The Adventures of Ferdinand Count Fathom - Tobias Smollett

Ferdinand Count Fathom, a cunning and immoral adventurer, uses deceit and manipulation to climb the social ladder of 18th-century Europe. His charm and intelligence mask a ruthless nature that exploits others for personal gain. As his schemes unravel, he faces downfall and disgrace brought on by his own corruption. The novel serves as both a dark satire of human vice and a warning against the dangers of unchecked ambition and hypocrisy.