Chapter 1 Summary

The main character of the novel is Valancy Stirling. She wakes on the morning of what is to be her Aunt and Uncle Wellington's thirtieth anniversary picnic to find that it is raining. Since it's raining, the picnic won't take place. Valancy is 29 years old and unmarried, which in her era, makes her an old maid. Ever since she was a child, she dreams of being the maiden of a blue castle. She also dreams of the lovers that she would have over the years.

Valancy enjoys reading books by Foster. Her family allows her to read the books because they think the topics are scientific. Lately, Valancy has been having dizzy spells and a pain around her heart. She wants to visit the doctor, but she wants to do it in secrecy without her family knowing. Valancy vows to visit Dr. Trent...