His Sombre Rivals   By: Edward Payson Roe (1838-1888)

His Sombre Rivals by Edward Payson Roe is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that expertly combines elements of romance and suspense. Set in a small town in upstate New York, the story follows the lives of two young men who become deeply entangled in a complex love triangle with a captivating young woman.

Roe’s writing style is engaging and descriptive, painting vivid landscapes and bringing the characters to life. The narrative flows smoothly, allowing the reader to become fully immersed in the story from the very beginning. The author’s ability to create three-dimensional characters is particularly impressive, as each protagonist is flawlessly depicted with their own unique personality, flaws, and motivations.

The plot of the novel is masterfully crafted, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. The love triangle between the three main characters is intricately woven, exploring themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. As the story progresses, the tension continues to escalate, compelling the reader to eagerly turn page after page.

Furthermore, the novel delves into several societal issues of the time, including class divisions and the challenges faced by women in finding their own independence. Roe’s exploration of these topics adds depth to the story, giving it a broader scope and making it relatable to a wider audience.

One of the standout features of His Sombre Rivals is the author’s attention to detail in depicting the setting and time period. Through vivid descriptions of the quaint town, its inhabitants, and their daily lives, Roe transports the reader to a different era, while also highlighting the timeless struggles and triumphs of the human experience.

While the novel excels in many areas, there are some moments where the pacing slows down slightly, particularly in the middle sections of the book. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the story.

Edward Payson Roe’s His Sombre Rivals is a captivating and enthralling novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate a well-crafted love story, richly developed characters, and a captivating plot. Through its examination of love, ambition, and societal pressures, this book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition that will linger in the reader's mind long after the final page is turned.

First Page:

The following story has been taking form in my mind for several years, and at last I have been able to write it out. With a regret akin to sadness, I take my leave, this August day, of people who have become very real to me, whose joys and sorrows I have made my own. Although a Northern man, I think my Southern readers will feel that I have sought to do justice to their motives. At this distance from the late Civil War, it is time that passion and prejudice sank below the horizon, and among the surviving soldiers who were arrayed against each other I think they have practically disappeared. Stern and prolonged conflict taught mutual respect. The men of the Northern armies were convinced, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that they had fought men and Americans men whose patriotism and devotion to a cause sacred to them was as pure and lofty as their own. It is time that sane men and women should be large minded enough to recognize that, whatever may have been the original motives of political leaders, the people on both sides were sincere and honest; that around the camp fires at their hearths and in their places of worship they looked for God's blessing on their efforts with equal freedom from hypocrisy... Continue reading book >>