The Foundling

the long version

"When Edward Sydney is found abandoned as a baby, local landowner Mr. Hasleden claims him as his own, and Edward grows up believing Hasleden to be his father. However, after his protector's death, Edward becomes filled with curiosity about his true origins, and sets off on a pilgrimage to Verdopolis - Bronte's mythical kingdom - where he hopes to discover evidence of his real name and the circumstances of his birth. Yet he soon realises that the inhabitants of this glittering city are not all as they seem, and he finds himself embarking upon a remarkable journey that must go by way of murder and kidnap, friendship and rivalry, love and heartache, before the truth of his name can be revealed."--Jacket.