From Jest to Earnest

From Jest to Earnest is a novel by Edward Payson Roe, first published in 1875. The story follows Charlotte 'Lottie' Marsden and her cousin Frank Hemstead, a clergyman-in-training, as they navigate youthful romance and social expectations within the elite. Through practical jokes and flirtations, the novel explores themes of morality and personal identity, highlighting the contrast between Lottie's charm and Frank's naivety, ultimately examining the complexities of their relationships and societal norms.