Lori Keeton's Reviews > Framley Parsonage

It is always delightful to return to the world of Trollope and Barchester to find out what is in store for the characters I already know and love and to meet and get acquainted with the new folks. Returning to the narrative are the Grantly and Proudie families and the Thornes and Greshams as well. A stand-out character for me that is back is the witty, confident Miss Dunstable who came to life in this volume.

New to the lineup is Mark Robarts, the vicar of Framley. He is younger than normal but his connection with Lord Lufton and his mother Lady Lufton helped to influence his appointment. An ambitious sort, Robarts decides to mix in with some deceitful politicians (to the dismay of Lady Lufton) who he believes will give him every advantage in furthering his career. He immediately finds himself in a sticky situation and one that he will not be able to find his own way out of easily. His venture into climbing the social ladder of society may prove to be his downfall. His wife Fanny is a remarkable character and extremely loyal to her husband.

Lucy Robarts is another enchanting new character. She is Mark Robarts’ sister who comes to live with him after her father’s death. She is principled almost to a fault when it comes to falling in love. She sticks to her guns, however, even if it sacrifices her own happiness.

Trollope’s moral dilemmas and societal dramas bring an authentic touch to his narrative and the character's emotions and motivations bring the reader into a believable and sympathetic mindset. With themes of money, marriage and ambition to follow, there are no shortages of plotlines and characters to sort out and keep track of. It’s very much like a Victorian soap opera; however, a much more highly regarded one!! I always enjoy my time spent reading Trollope and look forward to the next one.