Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Wonderful, unforgettable 19th-century French classic, 25 Apr 2008
It's no surprise that "Bel-Ami" figures in many people's Top Ten French novels of all time. First, it is a wonderfully smooth and well-paced story that never risks becoming dull. Second, it has a kind of "eternal" quality in that it asks all the great unanswerable questions about the value of love and human achievement in the light of the certainty of death. Third and most importantly, in Georges Duroy Maupassant created a hero who stays forever in the memory as a perfect example of the ambitious man who rises from obscurity to the top by putting aside bothersome scruples and manipulating those around him, especially women. Other novelists have portrayed similar characters - why is Maupassant so successful? One reason is that he avoids psychological descriptions of Duroy from the narrator's point of view. He also avoids passing judgement on Duroy: this is not a novel written with moral purposes in mind. Instead Maupassant lets Duroy's actions and thoughts speak for themselves, as do those of the other characters. This makes Duroy a much more subtle and believable character (and it appeals especially to our early 21st century sensibilities). Also, there is a rich gallery of other characters in "Bel-Ami": Madeleine and Madame de Marelle are masterly creations, drawn with deceptive simplicity, and the political figures and journalists are very true to life. All in all, like "Anna Karenina" or "Sentimental Education", "Bel-Ami" is a novel that can be read with pleasure many times throughout one's life.

Truly Gripping, 30 Dec 2007
I don't really care about all that social criticism stuff people keep harping on about: if you want to know about France in the 19thC just read a history book.

Purely as a work of fiction this is one of the most satisfying novels I have ever read; beautifully written, well paced and devilishly erotic.

I'm surprised, given it's immense popularity during Maupassant's lifetime, it isn't lauded by the literary establishment alongside Madame Bovary (which it surpasses in many respects).

Dashing Hero Cuts a Comic Swathe through Paris Society, 01 Sep 2005
Guy de Maupassant does not suffer fools or the hipocrisy of (usually bourgoise) society gladly, and thus this, his romping satire that lifts the lid on Parisian society, is a comic tale with rapier wit, sly mocking, and a wonderful appetite for the absurd. Live vicariously through our vain and dashing hero on the make as he cuts a swathe through high society, wowing and wooing all in his path.
Frank descriptions of the sexual desires and all-so-often-acted-upon indiscretions of the book's characters - in spite of the social refinements and etiquette of the age - adds to its contemporary or timeless feel.
Warning: this could not be much further from the likes of Jane Austen. This is no romantic stroll through the picturesque, but a highly intelligent, constantly amsuing, dare I say it rock'n'roll swagger through the offices, nightclubs, parlours and boudoirs of 19th century Paris. And yet, it should be noted, that this book is not without moving moments and depth. Its characters are not merely caricatures, its (not always but often subtle) satire is not at the expense of reader empathy and real emotion.
If I was to read any book one more time, it would probably be A Farewell to Arms by Hemingway, and halfway through I'm pretty sure I would be wishing I'd chosen this instead. Quite simply brilliant.

Bel Ami- An opinion, 29 Jul 2005
A stark and vivd picture of one man's ruthless ascendancy through the social ranks. A rise that really erases all other thoughts within the young Georges as he throws aside the feelings and emotions of all others around him in persuit of his goals. It is in essence a story of success but manages at the same time to demonstrate the negative side effects that success can produce on others who find themselves in the way of that determined and efficient rise. A wonderful story and really one that may find its place far more readily in our society today than one may first think.

Bel Ami Review, 01 Jun 2004
This book is a thrilling read. Thouroughly recommended. Maupassant died from syphillis at a middle age and his mysery and thoughts on death are pasted thourought the book. It has affected me deeply and I suggest you buy this just for the experience.

