Kidnapped at the Altar; Or, The Romance of that Saucy Jessie Bain

by Laura Jean Libbey

"Kidnapped at the Altar; Or, The Romance of that Saucy Jessie Bain" by Laura Jean Libbey is a romantic novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the lives entangled in love and rivalry, particularly focusing on Jessie Bain, a spirited young girl, and Hubert Varrick, who is prepared to marry a beautiful heiress. As unexpected events unfold, the characters are faced with love, jealousy, and the consequences of their choices. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Hubert Varrick, who is on a steamer and reflecting on his imminent marriage to Gerelda Northrup, all while being captivated by the sight of a beautiful girl, Jessie Bain, on the dock. The narrative explores Hubert's conflicting affections for both Jessie and Gerelda, setting the stage for drama when Gerelda mysteriously disappears at the altar, leaving chaos in her wake. As the plot thickens, it intertwines themes of jealousy and betrayal, particularly through the actions of Captain Frazier, whose obsession with Gerelda leads to dire consequences. The opening portion establishes a backdrop of romantic intrigue, with Jessie Bain emerging as a central figure whose fate becomes intertwined with the tumultuous relationships of those around her.