The Vegetarian & the Rancher: A Mail Order Bride Story

In the bustling streets of late 19th century New York City, Eliza Harper led a life that was a far cry from her idyllic dreams. Though surrounded by the trappings of a comfortable existence in her modest apartment, her heart yearned for something more—a life in harmony with nature, free from the confines of the city's smoky haze. A devoted vegetarian and ardent animal lover, Eliza found herself increasingly at odds with the harsh realities of urban living. The thought of a future spent amongst ranchers or those who profited from the mistreatment of creatures sickened her to her core. She longed for a kindred spirit, one who shared her reverence for all living beings. It was this yearning that led Eliza to the doorstep of Mrs. Evelyn Pemberton, a renowned marriage broker whose services promised to unite like-minded souls across the vast expanse of the nation. As they pored over the ledger of potential suitors, the slim pickings seemed to mock Eliza's hopes, until one name caught her eye—Nathaniel Blackwood of Arcata, Northern California. As Eliza read the brief description of Nathaniel Blackwood, her heart skipped a beat. A rugged rancher with a passion for conservation and a deep respect for nature, he seemed to be the embodiment of her deepest desires. Mrs. Pemberton, a shrewd matchmaker with an eye for true compatibility, noticed the spark in Eliza's eyes and gave her a knowing smile.