'For a Night of Love' is an extraordinary depiction of sexual mores, and a perfect example of Zola's skill for depicting the more sordid aspects of human nature. It tells the story of the depravity lurking beneath the apparently angelic façade of the beautiful Thérèse. A gripping short story, this is the perfect introduction to Zola's gritty naturalism.
Hesperus Press March 16th, 2007 05:26 AM PST