John, A Love Story; vol. 2 of 2

** "John, A Love Story; vol. 2 of 2" by Mrs. Oliphant is a story set in the late 1800s that examines love and the battles people face, told through the life of John Mitford. As he tries to make his engagement with Kate Crediton work, John deals with his demanding job and the opinions of those around him. This part of the story focuses on John's inner feelings as he goes through the joys and pains of young love. At the start of this volume, John is struggling to find contentment as his feelings turn to the day to day tasks of being a bank clerk. The beginning chapters show his inner conflict; which includes feelings of worry as he tries to keep his love with Kate alive, while being watched by her father, and the jealousy that comes from Fred Huntley also wanting Kate. Even after being wounded in a fire, John's emotional scars, which include his insecurities and Kate's decisions continue to haunt him . The introduction of new people and the complex social activity further complicate John's relationship with Kate, as he faces moments of being alone and a wanting for her love. **