Led Astray and The Sphinx Two Novellas In One Volume   By: Octave Feuillet (1821-1890)

Led Astray and The Sphinx, written by Octave Feuillet, is a captivating and beautifully written collection of two novellas. This book delves into the intricate world of love, temptation, and consequences, leaving readers enthralled from beginning to end.

Feuillet's writing style is undoubtedly the highlight of this collection. His prose is elegant, with rich descriptions, vivid imagery, and a seamless flow that transports readers into the 19th-century France depicted in the stories. The author masterfully captures the essence of the time period, giving readers a glimpse into a society driven by propriety and appearances.

Led Astray, the first novella in this compilation, explores the themes of forbidden love and mistaken identities. The story follows the lives of two couples whose paths become intertwined due to a series of misunderstandings. Feuillet skillfully weaves a web of secrets and deceptions, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they navigate through a maze of intrigue. The characters are well-developed and relatable, their emotions and motivations brought to life in a manner that elicits a deep sense of empathy from the reader.

In contrast, The Sphinx, the second novella, takes a different approach, delving into the psyche of its characters and examining the complexities of human nature. The story revolves around a young woman named Renée, whose mysterious and captivating beauty draws men towards her like moths to a flame. However, her inability to reciprocate their feelings leaves a trail of heartbreak and destruction in her wake. Feuillet's exploration of love, desire, and the consequences of unrequited passion is thought-provoking and harrowing, revealing the dark underbelly of human desires.

One aspect that sets this collection apart is Feuillet's ability to delve deep into the human psyche. Through his masterful storytelling, the author invites readers to ponder the universal themes of love, desire, and morality. Moreover, the moral complexities he portrays challenge societal norms, forcing readers to question their own beliefs and judgments.

However, there are certain aspects that may not appeal to all readers. The novellas are undeniably slow-paced, focusing extensively on characterization and introspection rather than action. While this provides a profound exploration of the human condition, it may deter readers seeking a more fast-paced narrative.

Nevertheless, Led Astray and The Sphinx is a remarkable collection of novellas that leave a lasting impression. Octave Feuillet's beautiful prose, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes make this book a must-read for lovers of classic literature. Whether one is seeking an escape into the elegant world of 19th-century France or a profound exploration of human nature, this collection delivers a captivating and rewarding experience.

First Page:

It's nine o'clock in the evening, my dear friend, and you have just arrived from Germany. They hand you my letter, the post mark of which informs you at once that I am absent from Paris. You indulge in a gesture of annoyance, and call me a vagabond. Nevertheless, you settle down in your best arm chair, you open my letter, and you hear that I have been for the past five days domesticated in a flour mill in Lower Normandy. In a flour mill! What the duse can he be doing in a mill? A wrinkle appears on your forehead, your eyebrows are drawn together; you lay down my letter for a moment; you attempt to penetrate this mystery by the unaided power of your imagination. Suddenly a playful expression beams upon your countenance; your mouth expresses the irony of a wise man tempered by the indulgence of a friend; you have caught a glimpse, through an opera comique cloud, of a miller's pretty wife with powdered hair, a waist all trimmed with gay ribbons, a light and short skirt, and stockings with gilded clocks; in short, one of those fair young millers' wives whose heart goes pit a pat with hautboy accompaniment... Continue reading book >>