ReadEdenLittle Women can end in two different places
One title, two publishing histories
Louisa May Alcott's story first appeared in two parts. The first was published as Little Women; the continuation later appeared as Good Wives. Many modern editions combine them under the first title, while others stop halfway through the story readers expect.
Check the final chapter
An edition containing only the first part ends with chapter 23. A combined edition continues through chapter 47. The contents page is more reliable than the cover, because “unabridged” may describe one part rather than the combined novel.
Why it matters
The first part follows the sisters at home during the American Civil War. The second moves into adulthood, work, marriage and choices made beyond the childhood household. Stopping at chapter 23 is a genuine ending, but it is not the end of the larger March family story.
Before you buy
Look for Good Wives in the subtitle, description or contents. Page count can offer a clue but varies with format and typesetting. Chapter numbers give the clearest answer.