+ + N. Y. Times. 11: 317. My. 19, ’06. 2290w. + – Outlook. 84: 91. S. 8, ’06. 560w. R. of Rs. 33: 768. Je. ’06. 210w.
“Many modern writers have dealt with the subject from the same point of view. Few of them have had the courage of their opinions to the same extent as Professor Ryan.”
+ – Spec. 97: 233. Ag. 18, ’06. 2260w.
Ryan, Marah Ellis (Martin) (Mrs. S. E. Ryan). [For the soul of Rafael]: a romance of old California. †$1.50. McClurg.
The heights of San Jacinto stand guard over the valley which furnishes the picturesque setting of this tale. The ruined dome of an old mission gleams among the clustered adobes of the Mexicans which are “like children creeping close to the feet of the one mother: and beyond that the illimitable ranges of mesa and valley.” The characters are all the fine, aristocratic Spanish type, looking upon Americans as “godless invaders.” Dramatic intensity marks each development in a story of strong passions and a splendid renunciation.
“A picturesque and romantic story, which stands out vividly against the careful and realistic brushwork of the background.” Frederic Taber Cooper.
+ Bookm. 24: 52. S. ’06. 320w.
“Mrs. Ryan’s new novel has so confused a way of introducing its characters and setting forth their relationships that we are midway in the volume before we have fairly straightened them out. Aside from this defect of constructive technique, we may say that the work is one of vivid dramatic quality and appealing romantic charm.” Wm. M. Payne.
– + Dial. 41: 39. Jl. 16, ’06. 210w.