These Old Shades follows the story of a foppish Duke, Alastair of Avon, who encounters a young boy named Léon in a dark alley in Paris. The boy is running away from his abusive brother, Jean, who has been mistreating him. The Duke, intrigued by the boy's plight, decides to purchase him from Jean, who is more interested in the money than the well-being of his brother. Léon becomes the Duke's page, and the two form an unusual bond. As Léon adjusts to his new life, he discovers the opulence of the Duke's world, contrasting sharply with his previous existence in poverty. The Duke, while appearing frivolous and self-indulgent, reveals a more complex character as he navigates the intrigues of Parisian society. Léon, who is actually a girl disguised as a boy, struggles with her identity and the expectations placed upon her. The narrative explores themes of identity, class, and the nature of love and loyalty. The Duke's relationship with Léon evolves as he becomes protective of her, and he grapples with his feelings towards her as she transitions from a boy to a girl. The story is filled with witty dialogue, social commentary, and a cast of colorful characters, including the Duke's friends and rivals. As the plot unfolds, the Duke's past and his connections to the Saint-Vire family come to light, revealing deeper motivations behind his actions. The tension between the Duke and the Comte de Saint-Vire, who has a complicated history with the Duke, adds an element of intrigue and conflict. Ultimately, the story culminates in Léon's acceptance of her identity and her place in the Duke's life, as well as the resolution of the Duke's long-standing feud with Saint-Vire. The novel blends romance, humor, and adventure, showcasing the complexities of human relationships and the societal norms of the time.
By Georgette Heyer · First published 1926 · Genre: Historical Romance, Regency, Fiction · 32 chapters