A Hazard of New Fortunes — Complete

"A Hazard of New Fortunes — Complete" by William Dean Howells is a novel written during the late 19th century. The book explores the life changes experienced by its protagonist, Basil March, as he transitions from an insurance career in Boston to a literary venture in New York City, alongside his wife, Isabel March. This narrative delves into themes of social progress, economic disparity, and the quest for artistic fulfillment amid changing societal landscapes. The beginning of the novel introduces readers to Basil March, who is approached by an ambitious man named Fulkerson with a proposal to edit a new magazine that promises a cooperative model for writers. As the narrative unfolds, we see March grapple with the decision to leave his stable job and relocate to New York, a city that Isabel is apprehensive about. Their discussions highlight the tensions between ambition and family stability, as well as the allure and intimidation of city life. The opening scenes establish a strong foundation for the Marches' evolving relationship and their encounters with a rapidly changing urban environment. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Dean Howells was an American realist novelist, literary critic, and playwright, nicknamed "The Dean of American Letters". He was particularly known for his tenure as editor of The Atlantic Monthly, as well as for the novels The Rise of Silas Lapham and A Traveler from Altruria, and the Christmas story "Christmas Every Day," which was adapted into a 1996 film of the same name.