Edited by Loraine Fletcher. Charlotte Smith's autobiographical first novel was published in 1788. The novel met the expectations of the time, with abduction and duels, but also packed a dose of social satire, with messages about the dangers of early engagement and marriage, and challenges to the social and legal system which kept women powerless. Entertaining Introduction. Also includes helpful footnotes; chronology; selected correspondence; contemporary reception; material on women, marriage, and work; and landscape in 18th century fiction. Mary Hay's biographical writing on Smith is included. Broadview Press. 2003. Paper. NEW. $27.00