The Well in the Desert An Old Legend of the House of Arundel

by Emily Sarah Holt

"The Well in the Desert" by Emily Sarah Holt is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. Set at the turn of the 15th century, it tells the story of Philippa Fitzalan, a young woman connected to the House of Arundel, who grapples with familial neglect, a search for identity, and the quest for love in a world filled with greed and moral corruption. The narrative intertwines themes of faith and the search for a deeper spiritual fulfillment against a backdrop of historical events and societal expectations. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Philippa and her challenging existence within her father's castle, where she feels invisible and unvalued in comparison to her stepsisters. The story opens with a poignant scene involving the lady from whom she was separated as a child, hinting at Philippa’s longing for connection and understanding of her origins. The narrative quickly sets into motion Philippa's quest for her mother and her place in a society that often treats her as an afterthought. As Philippa navigates her turbulent family dynamics, the contrast between her desire for love and acceptance and the harsh realities she faces begins to emerge, creating an emotive foundation for her character's development throughout the book.