The Dual Alliance

"The Dual Alliance" by Marjorie Benton Cooke is a story from the early 1900s. It follows Barbara Garratry, or "Bob", an Irish actress who has fought hard to become successful while also taking care of her sick father. Even though she's done well, she feels alone and empty, and begins to wonder about her life and what her success really means. As the book starts, Bob thinks about her difficult past and struggles with feeling lonely and burdened. She even thinks about ending her life, showing how unhappy she is despite reaching her goals. Surprisingly, she suggests a strange idea to Paul Trent, a lawyer she hardly knows: that they should get married to see if they can find companionship. Their unexpected agreement suggests they might form a deeper bond, even though their relationship begins with a contract, which will likely lead to complicated emotional situations as they navigate their lives together.