Bøger af Edith Wharton

Welcome to the Jazz Age in the Big Smoke. Or the Big Apple. Whatever you want to call it, just make sure your stockings are tight and your hat is held high!We’ll start our journey exploring high society in Edith Wharton’s ‘The Age of Innocence’ before attending the most dazzling and daring party of them all in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s ‘The Great Gatsby’.While Henry James’ ´Washington Square´ will see interfering fathers attempt to thwart the path of love, we'll encounter two very different visions of how to change and champion New York’s society in William Dean Howell’s ‘A Hazard of New Fortunes’.Lastly, we’ll return to the rotten roots of New York’s foundations in Washington Irving’s ‘A History of New York’. It will make you stop, think, and reimagine the concrete jungle as we know it today.‘Cities in Literature: New York’ is not only the perfect historical companion for fans of ‘The Big Short’ starring Ryan Gosling, Christian Bale, and Brad Pitt but essential reading for fans of Leonardo DiCaprio in the smash-hit film ‘The Great Gatsby’.Henry James (1843-1916) was an American-British author, regarded as a key literary figure between realism and literary modernism. His works span ‘The Portrait of a Lady’, ‘The Ambassadors’, and ‘The Wings of Love’.Washington Irving (1783- 1859) was an American short-story writer, essayist, and diplomat. A prolific author, Irving wrote ‘The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent’, ‘The Legend of Sleepy Hollow’, and ‘Rip Van Winkle.’Edith Wharton (1862-1937) was an American novelist, short story writer, and the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Literature. Her work spans ‘The Age of Innocence’, ‘The House of Mirth’, and ‘Ethan Frome’.F. Scott Fitzgerald (1896-1940) was an American novelist and short story writer. He is celebrated for his novels depicting the flamboyance and excess of the Jazz Age, most notably with ‘The Great Gatsby’.William Dean Howells (1837-1920) was an American novelist and playwright nicknamed ‘The Dean of American Letters’. His works span 'Christmas Every Day', 'The Rise of Silas Lapham', and 'A Traveler from Altruria'.

Deep dive into American literature’s famous female writer with this remarkable collection of ‘Selected Edith Wharton’.Detailing the lives, loves and losses of a country’s people, we’ll start our journey with the isolated farmer and his mean and merciful wife in ‘Ethan Frome’.Next, we’ll explore a women’s pride and position in early 20th-century society in ‘Summer’. We’ll then head to the big smoke as Undine Spragg urges her parents to take action in ‘The Custom of the Country’.In ‘The House of Mirth’, we challenge a woman’s chances and choices. Whilst ‘Glimpses of the Moon’ sees a wealthy couple’s expectations shattered, we’ll explore the highs and lows of high society in ‘The Age of Innocence.’Weaving together a thrilling collection of social status, chances, and choices for American society, ‘Selected Edith Wharton’ is the perfect companion for fans of ‘The Great Gatsby’, starring Leonardo Dicaprio.Edith Wharton (1862-1937) was an American novelist, short story writer, and the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Literature. Her work spans ‘The Age of Innocence’, ‘The House of Mirth’, and ‘Ethan Frome’ – all of which were widely adapted for the screen in the 20th century. Inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1996, Wharton remains today a huge influence on American English literature and culture.

