After Vautrin helps Lucien overcome a mental breakdown the two men decide to align forces in pursuit of social status and wealth. Operating under an alias Vautrin offers to help Lucien redeem himself and move back to Paris with the condition that Lucien follows his orders exactly. Happy to comply the pair return to the capital city living in excess and racking up a debt as they pretend they can afford this luxurious lifestyle. With a goal of gaining the attention and love of a wealthy woman Vautrin helps Lucien appear to be an eligible and desirable bachelor. However his plan is compromised when Lucien instead meets Esther a beautiful sex worker. First trying to keep their relationship a secret from Vautrin Lucien and Esther share an amorous connection. However as the relationship continues Lucien must choose between his newfound love or the shallow charade he and Vautrin have cultivated. Though the decision may not be his to make and as always Vautrin always has a plan. With intricate descriptions of the buildings culture and people of Paris Scenes from a Courtesans Life by Honor de Balzac provides invaluable insight to into the social history of France. This observation of the time allows readers a rare and unfiltered perspective on the 19th century Parisian society particularly on their values and class distinctions. With themes of morality romance and class Scenes from a Courtesans Life explores the dark and unspoken aspects of society while entertaining with a thrilling storyline and compelling characters. First published as a serial in four parts in 1838 this Balzac classic is captivating and clever. With surprises and twists there is never a dull moment in Scenes from a Courtesans Life This edition of Scenes from a Courtesans Life by Honor de Balzac features a stunning new cover design and is presented in a font that is both stylish and readable. With these accommodations this edition is accessible and appealing to contemporary audiences restoring Scenes from