Set in early 19th-century France, the narrative follows the lives and interactions of several characters, particularly the struggles of ex-convict Jean Valjean and his journey towards redemption. The story touches upon the nature of law and grace, and elaborates upon the history of France, architecture of Paris, politics, moral philosophy, antimonarchism, justice, religion, and the types and nature of romantic and familial love. It is known for its vivid and relatable characters, and its exploration of societal and moral issues.

The novel is a detailed psychological portrait of Julien Sorel, a young man from a provincial background who aspires to rise above his humble beginnings. He uses his intelligence and hypocrisy to advance in the post-Napoleonic French society, which is deeply divided by class and political loyalties. The story is a critique of the society's materialism and hypocrisy as Julien's ambitions lead him to a tragic end. The title refers to the contrasting uniforms of the army and the church, the two routes available to him for upward mobility.

Set in the French Riviera in the 1920s, the novel traces the tragic tale of a young psychiatrist, his beautiful wife, and the drama that unfolds amongst their circle of wealthy expatriate friends. The psychiatrist's wife suffers from mental illness, which leads to his own downfall as he struggles to keep his marriage intact and maintain his professional reputation. The narrative explores themes of wealth, love, desire, and the destructive power of obsession, painting a haunting portrait of the dark side of the glamorous Jazz Age.

The novel explores themes of identity, sexuality, and societal norms in mid-20th century Paris. The protagonist, an American man, grapples with his homosexual identity while engaged to a woman. His life takes a turn when he becomes involved with an Italian bartender, leading to a tumultuous relationship filled with passion, guilt, and self-loathing. The story is a poignant examination of the human struggle for acceptance and the destructive consequences of denying one's true self.

"Another Country" is a profound exploration of racial, sexual, and creative issues in 1950s Manhattan. The story follows the lives of various characters, including a jazz drummer, a Southern white woman, and a black playwright, among others. As the narrative unfolds, it delves into their struggles with identity, prejudice, and interpersonal relationships, offering a raw and unflinching portrayal of America's social and cultural landscape during a time of intense change and conflict.

"Cyrano de Bergerac" is a classic French play that tells the story of a nobleman named Cyrano, who is a talented poet and swordsman but has a very large nose. Despite being deeply in love with his cousin Roxane, Cyrano doesn't believe she could ever love him because of his appearance, so he helps his friend Christian woo her instead. Cyrano writes love letters to Roxane on behalf of Christian, and Roxane falls in love with the man she believes Christian to be. The story is a tragic tale of unrequited love, selflessness, and the power of inner beauty.

The book follows the ambitious and cunning Undine Spragg, a beautiful Midwestern girl who marries her way into New York high society. Undine's insatiable desire for wealth, status, and comfort leads her through a series of marriages and divorces, each time climbing higher on the social ladder. However, her ruthless pursuit of success and disregard for social norms ultimately leave her feeling empty and dissatisfied. The novel offers a critique of American society and its values during the early 20th century.

"Adolphe" is a semi-autobiographical novel that tells the story of a young man, Adolphe, who falls in love with an older woman, Ellénore. The novel explores the complexities and consequences of their illicit love affair, as Adolphe struggles with his feelings and societal expectations. The story delves into themes of love, power, freedom, and the individual versus society, offering a profound psychological and moral insight into human nature.

"Bel Ami" is a novel set in 19th-century Paris, focusing on the life of an ambitious young man who rises from poverty to wealth and power. It explores themes of corruption, manipulation, and the societal power dynamics of the time. The protagonist utilizes his charm and wit to climb the social ladder, seducing and manipulating several influential women along the way. The story provides a critical look at the French bourgeoisie and the moral decay within this social class.

The book tells the story of a beautiful soprano at the Paris Opera House named Christine Daaé who becomes the obsession of a mysterious, disfigured musical genius living in the subterranean labyrinth beneath the opera house. Known as the Phantom, he terrorizes the opera company to compel them to keep giving roles to Christine, whom he tutors in secret. The tale unfolds with love, jealousy, and violence, culminating in a dramatic conclusion.

"Strait is the Gate" is a tragic tale of unrequited love set in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young man who falls deeply in love with his cousin. However, his love is not reciprocated as she chooses a life devoted to God over their relationship. The book explores themes of love, faith, sacrifice, and the conflict between earthly desires and spiritual aspirations.

"Cheri" is a tale of forbidden love set in the Belle Époque era of Paris. The story revolves around a beautiful, young man named Chéri and his passionate affair with Léa, a woman nearly twice his age. Despite their age difference and societal norms, they share a six-year relationship until Chéri's mother arranges for him to marry a woman his own age. The novel explores the themes of love, aging, and the passage of time, showcasing the complexities of their relationship and the consequences of their separation.

