Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton

Title: Ethan Frome

Author: Edith Wharton

First Published: 1911

No. of Pages: 93

Synopsis (from B&N): "Ethan Frome, a poor, downtrodden New England farmer is trapped in a loveless marriage to his invalid wife, Zeena. His ambition and intelligence are oppressed by Zeena's cold, conniving character. When Zeena's young cousin Mattie arrives to help care for her, Ethan is immediately taken by Mattie's warm, vivacious personality. They fall desperately in love as he realizes how much is missing from his life and marriage. Tragically, their love is doomed by Zeena's ever-lurking presence and by the social conventions of the day. Ethan remains torn between his sense of obligation and his urge to satisfy his heart's desire up to the suspenseful and unanticipated conclusion."

Fiction or Nonfiction: Fiction

Comments and Critique: This is a beautifully written book and a departure from Edith Wharton's other works, in that its characters are not of the upper classes. But their problems are essentially the same -- do you do your duty or follow your heart? The reader connects with these characters on such a deep level, both through their words and actions, and even through the descriptions of the surrounding countryside and weather. I could almost feel the sting of the winter air and the corresponding coldness of Ethan's wife made me wince.

I made two mistakes with this book, though. First, I listened to the audiobook version over too great a time period. This is a book that should be completed in one sitting to get the full effect. Second, the lady who did the reading gave Ethan's wife the most irritating accent. She sounded just like Fran Drescher, which was totally off-putting and inappropriate. However, neither of these issues should detract from the value of the book itself. It was wonderful and I'll definitely be reading it again.

Challenges: 999 ("Dewey's Books"); Classics Challenge; Fill in the Gaps 100 Books Project; Modern Library 100 Best Novels (Radcliffe #60); Well-Rounded Challenge