Compelling desires... forbidden desires... undeniable desires...The Jealous and the Free, a classic lesbian pulp novel from March Hastings, follows the relationship between Michele and Leda. As our story begins, Leda and Michele have been roommates for quite some time. Michele comes to realize that she is attracted to Leda, but her inexperience makes her shy and hesitant at first. Leda, who has had experience with women in the past, takes her by the hand and shows her the way. Michele decides she must be butch for Leda, however she is still finding her way as a butch lesbian... and her insecurities soon cause trouble in their relationship. Michele becomes more controlling and possessive, insisting that Leda spend less time at dance school and with her friends. When Leda refuses, Michele storms out... and into the arms of Corrine — an older, wealthy woman. Michele becomes attracted to Corrine's attraction for her, but she secretly longs for Leda and realizes there's only one way to get her back. The question is... will she be able to do it?