Ruskin's Copper Shadow

Did Pauline Trevelyan manipulate John Ruskin into leaving the love of his life in 1865? 

Bonded by their interest in Pre-Raphaelite art, Pauline Trevelyan, the Mistress of Wallington Hall in Northumberland and John Ruskin developed a close friendship.  Pauline had taken his side against Euphemia Gray (Effie) when she had divorced him for non-consummation of their marriage.  The daughter of a Minister would naturally want to protect Ruskin from further scandal when Isabella Milburn one of her servants, fell pregnant.   

A Northumbrian Canon is concerned about this illegitimate child, leading him to unravel a story of deception and betrayal. As a metaphor for Ruskin, his heightened social awareness plunges him into the Brussels underworld to investigate the White Slave Trade.  Like Ruskin he falls in love with a young girl whose unfettered spontaneity and natural beauty inspires him, saving him from his mental and physical tribulations.  Along with other narrative characters the Canon exposes historically based truths, which have led me to believe that John Ruskin is my Great Great Grandfather.

292 pages