Co lepsze: smutek braku perspektyw czy gorycz porażki?Anna Eliza i Ewelina, choć są siostrami, różnią się od siebie jak ogień i woda. Starsza stale się poświęca i podporządkowuje odgórnym zasadom. Młodsza nie ma tendencji do współodczuwania, skupia się raczej na sobie. Młode kobiety prowadzą wspólnie mały sklepik na przedmieściach Nowego Jorku i do tego właściwie ogranicza się cała ich życiowa aktywność. Sytuacja ulega zmianie, gdy starsza kupuje młodszej na urodziny zegar w sklepie prowadzonym przez interesującego mężczyznę. Anna Eliza pierwszy raz w życiu nabiera odwagi, by zawalczyć o siebie. Czy dostanie wsparcie od siostry? I czy dojrzały mężczyzna odwzajemni jej rozpaczliwe uczucie?Głęboka powieść psychologiczna laureatki Nagrody Pulitzera.Idealna propozycja lekturowa dla miłośników twórczości Marii Kuncewiczowej czy Zofii Nałkowskiej.Edith Wharton (1862-1937) - amerykańska pisarka specjalizująca się w opowieściach obyczajowych i grozy, zdobywczyni Nagrody Pulitzera, wielokrotnie typowana jako kandydatka do Nagrody Nobla. Pochodziła z zamożnej nowojorskiej rodziny i w swoich utworach portretowała głównie uprzywilejowane klasy społeczne. Interesowała się architekturą krajobrazu i wystrojem wnętrz, wyznaczała w tych dziedzinach nowe trendy. Jej powieści były wielokrotnie ekranizowane, między innymi przez Martina Scorsesego.

Życie przedstawicieli amerykańskiej arystokracji zdaje się spokojne i radosne. W rzeczywistości za murami wystawnych domów często skrywa się zdrada, małżeńska przemoc, poczucie samotności, toksyczne relacje. A do tego niejednokrotnie przypominają o sobie duchy przodków lub dawnych mieszkańców. Ingerencja sił nadprzyrodzonych jednym bohaterom pomaga wyjść z opresji, a innym wymierza sprawiedliwość - zawsze jednak budzi przestrach czytelnika. Idealna lektura dla miłośników subtelnej grozy w stylu Mary E. Wilkins Freeman.Edith Wharton (1862-1937) - amerykańska pisarka specjalizująca się w opowieściach obyczajowych i grozy, zdobywczyni Nagrody Pulitzera, wielokrotnie typowana jako kandydatka do Nagrody Nobla. Pochodziła z zamożnej nowojorskiej rodziny i w swoich utworach portretowała głównie uprzywilejowane klasy społeczne. Interesowała się architekturą krajobrazu i wystrojem wnętrz, wyznaczała w tych dziedzinach nowe trendy. Jej powieści były wielokrotnie ekranizowane, między innymi przez Martina Scorsesego.

While she might be best known as the author of ‘The Age of Innocence’ (adapted for film, and starring Michelle Pfeiffer, and Daniel Day-Lewis), Edith Wharton wrote an extensive range of novels, journals, and poetry.Containing 24 poems, ‘Artemis to Actaeon’ muses on the themes of life, love, death, and the passing of time, with a few well-chosen words set aside for her beloved France. As the title suggests, there is plenty of classical inspiration as Wharton draws on ancient legends surrounding mythical figures, such as Orpheus, and Actaeon.Her writing is lyrical and has a yearning quality to it, particularly in poems such as ‘All Souls,’ and ‘Vesalius in Zarate.’ A superb collection for those familiar with Wharton’s work, and those new to her.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors.During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

Having lived in France during the First World War, it’s no surprise that Wharton documented the impact on her spiritual homeland, both in fiction and non-fiction.‘Coming Home’ is told from the perspective of an American aid worker, who helps a wounded French soldier, Jen Réchamp. A bond between the two sees them travel to Jean’s home to see that everything is as it should be.While Wharton might be better known for her high-society satires, ‘Coming Home’ reveals an author who can capture the horrors of war and the heroic spirits of those who choose to stand against it.A gripping insight into how the First World War was perceived in France, Wharton's ´Coming Home´ will delight fans of other WWI narratives such as Sam Mendes' Oscar-nominated movie ´1917´.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors.During her career, Wharton wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

After self-imposed exiled in Italy, Mrs Lidcote is returning to New York, full of trepidation about her divorced daughter’s remarriage. Mrs Lidcote is a divorcee herself and only too aware of what it means in social circles. Can she change her daughter’s future and reconcile her own past?‘Autre Temps’ is a heartfelt exploration of the changing attitudes to divorce and women. Wharton perfectly captures the sneering attitudes of the older generation, setting them against the more open-minded attitudes of younger people.A touching and fascinating read, ´Autres Temps´ is perfect for fans of Camille Pagán's ´Everything Must Go´.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors.During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

