting a realistic picture of rural England in the early 20th century. The intricate details and the meticulous research done by Young shine through on every page, creating a rich and immersive reading experience. From the charming cottages to the bustling marketplaces, readers will feel as if they have been transported back in time.

The characters in The Shadow of the Past are also well-developed and relatable, each carrying their own burdens and secrets. Amelia is a compelling protagonist, determined to uncover the truth no matter the cost. Her relentless pursuit of the story endears her to readers, making her journey all the more engaging.

Furthermore, the novel explores themes of family, love, and the consequences of our actions. Young skillfully intertwines these themes with the historical backdrop, creating a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant narrative.

If there is one minor criticism, it would be the pacing of the story. While the majority of the novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats, there are certain sections where the plot slows down a bit too much. However, this is a minor flaw that does not detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, The Shadow of the Past is a captivating and well-crafted novel that seamlessly combines mystery, history, and intricate storytelling. F.E. Mills Young has created a world that is both fascinating and relatable, leaving readers eagerly turning the pages until the very end. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction and a gripping tale that keeps you guessing until the final revelation.

First Page:

The Shadow of the Past By F.E. Mills Young Published by George H. Doran Company. This edition dated 1919.

The Shadow of the Past, by F.E. Mills Young.

THE SHADOW OF THE PAST, BY F.E. MILLS YOUNG.

CHAPTER ONE.

On the strip of yellow sand in the curve of the wall which separates the beach at Three Anchor Bay from the roadway above it two men sat playing cards in the blaze of the morning sunshine, which beat with untempered violence upon their uncovered heads, upon the hot sand that sloped gently to the rocky shore, and upon the long blue waves rolling slowly in from the Atlantic with the semblance of a succession of hooded serpents, rearing themselves with languid grace and folding over reluctantly, throwing off a stream of spray from their crests like the tail of some gigantic comet. Far out the sea was aglitter, save where it touched the horizon and lay mirror clear in the sensuous warmth, reflecting the light and colour from the sky.

With the exception of the two card players the beach was deserted; they were alone with the riot of colour and sunlight and the beauty of the sea. Neither looked at the sea. The older man, sitting cross legged on the sand, had his back towards it; the younger, leaning, save when he dealt the cards, on his elbow, only lifted his eyes from the cards to fix them on his companion's face, which he did at infrequent intervals with an odd half admiring resentment in their expression... Continue reading book >>




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