Published in 1890, 'Notre Coeur' (translated as 'Alien Hearts') is a novel by Guy de Maupassant that delves into the intricate social dynamics of late 19th-century Paris. The story follows André Mariolle, a wealthy young man drawn to the captivating Madame Michèle de Burne, whose beauty and intelligence ensnare him in a web of emotional complexity. The novel explores themes of love, power, and coquetry, revealing the superficial yet profound nature of their relationships. Richard Howard's recent translation is the first in over a century, offering fresh insights into Maupassant's psychological depth and realism.
