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Avery   By: (1844-1911)

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Avery by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps is a riveting and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the complexities of human relationships and the moral dilemmas that arise from societal expectations. Set in the late 19th century, the story follows the life of Avery Archer, a young woman forced to navigate the treacherous waters of societal norms and expectations in a male-dominated world.

Phelps showcases her exceptional storytelling skills by capturing the reader's attention from the very first page. The protagonist, Avery, is a multifaceted character who struggles to reconcile her own desires with the demands placed upon her by society. From the onset, we witness her rebellion against the traditional gender roles assigned to women, challenging the status quo with her aspirations for education and autonomy.

One of the most striking aspects of this book is its exploration of the limitations imposed on women during that time period. Phelps masterfully exposes the pervasive misogyny that permeated society and addresses the issues of patriarchy, social class, and the power dynamics between men and women. Through Avery's eyes, we witness the unfairness of a system that silences and controls women, often trapping them in unhappy marriages and denying them basic human rights.

The author's prose is elegant and captivating, immersing the reader in a vividly depicted Victorian era. She effortlessly evokes the societal customs and mores of the time, painting a rich tapestry of the era's social fabric. Phelps demonstrates a keen understanding of human psychology, as she depicts the internal struggle of Avery, torn between her desire for independence and the fear of societal backlash.

In addition to its powerful exploration of gender dynamics, Avery also tackles themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption. Through relationships with various characters, Phelps illustrates the complexities of human emotion and the sacrifices that individuals are willing to make for the sake of love. Each relationship serves as a lens through which to examine the societal expectations that can both shape and hinder personal growth.

While reading Avery, I found myself completely invested in the characters and their fates. Phelps succeeds in creating a poignant and emotionally resonant narrative, one that offers profound insights into the human condition while shedding light on the struggles faced by women in the past.

Overall, Avery is an exceptionally well-written novel that deserves recognition for its compelling narrative, rich historical backdrop, and thought-provoking themes. Elizabeth Stuart Phelps skillfully explores the intricacies of gender dynamics and societal expectations, taking readers on a captivating journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Whether one is a history enthusiast or simply appreciates a well-crafted story, this book is sure to leave a lasting impact.

First Page:

[Frontispiece: "YOU ARE SO GENEROUS TO ME" (page 24)]

AVERY

By Elizabeth Stuart Phelps

BOSTON AND NEW YORK

HOUGHTON, MIFFLIN AND COMPANY

The Riverside Press, Cambridge

1902

COPYRIGHT, 1901, BY HARPER & BROS.

COPYRIGHT, 1902, BY ELIZABETH STUART PHELPS WARD

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Published October, 1902

Avery originally appeared as a serial in Harper's Magazine under the title of His Wife .

AVERY

PART I

"Oh, Pink! Mother can't lift you.... I would if I could.... Yes, I know I used to

"Molly, take the baby. Couldn't you amuse him, somehow? Perhaps, if you tried hard, you could keep him still. When he screams so, it seems to hit me here. It makes it harder to breathe. He cried 'most all night. And if you could contrive to keep Pink, too

"What is it, Kate? You'll have to manage without me this morning. Pick up anything for luncheon I don't care. I couldn't eat. You can warm over that mutton for yourselves. We must keep the bills down. They were too large last month. Order a grouse for Mr. Avery. He says he will dine at home to night

"There 's the telephone! Somebody answer it. I can't get down, myself.... Is it Mr. Avery? ... Wants me? ... I don't see how I can.... Yes. Hold the wire... Continue reading book >>




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