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Books matching: ambition and social status

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Showing 1 - 2 of 2 
  1. #1
    Dark Angels
    Book 1 in the series:Tamworth Saga

    Dark Angels - Tamworth Saga by Karleen Koen
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    Dark Angels by Karleen Koen is a historical fiction novel set in the Restoration court of King Charles II. The story follows Alice Verney, a maid of honor to Princess Henrietta of France and later to Queen Catherine of England. Alice is portrayed as a complex character, determined to rise in position and status, willing to scheme and manipulate to achieve her goals. The novel explores themes of ambition, betrayal, romance, and intrigue within the treacherous court of King Charles II, providing a glimpse into the decadent lifestyles and power struggles of the time.

    The narrative of Dark Angels is fast-paced and engaging, transporting readers to the Baroque-style courts of Louis XIV of France and Charles II of England. The author, Karleen Koen, skillfully weaves together multiple storylines filled with political ambition, romantic entanglements, and acts of betrayal. Through vivid descriptions and well-developed characters, Koen brings to life the historical setting of the 17th century, capturing the essence of a tumultuous period marked by regicide, religious wars, and royal intrigue.


  2. #2
    Room at the Top
    Book 1 in the series:Joe Lampton

    Room at the Top - Joe Lampton by John Braine
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    'Room at the Top' by John Braine is a post-war novel that follows the story of Joe Lampton, a young and ambitious ex-serviceman from a modest background who moves to the affluent town of Warley to pursue a career in local government. The book delves into Joe's social ambitions, romantic entanglements with two women - Susan and Alice, and his relentless pursuit of success and social status. Set in a time of social mobility challenges and societal constraints, the novel explores themes of class, ambition, love, and the impact of war experiences through a flawed first-person narrative.

    Braine's writing style in 'Room at the Top' is described as cynical, realistic, and compelling, offering a detailed portrayal of post-war northern England with a mix of romance, tragedy, comedy, and social commentary. The narrative is known for its dispassionate tone even in the face of dramatic events, and the characters, especially Joe Lampton, are depicted with flaws and complexities that reflect the societal norms and challenges of the time.

    My stomach was rumbling with hunger and the drinks of the night before had left a buzzing in my head and a carbonated-water sensation in my nostrils. On that particular morning even these discomforts ...

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