In a book that is more lighthearted than some of Hardy's other novels, Elfride Swancourt (the blue-eyed miss of the title) is courted by a rural architect (perhaps not unlike Hardy himself, who was trained as an architect) and a more sophisticated--and older--journalist from the city. As she endeavors to make a choice, Elfride must consult not only her own preferences, but the hopes of her parents and the expectations of society. But in choosing a husband, she must first learn who she is and what she really wants out of life. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.