The Burning Secret by Stefan Zweig

A lonely young boy befriends a charming stranger at a resort, unaware that the man’s true interest lies in seducing the boy’s mother. As the boy begins to feel special and admired, he is devastated when the truth is revealed. The plot centers on the emotional betrayal and loss of innocence. Zweig masterfully portrays the psychological turmoil of childhood and awakening awareness. It’s a subtle, heartbreaking tale of love, manipulation, and secrecy.