The Inheritance (Louisa May Alcott)

The Inheritance is Louisa May Alcott's first known novel. Although it was never published in her life-time, it was discovered after her death and put into print. I would suggest that the only reason The Inheritance is in print is because is bears her name. Written when Alcott was seventeen, the work is juvenile and idealistic to the point where the reader cannot possibly suspend her disbelief.

The story focuses on Edith, Amy and her companions at a home which Alcott describes as "half-castle and half mansion." Amy is the wealthy heiress, living with her mother who inherited her brother's fortune and Edith is an impoverished governess who is treated, by Amy, like family. As the title suggests, Edith eventually discovers she is an heir to a fortune.