Their Mariposa Legend; a romance of Santa Catalina By: Charlotte B. Herr (1875-1963)
Their Mariposa Legend; a romance of Santa Catalina by Charlotte B. Herr is a beautifully told story that takes readers on a captivating journey through the picturesque Santa Catalina Island. Set in the early 1900s, this novel masterfully combines elements of romance, adventure, and mystery, making it an engrossing read from start to finish. The narrative centers around the lives of two young individuals, Rosamond Craig and Richard Herndon. Rosamond, with her allure and grace, is a captivating protagonist whose character is well-developed throughout the story. Richard, on the other hand, is an enigmatic and brooding character, adding depth and intrigue to the plot. One of the novel's strengths lies in its vivid descriptions of the island's natural beauty. Herr's exquisite prose allows readers to viscerally experience the lush landscapes, the crystal-clear waters, and the awe-inspiring cliffs. The author's attention to detail is commendable and helps transport readers to the enchanting world of Santa Catalina. The romance element of the story is beautifully woven into the backdrop of the island's unique cultural heritage. Herr expertly explores themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice, making the love story between Rosamond and Richard relatable and heartfelt. Their journey is rife with obstacles and challenges, which keeps readers eagerly turning the pages to see how their destinies unfold. Additionally, the element of mystery and suspense adds an exciting layer to the narrative. Herr cleverly incorporates the island's fabled Mariposa Legend, creating an air of intrigue and anticipation. The author skillfully builds suspense, keeping readers guessing until the very end. Moreover, the supporting cast of characters is also well-crafted, adding depth and complexity to the overall story. From the mysterious old sailor to the kind-hearted islanders, each character brings a unique perspective and contributes to the richness of the plot. However, there are moments in the story where the pacing slows down, particularly during the extensive descriptions of the island's historical background. While these sections provide interesting insights into the island's culture and traditions, they occasionally disrupt the flow of the story. In conclusion, Their Mariposa Legend; a romance of Santa Catalina is a captivating novel that combines romance, adventure, and mystery in a picturesque setting. Charlotte B. Herr's skillful storytelling and vivid descriptions create a vivid world that readers will find themselves longing to visit. Despite occasional pacing issues, this book is a delightful read for those seeking an immersive and enchanting tale set in a timeless, idyllic location. First Page: THEIR MARIPOSA LEGEND A Romance of Santa Catalina By Charlotte Herr To Little Bruce Parker Who Loved Stories Part I. Sir Francis Starts It It began to happen a long time ago, centuries ago, when, in a fragrant rush of rain, spring came one day to Punagwandah, fairest of the Channel Islands. Beneath the golden mists of sunrise danced a radiant sea. On steeply sloping hillsides where thickets of wild lilac bloomed, the lark shook from his tiny throat a tumult of glad music. In shadowed niches of the canyons lilies waited to fill with light their gleaming ivory cups. Spring in very truth was there. And looking down upon it from her cavern bower high above the beach, watched the Princess Wildenai. Kneeling there, the light of dawn shining on her long black hair, she was, herself, the sweetest blossom of the spring. Loveliest was she among all the maidens of the Mariposa and of royal blood besides; although of this the great chief Torquam, who even at that moment lay sleeping in his lodge of deerskin on the crescent beach below, knew more than he had ever told. With eyes rapt, her breath scarcely stirring the folds of softest fawnskin drawn across her breast, the princess bent her gaze to where the waves ran silver on the ocean's distant rim. There she knew the sun must rise and, as the first dazzling ray sparkled across the water, she rose slowly until she stood erect, a slender, graceful figure against the dim, gray rocks, and stretching her arms toward the East, spoke in the musical words of her people... Continue reading book >>

Their Mariposa Legend; a romance of Santa Catalina By: Charlotte B. Herr (1875-1963)

Their Mariposa Legend; a romance of Santa Catalina by Charlotte B. Herr is a beautifully told story that takes readers on a captivating journey through the picturesque Santa Catalina Island. Set in the early 1900s, this novel masterfully combines elements of romance, adventure, and mystery, making it an engrossing read from start to finish.

The narrative centers around the lives of two young individuals, Rosamond Craig and Richard Herndon. Rosamond, with her allure and grace, is a captivating protagonist whose character is well-developed throughout the story. Richard, on the other hand, is an enigmatic and brooding character, adding depth and intrigue to the plot.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its vivid descriptions of the island's natural beauty. Herr's exquisite prose allows readers to viscerally experience the lush landscapes, the crystal-clear waters, and the awe-inspiring cliffs. The author's attention to detail is commendable and helps transport readers to the enchanting world of Santa Catalina.

The romance element of the story is beautifully woven into the backdrop of the island's unique cultural heritage. Herr expertly explores themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice, making the love story between Rosamond and Richard relatable and heartfelt. Their journey is rife with obstacles and challenges, which keeps readers eagerly turning the pages to see how their destinies unfold.

Additionally, the element of mystery and suspense adds an exciting layer to the narrative. Herr cleverly incorporates the island's fabled Mariposa Legend, creating an air of intrigue and anticipation. The author skillfully builds suspense, keeping readers guessing until the very end.

Moreover, the supporting cast of characters is also well-crafted, adding depth and complexity to the overall story. From the mysterious old sailor to the kind-hearted islanders, each character brings a unique perspective and contributes to the richness of the plot.

However, there are moments in the story where the pacing slows down, particularly during the extensive descriptions of the island's historical background. While these sections provide interesting insights into the island's culture and traditions, they occasionally disrupt the flow of the story.

In conclusion, Their Mariposa Legend; a romance of Santa Catalina is a captivating novel that combines romance, adventure, and mystery in a picturesque setting. Charlotte B. Herr's skillful storytelling and vivid descriptions create a vivid world that readers will find themselves longing to visit. Despite occasional pacing issues, this book is a delightful read for those seeking an immersive and enchanting tale set in a timeless, idyllic location.

First Page:

THEIR MARIPOSA LEGEND

A Romance of Santa Catalina

By Charlotte Herr

To Little Bruce Parker Who Loved Stories

Part I. Sir Francis Starts It

It began to happen a long time ago, centuries ago, when, in a fragrant rush of rain, spring came one day to Punagwandah, fairest of the Channel Islands. Beneath the golden mists of sunrise danced a radiant sea. On steeply sloping hillsides where thickets of wild lilac bloomed, the lark shook from his tiny throat a tumult of glad music. In shadowed niches of the canyons lilies waited to fill with light their gleaming ivory cups. Spring in very truth was there.

And looking down upon it from her cavern bower high above the beach, watched the Princess Wildenai. Kneeling there, the light of dawn shining on her long black hair, she was, herself, the sweetest blossom of the spring. Loveliest was she among all the maidens of the Mariposa and of royal blood besides; although of this the great chief Torquam, who even at that moment lay sleeping in his lodge of deerskin on the crescent beach below, knew more than he had ever told.

With eyes rapt, her breath scarcely stirring the folds of softest fawnskin drawn across her breast, the princess bent her gaze to where the waves ran silver on the ocean's distant rim. There she knew the sun must rise and, as the first dazzling ray sparkled across the water, she rose slowly until she stood erect, a slender, graceful figure against the dim, gray rocks, and stretching her arms toward the East, spoke in the musical words of her people... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature

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