So, I just finished 'Little Eve Edgarton' and I have to talk about it! Published in 1914, it's a charming, funny, and quietly rebellious story that feels fresher than you'd expect.

The Story

Eve Edgarton is the youngest daughter of a very proper, very wealthy Boston family. Her life is all about rules, social calls, and behaving just so. Then, out of the blue, a distant relative leaves her a small fortune. It's not enough to make her wildly rich, but it's enough to give her a taste of freedom. The plot follows Eve as she tries to use this money and her newfound independence to figure out what she actually wants from life, much to the gentle horror of her family.

Why You Should Read It

I fell for Eve's voice immediately. She's observant, a little sarcastic, and wonderfully human. Abbott has a real gift for writing witty dialogue and small, telling details that make the characters pop off the page. While it's a light read, it's not shallow. It's really about a woman quietly pushing against the rigid box society has built for her. You're rooting for her with every small act of defiance, whether it's buying an 'unladylike' book or speaking her mind.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect pick for anyone who loves classic stories with spirit. If you enjoy authors like L.M. Montgomery or Jane Austen's lighter moments, you'll find a friend in Eleanor Hallowell Abbott. It's for readers who like historical fiction that focuses on character and quiet humor over grand drama. A delightful, insightful escape into a world where the biggest battle is for a bit of self-determination.