"Night and Day" is a novel that captures the intricate dance of love and societal expectations among a group of young upper-middle-class individuals in Edwardian England. Set over the course of nine months, the story unfolds like a classic farce, where unexpected encounters and miscommunications weave a complex web of relationships. Ultimately, the narrative ties up these romantic entanglements in a joyful, comedic resolution.

A Tea Party Introduction

The novel begins with Katharine Hilbery hosting an afternoon tea at her parents' home, a staple of English social life and a setting for many pivotal events. Among the guests is Ralph Denham, a young solicitor who recently published an article in a journal managed by Katharine's father. This first meeting sparks a mild aversion between Katharine, descended from a distinguished lineage, and Denham, who is unimpressed by her aristocratic background.

Entangling Relationships

At this juncture, Katharine is being pursued by William Rodney, a cultured yet somewhat conceited government employee who indulges in literary pursuits in his spare time. Denham, on the other hand, shares a close friendship with Mary Datchet, a spirited advocate for women's suffrage, who, despite their two-year acquaintance, has no desire to marry him or anyone else.

Converging Paths

The lives of these four central characters intertwine when they gather at Mary Datchet's apartment to hear Rodney present a paper on Shakespeare. What follows is a series of interactions that delve into the nuanced emotions and societal norms guiding these well-educated and refined individuals, as narrated by an omniscient voice.

Unraveling Affections

As the plot progresses, Denham finds himself increasingly preoccupied with thoughts of Katharine. Meanwhile, Mary realizes she harbors feelings for Denham. Despite Denham's attempt to propose to Mary—aiming to suppress his thoughts of Katharine—Mary refuses, aware of his hidden affection for Katharine. She comes to terms with her unrequited love by dedicating herself to her work and gaining a broader perspective on life: “She . . . renounced her own demands, privileged to see the larger view, to share the vast desires and sufferings of the mass of mankind.” Concurrently, Katharine becomes engaged to Rodney, aware that she lacks true love for him and perceiving their future marriage as a "farce." Her feelings for Denham remain undefined beyond a faint curiosity.

The Catalyst of Cassandra

The plot thickens with the arrival of Cassandra Otway, Katharine's young cousin. Witnessing genuine love through Mary's lens, Katharine is dismayed by her own engagement to Rodney. She skillfully orchestrates a scenario where Rodney confesses a potential affection for Cassandra, thus arranging an opportunity for him to court her, while publicly maintaining their engagement. During this period, Katharine and Denham grow closer, and Denham, consumed by his idealized vision of Katharine, confesses his feelings. This unsettles Katharine's meddling Aunt Celia and infuriates her father upon discovering the subterfuge. However, Katharine's intuitive mother, Mrs. Hilbery, who has always sensed Denham as Katharine’s true match, steps in to resolve the chaos.

A Harmonious Conclusion

In a delightful conclusion, Mrs. Hilbery uses her influence to bring together the rightful couples. Her intervention ensures that Katharine aligns with her genuine affection for Denham, while Rodney finds a partner in Cassandra. Thus, the narrative culminates in a comedic resolution, celebrating the triumph of love over societal conventions.