The Inheritance by Louisa May Alcott

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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.

The Inheritance by Louisa May Alcott on Amazon

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In the locket around her neck, she carries a deep secret about her natural birthright. But an even greater truth lies hidden in Edith’s heart — her deep reverence for the kind and noble Lord Percy, the only friend who can save her from the deceitful, envious machinations of Lady Ida.

Reminiscent of Jane Austen in its charms, this chaste but stirringly passionate novel affirms the conquering power of both love and courtesy. For the generations who grew up alongside Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy, a rich literary inheritance is truly restored at last.

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More about The Inheritance by Louisa May Alcott

• Reader discussion of The Inheritance on Goodreads
• Louisa May Alcott’s First Novel, The Inheritance, on Louisa May Alcott is My Passion
• Uncovered at Harvard: Alcott’s First Novel in The New York Times

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Film version of The Inheritance on Amazon

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Categories: Book descriptions