"Gulzara; or The Persian Slave" by Anna Cora Mowatt Ritchie is a captivating novel that transports readers to the exotic world of Persia. The story follows the life of Gulzara, a young Persian woman who is taken captive and sold into slavery. Despite facing unimaginable hardships, Gulzara remains strong and resilient, displaying a fierce determination to overcome her circumstances.

Ritchie's vivid descriptions bring the sights, sounds, and smells of Persia to life, immersing readers in a richly detailed world full of intrigue and danger. The characters are well-developed and complex, each with their own motivations and secrets that drive the narrative forward.

At its core, "Gulzara" is a story of love, betrayal, and redemption. The relationships between the characters are fraught with tension and emotion, adding depth and complexity to the plot. The novel's themes of freedom, justice, and the power of the human spirit are deeply resonant and thought-provoking.

Overall, "Gulzara; or The Persian Slave" is a beautifully written and engaging novel that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and romance. Ritchie's prose is a pleasure to read, and her storytelling prowess shines through in every page. Highly recommended for readers looking for a compelling and immersive reading experience.

Book Description:
“Gulzara, The Persian Slave” is a rare example of a script for a Victorian melodrama that was intended as a private theatrical – to be performed by a limited cast of amateurs in a home or school, not on a public stage. Rarer still, “Gulzara” was written by a female author to be performed by a cast of women. The only male character, Amurath, was a “breeches role,” played by a young girl. Thus this drama, set in a harem in Constantinople, in addition to spinning a yarn about the abduction of Sultan Suliman’s son, gives us an unusual peek at the lives of young women in the U.S. in the 1840’s and 50’s. - Summary by Kelly S. Taylor Cast List Amurath Jasmin Salma Zuleika Kelly S. Taylor Fatima the story girl Katinka Larry Wilson Gulzara E. J. Lavery Ayesha TJ Burns Stage Directions Wayne Cooke