In Cousin Maude, Mary Jane Holmes weaves an engaging tale of family dynamics, love, and betrayal. The story follows young protagonist Helen as she navigates the complexities of her family relationships and the challenges she faces when her cousin Maude enters the scene.

Holmes expertly captures the tension between Helen and Maude as they compete for the affection of their family members, and the consequences of their rivalry are far-reaching. The characters are well-developed and intriguing, each with their own flaws and strengths that make them relatable to readers.

The plot moves at a steady pace, keeping the reader engaged and eager to see how the story unfolds. Holmes' writing style is clear and descriptive, drawing the reader into the world she has created.

Overall, Cousin Maude is a captivating novel that explores themes of love, jealousy, and forgiveness. It is a compelling read that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the complexities of family relationships.

Book Description:
When Matilda's husband James dies, she marries rich Dr. Kennedy thinking he will provide a good home for her daughter Maude. However, the doctor is a miser and assumes that Matty will be his housekeeper. They have a little boy who is crippled and the doctor ignores him. Maude is totally devoted to him and on her mother's deathbed promises to look after him always. The story then evolves with Maude meeting her stepsister Nellie's cousins JC and James. Nellie has set her sights on JC who is after her money while Maude develops strong feelings towards James. JC begins to fall for Maude and when he learns that she has come into an inheritance bequeathed to her by her mother's former servant/nurse Janet he proposes to her. The complications that follow along with the arrival of a new stepmother add just the right amount of drama to this sweet romance. - Summary by Celine Major