Eve's Ransom

Eve's Ransom is a short (125 pages) novel concerning the efforts of a young man to, in effect, buy the affection of a mysterious young woman. Actually, he really is just trying to help "a friend in need". But the young woman leads him on, accepts his money, and in the end ... well, you know how these things turn out.Yes, the story is simple. However any material from George Gissing is an interesting read, especially for those interested in the more social aspects of Victorian society. Money and greed are also common themes, and Mr. Gissing makes keen observations in these areas that are true even today.Eve's Ransom is a must read for George Gissing fans. For those who have not read any of George Gissing's novels I recommend first reading New Grub Street. It is unfortunate Eve's Ransom is no longer printed. No, it's not George Gissing's best novel. But it is still a worthy read.Finally for those who like the "man falls in love with Ms. Wrong"-type of novels, especially those set in Victorian England, I recommend reading Basil by Wilkie Collins.