Mary Hartwell Catherwood 
The Cobbler In The Devil’s Kitchen 
From ‘Mackinac And Lake Stories’, 1899

Mary Hartwell Catherwood’s ‘The Cobbler In The Devil’s Kitchen’ is a captivating novel set in the historical backdrop of the American Midwest during the 19th century. The book explores themes of moral ambiguity and the struggle between good and evil through vivid descriptions of small town life and supernatural elements. Catherwood’s writing style is characterized by intricate storytelling and rich character development, making the narrative both engaging and thought-provoking. The literary context of the novel reflects the rise of regionalist literature in America, with a focus on capturing the unique cultural aspects of different regions. The book is a blend of folklore, mystery, and social commentary, making it a compelling read for fans of historical fiction and gothic literature.

Tentang Penulis

Mary Hartwell Catherwood (1847–1902) was an American writer of historical romances, known for her intricate and meticulously researched narratives often set in the American Midwest. Born in Luray, Ohio, Catherwood developed an affinity for writing during her education at the Granville Female College in Ohio. Her literary career blossomed in the late 19th century, a period that saw a burgeoning interest in local color literature, and Catherwood carved out a niche for herself by focusing on the frontier and colonial history of the United States. Her writing style was distinguished by its vivid descriptions and its use of dialect, which added authenticity to her stories and endeared her to readers seeking a genuine slice of Americana.

Among her many works, ‘The Cobbler in the Devil’s Kitchen’ exemplifies her narrative flair and her ability to weave folklore into her historical romance framework. Catherwood’s contribution to the genre was significant, providing a feminine perspective within a predominantly male literary tradition. Though lesser-known today, Mary Hartwell Catherwood’s works remain an important part of the tapestry of American historical fiction, illustrative both of the era she depicted and the time in which she wrote.