The Touchstone by Edith Wharton, Fiction, Literary, Classics

In this Faustian tale, a man resorts to publishing love letters for financial gain, leading to a web of betrayal and greed. As the story unfolds, unexpected hidden meanings surface, revealing the profound consequences of his actions. The narrative explores themes of guilt and conscience, suggesting that even in the pursuit of self-interest, moral reckoning can drive a person to madness. Wharton's novella, though spare in style, captivates with its exploration of the darker sides of human nature.