Pretty Lady by Arnold Bennett is a fascinating novel that delves into the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations in early 20th century England. The story follows the life of Nellie Cotterill, a young woman who unexpectedly inherits a large sum of money and must navigate the challenges of newfound wealth and social status.

Bennett's portrayal of Nellie is both nuanced and compelling, as she grapples with the pressures of her new position in society while also trying to maintain her sense of self and independence. The novel does a fantastic job of capturing the attitudes and mores of the time period, shedding light on the role of women in a rapidly changing world.

The writing is elegant and evocative, drawing the reader into Nellie's world and making it easy to empathize with her struggles and triumphs. The pacing is steady, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader engaged throughout.

Overall, Pretty Lady is a captivating read that offers a thought-provoking look at class, gender, and identity in the early 20th century. Bennett's skillful storytelling and rich character development make this novel a standout in classic literature. Highly recommended for fans of historical fiction and social commentary.

Book Description:
‘The Pretty Lady’ is considered to be one of Bennett's most revealing and under-rated works. It is the story of a French prostitute, Christine, who has escaped from wartime Ostend, and set herself up in business in London. Though a refugee, she demands no pity; she is self-sufficient, practical and realistic. Christine is not a harpy preying on innocent soldiers, but a canny businesswoman, doing the best she can with the opportunities life has given her. Her main relationship is with G.J. Hoape, a wealthy man above the military age. Bennett in this novel presents a disturbing image of wartime society, fragmented, uneasy and divided. There are references to industrial unrest and to social injustices, and hints that the British press is less than frank about the war.