Barren Ground

This is the story of Dorinda Oakley, a poor young woman from Southside Virginia, enthusiastic, clever and independent who struggles to self-define.
After experiencing a disappointment in love -the loss of her boyfriend to a wealthier woman- Dorinda moves to New York City trying to make something good out of herself. She eventually succeeds, but the price to pay is high. The entire tale is recounted in a biographical style that does not overlook the protagonist's passions.