Edith Wharton was one of the best women writers of the early 20th century. She skillfully observed high society and human nature. People recognized Wharton for her sharp social commentary and detailed storytelling.

She was the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for fiction. She won this award for her novel The Age of Innocence in 1920.

Her works take place during the Gilded Age. They explore wealth, class, and social expectations. This makes them classic books that are still important today.

If you are new to her work or coming back to it, you should try listening to Edith Wharton audiobooks. They are a great way to enjoy her timeless stories.

Edith Newbold Jones was born in 1862. She grew up in a wealthy New York family. Their wealth and status led to the saying “keeping up with the Joneses.”

She got a private education and traveled a lot in Europe. This helped her appreciate art, architecture, and literature.

In 1885, she married Edward Wharton, a Boston banker. However, their marriage was troubled, and they eventually divorced in 1913. Unlike many women of her time, Wharton was fiercely independent and built a successful career as a writer, producing over 40 books, including novels, short stories, essays, and non-fiction works like The Decoration of Houses, a guide to interior design.

Wharton’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, The Age of Innocence, is one of her most acclaimed works. Set in 19th-century New York, this story follows a man caught between duty and passion. He feels trapped because strict social rules of his time confine him. Critics widely praised the novel for its rich detail, deep characterization, and critique of upper-class society.

Critics often compare her works to those of Henry James, a close friend and mentor. Critics also compare them to Charles Dickens, who wrote about class and morality.

Wharton’s novels remain highly relevant today because they examine universal themes such as:

• Social class and wealth – How rigid societal structures limit personal freedom.
• Gender roles – The struggles faced by women in restrictive societies.
• Love vs. duty – The tension between personal desires and societal expectations.
• Moral dilemmas – The cost of following one’s heart versus obeying social norms.

If you want to explore Edith Wharton audiobooks, start with these free classics. You can find them on different platforms, like Fabuly: Free Classic Audiobooks and local libraries.

Set in New York’s high society, this novel explores the struggle between passion and social duty. A must-read for lovers of period dramas.

This novel follows the downfall of socialite Lily Bart, whose beauty and ambition clash with societal expectations. It’s one of Wharton’s most compelling critiques of wealth and status.

A fascinating exploration of love, marriage, and financial struggles among New York’s elite. The story is about Nick and Susy Lansing. They start a marriage of convenience. Soon, they discover their true feelings for each other. This novel is a must-read for those interested in romantic drama and social satire.

In her later years, Wharton moved to Saint-Brice-sous-Forêt, France. There, she kept writing and helped charitable causes during World War I. She died on August 11, 1937. She left a literary legacy that still captivates readers and listeners around the world.

Her works are some of the best classic books. Thanks to free audiobooks, they are easier to access than ever. Whether you prefer reading or listening, Edith Wharton audiobooks offer an immersive experience of her masterful storytelling.

Edith Wharton’s novels are not just historical snapshots—they are timeless reflections on love, society, and ambition. Her characters and stories still resonate today, making her a must-read (or listen) for fans of classic literature.

Check out Edith Wharton audiobooks today. Dive into the stories of The Age of Innocence, The House of Mirth, and Glimpses of the Moon. Start your journey with free classic audiobooks and discover why Wharton remains a literary icon of the Gilded Age.