Ruth Erskine's Crosses

"Ruth Erskine's Crosses" by Pansy is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Ruth Erskine, who is confronted with the sudden changes in her family life after her father, Judge Erskine, remarries, bringing a new wife and sister into their home. Ruth's struggles with her feelings of resentment, responsibility, and the complexities of her new family dynamic are central themes as she grapples with the emotional weight of her situation. The opening of the novel introduces Ruth at a particularly poignant moment; she is waiting anxiously to meet her new mother and sister for the first time. The narrative delves into her conflicting emotions, revealing her sense of betrayal and grief over her father’s unexpected decisions, which have disrupted her previously stable life. As she stands in the hall, contemplating how to greet these strangers who now claim a place in her life, the internal turmoil and bitterness of her situation become apparent. Her observations of her new sister Susan and their emotionally charged first interactions set the stage for the challenges and trials that Ruth will face as she seeks to navigate this complicated new reality.