Kings Row

King's Row is a fictional, small town in the rural south. The story starts in the 1890's with the main characters Parris Mitchell and Drake McHugh in early high school. They are best buddies. Drake is a happy go-lucky boy who chases women and loves to party. Parris is more reticent and sober.The long novel (almost 700 pages) follows their lives until their early 30's. They go through various romances (with very unexpected consequences), business operations and changes in their lifestyles. Drake starts off wealthy and the scourge of the town, however, he is bilked of his money and must start over. Parris studies to become a doctor and is well regarded throughout his career. Many of King's Row citizens have a quirk about them. Some are honest and upstanding, but there are others who have neuroses about them (including a doctor who likes to inflict pain on the sick rather than heal).