The mother of the renowned novelist Anthony Trollope, Frances Trollope began her literary career in the realm of non-fiction, publishing an excoriating takedown of American manners and mores in 1832. She then turned to fiction, channeling her staunch opinions into a series of social novels that tackled the toughest issues of the era. Sprawling epic The Widow Barnaby is one of her most well-received efforts, skillfully weaving elements of domestic drama, tender romance, subtle wit, and gentle satire of the Victorian period.