"The Lady of the Camellias" is a novel centered around the tragic love story of Marguerite Gautier, a sought-after Parisian courtesan who suffers from tuberculosis, and Armand Duval, a young and naive bourgeois. The narrative explores themes of love, sacrifice, and societal norms as Armand falls deeply in love with Marguerite, leading her to question her life of luxury funded by wealthy men. Despite their passionate love, external pressures and internal conflicts surrounding Marguerite's past and health lead to heartbreak and tragedy, reflecting the complexities of love and social constraints in 19th-century Paris.

"Aurélien" is a novel set in post-World War I Paris, following the life of the protagonist, a war veteran, who falls in love with a woman he sees in a café. However, the woman is already engaged to a friend of his, leading to a tumultuous love triangle. The book explores themes of love, war, and the struggle of the human condition, presenting a vivid picture of the social and political landscape of Paris during the 1920s.

This novel follows the journey of Renée Néré, a 33-year-old divorcee who, after enduring the betrayal and abandonment of her husband, embarks on a path of self-discovery and independence through her work as a music hall dancer. Set in early 20th-century France, the narrative delves into themes of love, freedom, and the quest for personal identity against the backdrop of societal expectations. As Renée grapples with the allure of new love and the prospect of sacrificing her newfound autonomy, the story explores the complexities of the human heart and the courage required to live life on one's own terms. Through her introspective and resilient protagonist, the author offers a poignant examination of the struggles and triumphs of a woman seeking to redefine herself beyond the confines of conventional relationships.

The novel explores the passionate and tumultuous love affair between a Parisian intellectual and a Breton fisherman, which spans decades and continents. Despite their vastly different lives and backgrounds, the protagonists are drawn together by an irresistible attraction and a profound connection that defies societal norms and personal circumstances. Their intermittent encounters are marked by intense emotion and physical desire, as they navigate the complexities of love, longing, and the sacrifices they must make to remain true to themselves and each other. The story delves into themes of feminism, sexuality, and the enduring nature of love.

The novel is a tale of adventure and romance set in the 19th century, revolving around a young English aristocrat who, due to a family misunderstanding and a self-sacrificial act, flees his life of privilege to join the French Foreign Legion in Algeria. Under the scorching desert sun, he encounters a diverse cast of characters, including a noble-hearted courtesan and a loyal comrade, as he seeks redemption and purpose amidst the brutal conflicts and personal entanglements that challenge his honor, identity, and heart. The story explores themes of loyalty, duty, and the complexities of living under the weight of a secret past.

"Just Like Heaven" is a romantic and whimsical tale that follows the life of a successful architect who, after a near-death experience, gains the ability to see and communicate with the spirit of a comatose woman. As he helps her to uncover the events that led to her condition, they form an unlikely bond that transcends the boundaries between life and death. Their growing connection and the quest to save her life take them on a heartwarming journey that challenges the very notions of love, fate, and what it means to be truly alive.

In this contemporary novel, a man finds his life turned upside down when his wife leaves him, entrusting him with the care of her six-year-old daughter from a previous relationship. As he navigates the challenges of single parenthood, he discovers that the little girl believes she is a fairy with magical powers. Through their shared journey, the man learns about love, responsibility, and the power of belief, as he strives to protect the child's innocence and imagination while also confronting the practical realities of life. The story is a touching exploration of the bonds that form between a stepfather and his stepdaughter, and the transformative impact of love and trust.

The novella delves into the decadent world of Parisian society, exploring themes of lust, power, and the corrupting influence of wealth. It follows a young man of high social standing who becomes infatuated with a mysterious woman with captivating golden eyes. As he pursues her, he uncovers a web of deception and jealousy, revealing the woman's entrapment by a powerful guardian with sinister intentions. The story is a critique of the French aristocracy and the moral decay hidden behind the opulent facades of Paris during the Restoration period.

The novel revolves around a love triangle set in post-World War I Parisian high society. It explores the complex relationships between the Count and Countess d'Orgel, who are hosting a glamorous ball, and François de Séryeuse, a young man who becomes entangled in their lives. As François becomes increasingly infatuated with the Countess, the narrative delves into themes of desire, social conventions, and the subtle dynamics of marriage and friendship. The story unfolds with an air of tragic inevitability, examining the consequences of emotional restraint and the societal pressures that dictate the characters' fates.

The novel revolves around the tumultuous love story of Gloria and Eric, two individuals from vastly different social backgrounds who reconnect after a passionate but turbulent teenage romance. Gloria, now in her thirties and struggling with the mundanity of her life and a history of mental health issues, finds her world turned upside down when Eric, who has since become a famous television personality, re-enters her life. Their intense and destructive relationship is rekindled, challenging the societal norms and expectations that have shaped their lives. Set against a backdrop of punk rock and disenchantment with the conventional, the narrative delves into themes of love, class conflict, and the search for identity in a world that often demands conformity.