This marrying

"This Marrying" by Margaret Culkin Banning is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story primarily follows Horatia Grant, a young woman grappling with her desire for independence and a career in journalism while navigating societal expectations around marriage. Throughout the opening chapters, her internal conflicts emerge against the backdrop of a post-war society, where notions of romance and female autonomy are undergoing significant transformations. The beginning of the novel introduces Horatia's character as she refuses to conform to traditional roles, notably declining to be a bridesmaid at her friend's wedding. This decision is paralleled by her determination to seek employment in a newspaper, rather than follow the expected path of marriage. As she seeks her fortune in the city, she encounters various individuals who reflect different societal attitudes, including her flirtation with the complex and intriguing Jim Langley, an editor with a controversial past. The narrative captures her ambition, youth, and the vibrant dynamics of life that accompany her quest for personal fulfillment and love, setting the stage for her journey of self-discovery and the relationships that emerge from it.