A Hazard of New Fortunes — Complete

"A Hazard of New Fortunes — Complete" by William Dean Howells is a story set in the late 1800s, following Basil March and his wife, Isabel, as they navigate a big shift in their lives. Basil leaves his safe insurance job in Boston after Fulkerson offers him the chance to edit a new magazine in the bustling heart of New York City. Isabel is hesitant, but Basil is drawn to the promise of creativity and change. The story looks at themes of social development, the differences between the rich and poor, and the pursuit of achieving dreams in a world that's rapidly changing and how the magazine starts to be an important focal point. The early parts of the book show the couple's relationship and their feelings about moving into the exciting, but overwhelming, landscape of a growing city.