The story revolves around Cy Whittaker, a young man who returns to his hometown after being away for several years. He has made a fortune in the city and is now looking to settle down and live a simpler life. However, he finds that his past experiences have left him with emotional scars and it's difficult for him to connect with the people around him. As Cy tries to adjust to small-town life, he faces various challenges, including dealing with old acquaintances who are skeptical of his newfound wealth and struggling to find his place in a community where everyone knows each other's business. Despite these obstacles, Cy is determined to make a fresh start and prove himself as a worthy member of the community. Throughout the story, themes of identity, belonging, and redemption are explored as Cy navigates his complex relationships with the people around him. The novel ultimately presents a nuanced portrayal of small-town life and the complexities of human nature.
By Joseph C. Lincoln · First published 1913 · Genre: Fiction, Literary Fiction, Adventure · 21 chapters