In The Harvester, Gene Stratton-Porter returns us to her beloved Midwestern woodlands with a hero modeled after Henry David Thoreau. The Harvester, a hermit who lives alone and supports himself by growing, harvesting and drying medicinal herbs, has vision of a wonderful woman. He sets out in search of her among the city streets by knocking on doors and selling flowers. He finds his girl, but she is traumatized and ill. The Harvester builds a home for her and establishes a relationship only to have her become so ill she almost dies. How he wins both her life and love make this story one you will never forget! He and his "wonderful, alluring" Ruth ultimately find idyllic bliss in the pure, unspoiled woods, but not before her mysterious past is revealed and resolved.