The central conflict ignites when Lily Dale, a young woman of modest means, is abruptly abandoned by her fiancé, Adolphus Crosbie, in favor of a more socially advantageous match. Lily must navigate the social fallout of this public rejection while managing the persistent, long-standing affection of her childhood friend, Johnny Eames. The narrative operates within the rigid class structures of mid-Victorian England, where financial stability and social standing dictate the viability of romantic unions. Trollope employs a third-person omniscient narrator to observe the domestic lives of the inhabitants of Allington, contrasting their quiet existence with the maneuvering of the London elite.

Readers frequently highlight the nuanced characterization of Lily Dale, whose steadfastness serves as a focal point for discussions regarding Victorian gender roles. Critics often point to Trollope's ability to balance sharp social critique with a sympathetic portrayal of domestic life in rural England. Discussion often centers on the contrast between the earnest, reliable nature of Johnny Eames and the superficial ambition of Adolphus Crosbie. The pacing is noted for its deliberate, observational quality, which allows for a deep examination of the characters' internal motivations. Many readers appreciate the way the novel captures the specific anxieties of a society undergoing significant political and social reform.