This collection reveals the "other" Alcott, featuring "Behind a Mask" and "Pauline's Passion and Punishment," thrilling tales of seduction, betrayal, and murder that strike a markedly different tone and characterization from Alcott's best ...
All the men covet her while the women are livid with jealousy. The surprise ending reveals Muir's ulterior motive behind her daring scheme. Outstanding book in which Alcott voices her feminist beliefs through a strong female protagonist.
In Behind a Mask, editor Madeleine Stern introduces four Alcott thrillers: "Pauline's Passion and Punishment," "The Mysterious Key," "The Abbot's Ghost," and the title story, "Behind a Mask.
The novella was originally published in 1866 under the pseudonym of A. M. Barnard in The Flag of Our Union. Set in Victorian era Britain, the story follows Jean Muir, the deceitful governess of the wealthy Coventry family.
"Has she come?" "No, Mamma, not yet." "I wish it were well over. The thought of it worries and excites me. A cushion for my back, Bella." And poor, peevish...
Perhaps freed by the anonymity this guise granted, she delves deeply into issues of gender, family, and social class in this story that focuses on the relationship between a governess and the family she works for.
In Behind a Mask, editor Madeleine Stern introduces four Alcott thrillers: "Pauline's Passion and Punishment," "The Mysterious Key," "The Abbot's Ghost," and the title story, "Behind a Mask.
An early novel of gothic thrills and chills from the beloved author of Little Women. One of four stories written under the penname A. M. Barnard, Behind a Mask was originally published in 1866 for a young adult audience.
Among these are Jean Muir, Pauline's Passion and Punishment. Her protagonists for these tales are willful and relentless in their pursuit of their own aims, which often include revenge on those who have humiliated or thwarted them.
She uses the love they bestow upon her to turn them against each other and eventually to secure the Coventry estate for herself. By the end of the story, Jean Muir has married John to become Lady Coventry.
"Behind a Mask; or, a Woman's Power" by Louisa May Alcott is a seductive and romantic classic!