The story revolves around Phillis Holman, a beautiful and talented young woman who lives with her cousin Edward Holdsworth on a farm in the countryside. The narrative explores Phillis's relationships with those around her, including Edward, his sister Helen, and a visiting engineer named Paul Manning. As Phillis navigates her feelings for these individuals, she must confront the societal expectations placed upon her as a woman and make difficult choices about her future.
By Elizabeth Gaskell · First published 1864 · Genre: Romance, Pastoral, Coming-of-Age · 4 chapters