The Story

This isn't a plot-driven adventure with pirates or detectives. Instead, it's a character-driven exploration of Portuguese society in the late 1800s. Through a series of conversations, social gatherings, and personal dilemmas, Chagas shows us a world obsessed with 'good taste'—the right clothes, the right parties, the right connections. The central tension is between this superficial 'good taste' and genuine 'common sense.' The characters constantly grapple with questions like: Should you marry for love or status? Is it better to be fashionable or truthful? The story follows their struggles to find balance and authenticity in a rigid social world.

Why You Should Read It

What surprised me was how modern the core conflict feels. We still live in a world obsessed with image—social media, anyone? Chagas writes with a gentle, observant humor. He doesn't preach; he just shows how silly people can be when trying to impress others. The characters feel real, not just symbols. You'll recognize the social climber, the stubborn traditionalist, and the young person trying to carve their own path. It's a quiet, thoughtful book that makes you reflect on your own values.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who enjoy classic literature, social commentary, or historical fiction that focuses on everyday life. If you like authors like Jane Austen for their sharp social observation, but set in a different time and place, you'll appreciate this. It’s not a fast-paced thriller, but a rewarding, slow-burn portrait of a society that, in many ways, hasn't changed all that much. A true hidden gem for the curious reader.