Mr. Faversham's New Year's Guest (1873)

Set during a New Year's Eve party in the English countryside, the story centers on Mr. Faversham, a wealthy landowner, and the arrival of the enigmatic Mrs. Merton, who claims familial ties to him. Her probing questions stir tension and unveil family secrets, leading to revelations about her true identity. Themes of family, love, and betrayal intertwine with a critique of Victorian social norms, offering insight into the lives of the upper class. The novel combines intrigue, drama, and unexpected twists, showcasing complex human relationships.