Which? Or, Between Two Women

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

21838

Title

Which? Or, Between Two Women

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in revolutionary France, this thrilling romance follows a gypsy girl and an heiress as they compete for the love of a nobleman amidst the Reign of Terror. Blending history with fiction, the novel features dramatic escapes, prison intrigue, and a double love story that explores sacrifice, heroism, and enduring devotion against a backdrop of political frenzy.

Summary up to 500 words

Published in 1893, Ernest Daudet's *Which? Or, Between Two Women* is a gripping historical romance set against the turbulent backdrop of the French Revolution. The narrative opens in 1770 with Tiepoletta, a beautiful but impoverished gypsy woman fleeing her tribe to protect her newborn daughter. Years later, in Paris during the Reign of Terror, the story focuses on Philip de Chamondrin, a nobleman who has fallen on hard times. He is passionately pursued by two women: Dolores, a gypsy of great beauty and heroism, and Antoinette de Mirandol, a wealthy heiress. Both women are rivals for Philip's affection, creating a complex emotional triangle. The plot intensifies as the Revolution escalates. Philip and Dolores are arrested and face execution by the guillotine. Their fate hangs in the balance until Bridoul, a mysterious ally who has gained influence within the Committee of Public Safety, intervenes. Bridoul secures a warrant from Robespierre himself, miraculously saving the condemned trio from death. However, safety is fleeting; the novel continues with further adventures, including escapes from the Conciergerie prison and a journey to England and eventually Louisiana. The story is characterized by its dramatic pacing and vivid historical details, such as the atmosphere of the Palais Égalité and the terror of the guillotine. A central theme is the power of selfless love, exemplified by Dolores's willingness to sacrifice her own happiness and life for the sake of Antoinette. The narrative concludes with the reconciliation of the lovers, a peaceful life in America, and the restoration of the family's honor. Daudet weaves a tale that is both a thrilling adventure and a touching exploration of the human capacity for heroism amidst chaos.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• History
• Fiction