Pregnant, abandoned by her lover, and desperate, Helen boards a train heading west. She meets Patrice, a happy young expectant mother whoâs traveling with her husband, Hugh, to meet his family for the first time. Patrice lets Helen try on her wedding-bandâjust before the train crashes, killing Patrice and Hugh. Thinking Helen is their widowed daughter-in-law, Hughâs family welcomes her into their rich and loving home. For the first time, Helenâs life is goodâuntil her ex-lover comes to town with blackmail on his mind.
The films Jâai ĂŠpousĂŠ une ombre (1983) and No Man of Her Own (1950) starring Barbara Stanwyck are based on the book.