Royal Highness  (Paperback, Thomas Mann)

"Royal Highness" is a satirical romance set in a fictional small German principality. The novel follows the story of Prince Klaus Heinrich, a minor royal who lives a life of ceremonial duties and constrained privileges. His life takes a turn when he meets Imma Spoelmann, the daughter of a wealthy American industrialist. Through the relationship between Klaus Heinrich and Imma, Mann explores themes such as the intersection of old-world aristocracy and new-world capitalism, the nature of duty and privilege, and the personal versus public roles of individuals in positions of power. The novel examines the transformation of the protagonist as he grapples with these themes and ultimately seeks to find personal fulfillment beyond his royal status.