This book reminded me...

This remarkable book reminded me vividly of the very essence of why I have an unwavering love for reading. It is exquisitely written, boasting engrossing plots that are populated with fully developed characters. These characters have the power to stimulate the entire gamut of emotions within me, ranging from profound like to intense loathing. As a result, it makes for a book in which I can become completely and utterly immersed. "The Rich Are Different" is precisely such a literary gem.

The author's depth of financial and social knowledge regarding America in the 1920s and 30s is truly outstanding. Her descriptions of the final heady days just before the October 1929 stock market crash are not only suspenseful but also heartbreaking. They lead to equally upsetting images of the golden dream that has turned into a nightmare. The plotting, scheming, and backstabbing among the captains of finance, mostly men with little or no moral compass, make for compelling reading and inevitably invite comparisons to the "too big to fail" institutions of the early 21st century.

Apart from the financial events of the times, there is the captivating story of family, friend, and business relationships. All of them are messy, tenuous, and at times, downright frightening. None of the major characters seem to possess any morals and have very little conscience, yet they are riveting nonetheless.

There is a sequel to this book, and I am eagerly planning to purchase it and begin reading it as soon as I finish writing this review. While "The Rich..." is a complete novel in its own right, I simply can't wait to discover what happens next in the lives of Cornelius and Dinah, as well as the second generation of the Van Zale and Sullivan families. You may find yourself adrift in some of the economic machinations, but I urge you to persist, as this novel is most definitely well worth your time and effort.

This is my second Susan Howatch book. However, my first encounter was actually with its sequel, "The Sins of the Father", which I read many, many years ago. That experience left me with a strong desire for this book, as I wanted to learn the history of the characters.

Now, in the era of ebooks, although I never came across this book in stores or the library when I actively searched for it, it was just a few keystrokes away on Amazon. I was extremely happy to acquire it and finally have the opportunity to read it.

So, did it meet my expectations?

I had a rough idea of what to expect in terms of the format - six sections, each narrated by a different character. This is a remarkable approach to writing that gives the story an interesting perspective. It's fascinating to see how different characters perceive each other in ways that are completely different from how they perceive themselves. For example, Cornelius, Steve, and Dinah are characters who can seem highly relatable and easy to root for from their own point of view, but then appear as the worst villains from another character's perspective.

This story is filled with exciting drama. To be honest, it wasn't overly suspenseful, partly because I had a general idea of what was going to happen from reading the sequel and also because it's based on the stories of Caesar and Marc Antony, which I'm already familiar with. Nevertheless, I found myself devouring the pages. The characters are so vividly brought to life, the prose is so perfectly dramatic, and the suspense is built up just right, that I couldn't help but constantly want to read to find out what happens next. It was a wonderful journey that still managed to include some surprises due to the excellent dramatization and the way the story was told.

I would even go as far as to say that, compared to its sequel, the plot of this book was a lot more intense. However, ultimately, the last section felt a bit underwhelming. It didn't have as much happening as the first five sections, and since it follows Dinah Slade for the second time, it's not as exciting as seeing things from a new character's perspective. As a result, the last section didn't quite live up to the rest of the book, causing it to end on a relatively low note.

All in all, though, it was a wonderful read.

I read this book during my high school days and derived great pleasure from it.

Surprisingly, when I revisited it recently, I found myself enjoying it just as much, albeit perhaps for different and more mature reasons.

This book is a light and effortless read, yet it manages to avoid being overly fluffy. It contains a substantial amount of well-researched historical information, which adds depth and authenticity to the story.

The themes of ambition, greed, and adultery are skillfully explored, keeping my interest level peaked throughout.

Moreover, the cast of interesting characters and the moral dilemmas they face further enhance the overall appeal of the book.

It makes for a captivating read that not only entertains but also makes the reader reflect on various aspects of human nature and society.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an engaging and thought-provoking read.

I have completely forgotten which re-reading this currently is. Ever since I discovered this book at the age of 18, I have read it several times. Strangely enough, it always seems to align with something momentous happening in my own life or a painful incident. This time, I read it on the train while on my way to a meeting with someone. Little did I know that this person would flake on me, leaving me in a state of daze and confusion.

