The novel by the famous English writer Mary Steuart is distinguished by the following features: an entertaining plot; the love story of the heroine; richness of details that lets you learn a great deal about the place and time of action; a happy ending. For a long time it led the lists of American bestsellers.
A young Englishwoman, Linda Martin, comes to France to become governess to nine-year-old Philip, Count de Valmye. Her charge is the owner of the family castle and estate, which is managed by his uncle Leon. Linda feels a strange tension in the relationships of the people living in the castle and tries to protect the boy from the uncle’s oppressive authority and the aunt’s cold indifference. A sudden love for Leon’s son, Raoul, makes her life even more complicated. During a walk, Philip is shot. This failed attempt on his life makes Linda wonder what unseen drama is unfolding beneath the castle’s roof—and what role in this drama is assigned to her.
A magnificent love novel, a detective story, and a “governess novel.”