Set against the rigid social backdrop of New York in the 1870s, ‘New Year’s Day’ tells the tale of Lizzie Hazeldean, who needs to find a way of making money. With her husband ill and ladies of leisure looking down their respective noses at her, she is faced with some difficult decisions. Old New York is beautifully described in this, the last of Wharton’s novellas set here, and the social conventions of the time don’t escape her critical eye. With an unexpected plot twist, this is a superb read for Wharton fans and those who want to get to know her work.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

A masterclass in psychological and supernatural storytelling, ‘The Triumph of Night’ follows George Foxon who, one snowy, moonlit night, finds himself in the company of a sick young man and his wealthy uncle. However, Foxon is haunted by a spectre that only he can see. With more than a whiff of Stanley Kubrick’s ‘The Shining’ about it, ‘The Triumph of Night’ is a supremely spooky take on the horror genre.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

‘The Hermit and the Wild Woman' is a collection of short stories through which Wharton explores the themes of choice and morality. A surprising read, the stories feature a wide variety of central protagonists, including a lawyer’s wife, a struggling artist, a governor, and a monk living in cloisters. Shot through with wry humour, cultural criticism, and psychological observations, this book is perfect for fans of Wharton, who want to get to know the author a little better.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

Written largely in the first person, ‘The Long Run’ sees Wharton at her most reflective. The story focuses on Halston Merrick who, on reuniting with an old friend, is forced to re-evaluate many of his life choices. Through Merrick, Wharton explores the themes of ambition, self-deception, complacency, and apathy. Thoughtful and poignant, ‘The Long Run’ is ideal for fans of one of America’s most applauded novelists.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

Wharton’s fifth novel, ‘The Reef’ is widely thought to be partly autobiographical. When American diplomat, George Darrow, bumps into aspiring actress, Sophy Viner, the relationship he has with his former love, Anna Leath, is challenged. Through this tale, Wharton explores the human condition, examining how those from different classes interact, whether it is better to tell the truth and harm or lie and protect, the nature of trust, and the nature of forgiveness. Written with Wharton’s trademark sensitivity, this book is ideal for those who like their romance served up in a compelling and realistic way.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

‘The Descent of Man, and Other Stories,’ is a collection of short stories from the author of such greats as ‘The Age of Innocence,’ and ‘Ethan Frome.’ Through these sharply-observed tales, Wharton explores the nature of relationships and marriage, compromise, regret – and even throws in a ghost story for good measure. Her writing is peppered with incisive social detail, helping the backdrop to each story breathe as deeply as the characters. A superb book for those who want to get to know this extraordinary novelist a little better.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

‘Fighting France’ is a collection of essays, written by Wharton, on the outbreak of the First World War. Having returned to her beloved France to work with the Red Cross, Wharton began detailing the impact of the conflict on her spiritual homeland. While she uses her literary talents to paint a harrowing picture of the devastation caused by the war, she always puts people, rather than places, under the spotlight. A fascinating read from the time of Downton Abbey for anyone interested in military history and exceptional journalism of the early 20th Century.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

While ‘The Choice’ might be one of Wharton’s shorter stories, it nonetheless showcases her talents as a master storyteller. ‘The Choice’ focuses on the dilemma faced by Cobham Stilling, who is quickly burning the family fortune, much to the horror of his wife and lawyer. Packed with social detail and keen psychological insights, Wharton creates well-rounded characters and presents the reader with a choice that many of us would not like to have to make.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