Howatch's story is inspired by the triangle of Mark Antony, Caesar, and Cleopatra, but it is set in the 1920s. With a plethora of characters to keep track of, it is both interesting in the "present" day and captivating when compared to its Roman counterparts. Whether you are familiar with the original story or not, it doesn't really matter.

At the core of the story, which commences in 1922, is an impoverished upper-class 21-year-old named Dinah Slade. She is in desperate need of a benefactor to help her safeguard her family home, Mallingham, a medieval mansion in the Norfolk countryside. She闯入 the life of New York banker Paul van Zale, who not only sets her up in a cosmetics company but also becomes embroiled in the world of high finance, with cataclysmic consequences that reverberate across both sides of the Atlantic until the start of the Second World War.

I am truly enamored with the writing style. Each part, usually six in total, is narrated by a different person. Dinah, however, gets to deliver two segments, highlighting her character as the pivot of the story. The characters in the book are truly astonishing. They are venal, selfish, mercenary, corruptible, unprincipled, grasping, and amoral. I haven't even begun to fully describe them. And it is a thrilling tale. By reading each person's account, you gain an insight into others that they may not have disclosed in their own narrative. It really makes you think.

Moreover, the sense of time, place, and dialogue is so well-developed. With each re-reading, I learn more about the characters and expand my understanding and opinion. Those I initially liked, I like even more, and some, well, I despise. Paul van Zale himself and his warped way of thinking, which he justifies to himself, are particularly loathsome to me.

I cannot praise this book enough. It was a welcome distraction during a traumatic time, keeping me occupied and engaged in thought. I can't wait to re-read "The Sins of the Fathers" for, perhaps, the sixth time very soon. And I'm certain that this book will be taken out and read again.

Absolutely 100% highly recommended. It is one of my all-time favorite books.

I came across this book while browsing at the thrift store. To my surprise, it was priced at just a dollar.

As I picked it up, I was immediately drawn to its appearance. The cover was simple yet had a certain charm that made it stand out among the other books.

Once I started flipping through the pages, I realized that this book was not only lovely but also truly fascinating. The words seemed to dance on the paper, captivating my attention and pulling me into its world.

I couldn't believe my luck in finding such a gem for such a bargain price. It felt like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

Now, every time I open this book, I am transported to a different place and time, lost in the stories and ideas it contains. It has become one of my most cherished possessions, a reminder of the wonderful things that can be found in the most unexpected places.

This is an 800+ page book, which is truly an investment of time for me.

It is set in 1920s London, and I have a great affection for that era.

So, initially, I was quite excited to embark on this literary journey.

However, after reading several chapters, my feelings have completely changed.

I really quite dislike the two main characters.

There is something about them that fails to engage me.

I find myself not interested in their lives at all.

Their stories seem dull and unappealing.

As a result, I am having a hard time keeping going with it.

I'm not sure if I will be able to finish this book despite my initial enthusiasm.

Maybe I will give it a little more time, but for now, my interest has waned significantly.

This is a very good story indeed.

From the very beginning, I found myself having a strong dislike for Cornelius. There was just something about him that rubbed me the wrong way. Maybe it was his attitude, or perhaps it was his actions.

As the story progressed, my hatred for him only grew. He seemed to be constantly causing trouble and making things difficult for the other characters.

I couldn't understand why anyone would like him or put up with his behavior.

Despite my intense dislike for Cornelius, I have to admit that his presence in the story added an interesting layer of conflict and drama.

It made me wonder what would happen if he were to change or if the other characters would find a way to deal with him.

Overall, this story has really captured my attention, and I can't wait to see how it all unfolds.

I vividly remember when this first came out. I absolutely loved it. It was like a breath of fresh air that captured my heart and imagination.

Now, some 40 odd years later, I find myself wondering what my thoughts and feelings would be if I were to encounter it again. Would it still have the same charm and allure that it did back then?

So much has changed in the world and in my life during these four decades. My perspectives, tastes, and experiences have all evolved.

Yet, there is a part of me that is eager to find out if this thing that I once loved so deeply would still hold the same magic for me today. Maybe it would bring back a flood of memories, or perhaps it would surprise me with a newfound appreciation. Only time will tell.

