The House-Party, Don Gesualdo, and A Rainy June by Ouida intertwines three captivating stories set in the opulent world of Italian nobility. The novel explores the complexities of social gatherings and the intricate relationships within them. In A House-Party, characters navigate the drama and romance that unfold during a lavish social event, highlighting issues of class distinctions and emotional tension. Don Gesualdo introduces a tale of conflict and intrigue centered around a prominent figure whose personal and social struggles come to the forefront. A Rainy June captures the impact of a summer drenched in both literal and metaphorical rain, affecting the characters' lives and relationships. Throughout these stories, Ouida delves into themes of love, family dynamics, and societal expectations, creating a rich tapestry of drama and romance against a backdrop of 19th-century Italian society. Her vivid portrayal of the era and its characters offers a compelling exploration of social and emotional conflicts.

Maria Louise Ramé, known by her pen name Ouida, was an English novelist born on January 1, 1839, in Bury St Edmunds, United Kingdom. She was the daughter of Susan Sutton and Louis Ramée. Writing under the pseudonym Ouida, she became a moderately successful author, producing more than 40 novels, as well as numerous short stories, children's books, and essays. Ouida was renowned for her lavish lifestyle and hosted many of the literary figures of her time. While she lived in luxury, she often faced criticism for her flamboyant personality and extravagant ways. Her works typically focused on themes of romance, social class, and the complexity of human nature, with her most famous novels being "Under Two Flags" and "A Dog of Flanders." Although her popularity waned towards the end of her career, she remains an important figure in 19th-century English literature. Ouida passed away on January 25, 1908, in Viareggio, Italy, at the age of 69.