"The Discarded Daughter or The Children of the Isle" is a captivating novel written by Mrs. E. D. E. N. Southworth. Set against the backdrop of an island, the book tells the poignant tale of a young girl named Edith, who finds herself abandoned and discarded by her family. As the story unfolds, Edith's resilience and determination come to the fore as she navigates the challenges and adversities that life throws at her. Along her journey, she encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. Through her interactions, Edith discovers the power of love, forgiveness, and the strength to rise above her circumstances. The story is an enchanting novel that touches the heart and resonates with readers. Mrs. E. D. E. N. Southworth's ability to blend romance, suspense, and social commentary creates a rich and engaging narrative that keeps readers captivated from beginning to end.
Emma Dorothy Eliza Nevitte Southworth (December 26, 1819 – June 30, 1899) was an American writer of more than 60 novels in the latter part of the 19th century. She was the most popular American novelist of her day. Southworth was born in Washington, D.C., to Susannah Wailes and Charles LeCompte Nevitte, a Virginia merchant. Her father died when she was five years old, and her mother remarried when she was eight. Southworth attended a school kept by her stepfather, Joshua L. Henshaw. She later recalled her childhood as a lonely one, with her happiest moments spent exploring Maryland's Tidewater region on horseback. During those rides, she acquired an abiding interest in the area's history and folklore. Southworth began writing at a young age, and her first novel, Retribution, was published in 1849. The novel was a success, and Southworth quickly became one of the most popular writers in America.