The Bostonians
Henry James · 1843–1916 · USA / England
Why it matters
A fervent Boston feminist and a reactionary Southern cousin battle for the soul, and the stage career, of a young woman with a gift for speeches. James's satire of reform movements and possessive love still cuts uncomfortably close.
At a glance
satirepsychological novel
Difficulty 6/10slow pace449 pagesLong expository passages on reform politics slow a plot that turns on subtle psychological pressure.
Where to go next
Henry James · 1880Washington SquareLvl 4Medium pace
Henry James · 1881The Portrait of a LadyLvl 6Slow burn
Henry James · 1898The Turn of the ScrewLvl 7Medium pace
Henry James · 1902The Wings of the DoveLvl 8Slow burn
Henry James · 1903The AmbassadorsLvl 9Slow burn
Edith Wharton · 1905The House of MirthLvl 5Medium pace