Classic Edith Wharton, ‘The Old Maid’ was first published as a serial in ‘The Red Book Magazine.’ Through this heart-rending and haunting tale, Wharton takes aim at the notions of conformity and delivers a scathing judgement on the conventions of life in the early 20th Century. In the story, the unmarried and prudish Charlotte Lovell gives up her baby daughter, Tina, to her married cousin, Delia. As time goes by and Tina grows, the two women must decide which of them is the ‘real’ mother and whether Tina should ever know the truth of her past. A searing and melancholic story from the pen of one of America’s greatest novelists.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

A short story with a punch, ‘Madame de Treymes’ follows lovelorn John Durham as he travels to France to court his old love, Fanny Frisbee. While Fanny is separated from her husband, she is still married, and it looks unlikely that he’ll agree to a divorce. Can Fanny’s sister-in-law, the eponymous ‘Madame de Treymes’ help the course of true love? An intriguing read, this book might sound like a simple romance, but there are darker themes at work. Ideal for those who already admire Wharton’s work and those just getting to know her.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

‘The Spark’ is the third of four books set in Old New York. When Hayley Delane discovers that there’s more to his mentor than meets the eye, he realises that he needs to change his way of thinking. ‘The Spark’ is a poignant and often funny exploration of the relationship between two men. At the same time, Wharton uses the novella to take some acerbic pot-shots at a society where appearance seems to carry more weight than genuine goodness. An elegant and humorous story about stories themselves.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

‘Crucial Instances’ was the second collection of Wharton’s short stories to be published. Of the seven, ‘Copy: A Dialogue’ is presented as a short play. This collection shows the breadth of Wharton’s abilities, with stories ranging from the ‘feelgood’ to a Gothic, supernatural outing. Shorter stories seemed to serve as a focus for Wharton and her writing is exceptionally precise and memorable when faced with these parameters. A great read for Wharton fans and those new to her work.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

‘Kerfol’ is one of Wharton’s more unusual ghost stories, in that the ghosts of the piece aren’t human. Chilling and tragic, this tale tells of Anne de Cornault, who is considering buying an estate in France. We discover that the estate, ‘Kerfol,’ (which translates from the Breton as ‘house of madness’) was once the scene of a murder. An atmospheric read, ‘Kerfol’ is an exploration of an unhappy marriage and revenge from beyond the grave. A perfect spine-tingler from the pen of a master storyteller.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

‘Xingu’ lampoons the leisurely lives of six ladies who lunch. Having formed a literary club, the six pseudo-intellectuals are thrown into panic at the prospect of being visited by a famous author.With sparkling dialogue and some wry observations about the lives of the upper classes, ‘Xingu’ is a biting satire on women’s place in the society of the time.A superb read, with an unexpected and riotous denouement.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

Now that he’s turned 21, Lewis Raycie has been sent to travel Europe to form his tastes and fortify his judgments. Lewis’ father packs him off with $5,000 and the instruction to return with art by Raphael. However, while traveling, Lewis becomes entranced with the works of other artists and returns with those instead. ‘False Dawn’ is an intricate and intimate examination of social climbing, social artifice, and the purpose of art. A superb read, peppered with evocative descriptions of the places that our protagonist visits on his Grand Tour.A mix of travel writing and historic fiction, people who like 'Around the World in 80 Days' by Jules Verne, which has recently been reproduced with David Tennant as Phileas Fogg, will enjoy this entertaining read.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

One of Wharton’s earliest works, ‘The Marne’ offers a fascinating insight into the shadow cast by the First World War. When 15 year-old American, Troy Belknap, is on his annual holiday in France, war breaks out. While Troy would love to fight for the French but is too young for service. Will he be able to live with himself or will frustration swallow him up? ‘The Marne’ is a culturally-significant story and one that allows us to see and experience France as the author herself did. A thrilling and thought-provoking story from one of America’s greatest novelists.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

The third of Wharton’s published works, Sanctuary’ is a generational tale of love, education, secrecy, blame, and moral responsibility. Setting the template for films such as ‘Minority Report,’ starring Tom Cruise, ‘Sanctuary’ begs the question of whether it is right to pre-empt and act upon moral crimes that are yet to happen. When Kate discovers that her fiancée hides a terrible secret, will she leave him or see the wedding through? A thought-provoking read for those with an interest in the way men and women interacted in the early 1900s.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