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Wonderful, unforgettable 19th-century French classic, 25 Apr 2008
It's no surprise that "Bel-Ami" figures in many people's Top Ten French novels of all time. First, it is a wonderfully smooth and well-paced story that never risks becoming dull. Second, it has a kind of "eternal" quality in that it asks all the great unanswerable questions about the value of love and human achievement in the light of the certainty of death. Third and most importantly, in Georges Duroy Maupassant created a hero who stays forever in the memory as a perfect example of the ambitious man who rises from obscurity to the top by putting aside bothersome scruples and manipulating those around him, especially women. Other novelists have portrayed similar characters - why is Maupassant so successful? One reason is that he avoids psychological descriptions of Duroy from the narrator's point of view. He also avoids passing judgement on Duroy: this is not a novel written with moral purposes in mind. Instead Maupassant lets Duroy's actions and thoughts speak for themselves, as do those of the other characters. This makes Duroy a much more subtle and believable character (and it appeals especially to our early 21st century sensibilities). Also, there is a rich gallery of other characters in "Bel-Ami": Madeleine and Madame de Marelle are masterly creations, drawn with deceptive simplicity, and the political figures and journalists are very true to life. All in all, like "Anna Karenina" or "Sentimental Education", "Bel-Ami" is a novel that can be read with pleasure many times throughout one's life.

Truly Gripping, 30 Dec 2007
I don't really care about all that social criticism stuff people keep harping on about: if you want to know about France in the 19thC just read a history book.

Purely as a work of fiction this is one of the most satisfying novels I have ever read; beautifully written, well paced and devilishly erotic.

I'm surprised, given it's immense popularity during Maupassant's lifetime, it isn't lauded by the literary establishment alongside Madame Bovary (which it surpasses in many respects).

Dashing Hero Cuts a Comic Swathe through Paris Society, 01 Sep 2005
Guy de Maupassant does not suffer fools or the hipocrisy of (usually bourgoise) society gladly, and thus this, his romping satire that lifts the lid on Parisian society, is a comic tale with rapier wit, sly mocking, and a wonderful appetite for the absurd. Live vicariously through our vain and dashing hero on the make as he cuts a swathe through high society, wowing and wooing all in his path.
Frank descriptions of the sexual desires and all-so-often-acted-upon indiscretions of the book's characters - in spite of the social refinements and etiquette of the age - adds to its contemporary or timeless feel.
Warning: this could not be much further from the likes of Jane Austen. This is no romantic stroll through the picturesque, but a highly intelligent, constantly amsuing, dare I say it rock'n'roll swagger through the offices, nightclubs, parlours and boudoirs of 19th century Paris. And yet, it should be noted, that this book is not without moving moments and depth. Its characters are not merely caricatures, its (not always but often subtle) satire is not at the expense of reader empathy and real emotion.
If I was to read any book one more time, it would probably be A Farewell to Arms by Hemingway, and halfway through I'm pretty sure I would be wishing I'd chosen this instead. Quite simply brilliant.

Bel Ami- An opinion, 29 Jul 2005
A stark and vivd picture of one man's ruthless ascendancy through the social ranks. A rise that really erases all other thoughts within the young Georges as he throws aside the feelings and emotions of all others around him in persuit of his goals. It is in essence a story of success but manages at the same time to demonstrate the negative side effects that success can produce on others who find themselves in the way of that determined and efficient rise. A wonderful story and really one that may find its place far more readily in our society today than one may first think.

Bel Ami Review, 01 Jun 2004
This book is a thrilling read. Thouroughly recommended. Maupassant died from syphillis at a middle age and his mysery and thoughts on death are pasted thourought the book. It has affected me deeply and I suggest you buy this just for the experience.

Wonderfully observed and exciting stories, 06 Aug 2007
Shakespeare's writing is said to have benefited from an exciting life and the same is said to be true for de Maupaussant. All too often Short Stories have two dimensional characters and weak plots, but neither could be further from the truth here. The plots often take unexpected turns and are altogether excellent examples of story telling.

