"A Knight of the Nineteenth Century" by Edward Payson Roe intertwines historical fiction and romance within the rich tapestry of Victorian literature. Set amidst the bustling streets of New York City during a time of rapid urbanization and industrialization, the novel delves into the moral values and social reform movements of the era. Through a character-driven narrative, Roe explores themes of courtship, social hierarchy, and family dynamics, presenting a compelling portrayal of the complexities of life in the 19th century. At its heart, the story follows the journey of a gentleman seeking redemption, whose encounters with love and adversity lead to profound personal growth. As the protagonist navigates the challenges of society, Roe weaves a narrative infused with Christian values, offering readers a glimpse into the transformative power of faith and forgiveness. Against the backdrop of a changing world, "A Knight of the Nineteenth Century" stands as a timeless tale of love, redemption, and the enduring pursuit of moral integrity in the face of societal pressures.
Edward Payson Roe was an American novelist, Presbyterian clergyman, gardener, and historian. Edward Payson Roe was born in the settlement of Moodna, which is now part of New Windsor, New York. He attended Williams College and the Auburn Theological Seminary. In 1862, he was appointed chaplain of the Second New York Cavalry, United States Volunteers, and in 1864, chaplain of Hampton Hospital in Virginia. From 1866 to 1874, he was pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Highland Falls, New York. In 1874, he moved to Cornwall-On-Hudson, where he focused on fiction writing and horticulture. During the American Civil War, he published weekly letters to the New York Evangelist and later lectured on the conflict and wrote for publications. He married Anna Paulina Sands in 1863 and had a number of children. Sarah married Olympic fencer Charles T. Tatham, while Pauline married landscape painter Henry Charles Lee. His writings were well-received in their day, particularly among middle-class readers in England and America, and were translated into other European languages. Their strong moral and theological aim helped to overcome America's Puritan prejudice toward works of fiction. One of his most common criticisms was that his writing resembled sermons.
