Just Around the Corner: Romance en casserole

by Fannie Hurst

"Just Around the Corner: Romance en casserole" by Fannie Hurst is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the lives of characters intertwined in the bustling atmosphere of urban life, focusing particularly on themes of romance and personal aspirations. Gertrude Sprunt is introduced as one of the central characters, working in a hotel as a manicurist, and her interactions with various male suitors hint at her desire for a deeper connection amidst the chaos of city life. The opening of the novel provides a vibrant glimpse into the world of Gertrude and her colleagues, highlighting their dynamics and their encounters with customers at the Knockerbeck Hotel. The narrative introduces us to Gertrude's professional life and her flirtations with two different men—Mr. Barker, a boisterous, wealthy suitor, and Mr. Chase, a more reserved but intriguing character. As she navigates these relationships, the chapter sets the stage for exploring Gertrude's evolving emotional landscape, filled with hope and uncertainty about her future as her heart begins to sway in different directions.