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Wonderful, unforgettable 19th-century French classic, 25 Apr 2008
It's no surprise that "Bel-Ami" figures in many people's Top Ten French novels of all time. First, it is a wonderfully smooth and well-paced story that never risks becoming dull. Second, it has a kind of "eternal" quality in that it asks all the great unanswerable questions about the value of love and human achievement in the light of the certainty of death. Third and most importantly, in Georges Duroy Maupassant created a hero who stays forever in the memory as a perfect example of the ambitious man who rises from obscurity to the top by putting aside bothersome scruples and manipulating those around him, especially women. Other novelists have portrayed similar characters - why is Maupassant so successful? One reason is that he avoids psychological descriptions of Duroy from the narrator's point of view. He also avoids passing judgement on Duroy: this is not a novel written with moral purposes in mind. Instead Maupassant lets Duroy's actions and thoughts speak for themselves, as do those of the other characters. This makes Duroy a much more subtle and believable character (and it appeals especially to our early 21st century sensibilities). Also, there is a rich gallery of other characters in "Bel-Ami": Madeleine and Madame de Marelle are masterly creations, drawn with deceptive simplicity, and the political figures and journalists are very true to life. All in all, like "Anna Karenina" or "Sentimental Education", "Bel-Ami" is a novel that can be read with pleasure many times throughout one's life.

Truly Gripping, 30 Dec 2007
I don't really care about all that social criticism stuff people keep harping on about: if you want to know about France in the 19thC just read a history book.

Purely as a work of fiction this is one of the most satisfying novels I have ever read; beautifully written, well paced and devilishly erotic.

I'm surprised, given it's immense popularity during Maupassant's lifetime, it isn't lauded by the literary establishment alongside Madame Bovary (which it surpasses in many respects).

Dashing Hero Cuts a Comic Swathe through Paris Society, 01 Sep 2005
Guy de Maupassant does not suffer fools or the hipocrisy of (usually bourgoise) society gladly, and thus this, his romping satire that lifts the lid on Parisian society, is a comic tale with rapier wit, sly mocking, and a wonderful appetite for the absurd. Live vicariously through our vain and dashing hero on the make as he cuts a swathe through high society, wowing and wooing all in his path.
Frank descriptions of the sexual desires and all-so-often-acted-upon indiscretions of the book's characters - in spite of the social refinements and etiquette of the age - adds to its contemporary or timeless feel.
Warning: this could not be much further from the likes of Jane Austen. This is no romantic stroll through the picturesque, but a highly intelligent, constantly amsuing, dare I say it rock'n'roll swagger through the offices, nightclubs, parlours and boudoirs of 19th century Paris. And yet, it should be noted, that this book is not without moving moments and depth. Its characters are not merely caricatures, its (not always but often subtle) satire is not at the expense of reader empathy and real emotion.
If I was to read any book one more time, it would probably be A Farewell to Arms by Hemingway, and halfway through I'm pretty sure I would be wishing I'd chosen this instead. Quite simply brilliant.

Bel Ami- An opinion, 29 Jul 2005
A stark and vivd picture of one man's ruthless ascendancy through the social ranks. A rise that really erases all other thoughts within the young Georges as he throws aside the feelings and emotions of all others around him in persuit of his goals. It is in essence a story of success but manages at the same time to demonstrate the negative side effects that success can produce on others who find themselves in the way of that determined and efficient rise. A wonderful story and really one that may find its place far more readily in our society today than one may first think.

Bel Ami Review, 01 Jun 2004
This book is a thrilling read. Thouroughly recommended. Maupassant died from syphillis at a middle age and his mysery and thoughts on death are pasted thourought the book. It has affected me deeply and I suggest you buy this just for the experience.

Wonderfully observed and exciting stories, 06 Aug 2007
Shakespeare's writing is said to have benefited from an exciting life and the same is said to be true for de Maupaussant. All too often Short Stories have two dimensional characters and weak plots, but neither could be further from the truth here. The plots often take unexpected turns and are altogether excellent examples of story telling.

