"#1. The story of three women: one single, one married and one widow. Each has a "suitable" and an "unsuitable" suitor. Examines women's independence and loss of it on marriage, in Victorian England"
"#2. An Irish "black swan", successful as a young MP but with no money. His political life, the Reform Bill, Irish tenant rights, and his attempts to find love, involving four women."
"#3. Contrasts characters' views and actions concerning commitment and honesty, in the context of the theft of the titular diamonds - also used as a metaphor."
"#4.Phineas Finn returns to London, is persecuted by the media, becomes disillusioned with careerists dominating parliament. A mature, sombre novel with well-drawn women (Laura, Violet and Marie)."
"#6, and final. Titular children blend both parents' attributes as feckless sons become more mature and the more admirable daughter wins battle of wills with father - but is her choice a wise one?"
