The Good Soldier is a novel by Ford Madox Ford, first published in 1915. It tells the story of two couples, John Dowell and Florence Dowell, and Edward Ashburnham and Leonora Ashburnham, and their complex relationship. The novel is narrated by John Dowell, who is looking back on the events of the past ten years.
The novel begins with the two couples meeting at a spa in Germany. They become close friends, and the Dowells and the Ashburnhams travel together to Florence, Italy. During their stay in Florence, Edward and Leonora's marriage begins to unravel, and it is revealed that Edward has been having an affair with a young woman named Nancy Rufford.
Meanwhile, John and Florence's marriage is also in trouble. Florence is in love with Edward, and John is aware of this. He is also aware of Edward's affair with Nancy, but he does not tell Florence.
The novel follows the two couples as their relationships become increasingly complicated. Edward and Leonora's marriage continues to deteriorate, and Edward's affair with Nancy becomes more serious. John and Florence's marriage is also strained, as Florence's feelings for Edward become more intense.
The novel culminates in a tragic event. Edward and Leonora's daughter, Maisie, is killed in a car accident. This event brings the two couples closer together, and they all come to terms with the truth of their relationships.
The novel ends with John reflecting on the events of the past ten years. He realizes that he and Florence have been living a lie, and that Edward and Leonora's marriage was doomed from the start. He also realizes that he and Florence must now start anew, and that they must learn to forgive each other and move on.
The Good Soldier is a complex and powerful novel that explores the themes of love, betrayal, and redemption. It is a timeless classic that has been praised by critics and readers alike.