The Bostonians

Set in late 19th-century Boston, the narrative unfolds around Basil Ransom and his cousin Olive Chancellor, who vie for the affection of the captivating Verena Tarrant. Basil, a conservative lawyer, desires to marry Verena and remove her from the political spotlight, while Olive, a passionate feminist, wants to nurture Verena's activism. Their intense rivalry reveals deep themes of gender, power, and personal ambition, making it a significant exploration of American society during a pivotal era. The novel blends rich character development with political and romantic tension.