"Ethan Frome" by Edith Wharton is a poignant exploration of desire and despair set in the bleak, snowy landscape of New England. Trapped in an oppressive marriage with his hypochondriac wife Zeena, Ethan's life takes a turn when he falls for Mattie, Zeena's lively cousin. As their forbidden love deepens, the harsh realities of duty and societal expectations close in, leading to a tragic and unforgettable climax. Wharton's masterful storytelling delves into themes of longing, sacrifice, and the inexorable pull of fate.