Published in 1905, this book tells the tale of Lily Bart, who has been blessed since birth with beauty, intelligence and the expectation of luxury and continued privilege. But Lily is an orphan who gambles at cards, loses, and refuses to pay off her debts by becoming the mistress of a wealthy creditor. Lily’s situation becomes more desperate and she must choose between marrying the man she loves or a man whose means will provide her with the riches she needs to comfort her situation. Her choice ultimately determines the fate of her character, her social standing, and her own sense of self esteem.