A Poor Wise Man

Name: A Poor Wise Man
Author: Mary Roberts Rinehart

By Mary Roberts Rinehart

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American Literature Novels

About This Book

The narrative opens in an industrial city and follows Lily Cardew's return to her family home and the long shadow cast by Aunt Elinor's mysterious past. Generational tensions begin when Anthony Cardew acquires land from Doyle, whose subsequent suicide and his son Jim's violent assault and imprisonment set in motion an enduring feud. Elinor watches the nearby penitentiary and broods over confinement and loss, while the family's prosperity, secrets, and resentments ripple forward, implicating Lily and the wider community as old grievances, social change, and personal vengeance intertwine.

About the Author

Mary Roberts Rinehart

Mary Roberts Rinehart was an American author known for her contributions to the mystery and adventure genres in the early 20th century. Often referred to as the "American Agatha Christie," she gained popularity for her engaging storytelling and strong female characters. Rinehart's notable works include "A Poor Wise Man" and "Kings, Queens and Pawns: An American Woman at the Front," which reflect her keen observations of society and her experiences during World War I. With over thirty published titles, her writing often blends elements of suspense and romance, making her a significant figure in American literature.