Publisher's Synopsis
This is a early novel (1894) by the hugely prolific, and wildly popular (1920-40s) author E. Phillips Oppenheim. It is somewhat different than his later works, with darker themes, and a more tragic plot. The convoluted story involved a wealthy Englishman who falls in love with the daughter of an Italian nobleman who lives on the island of Cruta in the Mediterranean. Their progeny, and a very dark influence of the Catholic church, conspire to defeat both love and happiness. Scenes in late Victorian English salons, particularly featuring the dancer and heroine Adrea, are wonderful evocations of period society. Also some great set pieces as a private yacht enters the stormy harbor of Cruta.
