Paula Monti by Eugène Sue

At a glittering Paris Opera-ball, masked flirtation gives way to dangerous gossip as a mysterious domino steers conversation toward the dazzling Princess de Hansfeld and her secluded husband. Around them, society delights in rumors about beauty, piety, jealousy, and hidden motives, while Leon de Morville's admired elegance and supposed indifference only deepen the intrigue. In this world, reputation is a performance, and every glance may conceal a secret. The mystery sharpens when the princess summons Morville to a clandestine meeting, revealing herself as Madame de Hansfeld and preparing to disclose a hidden truth. Elsewhere, Prince de Hansfeld's secluded life, fragile health, and odd household intensify the aura of secrecy. The novel also turns toward a humbler, more painful drama: after rescuing an old engraver, Hansfeld is sheltered by Pierre Raimond and meets Bertha, whose beauty and sorrow immediately mark her fate. Bertha confesses that her husband Charles has become cruel and contemptuous, and Pierre, outraged, vows to defend her. Refusing dependence, Bertha offers to teach again under her maiden name, proving both her dignity and the emotional cost of a marriage built on neglect. This edition has been fully restored with modern typesetting, custom cover design.