Lying Prophets: A Novel

"Lying Prophets: A Novel" by Eden Phillpotts is a story set in the old-fashioned village of Newlyn, Cornwall, that looks at the complicated lives of people living there. The story is mostly about John Barron, an artist having a hard time, Michael Tregenza, a fisherman from the area, and Joan, Michael's daughter, who John falls in love with. The story dives into ideas about art, the outdoors, and how people feel, all happening in a beautiful place by the sea. Right away, the book shows how pretty Newlyn is, describing nature and everyday life carefully. We learn about John Barron, and the book shows how he is interested in Joan but also how he is trying to make his art dreams come true. The way the people in the village talk shows that they have different ideas about art and old customs, especially as John tries to find ideas in the lively but tough world around him. Overall, the beginning introduces a detailed look at imagination, love, and how people act in a small community.