A Surfeit of Magnificence

More about the book

The story follows Sir Thomas Swymmer Mostyn-Champneys, an aristocrat from Somerset born into a legacy of financial ruin. Despite marrying a wealthy widow, his extravagant lifestyle—marked by lavish masquerade balls, grand pageants, and ambitious building projects—only deepens his financial woes. His obsession with litigation further complicates his situation, showcasing the clash between noble heritage and the harsh realities of bankruptcy. The narrative explores themes of pride, folly, and the consequences of poor financial decisions amidst a backdrop of aristocratic life.