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Wonderful, unforgettable 19th-century French classic, 25 Apr 2008
It's no surprise that "Bel-Ami" figures in many people's Top Ten French novels of all time. First, it is a wonderfully smooth and well-paced story that never risks becoming dull. Second, it has a kind of "eternal" quality in that it asks all the great unanswerable questions about the value of love and human achievement in the light of the certainty of death. Third and most importantly, in Georges Duroy Maupassant created a hero who stays forever in the memory as a perfect example of the ambitious man who rises from obscurity to the top by putting aside bothersome scruples and manipulating those around him, especially women. Other novelists have portrayed similar characters - why is Maupassant so successful? One reason is that he avoids psychological descriptions of Duroy from the narrator's point of view. He also avoids passing judgement on Duroy: this is not a novel written with moral purposes in mind. Instead Maupassant lets Duroy's actions and thoughts speak for themselves, as do those of the other characters. This makes Duroy a much more subtle and believable character (and it appeals especially to our early 21st century sensibilities). Also, there is a rich gallery of other characters in "Bel-Ami": Madeleine and Madame de Marelle are masterly creations, drawn with deceptive simplicity, and the political figures and journalists are very true to life. All in all, like "Anna Karenina" or "Sentimental Education", "Bel-Ami" is a novel that can be read with pleasure many times throughout one's life.

Truly Gripping, 30 Dec 2007
I don't really care about all that social criticism stuff people keep harping on about: if you want to know about France in the 19thC just read a history book.

Purely as a work of fiction this is one of the most satisfying novels I have ever read; beautifully written, well paced and devilishly erotic.

I'm surprised, given it's immense popularity during Maupassant's lifetime, it isn't lauded by the literary establishment alongside Madame Bovary (which it surpasses in many respects).

Dashing Hero Cuts a Comic Swathe through Paris Society, 01 Sep 2005
Guy de Maupassant does not suffer fools or the hipocrisy of (usually bourgoise) society gladly, and thus this, his romping satire that lifts the lid on Parisian society, is a comic tale with rapier wit, sly mocking, and a wonderful appetite for the absurd. Live vicariously through our vain and dashing hero on the make as he cuts a swathe through high society, wowing and wooing all in his path.
Frank descriptions of the sexual desires and all-so-often-acted-upon indiscretions of the book's characters - in spite of the social refinements and etiquette of the age - adds to its contemporary or timeless feel.
Warning: this could not be much further from the likes of Jane Austen. This is no romantic stroll through the picturesque, but a highly intelligent, constantly amsuing, dare I say it rock'n'roll swagger through the offices, nightclubs, parlours and boudoirs of 19th century Paris. And yet, it should be noted, that this book is not without moving moments and depth. Its characters are not merely caricatures, its (not always but often subtle) satire is not at the expense of reader empathy and real emotion.
If I was to read any book one more time, it would probably be A Farewell to Arms by Hemingway, and halfway through I'm pretty sure I would be wishing I'd chosen this instead. Quite simply brilliant.

Bel Ami- An opinion, 29 Jul 2005
A stark and vivd picture of one man's ruthless ascendancy through the social ranks. A rise that really erases all other thoughts within the young Georges as he throws aside the feelings and emotions of all others around him in persuit of his goals. It is in essence a story of success but manages at the same time to demonstrate the negative side effects that success can produce on others who find themselves in the way of that determined and efficient rise. A wonderful story and really one that may find its place far more readily in our society today than one may first think.

Bel Ami Review, 01 Jun 2004
This book is a thrilling read. Thouroughly recommended. Maupassant died from syphillis at a middle age and his mysery and thoughts on death are pasted thourought the book. It has affected me deeply and I suggest you buy this just for the experience.

Wonderfully observed and exciting stories, 06 Aug 2007
Shakespeare's writing is said to have benefited from an exciting life and the same is said to be true for de Maupaussant. All too often Short Stories have two dimensional characters and weak plots, but neither could be further from the truth here. The plots often take unexpected turns and are altogether excellent examples of story telling.

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Little gem, 22 Jun 2008
A little gem of a short novel from this author much more renowned for his short stories. It simply concerns the jealousy between two brothers that arises when a friend of their parents dies and leaves all his money to one of the brothers, but is very simply and well told.

an understated masterpiece, 31 Dec 2001
a masterpiece from a master stylist -- this book has it all. beautiful prose and psychological tension combine in a rip-roaring tale that will have you thundering through the pages in a vicarious roller-coaster ride to the shattering finale. never has jealousy been explored so exactingly. although bel-ami remains my favourite de maupassant novel (pierre et jean is essentially an extended short story) this small book is immensely satisfying, to be enjoyed like a fine, french wine.

