Ethan Frome

The story, as is true of many of Wharton's novels and short stories, is well written. EF represents a departure from the author's typical focus on the weathy of New York during the late 1800s. I like the way Wharton captures the feel of New England; I could easily picture the harsh climate, Starkfield, as well as the charcters. The story however, is a bit predictable and lacks the complexiety compared to other works such as House of Mirth and The Age of Innocence.

Not surprised.

Frome's wife, Zeena

No. It lacks sufficient complexity.

This is the rather depressing tale of Ethan Frome, a man trapped in an unhappy marriage to a sickly, morose wife and at the same time in love with their young, lively house guest. The writer's characterizations are astute and her language powerful. However, the quality of writing was much higher than that of the narration which I found slow and very stilted. To the narrator's credit I will say that the diction was clear, probably a result of his very pronounced, unnatural style. Even though I was able to appreciate the book itself (I'd give 4-5 stars to the actual writing)I suggest you listen to the sample clip before committing to this!

...possible. Ethan Frome is a masterpiece. It deserves a first-rate reading; this version is unbearable.

I love Edith Wharton's writing and wit, and her social sensibilities, and I believe this book lives up to my expectations there. But the reading is so slow and lifeless that I began to find the book rather tedious. There is no expression and no change in pace in the reading, no tonal modulation at all, so that after a while one's eyes would glaze over if the story were not so engaging.