Summary: The novel centers around a female character, a wealthy German heiress named Mina de Wanghel. When her father dies, she finds herself at the head of a colossal fortune. But her wealth is not her only quality, since she has the chance to be the prettiest girl in her country, coupled with a scholar full of wisdom and finesse. All these qualities make her the most coveted bachelor in Germany, and suitors are rushing to win her over.

But Mina has doubts. Are these men coming for his fortune or for his person? With the complicity of her mother (a colorful character), she will try to unravel the true intentions of her lovers. At first, she wants to spread the news of her ruin. But many obstacles will prevent the realization of this risky project. She will therefore choose a second option: to go and live in Paris where she is not known in order to pass herself off as a modest girl. So she aspires to find true love. The rest of the novel therefore takes place in France and narrates his successive encounters and the reflections that this adventure inspires in him.