The shotgun princess

"The Shotgun Princess" by William Merriam Rouse is an early 20th-century tale where love and laughter collide. The story centers around Doris Wilkins, a charming young woman, and the hilarious antics of her fiercely protective brother, Orla. Orla uses his shotgun to scare away any potential boyfriends, especially the persistent and good-humored Johnny Trumbull, who's set on winning Doris's heart. Set mainly in the Wilkins' kitchen, the narrative follows Johnny's repeated attempts to outsmart Orla, often leading to comical showdowns. Doris, sweet yet strong-willed, often finds herself caught in the middle. The story reaches its peak with a showdown over a freshly baked pie, where Orla's love for food eventually trumps his overprotectiveness. This humorous story explores the bonds of family, the ridiculous ways people show their love, and the never-ending pursuit of romance.