The story revolves around the Caxton family, focusing on the patriarch, Roland Caxton, a wealthy and proud man who struggles to reconcile his aristocratic heritage with his humble origins. His son, Herbert, is a romantic idealist who falls in love with a woman from a lower social class, causing tension within the family. Meanwhile, Roland's daughter, Margaret, is pursued by a cunning and ambitious suitor. As the novel unfolds, the characters' relationships are shaped by their social status, personal values, and the consequences of their choices.
By Edward Bulwer-lytton · First published 1849 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Family Saga, Romance · 4 chapters