Bel-Ami (Penguin Classics)

Georges Duroy, 'Bel-Ami', is a provincial determined to succeed in the corrupt Paris of the Third Republic. At first naive, he soon begins to understand the truth behind the scenes - the sleaziness, manipulation and mediocrity which underlie the facade of elegant salons and tantalizing conversations - and learns that the exploitation of women and sex attains quicker results than mere talent and hard work. 416 pages.