The Longest Journey

E M Forster

Rickie Elliot orphaned at the age of 15 finds his spiritual home at Cambridge and friendship in Ansell the cerebral son of a grocer. Yet after university Rickie's literary aspirations are set aside when he becomes infatuated with the beautiful yet materialistic Agnes Pembroke and begins teaching at a minor public school in order to marry her.

It is a decision that causes Rickie to lose touch with his university friends and trade his philosophical ideals for a life of rigid conformity. As Agnes's true nature becomes increasingly apparent family secrets are revealed that lead ultimately to tragedy.