While she might be better known for taking aim at American high society, Wharton was also a prolific travel writer. ‘In Morocco’ chronicles her visit to North Africa, at the tail-end of the First World War. Written at a time when the country was relatively unexplored, her writing perfectly captures the Moroccan architecture, towns, deserts, culture, tradition, and people. A fascinating read for anyone who enjoys other travel writers like Michael Palin and for those who want to explore Morocco before the advent of international tourism.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

The earliest collection of short stories from Edith Wharton, ‘The Greater Inclination’ documents the beginning of an outstanding literary career. The book contains seven short stories and one two-act play. In typical Wharton style, the tales deal with the themes of love, marriage, death, deception, American society, and the true intent of art. Wharton’s eye for the minutiae of social conventions and interactions breathes life into each story. A superb book for those who want to see where it all started.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

Considered wildly controversial at the time of its release, ‘The Fruit of the Tree’ is a departure from the norm for Edith Wharton. While her trademark eye for social detail and psychological insights are present and correct, this novel deals with more melancholic themes, such as divorce, addiction, euthanasia, poor working conditions, and extravagance. It follows the story of George Amhurst, the assistant manager of a textile mill in New England. While his heart might be in the right place, when he marries the widow of a mill owner, he might be forced to compromise in his ideals. A striking book from the pen that wrote ‘The Age of Innocence,’ which became a film, starring Michelle Pfeiffer and Daniel Day-Lewis.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

‘French Ways and their Meaning’ is part guidebook and part tribute to Wharton’s beloved France. While living there during the First World War, Wharton decided to write a collection of essays about the French, to enlighten the English and American troops who were to find themselves stationed there. Often funny, and always perceptive, Wharton not only beautifully captures the cities and countryside but the spirit of the French. A superb read for Francophiles, Wharton fans, and those with an interest in 20th Century history.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.

Sit back, relax, and join Edith Wharton on her journey through early 20th century Italy.A seasoned traveller, ‘Italian Backgrounds’ condenses a decade’s worth of Edith Wharton’s journeys through Italy, into one work. A chronicle rather than a novel, Wharton perfectly captures the essence, architecture, countryside, and people she comes across on her sojourn.Her adventure starts in Swiss Splügen, where she and her party must decide which road to take. As the journal unfolds, we are whisked through some famous Italian cities, such as Venice, Rome, and Milan, explore the likes of Lake Como and visit smaller towns and villages.In typical Wharton style, no detail is left undocumented, creating a book that is as rich in historical context as it is in its evocative description. A superb read for Wharton fans and those interested in history and travel.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes and she went on to become the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in Literature, for her novel 'The Age of Innocence'. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.Her works have been adapted to the screen countless times. The most recent examples are Martin Scorsese's 'The Age of Innocence' (1993) starring Michelle Pfeiffer, Daniel Day-Lewis and Winona Ryder and Terence Davies' 'The House of Mirth' (2000) starring Gillian Anderson and Eric Stoltz.

‘The Valley of Decision’ is Wharton’s first full-length novel. Set in 18th Century, it follows the rising fortunes of Odo Valsecca who, on becoming a man, inherits a dukedom. With the French Revolution a constant shadow, Valsecca must decide whether to fully assume the responsibilities that come with power or whether to ally himself to his working-class roots. A fascinating read, Wharton peppers the tale with plenty of historical detail and insights into human nature. Romantic, dramatic, and elegantly written, this book is perfect for fans of Julia Quinn's 'Bridgerton' series.Edith Wharton (1862 – 1937) was an American designer and novelist. Born in an era when the highest ambition a woman could aspire to was a good marriage, Wharton went on to become one of America’s most celebrated authors. During her career, she wrote over 40 books, using her wealthy upbringing to bring authenticity and detail to stories about the upper classes. She moved to France in 1923, where she continued to write until her death.