Kidnapped at the Altar or, The Romance of that Saucy Jessie Bain   By: Laura Jean Libbey (1862-1924)

Kidnapped at the Altar, or The Romance of that Saucy Jessie Bain by Laura Jean Libbey is a riveting tale that combines elements of suspense, romance, and intrigue. Set in the late 19th century, the novel takes readers on a captivating journey through the lives of its colorful characters, delivering unexpected twists and turns along the way.

At the heart of the story is Jessie Bain, a headstrong young woman who finds herself entangled in a web of danger and passion. The narrative opens with Jessie's arranged marriage to the wealthy and powerful Lord Marten, a man she barely knows. However, on the day of her wedding, she is shockingly kidnapped by a mysterious stranger, throwing her life into chaos.

As the story unfolds, we discover that Jessie's abduction is intrinsically linked to a tangled web of secrets and hidden identities. The identity of her abductor, as well as his motives, remain shrouded in darkness, adding an extra layer of suspense to the narrative. Libbey skillfully weaves together multiple plotlines, keeping readers engrossed as they eagerly seek answers to the questions that arise.

What sets Kidnapped at the Altar apart is its strong portrayal of Jessie as a fiercely independent and unconventional woman living in a time when societal norms strictly dictated women's behavior. She defies the expectations placed upon her and takes matters into her own hands, ultimately becoming the architect of her own destiny.

Libbey's writing style is engaging and evocative, painting vivid scenes that transport readers to the era in which the novel is set. The dialogue sparkles with authenticity, lending depth to each character and enhancing the story's overall appeal.

While Kidnapped at the Altar is undoubtedly an entertaining read, it is not without its flaws. The pacing occasionally falters, particularly in the middle sections of the story, where the narrative takes some detours that could have been streamlined. Nonetheless, these minor detours do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, Kidnapped at the Altar, or The Romance of that Saucy Jessie Bain is a captivating historical romance that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With its intriguing plot, well-drawn characters, and a strong-willed heroine, Laura Jean Libbey delivers an engaging story that is sure to delight fans of the genre. Despite a few pacing issues, the novel's unique blend of suspense, romance, and adventure makes it an enjoyable and memorable read.

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I. Some Young Girls Find Love So Sweet 5 II. Fate Is Against Some People 14 III. When Those We Love Drift Away 21 IV. The Girl Who Plays at Flirtation 27 V. The Mysterious House on Wau Winet Island 33 VI. The Letters That Ceased to Come 39 VII. Every Young Girl Would Like a Lover 45 VIII. A Mother's Desperate Scheme 50 IX. Gerelda's Escape From Wau Winet Island 55 X. What Is Life Without Love? 60 XI. Gerelda Could Have Saved Her 67 XII. Out in the Cold, Bleak World 73 XIII... Continue reading book >>