Lady Audley

The main character is introduced as having arrived as a governess to the Dawson family. She is a beautiful, child-like woman with blonde curls, a very engaging manner, and a true artistic and musical ability. She manages to capture the attention and heart of Sir Michael Audley and becomes his bride. She is about twenty-two to his fifty-six years. Lady Audley is able to enchant just about everyone she meets, even Robert Audley falls under her spell initially. The truth of Lady Audley is that she was once Helen Maldon, daughter to a drunk. She seeks her salvation by marrying George Talboys, who she believes to be very rich. Initially he is rich, but is disinherited by his father upon his marriage to Helen. After George deserts Helen, Georgie, and her father, she leaves and takes on a new identity, that of Lucy Graham. As Lucy Graham...