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Description

When the Melmottes arrive in London everyone agrees their manners are wanting, their taste is execrable and their lineage and background decidedly shadowy. But their money is far from revolting, and city society quickly makes allowances for the mysterious financier and his family. Soon hearts, minds and family savings are swept into the whirl of Augustus Melmotte's lavish parties and exciting investment plans - but is it all an elaborate swindle?

Reviews

"Trollope's masterpiece...its examination of how hopes of easy money can corrupt individuals and sections of society remains relevant today... It is all too easy to imagine the "Great Financier", Augustus Melmotte a shadowy, egotistical and tyrannical swindler, at the top of a contemporary investment bank." Observer "Dominating the narrative is the majestically dishonest Augustus Melmotte: a speculative railroad financier who buys an English society only too willing to sell itself...The darkest of Trollope's 47 novels." Guardian "A tale of financial skulduggery reminiscent of recent city scandals" Daily Telegraph "His subtle depiction of relationships and the struggle to make decisions is unrivalled. He's so funny, so perceptive, so clear-sighted about the pursuit of money and power and status. Everyone with a pulse should read him." -- Francesca Simon Guardian