Florence L. Barclay 
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Florence Louisa Barclay (1862-1921) was an English romance novelist of considerable acclaim during the early 20th century. Her literary career began later in life, but she quickly gained popularity through her skillful storytelling and the emotionally charged narratives she employed in her works. Barclay’s most renowned novel, ‘The Rosary, ‘ published in 1909, was a best-seller and remained widely read for many years. It is often seen as her masterwork, celebrated for its intricate plot and insight into human relationships. Her narrative style is characterized by a blend of sentimentality and moral earnestness, resonating with the values of her Edwardian readership. Barclay’s other notable works include ‘The Mistress of Shenstone’ (1910), ‘The Broken Halo’ (1913), and ‘The Following of the Star’ (1911). Her writings often explore themes of love, fate, and faith, subtly weaving Christian moral undertones into her romantic plots. Despite the episodic sentiment often associated with her genre, Barclay’s literary output was held in high regard by her contemporaries for its emotional depth and engaging characterizations. Largely forgotten over time, her books nonetheless remain a testament to the period’s tastes and the appeal of romantic fiction in the early 20th century.