'Inner Shrine' Summary

Diane Eveleth, recently widowed, returns from a Parisian party to learn of her husband's death in a duel with the Marquis de Bienville. She secretly transfers her remaining wealth to her mother-in-law and they sail to New York, where Diane finds herself offered a chaperone position for the daughter of a widowed man, Derek Pruyn. Diane is drawn to Pruyn, and he eventually proposes marriage. However, before she can give her answer, Pruyn departs on a voyage to South America. Upon his return, his demeanor toward Diane has drastically changed. Pruyn encountered de Bienville on his travels, who accused Diane of infidelity. The novel centers on the unraveling of relationships and the struggle to restore truth and trust. Diane fights to clear her name and confront the consequences of a life filled with both love and deception. Ultimately, 'Inner Shrine' explores the power of human resilience, the challenges of forgiveness, and the complexities of love and loss.