Gilbert Markham is deeply intrigued by Helen Graham, a beautiful and secretive young woman who has moved into nearby Wildfell Hall with her young son. He is quick to offer Helen his friendship, but when her reclusive behaviour becomes the subject of local gossip and speculation, Gilbert begins to wonder whether his trust in her has been misplaced. Anne Bronte"s bold novel is an exploration of a woman"s struggle for creative freedom and domestic independence that caused a scandal upon publication and continues to speak powerfully almost 170 years afters its publication.