Ethan Frome

Set in the stark New England countryside, the novel explores themes of despair and forbidden love through the life of Ethan Frome. Trapped in a difficult marriage with his hypochondriac wife, Zeena, Ethan's life changes when her lively cousin comes to work for them. His growing obsession with her symbolizes hope and happiness, leading to a poignant and tragic narrative. Edith Wharton's unique approach in this work distinguishes it from her other writings, making it one of her most enduring and widely read novels.