Molly Make-Believe

Eleanor Hallowell Abbott's charming epistolary novel, Molly Make-Believe, follows Carl Stanton, a bedridden invalid suffering from rheumatism and desperate for distraction. When his distant fiancée refuses to write regularly, Carl impulsively responds to a personal advertisement circulated by a mysterious young woman. What begins as a mischievous diversion becomes an unexpected transformation as their witty letter exchanges provide Carl with far more than mere entertainment—they awaken something in his heart he never anticipated. Set in the early 1900s, this delightful romance captures the charm of written correspondence as a vehicle for connection and self-discovery. Abbott's sharp humor and keen observations of courtship shine through the intimate medium of letters, creating a touching story about how genuine communication can bridge distance and reveal truth beneath carefully constructed facades. The novel explores themes of authenticity, the power of imagination, and second chances, all wrapped in the warm humor that made Abbott a beloved author of her era. Her witty protagonist and the gradual unfolding of Carl's emotional awakening provide genuine warmth without sacrificing cleverness. Perfect for readers who cherish epistolary fiction and romantic stories with genuine heart, Molly Make-Believe offers a refreshing escape into a world where a simple letter can change everything.