The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton

Set against the backdrop of the 1890s New York ruling class, this book follows the story of Miss Lily Bart, a young lady who is desperately trying to get her life in order by marrying a powerful, wealthy man. Although this dream seems easy enough to fulfill, that isn't the case. There are more obstacles that prevent Lily from reaching her goal than she ever could have imagined, including love, betrayal, and her own beliefs.