Apparently now out of print, I got this as an audio book from the library.
This is a story of Susy, who is penniless, but has been taken care of by wealthy friends since the death of her parents. She marries Nick, who is also penniless, but is an aspiring writer who moves within the same circle of friends. Their marriage is an experiment. They will live off their friends for as long as they can using the cheques received as wedding gifts and take up the offer of places to stay for their long honeymoon. Susy works out that they can manage for a year, and if they sell Susy’s pearls, then possibly for a bit longer.
As part of the experiment, it is agreed that if the other finds a better opportunity then they will split.
Two months later, due to a disagreement, Nick leaves. During their time apart and their attempts at starting their respective lives again, they come to the realization that although they married for an experiment, they were meant to be together and are very much in love.
The characterisations were very good. I liked Susy very much, and her friend Strefford who wants to marry her after Nick leaves. The characterizations of Susy’s wealthy idle friends would probably be based on those Edith Wharton knew. They are completely shallow and selfish.
Nick is a little misguided and reminded me of Angle Claire from Tess of the D’Urbevilles due to his stubborn high mindedness. Thankfully this tale has a happy ending.
This is my second Edith Warton novel, and I’ve enjoyed both very much.
No comments:
Post a Comment