The Razor's Edge by W. Somerset Maugham, 314 pages

"Intimate acquaintances but less than friends, they meet and part in postwar London and Paris: Elliott, the archsnob but also the kindest of men; Isabel, considered to be entertaining, gracious, and tactful; Gray, the quintessence of the Regular Guy; Suzanne, shrewd, roving, and friendly; Sophie, lost, wanton, with a vicious attractiveness about her; and finally Larry, so hard and so trustful, lost in the world's confusion. Their story, one of Somerset Maugham's best, encompasses the pain, passion, and poignancy of life itself." -Back Cover

I never like to divulge too much about a story in my review of it because I don't like to start a book knowing everything that happens beforehand so I'll try not to divulge too much. The Razor's Edge is a very entertaining character study. I really enjoyed it. W. Somerset Maugham comes in and out of contact with the 6 people over several decades and the twists and turns that their lives take make for an interesting read.

Elliott was such a fun character. His whole life consisted of parties, those he held and those he attended. Even on his deathbed he insists on replying to a party invitation. He is completely superficial and yet loves his family dearly.

Isabel is in love with Larry but her social and economic aspirations lead her to a life that is content but not extraordinary. In the end Maugham describes her as having perfect taste and ruthless determination but lacking tenderness. She is quite a shallow woman.

Gray is a good husband and a hard worker.

Larry is probably the "hero" if you will of this story. He spends a large part of his life "loafing" as he calls it, while trying to uncover the true meaning of his existence. He travels the world soaking in every bit of knowledge he can. He reads for hours on end. I think he was my favorite character. I loved his opinion of money and possessions.

I found Suzanne and Sophie entertaining. Suzanne is very self-sufficient, practical and does what she must to live. Sophie is a tragically lost soul.

There is a little language in this book though not a lot. I would definitely recommend it.