The novel revolves around Christopher Newman, a wealthy and successful American businessman who travels to Paris seeking love and acceptance into high society. He becomes infatuated with Claire de Cintre, a beautiful and charming young woman engaged to the Marquis de Bellegarde. Despite her initial reluctance, Newman's persistence eventually wins over Claire, but their happiness is short-lived as they face opposition from the aristocratic family and societal norms.
By Henry James · First published 1877 · Genre: Literary Fiction, Romance, Social Commentary · 26 chapters