This classic novel follows the lives of two contrasting women, the cunning and ruthless Becky Sharp and the sweet and naive Amelia Sedley, against the backdrop of English society during the Napoleonic Wars. The book is a satirical exploration of the obsession with wealth, status, and social climbing, and the moral bankruptcy that can result from such pursuits. The narrative weaves an intricate tale of love, betrayal, and redemption, exposing the vanity and hypocrisy of high society.

"Earthly Powers" is a sprawling, complex novel that explores the intertwined lives of a homosexual British writer and an Italian-American Cardinal over the course of the 20th century. The narrative delves into themes of faith, homosexuality, and the nature of evil, while also providing a critique of modern society. It's a vivid tapestry of historical events, including two World Wars and Vatican II, providing a backdrop for the personal and spiritual struggles of its protagonists.

This novel introduces readers to the notorious antihero Harry Flashman, a cowardly British soldier who, through a combination of luck and deceit, rises to prominence in the Victorian military despite his lack of heroism and moral fiber. Through a series of misadventures that span the globe, Flashman becomes entangled in various historical events, from the First Anglo-Afghan War to the Charge of the Light Brigade, always managing to escape by the skin of his teeth. The book, presented as a discovered historical memoir, combines humor, historical detail, and satirical commentary on the British Empire, offering a unique and entertaining perspective on Victorian society and military exploits.

"Unconditional Surrender" is the third novel in a trilogy that satirically chronicles the adventures of its protagonist, a young British man, through the tumultuous years of World War II. In this final installment, the protagonist finds himself navigating the complexities of military bureaucracy, engaging in various escapades across Europe, and grappling with personal and ethical dilemmas. The narrative weaves together themes of honor, absurdity, and the search for meaning amidst the chaos of war, all while maintaining a sharp, ironic wit that critiques the societal and military structures of the time.

"Poor Things" revolves around the life of Bella Baxter, a woman who is brought back from the dead by a Victorian-era doctor who replaces her brain with that of the fetus she was carrying at the time of her death. The book explores Bella's life as she grows up with the mind of a child but the body of a woman, her marriage to a man who tries to control her, and her eventual escape and journey of self-discovery. The narrative is presented through various documents and viewpoints, providing a complex and thought-provoking look at themes such as love, identity, and the nature of humanity.