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Wonderful, unforgettable 19th-century French classic, 25 Apr 2008
It's no surprise that "Bel-Ami" figures in many people's Top Ten French novels of all time. First, it is a wonderfully smooth and well-paced story that never risks becoming dull. Second, it has a kind of "eternal" quality in that it asks all the great unanswerable questions about the value of love and human achievement in the light of the certainty of death. Third and most importantly, in Georges Duroy Maupassant created a hero who stays forever in the memory as a perfect example of the ambitious man who rises from obscurity to the top by putting aside bothersome scruples and manipulating those around him, especially women. Other novelists have portrayed similar characters - why is Maupassant so successful? One reason is that he avoids psychological descriptions of Duroy from the narrator's point of view. He also avoids passing judgement on Duroy: this is not a novel written with moral purposes in mind. Instead Maupassant lets Duroy's actions and thoughts speak for themselves, as do those of the other characters. This makes Duroy a much more subtle and believable character (and it appeals especially to our early 21st century sensibilities). Also, there is a rich gallery of other characters in "Bel-Ami": Madeleine and Madame de Marelle are masterly creations, drawn with deceptive simplicity, and the political figures and journalists are very true to life. All in all, like "Anna Karenina" or "Sentimental Education", "Bel-Ami" is a novel that can be read with pleasure many times throughout one's life.

Truly Gripping, 30 Dec 2007
I don't really care about all that social criticism stuff people keep harping on about: if you want to know about France in the 19thC just read a history book.

Purely as a work of fiction this is one of the most satisfying novels I have ever read; beautifully written, well paced and devilishly erotic.

I'm surprised, given it's immense popularity during Maupassant's lifetime, it isn't lauded by the literary establishment alongside Madame Bovary (which it surpasses in many respects).

Dashing Hero Cuts a Comic Swathe through Paris Society, 01 Sep 2005
Guy de Maupassant does not suffer fools or the hipocrisy of (usually bourgoise) society gladly, and thus this, his romping satire that lifts the lid on Parisian society, is a comic tale with rapier wit, sly mocking, and a wonderful appetite for the absurd. Live vicariously through our vain and dashing hero on the make as he cuts a swathe through high society, wowing and wooing all in his path.
Frank descriptions of the sexual desires and all-so-often-acted-upon indiscretions of the book's characters - in spite of the social refinements and etiquette of the age - adds to its contemporary or timeless feel.
Warning: this could not be much further from the likes of Jane Austen. This is no romantic stroll through the picturesque, but a highly intelligent, constantly amsuing, dare I say it rock'n'roll swagger through the offices, nightclubs, parlours and boudoirs of 19th century Paris. And yet, it should be noted, that this book is not without moving moments and depth. Its characters are not merely caricatures, its (not always but often subtle) satire is not at the expense of reader empathy and real emotion.
If I was to read any book one more time, it would probably be A Farewell to Arms by Hemingway, and halfway through I'm pretty sure I would be wishing I'd chosen this instead. Quite simply brilliant.

Bel Ami- An opinion, 29 Jul 2005
A stark and vivd picture of one man's ruthless ascendancy through the social ranks. A rise that really erases all other thoughts within the young Georges as he throws aside the feelings and emotions of all others around him in persuit of his goals. It is in essence a story of success but manages at the same time to demonstrate the negative side effects that success can produce on others who find themselves in the way of that determined and efficient rise. A wonderful story and really one that may find its place far more readily in our society today than one may first think.

Bel Ami Review, 01 Jun 2004
This book is a thrilling read. Thouroughly recommended. Maupassant died from syphillis at a middle age and his mysery and thoughts on death are pasted thourought the book. It has affected me deeply and I suggest you buy this just for the experience.

Wonderfully observed and exciting stories, 06 Aug 2007
Shakespeare's writing is said to have benefited from an exciting life and the same is said to be true for de Maupaussant. All too often Short Stories have two dimensional characters and weak plots, but neither could be further from the truth here. The plots often take unexpected turns and are altogether excellent examples of story telling.

