First published 2010
Diana Holland commands attention at every Manhattan social gathering, even as her secret love Henry has married Penelope, the Holland sisters' longtime rival. Elizabeth Holland has returned to New York, but Diana remains the brightest star of high society. Henry still loves Diana deeply, yet Penelope holds him through cruel blackmail. The vindictive Penelope has trapped Henry in their marriage using threats that bind him against his heart's desire. Meanwhile, Lina, once a servant in the Holland household, continues her remarkable climb up the social ladder. Her ambitious rise brings new dangers as she navigates the treacherous world of Manhattan's elite. Each step higher puts Lina at greater risk in a society that never forgets where she came from. The year 1900 brings fresh challenges to all three women as they pursue their desires in a world where reputation means everything and scandal can destroy lives.
Genres: drama, romance, 20th-century, 19th-century
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, forbidden-love, social-class-differences
Setting: Manhattan, New York
Period: 1900
429 pages · Paperback · Albin Michel