The Mischief-Maker

by E. Phillips (Edward Phillips) Oppenheim

"The Mischief-Maker" by E. Phillips Oppenheim is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story opens in a hospital garden where a young girl named Lucie is dying from tuberculosis, underlining themes of love, loss, and selfishness. The narrative then shifts to Madame Christophor, who is determined to find Lucie's former lover, Eugène, to bring him to the girl's side, revealing the conflicted emotions surrounding love and responsibility that will likely shape the rest of the novel. The beginning of the book paints a poignant picture of despair and desperation. As Lucie grapples with her impending death, she expresses her disdain for Eugène's absence, believing that he has abandoned her. Madame Christophor's resolve to seek out Eugène only complicates the emotions involved, especially when she confronts a selfish man, Monsieur Estermen, who refuses to visit the ailing girl. This encounter sets the stage for the exploration of conflicting human desires and moral responsibilities. Ultimately, Oppenheim introduces an array of characters that will create a web of relationships and emotional entanglements against the backdrop of societal expectations, particularly concerning love and sacrifice.