A rich visitor from the city seduces a local woman, but their affair may not survive the season, in this novel by the Pulitzer-winning author of Ethan Frome. Charity Royall was taken in as a child by an educated man in a small New England town. Her origins on "the mountain"-towering in the distance and whispered about in dark tones-remain murky to her. She only knows she is expected to be grateful for being rescued, and for her improved circumstances. Yet, bored in her work amid the moldering books at the rarely used library, she yearns for bigger and better things. Then, one summer afternoon, Lucius Harney strolls into the library. An architect from a prominent family, he seems sophisticated, intimidating, and alluring. Before long, Charity is involved in a romance both unexpected and daring. But the relationship brings consequences, and the desires and dreams that Lucius awakens in Charity may be dashed and her future changed forever ...