The English Orphans; Or, A Home in the New World (eBook)

Mary Jane Holmes (1825-1907) was a prolific American novelist and short story writer, renowned for her popular domestically themed narratives which resonated with the middle class of her era. Born in Brookfield, Massachusetts, Holmes was a literary prodigy who published around 39 novels throughout her life, including one of her well-regarded works, 'The English Orphans; Or, A Home in the New World' (1855), which paints a vivid picture of the immigrant experience and the challenges of adapting to American society. In her literary career, Holmes often addressed themes of family, womanhood, and morality, and is credited with being one of the bestselling authors of her time. 'The English Orphans', like many of her novels, reflects Holmes's adeptness at creating strong female characters and engaging in social critique through narrative fiction. In Holmes's hands, the novel became a tool not only for entertainment but also for subtly challenging the societal norms of her day. Her work is characterized by her empathetic portrayal of characters and intricately plotted stories which captivate readers. Despite the waning scholarly attention posthumously, Holmes's contribution to nineteenth-century American literature and her influence on the development of sentimental and domestic fiction secure her place as a notable figure in the literary canon of her time.