The Hesitant Heart

by Anne Edwards

In this novel, poet Emily Dickinson carries on a doomed romance with Judge Otis Lord, a family friend.

Genres: Fiction

247 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1974

Reviews

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fictional account of Emily Dickinson, her struggles with her family's Puritanical beliefs and her outspoken personality. She falls in love with Judge Otis Lord, her family is against it. He presides over a trial of 2 twin brother suspects. Emily attends the trial to see him at work. She becomes interested in their family upbringing as there are some comparisons t her own life. She is a very enlightened woman for her time!!!!My book had no jacket or info. I read this book in one day. It is quite good. There are some page turning part, but overall just a well written book. She and the Judge plan to marry against all wishes of her family. Her father had also forbade her sister from marrying someone she loved. Their brother, however, allowed to marry who he wanted and then had affairs. She was known for her "queerness" personality. NOT SO. As all of us have, she had life experiences that shaped her. Many did not know this, so it was just easier to judge her. Times have not changed there. Verry interesting read, great writing, great characters.

[Vikki · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a love story and biography of Emily Dickinson. It tells of Emily being in love with a friend of her father, Otis Lord, who was a judge. After Mr. Lord's wife dies and the death of Emily's father, the book tells of a trip they took. After the trip Mr. Lord has a stroke and they do not get together as planned. I had previously thought they didn't get together because Emily changed her mind after getting home to dominant siblings. I really like Anne Edwards biographys.

[Sharon Buxton · Rating 3 out of 5]

C. fiction, historical fiction, 19th c., Emily Dickinson, from stash, discard

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting that it is a true story. A sad love story definitely, for Emily Dickinson and Judge Otis Lord had everything against their love for each other. A good read.