In her early novel, "At Fault," Chopin is just starting to delve into the psychology of her characters – a skill that she would hone and garner praise for later. It is an intensely focused story about propriety, love, the realities of marriage, and recovery from the Civil War. Chopin's literary career was sparked by the publication of At Fault, and readers have consistently enjoyed her rich regional descriptions and depictions of fiercely independent women.
