H
Henry James
The Portrait of a Lady (2 volumes)
This classic series follows Isabel Archer, a young American woman who inherits a fortune and travels to Europe. She seeks independence but finds herself entangled in complex relationships and societal expectations. The series explores themes of freedom, betrayal, and the constraints placed upon women in the 19th century.
While often published as a single volume, The Portrait of a Lady was originally serialized and is sometimes presented in two volumes, but it tells a complete story within itself.
The novel has been adapted into several films and television series, including a notable 1996 film directed by Jane Campion starring Nicole Kidman.
While not part of a direct series with recurring characters, The Portrait of a Lady shares thematic concerns and stylistic elements with many of Henry James's other novels, particularly his exploration of Americans in Europe and the complexities of social conventions.