Neighbours on the Green

"Neighbours on the Green" by Mrs. Oliphant is a novel that explores the interwoven lives of people living in Dinglefield Green, focusing on romance, social interactions, and complicated relationships. The story starts with two sisters, Nelly and Martha, and their widowed neighbor, Mrs. Mulgrave, who adores Nelly, hinting at future romantic situations. The novel begins by describing Dinglefield Green, where the narrator shares her love of her cottage and her young neighbors, especially Nelly, who is lively and easygoing. Martha is also nice, but she doesn't have Nelly's appeal, creating a contrast between them. The arrival of Captain Llewellyn, cousin to Sir Thomas Denzil, causes excitement and hope, especially for Nelly, as Mrs. Mulgrave watches, realizing that loyalties might be tested soon. The opening chapters establish a web of relationships and feelings that suggest the tranquil lives of the villagers will become more complex.