The Obstacle Race

"The Obstacle Race" by Ethel M. Dell is a story set in the early 1900s, where Juliet Moore leaves the busy city of London behind and goes to the coast with her dog Columbus to find peace. As she spends time by the sea, Juliet gets to know the people who live there, especially two brothers, the mysterious Robin, who has some physical differences, and his protective brother, Dick. When Juliet first arrives, she treasures the quiet moments by the water, thinking about her life. After meeting Robin, she feels drawn to his innocence and shows him kindness. Their early interactions highlight the importance of family and loyalty, especially Robin’s strong feelings for his brother. As readers explore the story, Juliet's new life is full of challenges that test her strength. Her journey emphasizes the power of love, the reality of suffering, and the ability to bounce back from hardship. The novel's tone can be characterized as emotional.