The Eustace Diamonds

First published in 1871-73, this Palliser-period novel centres on Lizzie Eustace, a young widow who insists that a diamond necklace is hers to keep, not an heirloom of her late husband's family. Lawyers, the family at Portray Castle, and London society contest the claim while Lizzie flirts with suitors, including a dull MP and a more dangerous cousin, and tries to live as a romantic heroine on borrowed money. A theft of the diamonds turns private greed into public scandal. The book is a comic novel of property and lying, not a detective puzzle.

Quarter dark blue cloth series binding. Pale blue paper boards with the border in dark blue. Pale blue endleaves. Dark blue slipcase.