Edward Bellamy's Deserted is a novel set in the late 19th century, in a small town in the American Midwest. The story follows the lives of two families, the Wilsons and the Lanes, who have been neighbors for generations. The Wilsons are a prosperous family, while the Lanes are struggling to make ends meet. The Wilsons' son, John, is a successful lawyer, while the Lanes' son, Tom, is a struggling farmer. John and Tom have been friends since childhood, but their friendship is tested when John falls in love with Tom's sister, Mary. Tom is opposed to the relationship, and the two families become estranged. Meanwhile, a mysterious stranger arrives in town and begins to stir up trouble. He is a former soldier who has been dishonorably discharged from the army, and he is determined to get revenge on the Wilsons. The stranger's actions lead to a series of events that will have devastating consequences for both families. In the end, John and Mary must choose between their love and their loyalty to their families. Deserted is a gripping story of love, loyalty, and revenge, set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America.
By Edward Bellamy · First published 1898 · Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Romance