About the book: 1998 / The novel takes place in the English province. Dr Paul Higgins is one of the most vibrant and respected figures in the small town of Fleburne. The blond, stately giant fell in love at first sight with the charming young Bette - a graceful, graceful girl sparkling with joy. She looked like the fairytale "Thumbelina". Less than two weeks had passed since the young people got married. But from the very first steps of their life together, the couple realized that their marriage was a fatal mistake. Imaginary love turned into hatred. Bette gave birth to a lovely baby who looked more like a Japanese girl than a European girl. Paul suspects that the child is the fruit of a fleeting relationship with a frivolous and vain wife. However, the doctor fell in love with Lorna as if he were his own daughter. Mrs. Higgins' deceit, evil character, and irrepressible egoism eat away at family relationships like rust. Paul suffers from spiritual loneliness. Living in the family mansion, Rothfield House, is like being on a volcano. And the tragedy is not long in coming. All the heroes of the novel are involved in it. Each of them paid a high price for the epiphany…