The Illusionist

Bored and lonely, 15 year old Helene decides to pay a visit to her father's mistress. Within days, she is captivated by Tamara, a Russian emigre whose arts of enchantment include lingering kisses, sudden dismissals and savage, rapturous reunions. As long as she submits to Tamara, Helene is permitted to stay near her. A contemplative, beautifully written book, originally published in 1951, The Illusionist includes dark undercurrents of desire and is reminiscent of Madame Bovary and the novels of Colette.