DEVONSHIRE ROMANCE

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXI, Issue 21716, 3 February 1934, Page 8 (Supplement)

DEVONSHIRE ROMANCE

CHOOSING A HUSBAND Outstanding for the varied and masterly studies in characterisation, "Nancy Owlett," a new novel by Eden Phillpotts, will be conceded a personal triumph for this popular author. The quaint atmosphere of old Devonshire during the Georgian period is deftly recalled. By means of the rich Devonshire modes of expression with which Mr. Phillpotts is so evidently conversant, the story is told with beautiful simplicity and sincerity. The plot itself, though deftly unfolded, is not so deep as to be all-ab-sorbing, but will be found quite interesting none the less Tn brief it concerns a pretty Devonshire lass who is unable to decide which of three suitors to accept in wedlock. The solution of this problem becomes a highly involved proceeding, in which the workings of justice determine Nancy's final choice —a choice which will be fully endorsed by the reader, notwithstanding the disparity in the ages of the happy couple. Indeed the hero, Nicholas Pegram, will be admired not only for his noble thoughts, kindliness and unselfish ambitions, but also for his gift of graceful expression. Eight very fine illustrations in colour depicting various outstanding incidents of the story have bee'n painted by Mr. Charles E. Brock, R. 1., and these largely contribute to the charm of this engaging book. Tho author pays a fine tribute to liis illustrator when he.states that Mr. Brock has depicted the characters just as he himself in his own mind created them. "Nancy Owlett." by Eden Phillpotts. (Raphael Tuck.