A Dangerous Fortune Summary & Key Insights

Ken Follett's "A Dangerous Fortune" is the second book in the Century Trilogy, following the lives of several families across the globe as they navigate the tumultuous events of the early 20th century. The novel picks up in 1906, focusing on the intertwining fates of the powerful industrialist families introduced in "Fall of Giants," particularly the Fitzwilliams, the von Ungerns, and the Poldarks.

The central plot revolves around the ambitious and ruthless plans of the powerful industrialist, Buck Fitzwilliam, whose family has amassed a vast fortune through its shipping empire. He seeks to expand his influence even further by consolidating control over the world's rubber supply, a crucial commodity at the dawn of the automobile age. This ambition leads him into dangerous territory, involving him with ethically questionable practices and powerful, sometimes nefarious, figures. His pursuit of power clashes significantly with his son, Arthur, who is deeply involved with the burgeoning socialist movement and struggles with his father's morally bankrupt methods.

Meanwhile, the von Ungern family, originally from Germany, experiences its own internal conflicts and external pressures. Their fortunes are tied to the rise of the German Empire, with some members embracing its militaristic ambitions while others, like the pacifist Wolfgang, actively oppose them. Their story line highlights the dangers of unchecked nationalism and the devastating consequences of war.

The Poldark family, representing the British aristocracy, also plays a significant role. Their lives are intertwined with the Fitzwilliams through business dealings and personal relationships, creating a web of complexities and shifting alliances. The family's story illustrates the changing dynamics of class and power in Britain as the old aristocracy grapples with the rise of industrial capitalism.

The overarching themes in "A Dangerous Fortune" include the clash between old money and new wealth, the moral ambiguities of industrial capitalism, the rise of global power struggles, and the devastating human cost of war. The story highlights the impact of political ideologies on personal lives, illustrating the influence of socialism, nationalism, and imperialism on individuals and families. Follett expertly weaves together the personal lives of his characters with the sweeping historical events of the era, creating a compelling narrative that underscores how individual choices and ambitions become interwoven with larger historical forces. The novel ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the characters poised on the brink of World War I, setting the stage for the final installment of the trilogy.