The novel follows the story of a young Irishman, Michael O'Connor, who is in love with a beautiful woman, Mary O'Connor. Mary is the daughter of a wealthy landowner, and Michael is a poor tenant farmer. Despite their differences in social status, the two are deeply in love and plan to marry. However, their plans are disrupted when a mysterious stranger, known only as the Tempter, arrives in the village. The Tempter is a handsome and charming man who quickly wins the affections of Mary. Michael is heartbroken and desperate to win her back, but the Tempter seems to have an almost supernatural power over her. Michael must battle the Tempter for Mary's affections, and in the process, he discovers the Tempter's true identity and the reason for his presence in the village. In the end, Michael must make a difficult decision that will determine the fate of his relationship with Mary.
By Fitz-James O'Brien · First published 1859 · Genre: Romance, Fiction, Mystery · 2 chapters