Brownlows: A Novel

"Brownlows: A Novel" by Mrs. (Margaret) Oliphant is a compelling story set in the late 1800s about John Brownlow, a dignified lawyer whose life is thrown into disarray when he inherits money meant for a missing woman, bringing a mix of irritation and curiosity to his orderly life. As he grapples with the inheritance he didn't want, John becomes entangled with the Fennells, an impoverished family who feel cheated and whose daughter, Bessie, captures his attention, ultimately challenging social norms with an unexpected proposal. This twist sets the stage for a tale where themes of wealth, duty, and societal expectations come to life through complex relationships, including the story of John's daughter, Sara, who navigates the changing familial landscape.