The Brother Clerks A Tale of New-Orleans   By: Mary Ashley Townsend (1832-1901)

The Brother Clerks A Tale of New-Orleans by Mary Ashley Townsend is a captivating historical novel set in the vibrant city of New Orleans during the mid-19th century. With an abundance of descriptive prose and an intricately woven plot, the book offers readers a glimpse into the lives of the clerks who worked in the bustling commercial district.

The story revolves around the experiences of two brothers, Eugene and Thomas, who find themselves entangled in the web of a developing city where traditions clash with modern ambitions. As they navigate their daily lives, the brothers encounter a diverse array of characters, each representing different facets of New Orleans society. From wealthy plantation owners to ambitious entrepreneurs and impoverished workers, Townsend masterfully depicts the contrasts and conflicts prevalent in the city's social fabric.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its vivid descriptions. Townsend effortlessly transports readers to the vibrant streets of New Orleans, immersing them in the sights, sounds, and scents of the city. Whether she is describing a bustling marketplace or a genteel ballroom, the author's attention to detail helps bring the setting alive, allowing readers to truly envision the world in which the characters reside.

Moreover, Townsend's portrayal of the characters is both nuanced and compelling. Eugene and Thomas, in particular, undergo significant personal growth throughout the narrative, pitting their familial bond against the temptations and challenges that the city presents. The brothers' individual journeys reflect the broader exploration of societal changes and personal aspirations, adding a layer of depth to the story.

While the story's pacing may seem slow at times, Townsend uses these moments to delve into the socio-political landscape of New Orleans. She skillfully navigates delicate topics such as slavery, class divisions, and the struggle for women's rights, providing the narrative with an added layer of historical context and ensuring the book's resonance with readers.

However, it is worth noting that the book's scope may be overwhelming for some readers. With multiple subplots and a large ensemble cast, it can be challenging to keep track of every character and their respective storylines. Nonetheless, this intricate web of relationships ultimately enhances the richness of the narrative, revealing the interconnectedness of the various social strata within the city.

In conclusion, The Brother Clerks A Tale of New-Orleans is a beautifully written historical novel that transports readers to a bygone era. With its compelling characters, vivid descriptions, and thought-provoking exploration of societal issues, Mary Ashley Townsend has crafted a captivating tale that offers both entertainment and enlightenment. Whether you have a particular interest in New Orleans history or simply enjoy immersive historical fiction, this book is definitely worth reading.

First Page:

Upon her deck, apart from all other passengers, stood two youths gazing with anxious eyes on the vast city spread out before them. The taller and elder of the two, bore upon his brow the flush of his twentieth summer. His figure seemed already to have gained its full proportions, and in his carriage and tone of voice there was all the pliant grace of youth, combined with manhood's strength and ease. His hair was of that purplish black so rarely seen save in the raven's wing, or the exquisite portraits of the old masters. The full broad forehead, shadowed by its dark locks, the clear black eye, the hue of health upon the check, and the smile upon the red lips as they parted over the snowy teeth, formed a picture of fresh and manly beauty over which the wing of this wicked world had as yet never hung darkly... Continue reading book >>