2003-09-01 Actually my favourite

"Rose In Bloom" is definitely my favourite Alcott. Contrary to some opinions, I think it's better than its predecessor, "Eight Cousins". Rose is 18, having just returned from a round-the-world tour with Dr. Alec and Phebe. To her cousins, she declares her intention of going into philanthropy after three months in society.

She finds that "Prince" Charlie has a drinking problem, and has also fallen in love with her. Meanwhile, pressured to respond to his advances, she tries desperately to cure him of his habit.

On the other hand, Archie has fallen deeply in love with Phebe, and she with him. The majority of the Campbell family do not approve. (Rose, of course, supports them staunchly, as does Mac.)

Then, of course, Rose finds another of her cousins is in love with her, and she is not, to her distress, completely immune to him...