In a picturesque town, the Van Norman mansion stands as a symbol of wealth and status, owned by the beautiful and imperious Madeleine Van Norman. As an heiress, she is set to inherit a vast fortune on her wedding day or her twenty-third birthday. Engaged to the polished but emotionally reserved Schuyler Carleton, Madeleine's impending marriage is the talk of Mapleton society. However, her cousin Tom Willard, a charming scapegrace, returns from abroad and rekindles a close bond with her, stirring jealousy in Carleton. Tom, who has long harbored feelings for Madeleine, openly questions her choice of fiancé, believing that Carleton's demeanor lacks the warmth she deserves. Despite her affection for Carleton, Madeleine finds herself drawn to Tom's vivacity and emotional honesty, leading to tension between the three. As the wedding approaches, underlying doubts about Carleton's suitability and the nature of his feelings for Madeleine surface, complicating her decision. The dynamics of love, jealousy, and societal expectations unfold against the backdrop of the grand mansion, revealing the complexities of relationships and the true nature of affection. The story explores themes of love, propriety, and the struggle between societal norms and personal desires, culminating in a dramatic confrontation of emotions and choices.
By Carolyn Wells · First published 1929 · Genre: Mystery, Detective Fiction, Thriller · 24 chapters