When country-girl Grace Melbury returns home from her middle-class school she feels she has risen above her suitor the simple woodsman Giles Winterborne. Though marriage had been discussed between her & Giles Grace finds herself captivated by Dr. Edred Fitzpiers a sophisticated newcomer to the area
- a relationship that is encouraged by her socially ambitious father. Hardys novel of betrayal disillusionment & moral compromise depicts a secluded community coming to terms with the disastrous impact of outside influences. & in his portrayal of Giles Winterborne Hardy shows a man who responds deeply to the forces of the natural world thought they ultimately betray him.