Set during the tense years around the first Reform Act of 1832, this novel is about politics and personal choice in a Midlands community. Felix Holt is a principled young working man who wants to improve the lives of his neighbours through education rather than easy political promises. Esther Lyon, a refined minister's daughter, is drawn to him, while Mrs Transome, a landowner's wife, is troubled by an old secret and a family inheritance dispute. The book explores class, reform and the pull between comfort and conscience.
Quotes
But half the sorrows of women would be averted if they could repress the speech they know to be useless--nay, the speech they have resolved not to
There is no private life which has not been determined by a wider public life.
An election is coming. Universal peace is declared, and the foxes have a sincere interest in prolonging the lives of the poultry.
A little daily embroidery had been a constant element in Mrs. Transome's life; but that soothing occupation of taking stitches to produce what neither she nor any one else wanted, was then the resource of many a well-born and unhappy woman.