Set in the corrupt and morally bankrupt world of Victorian London, "The Way We Live Now" is a scathing satire of the greed, ambition, and societal vices of the era. The novel weaves together multiple plotlines, revolving around the unscrupulous financier Augustus Melmotte and a cast of ambitious characters seeking financial gain or advantageous marriages. Trollope's incisive portrayal of the financial world, political maneuverings, and social machinations reveals the darker side of Victorian society. With its astute critique and vivid characterizations, "The Way We Live Now" remains a compelling and relevant commentary on the pursuit of wealth and status.