The Hand of Ethelberta

Ethelberta, a young woman of intelligence and ambition, defies her seemingly privileged background as she steps out for a walk in Wessex. Although she appears to belong to the genteel class, her true distinction lies in her intellect rather than her lineage. After a modest upbringing, she becomes a governess, marries the son of her employer, and faces tragedy when both her husband and his father die shortly after their wedding. The story explores themes of social class, ambition, and the complexities of love and loss.