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| Louisa May Alcott |
Behind a Mask, or, a Woman's Power
A.M. Barnard (pseudonym of Louisa May Alcott)
1866
4/5 stars
In this short novel, Jean Muir, a deceitful governess, strives to find security for her future by wining the love of a her employer's son. A consummate actress, Jean works her way into the family quickly and easily puts her plans into action. As her past follows fast on her heels, she must work rapidly if she is to succeed.
Alcott's writing is strong, and she is able to flesh out the characters surprisingly well in such a short time. She hits the reader with the secret immediately, but that doesn't lessen the suspense or enjoyment, and the reader will be uncertain as to the outcome all the way to the end. Jean is a truly wicked woman, and yet Alcott causes the reader to unwillingly champion her cause. I read it in two sittings, completely engrossed, and literally yelled when I read the ending. For those fond of a Victorian-era sensational novel, this is a must-read.
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