Welcome back to the world of the Forsytes, but don't expect everything to be where you left it. The second volume jumps ahead two decades, and the family is at a crossroads. We follow two main threads. The first is Soames, who remains fixated on his ex-wife Irene and their failed marriage, a wound that just won't heal. The second follows his young cousin, Jon Forsyte, and Soames's daughter, Fleur. When Jon and Fleur meet and fall in love, they have no idea their romance is walking straight into a minefield of old family grudges and secrets.

The Story

This book is split into two parts. In In Chancery, we see Soames desperately trying to secure an heir, leading to another strained marriage. Meanwhile, his former wife Irene finds unexpected happiness with Soames's cousin, Jolyon, which sends shockwaves through the clan. To Let fast-forwards to the next generation. Their children, Fleur and Jon, fall head over heels. But when the bitter history between their parents comes to light, their youthful passion is threatened by the heavy weight of the past. It's a gripping question: can love conquer a legacy of possessiveness and pain?

Why You Should Read It

Galsworthy is a master at getting inside people's heads. Soames is frustrating, often unlikeable, but you understand him. His belief that he can own people like he owns art is the heart of the family's tragedy. This volume is where the saga truly becomes epic, moving from one man's mistake to a generational conflict. It's amazing how a story about wills, divorces, and country houses can feel so urgent. You'll find yourself arguing with these characters as if they were real.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves big, messy family dramas (think Succession but with corsets and horse-drawn carriages). It's for readers who enjoy characters that are morally grey and relationships that are beautifully, painfully complicated. If you're looking for a fast-paced adventure, this isn't it. But if you want to sink into a rich, character-driven story about money, love, and the past we can't escape, this saga is a classic for a reason.