Exalted Objects - Jane D Cairns

In 1869 New Hampshire, railroad magnate George Stark faces an impossible choice: commit his eccentric brother Will-poet, prankster, and zookeeper-to an asylum or risk his career and family name after a disastrous train crash and public scandal.

Rewinding to 1846, this sweeping historical novel follows the Stark brothers on diverging paths. George's ambition propels him into the heart of America's railroad boom, while Will's restless spirit transforms the family estate into a sanctuary for exotic animals and ideas. As the Civil War looms, their contrasting lives highlight the tension between order and creativity, ambition and freedom.

Torn between duty and compassion, George must decide whether to sacrifice his brother's freedom or embrace the creativity that once united them. A moving meditation on ambition, forgiveness, and family, this novel brings a forgotten chapter of American history to life with wit, heart, and unforgettable characters. Perfect for fans of historical fiction exploring the price of progress and sibling bonds.