The story in one page
Ramón de Casa Triana, a nobleman in exile, risks imprisonment to enter Spain in his motorcar. He hopes to win back Lady Monica Vale, who has been manipulated into an engagement with the powerful, vindictive Duke of Carmona. As Ramón navigates provincial towns and dodges secret police, his friend Dick and the lively Pilar provide support. The Duke plays a dangerous game, slandering Ramón to the authorities and trapping Monica. After a series of tense encounters and narrow escapes, the group crosses paths with the King of Spain, whose sudden royal intervention clears Ramón’s name and finally allows the lovers to choose their own future.
Who's who
- Ramón de Casa Triana
An exiled nobleman chasing his love and clearing his family name.
- Monica Vale
A young English woman trapped in a coerced engagement.
- Duke of Carmona
A treacherous aristocrat using power to force a marriage.
- The King of Spain
The ultimate authority who resolves the conflict with royal favor.
- Dick
Ramón's supportive friend who helps navigate bureaucratic and social obstacles.
What it's really about
- Restoration
- Recovering lost status and family estates.
- Coercion
- Wealthy men using influence to control women.
Why it's memorable
- A motorcar surrounded by a mob of curious village children.
- The Duke's face turning from scarlet to yellow-pale under royal scrutiny.
The ending, explained
Spoilers — show the ending
The King of Spain clears Ramón's name and grants him his estates, while Monica rejects the Duke's claim once and for all. As the couple reunites, the crowd celebrates the royal decree with a loyal cheer.
For your book club
- The absurdity of sneaking into a country while driving a noisy motorcar.
- Whether the Duke’s servants are motivated by loyalty or sheer terror.