Book excerpt: "Imperial Palace " by Arnold Bennett is a quintessential exploration of class dynamics, the intricacies of work, and the fragility of human nature. Set in the Imperial Palace hotel, the novel delves into the life of Evelyn Orcham, the manager, and his two love affairs, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the running of a luxury hotel with meticulous detail. Bennett's sharp insights into human flaws and the beauty found in the mundane make for an uncomfortable yet thought-provoking read.