Written in 1870 but held back until 1879, this is arguably the most melodramatic story that Trollope wrote in his long career and certainly his frankest and most daring treatment of pre-marital sex. It is a romantic and tragic tale set in the west of Ireland. Fred Neville, a young officer in the Hussars, falls heir to an earldom. But before taking up his responsibilities, he resolves to enjoy a year of adventure in Ireland where his regiment is posted. Among the romantic surroundings of the sheer cliffs of Moher on the rugged Atlantic coast, Fred meets and falls in love with an Irish girl of great beauty and mysterious background. His family opposes the match absolutely. Fred seduces his wild Irish girl, and the scene is set for a tragic outcome that far exceeds the adventures Fred had in mind.