3.59
"Hotel du Lac" by Anita Brookner is a thought-provoking and introspective novel that explores the themes of identity, self-discovery, and the role of women in society. The story revolves around Edith Hope, a romance novelist who finds herself in exile at the Hotel du Lac in Switzerland after calling off her engagement. Through Edith's experiences and interactions with the other guests at the hotel, Brookner delves into the complexities of female identity and the societal expectations placed upon women. The hotel serves as a microcosm of society, highlighting the various ways in which women navigate their lives and the choices they make. Brookner's writing style is elegant and understated, with a sharp wit and keen observations of human behavior. The novel is both a critique of societal norms and a celebration of the human spirit, as Edith learns to embrace her own independence and authenticity. "Hotel du Lac" is a nuanced and insightful exploration of the human condition, and Brookner's masterful storytelling and character development make it a standout novel in contemporary literature. It is a must-read for anyone interested in thought-provoking fiction that delves into the complexities of identity, self-discovery, and the human experience...
Iris Murdoch
The Sea, The Sea
Like 'Hotel du Lac', this book explores themes of introspection and self-examination, as the protagonist, an eccentric and successful playwright, retreats to a house by the sea to write his memoirs and reflect on his past relationships.
Learn MoreEdith Wharton
The House of Mirth
This classic novel by Wharton shares the themes of social class and the role of women in society that are present in 'Hotel du Lac'. It tells the story of Lily Bart, a beautiful and intelligent woman who struggles to maintain her social position in New York society.
Learn MoreGeorge Eliot
The Mill on the Floss
This novel by George Eliot, like 'Hotel du Lac', explores the themes of family, identity, and the role of women in society. It tells the story of Maggie Tulliver, a young woman who struggles to find her place in the world and to reconcile her desires with the expectations of her family and society.
Learn MoreL.P. Hartley
The Go-Between
This novel, like 'Hotel du Lac', is a coming-of-age story that explores the themes of class, identity, and the role of women in society. It tells the story of Leo Colston, a young boy who becomes the go-between for two lovers from different social classes.
Learn MoreDaphne du Maurier
Rebecca
This classic novel of psychological suspense, like 'Hotel du Lac', features a female protagonist who is struggling to find her place in the world and to come to terms with her past. It tells the story of a young woman who marries a wealthy widower and moves into his estate, only to be haunted by the memory of his first wife.
Learn MoreNancy Mitford
The Pursuit of Love
This novel, like 'Hotel du Lac', is a comedy of manners that explores the themes of love, class, and the role of women in society. It tells the story of the Radlett family, a eccentric aristocratic family, and their pursuit of love and happiness.
Learn MoreMuriel Spark
The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie
This novel, like 'Hotel du Lac', is a coming-of-age story that explores the themes of identity, education and the role of women in society. It tells the story of Miss Jean Brodie, a charismatic and unconventional teacher at an Edinburgh girls' school, and her influence on a group of her students.
Learn MoreDoris Lessing
The Golden Notebook
This novel, like 'Hotel du Lac', is a work of introspective fiction that explores the themes of identity, mental health and the role of women in society. It tells the story of Anna Wulf, a writer and political activist, as she tries to make sense of her life and her relationships.
Learn MoreMary McCarthy
The Group
This novel, like 'Hotel du Lac', is a work of introspective fiction that explores the themes of identity, sexuality and the role of women in society. It tells the story of a group of eight Vassar College graduates as they navigate their way through the complexities of adult life in New York City in the 1930s.
Learn More