The Tenant of Wildfell Hall Author:Anne Bronte

(1847)This is the second and final novel by Anne Bronte, published under her pseudonym Acton Bell. Probably the most shocking of the Brontes' novels, it was an instant success. The novel is framed as a letter from Gilbert Markham to his friend and brother-in-law about the events leading to his meeting his wife.Let it not be imagined, however, that I consider myself competent to reform the errors and abuses of society, but only that I would fain contribute my humble quota towards so good an aim; and if I can gain the public ear at all, I would rather whisper a few wholesome truths therein than much soft nonsense.--from the Author's PrefaceOutstanding feminist and realistic novel that had phenomenal success. Unfortunately, that success was short. It ended by Anne's death and her sister Charlotte's prevention of re-publication. A mysterious widow, Mrs. Helen Graham arrives at Wildfell Hall, a nearby old mansion. A source of curiosity for the small community, the reticent Helen and her young son Arthur are slowly drawn into the social circles of the village. Initially, Gilbert Markham casually courts Eliza Millward, despite his mother's belief that he can do better. His interest in Eliza wanes as he comes to know Mrs. Graham...--Submitted by Julie Cat