Maria Messina (1887-1944) is one of the foundational female writers in the history of Italian literature during the early 20th century and is listed in &quot;Le Autrici della Letteratura Italiana&quot; (The Female Authors of Italian Literature).<br /><br />She wrote her last novel, this one, in 1928, while being afflicted by advanced-stage multiple sclerosis. The novel, like some of her other novellas, deals with love relationships and the condition of women.<br /><br />The story unfolds in Ascoli Piceno Italy within the context of the small bourgeoisie, marked by material hardships and emotional deficiencies. Two sisters, burdened by their loneliness, grow up amidst an aging and ailing father, a mother overwhelmed by pain and misfortunes, and a mentally challenged brother, all of which contribute to their sense of defeat. Neither of the two will encounter that happiness which is synonymous with love, denied by a mocking destiny. With contrasting personalities, Miriam, gentle and submissive, and Severa, combative and aggressive, harboring different emotions and aspirations, they treat each other with bitterness and suspicion.