A Laodicean

Set against the backdrop of contemporary society, this novel features an innovative plot that includes elements like falsified telegrams and fake photographs, which are rare in Hardy's works. The story revolves around the De Stancy family and explores themes of love, ambition, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Through its unique narrative devices, the novel delves into the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations in the late 19th century.