Having never heard of this book I wasn't really sure what to expect but since it was Joseph Conrad I knew it would be worth trying. And it definitely well worth it. The story is set in a fictional South American country that has been torn apart by corruption, power and greed for centuries and the attempts of a wealthy mine owner and his most trusted friend and employee, the title character Nostromo, to bring peace and stability to the country. At first it seems like they may succeed but then events take a turn for the worse and despite their best intentions the country descends into anarchy and revolution once again. It is in these times that the true power of money and lure of fame comes to light. Conrad has created a cast of characters that are not perfect and are far more real and relatable for it as they are caught up in events beyond their control. His writing is vivid and engrossing, although it may be a little too detailed in places slowing the pace of the story a little, but this can be forgiven given the pace and gripping nature of the rest of the story.