Bought and Paid For From the Play of George Broadhurst   By: George Howells Broadhurst (1866-1952)

Bought and Paid For From the Play of George Broadhurst is a gripping novel by George Howells Broadhurst that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the complexities of social status, love, and morality. Set in the early twentieth century, this thought-provoking tale explores the lengths people are willing to go to maintain their position in society.

The story revolves around Jack Lawrence, a successful New York banker who seemingly has it all – wealth, power, and a picture-perfect life. However, behind closed doors, Jack’s marriage is crumbling, and his dissatisfaction with his wife, Marion, is palpable. Yearning for something more, Jack embarks on an affair with Marcia, a beautiful and vibrant young woman from a lower social class.

As their relationship deepens, Jack becomes increasingly infatuated with Marcia, willing to risk everything for a taste of genuine happiness and passion that has been lacking in his life. Meanwhile, Marion begins to suspect her husband’s infidelity and resorts to manipulation and deceit to maintain her place in high society.

Filled with suspense and tension, Bought and Paid For delves into the dichotomy between societal expectations and personal desires. Broadhurst masterfully explores the complexities of human relationships, showcasing the consequences of one's actions and the often painful sacrifices individuals make to uphold appearances.

The character development in this novel is exceptional, as Broadhurst presents flawed but relatable characters who struggle with their own ambitions and moral dilemmas. Jack, for instance, confronts the conflict between his growing love for Marcia and the fear of losing the security and prestige that his marriage provides.

While the plot itself is engaging and keeps readers eagerly turning the pages, Bought and Paid For also serves as a poignant reflection on class divisions and the limitations they impose. Through Marcia’s journey, Broadhurst highlights the challenges individuals face when trying to break free from the constraints of their social status, shedding light on the sacrifices, biases, and judgments they encounter along the way.

One aspect I particularly appreciated about this novel is the author’s ability to paint vivid scenes that transport readers to early twentieth-century New York. From the opulent society parties to the bustling city streets, Broadhurst’s descriptive prose brings the setting to life, immersing readers in the vibrant world he has created.

In conclusion, Bought and Paid For From the Play of George Broadhurst is a compelling read that captivates from start to finish. With its intriguing storyline, nuanced characters, and insightful exploration of social dynamics, this novel offers much more than a typical love affair narrative. George Howells Broadhurst has crafted a masterpiece that prompts deep reflection, leaving readers contemplating the choices they make in pursuit of their own happiness.

First Page:

The wife, a tall, aristocratic looking woman who, despite her advanced years, her snow white hair, her eyes now red and swollen from weeping, and pallid face seamed with careworn lines from constant vigils, still showed traces of former beauty, scanned the physician fearfully, trying to read in the expression of his countenance what the friend and man of science, out of sheer compassion, was doing his utmost to conceal... Continue reading book >>