Author(s): Louisa May Alcott

Culture & Ideas

Louisa May Alcott's Behind a Mask is an ingenious study of deception and betrayal, and of the ruthless power of a woman scorned. When demure Scottish governess Jean Muir arrives at a wealthy household, the family couldn't be more thrilled with their new young resident, and find themselves quite beguiled by her grace and beauty. But this surrender to her 'innocent' charms soon sets the men quarrelling for her attention, with the women beside themselves with jealousy. Delighted with her success, Miss Muir sets her sights on the highest prize - but she has only three days to claim victory before the truth, behind her mask, will be exposed.