'I love virtually all of Edith Wharton, but this one's my favourite' Lionel Shriver'Wharton's dazzling skills as a stylist, creator of character, ironical observer and unveiler of passionate, thwarted emotions have earned her a devoted following' Sunday TimesNewland Archer and May Welland are the perfect couple. He is a wealthy young lawyer and she is a lovely and sweet-natured girl. All seems set for success until the arrival of May's unconventional cousin Ellen Olenska, who returns from Europe without her husband and proceeds to shake up polite New York society.

To Newland, she is a breath of fresh air and a free spirit, but the bond that develops between them throws his values into confusion and threatens his relationship with May. 'Wharton evocatively records the high society of New York's gilded age' Daily Mail.

Why You Should Read?

• Explores the clash between societal expectations and individual desires within New York's high society.
• Features a compelling exploration of forbidden love and its impact on the protagonist's values.
• Provides a detailed and evocative depiction of the Gilded Age, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.
• Showcases the author's dazzling skills as a stylist and creator of unforgettable characters.

About the Author

Edith Wharton is a highly acclaimed American novelist and short story writer. She is renowned for her insightful portrayals of the upper classes during the Gilded Age. Wharton's work often explores themes of social constraints, morality, and the complexities of human relationships, showcasing her exceptional ability to capture the nuances of her characters. Her elegant prose and sharp wit have solidified her place as a major figure in American literature.