Molly Make-Believe

by Eleanor Hallowell Abbott

"Molly Make-Believe" by Eleanor Hallowell Abbott is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Carl Stanton, a man suffering from rheumatism and the loneliness that accompanies his illness, who becomes increasingly disillusioned with his relationship with his fiancée, Cornelia. As he engages with the whimsical world of "Molly" through a subscription for love letters from imaginary persons, he finds solace and connection in this make-believe correspondence." "The opening of "Molly Make-Believe" introduces us to Carl Stanton, who is stuck in a dreary winter of both physical ailment and emotional detachment. His fiancée's cold and pragmatic letters starkly contrast with the vibrant emotions he craves, leading him to subscribe to a whimsical service that sends him engaging letters from imaginary characters, bringing him a sense of comfort and companionship. As he grapples with his growing affection for this imaginary soul, Molly, he navigates his frustrations with Cornelia's aloofness. This captivating setup instantly immerses readers into the intrigue of the characters’ relationships and sets the stage for a tender exploration of love, loneliness, and the transformative power of imagination."