The Remains of the Day

essentially downton abbey, but a deeper look into the house staff's life in an estate owned by a politically involved lord. i hadn't expected there to be such “controversy” over lord darlington, so it was a pleasant surprise and an interesting read. i'm not much of a history buff, but i found the historical references to be nuanced and subtle enough to be rather believable. also explores the stiff house staff culture, the utter lack of emotion in some, and the devotion to the master in few. really recommended for fans of downton abbey who cared more for the house staff than the family itself.