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Little gem, 22 Jun 2008
A little gem of a short novel from this author much more renowned for his short stories. It simply concerns the jealousy between two brothers that arises when a friend of their parents dies and leaves all his money to one of the brothers, but is very simply and well told.

an understated masterpiece, 31 Dec 2001
a masterpiece from a master stylist -- this book has it all. beautiful prose and psychological tension combine in a rip-roaring tale that will have you thundering through the pages in a vicarious roller-coaster ride to the shattering finale. never has jealousy been explored so exactingly. although bel-ami remains my favourite de maupassant novel (pierre et jean is essentially an extended short story) this small book is immensely satisfying, to be enjoyed like a fine, french wine.

Little gem, 22 Jun 2008
A little gem of a short novel from this author much more renowned for his short stories. It simply concerns the jealousy between two brothers that arises when a friend of their parents dies and leaves all his money to one of the brothers, but is very simply and well told.

an understated masterpiece, 31 Dec 2001
a masterpiece from a master stylist -- this book has it all. beautiful prose and psychological tension combine in a rip-roaring tale that will have you thundering through the pages in a vicarious roller-coaster ride to the shattering finale. never has jealousy been explored so exactingly. although bel-ami remains my favourite de maupassant novel (pierre et jean is essentially an extended short story) this small book is immensely satisfying, to be enjoyed like a fine, french wine.

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Wonderful, unforgettable 19th-century French classic, 25 Apr 2008
It's no surprise that "Bel-Ami" figures in many people's Top Ten French novels of all time. First, it is a wonderfully smooth and well-paced story that never risks becoming dull. Second, it has a kind of "eternal" quality in that it asks all the great unanswerable questions about the value of love and human achievement in the light of the certainty of death. Third and most importantly, in Georges Duroy Maupassant created a hero who stays forever in the memory as a perfect example of the ambitious man who rises from obscurity to the top by putting aside bothersome scruples and manipulating those around him, especially women. Other novelists have portrayed similar characters - why is Maupassant so successful? One reason is that he avoids psychological descriptions of Duroy from the narrator's point of view. He also avoids passing judgement on Duroy: this is not a novel written with moral purposes in mind. Instead Maupassant lets Duroy's actions and thoughts speak for themselves, as do those of the other characters. This makes Duroy a much more subtle and believable character (and it appeals especially to our early 21st century sensibilities). Also, there is a rich gallery of other characters in "Bel-Ami": Madeleine and Madame de Marelle are masterly creations, drawn with deceptive simplicity, and the political figures and journalists are very true to life. All in all, like "Anna Karenina" or "Sentimental Education", "Bel-Ami" is a novel that can be read with pleasure many times throughout one's life.

Truly Gripping, 30 Dec 2007
I don't really care about all that social criticism stuff people keep harping on about: if you want to know about France in the 19thC just read a history book.

Purely as a work of fiction this is one of the most satisfying novels I have ever read; beautifully written, well paced and devilishly erotic.

I'm surprised, given it's immense popularity during Maupassant's lifetime, it isn't lauded by the literary establishment alongside Madame Bovary (which it surpasses in many respects).

Dashing Hero Cuts a Comic Swathe through Paris Society, 01 Sep 2005
Guy de Maupassant does not suffer fools or the hipocrisy of (usually bourgoise) society gladly, and thus this, his romping satire that lifts the lid on Parisian society, is a comic tale with rapier wit, sly mocking, and a wonderful appetite for the absurd. Live vicariously through our vain and dashing hero on the make as he cuts a swathe through high society, wowing and wooing all in his path.
Frank descriptions of the sexual desires and all-so-often-acted-upon indiscretions of the book's characters - in spite of the social refinements and etiquette of the age - adds to its contemporary or timeless feel.
Warning: this could not be much further from the likes of Jane Austen. This is no romantic stroll through the picturesque, but a highly intelligent, constantly amsuing, dare I say it rock'n'roll swagger through the offices, nightclubs, parlours and boudoirs of 19th century Paris. And yet, it should be noted, that this book is not without moving moments and depth. Its characters are not merely caricatures, its (not always but often subtle) satire is not at the expense of reader empathy and real emotion.
If I was to read any book one more time, it would probably be A Farewell to Arms by Hemingway, and halfway through I'm pretty sure I would be wishing I'd chosen this instead. Quite simply brilliant.

