The Fruit of the Tree

Controversial when it was first published in 1907 for its frank treatment of second marriages, desire, divorce, drug addiction, and mercy killing, Edith Wharton's The Fruit of the Tree addresses themes that remain strikingly relevant for today's readers.

Set in the Berkshires of western Massachusetts during the height of the progressive era, the book centers on heroine Justine Brent, a professionally trained nurse who is called upon to attend her childhood friend Bessy Westmore, a rich tex...