A political exile seeking refuge in the South American wilderness encounters a mysterious, ethereal woman who challenges his understanding of the natural world. Mr. Abel, a man fleeing political turmoil, ventures into the dense forests of Guiana, where he discovers a secluded paradise inhabited by Rima, a girl who possesses an uncanny connection to the flora and fauna. As Abel attempts to bridge the gap between his civilized background and Rima's wild existence, he faces the hostility of local tribes who view her as a supernatural threat. The narrative unfolds through a reflective, first-person perspective that emphasizes the tension between human desire and the untamed environment.

Readers frequently highlight the lyrical quality of the prose, which captures the lush atmosphere of the South American rainforest with precision. Discussion often centers on the symbolic nature of Rima and what her character represents regarding the intersection of humanity and the environment. Critics note that the pacing is deliberate, favoring internal reflection and descriptive world-building over rapid plot progression. Many readers appreciate the work for its early contribution to ecological literature and its critique of colonial expansion. The book remains a subject of interest for those examining the transition from Romanticism to modern environmental consciousness.