Robert Elsmere by Mary Augusta Ward is a thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the conflicts between faith and reason. The story follows Robert Elsmere, a young clergyman who challenges his beliefs and ultimately leaves the Church to pursue a more rational form of spirituality.

Ward's writing is eloquent and engaging, drawing the reader into the inner turmoil of Robert as he grapples with his faith and the expectations of society. The characters are well-developed and the plot is filled with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end.

The themes of religion, philosophy, and social justice are explored in a nuanced and captivating way, making this novel a compelling read for anyone interested in exploring deeper questions about faith and morality. Overall, Robert Elsmere is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant novel that will stay with readers long after they have finished it.

Book Description:
Essentially the book covers the life of Robert Elsmere, a boyishly intellectual clergyman. The first part covers his meeting with and eventual marriage to Catherine Leyburn. After a period as a country vicar, Robert’s meetings with the local squire, an intellectual atheist, lead to his having a crisis of faith. The pair move to London where Robert works with the poor and uneducated. The lives of the people closely associated with the pair are also covered.

The book is set against the late Victorian world and its reactions to Darwinism, Unitarianism and the rise of secularism and modernism. At the time, it was a runaway best seller and its attack on orthodox Christianity was fiercely debated by all, including Gladstone. - Summary by Simon Evers