From the 1997 Dutton Books edition of The Inheritance by Louisa May Alcott:  Here at last is the book “Jo wrote.” Generations of fans have long to plumb that first romance, hinted at so captivatingly on the pages of Little Women, Alcott’s semi-autobiographical classic.

After nearly 150 years spent among archived family documents, Louisa May Alcott’s debut novel, written when she was only seventeen or so, finally reached its eager public.

Set in an English country manor, the story follows the turbulent fortunes of Edith Adelon, an impoverished Italian orphan whose loyalty and beauty win her the patronage of wealthy friends until a jealous rival contrives to rob her of her position. Read More→