"A Damsel in Distress" is a romantic comedy novel written by Pelham Grenville Wodehouse, first published in 1919. The story revolves around Maud Marsh, a young American woman who travels to England and becomes stranded in the countryside. She is rescued by George Bevan, a wealthy and charming gentleman who falls in love with her at first sight. However, Maud is already engaged to Geoffrey Raymond, a dull and unromantic peer. George sets out to win Maud's heart and must overcome numerous obstacles, including her snobbish family and the scheming efforts of Raymond's sister. The novel is filled with Wodehouse's trademark wit and humor, as well as his penchant for creating eccentric and memorable characters. The story also features several subplots, including the romantic entanglements of Maud's cousin, Lady Caroline Byng, and the hilarious misadventures of George's valet, Albert.
Pelham Grenville Wodehouse (1881-1975) was an English author and humorist, known for his humorous and witty writing style. He wrote more than 90 books and over 200 short stories during his career and is best known for his humorous novels and short stories about the fictional characters Bertie Wooster and his valet Jeeves. Wodehouse began his writing career as a freelance journalist but soon turned to write fiction. He published his first novel, "The Pothunters," in 1902. He gained widespread popularity with his works of comic fiction, including "Right Ho, Jeeves","The Code of the Woosters," and "Joy in the Morning." Wodehouse's writing is known for its sparkling wit, clever wordplay, and absurd situations. He had a talent for creating memorable characters, from the bumbling Bertie Wooster to the clever and resourceful Jeeves. His works often satirize the British upper class and their foibles, but his humor is universal and has appealed to readers around the world. Despite his literary success, Wodehouse's reputation was tarnished in the 1940s when he was accused of broadcasting pro-German propaganda during World War II. He was interned by the Germans for several months before being released and returning to the United States, where he lived for the rest of his life. Despite the controversy, his works have remained popular and have been adapted for film, television, and the stage.
