Louis Couperus's Late Leven is a complex and compelling novel that explores the lives and loves of a group of wealthy Dutch aristocrats in the twilight of the 19th century. At the center of the story is Constance van der Welcke, a middle-aged woman trapped in a loveless marriage to her cousin, Henri. Constance's life is transformed when she meets Brauws, an old school friend of Henri's, and the two begin a passionate affair. Meanwhile, Henri finds himself drawn to his young niece, Marianne van Naghel, and the two embark on a secret relationship. As the novel progresses, the lives of the main characters become increasingly entangled, and they must confront the consequences of their choices.