Discover books similar to "A Woman of Independent Means"

Edith Wharton

The House of Mirth

This novel tells the story of Lily Bart, a woman who, like Bess Steed in 'A Woman of Independent Means', must navigate the social norms and expectations of her time in order to secure her future. However, while Bess ultimately achieves financial independence, Lily's attempts to do so lead to her downfall.

Edith Wharton

The Age of Innocence

Another classic by Edith Wharton, this novel explores the theme of societal expectations and the constraints they place on individuals. The protagonist, Newland Archer, is engaged to the conventional May Welland, but finds himself drawn to the unconventional Countess Olenska, much like Bess Steed is torn between her traditional upbringing and her desire for independence.

Henry James

The Portrait of a Lady

This novel follows the story of Isabel Archer, a young woman who, like Bess Steed, inherits a large sum of money and must navigate the complexities of society in order to maintain her independence. The novel explores themes of freedom, identity, and the role of women in society.

Henry James

Washington Square

This novel tells the story of Catherine Sloper, a young woman who, like Bess Steed, is caught between the expectations of her family and her own desires. Catherine's father, a wealthy doctor, disapproves of her suitor, and Catherine must decide whether to follow her heart or her father's wishes.

Daphne du Maurier

Rebecca

This novel tells the story of a young woman who marries a wealthy widower and moves into his estate, only to be haunted by the memory of his first wife, Rebecca. The novel explores themes of identity, power, and the role of women in society, much like 'A Woman of Independent Means'.

Charlotte Bronte

Jane Eyre

This classic novel tells the story of Jane Eyre, a young woman who, like Bess Steed, must navigate the complexities of society in order to find her place in the world. The novel explores themes of independence, identity, and the role of women in society.

Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice

This classic novel tells the story of Elizabeth Bennet, a young woman who, like Bess Steed, must navigate the complexities of society in order to find a suitable husband. The novel explores themes of independence, identity, and the role of women in society.

Jane Austen

Emma

This novel tells the story of Emma Woodhouse, a young woman who, like Bess Steed, is used to getting her way. However, when she sets her sights on matchmaking for her friends, she soon learns that things don't always go as planned.

Jane Austen

Mansfield Park

This novel tells the story of Fanny Price, a young woman who, like Bess Steed, is sent to live with wealthy relatives. The novel explores themes of class, power, and the role of women in society.

Jane Austen

Sense and Sensibility

This novel tells the story of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, who, like Bess Steed, must navigate the complexities of society in order to find suitable husbands. The novel explores themes of independence, identity, and the role of women in society.

Louisa May Alcott

Little Women

This novel tells the story of the March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, who, like Bess Steed, must navigate the complexities of society in order to find their place in the world. The novel explores themes of independence, identity, and the role of women in society.