The Italian: Or the Confessional of the Black Penitents (Oxford English Novels)

Ann Radcliffe was born Ann Ward. She married William Radcliffe. They had no children, and with her husband's encouragement, she wrote fiction to amuse herself. Her ""Gothic"" novels, which were extremely popular, tend to involve innocent but heroic young women who find themselves in gloomy, mysterious castles at the mercy of complicated men. They influenced Sir Walter Scott and were parodied by Jane Austen. Radcliffe died in 1823 pneumonia.

The Italian is a compelling tale of Vivaldi and Elena - young lovers committed to their love despite the difference in their social status. Along with other hurdles, they also have to face the venomous scorn of Vivaldi's rich and manipulative mother. The Italian, Radcliffe's last novel, showcases the author's profound psychological insight.