An American Suffragette

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22285

Title

An American Suffragette

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

In this 1911 novel, Dr. John Earl returns from India to New York, only to find himself entangled in a murder trial involving his fiancée's family. Blending medical mystery with suffragette activism, the story explores themes of justice, love, and the struggle for women's rights against a backdrop of supernatural hints and social prejudice.

Summary up to 500 words

In Isaac Newton Stevens' *An American Suffragette*, the narrative intertwines high-stakes medical mystery with the fervent social battle for women's rights. The story centers on Dr. John Earl, a renowned physician celebrated for his mysterious 'Hindoo' respiration techniques and his ability to save patients deemed hopeless, including a Frenchman in Paris. Upon returning to New York, Earl is engaged to Leonora Kimball, a woman of conventional charm, yet his attention is captivated by Silvia Holland, a spirited and intelligent activist deeply involved in the suffrage movement. The plot thickens when Silvia's friend, Emma Bell, writes a desperate letter from her deathbed implicating Orrin Morris in a plot to silence her. This revelation sets the stage for a dramatic murder trial where Morris faces accusations of foul play. During the proceedings, Silvia discovers a crucial letter that exonerates her client, leading to Morris's apparent suicide and the acquittal of the accused. Throughout the novel, Stevens balances courtroom drama with sharp social commentary. The narrative explores the clash between progressive activists and anti-suffrage zealots, featuring a cast that ranges from dedicated reformers to those who believe women's political participation will degrade society and harm the home. Dr. Earl's journey from a man torn between his engagement and his growing love for Silvia mirrors the broader societal shift toward recognizing women's capabilities and rights. The novel concludes with a sense of moral clarity and hope. Dr. Earl and Silvia unite not only through love but also through a shared commitment to social progress. Their union symbolizes the triumph of genuine connection over societal constraints and the belief that civilization reaches its highest heights only when women are granted freedom and equal participation in governance. The story leaves readers with an inspiring vision of a future where love and justice drive human advancement.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Fiction
• Politics