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Hazard of New Fortunes

Hazard of New Fortunes

Written by: William Dean Howells
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 In Hazard of New Fortunes, Howell transports us to the bustling streets of late nineteenth-century New York, a city alive with the essence of Edith Wharton and Henry James. The story follows Basil March, a Boston businessman with a passion for literature, as he relocates with his family to edit a newly founded journal. Their new venture is financially backed by Mr. Dryfoos, a Pennsylvania Dutch farmer turned millionaire after striking natural gas on his land. Now navigating the opulent lifestyle of New York, Dryfoos grapples with the perils of his newfound wealth. But is it his fortune that poses the greatest risk, or is it the rapid transformation of New York City during the Gilded Age? As March and Howell delve deeper into the citys social and economic contradictions, they encounter a rich tapestry of characters—from Dryfooss ambitious children to a German socialist immigrant, a disillusioned Southern colonel, and a young woman from the elite circles of Old New York. Each perspective sheds light on the complexities of wealth and society, resonating with themes that feel strikingly relevant today. (Nicholas Clifford)Copyright Fiction Classics
Episodes
  • 038 - fortunes howells

    038 - fortunes howells
    Feb 25 2026
    In Hazard of New Fortunes, Howell transports us to the bustling streets of late nineteenth-century New York, a city alive with the essence of Edith Wharton and Henry James. The story follows Basil March, a Boston businessman with a passion for literature, as he relocates with his family to edit a newly founded journal. Their new venture is financially backed by Mr. Dryfoos, a Pennsylvania Dutch farmer turned millionaire after striking natural gas on his land. Now navigating the opulent lifestyle of New York, Dryfoos grapples with the perils of his newfound wealth. But is it his fortune that poses the greatest risk, or is it the rapid transformation of New York City during the Gilded Age? As March and Howell delve deeper into the citys social and economic contradictions, they encounter a rich tapestry of characters—from Dryfooss ambitious children to a German socialist immigrant, a disillusioned Southern colonel, and a young woman from the elite circles of Old New York. Each perspective sheds light on the complexities of wealth and society, resonating with themes that feel strikingly relevant today. (Nicholas Clifford)
    Show More Show Less
    21 mins
  • 037 - Part Fourth I

    037 - Part Fourth I
    Feb 24 2026
    In Hazard of New Fortunes, Howell transports us to the bustling streets of late nineteenth-century New York, a city alive with the essence of Edith Wharton and Henry James. The story follows Basil March, a Boston businessman with a passion for literature, as he relocates with his family to edit a newly founded journal. Their new venture is financially backed by Mr. Dryfoos, a Pennsylvania Dutch farmer turned millionaire after striking natural gas on his land. Now navigating the opulent lifestyle of New York, Dryfoos grapples with the perils of his newfound wealth. But is it his fortune that poses the greatest risk, or is it the rapid transformation of New York City during the Gilded Age? As March and Howell delve deeper into the citys social and economic contradictions, they encounter a rich tapestry of characters—from Dryfooss ambitious children to a German socialist immigrant, a disillusioned Southern colonel, and a young woman from the elite circles of Old New York. Each perspective sheds light on the complexities of wealth and society, resonating with themes that feel strikingly relevant today. (Nicholas Clifford)
    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
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