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The Lady Paramount   By: (1861-1905)

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The Lady Paramount by Henry Harland is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that takes readers on a journey through the intricate social fabric of 19th century Paris. Set against the backdrop of a divided city, the story follows the life of a charming and headstrong heroine, Evie, as she navigates the complexities of love, ambition, and societal expectations.

One of the highlights of this novel is Harland's masterful storytelling ability. Through rich and vivid descriptions, he transports readers to a bygone era, immersing them in the opulence and grandeur of Parisian society. The author's attention to detail is commendable, as he artfully paints a picture of a world brimming with sumptuous ballrooms, elegant couture, and elaborate soirées. This meticulous world-building creates an immersive experience, allowing readers to feel as if they are the privileged guests at these glamorous gatherings.

The characters in The Lady Paramount are equally captivating. Evie, the titular protagonist, is a multifaceted and independent woman, constantly torn between societal expectations and her own desires. Her journey of self-discovery and finding her place in a rigid society is both relatable and inspiring. Harland's portrayal of Evie's inner struggles is beautifully nuanced, allowing readers to empathize with her predicaments and cheer her on as she faces and overcomes obstacles.

Furthermore, Harland's writing style is impeccable, with prose that is elegant, poetic, and evocative. The author's attention to the subtleties of human emotions and interactions makes for a compelling read. The dialogue is crisp and natural, and the author effortlessly captures the complexities of human relationships, making the characters feel authentic and relatable.

While The Lady Paramount offers a glimpse into the world of the Parisian elite, it also delves deeper into themes of identity, love, and the pursuit of personal freedom. Harland skillfully weaves these themes into the narrative, prompting readers to reflect on their own lives and the societal constraints they may face. This exploration adds depth and resonance to the story, making it more than just a tale of glamorous society events.

In conclusion, The Lady Paramount is a captivating historical novel that skillfully combines a richly detailed setting, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes. Henry Harland's masterful storytelling transports readers to a bygone era, immersing them in the opulence and complexities of Parisian society. This novel will undoubtedly resonate with fans of historical fiction who are looking for an engaging and beautifully written tale of love, ambition, and the pursuit of personal freedom.

First Page:

THE LADY PARAMOUNT

By HENRY HARLAND

Author of

"THE CARDINAL'S SNUFF BOX"

JOHN LANE: THE BODLEY HEAD

LONDON & NEW YORK MCMII

Copyright, 1902

BY JOHN LANE

All rights reserved

To

EDMUND GOSSE

The Lady Paramount

I

On the twenty second anniversary of Susanna's birth, old Commendatore Fregi, her guardian, whose charge, by the provisions of her father's will, on that day terminated, gave a festa in her honour at his villa in Vallanza. Cannon had been fired in the morning: two and twenty salvoes, if you please, though Susanna had protested that this was false heraldry, and that it advertised her, into the bargain, for an old maid. In the afternoon there had been a regatta. Seven tiny sailing boats, monotypes, the entire fleet, indeed, of the Reale Yacht Club d'Ilaria had described a triangle in the bay, with Vallanza, Presa, and Veno as its points; and I need n't tell anyone who knows the island of Sampaolo that the Marchese Baldo del Ponte's Mermaid , English name and all, had come home easily the first. Then, in the evening, there was a dinner, followed by a ball, and fire works in the garden.

Susanna was already staying at the summer palace on Isola Nobile, for already though her birthday falls on the seventeenth of April the warm weather had set in; and when the last guests had gone their way, the Commendatore escorted her and her duenna, the Baroness Casaterrena, down through the purple Italian night, musical with the rivalries of a hundred nightingales, to the sea wall, where, at his private landing stage, in the bat haunted glare of two tall electric lamps, her launch was waiting... Continue reading book >>




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