Charles Egbert Craddock
The Prophet of the Great Smoky Mountains
"The Prophet of the Great Smoky Mountains" by Charles Egbert Craddock is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story appears to center on the lives of its characters set against the rugged backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, combining themes of love, morality, and the challenges posed by nature and law. The opening portion introduces us to Dorinda Cayce, a young woman working in the fields, and her interaction with Rick Tyler, a troubled young man hunted by the law, setting the stage for their complex relationship. The opening of the novel describes the beautiful yet harsh environment of the Great Smokies and the daily lives of its inhabitants, particularly Dorinda Cayce, who finds herself socially and emotionally entangled with Rick Tyler, a fugitive carrying the weight of past choices and accusations. Their dialogue reveals a growing tension between their personal aspirations and the oppressive hand of justice as Rick faces persecution for a murder he did not commit. With the sheriff and his posse lurking nearby, the sense of danger escalates, and Dorinda grapples with her feelings for Rick while navigating societal expectations, setting the tone for the unfolding drama that will explore themes of love, sacrifice, and autonomy amidst the challenges of their frontier life.