A new translation of the French classic - the first in a hundred years - by David Coward

The Napoleonic Wars are over. Octave, a young Parisian, loves his mistress Elise - until he witnesses her being unfaithful. His despair leads to decadence, and he becomes the perfect libertine. However, the death of his father takes Octave to the countryside where he falls in love with Brigitte, a young widow who spends most of her time caring for others. At first, Brigitte tries to resist his advances, but eventually they become lovers. Octave, however, is quickly overcome by suspicion. Will Brigitte remain true to him? Doesn't every woman betray her lover sooner or later?