The congressman's wife, a story of American politics

"The Congressman’s Wife, A Story of American Politics" by John D. Barry is a novel that takes place in early 1900s America and explores how politics affects people's lives. The story introduces Congressman Douglas Briggs and his wife, Helen, as they get ready for a big party to celebrate their new house in Washington, D.C. During the party the reader learns about common challenges, obligations and sacrifices that come with being a member of the political elite, as the story begins to explore how a life in public service will impact the main characters, and foreshadow possible choices.