
Set against the swirling turmoil of a mid‑Victorian general election, this novel opens with a razor‑sharp satire of party politics and the clash of Liberal idealism with Conservative opportunism. Through lively dialogue and a cast of memorable figures—politicians, aristocratic ladies, and restless journalists—the author sketches a world where public ambition and private desire intersect in the corridors of power. The prose brims with witty observations, vivid descriptions of parliamentary maneuvering, and a keen eye for the absurdities of social rank.
Amid the heated debates, a younger generation of characters finds themselves drawn into a tangled web of intrigue and romance. A determined lady seeks to protect her family’s reputation while a charismatic newcomer navigates the treacherous waters of patronage and scandal. Their intertwined stories promise a blend of humor, subtle mystery, and a glimpse into the personal stakes that lie behind the grand political theatre. Listeners will be carried along by the brisk, engaging narrative that captures both the public and private dramas of the era.
Language
en
Duration
~24 hours (1413K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2006-06-21
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1815–1882
Best known for the Barsetshire and Palliser novels, this prolific Victorian writer turned the routines of politics, clergy, and everyday social life into rich, deeply human fiction. His books are loved for their wit, psychological insight, and steady, companionable storytelling.
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