The rose of old St. Louis

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

20911

Title

The rose of old St. Louis

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in early 19th-century St. Louis, this historical romance follows a Philadelphia soldier of fortune who travels west to protect a spirited young woman. Blending French colonial customs with frontier adventure, the novel explores themes of honor, love, and the Louisiana Purchase against a backdrop of political intrigue and indigenous encounters.

Summary up to 500 words

Mary Dillon's *The Rose of Old St. Louis* is a historical romance that seamlessly weaves the intimate lives of its characters with the sweeping political events of the Louisiana Purchase. The narrative follows a Philadelphia soldier recovering from illness in Cahokia before joining Captain Clarke's expedition to St. Louis. Upon arrival, he enters a vibrant French colonial society, characterized by elegant balls, lively picnics, and a distinct blend of European refinement and frontier ruggedness. Central to this social tapestry is Mademoiselle Pelagie Chouteau, a spirited and beautiful figure whose family hosts grand gatherings. The protagonist's journey involves escorting Pelagie to a picnic on Chouteau's Pond, an excursion that quickly turns tense when mysterious noises in the woods lead to a confrontation with the disguised Chevalier Le Moyne. This encounter highlights the story's themes of rivalry, romance, and the underlying dangers of the frontier. As the plot advances, the novel explores the social dynamics of the French regime in St. Louis, featuring interactions with historical figures such as Napoleon, Marbois, and James Monroe. Dillon meticulously recreates the atmosphere of the era, balancing intimate character studies with significant historical milestones, including the signing of the Louisiana Purchase Treaty. The narrative delves into romantic entanglements, particularly the rivalry between the protagonist and the Chevalier, while also depicting the political debates surrounding the cession of Louisiana. Through these dual lenses, the story captures the essence of a society in transition, where personal ambitions and political shifts collide against the backdrop of the Mississippi River valley. The tale culminates in a dramatic resolution that untangles the romantic and political tensions, offering a faithful yet fictionalized portrait of early American history and the enduring allure of the Old West.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• History
• Fiction