Le léopard des neiges

The detailed descriptions really brought the mansion to life, but I wonder how much was inspired by real places or pure imagination. Did the author have a specific location in mind?

The emotional tension was intense, but the romantic scenes felt layered with mystery and longing. Was that intentional to match the Gothic tone?

The period feels integral to the story, but I'm curious whether the author deliberately used history to shape the characters' motivations or if it evolved naturally.