An Old Chester Secret

Name: An Old Chester Secret
Author: Margaret Wade Campbell Deland

By Margaret Wade Campbell Deland

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American Literature

About This Book

The narrative follows Lydia Sampson, a candid, hospitable woman in a small New England town whose public life of frugal cheer and past broken engagements is disrupted when she quietly departs and keeps a private secret. Her unexpected absence and later revelations provoke town gossip, test old friendships and alliances, and illuminate competing values of generosity, respectability, and female agency. Through a cast of neighbors and a closely observed social milieu, the work traces how communal curiosity, personal sacrifice, and moral choices reshape reputations and relationships.

About the Author

Margaret Wade Campbell Deland

Margaret Wade Campbell Deland was an American author known for her insightful portrayals of social issues and the complexities of human relationships. Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, she contributed significantly to American literature with her novels and short stories. Deland's works often explore themes of morality, faith, and the struggles of women in society. One of her notable works, "The Awakening of Helena Richie," reflects her keen observations on personal and societal conflicts. Through her writing, Deland has left a lasting impact on the literary landscape, providing a voice for her contemporaries and influencing future generations.