Bel Ami- An opinion, 29 Jul 2005
A stark and vivd picture of one man's ruthless ascendancy through the social ranks. A rise that really erases all other thoughts within the young Georges as he throws aside the feelings and emotions of all others around him in persuit of his goals. It is in essence a story of success but manages at the same time to demonstrate the negative side effects that success can produce on others who find themselves in the way of that determined and efficient rise. A wonderful story and really one that may find its place far more readily in our society today than one may first think.

Bel Ami Review, 01 Jun 2004
This book is a thrilling read. Thouroughly recommended. Maupassant died from syphillis at a middle age and his mysery and thoughts on death are pasted thourought the book. It has affected me deeply and I suggest you buy this just for the experience.

Wonderfully observed and exciting stories, 06 Aug 2007
Shakespeare's writing is said to have benefited from an exciting life and the same is said to be true for de Maupaussant. All too often Short Stories have two dimensional characters and weak plots, but neither could be further from the truth here. The plots often take unexpected turns and are altogether excellent examples of story telling.

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Little gem, 22 Jun 2008
A little gem of a short novel from this author much more renowned for his short stories. It simply concerns the jealousy between two brothers that arises when a friend of their parents dies and leaves all his money to one of the brothers, but is very simply and well told.

an understated masterpiece, 31 Dec 2001
a masterpiece from a master stylist -- this book has it all. beautiful prose and psychological tension combine in a rip-roaring tale that will have you thundering through the pages in a vicarious roller-coaster ride to the shattering finale. never has jealousy been explored so exactingly. although bel-ami remains my favourite de maupassant novel (pierre et jean is essentially an extended short story) this small book is immensely satisfying, to be enjoyed like a fine, french wine.

Little gem, 22 Jun 2008
A little gem of a short novel from this author much more renowned for his short stories. It simply concerns the jealousy between two brothers that arises when a friend of their parents dies and leaves all his money to one of the brothers, but is very simply and well told.

an understated masterpiece, 31 Dec 2001
a masterpiece from a master stylist -- this book has it all. beautiful prose and psychological tension combine in a rip-roaring tale that will have you thundering through the pages in a vicarious roller-coaster ride to the shattering finale. never has jealousy been explored so exactingly. although bel-ami remains my favourite de maupassant novel (pierre et jean is essentially an extended short story) this small book is immensely satisfying, to be enjoyed like a fine, french wine.

Beware - NOT the Complete Works, 21 Aug 2007
Goodness knows why Amazon allows the title Complete Works to be used, it contains just 29 short stories (too many to include here). Even in 1917, when the book was published, it did not represent the complete works. I have sent my copy back. I would not rate it with even 1 star if the system would allow me to do so.

Truly, Classic, French (oh so!), 09 Jul 2008
A magnificent collection indeed. Guy de Maupassant is the best storyteller of the 19th century France... This particular edition has the most entertaining short stories, each capable of delivering as strong a message on moral and profoundly non-societal ethics, as remarkably to-the-point images of an average French bourgeois or an average French peasant. The heroes are complex, decorated with their subjective and objectified environments: they fall in and out of love, abandon and adopt children...unpunished thieves, unfaithful servants, families enatngled in inheritance dispairs... His pen is so powerful that story after story lives succumb in theatrical precision so benign and materialistic, yet lively and at times, even lovable.

Being one of the best literary classics and appreciated in his lifetime and eternally after, Guy de Maupassant seemingly detested the societal formalities. He remained a shrewd observer althrough his journey from one story to the other and led a comparably humble life. Known for finding the Eiffel tower a most abhorrent addition to Paris, he analogically led an observer's life from a decent enough pedestal. Albeit his expressed dislike of the Tower, he'd nevertheless go there every day for his morning coffee for "it's the only place whence I cannot see it". True to his natural longing for an absolute fairness, he wrote of lives merely looking at them and never living one himself.

