Why would anyone want to read a 19th century novel? And, why do good writers bring up the name Guy de Maupassant as an example of a great writer? This book answers both questions. Yes, a quick description of the story – a young, naïve girl marries wrong and tragedies ensue - sounds like fodder for soap operas or romance novels. But it is in the telling of the story and the handling of the characters that de Maupassant’s true writing talent comes through. Our heroine Jeanne could come off as a guileless wimp who we get sick of quickly. Yet, de Maupassant’s talents as a writer manage to bring her off as sympathetic, even though much of her plight is because of her blithe acceptance of what life dishes her. And, even with our jaundiced 21st century views, we can still sympathize with these characters and the burdens they faced because of the roles thrust upon them. ( )

Typical Maupassant, pastoral, realistic and gripping even with somewhat foreign setting. Story of a failed marriage, of an unhappy life. Not much happens, but it is well said and evocative. The account of la nuit matrimoniale is beautifully rendered, and the emotions (fear, disgust) brought to life. ( )