What Dreams May Come

Set in Constantinople early in the century, the story follows interconnected lives within embassy society where diplomats, their spouses, and artists meet amid opulent ceremonies and private salons. Social maneuvering exposes creative restlessness, marital strain, and rival ambitions as a gifted woman resolves to alter her fate and a poetically inclined man weighs art against worldly expectations. Engagements and friendships are tested by jealousy, pride, and moral choices. Rich atmospheric description alternates with close psychological observation, probing themes of ambition, sacrifice, sexual politics, and the personal cost of pursuing passion or preserving reputation.