The Massarenes is a novel by Ouida that tells the story of a wealthy and powerful European family, the Massarenes, who reside in a luxurious villa in Nice, France. The family, consisting of a mother, daughter, and son, live a life of leisure, indulging in their extravagant lifestyle while ignoring the world outside their gates. They come into contact with a poor and struggling young artist named Pierre, who falls in love with the daughter of the family. As their lives become intertwined, the Massarenes are forced to confront the reality of their privileged existence and the consequences of their actions. The novel explores themes of love, wealth, power, and morality.