Maggie Verver, a rich American, is to marry an impoverished Italian Prince. The subsequent events are studied in fascinating depths by Henry James in this the last of his full-length novels.

Maggie and the Prince are now married and have a son. They are staying with Mr Verver at Fawns, his country house.

Charlotte, Maggie's dearest friend, has married Mr Verver. The two couples have now settled into their houses in London and spend much time together.