Oh my goodness!

I vividly remember reading this years ago with my very first reading group in Austin. It was an absolute delight, and I simply love-love-loved it.

Back then, I also read several other works by the same author, although they were quite difficult to come by.

To be honest, I don't remember too many of the specifics (which is a bit of a shocker!), but I do recall that it opened up a whole new world of historical fiction for me.

I'm so glad to see that it's now available in Kindle format. I'm really looking forward to reading it again and reliving all the wonderful family drama that it has to offer.

It's going to be such a great experience to revisit this book and immerse myself in its captivating story once more.

Loses one star for the complete lack of likable characters.

It's truly a disappointment when a story fails to present any characters that the readers can connect with or cheer for.

With a hefty 700 pages, it becomes a significant commitment on the part of the reader.

But without those engaging and likable characters, it feels like a chore to plow through the entire book.

The absence of such characters makes it difficult to invest emotionally in the story and its development.

One wonders if the author could have done more to create characters that would draw the readers in and make them care about what happens to them.

Perhaps with a bit more effort in this regard, the book could have received a higher rating and been a more enjoyable read for many.

How did I manage to miss reading Susan Howatch until now? It's truly a mystery. I've just completed three of her novels, and now, I'm completely hooked on her writing.

As another reviewer has astutely pointed out, reading "The Rich Are Different" made me vividly recall why I have such a passion for reading. This holds true for me as well. I absolutely love getting lost in a great story, one that allows me to become fully immersed in the book. It's to the point where I find it incredibly difficult to put the book down. I constantly think about the intricate story lines and the well-developed characters, as if I know them on a personal level.

Early on in this captivating story, Howatch introduces the reader to Paul Van Zale, a millionaire investment banker from New York who travels to England on bank business during the 1920s. Right from the start, she does an excellent job of developing this character. We see a flawed yet powerful individual whose greatest fear is having his hidden weakness exposed to the world. He has a deep interest in the classics. Despite being powerful, ruthless, and wealthy, he is constantly preoccupied with appearances. He longs for intimacy but views relationships solely as transactional. After all, he is a banker.

While in England, he is introduced to Dinah Slade, a much younger damsel in distress. Through a clever and fantastical scheme, she is presented to him in the most creative way. She is smart, ambitious, and also shares an interest in the classics. Paul Van Zale has finally met his match in Dinah. Cunning and intelligent, she is destined to become a rich and powerful woman in her own right. All she needs is someone to fund her ventures and save her ancestral home. Paul is that someone. However, Paul is duplicitous to the core and cannot be trusted, nor can he trust others. This truth forms the foundation for a classic struggle that will be a recurring theme throughout the relationship, which is one of the central plot lines in the book. Will Paul ultimately solve Dinah's problem of saving her beloved home and heritage, or will she be the only one capable of saving it in the end?

Some have drawn comparisons between this story and a retelling of the story of Julius Caesar, Mark Anthony, and Cleopatra. Indeed, all the themes of greed, ambition, love, and deception are present in this story.

This story is truly timeless. The setting is brilliant as there is no better backdrop to tell a story about greed, excesses, and amoral behavior than the banking industry during the 1920s. The characters are developed exceptionally well as the narrator changes throughout the novel. In the beginning, the story is told from Paul Van Zale's perspective. Then, the other main characters take over and develop the story through their own voices. I greatly admire Howatch's character development skills. She is truly a master at it.

She weaves together a story so skillfully that even though one is sad to reach the end of the book, one is also deeply satisfied by the reading experience of a well-written piece. Few authors can write sagas as beautifully as Susan Howatch.

Now, I'm off to read the next book in this series. I'm completely hooked and can't wait to see what other精彩故事awaits me.

I truly love this book. It is an absolute gem that has captured my heart and imagination. The author of this book is my all-time favorite. Their writing style is so unique and engaging, it draws me in from the very first page.

Every word seems to be carefully chosen, painting vivid pictures in my mind and making me feel as if I am right there in the story. The characters are so well-developed and relatable, I find myself rooting for them and sharing in their joys and sorrows.

This book has become a constant companion in my life, and I can't wait to pick it up and lose myself in its pages again and again. It is a masterpiece that I will cherish forever.