The River Nymph is a work of historical drama set in the deep south, penned by author Anne Lovett. In a tale of two bold young women seeking success, love, and admiration in the nineteen-twenties, the story begins with fourteen-year-old Tenny as she escapes a Georgia plantation in search of her brother and a better life. When she crosses paths with seventeen-year-old Augusta, a keen photographer who yearns for the bright lights of New York City, their journey to achieve their dreams truly begins. That is until the smooth-talking Ned Fletcher arrives to throw a cat amongst the pigeons, creating confusion and heartache wherever he goes.

One thing I particularly liked about this lengthy but engrossing novel was the variety of work and social situations that the girls encounter as they try to find their place and happiness in the world. Author Anne Lovett has clearly done some fantastic research into the historical logistics of how a small group of young people would travel and search for success, making for a realistic and uplifting story which has both female empowerment themes, but also vulnerability, traditional romance moments and plenty of historical realism. The depictions of the locations were highly atmospheric and cinematic in the word choice, whilst the dialogue leaped off the page with authenticity and flair. Overall, The River Nymph is a nostalgic, exciting and romantic tale of growing up fast in a big wide world, and it comes highly recommended for historical fiction and classic romance fans everywhere.

Tenny Chance was just 14 years old when she ran away from a Georgia plantation in search of her brother, a job and a better life. She had no idea that she would encounter Augusta “Gussie” Pemberton, a 17-year-old girl who would become a constant in her life. Both of these girls had their own dreams and aspirations, but they were determined to find out what life had in store for them. Tenny wanted to be a nurse and Gussie wanted recognition for her photography skills. However, life is not easy for them. They have to struggle hard, work harder and try to make it safely out of the murky waters of the real world. Can these two girls find their dreams?

The River Nymph by Anne Lovett is the story of two girls who struggle to find their way to a better future. What I loved most about this novel was how the protagonists were given a chance to explore, discover and find the best answers for themselves. The author didn’t rush anything; she kept a medium pace and allowed the characters to grow in their own time. The story felt very real; the descriptions, the imagery and the overall feel of the narrative transported me into the story. I saw the pictures the author painted with her words and felt what she wanted her characters to feel. I felt Gussie’s struggles, I felt how Tenny was desperate at times and that made the reading experience exceptional. It was a heavy read at times and made me stop for a minute before I could continue, but I never wanted to put the novel down. I hope to read more work from this author because she is just gifted. Intense and simply amazing.