E.Phillips Oppenheim 
Tempting Of Tavernake 

Tempting of Tavernake, written by Edward Phillips Oppenheim was first published in 1910 and marks the transformation of Oppenheim from his usual spy thrillers. Most of his works before this were filled with dashing noblemen, adventurous spies, and sophisticated heroes. The transformation was well received by the critics as the novel performed quite well after its release. The novel follows the story of an apathetic man who is socially awkward and cannot empathize with anyone or anything. The readers can see the protagonist unemotional and lonely at the beginning of the novel. However, an accidental encounter with American Beatrice Burnay would alter everything since she teaches him how to accept his emotions. The journey of an extreme introvert to someone who learns to open up his heart to people is heartwarming and can be relatable even after years. As the titular character enhances his emotional intelligence and becomes more emotionally available, the readers experience the growth and the transformation which is also symbolic of Oppenheim’s transformation as a writer as well. This novel was so appreciated that it was adapted in a film called "Sisters of Eve" in 1928.