YES it's a beautiful book, the original theme, which would equally have been called "The share of women" so they are present in the novel ... It is true that men do not have the starring role in this pivotal period of decadence of the aristocracy in the heart of the republic that still seeks its brands. The style is beautiful, historical context as troubling interesting, 4 years of research at the National Library are reflected well in this very fine description of the aristocracy where women play a vital social role, in part no doubt to escape constraints dictated by caste men who continue to live beyond their time. Great time playing in perspective, I highly recommend.