The novel is a dramatic tale set on the Isle of Man in the 19th century, revolving around the life of a young man who, after a series of personal and moral failures, including being involved in a man's death, is exiled and disowned by his father. As he endures hardship and seeks redemption, he ultimately rises to become a Deemster, a high judge on the island, and must confront his past actions and their consequences. The story explores themes of justice, penance, and the possibility of moral redemption, against the backdrop of Manx society and its legal traditions.

The 6292nd greatest book of all time