Beginning with a visceral description of the society and politics of Paris The Girl with the Golden Eyes considers the sex life of the upper class by its raw depiction of the underside of Parisian life. Henri de Marsay is a young rich man who is nearly devoid of morals and virtue. After he meets Paquita Valdes a mysterious and beautiful woman he becomes infested with a deviant lust for her. When his plan to seduce her succeeds Henri and Paquita maintain an intensely sexual relationship. However when Henri starts to suspect Paquita is involved with another lover he becomes overwhelmed with rage and jealousy. As he allows this emotion to cloud his judgement and conscience Henris possessiveness plots a heinous actimmoral even by his questionable standards leading to shocking discoveries and sick twists. The surprise and awe invoked by Honor de Balzacs The Girl with the Golden Eyes ensures a memorable narrative that has won the attention of critics and inspired a 1961 film adaptation. With elements of homosexuality sexual slavery incest and violence The Girl with the Golden Eyes is a lustful tale that remains to be appalling and taboo. With raw and ruthless realism Honor de Balzac creates a portrait and reflection of an entire society through the vivid depiction of Paris and the specific amorous vice of the protagonists. While exploring the vices of the Parisian upper class The Girl with the Golden Eyes also invites reflection on the brutal effects misogyny and illintended men have on women exposing a truth that is still applicable to modern society. Though The Girl with the Golden Eyes has traditionally been published among a collection this edition of Honor de Balzacs work stands alone in the spotlight it has earned. Featuring a brand new eyecatching cover design and a modern readable font this edition of The Girl with the Golden Eyes is accessible to contemporary audiences and encourages conversation on torrid and taboo affairs.