The Monster

by Edgar Saltus

"The Monster" by Edgar Saltus is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story begins with a bride, Leilah, who is in a state of blissful romanticism with her husband, Gulian Verplank, as they prepare for a honeymoon. However, this idyllic beginning quickly darkens when Leilah receives a disturbing letter that reveals deep secrets about her past, causing her to confront an inner turmoil that drastically changes the course of her life and relationship. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to a lush, tropical scene where Leilah and Gulian are in love and planning their future. Their conversation reveals their deep affection, but soon the mood shifts when Leilah discovers an unsettling letter that sets off a chain reaction of emotions, including fear and despair. The initial atmosphere of romance and excitement crumbles as Leilah grapples with the implications of her father's message and the monstrous truths it contains, leading to her frantic decisions to escape her past and the overwhelming presence of this "monster" in her life. This gripping beginning sets the stage for a complex exploration of themes such as identity, love, and the consequences of hidden truths.