The Custom of the Country

First published in 1813, this novel by best-selling author Edith Wharton, tells the story of Undine Spragg, a Midwestern girl who attempts to ascend in New York City society. Unlike other Wharton's novels, This story is not about a nice character who falls victim to society's uncongenial mores. Indeed, far from a dignified, morally superior character, the book's heroine, is a selfish monster who takes society (or rather, several different societies) head on, suffers a bit for her lack of subtlety but comes out filthy rich...