Episode 8 - Scene and summary

Published in 1811, 'Sense and Sensibility' is Jane Austen's first published novel. It tells the story of the Dashwood sisters, Elinor and Marianne, who, along with their mother and younger sister Margaret, are forced to leave their family estate after their father's death. The novel explores the contrast between Elinor's practical sense and Marianne's emotional sensibility as they experience romantic relationships and heartbreak. Elinor falls in love with Edward Ferrars, who is secretly engaged to another woman, while Marianne becomes infatuated with the unscrupulous John Willoughby. Through their experiences, Austen delves into themes of love, social class, and the balance between reason and emotion necessary for personal happiness[2][4][5].

The Bonfire of the Vanities is a drama that centers on three main characters: Sherman McCoy, a WASP bond trader; Larry Kramer, a Jewish assistant district attorney; and Peter Fallow, a British expatriate journalist. The novel explores the complexities of New York City in the 1980s, delving into themes of ambition, racism, social class, politics, and greed. It was originally conceived as a serial in the style of Charles Dickens and ran in 27 installments in Rolling Stone before being published in book form. The story follows the characters through their interactions and conflicts, highlighting the superficial values and hypocrisies of the city's elite and the underlying social tensions of the time.

The novel follows an unnamed English assassin, known only as the Jackal, who is hired by the OAS (Organisation de l'armée secrète), a French dissident paramilitary organization, to assassinate French President Charles de Gaulle. The story is divided into three parts: 'Anatomy of a Plot', detailing the Jackal's preparations; 'Anatomy of a Manhunt', focusing on the French secret service's efforts to identify and stop the Jackal; and 'Anatomy of a Kill', the final confrontation. The novel is known for its detailed and methodical portrayal of both the assassin's plans and the police investigation, creating a tense and suspenseful narrative[2][4][5].

Published in 1969, 'The Godfather' by Mario Puzo is a crime novel that follows the story of the Corleone family, one of the Five Families of the New York Mafia. The novel spans from the early life of Vito Corleone to the rise of his youngest son, Michael, as the new Don. The story explores themes of loyalty, power, and violence as the family navigates internal conflicts, external threats, and the transition of leadership. Michael, initially reluctant to join the family business, becomes deeply involved after an assassination attempt on his father and eventually succeeds Vito as the head of the family. The novel is known for its realistic portrayal of organized crime and its impact on the characters' personal lives[2][3][4].

A Man in Full is a satirical novel that delves into the lives of several characters in Atlanta, Georgia, during the late 1990s. The story centers around Charles 'Cap'm Charlie' Croker, a wealthy real estate developer facing financial ruin. The novel explores themes of masculinity, racial dynamics, and the conflicts arising from wealth and power. It also introduces Conrad Hensley, a young man in prison who discovers Stoic philosophy, which becomes a recurring theme. The narrative critiques American society, particularly the societal issues of contemporary Atlanta, including boosterism, expansion, and racial tensions. Wolfe's writing style combines humor and social commentary, reflecting his journalistic approach to fiction[1][2][3].

In this fifth book of the Dr. Kay Scarpetta series, Patricia Cornwell delves into a chilling murder investigation. When 11-year-old Emily Steiner's body is found in North Carolina, Scarpetta is called to assist. The murder bears similarities to the work of a serial killer who has evaded the FBI for years. Scarpetta's investigation leads her to the Body Farm, a clandestine research facility in Tennessee where scientists study corpse decomposition. As she navigates the complex case, Scarpetta must also deal with personal issues, including her niece Lucy's troubles at the FBI. The novel is a blend of forensic science, police procedural, and personal drama, showcasing Scarpetta's tenacity and brilliance in solving the horrifying crime.

In this fourth installment of the Richard Sharpe series, Sharpe is on his way back to England from India to join the 95th Rifles. His journey aboard the East Indiaman *Calliope* is fraught with danger, including the capture by a French warship, the *Revenant*. Sharpe's adventures involve romance with Lady Grace Hale, battles against French forces, and ultimately, his participation in the Battle of Trafalgar under Admiral Horatio Nelson's command. The novel vividly depicts the brutality and grandeur of naval warfare during the Napoleonic era.

The Shipping News is a novel by E. Annie Proulx that follows the life of Quoyle, a newspaper reporter from upstate New York. After a series of tragic events, including the deaths of his parents and his estranged wife, Quoyle moves to Newfoundland with his two daughters, encouraged by his paternal aunt, Agnis Hamm. There, he works for the local newspaper, the Gammy Bird, covering traffic accidents and the shipping news. The novel is deeply rooted in the landscape and culture of Newfoundland, with Proulx using the harsh environment and maritime themes to explore themes of human relationships, resilience, and personal growth. The book is notable for its unique writing style, which includes chapter headings inspired by Clifford W. Ashley's 'The Ashley Book of Knots'[2][3][5].

In 'The Mists of Avalon', Marion Zimmer Bradley reimagines the Arthurian legend through the eyes of key female figures such as Morgaine (Morgan le Fay), Gwenhwyfar (Guinevere), Viviane, Morgause, and Igraine. The novel explores the conflict between the old pagan religions and the rising influence of Christianity in Britain. Morgaine, a priestess of the Mother Goddess, is the central character, and her story spans generations, detailing her training in Avalon, her relationships, and her battles to preserve the pagan way of life. The book also delves into the complex love triangles and the political and spiritual upheavals of the time, offering a nuanced and feminist perspective on the traditional Arthurian tale[2][3][5].

In 'Venus Envy', Mary Frazier Armstrong, a successful art gallery owner, writes brutally honest letters to her friends and family after being misdiagnosed with terminal lung cancer. When the letters are revealed, they cause significant upheaval in her hometown of Charlottesville, Virginia. The novel follows Frazier's journey as she faces societal backlash and finds support from a few close individuals. The story also includes a fantastical element where Frazier visits Mount Olympus and interacts with ancient gods and goddesses. The book is known for its sexual frankness, humor, and critique of societal norms.

In this suspenseful novel, prosecutor Kerry McGrath discovers that a plastic surgeon, Dr. Smith, is giving his patients the face of Suzanne Reardon, a woman murdered over ten years ago in a case known as the 'Sweetheart Murder.' As Kerry delves deeper into the case, she uncovers disturbing evidence that suggests the convicted husband, Skip Reardon, may be innocent. Despite facing opposition and danger, Kerry pursues justice, risking her own life and that of her daughter. The book is filled with intricate plot twists and fascinating characters, characteristic of Mary Higgins Clark's style.

The Thorn Birds is a romance novel set primarily on Drogheda, a fictional sheep station in the Australian Outback. The story spans from 1915 to 1969 and focuses on the Cleary family, particularly Meghann 'Meggie' Cleary and her doomed and tragic relationship with Father Ralph de Bricassart, a Catholic priest. The novel explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the struggles of ordinary people against the backdrop of historical events such as two world wars and the Great Depression. The title is derived from a myth about a bird that sings a beautiful song once in its life before dying, symbolizing the sacrifices made by the characters in the story.