Inner Shrine

In this captivating tale, Diane Eveleth returns from a Parisian soirée only to face the shocking news that her husband, George Eveleth, has been killed in a duel with the infamous Marquis de Bienville. In a desperate bid for independence, Diane discreetly transfers her inheritance to her mother-in-law, and together they journey to New York to seek refuge with family. There, Diane takes on the role of chaperone for Dorothea, the daughter of the widowed Derek Pruyn, whom she has crossed paths with before. As the story unfolds, Pruyn proposes marriage, and Diane finds herself torn. She plans to accept his offer upon his return from a voyage to South America, but everything changes when he comes back with a new perspective—one shaped by his encounter with de Bienville, who has cast doubt on Dianes fidelity. This poignant narrative explores the intricate dynamics of love, trust, and betrayal among its richly drawn characters. (Summary by Simon Evers)