Ray's Daughter: A Story of Manila

"Ray's Daughter: A Story of Manila" by Charles King, is a tale set during the Spanish-American War, primarily focusing on the lives of Walter Foster, a young recruit, and Marion Ray, the daughter of an army officer. As tensions rise and the country prepares for war, the story begins with troops heading west by train. The novel captures the sweltering heat of the journey and the mixture of excitement and worry that festers among the recruits. Walter, initially hesitant and reserved, finds himself among Corporal Connelly and other recruits. Their interactions and dreams are explored against the backdrop of impending battles in Manila. The story unfolds with romance, conflict, and personal transformations as the characters navigate a nation at war.