'Man and Wife' Summary

In the world of Man and Wife, a curious Scottish law dictates that any man and woman declaring themselves married in front of witnesses or in writing are legally bound as such. This premise sets the stage for a tangled web of relationships when Arnold, engaged to another woman, and Geoffrey, seeking a wealthy bride, both find themselves possibly married to Anne. Panic strikes Anne as she realizes the precariousness of her reputation and embarks on a desperate mission to secure a legitimate husband. As the characters navigate legal complexities and personal desires, the novel delves into the intricacies of marriage, reputation, and the unintended consequences of legal loopholes.