For all the above reasons, by all means, definitely get a copy of this book and enjoy the read through laughs and tears.

exellent, 11 May 2007
almost as good as chekhov with his short stories.
got into short stories through chekhov,
short stories were not really my thing, as i prefer novels, but im changing my views.
they dont get much better than this.
full of insight into the human condition and easy to read as well.

Strangely beautiful, 18 Mar 2006
Guy de Maupassant's strangely beautiful stories vary from uplifting explorations of moralistic living, through humorous parodies of the middle classes of 19th century France and their foolish attempts to better themselves, right through to the most critical revelations of the baseness of human existance, often revealed in the self-same stories. They are at once depressing and uplifting, cynical and idealistic, humorous and thought-provoking. The one thing that each story has in common is that it leaves the reader with a new insight into the human condition.

This collection contains:

Boule de Suif
Two Friends
Madame Tellier's Establishment
Madamoiselle Fifi
Clair de Lune
Miss Harriet
The Necklace
Madamoiselle Pearl
The Piece of String
Madame Husson's 'Rosier'
That Pig of a Morin
Useless Beauty
The Olive Orchard
A Sale
Love
Two Little Soldiers
Happiness

Wonderful, unforgettable 19th-century French classic, 25 Apr 2008
It's no surprise that "Bel-Ami" figures in many people's Top Ten French novels of all time. First, it is a wonderfully smooth and well-paced story that never risks becoming dull. Second, it has a kind of "eternal" quality in that it asks all the great unanswerable questions about the value of love and human achievement in the light of the certainty of death. Third and most importantly, in Georges Duroy Maupassant created a hero who stays forever in the memory as a perfect example of the ambitious man who rises from obscurity to the top by putting aside bothersome scruples and manipulating those around him, especially women. Other novelists have portrayed similar characters - why is Maupassant so successful? One reason is that he avoids psychological descriptions of Duroy from the narrator's point of view. He also avoids passing judgement on Duroy: this is not a novel written with moral purposes in mind. Instead Maupassant lets Duroy's actions and thoughts speak for themselves, as do those of the other characters. This makes Duroy a much more subtle and believable character (and it appeals especially to our early 21st century sensibilities). Also, there is a rich gallery of other characters in "Bel-Ami": Madeleine and Madame de Marelle are masterly creations, drawn with deceptive simplicity, and the political figures and journalists are very true to life. All in all, like "Anna Karenina" or "Sentimental Education", "Bel-Ami" is a novel that can be read with pleasure many times throughout one's life.

Truly Gripping, 30 Dec 2007
I don't really care about all that social criticism stuff people keep harping on about: if you want to know about France in the 19thC just read a history book.

Purely as a work of fiction this is one of the most satisfying novels I have ever read; beautifully written, well paced and devilishly erotic.

I'm surprised, given it's immense popularity during Maupassant's lifetime, it isn't lauded by the literary establishment alongside Madame Bovary (which it surpasses in many respects).

Dashing Hero Cuts a Comic Swathe through Paris Society, 01 Sep 2005
Guy de Maupassant does not suffer fools or the hipocrisy of (usually bourgoise) society gladly, and thus this, his romping satire that lifts the lid on Parisian society, is a comic tale with rapier wit, sly mocking, and a wonderful appetite for the absurd. Live vicariously through our vain and dashing hero on the make as he cuts a swathe through high society, wowing and wooing all in his path.
Frank descriptions of the sexual desires and all-so-often-acted-upon indiscretions of the book's characters - in spite of the social refinements and etiquette of the age - adds to its contemporary or timeless feel.
Warning: this could not be much further from the likes of Jane Austen. This is no romantic stroll through the picturesque, but a highly intelligent, constantly amsuing, dare I say it rock'n'roll swagger through the offices, nightclubs, parlours and boudoirs of 19th century Paris. And yet, it should be noted, that this book is not without moving moments