Publisher's Synopsis
This early Balzac novel, never before translated into English, was written under the pseudonym of Horace de Saint-Aubin. It begins with the bourgeousie wondering about their new vicar, a dashingly handsome young man with a dark, brooding personality. Ultimately, the begin to uncover his terrible' past, which includes a passionate love for his sister Melanie (who turns out not to be his sibling), and a friendship with the local Marquise, who herself is attracted to the young man - until she discovers an even darker truth.'
